Is it Really November?

I thought it was about the third week of September! But time does fly when you're extremely busy.

I have officially survived what I deemed at the end of the summer to be my two hell months. September was crazy due to all the rehearsals and costume fittings for my show; and October was nuts due to an annual event I was coordinating. And wouldn't you know it, I got sick the day before the event. But I had to be at work, so I sufferred through last Wednesday and Thursday, the latter being the event day, and the hardest one to get through. I was at work til 10 PM (started at 8 AM). By the end of the night I couldn't talk, couldn't breathe, couldn't hear, and, well, couldn't think. Needless to say, no one was surprised when I called in sick Friday morning. I haven't been sick like that like since my decision to leave PB over a year ago.

Taking Friday off was smart. It gave me the chance to relax, rest, and recover, and by Saturday (even though I still sounded sick) I was feeling 100% better.

I spent Saturday afternoon running around with Colin searching for his Halloween costume. Like Christmas shopping it was left till the 11th hour. He decided to go as the Swedish Chef. Let me tell you, it is nearly impossible to find a white apron, and even more impossible to find a chef's hat. After picking up a couple of things for me at Value Village (my Halloween costumes past have seemed to have disappeared into a black hole), we headed to Lansdowne Mall and had no luck finding anything in either Home Outfitters, Zellers, or Home Sense. As we were leaving the last store, I caught a Ming Wo out of the corner of my eye. Jackpot! We found a white apron, and a chef's hat. The chef's hat had a chili pepper design on it, but I had a tonne of white material at home.

We got home, made a mad dash to get ready, and headed out to our Halloween party on the North Shore. The party began at our friends' apartment, and then we all headed over to the Seymour Pub. I have never partied in North Van before - it was a tonne of fun.

The pub was holding a costume contest, and guess who won? Colin. His prize? A Naslund jersey - perfect for the Swedish Chef.

On Wednesday we went to my brother-in-law's for a potluck dinner and to watch a Halloween movie. I had been told that the crowd at the party couldn't really stomach a true horror movie, and judging by many of the scared reactions to Monster House, I don't think a true horror flick would have gone down well.

Halloween isn't over yet for me. I have one more party this Saturday: a Halloween/housewarming party. Before that Colin and I are attending DPhiE's Bowl-for-Breath, a bowl-a-thon to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis. It should be a fun evening.

The next two weeks are short ones: Next Friday is midterm break, and the following Monday Remembrance Day. I plan to attend the Remembrance Day ceremonies at WPGA this year. Hope no one thinks I'm on a covert mission ;).

Slowing Down?

Now that my big performance is over life is a little less hectic (but not by much). I spent most of my September weekends preparing for the show (which was last Sunday), but last weekend was my most insane yet.

I had no plans Friday evening. I intended to stay in, other than quickly popping into the Bay at Richmond Centre. But Thalia called me in the late afternoon inviting me over to the North Shore. I couldn’t resist, so I joined the long weekend traffic heading that way, and crawled over there (actually, it wasn’t that bad). Around Rupert & 1st Thalia called me to ask if we could go downtown to pick up Buddy (kind of long story, not going to get into it). So I pickup to Thalia’s and head downtown, get Buddy, and then head over to Park Royal Bay so I can pick up a couple of things. Afterwards Thalia took me out to dinner as a thanks for driving her downtown. It was a pretty crazy (but fun) night, all in all.

Saturday morning I had my final rehearsal before the big show. So I spent a good portion of my Saturday morning and afternoon out in Burnaby rehearsing. Then I pretty much spent my whole Sunday in Surrey at the show. It was a tonne of fun, and I’m looking forward to next year’s, but I am also glad it’s over. After the show Colin and I went to my parents’ for Thanksgiving dinner. It was a good night for a big meal – Polynesian dancing really works up an appetite.

I was very thankful it was the Thanksgiving long weekend, as I really needed a break on Monday: some time to sleep in and play catch up with my personal life.

This weekend is already shaping up to be a little crazy, but nothing like the past couple of weekends. Tonight Lisa and I are carrying on an annual tradition and heading to Value Village to find our Halloween costumes (I’ll come back to that in a moment). Tomorrow morning Thalia and I are heading to Richmond Centre for part two of our Clinique gift, and tomorrow evening is Thanksgiving dinner at the in-laws. Honestly, it’s better having the two dinners a week apart, versus 24-hours apart – I feel like less of a gluton that way.

Back to Halloween: The only person who actually knows what I am going as for Halloween is Colin. So here are some hints:
¨ It’s a superhero
¨ It’s a DC comics superhero
¨ I’m going as the female version of this superhero (who apparently made her first appearance in 1998 - I thought it was long before that)
¨ The quintessential part of my costume is a ring, which I have ordered from E-bay. Without that ring, there really is no point to the costume, or character

I don’t know why I’m being so cryptic about my costume this year…

TGIF

Original title, I know. But I really am glad it's Friday. Not that this has been a bad week, or slow week; just the opposite in fact. But I'm ready for a mini break, and some time to relax. I'm looking forward to lounging around the house this evening, watching my Friday night staple, What Not to Wear. I also may attempt some housework, but I'll see how I feel when I get home.

Tomorrow should be a fun day - a socializing day - which always puts me in a good mood. During the day I'm meeting the CHS girls for coffee and chit chat (ok gossip), and in the evening Colin and I are off to a friend's 30th birthday party. I have been itching to go to a house party for a while, so that will be a nice treat.

Sunday will be busy. I have a three hour dance rehearsal - the show is next weekend!! Ack!! And then I have book club that evening. I haven't quite finished the book yet, but I should be able to finish by Sunday evening. I am at the point where I am so close to the end, I don't want the ending ruined just because I didn't finish the book.

It's quite interesting how important the book we are reading became this week: Saving Fish From Drowning by Amy Tan. It's about a group of friends who go on a trip to Burma (Myanmar), and as a background, explores the lives of the Burmese under present day military rule. With everything that has happened there this week, it should make for a very interesting discussion, and go beyond the characters, and plot of the novel.

What A Difference (Almost) a Year Makes

This time last year I was flailing. Every day I was becoming more despondent with my job at PB. It was roughly this time last year that I made my decision to leave that place. And what a difference between my old and current place of employment: last week I got a raise, and this week I got a parking spot. Things are good.

Over the funk

I'm not too sure what was up with me last week - the best way I can describe it was that I was in a funk, but that seems to be over now.

Last night I went shopping with Thalia - a little retail therapy always works. I spent way too much $$$ at the Clinique counter, but I was looking to pick up some new products, and the bonus was excellent.

I also dragged Thalia around the mall looking for a black cami or tank top with halter straps - no such luck. But I found one on the Sears website, thank god, as I need it for my performance next month. It's part of my Tahitian costume.

Time to pratice my poi balls...

Hard Time Concentrating

I don't know what's up today, but I'm having a very hard time concentrating. All week I've been busy at work, and it has gone by quickly; but today, everything seems to be at a stand still. All week I've been working hard, but today I feel like hardly working. I can't seem to focus on any one project, and am having a hard time figuring out what to do with myself today. How long until Christmas break?

But it's Thursday, and tomorrow is a jam packed day for me, so Friday afternoon should come quickly - I hope.

Where'd the Time Go?

I am actually shocked that my last entry was nearly 3 weeks ago! I thought I just updated this thing. To be honest though, I haven't be online that much lately.

Well it's back to school (for the students, not me). I do miss the quiet, lazy days of the office during the summer time. Shorter hours, casual ware, etc. But things were starting to slow down, so I'm glad it's back to school, and back to somewhat busy and crazy.

Last week I had my first dance class in two months. We spent the whole time rehearsing the Tahitian portion of the show. It went well, for me personally, and everyone. But I have been spending my time practicing the Tahitian dances, and have neglected anything and everything Maori. My poi ball skills have sadly declined over the summer, so it's time to get back to practicing that as well.

For a couple of weeks now I have been trying to hit my 300th workout at Curves, but I've been so busy lately that I've only made it in once or twice a week for the past few weeks. That's not to say I haven't been getting any exercise though. Between my dancing, swimming, and limited time at Curves, I'm feeling great.

After swimming last night, Colin and I were both starving. We usually have sushi after swimming, but decided last night to do something different. We had Thai food instead, and it was supper yummy. I'm salivating now, just thinking about how tasty it was... We'll definitely have to do that more often. And there are coupons for the Thai House in the Entertainment Book - even better!

Well, all this writing about food is making me hungry. Time to grab my mid-morning snack.

Where to Begin?

Well, I won’t begin with ‘boy, it sure has been a long time since my last entry,’ or ‘I can’t believe it’s been so long…’ Those statements are just a given, aren’t they? So I will just jump right in.

I was pretty busy the last couple of weeks of July. Busy running around and getting things together for our vacation; busy socially – trying to see everybody who arrived in town right before we left it; and busy with work.

Our vacation was amazing. I enjoyed experiencing Las Vegas for the first time, and will definitely return, perhaps with a group of friends next time. Among the highlights were seeing Jerry Seinfeld; walking the Strip and taking in the Vegas atmosphere; renting a car and driving to Hoover Dam; and hooking up with Devon and Steve, and bar-hopping with them till 5 AM. We were on a 9 AM flight the next morning to Orange County. Needless to say, as soon as we got to our hotel in Anaheim (a few hours prior to check-in), we stored our bags, and crashed by the pool. There is nothing like having a snooze in the California sun.

On our first full day in Anaheim we ventured over to Disneyland (one of my favourite places in the world). We got a lot of ground covered our first day in the Magic Kingdom: it was Sunday, so a good majority of people were at church, which meant little or no line-ups. By the end of our first day we had more or less ‘completed’ Disneyland and began working our way through California Adventure.

This was my first time in the new Disney park. I really enjoyed it, especially the rides – they were different from Disneyland. California Screamin’ is the most amazing coaster I have ever been on; the Maliboomer is the Hellivator on crack; and the ferris wheel was the scariest ride of all.

We saw a 3-D Muppets show where you actually sit in the Muppet theatre with what’s-their-faces jeering from the balcony. It was pretty cool. We also went to an animation studio where, after taking a photo and answering a few questions, the computer told you which Disney character you were most like: I must have been having bad day – I was Ursula, the creepy sea queen, and most diabolical of the Disney villains. Colin’s laughing didn’t help the situation any either…

On our second day in Disneyland, one of my co-workers from WPGA lined-up right behind us. We couldn’t believe the odds. Talking to someone whom you haven’t seen in a while helps the time pass while waiting in those line-ups.

Tuesday was far busier than Sunday, but we still got everything in. We decided to check out the re-vamped Subs, now the Finding Nemo Ride. So not worth the two-hour line up. Yes, I wasted two, precious hours of my life and time in Disneyland to find Nemo…

For our final meal in Disneyland we dined at the Blue Bayou, the restaurant that’s inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. I have always wanted to eat there. It was expensive, but well worth it. It was a truly different dining experience.

Since I’ve been back from vacation life has been quiet, and the weather crap. I still have my precious California tan, but it is slowly fading thanks to a particularly crappy August.

Things are very quiet right now, almost boring. But I think it’s just the calm before the storm in both my personal and working life. The one thing I have been doing of late is meeting up with friends, especially ones I haven’t seen in a long time. Come September things are going to get hectic, so I am trying to appreciate the quiet in my life right now, which is something that is often hard for me to do.

TGI(my)F

Yes, in my world it's Friday. No, I'm not in denial that it's only Thursday - I get Fridays off in July. Every weekend a three-day weekend. And this week has been exceptionally short since I took Monday off. Due to the overtime I put in working on the golf tournament, I ended up with an extra vacation day, which needed to be used by August 31, (vacation time re-sets September 1). And since I'm away the first two weeks of August, this week made the most sense. Boy, I love my job: lots of time off and I actually enjoy being at work too.

I've spent the last week or so, finalizing last minute trip details. Just to give you some background: last June Colin and I attended a timeshare presentation, with the guaranteed promise of a free trip to Vegas. So what's a few hours of our life for that. Nothing! Initially we were just going to take the few day trip, but since I have vacation time that needs to be used , we have extended our stay in Vegas, and are also hopping over to Southern California.

Anyways, about a month again the company booking our Vegas trip offered us an upgrade - that didn't appeal to us. Since we were already extending our trip, it made no sense to shell out the extra cash. We'll just stay in a cheap motel off the strip and move onto the strip for our final day/night, but then...

Last week we were offered a buy out: our taxes back, plus an extra $300USD. So we checked hotel rates and flights down - long story short, we took the buy out. It's probably costing the company more to send us to Vegas, since we didn't take the upgrade. They're most likely saving money by buying us out.

We are now leaving Vancouver at a reasonable hour - not 10 PM; and get to stay on the strip the entire time - the Tropicana.

So we'll be in Vegas for four days, planning to gamble (well, duh...); rent a car and check out Hoover Dam, and maybe a bit more of Arizona; catch Jerry Seinfeld at Cesar's Palace; and definitely enjoy the bright lights and nightlife.

Then we're hopping over to Orange County - visiting Disneyland, and possibly Knotts and/or Universal too...

In short, I can't wait.

Tomorrow I am going down to Tulalip, Washington with one (possibly two) of my co-workers, to check out the sweet shopping situation at the outlet mall there.

Happy Friday... Err, I mean Thursday...

Movies

Since I've seen an unfounded number of movies since the beginning of the summer movie season, I thought I'd post a list of what I've seen, and what I want to see.

So, within a span of 6 weeks I have seen:

Spiderman 3
Shrek 3
Pirates 3
Ocean's 13
Surf's Up
Knocked Up
Evan Almighty
Blades of Glory

I really should think about pitching a tent at Richmond Centre 6...

And what's coming up...
This week: Ratatouille and Sicko. Next week: Transformers. The week after that: Harry Potter. The end of July: The Simpsons.

And nothing to do with movies, but something I'm looking forward to seeing: it just so happens that Jerry Seinfeld is performing in Vegas the same time Colin and I are down there, so we bought tickets to go see him perform. I can't wait.

School's Out

Well it is for the students at least. But things are slowing down at work. Even though I have lots of summer projects there is a notable change in pace, Summer has definitely arrived.

Starting July I will only be working 4-day weeks until mid-August, thanks to long-weekends, a no-Friday July and vacation.

Right now our vacation consists of 3 days in Vegas at the beginning of August - it'll be nice and scorching hot - just the way I like it. I have been working on the details of a California trip, but now the Yukon and Okanagan have been thrown into the mix. I figure since we're in Nevada we may as well pop over to Cali for a week. That would be ideal for me. But Colin doesn't seem to be sold on time in Disneyland...

So that's my life right now - trying figure out our vacation. My dance classes are wrapping up at the end of the month (next week) until September. And then we only have a month before the October show - yikes. I will definitely have to practice over the summer.

Here's hoping the summer weather gets going. It's the end of June and I've only been able to sit outside 4 or 5 times. It's driving me nuts.

The Calm AFTER the Storm

Well my crazy week was techincally over Wednesday night - I worked about a 16-hour day, and made it home just before 11PM. Of course, I can never just go right to sleep, so I watched TV til about 1 AM.

Gotta love Murphy's Law: I told Colin that I wouldn't be able to go to the Police concert on Wednesday if he got tickets - well he got tickets. He didn't know that I knew the concert didn't start till 9PM, and that I would be at UBC till at least 10... So I missed out on that moment in pop culture... In the end I'm glad Colin was able to go because he had been on about it for months.

Today is my birthday. The last stop on the 20-something line. It's strange to think I will be 30 next year (even though that's what generally comes after 29). I remember when 30 seemed so old, and now, not so much. Anyways, it's only as old as you feel. And I don't feel old, at all.

And Yet Again...

I think you know how this blog entry starts... I can't believe it's be so long since I've last written; I can't believe how busy I've been, blah, blah, blah... But it's all true - especially the busy part. Busy at work, busy in life...

The last two weekends were spent in Whistler, making up for lost time, I suppose. The last time I made it up there was March '06. Last weekend Colin and I spent the May 2-4 at his parents' place. We decided to bring the cats up - and they loved it. Well, Wellington didn't enjoy the ride up, but he certainly enjoyed the rest of the weekend. They seemed pretty bummed to back in Vancouver, so I think we will have to take them back up again some time soon.

We just arrived back from our second Whistler trip a couple of hours ago... This time we went with Andrew and Lisa and stayed at their place. Some of their friends, whom we didn't know, also came up for the weekend. It was fun times, playing lots of board games, mini pool, and, of course, drinking.

With the CHS Golf Tournament coming up on Wednesday, I think this will be my craziest week yet. As much as I am enjoying working on this event, I'm glad it's almost over, and am looking forward to moving on to new projects, including my summer task list, which I think will take me till December.

Colin and I are off to Las Vegas August 1st. Not sure what other vacation plans lay ahead, but for now it's Sin City. I'm hoping to add the land of Sun and Surf to our visit, but I'm not doing the best job of convincing Colin...

It looks like I will be doing a Tahitian dance in the October show; I have also signed up to do a couple of Maori dances - good for the stomach, thigh, and back muscles!

I turn 29 this week. Yikes! The Vancouver Giants won the Memorial Cup! Yeah! I ate to much junk this weekend and now feel like crap... Yuck!

Faster than the Speed of Light

I think last week was the fastest yet. By the time Friday evening rolled around I swore it was only Wednesday afternoon. I have never been in a position/job that has been so busy, but I love it. And, if today is any indicator, the long weekend will be here before I know it.

And that is good and bad. Good, because as much as I love my job, I need a 3-day weekend, a chance to breath and slow down for 5 minutes. On the other hand, I have no clue what I'm doing - next weekend's set though - the somewhat annual May trip to Whistler.

This past weekend was a lot of fun. Friday night I felt like I was back in university: Colin and I headed out to a party, but not until 10 PM. We met up with Colin's fraternity brothers, and saw some faces we hadn't seen in years. We felt like we were back in the Sig house, hanging out in a crowded stairwell, drinks in hand... it was great.

On Saturday we saw Blades of Glory. It was actually really funny. The best Will Ferrell comedy since Old School.

Salmon & Prawns vs. Book Club

Before heading over to the North Shore this evening for Book Club, I decided to drop in and visit a bit more with my rellies from England.

My parents are hosting a family dinner this evening, but I decided to pass since I loved this month's book choice (The Birth House by Ami McKay), and was looking forward to discussing it.

Of course, the second I walked in the house I eyed the salmon, prawns, Grandpa's homemade eclairs, and the giant, succulent California strawberries... Dilemma!

In the end, I have decided to stay. So now I am just waiting for the green light to dive into the big, juicy prawns...

I Haven't Fallen Off the Face of the Earth...

Wow, it has been a long time since I wrote my last blog entry. But that is my life lately - busy, busy, busy. For the last three weeks I have woken up Monday morning, and then, before I know it, it's already Friday afternoon. Apart from quickly checking emails and Facebook, I haven't spent much time on the computer at all. In fact, I think this is the first time in a couple of weeks that I've actually spent any time on it.

Last week was interesting - in the same day I found out that I owe the government money (first time ever), but Colin got a whopping refund, so it isn't that bad; and I got summoned for jury duty.

I was at a job for two years that I despised, and would have given anything to miss a day of work. Now that I'm at a job I absolutely love, I get summoned. The worst thing about this summons is the timing - it is the day before a major event in which I am one of the main planners. And anyone who has ever planned an event knows the day before the event is just as crazy and important as the actual event day. I don't have too many options though: I talked to the Sheriff and he told me to write a mushy, heartfelt letter as to why missing work on those days would affect me. Now I have to wait and see and hope my letter moves them enough that I get out of jury duty.

Tuesday was a much better day: I went to my first (and sadly last) Canucks game this season. I had a blast, even though we gave up a 2-0 lead. So frustrating. We were sitting beside a couple from Medicine Hat, who were extremely good friends of the Lindens. After talking with them though, we both got the feeling that they actually were the Lindens...

I didn't watch the game on Thursday: I figured if they won our Saturday night would be planned; and if they didn't win I wanted Tuesday night to be my last memory of the season. Plus I had my dance class that night, and I only have 8 weeks left till we break for summer, and have a show the first weekend of October, so I need all the practice I can get. I'm glad I went. Everyone was in a giggly mood, and we worked on our Tahitian dance, so I got an extremely good workout.

On Friday evening I went out for coffee with Lisa, Andrew, Darcy, Tina, Jen Wong, and Warren. And last night Colin did our usual movie and sushi night. We saw Spiderman 3. It was pretty good, but maybe too many villains for one movie. I thought Thomas Haden Church was awesome as the Sandman. But I've always been a fan of his, back to his days on Wings.

This morning I went out for brunch with family visiting from England. And tonight I'm off to Book Club.

Where in the World...

Check out the places I've visited - idea stolen from Lisa's blog...



create your own visited country map
or check our Venice travel guide




create your own personalized map of Canada
or check out ourVancouver travel guide



create your own personalized map of the USA
or check out ourCalifornia travel guide

Four for Four

At the beginning of round one I said the Canucks would win in 6. I then went on to offer my predictions for each game: and so far I've been right each time. And no, I'm not typing this after the fact, I do have witnesses to my predictions.

So, I had a feeling the Nucks would win the first, loose the second, and take both games 3 and 4 in the Big D. But this is where I hope I'm wrong: Canucks are going to loose tomorrow evening, and wrap up the series on Saturday night, back in Dallas.

Obviously I hope I'm wrong because, like every other Canucks fan, I want Vancouver to win tomorrow, taking the series on home ice. Of course the Canucks never do anything the easy way, do they.

A Good Mix of Business and Laziness

Well, this weekend was a lot less hectic, and very enjoyable. I was exhausted after work on Friday and was quite content to stay in with Colin and watch the game at home.

I tried my best to sleep in Saturday morning, but Wellington would have none of that. I did some housework and read a lot of my book: The Birth House by Ami McKay. I absolutely love this novel, and I highly recommend it. It reminds me of Fall On Your Knees by Anne Marie MacDonald, another wonderful read.

Saturday evening Colin and I went over to Lisa and Andrew's for Die's good-bye party. Sad thing was we were the last to leave, and were home by 11:30 PM!. I think everyone had a long, exhausting week, and Friday night and Saturday day weren't enough to recover.

Today Colin and I went to the Superstore. I don't think I've ever seen it so busy. It was somewhat stressful trying to get around. Navigating my cart was a real challenge.

Afterwards we went to Ken's (Chris and Lica's son) second birthday party. It's hard going to a two year old's birthday when you are virtually the only guests with no offspring. We stuck around for a bit, and caught up with Dave Stroud and Dustin, the only other kidless guests.

Andrew and Jen came over for dinner and to watch the hockey game. That game was a great finish to the weekend.

A Busy, Busy Weekend...

And it isn't quite over yet. But I am wondering how much can really happen over the next 10 hours, or so.

As of Thursday, at 4:30 PM, my weekend looked like this: Spend Friday hanging out with Chantal; Saturday night with Colin; Easter dinner at my Parents'; Monday night hanging out with Colin...

This is what my weekend turned into: Thalia called me after work on Thursday, so we went out for dinner and rented a movie.

I had a relatively lazy Friday morning, and then spent the afternoon with Chantal. My Friday night was quiet.

Saturday day I ended up on the set of Schism, my brother's movie he's shooting for his final project for his film program at BCIT. It was quite a fun and interesting experience. Saturday night Colin and I hung out, had some dinner, and watched Sideways, for the third time. I love that movie.

Gavin called us Saturday night, inviting us over for Easter Brunch. So Sunday morning we headed over to Jess and Gavin's. enjoyed a tasty Easter breakfast, an Easter egg, then grabbed the basketball and the dog, and walked down to Kits Beach. Unfortunately there no hoops up, so we just sat around, chatted, and enjoyed the Spring view. After that Colin and I rushed home, caught the end of the Canucks game - it was strange watching a game that really had no bearing on anything -, fixed ourselves up, and headed over to my parents for Easter dinner.

This morning I rolled out of bed at 8am to be back on set. I am acting as a stand in today... And that's what I'm doing currently...

My Visual DNA

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When Life is Putting Me Down... I need to get the hell out of Downtown...

Here I am again with not that much to say. Work has been very busy, very insane; but the good kind of busy and insane that you get a rush from. Other than that, life has generally been quiet.
On Tuesday I went out to dinner with my ex-manager. One of the [very] few good things about PB. Last night Thalia and I went to Kerrisdale for a sushi dinner and then rented Stranger Than Fiction. An enjoyable flick; I recommend it.

Today truly was a good Friday: I had a lazy morning. I woke up several times between 6:30 and 9:30. By 9:30 I realized I wasn't going back to sleep so I lay in bed reading - I finished Shopaholic Ties the Knot. Now I have only three books on the go: Children of Men; The Birth House; and Enemy Women.

I headed downtown around 1PM for lunch, and a mani/pedi with Chantal. We enjoyed one of the first gorgeous days of the year by walking around Yaletown and along the waterfront. I felt a little out of sorts among all the trendy, beautiful people, and was happy to return to the other side of False Creek... whatever that means...

When I got home I was feeling somewhat agitated. And when I feel agitated, I clean. I decided to do the laundry, including washing the duvet and pillow shams; put away clean laundry; do the dishes; and clean the bathroom, including scrubbing the tile grout with bleach and a toothbrush... man I was in a pissy mood...

Hmm...

Well, after a week off for Spring Break it was back to work Monday. To be honest, I have been feeling disoriented this week: I had just got back into work mode, and then came a week holiday. Now, I am not complaining about my week off, but I was just getting into the swing of things, and now I feel like I'm back to square one, and on top of that, I've been super tired this week, so I'm glad tomorrow is Friday.

I finally met my newborn niece - well she's actually nine weeks old now, but is very adorable. And I hadn't seen my nephew since Christmas - I can't believe how much he's changed. He can carry on with a conversation, and was talking a mile a minute last night.

I have found a new addiction: facebook. I keep thinking that it's starting to get old, then I unearth someone (or someone finds me) whom I haven't seen/talked to in ages. And I quite accidentally stumbled across a group for my Polynesian dance group... which is where I am heading now.

Aloha.
Why life is good: Canucks clinched a playoff spot; it hasn't rained in a couple of days; tomorrow is Friday.

The Vancouver Canucks

Throughout the season I have written snippets here and there regarding the Canucks, but I haven't offered an overall opinion on this season, and since it's almost over, it's probably about time.

First, my rant: If there is one thing I cannot stand it's a Canucks fan (myself excluded, of course), let me explain. We must be the whinniest, pessimistic, negative bunch of fans in the entire league. Why do I say that? Well, for starters, the Canucks are the winningest team (in the NHL) since Christmas; Bobby Lou set a new Canuck record, and currently holds the most Goalie wins this season; we are currently first in our division, third in the Western Conference, and fifth overall - winning the President's Trophy could actually happen; yet the fans (and the media, who are worse than the fans) complain. For example, Naslund hasn't been scoring. Who really gives a (rhymes with Canuck) if Naslund hasn't been scoring, everyone else has.

At the beginning of the season we Canucks fans were treading into unfamiliar territory, with half the team dispended and new faces in line-up. We hoped, on an outside chance, we would make the playoffs... short of winning the Stanley Cup I don't think we could have asked for a better season. And I still can't believe we actually have an all-star goalie...

So, it's time (dare I say) to dust off the car flags; mine have some rust or something nasty on them - they have been sitting in the trunk of my car since April 2004...

So quit yer whinning and complaning and get ready for some post-season partying...

Say goodbye to the boo-birds and hello to the Lou-birds...

Spring Break

Now this is something I can get used, Spring Break in the working world. However, I am finding it very hard to just kick back and relax today. I feel guilty, like I'm playing hooky. But, that's not the case. The school is closed, and I have a week off, paid.

I have some things I need to do around the house, so I will try to use my Spring Break to do a Spring Clean. I just picked a copy (book) of How Clean is Your House... I now have Kim and Aggie in my house 24-7, inspiring me to use their tricks for a good, deep clean.

But, I plan to relax too: Sleep in. Watch some daytime TV (not soaps). Go on a much needed, and longed shopping spree.

I didn't really do too much for St. Paddy's Day. Actually, that's not true, I just didn't do a lot of Irish stuff, except wear green (even though the national colour of Ireland is blue, and my in-laws are Orangemen)... March 17th is also Delta Phi Epsilon's Founders' Day.

This year we celebrated 90 years of sisterhood. Every year the Vancouver alumnae association gets together and celebrates with a Founders' Day tea - this year at the Wedgewood. It was scrumptious.

Later that evening Colin and I went to his parents to watch the Canucks shellac the Red Wings, and after went over to the cinema at Richmond Centre to see Premonition; all in all it was a pretty good flick.

Dated

Today, for the first time in my life, I felt dated, even old. This was all thanks to a coversation about Flavor Flav. Let me explain.

After a good workout at Curves, I made the long trek across the street to my tanning salon... shit, just gave away my secret... anyways, while waiting for a bed I was chatting with the receptionist. She couldn't have been much older than 20. In the background, the salon's tv was tuned into The Flavor of Love... the receptionist said I could change the channel if I wanted too. I said I didn't really mind one way or the other.

She then asked me wasn't Flavor Flav in some group a long time ago, and what's up with the clock? Bam! It's like time stood still. For the first time I realized the pop culture I grew up with was becoming unfamiliar territory to those younger than me.

Once I was over the split second shock, I explained to her that Flavor Flav was a part of Public Enemy - again another blank look. And the clock, well that was his thing. Lots of guys, even some girls wore huge, chunky things around their neck backs then. Again, a blank stare.

I don't usually feel old, or mature for that matter, even as I stare down the barrel of the gun to 29. And I live by the age old adage, you are only as old as you feel. But sometimes there are strange reminders out there that you aren't as young as you used to be, no matter how young you look or feel.

WTF?

Why? Why? Why? Why did I wake up this morning to find Vancouver covered in snow? Haven't we been punished enough already with this relentless winter? It's March, time for Spring.

The only positive thing about today's snowfall: my commute was less than ten minutes - it usually takes twenty. I guess all the UBC students decided to stay home today, leaving SW Marine [mostly] to myself.

Back to the Grind

Well after a couple of months off I'm back to work, and back at Crofton. When I graduated 10 years ago, I never really thought I'd go back, especially in a work capacity. But now I find myself working in the Advancement Office as the Events Coordinator, Young Alumnae Relations Officer and Administrative Assistant. Yes, that is my title, believe it or not.

It certainly is interesting returning to CHS, but enough has changed that it doesn't feel too weird. And I don't know if it's because my work situation at Planet Bingo was so horrendous, but working at Crofton is a dream. Granted it's only been two days, but I don't feel like I'm at work. I don't really look at the clock. And everyone is so friendly and welcoming. And I'm having fun.

I hope I have hit the nail on the head with this one.

He's Ba-ack...

...Brent Sopel is once again a Canuck. And Smolinski is along for the ride too...

Every Man's Dream... Swedish Twins

Another one of those "About Me" thingamajiggers

1. FIRST NAME? Siobhan
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? My dad's cousin
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Don't remember, but I know it was recently
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Turkey
6. KIDS? Not yet
7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Of course
8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? Yes
9. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? Is the Pope Catholic?
10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes
11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Maybe
12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Coco Crispies
13. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Only if I have too
14. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Yes
15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Casa Gelato's Chocolate Coconut
16. SHOE SIZE? 9
17. RED OR PINK? Blue
18. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? Over-analytical
19. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Mack
20. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? only if they want too
21. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES YOU ARE WEARING? Black pants, no shoes
22. LAST THING YOU ATE? Pizza
23. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Colin talking to his WOW nerd crew
24. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Pacific Blue
25. FAVORITE SMELL? Suntan lotion/Coconut
26. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Chantal
27. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? Eyes
28. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I procured this from Lisa's blog... I do like her...
29. FAVORITE DRINK? Caesar
30. FAVORITE SPORT? to watch hockey; to take part in, swimming
31. HAIR COLOR ? Blonde
32. EYE COLOR? Hazel
33. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes
34. FAVORITE FOOD? Strawberries, fish and chocolate
35. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDING? Scary Movies
36. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Tora Tora Tora
37. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Lime green and white stripe
38. SUMMER OR winter? Summer
39. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs
40. FAVORITE DESSERT? Chocolate mousse

More about Me...
Age: 28
Country: Canada

Favourites...
Colour: Blue
Flower: Yellow rose
Time of Day: depends on the day
Season: Spring/Summer
Place: Hawaii
Person: Colin

This or That...
Sunshine or moonlight: Sunshine
Beach or forest: Beach
Dog or cat: both
Night in or night out: Night out
Eat in or take away: Eat in

Deeper...
Do you believe in God?: No
Do you feel something missing in your life?: no
Is love your dream?: que?
Does love even exist?: yes
Do you believe in sex before marriage?: yes
Would you wait until marriage for someone special?: No
Describe your ideal partner: Humourous, intelligent
Which song has your favourite lyrics?: Zooropa
If you had only one day left on earth, what's one thing you'd do?: Shit myself
What would your ideal first date be?: sailing...
When was your first kiss?: 1994

In the last week have you...
Met somebody new?: Yes
Prayed?: Sort of
Hugged someone other than a relative?: Yes
Kissed someone other than a relative?: no
Got drunk?: No
Travelled on a train?: No
Held someone's hand?: Yes
Had a nightmare?: Yes
Stayed up past 3am?: no
Lost anything?: my mind?
Finally...
Who would you like to meet?: my nemesis
Where would you like to visit?: New Zealand
What job would you love for a day?: Model
What language would you like to learn?: Polynesian
What gift would you like to receive?: shopping spree
Do you prefer to watch the clouds or stare at the stars?: both
Are we alone?: No

Spring is Springing...

As the last vestiges of a cold, wet, snowy winter seem to be behind us (hopefully), Vancouverites are coming out of hibernation.

I think everyone had the same idea Colin and I had: Today we went to Steveston to walk around; us and the rest of the city that is. It was packed. I don't think I've seen Steveston so busy at this time of year. But it was a mostly sunny, mild day. A good day to shed the winter layers and get some fresh air and exercise.

Hopefully winter is on it's way out and Spring is on the horizon...

Anything But Boring

Once upon a time, about a season ago, maybe even the beginning of this season, a Canucks vs. Wild game meant utter boredom. The Wild were always able to one up us, get those first important goals they needed, and then shut down and play the defensive trap. Yawn.

But times have changed, and so have the teams. Even though Wednesday's game was relatively low scoring (Vancouver with a 3-2 win in OT), it was still damned exciting to watch. Did you ever think that Canucks vs. Wild hockey could be edge of your seat hockey?

In many ways the roles have reversed: Vancouver now has a dynamic defense, tops in the league. And with Gaborik and Demitra, the Wild have a sharp shooting offense. But here's the difference, in my humble opinion: The Wild don't play a fancy-pants offense like the Canucks used too - no show boating here; and the Canucks don't hunker down and play the defensive trap - which means some great hockey between these two rivals.

Oscar: Part II

Since I have seen a handful of movies since my last Oscar entry, I'd thought I'd update you (and myself) on the Oscar nominated movies I've seen since (excluding best picture nominees):

• Blood Diamond (Actor in a leading role - Leonardo DiCaprio; Actor in a supporting role - Djimon Hounsou; Film Editing; Sound Editing; Sound Mixing)
• Jesus Camp (Documentary feature)

Valentine's Day

I have never been one for Valentine's day. Even when I was single, I could really care less about it.

Colin and I usually do something every year, but it's usually just a normal date. Go see a movie, or go out to dinner. I think tonight we'll be watching the hockey game. Hey, we both love the Canucks, and today is a day to celebrate your love...

I have spent the past nine Valentine's (including this year) with Colin. But there are two dates far more important than February 14th when it comes to celebrating our relationship - August 12th and August 1st.

As far as I'm concerned February 14th is just another day, and a good excuse to go on a date.

Double Header

I have now seen all the Oscar nominated (best picture) films. The other day Colin and I caught a matinee showing of Letters from Iwo Jima. I thoroughly enjoyed this film. It was interesting to see what happened on Iwo Jima from the Japanese point of view; plus, it's the companion piece to Flags of our Fathers, which we saw some time ago.

Later that evening I went out with Lisa, Andrew and Die to see Babel - another good film.

It's really hard to choose one to best pic since they are all great films, and all very different. But if I had to pick, either Little Miss Sunshine, or the Departed... But Paul Haggis and Clint Eastwood seem to be on a role with Oscar, so maybe it will be Letters from Iwo Jima.

After seeing the latter film, I thought it would be a good idea to rent Tora Tora Tora. So after a sleepy, cum heart attack hockey game (Vancouver vs. Atlanta), and late-nite all you can eat sushi, Colin and I headed to Rogers to rent Tora Tora Tora. They didn't have it - Rogers only has DVDs now. At least the Marpole store does.

But life if full of strange happenings... Yesterday I was watching some cheesy movie on KVOS, when the Sunday night movie flashed across the bottom... Tora, Tora, Tora. I couldn't believe it.

It's That Time of Year Again...

Oscar time!

It has become a tradition for myself and Colin to see every picture nominated for Best Picture. Prior to the nominations we had seen Little Miss Sunshine and The Departed. The weekend before the nominations were announced we were deciding whether to see The Queen or The Last King of Scotland. We figured both had a good shot at a best picture nod, so we chose to see the latter... We saw The Queen last night.

That leaves us a few weeks to see Letters from Iwo Jima and Babel. Considering how much time we spend in the movie theatre, that shouldn't be a problem.

Here are the other Oscar nominated movies (not nominated for best pic) I've seen:

The Last King of Scotland (Forest Whitaker, Actor in a leading role)
The Devil Wears Prada (Meryl Streep, Actress in a leading role; Costume design)
Happy Feet (Animated feature film)
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (Art Direction; Sound editing; Sound Mixing; Visual Effects)
Children of Men (Cinematography; Film editing; Writing - Adapted screenplay)
An Inconvenient Truth (Documentary Feature; Music - song)
Apocalypto (Makeup; Sound editing; Sound Mixing)
Flags of our Fathers (Sound editing; Sound Mixing)
Superman Returns (Visual Effects)
Borat (Writing - Adapted Screenplay)

Update

Exciting title, eh?

I thought I would be bored to tears by now since I've been out of work for a month, but (either good or bad) that is just not the case. In fact, I wonder how I got anything done working full time.

I've been doing lots to keep myself occupied. Of course the first couple of weeks off work I was busy with my high school reunion, Christmas and New Years. Then Colin and I went on an impromptu trip to Calgary to visit with family, take a bit of a break and to see what Calgary has to offer.

And boy does Calgary have a lot to offer: jobs, affordable homes... but we won't be leaving Vancouver anytime soon. I don't know if I can give up oceans and mountains, among other things, for flat and brown (ok undulating hills and brown). But Calgary does have a lot to offer: the people are friendly, people know how to drive, the traffic is light, I don't have to pay a million dollars for a decent home in a decent part of town...

So what I have to been doing to keep myself busy? Well for starters, applying for work. After weeks of pulling my hair out and taking books out of the library, I have finally found a cover letter style I'm happy with. As frustrating as the process has been I've learned about myself, my work experiences and skills.

Other than that, I've been going to Curves, swimming, Polynesian Dancing, hanging out with friends, turning out and organizing our apartment, and working on my volunteer positions. I was recently elected Marketing Coordinator for my sorority's local alum chapter, and internationally I'm volunteering as an alumnae programming specialist.

So, as you can see (or read), more than enough to keep me busy.

I have to say, I'm really liking this not working thing, apart from the lack of money... but I do have a job interview next week. It's with Crofton for the position of Alumnae Relations Officer...

Aloha

Leathal Weapons

My Polynesian dance classes have resumed - we are moving away from Hawaiian, focusing more on Tahitian, and last night we started what I've been waiting for... Maori dancing.

Last night I used Poi balls for the first time. It was a lot of fun, dangerous too. Once those things get going it's pretty crazy. I can't tell you how many times I walloped myself in the face, head and back. But once you learn to control them, it's a treat to see.

The funniest thing was someone lost control of their Poi ball, and it flying across the dance studio.

I Must Be Crazy

I am currently in Calgary, visiting family and checking out the possibility of relocating. But after looking at today's forecast, I don't think the latter will be happening. It is currently -15, with a windchill factor of -28.

I haven't actually been outside yet... and I don't think I want too... but we are heading downtown today, so I don't have much choice in the matter.

Yesterday we drove around Calgary checking out the different neighbourhoods. It was -6 (cold enough in my books), and we had the luxury of heated seats. Today we are walking to the bus stop and walking around downtown.

Calgary is very different from Vancouver, in good ways and bad ways, but I think experiencing today's weather will keep me firmly planted in Vancouver (or at least the SW coast of BC).