Yikes, well, another month has gone by, and all I've managed to see/read is one movie. I'm glad I'm out living life, but am really looking forward to the break and maybe reading one of the zilions of books lying in stacks around my home.
New Moon
Number two in the Twilight saga, this was my least favorite book. The movie was much better than the book. A very buff Jacob was very much worth the price of admission! :) I still think Kristen Stewart is the most wooden romantic ingenue ever, but I did enjoy the story. They stuck pretty much word for word to the book, and it was always action packed. The wolf CGI was pretty slick, and the cinematography of the west coast was beautiful. If you are a fan of the series, go see it! You'll get over the sparkly vampires, eventually... :)
Monday, November 30, 2009
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Royal Visit
Today I played a gig with the Royal Regiment of Canada for HRH Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The Prince was presenting new colours to both the RRC and the Toronto Scottish Regiment. Colours are flags, but read a more detailed explanation here. It was a super big deal, because it hasn't happened since 1962, which was before the maple leaf was even Canada's flag. There was a closed reception after the ceremony, where I got to shake hands with the Duchess of Cornwall. I really liked that she was wearing both the UK poppy as well as the Canadian one. 
The more interesting story was, I was just about to meet Prince Charles
when his bodyguard was getting ants in his pants about the crowd. He asked the lot of us to move back then specifically said, to me, "ma'am can you please move back". I was being crushed between two people, so I said, politely, that I couldn't move back. He then returned (quite rudely, I might add) "well you're not trying very hard, shall I give you a push?" then proceeded to direct the Prince to the other side of the audience. Well, I guess, as JT says, it's a lot more interesting of a story than, I shook his hand. LOL!
The whole experience was pretty awesome (and I'm not much of a monarchist), even if I froze my tail off and couldn't stop shaking by the end of the ceremony and could barely march off on my two blocks of ice for feet! :)
The more interesting story was, I was just about to meet Prince Charles
when his bodyguard was getting ants in his pants about the crowd. He asked the lot of us to move back then specifically said, to me, "ma'am can you please move back". I was being crushed between two people, so I said, politely, that I couldn't move back. He then returned (quite rudely, I might add) "well you're not trying very hard, shall I give you a push?" then proceeded to direct the Prince to the other side of the audience. Well, I guess, as JT says, it's a lot more interesting of a story than, I shook his hand. LOL!The whole experience was pretty awesome (and I'm not much of a monarchist), even if I froze my tail off and couldn't stop shaking by the end of the ceremony and could barely march off on my two blocks of ice for feet! :)
Saturday, October 31, 2009
October 2009 Books and Movies
Ok, this is super lame. In the entire month of October, I've seen one movie. Yikes! Well, at least I'm out doing stuff, living life, but I'm feeling spectacularly uncultured at the moment...
Zombieland
What a freakin' fantastic flick! If it weren't enough that Jesse Eisenberg is in this, it's really funny too. It's pretty gory, so be warned. Woody is great as usual, and I also really liked the girls, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin. Can't recommend it enough, go see it!
Zombieland
What a freakin' fantastic flick! If it weren't enough that Jesse Eisenberg is in this, it's really funny too. It's pretty gory, so be warned. Woody is great as usual, and I also really liked the girls, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin. Can't recommend it enough, go see it!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
September 2009 Books and Movies
A First!
This month has been so crazy busy, I wasn't able to complete a single book or see a single movie to blog about. Clearly, got to make more time for myself! :)
This month has been so crazy busy, I wasn't able to complete a single book or see a single movie to blog about. Clearly, got to make more time for myself! :)
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
U2 Concert!
I equate going to U2 much like a 14 year old goes to a Jonas Bros concert. I get giddy and excited, scream a lot and sing every word to every song. Seriously though, it was an amazing concert, the best one I've seen so far. Pop Mart and Elevation were awesome too, unfortunately I didn't get to see Vertigo.
Here are the pics!
The stage pre-concert is nothing compared to during. I didn't even know it was a rocket ship until someone hit the lights!
Open roof, really added to the concert!
People, people everywhere, 60 thousand of them!
I <3 Larry, ever since I was 12!
Greatest band evar!
Now, it's a rocket ship!
Bono, the consummate front man.
I could have sworn the CN Tower lights were in sync with the music.
Some very cool video.
It was just amazing, and most people I know who went felt the same. It's definitely a bucket list item, go see U2 in concert if you get the chance!
Here are the pics!
The stage pre-concert is nothing compared to during. I didn't even know it was a rocket ship until someone hit the lights!
Open roof, really added to the concert!
People, people everywhere, 60 thousand of them!
I <3 Larry, ever since I was 12!
Greatest band evar!
Now, it's a rocket ship!
Bono, the consummate front man.
I could have sworn the CN Tower lights were in sync with the music.
Some very cool video.
It was just amazing, and most people I know who went felt the same. It's definitely a bucket list item, go see U2 in concert if you get the chance!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Feeling Restless
Yesterday was mostly relaxing.
Today was exhausting but fun.
Right Now I am tired.
Tomorrow I will be apprehensive.
I want some reassurance.
I wish life wasn't so complicated.
I hope my health continues.
I need an receptive outlet for my need to bestow affection.
It's strange that I get all my info from the computer.
It's awesome I live in a time and place where women are nearly fully emancipated.
It's scary that people have children for the wrong reasons.
It's stupid to waste time on useless emotions.
I love my home.
I like to get interesting mail.
I hate spam/spam bots.
I can't turn my brain off certain topics.
Today was exhausting but fun.
Right Now I am tired.
Tomorrow I will be apprehensive.
I want some reassurance.
I wish life wasn't so complicated.
I hope my health continues.
I need an receptive outlet for my need to bestow affection.
It's strange that I get all my info from the computer.
It's awesome I live in a time and place where women are nearly fully emancipated.
It's scary that people have children for the wrong reasons.
It's stupid to waste time on useless emotions.
I love my home.
I like to get interesting mail.
I hate spam/spam bots.
I can't turn my brain off certain topics.
Monday, August 31, 2009
August 2009 Books and Movies
No books this month, can't believe I didn't even finish one! Oh well, geodee will be happy. He won't have to skip any part of this post! :)
Inglourious Basterds
Absolutely frickin' brilliant! Crazy violent, as per usual with Quentin Tarantino films, but still amazing. I love how he just mashes together so many styles of film, camera angles and cinematography to create such unique outings. The cast is fabulous, with standouts being Brad Pitt, Diane Kruger, Melanie Laurent and Christoph Waltz. I loved that finally, years after breaking out in Freaks and Geeks, Samm Levine was in another mainstay movie. It was cool that I could mostly understand (my German is pretty rusty) the movie without reading the subtitles, as 75% was in either German, French or Italian. I don't want to post plot spoilers, just go see it! Cover your eyes for the gory bits, if you're squeamish though. It's well worth it.
Let the Right One In
This was a great movie...in the original Swedish, with subtitles. Unfortunately, I was watching the version that had been dubbed by some pretty sketchy American sounding actors. It really detracted from the stunning visuals and cool creepy storyline. I found out how good this film was, when I watched the deleted scenes. I may just watch it again, now that I've found out there's an option to do it with just subtitles. There's going to be a full American remake (even though it was only made in 2008!) and people will think it's brand new, but if you care, watch the Swedish original first, you won't be sorry. Oh, did I mention that it's a vampire story? Hence the Hollywood remake... :)
Julie & Julia
This was a fantastic movie for anyone who loves a good story, a bit of whimsy and of course, fabulous food. Meryl Streep (who is, hands down my favorite actress) was absolutely stellar as Julia Child. I loved the romantic depiction of post war Paris and the chemistry between her and Stanley Tucci was spot on. Across the pond and a many decades later, Amy Adams knocked it out of the park cooking and blogging her way through "Mastering the Art of French Cooking". She is absolutely the Meg Ryan of our generation. The food preparation stole the show! I wonder how many people were employed to make everything look so delicious! Whether you go hungry or not, you'll still want to eat afterwards. Wonderful film and absolute must see!
Inglourious Basterds
Absolutely frickin' brilliant! Crazy violent, as per usual with Quentin Tarantino films, but still amazing. I love how he just mashes together so many styles of film, camera angles and cinematography to create such unique outings. The cast is fabulous, with standouts being Brad Pitt, Diane Kruger, Melanie Laurent and Christoph Waltz. I loved that finally, years after breaking out in Freaks and Geeks, Samm Levine was in another mainstay movie. It was cool that I could mostly understand (my German is pretty rusty) the movie without reading the subtitles, as 75% was in either German, French or Italian. I don't want to post plot spoilers, just go see it! Cover your eyes for the gory bits, if you're squeamish though. It's well worth it.
Let the Right One In
This was a great movie...in the original Swedish, with subtitles. Unfortunately, I was watching the version that had been dubbed by some pretty sketchy American sounding actors. It really detracted from the stunning visuals and cool creepy storyline. I found out how good this film was, when I watched the deleted scenes. I may just watch it again, now that I've found out there's an option to do it with just subtitles. There's going to be a full American remake (even though it was only made in 2008!) and people will think it's brand new, but if you care, watch the Swedish original first, you won't be sorry. Oh, did I mention that it's a vampire story? Hence the Hollywood remake... :)
Julie & Julia
This was a fantastic movie for anyone who loves a good story, a bit of whimsy and of course, fabulous food. Meryl Streep (who is, hands down my favorite actress) was absolutely stellar as Julia Child. I loved the romantic depiction of post war Paris and the chemistry between her and Stanley Tucci was spot on. Across the pond and a many decades later, Amy Adams knocked it out of the park cooking and blogging her way through "Mastering the Art of French Cooking". She is absolutely the Meg Ryan of our generation. The food preparation stole the show! I wonder how many people were employed to make everything look so delicious! Whether you go hungry or not, you'll still want to eat afterwards. Wonderful film and absolute must see!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Speed Training
I've just begun speed training to increase my running pace. This process is quite arduous! I don't have the physique needed, so it's super challenging. I ran for longer today than yesterday without needing a break, but the pain...it's such a mental battle.
But I can't keep running 5K at my current pace. One, it's not good cardio, because I'm used to it, & two, it's not really running, more like slow jogging or race walking, except I do lift my entire foot off the ground.
Any comments and/or suggestions would be much appreciated.
But I can't keep running 5K at my current pace. One, it's not good cardio, because I'm used to it, & two, it's not really running, more like slow jogging or race walking, except I do lift my entire foot off the ground.
Any comments and/or suggestions would be much appreciated.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Blogger's Block
Or should I call it blog aversion.
Maybe it's because I have a few entries unfinished. Maybe it's because I wonder if what I have to say is even worth writing down. Maybe it's because although I have a few readers, it's like a big black void out there.
It's been a while since I've done a progress update.
Health: Holding steady, meds decreased, Metho 5 mls, Humira once monthly - still in drug related remission
Work: Starting at a new place in September. Looking forward to being closer to home and a new work environment.
Fitness: Still working, although had a slump of two weeks due to being too busy. Am trying to increase my 5K time, did my first speed workout today. It was really hard.
Family: Uh, unfortunately, my first response at the moment is, what family? I know it may be temporary, but I feel utterly abandoned at the moment. My friends are my family, but isn't that usually supposed to happen when you're miles away from home?
Mental health: Worrying. A lot of stress and a fair amount of sadness. Too much negative thought. Am trying to adhere to the practice of throwing out these thoughts and holding on to the positive ones.
Relationships: Trying to have a better one with myself, but it's not going very well at the moment, which is most likely the real reason behind the bloggers block. Am disengaging from a key relationship in my life which seems to be dragging me down. Others are disengaging from me. On the whole, not feeling great about this topic.
Wow, this is a depressing entry. There's a lot of truth to the fact that people tend to blog more when they are up then when they are down. But the down entries are important for reflection and self improvement.
Here's to better days, and better posts.
Maybe it's because I have a few entries unfinished. Maybe it's because I wonder if what I have to say is even worth writing down. Maybe it's because although I have a few readers, it's like a big black void out there.
It's been a while since I've done a progress update.
Health: Holding steady, meds decreased, Metho 5 mls, Humira once monthly - still in drug related remission
Work: Starting at a new place in September. Looking forward to being closer to home and a new work environment.
Fitness: Still working, although had a slump of two weeks due to being too busy. Am trying to increase my 5K time, did my first speed workout today. It was really hard.
Family: Uh, unfortunately, my first response at the moment is, what family? I know it may be temporary, but I feel utterly abandoned at the moment. My friends are my family, but isn't that usually supposed to happen when you're miles away from home?
Mental health: Worrying. A lot of stress and a fair amount of sadness. Too much negative thought. Am trying to adhere to the practice of throwing out these thoughts and holding on to the positive ones.
Relationships: Trying to have a better one with myself, but it's not going very well at the moment, which is most likely the real reason behind the bloggers block. Am disengaging from a key relationship in my life which seems to be dragging me down. Others are disengaging from me. On the whole, not feeling great about this topic.
Wow, this is a depressing entry. There's a lot of truth to the fact that people tend to blog more when they are up then when they are down. But the down entries are important for reflection and self improvement.
Here's to better days, and better posts.
Friday, July 31, 2009
July 2009 Books and Movies
My Sister's Keeper
Jodi Picoult
This was a really good book. I read it cover to cover in very few days. I'm a little hesitant to see the movie now, because I heard they changed it quite a bit. Maybe a little later, when it comes out on DVD. This is truly an ethical dilemma. To create a designer baby who is a perfect match to your very sick existing child and then feel you are able to make unbiased decisions about what to take from that child to give to the sick one seems ludicrous. In their efforts to save the sick one, the parents didn't consider the health of the donor child until she filed a lawsuit, suing for medical emancipation. The writing was a bit rough, but the fast moving story more than made up for it. A must read for anyone who likes to look at both sides of the story.
The Ugly Truth
A really fun rom com. I do like Katherine Heigl, despite the Izzie frenzy and think she's a great comedic actress. Gerrard Butler is smokin' hot and really did a passable American accent. It only started to slip a little towards the middle. I remember Eric Winter from when he played Rex DiMera on DOOL, but he was definitely a little weak here. Still a beautiful man though. Loved the homage to the When Harry Met Sally deli scene. I laughed a lot, which is always a good outcome for a piece of fluff movie like this one. Go see it if you need a lift!
The Cigarette Girl
Carol Wolper
Great novel. Fresh (even though it was written in 1998!) and fun, with a non traditional heroine. My type of chick lit, without a doubt. Loved the insider knowledge of what Hollywood is all about, and loved that Elizabeth was looking for Mr. Maybe instead of the picket fence deal. It reminded me a little of The Personal Assistant that I read a year or so back, but with much spunkier characters. Great light read, highly recommend it!
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
I thought this was a pretty good adaptation of a very long book. Of course, some plot points were left out, and they paid a lot of attention to the teenage dynamic, but that is definitely their target audience. All the kids have grown into their roles, and the adults, especially Alan Rickman and Maggie Smith were phenomenal as expected. Even Richard Harris is starting to grow on me, although, why does his coached English accent have to be so bad? I was so happy to see Jim Broadbent in this one, he's so great. It was a little long, but I went into it expecting that. I missed the half blood prince back story, especially between Lily and Severus. That being said, I'm looking forward to the final two installments.
At a Time Like This
Catherine Dunne
Another book from the Irish short stories compilation. Good story, intriguing ending, but ultimately a book for 40 something women. I'm just not there yet. I found I couldn't relate to the characters very well, with their marriage and children trials and tribulations. It's sad, I've grown out of the 20 something chick lit, but there doesn't seem to be anything between that and the 40 something wife and mother stories. The four women have incredible bonds, but I guess I am looking for more of a SATC vibe. I think I'll wait a decade or so before cracking another Dunne novel.
The Personal Shopper
Carmen Reid
Unfortunately, I read the sequel to this book before the original, so I had a bit of strange pre-knowledge going in. Annie Valentine is even more annoying in this book, and this is the one that intros her! She is good at her job, and the personal shopping angle is quite interesting as is the dynamic with her children. This book explains how Annie and Ed get together. Overall, the story was good, as I definitely kept reading, but the one thing I really didn't like was the way the author kept Roddy's departure so ambiguous. I know I'm also doing that somewhat here, but I don't want to spoil anyone's reading pleasure. The reader doesn't find out the true story until page 359 of 425! The same was true of the sequel with the real turn of events deliberately kept from the reader. I would read more Carmen Reid, based on her light flowing style and the fact that it's easy going chick lit that doesn't require too much brain power.
17 Again
Another plane movie. I was really tired and definitely not in the mood for something that I would have to think about, so chose this one. I was not expecting to actually laugh out loud (slightly embarrassing when you're watching your own movie on a plane complete with headphones) and enjoy it as much as I did. Zac Efron was really good, (and cute too!) especially considering he was playing a role within a role. I really hated Michelle Trachtenberg, but that's no surprise, she annoyed me in Buffy every week. Matthew Perry was pretty good as well, along with Leslie Mann. Sure, there were some cheezy moments, but overall and really fun movie.
He's Just Not That Into You
As per an earlier post, I didn't really enjoy this book. I had heard terrible reviews about the movie so decided not to see it. As I was scrolling through the selections on the plane to Winnipeg, I saw it and thought, what the hay, at least it's a no brainer. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I quite liked it. It was funny, the characters were interesting and it was hardly based on the book at all. I'm not sure why it got such scathing reviews, as it did fine as a rom com in my books. Standouts were Ginnifer Goodwin and Jennifer Aniston. A fun distraction.
Away We Go
This was a beautiful film about direction, human emotions and love. A couple, expecting their first child, go on the road in search of where to settle down and raise a family. I'm not always a fan of Sam Mendes' work (I actually didn't like American Beauty...) but this piece was fantastic. I didn't know it was directed my Sam Mendes until the end, which may have helped. The scenes in Montreal were particularly heartwrenching as was the final scene of the film. A definite must see!
Jodi Picoult
This was a really good book. I read it cover to cover in very few days. I'm a little hesitant to see the movie now, because I heard they changed it quite a bit. Maybe a little later, when it comes out on DVD. This is truly an ethical dilemma. To create a designer baby who is a perfect match to your very sick existing child and then feel you are able to make unbiased decisions about what to take from that child to give to the sick one seems ludicrous. In their efforts to save the sick one, the parents didn't consider the health of the donor child until she filed a lawsuit, suing for medical emancipation. The writing was a bit rough, but the fast moving story more than made up for it. A must read for anyone who likes to look at both sides of the story.
The Ugly Truth
A really fun rom com. I do like Katherine Heigl, despite the Izzie frenzy and think she's a great comedic actress. Gerrard Butler is smokin' hot and really did a passable American accent. It only started to slip a little towards the middle. I remember Eric Winter from when he played Rex DiMera on DOOL, but he was definitely a little weak here. Still a beautiful man though. Loved the homage to the When Harry Met Sally deli scene. I laughed a lot, which is always a good outcome for a piece of fluff movie like this one. Go see it if you need a lift!
The Cigarette Girl
Carol Wolper
Great novel. Fresh (even though it was written in 1998!) and fun, with a non traditional heroine. My type of chick lit, without a doubt. Loved the insider knowledge of what Hollywood is all about, and loved that Elizabeth was looking for Mr. Maybe instead of the picket fence deal. It reminded me a little of The Personal Assistant that I read a year or so back, but with much spunkier characters. Great light read, highly recommend it!
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
I thought this was a pretty good adaptation of a very long book. Of course, some plot points were left out, and they paid a lot of attention to the teenage dynamic, but that is definitely their target audience. All the kids have grown into their roles, and the adults, especially Alan Rickman and Maggie Smith were phenomenal as expected. Even Richard Harris is starting to grow on me, although, why does his coached English accent have to be so bad? I was so happy to see Jim Broadbent in this one, he's so great. It was a little long, but I went into it expecting that. I missed the half blood prince back story, especially between Lily and Severus. That being said, I'm looking forward to the final two installments.
At a Time Like This
Catherine Dunne
Another book from the Irish short stories compilation. Good story, intriguing ending, but ultimately a book for 40 something women. I'm just not there yet. I found I couldn't relate to the characters very well, with their marriage and children trials and tribulations. It's sad, I've grown out of the 20 something chick lit, but there doesn't seem to be anything between that and the 40 something wife and mother stories. The four women have incredible bonds, but I guess I am looking for more of a SATC vibe. I think I'll wait a decade or so before cracking another Dunne novel.
The Personal Shopper
Carmen Reid
Unfortunately, I read the sequel to this book before the original, so I had a bit of strange pre-knowledge going in. Annie Valentine is even more annoying in this book, and this is the one that intros her! She is good at her job, and the personal shopping angle is quite interesting as is the dynamic with her children. This book explains how Annie and Ed get together. Overall, the story was good, as I definitely kept reading, but the one thing I really didn't like was the way the author kept Roddy's departure so ambiguous. I know I'm also doing that somewhat here, but I don't want to spoil anyone's reading pleasure. The reader doesn't find out the true story until page 359 of 425! The same was true of the sequel with the real turn of events deliberately kept from the reader. I would read more Carmen Reid, based on her light flowing style and the fact that it's easy going chick lit that doesn't require too much brain power.
17 Again
Another plane movie. I was really tired and definitely not in the mood for something that I would have to think about, so chose this one. I was not expecting to actually laugh out loud (slightly embarrassing when you're watching your own movie on a plane complete with headphones) and enjoy it as much as I did. Zac Efron was really good, (and cute too!) especially considering he was playing a role within a role. I really hated Michelle Trachtenberg, but that's no surprise, she annoyed me in Buffy every week. Matthew Perry was pretty good as well, along with Leslie Mann. Sure, there were some cheezy moments, but overall and really fun movie.
He's Just Not That Into You
As per an earlier post, I didn't really enjoy this book. I had heard terrible reviews about the movie so decided not to see it. As I was scrolling through the selections on the plane to Winnipeg, I saw it and thought, what the hay, at least it's a no brainer. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I quite liked it. It was funny, the characters were interesting and it was hardly based on the book at all. I'm not sure why it got such scathing reviews, as it did fine as a rom com in my books. Standouts were Ginnifer Goodwin and Jennifer Aniston. A fun distraction.
Away We Go
This was a beautiful film about direction, human emotions and love. A couple, expecting their first child, go on the road in search of where to settle down and raise a family. I'm not always a fan of Sam Mendes' work (I actually didn't like American Beauty...) but this piece was fantastic. I didn't know it was directed my Sam Mendes until the end, which may have helped. The scenes in Montreal were particularly heartwrenching as was the final scene of the film. A definite must see!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Danny Bhoy - Solo Show at Just For Laughs
In a word...Fantastic!
D introduced me to this hilarious comic via YouTube and I've been hooked ever since. He is a situational comic and does great accents. He also does excellent physical comedy. I was happy to find that his new solo show contained mostly new material, and I had only heard a couple of jokes. To be fair, I'm sure not all his audience watches him over and over, until they can re-tell his jokes! :)
I was disappointed that I didn't get to hear the Didilidee Potatoes joke live and in person, but I laughed so hard for an hour and fifteen minutes that my cheeks and tummy hurt!
What a great way to spend a Sunday evening!
D introduced me to this hilarious comic via YouTube and I've been hooked ever since. He is a situational comic and does great accents. He also does excellent physical comedy. I was happy to find that his new solo show contained mostly new material, and I had only heard a couple of jokes. To be fair, I'm sure not all his audience watches him over and over, until they can re-tell his jokes! :)
I was disappointed that I didn't get to hear the Didilidee Potatoes joke live and in person, but I laughed so hard for an hour and fifteen minutes that my cheeks and tummy hurt!
What a great way to spend a Sunday evening!
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Winnipeg
I had a great time visiting Em in Winnipeg. We toured the city and then drove about an hour north to Lake Winnipeg.
Pictures tell the story, so here are some highlights.
Via Rail Station, Winnipeg. (I flew in, but I love train stations)
Fort Garry Hotel
Inside, at the elevators
Winnipeg skyline
The windiest cross-streets in Canada!
Bug spray, anyone?
The Forks (where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet)
Lake Winnipeg
The Viking at Gimli and an explanation. So cool that the plaque is written in English, French and Icelandic!
Pelican!
Winnipeg Beach, where the short lived show, Falcon Beach was shot. They just digitally changed the name and colour on the water tower.
The Petersfield Mallard, built in 1905! Now I have to get the matching Wawa Goose shot...
Em's lovely family home, built in 1912.
My first time to Winnipeg, and I can see why people from there really love it. Granted, I haven't been there in the winter, but I'm sure people are used to it!
Pictures tell the story, so here are some highlights.
Via Rail Station, Winnipeg. (I flew in, but I love train stations)
Fort Garry Hotel
Inside, at the elevators
Winnipeg skyline
The windiest cross-streets in Canada!
Bug spray, anyone?
The Forks (where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet)
Lake Winnipeg
The Viking at Gimli and an explanation. So cool that the plaque is written in English, French and Icelandic!
Pelican!
Winnipeg Beach, where the short lived show, Falcon Beach was shot. They just digitally changed the name and colour on the water tower.
The Petersfield Mallard, built in 1905! Now I have to get the matching Wawa Goose shot...
Em's lovely family home, built in 1912.
My first time to Winnipeg, and I can see why people from there really love it. Granted, I haven't been there in the winter, but I'm sure people are used to it!
Sunday, July 05, 2009
My Little Sister's Wedding
Yesterday Colleen got married!
I'm happy to say I played a part in bringing these two together. My friend Amy did as well. Read this for her part.
One fine day in 2002, Amy invited some work friends, myself and our other friend from choir, Janet over to her place for pizza, beer and trivia. All of Amy's work people were pretty awesome at trivia, but this one dude, Jeff, stood out among the rest. He could answer pretty much every question thrown at him. He was a bit shy, and super nice. I remember thinking..."this guy is perfect for my sister!" Since we both lived in the same neighbourhood, we rode the subway together with Janet and I asked him a few subtle questions about his love life. He wasn't seeing anyone at the time, but the point was moot because Colleen was dating someone else. Eventually she broke up with that guy, but it would take another few years to get them in the same room together. Every time I'd be at a function attended by Jeff, I'd think the same thing..."this guy is perfect for my sister!" while simultaneously trying to come up with ways to get them to meet. They finally did meet, at Amy and Blake's deck party in 2007. I had set up a Facebook account for her, and shown her a picture of Jeff. They pretty much talked throughout the entire party and afterwards, I added him as a friend on her account. They started dating a few days after that. They make an adorable couple, if I do say myself! :) I'm not a deliberate matchmaker, but if I know deep in my gut that people suit each other, I am quite determined!
A brilliant time was had by all. Here are some of the photo highlights.
Me in my maid of honour dress, with John, Blake and Amy. It was nice not to have to match with anyone, and to pick a dress I liked (and could wear again) with the only stipulation being the colour.
The best man (Jeff's brother Pat) and his wife, Helen.
The cake! Two tiers were chocolate, the other vanilla with strawberries and lemon. The flower girl is there for uber cuteness effect. :)
Amy and Blake (and the girls), to whom Colleen and Jeff are forever indebted for throwing such great parties!
Janet and John, my invited peeps so I wouldn't get lonely!
The garter toss. LOVE the expression on Jeff's face!
D and I.
Proof that this is the man that will take care of my baby sister. I know I won't have to kick his butt! :)
It truly was a perfect day. From gorgeous weather for the outdoor ceremony to almost no blips in any of the arrangements, everything went smoothly, even my speech!
I am so happy for Colleen and Jeff and wish them much love and happiness in the future!
I'm happy to say I played a part in bringing these two together. My friend Amy did as well. Read this for her part.
One fine day in 2002, Amy invited some work friends, myself and our other friend from choir, Janet over to her place for pizza, beer and trivia. All of Amy's work people were pretty awesome at trivia, but this one dude, Jeff, stood out among the rest. He could answer pretty much every question thrown at him. He was a bit shy, and super nice. I remember thinking..."this guy is perfect for my sister!" Since we both lived in the same neighbourhood, we rode the subway together with Janet and I asked him a few subtle questions about his love life. He wasn't seeing anyone at the time, but the point was moot because Colleen was dating someone else. Eventually she broke up with that guy, but it would take another few years to get them in the same room together. Every time I'd be at a function attended by Jeff, I'd think the same thing..."this guy is perfect for my sister!" while simultaneously trying to come up with ways to get them to meet. They finally did meet, at Amy and Blake's deck party in 2007. I had set up a Facebook account for her, and shown her a picture of Jeff. They pretty much talked throughout the entire party and afterwards, I added him as a friend on her account. They started dating a few days after that. They make an adorable couple, if I do say myself! :) I'm not a deliberate matchmaker, but if I know deep in my gut that people suit each other, I am quite determined!
A brilliant time was had by all. Here are some of the photo highlights.
Me in my maid of honour dress, with John, Blake and Amy. It was nice not to have to match with anyone, and to pick a dress I liked (and could wear again) with the only stipulation being the colour.
The best man (Jeff's brother Pat) and his wife, Helen.
The cake! Two tiers were chocolate, the other vanilla with strawberries and lemon. The flower girl is there for uber cuteness effect. :)
Amy and Blake (and the girls), to whom Colleen and Jeff are forever indebted for throwing such great parties!
Janet and John, my invited peeps so I wouldn't get lonely!
The garter toss. LOVE the expression on Jeff's face!
D and I.
Proof that this is the man that will take care of my baby sister. I know I won't have to kick his butt! :)It truly was a perfect day. From gorgeous weather for the outdoor ceremony to almost no blips in any of the arrangements, everything went smoothly, even my speech!
I am so happy for Colleen and Jeff and wish them much love and happiness in the future!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
June 2009 Books and Movies
Living Next Door to Alice
Melissa Mackle
Another author find from the About Town short stories, this time from the Irish one. I have to say, not so good. The characters were pretty one dimensional and the writer used the same expressions over and over again, so thumbs down for writer creativity. Especially overused was the phrase "going down a treat" when eating or drinking. It was used at least 10 times. It wasn't so bad that I put it down without finishing, but not great enough to pursue other Mackle titles.
Up
This was a lovely film, made even better by digital 3D. Poignant and funny, I thoroughly enjoyed the strange and wonderful world created by Disney and Pixar. The characters were well drawn (both literally and figuratively) and the story was really imaginative. Loved Russell, he had some of the best lines. The Pixar short at the beginning was so cute. Go see it, tell your friends, then see it again, preferably in 3D, the glasses aren't that bad. :)
Late Night Shopping
Carmen Reid
This was a piece of chicklit that I found from mining the Girls About Town Short Stories Books. Carmen Reid is from the Scottish one. She is a good writer, and I would read her other books. The trouble with this one was, I hated the main character. She was really annoying (read irresponsible and selfish) ala Becky Bloomwood, to the point I was yelling at her. In the book. Seriously, that's over involvement. Annie is a personal shopper who wants to start her own business, but is sacrificing time with her family and partner while doing so. There was enough plot to keep me reading, but it was so ho hum, and the really interesting characters never were fully explored. There was the requisite gay best friend, so pretty run of the mill. I'm up for another turn, but give Late Night Shopping a miss.
Update: Just found out it was a sequel to a book called The Personal Shopper, but that just makes it even more like the Shopaholic series. Will read it and report back.
My Life in Ruins
Cute little rom com, great writing, beautiful cinematography and very funny. I like Nia Vardalos (great dead pans), and the supporting cast were pretty good too, especially Richard Dreyfuss. Of course, there were quite a few cliches but forgivable as the rest of the film was solid. I'm not sure I know any men who would enjoy this, but it's a good girls afternoon out. I predict there are going to be a lot of haters, but it's worth a go see. I'm definitely renting it when it comes out on DVD, for the outtakes. They're bound to be hilarious.
Scottish Girls About Town
Various
This is the first time I've ever ordered a book for the TPL. That was pretty cool. Since they already had Irish and American Girls About Town they accepted my suggestion to order the above, and I was first on the list to get it. I didn't discover as many good authors as in the other anthologies, but a few (Isla Dewar, Carmen Reid, Katie Agnew, Julia Hamilton) really stood out. I'm looking forward to reading more from them.
Melissa Mackle
Another author find from the About Town short stories, this time from the Irish one. I have to say, not so good. The characters were pretty one dimensional and the writer used the same expressions over and over again, so thumbs down for writer creativity. Especially overused was the phrase "going down a treat" when eating or drinking. It was used at least 10 times. It wasn't so bad that I put it down without finishing, but not great enough to pursue other Mackle titles.
Up
This was a lovely film, made even better by digital 3D. Poignant and funny, I thoroughly enjoyed the strange and wonderful world created by Disney and Pixar. The characters were well drawn (both literally and figuratively) and the story was really imaginative. Loved Russell, he had some of the best lines. The Pixar short at the beginning was so cute. Go see it, tell your friends, then see it again, preferably in 3D, the glasses aren't that bad. :)
Late Night Shopping
Carmen Reid
This was a piece of chicklit that I found from mining the Girls About Town Short Stories Books. Carmen Reid is from the Scottish one. She is a good writer, and I would read her other books. The trouble with this one was, I hated the main character. She was really annoying (read irresponsible and selfish) ala Becky Bloomwood, to the point I was yelling at her. In the book. Seriously, that's over involvement. Annie is a personal shopper who wants to start her own business, but is sacrificing time with her family and partner while doing so. There was enough plot to keep me reading, but it was so ho hum, and the really interesting characters never were fully explored. There was the requisite gay best friend, so pretty run of the mill. I'm up for another turn, but give Late Night Shopping a miss.
Update: Just found out it was a sequel to a book called The Personal Shopper, but that just makes it even more like the Shopaholic series. Will read it and report back.
My Life in Ruins
Cute little rom com, great writing, beautiful cinematography and very funny. I like Nia Vardalos (great dead pans), and the supporting cast were pretty good too, especially Richard Dreyfuss. Of course, there were quite a few cliches but forgivable as the rest of the film was solid. I'm not sure I know any men who would enjoy this, but it's a good girls afternoon out. I predict there are going to be a lot of haters, but it's worth a go see. I'm definitely renting it when it comes out on DVD, for the outtakes. They're bound to be hilarious.
Scottish Girls About Town
Various
This is the first time I've ever ordered a book for the TPL. That was pretty cool. Since they already had Irish and American Girls About Town they accepted my suggestion to order the above, and I was first on the list to get it. I didn't discover as many good authors as in the other anthologies, but a few (Isla Dewar, Carmen Reid, Katie Agnew, Julia Hamilton) really stood out. I'm looking forward to reading more from them.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
The Big Ride
When I got up this morning, I wondered how the day would play out.
So...got all the way to Oakville, but was sidelined by fatigue and bad weather. Took the train to Mimico and then biked the rest of the way home. A respectable 54K (or thereabouts, a few detours added some extra, I'm sure) but a far cry from the 80K I'd envisioned. I don't know why I thought I could jump from 44K the week before (with big breaks in between) to double that, with only one break at the halfway point. One has to work up to these things! :)
Anyway, I'm thinking that next time I'll try 60K, with one break. I really want to do a century ride, which is 100 miles (160K) so training is essential. I also want to do a camping/biking trip this summer. Hopefully by next summer I'll be able to do the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island.
So...got all the way to Oakville, but was sidelined by fatigue and bad weather. Took the train to Mimico and then biked the rest of the way home. A respectable 54K (or thereabouts, a few detours added some extra, I'm sure) but a far cry from the 80K I'd envisioned. I don't know why I thought I could jump from 44K the week before (with big breaks in between) to double that, with only one break at the halfway point. One has to work up to these things! :)
Anyway, I'm thinking that next time I'll try 60K, with one break. I really want to do a century ride, which is 100 miles (160K) so training is essential. I also want to do a camping/biking trip this summer. Hopefully by next summer I'll be able to do the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Gender Equality
I enjoyed reading this article so much, I'm posting it everywhere: here, my Twitter and on Facebook.
The whole thing is good, but the last sentence are words to live by.
The whole thing is good, but the last sentence are words to live by.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Michael Jackson
My mind is still reeling over the news of this pop icon's death. I know he had some very strange happenings of late, but the fact remains that he changed the face of pop music and dance, not to mention redefining the music video. I know almost every line to nearly every song he's ever released. I didn't think I would be so sad over this, but I genuinely am.
RIP MJ, you will be sorely missed.
RIP MJ, you will be sorely missed.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Tour de Dufflet
What a great way to spend a Sunday!
Blake, Amy, Pat and I saddled up and rode to each of the three shop locations where (for a $5 entry fee donated to charity) we received a treat and a drink. We also got a bike bag and a $5 off coupon for a Dufflet cake. It was 44K all told, just over half the distance of our big ride to Oakville.
Blake, Amy, Pat and I saddled up and rode to each of the three shop locations where (for a $5 entry fee donated to charity) we received a treat and a drink. We also got a bike bag and a $5 off coupon for a Dufflet cake. It was 44K all told, just over half the distance of our big ride to Oakville.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Hamilton's 18th Annual International Tattoo
This weekend I performed in the above Tattoo. It's been a while since I've been on a band trip and done a major tattoo with more than one show. We stayed at Mac, which was a real blast from the past. The shows went well, but I've found (as I've been finding more and more lately) that I just don't have the stamina I used to, both on the tattoo floor and during down time. Once upon a time, I would have been able to do an all day practice, the night show, party all night long, get a few hours sleep and do the show all over again. Not so much anymore. Sure I was able to do it, but I felt pretty bad by the end of the second day. Oh well, the wonders of growing older!
Sunday, June 07, 2009
First 5K Run with a Friend!
I've done shorter runs with friends, but never over 5K. Pat and I ran the Don River/Distillery route today, which is 5.13K. Poor Pat, he's a much faster runner than I am, so I told him to go on ahead. He was able to run the stairs up to street level four times while waiting for me! :D It was a good run, and I pushed myself at the end with a sprint. Whoot!
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