Under the Duvet
Marian Keyes
This was pretty good. Not a story, but a collection of essays written for various Irish and English papers and some previously unpublished for variety. You really get a better sense of who Marian Keyes is as a person, especially the article about her alcoholism. I found it humorous that many of her stories ended up in her books. Since I've read almost all of them, I could identify where I'd read them, such as the free gift story appearing in Sushi For Beginners. There's another collection of essays entitled Further Under the Duvet, that I'm looking forward to reading.
My friend Amy has also posted a review on her blog.
That's it for September I'm afraid. With the move and all, I've just been too busy!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
August 2010 Books and Movies
Eclipse
So I made a pact with a couple of friends that we would see this series together. To date, my favorite movie has actually been New Moon, even though I liked (as much as you can say that for a book that you solely read for the plot, and not actually for the style) Eclipse better in book form. That being said, this movie is pretty bad. It's like they've just given up chasing the real movie goer's dollars and are satisfied with "twi-hard" ones. The acting was atrocious, there weren't enough scenes with the Volturi (the only decent actors in the bunch) and the story was even more stagnant that in the book. We giggled through most of it, which I suppose was the most fun. Props to J for putting up with it, and looking forward to making fun of the fourth one! :)
Dinner For Schmucks
A little bit funny, but mostly made me want to see the original French version. Steve Carell had some good lines, but mostly just reminded me of his dumb character on The Office. J enjoyed it more than I did, but I did laugh some. The mice were pretty clever. Gross, but clever. Not a must see, but fun to rent.
How Was It For You?
Carmen Reid
Uggg. I pretty much had given up on Reid, but had forgotten about this hold at the library until I got the call. Since it was there, I gave it a read, but honestly I really wish I'd given it a miss. Sloppy writing, bad plot (woman doing IVF with husband, can't get pregnant, moves to country, has affair with local farmer, husband still takes her back afterward...yada yada yada) and even worse ending. The Personal Shopper was great. This, not so much. Give it a miss.
This Charming Man
Marian Keyes
Another brilliantly dark and funny book. This time dealing with alcoholism and partner abuse, it was as hard hitting (please excuse the lame word-smithing going on here) as it was humorous to lighten the load. Keyes often keeps her reader guessing until the end, and this book is no exception. My only complaint would be that I didn't care for one of the voices she used. There were two in the 3rd person, one in the 1st person in complete sentences, and one in the 1st person using incomplete sentences, mostly leaving out the definite and indefinite articles and pronouns. In today's world of short speak texting, I suppose it was an effort to show that she was in her twenties. It wasn't consistent, which is why I really didn't like it. The style may be ok for something like Twitter, but really annoying to read in a book, and frankly, reminded me too much of Bridget Jones. The character Lola, who's voice it is, is really great, which makes up for the bad voicing somewhat. I'm getting towards the end of her published novels, which is making me kind of sad!
Inception
An astonishingly clever concept. Planting an idea through monitored and constructed dreaming. It's really not possible to describe details without giving the plot away. I was really captivated, from start to finish. My only issue was with the very ending, because I really didn't find it satisfied my need for closure. I know that I can get very picky when something isn't explained to my liking, so I'm sure others won't have as much of a problem. It's a brilliant film, definitely go see it!
So I made a pact with a couple of friends that we would see this series together. To date, my favorite movie has actually been New Moon, even though I liked (as much as you can say that for a book that you solely read for the plot, and not actually for the style) Eclipse better in book form. That being said, this movie is pretty bad. It's like they've just given up chasing the real movie goer's dollars and are satisfied with "twi-hard" ones. The acting was atrocious, there weren't enough scenes with the Volturi (the only decent actors in the bunch) and the story was even more stagnant that in the book. We giggled through most of it, which I suppose was the most fun. Props to J for putting up with it, and looking forward to making fun of the fourth one! :)
Dinner For Schmucks
A little bit funny, but mostly made me want to see the original French version. Steve Carell had some good lines, but mostly just reminded me of his dumb character on The Office. J enjoyed it more than I did, but I did laugh some. The mice were pretty clever. Gross, but clever. Not a must see, but fun to rent.
How Was It For You?
Carmen Reid
Uggg. I pretty much had given up on Reid, but had forgotten about this hold at the library until I got the call. Since it was there, I gave it a read, but honestly I really wish I'd given it a miss. Sloppy writing, bad plot (woman doing IVF with husband, can't get pregnant, moves to country, has affair with local farmer, husband still takes her back afterward...yada yada yada) and even worse ending. The Personal Shopper was great. This, not so much. Give it a miss.
This Charming Man
Marian Keyes
Another brilliantly dark and funny book. This time dealing with alcoholism and partner abuse, it was as hard hitting (please excuse the lame word-smithing going on here) as it was humorous to lighten the load. Keyes often keeps her reader guessing until the end, and this book is no exception. My only complaint would be that I didn't care for one of the voices she used. There were two in the 3rd person, one in the 1st person in complete sentences, and one in the 1st person using incomplete sentences, mostly leaving out the definite and indefinite articles and pronouns. In today's world of short speak texting, I suppose it was an effort to show that she was in her twenties. It wasn't consistent, which is why I really didn't like it. The style may be ok for something like Twitter, but really annoying to read in a book, and frankly, reminded me too much of Bridget Jones. The character Lola, who's voice it is, is really great, which makes up for the bad voicing somewhat. I'm getting towards the end of her published novels, which is making me kind of sad!
Inception
An astonishingly clever concept. Planting an idea through monitored and constructed dreaming. It's really not possible to describe details without giving the plot away. I was really captivated, from start to finish. My only issue was with the very ending, because I really didn't find it satisfied my need for closure. I know that I can get very picky when something isn't explained to my liking, so I'm sure others won't have as much of a problem. It's a brilliant film, definitely go see it!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
July 2010 Books and Movies
The Brightest Star in the Sky
Marian Keyes
Right out of the park, again. Very interesting twist, lots of guessing as to how it's all going to turn out, lots of personal drama. I really was invested, and read until I was finished, often staying up late. I can't really give too much away, other than it's about the various residents at 66 Star Street, Dublin, without divulging the entire plot. But I can say that it was a really great read, and of course, I'm looking forward to more!
No Dress Rehearsal
Marian Keyes
This is part of a easy adult learn to read series. It was a great short story about a 30 something who dies, but doesn't realise it. It makes some great points about modern life and Lizzie's death even inspires her friend to start living, because life is not dress rehearsal. Before reading it, I had forgotten how many adults are illiterate, and one of the main stumbling blocks are engaging materials. It's the same for children. It's a great project, and something I didn't know was out there until I got the ordered book from the library.
The Other Side of the Story
Marian Keyes
This was ok, but mainly because I only liked one of three characters in the novel. Jojo was really feisty and I enjoyed learning about her job as a literary agent. Gemma was really whinny and annoying, made intentionally so by her back story of losing her boyfriend to Lily, the third character. I just found Lily too wishy-washy to care too much about her. I did enjoy the pace of the story and the way the three characters connected (Jojo is Lily's publisher), and still think that Marian Keyes is a really good writer. I'm looking forward to reading more of her books.
Marian Keyes
Right out of the park, again. Very interesting twist, lots of guessing as to how it's all going to turn out, lots of personal drama. I really was invested, and read until I was finished, often staying up late. I can't really give too much away, other than it's about the various residents at 66 Star Street, Dublin, without divulging the entire plot. But I can say that it was a really great read, and of course, I'm looking forward to more!
No Dress Rehearsal
Marian Keyes
This is part of a easy adult learn to read series. It was a great short story about a 30 something who dies, but doesn't realise it. It makes some great points about modern life and Lizzie's death even inspires her friend to start living, because life is not dress rehearsal. Before reading it, I had forgotten how many adults are illiterate, and one of the main stumbling blocks are engaging materials. It's the same for children. It's a great project, and something I didn't know was out there until I got the ordered book from the library.
The Other Side of the Story
Marian Keyes
This was ok, but mainly because I only liked one of three characters in the novel. Jojo was really feisty and I enjoyed learning about her job as a literary agent. Gemma was really whinny and annoying, made intentionally so by her back story of losing her boyfriend to Lily, the third character. I just found Lily too wishy-washy to care too much about her. I did enjoy the pace of the story and the way the three characters connected (Jojo is Lily's publisher), and still think that Marian Keyes is a really good writer. I'm looking forward to reading more of her books.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
June 2010 Books and Movies
Sex and the City - 2
Sigh. The show I once loved is gone, gone, gone. Not to say that the fashion and characters aren't still great, but the spark that made it one of my favorite shows just isn't there. I knew this going in, I didn't like the first movie, but I would still go to see a third one, if only out of the respect I had for the original series. The UAE setting is interesting, I liked that Aiden was in the movie, but I found I missed the New York sets. There was definite visible tension between Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Catrall, which belies their acting ability and seriously plants seeds of doubt about their professionalism . That in itself was a huge disappointment. I'm hopeful that there will soon be another show to take its place. I still watch old episodes from time to time, but the sheen has definitely worn off. Ah, SATC, I'm glad I knew ya!
Rachel's Holiday
Marian Keyes
The last book in the Walsh Family series, it deals with the weighty topic of drug addiction. Rachel is a very interesting character. She's the only Walsh sister I like every time I run into her. Keyes does write her very sympathetically, it's only later, while going through recovery, that the reader hears about the awful things she's done when she was on drugs. By then, you're invested in the journey and supportive of Rachel's recovery. Which is what someone who is taking the necessary steps to change their life needs, not written off as someone who will never change. As for the other sisters, I didn't care for Claire in any book, and liked Anna and Margaret in their books only. I now see why Keyes hasn't written a book about Helen yet. It's almost as if her disagreeable character is more for comic relief, and that delving into her life would spoil that use. It'll be interesting, whenever it comes out, that's for sure!
Last Chance Saloon
Marian Keyes
The more I read, the more I love. Excellent! As engaging as Sushi for Beginners this is another ensemble story about three best friends and their lives and loves. I literally could not put it down. I just wanted to know what happened! I really liked the characters of Tara and Katherine, and their back stories and that although everyone didn't end up happily ever after, the potential to be happy was there. I'm on to another Walsh book, the last because she hasn't written one about Helen yet. Looking forward to more!
Paris, je t'aime
I hae been waiting a long, long time to see this film. I was not disappointed. A series of vignette style short films which are in essence a love letter to Paris. Of course not all of them were for me, but so many of them touched me deeply, especially the 14e arrondissement. An absolute must see for anyone who has been, or dreamed of going to gaie Paris. Stunning!
Sigh. The show I once loved is gone, gone, gone. Not to say that the fashion and characters aren't still great, but the spark that made it one of my favorite shows just isn't there. I knew this going in, I didn't like the first movie, but I would still go to see a third one, if only out of the respect I had for the original series. The UAE setting is interesting, I liked that Aiden was in the movie, but I found I missed the New York sets. There was definite visible tension between Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Catrall, which belies their acting ability and seriously plants seeds of doubt about their professionalism . That in itself was a huge disappointment. I'm hopeful that there will soon be another show to take its place. I still watch old episodes from time to time, but the sheen has definitely worn off. Ah, SATC, I'm glad I knew ya!
Rachel's Holiday
Marian Keyes
The last book in the Walsh Family series, it deals with the weighty topic of drug addiction. Rachel is a very interesting character. She's the only Walsh sister I like every time I run into her. Keyes does write her very sympathetically, it's only later, while going through recovery, that the reader hears about the awful things she's done when she was on drugs. By then, you're invested in the journey and supportive of Rachel's recovery. Which is what someone who is taking the necessary steps to change their life needs, not written off as someone who will never change. As for the other sisters, I didn't care for Claire in any book, and liked Anna and Margaret in their books only. I now see why Keyes hasn't written a book about Helen yet. It's almost as if her disagreeable character is more for comic relief, and that delving into her life would spoil that use. It'll be interesting, whenever it comes out, that's for sure!
Last Chance Saloon
Marian Keyes
The more I read, the more I love. Excellent! As engaging as Sushi for Beginners this is another ensemble story about three best friends and their lives and loves. I literally could not put it down. I just wanted to know what happened! I really liked the characters of Tara and Katherine, and their back stories and that although everyone didn't end up happily ever after, the potential to be happy was there. I'm on to another Walsh book, the last because she hasn't written one about Helen yet. Looking forward to more!
Paris, je t'aime
I hae been waiting a long, long time to see this film. I was not disappointed. A series of vignette style short films which are in essence a love letter to Paris. Of course not all of them were for me, but so many of them touched me deeply, especially the 14e arrondissement. An absolute must see for anyone who has been, or dreamed of going to gaie Paris. Stunning!
Monday, May 31, 2010
May 2010 Books and Movies
It's Complicated
I love me my Meryl, but boy, what was she thinking when she signed up for this one? The best scene in the whole movie was when she and Steve Martin get uproariously stoned for a party. Alec Baldwin is not good, her kids are caricatures and everything is just too perfect. Loved the setting though, I've got to visit Santa Barbara very soon. Give this one a miss. Hopefully Meryl Streep's next project will be a good one!
The Trotsky
Interesting film. I loved that it was set in Montreal, and was very Canadian. I loved that Colm Feore was in it. I loved the concept of taking a stand for what you believe in and jumping on your "pinko" soapbox come h*ll or high water. The only drawback was that it really went on far too long, and there were more than a few gratuitous scenes. All in all, worth seeing, especially if you are in any way a politico.
Anybody Out There?
Marian Keyes
I've just found out, because I'm reading yet another Marian Keyes book right now, that there is a whole series about the Walsh Family of 5 sisters. Each sister seems to have her own book. This one is about Anna, who looses her husband in a tragic cab accident and her struggle to move on with her life afterwards. It's poignant and funny and sad all at the same time, and the crazy antics of the Walsh family (especially Mammy Walsh and sister Helen) are a great antithesis to the sadder parts. As always happens when I read the majority of an authors body of work, the more I read, the better I like the writing, especially when there's continuity of characters, as with Christopher Moore and Jennifer Weiner. Keyes writes well about the different locations her books are set in, this time being New York. Either she did a ton of research or actually lived there.
Angels
Marian Keyes
Another funny book by this author. This time it's about Maggie, the second oldest sister in the Walsh clan. It was interesting to read about Anna before her story and about Maggie before the way she is described in Anna's book. The ending was a little too pat for my liking (Anna's story was a bit more open ended and not a fairy tale ending) but over all, I enjoyed it. Maggie and her husband take a trial separation and she goes to stay with a friend in Los Angeles. I loved all the L.A. references, and Maggie's wry commentary on the L.A. "lifestyle". I'm looking forward to reading her book set in London, since I also lived there.
I love me my Meryl, but boy, what was she thinking when she signed up for this one? The best scene in the whole movie was when she and Steve Martin get uproariously stoned for a party. Alec Baldwin is not good, her kids are caricatures and everything is just too perfect. Loved the setting though, I've got to visit Santa Barbara very soon. Give this one a miss. Hopefully Meryl Streep's next project will be a good one!
The Trotsky
Interesting film. I loved that it was set in Montreal, and was very Canadian. I loved that Colm Feore was in it. I loved the concept of taking a stand for what you believe in and jumping on your "pinko" soapbox come h*ll or high water. The only drawback was that it really went on far too long, and there were more than a few gratuitous scenes. All in all, worth seeing, especially if you are in any way a politico.
Anybody Out There?
Marian Keyes
I've just found out, because I'm reading yet another Marian Keyes book right now, that there is a whole series about the Walsh Family of 5 sisters. Each sister seems to have her own book. This one is about Anna, who looses her husband in a tragic cab accident and her struggle to move on with her life afterwards. It's poignant and funny and sad all at the same time, and the crazy antics of the Walsh family (especially Mammy Walsh and sister Helen) are a great antithesis to the sadder parts. As always happens when I read the majority of an authors body of work, the more I read, the better I like the writing, especially when there's continuity of characters, as with Christopher Moore and Jennifer Weiner. Keyes writes well about the different locations her books are set in, this time being New York. Either she did a ton of research or actually lived there.
Angels
Marian Keyes
Another funny book by this author. This time it's about Maggie, the second oldest sister in the Walsh clan. It was interesting to read about Anna before her story and about Maggie before the way she is described in Anna's book. The ending was a little too pat for my liking (Anna's story was a bit more open ended and not a fairy tale ending) but over all, I enjoyed it. Maggie and her husband take a trial separation and she goes to stay with a friend in Los Angeles. I loved all the L.A. references, and Maggie's wry commentary on the L.A. "lifestyle". I'm looking forward to reading her book set in London, since I also lived there.
Friday, April 30, 2010
April 2010 Books and Movies
Well, April clearly wasn't a month of reading and movie, watching... :)
Sushi For Beginners
Marian Keyes
I found this author through the Irish Short stories collections. It was a bit slow to start, but picked up well. I backpacked around Ireland for 5 weeks at the end of my first degree and instantly fell in love with the country and its folk. To someone not as familiar (and it's been a long time for me) with Irish dialectal slang, there are a few head scratching moments for sure. But there were lots of creative plot twists and unexpected corners, which was needed, as the book is almost 600 pages! I'm looking forward to reading more.
Sushi For Beginners
Marian Keyes
I found this author through the Irish Short stories collections. It was a bit slow to start, but picked up well. I backpacked around Ireland for 5 weeks at the end of my first degree and instantly fell in love with the country and its folk. To someone not as familiar (and it's been a long time for me) with Irish dialectal slang, there are a few head scratching moments for sure. But there were lots of creative plot twists and unexpected corners, which was needed, as the book is almost 600 pages! I'm looking forward to reading more.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
March 2010 Books and Movies
Hot Tub Time Machine
Silly premise, funny movie. I love me some John Cusack any day, but the 80's time travel theme was great. Completely distracting (which was needed) and had something for everyone, whether you are 20 something or 40 something. Oh, and it was filmed in Whistler, so the cinematography was beautiful.
Four Feet Up
An excellent documentary about child poverty in Canada, particularly in Nova Scotia from the child's perspective. Charming and heart-wrenching, it directs attention to the government's promise of 2000 to end child poverty in Canada. Nance Ackerman is a consummate artist, check out her other art forms as well. Well worth seeing, it's free to view at the NFB as is the following film.
Hannah's Story
A great documentary about a 10 year old Winnipeg girl who started a charity for the homeless. Hannah is very engaging and has really made a difference in the lives of homeless in Winnipeg and all across Canada.
The Invention of Lying
This movie should be funnier than it is. A world where no one lies is funnier than when someone "invents" lying. There were some really great moments and Ricky Gervais is quite good, but when they got to the preachy "man in the sky" stuff and the hokey ending, it lost it's appeal. Good airplane fodder (which is where I saw it) but not much more.
The Blind Side
Excellent film and very worthy of the best actress win by Sandra Bullock. I haven't seen many of the other contenders films but she was just amazing in this one. A white southern woman takes in a young black man, almost 18, having spent his whole life in the foster system. He's perfect for the left tackle position in football, but has never had any training. He gets so good, he's scouted for all the best college teams. Apparently it's based on a true story. It's really heartwarming, even though the viewer does feel manipulated from time to time. I cried buckets and enjoyed it a lot.
Annie On My Mind
Nancy Garden
Quite possibly one of the best books I've ever read. I've read a fair bit of gay literature, but this is the first in the young adult genre. The subject matter (a burgeoning lesbian teen relationship) was treated with dignity and with due respect to the time period it was set in, the 80s. Although there was injustice, it was one of the first novels of its kind with a happy ending. I highly recommend it to anyone, with any level of interest. It won't disappoint.
Silly premise, funny movie. I love me some John Cusack any day, but the 80's time travel theme was great. Completely distracting (which was needed) and had something for everyone, whether you are 20 something or 40 something. Oh, and it was filmed in Whistler, so the cinematography was beautiful.
Four Feet Up
An excellent documentary about child poverty in Canada, particularly in Nova Scotia from the child's perspective. Charming and heart-wrenching, it directs attention to the government's promise of 2000 to end child poverty in Canada. Nance Ackerman is a consummate artist, check out her other art forms as well. Well worth seeing, it's free to view at the NFB as is the following film.
Hannah's Story
A great documentary about a 10 year old Winnipeg girl who started a charity for the homeless. Hannah is very engaging and has really made a difference in the lives of homeless in Winnipeg and all across Canada.
The Invention of Lying
This movie should be funnier than it is. A world where no one lies is funnier than when someone "invents" lying. There were some really great moments and Ricky Gervais is quite good, but when they got to the preachy "man in the sky" stuff and the hokey ending, it lost it's appeal. Good airplane fodder (which is where I saw it) but not much more.
The Blind Side
Excellent film and very worthy of the best actress win by Sandra Bullock. I haven't seen many of the other contenders films but she was just amazing in this one. A white southern woman takes in a young black man, almost 18, having spent his whole life in the foster system. He's perfect for the left tackle position in football, but has never had any training. He gets so good, he's scouted for all the best college teams. Apparently it's based on a true story. It's really heartwarming, even though the viewer does feel manipulated from time to time. I cried buckets and enjoyed it a lot.
Annie On My Mind
Nancy Garden
Quite possibly one of the best books I've ever read. I've read a fair bit of gay literature, but this is the first in the young adult genre. The subject matter (a burgeoning lesbian teen relationship) was treated with dignity and with due respect to the time period it was set in, the 80s. Although there was injustice, it was one of the first novels of its kind with a happy ending. I highly recommend it to anyone, with any level of interest. It won't disappoint.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Bobby McFerrin
Quite possibly the best concert I have seen. From start to finish it was novel, participatory and utterly enthralling.
Here are some standout moments:
Demonstration of the universal power of the pentatonic scale
Ave Maria with audience participation
A condensed version of the Wizard of Oz
The audience participation was absolutely stellar, from a choir of the entire audience to a smaller choir on stage to modern dance with improvised music.
He invited the Canadian a cappella group Cadence up to sing a number on their own, and to do one with them. To be honest, they weren't as good as another British a cappella group I know, but it was fun to see Bobby interacting with other musicians.
A great show, I would definitely see him again and again.
Here are some standout moments:
Demonstration of the universal power of the pentatonic scale
Ave Maria with audience participation
A condensed version of the Wizard of Oz
The audience participation was absolutely stellar, from a choir of the entire audience to a smaller choir on stage to modern dance with improvised music.
He invited the Canadian a cappella group Cadence up to sing a number on their own, and to do one with them. To be honest, they weren't as good as another British a cappella group I know, but it was fun to see Bobby interacting with other musicians.
A great show, I would definitely see him again and again.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding
Absolutely fabulous. Great story, funny songs, (A History of Gay Marriage in Canada, Don't Take Your Lesbian Moms To Meet Your Girlfriend at Hooters) intimate space and good acting. I'm glad to hear the show was extended until April 11th. With all the rigamarole it took to actually get to see it, I'm really glad I did in the end. See it if you have the chance.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Regina
Although sad circumstances made this trip possible, I was glad to finally see Saskatchewan and it's Queen City, Regina. Below are some pictures.
The stunning Saskatchewan Legislature. This has become one of my goals, to see all the Canadian Legislative buildings. I've now seen 7 (Charlottetown, Quebec City, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton and Regina) of them!
Beautiful downtown Regina from the steps of the Legislature!
Really cool twin towers in downtown Regina.
The only legislature to be on it's own man-made lake. Lake Wascana and the surrounding park is just beautiful.
Hotel Saskatchewan. Another goal of mine, to see all the railway hotels. It's a difficult list, because there are the CP Hotels, bought out by Fairmont, the CP hotels bought out by other companies (like the Hotel Saskatchewan) and the CN hotels, like the Queen Elizabeth in Montreal. There are also stand alone hotels that are very old and linked to the railway, such as the Fort Garry Hotel in Winnipeg.
Last but not least, a beautiful prairie sunset. (A bit cold though!)
I'm looking forward to another trip in the warmer weather, to explore other parts of this beautiful province.
The stunning Saskatchewan Legislature. This has become one of my goals, to see all the Canadian Legislative buildings. I've now seen 7 (Charlottetown, Quebec City, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton and Regina) of them!
Beautiful downtown Regina from the steps of the Legislature!
Really cool twin towers in downtown Regina.
The only legislature to be on it's own man-made lake. Lake Wascana and the surrounding park is just beautiful.
Hotel Saskatchewan. Another goal of mine, to see all the railway hotels. It's a difficult list, because there are the CP Hotels, bought out by Fairmont, the CP hotels bought out by other companies (like the Hotel Saskatchewan) and the CN hotels, like the Queen Elizabeth in Montreal. There are also stand alone hotels that are very old and linked to the railway, such as the Fort Garry Hotel in Winnipeg.
Last but not least, a beautiful prairie sunset. (A bit cold though!)
I'm looking forward to another trip in the warmer weather, to explore other parts of this beautiful province.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
February 2010 Books and Movies
Three in a Bed
Carmen Reid
Hands down, the worst Carmen Reid book I've read so far. Enough to possibly turn me off her work for good. This time, the protagonist, Bella is a career woman who is desperate for a baby. She secretly gets pregnant, drinks and smokes throughout the entire term, and of course, has a baby with no problems. She herself isn't able to adjust as perfectly to motherhood, and then there's a little infidelity thrown in for good measure. Needless to say, I didn't like the plot and the whole book felt completely indulgent, like she was trying to tell the world how bad pregnancy can be. Definitely not for me. I had so much trouble finishing this book that I had to renew it 3 times and only managed to read one book this month. May have something to do with my crazy busy schedule though... :)
Carmen Reid
Hands down, the worst Carmen Reid book I've read so far. Enough to possibly turn me off her work for good. This time, the protagonist, Bella is a career woman who is desperate for a baby. She secretly gets pregnant, drinks and smokes throughout the entire term, and of course, has a baby with no problems. She herself isn't able to adjust as perfectly to motherhood, and then there's a little infidelity thrown in for good measure. Needless to say, I didn't like the plot and the whole book felt completely indulgent, like she was trying to tell the world how bad pregnancy can be. Definitely not for me. I had so much trouble finishing this book that I had to renew it 3 times and only managed to read one book this month. May have something to do with my crazy busy schedule though... :)
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Laila Biali
Went to see the Laila Biali trio (Laila Biali - piano, vocals; George Koller - bass; Larnell Lewis) at the Glen Gould Studio Theatre tonight. It was pretty great. I love that she covers popular music in a jazz style. Tonight she did Sarah McLaughlin, Feist, Imogen Heap and Joni Mitchell, along with a few standards and original tunes. My only teeny complaint would be that she wasn't very diverse dynamically. All the selections seemed to start soft, build in the middle then end with soft "tinkling" (for lack of a better word) piano. Larnell was incredible though, and I still love her vocals. I can't believe I used to watch her at the Rex. Looking forward to her two new album releases later this year!
Sunday, February 07, 2010
Fitness Goals
Today I went for my first run since my 5K at the end of September. It's absolutely shameful (as useless an emotion as that is) that I've let it lapse as much as it has. I haven't been a total sloth, I've done some walking, mostly home from work, which is 4K away and, before it got to cold, biked to and from as well.
I did 2s and 1s with a final minute sprint followed by upper body weights, crunches and push ups. It was very difficult to get moving but felt really good when I'd finished.
I've come to three conclusions after this morning's workout.
1. I've lost a lot of the gains I worked so hard to achieve. I've put on weight, I've lost muscle mass, endurance and energy. It's depressing and demoralizing.
2. I am FAT. This is not a bad word. The only reason I've put it in bold here is that I've got to stop kidding myself. My whole life I think I've seen myself as skinnier than I actually am. I'm the total opposite of the women on "How to Look Good Naked". If I were to do a Gok line up, I'd probably ruin it for him and the show by putting myself in the line where I thought I belonged and then be too big for that spot! Last night, I was playing Wii Fit at my sister's house, and after the body scan informed me that I was in the obese range based on my age, weight and BMI (it's really sad, your Mii character balloons out to reflect your reading) it wasn't the greatest feeling. True, I have a lot of muscle mass but I also have a lot of fat. I carry it mostly in my upper stomach, directly where the pounds pile on when I've been over-eating and exercising infrequently. I know I'm supposed to practice body self acceptance, but if I'm really honest, I just don't like the way I look these days. That and the fact that I have mountains of clothes in my closet that I would wear, if I wasn't quite so apple shaped. It's not that I want to be a size zero, in fact nothing is further from the truth, not to mention that it's just not possible for me. I just want to be more hourglass than apple.
3. I'm going to try to get back to my previous level of fitness by running three times a week, do more weight and strength training, go to Yoga (another thing that has lapsed dreadfully) and run the Sporting Life 10K in the spring.
Hopefully I won't be sidelined by injury or illness and I'll be able to pick up a few co-conspirators along the way.
I did 2s and 1s with a final minute sprint followed by upper body weights, crunches and push ups. It was very difficult to get moving but felt really good when I'd finished.
I've come to three conclusions after this morning's workout.
1. I've lost a lot of the gains I worked so hard to achieve. I've put on weight, I've lost muscle mass, endurance and energy. It's depressing and demoralizing.
2. I am FAT. This is not a bad word. The only reason I've put it in bold here is that I've got to stop kidding myself. My whole life I think I've seen myself as skinnier than I actually am. I'm the total opposite of the women on "How to Look Good Naked". If I were to do a Gok line up, I'd probably ruin it for him and the show by putting myself in the line where I thought I belonged and then be too big for that spot! Last night, I was playing Wii Fit at my sister's house, and after the body scan informed me that I was in the obese range based on my age, weight and BMI (it's really sad, your Mii character balloons out to reflect your reading) it wasn't the greatest feeling. True, I have a lot of muscle mass but I also have a lot of fat. I carry it mostly in my upper stomach, directly where the pounds pile on when I've been over-eating and exercising infrequently. I know I'm supposed to practice body self acceptance, but if I'm really honest, I just don't like the way I look these days. That and the fact that I have mountains of clothes in my closet that I would wear, if I wasn't quite so apple shaped. It's not that I want to be a size zero, in fact nothing is further from the truth, not to mention that it's just not possible for me. I just want to be more hourglass than apple.
3. I'm going to try to get back to my previous level of fitness by running three times a week, do more weight and strength training, go to Yoga (another thing that has lapsed dreadfully) and run the Sporting Life 10K in the spring.
Hopefully I won't be sidelined by injury or illness and I'll be able to pick up a few co-conspirators along the way.
Saturday, February 06, 2010
The Bad Plus
Tonight J took me to see The Bad Plus at the Glenn Gould studio. They are a free jazz trio (piano, bass, drums) out of the U.S. Midwest. It was an experience to say the least. While I admire their great musical skill and really appreciated certain brilliant musical elements and experimental ideas, a lot of the performance left me twitchy and uncomfortable. They really stretch the boundaries of music and their instruments. They are definitely a band I would have to listen to a lot more of to really appreciate their unique styling. I am glad I went even though it certainly isn't a concert I would have chosen to attend. It stretched my boundaries and got me talking passionately about the elements I liked and didn't like afterward.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
January 2010 Books and Movies
Sherlock Holmes
A little over CGI'd and definitely a Guy Ritchie film (slo mo a dead givaway) but all in all, a fun movie. Robert Downey Jr. was fantastic and it's nice to see him out of rehab. The story didn't follow any of those in the books, but they set it up for a sequel nicely, as expected. It really wasn't one I needed to see in the theatre but pretty good anyway.
Did the Earth Move?
Carmen Reid
Another Carmen Reid book. I have to say, I just hate the tag line her editor came up with for her: "A fabulous read. A sexy read. A Carmen Reid." It's so cheesy. Anyway, on to the actual book. It was pretty good actually. I liked the plot, specifically the way she turned things on their head with the main character being 10 years older than her love interest and the unplanned pregnancy storyline about her 20 year old son. I found I invested in the characters a lot more than her other books and was pleased with the pat outcome. A good beach read, light and fun.
Invictus
Unbelievable film! Nelson Mandela is such an inspiring person, so a movie about him, played by Morgan Freeman was just out of the park. I thought the accents were very believable, and although I don't care much for rugby, the story of South Africa winning the World Cup and uniting a country was riveting. I have no idea if this is what things were really like, but the cinematography was incredible and the depiction of the townships heart wrenching. A definite must see.
A little over CGI'd and definitely a Guy Ritchie film (slo mo a dead givaway) but all in all, a fun movie. Robert Downey Jr. was fantastic and it's nice to see him out of rehab. The story didn't follow any of those in the books, but they set it up for a sequel nicely, as expected. It really wasn't one I needed to see in the theatre but pretty good anyway.
Did the Earth Move?
Carmen Reid
Another Carmen Reid book. I have to say, I just hate the tag line her editor came up with for her: "A fabulous read. A sexy read. A Carmen Reid." It's so cheesy. Anyway, on to the actual book. It was pretty good actually. I liked the plot, specifically the way she turned things on their head with the main character being 10 years older than her love interest and the unplanned pregnancy storyline about her 20 year old son. I found I invested in the characters a lot more than her other books and was pleased with the pat outcome. A good beach read, light and fun.
Invictus
Unbelievable film! Nelson Mandela is such an inspiring person, so a movie about him, played by Morgan Freeman was just out of the park. I thought the accents were very believable, and although I don't care much for rugby, the story of South Africa winning the World Cup and uniting a country was riveting. I have no idea if this is what things were really like, but the cinematography was incredible and the depiction of the townships heart wrenching. A definite must see.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
A Wonderful Dinner
Last night, Pat, the chef extrodinaire and Em, his excellent sous-chef, created one of the most delicious meals I've ever eaten.
Appetizers were a vegi pate, duck confit and a tofu mousse on rice and wheat crackers followed by an incredible beet, ginger and garlic salad dressed in olive oil. The soup was creamed butternut squash and was a meal in itself! The main course was really interesting. Ricotta pie in a chicken crust, which was really interesting. He cut the chicken really thinly and put it in a little muffin tray to form the crust, then filled it with the ricotta mixture. They were served along side leeks spaghetti style and baked sweet potato rounds. The piece de resistance was dessert, of course! A trio of creme brulees, green tea, lavender and lemon pepper. The last was my favorite for sure.
We were stuffed and it was a lovely evening of great food and company!
Appetizers were a vegi pate, duck confit and a tofu mousse on rice and wheat crackers followed by an incredible beet, ginger and garlic salad dressed in olive oil. The soup was creamed butternut squash and was a meal in itself! The main course was really interesting. Ricotta pie in a chicken crust, which was really interesting. He cut the chicken really thinly and put it in a little muffin tray to form the crust, then filled it with the ricotta mixture. They were served along side leeks spaghetti style and baked sweet potato rounds. The piece de resistance was dessert, of course! A trio of creme brulees, green tea, lavender and lemon pepper. The last was my favorite for sure.
We were stuffed and it was a lovely evening of great food and company!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
New Inspiration
I've been struggling lately with directions, paths to take and the road not followed. Today I went to a really amazing dance workshop (which was more physical theatre based than dance) taught by a woman who trained with Jacques LeCoq in the 60s. I've trained with a number of LeCoq students, but not someone who was at his Paris school when he was there full time. It was quite amazing. I haven't done any physical theatre work (besides the teaching I do) in some time, and it's been a really long time since I've gone down a corporeal expressive journey. It helped me remember what I love most about physical theatre, and that I do miss it. I didn't fully realise, until this evening, how doing that workshop put me in a better mood. The kicker is, I don't have time in my life for music and theatre and a full time job. So again, useful information, but what am I going to do with it? One lifetime just doesn't seem enough.
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Fiddler on the Roof
Great show! Harvey Firstein was absolutely fabulous. I wish I could have seen him as Edna in the original Broadway production of Hairspray. He didn't really sing so much as talk through his songs, but the effect was really awesome. Sitting up in the nosebleeds wasn't so fun, but the show has literally been sold out every night of its run, so we were lucky to get tickets. Great trio for the song Matchmaker, loved it!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
December 2009 Books and Movies
Up In The Air
Great movie! George Clooney is his usual yummy self, and the premise, a man who is completely detached from others, is intriguing. I loved Vera Farmiga, I can't believe I'd never seen her in anything else before. She's absolutely stunning. Jason Bateman did a good job directing, although he was totally channeling Steve Carell's Michael Scott when playing Craig Gregory. I also liked Anna Kendrick, apparently she made no impression on me at all when I saw her in the Twilight series. The frequent traveller comparison bits were just hilarious!
Up All Night
Carmen Reid
I generally like Carmen Reid for a light chick lit read, but this one wasn't very good unfortunately. The story was a bit whingy and worst of all, there was a gaping plot hole! Not an important part, but a bit irritating non the less. I didn't invest in the main character (perhaps because she was a mom, and I'm not) but liked the humanization of the ex-husband through his interaction with their children. Meh. Give it a miss unless you are really addicted to Carmen Reid.
Great movie! George Clooney is his usual yummy self, and the premise, a man who is completely detached from others, is intriguing. I loved Vera Farmiga, I can't believe I'd never seen her in anything else before. She's absolutely stunning. Jason Bateman did a good job directing, although he was totally channeling Steve Carell's Michael Scott when playing Craig Gregory. I also liked Anna Kendrick, apparently she made no impression on me at all when I saw her in the Twilight series. The frequent traveller comparison bits were just hilarious!
Up All Night
Carmen Reid
I generally like Carmen Reid for a light chick lit read, but this one wasn't very good unfortunately. The story was a bit whingy and worst of all, there was a gaping plot hole! Not an important part, but a bit irritating non the less. I didn't invest in the main character (perhaps because she was a mom, and I'm not) but liked the humanization of the ex-husband through his interaction with their children. Meh. Give it a miss unless you are really addicted to Carmen Reid.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Three great concerts, one fab weekend!
Tallis Scholars
Amazing 10 voice (including one male alto!) specialist group of Renaissance polyphony.
Here's a clip.
Dianne Reeves
I have fallen madly in love with a new jazz singer!
I'm so in awe, I'm posting two two clips here and one of them is even an xmas tune! Listen to Roy Hargrove's gorgeous fluglehorn on You Go To My Head.
Trace Element
This is a great new band worth keeping an eye on. Two of it's members are in their 4th year at Humber and pooling their allotted recording time to put out a debut LP. Great sound, great compositions, very cool.
Great weekend for music, looking forward to many more of the same. :)
Amazing 10 voice (including one male alto!) specialist group of Renaissance polyphony.
Here's a clip.
Dianne Reeves
I have fallen madly in love with a new jazz singer!
I'm so in awe, I'm posting two two clips here and one of them is even an xmas tune! Listen to Roy Hargrove's gorgeous fluglehorn on You Go To My Head.
Trace Element
This is a great new band worth keeping an eye on. Two of it's members are in their 4th year at Humber and pooling their allotted recording time to put out a debut LP. Great sound, great compositions, very cool.
Great weekend for music, looking forward to many more of the same. :)
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