I am reading an old Harper's Magazine from 1999. There's an article in it where five well-established American poets talk about poetry.
According to these poets, (Donald Hall, Cynthia Huntington, Paul Muldoon, Heather McHugh and Charles Simic) a poem is considered great if, once you are finished reading it, you want to go back and read it again.
A good poem should be disappointing, or deflect one's expectations, says Huntington.
"If a poem has no obvious destination, there's a chance that we'll all be setting off on an interesting ride," said Muldoon.
"I think one of poetry's functions is not to give us what we want," said McHugh.
To me then, poetry is like Joss Whedon's Buffy the Vampire Slayer. There are so many unexpected plot twists in that show, and characters you least expect die.
The trick is to be able to think differently than your audience. Become a mind reader and anticipate their thoughts. It's tough.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Monday, May 21, 2007
Driving, Ms. K.A.
I didn't have a car until I was 24-years-old, which means I had to mooch a lot of rides.
I always figured when I finally did get a car, I would offer rides to any friend in need. But now that I have a car, I realize how annoying it can be to drive other passengers around.
People are inconsiderate. They leave garbage in my car--pop cans, used tissues and a number of other disgusting items. If my car were messy, maybe this would be allowable, since I likely wouldn't notice. But my car is ridiculously clean, so it actually drives me nuts.
To be polite, I keep my music turned off when I have a passenger, since I can appreciate that not everyone likes the Beastie Boys. However, some passengers feel the need to turn on my stereo, unasked, and then dig through my glove compartment, also unasked, and flip through my CDs and complain about my taste in music. I think this is outrageous.
I also hate it when people invite you somewhere and then expect you to drive. My rule is: if you invite someone, you drive. Agreeing to meet at a location is also acceptable. I hate it when I get invitations like this: "Are you going to the rock concert? If so, it would work really good for me if I could get a ride with you?" Way to make a person feel used.
I always figured when I finally did get a car, I would offer rides to any friend in need. But now that I have a car, I realize how annoying it can be to drive other passengers around.
People are inconsiderate. They leave garbage in my car--pop cans, used tissues and a number of other disgusting items. If my car were messy, maybe this would be allowable, since I likely wouldn't notice. But my car is ridiculously clean, so it actually drives me nuts.
To be polite, I keep my music turned off when I have a passenger, since I can appreciate that not everyone likes the Beastie Boys. However, some passengers feel the need to turn on my stereo, unasked, and then dig through my glove compartment, also unasked, and flip through my CDs and complain about my taste in music. I think this is outrageous.
I also hate it when people invite you somewhere and then expect you to drive. My rule is: if you invite someone, you drive. Agreeing to meet at a location is also acceptable. I hate it when I get invitations like this: "Are you going to the rock concert? If so, it would work really good for me if I could get a ride with you?" Way to make a person feel used.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Trends
“Great things are not accomplished by those who yield to trends and fads and popular opinion.” - Jack Kerouac
Thursday, May 17, 2007
That's not funny.
There's a video going around of a toddler who runs on stage during a break dancing show.
Long story short, the break dancer accidentally kicks the child in the head while doing a back flip. The child is knocked unconscious as a result.
The message on the subject heading of the e-mail I got read "funny." At first, I wanted to laugh, but then I was like: "No, that's not actually funny. That's a real person that got hurt."
It's interesting that we, as a society, find accidents funny. Talk about adding insult to injury. So remember, the next time you slip on ice and break your wrist, you might end up as an Internet joke, thanks to some jerk with a camera.
Long story short, the break dancer accidentally kicks the child in the head while doing a back flip. The child is knocked unconscious as a result.
The message on the subject heading of the e-mail I got read "funny." At first, I wanted to laugh, but then I was like: "No, that's not actually funny. That's a real person that got hurt."
It's interesting that we, as a society, find accidents funny. Talk about adding insult to injury. So remember, the next time you slip on ice and break your wrist, you might end up as an Internet joke, thanks to some jerk with a camera.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Life is funny.
It's interesting where life takes us. What we never thought would happen to us in a million years sometimes randomly happens.
Like last year, I watched a few shows referring to the Napa Valley--Sideways and Sex and the City. Then, one day, I accidentally ended up there on an unplanned trip. (It's a long and uninteresting story).
Or I recently started watching The Amazing Race and then one day I inadvertently meet the show's host. (It's a long and uninteresting story).
Of course, there are bad things that you never thought would happen to you in a million years too, like when I did some damage to my car by hitting a water-filled pot hole. (It's a long and uninteresting story).
Life is funny.
Like last year, I watched a few shows referring to the Napa Valley--Sideways and Sex and the City. Then, one day, I accidentally ended up there on an unplanned trip. (It's a long and uninteresting story).
Or I recently started watching The Amazing Race and then one day I inadvertently meet the show's host. (It's a long and uninteresting story).
Of course, there are bad things that you never thought would happen to you in a million years too, like when I did some damage to my car by hitting a water-filled pot hole. (It's a long and uninteresting story).
Life is funny.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Doom and gloom
"Like the frog swimming in water that starts to boil, drip by drip, we get used to it," said author Joy Kogawa about how Earth is dying without causing alarm to the human race.
I think we have the "can't happen to us" disease. Sure, there's global warming, but it won't wipe out the human race. We're invincible.
I'm sure the dinosaurs didn't see it coming either.
I think we have the "can't happen to us" disease. Sure, there's global warming, but it won't wipe out the human race. We're invincible.
I'm sure the dinosaurs didn't see it coming either.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Knees
Occasionally you meet a guy who makes your knees weak. He distracts you with his presence. And you always have to watch him out of the corner of your eye.
He, of course, seems to take no interest in you at all.
I hate that.
He, of course, seems to take no interest in you at all.
I hate that.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
The drunken cat.
I took my cat to get her teeth cleaned today.
Although she tends to get gingivitas, I sometimes wonder if getting her teeth cleaned is worth the trouble.
For one, animals don't have their teeth cleaned in the wild.
And two, after my cat's teeth cleaning, she is so doped up, it's unsettling. She stumbles around my apartment, bumping into furniture, before finally hiding under the bed. I feel bad for putting her through that.
Right now, I'm just waiting for my cat to return back to normal.
Although she tends to get gingivitas, I sometimes wonder if getting her teeth cleaned is worth the trouble.
For one, animals don't have their teeth cleaned in the wild.
And two, after my cat's teeth cleaning, she is so doped up, it's unsettling. She stumbles around my apartment, bumping into furniture, before finally hiding under the bed. I feel bad for putting her through that.
Right now, I'm just waiting for my cat to return back to normal.
Thinking it out.
It’s always good to step back from your crushes for a brief moment.
Sometimes it turns out you don’t really like the person. It is just there have been so few options in your life lately that you’re practically ready to jump on any new eligible male who comes into your life, even if he is dull and boring or a total jerk. You can blind yourself to his flaws just so you can keep an open option for yourself, which is the only option you might have at the moment.
Sometimes it turns out you don’t really like the person. It is just there have been so few options in your life lately that you’re practically ready to jump on any new eligible male who comes into your life, even if he is dull and boring or a total jerk. You can blind yourself to his flaws just so you can keep an open option for yourself, which is the only option you might have at the moment.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
An awkward moment.
I was in the bathroom today (what are the odds?) when the woman in the stall next to me had her cellphone go off.
To my surprise, she answered it. From what I could gather, it was a business call from her boss.
The bathroom had one of those automatic flush toilets, so I was like should I get up and reveal to her boss her location? Would that be considered poor bathroom/cellphone etiquette?
But when she started going through her agenda and scheduling meetings, I was like, I can't sit here forever. So I got up, let the toilet flush and blew her cover.
To my surprise, she answered it. From what I could gather, it was a business call from her boss.
The bathroom had one of those automatic flush toilets, so I was like should I get up and reveal to her boss her location? Would that be considered poor bathroom/cellphone etiquette?
But when she started going through her agenda and scheduling meetings, I was like, I can't sit here forever. So I got up, let the toilet flush and blew her cover.
Grey Matter
Dating would be easier if you could keep things black and white. He forgets to call. It’s over. He says something inappropriate. It’s over.
If he doesn’t have a university education, you don’t go out with him. If he lives with his parents, you don’t go out with him.
If it were that easy, there would be no emotional messes.
But then again, you probably would never go out with anyone. And if you did, your relationship wouldn’t last a month.
There needs to be room for exceptions and forgiveness—the shades of grey.
But it’s the shades of grey that bring the heartache.
If he doesn’t have a university education, you don’t go out with him. If he lives with his parents, you don’t go out with him.
If it were that easy, there would be no emotional messes.
But then again, you probably would never go out with anyone. And if you did, your relationship wouldn’t last a month.
There needs to be room for exceptions and forgiveness—the shades of grey.
But it’s the shades of grey that bring the heartache.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
I spy . . .
I am really amused by the fact that the U.S. Defense Department thought Canadian "poppy" quarters contained radio frequency transmitters. (You know which quarter I'm talking about--the Remembrance Day commemorative one with the red poppy in the middle).
I can just imagine the American military contractors looking down, with horror and excitement, at the quarter staring up at them from where they found it, in the cup holder of their rental car. Finally, it was their childhood spy fantasy coming true.
Their discovery sparked a false espionage warning. Damn Canadians and our funny money. Serves us right for making commemorative quarters.
And p.s., this is why investigative journalism is important. It brings us important stories like this one. Good work Associated Press.
I can just imagine the American military contractors looking down, with horror and excitement, at the quarter staring up at them from where they found it, in the cup holder of their rental car. Finally, it was their childhood spy fantasy coming true.
Their discovery sparked a false espionage warning. Damn Canadians and our funny money. Serves us right for making commemorative quarters.
And p.s., this is why investigative journalism is important. It brings us important stories like this one. Good work Associated Press.
A little crush...
Do you ever have those crushes you shouldn't have?
Like the person is a total geek, but for some odd reason you are strangely attracted to them?
Or the person is a total jerk . . .
Sometimes our hormones go against our nature.
Like the person is a total geek, but for some odd reason you are strangely attracted to them?
Or the person is a total jerk . . .
Sometimes our hormones go against our nature.
Monday, May 07, 2007
mySpace and Facebook
At the urging of some friends, I decided to finally set up a Facebook account and mySpace account.
It's amazing who is on those sites and who isn't. There are people you want to find, but aren't there, and those you haven't talked to in 15 years. And if you haven't talked to someone in years, it's like should you really invite them to be your friend.
There's no need to go to my 1o-year high school reunion now. I think I just went. Wow. What a time killer these sites can be.
Visit me at mySpace here.
It's amazing who is on those sites and who isn't. There are people you want to find, but aren't there, and those you haven't talked to in 15 years. And if you haven't talked to someone in years, it's like should you really invite them to be your friend.
There's no need to go to my 1o-year high school reunion now. I think I just went. Wow. What a time killer these sites can be.
Visit me at mySpace here.
Tough love.
Can we ever begin to really understand love?
The ancient Greeks had four different words that meant love.
"Eros" was one of those words. It refers to erotic, sexual love.
"Storge" refers to family love, like the love between a parent and child, or perhaps between a husband or wife.
"Philia" is the third word for love. It speaks of a brotherly affection that one might have while in a deep friendship or partnership.
"Agape" is a love that loves without changing. It is a self-giving love that gives without expecting repayment. It is a love so great that it can be given to the undesirable. It is love that loves even when rejected. Agape love gives because it wants to.
So perhaps, when it comes to our so called soul mate, we will love them in all four of these ways. And if we don't, then maybe they are not our soul mate.
The ancient Greeks had four different words that meant love.
"Eros" was one of those words. It refers to erotic, sexual love.
"Storge" refers to family love, like the love between a parent and child, or perhaps between a husband or wife.
"Philia" is the third word for love. It speaks of a brotherly affection that one might have while in a deep friendship or partnership.
"Agape" is a love that loves without changing. It is a self-giving love that gives without expecting repayment. It is a love so great that it can be given to the undesirable. It is love that loves even when rejected. Agape love gives because it wants to.
So perhaps, when it comes to our so called soul mate, we will love them in all four of these ways. And if we don't, then maybe they are not our soul mate.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Bad Timing
Have you ever had a crush on a guy? You hung out with him many times. You did everything you could to show him that you were into him.
It was like you were dating him, except he didn't know it.
And then you gave up and moved on. Disgruntled towards him, you decided you dislike him. You now despise his habits you thought were so cute. He gets on your nerves. You break up with him in your head.
Then, finally, he decides to like you. But you've decided you don't like him at all. You wouldn't date him now. His very presence makes you ill.
It was like you were dating him, except he didn't know it.
And then you gave up and moved on. Disgruntled towards him, you decided you dislike him. You now despise his habits you thought were so cute. He gets on your nerves. You break up with him in your head.
Then, finally, he decides to like you. But you've decided you don't like him at all. You wouldn't date him now. His very presence makes you ill.
Saturday, May 05, 2007
A case of the blahs.
Is there a certain point that you just give up on finding love?
Does it ever feel like in a sea of men there are none that are really that interesting? There is no one out there you can form a real connection with.
Perhaps finding love is like finding a needle in a haystack - a task that some would consider near impossible.
So do you give up? Some would say never.
Does it ever feel like in a sea of men there are none that are really that interesting? There is no one out there you can form a real connection with.
Perhaps finding love is like finding a needle in a haystack - a task that some would consider near impossible.
So do you give up? Some would say never.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Marry me.
Once women get into their late 20s the pressure to marry begins to increase.
A girl's grandparents, if still alive, will complain that they'll never have great grandchildren. They ask the priest to say a special prayer during mass for their single granddaughter.
A single girl will start hearing crazy cat lady jokes from her friends . . .
Even today, when a woman is capable of supporting herself, there is still a lot of pressure for a girl to get married. And if she can do it before she is 30, the pressure's off.
If she makes it to 50 with no ring, all bets are likely off.
A girl's grandparents, if still alive, will complain that they'll never have great grandchildren. They ask the priest to say a special prayer during mass for their single granddaughter.
A single girl will start hearing crazy cat lady jokes from her friends . . .
Even today, when a woman is capable of supporting herself, there is still a lot of pressure for a girl to get married. And if she can do it before she is 30, the pressure's off.
If she makes it to 50 with no ring, all bets are likely off.
Puzzling Poems
Poetry is like a crossword puzzle without the clues.
In a poem, every word must fit on a line and pull its own weight. One wrong word and the completed puzzle will be wrong.
Poetry is more challenging than a crossword puzzle, because you're using sound and trying to give words new meaning (sometimes anyway).
In a poem, every word must fit on a line and pull its own weight. One wrong word and the completed puzzle will be wrong.
Poetry is more challenging than a crossword puzzle, because you're using sound and trying to give words new meaning (sometimes anyway).
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Revolting
"Nearly every thinking person nowadays is in revolt against something, because the craving of the individual is for further consciousness and because consciousness is expanding and is bursting through the moulds that have held it up to now." - Mabel Dodge Luhan
Proper Etiquette
If you're talking to a male co-worker who is blatantly staring at your chest and it's making you uncomfortable, how do you respond?
Do you say something?
Or do you cross your arms over your chest to not-so-discreetly say quit looking?
It's not a crime to look, or even blatantly stare. . . But girls do sometimes notice guys looking, and it can make us cringe, just a little, because it can be horribly inappropriate, such as in a work situation.
Do you say something?
Or do you cross your arms over your chest to not-so-discreetly say quit looking?
It's not a crime to look, or even blatantly stare. . . But girls do sometimes notice guys looking, and it can make us cringe, just a little, because it can be horribly inappropriate, such as in a work situation.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Socks N' Things
Everyone at karate is an exhibitionist, or at least that seems to be the trend lately. Both the men and the women change with the door open.
Apparently, it's not a big deal to anybody but me. Not even to the little kids, or their parents who pick them up. (Although, I heard some people were disturbed when one of the men demonstrated a side thrust kick naked in front of the change room door. Thankfully, I didn't see that, otherwise I would be blind right now).
As a result, at karate, I change in the bathroom alone with the door closed, because I don't even like it if someone sees me changing my socks.
When did public nudity become acceptable? Did I go to sleep for 20 years and wake up to find that everyone has adapted a whole new set of social norms?
If karate starts to become like ancient wrestling, and is done in the buff, I think I'll have to take up something else.
Apparently, it's not a big deal to anybody but me. Not even to the little kids, or their parents who pick them up. (Although, I heard some people were disturbed when one of the men demonstrated a side thrust kick naked in front of the change room door. Thankfully, I didn't see that, otherwise I would be blind right now).
As a result, at karate, I change in the bathroom alone with the door closed, because I don't even like it if someone sees me changing my socks.
When did public nudity become acceptable? Did I go to sleep for 20 years and wake up to find that everyone has adapted a whole new set of social norms?
If karate starts to become like ancient wrestling, and is done in the buff, I think I'll have to take up something else.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Celebrity Crushes
When we have no real prospects of our own, we turn to celebrity crushes to fill in the void.
Most of us, as Average Joes, would never stand a chance in hell with any celebrity, even if we stalked them to the end of the earth.
But still fantasies about celebrities help fill in the void when life gets desperate.
Most of us, as Average Joes, would never stand a chance in hell with any celebrity, even if we stalked them to the end of the earth.
But still fantasies about celebrities help fill in the void when life gets desperate.
Tired Excuse
I am not a fan of people who cancel plans under the "I'm too tired" excuse.
Unless you're getting in on an all-night flight from London or you just ran a marathon, how tired could you possibly be?
To me, the "I'm too tired" excuse is basically someone trying to politely say: "I don't want to go for no good reason at all, other than I lack the enthusiasm to be at said activity." Or rather, they are saying: "I'd rather be doing anything else right now than hang out with you."
The "I'm too tired" exuse is a bit rude, I think.
Unless you're getting in on an all-night flight from London or you just ran a marathon, how tired could you possibly be?
To me, the "I'm too tired" excuse is basically someone trying to politely say: "I don't want to go for no good reason at all, other than I lack the enthusiasm to be at said activity." Or rather, they are saying: "I'd rather be doing anything else right now than hang out with you."
The "I'm too tired" exuse is a bit rude, I think.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Coatman says...
"Dating always has been similar to applying for a job: asking somebody out is the application, the first few dates are the interviews, and the early stages thereafter the internship. And, just like being in a job, if one does really, really well, eventually, one can become a partner." -Coatman, author of Celibacy and the Suburbs.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Looking for what exactly?
Can we really know what our ideal partner looks like before we meet them?
I bet most people are looking for someone who is intelligent, kind, witty, generous and attractive - whatever that means.
Beauty and intelligence are in the eyes of the beholder.
But what other characteristics beyond that are we looking for? Can we really know what we are looking for before we meet him or her?
Haven't you met someone who you really didn't think was that interesting or attractive, but then over time that person won you over?
Life is full of surprises.
We could all be like Charlotte York on Sex and the City. She ended up marrying the character Harry Goldenblatt.
Harry was the total opposite of what Charlotte desired. He was bald and chewed with his mouth open.
Charlotte started dating him because she knew she could let her guard down around Harry, since she would never fall for anybody like him.
Her initial relationship with him was about sex. And even then she was embarrassed about being with him.
Overtime Charlotte fell for him, although she kept denying her feelings for Harry, both to herself and her friends.
Charlotte kept using his hairy back and lack of social skills to justify not wanting to be with him, but deep down, her feelings grew every single time they got together.
Eventually she confessed her feelings for Harry after he told her he couldn't marry anyone who wasn't Jewish. Charlotte converted and the two were married.
The moral of the story is never say never.
Just because you think you know what you want doesn't mean you do.
Life is full of surprises.
I bet most people are looking for someone who is intelligent, kind, witty, generous and attractive - whatever that means.
Beauty and intelligence are in the eyes of the beholder.
But what other characteristics beyond that are we looking for? Can we really know what we are looking for before we meet him or her?
Haven't you met someone who you really didn't think was that interesting or attractive, but then over time that person won you over?
Life is full of surprises.
We could all be like Charlotte York on Sex and the City. She ended up marrying the character Harry Goldenblatt.
Harry was the total opposite of what Charlotte desired. He was bald and chewed with his mouth open.
Charlotte started dating him because she knew she could let her guard down around Harry, since she would never fall for anybody like him.
Her initial relationship with him was about sex. And even then she was embarrassed about being with him.
Overtime Charlotte fell for him, although she kept denying her feelings for Harry, both to herself and her friends.
Charlotte kept using his hairy back and lack of social skills to justify not wanting to be with him, but deep down, her feelings grew every single time they got together.
Eventually she confessed her feelings for Harry after he told her he couldn't marry anyone who wasn't Jewish. Charlotte converted and the two were married.
The moral of the story is never say never.
Just because you think you know what you want doesn't mean you do.
Life is full of surprises.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Making Up
"No matter how much cats fight, there always seem to be plenty of kittens." - Abraham Lincoln
The same can be said for humans too.
The same can be said for humans too.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Ruined Songs
Thanks to the TV show Arrested Development, I can't listen to the song "Final Countdown" without laughing.
Thanks to the movie Coneheads, I can't listen to the song "Tainted Love."
Such song associations make it very tough to get through fitness class when those are the songs playing. I'm sure my instructor thought I was crazy. That's right I'm that one in the corner who silently laughs to themselves for what appears to be no reason at all. I blame it on the music.
Thanks to the movie Coneheads, I can't listen to the song "Tainted Love."
Such song associations make it very tough to get through fitness class when those are the songs playing. I'm sure my instructor thought I was crazy. That's right I'm that one in the corner who silently laughs to themselves for what appears to be no reason at all. I blame it on the music.
It's all in a day's work.
How far does your job carry you in the world of dating?
Do doctors have easier times finding dates than funeral directors?
Some people would find a funeral director just plain creepy. It wouldn't matter how nice a person the funeral director was.
There are a few male television reporters who think telling women what they do is a good pick-up line. "That's right baby. I'm on TV."
And many a woman likes a man in uniform, unless she has a criminal record, a problem with authority or political views opposing military operations.
Are we education snobs? Do high school drop outs have a tougher time in the dating world? Do people with more than one university degree have an easier time picking up?
How much of what we do for a living plays into who we date?
Do doctors have easier times finding dates than funeral directors?
Some people would find a funeral director just plain creepy. It wouldn't matter how nice a person the funeral director was.
There are a few male television reporters who think telling women what they do is a good pick-up line. "That's right baby. I'm on TV."
And many a woman likes a man in uniform, unless she has a criminal record, a problem with authority or political views opposing military operations.
Are we education snobs? Do high school drop outs have a tougher time in the dating world? Do people with more than one university degree have an easier time picking up?
How much of what we do for a living plays into who we date?
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Personal Mount Everest
You don't really notice how many flights of stairs there are to a building until you have to carry something really heavy up them. Suddenly three flights of stairs becomes a lot. The stairs, then, can become an almost impossible climb.
Avoiding Johnny Appleseeds
There are countless men out there who would say flirting with women is like planting seeds.
Like a good farmer, a man doesn't just plant one seed fully expecting that one to survive all the bad weather and poor conditions of the land. Instead the man plants hundreds of seeds in hopes that a few will survive and flourish.
At the end of the growing season, the man will have several plants he can eat. And when those plants are all gone, he can plant some more seeds.
Well, women are not seeds.
I don't like being one of several woman a man is planting his interest in.
If a man is truly worthy of my respect, I should really be the only person he is interested in.
Because in the words of Saturday Night Live's Stuart Smalley: "I'm good enough, smart enough, and - doggone it - people like me!"
And if a guy can't see that, and wants to write me off as one of many generic seeds he is trying to plant, then good riddance.
I demand to stand on a pedestal because I am worth it.
But with such a demand like that I'm going to be single for a long, long while.
Like a good farmer, a man doesn't just plant one seed fully expecting that one to survive all the bad weather and poor conditions of the land. Instead the man plants hundreds of seeds in hopes that a few will survive and flourish.
At the end of the growing season, the man will have several plants he can eat. And when those plants are all gone, he can plant some more seeds.
Well, women are not seeds.
I don't like being one of several woman a man is planting his interest in.
If a man is truly worthy of my respect, I should really be the only person he is interested in.
Because in the words of Saturday Night Live's Stuart Smalley: "I'm good enough, smart enough, and - doggone it - people like me!"
And if a guy can't see that, and wants to write me off as one of many generic seeds he is trying to plant, then good riddance.
I demand to stand on a pedestal because I am worth it.
But with such a demand like that I'm going to be single for a long, long while.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
End Notes.
I've been thinking a lot about how people sign their e-mails and letters. "Sincerely," "best," "ciao," "cheers," "regards," "from," "love" are words that precede our names in correspondence.
"Ciao" and "cheers" sound friendly and informal.
"Regards" and "best" are formal and polite, at least to me. Although, most formal letters from lawyers write "sincerely," which to me implies an emotionally heartfelt letter that they sincerely meant, which is probably not the spirit in which they wrote their dry formal letter.
"Love" is a loaded ending, because the person might then think you're in love with them if you use that one.
And "from" just seems cold.
Can you tell a lot about a person by how they sign a piece of correspondence?
What about "peace," "keep on rocking" and endings like that? Are these people trying too hard to be cool?
"Ciao" and "cheers" sound friendly and informal.
"Regards" and "best" are formal and polite, at least to me. Although, most formal letters from lawyers write "sincerely," which to me implies an emotionally heartfelt letter that they sincerely meant, which is probably not the spirit in which they wrote their dry formal letter.
"Love" is a loaded ending, because the person might then think you're in love with them if you use that one.
And "from" just seems cold.
Can you tell a lot about a person by how they sign a piece of correspondence?
What about "peace," "keep on rocking" and endings like that? Are these people trying too hard to be cool?
Thursday, April 19, 2007
No time like the present...
"Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that's the stuff life is made of." - Benjamin Franklin
I'm one of those people who is always ridiculously busy. There is rarely ever down time for me, as long as I have deadlines that keep pummeling towards me, I'm productive. I can get a lot done in a short period of time.
When I do have down time (or take down time) I feel like that time is squandered, because I am not getting anything done.
Am I turning into a workaholic?
I like living to deadlines though. I don't know that I would enjoy just sitting around.
I'm one of those people who is always ridiculously busy. There is rarely ever down time for me, as long as I have deadlines that keep pummeling towards me, I'm productive. I can get a lot done in a short period of time.
When I do have down time (or take down time) I feel like that time is squandered, because I am not getting anything done.
Am I turning into a workaholic?
I like living to deadlines though. I don't know that I would enjoy just sitting around.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Fashion Trends
I went to see David Usher recently. He was wearing a double-zip sweater, done up to reveal his navel.
Are midriff-revealing shirts for men coming back?
David's turning 41 this year. David, you're supposed to be a role model for men your age. Don't encourage men in their 40s to wear such shirts. Most of them can't pull the look off.
A few weeks later, I was in the grocery store, I saw a guy fashionably dressed, wearing butt-crack-revealing jeans, which were popular with the girls a year or two back.
Is androgyny going to be big again?
Are the 80s coming back? Really?
Are midriff-revealing shirts for men coming back?
David's turning 41 this year. David, you're supposed to be a role model for men your age. Don't encourage men in their 40s to wear such shirts. Most of them can't pull the look off.
A few weeks later, I was in the grocery store, I saw a guy fashionably dressed, wearing butt-crack-revealing jeans, which were popular with the girls a year or two back.
Is androgyny going to be big again?
Are the 80s coming back? Really?
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Forgetting...
Why is it, when someone does something stupid or wrong, we don't let them forget?
We think it's funny not to let them forget too.
For instance, ever since my karate instructor knocked out that kid's tooth, when sparring him, I'm like: "Careful, don't knock out my tooth."
Everyone else laughs, but my instructor says: "That's not funny."
We think it's funny not to let them forget too.
For instance, ever since my karate instructor knocked out that kid's tooth, when sparring him, I'm like: "Careful, don't knock out my tooth."
Everyone else laughs, but my instructor says: "That's not funny."
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
In the air...
Spring is here, although you can't tell by all the snow being dumped on the Canadian prairies right now.
Last week, before the snow, every single member of my poetry group, coincidentally, brought a poem about some sort of dead animal. Death isn't often associated with spring. Usually spring is connected with new life, birth and rebirth. But leave it to writers to try to twist and challenge society's standard associations.
Poet gillian harding-russell writes: "Spring is an uncovering of old wounds."
If this is true, it's not that hard to connect spring with death. Although, death goes with any season.
Last week, before the snow, every single member of my poetry group, coincidentally, brought a poem about some sort of dead animal. Death isn't often associated with spring. Usually spring is connected with new life, birth and rebirth. But leave it to writers to try to twist and challenge society's standard associations.
Poet gillian harding-russell writes: "Spring is an uncovering of old wounds."
If this is true, it's not that hard to connect spring with death. Although, death goes with any season.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Tasty Treats
I was feeding my cat some tartar-control snacks when I noticed that the side of the bag read: "Tasty Treats."
How was it decided that these treats were tasty?
Did someone taste the treats? Was the food given to a sample population of cats for testing? How did the cats provide feedback? They can't talk.
Was it assumed that because cats eat it that the food is good? I eat a lot of things put in front of me that I don't like, asparagus, for instance. I don't like it, but I eat it because I assume it's food. And because it's green, it must be good for me. Right? Maybe cats make the same assumption and eat something that tastes bad.
How was it decided that these treats were tasty?
Did someone taste the treats? Was the food given to a sample population of cats for testing? How did the cats provide feedback? They can't talk.
Was it assumed that because cats eat it that the food is good? I eat a lot of things put in front of me that I don't like, asparagus, for instance. I don't like it, but I eat it because I assume it's food. And because it's green, it must be good for me. Right? Maybe cats make the same assumption and eat something that tastes bad.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
The Trap
Women used to, and still do, trap men into marriage with pregnancy. Since single parenthood and abortion have become more acceptable, this may be harder to do.
If you want to trap a man, find one who is struggling with his rent and literally move in. Once you start living with a boyfriend your relationship takes on a whole new "serious" tone. It will be harder for the guy to break up with you. Even if he wants to, he will be reluctant, because he knows he'll feel bad for throwing you out on the street. Besides, he needs your half of the rent to make ends meet.
I know more than one person stuck in an unhappy common law relationship because they got stuck in the rent trap. Now they're having trouble getting out. I also know people who are in unhappy marriages because of the pregnancy trap. Of course, some of those traps come with happy endings too.
If you think of a guy as something to be trapped or hunted, I think your relationship is off to an unhealthy start. Why are the words trapped and hunting used in dating speak? I think the fairy tale ideal of getting married and living happily ever after has reduced the idea of a significant other as a random animal to be caught and domesticated.
If you want to trap a man, find one who is struggling with his rent and literally move in. Once you start living with a boyfriend your relationship takes on a whole new "serious" tone. It will be harder for the guy to break up with you. Even if he wants to, he will be reluctant, because he knows he'll feel bad for throwing you out on the street. Besides, he needs your half of the rent to make ends meet.
I know more than one person stuck in an unhappy common law relationship because they got stuck in the rent trap. Now they're having trouble getting out. I also know people who are in unhappy marriages because of the pregnancy trap. Of course, some of those traps come with happy endings too.
If you think of a guy as something to be trapped or hunted, I think your relationship is off to an unhealthy start. Why are the words trapped and hunting used in dating speak? I think the fairy tale ideal of getting married and living happily ever after has reduced the idea of a significant other as a random animal to be caught and domesticated.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Flattery
I made an observation while out window shopping the other day: You know an outfit isn't going to be flattering on you if it makes a mannequin wearing it look fat.
What I'm saying is very few people, or mannequins, can wear an empress waist--which was a very popular style in Mark Twain's day--without looking fat and/or pregnant.
What I'm saying is very few people, or mannequins, can wear an empress waist--which was a very popular style in Mark Twain's day--without looking fat and/or pregnant.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Understanding
I went to a panel discussion on racism today, which opened with this question, posed by a First Nations woman.
"How come First Nations people are called savages? We smoke a pipe and have the smoke carry our prayers to the creator. In Christianity, people eat a piece of bread representing the body of Christ, which sounds like cannibalism to me. Why aren't Christians called savages?"
I thought that was interesting, because anyone being called a savage would say their culture isn't being fully understood.
A lot of problems are caused by misunderstandings or the failure to at least try to understand. And, even if people do understand, they might not care about the other people's feelings or beliefs.
If people tried to truly understand where each other is coming from there might be less name calling and fighting.
When a speeding driver cuts me off, I try not to get angry, because what if that person is in a rush to get to the hospital or something. Of course, maybe if I did understand that they were actually just being a jerk then I might get angry and call them a nasty name.
Okay, understanding won't work either. Who am I kidding? There will always be name calling and worse, with or without understanding. That's just how the human race likes to do business on this complicated web we weave.
"How come First Nations people are called savages? We smoke a pipe and have the smoke carry our prayers to the creator. In Christianity, people eat a piece of bread representing the body of Christ, which sounds like cannibalism to me. Why aren't Christians called savages?"
I thought that was interesting, because anyone being called a savage would say their culture isn't being fully understood.
A lot of problems are caused by misunderstandings or the failure to at least try to understand. And, even if people do understand, they might not care about the other people's feelings or beliefs.
If people tried to truly understand where each other is coming from there might be less name calling and fighting.
When a speeding driver cuts me off, I try not to get angry, because what if that person is in a rush to get to the hospital or something. Of course, maybe if I did understand that they were actually just being a jerk then I might get angry and call them a nasty name.
Okay, understanding won't work either. Who am I kidding? There will always be name calling and worse, with or without understanding. That's just how the human race likes to do business on this complicated web we weave.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Rushed.
I hate those days when I leave the house in such a rush to get somewhere that I know I must have forgotten something. There is just no way I can leave the house fast without forgetting something.
Today, I even looked down to see if I remembered my pants, which I did. Thank God. Is it possible that I could actually forget my pants someday? I really hope not.
Today, I even looked down to see if I remembered my pants, which I did. Thank God. Is it possible that I could actually forget my pants someday? I really hope not.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
The Injury Report.
Today, at karate, this eight-year-old kid had a molar knocked loose by the instructor. And it was an adult tooth too. There was blood running out the side of the kid's mouth. It was pretty nasty.
All the instructor did was turn around and the kid, who was standing right behind him, took an elbow to the face. It was an accident. The kid will definitely need a trip to the dentist.
Karate can make you feel like an abused spouse or child. While getting a tooth knocked out, or even a bloody nose, is rare, bruises are common. When I first started and had sensitive forearms, I had to wear long sleeves to hide the ridiculous amount of bruises I was getting, just from blocking punches.
I bruise less now, but every now and again I still get some ugly bruises. Three weeks ago, at a provincial team training session, I had a bruise complete with blood blisters that ran from my elbow to my wrist. I had another large bruise on my stomach. I couldn't even tell you where the bruises came from. Obviously, I took some hits. I also had a large scratch under my arm, as well as some pinch marks, from some grappling we were doing.
I'm glad I'm not a wrestler, because I hear breaking the cartilage in your ears is a common injury in that sport. And the cartilage never heals right. You get what they call cauliflower ears.
All the instructor did was turn around and the kid, who was standing right behind him, took an elbow to the face. It was an accident. The kid will definitely need a trip to the dentist.
Karate can make you feel like an abused spouse or child. While getting a tooth knocked out, or even a bloody nose, is rare, bruises are common. When I first started and had sensitive forearms, I had to wear long sleeves to hide the ridiculous amount of bruises I was getting, just from blocking punches.
I bruise less now, but every now and again I still get some ugly bruises. Three weeks ago, at a provincial team training session, I had a bruise complete with blood blisters that ran from my elbow to my wrist. I had another large bruise on my stomach. I couldn't even tell you where the bruises came from. Obviously, I took some hits. I also had a large scratch under my arm, as well as some pinch marks, from some grappling we were doing.
I'm glad I'm not a wrestler, because I hear breaking the cartilage in your ears is a common injury in that sport. And the cartilage never heals right. You get what they call cauliflower ears.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Workshops
The dilemma I often face when going to a writing workshop is: "What work should I submit?"
Should I submit something good that might impress other writers? Or should I submit a horrible piece of writing that has been grating me and is in desperate need of workshopping?
I go with the latter. As a result, I'm sure there are a lot of writers I respect out there going: "Really? That girl's a published poet? Really? But did you just read what she submitted at that workshop? What a piece of crap!"
There can be no ego when it comes to battling your own worst nightmares . . . I mean poems.
Should I submit something good that might impress other writers? Or should I submit a horrible piece of writing that has been grating me and is in desperate need of workshopping?
I go with the latter. As a result, I'm sure there are a lot of writers I respect out there going: "Really? That girl's a published poet? Really? But did you just read what she submitted at that workshop? What a piece of crap!"
There can be no ego when it comes to battling your own worst nightmares . . . I mean poems.
Friday, March 23, 2007
The Unsung Hero
There are the obvious heroes in society--the police, fire fighters, the neighbour that pulls you out of your house in a fire...
I would add the tow truck driver to that list. Who else is going to come at 3 a.m. to rescue you after you've done something stupid, like hang your car up on a meridian?
Tow truck drivers risk their lives helping you in your stupid moments. I recently met one tow truck driver who got hit by a speeding car while trying to help another person out of a ditch. The tow truck driver flew through the air and landed on top of his tow truck, breaking his back. His nine year career as a hero ended. After three back surgeries, and two years of recovery, he now cleans used cars at a sales lot.
A few weeks ago, a submerged pot hole took my car out. Even though I know enough to drive through puddles slowly, my rim was bent and my tire was damaged. The tow truck driver who came to my rescue was able to assess the damage, which later saved me from being ripped off from the first mechanic where I took my car. That mechanic said my car was far more damaged than it actually was, in hopes of earning a few extra bucks from my stupidity. I got a second and third opinion and realized the tow truck driver was right and the first mechanic was a con.
Tow truck drivers, they're heroes. Because I'm not going to be able to pull you out of a ditch at 3 a.m., even if you offer me $80.
I would add the tow truck driver to that list. Who else is going to come at 3 a.m. to rescue you after you've done something stupid, like hang your car up on a meridian?
Tow truck drivers risk their lives helping you in your stupid moments. I recently met one tow truck driver who got hit by a speeding car while trying to help another person out of a ditch. The tow truck driver flew through the air and landed on top of his tow truck, breaking his back. His nine year career as a hero ended. After three back surgeries, and two years of recovery, he now cleans used cars at a sales lot.
A few weeks ago, a submerged pot hole took my car out. Even though I know enough to drive through puddles slowly, my rim was bent and my tire was damaged. The tow truck driver who came to my rescue was able to assess the damage, which later saved me from being ripped off from the first mechanic where I took my car. That mechanic said my car was far more damaged than it actually was, in hopes of earning a few extra bucks from my stupidity. I got a second and third opinion and realized the tow truck driver was right and the first mechanic was a con.
Tow truck drivers, they're heroes. Because I'm not going to be able to pull you out of a ditch at 3 a.m., even if you offer me $80.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Terrifying.
They built a glass skywalk over the Grand Canyon. While I'm not typically afraid of heights, the thought of standing on a glass platform over the Canyon freaks me out.
Although, if given the chance, I would take the walk. Apparently, it's like floating on air, until the wind starts to blow and you have to grab onto the railing to steady your knees.
Get this. You only get access to the glass deck if you sign up for a $50 tour package. Steep.
Although, if given the chance, I would take the walk. Apparently, it's like floating on air, until the wind starts to blow and you have to grab onto the railing to steady your knees.
Get this. You only get access to the glass deck if you sign up for a $50 tour package. Steep.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Down with the sickness...
I've been really sick lately with a throat infection, which came with a fever. At my worst, I couldn't talk at all and my left eye was swollen shut. It was pretty disgusting. I'm only now starting to get better.
What I hate about being sick is that you have to vanish off the face of the earth. I've missed a week's worth of karate and I'm still not up to going again yet. Not unless, I want to risk having some sort of uncontrollable coughing fit or just plain out collapsing.
When I first started getting sick, it was pretty hard to slow down the momentum of my life. There was too much on the go. "It's just a soar throat. I'm fine," I said. But when people started telling me to go home, I had to pack it up. Now I'm just sitting and waiting for my body to give me the go ahead to resume my life.
Sickness is like an annoying house guest. It doesn't call in advance to let you know it's coming. At the very least, sickness could tell you when it plans to leave. But it keeps saying "just one more day."
What I hate about being sick is that you have to vanish off the face of the earth. I've missed a week's worth of karate and I'm still not up to going again yet. Not unless, I want to risk having some sort of uncontrollable coughing fit or just plain out collapsing.
When I first started getting sick, it was pretty hard to slow down the momentum of my life. There was too much on the go. "It's just a soar throat. I'm fine," I said. But when people started telling me to go home, I had to pack it up. Now I'm just sitting and waiting for my body to give me the go ahead to resume my life.
Sickness is like an annoying house guest. It doesn't call in advance to let you know it's coming. At the very least, sickness could tell you when it plans to leave. But it keeps saying "just one more day."
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Thursday, March 01, 2007
The asylum...
Do you ever feel like you've seen something that cannot possibly be real?
The other day, I saw a guy trying to clear the frost off his car windshield by blowing on it with his mouth.
No kidding.
And then the day after that, I saw a guy running down the street in minus 20 degrees Celsius weather with no shirt on.
I mentioned this to a friend of mine and he said he's seen all that before.
Really?
The other day, I saw a guy trying to clear the frost off his car windshield by blowing on it with his mouth.
No kidding.
And then the day after that, I saw a guy running down the street in minus 20 degrees Celsius weather with no shirt on.
I mentioned this to a friend of mine and he said he's seen all that before.
Really?
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
The straight and the curly of it.
There are two kinds of people in this world. Those with straight hair and those with curly hair.
I have curly hair. Up until very recently, my hair was very long. When it was wet and brushed straight, it was down to my butt. When dry and curly, it was more than midway down my back.
When curly hair starts to dry, the hair starts to curl more and shorten up, because the water isn't weighing the hair down anymore.
Most hairdressers have straight hair, so they don't get this concept.
So today, when I asked a hair dresser to cut my wet hair so it would hang two inches below my shoulder, it ended up hanging above my shoulder when it dried. Luckily, my hair looks okay. And, as a bonus, I'll spend significantly less time doing my hair in the morning.
Straight-haired people don't understand that really long thick curly hair can take up to an hour and a half to do in the morning. Most of that time is spent brushing it out. Today, it took two hair stylists 20 minutes to brush out my hair.
Now that my hair's short, it might take me 10 to 15 minutes to do my hair.
Straight-hair people don't understand that curly hair is a curse. I'm always told I have such beautiful curly hair, but people have no idea how much work goes into my hair.
Anyhow, the 11 inches of my "beautiful" curly locks that were cut off today are going to be donated to a wig maker.
The stylist just couldn't let my hair go to waste.
So weird.
I have curly hair. Up until very recently, my hair was very long. When it was wet and brushed straight, it was down to my butt. When dry and curly, it was more than midway down my back.
When curly hair starts to dry, the hair starts to curl more and shorten up, because the water isn't weighing the hair down anymore.
Most hairdressers have straight hair, so they don't get this concept.
So today, when I asked a hair dresser to cut my wet hair so it would hang two inches below my shoulder, it ended up hanging above my shoulder when it dried. Luckily, my hair looks okay. And, as a bonus, I'll spend significantly less time doing my hair in the morning.
Straight-haired people don't understand that really long thick curly hair can take up to an hour and a half to do in the morning. Most of that time is spent brushing it out. Today, it took two hair stylists 20 minutes to brush out my hair.
Now that my hair's short, it might take me 10 to 15 minutes to do my hair.
Straight-hair people don't understand that curly hair is a curse. I'm always told I have such beautiful curly hair, but people have no idea how much work goes into my hair.
Anyhow, the 11 inches of my "beautiful" curly locks that were cut off today are going to be donated to a wig maker.
The stylist just couldn't let my hair go to waste.
So weird.
Monday, February 26, 2007
The winner is...
I watched the Oscars for the first time in quite a while.
What made them enjoyable was the people who are overjoyed when they win. You know, the people who cry or jump up and down. It's nice to see people so genuinely thrilled, which can be a rare sight anywhere.
What made them enjoyable was the people who are overjoyed when they win. You know, the people who cry or jump up and down. It's nice to see people so genuinely thrilled, which can be a rare sight anywhere.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Back to the future...
Some predict that, in the future, computers will be smarter than humans, possibly within my lifetime.
Does this mean one day I can expect to be chased down by a Robert Patrick look-a-like, just because a computer nerd wants to live out some Terminator fantasy of his?
Damnit! This world is screwed up.
Does this mean one day I can expect to be chased down by a Robert Patrick look-a-like, just because a computer nerd wants to live out some Terminator fantasy of his?
Damnit! This world is screwed up.
Friday, February 16, 2007
In scope...
A useful thought from my horoscope the other day . . .
"What others think of you is just a projection of what you think of you."
"What others think of you is just a projection of what you think of you."
Monday, February 12, 2007
Buble Boy
I hate celebrities that whine publicly in an attempt to garner publicity, since any news is good news.
Recently, Michael Buble made headlines when he told Canadian Press he was going to boycott the Grammys because the award he was nominated nominated for -- best traditional pop album -- was not going to be given out during the live televised portion of the show. He also said Tony Bennett, who was nominated in the same category, was likely going to win, so there would be no point in going anyway.
Boo hoo Buble. Most musical artists aren't good enough, or don't have the sales, to be nominated for a Grammy, so quit whining.
Plus he said: "Red carpets suck . . . (People) don't know me. They don't want to talk to me."
Of course, people don't recognize you. You're a crooner and big band singer, plus you're Canadian. A lot of Americans aren't going to recognize you.
If you want to be recognized, join a boy band. Or you could just enjoy the privacy of being a lesser known celeb and shut up.
Buble decided to go to the Grammys in the end. The whole thing was probably a publicity stunt. But I say, if you're going to run your mouth, stand by your words.
Recently, Michael Buble made headlines when he told Canadian Press he was going to boycott the Grammys because the award he was nominated nominated for -- best traditional pop album -- was not going to be given out during the live televised portion of the show. He also said Tony Bennett, who was nominated in the same category, was likely going to win, so there would be no point in going anyway.
Boo hoo Buble. Most musical artists aren't good enough, or don't have the sales, to be nominated for a Grammy, so quit whining.
Plus he said: "Red carpets suck . . . (People) don't know me. They don't want to talk to me."
Of course, people don't recognize you. You're a crooner and big band singer, plus you're Canadian. A lot of Americans aren't going to recognize you.
If you want to be recognized, join a boy band. Or you could just enjoy the privacy of being a lesser known celeb and shut up.
Buble decided to go to the Grammys in the end. The whole thing was probably a publicity stunt. But I say, if you're going to run your mouth, stand by your words.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Say when...
"My aunt would say, 'say when,' and of course, we never did. We don't say 'when' because there is something about the possibility of more, more tequila, more love, more anything, because more is better ."
Although . . .
"There's something to be said about the glass half full, about knowing when to say 'when.' I think it's a floating line, a barometer of need and desire. It's entirely up to the individual and depends on what's being poured. Sometimes all we want is a taste, other times there is no such thing as enough. The glass is bottomless, and all we want is more." - Dr. Meredith Grey, Grey's Anatomy.
Although . . .
"There's something to be said about the glass half full, about knowing when to say 'when.' I think it's a floating line, a barometer of need and desire. It's entirely up to the individual and depends on what's being poured. Sometimes all we want is a taste, other times there is no such thing as enough. The glass is bottomless, and all we want is more." - Dr. Meredith Grey, Grey's Anatomy.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Ashes to Ashes.
Did you know when you die you can have your ashes painted into a picture?
You can have them embedded into a man-made ocean reef. You can have them put into jewelry and given to a loved one to wear.
Motorcycle Memorials provides a whole line of motorcycle fuel tank urns.
Some people like to have their remains packed into shotgun shells and given to a hunter, who will presumably shoot them into a deer.
Check out Funeria for urns shaped like a rocket and others shaped like a cigar. Talk about putting fun back into the funeral.
Remember folks, coffins are not called coffins anymore. They're vessels.
You can have them embedded into a man-made ocean reef. You can have them put into jewelry and given to a loved one to wear.
Motorcycle Memorials provides a whole line of motorcycle fuel tank urns.
Some people like to have their remains packed into shotgun shells and given to a hunter, who will presumably shoot them into a deer.
Check out Funeria for urns shaped like a rocket and others shaped like a cigar. Talk about putting fun back into the funeral.
Remember folks, coffins are not called coffins anymore. They're vessels.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Weathering People.
There needs to be a weather forecast system for people.
One you could check before meeting up with someone. It would be nice to know if someone is going to be sunny and clear.
Storm warnings would be particularly helpful. That way no one could unexpectedly come in like a tornado, blow you over and be gone again, leaving you to clean up the disaster area.
Mind you, it's not always easy to predict the weather. Those dark clouds can sneak up from anywhere. It seems they can follow you.
One you could check before meeting up with someone. It would be nice to know if someone is going to be sunny and clear.
Storm warnings would be particularly helpful. That way no one could unexpectedly come in like a tornado, blow you over and be gone again, leaving you to clean up the disaster area.
Mind you, it's not always easy to predict the weather. Those dark clouds can sneak up from anywhere. It seems they can follow you.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Pain and Anger.
"There is no pain. Pain only exists if you allow it," says one of my karate instructors.
I agree completely.
Lately, I've gotten good at compartmentalizing both my physical and emotional pain.
It doesn't mean I don't feel. I just take a few deep breaths and let it go.
If you give into your pain, you run the risk of losing control.
I suppose the same is true with anger.
I agree completely.
Lately, I've gotten good at compartmentalizing both my physical and emotional pain.
It doesn't mean I don't feel. I just take a few deep breaths and let it go.
If you give into your pain, you run the risk of losing control.
I suppose the same is true with anger.
Monday, February 05, 2007
A crazy wacky world.
There are about 540,000 words in the English language, which is five times as many words as there were in Shakespeare's time, according to Richard Saul Wurman, author of Information Anxiety.
You can thank science and technology for this.
Wurman also says a week's worth of New York Times contains more information than someone in the 17th century was likely to come across in a lifetime.
In one year, an average person will read 3,000 notices and forms, read 100 newspapers and 36 magazines, watch 2,463 hours of television, listen to 730 hours of radio, talk on the telephone for 61 hours and read three books.
Add to that what you read on the Internet and it gets pretty crazy.
You can thank science and technology for this.
Wurman also says a week's worth of New York Times contains more information than someone in the 17th century was likely to come across in a lifetime.
In one year, an average person will read 3,000 notices and forms, read 100 newspapers and 36 magazines, watch 2,463 hours of television, listen to 730 hours of radio, talk on the telephone for 61 hours and read three books.
Add to that what you read on the Internet and it gets pretty crazy.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Purity and Beauty.
Albert Einstein wrote: “Mozart is of such purity and beauty that one feels he merely ‘found’ it–that it has always existed as part of the inner beauty of the universe waiting to be revealed.”
If only art were created that way.
If only we could stumble upon beauty or a sadness and turn it into art so easily.
I wonder how hard Mozart had to work to make his music seem so simple and transparent. Creating the illusion of simplicity often takes the most work of all.
When art is complex, it's easier for its creator to hide behind those complexities.
If only art were created that way.
If only we could stumble upon beauty or a sadness and turn it into art so easily.
I wonder how hard Mozart had to work to make his music seem so simple and transparent. Creating the illusion of simplicity often takes the most work of all.
When art is complex, it's easier for its creator to hide behind those complexities.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Dinged.
In life, always expect the unexpected--the annoyingly inconvenient type, not the happy good kind. (Expecting the happy goods, only leads to disappointment).
My car was backed into today by a monstrous SUV. It did some damage.
Luckily, the lady who did it was honest enough to go door knocking to find the owner of the vehicle (me).
I later spent an hour on the phone talking with an insurance person--most of that time was spent on hold, of course.
I now have to wait two weeks in order to have the damage assessed by an adjuster before I can take my car in to be repaired.
And I need to find a shop that does decent body work.
Damn the unexpected.
My car was backed into today by a monstrous SUV. It did some damage.
Luckily, the lady who did it was honest enough to go door knocking to find the owner of the vehicle (me).
I later spent an hour on the phone talking with an insurance person--most of that time was spent on hold, of course.
I now have to wait two weeks in order to have the damage assessed by an adjuster before I can take my car in to be repaired.
And I need to find a shop that does decent body work.
Damn the unexpected.
Friday, February 02, 2007
It's not easy being a fluff ball.
It's not easy being a cat with the whole hairball thing and all.
The other night I woke up to the sound of my cat retching. She was on my bed, so without thinking I pushed her off so she could throw up on the floor.
Afterwards I thought that wasn't very nice. I wouldn't like to be pushed off the bed if I were trying to throw up.
It's a good thing cats can land on their feet.
The other night I woke up to the sound of my cat retching. She was on my bed, so without thinking I pushed her off so she could throw up on the floor.
Afterwards I thought that wasn't very nice. I wouldn't like to be pushed off the bed if I were trying to throw up.
It's a good thing cats can land on their feet.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Shut-up and bring me my food!
I hate creepy middle-aged men who obnoxiously flirt with young waitresses like they have a chance.
Today, this loud-mouthed jerk, who was sitting between the kitchen and my table, kept trying to chat up the waitress while she was en route with my water, then my food and later the bill.
The guy probably delayed my meal by 30 minutes by grabbing the waitress and asking her a stupid 20 questions while she was trying to bring out my food. Questions like if she'd ever been to Mexico before. He had been.
I was ready to get up and punch the guy out for her, so I could get my food and eat it in peace.
Today, this loud-mouthed jerk, who was sitting between the kitchen and my table, kept trying to chat up the waitress while she was en route with my water, then my food and later the bill.
The guy probably delayed my meal by 30 minutes by grabbing the waitress and asking her a stupid 20 questions while she was trying to bring out my food. Questions like if she'd ever been to Mexico before. He had been.
I was ready to get up and punch the guy out for her, so I could get my food and eat it in peace.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Thanks a lot. Really.
I checked next week's forecast online.
I have an old friend coming in from out of town next week, and I was curious to see if the weather was going to be nice to him during his visit.
Well, there's a high of -4 degrees Celsius and a low of -22 degrees Celsius. That's pretty much the forecast for the whole week.
Basically, it's going to be kind of warm out or kind of cold out. It's good to know the weather could go either way. Though I already knew that before I checked the weather.
That's why meteorologists get paid the big bucks, folks.
I have an old friend coming in from out of town next week, and I was curious to see if the weather was going to be nice to him during his visit.
Well, there's a high of -4 degrees Celsius and a low of -22 degrees Celsius. That's pretty much the forecast for the whole week.
Basically, it's going to be kind of warm out or kind of cold out. It's good to know the weather could go either way. Though I already knew that before I checked the weather.
That's why meteorologists get paid the big bucks, folks.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Friendship
"The only way to have a friend is to be one." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Friendships are a lot of work. It's very easy to get wrapped up in the here and now of your own life and lose touch with a friend.
And it's easy to assume that everyone already has their own life and isn't interested in hanging out with you, but you don't know until you ask.
According to Life's Little Instruction Calendar Volume XI: "The words, 'Would you like to join me for coffee?' can result in one of the greatest romances of all time." I would add to that friendships as well.
Friendships are a lot of work. It's very easy to get wrapped up in the here and now of your own life and lose touch with a friend.
And it's easy to assume that everyone already has their own life and isn't interested in hanging out with you, but you don't know until you ask.
According to Life's Little Instruction Calendar Volume XI: "The words, 'Would you like to join me for coffee?' can result in one of the greatest romances of all time." I would add to that friendships as well.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Premature
I am not a fan of toilets that flush automatically, mainly because of premature flushing.
If a toilet flushes while you are sitting down, instead of standing up, you end up getting a bidet experience.
If a toilet flushes while you are sitting down, instead of standing up, you end up getting a bidet experience.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Rest in Peace.
Why is it we get so attached to our favourite actors and the characters they play? It's not like we know them personally.
I've been watching the TV show Angel lately.
In typical Joss Whedon style, one of the main characters, Doyle, was killed off unexpectedly.
I was so upset, I almost cried. Whedon builds characters so well. I felt like I lost a friend.
Anyhow, Doyle was played by Glenn Quinn, probably better known for his role on Roseanne. He was Mark, Becky's husband.
Anyhow, like his character in Angel, Quinn killed himself. Except instead of a heroic act to save a group of immigrants, like in Angel, Quinn killed himself by overdosing on heroin at the age of 32.
When I found that out, I was even more depressed.
Whedon, by the way, got his start writing for Roseanne.
I've been watching the TV show Angel lately.
In typical Joss Whedon style, one of the main characters, Doyle, was killed off unexpectedly.
I was so upset, I almost cried. Whedon builds characters so well. I felt like I lost a friend.
Anyhow, Doyle was played by Glenn Quinn, probably better known for his role on Roseanne. He was Mark, Becky's husband.
Anyhow, like his character in Angel, Quinn killed himself. Except instead of a heroic act to save a group of immigrants, like in Angel, Quinn killed himself by overdosing on heroin at the age of 32.
When I found that out, I was even more depressed.
Whedon, by the way, got his start writing for Roseanne.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
A new beginning...
Beginnings are always rough as you struggle to gain familiarity.
I've been doing karate for five or six years now. My intensity and skill have gone up significantly enough that last spring I was invited to train with the provincial team.
I was feeling pretty good about myself, because it was a long sought after dream of mine. Then I showed up at the first team practice and it was a nightmare. I couldn't keep up and I had my butt kicked by all the team veterans.
So finally I decided I was going to get into better shape, to at least keep up.
Cardio fitness and core muscle strength are important parts of karate. So this year, I signed up for aerobic classes and ball stability classes.
I've always said the more I train karate, the more I feel like a beginner. (There are only so many moves in karate, but there is always something new to learn about executing those moves.) But I forgot what it was like to be a real beginner.
On the first day of aerobics, which is basically an intense dance class, I was stumbling all over my feet. And the ball stability class . . . well, at one point, I fell off the ball, dropping my barbells.
When I started karate I was bad, a stumbling idiot. It took me a year and a half to really catch on.
And now, luckily, by the second aerobics class, the steps were a little easier.
I've been doing karate for five or six years now. My intensity and skill have gone up significantly enough that last spring I was invited to train with the provincial team.
I was feeling pretty good about myself, because it was a long sought after dream of mine. Then I showed up at the first team practice and it was a nightmare. I couldn't keep up and I had my butt kicked by all the team veterans.
So finally I decided I was going to get into better shape, to at least keep up.
Cardio fitness and core muscle strength are important parts of karate. So this year, I signed up for aerobic classes and ball stability classes.
I've always said the more I train karate, the more I feel like a beginner. (There are only so many moves in karate, but there is always something new to learn about executing those moves.) But I forgot what it was like to be a real beginner.
On the first day of aerobics, which is basically an intense dance class, I was stumbling all over my feet. And the ball stability class . . . well, at one point, I fell off the ball, dropping my barbells.
When I started karate I was bad, a stumbling idiot. It took me a year and a half to really catch on.
And now, luckily, by the second aerobics class, the steps were a little easier.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Love/Hate
I hate food that has a smell that lingers on your clothes.
I just came back from having Indian Food. It tasted good, but, two hours later, the smell is starting to get to me.
I'll probably have to change my clothes.
I just came back from having Indian Food. It tasted good, but, two hours later, the smell is starting to get to me.
I'll probably have to change my clothes.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Behind these walls...
Neighbouring apartment tenants are always interesting to listen to through the walls. It's not that you want to listen to them. It's just that apartment walls are so thin.
I used to live beside sadomasochists once. That was disturbing. I used to live beside a guy who talked to himself while playing video games, which was also disturbing.
Now I live beside someone who watches Friends around the clock. And my other neighbour has two-day long parties with all of his closest male friends.
What's my contribution to my apartment's noise pollution?
Well, lately, I like to sing James Blunt songs in falsetto, with or without the CD to accompany me. I'm sure my neighbours love me, especially since I can't sing.
On Sex and the City, they would call my singing "secret single behavior," an activity you engage in when no one else is around.
For me, I like to sing, but I'll never let anyone hear me do it. Well, hearing me through the walls is okay, as long as I don't know the people listening.
I used to live beside sadomasochists once. That was disturbing. I used to live beside a guy who talked to himself while playing video games, which was also disturbing.
Now I live beside someone who watches Friends around the clock. And my other neighbour has two-day long parties with all of his closest male friends.
What's my contribution to my apartment's noise pollution?
Well, lately, I like to sing James Blunt songs in falsetto, with or without the CD to accompany me. I'm sure my neighbours love me, especially since I can't sing.
On Sex and the City, they would call my singing "secret single behavior," an activity you engage in when no one else is around.
For me, I like to sing, but I'll never let anyone hear me do it. Well, hearing me through the walls is okay, as long as I don't know the people listening.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Living for the weekend...
Why do weeks with stat holidays in them drag?
You get a short work-week. It should go by quickly, but it never does.
You get a short work-week. It should go by quickly, but it never does.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Keeping it real.
Someone just e-mailed me these fine words of wisdom:
"People seem normal until you get to know them, so be brief with people."
"People seem normal until you get to know them, so be brief with people."
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Quiet Time.
After having to rescue a total stranger from a drug overdose last New Year's Eve, and having a party guest throw up in my washing machine two New Year's Eves ago, I decided it would be best to spend a quiet New Year's at home this year with my family.
I was in bed by 11:59 p.m. and enjoyed the moonlight pouring in from my bedroom window, as well as the sound of fireworks from some distant party down the street. That moment was probably the best New Year's Eve I've ever had.
I was in bed by 11:59 p.m. and enjoyed the moonlight pouring in from my bedroom window, as well as the sound of fireworks from some distant party down the street. That moment was probably the best New Year's Eve I've ever had.
Monday, January 01, 2007
New Year's Eve Party
I don't get the whole "drinking yourself stupid on New Year's Eve" thing.
Who wants to start the New Year off with a hangover?
Who wants to start the New Year off with a hangover?
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Going to the movies.
When you go to a movie you are subjected to, literally, a half hour of commercials and previews. I know. I timed it. By the time the movie starts, you don't necessarily feel like watching a movie anymore. Either that or you've forgotten which movie it was you actually paid to see.
Friday, December 29, 2006
The Meaning of Life.
It's funny how a bad movie can turn out to be really good. You just need a few days to think about it.
I watched the movie Elizabethtown last week. I didn't think it was that great.
It was kind of boring. There was too much talking. I was expecting some light quick-paced romantic comedy. It wasn't.
Upon thinking about it, it was a lot more. It's about how we get so tunnel visioned in life.
In this case, up and coming shoe designer, Drew Baylor, spends eight years working on a shoe design that bombs once it hits the market.
"A shoe is not just a shoe. It connects us to the Earth." It's my favourite line in the movie, because we always find away to overrate what we do.
Of course, while Baylor was working on the perfect shoe, he missed spending time with his father, who dies right around the time his shoe design fails.
Baylor plans to kill himself, since his whole life, which was wrapped around a shoe, is over. Baylor is fired from his job and dropped by all his so-called-friends, who only cared about him when he was a success.
Baylor has to postpone his suicide plans to take care of his father's funeral arrangements. Along the way, he discovers there is a whole world out there that he's neglected because he was so focused on one goal.
I think the movie is true to life, although a little exaggerated. We do create our own little bubble of self-importance. We focus on one or two goals. And we can tend to shut others out while we work towards these goals.
So the question becomes, what are we missing in our lives? What should we let in to bring us more balance? You need to be balanced when the bubble pops. Otherwise, you'll fall, like Baylor almost did.
I watched the movie Elizabethtown last week. I didn't think it was that great.
It was kind of boring. There was too much talking. I was expecting some light quick-paced romantic comedy. It wasn't.
Upon thinking about it, it was a lot more. It's about how we get so tunnel visioned in life.
In this case, up and coming shoe designer, Drew Baylor, spends eight years working on a shoe design that bombs once it hits the market.
"A shoe is not just a shoe. It connects us to the Earth." It's my favourite line in the movie, because we always find away to overrate what we do.
Of course, while Baylor was working on the perfect shoe, he missed spending time with his father, who dies right around the time his shoe design fails.
Baylor plans to kill himself, since his whole life, which was wrapped around a shoe, is over. Baylor is fired from his job and dropped by all his so-called-friends, who only cared about him when he was a success.
Baylor has to postpone his suicide plans to take care of his father's funeral arrangements. Along the way, he discovers there is a whole world out there that he's neglected because he was so focused on one goal.
I think the movie is true to life, although a little exaggerated. We do create our own little bubble of self-importance. We focus on one or two goals. And we can tend to shut others out while we work towards these goals.
So the question becomes, what are we missing in our lives? What should we let in to bring us more balance? You need to be balanced when the bubble pops. Otherwise, you'll fall, like Baylor almost did.
Friday, December 22, 2006
The Christmas Spirit
I've just been to hell and back, braving the big box stores during the Christmas rush.
I normally avoid the big box area. Not only is it always crowded, but it's poorly designed. Whoever laid out the streets likely took his cat with him. Wherever his cat walked, that's where he laid down some pavement. There is no rhyme or reason to the crisscross of streets.
Anyhow, I went because I was desperate. I knew exactly what I wanted to get my brother, the last person on my list. I just couldn't find it, so I risked near collisions with bad drivers and rude shoppers in store after store after store.
The Christmas shopping is done now. My hard-earned money went straight from my bank account into the pockets of Best Buy and Winners. I'm just doing my part to make sure the rich stay rich and the poor get poorer.
While most of us are in financial debt in one way or another, we had no problem handing over $36.8 billion to stores during the month of December in 2005, according to Statistics Canada. This year our spending is supposed to increase six to seven per cent.
I think the left-leaning magazine Adbusters has it right. We should have a "Buy Nothing Christmas" and stick it to The Man. Of course, the economy might then collapse . . .
I normally avoid the big box area. Not only is it always crowded, but it's poorly designed. Whoever laid out the streets likely took his cat with him. Wherever his cat walked, that's where he laid down some pavement. There is no rhyme or reason to the crisscross of streets.
Anyhow, I went because I was desperate. I knew exactly what I wanted to get my brother, the last person on my list. I just couldn't find it, so I risked near collisions with bad drivers and rude shoppers in store after store after store.
The Christmas shopping is done now. My hard-earned money went straight from my bank account into the pockets of Best Buy and Winners. I'm just doing my part to make sure the rich stay rich and the poor get poorer.
While most of us are in financial debt in one way or another, we had no problem handing over $36.8 billion to stores during the month of December in 2005, according to Statistics Canada. This year our spending is supposed to increase six to seven per cent.
I think the left-leaning magazine Adbusters has it right. We should have a "Buy Nothing Christmas" and stick it to The Man. Of course, the economy might then collapse . . .
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Ghost of holidays past...
It's funny how some people can leave an imprint on your soul. Occasionally, the memory of them sneaks up on you, like an old ghost.
It doesn't matter that they hurt you years ago. And it's probably a good thing they live miles away. You haven't thought of them in a caring way in years, but suddenly you find yourself missing them deeply, even needing them.
You pick up the phone and put it down again. It's better to keep those feelings under lock and key.
It doesn't matter that they hurt you years ago. And it's probably a good thing they live miles away. You haven't thought of them in a caring way in years, but suddenly you find yourself missing them deeply, even needing them.
You pick up the phone and put it down again. It's better to keep those feelings under lock and key.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
It's a gamble.
You occasionaly hear of someone who steals hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years from their work to support a gambling habbit.
This doesn't make sense to me. I don't know what the maximum pot is at a casino, but if you are able to score $200,000 from your work without it going missing, I say, don't gamble it. Quit your job, take your newly claimed cash and move to another province, perhaps under a different name.
It will be like you won, but without all the hours in a casino.
This doesn't make sense to me. I don't know what the maximum pot is at a casino, but if you are able to score $200,000 from your work without it going missing, I say, don't gamble it. Quit your job, take your newly claimed cash and move to another province, perhaps under a different name.
It will be like you won, but without all the hours in a casino.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Living Skies
I am reading a collection of short stories by Angie Abdou called Anything Boys Can Do.
In the story "Shady Valley," Abdou has a nice description of Saskatchewan, a very underrated Canadian province.
"The sky is huge, enveloping them whole in a turquoise blue more brilliant than any tropical ocean. You can see and see and see and see - no trees or mountains blocking the view. The land rolls in a lullaby covered with bright yellow canola . . ."
People can easily admire the ocean or the mountains, but it takes a special eye to appreciate the vastness of the sky or of a field.
In the story "Shady Valley," Abdou has a nice description of Saskatchewan, a very underrated Canadian province.
"The sky is huge, enveloping them whole in a turquoise blue more brilliant than any tropical ocean. You can see and see and see and see - no trees or mountains blocking the view. The land rolls in a lullaby covered with bright yellow canola . . ."
People can easily admire the ocean or the mountains, but it takes a special eye to appreciate the vastness of the sky or of a field.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Blink of an Eye
December and January aren't real months to me. They just whip by in the blink of an eye.
I'm still not in Christmas mode yet, even though I've been to one Christmas concert, and one of the local radio stations switched to playing all Christmas music, all the time, for the month of December.
Technically, according to Wal-Mart, it's been Christmas since the day after Halloween. It amazes me how quickly they can reshelf their seasonal aisle.
Yes, I'm certainly not in Christmas mode, even though the media is already propelling towards the New Year. I saw my first "top stories of 2006" story.
Christmas is already old news before it happens now.
I'm still not in Christmas mode yet, even though I've been to one Christmas concert, and one of the local radio stations switched to playing all Christmas music, all the time, for the month of December.
Technically, according to Wal-Mart, it's been Christmas since the day after Halloween. It amazes me how quickly they can reshelf their seasonal aisle.
Yes, I'm certainly not in Christmas mode, even though the media is already propelling towards the New Year. I saw my first "top stories of 2006" story.
Christmas is already old news before it happens now.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Killers and Sins
A good friend of mine with a little too much time on his hands decided to anagram my name.
He came up with "seen any killers" and "really keen sins."
Yikes. Killers and sins? No fuzzy bunny rabbits for me. Perhaps it's appropriate because I covered the crime beat for two years as a journalist, which is why nothing phases me anymore.
Now I'm onto more uplifting subject matter - education and the arts, which is why nothing phases me.
He came up with "seen any killers" and "really keen sins."
Yikes. Killers and sins? No fuzzy bunny rabbits for me. Perhaps it's appropriate because I covered the crime beat for two years as a journalist, which is why nothing phases me anymore.
Now I'm onto more uplifting subject matter - education and the arts, which is why nothing phases me.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Poetry and Prose
A friend of mine was recently told she should stay clear of poetry and write fiction only. It was a prestigious literary editor that made the observation.
My friend's poetry wasn't making sense to anyone.
But I don't think she should give up on poetry. If it doesn't make sense, it probably means she was being abstract, instead of using concrete images. That's all. She can learn to use concrete images.
Poetry is a craft. It can be learned. I hate people who say give up instead of learn.
Mind you, I'm in limbo right now. In the last week, I got two rejections from literary magazines. One with a penciled note saying: "Interesting poems. Try us again later." And the other was a half page typed letter saying: "This is usable material. Now here's my critique..."
While those are better than your standard form rejections, it's still no publication.
My friend's poetry wasn't making sense to anyone.
But I don't think she should give up on poetry. If it doesn't make sense, it probably means she was being abstract, instead of using concrete images. That's all. She can learn to use concrete images.
Poetry is a craft. It can be learned. I hate people who say give up instead of learn.
Mind you, I'm in limbo right now. In the last week, I got two rejections from literary magazines. One with a penciled note saying: "Interesting poems. Try us again later." And the other was a half page typed letter saying: "This is usable material. Now here's my critique..."
While those are better than your standard form rejections, it's still no publication.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Path to Enlightenment
I have come to an obvious realization. That things only bother me if I let them.
I should not worry about what other people are doing. Yes, my neighbour plays his music too loud and the cocky kid in karate once again budded in front of me in line, even though he's a lower rank.
But it only bugs me, if I let it. To get angry isn't worth it. To greet an annoyance with patience and acceptance is a challenge worth taking . . . a very difficult challenge.
I should not worry about what other people are doing. Yes, my neighbour plays his music too loud and the cocky kid in karate once again budded in front of me in line, even though he's a lower rank.
But it only bugs me, if I let it. To get angry isn't worth it. To greet an annoyance with patience and acceptance is a challenge worth taking . . . a very difficult challenge.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Surprise Attacks
There are certain hazards to owning a cat
For instance, my cat has developed a recent fascination for shoe laces. I'll be tying up my boots and from out of no where my cat will lunge forth and attack my laces with great fury.
There's nothing more challenging than trying to tie your shoes with a cat taking swings at, not only your laces, but your hands. I've gotten a few scratches here and there.
Now I have to tie my shoes in hiding.
I wonder what a cat whisperer would have to say about that? Probably nothing my cat wouldn't laugh at.
For instance, my cat has developed a recent fascination for shoe laces. I'll be tying up my boots and from out of no where my cat will lunge forth and attack my laces with great fury.
There's nothing more challenging than trying to tie your shoes with a cat taking swings at, not only your laces, but your hands. I've gotten a few scratches here and there.
Now I have to tie my shoes in hiding.
I wonder what a cat whisperer would have to say about that? Probably nothing my cat wouldn't laugh at.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Hot Stuff
My girlfriends and I went to the hospital cafeteria for lunch today.
We do that from time to time, even though we aren't visiting anyone specific. The food is pretty good and so are the male nurses and young doctors who work there.
While there, I was thinking what would happen if there was a fire. It would be impossible to get all the patients out, especially those on oxygen or those out on the surgery table.
Hopefully, they have a good sprinkler system.
We do that from time to time, even though we aren't visiting anyone specific. The food is pretty good and so are the male nurses and young doctors who work there.
While there, I was thinking what would happen if there was a fire. It would be impossible to get all the patients out, especially those on oxygen or those out on the surgery table.
Hopefully, they have a good sprinkler system.
Monday, November 06, 2006
A Different Planet
It always amazes me how two people can watch the same movie, newscast or whatever and have a completely different opinion of what they saw.
Take for instance The Usual Suspects, which I thought was a total waste of time since I figured out the ending well before it ended.
I ruined it for the people I watched it with, because when you figure out a movie like that you have to make your predictions out loud. No one will ever believe you figured it out if you make your predictions after the movie.
I didn't think there was much to The Usual Suspects, but many people disagree.
Hence why there will always be conflict in the world. Our opinions, beliefs and perceptions are built of brick. It takes a lot to knock a brick structure down and it's always a chore to rebuild.
Take for instance The Usual Suspects, which I thought was a total waste of time since I figured out the ending well before it ended.
I ruined it for the people I watched it with, because when you figure out a movie like that you have to make your predictions out loud. No one will ever believe you figured it out if you make your predictions after the movie.
I didn't think there was much to The Usual Suspects, but many people disagree.
Hence why there will always be conflict in the world. Our opinions, beliefs and perceptions are built of brick. It takes a lot to knock a brick structure down and it's always a chore to rebuild.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Drama and Documentary
I went to the Laramie Project last night. Essentially the Laramie Project is a play about how the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard ripped apart the community of Laramie, Wyoming.
Instead of having a normal play structure with traditional acts and scenes, the Laramie Project was pieced together like a documentary with actors reciting actual interviews from the residents of Laramie.
The Techtonic Theatre company spent a lot of time in Laramie doing the interviews with the residents, so it was really neat to see what is essentially journalism in the form of drama.
Instead of having a normal play structure with traditional acts and scenes, the Laramie Project was pieced together like a documentary with actors reciting actual interviews from the residents of Laramie.
The Techtonic Theatre company spent a lot of time in Laramie doing the interviews with the residents, so it was really neat to see what is essentially journalism in the form of drama.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
T-Shirts
I was looking at my collection of t-shirts the other day, particularly those that were gifts from friends or family.
One says: "100 per cent Grade A B*tch"
Another says: "Do I look like a freakin' people person?"
A third says: "Does not play well with others"
And a fourth says: "You can't see me."
Hmm. Perhaps my friends are trying to tell me something?
One says: "100 per cent Grade A B*tch"
Another says: "Do I look like a freakin' people person?"
A third says: "Does not play well with others"
And a fourth says: "You can't see me."
Hmm. Perhaps my friends are trying to tell me something?
Friday, November 03, 2006
Hail the copycats!
Weapon of Choice, by Fatboy Slim, is a super cool video.
How can you go wrong with Chrisopher Walken dancing and flying through the air?
Now what's weird as that there has been more than one university student who has felt the need to copy this video.
Recently, both the University of Saskatchewan and McMaster University had students do so.
Although the U of S one is funny and the McMaster University one is okay, these students have way too much time on their hands.
Never have I felt the need to recreate a video, let alone post it to the Internet.
That said, when I saw the U of S video I had to send it to 50 of my bestest friends.
How can you go wrong with Chrisopher Walken dancing and flying through the air?
Now what's weird as that there has been more than one university student who has felt the need to copy this video.
Recently, both the University of Saskatchewan and McMaster University had students do so.
Although the U of S one is funny and the McMaster University one is okay, these students have way too much time on their hands.
Never have I felt the need to recreate a video, let alone post it to the Internet.
That said, when I saw the U of S video I had to send it to 50 of my bestest friends.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Weird
A young person, like me, who has the exact same name as I do, died on Monday.
As a result, I've been fielding phone calls. People want to know if I'm still alive.
Strange.
As a result, I've been fielding phone calls. People want to know if I'm still alive.
Strange.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
The Honest Truth
Honesty is deeply valued in our society. Yet no one really values the truth.
In fact, we're all a bunch of liars in one way or another.
Let's say you are at the store and the cashier asks you "how are you doing today?"
Your response will likely be good, even if you just came from the dentist after an intensive procedure. The freezing is wearing off and you feel a sudden wave of nausea.
If you were to be honest, you would say: "I'm actually in an immense amount of pain. I feel dizzy and about ready to throw up on your floor."
But no one wants to hear that and so you say: "I'm good. Thanks for asking."
In fact, we're all a bunch of liars in one way or another.
Let's say you are at the store and the cashier asks you "how are you doing today?"
Your response will likely be good, even if you just came from the dentist after an intensive procedure. The freezing is wearing off and you feel a sudden wave of nausea.
If you were to be honest, you would say: "I'm actually in an immense amount of pain. I feel dizzy and about ready to throw up on your floor."
But no one wants to hear that and so you say: "I'm good. Thanks for asking."
Saturday, October 28, 2006
The Internet
The cover story in this week's Macleans magazine is about why the Internet sucks.
The article notes that, at the dawn of the Internet age, idealists believed the world wide web would create an enlightened utopia.
In reality, Google's top 10 searches, last year, were Janet Jackson, hurricane Katrina, tsunami, xBox 360, Brad Pitt, Michael Jackson, American Idol, Britney Spear, Angelina Jolie and Harry Potter.
An enlightened utopia? I think not. I am proud to say I did not google any of those things last year. I did, however, google Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Jake Gyllenhaal. And I like to think of myself as an intellectual. (I'll ignore the laughter).
So what if the Internet celebrates mediocrity through self-indulgent blogs of people who think they can write. And so what if the nut jobs on both the right and left use the Internet to call the mainstream media biased and manipulative because the media is not promoting their said values. If the Internet was gone tomorrow, I would be very disappointed that I couldn't look up the trivia I need to know, like how old my favourite Survivor player is.
The article notes that, at the dawn of the Internet age, idealists believed the world wide web would create an enlightened utopia.
In reality, Google's top 10 searches, last year, were Janet Jackson, hurricane Katrina, tsunami, xBox 360, Brad Pitt, Michael Jackson, American Idol, Britney Spear, Angelina Jolie and Harry Potter.
An enlightened utopia? I think not. I am proud to say I did not google any of those things last year. I did, however, google Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Jake Gyllenhaal. And I like to think of myself as an intellectual. (I'll ignore the laughter).
So what if the Internet celebrates mediocrity through self-indulgent blogs of people who think they can write. And so what if the nut jobs on both the right and left use the Internet to call the mainstream media biased and manipulative because the media is not promoting their said values. If the Internet was gone tomorrow, I would be very disappointed that I couldn't look up the trivia I need to know, like how old my favourite Survivor player is.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Clouds
I'm not much of a joiner, but sometimes there is the odd band wagon you just can't help but jump on, like the Cloud Appreciation Society.
You're not healthy, unless you have an obsession.
You're not healthy, unless you have an obsession.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Just Justin
I was in my car tonight listening to JT's Justified album when the song "Take it from here" came on.
It begins with JT saying "Sometimes, sometimes the world gets hard."
And much to my surprise I said: "Tell me about it, Justin."
Unfortunately for me, Justin won't be my Broadway show on review, so he can act out how God was when he made me. (I'm not kidding, the lyrics are more or less along those lines).
It begins with JT saying "Sometimes, sometimes the world gets hard."
And much to my surprise I said: "Tell me about it, Justin."
Unfortunately for me, Justin won't be my Broadway show on review, so he can act out how God was when he made me. (I'm not kidding, the lyrics are more or less along those lines).
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Debt
"Don't go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first." - Mark Twain
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Worldly Fascinations
When the World Karate Tournament was hosted in Canada this past fall, there was a multicultural performance that included First Nation dancers in traditional garb.
The German karate team was very fascinated with the First Nation outfits and had their photos taken with the dancers. Many Canadians certainly would never show that same level of appreciation or interest.
Germans are interested in our "cowboy and Indian" history. I guess they have interests that extend beyond David Hasselhoff.
The German karate team was very fascinated with the First Nation outfits and had their photos taken with the dancers. Many Canadians certainly would never show that same level of appreciation or interest.
Germans are interested in our "cowboy and Indian" history. I guess they have interests that extend beyond David Hasselhoff.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Future Sex
I want to have FutureSex.
Why do I feel like a lesser person for wanting to buy a Justin Timberlake CD? I guess I don't feel justified in doing so.
Why do I feel like a lesser person for wanting to buy a Justin Timberlake CD? I guess I don't feel justified in doing so.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Candle Light
I went to my first candle party. It was pure hell. It made me feel cheap.
The seller of the candles, also known as the "consultant," was, of course, a young single mother trying to make a bit of extra cash. (And to be a consultant you have to buy your own catalogues, samples, etc. So the young mother likely had to put up a lot of cash to start this "business.")
The cheapest candle there was $32, but on average most of the merchandise ran for about $85 or more. Did I mention these were candles she was selling?
I'm a writer, so I don't make a lot of money. There is no way I'm dropping $32 on some candle I won't be able to use, because my cat will probably knock it over.
Of course, being the one person who doesn't buy anything, I won the door prize, which was probably paid for out of pocket by the young mother.
The idea behind these parties is that as a guest you are supposed to later volunteer your own home for a party for the consultant to come and sell candles to your own friends and families. Well, most of my friends and family are artists, writers, journalists or work in independent film. They don't have the money either for a $32 candle. So I certainly will not be hosting a party anytime soon.
In the end, I just ate the free food and left, feeling like a cheap and lowly impoverished human being.
The seller of the candles, also known as the "consultant," was, of course, a young single mother trying to make a bit of extra cash. (And to be a consultant you have to buy your own catalogues, samples, etc. So the young mother likely had to put up a lot of cash to start this "business.")
The cheapest candle there was $32, but on average most of the merchandise ran for about $85 or more. Did I mention these were candles she was selling?
I'm a writer, so I don't make a lot of money. There is no way I'm dropping $32 on some candle I won't be able to use, because my cat will probably knock it over.
Of course, being the one person who doesn't buy anything, I won the door prize, which was probably paid for out of pocket by the young mother.
The idea behind these parties is that as a guest you are supposed to later volunteer your own home for a party for the consultant to come and sell candles to your own friends and families. Well, most of my friends and family are artists, writers, journalists or work in independent film. They don't have the money either for a $32 candle. So I certainly will not be hosting a party anytime soon.
In the end, I just ate the free food and left, feeling like a cheap and lowly impoverished human being.
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