Rain... As Per Usual...

Well, it's raining, just in time for the upcoming weekend and my camping trip. I camped three times in the rain last year. I have to buy tent poles for my tarps. I am camping in a valley this weekend in Washington.

On Sunday, Mo Faux and I went to see the exhibit Town Without Pity at the Elissa Cristall Gallery on South Granville. The exhibit by Jim Ramsay is a collaboration of 24 artists from Vancouver, Toronto, London, Staten Island, Boston, Seattle, Palm Springs, Sweden, Scotland, and Tokyo; each artist has contributed one aspect or building to the main street of the Town Without Pity. It is fantastic and a must see. There were many favourites, including Wal-Mort (and I was lucky enough to meet the artist).

After, we went to Wicked Cafe, again, for warm beverages. Two times in one weekend. We sauntered on downtown to brave the crowds at the new H&M at Pacific Centre. Dreadful, long lineups. I managed to get a few sexy, satin tops and some bling. I love H&M and have been a devoted fan since experiencing it in New York.

We wandered around Granville Street before heading to Clubhouse for tasty sushi. We had a bit of everything until we were no longer fading from all the walking and shopping. I have not been there inawhile, but it is definitely one of my favourite sushi spots. With all the development along 2nd Avenue between Cambie and Main Streets, it won't be long before that place has lineups down the street.

Listening to: Madonna - Rain

 

Goodbye Fasty & Gia

Last Saturday, Amanda and Geoff hosted a goodbye party for F&G. We had potluck, beats and fire. It was wonderful with a great circle of friends. I made a great jasmine rice and vegetable salad I borrowed from a friend. Danced a lot and laughed when BT played Ontario Sucks. Cannot believe they will be living in a suburb in Ontario in two weeks!

A group of us went to Posh on West Broadway for suki yaki hot pot. It was delicious and fun, definitely more some with great people. I am a converted suki yaki fan!

I attended an Occupational Health and Safety workshop on Friday at work. It was very informative and educational to learn about the right to refuse dangerous work from the BC Federation of Labour. Heard some terrible stories about deaths and injuries on the job. Most work-related injuries stem from lack of training, supervision or knowledge.

Went to see the Sex and The City movie with Delilah and Heidi. Loved the film! Big fan of the show. Characters, dialogue and plot twists were true to form and delivered. Laughed a lot--great way to end a busy and stressful week. We topped the evening off at Fet's on the Drive.



Today, I met up with Lianne and we grabbed a coffee at 8th and Hemlock. Went down to Granville Island to walk around the market and eat lunch on the water facing Burrard Bridge overlooking False Creek. Chatted about the real estate prices and a potential bubble burst post-Olympics.

Listening to: New Order - Age of Consent

 

New Weezer Video

Love the new Weezer Video for Pork and Beans.




Celebrate Geek Culture!

The Sun Is Shining

The weather is sweet! Last weekend, I went to Birkenhead with a gaggle of gals for May long weekend. Stayed in a lovely cottage with lovely women across from a lake surrounded by glacier mountains. The scenery was stunning and I was easily relaxed by evening. Watched the tall trees sway above a fire pit. Spent the days on the dock in the sun or bonding with good friends.

Last night, Amanda & Geoff hosted the goodbye Fasty & Gia party. Great people, food and music. Danced a bit, laughed, and said our well wishes and protests. We did not stage a protest, but BT played Ontario Sucks.

It was a nice end to a rough week. I am dreading this week even more. I am trying to figure out how I want to wash my tent for Critical Massive. That will be a good weekend. A festival in a valley outside the Cascade Mountains of Washington. The summer is quickly filling up with plans.

Got a few referrals to clinics that specialize in soft tissue injuries and core strengthening. That will be my goal over the next couple of months before fall, to increase my stamina and strength. I am tired of feel like I am in my mid-40s.

Loving the web site Milk and Cookies, especially Naughty Miss Piggy, Beaker sings Rick Astley, Muppets With Attitude and Richard Scary's Beastie Boys courtesy of my cousin K.

Listening to: Kate Bush - Running Up That Hill

 

VIBF Red Carpet Gala

I went to the finale of the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival at the Biltmore Cabaret. It was the third annual event and it is amazing what this organization can create in a city where there is no arts funding for their community. Watched the lovely Cheescake Revue and Rose Buds and special appearances by performers from Seattle, San Francisco and Ontario.

A friend hosted a nice roast beef dinner and I brought dessert--chocolate torte with raspberries. Yum, YUM! We chowed down watching The Simpsons. I ended up falling asleep with a full belly.


This Saturday is the Juicy Danger Meets Burning Man 10th anniversary tour for the screening with panel of the documentary. Should be a lot of fun and I am really excited to see the community come out and play.

 

A La Weekend

On Friday, I went to Steamworks Pub for drinks with Gia and Marie. We watched the sunset off the harbour by Canada Place over appetizers and drinks. We finished the evening with a walk along Coal Harbour and stopped to view the art installation Device To Root Out Evil. Some neighbours feel the art piece is an eyesore, but I think it is a lovely piece of public art. It was voted the favourite from the Vancouver Sculpture Biennale Exhibition.




It was only last weekend I felt free of school. Where I did not have lingering homework to-do-lists and deadlines looming on the back of my mind. I could completely relax, sleep in and let loose for the summer. I am already planning the many park and beach visits, road trips, and camping trips.


On Saturday, I went to the Cambie for some long overdue and much craved poutine and perogies. Made a detour to Deadly Couture across the street. Bought a lovely satin and red printed skirt with a matching collar. I discussed having a turquoise corset made by the lovely and talented seamstress.

In the afternoon, I went to the Earth Day celebration at Jericho Beach. Slight detour at Cuppa-Joe on Alma and Broadway, as Delilah and I walked up to the beach, we saw a bunch of clowns barbecuing and bocce-ing on the beach. I said, "What are the chances we know those clowns?" Sure enough we did. Ran into Rey, Lola and Steve. Lola and Steve brought hula hoops. I still cannot master that art. Maybe some day with plenty of practice. The festival had a peddle-powered puppet show and a stage with live music. Better setup and more interactive booths than last year. Silly me, I forgot my camera!

We were bored and I wanted to dance, so Gia, Angel and I went to Sin City. Great people watching and costumes, but the music was disappointing with only dreary Goth and Hello Kitty Rave dominating. I guess I am spoiled by Twilight Zone days of Goth/Indust/Electro/Punk genres. I was hoping to really dance hard.


On Sunday afternoon, I met Michael and Xandra for his Birthday Free Hugs at the Vancouver Art Gallery. We gave out a reasonable amount of hugs, but our quotas were low because of the rain. A lot of people would not hug-it-out for fear of a gimmick or catch. Tsk!

Listening to: Utah Saints - What Can You Do For Me

 

Recompression

I went to Recompression this past weekend and I feel so great! I am so relaxed, happy and recharged. I was not going to attend, but I was invited to stay in a great Arabian Nights cabin with wonderful people. The weather was cloudy and rainy, but it did not matter. It was the weekend away from the city I have been longing for since summer.

Wore beautiful sarees and bindis all weekend, Rangered, caught up with friends, and bonded with new ones. Danced here and there and gave and received lots of hugs. We had over 300 attendees this 8th year. I cannot believe another 2 years will be the 10th anniversary. Recompression is officially now a Burning Man regional event.


Yonderboy's Booth Photos.


Listening to: Freeform Five - No More Conversations

 

Ides of March

Busy month! Balancing full-time work and part-time school is difficult. At times, I come home from work exhausted, unmotivated to study, and only wanting to sleep. Only a few weeks left of school. I handed in my lineage culture report. I had to create a family lineage chart of my extended family. It was rather large and I could not fit all of my father's mother's siblings all on the sheet. She had twelve brothers and sisters. I had to talk about my kinship's structure and culture. I find it difficult and challenging because I really only associate with my nuclear family and a pair of siblings.

This past month, I went to the Green Living Show with Demanda. We had a great time checking out all the eco-friendly products and organic foods. The first show was a huge success. I also went to the Drum & Light Festival at the Wise Hall. There was a ten-person band, Hard Rubber Orchestra, playing brass, percussion, and keyboards. Along with projected art and contact dancing, the show was amazing. I don't know why there isn't a lounge in Vancouver that has weekly shows like that where you can sit, watch and listen while sipping frou-frou cocktails.

I got to hang out with my niece a few times. We went to Castle fun Park to play mini golf. We opted for the Jungle theme. It felt more like the American south swamp lands. Poor girl tried to cross a marsh to go to the shack and got her foot water logged. She had to play the rest of the course barefoot. I also taught her how to play Air Hockey.

Last night, I went with Demanda and G to a roller disco party in a commercial loft. Everyone was dressed in disco or sports 70s. Peopled danced in the centre and others skated around. It was really awesome.

Today, I am going to F&G's to finish up our sarees for Recompression. I decided to go this year after missing last year. I am in the Arabian Nights cabin. So excited! I bought two beautiful sarees: one red with turquoise beading and one black with silver and blue detailing. The idea of getting away from the city for the weekend and relaxing with friends is long overdue.

I am still attempting to plan my travels this year. I am worried that a friend is going to flake on the Europe trip. There is an option to go to Singapore and Malaysia. I think Thailand is on for next year. Burning Man? Not quite sure about this year. I have a great option to camp with great group of people. Not really excited about the American Dream theme. But alternating years seems to work best for me.

Listening to: Electric Light Orchestra - All Over the World

 

Testing 1, 2, 3...

This is a Test...

Only a test...

Do not panic...



On a side note, a girl in class behind me gave the example of AIDS perpetuated in gay communities as a Critical Medical Anthropology study and research example.

 

You're My Best Friend

Sung by Queen
Words and Lyrics by John Deacon

Ooh you make me live
Whatever this world can give to me
It's you you're all I see
Ooo you make me live now honey
Ooo you make me live

Ooh you're the best friend that I ever had
I've been with you such a long time
You're my sunshine and I want you to know
That my feelings are true
I really love you
Oh you're my best friend

 

Ooo you make me live

Ooh I've been wandering round
But I still come back to you
In rain or shine
You've stood by me, girl
I'm happy, happy at home
You're my best friend

Ooo you make me live
Whenever this world is cruel to me
I got you to help me forgive
Ooo you make me live now honey
Ooo you make me live

You're the first one
When things turn out bad
You know I'll never be lonely
You're my only one
And I love the things
I really love the things that you do
You're my best friend

Ooo you make me live

I'm happy at home
You're my best friend
Oh ya
Oh you're my best friend
Ooo you make me live
You you're my best friend.

Stimpy RIP

Well, yesterday I came home from school and Stimpy was in very rough shape. For about a month, he had lost most of his body weight and stopped eating and drinking. I thought it was a response to changing the cat food or Choco beating him up. He would generally hide all day on a dining chair under the table or under the bed.

I switched the cat food back to the regular stuff, and he perked up a wee bit. Slept on the bed one night with me and cuddled on the sofa a few times. Last night, he was flopped down and could not even sit up. He cried a lot. I took him to the vet and found out he had liver cancer. His blood pressure and red count were so low. He was critically dehydrated.

It was so difficult to let him go. I am dying inside. We had a good 14 years together. I miss him waiting for me to go to bed or following me around the apartment. I knew this day would come sooner or later. I wish he did not have to suffer. I know he knew I loved him. I hope he is at peace now.

Listening to: The Verve - Freshman

 

Right Before Coffee

Well, hot chocolate or chai latte. Possibly the latter because I already had the former. About to run and meet a friend for coffee at Wired Monk. I have not seen her in months and it will be great to catch up.

School is long with lots of work. I am past the halfway hump. But lots of reading of multiple articles. But hey, it feels good to learn.

Fifth week of the new(er) job. Still loving it, but am conjuring up magic spells to clone myself. No ended to pushing paper and multi-tasking. I have to give a presentation next week for new employees at an orientation workshop. Debating practicing on stuffed animals.

People keep saying to me, "I don't know how you are single..." Hmm... my cousin insists I am a great package of brains and beauty. Lots of guy-friends crushing on me, young ones (nice Japanese calligraphy tattoo *cough*), and ones slightly too old for me.

Debating on going to Recompression. I missed last year, but it would be a great way to bond and catch up with people. Thinking about becoming a board member for a new arts society.

For some reason, I am thinking about sock monkeys.

Off to coffee!

Listening to: Starship - Sara

 

A Boy and His Dog

I keep thinking about this story of a Dog Travels 70 Miles to Find His Marine Best Friend. I keep picture the dog running by the vehicle as it pulls away with his new best friend.

Listening to: Steve Miller Band - Fly Like An Eagle

 

Idiot Box

Well, I have been watching a bit of tv here and there. Just finished Big Love Season 2, Nikita Season 4, Harvey Birdman Season 2, half of the Banana Splits show, and almost all of Entourage Season 4. Loved the start of Cashmere Mafia and Gossip Girl (the new trashy 90210).

Cashmere Mafia has great group of female characters. I particularly love Frances O'Connor's character, mind you, all the characters are charming and irresistible.

I started watching Douglas Coupland's Jpod. I read most of the book on my trip to England last year and laughed nonstop. The pilot is actually quite likable, but their office space is so unrealistic.

I just watched, actually fast-forwarded through, Candace Bushnell's Lipstick Jungle. I found all the characters pathetic, whiny and feeble. How did these women ever make it onto New York's list of most successful women?


Movies of late that I have watched and absolutely loved:

Juno - I loved this film from start to finish. One of the best films I have seen in a very long time. Jason Reitman did a fantastic job directing, well cast (loved Ellen Page as Juno), great dialogue, and well paced. Laughed a lot and almost cried a bit.

Little Miss Sunshine - Great film. Loved all the characters the plot. I cannot wait to see Abigail Breslin in other films.

Paris, Je T'aime - A great group of short films by many diverse and talented directors about stories of love in the city of love.

Postcards From the Edge - Carrie Fisher's film about a mother and daughter relationship with Meryl Steep and Shirley MacLaine. Great acting all around and a great group of supporting actors.

Russian Dolls - Foreign film about Xavier, a writing, and his love life before a reunion of five adults who lived together in Barcelona.

Waitress - Keri Russel is a pie contessa in a small town working away at a diner as she contemplates leaving her abusive husband. She is delightful in this quaint film.

Listening to: Dire Straits - Money For Nothing

 

Flash Mob at Grand Central, NYC

One of the best Flash Mob's I have ever seen with over 200 people participating.

 

She Works Hard For the Money

Well, today and yesterday have been the busiest days of work at my new job. Almost at the end of my third week. Yesterday, there were two back-to-back meetings I had to attend and take minutes at for a total of three hours. So, I lost three hours of regular work. Today, was a lot of help three different department heads, revise agendas and minutes, and try to do some daily work and whittle down some ongoing projects. I definitely feel challenged and happy at this job.

I so bad: I forgot about a Neuro-Muscular appointment at my dentist tomorrow. I had to book it two months in advance, and now I have to rebook it because I have another meeting to attend tomorrow.

A few weekends ago, some of us Canuckastanis went down to Seattle to J&M's house warming party. They have a lovely rancher in South Seattle. I wish I could co-own something like that in the GVRD. Our prices are a wee bit inflated. We went to a great place for brunch called Linda's on Pine Street in Capitol Hill. It was also nice to visit Mom & Dad.

Last weekend, we celebrated Geoff's 40th birthday. K-Rec DJed fabulously and mixed in Frank Zappa samples. The party was a Adidas, Volkswagen, and Frank Zappa themed party. I also participated in the second annual Bunnarchy. We started at Lennox and made our way down Robson Street, Commodore Bowling Lanes, and the Odyssey. Good times had by all, including our hop through a coffee shop.

Listening to: Pointer Sisters - Automatic

 

Steampunk Tree House from BM2007

Xeni, of Boing Boing tv, visits the Steampunk Tree House, a 40+-foot-tall interactive sculpture created by a group of artists in Oakland, CA, and assembled for the first time at Burning Man. More than 60 people helped to create it, and in today's episode, you'll hear from project participants Alan Rorie, Nathaniel Taylor, and David Shulman.

Listening to: Lily Allen - LDN

 

My New Job Rox

I love my new job and it's only day three. My body is slowly adjusting to rising at 6 am and commuting to work for 8 am. Today will be tough because I have an evening class from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

Learning about Human Resources for three different unioned employees is interesting. At times, my brain is on information overload. But I like all the tasks I have learned so far. I have already started to create outlines for three different projects. I even have my own office!

It is lovely seeing and meeting all the elderly patients. They often smile and say hello. There is also a mascot: Jerry the cat. He took it upon himself to nap behind my desk next to the heater. I almost forgot about him and locked him in the office over night. He wouldn't budge out when I was pushing his butt with a day timer. My mentor had to flick him with water to get him to scoot.

Listening to: Republica - Ready To Go

 

Angry Alien Bunnies Make Me Laugh Longtime

So, A's son C showed me last weekend these online movie spoofs with bunnies by Angry Alien. Needless to say, I love them and have been laughing non-stop.

Some of my favourites are: Jaws, The Shining, Pulp Fiction, Titanic, and Napoleon Dynamite.




I got my hair cut today. Brandon at Toni & Guy is so talented. I have been having my hair styled by him for years. The salon has these gigantic red lanterns hanging from the ceiling in clusters. They look very lovely against the stark white background.

Walked around downtown and checked out the shops. Most places still have clearance sales from 30 to 70% off. Crazy. Came home and napped. Feel so much more revitalized. Waking up around 6 am on Monday for work will be quite the adjustment. I have to be at my new job at 8 am on Main Street.

Tonight, I am going out with friends to see the new movie Cloverfield. Excited with goosebumps already. Even better that it is getting good reviews by the critics.

 

Things you can accomplish while off work

Well, I quit my job. I had been at a part-time job for almost two years. It was a publishing company for three magazines (fashion and tourism). I quit it last week and found a new job in two days. Administration in the Human Resources department of a non-profit organization that manages housing for seniors. I start Monday and could not be happier.

In the meantime, I have had the week off. It is amazing what one can accomplish in a week free of responsibility and routine. I have managed to accomplish the following tasks:

- catch up on sleep
- go on a coffee date
- grocery shop
- visit the doctor
- massage therapy
- catch up with homework
- take a friend to an appointment
- clean dish rack
- clean sink
- clean toilet
- mop bathroom floor
- Swifter floors
- cat tete-a-tete
- get a hair cut
- catch up with friends
- make long overdue phone calls
- have a Lush face masque
- update driver's license
- go for dinner and see Sweeny Todd


Needless to say, I keep having to check to see what day of the week it is. Thank dogness for having two day timers.


Listening to: The Cars - Let the Good Times Roll