I am the first to admit that I love Facebook. It allows you to keep up on the lives of your friends' without putting much effort into the whole thing. You can capture a snapshot of their life through their profile. It's quite convenient.
However.
The odd time I get a "friend request" that makes me shake my head.
I don't "hate" many people. There have been a few people over the years that have crossed/denigrated me, and I subsequently have no respect for them. There are others that I steer clear from because they have no morals or values. A few of these people have attempted to add me as a friend. You would think, that when hitting the "add as a friend" button, they would be a little hesitant...and maybe add a little note saying that the past is the past...but nooooo, they just hit the button and expect me to add them back. Sorry, but that's not going to happen. It's as though Facebook grants them instant forgiveness.
Can a leopard change his spots?
The older I get, I realize that the answer is no. If they were an adult and deceived me in one way or another, I am not going to smile and allow them to do it again (something vicious or detrimental, not something innocent). As an adult we are conscious of our decisions and are responsible for our actions. If they are a kid, then they probably haven't learned any life lessons yet...so they deserve a second chance.
Now allow me to get to the reason that I blogged this entry in the first place.
As I said before, I don't hate many people. There is one person that I would consider punching in the throat if I stumbled across them in public. This person singlehandedly treated me like shit, not once, but twice. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. There WILL NOT be a thrice. I loathe her. When I tell people the story of what occurred between us, they are appalled. When I think back to how I handled the situation, I believe that I handled it to the best of my ability at the time. This said person, added me last night as a friend. I must have spent 10 minutes looking at the words on the screen. I was dumbfounded, but she is the type of person that probably assumes that she has forgiven ME and that she is extending the olive branch. Last I checked, my branch was olive-free.
Some people are stupid, plain and simple.
A few years ago, a woman that I worked with in social services, told me that I am a high-maintenance person. I assumed she meant physically, but she actually meant mentally. She said that I am high maintenance when it comes to people and friends. I responded by saying that I expect a certain type of behaviour with friends, and that I won't put up with any crap. She said that some people are incapable of meeting those expectations. I reciprocated that if that is the case, they are not trying. If they truly believe that about themselves (cop-out), then I really don't have the time to waste on them.
People on Facebook should be more selective. Don't just litter your friend list with numbers.
Be discriminatory.
If you don't stand for anything, you will fall for everything.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
The Joy of Unemployment
I was surfing the internet and stumbled across this.
It struck me as funny for some reason.
Enjoy.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
News Anchors Lose it on Air
Thanks Laurelle for sending this to me and making my night. I laughed my ass off, all by myself at home, on a Friday night. My neighbours must have wondered what the hell was going on.....
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Holy Crappola
I think this week has been the worst week I have had in a long time. I have had enough crap happen in the last two days, that it constitutes having a brutal week, even though there are 5 days left in it.
I won't go into details, but honestly, things need to start looking up.
I'm actually starting to consider finding a boyfriend, for the sole reason of having a dual income. Not really, but pretty fucking close.
I won't go into details, but honestly, things need to start looking up.
I'm actually starting to consider finding a boyfriend, for the sole reason of having a dual income. Not really, but pretty fucking close.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Kaziah Hancock
This woman has such a beautiful soul.
Very inspiring.
"Kindness is a virtue, and on a ranch in Utah, compassion is an art."
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Relationship Status
I heard through the grapevine last week that my friend in Calgary, Paul (or Uncle Paulie, as we like to call him), has a girlfriend.
Not only does he have a girlfriend, he has had this said girlfriend for at least 2 months.
When was I going to hear this from the horse's mouth I wonder? Let's sit and wonder together.
I have had hundreds of conversations with him about how to meet people, dating in today's world, etc. Even after a colossal amount of discussions....I have to hear about this through third parties.
Shame on you Uncle Paulie.
I am very happy for you, but shame on you.
I want you to comment below and explain to my readers why you have become so secretive. Details please.
Not only does he have a girlfriend, he has had this said girlfriend for at least 2 months.
When was I going to hear this from the horse's mouth I wonder? Let's sit and wonder together.
I have had hundreds of conversations with him about how to meet people, dating in today's world, etc. Even after a colossal amount of discussions....I have to hear about this through third parties.
Shame on you Uncle Paulie.
I am very happy for you, but shame on you.
I want you to comment below and explain to my readers why you have become so secretive. Details please.
It's In You To Give
So, today I gave blood for the first time ever.
I'm 35.
One of the reasons I have never done so before... although I am embarrassed to admit this....is because I am a big baby when it comes to blood. I am getting better as I get older, but when I see blood pumping through a tube, or the bag attached to that teeter-totter thing....I'm toast. I have no idea where this issue comes from either. My whole family isn't like me. When an operation is shown on T.V, I have to look away. When I watch a movie that is graphic, I look away. Silly, I know.
Bob Beneteau, my friend's father, was asked what he wanted for his birthday this past Monday. His answer was that he wanted everyone that is close to him to donate blood. I spent most of my teenager years and my twenties at his house, so this pertained to me. He has received several bags of blood over the last couple of years, as he has had complications with the rare form of cancer that he has been fighting. He wants to give back. How could I say no to something like that? There were 4 of us donating today, with another 5-6 people donating at different locations in his honour. He was there supporting us today - and became emotional when he started to tell a stranger the story as to why we were all donating together. He was quick to say that this birthday present is one of the best ones that he has received to date.
It turns out that I was a little dehydrated and needed to replenish my fluids before they allowed me to donate. I sat at the goody table and drank some water. I met a woman that was excited to have received her donation pin to signify her 75th donation. 75! I was dumbfounded. She donates every 56 days, religiously. She told me that her father and her used to donate together a few times a year until he died. She has continued the tradition in his absence. She was genuinely excited for me to donate this first time.
As I was on the donation bed, I made conversation with the nurse to take my mind off things. She told a story of a man that comes in every 2 months to donate at that same location. She mentioned that he is so uncomfortable with the process that he is in a "zone" and stares ahead......you can't make conversation with him because he just wants the whole thing to end.
This same man has donated over 300 times.
My sister has had one or two blood transfusions with complications with her first birth...my father was in and out of hospitals for 15 yrs and must have been given several bags of blood as well. It's such a simple thing to give. I would have lost my Dad decades earlier than I did, and I would have lost Laurelle 3 years ago if people weren't as generous with their donations.
I'm disappointed in myself for not having done this earlier, but it's better late than never.....
Is it in YOU to give?
Trust me, if I can do it, so can you.
Here is the link if you want to help.
I'm 35.
One of the reasons I have never done so before... although I am embarrassed to admit this....is because I am a big baby when it comes to blood. I am getting better as I get older, but when I see blood pumping through a tube, or the bag attached to that teeter-totter thing....I'm toast. I have no idea where this issue comes from either. My whole family isn't like me. When an operation is shown on T.V, I have to look away. When I watch a movie that is graphic, I look away. Silly, I know.
Bob Beneteau, my friend's father, was asked what he wanted for his birthday this past Monday. His answer was that he wanted everyone that is close to him to donate blood. I spent most of my teenager years and my twenties at his house, so this pertained to me. He has received several bags of blood over the last couple of years, as he has had complications with the rare form of cancer that he has been fighting. He wants to give back. How could I say no to something like that? There were 4 of us donating today, with another 5-6 people donating at different locations in his honour. He was there supporting us today - and became emotional when he started to tell a stranger the story as to why we were all donating together. He was quick to say that this birthday present is one of the best ones that he has received to date.
It turns out that I was a little dehydrated and needed to replenish my fluids before they allowed me to donate. I sat at the goody table and drank some water. I met a woman that was excited to have received her donation pin to signify her 75th donation. 75! I was dumbfounded. She donates every 56 days, religiously. She told me that her father and her used to donate together a few times a year until he died. She has continued the tradition in his absence. She was genuinely excited for me to donate this first time.
As I was on the donation bed, I made conversation with the nurse to take my mind off things. She told a story of a man that comes in every 2 months to donate at that same location. She mentioned that he is so uncomfortable with the process that he is in a "zone" and stares ahead......you can't make conversation with him because he just wants the whole thing to end.
This same man has donated over 300 times.
My sister has had one or two blood transfusions with complications with her first birth...my father was in and out of hospitals for 15 yrs and must have been given several bags of blood as well. It's such a simple thing to give. I would have lost my Dad decades earlier than I did, and I would have lost Laurelle 3 years ago if people weren't as generous with their donations.
I'm disappointed in myself for not having done this earlier, but it's better late than never.....
Is it in YOU to give?
Trust me, if I can do it, so can you.
Here is the link if you want to help.
Monday, July 09, 2007
My Condo
The condo association just launched a website that showcases all of the amenities in the building where I live.
I thought I would post the link so you can all see where I rest my head at night. It's an awesome building. I never want to leave.
www.concordepark.ca
I thought I would post the link so you can all see where I rest my head at night. It's an awesome building. I never want to leave.
www.concordepark.ca
We're in the Thick of Summer
Today, it has officially become summer to me.
This morning, standing in the heat of 32°C, I heard my first cicada. Nothing spells an Ontario summer like cicadas do. It brings me back to my childhood: lying in bed at 8pm, listening to other kids outside playing, with the cicadas singing in the background. Cicadas represent heat. They only arrive when the summer gets really, really hot. Up until recently I thought they were called "heat bugs".
I love the sound. It almost sounds like you are standing underneath live power lines.
Apparently there are a lot of different types of cicadas. After listening to about 20 sound bytes, this is the one that is closest resembles what they sound like (in Ontario at least).
Cicada is translated into German to mean "singing insect."
Not to be confused with (John) Secada, who was a singer in the late 80's.
This morning, standing in the heat of 32°C, I heard my first cicada. Nothing spells an Ontario summer like cicadas do. It brings me back to my childhood: lying in bed at 8pm, listening to other kids outside playing, with the cicadas singing in the background. Cicadas represent heat. They only arrive when the summer gets really, really hot. Up until recently I thought they were called "heat bugs".
I love the sound. It almost sounds like you are standing underneath live power lines.
Apparently there are a lot of different types of cicadas. After listening to about 20 sound bytes, this is the one that is closest resembles what they sound like (in Ontario at least).
Cicada is translated into German to mean "singing insect."
Not to be confused with (John) Secada, who was a singer in the late 80's.
Pregnant and Parenting Teens
As most of you know, I was the live-in mentor for a group home of pregnant and parenting teens from 2002-2005. I started the journey with hope and belief that these kids could succeed. I left with the jaded view that unless the teen has a good family backing them, they will fail. Funding for these programs were cut every year, and I found myself spinning my wheels. More and more kids were losing their kids to the government. I left that field of work feeling like a failure, although it wasn't necessarily a reflection of my abilities.
I was returning home after I had drinks with an ex on Friday. The bus that I grabbed travels through a low-income area. There was a teenage boy and girl on that bus, with a 20 month old. They were no more than 17 yrs old. There was a friend of theirs with them, who was annoying and immature...but the parents were astute, responsible and refrained from swearing during the whole trip. The father shocked me the most. He had a shaved head, a sleeveless shirt and long shorts. Had I seen him on the streets, I would have judged him to be a punk-ass teenager. He was very aware of his daughter - he would hold her back when the bus turned corners, would make sure she was happy, and was just a good, present father overall. At one point the girl bumped her head, and he grabbed her, got up and started to bounce her while talking quietly in such a loving, calm voice. I fell in love with this guy. I saw so many punk-ass fathers come by the house that I worked at - who would feign interest, until the girlfriend would jump into bed with them again. This kid seemed to have his priorities in check. They were arriving home on a Friday night before 9:30. His friend mentioned that they should feed her some Gatorade and the father was quick to tell him that he wouldn't feed his daughter drinks that are made of pure sugar - they would rot her teeth. He also made a phone call during the trip and spoke to his brother and warned him that he better not have his girlfriend over there as the father had house rules that he should abide by. He ended the phone call by saying "I just don't want you guys fighting again."
It was a refreshing ride home. They were mature teenagers, that seemed to make the proper decisions. I hope they succeed with raising their daughter. I know there are teenagers out there that can succeed. It's just a shame that I personally didn't witness any in my time as a mentor.
I was returning home after I had drinks with an ex on Friday. The bus that I grabbed travels through a low-income area. There was a teenage boy and girl on that bus, with a 20 month old. They were no more than 17 yrs old. There was a friend of theirs with them, who was annoying and immature...but the parents were astute, responsible and refrained from swearing during the whole trip. The father shocked me the most. He had a shaved head, a sleeveless shirt and long shorts. Had I seen him on the streets, I would have judged him to be a punk-ass teenager. He was very aware of his daughter - he would hold her back when the bus turned corners, would make sure she was happy, and was just a good, present father overall. At one point the girl bumped her head, and he grabbed her, got up and started to bounce her while talking quietly in such a loving, calm voice. I fell in love with this guy. I saw so many punk-ass fathers come by the house that I worked at - who would feign interest, until the girlfriend would jump into bed with them again. This kid seemed to have his priorities in check. They were arriving home on a Friday night before 9:30. His friend mentioned that they should feed her some Gatorade and the father was quick to tell him that he wouldn't feed his daughter drinks that are made of pure sugar - they would rot her teeth. He also made a phone call during the trip and spoke to his brother and warned him that he better not have his girlfriend over there as the father had house rules that he should abide by. He ended the phone call by saying "I just don't want you guys fighting again."
It was a refreshing ride home. They were mature teenagers, that seemed to make the proper decisions. I hope they succeed with raising their daughter. I know there are teenagers out there that can succeed. It's just a shame that I personally didn't witness any in my time as a mentor.
Eating ShMEATing
An update on my quest of eating better:
I have successfully limited myself to eating red meat and chicken wings once a month. I don't crave either of them very often, so I guess that is a good sign. I carried over my May's red meat to June's, since I didn't crave it in May. I was at my company's AGM, which I organized and ran - and found myself sitting at the luncheon eating lasagna (which I chose from the catering menu). It wasn't until a coworker came over to me and asked if there were vegetarian selections...that I looked at my meal and thought SHIT! I'm eating meat! There went my May's selection down the tubes. What a waste.
I'm still working on making better choices. Even though I am not eating fast food or going to restaurants a quarter as much as before, my snacking is getting in the way. I need to make better choices, and need to figure out when I am hungry vs. when I am bored.
I'm lighter than I have been in a year, but I am far from my goal. I still walk down 20 flights of stairs every day, and do more walking since I take transit everywhere. I feel great, but I could feel better. Standby for my next update.
Oh, kudos to my sister, Laurelle, who has taken off 20 lbs recently. She started walking everyday with her kids in a running stroller. It's come off easily. She looks great. Keep it up, Ral.
I have successfully limited myself to eating red meat and chicken wings once a month. I don't crave either of them very often, so I guess that is a good sign. I carried over my May's red meat to June's, since I didn't crave it in May. I was at my company's AGM, which I organized and ran - and found myself sitting at the luncheon eating lasagna (which I chose from the catering menu). It wasn't until a coworker came over to me and asked if there were vegetarian selections...that I looked at my meal and thought SHIT! I'm eating meat! There went my May's selection down the tubes. What a waste.
I'm still working on making better choices. Even though I am not eating fast food or going to restaurants a quarter as much as before, my snacking is getting in the way. I need to make better choices, and need to figure out when I am hungry vs. when I am bored.
I'm lighter than I have been in a year, but I am far from my goal. I still walk down 20 flights of stairs every day, and do more walking since I take transit everywhere. I feel great, but I could feel better. Standby for my next update.
Oh, kudos to my sister, Laurelle, who has taken off 20 lbs recently. She started walking everyday with her kids in a running stroller. It's come off easily. She looks great. Keep it up, Ral.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Debra Live @ Spirits'
I LOVE THIS WOMAN.
I first saw her on Comedy Central a year and a half ago when I was down in the dumps. She strikes a chord in me - her execution, her material, everything - just makes me laugh. I don't find many stand-up comedians funny either.
I hope she wins "Last Comic Standing." She's incredible!
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
The Toronto Zoo
If you recall, in one of my older posts, I mentioned the things that I wanted to do over the next two years in Ontario. The Toronto Zoo was one of them.
I went to the Zoo two days ago. I was a little hesitant since the last Zoo I visited was the Calgary Zoo, which pissed me off to no end. A good quarter of the land that it sits on is reserved for this ridiculous prehistoric park, which contains imitation statues of dinosaurs. The other 75% of the park jam-packs the animals into these small pens. It immediately elevates my blood pressure when I see stuff like that. The giraffe and elephant pens were so tiny, they couldn't move around properly. I refused to go back after my first visit. I was afraid that my memory of the Toronto Zoo wasn't accurate - because I didn't recall the animals not having space to roam.
I was pleasantly surprised. Each animal had the appropriate space to play and walk (with the exception of the otter....just because they are small, they should still have some room?) The terrain and placement of the zoo is more acceptable as well. It seems that although you are in Scarborough, you are far away from the noises and hustle of the big city. The admission was $20, but I wasn't totally upset handing that over since I know it goes to the upkeep of the grounds/animal care. I can stomach that.
By the end of the day my feet were KILLING me. The zoo paths are a total of 10 kms - you walk that distance if you want to see all of the animals. . ..that was a good sign to me. It is spread out because the animals have their own space.
Rating? 8/10
(1 point was lost due to me losing $3.50 in the pop machine - mother of pearl!)
I went to the Zoo two days ago. I was a little hesitant since the last Zoo I visited was the Calgary Zoo, which pissed me off to no end. A good quarter of the land that it sits on is reserved for this ridiculous prehistoric park, which contains imitation statues of dinosaurs. The other 75% of the park jam-packs the animals into these small pens. It immediately elevates my blood pressure when I see stuff like that. The giraffe and elephant pens were so tiny, they couldn't move around properly. I refused to go back after my first visit. I was afraid that my memory of the Toronto Zoo wasn't accurate - because I didn't recall the animals not having space to roam.
I was pleasantly surprised. Each animal had the appropriate space to play and walk (with the exception of the otter....just because they are small, they should still have some room?) The terrain and placement of the zoo is more acceptable as well. It seems that although you are in Scarborough, you are far away from the noises and hustle of the big city. The admission was $20, but I wasn't totally upset handing that over since I know it goes to the upkeep of the grounds/animal care. I can stomach that.
By the end of the day my feet were KILLING me. The zoo paths are a total of 10 kms - you walk that distance if you want to see all of the animals. . ..that was a good sign to me. It is spread out because the animals have their own space.
Rating? 8/10
(1 point was lost due to me losing $3.50 in the pop machine - mother of pearl!)
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Stupid Frosh
I have to keep reminding myself that I am no longer in Calgary, where there is no humidity.
Today was the best example of this.
It was our year-end staff party. Schools have let out for the most part, and our AGM is over, so we decided to go golfing and have a BBQ at a coworker's house in Mississauga.
I was dumb. I left this morning without eating breakfast, or filling my water bottle. We got stuck on the 401 which put us behind schedule, so I couldn't ask my coworker/driver to stop so I could grab some cash to buy some water. We arrived and it was FUCKING HOT at 10:22 a.m. We started the round and I took every opportunity to stand in the shade during the day. I carried my clubs, versus pulling them. I golfed horribly.
NOT ONCE did a drink cart drive by. NOT ONCE was there a water station at any of the holes. The temperature got up to 34 degrees - 41 degrees with the humidex. SWELTERING. I don't think I have felt that thirsty before EVER. We finished our 9 holes, and proceeded to go to Mac's where I bought a water (710mls) and drank it in 30 seconds. I treated my coworker to a small slurpee - and I grabbed one too. I was STILL thirsty after that. As we were driving up to the house where the BBQ was, I started to feel ill. My stomach was churning, and my head was a little off. I walked through the door and asked to use the bathroom.
Keep in mind that I have never been to this house, or met his wife, etc. He's a wonderful guy - volunteers for OFSAA and has done so for decades. He's a well respected man in Ontario high school sports.
I walk to the bathroom and then it hit me. I'm going to poo my pants. I'm going to pass out. I'm going to puke. I was on my knees, then back up on the toilet, then back on my knees. I soaked through my shirt with cold sweat and then hot sweat. I was a MESS. The nausea was insane. Ringing in my ears. MAN, what a horrendous 20 minutes. After I composed myself, I walked downstairs and everyone looked at me and told me to sit down, as I must have been white. It was at this point that I met the wife and felt like a jackass.
"Hi, I'm Meredith. Do you mind if I expel every ounce of fluid from my body in your bathroom?"
She was very understanding. There was so much food that looked delicious but the thought of ingesting it was sickening. Eventually my colour came back and I could be social. When I returned home, I slept for 4 hours, trying to get rid of my throbbing headache.
The moral of the story, is that I am no longer in the west. I have to pay special attention to hydrating myself properly. I'm no longer 15. I am not invincible. The humidity quotient in Ontario is new to me again and I need to be smart about it.
I learned a valuable lesson, as it could have been worse. Instead of heat illness, it could have been heat stroke. Thankfully, I am still alive to talk about it.
I refuse to be stupid again. Over my dead sexy body.
Today was the best example of this.
It was our year-end staff party. Schools have let out for the most part, and our AGM is over, so we decided to go golfing and have a BBQ at a coworker's house in Mississauga.
I was dumb. I left this morning without eating breakfast, or filling my water bottle. We got stuck on the 401 which put us behind schedule, so I couldn't ask my coworker/driver to stop so I could grab some cash to buy some water. We arrived and it was FUCKING HOT at 10:22 a.m. We started the round and I took every opportunity to stand in the shade during the day. I carried my clubs, versus pulling them. I golfed horribly.
NOT ONCE did a drink cart drive by. NOT ONCE was there a water station at any of the holes. The temperature got up to 34 degrees - 41 degrees with the humidex. SWELTERING. I don't think I have felt that thirsty before EVER. We finished our 9 holes, and proceeded to go to Mac's where I bought a water (710mls) and drank it in 30 seconds. I treated my coworker to a small slurpee - and I grabbed one too. I was STILL thirsty after that. As we were driving up to the house where the BBQ was, I started to feel ill. My stomach was churning, and my head was a little off. I walked through the door and asked to use the bathroom.
Keep in mind that I have never been to this house, or met his wife, etc. He's a wonderful guy - volunteers for OFSAA and has done so for decades. He's a well respected man in Ontario high school sports.
I walk to the bathroom and then it hit me. I'm going to poo my pants. I'm going to pass out. I'm going to puke. I was on my knees, then back up on the toilet, then back on my knees. I soaked through my shirt with cold sweat and then hot sweat. I was a MESS. The nausea was insane. Ringing in my ears. MAN, what a horrendous 20 minutes. After I composed myself, I walked downstairs and everyone looked at me and told me to sit down, as I must have been white. It was at this point that I met the wife and felt like a jackass.
"Hi, I'm Meredith. Do you mind if I expel every ounce of fluid from my body in your bathroom?"
She was very understanding. There was so much food that looked delicious but the thought of ingesting it was sickening. Eventually my colour came back and I could be social. When I returned home, I slept for 4 hours, trying to get rid of my throbbing headache.
The moral of the story, is that I am no longer in the west. I have to pay special attention to hydrating myself properly. I'm no longer 15. I am not invincible. The humidity quotient in Ontario is new to me again and I need to be smart about it.
I learned a valuable lesson, as it could have been worse. Instead of heat illness, it could have been heat stroke. Thankfully, I am still alive to talk about it.
I refuse to be stupid again. Over my dead sexy body.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
An OFFS-ome School Year
The last few weeks at work at OFSAA have been exhausting and time consuming. I have been preparing and organizing our AGM which took place last week between Wednesday and Friday. Over 80 teacher-coaches and volunteers attended these meetings from all throughout Ontario. This event sucked a lot of my work energy over the last month; making sure everyone had the proper documents and literature upon their arrival. I can now consider myself the queen of mail merges. The AGM went well, the food was fantastic, and there were no hiccups (the spell check is telling me that it's spelled "hiccoughs"). When the meetings were done and I wrote the last comment for the 8 thousand meetings I took minutes for - it was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. My zits and my red, swollen eyes from zero sleep can now dissipate.
Halle-effen-lujah. Schools let out this week, work will slow down, and I can catch up on things without the phones ringing, emails dinging and couriers requesting signatures. I still love working for OFSAA. When you attend these meetings you realize that there are thousands of teachers that give their time and energy to coaching kids while making sure they are heading in the right direction. It's quite amazing. They are such a wonderful group of giving, selfless people.
Tomorrow I have my year end staff golf and BBQ party. Should be fun. It's in Mississauga.
I hate having to rely on people for rides now. Nicole, how do you do it? It's easy within the city, but anything outside the transit lines is a big pain in the arse.
In a week my friends' Jamie and Annette are visiting the big smoke. Jamie's two kids live in Burlington, so I get custody of Annette for 3 days. I will hook her up with a bulletproof vest and teach her the ropes of living in a big city. Don't make eye contact. Don't stare. Don't stand too close to the yellow line in the subway. People won't stop for you when you jaywalk. I'm just kiddin, although she is from a small town in Saskatchewan. For all of you Ontarians reading this, here is a little geography lesson. It's pronounced Saskatche-WIN, not WAN. I learned that very quickly when I moved out west. I'm looking forward to showing her the city (if you're interested in coming out with us one night to tie one on, let me know. I'm craving long islands).
Anyhow, hope everyone is well. Talk soon.
Ta.
Halle-effen-lujah. Schools let out this week, work will slow down, and I can catch up on things without the phones ringing, emails dinging and couriers requesting signatures. I still love working for OFSAA. When you attend these meetings you realize that there are thousands of teachers that give their time and energy to coaching kids while making sure they are heading in the right direction. It's quite amazing. They are such a wonderful group of giving, selfless people.
Tomorrow I have my year end staff golf and BBQ party. Should be fun. It's in Mississauga.
I hate having to rely on people for rides now. Nicole, how do you do it? It's easy within the city, but anything outside the transit lines is a big pain in the arse.
In a week my friends' Jamie and Annette are visiting the big smoke. Jamie's two kids live in Burlington, so I get custody of Annette for 3 days. I will hook her up with a bulletproof vest and teach her the ropes of living in a big city. Don't make eye contact. Don't stare. Don't stand too close to the yellow line in the subway. People won't stop for you when you jaywalk. I'm just kiddin, although she is from a small town in Saskatchewan. For all of you Ontarians reading this, here is a little geography lesson. It's pronounced Saskatche-WIN, not WAN. I learned that very quickly when I moved out west. I'm looking forward to showing her the city (if you're interested in coming out with us one night to tie one on, let me know. I'm craving long islands).
Anyhow, hope everyone is well. Talk soon.
Ta.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Poozled
I've seen....
Bear poo
Dog poo
Cat poo
Bird poo
Elk poo
Deer poo
I've even seen fish poo.
Which makes me think:
What ever happened to squirrel poo? Do they poo? There are thousands of them, and I can't say I have ever noticed them pooing, or leaving poo behind.
Strange, non?
Bear poo
Dog poo
Cat poo
Bird poo
Elk poo
Deer poo
I've even seen fish poo.
Which makes me think:
What ever happened to squirrel poo? Do they poo? There are thousands of them, and I can't say I have ever noticed them pooing, or leaving poo behind.
Strange, non?
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Summer Peeves
Summer Peeve #1
If you insist on wearing flip-flops, please lift your frickin' feet. Why is it that people think it's okay to drag them? What are you - Neanderthals? Actually, this goes for normal shoes as well. You lift your foot, move it forward, and then plant it. Repeat. Not hard.
Summer Peeve #2
I convene floor hockey and volleyball on Wed and Thursday nights. Most of my job consists of watching the games. Easy money. Part of watching the games means watching the people. Part of watching the people consists of noticing what they wear. The problem here, is that some women think it's okay to wear Lululemon, when they obviously shouldn't. They buy the XL size, and squeeze their asses and guts into these skimpy little racer-back tight tops and calf cut-out tights. It is NOT pretty.
I'm heavy myself...and I would NEVER consider squeezing into this stuff. Some women will wear the tights and then wear a long t-shirt over top. Newsflash. You're not fooling anyone. A pair of long shorts, or a pair of nylon pants will do the job Sunshine.
Same goes for those annoying shorts/white trash pants with the words across the ass. They should only be worn by university kids. Once you are 30+, and 70 lbs fatter, it's time to retire them. Especially when your ass is so big that there is room for a whole sentence, instead of a word like "sexy".
It's okay to be heavy. Just dress the part, people. Dress the part.
If you insist on wearing flip-flops, please lift your frickin' feet. Why is it that people think it's okay to drag them? What are you - Neanderthals? Actually, this goes for normal shoes as well. You lift your foot, move it forward, and then plant it. Repeat. Not hard.
Summer Peeve #2
I convene floor hockey and volleyball on Wed and Thursday nights. Most of my job consists of watching the games. Easy money. Part of watching the games means watching the people. Part of watching the people consists of noticing what they wear. The problem here, is that some women think it's okay to wear Lululemon, when they obviously shouldn't. They buy the XL size, and squeeze their asses and guts into these skimpy little racer-back tight tops and calf cut-out tights. It is NOT pretty.
I'm heavy myself...and I would NEVER consider squeezing into this stuff. Some women will wear the tights and then wear a long t-shirt over top. Newsflash. You're not fooling anyone. A pair of long shorts, or a pair of nylon pants will do the job Sunshine.
Same goes for those annoying shorts/white trash pants with the words across the ass. They should only be worn by university kids. Once you are 30+, and 70 lbs fatter, it's time to retire them. Especially when your ass is so big that there is room for a whole sentence, instead of a word like "sexy".
It's okay to be heavy. Just dress the part, people. Dress the part.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
MY GOODNESS
I was flipping through the channels on Saturday- started to watch Amityville Horror (the remake) on the movie channel. I found myself drooling over Ryan Reynolds.
I just couldn't turn it off.
He is perfection.
See for yourself:
THIS MAN IS PERFECTION. I have never seen a nicer body. EVER.
I'd watch the movie over and over again, just to see the scene where he is in his soaked pajama pants. Never mind that he was psycho. That's irrelevant.
I just couldn't turn it off.
He is perfection.
See for yourself:
THIS MAN IS PERFECTION. I have never seen a nicer body. EVER.
I'd watch the movie over and over again, just to see the scene where he is in his soaked pajama pants. Never mind that he was psycho. That's irrelevant.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Other Bloggers
What the Heck Happened to the Drive-In?
When did the drive-in turn from a semi-cool place to go.....to a haven of white trash/inbred people?
Seriously. You should go. For the mere entertainment /people-watching value.
I thought Oakville was an affluent community....apparently there are some hidden trailer parks that no one knows about. Actually, I am stereotyping, because they were all in Honda Odysseys, Toyota Siennas and SUV's. Cheapest car or van was about $40,000. Very odd.
Now let's talk about the "facilities". Most people have a fear of heights, or a fear of bugs, or snakes.....I, my friends, have a fear of toilets.
I don't like using toilets that are missing water. This includes buses, planes, trailers, port-a-potties, or camping vault toilets. I would rather go outside behind a tree. I have flown about 100 times and I have yet to use the lavatory. I will stop drinking water before the flight so I never have to go.
I need to establish "toilet trust". Before I use a toilet at a friend's house, I need to know if it has ever overflown. If it has, I use the one that hasn't.
I always close the toilet seat, because I don't want to see it flush. If the water comes up too high, it freaks me out.
I don't know where this neurosis started - but I remember being very young and refusing to use my aunt and uncle's toilet in their trailer. Hmmmmmmm. Things are starting to come full circle with this entry.
ANYHOW.
The bathroom was HORRIFIC in this place.I doubt any staff member has ever cleaned a toilet, washed the floor, or stepped foot inside that washroom. The rubber floor boards were all peeling down onto the floor, exposing the glue behind them. I think the smell in there was the cause. If anyone has seen the movie Trainspotting, you can start to imagine what I am talking about.
Ok...well it wasn't that bad. But it was bad by North America's standards.
Once we were outside in the car, eating crap...and by crap, I mean deliciousness.....it was a fun night. My date, Andrea, fell asleep halfway through the movie, but I couldn't blame her since it was Shrek the 3rd. Other options were Spiderman 3 (gay) or Pirates of the Caribbean 3 (shoot me in the face).
I'd go again, but I would make sure to pee somewhere else before I pay my admission. I would also choose to see a non-kid movie. I would try the drive-in downtown at the Docks too. Um, and I would bring a boy. Any takers?
Seriously. You should go. For the mere entertainment /people-watching value.
I thought Oakville was an affluent community....apparently there are some hidden trailer parks that no one knows about. Actually, I am stereotyping, because they were all in Honda Odysseys, Toyota Siennas and SUV's. Cheapest car or van was about $40,000. Very odd.
Now let's talk about the "facilities". Most people have a fear of heights, or a fear of bugs, or snakes.....I, my friends, have a fear of toilets.
I don't like using toilets that are missing water. This includes buses, planes, trailers, port-a-potties, or camping vault toilets. I would rather go outside behind a tree. I have flown about 100 times and I have yet to use the lavatory. I will stop drinking water before the flight so I never have to go.
I need to establish "toilet trust". Before I use a toilet at a friend's house, I need to know if it has ever overflown. If it has, I use the one that hasn't.
I always close the toilet seat, because I don't want to see it flush. If the water comes up too high, it freaks me out.
I don't know where this neurosis started - but I remember being very young and refusing to use my aunt and uncle's toilet in their trailer. Hmmmmmmm. Things are starting to come full circle with this entry.
ANYHOW.
The bathroom was HORRIFIC in this place.I doubt any staff member has ever cleaned a toilet, washed the floor, or stepped foot inside that washroom. The rubber floor boards were all peeling down onto the floor, exposing the glue behind them. I think the smell in there was the cause. If anyone has seen the movie Trainspotting, you can start to imagine what I am talking about.
Ok...well it wasn't that bad. But it was bad by North America's standards.
Once we were outside in the car, eating crap...and by crap, I mean deliciousness.....it was a fun night. My date, Andrea, fell asleep halfway through the movie, but I couldn't blame her since it was Shrek the 3rd. Other options were Spiderman 3 (gay) or Pirates of the Caribbean 3 (shoot me in the face).
I'd go again, but I would make sure to pee somewhere else before I pay my admission. I would also choose to see a non-kid movie. I would try the drive-in downtown at the Docks too. Um, and I would bring a boy. Any takers?
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
On a Lighter Note
The weather lately has been my saviour. It's been sunny and beautiful all month. Today was 24 degrees, and tomorrow is supposed to be 30!
It'll be nice to actually have 6 months of summer again. I heard that it was snowing in Calgary this past weekend....I can't even imagine.
I can't even IMAGINE.
For my birthday, I have asked my friend Andrea to go to the drive-in movie with me....being that I don't have a car and all. I haven't been to a drive-in for at least 10 yrs....it was one of my favourite things to do back in the day. You eat crap in your car, roll down your windows, and watch a few great movies through your car stereo. It's awesome, and I am looking so forward to it. When the weather is hot, it adds to the good experience.
Can't wait.
I'm almost 35.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
If you listen carefully....
You can hear......
My eggs drying up.
It'll be nice to actually have 6 months of summer again. I heard that it was snowing in Calgary this past weekend....I can't even imagine.
I can't even IMAGINE.
For my birthday, I have asked my friend Andrea to go to the drive-in movie with me....being that I don't have a car and all. I haven't been to a drive-in for at least 10 yrs....it was one of my favourite things to do back in the day. You eat crap in your car, roll down your windows, and watch a few great movies through your car stereo. It's awesome, and I am looking so forward to it. When the weather is hot, it adds to the good experience.
Can't wait.
I'm almost 35.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
If you listen carefully....
You can hear......
My eggs drying up.
I'M ANGRY
I'm disgusted today. How many people really need to open fire in a school before someone does something about it? What the hell do we do though? If you ban guns, people can still get them....
It's sad- really sad. Kids are becoming monsters, and a place that should be safe, such as a classroom, is no longer safe anymore. One kid can ruin so many things. They can rob the others of their innocence, their educational experience, and of their basic feeling of safety. They have to carry around that experience forever now.
All because one asshole is either trying to get media notoriety, or is riding on the coat tails of the others before him.
Sickening.
It's sad- really sad. Kids are becoming monsters, and a place that should be safe, such as a classroom, is no longer safe anymore. One kid can ruin so many things. They can rob the others of their innocence, their educational experience, and of their basic feeling of safety. They have to carry around that experience forever now.
All because one asshole is either trying to get media notoriety, or is riding on the coat tails of the others before him.
Sickening.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Delicious. Mouthwatering. Tempting. Palatable. Meat.
I can't do it.
I can admit my defeat.
I've lasted 2 months.
Although cutting out red meat has helped my bowels (too much info?), I crave it like crazy.
So, like my chicken wing rule, I am adopting a "once per month" red meat rule.
It's never healthy to do anything cold turkey :)
I can admit my defeat.
I've lasted 2 months.
Although cutting out red meat has helped my bowels (too much info?), I crave it like crazy.
So, like my chicken wing rule, I am adopting a "once per month" red meat rule.
It's never healthy to do anything cold turkey :)
Saturday, May 12, 2007
3 Going on 30
This little girl is soooo cute.
She desperately tries to explain herself to her Mom, and truthfully, she has a point!
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
The Light At The End Of The Tunnel
So it's been 5 months since I have been home, and I think I just paid my last URGENT bill/expense from this move. That doesn't mean I have paid OFF the move, I just paid off the last bill FROM the move. I don't know what I am going to do next month, with actually having a few hundred dollars sitting in my account.
Just before I left Calgary, I had recently finished paying back the government $2400 for my taxes. I then decide to move.....things didn't get better, financially. Keep in mind, I work in the non-profit industry. Although I love what I do, I'm never going to own a Mercedes or a 6 bedroom house. You get my drift.
$1700.00 for the movers (still sitting on my credit card)
$350.00 gas and hotels on the way back
$180.00 Alberta Health to cover me during my Ontario Health waiting period
$200.00 Christmas gifts
$350.00 extra mileage for the car
$200.00 new windshield to pass inspection
$240.00 new tires to pass inspection
$130.00 stupid fucking dentist bill from Calgary, don't even get me started on this one
So as you can see, it's been a never-ending trail of bills. It's definitely been a learning experience for me. I never used to deny myself anything I wanted. Now, I actually dread going to the bank machine, or looking at my statements, etc. I used to drop $600 a month leasing, insuring, and putting gas in my car - now, the idea of dropping $97 a month for a bus pass overwhelms me. Brutal. For those that know me well, you've probably never seen this side of me. I'm usually generous and love to spend and live the good life.
Next month? I am treating myself to something. Maybe a new pair of Keen sandals that I have wanted for over a year? Check them out. Niiiiiice eh? (if my sister Laurelle is reading this, I know you'll think they are ugly so don't answer that question).
They are kind of pricey, but man. I deserve it. I think I may even splurge and join some sort of sport. Volleyball? Fastball? The possibilities are endless. I need to get back in the rat race. I feel too isolated. All work and no play makes Mer a dull beeootchh.
p.s
I went for my monthly fix of wings last night and drank a pitcher of beer with them. It was absolutely, stupendously, amazingly, orgasmic.
Just before I left Calgary, I had recently finished paying back the government $2400 for my taxes. I then decide to move.....things didn't get better, financially. Keep in mind, I work in the non-profit industry. Although I love what I do, I'm never going to own a Mercedes or a 6 bedroom house. You get my drift.
$1700.00 for the movers (still sitting on my credit card)
$350.00 gas and hotels on the way back
$180.00 Alberta Health to cover me during my Ontario Health waiting period
$200.00 Christmas gifts
$350.00 extra mileage for the car
$200.00 new windshield to pass inspection
$240.00 new tires to pass inspection
$130.00 stupid fucking dentist bill from Calgary, don't even get me started on this one
So as you can see, it's been a never-ending trail of bills. It's definitely been a learning experience for me. I never used to deny myself anything I wanted. Now, I actually dread going to the bank machine, or looking at my statements, etc. I used to drop $600 a month leasing, insuring, and putting gas in my car - now, the idea of dropping $97 a month for a bus pass overwhelms me. Brutal. For those that know me well, you've probably never seen this side of me. I'm usually generous and love to spend and live the good life.
Next month? I am treating myself to something. Maybe a new pair of Keen sandals that I have wanted for over a year? Check them out. Niiiiiice eh? (if my sister Laurelle is reading this, I know you'll think they are ugly so don't answer that question).
They are kind of pricey, but man. I deserve it. I think I may even splurge and join some sort of sport. Volleyball? Fastball? The possibilities are endless. I need to get back in the rat race. I feel too isolated. All work and no play makes Mer a dull beeootchh.
p.s
I went for my monthly fix of wings last night and drank a pitcher of beer with them. It was absolutely, stupendously, amazingly, orgasmic.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
The World Is Mine
You know, people in North America are so spoiled in the way that we think. If we don't have the best televisions, the latest cell phone, the nicest furniture, or stylish clothes... we feel sorry for ourselves..or feel less successful than our friends. It wasn't until I visited Cuba in 2004, and decided to take a tour of the actual city of Holguin - that I hit a major turning point.
I used to love the newest electronic gadget, and was constantly buying useless "stuff" to fill my apartment. I didn't need the best of everything, but I always had SOMETHING.
Most people in Cuba live in shacks, with no running water, and yet they could still be seen sitting around a decrepit picnic bench, laughing with their friends and family. They have their priorities in the right place; they don't take things for granted and truly understand that life is a gift.
Today, on Facebook, I created a status that said "Meredith is effen happy to be alive". I had several people message me and ask me why. I realize that the way it was written, may have sounded like I had a near-death experience, but some were just curious as to why I was so optimistic in general....
Now I realize that I am as cynical as the next person, but overall, I think I know what's important.
It reminded me of a poem that I have had tacked to a cork board for 15+ years that has always pulled at my heart strings. I still read it and get teary, because it speaks the truth. I have decided to share it with you today.....
The World is Mine
Today upon a bus I saw a girl with golden hair;
She seemed so gay, I envied her, and wish that I were half so fair;
I watched her as she rose to leave, and saw her hobble down the aisle.
She had one leg and wore a crutch, but as she passed--a smile.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two legs--the world is mine.
Later on I bought some sweets. The boy who sold them had such charm,
I thought I'd stop and talk awhile. If I were late, t'would do no harm.
And as we talked he said, "Thank you, sir, you've really been so kind.
It's nice to talk to folks like you because, you see, I'm blind"
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two eyes--the world is mine
Later, walking down the street, I met a boy with eyes so blue.
But he stood and watched the others play; it seemed he knew not what to do.
I paused, and then I said, "Why don't you join the others, dear?"
But he looked straight ahead without a word, and then I knew, he couldn't hear.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two ears--the world is mine.
Two legs to take me where I go,
Two eyes to see the sunset's glow,
Two ears to hear all I should know,
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine;
I'm blest, indeed, the world is mine.
Dr. Tennyson Guyer
I used to love the newest electronic gadget, and was constantly buying useless "stuff" to fill my apartment. I didn't need the best of everything, but I always had SOMETHING.
Most people in Cuba live in shacks, with no running water, and yet they could still be seen sitting around a decrepit picnic bench, laughing with their friends and family. They have their priorities in the right place; they don't take things for granted and truly understand that life is a gift.
Today, on Facebook, I created a status that said "Meredith is effen happy to be alive". I had several people message me and ask me why. I realize that the way it was written, may have sounded like I had a near-death experience, but some were just curious as to why I was so optimistic in general....
Now I realize that I am as cynical as the next person, but overall, I think I know what's important.
It reminded me of a poem that I have had tacked to a cork board for 15+ years that has always pulled at my heart strings. I still read it and get teary, because it speaks the truth. I have decided to share it with you today.....
The World is Mine
Today upon a bus I saw a girl with golden hair;
She seemed so gay, I envied her, and wish that I were half so fair;
I watched her as she rose to leave, and saw her hobble down the aisle.
She had one leg and wore a crutch, but as she passed--a smile.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two legs--the world is mine.
Later on I bought some sweets. The boy who sold them had such charm,
I thought I'd stop and talk awhile. If I were late, t'would do no harm.
And as we talked he said, "Thank you, sir, you've really been so kind.
It's nice to talk to folks like you because, you see, I'm blind"
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two eyes--the world is mine
Later, walking down the street, I met a boy with eyes so blue.
But he stood and watched the others play; it seemed he knew not what to do.
I paused, and then I said, "Why don't you join the others, dear?"
But he looked straight ahead without a word, and then I knew, he couldn't hear.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine; I have two ears--the world is mine.
Two legs to take me where I go,
Two eyes to see the sunset's glow,
Two ears to hear all I should know,
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine;
I'm blest, indeed, the world is mine.
Dr. Tennyson Guyer
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Summer Has Arrived!
Last Thursday I had a bowling tournament for our work social club. Friday and Saturday consisted of me walking around like I had been shot in the hip. Bowling of all things? My knees and hips were killing me.
Today, I felt better and decided to take my first bike ride of the year since the weather was +25. I yanked my bike out of storage and pumped up the tires. A few kilometers into the ride, I got a flat. My stem was cracked. About 45 minutes later, and two hands covered in grease, I was on my way again. I had never changed a tire before so I was liberated and ready to go.
It amazes me when I realize how much of this city I wasn't aware of. There are some GREAT bike paths here.... I jumped on one that took me right down to Queen Street E. It should have taken me to the Lakeshore, but there was a detour....a painful detour. A detour that required you to carry your bike up 100 steps. I was OK, but there was this little Asian guy in front of me with a heavy-ass CCM or Canadian Tire special. The bike must have easily weighed more than him. Why had I missed the detour? Because some stupid asses spray painted over all of the trail signs that tell you how many kilometers are left and what detours are set up. Shame. I never really understood the whole graffiti thing, but I guess I will save that rant for another posting.
I spent an hour or so people watching at the beaches, and biked home again. My bike computer and the GPS system that Annette gave me (you rock Nettles) clocked the whole trip at approximately 40 kms.
I can just imagine how I will feel tomorrow, because currently my knees feel like they have been bashed in by Tonya Harding. My neck is stiff too, from hunching over.
All of that aside, it was SPECTACULAR to get back on the bike again. This weather makes me feel happy to be alive. People were out in the hundreds of thousands today. I passed picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings.
Summer is wonderful.
Today, I felt better and decided to take my first bike ride of the year since the weather was +25. I yanked my bike out of storage and pumped up the tires. A few kilometers into the ride, I got a flat. My stem was cracked. About 45 minutes later, and two hands covered in grease, I was on my way again. I had never changed a tire before so I was liberated and ready to go.
It amazes me when I realize how much of this city I wasn't aware of. There are some GREAT bike paths here.... I jumped on one that took me right down to Queen Street E. It should have taken me to the Lakeshore, but there was a detour....a painful detour. A detour that required you to carry your bike up 100 steps. I was OK, but there was this little Asian guy in front of me with a heavy-ass CCM or Canadian Tire special. The bike must have easily weighed more than him. Why had I missed the detour? Because some stupid asses spray painted over all of the trail signs that tell you how many kilometers are left and what detours are set up. Shame. I never really understood the whole graffiti thing, but I guess I will save that rant for another posting.
I spent an hour or so people watching at the beaches, and biked home again. My bike computer and the GPS system that Annette gave me (you rock Nettles) clocked the whole trip at approximately 40 kms.
I can just imagine how I will feel tomorrow, because currently my knees feel like they have been bashed in by Tonya Harding. My neck is stiff too, from hunching over.
All of that aside, it was SPECTACULAR to get back on the bike again. This weather makes me feel happy to be alive. People were out in the hundreds of thousands today. I passed picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings.
Summer is wonderful.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Update
I would give my left boob for a piece of red meat.
I am craving a greasy burger/steak like mad.
I will not give in though.I had that flu for a couple of weeks and my appetite was poor, yet the scale didn't reflect any loss. I think my body had retained tons of water because I wasn't drinking enough. My rings were tight on my fingers.
I am making better choices - still taking the stairs down 20 floors each morning, and I haven't eaten out a lot. I've been to the gym twice this week. It's on the main floor of this building. It occured to me that even if the gym was IN my apartment, I could STILL talk myself out of going.
So as an update, I have lost a few pounds, but it has been painful thus far. Hopefully I will hit a stage where it's easy - but my body is apparently going through meat/grease withdrawal. My heart will thank me, yes, blah blah. I'll update you every month or so. Any more than that, and it gets boring to read (and type).
Oh one more thing...once the good weather arrives (when the hell will that be? I've already experienced 6 mths of winter..3 in Calgary, 3 here) I can get out on my bike. However, I am a fair weather cyclist.. so I refuse to ride when it's under +15 celcius.
Bring on the effen good weather, gosssshhh.
I am craving a greasy burger/steak like mad.
I will not give in though.I had that flu for a couple of weeks and my appetite was poor, yet the scale didn't reflect any loss. I think my body had retained tons of water because I wasn't drinking enough. My rings were tight on my fingers.
I am making better choices - still taking the stairs down 20 floors each morning, and I haven't eaten out a lot. I've been to the gym twice this week. It's on the main floor of this building. It occured to me that even if the gym was IN my apartment, I could STILL talk myself out of going.
So as an update, I have lost a few pounds, but it has been painful thus far. Hopefully I will hit a stage where it's easy - but my body is apparently going through meat/grease withdrawal. My heart will thank me, yes, blah blah. I'll update you every month or so. Any more than that, and it gets boring to read (and type).
Oh one more thing...once the good weather arrives (when the hell will that be? I've already experienced 6 mths of winter..3 in Calgary, 3 here) I can get out on my bike. However, I am a fair weather cyclist.. so I refuse to ride when it's under +15 celcius.
Bring on the effen good weather, gosssshhh.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Ontario Attractions
So it occurred to me recently, that although I lived in Ontario for 27 yrs before moving away, I really hadn't experienced it to the fullest. Andrea was driving in downtown Toronto one day - I noticed this new neighbourhood that I never really paid attention to before- she told me it was Cabbagetown. My downtown geography was always poor since I was raised in the burbs. I realized that there were several areas and pockets of the city that I had heard of, but had never seen. Same goes for attractions.
So, in an effort to explore this province, I have created a list of things to see and do in the next two years. If you are interested in joining me, please let me know:
Toronto
Casaloma
St. Lawrence Market ( was there when I was about 7; don't recall anything about it)
Kensington Market
Toronto Zoo (it's been 10-15 yrs)
Ontario Science Centre (it's been 10+ years as well)
Day/Weekend Trips
Tobermory (I hear it's gorgeous)
Grand Bend
Explore Ottawa
Niagara-on-the-Lake
So, in an effort to explore this province, I have created a list of things to see and do in the next two years. If you are interested in joining me, please let me know:
Toronto
Casaloma
St. Lawrence Market ( was there when I was about 7; don't recall anything about it)
Kensington Market
Toronto Zoo (it's been 10-15 yrs)
Ontario Science Centre (it's been 10+ years as well)
Day/Weekend Trips
Tobermory (I hear it's gorgeous)
Grand Bend
Explore Ottawa
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Irritable
This past week I have been under the weather - chest cold, flu-ish, etc. I have been so insanely grouchy and irritable since I don't have my regular voice and I am tired all the time.
Which got me to thinking:
People often mention how people get old and automatically turn into grumps. Well, no wonder. When your body won't do what it's supposed to, and you feel as though things are out of your control, it's only natural for your to get angry. I watched my father get more and more grumpy as he got sicker, and I felt horrible for him. There is nothing more frustrating then being totally independent and watching that slip through your fingers.
When you're irritable, things that don't usually bother you, all of a sudden piss you right off. This is what I have noticed this week:
American Idol
Is it really necessary for the contestants to show the audience how many fingers it is to vote for them? I mean, when Ryan says "7" I can't be sure, but I think it means.. 7.
Could Randy maybe develop some vocabulary? I'm so sick of "dawg", "check it out", "it just didn't do it for me", "I don't know" and sucking air through his teeth when he doesn't know what to say. The man is 51 this year, yet he speaks like he's 13.
Spitting
Hmmmm let's see - what else can I complain about....spitters. Is it really necessary to spit all the time? I mean, is it a " I think I am cool" thing, or is it that they really can't stand the taste in their mouths? I stood behind this loser while we were waiting for the bus last week, and he must have spit about 30 times in 10 minutes. I don't know how he wasn't perpetually dehydrated. Oh and one more thing. It's nasty. I understand about those times when you cough and phlegm comes up, you look around, no one is there so you spit...but when you are spitting saliva, and pure saliva, what's the point?
Facebook
Plain and simple, it's addictive. And I love it. Those that know me well, know that I love keeping in touch with people, so this is an amazing tool to do so. Yay, facebook!
I can't finish this post on a negative note, so I will add some positivity.
Saturday Night
I had friends and my sister over on Saturday night as a thank you for being so supportive during my move home. Well, that's how I expected the night to go. I was going to order pizza and we were to chat, play games, etc.
It was all turned around on me and they showered me with gifts and food. I couldn't believe it. As much as I try to "pay back" people here, it's never going to happen. They are so giving it's incredible. Among my gifts, I received a lamp set, a hot shot (the coolest invention ever - kettles are outdated) and my favourite clock from Ikea.
I have wanted this clock forever. It's huge. HUGE.
I know it's hard to tell from this pic, but it's easily 2 feet in diameter - and required a plug in the wall to secure it. I look at it every day and think, man, that's a nice clock.
I have the best friends/family ever. EVER.
Which got me to thinking:
People often mention how people get old and automatically turn into grumps. Well, no wonder. When your body won't do what it's supposed to, and you feel as though things are out of your control, it's only natural for your to get angry. I watched my father get more and more grumpy as he got sicker, and I felt horrible for him. There is nothing more frustrating then being totally independent and watching that slip through your fingers.
When you're irritable, things that don't usually bother you, all of a sudden piss you right off. This is what I have noticed this week:
American Idol
Is it really necessary for the contestants to show the audience how many fingers it is to vote for them? I mean, when Ryan says "7" I can't be sure, but I think it means.. 7.
Could Randy maybe develop some vocabulary? I'm so sick of "dawg", "check it out", "it just didn't do it for me", "I don't know" and sucking air through his teeth when he doesn't know what to say. The man is 51 this year, yet he speaks like he's 13.
Spitting
Hmmmm let's see - what else can I complain about....spitters. Is it really necessary to spit all the time? I mean, is it a " I think I am cool" thing, or is it that they really can't stand the taste in their mouths? I stood behind this loser while we were waiting for the bus last week, and he must have spit about 30 times in 10 minutes. I don't know how he wasn't perpetually dehydrated. Oh and one more thing. It's nasty. I understand about those times when you cough and phlegm comes up, you look around, no one is there so you spit...but when you are spitting saliva, and pure saliva, what's the point?
Plain and simple, it's addictive. And I love it. Those that know me well, know that I love keeping in touch with people, so this is an amazing tool to do so. Yay, facebook!
I can't finish this post on a negative note, so I will add some positivity.
Saturday Night
I had friends and my sister over on Saturday night as a thank you for being so supportive during my move home. Well, that's how I expected the night to go. I was going to order pizza and we were to chat, play games, etc.
It was all turned around on me and they showered me with gifts and food. I couldn't believe it. As much as I try to "pay back" people here, it's never going to happen. They are so giving it's incredible. Among my gifts, I received a lamp set, a hot shot (the coolest invention ever - kettles are outdated) and my favourite clock from Ikea.
I have wanted this clock forever. It's huge. HUGE.
I know it's hard to tell from this pic, but it's easily 2 feet in diameter - and required a plug in the wall to secure it. I look at it every day and think, man, that's a nice clock.
I have the best friends/family ever. EVER.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
At LEASE-st it's over
Out of sight out of mind right? For me at least.
My car has been parked in the underground for over a month. I have been absolutely dreading going down there to clean her out....but I finally did yesterday. I had to go wash it in the bay which required me moving it - and it was weird. Felt like driving a new car - hard to judge it, seemed bigger than it is, etc. This morning I drove it to work (although the sticker is expired) because I was having an "end-of-lease" inspection. The guy that showed up, went through my car with a fine-tooth comb. Honestly, you should have seen the stuff this guy was doing - he had a mechanism that measured the depth of the paint on all of the panels!
I had already replaced the windshield and the tires - and thank goodness they passed. Otherwise I would have put a gun in my mouth (Mom, if you're reading this, I'm kidding.)
The report he gave me showed everything that was wrong with the car ($650 worth) which was waived for "normal wear and tear". Under the "extra wear and tear" area, he logged me as missing my front bracket for the licence plate. I informed him that in Alberta, there is only one plate on the vehicle, so they don't drill holes in the car. He told me I could fight it. Unbelievable. Mind you, he told me that he didn't have info on his computer that I was over my mileage, so hopefully the dealership doesn't ding me for that too. If they don't, I can suck up this extra $30.
Having driven this car to work today, it made me realize how much I miss having a car. It's weird not to be behind the wheel on a regular basis. Driving is something I do very well, and I kind of feel like if I don't drive often, I'll lose my skill gradually. Gay, I know.
This is only for a few months- maybe a year, tops. I need to pay off my move and get my finances in order. It's a small price to pay.
You don't miss what you don't have.....out of sight, out of mind.....?
I wish I wouldn't have driven my car today.
My car has been parked in the underground for over a month. I have been absolutely dreading going down there to clean her out....but I finally did yesterday. I had to go wash it in the bay which required me moving it - and it was weird. Felt like driving a new car - hard to judge it, seemed bigger than it is, etc. This morning I drove it to work (although the sticker is expired) because I was having an "end-of-lease" inspection. The guy that showed up, went through my car with a fine-tooth comb. Honestly, you should have seen the stuff this guy was doing - he had a mechanism that measured the depth of the paint on all of the panels!
I had already replaced the windshield and the tires - and thank goodness they passed. Otherwise I would have put a gun in my mouth (Mom, if you're reading this, I'm kidding.)
The report he gave me showed everything that was wrong with the car ($650 worth) which was waived for "normal wear and tear". Under the "extra wear and tear" area, he logged me as missing my front bracket for the licence plate. I informed him that in Alberta, there is only one plate on the vehicle, so they don't drill holes in the car. He told me I could fight it. Unbelievable. Mind you, he told me that he didn't have info on his computer that I was over my mileage, so hopefully the dealership doesn't ding me for that too. If they don't, I can suck up this extra $30.
Having driven this car to work today, it made me realize how much I miss having a car. It's weird not to be behind the wheel on a regular basis. Driving is something I do very well, and I kind of feel like if I don't drive often, I'll lose my skill gradually. Gay, I know.
This is only for a few months- maybe a year, tops. I need to pay off my move and get my finances in order. It's a small price to pay.
You don't miss what you don't have.....out of sight, out of mind.....?
I wish I wouldn't have driven my car today.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Update
So it seems that I am fighting something off - the gland behind my left ear feels like a marble, and is quite tender and sore. I tend to never really get crazy/bed-ridden sick; I just fight something off for a few weeks at a time...and then it's over. The last time I had this was Christmas Day 2005. I had to fly back home that night and I felt like I was going to vomit and pass out from exhaustion. The next week felt like I had mini-mono.
Why am I telling you this?
The whole MEC incident from the last post, was likely from this illness rather than my fatosity*, as I mentioned.
At least that's what I am hoping. I'm sure being smaller will make me feel better anyhow. This does not affect my plans.
* a word created by me
Why am I telling you this?
The whole MEC incident from the last post, was likely from this illness rather than my fatosity*, as I mentioned.
At least that's what I am hoping. I'm sure being smaller will make me feel better anyhow. This does not affect my plans.
* a word created by me
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Fat?
beefy, big, blimp, brawny, broad, bulging, bulky, bull, burly, butterball, chunky, corpulent, cow, distended, dumpy, elephantine, fleshy, gargantuan, gross, heavy, heavyset, hefty, husky, inflated, jelly-belly, lard, large, meaty, obese, oversize, paunchy, plump, plumpish, ponderous, porcine, portly, potbellied, pudgy, roly-poly, rotund, solid, stout, stubby, swollen, thickset, tubby, weighty, whale
These are the definitions I found when I plugged "fat" into www.thesaurus.com.
Today I went to MEC and while I was in the store, I got so hot so quickly that my heart started to beat faster and I felt nauseous. This could have been because MEC turns me on, and makes me excited...but unfortunately it was because I am too fat and started to feel faint due to my fatosity*.
Recently I have received some online photo albums by email where I showed up in some of the pics. What a nasty sight. I've felt unhappy with my weight for about 10 years, but I've loved food so much that it's always been "food vs nice body" and food won every time. My skin is terrible, my hair is unhealthy, and I have a general look of "exhaustion". I look 10 yrs older than I am. I feel gross all of the time. My knees hurt, my back hurts, I get tons of headaches, etc. It's time to buck up and face the music. I need to do this publicly so that I am held responsible and stay on track.
Here are my goals:
1. to fit into the womens' line of MEC clothes
2. to feel good, mentally and physically
3. to not feel embarrassed to reconnect with old friends that I haven't seen in a long time
4. to be healthy enough to be around for a long time for my friends and family
Here is what I will do:
1. eat better (duh)
2. not follow a "diet"persay - but put my BPHE degree to use for once
3. cut out red meat
4. treat myself to chicken wings (my weakness) once a month
5. get back into the exercising routine that I was once in
I don't have a specific weight loss goal. I just want to get to a weight where I feel healthy and am happy. When I first started university, I was 70 lbs less than I am now (yikes). See pic - yes that is me on the far right.....(not the chick with half a finger, holding a camera - she has nails -something I've never had).
When I finished university, I was 40-50 lbs thinner than now.
God I love that picture. We were at the Bay in Montreal in 1996. We saw these hats, and decided to pretend we were models. Funny. Look ma, I have cheekbones.
Recent(ish) pics of me (it pains me to post these)
So as you can see, I have some work to do.
Recently, Jann Arden lost a ton of weight. She looks 20 years younger, vibrant, and happy. If she can do it, why can't I?
So don't be surprised some of my future posts have to do with me bitching about my journey.
Wish me luck. With my past habits, I will definitely need it.
* a word created by me
These are the definitions I found when I plugged "fat" into www.thesaurus.com.
Today I went to MEC and while I was in the store, I got so hot so quickly that my heart started to beat faster and I felt nauseous. This could have been because MEC turns me on, and makes me excited...but unfortunately it was because I am too fat and started to feel faint due to my fatosity*.
Recently I have received some online photo albums by email where I showed up in some of the pics. What a nasty sight. I've felt unhappy with my weight for about 10 years, but I've loved food so much that it's always been "food vs nice body" and food won every time. My skin is terrible, my hair is unhealthy, and I have a general look of "exhaustion". I look 10 yrs older than I am. I feel gross all of the time. My knees hurt, my back hurts, I get tons of headaches, etc. It's time to buck up and face the music. I need to do this publicly so that I am held responsible and stay on track.
Here are my goals:
1. to fit into the womens' line of MEC clothes
2. to feel good, mentally and physically
3. to not feel embarrassed to reconnect with old friends that I haven't seen in a long time
4. to be healthy enough to be around for a long time for my friends and family
Here is what I will do:
1. eat better (duh)
2. not follow a "diet"persay - but put my BPHE degree to use for once
3. cut out red meat
4. treat myself to chicken wings (my weakness) once a month
5. get back into the exercising routine that I was once in
I don't have a specific weight loss goal. I just want to get to a weight where I feel healthy and am happy. When I first started university, I was 70 lbs less than I am now (yikes). See pic - yes that is me on the far right.....(not the chick with half a finger, holding a camera - she has nails -something I've never had).
When I finished university, I was 40-50 lbs thinner than now.
God I love that picture. We were at the Bay in Montreal in 1996. We saw these hats, and decided to pretend we were models. Funny. Look ma, I have cheekbones.
Recent(ish) pics of me (it pains me to post these)
So as you can see, I have some work to do.
Recently, Jann Arden lost a ton of weight. She looks 20 years younger, vibrant, and happy. If she can do it, why can't I?
So don't be surprised some of my future posts have to do with me bitching about my journey.
Wish me luck. With my past habits, I will definitely need it.
* a word created by me
Friday, March 23, 2007
Inhaling the New FlameThrower Chicken Sandwich
I swear, there are masterminds behind DQ commercials. Every single one makes me laugh. This one, the old one where the corporate worker sets of the sprinklers, and the one where the baby in the front carrier keeps kicking his father in the nuts...funny, funny, funny.
Just TRY to talk like these actors. You will automatically cough.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Popular Yet Grammatically Incorrect Sayings
Once in a while, a certain "saying" will totally irk me, for personal reasons.
The saying that I would like to discuss in this entry is:
"my bad"
Not only is this horrendous grammar, it bothers me because it's not a sincere apology or admission of making a mistake. It's almost in the category of:
"you know I'm sorry"
OR
"you know I love you"
No, actually, I didn't know that.
By removing anything emotional or personal, and using these statements, it's almost like saying "don't be silly, you should know these things although I never say them."
Anyhooo back to the original statement.
"My bad" is a ghetto way of saying that you made a mistake. It's ebonics, but worse. There is a time and place to joke around - for example - with my friends I will joke around and say stupid things like "word", "peace out", etc.
However, when I am in a serious setting (meeting, interview,etc) I don't use this slang. Most others don't either, but the term 'my bad' has managed to pass the barriers of social appropriateness. I can be in a serious meeting and one individual will accuse another person of something -once they realize they are in the wrong, they default to this retarded saying.
I just don't get it. Say you're sorry, or that you made a mistake. Plain and simple. People will respect it more.
Another term that seemed to popularize over the years is "not".
I'm so pretty. NOT.
I believe that Saturday Night Live started this one. So crazy. So grammatically incorrect.
Some accuse me of over-analyzing everything. In this case, I have.
My bad.
The saying that I would like to discuss in this entry is:
"my bad"
Not only is this horrendous grammar, it bothers me because it's not a sincere apology or admission of making a mistake. It's almost in the category of:
"you know I'm sorry"
OR
"you know I love you"
No, actually, I didn't know that.
By removing anything emotional or personal, and using these statements, it's almost like saying "don't be silly, you should know these things although I never say them."
Anyhooo back to the original statement.
"My bad" is a ghetto way of saying that you made a mistake. It's ebonics, but worse. There is a time and place to joke around - for example - with my friends I will joke around and say stupid things like "word", "peace out", etc.
However, when I am in a serious setting (meeting, interview,etc) I don't use this slang. Most others don't either, but the term 'my bad' has managed to pass the barriers of social appropriateness. I can be in a serious meeting and one individual will accuse another person of something -once they realize they are in the wrong, they default to this retarded saying.
I just don't get it. Say you're sorry, or that you made a mistake. Plain and simple. People will respect it more.
Another term that seemed to popularize over the years is "not".
I'm so pretty. NOT.
I believe that Saturday Night Live started this one. So crazy. So grammatically incorrect.
Some accuse me of over-analyzing everything. In this case, I have.
My bad.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Ryan Seacrest and The Bawl Baby
Is it just me, or is Ryan Seacrest a miniature version of a normal size human being? Apparently he is 5"9 but most short guys say they are 2 inches taller than they really are. It's not just his height though- take a look at him on American Idol, when he is standing beside ANY of the contestants (guys AND girls). His head is HALF the size of theirs. Sorta like that Beetlejuice character.
Very odd.
On another note, it's not very often that music brings me to tears. Tonight, one song did. Jordin Sparks sang "I Who Have Nothing" and I was so moved by her performance that I was tearing up. She did an INCREDIBLE job. The song never did anything for me since "Mr. Cheeseball Extraordinaire" Tom Jones sang it. Well, technically Ben E King did an okay job too, but a woman brings much more conviction and emotion to it. MAN, what a song. Once it's posted on 'you tube', I will post it for your listening pleasure.
Very odd.
On another note, it's not very often that music brings me to tears. Tonight, one song did. Jordin Sparks sang "I Who Have Nothing" and I was so moved by her performance that I was tearing up. She did an INCREDIBLE job. The song never did anything for me since "Mr. Cheeseball Extraordinaire" Tom Jones sang it. Well, technically Ben E King did an okay job too, but a woman brings much more conviction and emotion to it. MAN, what a song. Once it's posted on 'you tube', I will post it for your listening pleasure.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Mini Zip
Well, yesterday was my first experience with Zipcar and for the most part it was positive. I borrowed a Mini Cooper and let me tell ya.......I WANT THAT CAR.I was a little disappointed that some of the past borrowers had smoked in the car (which is a major no-no) but that was of no fault to the actual company. I sometimes wish I didn't have the nose power of a hound. I picked it up at 10am, and returned it at 7:30pm. No need to fill it up with gas, no extra insurance rates - just fun and games!
I went to visit my sister and the gang, and made a stop at Ikea on the way home. It was a nice day, and to drive again, after being absent for 3 weeks, was nice. Driving is in my bones - I do miss it. But this is a nice substitute, and will have to do for now.
My friend Christine in Victoria just bought this car, so I googled it - I was surprised to find that it's really not that expensive. You can buy a low end model for about $21,000 brand new. Not bad.
There is a tiny backseat though - which goes hand in hand with my recent debate as to whether kids are in my future.
Zippity do dahhhh!
Multiple Rants
I think of several things to blog about during my travels, but since Alzheimer's runs in my family, I freely forget them by the time I sit down to blog. Today is an odd day whereby I remembered three things that I wanted to mention, so before my mind turns to goo again, here I am.
1. The State of Toronto
I am appalled at how lazy this city is. Lazy is one word, but I really think disrespectful is a better term. The amount of garbage on the ground is absolutely disgusting. I adore that my parents taught Laurelle and I about the importance of throwing things in a RECEPTACLE. I saw this LOSER on the bus yesterday eat an entire McChicken combo...it smelled wonderful by the way. When I pulled the dinger to get off, I walked past the seat that he was originally sitting in, and there on the floor of the bus was his McDonald's bag. I mean, is it really too much trouble to carry that with you until you get off the bus? There are garbages everywhere in this city, but they sit empty, with wrappers and boxes littering the green space around them. Some argue that the spring is worse when the snow melts and exposes all of the garbage underneath, but WHY is it there in the first place? Snow is not an excuse to be disrespectful and boorish. Plain and simple, people are pigs.
2. Annoying Movie Trailer Guy
What is it about movie trailers that requires "that guy" to speak in his lowest, most unnatural voice?
I can't help but notice it every time I sit through one - I don't know how the rest of the people sitting in the theatre aren't sick of him too..?
Maybe you have never noticed how retarded his voice sounds. If that is the case, here is a clip. It's the "geico" clip at the bottom - at least he's poking fun at the absurdity of his voice.
http://www.donlafontaine.com/DLF2007/Index.html?p=NowPlaying.html&pt=NowPlaying
Now here is a normal voice:
http://www.apple.com/trailers/wb/thereaping/trailer1a/
Much nicer don't you think?
3. Kids
I honestly don't know how parents do it. I really don't. In the first 6 months of your child's life, you are tied to them, literally. You are at their beck and call, and every decision you make is about your child. Which is obvious and understandable, don't get me wrong. But man, they are exhausting. I have the utmost respect for people with kids. If they are doing it on their own - then they are just plain amazing people. That's all I have to say about this. I don't know if it's in my cards; I am waaaay too selfish for motherhood. I'll stick with my niece/nephew and my friends' kids. I like most kids, but I can visit, and then leave them with their parents. Ohhh sweet freedom.
1. The State of Toronto
I am appalled at how lazy this city is. Lazy is one word, but I really think disrespectful is a better term. The amount of garbage on the ground is absolutely disgusting. I adore that my parents taught Laurelle and I about the importance of throwing things in a RECEPTACLE. I saw this LOSER on the bus yesterday eat an entire McChicken combo...it smelled wonderful by the way. When I pulled the dinger to get off, I walked past the seat that he was originally sitting in, and there on the floor of the bus was his McDonald's bag. I mean, is it really too much trouble to carry that with you until you get off the bus? There are garbages everywhere in this city, but they sit empty, with wrappers and boxes littering the green space around them. Some argue that the spring is worse when the snow melts and exposes all of the garbage underneath, but WHY is it there in the first place? Snow is not an excuse to be disrespectful and boorish. Plain and simple, people are pigs.
2. Annoying Movie Trailer Guy
What is it about movie trailers that requires "that guy" to speak in his lowest, most unnatural voice?
I can't help but notice it every time I sit through one - I don't know how the rest of the people sitting in the theatre aren't sick of him too..?
Maybe you have never noticed how retarded his voice sounds. If that is the case, here is a clip. It's the "geico" clip at the bottom - at least he's poking fun at the absurdity of his voice.
http://www.donlafontaine.com/DLF2007/Index.html?p=NowPlaying.html&pt=NowPlaying
Now here is a normal voice:
http://www.apple.com/trailers/wb/thereaping/trailer1a/
Much nicer don't you think?
3. Kids
I honestly don't know how parents do it. I really don't. In the first 6 months of your child's life, you are tied to them, literally. You are at their beck and call, and every decision you make is about your child. Which is obvious and understandable, don't get me wrong. But man, they are exhausting. I have the utmost respect for people with kids. If they are doing it on their own - then they are just plain amazing people. That's all I have to say about this. I don't know if it's in my cards; I am waaaay too selfish for motherhood. I'll stick with my niece/nephew and my friends' kids. I like most kids, but I can visit, and then leave them with their parents. Ohhh sweet freedom.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
If You're Wondering...
whatever happened to my plans to finish a 10K, I can confidently tell you that it won't happen.
I have lost all interest.
Mind you, I can't wait to get my bike back on the road. I'm just not a runner. Can't do it.
I'd rather walk/bike 100K than run for 5K.
Too many things jiggle and shake when I run, and that is NEVER a good feeling.
I have started walking downstairs from my floor though, so 20 floors can get really trying. But once again, down is better than up, so I shouldn't complain.
That's all. I'm on March break this week and thought I would take some time out and come clean about my laziness.
I have lost all interest.
Mind you, I can't wait to get my bike back on the road. I'm just not a runner. Can't do it.
I'd rather walk/bike 100K than run for 5K.
Too many things jiggle and shake when I run, and that is NEVER a good feeling.
I have started walking downstairs from my floor though, so 20 floors can get really trying. But once again, down is better than up, so I shouldn't complain.
That's all. I'm on March break this week and thought I would take some time out and come clean about my laziness.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Zippity Do Dah
This whole "having a car in Toronto" thing is for the birds.
To be able to register an out-of-province vehicle, I had to have it inspected. Upon having
this inspection, I was told that I needed:
a. new tires ($600)
b. new windshield ($350)
c. new brakes ($350)
Now for those of you who don't know what I drive, I drive a 2003 Mazda Protege. A fairly new car.
The whole thing has been a bureaucratic nightmare. My sticker expired a week and a half ago, and I decided to not renew it, since my lease is up next month. I crunched some numbers, and realized to have it certified, and registered, it would be about $1500, and then I would have to buy the friggin thing out.
Sooooo, upon some serious deliberation, I decided to update the vehicle with used tires and a new windshield that would pass the lease inspection when I return it in a month. I priced these items, and bought them both for $430. I then parked my car underground in my building and bought a transit pass.
I have been using this pass now for 2 weeks and I realize that I don't REALLY need a car. I walk to work. The buses/streetcars come every 5-10 minutes and the subways are 4-5 minutes apart at their slowest period. It's a no brainer.
The idea of NOT having a car is weird for me, since I have owned one for the last 13 yrs. I thought that maybe this would be a short term solution originally...but now I think it may be more long term. Not having a car will save me almost $500 a month.
I then speculated about those times when I may miss having a car - going to see my sister and her family who live an hour south of Toronto..or seeing my Mom who lives an hour and a half north of Toronto - or seeing friends that live just outside the city where the buses are a little more tricky..
So I decided to become a Zip Car member. For those of you who have never heard of car sharing, here is the 411:
I thought so. The cars to choose from are all under 3 years old and are fun - civics, golfs, minis, jettas, volvos, fits, prius', etc.
The best part is that you are on the insurance plan for the company, so you are gaining an insurance record. This helps down the road when you want cheap insurance rates.
So this is the new Meredith. It feels good to not contribute to the smog problem in the city as well. Back in one of my movie blog reviews (Who Killed the Electric Car?), I joked around about not having a car and becoming a granola-eating vegetarian. I guess I shouldn't have made fun, because here I am ....what's next? Birkenstocks? Dreadlocks?
To be able to register an out-of-province vehicle, I had to have it inspected. Upon having
this inspection, I was told that I needed:
a. new tires ($600)
b. new windshield ($350)
c. new brakes ($350)
Now for those of you who don't know what I drive, I drive a 2003 Mazda Protege. A fairly new car.
The whole thing has been a bureaucratic nightmare. My sticker expired a week and a half ago, and I decided to not renew it, since my lease is up next month. I crunched some numbers, and realized to have it certified, and registered, it would be about $1500, and then I would have to buy the friggin thing out.
Sooooo, upon some serious deliberation, I decided to update the vehicle with used tires and a new windshield that would pass the lease inspection when I return it in a month. I priced these items, and bought them both for $430. I then parked my car underground in my building and bought a transit pass.
I have been using this pass now for 2 weeks and I realize that I don't REALLY need a car. I walk to work. The buses/streetcars come every 5-10 minutes and the subways are 4-5 minutes apart at their slowest period. It's a no brainer.
The idea of NOT having a car is weird for me, since I have owned one for the last 13 yrs. I thought that maybe this would be a short term solution originally...but now I think it may be more long term. Not having a car will save me almost $500 a month.
I then speculated about those times when I may miss having a car - going to see my sister and her family who live an hour south of Toronto..or seeing my Mom who lives an hour and a half north of Toronto - or seeing friends that live just outside the city where the buses are a little more tricky..
So I decided to become a Zip Car member. For those of you who have never heard of car sharing, here is the 411:
- You buy a membership for $30.
- You apply online and give them your driver's abstract.
- You purchase a monthly plan for $50, $75, $125 or $250. Or, you can waive the monthly plan and join the occasional plan which has an annual fee of $55.
- There are over 200 cars parked all over the city.
- You reserve the car for anywhere between an hour and 24 hours.
- You receive a card which you hold over the windshield and this unlocks the car and you drive away.
- If you get low on gas, there is a gas/fleet card in the car which you use to fill it up.
- You pay an hourly/daily rate which includes gas, parking, and insurance. I believe the daily max is $60-70.
I thought so. The cars to choose from are all under 3 years old and are fun - civics, golfs, minis, jettas, volvos, fits, prius', etc.
The best part is that you are on the insurance plan for the company, so you are gaining an insurance record. This helps down the road when you want cheap insurance rates.
So this is the new Meredith. It feels good to not contribute to the smog problem in the city as well. Back in one of my movie blog reviews (Who Killed the Electric Car?), I joked around about not having a car and becoming a granola-eating vegetarian. I guess I shouldn't have made fun, because here I am ....what's next? Birkenstocks? Dreadlocks?
Saturday, February 24, 2007
And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.
I don't understand why the good ones are always taken early.
The rude, crusty, angry people always live until they are 100..... and yet the wonderful, loving, giving people die of horrible illnesses, accidents, and bizarre occurrences. It's the one thing in life that I can't make sense of.
My Uncle Harold died today of a massive heart attack. No warning, no early signs of anything. One second he was fine, the next he was gone. His daughter Dee Ann is 7 months pregnant with what would have been his first grandchild. He never smoked, he never touched alcohol, and he was always on the go, helping everyone else out. He was 61.
Harold was always so great to my parents, and when my father died - he always looked out for my Mom. He fixed appliances, moved furniture for her, painted, and made sure she was doing okay. He had a phenomenal character, and was an inspiration to everyone. I'll miss him. If I end up being half the person he was, I'd consider myself blessed.
I still don't get it. There are some things in life that aren't fucking fair and this is one of them.
The rude, crusty, angry people always live until they are 100..... and yet the wonderful, loving, giving people die of horrible illnesses, accidents, and bizarre occurrences. It's the one thing in life that I can't make sense of.
My Uncle Harold died today of a massive heart attack. No warning, no early signs of anything. One second he was fine, the next he was gone. His daughter Dee Ann is 7 months pregnant with what would have been his first grandchild. He never smoked, he never touched alcohol, and he was always on the go, helping everyone else out. He was 61.
Harold was always so great to my parents, and when my father died - he always looked out for my Mom. He fixed appliances, moved furniture for her, painted, and made sure she was doing okay. He had a phenomenal character, and was an inspiration to everyone. I'll miss him. If I end up being half the person he was, I'd consider myself blessed.
I still don't get it. There are some things in life that aren't fucking fair and this is one of them.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Everyting is Irie Mahn
I hope everyone that is reading this is doing well, assuming I actually know you. Not that I wish bad things on strangers, but you know what I mean.
Things have been good since arriving home. My job is fantastic (they actually treat me well - wow, what a concept), my apartment is wonderful, my friends in T.O have been great, and I am happy to be here.
Things I Miss About Calgary:
Things I Don't Miss About Calgary:
But I digress.
Well, that's it for this entry. I have about 6 loads of laundry to do and I have to catch up on about 6 movies on my movie review blog.
Have a wonderful week everyone!
Disclaimer:
By the above statement of not missing anything about Calgary, that does not include
people. So please don't get your knickers in a knot if you are reading this, feeling a little insulted. I miss you all. Kisses.
Things have been good since arriving home. My job is fantastic (they actually treat me well - wow, what a concept), my apartment is wonderful, my friends in T.O have been great, and I am happy to be here.
Things I Miss About Calgary:
- Nicastro's house flavoured wings, which probably taste better now that the smoking bylaw is in effect
- The big blue sky and the sun. I have had to use my sunglasses twice since moving to Toronto
- Movie Central. For some stupid reason the movie channels out here don't show "The L Word", one of my favourite shows
- Ginger Beef. They just don't make it right out here if they attempt to make it at all
- Seeing the mountains in the distance
- The Uptown Theatre. Love that place.
Things I Don't Miss About Calgary:
- The traffic
- The stupid drivers
- The construction
- The lack of snow plowing
- Gravel hitting my windshield
- Having the pay for shitty health care out of my pocket
But I digress.
Well, that's it for this entry. I have about 6 loads of laundry to do and I have to catch up on about 6 movies on my movie review blog.
Have a wonderful week everyone!
Disclaimer:
By the above statement of not missing anything about Calgary, that does not include
people. So please don't get your knickers in a knot if you are reading this, feeling a little insulted. I miss you all. Kisses.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Props from Nicooooooooooolaaaaaaa
I was checking out my friend Nicole's blog as I do a few times a week, and she was nice enough to dedicate a posting to me. She even added an artistic impression of me, a la South Park.
Brilliant.
Nicole and I met working at the sweat shop, er, I mean Columbia House. We were around the same age, Gemini's and equally cynical. She has a passion for music while I have a passion for independent movies. We're quite similar in many respects.
Looking forward to seeing some flicks at the Carlton with her. She's a cool chick.
Check out her blog.
Brilliant.
Nicole and I met working at the sweat shop, er, I mean Columbia House. We were around the same age, Gemini's and equally cynical. She has a passion for music while I have a passion for independent movies. We're quite similar in many respects.
Looking forward to seeing some flicks at the Carlton with her. She's a cool chick.
Check out her blog.
A Good Hug Is Worth A Thousand Words
As I get older, I have realized that you can tell SO MUCH from HOW someone hugs you. It's almost like a handshake. Some people will give you a wonderfully firm handshake and some a floppy fish. The latter is insulting. Same goes for a bad hug.
A good hug speaks volumes. It shows that the person cares about you, and isn't afraid to show it. It illustrates that they are open, giving, and they enjoy being close to you .
Hugging is good. Being touched is a great thing. People feel good - they are warm, and they smell nice. Giving a hug is really quite simple once you realize the only reason to give a hug is to feel the comforting presence of another body up against your own. There really is no other reason to give someone a hug. A good hug makes my day.
Recently I have received some of the best hugs in my life:
Jamie in Calgary gives the warmest hugs. He usually prefaces them with a damn good kiss too.
Lesley gives very long, meaningful hugs.
I recently met my friend Tammy after 12 or 13 yrs of us losing touch. She gave me the most strong, solid hug that I think I have ever received. I am easily 100 lbs heavier than her and yet I didn't feel the difference in physique. Her hug was remarkable for her slight stature.
I look forward to many hugs during the holidays. If you're reading this, I expect a good one. No leaning in, no butt sticking out. No patting on the back. A warm, sustaining, close, embrace. A quick hug is no fun.
Oh and if you're a single, independent, hard working man, I'll take a kiss under the mistletoe as well.
:)
A good hug speaks volumes. It shows that the person cares about you, and isn't afraid to show it. It illustrates that they are open, giving, and they enjoy being close to you .
Hugging is good. Being touched is a great thing. People feel good - they are warm, and they smell nice. Giving a hug is really quite simple once you realize the only reason to give a hug is to feel the comforting presence of another body up against your own. There really is no other reason to give someone a hug. A good hug makes my day.
Recently I have received some of the best hugs in my life:
Jamie in Calgary gives the warmest hugs. He usually prefaces them with a damn good kiss too.
Lesley gives very long, meaningful hugs.
I recently met my friend Tammy after 12 or 13 yrs of us losing touch. She gave me the most strong, solid hug that I think I have ever received. I am easily 100 lbs heavier than her and yet I didn't feel the difference in physique. Her hug was remarkable for her slight stature.
I look forward to many hugs during the holidays. If you're reading this, I expect a good one. No leaning in, no butt sticking out. No patting on the back. A warm, sustaining, close, embrace. A quick hug is no fun.
Oh and if you're a single, independent, hard working man, I'll take a kiss under the mistletoe as well.
:)
Monday, December 11, 2006
I'm Baaaacccckkkkkkkk!
Well, it's been a long time since I last blogged, and there have been tons of experiences over the last few weeks. First off, a wonderful going-away party was organized for me in Calgary. I was able to see my friends/cousin before leaving for Toronto. I received some terrific gifts and cards from everyone. I have a wonderful group of friends out there that I will miss.
Andrea surprised me with a flight out to Calgary to share the driving with me on the trip home. Now THAT’S a friend. We left on the Friday and drove for 11 hrs the first day. Stayed the first night in a small city in North Dakota called Minot. For all of your Canadians out there, it’s not pronounced “minnow”; it’s actually pronounced “My Not.” We had a chuckle about that one. Second day we drove 13 hrs and stopped to eat at a local diner right out of the movies. We stepped up to the long counter and sat to eat our breakfast beside two regular patrons. It was Mel’s Diner revisited. Stayed the second night in Janesville Wisconsin – at the local Motel 6 – which was rented out by the hour, no doubt. Poor Andrea woke up with two mysterious bug bites on her legs. We left without showering because it was a questionable bathroom….. to say the least. Third day we drove for 10 hours and made it home by 7pm. First stop was Shopsy's for a salad since we were craving veggies (and truthfully I was a little bunged up- too much info?)
Since that day, I have been dealing with some “issues” with the condo, but those aside, the place is wonderful. The unit is the perfect size, and has so many amenities – pool, whirlpool, sauna/steam room, racquetball/squash/tennis courts, party rooms, video rooms for super bowl parties, etc, library, billiards room, fitness room with treadmills, ellipticals, ergs, free weights, universals, and flat screen TV’s, hobby room, underground car wash bay, in-suite laundry, and air conditioning. Who could ask for anything more?
It's odd to be back. I really thought Calgary or Vancouver would be my home for the next few years - and then this happened. I'm a firm believer of everything happening for a reason so I'm taking it in stride. It's comforting to be close to family again - my niece can now say my name (Merif) so that's a really cool feeling too. Can't wait to spend Christmas with my sister, niece, nephew and Mom. My friends out here feel like family too so it's a whole different sensation hanging with them. They take care of me out here. It's nice to let someone take charge once in a while.
Today was my first day at work. It was nice to be able to walk there and back – for the first time in my life. What a luxury….as usual, the first day was filling my brain with info, and trying to gauge personalities and working styles. I came home exhausted, but comfortable in that work environment. Looking forward to tomorrow.
More to come as it unfolds.
Hope everyone is well that is reading this. Drop me a line to say hello.
Andrea surprised me with a flight out to Calgary to share the driving with me on the trip home. Now THAT’S a friend. We left on the Friday and drove for 11 hrs the first day. Stayed the first night in a small city in North Dakota called Minot. For all of your Canadians out there, it’s not pronounced “minnow”; it’s actually pronounced “My Not.” We had a chuckle about that one. Second day we drove 13 hrs and stopped to eat at a local diner right out of the movies. We stepped up to the long counter and sat to eat our breakfast beside two regular patrons. It was Mel’s Diner revisited. Stayed the second night in Janesville Wisconsin – at the local Motel 6 – which was rented out by the hour, no doubt. Poor Andrea woke up with two mysterious bug bites on her legs. We left without showering because it was a questionable bathroom….. to say the least. Third day we drove for 10 hours and made it home by 7pm. First stop was Shopsy's for a salad since we were craving veggies (and truthfully I was a little bunged up- too much info?)
Since that day, I have been dealing with some “issues” with the condo, but those aside, the place is wonderful. The unit is the perfect size, and has so many amenities – pool, whirlpool, sauna/steam room, racquetball/squash/tennis courts, party rooms, video rooms for super bowl parties, etc, library, billiards room, fitness room with treadmills, ellipticals, ergs, free weights, universals, and flat screen TV’s, hobby room, underground car wash bay, in-suite laundry, and air conditioning. Who could ask for anything more?
It's odd to be back. I really thought Calgary or Vancouver would be my home for the next few years - and then this happened. I'm a firm believer of everything happening for a reason so I'm taking it in stride. It's comforting to be close to family again - my niece can now say my name (Merif) so that's a really cool feeling too. Can't wait to spend Christmas with my sister, niece, nephew and Mom. My friends out here feel like family too so it's a whole different sensation hanging with them. They take care of me out here. It's nice to let someone take charge once in a while.
Today was my first day at work. It was nice to be able to walk there and back – for the first time in my life. What a luxury….as usual, the first day was filling my brain with info, and trying to gauge personalities and working styles. I came home exhausted, but comfortable in that work environment. Looking forward to tomorrow.
More to come as it unfolds.
Hope everyone is well that is reading this. Drop me a line to say hello.
Friday, November 10, 2006
So Much To Spend - So Little Time
Man, I forgot just how costly it is to move. Moving company, first and last month's rent, gas and hotels for the drive, etc. Being a spendaholic, I'm trying not to look at the flyers that come to the house twice a week. What I don't see, I don't want. However, I did manage to see something in Vancouver a few weeks ago while I was wasting time during the day. It was a soft shell Helly Hansen jacket at SportMart. It will be my first purchase when I am in a better financial situation in Toronto. Oh, sweet Helly. I can't wait until I am settled in my new (unknown) place in Toronto.
Visitors welcome.
Visitors welcome.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Everything Happens For A Reason
So, after job searching in BC, I ended up accepting a job in Toronto. Who thought I would be back there in this lifetime? Not me. The whole process made me insanely nervous - as though it was meant to be. Things have been happening so quickly lately, but the timing seems totally "right." The position is soooo me, and the perks/benefits are unreal.
Today I had to call Big Sisters to close my match with Kevin. We've been matched for 5 years and he's been an awesome kid. I'm sad to have to leave him.
As though the God's above knew this, I heard the doorbell ring this evening. There was a canvasser at my door for World Vision. I have wanted to be part of that organization forever....as if this wasn't odd enough, the child that I have chosen to sponsor has so many parallels to Kevin's life. His name is Sarit, he's 11 years old, and he lives in Thailand.
I find it odd that I close a match and then start one on the same day. But, I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason so I'm excited to help another child out.
Today I had to call Big Sisters to close my match with Kevin. We've been matched for 5 years and he's been an awesome kid. I'm sad to have to leave him.
As though the God's above knew this, I heard the doorbell ring this evening. There was a canvasser at my door for World Vision. I have wanted to be part of that organization forever....as if this wasn't odd enough, the child that I have chosen to sponsor has so many parallels to Kevin's life. His name is Sarit, he's 11 years old, and he lives in Thailand.
I find it odd that I close a match and then start one on the same day. But, I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason so I'm excited to help another child out.
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