Holy frick, I'm sick of snow and/or ice.
Combing through listings, I've come to realise that New Years Eve will likely be a write-off. Too late for things that are affordable, too cheap for things that require me to sell off organs on the black market to afford, I'm struggling to figure out what to do tomorrow. I anticipated falling asleep on my futon around 10pm from a sugar overdose and the consumption of every bit of alcohol in my fridge, but that is probably incredibly lame/pathetic. Still, I think I'll try to get to the booze shop at some point tomorrow, just in case. You never know when you'll need to cradle a bottle of Malibu for comfort.
I don't like the pressure of New Years Eve. It almost never turns out as well as you want it to. The worst one I can recall was when my friend gave me Canucks tickets for Christmas for the New Years Eve game and the weather on New Years Eve day was a whiteout, resulting in me alone at my parents' house drinking eggnog and watching the CBC instead of driving to Vancouver for the game. But, regardless of what happens, every year winds up feeling like variations of the same anyway.
Maybe this is why I don't get many invitations for New Years Eve. I'm such fun.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Saturday, December 27, 2008
holiday roundup
To those people that wished for a White Christmas: hope you're happy. I blame you for this mess.
I'm supposed to be working today, but with the storm drain three feet from my door, all melted snow/water on the west side of the building pouring into said-storm drain and the lower elevation of my door jam, I'm at home watching that my apartment doesn't flood. What a fricking hassle. I know I am being overly cautious, that it will probably be fine and I won't have to do anything to keep the water out. But I just don't want to risk it, especially after the pipe incident. I also don't really have any boots that I can wear in snow and water: it's either one or the other.
My parents left this morning as well, so I can't even enlist them to watch the door for me. They barely got away, even though they have winter tires and a weighted car. Can't imagine how anyone here can get around. When my friend drove me home last week and wouldn't drive down my street, I thought he was being too cautious, but I get it now. I wouldn't want to drive down any of these streets, either.
The holidays were quite nice and less stressful than I worried they might be. It probably also helped that I didn't put much effort into preparations and didn't let my mom work me into a frenzy like she usually does. We decided not to go to mass on Christmas Eve because the roads and sidewalks looked terrible. I fixed my mom two gin & tonics, so she was pretty calm. The family went through half my whisky, two bottles of wine and 5 fingers of a 26er of rum. Actually, I drank a lot on Christmas Eve, too, and answered a lot of questions about why there is so much alcohol in my liquor cupboard. I didn't think there was. We had perogies and pokounsel, which was awesome (I still have some poppy seed ones and cheese perogies in the fridge), and watched "It's a wonderful life" forever. My brother stayed at my sister/bro-in-law's, so it was a lot easier to be in the house with one less person around.
My parents and I wandered down to church in the morning, a later service because we all slept in. It was sort of weird being in a new church and I tried to explain to my dad why I stopped going to church again. My mom doesn't really get that it's offensive to me to be judged by a priest about things that shouldn't be any of the church's business. We went to my sister's for a while, then out to New West to her in-laws' house. Dinner was fantastic: we had brined turkey from a Nigella Lawson recipe and it was one of the best turkeys I've ever tasted. So good! (I wonder if the same can be done to a chicken. Anyone ever brine a chicken before?) I had to drive home and got lectured at the end of the evening by my dad for driving too close to the right side of the lane. I kept saying, "Dad, I never drive and I never drive in snow," and he would say, "Yes, but you shouldn't drive so close to the right." This conversation circled over and over throughout the following day.
Yesterday my mom and I ventured downtown to get a couple of things. She got sale shoes and some books for 30% off; I bought a china place setting (yes, china. That's how I roll) with the bonus rim bowl even though I wasn't supposed to and some ecobags from the Art Gallery that are so awesome. (I finally got a new membership last Tuesday, partly for the discount on gifts from the shop, partly to see the Jeff Wall exhibit before it closes.) We tried to take the bus to my sister's for dinner, but the bus took forever and then wouldn't pick us up, so my dad agreed to drive if I would direct him (I usually do all the driving when my parents visit, which is often fun, but not when the weather is so crap and I haven't driven in snow in 6 years). My sister is kind of clueless because she didn't really get that we would have to pay $2/hr to park at her house; she wanted my parents to stay at her house, which would have been at least $100 for three days. We watched the junior hockey game (holy crap, what a blowout) and then headed home to watch the Canucks/Oilers game. I thought it would have been a good day to try for scalped tickets, but couldn't check under the circumstances. My brother stayed over here as well last night and looked pissed off having to sleep on a foamy after having his own room with a double bed and TV the previous nights.
Wow, it really does sound like a boring holiday, doesn't it?
Now I just need to figure out how to get through New Year's.
I'm supposed to be working today, but with the storm drain three feet from my door, all melted snow/water on the west side of the building pouring into said-storm drain and the lower elevation of my door jam, I'm at home watching that my apartment doesn't flood. What a fricking hassle. I know I am being overly cautious, that it will probably be fine and I won't have to do anything to keep the water out. But I just don't want to risk it, especially after the pipe incident. I also don't really have any boots that I can wear in snow and water: it's either one or the other.
My parents left this morning as well, so I can't even enlist them to watch the door for me. They barely got away, even though they have winter tires and a weighted car. Can't imagine how anyone here can get around. When my friend drove me home last week and wouldn't drive down my street, I thought he was being too cautious, but I get it now. I wouldn't want to drive down any of these streets, either.
The holidays were quite nice and less stressful than I worried they might be. It probably also helped that I didn't put much effort into preparations and didn't let my mom work me into a frenzy like she usually does. We decided not to go to mass on Christmas Eve because the roads and sidewalks looked terrible. I fixed my mom two gin & tonics, so she was pretty calm. The family went through half my whisky, two bottles of wine and 5 fingers of a 26er of rum. Actually, I drank a lot on Christmas Eve, too, and answered a lot of questions about why there is so much alcohol in my liquor cupboard. I didn't think there was. We had perogies and pokounsel, which was awesome (I still have some poppy seed ones and cheese perogies in the fridge), and watched "It's a wonderful life" forever. My brother stayed at my sister/bro-in-law's, so it was a lot easier to be in the house with one less person around.
My parents and I wandered down to church in the morning, a later service because we all slept in. It was sort of weird being in a new church and I tried to explain to my dad why I stopped going to church again. My mom doesn't really get that it's offensive to me to be judged by a priest about things that shouldn't be any of the church's business. We went to my sister's for a while, then out to New West to her in-laws' house. Dinner was fantastic: we had brined turkey from a Nigella Lawson recipe and it was one of the best turkeys I've ever tasted. So good! (I wonder if the same can be done to a chicken. Anyone ever brine a chicken before?) I had to drive home and got lectured at the end of the evening by my dad for driving too close to the right side of the lane. I kept saying, "Dad, I never drive and I never drive in snow," and he would say, "Yes, but you shouldn't drive so close to the right." This conversation circled over and over throughout the following day.
Yesterday my mom and I ventured downtown to get a couple of things. She got sale shoes and some books for 30% off; I bought a china place setting (yes, china. That's how I roll) with the bonus rim bowl even though I wasn't supposed to and some ecobags from the Art Gallery that are so awesome. (I finally got a new membership last Tuesday, partly for the discount on gifts from the shop, partly to see the Jeff Wall exhibit before it closes.) We tried to take the bus to my sister's for dinner, but the bus took forever and then wouldn't pick us up, so my dad agreed to drive if I would direct him (I usually do all the driving when my parents visit, which is often fun, but not when the weather is so crap and I haven't driven in snow in 6 years). My sister is kind of clueless because she didn't really get that we would have to pay $2/hr to park at her house; she wanted my parents to stay at her house, which would have been at least $100 for three days. We watched the junior hockey game (holy crap, what a blowout) and then headed home to watch the Canucks/Oilers game. I thought it would have been a good day to try for scalped tickets, but couldn't check under the circumstances. My brother stayed over here as well last night and looked pissed off having to sleep on a foamy after having his own room with a double bed and TV the previous nights.
Wow, it really does sound like a boring holiday, doesn't it?
Now I just need to figure out how to get through New Year's.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
the time is nigh
It's been an eventful couple of weeks. My body is rebelling against all the booze I've consumed by making me fatter. It's time to break out the party muu muus.
Over the weekend, I went to a couple of parties that were a lot of fun. At one we sang karaoke, ate that cake (oh, the cake!) and mini burgers, broke out the nacho hat (!!!) and cackled at Christmas-themed animatronics (OK, so the videos suggest it was only me cackling; everyone else just laughed). At another I drank enough hot apple cider with rum to make my cheeks rosy and had to nap partway through because it was too much excitement at once. (I am a wild party...) At another I was forcefed spring rolls and sausage rolls and drank gallons worth of gimlets during lively conversation. Great fun!
A note: gin gimlets are significantly more awesome than vodka gimlets. I am pro-gin gimlet. To me, there is no other.
The wall/kitchen is poorly repaired, but there are no gaping holes and things seem to be dry. There is some weird bubbling on the floor near the sink, but I'm pretty sure my landlord doesn't care about that. I'll add it to the list of stuff that would be better off fixed, but that probably never will be.
Monday night I went to the Canucks game with my sister and it turned into a bit of a nailbiter. They were ahead 4-1, but then Anaheim scored two goals (though the one shouldn't have been a goal because it was a high stick) and pulled the goalie during the last minute. The Canucks held on and it was one of the more exciting games I've been to for a long time.
My parents just arrived, so I guess Christmas will unfold. I picked up mixes, so will be able to drink rum & eggnog, beer & clamato, gin & tonic, and vodka straight from the bottle when things get bad. Fun!
Over the weekend, I went to a couple of parties that were a lot of fun. At one we sang karaoke, ate that cake (oh, the cake!) and mini burgers, broke out the nacho hat (!!!) and cackled at Christmas-themed animatronics (OK, so the videos suggest it was only me cackling; everyone else just laughed). At another I drank enough hot apple cider with rum to make my cheeks rosy and had to nap partway through because it was too much excitement at once. (I am a wild party...) At another I was forcefed spring rolls and sausage rolls and drank gallons worth of gimlets during lively conversation. Great fun!
A note: gin gimlets are significantly more awesome than vodka gimlets. I am pro-gin gimlet. To me, there is no other.
The wall/kitchen is poorly repaired, but there are no gaping holes and things seem to be dry. There is some weird bubbling on the floor near the sink, but I'm pretty sure my landlord doesn't care about that. I'll add it to the list of stuff that would be better off fixed, but that probably never will be.
Monday night I went to the Canucks game with my sister and it turned into a bit of a nailbiter. They were ahead 4-1, but then Anaheim scored two goals (though the one shouldn't have been a goal because it was a high stick) and pulled the goalie during the last minute. The Canucks held on and it was one of the more exciting games I've been to for a long time.
My parents just arrived, so I guess Christmas will unfold. I picked up mixes, so will be able to drink rum & eggnog, beer & clamato, gin & tonic, and vodka straight from the bottle when things get bad. Fun!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
santa hates me
The plumber is here now, ripping parts of my kitchen apart to figure out where the water is coming from. Starting from the bottom shelves, they're now up to the countertop to figure out where the problem is. It could be anywhere on the side of the building, in my wall or upstairs or anywhere. Drywall is being smashed. I have kitchenware on my already cluttered table and am ready to empty another shelf to hunt down the elusive burst.
What this means is that, for the second consecutive year, I may ruin Christmas for my family.
The snow is already making my brother nervous, and with another dump predicted for Tuesday/Wednesday, I thought the snow would keep them away. If I tell my mother that half of my kitchen is torn up...
Fuck, I need a drink.
What this means is that, for the second consecutive year, I may ruin Christmas for my family.
The snow is already making my brother nervous, and with another dump predicted for Tuesday/Wednesday, I thought the snow would keep them away. If I tell my mother that half of my kitchen is torn up...
Fuck, I need a drink.
crapping hell
I was all ready to write a cheerful account of recent events that made me feel all festive and nice and stuff. I can no longer do that, though, because this morning has resulted in trouble. All sorts of trouble.
While checking blogs this morning before my morning nap, I heard a weird rush of water in the pipes in the wall in my kitchen. There are often weird noises, so I listened for a couple seconds, checked the kitchen shelves for water, and went back to the computer. The water sound didn't stop, so a few minutes later I went back into the kitchen (the lights were all off) and stepped in water. Lots and lots of water. Panic ensued.
I called my landlord in a frenzy, who told me to go to the laundry room to turn off the water main for the building, and I rushed out to do that. Knocks on doors in the building went unanswered, so I came back to the apartment and called him again. He said he'd send someone over right away and would get someone to fix it. His daughter came over to survey the damage (just a couple inches, probably about 5 or 6 litres of slightly discoloured water), who told me to turn my heat on (it was on) and asked if she could help me mop up the water. Since I'd just used every towel I own, it was under control. When my landlord came over and realised I wasn't crazy when I said the water came from under the baseboards, he immediately went next door to talk to the girl in the adjacent suite. No idea what became of that.
Essentially, I've got no water, no idea what's going on or if I have to stay here, if the walls have to be torn out to fix the pipes, and I've got a day full of stuff to do. The Christmas shopping I planned to do this morning is out of the questions, the cookie party is up in the air, and I'm just hoping I can go to the solstice party I was invited to tonight so I can drink my troubles away while boys I know yell at the moon at midnight. Sigh.
I will tell you that the chocolate bourbon cake I made for yesterday's party was a hit. I was actually incredulous when someone cut a small sliver of it, took a bite, and said, "Wow, this cake is amazing!" I expected it to be dry because the top was cracked by the time I took it out of the oven, the knife easily coming out clean when tested. After that initial comment I just thought he was being nice, until another person quickly tried it and moaned. My friend took a bite, looked at me with an almost shocked look on his face and exclaimed, "It's so good! Honestly! It's so moist and..." shoving another bite into his mouth. I had a small piece and was greeted with the most chocolaty yet boozy bite of cake I can recall in recent memory. I was impressed with myself. So amazing. We ate a lot of it, only a small quarter left over. My friends promised to bring it tonight if they don't eat it today. I'll be surprised to see it later. I will make it again. Oh yes, I will.
More soon.
While checking blogs this morning before my morning nap, I heard a weird rush of water in the pipes in the wall in my kitchen. There are often weird noises, so I listened for a couple seconds, checked the kitchen shelves for water, and went back to the computer. The water sound didn't stop, so a few minutes later I went back into the kitchen (the lights were all off) and stepped in water. Lots and lots of water. Panic ensued.
I called my landlord in a frenzy, who told me to go to the laundry room to turn off the water main for the building, and I rushed out to do that. Knocks on doors in the building went unanswered, so I came back to the apartment and called him again. He said he'd send someone over right away and would get someone to fix it. His daughter came over to survey the damage (just a couple inches, probably about 5 or 6 litres of slightly discoloured water), who told me to turn my heat on (it was on) and asked if she could help me mop up the water. Since I'd just used every towel I own, it was under control. When my landlord came over and realised I wasn't crazy when I said the water came from under the baseboards, he immediately went next door to talk to the girl in the adjacent suite. No idea what became of that.
Essentially, I've got no water, no idea what's going on or if I have to stay here, if the walls have to be torn out to fix the pipes, and I've got a day full of stuff to do. The Christmas shopping I planned to do this morning is out of the questions, the cookie party is up in the air, and I'm just hoping I can go to the solstice party I was invited to tonight so I can drink my troubles away while boys I know yell at the moon at midnight. Sigh.
I will tell you that the chocolate bourbon cake I made for yesterday's party was a hit. I was actually incredulous when someone cut a small sliver of it, took a bite, and said, "Wow, this cake is amazing!" I expected it to be dry because the top was cracked by the time I took it out of the oven, the knife easily coming out clean when tested. After that initial comment I just thought he was being nice, until another person quickly tried it and moaned. My friend took a bite, looked at me with an almost shocked look on his face and exclaimed, "It's so good! Honestly! It's so moist and..." shoving another bite into his mouth. I had a small piece and was greeted with the most chocolaty yet boozy bite of cake I can recall in recent memory. I was impressed with myself. So amazing. We ate a lot of it, only a small quarter left over. My friends promised to bring it tonight if they don't eat it today. I'll be surprised to see it later. I will make it again. Oh yes, I will.
More soon.
Friday, December 19, 2008
the ongoing quest (for butter, unsalted)
Down to the final stretch.
I bought some bourbon yesterday for the chocolate bourbon cake I promised to take to a party tomorrow, so today I'll have to get down to business and bake it. I find it slightly strange that I've had a bundt cake pan almost since graduating from high school, yet have never owned a car. At the liquor store I asked the guy if they sell any bourbons (other than Jack Daniels, which is not a bourbon) in bottles smaller than 750ml. He thought no and asked if I was going to cook with it or something. I guess I don't look the type to drink bourbon. We had a short, confusing discussion about the difference between Tennessee sour mash and bourbon; I totally forgot all this from my indexing assignment on whisk(e)y last year. If this recipe turns out I guess I'll be able to make another two cakes with the remaining bourbon. Or one visit from a drunk.
On Sunday I'm going to my friends' house for cookies and Christmas cheer (possibly in a drink format), and recall saying I'd bring some cookies. I've been doing that a lot lately, volunteering to bring baking to places. (Mental note: stop doing that before loading up on more butter.) Rather than bake the standard chocolate chip cookies I've perfected (like, seriously, I make a kickass chocolate chip cookie) or the molasses ginger cookies I promised to bake for my parents' visit (and have yet to bake), I decided to try a new recipe. We'll see how it goes, but don't bacon cookies sound bewitching? If you've ever put syrup on your bacon, I'm pretty sure you're intrigued by the suggestion. I'll let you know how they are.
Last night after work I met up with my friends to see a documentary on a couple of tribute artists and the ups and downs of "living the dream." He did Neil Diamond, his wife did a lot of Patsy Cline; together, they went by Lightning & Thunder. They went through some stuff over the 17 years together, the highlight playing with Eddie Vedder when he was still a skinny but famous kid. It was hard to hear people calling them Lightning and Thunder as though those were their given names. It was funny and sad at the same time, and I got a bit teary-eyed at the end. Thankfully the other two didn't mock me.
Off for a nap (I hate that my body is timed to wake up around 6:30/7, regardless) before a big day surrounded by baking supplies. I also have to go downtown to sign the final paperwork to start work at SFU in January and head to Canadian Tire to find sheeting to seal my crappy windows. Good times!
I bought some bourbon yesterday for the chocolate bourbon cake I promised to take to a party tomorrow, so today I'll have to get down to business and bake it. I find it slightly strange that I've had a bundt cake pan almost since graduating from high school, yet have never owned a car. At the liquor store I asked the guy if they sell any bourbons (other than Jack Daniels, which is not a bourbon) in bottles smaller than 750ml. He thought no and asked if I was going to cook with it or something. I guess I don't look the type to drink bourbon. We had a short, confusing discussion about the difference between Tennessee sour mash and bourbon; I totally forgot all this from my indexing assignment on whisk(e)y last year. If this recipe turns out I guess I'll be able to make another two cakes with the remaining bourbon. Or one visit from a drunk.
On Sunday I'm going to my friends' house for cookies and Christmas cheer (possibly in a drink format), and recall saying I'd bring some cookies. I've been doing that a lot lately, volunteering to bring baking to places. (Mental note: stop doing that before loading up on more butter.) Rather than bake the standard chocolate chip cookies I've perfected (like, seriously, I make a kickass chocolate chip cookie) or the molasses ginger cookies I promised to bake for my parents' visit (and have yet to bake), I decided to try a new recipe. We'll see how it goes, but don't bacon cookies sound bewitching? If you've ever put syrup on your bacon, I'm pretty sure you're intrigued by the suggestion. I'll let you know how they are.
Last night after work I met up with my friends to see a documentary on a couple of tribute artists and the ups and downs of "living the dream." He did Neil Diamond, his wife did a lot of Patsy Cline; together, they went by Lightning & Thunder. They went through some stuff over the 17 years together, the highlight playing with Eddie Vedder when he was still a skinny but famous kid. It was hard to hear people calling them Lightning and Thunder as though those were their given names. It was funny and sad at the same time, and I got a bit teary-eyed at the end. Thankfully the other two didn't mock me.
Off for a nap (I hate that my body is timed to wake up around 6:30/7, regardless) before a big day surrounded by baking supplies. I also have to go downtown to sign the final paperwork to start work at SFU in January and head to Canadian Tire to find sheeting to seal my crappy windows. Good times!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
sniffle cough
What day is it again? I've lost track. I've been confined to my house the last couple of days, let out only to gather supplies and make other people fear for their health.
The chest cold... I fricking hate being sick, but I hate not getting paid way more. It was heartbreaking to call in sick the last two days, counting in my head how much more money I need in my account so my bills and rent cheque don't bounce. I can't help but think in terms of money, how much I'm losing out on by staying at home watching terrible daytime television (except for the Bonnie Hunt Show. Gosh, I LOVE her; she's so hilarious and wholesome. When she had that sitcom about her raising a family and hosting a morning talk show I always hoped she would actually have her own talk show because it was always hilarious. And now... Wishful thinking works sometimes! Now I just need wishful thinking to find a boy who doesn't suck... This has proven far more difficult). It's nearly out of my chest (I think. Again, that wishful thinking) and I should have just the residual croaky voice tomorrow and the occasional coughing fit. Better that than being trapped in my bed under the duvet, too weak to roll out and crawl for water. Tomorrow is the last day of work that I can get paid for this month. I need it.
At some point I have to start prepping for the holidays. With the impending arrival of my family in a week, the house needs some tidying/cleaning so I don't get lectured the whole visit about how I've failed my parents by not taking better care of my home. I also promised my mom I'd bake some cookies, which wouldn't necessarily be bad, but I need to get more butter and time to actually go on a baking spree. Maybe Sunday.
I'm not happy about the snowfall of today. I've yet to get winter boots to protect my delicate feet from the elements. I am much less nice when my feet are cold and wet. I know people always like to have a white Christmas, but having lived through my share of white Christmases... I'm not a fan, especially when Christmas depends on loved ones travelling mountain routes. I've had enough holidays ruined by closed highways and snow slides.
On the upside, my sister called yesterday to see if I want to go to the Canucks game on Monday night. Very excited! It's not the Oilers, but those tickets are not often up for grabs. I can always wish.
The chest cold... I fricking hate being sick, but I hate not getting paid way more. It was heartbreaking to call in sick the last two days, counting in my head how much more money I need in my account so my bills and rent cheque don't bounce. I can't help but think in terms of money, how much I'm losing out on by staying at home watching terrible daytime television (except for the Bonnie Hunt Show. Gosh, I LOVE her; she's so hilarious and wholesome. When she had that sitcom about her raising a family and hosting a morning talk show I always hoped she would actually have her own talk show because it was always hilarious. And now... Wishful thinking works sometimes! Now I just need wishful thinking to find a boy who doesn't suck... This has proven far more difficult). It's nearly out of my chest (I think. Again, that wishful thinking) and I should have just the residual croaky voice tomorrow and the occasional coughing fit. Better that than being trapped in my bed under the duvet, too weak to roll out and crawl for water. Tomorrow is the last day of work that I can get paid for this month. I need it.
At some point I have to start prepping for the holidays. With the impending arrival of my family in a week, the house needs some tidying/cleaning so I don't get lectured the whole visit about how I've failed my parents by not taking better care of my home. I also promised my mom I'd bake some cookies, which wouldn't necessarily be bad, but I need to get more butter and time to actually go on a baking spree. Maybe Sunday.
I'm not happy about the snowfall of today. I've yet to get winter boots to protect my delicate feet from the elements. I am much less nice when my feet are cold and wet. I know people always like to have a white Christmas, but having lived through my share of white Christmases... I'm not a fan, especially when Christmas depends on loved ones travelling mountain routes. I've had enough holidays ruined by closed highways and snow slides.
On the upside, my sister called yesterday to see if I want to go to the Canucks game on Monday night. Very excited! It's not the Oilers, but those tickets are not often up for grabs. I can always wish.
Monday, December 15, 2008
bitch, on being a
I'm not as forgiving as I probably should be at this time of the year. Some people decide that this is the time of the year to make amends and talk to the people they've avoided for months for no apparent reason. Not me, though. No, I like to remain the enormous bitch I always am.
OK, I don't really think I'm enormous bitch. I just realise I have a low tolerance for bullshit and sometimes don't believe the excuses people tell me for ditching out of plans. I do a lot of eyerolling in these instances.
I have a question: do all guys think "I've seen that girl naked" whenever they see a girl they've seen naked? Because I'm watching "How I met your mother" and all I can think about is that I've seen Jason Segel's wiener. These thoughts don't normally occur to me when I see other boys I've seen naked. I wonder why...
At what point does sarcastic honesty become passive-aggression? Are they one in the same? I may have left a sarcastically honest message on an answering service and it could be construed as passive-aggressive. This worries me a little because I'm supposed to stop being passive-aggressive. And I wasn't trying to be snarky; just partway through the message I realised I might be a little angrier about the situation than I initially thought. Sigh. I am my own worst enemy.
I no longer wish I could strangle people like I used to, so that's a positive, right?
This coughing thing sucks. I hate chest colds.
OK, I don't really think I'm enormous bitch. I just realise I have a low tolerance for bullshit and sometimes don't believe the excuses people tell me for ditching out of plans. I do a lot of eyerolling in these instances.
I have a question: do all guys think "I've seen that girl naked" whenever they see a girl they've seen naked? Because I'm watching "How I met your mother" and all I can think about is that I've seen Jason Segel's wiener. These thoughts don't normally occur to me when I see other boys I've seen naked. I wonder why...
At what point does sarcastic honesty become passive-aggression? Are they one in the same? I may have left a sarcastically honest message on an answering service and it could be construed as passive-aggressive. This worries me a little because I'm supposed to stop being passive-aggressive. And I wasn't trying to be snarky; just partway through the message I realised I might be a little angrier about the situation than I initially thought. Sigh. I am my own worst enemy.
I no longer wish I could strangle people like I used to, so that's a positive, right?
This coughing thing sucks. I hate chest colds.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
The snow last night was kind of a treat, but the temperature accompanying it leaves something to be desired.
Yesterday I met up with a couple of friends for cake in early afternoon. It was so hard to get through all that cheesecake, but, thanks to a wee little glitch with my gift card not working, I'll probably get the chance again when they assign me a new one. More cake. Life is hard. I decided to dress up for the occasion, choosing the brightest outfit I have: bright pink shoes, bright green tights, a black shirt, a bright pink tank top poking out of a bright green shirt, and a Monet-esque flowery cardi from my mom's 1966 wardrobe. (My mom used to have some extremely well made, attractively designed sweater suits and dresses. Her old Burberry swing coat is my most coveted clothing item.) People don't take kindly to bright colours, or so I would assume based on the looks I got with my legs/feet poking out under my black coat. I did have a couple of people look at my legs and smile, and that's exactly how I felt every time I looked down at my legs.
Last evening TP had people over to her home and it was really nice to see a few friends that I don't get to see nearly enough. I also drank a decent amount of rum & eggnog, enough to make my face warm. With "Christmas with the Platters" playing, the Christmasy drink in my hand, shortbread near at hand and the snow starting to fall, it was the first time it's felt like Christmas is coming. Not that Christmas is ever particularly exciting... Jill and Mark gave me a ride home, thankfully, as buses were challenged by the snow and I'm pretty sure I would have had to walk home in Chuck Taylors without them. I negotiated a trade: a ride for the artificial tree I haven't put up since 1997. A good deal.
I had intentions to go to bed when I got home, but I was still a little wired from all the sugar. My friend messaged me and we decided to meet up for a late night walk around our neighbourhood in the snow. We met halfway and walked around the park near my house before he dropped me at my door. It was so quiet and bright and fricking cold; we were excited to walk around before the snow got ugly and compromised.
This morning I went to Metrotown to see if I could do some Christmas shopping, but ended up looking for clothes for work. Sales are sort of crazy right now and I've been freezing in the clothes I've got. I was not very successful because I got tired of being in the mall, but realised that not many people are aware that the malls have earlier hours on Sundays. Next week they're open until 11pm. Malls are insane places; they still frighten me.
Just woke up from a 3-hour nap to try to combat the sore throat collected into my cilia sometime in the last 4 days. I'm going through cough candies so fast I fear I'll run out faster than I can get somewhere to buy more. Not that I actually want to leave my house anymore today. It's a dilemma.
Yesterday I met up with a couple of friends for cake in early afternoon. It was so hard to get through all that cheesecake, but, thanks to a wee little glitch with my gift card not working, I'll probably get the chance again when they assign me a new one. More cake. Life is hard. I decided to dress up for the occasion, choosing the brightest outfit I have: bright pink shoes, bright green tights, a black shirt, a bright pink tank top poking out of a bright green shirt, and a Monet-esque flowery cardi from my mom's 1966 wardrobe. (My mom used to have some extremely well made, attractively designed sweater suits and dresses. Her old Burberry swing coat is my most coveted clothing item.) People don't take kindly to bright colours, or so I would assume based on the looks I got with my legs/feet poking out under my black coat. I did have a couple of people look at my legs and smile, and that's exactly how I felt every time I looked down at my legs.
Last evening TP had people over to her home and it was really nice to see a few friends that I don't get to see nearly enough. I also drank a decent amount of rum & eggnog, enough to make my face warm. With "Christmas with the Platters" playing, the Christmasy drink in my hand, shortbread near at hand and the snow starting to fall, it was the first time it's felt like Christmas is coming. Not that Christmas is ever particularly exciting... Jill and Mark gave me a ride home, thankfully, as buses were challenged by the snow and I'm pretty sure I would have had to walk home in Chuck Taylors without them. I negotiated a trade: a ride for the artificial tree I haven't put up since 1997. A good deal.
I had intentions to go to bed when I got home, but I was still a little wired from all the sugar. My friend messaged me and we decided to meet up for a late night walk around our neighbourhood in the snow. We met halfway and walked around the park near my house before he dropped me at my door. It was so quiet and bright and fricking cold; we were excited to walk around before the snow got ugly and compromised.
This morning I went to Metrotown to see if I could do some Christmas shopping, but ended up looking for clothes for work. Sales are sort of crazy right now and I've been freezing in the clothes I've got. I was not very successful because I got tired of being in the mall, but realised that not many people are aware that the malls have earlier hours on Sundays. Next week they're open until 11pm. Malls are insane places; they still frighten me.
Just woke up from a 3-hour nap to try to combat the sore throat collected into my cilia sometime in the last 4 days. I'm going through cough candies so fast I fear I'll run out faster than I can get somewhere to buy more. Not that I actually want to leave my house anymore today. It's a dilemma.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
one more stitch
For the longest time, I banned myself from Dressew, mainly because I would buy metres and metres of fabric or trim every time I went there, regardless of whether or not I needed it. I have a natural compulsion to collect sewing supplies for a rainy day. It's been a lifelong issue.
Twice this week I went to Dressew. The first day was to buy some materials for small seasonal gifts for friends. This was a necessity because my pre-existing debts don't go away during the holidays (and suck up a significant portion of my paychecks) and I still wanted to have a little something for people I like. This wasn't troubling. The second day... the second day was troubling. The second day I had to buy some batting for my projects, but was distracted by a new shipment of retro fabrics. Suddenly I had 3 metres of geometric prints in my hand. I thought I could make some shopping bags out of them, which meant I should also get some webbing for the handles. So... What should have been a relatively cheap pop-in wound up being quite a bit more.
I would have buyers' remorse if it were anything other than fabric.
This morning I finished the first round of projects and they worked out pretty well. The second round of projects will likely require a printer, so I'll have to wait for that to happen. I'm slightly concerned that people who receive these things will feel ripped off, considering they cost virtually nothing to make, but I suppose if someone felt like that I probably shouldn't have given them anything anyway. I can tell you about the one thing that I made that I actually love the most: a stuffed Totoro, complete with leaf on his head. It's pretty cute. Not sure if I can give that away just yet.
Yesterday after Dressew, I met my school chums for drinks in the early afternoon while one pretended to Christmas shop. We started at the Lennox, which, I have to say, is one of the least impressive establishments downtown. Super expensive and the waitstaff are wholly disinterested in you unless you order food and shots of premium liquor, especially in the afternoon. We left after a drink and went to a deserted Morrissey and spent the next few hours there. I had to meet work friends for drinks after they finished work, so made my way to the Cascade. I was probably too tipsy at 6pm to be sociable, so sat back with a pint and scarfed down polenta fries while trying to keep up with what everyone was talking about. I bowed out after a couple of hours, blaming my tipsy head and 6 hours of drinking, and came home to catch up with a long distance friend. (I currently do not have Skype, but would really like to get it set up. Can anyone locally assist me with this?)
Unrelated, my friend started sniffing/huffing my hair while we visited a few days ago. I mention this only because it's the second person in two weeks that commented about how good my hair smells. I use cheap drugstore shampoo and that's it (no conditioner in the winter; it makes my hair gross midway through the day I washed it if I do), so it surprised me. All those years of spending so much on hair products and I rarely had comments about how my hair smelled. So weird.
Twice this week I went to Dressew. The first day was to buy some materials for small seasonal gifts for friends. This was a necessity because my pre-existing debts don't go away during the holidays (and suck up a significant portion of my paychecks) and I still wanted to have a little something for people I like. This wasn't troubling. The second day... the second day was troubling. The second day I had to buy some batting for my projects, but was distracted by a new shipment of retro fabrics. Suddenly I had 3 metres of geometric prints in my hand. I thought I could make some shopping bags out of them, which meant I should also get some webbing for the handles. So... What should have been a relatively cheap pop-in wound up being quite a bit more.
I would have buyers' remorse if it were anything other than fabric.
This morning I finished the first round of projects and they worked out pretty well. The second round of projects will likely require a printer, so I'll have to wait for that to happen. I'm slightly concerned that people who receive these things will feel ripped off, considering they cost virtually nothing to make, but I suppose if someone felt like that I probably shouldn't have given them anything anyway. I can tell you about the one thing that I made that I actually love the most: a stuffed Totoro, complete with leaf on his head. It's pretty cute. Not sure if I can give that away just yet.
Yesterday after Dressew, I met my school chums for drinks in the early afternoon while one pretended to Christmas shop. We started at the Lennox, which, I have to say, is one of the least impressive establishments downtown. Super expensive and the waitstaff are wholly disinterested in you unless you order food and shots of premium liquor, especially in the afternoon. We left after a drink and went to a deserted Morrissey and spent the next few hours there. I had to meet work friends for drinks after they finished work, so made my way to the Cascade. I was probably too tipsy at 6pm to be sociable, so sat back with a pint and scarfed down polenta fries while trying to keep up with what everyone was talking about. I bowed out after a couple of hours, blaming my tipsy head and 6 hours of drinking, and came home to catch up with a long distance friend. (I currently do not have Skype, but would really like to get it set up. Can anyone locally assist me with this?)
Unrelated, my friend started sniffing/huffing my hair while we visited a few days ago. I mention this only because it's the second person in two weeks that commented about how good my hair smells. I use cheap drugstore shampoo and that's it (no conditioner in the winter; it makes my hair gross midway through the day I washed it if I do), so it surprised me. All those years of spending so much on hair products and I rarely had comments about how my hair smelled. So weird.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
and almost immediately i felt sorry
My friend gave me an old Avon book as a joke earlier this year and I've only really just rediscovered it and started reading it. At least I hope it was a joke. Written by one Gwenna Packard in 1963, "How come a nice girl like you isn't married?" is touted as "the single girl's guide to sex, men and marriage." So far it's been surprisingly non-judgemental about premarital sex and encourages girls to get on with their lives if the men they encounter are unwilling to commit. I'm not sure if I should be reading this right now. It's upsetting to discover things haven't changed since 1963.
It doesn't help that Liz Phair's "Fuck & run" has been playing in my head all day.
I'm giving up on dating. All my partnered friends will have to find another source of amusement instead of stories about the silly boys I endure. I'm just going to concentrate on work (as usual) and saving enough money to live the rest of my life alone. Or at least enough to get me to Mongolia, only to hook up with a nomadic tribe who finds my pasty white skin amusing but who quickly grow tired of me because I don't have any dating stories to tell them, and they desert me in the frozen tundra to freeze to death or be eaten alive by wolves.
It doesn't help that Liz Phair's "Fuck & run" has been playing in my head all day.
I'm giving up on dating. All my partnered friends will have to find another source of amusement instead of stories about the silly boys I endure. I'm just going to concentrate on work (as usual) and saving enough money to live the rest of my life alone. Or at least enough to get me to Mongolia, only to hook up with a nomadic tribe who finds my pasty white skin amusing but who quickly grow tired of me because I don't have any dating stories to tell them, and they desert me in the frozen tundra to freeze to death or be eaten alive by wolves.
missing the ice
Just home from a fun night out. Work at Langara was pretty low-key, what with it being final exam season. I counted the minutes to 6 so I could hightail it eastside for the hockey game.
I scurried from the bus to the Coliseum because the fricking #3 was so late and SO SLOW to get to Main & Hastings. There was a diversion on Hastings, an outdoor concert to support inSite. I couldn't tell, but thought it sounded kind of like Black Mountain, which is possible and likely since most of them work in the DTES. I was set on getting to the hockey game in time to throw a bear onto the ice for charity, and got in the door just after the Giants scored their first goal. My throw was dreadful; I felt rushed and threw randomly into the crowd, getting nowhere close to the ice. Sigh. I drowned my sorrow in beer. We headed to the Dark Horse Lounge at the neighbouring casino after the game (5-1 Vancouver, one short of free appetizers at White Spot), but wanted food and the kitchen was empty after the de la Hoya fight. We downed our highballs and hiked to Hastings and Boundary for karaoke at Oscar's.
Funny thing about Oscar's... I looked over and thought, gee, that looks like my friend Jason. I sent a text and then decided it was probably him. I went over and he and Debbie were there with a couple of friends, drinking! So weird, so random. Was nice to see them, though. My friends sang a couple of karaoke tunes and we drank a number of pints of beer. It was pretty fun. I am tempted to go there again on Monday for $0.29 wings and pitchers of beer. Just need to find a drinking partner.
Tomorrow I really want to eat pancakes. I just have to decide if I want to make them (apple pancakes!) or if I should just wander up the street and see if I can get in for pancakes anywhere. I'm also returning the crappy space heater I bought that doesn't work, right out of the box, and might see about popping into Solly's for bagels and/or knishes and/or rugelah. I also have to make chicken pot pie; I'm excited about that.
"I Jizz In My Pants" will be the next "Lazy Sunday." Frick, it's funny.
I scurried from the bus to the Coliseum because the fricking #3 was so late and SO SLOW to get to Main & Hastings. There was a diversion on Hastings, an outdoor concert to support inSite. I couldn't tell, but thought it sounded kind of like Black Mountain, which is possible and likely since most of them work in the DTES. I was set on getting to the hockey game in time to throw a bear onto the ice for charity, and got in the door just after the Giants scored their first goal. My throw was dreadful; I felt rushed and threw randomly into the crowd, getting nowhere close to the ice. Sigh. I drowned my sorrow in beer. We headed to the Dark Horse Lounge at the neighbouring casino after the game (5-1 Vancouver, one short of free appetizers at White Spot), but wanted food and the kitchen was empty after the de la Hoya fight. We downed our highballs and hiked to Hastings and Boundary for karaoke at Oscar's.
Funny thing about Oscar's... I looked over and thought, gee, that looks like my friend Jason. I sent a text and then decided it was probably him. I went over and he and Debbie were there with a couple of friends, drinking! So weird, so random. Was nice to see them, though. My friends sang a couple of karaoke tunes and we drank a number of pints of beer. It was pretty fun. I am tempted to go there again on Monday for $0.29 wings and pitchers of beer. Just need to find a drinking partner.
Tomorrow I really want to eat pancakes. I just have to decide if I want to make them (apple pancakes!) or if I should just wander up the street and see if I can get in for pancakes anywhere. I'm also returning the crappy space heater I bought that doesn't work, right out of the box, and might see about popping into Solly's for bagels and/or knishes and/or rugelah. I also have to make chicken pot pie; I'm excited about that.
"I Jizz In My Pants" will be the next "Lazy Sunday." Frick, it's funny.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
party (hard)
Tonight I went to Nardwuar Nite at the Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Strathcona, specifically because my friend Polly gave me a heads-up about the surprise guest.
Bands played. I've seen all of them before: Thee Goblins, Kellarissa, Lois, The Pack A.D. and The Evaporators. They were all fun to watch, but I was anticipating the extras.
I was excited to see Andrew WK and he played three of his own songs, then played a Leather Uppers cover (that will be on a split single with the Evaporators next year). Apparently he's a fan. Then Wimpy Roy from the Subhumans came out to sing and to promote the re-recording of Incorrect Thoughts. Then Randy Rampage from DOA came out with his flowing blond hair that made me think about a pro wrestler from the '80s who had an orange tan. Then Jon Card from SNFU/DOA/Subhumans came out and banged on the drums. Then they all punked out with "Fuck You."
It's hard to believe it's been 30 years since the Vancouver punk scene really started.
My ears are totally ringing and I'm pretty sure the damage is permanent. There were a bunch of little kids at the show and I think I should probably get construction earmasks so I don't get any deafer. Being deaf sucks.
Bands played. I've seen all of them before: Thee Goblins, Kellarissa, Lois, The Pack A.D. and The Evaporators. They were all fun to watch, but I was anticipating the extras.
I was excited to see Andrew WK and he played three of his own songs, then played a Leather Uppers cover (that will be on a split single with the Evaporators next year). Apparently he's a fan. Then Wimpy Roy from the Subhumans came out to sing and to promote the re-recording of Incorrect Thoughts. Then Randy Rampage from DOA came out with his flowing blond hair that made me think about a pro wrestler from the '80s who had an orange tan. Then Jon Card from SNFU/DOA/Subhumans came out and banged on the drums. Then they all punked out with "Fuck You."
It's hard to believe it's been 30 years since the Vancouver punk scene really started.
My ears are totally ringing and I'm pretty sure the damage is permanent. There were a bunch of little kids at the show and I think I should probably get construction earmasks so I don't get any deafer. Being deaf sucks.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
making things work
This time off is making me rethink work. I kind of like lazing around the house in the morning, making an actual breakfast and planning stuff to do during the day. I could get used to it. Just another week of this and I'll be freaking out about paying the rent and affording Christmas. But I am enjoying the paychecks every week; VPL and Langara alternate.
Today I went to Zulu to see TP's art show and randomly ran into her, a nice surprise. Then I headed downtown to try to buy a couple of Christmasy things, but my heart wasn't really into it (and the monkey lunch bag was sold out). I got two of my three newish pairs of glasses fitted and picked up my holds at the library. I've been going through recipes lately, feeling like cooking more would probably make my house feel warmer, and bought groceries for the next week or so. Nothing special, really, but it was nice to not have to do anything or be anywhere for a change.
For dinner I made polenta with fontina and thyme, parsley-crusted sole and a salad. I really like the polenta, which is lucky since there's so much left. With the fontina and parmesan it's got a nice saltiness and the gloppy texture was actually kind of comforting. The recipe I used was from an epicurious listing, but I've got another that I want to try from the Provence people that looks even more luxurious. I've got a ham, fontina and spinach bread pudding on the slate for tomorrow (I love savoury bread pudding), chicken pot pie on the weekend (time to use some of the homemade dough in the freezer), risotto in kind, bacon cookies (yes, bacon!), and apple pancakes whenever I get up early enough and figure out how to halve the recipe accurately. I'm feeling inspired to make stuff.
The friends I go to the Whip with are very talented with the crafting, cooking and hunting & gathering. They're the sort that produce excellent gifts that are well-received by everyone. They make their own beer. I am jealous of them because I'm not sure I have the skills to make gifts that everyone wants, but I really need to figure out how to make attractive things, and fast. I wish I had sewing projects that I could whip out that are gender appropriate and coveted by receivers. Or things to bake. I had thought about doing a bunch of kirie, but the image hunt is proving time consuming. Frames are my nemesis; I'm not sure I can actually afford them.
Frick, I'm just rinsing these things out, yet still say nothing.
Tomorrow I'm hoping to finally get over to the shops on Cambie in the morning, then meet up with David Boffa for an afternoon hangout, and head off to Nardwuar's pre-Christmas rock show. Apparently Andrew WK is going to be there, so I'm kind of jazzed to see him. I'm kind of glad it's an all-ages thing. It takes away the pressure to drink. There are also a couple of craft sales this weekend that I want to try to get to, namely the one at Western Front tomorrow night and the one at the Grandview Legion on Sunday. We'll see if I can still make concrete plans in my current state.
Today I went to Zulu to see TP's art show and randomly ran into her, a nice surprise. Then I headed downtown to try to buy a couple of Christmasy things, but my heart wasn't really into it (and the monkey lunch bag was sold out). I got two of my three newish pairs of glasses fitted and picked up my holds at the library. I've been going through recipes lately, feeling like cooking more would probably make my house feel warmer, and bought groceries for the next week or so. Nothing special, really, but it was nice to not have to do anything or be anywhere for a change.
For dinner I made polenta with fontina and thyme, parsley-crusted sole and a salad. I really like the polenta, which is lucky since there's so much left. With the fontina and parmesan it's got a nice saltiness and the gloppy texture was actually kind of comforting. The recipe I used was from an epicurious listing, but I've got another that I want to try from the Provence people that looks even more luxurious. I've got a ham, fontina and spinach bread pudding on the slate for tomorrow (I love savoury bread pudding), chicken pot pie on the weekend (time to use some of the homemade dough in the freezer), risotto in kind, bacon cookies (yes, bacon!), and apple pancakes whenever I get up early enough and figure out how to halve the recipe accurately. I'm feeling inspired to make stuff.
The friends I go to the Whip with are very talented with the crafting, cooking and hunting & gathering. They're the sort that produce excellent gifts that are well-received by everyone. They make their own beer. I am jealous of them because I'm not sure I have the skills to make gifts that everyone wants, but I really need to figure out how to make attractive things, and fast. I wish I had sewing projects that I could whip out that are gender appropriate and coveted by receivers. Or things to bake. I had thought about doing a bunch of kirie, but the image hunt is proving time consuming. Frames are my nemesis; I'm not sure I can actually afford them.
Frick, I'm just rinsing these things out, yet still say nothing.
Tomorrow I'm hoping to finally get over to the shops on Cambie in the morning, then meet up with David Boffa for an afternoon hangout, and head off to Nardwuar's pre-Christmas rock show. Apparently Andrew WK is going to be there, so I'm kind of jazzed to see him. I'm kind of glad it's an all-ages thing. It takes away the pressure to drink. There are also a couple of craft sales this weekend that I want to try to get to, namely the one at Western Front tomorrow night and the one at the Grandview Legion on Sunday. We'll see if I can still make concrete plans in my current state.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
priorities
During this time of year, I tend to visit the store of liquor more frequently than normal people. Weekly visits allow me to keep abreast of new additions to the plethora of booze, and special edition booze generally starts to trickle through the door mid-November. Once December hits...
Today I stopped in to get a teddy bear from the BCLC shop for the Teddy Bear Toss at the Giants' game on Saturday. I felt weird just buying a teddy bear (I chose the booze store because they donate a second bear to a charity whenever you buy a bear), so perused the beer section. I like to look at big bottles because it's a good way to sample flavoured and new beers (blackberry porter or peach cream ale, anyone?) and today I stumbled upon this:
Take a good look. Beer aged in oak rum barrels! I'm pretty excited about trying it out, which will have to be soon since there were only 150 bottles produced. It is slightly costly for the volume you get ($4.95 for 330ml), but it's 7.4% and was aged in a rum cask. Maybe it's all a ploy, but I won't know until I try it. Doesn't that just sound good?
But, really, this is the tip of the iceberg. I had to leave the store before getting distracted by the hard liquor. They always add those little extras: a shot of a related booze, shot glasses, highball tumblers, flashlights... It seems like such a good idea to buy them when you get that little bonus, but then you find yourself buying Malibu or Mint Baileys just for the extras. I'm going to try not to fall prey to the extras. I don't really need Malibu.
But I would like to be outdoors for certain things this winter that would be better enjoyed by a shot of booze to warm my innards. The train at Stanley Park... What I really want to do is sharpen my skates and take to the ice. If only it were cold enough to skate on an outdoor rink. It's one thing I miss desperately about Edmonton: the outdoor rink down the street from my grandparents' old house on a sunny afternoon. When it got cold enough for the lake to freeze, we spent the whole Christmas vacation skating on the lake in Osoyoos. My oldest friend's dad used to flood their driveway and we'd skate almost every night for weeks at a time, until the weather warmed.
Wouldn't all that be fun now with a shot of butter ripple schnapps?
Today I stopped in to get a teddy bear from the BCLC shop for the Teddy Bear Toss at the Giants' game on Saturday. I felt weird just buying a teddy bear (I chose the booze store because they donate a second bear to a charity whenever you buy a bear), so perused the beer section. I like to look at big bottles because it's a good way to sample flavoured and new beers (blackberry porter or peach cream ale, anyone?) and today I stumbled upon this:
Take a good look. Beer aged in oak rum barrels! I'm pretty excited about trying it out, which will have to be soon since there were only 150 bottles produced. It is slightly costly for the volume you get ($4.95 for 330ml), but it's 7.4% and was aged in a rum cask. Maybe it's all a ploy, but I won't know until I try it. Doesn't that just sound good?But, really, this is the tip of the iceberg. I had to leave the store before getting distracted by the hard liquor. They always add those little extras: a shot of a related booze, shot glasses, highball tumblers, flashlights... It seems like such a good idea to buy them when you get that little bonus, but then you find yourself buying Malibu or Mint Baileys just for the extras. I'm going to try not to fall prey to the extras. I don't really need Malibu.
But I would like to be outdoors for certain things this winter that would be better enjoyed by a shot of booze to warm my innards. The train at Stanley Park... What I really want to do is sharpen my skates and take to the ice. If only it were cold enough to skate on an outdoor rink. It's one thing I miss desperately about Edmonton: the outdoor rink down the street from my grandparents' old house on a sunny afternoon. When it got cold enough for the lake to freeze, we spent the whole Christmas vacation skating on the lake in Osoyoos. My oldest friend's dad used to flood their driveway and we'd skate almost every night for weeks at a time, until the weather warmed.
Wouldn't all that be fun now with a shot of butter ripple schnapps?
Sunday, November 30, 2008
sick of myself
I'm still not feeling 100% (slight residual throat soreness), so I've been trying to make myself useful around the house. I made the last of my frozen zucchini into zucchini bread and need to branch out. Two new projects should occupy my time these next few days. Or the dust will do me in.
There were a few boxes waiting to be dealt with from the move, piled in corners and avoided. I've been going through them to see what I thought was so important that I had to move but not so important that I haven't unpacked yet. Mainly it's pictures and stuff from Japan that I actually kept and just bits of interest. I'm trying to figure out how to keep them in a way that won't be in a cardboard box. I've got no ideas.
The other project is loading the CDs I actually care about onto my hard drive. This is a daunting task. I realised as I went through them that half of them aren't done, which seems sort of stupid and I can't figure out why I never got around to it before. I've got days of work ahead of me with this. I may abandon the project midway through out of sheer boredom.
As you must be doing right now.
Today I ventured out of the house later in the afternoon for juniper cask beer at the Whip. My friend's friend makes beer and I realised partway through our conversation that I really need to spend more time with people who make beer, if only for the cred it could potentially give me to drink beers made with coriander and pumpkin. Also, I kind of enjoy beer a great deal. Afterwards I went to my friend's house to watch a movie and eat some Thai food, which did wonders for my throat. We watched "Forgetting Sarah Marshall;" I had to pause the movie while I gasped for breath after the line "God put our mouths on our head for a reason."
You know what sucks? When you want your phone to ring and it doesn't. Sigh. Telecommunications lead to heartbreak.
There were a few boxes waiting to be dealt with from the move, piled in corners and avoided. I've been going through them to see what I thought was so important that I had to move but not so important that I haven't unpacked yet. Mainly it's pictures and stuff from Japan that I actually kept and just bits of interest. I'm trying to figure out how to keep them in a way that won't be in a cardboard box. I've got no ideas.
The other project is loading the CDs I actually care about onto my hard drive. This is a daunting task. I realised as I went through them that half of them aren't done, which seems sort of stupid and I can't figure out why I never got around to it before. I've got days of work ahead of me with this. I may abandon the project midway through out of sheer boredom.
As you must be doing right now.
Today I ventured out of the house later in the afternoon for juniper cask beer at the Whip. My friend's friend makes beer and I realised partway through our conversation that I really need to spend more time with people who make beer, if only for the cred it could potentially give me to drink beers made with coriander and pumpkin. Also, I kind of enjoy beer a great deal. Afterwards I went to my friend's house to watch a movie and eat some Thai food, which did wonders for my throat. We watched "Forgetting Sarah Marshall;" I had to pause the movie while I gasped for breath after the line "God put our mouths on our head for a reason."
You know what sucks? When you want your phone to ring and it doesn't. Sigh. Telecommunications lead to heartbreak.
Friday, November 28, 2008
caffeinated
My tea/coffee intake has gone up drastically lately. I almost never have either because of my cat's tongue and because most hot drinks hurt my stomach. Tuesday morning I had one of the best cups of coffee ever (I *heart* Bodums) and the last couple of days I've tried to have tea in the evenings to calm me down and to soothe my stupid throat.
The soreness has increased to the point that I can't ignore it, nor can it be overtaken by Cold FX. I'm going to test the whole hydration thing, to see if drinking vats of hot tea can make a sore throat go away faster. Just my luck that this hits when I have a few days off. The peppermint tea feels really nice.
While preparing my tea this morning, I realised that my favourite cups, the Totoro ones, are Noritake! I don't know why I didn't clue in to the sound of my spoon tapping the sides of the cup, the ring normally associated with china. (These were one of those random gifts I got every few months for some random reason that I didn't understand, and one of the few that made it back to Canada AND that I haven't had to get rid of yet.) And this reminds me I have to get a couple of settings of china before Christmas. I'll have to see if there are sales at the department stores... There were some lovely tea settings at Sears for 50% off, but they're still $60 or something ridiculous like that. Sigh.
I wish it weren't raining today. I wish Solly's weren't so far away; I could do with some matzoh ball chicken soup and bagels today. I wish a space heater magically appeared on my living room floor when I awoke this morning. I wish these boxes would unpack themselves and the pictures would hang themselves. I wish my throat weren't scratchy. I wonder who I got this from...
The soreness has increased to the point that I can't ignore it, nor can it be overtaken by Cold FX. I'm going to test the whole hydration thing, to see if drinking vats of hot tea can make a sore throat go away faster. Just my luck that this hits when I have a few days off. The peppermint tea feels really nice.
While preparing my tea this morning, I realised that my favourite cups, the Totoro ones, are Noritake! I don't know why I didn't clue in to the sound of my spoon tapping the sides of the cup, the ring normally associated with china. (These were one of those random gifts I got every few months for some random reason that I didn't understand, and one of the few that made it back to Canada AND that I haven't had to get rid of yet.) And this reminds me I have to get a couple of settings of china before Christmas. I'll have to see if there are sales at the department stores... There were some lovely tea settings at Sears for 50% off, but they're still $60 or something ridiculous like that. Sigh.
I wish it weren't raining today. I wish Solly's weren't so far away; I could do with some matzoh ball chicken soup and bagels today. I wish a space heater magically appeared on my living room floor when I awoke this morning. I wish these boxes would unpack themselves and the pictures would hang themselves. I wish my throat weren't scratchy. I wonder who I got this from...
Thursday, November 27, 2008
throat scratches
On my trip away from SFU I realised that all those kids must think I look really old and stuffy. I wasn't wearing jeans and Uggs (how can people still be wearing those?) or jeans and anything; I opted on a dress and flats for my interview. I got to thinking about what I was like when I was their age. And I've got to say, I was WAY more interesting/fun then than I am now.
I miss when Vancouver had awesome bands and it was easy to have fun. When I knew people in bands and who had record labels and... I guess I still know interesting people, but I'm just not one of them. Now the interesting people colour comic books and record segments for CBC and own gaming companies. Me, I just answer questions all day about books.
The bus was hellacious from Main. I had to wait for 20 minutes for it and it was half-full from the first stop. People packed on and it took 5 minutes to close the door because people couldn't get far enough away from the door for it to close but wouldn't get off. Two young boys were texting each other (they were about 2 people away from each other) and then the one called the other to talk. It was at that point that I laughed out loud at them and they laughed that I laughed, and everyone else tried to turn to see why we were all laughing, which made me laugh harder because it was impossible to move. I think I got a cold during the trip.
The heat is on in the living room. I don't think I can be perpetually cold anymore. If only I could unthaw my feet enough to go to a place that sells space heaters...
I've got one more day of work and then I'm working almost no days the next two weeks. This scares me a bit, but I'm trying to look at this positively: if I go on a date and want to stay over, I don't have to leave at 7am to get home and to work in the morning. I can start drinking at 9am. I can take a little day trip or overnighter to somewhere else. I can do stuff. Holy crap, what am I going to do for two weeks?
I miss when Vancouver had awesome bands and it was easy to have fun. When I knew people in bands and who had record labels and... I guess I still know interesting people, but I'm just not one of them. Now the interesting people colour comic books and record segments for CBC and own gaming companies. Me, I just answer questions all day about books.
The bus was hellacious from Main. I had to wait for 20 minutes for it and it was half-full from the first stop. People packed on and it took 5 minutes to close the door because people couldn't get far enough away from the door for it to close but wouldn't get off. Two young boys were texting each other (they were about 2 people away from each other) and then the one called the other to talk. It was at that point that I laughed out loud at them and they laughed that I laughed, and everyone else tried to turn to see why we were all laughing, which made me laugh harder because it was impossible to move. I think I got a cold during the trip.
The heat is on in the living room. I don't think I can be perpetually cold anymore. If only I could unthaw my feet enough to go to a place that sells space heaters...
I've got one more day of work and then I'm working almost no days the next two weeks. This scares me a bit, but I'm trying to look at this positively: if I go on a date and want to stay over, I don't have to leave at 7am to get home and to work in the morning. I can start drinking at 9am. I can take a little day trip or overnighter to somewhere else. I can do stuff. Holy crap, what am I going to do for two weeks?
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
cold as ice
Tomorrow I have an interview at one of the university libraries again, this time for a short-term on-call position. I'm not sure what to expect this time, if getting an interview is a formality or if they want to find out more from me than they learned the last time I interviewed with them. Will I have the same people interviewing me? Did they take really excellent notes that they will consult again to see if my stories are the same?
I'm not thinking about it very much because I have a 2-hour training session to lead tonight that makes me a bit nervous. I know practice is supposed to make you less nervous, but when I practice it makes my stomach hurt in anticipation. I'm glad for the experience, but dislike the process.
Last night I was out with my classmates and we kind of wound up bar hopping, which is strange on a Tuesday night. We started at the Railway and had a pitcher that Joe thought tasted like broccoli. Then we went to Cafe Crepe for cheaper beer and some food. The guys were disturbed the men's washroom lacked doors; I was disturbed that one of the stalls in the ladies' literally looked like a shitstorm hit it. Dirty eurotrash... Then we wandered towards Waterfront and decided on a sports bar on Pender that starts with a Y that I can't remember the spelling of (Yagger's?). We all decided to drink what Rich always drinks (Jager & soda) since they serve Jagermeister ice cold from the tap. I had to stop drinking after the first one started to hit me mid-glass. Those guys are fun. We scurried for the Skytrain and I was home by 10:30, legs frozen and cursing my poor circulation.
I keep thinking about my friend's friend's puppy. I wonder if I can organise some sort of babysitting schedule...
Sarah Vowell's new book finally came in today. I'm pretty excited to read it. It's also time to start regular play of David Sedaris' "Holidays on Ice" to get me into the holiday spirit.
I'm not thinking about it very much because I have a 2-hour training session to lead tonight that makes me a bit nervous. I know practice is supposed to make you less nervous, but when I practice it makes my stomach hurt in anticipation. I'm glad for the experience, but dislike the process.
Last night I was out with my classmates and we kind of wound up bar hopping, which is strange on a Tuesday night. We started at the Railway and had a pitcher that Joe thought tasted like broccoli. Then we went to Cafe Crepe for cheaper beer and some food. The guys were disturbed the men's washroom lacked doors; I was disturbed that one of the stalls in the ladies' literally looked like a shitstorm hit it. Dirty eurotrash... Then we wandered towards Waterfront and decided on a sports bar on Pender that starts with a Y that I can't remember the spelling of (Yagger's?). We all decided to drink what Rich always drinks (Jager & soda) since they serve Jagermeister ice cold from the tap. I had to stop drinking after the first one started to hit me mid-glass. Those guys are fun. We scurried for the Skytrain and I was home by 10:30, legs frozen and cursing my poor circulation.
I keep thinking about my friend's friend's puppy. I wonder if I can organise some sort of babysitting schedule...
Sarah Vowell's new book finally came in today. I'm pretty excited to read it. It's also time to start regular play of David Sedaris' "Holidays on Ice" to get me into the holiday spirit.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
good roundup (for a change)
What a great weekend. It's been a long time since a whole weekend has been fun, but this one was pretty great.
Friday I went to Rich's friend's house so Rich could make pasta for us before the Giants' game (his place is on the other side of Hastings Park). While it was nice to be walking distance to the game, it rained so much that my boots caught water dripping down from my soaked jeans and my toes started getting wet. We picked a good night to go because the Stanley Cup was there (!!!) along with 5 Stanley Cup legends to salute the last Vancouver team that won the cup: the Vancouver Millionaires, way back in 1915. The Giants wore replica jerseys that were pretty awesome; the shorts were ivory coloured and I kind of thought they were ridiculous, but by mid-first period I changed my mind and thought they were pretty hot. I'm not sure if other junior teams have these kind of ceremonies, but almost every game I've been to has been like this, which makes it extra special. Most other teams don't have Gordie Howe as a part owner. Suckers.
It was a good game, lots of action, though the first period was nearly a write-off because the Giants weren't playing very well. I'm pretty sure the coaching staff kicked their asses between the first and second because they were a completely other team from the second on. They won pretty handily, holding the Blazers to 2 shots in the second and 6 in the third. At the end of the game we went across to Hastings Park to the lounge in the casino for drinks. There was a covers band that took requests from the crowd and they were a lot of fun. It's our new favourite place.
Yesterday I got called in to Langara in the afternoon and that went pretty well. When I got home I felt too cold to take 3 buses to my friends' house for a party, so thought I'd stay in. But then wound up meeting up with Terry and Kathy in the neighbourhood for drinks and a chat, and came back for an early night.
Today I went to the Culture Crawl with them and Kathy's friend. If it had been raining I probably wouldn't have gone, but the weather was so fine and it was nice to walk around. We stuck around Strathcona and I nerded out a little and talked about the historical grading of the roads and how there are still stables in the back alleys. They went to an open house and I soaked in the sun and looked in the backyards of neighbouring houses. We decided to go to the Ukrainian Cultural Centre for lunch; I had perogies (but they're called something else) and cabbage rolls while the others also had borscht. Kathy, her friend and I went to the Etsy sale near my house and browsed (but didn't buy) stuff I've seen online and thought I could make. I came home after, picked up the bacon salt left on my doorstep (thanks, Glenny), and watched a movie that's probably due back at the library tomorrow. My friend and his girlfriend popped over on their way home and had some tea and a chat about boys, and we went for groceries. (I occasionally get calls from my friend asking if I want to meet him to do grocery shopping together. It's sometimes the only way we talk in person. I find it amusing.)
And now I'm watching New Kids on the Block on the American Music Awards (until the Colbert Christmas comes on) and daydreaming about Jordan.
Oh, I also turned my heat on for a few hours yesterday and today, but it's off again. I think I'm going to see about getting a space heater and an electric blanket instead of turning on the heat. And maybe will bake some banana bread for the next few days.
Friday I went to Rich's friend's house so Rich could make pasta for us before the Giants' game (his place is on the other side of Hastings Park). While it was nice to be walking distance to the game, it rained so much that my boots caught water dripping down from my soaked jeans and my toes started getting wet. We picked a good night to go because the Stanley Cup was there (!!!) along with 5 Stanley Cup legends to salute the last Vancouver team that won the cup: the Vancouver Millionaires, way back in 1915. The Giants wore replica jerseys that were pretty awesome; the shorts were ivory coloured and I kind of thought they were ridiculous, but by mid-first period I changed my mind and thought they were pretty hot. I'm not sure if other junior teams have these kind of ceremonies, but almost every game I've been to has been like this, which makes it extra special. Most other teams don't have Gordie Howe as a part owner. Suckers.
It was a good game, lots of action, though the first period was nearly a write-off because the Giants weren't playing very well. I'm pretty sure the coaching staff kicked their asses between the first and second because they were a completely other team from the second on. They won pretty handily, holding the Blazers to 2 shots in the second and 6 in the third. At the end of the game we went across to Hastings Park to the lounge in the casino for drinks. There was a covers band that took requests from the crowd and they were a lot of fun. It's our new favourite place.
Yesterday I got called in to Langara in the afternoon and that went pretty well. When I got home I felt too cold to take 3 buses to my friends' house for a party, so thought I'd stay in. But then wound up meeting up with Terry and Kathy in the neighbourhood for drinks and a chat, and came back for an early night.
Today I went to the Culture Crawl with them and Kathy's friend. If it had been raining I probably wouldn't have gone, but the weather was so fine and it was nice to walk around. We stuck around Strathcona and I nerded out a little and talked about the historical grading of the roads and how there are still stables in the back alleys. They went to an open house and I soaked in the sun and looked in the backyards of neighbouring houses. We decided to go to the Ukrainian Cultural Centre for lunch; I had perogies (but they're called something else) and cabbage rolls while the others also had borscht. Kathy, her friend and I went to the Etsy sale near my house and browsed (but didn't buy) stuff I've seen online and thought I could make. I came home after, picked up the bacon salt left on my doorstep (thanks, Glenny), and watched a movie that's probably due back at the library tomorrow. My friend and his girlfriend popped over on their way home and had some tea and a chat about boys, and we went for groceries. (I occasionally get calls from my friend asking if I want to meet him to do grocery shopping together. It's sometimes the only way we talk in person. I find it amusing.)
And now I'm watching New Kids on the Block on the American Music Awards (until the Colbert Christmas comes on) and daydreaming about Jordan.
Oh, I also turned my heat on for a few hours yesterday and today, but it's off again. I think I'm going to see about getting a space heater and an electric blanket instead of turning on the heat. And maybe will bake some banana bread for the next few days.
Friday, November 21, 2008
brainwashing season
Is it just me or is Galen Weston getting better looking from commercial to commercial? At first I thought he was just kind of a well-spoken nerd, but his clothes have improved, his hair is looking slightly better and, while I still hate his glasses, he occasionally will look sort of hot.
Really, he should look good. His family has massive shares in Holt Renfrew and the family fortune is around $8 billion. He can afford to look good.
I'm such a sucker for both nerds and attractively styled foodstuffs. The dulce de luce cheesecake looks so fricking amazing.
Since I rarely do much of anything when I'm home (usually too tired and/or cold to move*) I listen to a decent amount of TV while I read or wander around the apartment. The GW commercials are on constantly at this time of year since they unleash tonnes of new products for Christmas. My resistance is weakening.
*I'm starting to feel like the coddling moths I used to irradiate. We kept them in cold storage to slow them so we could weigh them and then put them in the gamma cell ray machine. It's only taken 13 years to feel slightly guilty, but imagine how shitty apples would be without my work: coddling moth larvae are the worms in apples.
Really, he should look good. His family has massive shares in Holt Renfrew and the family fortune is around $8 billion. He can afford to look good.
I'm such a sucker for both nerds and attractively styled foodstuffs. The dulce de luce cheesecake looks so fricking amazing.
Since I rarely do much of anything when I'm home (usually too tired and/or cold to move*) I listen to a decent amount of TV while I read or wander around the apartment. The GW commercials are on constantly at this time of year since they unleash tonnes of new products for Christmas. My resistance is weakening.
*I'm starting to feel like the coddling moths I used to irradiate. We kept them in cold storage to slow them so we could weigh them and then put them in the gamma cell ray machine. It's only taken 13 years to feel slightly guilty, but imagine how shitty apples would be without my work: coddling moth larvae are the worms in apples.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
rebound
Just finished making a chorizo, tomato and mushroom quiche and it's pretty good. I suspect it's hard to mess up quiche, short of forgetting the milk or putting sugar in instead of salt. I once ran out of milk and made up the difference with vanilla soy milk, and it still tasted good.
This morning I've been moderately domestic. I started laundry as soon as I woke up and got two loads out of the way, and tidied up the kitchen a bit. I despise doing laundry in this building, not because it's always busy (although it is sometimes) but because there's only one of each machine and it takes FOREVER to get through loads. I guess I got spoiled with the last place; there were two machines on every floor, so I could do weeks worth of laundry in less than 2 hours.
This is dull, I realise.
The depressive episode of the weekend is over, largely because I saw/talked to a bunch of great friends on Sunday and Monday.
Sunday I met up with TP and Jill for dinner at Burgoo. I've got to say... so underwhelming. I only had a few bites of mine and traded with TP and picked at hers. I don't know that I would go again unless I wanted soup. Made plans with Rachel to watch a hockey game next weekend with my little buddy Augie, which I'm really excited about. My two alma mater are playing each other. Should be a good game.
Monday I met up with my guybrarian friend Rich after his interview at the library. He and his pal were 4 pitchers into the afternoon by the time I got there (a detour thanks to a package issue with the local postal outlet put me an hour late), so conversation was animated. They almost talked me into going to Vegas this weekend, but work kept me out. It was a lot of fun, and we made plans to go to a Giants game this weekend, hopefully with our other guybrarian friend.
The reason I was late was because of the aforementioned package. I hoped it was my glasses; it was not. It could be even better, depending how disturbing you find it.
The back story: I saw an ad somewhere for a product sold in the US and wanted to try it. It was so intriguing that I bought a 3-pack of it and paid the ridiculous shipping cost with the idea that I can give two of the three away as Christmas gifts. I haven't tried it yet (I've been waiting on its sister product that a friend got for me in Seattle before I open this one), but will as soon as I find some tomatoes. I would actually like to go to Seattle sometime and pick up specialty flavours and try to go to Target and get away from Vancouver for a few days. Since I have virtually no work yet for December I could probably do that. In theory.
Cripes, I wish I could stay home today. Cramps are kicking the crap out of my lady parts.
This morning I've been moderately domestic. I started laundry as soon as I woke up and got two loads out of the way, and tidied up the kitchen a bit. I despise doing laundry in this building, not because it's always busy (although it is sometimes) but because there's only one of each machine and it takes FOREVER to get through loads. I guess I got spoiled with the last place; there were two machines on every floor, so I could do weeks worth of laundry in less than 2 hours.
This is dull, I realise.
The depressive episode of the weekend is over, largely because I saw/talked to a bunch of great friends on Sunday and Monday.
Sunday I met up with TP and Jill for dinner at Burgoo. I've got to say... so underwhelming. I only had a few bites of mine and traded with TP and picked at hers. I don't know that I would go again unless I wanted soup. Made plans with Rachel to watch a hockey game next weekend with my little buddy Augie, which I'm really excited about. My two alma mater are playing each other. Should be a good game.
Monday I met up with my guybrarian friend Rich after his interview at the library. He and his pal were 4 pitchers into the afternoon by the time I got there (a detour thanks to a package issue with the local postal outlet put me an hour late), so conversation was animated. They almost talked me into going to Vegas this weekend, but work kept me out. It was a lot of fun, and we made plans to go to a Giants game this weekend, hopefully with our other guybrarian friend.
The reason I was late was because of the aforementioned package. I hoped it was my glasses; it was not. It could be even better, depending how disturbing you find it.
The back story: I saw an ad somewhere for a product sold in the US and wanted to try it. It was so intriguing that I bought a 3-pack of it and paid the ridiculous shipping cost with the idea that I can give two of the three away as Christmas gifts. I haven't tried it yet (I've been waiting on its sister product that a friend got for me in Seattle before I open this one), but will as soon as I find some tomatoes. I would actually like to go to Seattle sometime and pick up specialty flavours and try to go to Target and get away from Vancouver for a few days. Since I have virtually no work yet for December I could probably do that. In theory.
Cripes, I wish I could stay home today. Cramps are kicking the crap out of my lady parts.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
a dip in the ratings
I'm having a low day.
Avoidance is interesting. It preys on fears and confirms assumptions.
Today I just wish avoidance weren't the acceptable way to end friendships.
Avoidance is interesting. It preys on fears and confirms assumptions.
Today I just wish avoidance weren't the acceptable way to end friendships.
Friday, November 14, 2008
lippy
Holy crap, I hate people.
After a delightful night out with my CBC peeps, I rode the bus partway home with the most entitled yet stupid woman alive.
Seriously, if you think that getting on an empty bus at night at a back door is the best option for you, you should rethink your strategy. The bus driver called her to show him her ticket and she lipped him off. Then she started talking loudly about what an ass he was, at which point I said, "He just wanted to see your ticket." She waved it in front of my face (sort of, a few feet away) and said, "Here's my fucking ticket. Stay out of it."
Like I can do that when provoked.
So I said, "This isn't the B-line. He wants you to enter through the front." To which she replied, "It's LIKE the B-line." I said, "It's NOT the B-line, so you have to show your ticket." And then she got all bitchy and told me to fuck off, to which I obviously also had to tell her to fuck off and stop being so selfish.
When people try to appeal their case to innocent bystanders who want to stay out of it, you know the person is grasping a straws. This is what ensued.
I had a moment with a stranger, who essentially gave me a rolling eye look that said 'that woman is a ridiculous cow who is unable to not be a bitch,' and we had our moment and went back to our ride.
The woman gave me the finger when she got off, to which I gave her the British finger because I figured she either would think it was the peace sign or would be too stupid to know what I meant.
To summarise, people suck ass.
A little shout-out to CH for the secretive birthday on Monday (holla!): we'll be eating buffet chocolate real soon.
Just now I got into the most ridiculous misunderstanding with one of my closest friends, which resulted in me crying on the phone as we tried to figure it out. It's hard to be articulate and thoughtful with 1/3 of 6 jugs of beer coursing through your veins. Guh. No talking for me.
I guess it's that kind of night.
After a delightful night out with my CBC peeps, I rode the bus partway home with the most entitled yet stupid woman alive.
Seriously, if you think that getting on an empty bus at night at a back door is the best option for you, you should rethink your strategy. The bus driver called her to show him her ticket and she lipped him off. Then she started talking loudly about what an ass he was, at which point I said, "He just wanted to see your ticket." She waved it in front of my face (sort of, a few feet away) and said, "Here's my fucking ticket. Stay out of it."
Like I can do that when provoked.
So I said, "This isn't the B-line. He wants you to enter through the front." To which she replied, "It's LIKE the B-line." I said, "It's NOT the B-line, so you have to show your ticket." And then she got all bitchy and told me to fuck off, to which I obviously also had to tell her to fuck off and stop being so selfish.
When people try to appeal their case to innocent bystanders who want to stay out of it, you know the person is grasping a straws. This is what ensued.
I had a moment with a stranger, who essentially gave me a rolling eye look that said 'that woman is a ridiculous cow who is unable to not be a bitch,' and we had our moment and went back to our ride.
The woman gave me the finger when she got off, to which I gave her the British finger because I figured she either would think it was the peace sign or would be too stupid to know what I meant.
To summarise, people suck ass.
A little shout-out to CH for the secretive birthday on Monday (holla!): we'll be eating buffet chocolate real soon.
Just now I got into the most ridiculous misunderstanding with one of my closest friends, which resulted in me crying on the phone as we tried to figure it out. It's hard to be articulate and thoughtful with 1/3 of 6 jugs of beer coursing through your veins. Guh. No talking for me.
I guess it's that kind of night.
Monday, November 10, 2008
seeing clearly
The weather is kind of nice, but I've yet to go outside. Hiding under blankets always sounds like a better alternative to being cold, and it still feels a little cold out. I still haven't turned on my heat.
Today I bought two pairs of glasses. There is a ridiculously cheap sale at Clearly Contacts ($38 designer glasses!) and I really liked a couple of the styles. So... these will be added to the other pairs I've gotten from there. I don't really understand how they can sell complete glasses for $38, but I'm not complaining. Two pairs for under $80 is just silly to me.
Am feeling pretty dull lately. I'm OK, but just really low energy and without a whole lot of motivation to do much of anything. OK, that's not wholly accurate. I've got low motivation to make plans with people because it seems like a lot of effort with little in return. I'd rather stay home than make the effort right now. Perhaps it's the weather, perhaps it's because I'm trying to avoid people who have been sick in recent weeks...
Perhaps it's just feeling the weight of Remembrance Day. I'll, once again, make my way to the cenotaph for the ceremony and then head over to the Billy Bishop for drinks. It's a comforting tradition, and anyone is welcome to come with.
Today I bought two pairs of glasses. There is a ridiculously cheap sale at Clearly Contacts ($38 designer glasses!) and I really liked a couple of the styles. So... these will be added to the other pairs I've gotten from there. I don't really understand how they can sell complete glasses for $38, but I'm not complaining. Two pairs for under $80 is just silly to me.
Am feeling pretty dull lately. I'm OK, but just really low energy and without a whole lot of motivation to do much of anything. OK, that's not wholly accurate. I've got low motivation to make plans with people because it seems like a lot of effort with little in return. I'd rather stay home than make the effort right now. Perhaps it's the weather, perhaps it's because I'm trying to avoid people who have been sick in recent weeks...
Perhaps it's just feeling the weight of Remembrance Day. I'll, once again, make my way to the cenotaph for the ceremony and then head over to the Billy Bishop for drinks. It's a comforting tradition, and anyone is welcome to come with.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
let the show begin
Last night I went to Last Candidate Standing, a public forum for those running for public office in the municipal election. Public Space Network put it on in conjunction with SFU and it was... interesting. I invited my friend to go with and sold it by saying it would probably be a gong show since all mayoral and council candidates were invited. Little did I know it was literally going to be a gong show.
Only 18 of 25 candidates went to the forum, but it was still worth the time. Some of the people running are so fringe that I couldn't even understand their platforms. It was fascinating to hear why people were running and I felt bad for a few because they took themselves much more seriously than their platforms would allow. Legalise cocaine and heroin? Build 2000 $500/month geothermal apartments with no money? Uh... OK. It was hard to take someone seriously when one compared himself to a virgin, one wore evergreens in a visor and another wore a red ruffled shiny shirt with a top hat.
If only all political events were so amusing.
I'm pretty excited to vote next week.
Surprises: one Work Less Party candidate was quite impressive, one of the independent mayoral candidates was someone I would consider voting for, the cocaine/heroin comment.
After the forum I popped into Slickety Jim's for a birthday party, which was pretty fun, but I stayed only long enough to chug some ginger beer, have a quick chat with friends and salute the birthday boy. Good times.
Only 18 of 25 candidates went to the forum, but it was still worth the time. Some of the people running are so fringe that I couldn't even understand their platforms. It was fascinating to hear why people were running and I felt bad for a few because they took themselves much more seriously than their platforms would allow. Legalise cocaine and heroin? Build 2000 $500/month geothermal apartments with no money? Uh... OK. It was hard to take someone seriously when one compared himself to a virgin, one wore evergreens in a visor and another wore a red ruffled shiny shirt with a top hat.
If only all political events were so amusing.
I'm pretty excited to vote next week.
Surprises: one Work Less Party candidate was quite impressive, one of the independent mayoral candidates was someone I would consider voting for, the cocaine/heroin comment.
After the forum I popped into Slickety Jim's for a birthday party, which was pretty fun, but I stayed only long enough to chug some ginger beer, have a quick chat with friends and salute the birthday boy. Good times.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
half baked
I really, really like to bake. If I'm upset or angry one of the best ways for me to calm down is to bake. I love the measurements, the exactness of powers and liquids and congealed solids. Mixing bowls... love them and will buy vintage coloured pyrex anytime (if it's a good deal). I bought measuring cups last week in anticipation of the bakefest I planned for this weekend. I have dreams of silpat mats and silicone spatulas and mini bundt cake tins. I would spend all my money on cookbooks if I had anywhere to put them.
The things I baked Friday/Saturday:
1) upside down cranberry cake
2) molasses ginger cookies
3) black forest-ish cake
4) apple pie
5) poundcake/trifle
I had intended to make a berry cobbler, but changed my mind at the last minute. Probably for the best. There was a lot of dessert.
Note to self: don't bake so much at one time.
Thankfully a nice hoard of people came by for tea yesterday afternoon. I was concerned I'd wind up eating everything by myself, all the effort for nought. The most popular item, and the one I'm planning to make again soon, was the cranberry cake. Cripes, it was good. I managed to coerce a few people to take stuff home with them because there's no way I'd be able to eat all the leftovers. Baking cakes from scratch (frick, poundcake takes forever to bake, especially when you start at 1:30am) is satisfying; when they actually taste good, the satisfaction is amplified.
I used my china and wore the tea ring Dulcie gave me (thanks, girlie!) as promised. I'm going to try to use the china more frequently because it's much more fun to drink from a tiny teacup than anything. Perhaps more teacup gimlets should be in my future. Perhaps more cups and saucers...
Today I cleaned up the dishes and eliminated the slug that mysteriously died beside my fridge (*shudder*) and decided to bake cornbread muffins. I had a cheese ball that I bought on a whim to use in cooking and decided to cut it up and shove it and some jalapeños in the middle of the batter. Frick, I love cornbread. These suckers are fantastic, but so fricking hot. So good! When I mentioned to my sister about them, she stared at me stunned. The remainder of our conversation:
me: "They're really good. I swear."
Anita: "...I want to try them. The cheese is inside?"
me: "Ya, I usually use cream cheese, but thought I'd try this other cheese. I can give you one when you drop me off."
Anita: "Cream cheese? Oooo...Uh... just one? How many did you make?"
me: "A dozen."
Anita: "A dozen? Can't you give me more than one?"
me: "..."
Anita: "I want one now."
We had this conversation while we were waiting to order at the Reef. She and Peter took me for a belated birthday dinner, my choice. Peter and I both ordered the mahi mahi; Anita went with the less conventional jerk chicken quesadilla ("I ordered Mexican food at a Caribbean restaurant..." - Anita). When she tried mine she looked at my plate forlornly. Peter made lots of mmmm noises while he ate. It was darn good. We briefly discussed dessert, but there was no way to stuff anything else into any of us.
Besides, I still have all that cake in my fridge.
The things I baked Friday/Saturday:
1) upside down cranberry cake
2) molasses ginger cookies
3) black forest-ish cake
4) apple pie
5) poundcake/trifle
I had intended to make a berry cobbler, but changed my mind at the last minute. Probably for the best. There was a lot of dessert.
Note to self: don't bake so much at one time.
Thankfully a nice hoard of people came by for tea yesterday afternoon. I was concerned I'd wind up eating everything by myself, all the effort for nought. The most popular item, and the one I'm planning to make again soon, was the cranberry cake. Cripes, it was good. I managed to coerce a few people to take stuff home with them because there's no way I'd be able to eat all the leftovers. Baking cakes from scratch (frick, poundcake takes forever to bake, especially when you start at 1:30am) is satisfying; when they actually taste good, the satisfaction is amplified.
I used my china and wore the tea ring Dulcie gave me (thanks, girlie!) as promised. I'm going to try to use the china more frequently because it's much more fun to drink from a tiny teacup than anything. Perhaps more teacup gimlets should be in my future. Perhaps more cups and saucers...
Today I cleaned up the dishes and eliminated the slug that mysteriously died beside my fridge (*shudder*) and decided to bake cornbread muffins. I had a cheese ball that I bought on a whim to use in cooking and decided to cut it up and shove it and some jalapeños in the middle of the batter. Frick, I love cornbread. These suckers are fantastic, but so fricking hot. So good! When I mentioned to my sister about them, she stared at me stunned. The remainder of our conversation:
me: "They're really good. I swear."
Anita: "...I want to try them. The cheese is inside?"
me: "Ya, I usually use cream cheese, but thought I'd try this other cheese. I can give you one when you drop me off."
Anita: "Cream cheese? Oooo...Uh... just one? How many did you make?"
me: "A dozen."
Anita: "A dozen? Can't you give me more than one?"
me: "..."
Anita: "I want one now."
We had this conversation while we were waiting to order at the Reef. She and Peter took me for a belated birthday dinner, my choice. Peter and I both ordered the mahi mahi; Anita went with the less conventional jerk chicken quesadilla ("I ordered Mexican food at a Caribbean restaurant..." - Anita). When she tried mine she looked at my plate forlornly. Peter made lots of mmmm noises while he ate. It was darn good. We briefly discussed dessert, but there was no way to stuff anything else into any of us.
Besides, I still have all that cake in my fridge.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
none the wiser
Every year I decide that this is the year I won't plan anything for my birthday. And every year I cave at the last minute.
This year, like every other year, I planned to do nothing. Enquiries about my birthday plans had been lukewarm save for one. I had planned to go for a drink and a nice dinner by myself, not to avoid anyone but just to take in the experience quietly without the pressure of organising. It's a lot of work to make people celebrate a day that's only of importance to one person.
My friend was having none of that, though, and took me to Chambar, encouraging just another glass of the yummy beer as he picked up the check. We had to talk over the Madonna crowd and, had we planned for 30 minutes later, would have missed the ruckus and broken glass. It was the sort of experience I had hoped I could watch during my solo dinner, but it was much more fun to talk in hushed tones about people wearing too many sequins and not enough good taste.
The battle with Hallowe'en has reached a truce. I no longer try to compete with a synthetic holiday that people would rather celebrate than the late night hour I was born. I thank my mother that she managed to birth me less than an hour before Hallowe'en; this way I can support that it's tacky to wear a costume on the wrong day. Those that think it's fun to have a Hallowe'en themed birthday every year of your life should try it sometime. It isn't fun to be the busker outside the circus.
And so I celebrate my birthday today.
Plans to bake six desserts for who knows how many people have been tested. At 9pm I discovered that, when my oven was replaced, I forgot about the baking paraphernalia in the drawer. A frantic call to my landlord resulted in nothing but him blacklisting me as crazy (probably). Three of my desserts relied heavily on those pans/tins (and by relied heavily, what I mean to say is relied entirely). I couldn't make dinner until midnight and didn't eat until 2am. I realised that the showstopping cake I wanted to make required a candy thermometer because of the necessary precision of temperature for the icing; I lack a candy thermometer. I ran out of flour at 3am, suspending production until the shops open this morning. Anxiety about the day's schedule woke me up at 6:30. We'll just see what happens at this point. It might come down to throwing a carton of whipping cream, the bag of icing sugar and frozen berries into the middle of the table and hiding in my closet, between the shoes and the luggage.
I'm sure things will go fine; I'm just a drama queen. A worst-case scenario kind of girl.
The shops should be open now. Time to buy bakeware and flour. I wonder if they have candy thermometers at IGA...
This year, like every other year, I planned to do nothing. Enquiries about my birthday plans had been lukewarm save for one. I had planned to go for a drink and a nice dinner by myself, not to avoid anyone but just to take in the experience quietly without the pressure of organising. It's a lot of work to make people celebrate a day that's only of importance to one person.
My friend was having none of that, though, and took me to Chambar, encouraging just another glass of the yummy beer as he picked up the check. We had to talk over the Madonna crowd and, had we planned for 30 minutes later, would have missed the ruckus and broken glass. It was the sort of experience I had hoped I could watch during my solo dinner, but it was much more fun to talk in hushed tones about people wearing too many sequins and not enough good taste.
The battle with Hallowe'en has reached a truce. I no longer try to compete with a synthetic holiday that people would rather celebrate than the late night hour I was born. I thank my mother that she managed to birth me less than an hour before Hallowe'en; this way I can support that it's tacky to wear a costume on the wrong day. Those that think it's fun to have a Hallowe'en themed birthday every year of your life should try it sometime. It isn't fun to be the busker outside the circus.
And so I celebrate my birthday today.
Plans to bake six desserts for who knows how many people have been tested. At 9pm I discovered that, when my oven was replaced, I forgot about the baking paraphernalia in the drawer. A frantic call to my landlord resulted in nothing but him blacklisting me as crazy (probably). Three of my desserts relied heavily on those pans/tins (and by relied heavily, what I mean to say is relied entirely). I couldn't make dinner until midnight and didn't eat until 2am. I realised that the showstopping cake I wanted to make required a candy thermometer because of the necessary precision of temperature for the icing; I lack a candy thermometer. I ran out of flour at 3am, suspending production until the shops open this morning. Anxiety about the day's schedule woke me up at 6:30. We'll just see what happens at this point. It might come down to throwing a carton of whipping cream, the bag of icing sugar and frozen berries into the middle of the table and hiding in my closet, between the shoes and the luggage.
I'm sure things will go fine; I'm just a drama queen. A worst-case scenario kind of girl.
The shops should be open now. Time to buy bakeware and flour. I wonder if they have candy thermometers at IGA...
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
chop chop
My hearing is shot. I had earplugs in my hand tonight and then in the haste of getting the rock out of my house I put them in the wrong bag. Drat.
Tonight was the Lykke Li show I've been so excited about. Though for just a few minutes, as I napped on the couch, I thought about just staying home. But the ticket was expensive by my standards and I really did want to see her.
When I got to the venue I decided to get a drink. One gin & tonic cost me $7.25. Fuck, I hate Richard's. I sulked and sipped my drink while people bumped into me and stepped in front of me while I waited for the show. I heard the opening notes of "The Killing Moon" and looked up toward the lights reflecting off the disco ball and closed my eyes for a second. Whenever I hear that song I feel like I should be staring off at crashing waves with wind blowing through my hair, though I'm not sure why. I took it as a good omen.
Friendly Fire was fantastic. The lead singer gyrated and pelvic thrusted his way through a dancey set, making a few boys who like boys pretty excited. A good warm-up for Lykke Li, though I did find her a little dull and her voice started grating on my nerves after a while because I was right under a speaker and realised I needed a little space between it and my ridiculous ears. I was completely surprised the show was sold out; the crowd was like none I've seen: so eclectic. I didn't feel like punching anyone out, which is a change, though did visualise what I would do if someone tried to stand directly in front of me. Luckily the people around me weren't letting anyone into our area, conveniently situating themselves into an impenetrable labyrinth of limbs and bodies.
In other news, I didn't get the SFU job. I'm OK with it. In fact, I got a little anxious when I thought what I would do if I got the job. So now I don't have to wonder. I'm training next week at Langara, so I'm excited about that. Maybe I'm not cut out for full-time.
Monday night I went on the trolley tour with Nicola and Neal. It was super great to see them and catch up a bit. During the tour we discovered a few things: 1) Nicola laughs her head off when stories of blood and autopsies are discussed and 2) I seem to like stories about ax-related murders more than I think is healthy.
Maybe I should stay away from axes. They seem too efficient and I wouldn't want to risk accidentally chopping someone to pieces at a rock show.
Tonight was the Lykke Li show I've been so excited about. Though for just a few minutes, as I napped on the couch, I thought about just staying home. But the ticket was expensive by my standards and I really did want to see her.
When I got to the venue I decided to get a drink. One gin & tonic cost me $7.25. Fuck, I hate Richard's. I sulked and sipped my drink while people bumped into me and stepped in front of me while I waited for the show. I heard the opening notes of "The Killing Moon" and looked up toward the lights reflecting off the disco ball and closed my eyes for a second. Whenever I hear that song I feel like I should be staring off at crashing waves with wind blowing through my hair, though I'm not sure why. I took it as a good omen.
Friendly Fire was fantastic. The lead singer gyrated and pelvic thrusted his way through a dancey set, making a few boys who like boys pretty excited. A good warm-up for Lykke Li, though I did find her a little dull and her voice started grating on my nerves after a while because I was right under a speaker and realised I needed a little space between it and my ridiculous ears. I was completely surprised the show was sold out; the crowd was like none I've seen: so eclectic. I didn't feel like punching anyone out, which is a change, though did visualise what I would do if someone tried to stand directly in front of me. Luckily the people around me weren't letting anyone into our area, conveniently situating themselves into an impenetrable labyrinth of limbs and bodies.
In other news, I didn't get the SFU job. I'm OK with it. In fact, I got a little anxious when I thought what I would do if I got the job. So now I don't have to wonder. I'm training next week at Langara, so I'm excited about that. Maybe I'm not cut out for full-time.
Monday night I went on the trolley tour with Nicola and Neal. It was super great to see them and catch up a bit. During the tour we discovered a few things: 1) Nicola laughs her head off when stories of blood and autopsies are discussed and 2) I seem to like stories about ax-related murders more than I think is healthy.
Maybe I should stay away from axes. They seem too efficient and I wouldn't want to risk accidentally chopping someone to pieces at a rock show.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
weirdness
I'm a little out of sorts. My day was odd and just swirled into discomfort.
Today I worked in Art/History, a division I rarely work and feel so unprepared to answer questions there that I cringe when people approach me. When I headed for lunch I remembered it was Media Democracy Day, which means lots of tables set up in the promenade with socially-conscious people. I mention this because on my way back to the office with my lunch, I noticed the boy with Sideshow Bob hair whom I dated badly last year. He was reading something so he either didn't see me or was pretending he didn't see me. I thought for a moment that I should go over and be polite or to see if he would squirm. But I didn't. I walked on, immediately feeling a sinking feeling in my stomach and regretting my decision.
Really, how well could a conversation go? I had an internal dialogue that volleyed between wanting to make him uncomfortable and to see if I could have a civil conversation that would make him regret having no interest in me at all.
Instead I, as usual, did nothing.
After work I went to meet up with a friend and her friends before the screening of a short film she wrote the screenplay for. People are nice, but it makes for an uncomfortable situation when you know that none of the people you're being introduced to will remember your name or you in 2 minutes. I'm not exactly sure what it is about me that prevents people from remembering meeting me after 4 or 5 introductions. I sat alone on the bus to the event, the others breaking into a couple of factions. Upon entering the venue, I saw someone from work I haven't seen for a while, so I had a chat with him while the others walked past me, not even aware I was in the group. So I decided to sit with my conversationalist and his friend. At the end of the evening, as everyone filed out, I couldn't see anyone from the original group. This was somewhat disturbing since there were 10 of them. So I assumed they left without me or something and my work friend was talking to someone in the theatre, so I decided to go home.
At the bus stop one of the people I've met various times (have even been to her house) walked right by me. Three others stood in front of me and spoke French, not even acknowledging me. Just one person waved at me when we both got on and waved at me when she and her friends got off. Those are some bad odds: only 10% of people who meet me recognise me.
I'm really trying not to take it personally, but it's challenging.
I'm also trying to avoid Facebook because I'm not really interested in discovering that my sneaking suspicions about, again, being left out of various plans this weekend are well-founded.
Today I worked in Art/History, a division I rarely work and feel so unprepared to answer questions there that I cringe when people approach me. When I headed for lunch I remembered it was Media Democracy Day, which means lots of tables set up in the promenade with socially-conscious people. I mention this because on my way back to the office with my lunch, I noticed the boy with Sideshow Bob hair whom I dated badly last year. He was reading something so he either didn't see me or was pretending he didn't see me. I thought for a moment that I should go over and be polite or to see if he would squirm. But I didn't. I walked on, immediately feeling a sinking feeling in my stomach and regretting my decision.
Really, how well could a conversation go? I had an internal dialogue that volleyed between wanting to make him uncomfortable and to see if I could have a civil conversation that would make him regret having no interest in me at all.
Instead I, as usual, did nothing.
After work I went to meet up with a friend and her friends before the screening of a short film she wrote the screenplay for. People are nice, but it makes for an uncomfortable situation when you know that none of the people you're being introduced to will remember your name or you in 2 minutes. I'm not exactly sure what it is about me that prevents people from remembering meeting me after 4 or 5 introductions. I sat alone on the bus to the event, the others breaking into a couple of factions. Upon entering the venue, I saw someone from work I haven't seen for a while, so I had a chat with him while the others walked past me, not even aware I was in the group. So I decided to sit with my conversationalist and his friend. At the end of the evening, as everyone filed out, I couldn't see anyone from the original group. This was somewhat disturbing since there were 10 of them. So I assumed they left without me or something and my work friend was talking to someone in the theatre, so I decided to go home.
At the bus stop one of the people I've met various times (have even been to her house) walked right by me. Three others stood in front of me and spoke French, not even acknowledging me. Just one person waved at me when we both got on and waved at me when she and her friends got off. Those are some bad odds: only 10% of people who meet me recognise me.
I'm really trying not to take it personally, but it's challenging.
I'm also trying to avoid Facebook because I'm not really interested in discovering that my sneaking suspicions about, again, being left out of various plans this weekend are well-founded.
Friday, October 24, 2008
now that that's over with
This morning I had a job interview at a post-secondary institution. It was scheduled for 2 1/2 hours and we came in just 15 minutes short of that. It went fine, but I'm not sure I'm what they're looking for. I'm really not as concerned as I was the last time I had one of these interviews. Maybe because I got hired on-call at a small college. That takes the heat off of me a bit.
I was super cute today. People keep complimenting my hair and I realised it looks the tiniest bit mod. So I wore a cute modish grey dress, grey tights, a green cardi and green shoes. Hot damn, I love that dress. I'm going to wear it on my birthday just because it's so fricking cute. I might take a wild stab at high heels that day as well.
After voting (didn't really want to try to navigate on the actual voting day) I headed home and discovered a new oven has been installed. I guess I could bake more frequently to combat the cold. I'm going to have some hot chocolate and some soup, take a nap, and then head out for drinks with my guybrarians. Cripes, those guys are rad.
I was super cute today. People keep complimenting my hair and I realised it looks the tiniest bit mod. So I wore a cute modish grey dress, grey tights, a green cardi and green shoes. Hot damn, I love that dress. I'm going to wear it on my birthday just because it's so fricking cute. I might take a wild stab at high heels that day as well.
After voting (didn't really want to try to navigate on the actual voting day) I headed home and discovered a new oven has been installed. I guess I could bake more frequently to combat the cold. I'm going to have some hot chocolate and some soup, take a nap, and then head out for drinks with my guybrarians. Cripes, those guys are rad.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
facing upwards
As I made my way home, I couldn't stop looking up at the sky. Light, reflections and clouds distract me often, but today was even more distracting than usual. The sky was bright blue with clouds that stretched across the sky like chenille fabric. Generally I hate chenille; it feels oily and gross, and adds pounds onto any body (this includes chenille socks, which I can't even talk about). These clouds, though, were light and fluffy and striking. I didn't even trip as I stared up.
In fact, I almost bumped into TP on her way to the library to get some DVDs. That was a nice surprise!
I'm supposed to be preparing a presentation and course outline for Friday and I've got a massive block. So far I've got just a couple of lines; I have to plan for 35 minutes of talking. Ugh. If only magic elves would come and do this for me... The last time I had this problem was the UBC interview, and I think we know how that went. (Well, all we know is I didn't get the job, so maybe my presentation wasn't bad.) Looks like I'll be at work tomorrow until it's done. Good times.
You know what promises to be terrible? The Stylista. Holy crap, are some of these people bitches. That it's on right after ANTM... That's just efficient.
Also, if you know anyone who is going to Lykke Li next week... Lemme know.
In fact, I almost bumped into TP on her way to the library to get some DVDs. That was a nice surprise!
I'm supposed to be preparing a presentation and course outline for Friday and I've got a massive block. So far I've got just a couple of lines; I have to plan for 35 minutes of talking. Ugh. If only magic elves would come and do this for me... The last time I had this problem was the UBC interview, and I think we know how that went. (Well, all we know is I didn't get the job, so maybe my presentation wasn't bad.) Looks like I'll be at work tomorrow until it's done. Good times.
You know what promises to be terrible? The Stylista. Holy crap, are some of these people bitches. That it's on right after ANTM... That's just efficient.
Also, if you know anyone who is going to Lykke Li next week... Lemme know.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
the key of low
This evening I went to Christ Church Cathedral for Gregorian chanting service. It's an Anglican church and I realised as I sat in the pew (I couldn't make myself sit in a chair in a church) that the last time I went to an Anglican church was when I was in Brownies and had to visit three religious services for my religion badge. (In retrospect, that was a hilarious badge to get in a small town. My options for religious services were the Catholic church [which I went to weekly anyway], the Anglican church and the Lutheran church. The only real differences were 'ghost' and 'spirit' and the marital status of the priest/pastor.)
The interior of the cathedral is more impressive than the exterior belies. For the service it was darkened with candles and low-lit pendant lights. It was calm and quiet and, despite the men not singing in Latin, the singing was soothing. It was nice to be quiet for a little bit, to just sit quietly without needing to be anywhere or do anything.
Lately I guess I've been basking in low-key.
Last night I went to Rebecca's birthday party and managed to appear somewhat sociable, despite being so completely not lately. This morning I went for breakfast at the Tomahawk with David and TP, and then a wander through thrift stores. In the afternoon I went to the Whip for this week's cask beer (a slightly sweet Belgian something or other) with Sara and her partner and some of their friends, then to the new Irish Heather for drinks and (I had) bangers & mash. (I've got to say that, as far as bangers & mash goes, it was pretty good. The sausages, though not the three listed on the menu, were juicy and flavourful; the potatoes a little lumpy but OK; the sweet onion gravy nice; and the turnip & carrot mash was top notch. I'd be willing to have it again, though would have liked a bit of cabbage to mix into my potatoes, but you can't have everything.) It was a good day.
I had an interview on Friday at Langara for on-call evening shifts, and I feel like it went OK, but it's really hard to tell since I've never had such a minimal interview for a librarian position. There's more interview planning to be done, something I dislike because I take it so personally when I don't get jobs. Hopefully things start happening.
Also on Friday I got my hair hacked. I don't care what my hair person does to my hair; I leave it up to her since she knows more about hair than I do. This time she decided to give me fringe (a little shout out, JD) and make it way lighter than it's been for a few haircuts. I'm trying to get used to the bangs, but it's significantly different for me. People have asked if I cut my hair; this is hilarious.
The interior of the cathedral is more impressive than the exterior belies. For the service it was darkened with candles and low-lit pendant lights. It was calm and quiet and, despite the men not singing in Latin, the singing was soothing. It was nice to be quiet for a little bit, to just sit quietly without needing to be anywhere or do anything.
Lately I guess I've been basking in low-key.
Last night I went to Rebecca's birthday party and managed to appear somewhat sociable, despite being so completely not lately. This morning I went for breakfast at the Tomahawk with David and TP, and then a wander through thrift stores. In the afternoon I went to the Whip for this week's cask beer (a slightly sweet Belgian something or other) with Sara and her partner and some of their friends, then to the new Irish Heather for drinks and (I had) bangers & mash. (I've got to say that, as far as bangers & mash goes, it was pretty good. The sausages, though not the three listed on the menu, were juicy and flavourful; the potatoes a little lumpy but OK; the sweet onion gravy nice; and the turnip & carrot mash was top notch. I'd be willing to have it again, though would have liked a bit of cabbage to mix into my potatoes, but you can't have everything.) It was a good day.
I had an interview on Friday at Langara for on-call evening shifts, and I feel like it went OK, but it's really hard to tell since I've never had such a minimal interview for a librarian position. There's more interview planning to be done, something I dislike because I take it so personally when I don't get jobs. Hopefully things start happening.
Also on Friday I got my hair hacked. I don't care what my hair person does to my hair; I leave it up to her since she knows more about hair than I do. This time she decided to give me fringe (a little shout out, JD) and make it way lighter than it's been for a few haircuts. I'm trying to get used to the bangs, but it's significantly different for me. People have asked if I cut my hair; this is hilarious.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
in the past
Last week I worked a day in Special Collections, which is always sort of intimidating yet interesting. I'd actually love to "get" Special Collections and work there constantly, but that's not really in the cards the way the larger organisation is operating. Besides, I don't quite know where to find some of the more specific stuff that people serious enough to come to Special Collections are looking for.
Anyway, while I worked, I read over a blog entry about the library getting access to passenger lists up until 1935. This was of interest because my family, both sides, came to Canada in the last century. My mom's family didn't make it over until the '40s, but my dad's family came before he was born, in the late '20s. I thought I'd try out the process, see if I could find anything about my dad's family.
My aunt mentioned that she didn't remember very much about the voyage, just that they were seasick. After doing a couple of searches, I finally managed to find them in the passenger lists. I actually got teary-eyed while I stared at their names. My aunt wasn't just sick from the ship; she had chickenpox and the whole family had to be quarantined for an extra week because of it. They landed in Quebec on May 24th, 1929 with their Old Country names. I copied the image and made a mental note to mention it to my dad.
Then I promptly forgot about it.
Almost as soon as I got to my parents' house today, I thought about the image. Thankfully I attached it to an email message and downloaded it onto Mom's computer. Dad is never a very emotional person, but I think he appreciated the effort and was extremely quiet as he looked at it. Mom was pretty interested as well; she's got a stash of documentation from when they emigrated.
Perhaps that idea to write books about them isn't so far-fetched...
Anyway, while I worked, I read over a blog entry about the library getting access to passenger lists up until 1935. This was of interest because my family, both sides, came to Canada in the last century. My mom's family didn't make it over until the '40s, but my dad's family came before he was born, in the late '20s. I thought I'd try out the process, see if I could find anything about my dad's family.
My aunt mentioned that she didn't remember very much about the voyage, just that they were seasick. After doing a couple of searches, I finally managed to find them in the passenger lists. I actually got teary-eyed while I stared at their names. My aunt wasn't just sick from the ship; she had chickenpox and the whole family had to be quarantined for an extra week because of it. They landed in Quebec on May 24th, 1929 with their Old Country names. I copied the image and made a mental note to mention it to my dad.
Then I promptly forgot about it.
Almost as soon as I got to my parents' house today, I thought about the image. Thankfully I attached it to an email message and downloaded it onto Mom's computer. Dad is never a very emotional person, but I think he appreciated the effort and was extremely quiet as he looked at it. Mom was pretty interested as well; she's got a stash of documentation from when they emigrated.
Perhaps that idea to write books about them isn't so far-fetched...
Thursday, October 9, 2008
giving 'til it hurts
I decided to get blood-letted today. It's been a year since I gave away my blood, but those phone calls they make, when they say my type is in high demand around long weekends... It just makes me feel so important. Maybe I should actually research how in-demand my blood is...
Just in case, I took an extra packet of cookies.
The problem with giving blood in a large room with other donors is that I am too competitive. I don't want someone to donate faster than me, so I tried to pump my blood faster than the person behind me. I managed OK, but I'd like to be faster. If I'm faster I win and then I can get to that peach juice faster.
Peach juice? That doesn't exist for real. Not naturally occurring.
Unrelated, a road trip to my family's abode means David Sedaris audiobooks. Can't wait to listen to the Stadium Pal bit again. I love that man. I tried to get Sarah Vowell's audiobook for "Assassination vacation," but it's signed out. Sigh. I'm excited to read her new one. Am looking forward to stuffing and heat.
Just in case, I took an extra packet of cookies.
The problem with giving blood in a large room with other donors is that I am too competitive. I don't want someone to donate faster than me, so I tried to pump my blood faster than the person behind me. I managed OK, but I'd like to be faster. If I'm faster I win and then I can get to that peach juice faster.
Peach juice? That doesn't exist for real. Not naturally occurring.
Unrelated, a road trip to my family's abode means David Sedaris audiobooks. Can't wait to listen to the Stadium Pal bit again. I love that man. I tried to get Sarah Vowell's audiobook for "Assassination vacation," but it's signed out. Sigh. I'm excited to read her new one. Am looking forward to stuffing and heat.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
working it
I applied for a job today. External, at SFU. No idea how helpful working in business is going to be, but apparently SFU scoops loads of people who worked on the science & business floor at VPL at some point. It's just a temporary position, but it would be experience and could be extended. I'm trying not to be negative about it; where normally I would say I don't stand a chance, now I think I am qualified for the job and there's no reason why I shouldn't get it. I also have an interview for on-call at one of the colleges in another week. I think I'm also qualified for that one, especially because of my time teaching in Japan.
Counseling is good. It makes me less mean.
My friend came over for beer and games last night, and agreed that I should keep both coats. This is good and bad. If I see them on sale this weekend... well, all that stuff I learned in counseling about naming my feelings correctly may be out the window. He also thinks I'm just "better" in general, so maybe it's time to venture out and start talking to people again.
Counseling is good. It makes me less mean.
My friend came over for beer and games last night, and agreed that I should keep both coats. This is good and bad. If I see them on sale this weekend... well, all that stuff I learned in counseling about naming my feelings correctly may be out the window. He also thinks I'm just "better" in general, so maybe it's time to venture out and start talking to people again.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
red or aubergine?
I'm turning into a clothing whore.
Today I returned the coat that fit funny and tried on two coats that are vastly different from each other. One is a red pea coat-style made of something that reminds me of a low nap muppet. The other is a deep purple (aubergine, if you will) that is slightly dressier, longer, more buttoney. I can't decide between them.
Unfortunately, I asked my co-workers which I should keep and they, unhelpfully, suggested I should keep both. I evidently asked the wrong people; now that I think about it, I rarely see either of them wearing the same thing more than once... Around 74% of the people on this floor seem to have a thing for shoes. I'm not complaining; just saying.
I'll assess by wearing them around the house and maybe, if I get really motivated, will take a picture and post for people to vote on. I've got 90 days to make up my mind.
Today I also bought some rather attractive heels from the Bay. They're having a weird mid-week sale, which I'm not complaining about at all, since the shoes wound up being $35. I need to learn how to walk in heels; I sound like a clunky elephant when I walk, missing just the music that accompanies all elephants and morbidly obese people. Not to say I'm morbidly obese, nor an elephant; just that I walk as loudly as one.
Today I returned the coat that fit funny and tried on two coats that are vastly different from each other. One is a red pea coat-style made of something that reminds me of a low nap muppet. The other is a deep purple (aubergine, if you will) that is slightly dressier, longer, more buttoney. I can't decide between them.
Unfortunately, I asked my co-workers which I should keep and they, unhelpfully, suggested I should keep both. I evidently asked the wrong people; now that I think about it, I rarely see either of them wearing the same thing more than once... Around 74% of the people on this floor seem to have a thing for shoes. I'm not complaining; just saying.
I'll assess by wearing them around the house and maybe, if I get really motivated, will take a picture and post for people to vote on. I've got 90 days to make up my mind.
Today I also bought some rather attractive heels from the Bay. They're having a weird mid-week sale, which I'm not complaining about at all, since the shoes wound up being $35. I need to learn how to walk in heels; I sound like a clunky elephant when I walk, missing just the music that accompanies all elephants and morbidly obese people. Not to say I'm morbidly obese, nor an elephant; just that I walk as loudly as one.
Monday, October 6, 2008
bundling up
My coat buying skills are in question. Previous winter coats have been OK, but I've had nothing but trouble trying to find a coat I like that won't make me poor. I don't like this sort of challenge. With my current coat wearing thin (it's actually wearing thin), I really need a new coat.
Last weekend I bought a coat. I thought it was OK. I showed my friend, who delicately said it looked too big for me, that the pockets were needlessly large. I guess I can see his point, though not in a mirror (still don't have a full-length), but returning it means I have to start the search again. Tomorrow I will attempt to fix my error and spend more time looking in a mirror in good light.
Really, this sounds like a lame complaint, but it occupies large amounts of my non-work hours. Especially when the temperature drops and I have to wrap myself in blankets to stay warm. (I am too cheap to turn on my heat since it's only the start of October and it probably won't warm up again until next May, which is... 8 months away. This isn't Edmonton; I don't have to be warmed by artificial heat just yet.) [I've pulled my Bay blanket out already, so I'm guessing I'll have to pull out the down duvet by December. Good thing I kept all those warming devices, though still don't have a water bottle, though those things scare me just slightly.]
Unrelated, I'm working on resumes this week. I just need to do something different for a while, I think, to figure out where I should be. It's a new self-improvement kick, though I'm not really improving much; just applying for jobs and talking to a shrink. Though, obviously, I'm also attempting to improve my fashion sense, but it still seems to be a somewhat wrong.
Last weekend I bought a coat. I thought it was OK. I showed my friend, who delicately said it looked too big for me, that the pockets were needlessly large. I guess I can see his point, though not in a mirror (still don't have a full-length), but returning it means I have to start the search again. Tomorrow I will attempt to fix my error and spend more time looking in a mirror in good light.
Really, this sounds like a lame complaint, but it occupies large amounts of my non-work hours. Especially when the temperature drops and I have to wrap myself in blankets to stay warm. (I am too cheap to turn on my heat since it's only the start of October and it probably won't warm up again until next May, which is... 8 months away. This isn't Edmonton; I don't have to be warmed by artificial heat just yet.) [I've pulled my Bay blanket out already, so I'm guessing I'll have to pull out the down duvet by December. Good thing I kept all those warming devices, though still don't have a water bottle, though those things scare me just slightly.]
Unrelated, I'm working on resumes this week. I just need to do something different for a while, I think, to figure out where I should be. It's a new self-improvement kick, though I'm not really improving much; just applying for jobs and talking to a shrink. Though, obviously, I'm also attempting to improve my fashion sense, but it still seems to be a somewhat wrong.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
recapsulated
Stuff has been happening lately; some good, some not so good. Maybe I'll just tell you some of the good stuff because I don't really want to talk about the not so good.
Last Friday I went to the Giants' home opener with Rich and Christy, which was a lot of fun. We met at the racetrack and had a couple of predrinks (the drink specials are always pretty cheap) while they bet on the first two races. Christy wound up winning the exactor, but she bet low ($2) and still came away with $15.90! The game was pretty good, fast and lots of shots on net by the Giants. They got some pretty goals and easily won 7-3. Can't wait to go to a Golden Bears game this year; they're playing at UBC twice this season: once mid-October and again at the end of November. I'd better get my alumni card before those games since regular adult prices are well more than I feel willing to pay to see my two alma maters. One of them should give me a discount.
Saturday I went to visit my oldest friend (we've been friends since Storytime when we were 3) in Maple Ridge and, just for a second, was jealous of the whole owning-a-house thing. I got to see the bridesmaids and it was a lot of fun to hang out with them again. There have been a number of changes with all of us the last year and it was really nice to catch up. My friend meant it as a congratulations party for my degree and hired an intuitive to read our energies. (This was actually a really thoughtful gift because she knew this would be a good time for me to get some sort of a reading, especially since I had such a good experience at my reading at my grade 12 graduation.) Not surprisingly, my energy is low, but I was surprised by some of the stuff (she kept asking me why I'm not listening to my guides; I guess they weren't pleased that I've been resisting their direction) and dismayed to learn that the places I've been thinking of moving to are not where I should be. Unfortunately my time ended before she could get a good read on where I should go, so I'm meant to do dream therapy to work out where I should go in my dreams. This may sound a bit flaky, but I used to dream my future all the time and stopped because it didn't seem rational. I'm trying to get back into it, though. I was much happier at that time in my life.
Last night I went to the Silver Jews show and it was aight. I mean, the opening band was super energetic and fun, at the end leaving the club and jumping a fence somewhere outside while continuing to play drums and sing. They also had shorty shorts and a few friends admitted they hoped to see a sausage sword show with all the climbing and jumping around the three hair-intensive boys were doing. Alas, the shorts kept them decent. And Silver Jews were all good and stuff, but I was losing interest after a while, wishing each song were the last one, all the while realising my ears sort of hurt. I left the show with Jaime and most of our conversation was talking loudly about how much our ears were ringing.
Tonight I'm going to the Canucks/Sharks game with my sister, thanks to Jason, which means awesome seasons tickets seats in the fifth row. Pretty excited!
Last Friday I went to the Giants' home opener with Rich and Christy, which was a lot of fun. We met at the racetrack and had a couple of predrinks (the drink specials are always pretty cheap) while they bet on the first two races. Christy wound up winning the exactor, but she bet low ($2) and still came away with $15.90! The game was pretty good, fast and lots of shots on net by the Giants. They got some pretty goals and easily won 7-3. Can't wait to go to a Golden Bears game this year; they're playing at UBC twice this season: once mid-October and again at the end of November. I'd better get my alumni card before those games since regular adult prices are well more than I feel willing to pay to see my two alma maters. One of them should give me a discount.
Saturday I went to visit my oldest friend (we've been friends since Storytime when we were 3) in Maple Ridge and, just for a second, was jealous of the whole owning-a-house thing. I got to see the bridesmaids and it was a lot of fun to hang out with them again. There have been a number of changes with all of us the last year and it was really nice to catch up. My friend meant it as a congratulations party for my degree and hired an intuitive to read our energies. (This was actually a really thoughtful gift because she knew this would be a good time for me to get some sort of a reading, especially since I had such a good experience at my reading at my grade 12 graduation.) Not surprisingly, my energy is low, but I was surprised by some of the stuff (she kept asking me why I'm not listening to my guides; I guess they weren't pleased that I've been resisting their direction) and dismayed to learn that the places I've been thinking of moving to are not where I should be. Unfortunately my time ended before she could get a good read on where I should go, so I'm meant to do dream therapy to work out where I should go in my dreams. This may sound a bit flaky, but I used to dream my future all the time and stopped because it didn't seem rational. I'm trying to get back into it, though. I was much happier at that time in my life.
Last night I went to the Silver Jews show and it was aight. I mean, the opening band was super energetic and fun, at the end leaving the club and jumping a fence somewhere outside while continuing to play drums and sing. They also had shorty shorts and a few friends admitted they hoped to see a sausage sword show with all the climbing and jumping around the three hair-intensive boys were doing. Alas, the shorts kept them decent. And Silver Jews were all good and stuff, but I was losing interest after a while, wishing each song were the last one, all the while realising my ears sort of hurt. I left the show with Jaime and most of our conversation was talking loudly about how much our ears were ringing.
Tonight I'm going to the Canucks/Sharks game with my sister, thanks to Jason, which means awesome seasons tickets seats in the fifth row. Pretty excited!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
deathly
"Glam God" fascinates me because a bunch of stylists wind up crying on a weekly basis, saying that fashion saved their lives or other such blather. Hmm... I probably shouldn't find this funny; it seems cruel to laugh at them. Tonight two of them cried: one because his partner was a drunk and he thought he was going to be eliminated and blubbered about only having $10 left and he wouldn't spend it on food, he'd spend it on fabric for a dress; the other was a preview for next week's episode.
Unrelated, today a hold I've been looking forward to came in. "The American resting place" is 400 years of cemetery history. The author was raised in Chicago, so I'm kind of excited to see how much is about Chicago cemeteries. The plates show a decent number from Chicago, with a few specifically from Graceland, which is tops on my to-do list when I visit next. A random flipping through the index allowed a glimpse of the Haymarket Riot's inclusion. I've been obsessed with cemeteries since I was a little kid. I remember attending funerals a lot when I was a kid, starting from when I was 3, and had to help the church clean the plots every fall in preparation for winter. I like cities I visit much more if I can visit the cemetery.
Unrelated, today a hold I've been looking forward to came in. "The American resting place" is 400 years of cemetery history. The author was raised in Chicago, so I'm kind of excited to see how much is about Chicago cemeteries. The plates show a decent number from Chicago, with a few specifically from Graceland, which is tops on my to-do list when I visit next. A random flipping through the index allowed a glimpse of the Haymarket Riot's inclusion. I've been obsessed with cemeteries since I was a little kid. I remember attending funerals a lot when I was a kid, starting from when I was 3, and had to help the church clean the plots every fall in preparation for winter. I like cities I visit much more if I can visit the cemetery.
raindrops keep falling on my head
I might only have work until the end of October. The position I was supposed to fill, the one people keep giving me work to do for, is almost certainly going to be a lateral transfer. This means someone who already has a job will get the position. It is highly likely the person is a children's librarian, which means I can't apply. Currently I have 8 hours booked for November; I need to work 45 hours to break even.
The rejection letters from the jobs I've applied for are getting more cruel. I'm almost afraid to apply anywhere because I've grown tired of being told I have no qualifications that would allow me to get an interview.
Bad day, go away.
The rejection letters from the jobs I've applied for are getting more cruel. I'm almost afraid to apply anywhere because I've grown tired of being told I have no qualifications that would allow me to get an interview.
Bad day, go away.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
solitaire
Nice days make me sad. On days that are nice, it is near impossible to find someone to do something with. By the 4th or 5th rejection I tend to give up, choosing instead to curl up on the futon watching PBS instead of making more effort or leaving my house on my own."Alone in the wilderness" is on right now. I've seen it 9 or 10 times in full, multiple more times in sections. There are two reasons I like watching it. 1) I'm impressed by his skills, how he made everything he needed to survive for 35 years in the middle of nowhere in Alaska. 2) I'm jealous that he was able to live alone with himself for so long, content to find joy in his solitary everyday life.
I'm finding it increasingly difficult to be alone. The more friends who partner the more alone I realise I am. This is punctuated by the fact that I can't find anyone to go for a walk with in the middle of the day on a weekend. And then I discover I've been left out of plans by people who are coupled, which no one ever tells me about, but unfortunately Facebook declares on a constant basis. "So-and-so and so-and-so are now friends" points out that I am off the invitation list, never considered to be included, never to meet the people I know other friends are invited to meet. Guess it's a good thing I barely have days off. Work is becoming my closest friend.
This week I'm going to apply for two more jobs, if only to take up what remaining free time I still have. If I have no time maybe I'll forget I'm solitary.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
coping methods, part 2
I haven't been feeling particularly well the last while and advice from others has been, almost exclusively, to do things I like to combat the Mean Reds. Lately I've been most interested in matching, which is a sad interest, but it's the truth. To assist with this, I picked up a couple pairs of shoes today. It's probably bad to spend money on stuff that I don't really need, but it's either buy shoes or buy drugs and I'm still not sold on the whole drug thing. Besides, they're from Winners and were half what they would have retailed at. And I'm kind of cheap lately or in general, so you can assume they really were cheap.
The purple ones are Liz Claiborne and are quite possibly one of the highest pairs of shoes I've ever owned, including my fancy shoes that I only wear for special occasions. And they're meant for work! But I like them a great deal and am wearing them around the house now, to get used to them and to see if they need to be broken in before wearing them all day around the office. The green ones are some random brand I've never heard of, but they're ultra comfy and I love the colour. I can't really tell how librarian they are, but I suspect that anything is librarianish if a librarian is wearing it.
What's funny is that when I arrived back at work I mentioned to one of the librarians that I had just gotten a couple of pairs of sensible shoes. She wanted to see them (earlier in the week she showed off her newly purchased red suede boots that made me jealous for her tiny calves) and laughed at my description because she didn't see how 3 inch purple shoes and green flats were sensible. Maybe I should have said school marmish; that description seems more apt.
Or maybe my view of shoes is rather skewed. I look at the stuff girls hobble around in at the library and I can't believe they thought those shoes were the best choice for that outfit. Yesterday, just before the library was shut down due to toxic fumes from the CBC building construction (aiming industrial epoxy fumes toward the air intake of a public building seems retarded, but maybe that's just me), I had a discussion with an old co-worker about why high heels look sort of stupid with shorty shorts and tiny skirts. Neither of us are really big on the hooker chic look.
I'm not going to talk about the shiny red bag that also made its way home with me today.
The purple ones are Liz Claiborne and are quite possibly one of the highest pairs of shoes I've ever owned, including my fancy shoes that I only wear for special occasions. And they're meant for work! But I like them a great deal and am wearing them around the house now, to get used to them and to see if they need to be broken in before wearing them all day around the office. The green ones are some random brand I've never heard of, but they're ultra comfy and I love the colour. I can't really tell how librarian they are, but I suspect that anything is librarianish if a librarian is wearing it.
What's funny is that when I arrived back at work I mentioned to one of the librarians that I had just gotten a couple of pairs of sensible shoes. She wanted to see them (earlier in the week she showed off her newly purchased red suede boots that made me jealous for her tiny calves) and laughed at my description because she didn't see how 3 inch purple shoes and green flats were sensible. Maybe I should have said school marmish; that description seems more apt. Or maybe my view of shoes is rather skewed. I look at the stuff girls hobble around in at the library and I can't believe they thought those shoes were the best choice for that outfit. Yesterday, just before the library was shut down due to toxic fumes from the CBC building construction (aiming industrial epoxy fumes toward the air intake of a public building seems retarded, but maybe that's just me), I had a discussion with an old co-worker about why high heels look sort of stupid with shorty shorts and tiny skirts. Neither of us are really big on the hooker chic look.
I'm not going to talk about the shiny red bag that also made its way home with me today.
coping methods, part 1
I was tipped-off by Sara about fun, relatively cheap tights at Winners and decided, if I wanted some, I should haul my bum over ASAP. My size tends to disappear quickly when there's a sale, especially the cute stuff. During lunch today I headed over and scored! Well, sort of scored... There were only two pairs that were both my size and cute, but more than that at one time is probably crazy.
The thing that I find so hilarious about these tights is not the complete gaudiness of them. I mean, they are totally gaudy and I can understand a little why they were on clearance, but to me they're great. They make me laugh when I wear them. The more hilarious thing is the cover images. Super tacky. What was the art director thinking? The brown pair is the most ridiculous. Well, unless the image was attached to an ad for a good time. Open leg poses? Bad idea.
My legs are naturally enormous, the calves meant for a 300-pound football player. They frighten me. They've always been huge, preventing me from enjoying boots that rise above the ankle. The calves in these tights... I'm not sure yet. And I probably won't know until I wear them out since I lack a mirror that will allow me to see anything below my chest. But I don't even care if they look ridiculous because I love them and they make me giggle when I look down at my legs. It's nice to be at the stage in my life where I don't care if I look goofy. Or don't care enough to not wear what I suspect may be goofy.
During packing for the move, I rediscovered some trouser socks/kneehighs that I haven't worn out in public ever. One is a stripey black pair of trouser socks; the other, orange opaque kneehighs. I'm not sure there is anything I own that I can match with them, but it's going to happen this winter. One way or the other. (Honestly, what other way would be the other way? I've never understood the context for that statement.) On the other hand, what was I thinking buying orange kneehighs?!
This week I'm waiting for a package of socks/stockings to arrive in the post from a sock shop in Portland. I had a mini coupon from the last time I ordered socks from them, when 4 of 5 pairs ordered were stolen somewhere between their shop and my mailbox (I suspect it was in the States, since the package has to be sealed at their postal office and the package didn't show any signs of being opened and resealed) and they gave me the coupon since I had to wait an extra month to get the order in full. The pair I'm most excited for is the fleur-de-lis stockings. They should be here any day now. Socks rock.
The thing that I find so hilarious about these tights is not the complete gaudiness of them. I mean, they are totally gaudy and I can understand a little why they were on clearance, but to me they're great. They make me laugh when I wear them. The more hilarious thing is the cover images. Super tacky. What was the art director thinking? The brown pair is the most ridiculous. Well, unless the image was attached to an ad for a good time. Open leg poses? Bad idea.
My legs are naturally enormous, the calves meant for a 300-pound football player. They frighten me. They've always been huge, preventing me from enjoying boots that rise above the ankle. The calves in these tights... I'm not sure yet. And I probably won't know until I wear them out since I lack a mirror that will allow me to see anything below my chest. But I don't even care if they look ridiculous because I love them and they make me giggle when I look down at my legs. It's nice to be at the stage in my life where I don't care if I look goofy. Or don't care enough to not wear what I suspect may be goofy.
During packing for the move, I rediscovered some trouser socks/kneehighs that I haven't worn out in public ever. One is a stripey black pair of trouser socks; the other, orange opaque kneehighs. I'm not sure there is anything I own that I can match with them, but it's going to happen this winter. One way or the other. (Honestly, what other way would be the other way? I've never understood the context for that statement.) On the other hand, what was I thinking buying orange kneehighs?!This week I'm waiting for a package of socks/stockings to arrive in the post from a sock shop in Portland. I had a mini coupon from the last time I ordered socks from them, when 4 of 5 pairs ordered were stolen somewhere between their shop and my mailbox (I suspect it was in the States, since the package has to be sealed at their postal office and the package didn't show any signs of being opened and resealed) and they gave me the coupon since I had to wait an extra month to get the order in full. The pair I'm most excited for is the fleur-de-lis stockings. They should be here any day now. Socks rock.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
yes, i am that vacuous
You know what's not fair? I've been looking sort of cute the last few work days, but no one of consequence actually sees me in this state. Let me recap:
Wednesday: blue dress, pink cardi, grey tights and pink flats. (This was my fav)
Thursday: burgundy top, black trousers and the $0.94 shoes.
Friday: black top, royal purple cardi, grey trousers, stripey socks and Chuck Taylors.
today: green top, black cardi, pinstripe pencil skirt, green tights and black with green Fluevogs.
The green tights of today (I was reluctant to take them off) are super awesome, purchased at the Superhero Supply Co. in Brooklyn. I really hope to convince someone to acquire more because the colours are bright and just good, and I haven't found a place that has adequate colour selections. Any tips where to find such things in Vancouver that don't just fit anorexic girls and foreign boys wanting to show off their bits would be most appreciated.
Also, I am not trying to be a "hot" librarian; I'm not sure I ever could anyway. No, I just like matching a great deal. Matching is fun.
Wednesday: blue dress, pink cardi, grey tights and pink flats. (This was my fav)
Thursday: burgundy top, black trousers and the $0.94 shoes.
Friday: black top, royal purple cardi, grey trousers, stripey socks and Chuck Taylors.
today: green top, black cardi, pinstripe pencil skirt, green tights and black with green Fluevogs.
The green tights of today (I was reluctant to take them off) are super awesome, purchased at the Superhero Supply Co. in Brooklyn. I really hope to convince someone to acquire more because the colours are bright and just good, and I haven't found a place that has adequate colour selections. Any tips where to find such things in Vancouver that don't just fit anorexic girls and foreign boys wanting to show off their bits would be most appreciated.
Also, I am not trying to be a "hot" librarian; I'm not sure I ever could anyway. No, I just like matching a great deal. Matching is fun.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
twinges of sun
I favour the bus over the Skytrain unless I'm super late and the train is the only way to get to work on time. The train is crowded and people seem to be more annoying on the train than on buses. It doesn't happen that I'm late too often, so I take two buses so I can get 2 or 3 blocks from work.
Today on a two-block stretch on Hastings, I saw the following, all of which made me smile for different reasons:
1) a man with faded jeans and a cut-off plaid shirt and long hair was bending over to pick something up, revealing his black thong
2) a couple pushing shopping carts stopped to share a laugh and he fed her a piece of fruit
3) signs on a development read: "Concord Pacific hates poor people."
My tooth chipping incident ended with $150 for 20 minutes of tooth work. I think it might have been more had the dentist not clarified my situation with dental coverage. She thought I had two plans and started to ask about other work I've had done, but I have no plan and mentioned that after she questioned why I didn't want to talk about my gum surgery. She then got straight to work, which reminds me that I should always start off all dental visits by stating that I have no coverage. It will make all appointments that much shorter and cheaper.
Today I'm wearing the $0.94 shoes I purchased from Joe Fresh (yep, 94 cents!) and a burgundy shirt that, if I shift a certain way, looks much more risque than it initially appears. I also got to see Augie, Lily, Rachel and Nathan at the library, which was a super treat. Yay!
Today on a two-block stretch on Hastings, I saw the following, all of which made me smile for different reasons:
1) a man with faded jeans and a cut-off plaid shirt and long hair was bending over to pick something up, revealing his black thong
2) a couple pushing shopping carts stopped to share a laugh and he fed her a piece of fruit
3) signs on a development read: "Concord Pacific hates poor people."
My tooth chipping incident ended with $150 for 20 minutes of tooth work. I think it might have been more had the dentist not clarified my situation with dental coverage. She thought I had two plans and started to ask about other work I've had done, but I have no plan and mentioned that after she questioned why I didn't want to talk about my gum surgery. She then got straight to work, which reminds me that I should always start off all dental visits by stating that I have no coverage. It will make all appointments that much shorter and cheaper.
Today I'm wearing the $0.94 shoes I purchased from Joe Fresh (yep, 94 cents!) and a burgundy shirt that, if I shift a certain way, looks much more risque than it initially appears. I also got to see Augie, Lily, Rachel and Nathan at the library, which was a super treat. Yay!
Monday, September 8, 2008
dang, i just chipped my frickin' tooth
I just spent 40 minutes switching my fridge/freezer doors from one side to the other. You'd think this would be easy, but you'd be wrong. My fruit is half defrosted because the doors were off for ages and I'm not sure how the dill has fared. I've been holding off on getting groceries until this task was complete, so, yay! I can buy groceries now!
Honestly, this is the highlight of my week thus far. You can see how thrilling my life has become. Or maybe it was always like this...
After work today I tried to start unpacking. I figured a week was long enough to wait before getting settled in. This is the longest I've ever waited after moving. I just haven't really felt like settling in just yet. But it's starting to get sort of ridiculous, dodging boxes and eating takeaway. My eating habits have been quite sad this week, and I've only just eaten a meal prepared (sort of) in my own home: warming up a frozen prepared meal (made before I went to Edmonton) in the microwave. The sense of accomplishment is slight.
I've gotten rid of so many books that I now need to find other things to fill the empty spaces on the shelves. Currently my toolbox is dividing my cookbooks from BUST; this is amusing to me. I wanted to put my drill between pop culture books and Japanese language books, but it doesn't make sense.
The house is still a total mess, but at least it's sort of set out as I intended it to be. Minus all the boxes, of course. And with things out of the boxes and put somewhere. And my clothes out of suitcases... Crap.
One day... one day I will be settled in. One day...
Honestly, this is the highlight of my week thus far. You can see how thrilling my life has become. Or maybe it was always like this...
After work today I tried to start unpacking. I figured a week was long enough to wait before getting settled in. This is the longest I've ever waited after moving. I just haven't really felt like settling in just yet. But it's starting to get sort of ridiculous, dodging boxes and eating takeaway. My eating habits have been quite sad this week, and I've only just eaten a meal prepared (sort of) in my own home: warming up a frozen prepared meal (made before I went to Edmonton) in the microwave. The sense of accomplishment is slight.
I've gotten rid of so many books that I now need to find other things to fill the empty spaces on the shelves. Currently my toolbox is dividing my cookbooks from BUST; this is amusing to me. I wanted to put my drill between pop culture books and Japanese language books, but it doesn't make sense.
The house is still a total mess, but at least it's sort of set out as I intended it to be. Minus all the boxes, of course. And with things out of the boxes and put somewhere. And my clothes out of suitcases... Crap.
One day... one day I will be settled in. One day...
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