Jenns Theatre

Autumn in Ottawa

2009-10-18T10:29:00.000-07:00

We really do live in a beautiful city. Probably one of the greatest things about moving to a new city is watching how each season changes the horizon just a little, or in Ottawa's case - a lot. In just 2 short months, the vibrant green trees have turned to red, gold, orange and yellow; people have broken out their sweaters and boots as the temperatues creep lower and lower; with thanksgiving just passed, the smell of turkey, stuffing, cranberries, apples and cinnimon filled the streets. Now, pumpkins with elaborate expressions and frightening scenes are popping up on the leaf covered doorsteps. Halloween is just around the corner, and you can already see the excitement in people of all ages. While October has always been my favourite month, there is something a little extra special about my first October in Ottawa.

Classic Rock Junkies: fastforward and smell the roses

2009-09-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

Lucas and I are admittedly Classic Rock Junkies (CRJs) and like many in our group are quick to state, "Music is just not what it used to be" or "there is no good/great new music". CRJs really are obsessed with some of the best music ever produced: the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, the Who, the Guess Who, Supertramp and the list goes on. This is some heavy competition for today's artists. The constant covers of hits by these bands shows that many of them know this, trying to revamp what shouldn't really be touched.

But I'm not writing this to hammer home this point. I'm writing this because me, Lucas and other CRJs are wrong. We really need to think twice before stating "there is no great new music". The more we go on with that mantra, the more the below artists go unrecognised by us. And it really would be our loss.

The Black Keys
http://www.theblackkeys.com/

From the website:
"The Akron, Ohio-based duo The Black Keys is well known for its concentrated, hermetic approach to recording, hunkering down with rudimentary equipment in an unfinished basement or commandeering the floor of a vacant local rubber factory to create terse but soulful rock that seems to have time-traveled into the pair's amps from some long-ago radio show."

John Mayer
http://www.johnmayer.com/home
While he may be a bit more mainstream than the above mentioned talent, there is no denying that John Mayer is emerging as one of our time's greatest guitarists. He's played with Eric Clapton on numerous occasions and even Lindsay Buckingham was excited to see his performance above all others at the most recent Grammys. As far as I'm concerned, that's something to take note of.

Joss Stone
http://www.jossstone.co.uk/
I first saw Joss Stone perform with Melissa Ethridge on the Grammys in a tribute to Janis Joplin. My mouth dropped and I was out the next day to pick up her album. Her own music did not disappoint. When I found out that she was only 20 at the time of this performance, I was a life long fan.

AND some other honourable mentions:

Duffy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHvOm-o3AA8

Sharon Jones: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB69Ij5X6AE

If you have any more, please feel free to share.

Bonnie's Statement in QP

2009-06-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

Stornoway Garden Party

2009-06-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

This past Wednesday was the epic staffer's Garden Party at Stornoway (the residence of the leader of the official opposition...or Ignatieff's place). It was everything I expected and more. There was lots of great food, wine, Canadian beers, and even better company from Ignatieff himself to Justin Trudeau, Ken Dryden and many more. It was a night of excitement, laughter, awe and just plain old good times with good people. It was definitely a night that Lucas and I will never forget.

The highlight of the night: Meeting Ignatieff

Good times with good people

Lucas' highlights: Meeting Ken Dryden, Ignatieff and Justin Trudeau

The After Party

Tulips, OLO and more!

2009-05-20T17:31:00.000-07:00

BE WARNED! I am about to bombard you with photos! :)

Liberal Pics

Me working at my desk in my office on the Hill :)

At the Victory Fund reception held at the National Gallery

Ignatieff speaking to the crowd. To watch his speech, click here

Decorated ramp to the main reception area

Me sitting at Ignatieff's desk at OLO (Opposition Leader's Office)

Around Town

One of the many views from our rooftop patio

Lucas and me standing at the entrance to the largest tulip display in the city :)

SO beautiful

I think yellow was a favourite colour for me that day :)

Montréal

Just this past weekend, Lucas and I went our separate ways for our own little adventures in Quebec. He went to a cabin with some guys in Tremblant and I went to visit Jake in Montréal. In the battle for who got to take the camera I, sadly, lost. Thus these are the only pictures I took - they are of the John Lennon and Yoko Ono exhibit at the Musée des Beaux-arts. Forgive the quality as they were taken on my phone.

La musée

John Lennon's piano. This was in room themed around the song, Imagine.

This is one of my favourite photos and I so wish I had had the camera to have it in better quality.

John Lennon's guitar :)

National Capital Trails

2009-05-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

With such a beautiful day, we couldn't resist getting out on our bikes. We started from home and went out to Westboro which is like a little piece of Vancouver in Ottawa (picture W. 4th and W. Broadway). We spent some time here before heading to the National Capital trails which took us along the Ottawa river, up to Parliament and the Canal.

The Ottawa Tulip Festival started May 1st and we caught a glimpse of my favourite flowers along the Canal. They were beautiful! Ottawa receives thousands of tulip bulbs from Holland in thanks for our help during WWII. Next weekend we are going to visit all of the tulip spots so look out for new pictures soon! :)

Sorry!!

2009-04-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry that I have been slacking on keeping my blog updated lately. There are a few good reasons but no need to bother with excuses!

Update:
Everything is going very well for me and Lucas. The new job is fantastic! I love coming into work every morning and couldn't ask for more than that. Bonnie Crombie is the MP that I work for and she is a delight to work with.

Other than work, Lucas and I have been keeping ourselves busy visiting the various pubs and restaurants of Ottawa, taking in the museums in the area and just generally enjoying the increasingly warm temperatures (up 27C today!).

We don't have many new photos, but these are my favourite and were taken on Easter Sunday along the canal. :)

Mackenzie King & More

2009-03-11T16:28:00.000-07:00

Here is Lucas and me with the newest member of our family, Mackenzie King! We adopted HER from the the Ottawa Humane Society just one week ago now. She's just over a year old and still as fiesty as a kitten. She has really livened things up for us here and it's nice to have the distraction. Really, she's an absolute sweetheart who loves attention and to play with anything that moves! She has quite the name you might notice. She's named after William Lyon Mackenzie King, the longest serving Prime Minister in Canadian history. We just call her Mack for short :)

Besides Mack, everything else is going really great in Ottawa for us. We're settled into our new apartment and slowly adding pieces of furniture and small touches to create a home. You'll notice up there a picture of our new bed which we love! And our new couch which we got for a GREAT deal on, none other than, Craigslist. The apartment building is too good to be true some days when we're keeping warm in the hot tub and relaxing in the sauna. :) We live in a really great part of town and can walk to everything we need from the grocery store to a number of awesome restaurants and even better pubs! I'll post pictures as more excitement continues! I hope everyone is well! xo

Happy Birthday Mum!

2009-03-07T20:04:00.000-08:00

Montreal Impact(2) v. Santos Laguna(0)...Woo!

2009-02-26T18:04:00.001-08:00

Skating the Rideau!

2009-02-24T18:21:00.000-08:00

A quintessential Ottawa experience is skating the Rideau Canal. The first day we could we were out on the ice. Luckily, I brought my skates and Lucas was able to borrow some so we escaped the steep cost of rentals. It really was everything we thought it would be and more. We skated the whole thing and back; we calculated about 13 km of skating. I really hope that we get to skate a few more times before the ice thaws!

The views were beautiful! That sign up in the left corner says Waverly and it reminded me a train station in Scotland. And the building in the top right corner is our new apartment building!

It was pretty cold but we found warmth next to the several outdoor firepits. And yes, that is a one horse open sleigh! :)

That top left picture is of me eating a bacon roll which was so exciting for me!! mmmmm And Parliament never loses appeal.

In Ottawa!

2009-02-21T10:55:00.000-08:00

It was hard to believe that the day would finally come to leave Vancouver. But when February hit, I've never felt time move so quickly. Before we knew it, it was February 16th and our last day in Vancouver. Moods were a mixture of excitement, nerves and sadness. The airport was not as bad as I thought it would be; there were tears but not many. As the wheels of the plane lifted off the ground, I couldn't push back the real tears any longer. Poetically, like any girl who loves a little drama, I watched Vancouver shrink back in the distance. It was a beautiful clear morning and the perfect last memory of a city that I will always call home.

Now, we're in our new home of Ottawa, Ontario. We are living with some good friends who are giving us a wonderful welcome to the city. Our time here has been really exciting so far. As many people know, just the other day, President Obama was in town. Unfortunately, we did not catch a glimpse of his arrival but the atmosphere of the city was exciting enough. That day we headed to Winterlude, Ottawa's winter festival celebrating all the things that make this time of year special in Eastern Canada. We saw ice sculptures and I enjoyed my first beavertail (one of many, I'm sure!) And that night, Elliot took us to the Canucks v. Senators hockey game, the ideal Canadian welcome. And to top it off, the Canucks won!

Today we are heading out to the Rideau Canal to go skating. The sun is shining bright and the temperatures are cold. Very cold. We promise to take lots of pictures so look back soon for more!

Everything in Ottawa is in both official languages

Awww...heart ice sculptures!

Some of the sculptures were really amazing!

In honour of President Obama arriving, Beavertail had a special 'Obamatail' that had cinnimon, sugar and whipped cream on it...

My first beavertail! mmm

GO CANUCKS! :)

#13 is Mats Sundin and the story of this sign is too long to type here but it gets Senators fans all riled up.

The arena

Us at the game!

Elliot and Lucas cheering on the Canucks

Final Score. Wooooo we won!

What the game would look like from the front row....ahhhh one day!

Going Away Party!

2009-02-12T09:50:00.000-08:00

The Holidays (a little late)

2009-01-15T14:00:00.001-08:00

Christmas this year was the best it's ever been. I'm not certain what made it better than all the rest but we had an absolute blast at every one of our 3 Christmases. I hope you enjoy the photos!

Christmas #1 at Lucas' Parents Place

Christmas #2 at Mum's Place

Christmas #3 at Dad's Place

Happy 2009!

We Hope Everyone Has a Wonderful Christmas!

2008-12-24T11:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas JOY! :)

2008-12-22T14:34:00.000-08:00

Welcome Benjamin David Mackie!
The newest addition to the Mackie Family at 6 lbs, born December 22, 2008. Congratulations David, Nancy & Sophia!

More Christmas Fun!

Decorating the Malinowski Family Christmas tree :)

Christmas dinner party at David & Nancy's place

A Winter Wonderland in Vancouver!
**A neat piece of trivia: this will be the first Christmas in many many many years where ALL of Canada will have a white Christmas! :)

Remembering Cindy

2008-12-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

I’ve sat here for hours not knowing what to say
Fingers just gracing the keyboard, lost in a way

Lost in a sea of mournful words, I’m quickly losing sight
Sadness, despair, loss and heartache - something doesn’t feel right.

In this dark sea is not where Cindy lies
It’s then I look up and see the bright blue skies

And there she is smiling bright
Her smile, laughter and heart giving me light

Out of the dark sea, up where I belong
With all the good memories leading me along

I see flashes of bright pictures in my mind
Allison and me in frilly dresses, you know the kind

Easter egg hunts and frightful Halloweens
Hot summer days and the smell of sunscreen

Thanksgiving dinners and New Years balloons
Late night barbeques and giant full moons

All these great memories I’ll hold for life
An inspiration, a Mom a forever burning light

Thank you Cindy, for showing me the way
With these bright memories, I’ll know what to say

OTTAWA

2008-12-10T15:14:00.000-08:00

Lucas and I just returned from a short 5 day vacation in the nation's capital, Ottawa, and our future home. We arrived in Ottawa and 15 minutes later, looked at each other with the same thought in mind - this is the place for us. There's a government building on every corner and a pub on every other corner. Canada's British heritage shines through here and the European feel is infectious. This was the first time I really felt what in the west seems like an anomaly - Canadian culture. Couples rushed down the streets comfortably switching between French and English; every sign or adverstisement was in both French and English; history was everywhere from the Victorian buildings to the old Irish pubs. We loved Ottawa and will be going back for good in 2009!

Flying over the Rockies

My first glimpse of Parliament did not disappoint

Lucas staring in awe

The base of the Peace Tower

Can't tear my eyes away from the House of Commons :)

Lucas looking stately in the Senate

mmm Guinness...thank goodness for those Irish Pubs!

Curry & Chips! Haddock & Chips?! Are we in Scotland or Ottawa?!

The Supreme Court of Canada

Us in the big seats :)

Steps to the back of Parliament

The Library - probably one of the most amazing rooms I've ever seen in my life

Lucas and me outside Parliament

Me with the Suffrage ladies

Lucas & William Lyon Mackenzie King (former PM)

The Bay!! This one's for you Gran :)

The National Gallery - A M A Z I N G!

Dualling pianos at Fat Tuesdays :)

The Boys

Off to MONTREAL!

Brrrrr....it was cold

Lucas in Montreal

The Notre Dame Basilica

We couldn't resist. And this actually ended up being really awesome. The guide was full of information and we saw more of old Montreal than we would have on foot.

Me and Silver, the horse.

On the streets of Old Montreal

We need to stop complaining of the "cold" in Vancouver and get out on our bikes!

Back to Parliament. The portrait is of Pierre Elliott Trudeau

It may be cold but the skies are bright!

Me & Parliament

Flying Home :(

A BUSY November

2008-12-02T22:40:00.000-08:00

From our haunted trolley tour November 1st to the tree trimming of November 30th, this has been one crazy month :)

HAUNTED TROLLEY TOUR

our mouse and Mum's house

MURDER MYSTERY PARTY

MASQUERADE

Tree Trimming :)

Election Night

2008-10-14T21:22:00.000-07:00

It's a disappointing night. Unfortunately, the Liberal Party suffered significant losses tonight. The Conservative Party and NDP gained these lost votes. Luckily, the Conservatives did not manage a majority. PHEW! There are several things that were shocking here...honestly I'm tired and am feeling a tiny bit defeated.

One thing that I do have to mention is the voter turnout. In a world where democracy suffers, where wars are fought, where Canadian men fight for people's freedom and democratic right where people risk their lives to vote in a democratic election...the fact that we have the nerve to have the lowest voter turnouts in history is thoroughly disappointing and quite frankly, embarrassing. I never thought in my life that I would be embarrassed by my country. I am tonight. Those of you who didn't vote, should be ashamed and should be issuing some serious apologies to those around the world who are watching you take this valued right for granted. (10 million voters, it's official, did not vote tonight - I am so ashamed, shocked, disgusted. If one of you opens your mouth to complain about a thing, you have no right. If you don't like the candidates, spoil your ballot. It's more of a statement than sitting at home and not bothering)

Okay, so Election Night is not all about complaints, there was some fun too....check it out!

That little guy that I'm holding is Che. He would have voted.

Victoria Long Weekend

2008-10-14T21:06:00.001-07:00

The stunning sunset

Moi

View from our room

A beautiful morning

Memories of 22 years ago :)

Me & Mum at parliament

Considering my new colours

I'm going to miss home!

Mum showing her love for the whole country :)

Mmmm Caramel Apples

CONGRATULATIONS Lucas!!

2008-10-09T19:19:00.000-07:00

After 5 Long Years... ; )

I am still here!!

2008-10-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I am so sorry that I haven't posted in over a month! That's not like me! There has been a lot going on and a lot to be excited about lately, but not a lot of photos to take.

There is an election going on right now which as you know keeps me glued to the news channels and newspapers. It's an exciting election and I can't believe we vote in just under a week! I have my fingers crossed for the Liberal Party. They have something great to offer and we've already seen what a Conservative government cannot do for us.

Lucas and I have made a HUGE decision about our future. We will be moving to Ottawa, ON in the new year. As you know, Ottawa is the capital of Canada and thus the centre of Government in this country. We are desparate to put our degrees to good use and are thus heading to the capital to do just that. We feel we need a change of scenery and a change of pace. While we don't feel that we need a change in temperatures, that is just a consequence we'll have to deal with. And yes, we know how cold it will be!

Other than that, not much is going on. We're enjoying the lovely fall weather that Vancouver is having right now. The sun is shining and the leaves are falling. It's the very best time of year and we're doing everything we can to make the best of it.

Mum and I are going to Victoria this weekend so you can expect some photos real soon!

Playground Fun

2008-08-30T18:06:00.001-07:00

Flowers for Peter

2008-08-26T18:58:00.000-07:00

Mum, Lucas and I attended the funeral of a dear friend today. Peter Dacher was the husband of Marilyn, one of Mum's closest friends. Mum and Marilyn met when Mum had just moved here from Scotland. Around 2 years ago (I'm not certain on the date), Peter was diagnosed with Cancer. He learned that it would be terminal about 18 months ago. The doctors gave him far less than 18 months but he proved them all wrong. Peter was best known for his work in the German and Jewish communities in Vancouver. He owned a printing business where he made many friends in the city. Above all Peter is remembered for his undying sense of humour. Nearly everyone who spoke at Peter's funeral today spoke of his humour. He made everyone laugh right up until his last days. After the funeral, Mum and I decided to go to Van Dusen Gardens. It was a nice place to relax and reflect on our day. We remembered Peter and had a good laugh in his memory. This tree made us think of Peter (it's name is the German word for tree). I think of this now as Peter's tree. I hope you enjoy these photos.

In loving memory of Paul Peter Dacher
November 14, 1936 - August 15, 2008

Murray Lake Camping

2008-08-17T17:09:00.000-07:00

Lucas, Neil, Jenn and I hit the road on a camping adventure this past weekend. We had no definite destination, just some conditions - be out in the middle of nowhere, in lots on trees with a body of water. We found the perfect place at Murray Lake, just 30 or so minutes past the toll booths along the Coquihala Highway. It was perfect!

It was a bit of a tight fit for four people and all of our gear in my Mum's little hatch-back but we made it work.

Mum's car became a 4x4 for the day along the logging road to Murray Lake. Thanks again for the wheels Mum. She came back all in one piece, I promise :)

Good times beside the campfire and lake

There's nothing better than roasting a smokie on the fire and listening to the Beatles...in Baroque?! Yup!

There were lots of beautiful butterflies around our campsite. One decided to take a rest on my stomach. It was pretty neat.

More good times around the fire!

Jenn French-braided my hair for me. The first time from what I can remember!

My Irn-Bru commercial shots and Lucas showing the devil in him.

All four of us by the lake!

9th Annual Burnaby Blues & Roots Festival

2008-08-11T20:17:00.001-07:00

Despite the ominous rain clouds, the weather was awesome! Perfect for a festival - not too hot, not too cold.

Jenn & Neil came with us! :)

More Fun!

Another year doesn't disappoint!

Gulf Island Cycling Tour

2008-07-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

Lucas and I, being our ambitious selves, took off for a cycling holiday this past long weekend. We covered two of the amazing Gulf Islands, Salt Spring Island and Mayne Island. Salt Spring never disappoints with its ecclectic atmosphere. There are artists and musicians everywhere! Mayne is very very quiet and so relaxing. By the time we left we felt like one of the locals. We didn't even lock our bikes when we went for dinner! A big accomplishment for two city riders! In total, we covered 94km over our 6 day holiday. Not too shabby if you ask me!

Mum was there to help see us off. Manouevering around the Ferries was not easy with that trailer but Lucas did a great job!

The food on Salt Spring is amazing!

I had to take pictures of our brand new fancy tent while Lucas built our fire.

We loved that Salt Spring has a Bike Doctor listed on their city map!

Hitting the road! Where else to go but Salt Spring's very own winery

The Winery!

This night had to be one of my favourites. We took back a bottle of wine and Salt Spring Island Goat cheese for dinner. It was amazing!

Every Saturday Salt Spring holds a Farmer's Market. We found our treasure in fresh home grown garlic! mmmmmmmm

On our way to Mayne Island

The road down to our campsite was beautiful and better yet...no cars! The view from our campsite was even better!

The beaches on Main were beautiful! Too bad the water was so cold!

On our last full day in Mayne we circled the Island. We were a tad disappointed when it only took us 90 minutes! So we hit the local restaurant for a pitcher :)

All the scenic pictures here were views from our campsite! Amazing! We just unzipped our tent and the water was right there.

Our last night in Mayne!

Weekend in the 'Burbs

2008-06-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I ventured out to Langley to chill with Mandi and see my Sister. But first, I said goodbye to my kitty who went to live with Mum. :(

Me saying goodbye to Pepsi

Mandi and I headed out to Harrison for the day. It rained on us a couple of times and I couldn't resist an artsy shot of my sunglasses covered in rain.

The lake up in Harrison...can't remember what it's called (not Harrison Lake)

Mandi at the lake!

Me and Brady! Mandi and I found Brady wandering along the highway. We were so scared for his safety that we decided to do soemthing about it. He was so happy and relieved to see us! We spent an awesome night with him before taking him to the SPCA. Hopefully he finds his family real soon!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

This is my Dad, Jay. He's a pretty amazing guy. You'll see from his tie, he's into music. He taught me how to sing and act and has a stage presense I can only wish for. This photo was taken the other weekend at a restaurant in Abbotsford where he sings every Friday and Saturday night. Unfortunately, the lucky bum is in Montreal this Father's Day and seeing as I can't talk to him, and well, just because he's worth the space, I'm posting about him to say, Happy Father's Day.

And so, Dad, Happy Father's Day!

Love,
your daughter xoxo

Spoiled

2008-06-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

Even though times are a little tight, I whole heartedly believe that we all deserve to be spoiled just a little bit. At least that's what my Mum tells me! :) Instead of heading to a spa, I decided I would set up my own in my living room. It was complete with manicure, pedicure, chocolate, wine, chick flick and my pepsi. A girl couldn't ask for a more relaxing night on her own!

A City Girl Through and Through

2008-05-21T22:25:00.000-07:00

When my Mum moved to BC at the age of 23 she moved in with her older brother who was living in Surrey at the time (it was far nicer in the 70s!). It wasn't long before she crossed the bridge over into Vancouver where she really wanted to be. She lived just off Robson street in those days. No need for a car or a bus pass with everything she needed within reach of her front door. I won't even mention what her rent was to save the already many broken hearts caused by Vancouver's current rent situation. The city was in her heart. She loved every second of it. When she met my Dad and they decided to start a family together they faced a big decision. They would have to move out of the city to be able to afford a home for a family. They moved back to Surrey.

When my Mum became pregnant with me it was a rough pregnancy from the start. At 8 months my Mum went into labour. The birth was not going so well and "unfortunately" Surrey Memorial could not handle the birth. My Mum and I were rushed to Vancouver General, the wing better known at the time as 'Grace'. I wouldn't wish the experience on anyone but I can't deny the relief that my birth certificate reads Vancouver rather than Surrey. I like to think it was my Mum's longing for the city that brought us there that day. She knew that deep down she was a city girl and her girl was going to be born in the city as well. Or maybe I knew that, and that's why I gave those doctors such troubles. Either way...PHEW! Dodged that bullet!

Regardless of being born in the city I would grow to love I still had to come home and home was in Surrey at the time. I grew up in Surrey through my younger years before my Mum began to notice that Surrey wasn't looking so nice anymore. We moved a few steps over to Delta where my Mum was confident I would get a better education and upbringing through highschool (Thank you Mum!). Delta wasn't so bad and I made some great friends.

I was 16 when I got my first job downtown. I had been visiting the city since I was a very little girl. Naturally, my Mum took me there every opportunity she had. I still remember the disapproving looks I would receive from friend's parents when they found out I traveled to the big bad city alone. But I was taught not to fear the city. I was taught to be defensive and watch out for myself but not so much that I was afraid of people's shadows. I knew then that the city was where I had to end up. Eventually I would have Vancouver in my address.

Fastforward 7 years and I've made it! After finishing my degree it was time to sell the apartment and Mum was set on returning to the city. We moved to East Vancouver in the spring and I was ecstatic. Yeah, I felt a little isolated from some of my friends but I was in the city! The city was a friend too and I was more than happy to have it as my date almost every night. Luckily, I had a job right downtown so I was getting the best of both worlds. I had the eclectic colours, smells and sounds of East Vancouver and the fast flashy lights and passion of the downtown core.

I've been living in Vancouver now for over a year and I am in love. Many might say I am still in the honeymoon phase but like any part of a great pair I ignore all of that. I lust for and love this city everyday. I get up and can hear the cable bus pass my window (I am now living right on Fraser St). I hop on my bike and race down the hill outside my door before crossing Main and smelling a half dozen bakeries on the way. This is all before circling Science World and False Creek just in time for the sun's first light on the water. Giddiness stirs in me and I'm more than happy to work away with the ride home constantly on my mind.

Separating from my city is not pretty. I have a vast distaste for the suburbs where everything looks exactly the same right down to the dogs, restaurants, and cars (for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles and miles...). It drives me insane that the only cafe is a Starbucks and the "hip" restaurant in town is an Earls. Whenever I'm away from the city my heart longs to be back with my one constant love.

From where I sit I can see the city lights, they add a certain glow to my kitchen that no night-light could imitate. As I get older (not that old, but older) my friends are moving further and further away from the city. I am happy that they are happy but there's something that I just can't understand. I can't understand wanting to live in the suburbs. I cannot imagine being okay with being so far away from the cultural centre of the West Coast! It baffles my mind.

Everyone has a place where they just feel they belong. It's a place that feels like home. It's different for every person which is a very good thing. Vancouver is my home, it's where I belong and where I love to be. Though I guess it's in my blood... :)

Dare I go there...

2008-05-13T14:19:00.000-07:00

I must decline from participating in this debate too much but I couldn't resist posting the following story. Despite not being a science student I have always had a deep interest in Einstein. For me, it wasn't about his science, I have always been more interested in who he is on a more personal level. I'm no expert on Einstein, don't get me wrong. The most I know are some famous quotes and thoughts of the brilliant man. Recently, I've been reading more on religion and he has come up quite often as a result. When Lucas sent me through this story on CBC I was very intrigued. Take a look and be sure to read some of the comments if you have the time. Whether we participate or not, the debate is always very interesting.

'Belief in God a 'product of human weaknesses': Einstein letter'

And to provide just a bit of comic relief on the same subject matter...

KRAZY! in Vancouver

2008-05-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

The Vancouver Art Gallery is going to be featuring a very exciting exhibit this May. It's called 'KRAZY! The Delirious World of Anime + Comics + Video Games + Art'. It's the first art exhibit of its kind and I am so excited that the show is going to be in Vancouver. Thanks to Lucas, I have been introduced to the world of Graphic Novels and Comic Books. I have read some phenomenal pieces of work that I otherwise wouldn't have heard of such as 'Watchmen' (the movie is coming!), 'V for Vendetta', 'Maus', and 'the Last Man'. I think that this exhibit is going to be really exciting. If you're in the city be sure to make your way there between May 17th and September 7th. And don't forget, Tuesdays are by donation! For information visit the Vancouver Art Gallery website here.

The New Pad! ; )

2008-05-01T12:46:00.001-07:00

The moving is finally all over! Lucas and I moved on Saturday and Mum moved yesterday and we are now all settling into our new homes. Lucas and my move went really well. It was so fast and we were completely unpacked by around 7pm that night...the benefits of not having much stuff! Mum's was a little rougher but we made it through!

Last picture of Mum and Me at our old place

Pepsi in the wardrobe :)

I accidentally elbowed Lucas in the jaw...he's pretending that it really hurt...I swear!

Getting ready to entertain some friends

Our Tibetan peace flags

The beautiful colours of the sunset coming through our dining room window

Pepsi in the other closet!

The dressing hall, on the way to the bathroom and my temporary bike storage (thankfully I have such a pretty bike!)

My first baking at the new place. Mum's apple crisp...needed some more sugar but was really good :)

Our living space

The Kitchen

Mum's Moving Day! (More pics to come.)

Saying goodbye to the nightmare parking lot at Victoria Drive

First dinner in the new place complete with milk in wine glasses

The chaos that is Mum's new apartment :) It already looks way better than this. I will post more pics soon! (ps. I've told her that she has to write a 5 year lease with me, this moving business has gotten out of hand!!)

More Apartment Pics!

2008-04-21T13:10:00.000-07:00

I love my Kitchen soo much! Lucas and I did so much work in here yesterday it was crazy! Lucas hung the spice rack, wine bottle and glasses racks, blinds, etc. and I lined every single cupboard and unpacked and made it all look pretty! It almost looks like we're entirely moved in!

My lovely new bathroom. It's cosy!

The almost finished wardrobe. Lucas was having some trouble securing it to the wall. It's all done now though and that Ikea headache is over!

Ikea Furniture and Indian Food

2008-04-20T10:49:00.001-07:00

Well it's now official! We have our keys and the moving began last night with bringing in our new ikea furniture and enjoying some indian food from across the way. It was a really fun night even at the frustrating parts! Ikea furniture is a nightmare! We bought ourselves a wardrobe as Lucas and I needed more closet space and I've never in my life seen a more complicated piece of Ikea furniture! It was brutal! But with determination we got 85% done last night and will finish it off today. Again, these pics were taken with my phone, once we're in there I promise to take proper pictures with my nice camera :)

Our living space. The beautiful rug is compliments from Lucas' parents (many many thanks for that!)

The take-out Indian only had spoons on offer for cutlery! hahaha

Mmmm butter chicken and spicy beef curry! Our first dinner in our new home!

The insane amount of hardware for the Ikea wardrobe!

The beginning steps of putting it together :)

Keys!

2008-04-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

Well, today is the day! Lucas and I get our keys to our new apartment! I can hardly believe that this is all finally happening. It's so exciting and so wonderful and sad as well. I've lived with my Mum for the last 23 years, just me and her. She's been the greatest 'roommate' a girl could ask for and I'm going to miss living with her! But it's time to move forward and I am so excited for the coming unknown! Be sure to check back often for new pics of the new place and stories of how things are coming together!

My Birthday Party (a little belated)

2008-04-15T13:05:00.001-07:00

Well I must apologise for these pictures being just a little late. My Birthday was actually on the 1st (for those of you who didn't know or obviously forgot) and this party took place on the 4th. We headed to my favourite place to dance downtown, Mod Club at Honey Lounge. It was a really great time! Thanks to everyone who made it out!

My New Apartment

2008-04-01T10:23:00.001-07:00

Lucas and I, after a long and stressful search, have found our new home! It's a great little apartment on top of a business on Fraser and 27th in Vancouver. It has great new floors and huge windows! The move-in date is May 1st, exactly one month past my birthday (Happy Birthday to me!) The pics aren't the best because I took them with my phone but expect more to come!

Snowshoeing on Grouse!

2008-03-28T16:41:00.000-07:00

The long way up!

Kelly, Robin and Micah enjoying the smooth ride

The beautiful sunshine at the top

Me! :)

Treking through the snow

Looking over Vancouver

So relaxing!

The view from the top

The whole group!

731 Days Later

2008-03-23T20:02:00.000-07:00

Lucas and I spent an awesome day wandering through the Watershed in Delta to celebrate being together 2 years. It was an awesome relaxing day, hopefully one of many to come! :)

Random Bits of March

2008-03-19T20:34:00.000-07:00

Mum's Birthday!My talented balloon drawings

Mum with her three candles, we though 54 would just get out of hand!

Heather and Adrian, the special party guests

Me and Mum having a good time!

First Robin of the year!

Days with Lucas

Lucas chillin' outside 'Choices' in the MORNING, yes, that's right, the morning ; )

Our quiet St.Patrick's Day consisted of a few Irish Beers, some steak pie and lumpy mashed potatoes (still very ashamed about that! What would my Gran think?!) :)

Nice One :)

He got me!!

AWWWWW

How most nights end...

All of this equals one very happy March!

Household Purchases!

2008-02-28T13:43:00.000-08:00

So as many of you know plans are in the works for me moving out in the very near future. In preparation of moving out I've started to make some household purchases as I'm essentially starting from scratch. So, today I went out at lunch and found a set of cutlery! And now I have to laugh because I never in my life thought I would be so excited about finding a really nice set of cutlery :). It's really important to me in all of these purchases that I find things that are good quality and at a good price rather than just buying cheap stuff that I'll want to throw out in a year. Today I found exactly what I was looking for, a set of really nice, unique, quality silverware. I'm so excited! :) hehehe

The designer's Website

First Ride of 2008

2008-02-24T14:16:00.000-08:00

Today is a beautiful sunny warm day in Vancouver and what better thing to do but introduce my bike to 2008. This February is turning out to be the most beautiful one I've ever experienced in this city. I feel so lucky to live here right now the pride is pouring out of me!

Granville Island Vanlentines Weekend

2008-02-18T17:32:00.001-08:00

Lucas and I decided to skip Valentines Day and rather have a Valentines Weekend. To save a little bit of money and do something a little different we decided to have a Valentines Getaway in our own city in the bustling little marketplace that is Granville Island. We headed down there for a beautiful weekend of sunshine, street performers, good food and fresh air. It was 'just what the doctor ordered' as they say! We got just the right amount of relaxation and laughter before heading home on yet another gorgeous sunny day in Vancouver. :)

The Hotel Room - the room, the view from our room, the beautiful display waiting for us

The Sunset, the Beer Flight (taste test) and us in the central market :)

General Silliness :)

Our wonderful dinner at Dockside

Valentines Eve

2008-02-13T23:15:00.001-08:00

In celebration of nothing at all a small group of us went out tonight for seafood and strawberries!

I had one of the biggest food days of my life today. Those of you who know me well know that I am the pickiest eater ever! Well I broke that mould today and tried some seafood that I had previously refused to eat. At the end of it I had tried - smoked candied salmon, raw oysters, scallops, mussels, and prawns! Of all of these things the salmon and raw oysters we by far my favourites followed very closely by scallops. I'm so proud of myself!!! :)

The Strawberries

What Pringle did:

What Kelly & I did:

hehehehe ; )

Happy Valentines Day Everyone!
And especially Happy Valentines Day to my Gran! :)

Ink'd

2008-01-11T15:39:00.000-08:00

After over 5 years of contemplation I've finally gotten my second tattoo! And the big news...it's very visible! It was a huge decision to make but I'm really happy that I finally went ahead and did it. What is the meaning, you ask? Well it's a tribute to my Mother. My Mum is the strongest woman I know. She has been a single mother since I was the very young age of 2 years. Ever since I was two my Mum has taught me to be a strong independent kick-ass woman just like her. Everyday I strive to be just a little bit like her. This tattoo is my way to carry her with me wherever I go and remind me of the values she has instilled in me. The orange flower symbolises her always looking over my shoulder and protecting me and the yellow flower symbolises me. It's not quite finished yet; I still have to go in for touch-ups and white highlights but I couldn't wait to share it. (And yes after the first 2 hours it really started to hurt) :)

ps. to those finding out about this through the blog, sorry I didn't tell you before hand!!

T-Bone Christmas

2008-01-07T13:33:00.001-08:00

Lucas and I recently noticed that some of our gifts for each other had an underlining connection. It turns out that the music on three of our favourite gifts - Across the Universe Soundtrack, O Brother Where Art Thou DVD & Robert Plant and Alison Kruass CD - was all somehow tied to T-Bone Burnett. This prompted me to do a little research on T-Bone and find out what else he's done and where he comes from and what other cool things he has had his part in. What I found is super impressive.

T-Bone Burnett was a musician himself during the 70s and early 80s. In the late 80s until now he's been making a name for himself as a music producer and film scorer. He's had his hand in such famous musical films as 'Walk the Line' and has produced songs for films such as 'Cold Mountain' and 'All the King's Men'. His work has been recognised by various award giving academies including being nominated for the Anthony Asquith Award for Achievement in Film Music by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).

The music in all the gifts Lucas and I gave to each other this Christmas is amazing and it all has something to do with this man. I can say for certain that I'll be looking for his name in the future. If any of you are interested I highly suggest checking out some of T-Bone's music and for sure check out the Across the Universe Soundtrack, O Brother Where Art Thou film, and the new Robert Plant and Alison Krauss collaboration.

Happy 2008!

2008-01-01T16:57:00.001-08:00

After many many quiet nights in on New Years we decided that this year was the year to go out on the town and bring the New Year in, in style. Harbour Centre was holding a masquerade and I could think of nothing more fitting to do on New Years then be at the venue with the best view in the city all dressed up with sexy masks and surrounded by good friends. It was an amazing night and Lucas and I danced until we had nothing left in us. It was a great choice for the first New Years out on the town!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Lucas' Birthday!

2007-12-31T13:37:00.000-08:00

The Night Out

The Actual Day!
(including the morning after) :)

At Deer Lake Park

Christmas Marathon 2007

2007-12-27T11:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas #1 - Lucas' House!

Christmas at Lucas' house was really great. We had a wonderful traditional Polish Christmas dinner followed by opening presents and taking family photos. Lucas got a gorgeous Conga drum and got so many nice gifts including a handmade necklace from Poland, stationary, and new sports clothes. Thank you to Lucas' family for such a lovely night.

Christmas #2 - Mum and My House

Christmas at our house was really special this year. Mum and I shared a great breakfast complete with Champagne & Orange Juice before Lucas arrived and we started opening all the gifts. Mum got me some amazing clothes and jewelry. Lucas outdid himself this year with getting me some amazing CDs, the #1 movie I've been asking for for years, Pjs and Zelda! (plus much more!!) Don came over in the afternoon and we opened presents yet again! The food was amazing! Mum prepared a cajun style turkey and a full rack of Lamb! mmmmmm!

These pics are of the many gifts of the day. Pepsi got a cute little ornament from Don. I got Tibeten Peace Flags and a Rockin' Winter Riding Jacket. Lucas is wearing his Bday present from Mum.

Even more pics from my house! Cigars, cake and Sambuca!

Christmas #3 - Dad's House

Christmas at Dad's house was very relaxing after our 3 day Christmas Marathon. Kent played Santa while we ripped and tore into even more gifts! Dad got me some great lights for my bike that will ensure I'm always seen on the road! Thanks Dad and Collette! Top right is my gangster brother Reis and bottom left is my beautiful sister Kelsey with her boyfriend Kent.

Christmas was out of this world this year! I felt really blessed to be around all the people I love the most in the world. Thanks to Everyone and have a Happy New Year!

Christmas Open House

2007-12-24T12:08:00.001-08:00

Mum and I just hosted our first Christmas Open House. It was a wonderful success and a really great time! This is larely thanks to our many friends who came by to enjoy this event with us. Many thanks to everyone who attended!

Mum with her new bike!

Lucas looking all suave :)

Heather, Mum & Adrian

Me and Mum

Lucas' money shot of the evening :)

Pepsi was there too!!

Festival of Lights

2007-12-10T19:01:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe that this year was the very first year I've ever made it to the stunning Festival of Lights at Van Dusen Gardens. I felt like a little girl as the lights lit up my eyes and carols, chestnuts, and laughter engaged all the other senses. I couldn't look at everything fast enough. It was so beautiful and well put together I was in awe of all the work that must have gone into the display. I had such a wonderful time that I'm going again next week!

Mum's Office Kids Christmas Party

2007-12-08T18:02:00.001-08:00

Today was the annual Boughton Office Kids Christmas Party and like last year, it did not disappoint. All the young children arrived dressed in their best dresses and suits prepared for a fun day of crafts, food and a special visit from Santa. Michael and I made our way through all the stations creating picture frames, bookmarks, and winning at Bingo. One thing I must say, is how wonderful all the children were who came to the party. There were 53 children in attendance today and at this some would cringe imagining screaming kids and utter chaos at times. This was never the case. The kids were so wonderful and polite patiently waiting for Santa to call their name or for their place at the craft table. It would be a wonderful holiday season if not only children but other adults took a lesson from these young kids in what the Christmas season is all about. Many Thanks to the Boughton Social Committee for such a wonderful day!
Mum and Me

Michael with Santa

Lucas and Me

Michael and Me

The beautiful view from Lucas' house

The Santa Clause Parade

2007-11-25T17:04:00.000-08:00

Today Lucas, Michael and I went to the Vancouver Santa Clause parade. It was a very nice afternoon of listening to Christmas music and waiting in anticipation for Santa!!

Us!

The police were out in full force and I was thrilled with my Rudolf nose :)

Some of the many floats on display today

A Canadian (Lets do what we can to keep this true!)

2007-11-23T10:42:00.001-08:00

An Australian Definition of a Canadian
-Written by an Australian Dentist

Pakistan Newspaper Ad - Reward for killing a Canadian
You probably missed it in the local news, but there was a report
that someone in Pakistan had advertised in a newspaper an offer of a
reward to anyone who killed a Canadian - any Canadian.
An Australian dentist wrote the following editorial to help define
what a Canadian is, so they would know one when they found one.

A Canadian can be English, or French, or Italian, Irish, German,
Spanish, Polish, Russian or Greek. A Canadian can be Mexican,
African, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Australian, Iranian,
Asian, Arab, Pakistani or Afghan.
A Canadian may also be a Cree, Metis, Mohawk, Blackfoot, Sioux, or
one of the many other tribes known as native Canadians. A Canadian's
religious beliefs range from Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim,
Hindu or none. In fact, there are more Muslims in Canada than in
Afghanistan. The key difference is that in Canada they are free to
worship as each of them chooses. Whether they have a religion or no
religion, each Canadian ultimately answers only to God, not to the
government, or to armed thugs claiming to speak for the government
and for God.
A Canadian lives in one of the most prosperous lands in the history
of the world. The root of that prosperity can be found in the
Charter of Rights and Freedoms which recognize the right of each
person to the pursuit of happiness.
A Canadian is generous and Canadians have helped out just about
every other nation in the world in their time of need, never asking
a thing in return. Canadians welcome the best of everything, the
best products, the best books, the best music, the best food, the
best services and the best minds. But they also welcome the least -
the oppressed, the outcast and the rejected.
These are the people who built Canada. You can try to kill a
Canadian if you must as other blood-thirsty tyrants in the world
have tried but in doing so you could just be killing a relative or a
neighbor. This is because Canadians are not a particular people from
a particular place. They are the embodiment of the human spirit of
freedom. Everyone who holds to that spirit, everywhere, can be a Canadian.

A Reflection on Graduation

2007-11-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

It has now been 5 months since I walked across the stage and received my diploma from Simon Fraser University. I remember the day as if it were yesterday. My Grandparents had flown out to see me graduate and I was so proud to have them in the audience. My closest friends and family came to celebrate the day and I was elated. That morning I went and had my hair done, I had new shoes with a matching purse for the occasion; in many and all ways this day was more significant to me than any other day before that. This was the day I had worked for. This is the day that all the late nights, extra caffeine and heavy backpacks were for. I was very proud.

So my question is, why do I now look at my degree with contempt? Last night I was so angry at that piece of paper I almost took it off of my wall. I still want to take it off of my wall. I still might. These past few weeks I have received my Student Loan repayment papers. I went from a young person with a good job and a few minor credit card payments to a young person overwhelmed with debt. A debt that according to these papers I will be paying off until I reach the tender age of 38. That's right, I'm due to pay my last installment in the year 2022. This can give you an idea of what the final amount is (I don't feel up to displaying this here). I can honestly say that I feel trapped. Just a few months ago I had decided that I would stay at home for an extra year in order to help my Mother out as she's always been there for me and this was my opportunity to give back to her. Now I feel like that choice has been stripped from me. I now have no choice but to live at home. In a city where the cost of living rises on an hourly basis the opportunities for young people are just not there anymore.

My whole life I believed that a degree would bring me opportunities and open doors. Nowadays companies expect more than just a degree. I had always thought that going back to school would be an option for me. Now I can't see how I could possibly go back to school while working and trying to pay back this loan. Taking a second job sounds more like it.

So now when I look at my degree I see it seeped in money that I am drowning in. It's a constant reminder of an overwhelming debt that I have to live with for years and years to come.

This being said, I'm not trying to ignite sympathy from anyone. I just think that by sharing my story people can be more prepared for what's coming to them. I'm also not planning on wallowing in this and becoming defeated. I'll pay this money back and I'll pay back every penny on time because that is how I was brought up. It won't be easy but it's also not impossible. My degree will take me places because I will make it. For now though, it may just need to retire to my closet.

The Evils of Aspartame

2007-11-09T12:33:00.000-08:00

So, now that I'm back to work and normal life I can go back to my normal posts of general things that inspire me to write here. Lately there has been a lot of talk around my household about Aspartame and the horrible consequences that come from its consumption. People around me have started to try and test these findings by cutting the chemical out of their diets completely. The results are startling as the health of the people closest to me improves from simply cutting out such things as diet-coke or sweetners. So, if you are one to choose a diet-coke over a coke or a sweetner over a sugar packet, please follow the links below and educate that decision. You may find that your choice changes.

General Information on Side-effects

Personal Stories of people who's lives have changed since cutting Aspartame out

Information on the chemical itself, along with more possible side-effects

Goodbye to Belize : (

2007-11-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

Well today is our last day in Belize and as you can see we're leaving having as much fun as we were arriving. Belize now occupies a very warm place in our hearts from the pure beauty of the land to the beauty of the people. We will always come back to Belize and will never forget the wonderful memories we made here. Thank you to everyone in Belize who made our trip everything and more than it could have been. We love you all. And as we've grown accustomed to hearing...Much Love and Respect. Bless.

Unda Da Sea

2007-10-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

Here is what you have all been waiting for. Lucas took the camera out again snorkeling yesterday and managed to take some beautiful under water pictures including some of Manatees and Sting Rays. Enjoy!

Lucas unda da sea

Manatees!

This is what I was face to face with the other day!!

Beautiful school of Blue Fish

Tiny awesome fish (Juvenile Damselfish)

Yellowtailed Snapper

Rays!

Sailing and Snorkeling

2007-10-29T11:49:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we went out on a full day of sailing and snorkeling. It was the perfect day with just the right wind and crystal clear water. It all got off to a bit of a rough start for me as I was immediately very sea sick. By the second stop I was moving past that though and really enjoying the day. The first snorkel stop was the very best though as Lucas and I spotted two amazing things. First we spotted three Spotted Eagle Rays swimming together below us. They are so beautiful how they just glide though the water. And then we saw a Manatee!!! We couldn't believe our eyes when the massive mammal passed underneath us. They are known to be curious animals so he didn't just pass by but stayed awhile below us spinning in the water and swimming in circles. Then(!) at one point Lucas and I had surfaced to talk about how wonderful and lucky we were and when I went back under the water I turned to be face to face with the curious creature. My heart literally stopped and I screamed but no sound came out under the water. It was a truly magical moment. I surfaced to call Lucas and have him share the same experience but the Manatee must have been spooked or decided we weren't that interesting as he was on his way back down to the bottom when we looked down again. But it was a really wonderful moment. The sail back was much better and I was feeling great again. We were served snacks and rum punch all the way back. It was stunning. (We did not manage to get any underwater photos as the camera that we had rented died on us the moment we got in the water, but be on the lookout for some tomorrow as Lucas went out again today in hopes of some more photos!!)

Me and Lucas on the Sailboat

Letting the water hit my feet on the way to the next snorkel stop

Lets play find the dragonflies on our Japanese friend

Soaking in the sun and enjoying the Reggae in the background

Lucas with sun setting behind him

Gorgeous photo of the sun coming down on our way back

So beautiful!

Caye Caulker Halloween Bash

2007-10-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

What a relief it was to see the sign advertising the Caye Caulker Oceanside Halloween party when we arrived! I was so worried all along that I may not get to celebrate my favourite holiday. Thankfully there was no need to worry and the party kicked off early Saturday and continued into the small hours of Sunday. We had such a good time! The costumes were great and get this?!?! Lucas won a costume contest!! Which one, you ask? Look at the pics below and guess ; ) (I know that you all recognise my costume and are thinking, wait a second, I've seen Jenn dressed like this before...well give me a break, I'm on an Island and he's the best I could do! Plus it's Alex with a Caribbean twist so that's new isn't?!?) ; )

The old favourite with a Caribbean twist

Lucas dressed as a hot lady and Aussie Dave. Everyone at the pub LOVED Lucas' costume. Now almost everyone on this Island has a picture with Lucas in his hot Halloween costume.

Lucas and me out on the dancefloor

Hell Raiser and our Swiss friend lookin' a little freaked out.

Most creative costume, Jungle Guy.

What I was doing all night!

Lucas' main competition in, you guessed it, the Sexiest Costume Competition. And he won!!

Caye Caulker

2007-10-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

The motto here on Caye Caulker is 'Go Slow' and this was evident from our first step off the water taxi. Not only was it evident, it was perfect and so welcome. This atmosphere is precisely what we needed for our last week in Belize. We like to call this our little vacation from our vacation. We're staying here a total of eight nights which means that the bags are unpacked and our shoulders are free from stress for the next nine days (well 6 days now...). The Caye itself is around one mile wide and 1.5 miles long. We've explored almost all there is to see but as the motto goes, we're taking it slow. Yesterday we went on our first snorkeling tour, overall, it went well. Lucas took to it a bit better than I did but I'm not giving up and we'll be going out to the big reserve on Sunday. Until then, enjoy the photos!

Our Hostel, 'Tina's'

Me relaxing on Tina's Palapa out on the water

Lucas on Tina's dock

Me with one of the many stray dogs who seem to have also adopted the Caye's motto

Lucas snorkeling for the first time and about to see 20+ Stingrays surround the boat

The light of the beautiful full moon last night

Lucas chillin' at Bamboo's

Ambergris Caye

2007-10-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

Lucas and I arrived on Ambergris Caye about... 4 days ago (we lose track...) and have been having a great time. Spending time here was not in our plans as it is tourist central and we've been trying to stay away from the heavy tourist spots. Luckily it's off season so it's not so bad. Yesterday we rented a golf cart (what everyone uses to get around the Caye) and explored as much of Ambergris as we could. We ended up finding a pier in the middle of no where with no people or resorts around so stopped here to relax, enjoy the sun, the water and some lunch. It was so beautiful! We'll be here for another two nights before heading off to our final destination in Belize.

Me driving the golf cart

Lucas did most of the driving

The main street in San Pedro

Me enjoying the water and letting the sun get to my head

Lucas doing the very same ; )

So beautiful...

Lamanai

2007-10-19T17:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Lucas and I visited our last ruin stop in Belize, Lamanai. Lamanai is the oldest Mayan ruin in Belize dating back to 1500BC. It is also the longest continued Mayan occupied ruin in the world; Mayan population lived in Lamanai until the 1860s. They have found nearly 700 structures at Lamanai but have only been able to excavate 6 sites. This was the first guided tour we've gone on of a ruin and it was actually really nice. The guide we had was full of information and had a strange but funny sense of humour. The trip to Lamanai was one of the best parts, it was a 2 hour journey by boat along the New River. Wildlife was abundant! I hope you all enjoy the photos as much as we enjoyed being there!!

Beautiful sculpture on the face on a temple at Lamanai

Lucas at the top of a temple with the New River in the background

Me at the top of the temple

Stella 9, the most famous Stella found in Lamanai (maybe in Belize?)

Jaguar Temple

Belize Zoo

2007-10-16T19:01:00.001-07:00

Today Lucas and I visited the Belize Zoo. It was a really amazing place. The animals there were all acquired naturally, meaning that none were captured from the wild. Some of the animals' stories were really tragic. It's wonderful that Belize has such a nice place to show some of it's rarest animals. It helps educate the public that these animals are worth saving. We were very lucky to see all that we saw today. It was as if the animals were showing off for us at times which was really neat. The Toucan flew right to the front of his cage to see us, the crocodile climbed out of the water onto a nearby bamboo platform, the cats came right up to the front of their cages and rested. The puma was rolling around and purring as we took it's photograph. Every animal has it's own personality which was beautiful to see. My favourite was the Tapir who came right up to me and Lucas and licked our hands and sniffed my nose, it was adorable. I hope that you all enjoy the pictures as much as we enjoyed taking them!

Lucas next to the Crocodile

Me with the Tapir, Navidad

The Scarlet Macaw

Junior the Jaguar

Pelicans

One of my favourites, the Black Jaguar

Anteater sleeping. If only he were awake to eat the ant that bit me today!!

Crocodile coming to show off on the bamboo

One of the three types of Toucan found in Belize. Sadly the most famous type was off display today.

Beautiful Puma

The otters were having fun showing off for our camera

Hopkins

2007-10-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

Lucas and I had a wonderful time in Hopkins. We were only there for a short time so we made sure that in that time we submerged ourselves into the Garifuna culture. We started with drumming lessons where we practiced punta beats and drummed on turtle shells. We rented bikes for the day and explored the whole village. We then capped our day off with a traditional Garifuna meal made by our wonderful host Rosie. It was a wonderful time!!

Playing the Turtle Shells

Lucas perfecting the Belizean rythms

Lucas joining in on the punta jams

Lucas and I enjoying our traditional meal

Riding bikes around town!

Beach Days

2007-10-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Placencia has been an absolute blast. The last two days we spent relaxing on the beach and jumping from happy hour to happy hour. The rum here is dangerously good and we've found our new favourite drink, Muddy Waters, which is Dark One Barrel Rum and Gingerale. It's awesome. The sea and sands have been so welcoming it's going to be hard to leave here. We leave today for the small Garifuna community of Hopkins. The adventure continues!!

Lucas and me relaxing on the beautiful sand

Lucas in the Caribbean, the sea water was warmer than our shower!

Now, divide these prices by 2 (to convert to CAD) and be jealous that this is the most expensive place for drinks we've been to : )

Me relaxing at the Barefoot Beach Bar

There are many stray cats in Placencia. Lucas and I temporarily adopted this one and named him 7-up as he looks like Pepsi's long lost brother. : )

Monkey River Tour

2007-10-08T15:54:00.000-07:00

This morning with a little bit of a foggy head after all the rum last night Lucas and I headed out on our tour of Monkey River. The rush of air from the boat woke us up as our guide started to teach us about the many beautiful birds of Belize. We were lucky enough to see pelicans, blue herons, green herons, ospreys, hawks, sparrows, king fishers, vultures and many more! We also saw crocodiles, turtles, monkeys, huge butterflies, blue land crabs (too quick for a photo) and a quick glance of a manatee. It was a really great day!

Setting off in the early morning

Blue Heron in the background and a young blue heron in the foreground

Crocodile on the beach

Beautiful dragonfly (Mandi, all the dragonflies here make me think of you)

Baby Crocodile

Jaguar paw print, probably the closest we'll get to seeing a Jaguar in the wild

Beautiful big Butterfly : )

Placencia

2007-10-08T15:41:00.001-07:00

Lucas and I arrived in Placencia 2 days ago now. We had no idea what to expect from Placencia and were pleasantly surprised with what was waiting there for us. Placencia is the definition of a beach town. There is sand EVERYWHERE and the main street is a sidewalk through the sand. You can see the beach from almost every location in town including the guesthouse we're staying at. The Caribbean Sea is so wonderful. On our first morning Lucas and I were up at 8am and went straight to the sea for a swim. Last night we danced to reggae and drank what else but Belizean rum. Needless to say we are having a blast here!

The main strip of Placencia

The beautiful warm rain of Belize

At the Cozy Corner Bar enjoying my Jamaican Twist

The Beach

San Miguel

2007-10-08T15:18:00.001-07:00

While we were in San Ignacio, our friend Germo told us that we must visit his Mayan home town of San Miguel. He even offered us a place to stay, with his family of Mum, Dad and 8 siblings. We accepted the offer and headed down south. When we arrived in San Miguel Germo's family hadn't gotten his message and had no idea who we were!! Nevertheless they listened to our story of meeting Germo and welcomed us into their home with open arms. They were such wonderful people and we were very sad when it came time to leave.

Germo's older brother Bernardino teaching me a traditional Q'echi dance

Me and Ercilia, Germo's younger sister

Germo's Mum Isabella teaching Lucas how to shell corn for tortillas

Me and Beverly at Lubaantun, a nearby Mayan ruin

Sunset over the village of San Miguel

Lucas with Germo's little brother Skyler, probably the smartest 2 year old we've ever met!

Ruins

2007-10-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

We have visited three different ruin sites in the last five days, Cahal Pech, Caracol and Tikal. Each one was amazing. Tikal was probably the most impressive due solely to it's size! The architecture is incredible and it's amazing to know that this was all done well over a thousand years ago. We have many pictures of these but are limited to only posting a few. We are planning on visiting one more ruin in the North of Belize so look out for those pics in the future! Oh and you can't see in the pictures but it was POURING rain at Caracol, we were soaked through completely! Thank god the rain here is so warm!

Me in the pouring rain at Caracol

One of the many temples at Tikal

Lucas at Cahal Pech, outside of San Ignacio. This is the first ruin we visited.

Monkeys & More for Michael!

2007-10-03T05:56:00.001-07:00

Here are just a few of the amazing creatures we have been lucky to see while here. The monkeys were amazing and so fascinating to watch, we could have stood there all day! They make this amazingly loud sound that you would not believe comes from a small 10lb monkey. The iguanas were wonderful as well, very friendly! We were introduced to Buddy, Gemieve and some babies! We can't wait to see more amazing animals and will post some more when we do!

This unbelievable spider was spotted living in a tree in Tikal, Guatemala

Lucas holding Buddy, the resident pet of the Iguana project

Lucas and me holding the baby iguanas, mine was so cute and tiny you can't even see it in my hand!

At this point we were certain that they were posing for us : )

You must enlarge this photo to see how beautiful it is

Technical Difficulties

2007-10-02T15:45:00.001-07:00

Hey Guys, we hoped to have photos up but are experiencing some issues. We are going to try again tonight. Sorry! : (

Caves Branch Photos!!

2007-09-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

I hope you all enjoy the first photos we've been able to upload. We have taken so many pictures already trying to capture every moment here in Belize. Caves Branch was definitely a highlight thus far. Enjoy!

Beautiful flower from the orchid garden at Caves Branch

View from the lodge at Caves Branch

Swimming with the fish at Blue Hole National Park

Me looking out over the sink hole psyching myself up to repel 300ft into it!

Lucas at the bottom of the 300ft repel

Lucas and me in the Caves Branch River before venturing into the Cave!

Drum stalagmite formation in Footprint Cave

Lucas in his tube (which was made in Canada!)

yeah...the moths in Belize Suck!

Me outside in our Cabana

Hello from Belize!

2007-09-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

Belize has been amazing so far. Our trip out here was okay. Houston airport was terrible, and the flight from Seattle was not very comfortable at all. Once we got out of Houston, it was alright, and the flight was much better. The heat was intense as soon as we got off the plane. We took a taxi into Belize City, and once we got past all the taxi drivers trying to convince us to spend $80 USD for a ride with them, we got on a bus to Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Jungle Lodge. The Bus was packed, but not too uncomfortable. It took us about two hours to get to the lodge, and only cost us $3 USD for both of us to take the bus!

Once we got to Caves Branch, we were amazed. It is right in the middle of the Jungle, on a river. The paths were lit with tiki torches, and we got there just in time for dinner. The food was amazing the whole time we were there. Three meals a day, buffet style. We left every meal with a full stomach. Because the resort was pretty empty, we got upgraded from the bunkhouse to a private Cabana for no extra charge. We fell asleep to the sounds of the jungle.

The first thing we noticed is the humidity. 100%! The pages in books get wet from the water in the air. Clothes do not dry when you hang them, and after 3 days are just as wet as when you hung them up. We saw lots of wildlife at the lodge. Lots of Iguanas, Hummingbirds, and Frogs. One tarantula, a scorpion, a few snakes, and today we got to see Howler Monkeys before we left.

On our first day, we took a river tubing/cave expedition. We floated up a river on tubes, and explored a cave full of beautiful formations, and mayan pottery. The best parts were hiking to caverns and seeing the Mayan sculptures and when the guide told us to turn our headlamps off and let the current of the river take us through the cave. The darkness was like nothing we've ever experienced. It was breathtaking.

On our second day, we went swimming in the "Blue Hole", a sinkhole in the middle of the jungle, where the water is crystal clear, except for the deep part where it is a stunning blue/green. We also went on a walk through the jungle at night with a guide, looking for wildlife. We didn't see much, but it was still amazing to be in the the jungle at night, and to hear all the sounds.

Yesterday, we went on the "Black Hole Drop" tour. We hiked through the jungle for an hour, and were sweating like crazy. We finally came to a massive sinkhole, where we rappelled down 300ft (!) through the canopy, and down to the bottom of the sinkhole. We had lunch down there, and explored some more beautiful caves. Then it was another hour long hike back in the rain, which we didn't mind because it was so hot.

Today we left Caves Branch, and after a 2 hour bus ride, we have arrived at San Ignacio, near the Guatemalan border. We're staying at a nice little guest house here for a few days, and hope to explore some Mayan ruins, including Tikal, which is supposed to be one of the most spectacular in all of the world. San Ignacio is a lively little town, with colourful buildings and friendly people. Actually, everyone we've met in Belize has been very friendly and helpful.

Tonight we hope to have a nice dinner in a local restaurant, and hopefully hear some live music or go dancing.

note: we haven't been able to load any pictures as of yet but hope to very soon! Keep checking back. hope all is well in Vancouver!

Leaving for Belize SO Soon!

2007-09-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

Well it's finally here, Lucas and I are leaving on our trip in just three days! It seems like we bought the tickets so long ago! We are so excited! I must admit I am a little nervous but I think it's mostly excitement. We will be beginning our trip by flying into Belize City and traveling straight to the Jungle where we will stay at Ian Anderson's Caves Branch. Here, we plan on cave tubing, caving, exploring Mayan ruins and going on a wildlife safari where we hope to see monkeys, toucans and the odd scary creature such as a tarantula or two! From here we travel to San Ignacio where we're staying at a really cute little guest house. From San Ignacio we will go on one of most exciting tours, we are going to travel across the border to Guatemala to see the Mayan ruins at Tikal. These are some of the most famous ruins in the world. From here we don't have anything else planned. We're going to go where the wind takes us! Be sure to check back here for photos and stories as we go along!

A Little Note About Distance...

2007-09-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to wonder about something...do people think that because they have to cross a bridge in their route that their journey is that much longer? This question comes to mind, I believe, as a result of moving to Vancouver from North Delta. I am not pinpointing people in either region specifically; it is some people in both regions that seem to think this. For example, people in North Delta are far more likely to drive to White Rock for an afternoon of shopping at neat stores than they are to drive to Commercial Drive when the time difference is only a mere 5 minutes. Then there is shopping in Langely at the big box stores, why is it that people in Surrey believe that driving to Langley is closer than driving to Burnaby? It is not.

Another question begs to be asked!! What is wrong with driving a little further in order to experience something new? I ask this to people who both live in Vancouver and in Surrey and Delta. People in Vancouver, why not take a trip out to White Rock and see what that beach has to offer? And people in Surrey, why not venture over to Jerhico or Kits instead of always going to White Rock and Crescent? There are wonderful new things to be found in these places, different restaurants, different stores, different people.

I am not trying to say, either, that I am perfect in this. Now that I have moved to Vancouver I very rarely cross over the bridge. My reasoning for this, however, is not based on having to cross a bridge or on distance. I've spent the majority of my life on that side of the water, during that time the only place I wanted to be was on this side and now I'm here and am learning everything I can about my neighbourhood and my new surroundings. And for anyone out in Surrey or Delta interested in exploring my area, remember, it's CLOSER than Langley.

A HOT Day at the Lake

2007-08-09T16:29:00.001-07:00

Just a little while ago now, Lucas and I, along with some friends, spent the day at White Pine Beach. White Pine Beach, also known as Sasumat Lake, is a beautiful spot where families and teenagers flock in the summer to enjoy the hot sun and cool lake waters. Last Sunday was no exception as hundreds of cars searched for parking spaces and hundreds more people searched for the perfect spot on the beach. Lucas and I settled in to our spot on the grass nicely, making sure our water was close by and our magazines even closer. For quite some time we were emerged in our respective news or car stories, enjoying the sunshine and the laughter of people around us. I relaxed in confidence knowing that we had prepared for our day, the food was packed, water was cool, and sunscreen was lathered on with plenty more on hand to reapply. It was when I finally surfaced from my magazine that I noticed a worrying trend. All the girls around me were in their tiny bathing suits lathering on spf 4 sunscreen or putting none on at all. As someone who does not leave the house on a rainy day without sunscreen I could not believe what I was seeing.

The sun is getting hotter every year and as it heats up so does the danger of exposure to it. Skin cancer is now a common cancer and is raising in young girls. I am not going to pretend to be an expert on this but I think it's common knowledge now that UV rays can cause skin cancer and in many cases do cause cancer. If there is a method that helps fight this why not use it? I truly hope that a day comes when having a tan is not a cool thing and people take this danger seriously.

For some quick facts on Skin Cancer click here.

Why the New Look?

2007-08-03T15:43:00.000-07:00

So I am sure you've noticed the new look of my blog. This change was not because I was unhappy with the old look or because I felt that I needed a change. Recently I was told by a friend at work about a search engine powered by google called Blackle.com (note the new link to your right!). The premise of Blackle.com is to save energy by having a black screen load onto your computer rather than a white screen. This is because it takes less energy to load black than it does to load white. The search engine is exactly the same as google but with a nice environmental twist. Why? Well, because every little bit counts. And don't forget that you're paying for that energy pumping into your house so why not use a little less and pay a little less while you're at it.

Thus, now when you load my blog you're computer will use a little less energy than when my whole background was white. Call it hopping on the bandwagon if you will but I'm happy to do it if it makes just a little difference. Aren't you??

To find out more about Blackle.com click here.

Zip Trekking!

2007-07-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

Last weekend the company I work for, Fresh Tracks, took all of us on a day out to Whistler to go Zip Trekking. It was such an amazing time!! I highly recommend this to everyone. The crew at the Trekking in Whistler makes you feel really safe are are highly knowledgable. Not only did we get to experience some adventure, we learned some valuable information about how to live a sustainable lifestyle. Here are some photos from the event!

View from Whistler Mountaineer, the train that takes you from N. Vancouver to Whistler. It was so beautiful!!

Here is Franci, Gen and Louise all getting ready in their harnesses :)

Franci, Robin, Me and Louise in the treetops waiting for our turn to go

Me Zipping!!

Me Zipping upside down!! haha this was SO much fun!

Officially going to Belize!

2007-07-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

Lucas and I are officially going to Belize this fall!! We bought our tickets the other night and will be going away to the beautiful Caribbean country for 6 weeks, from September 23 to November 2, 2007. I cannot believe that it is actually happening. It has been in the making for months and months and now the non-refundable tickets are bought and we are set to go! We hope to do many things while there, travel around to all the regions, mountain biking, hiking through the rain forest, visiting historic ruins, scuba diving, relaxing on the beach, and whatever other adventures we can find.
And in case you didn't notice, to all of you who know me well, I am away for Halloween! Can you believe that! So no party on my end this year! I may not even get to dress up, how weird would that be? But, on the other hand I am spending one of my favourite holidays in a beautiful tropical country. I am not sure I can even begin to complain about this.
Needless to say we are so excited and already counting down the days until we go!! YAY!!

Canada Day Long Weekend

2007-07-02T12:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a long awaited long weekend for Canada's 140th Birthday. We celebrated in true Canadian fashion, with great people, great music, awesome food, and spectacular fireworks. Here are the pics of the event!

Happy Canada Day!

Fun with the Shutter!
On the long drive home from Cloverdale to Burnaby Jenn and I decided to entertain ourselves by taking really awesome photos with the shutter on as slow as it could be. They turned out really awesome!

Graduating Class of '07

2007-06-26T18:10:00.001-07:00

Things are better late than never right?? Here are the long awaited graduation photos. I do apologise for the delay. I was hoping to wait and get some of the photos from another camera before posting but that was not going to happen anytime soon so I had to go ahead and post these anyway. You'll notice that Lucas is no where to be found and that is because he was our lovely photographer for the day so thank you to Lucas for that. Overall, the day was wonderful. It was so nice to have all the people I love so much there with me. I could not have asked for anything more than that. Thank you so much to everyone for their support and all the lovely gifts of course. I could not have done it without you.

Graduation 2007

Graduation Party

Lundbom Lake

2007-06-25T17:47:00.000-07:00

Lucas and I went on our first camping trip of the year with some good friends this last weekend. It was such a beautiful campsite! Neil has been going there for quite a while and introduced it to us. It's an old cattle range and fishing lake. The site in a forestry site and is really quiet around this time of year. The weather was just a little cold and windy but it was well worth it. Here are the photos, just a sample of the 118 pics that I took :)

Lucas and I in the beautiful sunlight

Jenn mastering her marshmallow making

Jenn and Neil

Me with my watermelon lolipop

Beer sprinkler

Firewooding ;)

Jon being crazy and swimming in the cold lake

Jenn and Jill

The beautiful sunset

Jenn and Neil

Lucas playing the drums on John's guitar

John and Breanne

Lucas sleeping on the way home

Cycling Community

2007-06-03T18:37:00.001-07:00

First off, I would like to apologise for not writing in so very long. What I'm writing about today I am very excited about. I have recently joined a new community in Vancouver, the cycling community. Beginning this past Friday, I have started riding my bike to work (Victoria & 41st to Granville & Hastings). My first morning I was so nervous. I had done a trial run on Wednesday night but this did not seem to calm my nerves. While I have grown accustomed to riding in traffic, lowermainland city traffic and Downtown Vancouver traffic are two completely different things. The majority of my ride is on really great designated bike lanes down some of the most beautiful streets in Vancouver. Along my ride I see great old houses and ride down roads lined with beautiful old trees. Following this I ride along a seaside path that runs along the inlet (down around Science World). It is after the seaside path that I must enter Downtown traffic to get to work. It is here that I will point out how lucky we are in Vancouver to have such a bike conscious city. There are bike lanes on many of the major roads downtown making it easier for us to get to our Downtown destinations. And while many cars are not happy that we are there, they take the necessary precautions to make sure they and we stay safe (most of the time!).

So, my first day riding into the city during rush hour was quite the experience. I learned many many things. Did you know that there is such a thing as, bike traffic. Several times I found myself stuck behind a slow cylcist or jammed at a street light with several more cyclists. I was passed by some faster riders and when I gained the courage, I passed some riders myself. I also learned some very good routes NOT to take on my way to work. Do not get onto Expo Blvd before Nelson as there is construction and trucks do not care one bit whether you have to ride in their lane or not! Pedestrians think that they can walk out in front of you because you are not a car. This is very very frustrating. I have also learned that coming home will always be harder than going to work and not only because the entire way home is up hill; it is more hot, more humid, there is more traffic and more people who care more about getting home than where you may be on the road. Despite some of these things, I feel really safe riding to work. I honestly would rather be on my bike than on the road in a car.

Above everything else I am so pleased that I am now riding to work. It truly is an amazing feeling in the morning arriving to work on a bike knowing that I contributed just a little bit to the environment, saved a lot of money, and did something healthy for my body. All of this acheived in a short hour before work. And then I get to do it all over again after work! I am most definately a proud new member of the cycling community in Vancouver.

My New Baby!

2007-05-07T21:07:00.000-07:00

I finally did it! I bought myself a new bike! I am so excited! This is my Trek 1000 WSD (Women Specific Design). I get to pick her up tomorrow after work and I cannot wait. As soon as I get her home I'm going to explore all the streets around my house for the first time. I even got an amazing deal on her! I cannot wait!! I haven't had a new bike since I was 13 so I really feel like a little kid right now! YAY!!

Blake Lewis - You Give Love A Bad Name

2007-05-02T21:39:00.001-07:00

American Idol or not, this guy is amazing. FINALLY, a real musician is on American Idol!!

Grindhouse

2007-04-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

Last night Lucas and I went to see the new Rodriguez and Tarantino joint project 'Grindhouse'. For those who do not know, 'Grindhouse' is actually two films, one directed by Rodriguez and one directed by Tarantino. It is meant to bring the audience back to the seedy theatres and horror films of the 1970s. It is hard to find the words to describe the experience of seeing 'Grindhouse'. This is what it truly is, an experience. It is 3 hours long, full of faux previews, advertisements, missing reels, and shotty quality frames. Going into the film, I was unsure what I would think of it and the truth is I loved them. I am so glad that I went to see this in the theatres. There were some very disturbing moments. However, overall the films were exceptionally entertaining. I also expected the films to be completely degrading to women and while there were many gratuitous body shots of women, the women in the films were exceptionally strong. They completely took care of themselves, took initiative, and, well, seriously kicked ass! I came out of the theatre a little scared of zombies but a lot empowered. I was so impressed by this! I recommend this movie to some but not to all, this film is not for weak stomachs. But if you are thinking of seeing this movie and can't decide let this review be the deciding factor, go see it, it's worth the money.

Birthday Party

2007-04-10T12:56:00.000-07:00

John and I had our joint birthday party this past saturday. What a night it was!! We had a blast playing games, sitting by the fire, and bbq'ing some really good food. Thank you so much to Sean for allowing us the use of his amazing home!! We owe ya one!

The Morning After

Blarney Stone and Aquarium

2007-04-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

In celebration of our last day of classes a bunch of us headed to the Blarney Stone. It was a wicked time! Sure beat the Highland Pub line-up!!! And then this morning, Kelly took me to the Aquarium. I had never been before so was really excited and felt like a little kid. It was awesome!!

The Blarney Stone

The Aquarium

My Last Last Day of Classes

2007-04-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

Today marks the end of an era.....hmmm no too formal. Today is the day it all ends.....hmmm no too fatalistic. Today marks the end of my university undergrad classes....that'll do. I went to class today for the last time in my undergraduate degree. I'm not sure I know how I feel about this yet. It is surreal more than anything else. I am in a neutral place between the sweeping comfort of school and the harsh reality of, well, reality. I have worked so hard over the last five years for this one day and now that I am here I have no idea what to do with myself. And today is not even half of what June 7 will be for me, this is the day that the degree is placed in my hands. Maybe this is why I'm in limbo, perhaps when I receive my degree it will all become real. All I know thus far is that I deserve today and I deserve to make today whatever I feel is right. And what is right for today?

MASSIVE CELEBRATIONS!! :)

Moving/Birthday Weekend

2007-04-02T21:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a weekend! I am still coming down from all the stress and events. We moved to Vancouver on Saturday and then Sunday was my 23rd Birthday. The move went really well thanks to all the great help we had. Unpacking is insane because this place is a little smaller than our last apartment. But slowly everything is finding its place. I had a very nice Birthday despite the move. Lucas' family came over for take-out which was really fun. It was nice to have such a quiet night after the events of Saturday. I really want to say Thank you to everyone who helped with the move and who made my Birthday as wonderful as it was. Thank you!!!

Moving Day!

Our new wonderful view!

My Birthday celebrations...just the beginning of them :)

St. Patricks Day 2007!

2007-03-19T21:14:00.000-07:00

St. Patricks Day 2007! What a night it was!! I had an absolute blast at the Foggy Dew, the crowd at a St. Patricks Day celebration is always the best...I wonder if its because we're all wearing the same colour.....hmm good thing it's one of my favourites and my hair goes so well with it!! hahahaha anyway, enjoy the photos, we enjoyed creating them!

My Personality in Pictures

2007-03-10T14:24:00.000-08:00

I found this on a friends blog and thought it would be fun to try myself. It is a visual personality test. I'd have to agree with the results. (the explanations are my own). :)

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

I'm Moving to Vancouver!

2007-03-07T14:27:00.000-08:00

So it is final now, our house is sold and my Mum and I are moving to the city. I cannot believe this is happening, honestly. One second we had the idea that it might be a good time to sell our apartment, the next second (before it was on the market) people were looking at our place and then on the third second it was sold!! It was unbelievable, Mmy mum and I were just catching our breath as we found our new apartment building on 41st and Victoria Dr (10 min Bus from Commercial Dr.!!!!). The move-in date is March 30! SO fast! My Mum and I are very excited though, we both think this is a move in the right direction. We're are also both big city girls so couldn't be more thrilled to be closer to our beautiful city!!

Brandon's Surprise Party!

2007-03-04T20:32:00.000-08:00

Saturday night we celebrated Brandon finishing his schooling and being hired as an air traffic controller. We had such an awesome time! Only thing...I have no pictures of Brandon...how did that happen? It probably had something to do with my date, Heiney :)

I'm not sure it gets better than this hahaha The top right photo is Lucas' first jello shooter! And does he not look like a priest in the other photo?? Couldnt be further from the truth haha

I had so much fun with my camera in Mandi's space, there were so many interesting things to snap photos of! Afro-dog is my fav!

More of the crazy stuff at Mandi's!

79th Academy Awards aka OSCAR NIGHT!

2007-02-26T12:56:00.000-08:00

Last night the 79th Annual Academy Awards celebrated a year of amazing film. I was so impressed with the show last night, it was absolutely one of the best productions of the Oscars I have ever seen. Ellen was hilarious, the entertainment was just that, entertaining, from Will Farrell, Jack Black, and John C. Rieley performing a musical piece to the countless tableaus of the nominated films done by talented dancers behind an illuminated silk screen.
All of my favourites took the little statue home which I was most pleased with. I was happy to see the awards go to the right people. Jennifer Hudson winning best supporting actress was a wonderful moment, she deserved that! Best actress, of course, went to Helen Mirren for 'The Queen'. I personally am still in awe of that performance. And Forest Whittaker was my absolute most favourite moment. The second 'The last king of scotland' ended I said to Lucas that we would see him get the Oscar and he did! He so deserved that. And then on top of all these plesant surprises, Martin Scorsese was named best director and his film, 'The Departed' best picture! Lucas was most excited about this and I couldnt blame him. The Departed was my second choice for best picture, Little Miss Sunshine was my first. However, Little Miss Sunshine was not forgotten, it received best screenplay as well as a best supporting actor award for Alan Arkin.
I have never been so impressed with the Oscars as I was last night. The common belief of the Oscars being boring will disappear with more nights like this. Also, congratulations to Mr.Gore and his wins.