Here are a few of the awesome shots Karl and I got of the band:
Monday, July 31, 2006
MUSE!
Last night, I went to see the band Muse play at The Docks. Wow! Really, that's about all I can say! At first it was tough, there was a long pause after the opening band The Cloud Room, and we were getting impatient, but after that, Muse got going....It was AMAZING! They are so good live! I went to the show with Karl, who is used to being in the concert groove (a.k.a. the mosh pit), and it was so fun because for the first time ever I ended up right up by the front! So worth the fight through the crowd, we got some ridiculous pictures, and were right up in the front for the seriously crazy encore - at one point the words of the song were scrolling across the stage. Love it! And Karl and I danced along and jumped, and enjoyed every moment of it.
Here are a few of the awesome shots Karl and I got of the band:
Here are a few of the awesome shots Karl and I got of the band:
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Double feature
Oh the adventures of spending a Saturday night with film people. Karl and I went to see Lady in the Water and then ended up (unbeknownst to me until the moment of) meeting up with his friend Kevin to see Miami Vice right after that. Both we worthwhile movies to see, though I do lean towards the former as it has a MUCH better story. And that's saying something seeing as I don't really like all of M. Night's movies. And I will also concede that Miami Vice is worth seeing, as it was shot in video, and that does have an interesting effect.
After the movies, the three of us went to the Village Idiot and squeaked in right at last call for a couple of pints, and at chat with a random drunken guy at the bar. Interestingly we ended up having a conversation about God. Funny how those conversations find you. The nicest part of it was being called "an angel". It was very sweet.
Both Kevin and I ended up crashing at Karl's place, so when we go up we all chatted more, and I made omelets for breakfast, and Kevin and I bonded over music. All in all it was a good time. Props to "grills, hammer pants and BFF's".
:)
After the movies, the three of us went to the Village Idiot and squeaked in right at last call for a couple of pints, and at chat with a random drunken guy at the bar. Interestingly we ended up having a conversation about God. Funny how those conversations find you. The nicest part of it was being called "an angel". It was very sweet.
Both Kevin and I ended up crashing at Karl's place, so when we go up we all chatted more, and I made omelets for breakfast, and Kevin and I bonded over music. All in all it was a good time. Props to "grills, hammer pants and BFF's".
:)
Saturday, July 29, 2006
One word: Blonde!
That was the word I gave to my hairdresser Paul on Saturday morning when I went to get my hair coloured. I haven't been one colour for a while, and I've been wanting to get back to my original colour tendencies, so blonde it is.
Yes imagine, I was once this blonde (naturally speaking) =>
(oh, and LTK, I'm rivaling you for lovely kid hair cuts! I love the bowl look).
And here is the result of Paul's work =>
(Isn't it funny how I look very much the same as I did when I was kid...Except for the whole chest deal, of course...)
I wanna be a supermodel!
Sometimes it's just worthwhile to get a chance to dress up and have some fun. Usually I just do it for me, but on Friday I got to do it for an even better reason - I was a model in the fashion that happened at the One by One art show that my good friends TF and Roshan helped organize. It was a really fun time. I had my makeup and hair done up in a very over the top supermodel kind of way, and I got to wear a few fun outfits from a great store you should all check out called Freedom Clothing. (It's located just past Long and McQuade at Bloor and Ossington).
So, what did I get to wear in front of everyone? (And it was a great turn out!) Well, I'm lacking on the picture front right now (I forgot my camera, so I'm rely on other people
e's pics). I will try to describe things anyway. My first outfit was a light pink slip silk-screened skirt and black t-shit with detailing. I wore that with pink pump and matching pink belt. Outfit two was a lovely orange/patterned dress that had an empire waist and long A-line skirt. The best feature was the back with consisted only of ribbons that crossed at the back. This was worn with fun green heels. The third outfit was a black vintage satiny skirt with pinky red lace at the bottom paired with a black tube top and finished off with a cute pink fuzzy cropped top. Finished with pink pumps. And my last outfit was a halter top and matching "boy undies" that were red with black stars and black lace accents. As Borat would say "Very nice!'
All in all, it was good night. The art was good, the show was good, and it was really fun. Thanks Esther for letting me be a supermodel for the night! Thanks to the wardrobe ladies! And thanks to all the show organizers and all the guests!
OHHHH!!! Wait p.s. - Got a great additional story for the night. I was kind of caugh
t off guard, but I finally got to do something I've been trying to for almost a year - I got to meet Cathy Keenan a.k.a. Liz O'Rourke from Degrassi. (If you don't know the character, look for a profile here). WOW! This made my half-decade at least. Yeah, Cathy works with my friend Luke and he's been trying to help me meet her for ages and it finally came to fruition. She's really nice, and even told me that I could meet her again. Hopefully next time I will have my camera and can put the details on the blog. WOO!
So, what did I get to wear in front of everyone? (And it was a great turn out!) Well, I'm lacking on the picture front right now (I forgot my camera, so I'm rely on other people
e's pics). I will try to describe things anyway. My first outfit was a light pink slip silk-screened skirt and black t-shit with detailing. I wore that with pink pump and matching pink belt. Outfit two was a lovely orange/patterned dress that had an empire waist and long A-line skirt. The best feature was the back with consisted only of ribbons that crossed at the back. This was worn with fun green heels. The third outfit was a black vintage satiny skirt with pinky red lace at the bottom paired with a black tube top and finished off with a cute pink fuzzy cropped top. Finished with pink pumps. And my last outfit was a halter top and matching "boy undies" that were red with black stars and black lace accents. As Borat would say "Very nice!'All in all, it was good night. The art was good, the show was good, and it was really fun. Thanks Esther for letting me be a supermodel for the night! Thanks to the wardrobe ladies! And thanks to all the show organizers and all the guests!
OHHHH!!! Wait p.s. - Got a great additional story for the night. I was kind of caugh
t off guard, but I finally got to do something I've been trying to for almost a year - I got to meet Cathy Keenan a.k.a. Liz O'Rourke from Degrassi. (If you don't know the character, look for a profile here). WOW! This made my half-decade at least. Yeah, Cathy works with my friend Luke and he's been trying to help me meet her for ages and it finally came to fruition. She's really nice, and even told me that I could meet her again. Hopefully next time I will have my camera and can put the details on the blog. WOO!
Friday, July 28, 2006
Congratulations Daniel!
One of the greatest things ever has just happened to a friend of mine! He got into to Stratford! For an actor in Canada, that's huge! Wow. Congrats again!
I'm so proud of you!
Monday, July 24, 2006
With toes at the edge of the cliff
A moment has arrived. I was walking the sometimes bumpy and windy path towards my goal in the hopes of having passed many hurdles. Today I have cause to pause and choose to awaken to the next big leap. The path has led me to a cliff, and I am standing on the edge with my toes floating partially into the abyss of uncertainty.
And I am having trouble moving.
I have run along a few side paths trying to avoid the cliff, but I will not go down to the valley of the shadow of death, and I want to reach the victorious mount on the other side. I can no longer ignore my choice.
And I am having trouble moving.
I teeter, I shrink back from the edge, tears welling up in my eyes. The next step is my responsibility and I cannot stay on the edge forever. The burden of choice lies upon my shoulder and it is becoming heavier every day. Like Atlas, I am carrying the world.
And I am having trouble moving.
Part of me know that if I jump to hastility I could fall to the dreaded valley. Part of me knows that if I make the right move I will find the not so visible but secure stairway that will guide me upwards. I just need a little faith.
And I am trembling.
And I am watching my toes.
And I lift my first foot...
And I am having trouble moving.
I have run along a few side paths trying to avoid the cliff, but I will not go down to the valley of the shadow of death, and I want to reach the victorious mount on the other side. I can no longer ignore my choice.
And I am having trouble moving.
I teeter, I shrink back from the edge, tears welling up in my eyes. The next step is my responsibility and I cannot stay on the edge forever. The burden of choice lies upon my shoulder and it is becoming heavier every day. Like Atlas, I am carrying the world.
And I am having trouble moving.
Part of me know that if I jump to hastility I could fall to the dreaded valley. Part of me knows that if I make the right move I will find the not so visible but secure stairway that will guide me upwards. I just need a little faith.
And I am trembling.
And I am watching my toes.
And I lift my first foot...
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Proverbial girl
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
She sets about her work vigourously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She is clothed in strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household
and she does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
- Proverbs 31: 11-12, 15, 17, 20, 23, 25-31
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
She sets about her work vigourously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She is clothed in strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household
and she does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
- Proverbs 31: 11-12, 15, 17, 20, 23, 25-31
Friday, July 21, 2006
Evil Dead goes to Broadway!
Written by Richard Ouzounian of the Toronto Star including correction. Pictures are from the Montreal Mirror.
Evil Dead has life on Broadway; Fall slot for show born at Tranzac Club T.O team tore idea from '80s horror film
The dead are going to sing and dance on Broadway.
Expect an announcement from Manhattan today that Evil Dead the Musical will open there on Nov. 1 at New World Stages on W. 50th St.
This Canadian tuner is based on the 1980s cult horror films of Sam Raimi and first reached a stage at the Tranzac Club in the summer of 2003, winding up at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal the following year.
It was written by George Reinblatt, Christopher Bond and Frank Cipolla (with additional music by Melissa Morris).
Bond, who staged the original, is co-directing it in New York with three-time Tony Award winner Hinton Battle.
Another Tony winner, set designer Paul Gallo, will bring his wacky inventiveness to this show, as he did for that other Canuck musical currently doing well on Broadway, The Drowsy Chaperone.
Well-known Toronto stage producer Jeffrey (Forever Plaid) Latimer was the first to take a serious interest in the show and he will produce it in New York, along with Jenkay LLC and Just for Laughs.
Evil Dead is the classic "horny young people in a deserted cottage" scenario, where clueless kids find themselves being slaughtered by Candarian demons on a weekend they thought was going to be devoted strictly to carnal capers.
With its buzzing chainsaws and dismembered arms, Evil Dead has enough gore to make Sweeney Todd look like Annie, but somehow it winds up being fun instead of gross.
When first reviewing it in 2003, I wrote "With a bit of work, this show could go places."
And it certainly has.
Evil Dead has life on Broadway; Fall slot for show born at Tranzac Club T.O team tore idea from '80s horror film
The dead are going to sing and dance on Broadway.Expect an announcement from Manhattan today that Evil Dead the Musical will open there on Nov. 1 at New World Stages on W. 50th St.
This Canadian tuner is based on the 1980s cult horror films of Sam Raimi and first reached a stage at the Tranzac Club in the summer of 2003, winding up at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal the following year.
It was written by George Reinblatt, Christopher Bond and Frank Cipolla (with additional music by Melissa Morris).
Bond, who staged the original, is co-directing it in New York with three-time Tony Award winner Hinton Battle.
Another Tony winner, set designer Paul Gallo, will bring his wacky inventiveness to this show, as he did for that other Canuck musical currently doing well on Broadway, The Drowsy Chaperone.
Well-known Toronto stage producer Jeffrey (Forever Plaid) Latimer was the first to take a serious interest in the show and he will produce it in New York, along with Jenkay LLC and Just for Laughs.
Evil Dead is the classic "horny young people in a deserted cottage" scenario, where clueless kids find themselves being slaughtered by Candarian demons on a weekend they thought was going to be devoted strictly to carnal capers.
With its buzzing chainsaws and dismembered arms, Evil Dead has enough gore to make Sweeney Todd look like Annie, but somehow it winds up being fun instead of gross.
When first reviewing it in 2003, I wrote "With a bit of work, this show could go places."
And it certainly has.
A not so jaded heart
Every now and then I like to take a moment a reflect on old thoughts and musings. Usually I do so with my journal, but today I took a moment and re-read my post on my jaded heart from last October and it's funny...I understand why I wrote what I did. In fact, I still agree with the feelings that I expressed. It's just interesting to see that there have been a few changes in my heart since then.
For instance, I wrote "My fear is that my heart will become so jaded about this one small thing, and this will bleed into all my relationships, and I will eventually close my heart."
Wow.
Since then I feel like so much of this has changed - the walls have been broken down and it's just humbling to stop and reflect on how God has healed me. It almost seems easy to say that I don't even think that my heart is closed off anymore; however, there is caution in uttering that because there is still a ways to go. I feel like I've learned how to be more open and receptive to what people say - and to accept things. The whole world isn't out to cheat me. My close friends aren't holding back from me. My jaded heart is also not the world's responsibility. Resentment doesn't come from anyone else's actions but my own. I am responsible for my own heart.
We are constantly bombarded with darkness and death and it seeks to seep into our lives like a slow acting poison. I see so clearly now that I let the hurt of the past poison my heart, and I set up walls to protect my battered inner core. But those walls did nothing else but cause me to hide like a scared little girl who fears she can never be love. Instead of protecting me, they blocked out the Light. Yet I underestimated how badly the Light wanted in, and it was strong enough to burn a little hole into the walls so that a ray could come through. And the little girl saw the Light and broke down crying because it was so much more beautiful to have a small bit of that Light than to sit in the dark. Maintaining the walls cause energy to be squandered in a wrong fashion. Light changes that. It makes the walls seem thick and unnecessary, yet paper thin and destructible.
I swear, with His eternal strength, I will rip down these walls and surround myself with Light because that is my true calling. Amen to that.
For instance, I wrote "My fear is that my heart will become so jaded about this one small thing, and this will bleed into all my relationships, and I will eventually close my heart."
Wow.
Since then I feel like so much of this has changed - the walls have been broken down and it's just humbling to stop and reflect on how God has healed me. It almost seems easy to say that I don't even think that my heart is closed off anymore; however, there is caution in uttering that because there is still a ways to go. I feel like I've learned how to be more open and receptive to what people say - and to accept things. The whole world isn't out to cheat me. My close friends aren't holding back from me. My jaded heart is also not the world's responsibility. Resentment doesn't come from anyone else's actions but my own. I am responsible for my own heart.
We are constantly bombarded with darkness and death and it seeks to seep into our lives like a slow acting poison. I see so clearly now that I let the hurt of the past poison my heart, and I set up walls to protect my battered inner core. But those walls did nothing else but cause me to hide like a scared little girl who fears she can never be love. Instead of protecting me, they blocked out the Light. Yet I underestimated how badly the Light wanted in, and it was strong enough to burn a little hole into the walls so that a ray could come through. And the little girl saw the Light and broke down crying because it was so much more beautiful to have a small bit of that Light than to sit in the dark. Maintaining the walls cause energy to be squandered in a wrong fashion. Light changes that. It makes the walls seem thick and unnecessary, yet paper thin and destructible.
I swear, with His eternal strength, I will rip down these walls and surround myself with Light because that is my true calling. Amen to that.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Explosion or slow burn?
What do you think is better, or even more likely of these two scenarios: falling in love at the first encounter with someone or falling in love gradually with a best friend?
I've been thinking about this lately - clearly I'm too into reading the romance in Anne of Green Gables. None the less, I'd love to hear thoughts on this. I must admit my jaded heart leans towards the second. But it's in God's hands.
All precious things discovered late
To those that seek them issue forth,
For Love in sequel works with Fate.
And draws the veil from hidden worth.
- Tennyson.
I've been thinking about this lately - clearly I'm too into reading the romance in Anne of Green Gables. None the less, I'd love to hear thoughts on this. I must admit my jaded heart leans towards the second. But it's in God's hands.
All precious things discovered late
To those that seek them issue forth,
For Love in sequel works with Fate.
And draws the veil from hidden worth.
- Tennyson.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Anne of Green Gables
I must confess to you all, one of the best perks about staying at my friend Kate's place is that she is a HUGE Anne of Green Gables fan and I love it. I myself also grew up watching Megan Follows and Jonathan Crombie play Anne and Gilbert respectively whenever I could. I also grew up watching Road to Avonlea. I love the world created by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
A little while ago I thought it would be lovely to read these books, the WHOLE series, seeing as I never have. I've only had the first one read to me as a child. I figured it was about time. When I was home last month, I wanted to get the books from Mum and Dad, but of course they were still tucked away somewhere in the house, never having been unpacked after the move from Labrador. Oh well. I thought I'll just buy them. But alas - not entirely to my surprise - my friend Kate has the entire series sitting in her room, and I've taken advantage of this. I've already read Anne of Green Gables and Anne of Avonlea. I'm currently on to reading Anne of the Island. Sigh. I love every word.
Not only is it a great story full of funny little adventures, there is just something magical about Anne that you can't help but love. She's romantic and imaginative, yet strong and practical. She's got drama queenish tendancies and so much love to share. I love how she is described as having glowing eyes and an infectious personality. We could only wish to be such a type of "flame" in this world. Plus, she's Canadian, and that's really cool too! Add in a romance with a great man, one that just kinda creeps up and blooms - sigh!
All in all, it's a very inspiring story. There are elements of hope and love that really just make you want those things. To go from being a girl that no one could love to a girl so valued that she changes the lives of those around her, well, there is little worse in the world. Sigh again.
A little while ago I thought it would be lovely to read these books, the WHOLE series, seeing as I never have. I've only had the first one read to me as a child. I figured it was about time. When I was home last month, I wanted to get the books from Mum and Dad, but of course they were still tucked away somewhere in the house, never having been unpacked after the move from Labrador. Oh well. I thought I'll just buy them. But alas - not entirely to my surprise - my friend Kate has the entire series sitting in her room, and I've taken advantage of this. I've already read Anne of Green Gables and Anne of Avonlea. I'm currently on to reading Anne of the Island. Sigh. I love every word.
Not only is it a great story full of funny little adventures, there is just something magical about Anne that you can't help but love. She's romantic and imaginative, yet strong and practical. She's got drama queenish tendancies and so much love to share. I love how she is described as having glowing eyes and an infectious personality. We could only wish to be such a type of "flame" in this world. Plus, she's Canadian, and that's really cool too! Add in a romance with a great man, one that just kinda creeps up and blooms - sigh!
All in all, it's a very inspiring story. There are elements of hope and love that really just make you want those things. To go from being a girl that no one could love to a girl so valued that she changes the lives of those around her, well, there is little worse in the world. Sigh again.
Monday, July 17, 2006
I am rock, I am an island
In the last little while, there has been a lot of change going on around me. Some of my closest and dearest anchor type friends (Nick, Ryan) have set off on new adventures. My dearest best friend is launching into a new life (SO exciting). One of my closest girl friends has a new boy, and she's not around as much. I no longer have a place to call my own because I have yet to find an apartment that isn't overpriced and crappy. Other people are thinking of moving, changing, evolving.
And I feel like a rock that isn't rolling.
I'm consistantly finding myself discouraged and encouraged all the time. I just keep going back on forth when it comes to accepting change and everything that is going on around me. I wanted things to move forward so badly, and now I just have to wait for things to fall into place and it's hard to be patient.
And I feel lonely. Like an island. Except not an island in the stream. An island that's just there. Loosing little bits of sand with every wave as if my outer foundations are slipping away from me.
At least the cross in the middle is still standing firm. Too bad I've just been sitting in it's shadow lately, staring at my toes. Maybe it's time to get to work.
And I feel like a rock that isn't rolling.
I'm consistantly finding myself discouraged and encouraged all the time. I just keep going back on forth when it comes to accepting change and everything that is going on around me. I wanted things to move forward so badly, and now I just have to wait for things to fall into place and it's hard to be patient.
And I feel lonely. Like an island. Except not an island in the stream. An island that's just there. Loosing little bits of sand with every wave as if my outer foundations are slipping away from me.
At least the cross in the middle is still standing firm. Too bad I've just been sitting in it's shadow lately, staring at my toes. Maybe it's time to get to work.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
girl loves boy
Just for fun, I decided to hop on the train with LTK and Jen in terms of putting up some celeb appreciation photos. Here are some boys I enjoy and some of the reasons why.
Jonathan Crombie -
Johnny Depp -
Ethan Embry -
Colin Firth -
Jack Black -
Jonathan Crombie -
best known for playing Gilbert Blythe in Sullivan Entertainment's Anne of Green Gables.
All Canadian, very charming.
How could you not love this face?
Johnny Depp -
Fantastic physical actor.
Plus he's bad ass enough to have lots of tattoos.
Ethan Embry -
Cute, curly haired and charming.
I've totally had a celeb crush on him since A Far Off Place and Empire Records.
Eric Szmanda -
Plays Greg Sanders on CSI.
Totally my fav show, totally my fav boy.
Cute and does DNA? Sigh.
Rich Franklin -
One of the most awesome fighters in the UFC.
He's been a solid champion,
Totally a Christian.
Too bad he's married.
Dominic Monaghan -
English and played one of my favourite
characters in the Lord of the Rings.
Enough said.
Colin Firth -
A little bit of an older gent, but who could
resist him as Mr. D'Arcy?
Jack Black -
Just because he's over the top.
And knows his music.
Love that.
Josh Groban -
Was my IBF (Imaginary Boyfriend).
He sings so well.
And I like boys with curly hair.
Michael Vartan -
Think of him as teacher in
Never Been Kissed.
Sam Roberts -
Canadian music hottie.
Talented too.
Billy Joe Armstrong -
A punk guy with tats and
who can pull off eyeliner.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Practical matters
I've finally finished writing about my long weekend. The post is below here, so don't miss it if you want to read about the adventures. I hope to soon add some pictures, but if not, they are on my Flickr account.
I'm slowly getting back into the blogging bit, but it's summer and evenings are being progressively spent out of doors, enjoying the city. It doesn't mean I neglect my thoughts, it's just that I tend to leave them out there somewhere. :)
I'm slowly getting back into the blogging bit, but it's summer and evenings are being progressively spent out of doors, enjoying the city. It doesn't mean I neglect my thoughts, it's just that I tend to leave them out there somewhere. :)
Monday, July 10, 2006
Honestly Progressive
What an interesting weekend. It was a full on drama queenish weekend, plenty of angst and emotional rollercoaster moments. Well, maybe that's a slight exaggeration, but when one hasn't had some drama for a while, it kinda seems that way. This weekend was all about learning something about myself and helping a friend do the same. It's amazing how well that works. :)
You see, this weekend there was a bit of a breakdown in truly right actions between myself and a good friend, we slipped easily into a bit of a self-serving style - as in we were both a little more concerned with our own sensibilities than really thinking out how our actions were effecting the other. To admit that is sad, but necessary. But I feel that things are all the better for it. The events opened up an opportunity to do something God has long being calling me to do: to be outright and honest.
That sounds simple enough, I know, but let me stipulate that I a
m a girl who often with stew or brush away angers and hurts rather than confronting the issue. I like to hide at times (right, Jay?). I was convicted long ago about these actions by another good friend, and I've been really wanting to strive to be better at being honest and open in loving way to my friends. I say loving because honesty doesn't mean bluntness and rudeness, it means calling someone on wrong actions, and laying open your own wrongs. This weekend was a prime example about how sometimes things need to be flushed out and talked about. It was really good to know that it could be done, and neither of us ended up hating each other. Funny, I guess I now have the "proof" I needed that it's ok to work that way.
I feel like I'm growing up a little.
You see, this weekend there was a bit of a breakdown in truly right actions between myself and a good friend, we slipped easily into a bit of a self-serving style - as in we were both a little more concerned with our own sensibilities than really thinking out how our actions were effecting the other. To admit that is sad, but necessary. But I feel that things are all the better for it. The events opened up an opportunity to do something God has long being calling me to do: to be outright and honest.
That sounds simple enough, I know, but let me stipulate that I a
m a girl who often with stew or brush away angers and hurts rather than confronting the issue. I like to hide at times (right, Jay?). I was convicted long ago about these actions by another good friend, and I've been really wanting to strive to be better at being honest and open in loving way to my friends. I say loving because honesty doesn't mean bluntness and rudeness, it means calling someone on wrong actions, and laying open your own wrongs. This weekend was a prime example about how sometimes things need to be flushed out and talked about. It was really good to know that it could be done, and neither of us ended up hating each other. Funny, I guess I now have the "proof" I needed that it's ok to work that way.I feel like I'm growing up a little.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
City feeling
This morning I awoke to my alarm at 5:10, and I was ready to get up and be ready for the day. I laid in bed a few more minutes, but I couldn't stay in there. I showered, used my new eye shadow (teal/navy combo from MAC, very nice), did my exercise and got dressed. Still early. Ate breakfast, made lunch, packed up, left the apartment. Decided I was a "growed up girl" today and treated myself to a Caramel Machiato from Starbucks.
I like this early morning city feeling.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
A long weekend in the Muskokas
This past weekend was absolutely fantastic. My friend Rachel invited a stack of us goons from FT to come up to her family cottage for the long weekend to relax and it was such a welcome break from the city and a good time was had by all. Oh, the adventures you have when you put a bunch of guys and only three girls together. (In the end our group consisted of Rachel, Ann Marie, myself, Enoch, Karl, Justin, Rob Awesome, Rob S, and Kyle; and Rob S was afraid there would be no guys! ha!)
It all started on Friday afternoon/evening when I met up with Rachel to do some grocery shopping. In the end, I was really glad to have the day off because I needed to get settled in the house, and I was free to help with the errands. I know Rachel was glad to have a second pair of hands. Once we were all set for the weekend, we grabbed the food and headed over to Rachel to make dinner for the crew before we headed out on the road. All in all, the trip there was a success, even if Ra
chel was a little crazy on the steering. ;) We left between 9:30 
and 10:00 and arrived just after midnight - we even took time to stop at Wendy's to eat some soquid with a fpoon. First thing done at the cottage? We all changed into swim togs (my mum's expression) and hopped into the lake! It was so lovely! We had one lone beam of light from a flashlight and the stars to light the way. The water was warm, and it was just what the doctor ordered. Then it was time to light a fire, relax and take in some of the peace and quiet before hitting the hay, which was an adventure in an of itself seeing as all three of us ladies were sharing a double bed. It worked out well once we worked out a nice spooning order!
The next morning, us ladies woke up early and starting chatting about everything and nothing. Ok, who am I kiddi
ng, we talked about the same old: relationships and poo. ha! Once we left the room, I went straight to the lake and went for a swim. In my opinion that's one of the best ways to wake up. Breakfast consisted of blueberry pancakes and real maple syrup, and after that it was time to just sit and enjoy the sunshine on the dock while we waiting for Mark and Christine (former LR members who have just moved to Huntsville) with baby Max. That was awesome. We all got a chance to sit by the dock,and get some sun. In fact, some of us got a little too much because, well, let's put it this way Karl sure looked like he was wearing a pink shirt. :) We also went for some good swims - the standard one being a run across the lake because it only took about 10 minutes, 
not even. We would swim, sit on the opposite dock, talk about serious things and then come home, and then we would repeat it later on.
Dinner on Saturday was also really nice, we had burgers and salad and we broke bread together like one big happy family. It was nice to just relax. After dinner, Mark and Christine left and Jason came for the rest of the weekend. That was fun. We casually watched some of Justin's DVD rental "The Long Way Round" and hung out. We played cards and drank beers and enjoyed the evening before retiring.
Sunday morning, breakfast was a little more halfhazard, consisting of muffins and fruit. A few people got up early and were singing worship songs and having some God time by the dock. Someone suggested that we do some church, which was a really good idea and much needed because some tension was starting to breed in be
cause of sarcasm and close living quarters. Luckily someone came up with the best possible idea - an encouragement circle.
We all sat around, took some time to spread some love and to pray for everyone. It was so nice to feel appreciated and to talk positively for a while. After that it was a late lunch, more swimming and then we all crashed out and watched Batman Begins while Rob (and Rachel) made delicious fish stew for dinner. It was lovely to break bread together, all sitting around the table. We decided undertake a game of Balderdash, which Rob S and I won (WOOT!). And we were about to retire to bed when the clouds lifted just enough to get to see the stars. So a bunch of us went to the dock, lit sparklers and sat under blankets looking at the sky.
Monday morning was more getting ready to go than anything else. We did one last swim across the lake, had breakfast, packed up and left the cottage by 1 pm. It was a easy drive back to the city, none of us really wanted to go back, but it's nice that it was an easy drive. By the time it was all done, we were safe, sane and still single - and all the better for a lovely weekend away.
P.S. Rachel, I am SO in.
It all started on Friday afternoon/evening when I met up with Rachel to do some grocery shopping. In the end, I was really glad to have the day off because I needed to get settled in the house, and I was free to help with the errands. I know Rachel was glad to have a second pair of hands. Once we were all set for the weekend, we grabbed the food and headed over to Rachel to make dinner for the crew before we headed out on the road. All in all, the trip there was a success, even if Ra
chel was a little crazy on the steering. ;) We left between 9:30 
and 10:00 and arrived just after midnight - we even took time to stop at Wendy's to eat some soquid with a fpoon. First thing done at the cottage? We all changed into swim togs (my mum's expression) and hopped into the lake! It was so lovely! We had one lone beam of light from a flashlight and the stars to light the way. The water was warm, and it was just what the doctor ordered. Then it was time to light a fire, relax and take in some of the peace and quiet before hitting the hay, which was an adventure in an of itself seeing as all three of us ladies were sharing a double bed. It worked out well once we worked out a nice spooning order!The next morning, us ladies woke up early and starting chatting about everything and nothing. Ok, who am I kiddi
ng, we talked about the same old: relationships and poo. ha! Once we left the room, I went straight to the lake and went for a swim. In my opinion that's one of the best ways to wake up. Breakfast consisted of blueberry pancakes and real maple syrup, and after that it was time to just sit and enjoy the sunshine on the dock while we waiting for Mark and Christine (former LR members who have just moved to Huntsville) with baby Max. That was awesome. We all got a chance to sit by the dock,and get some sun. In fact, some of us got a little too much because, well, let's put it this way Karl sure looked like he was wearing a pink shirt. :) We also went for some good swims - the standard one being a run across the lake because it only took about 10 minutes, 
not even. We would swim, sit on the opposite dock, talk about serious things and then come home, and then we would repeat it later on.Dinner on Saturday was also really nice, we had burgers and salad and we broke bread together like one big happy family. It was nice to just relax. After dinner, Mark and Christine left and Jason came for the rest of the weekend. That was fun. We casually watched some of Justin's DVD rental "The Long Way Round" and hung out. We played cards and drank beers and enjoyed the evening before retiring.
Sunday morning, breakfast was a little more halfhazard, consisting of muffins and fruit. A few people got up early and were singing worship songs and having some God time by the dock. Someone suggested that we do some church, which was a really good idea and much needed because some tension was starting to breed in be
cause of sarcasm and close living quarters. Luckily someone came up with the best possible idea - an encouragement circle.
We all sat around, took some time to spread some love and to pray for everyone. It was so nice to feel appreciated and to talk positively for a while. After that it was a late lunch, more swimming and then we all crashed out and watched Batman Begins while Rob (and Rachel) made delicious fish stew for dinner. It was lovely to break bread together, all sitting around the table. We decided undertake a game of Balderdash, which Rob S and I won (WOOT!). And we were about to retire to bed when the clouds lifted just enough to get to see the stars. So a bunch of us went to the dock, lit sparklers and sat under blankets looking at the sky.
Monday morning was more getting ready to go than anything else. We did one last swim across the lake, had breakfast, packed up and left the cottage by 1 pm. It was a easy drive back to the city, none of us really wanted to go back, but it's nice that it was an easy drive. By the time it was all done, we were safe, sane and still single - and all the better for a lovely weekend away.
P.S. Rachel, I am SO in.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
The new sunglasses
I love these. Good sunnies make me happy, and my eyes happy too. p.s. Thanks to Martine for the great pics taken on Olympic Island.
Back to some semblance of normality
The move is officially done. I am now living near Boystown, subletting my friend Kate's place. And although it is only a temporary move, I've gotta say I am just glad to have it over with. The move when off even more smoothly than I though. I couldn't believe it. I was petrified of three things: 1) driving a cube truck in Toronto, 2) not having enough man power to get moved quickly and 3) not having enough room to dump my stuff while subletting. All I can say is that the worrying was all for naught. I had no trouble with the truck at all, I had plenty of loving help getting the move done (Thanks Enoch, Coatesy, Anne Marie and Jon!) and there is more than enough room at the new place to store all my boxes.
Next step, finding a new place for September. No stress. It will happen. God obviously provides. Maybe I can find a new hip downtown pad just for me. That would be awesome. Baby steps.
Work is good too, feels a little strange to be back after a break. They changed the lights here, and I felt so weird to be walking in this morning. I kept thinking something was different until someone tipped me off. I managed to survive the day only being minimally affected by the almost inevitable feeling of stupidity that comes on after a break from the daily grind- you know, that time you need to relearn work mode - and I was actually quite productive today. Productive enough to get stuff done before writing on my blog. :)
Yes, friends, she's back in the game.
Next step, finding a new place for September. No stress. It will happen. God obviously provides. Maybe I can find a new hip downtown pad just for me. That would be awesome. Baby steps.
Work is good too, feels a little strange to be back after a break. They changed the lights here, and I felt so weird to be walking in this morning. I kept thinking something was different until someone tipped me off. I managed to survive the day only being minimally affected by the almost inevitable feeling of stupidity that comes on after a break from the daily grind- you know, that time you need to relearn work mode - and I was actually quite productive today. Productive enough to get stuff done before writing on my blog. :)
Yes, friends, she's back in the game.
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