Ceili's Irish Pub, Aquarius Party, Casino Royale

Last weekend was another great and busy weekend. I started off on Friday going to the new Ceili's Irish Pub on Smithe Street. Upstairs is a good place to get settled. The DJ plays a variety of mixed 70s and 80s music with a bit of pop. There is a dance floor area too. Great vibe, casual scene, and lots of fun.

On Saturday, I went to the Aquarius Party at the Waldorf. Aside from dancing and drinks, there was a variety show with magician Megaseth, comedy by Watermelon, a fashion show, a dance performance, and a fire show by Demanda and Katia of Radiant Heat.

Overall, a great night. I really loved it when the DJ in the West End room mixed in Outfield's "Your Love" and the crowd stopped to sing along:

Josie's on a vacation far away
Come around and talk it over
So many things that I'd like to say
You know I like my girls a little bit older

I just wanna use your love tonight
I don't wanna lose your love tonight

 

On Sunday, I went to Amanda and Geoff's for pancake breakfast. I helped her son with his math homework. Then we all went for a walk over to The Drive. We had hopped to catch the street hockey tournament, but we missed it.

So, we stopped at Sweet Cherubim for some cookies. We parted ways and I went to meet a friend for brunch. The sushi place he wanted to go to on Kingsway and Broadway was closed, so we went to Bon's on Nanaimo and Broadway. Good old grilled cheese. Yum!

Then we went over to Deep Cove for a walk. We almost opted for Cates Park. I always used to go there as a kid and look for jelly fish on the beach. We walked around the Deep Cove Park and took in the sights.

In the evening, we went to Silver City at Riverport and saw Casino Royale. Daniel Craig is incredible as James Bond. Pulls it off without class and ease. Lots of great action, less product placement and techie gadgets. I was truly satisfied. However, my friend pointed out the play-by-play during the card game was annoying and I concurred.

Relaxed a bit watching Mythbusters and a Bill Cosby interview on the tele. I had to stay up to pick my brother at the airport at 11:30 pm. Brutal and it was way past my bed time. But you do these things for your siblings.

Listening to: Outfield - Your Love

 

Light Water Drums and MoFaux's Birthday

Truly fabulous weekend. It is so lovely to be reborn into a social butterfly again.

On Friday, Lianne, Marna and I went to O'Doul's Restaurant and Bar for Dine Out Vancouver. My first time at O'Doul's and I was completely in awe with the ambience and nautical decor. Nicol our server was patient, gracious and accommodating. Every course was excellent: lobster bisque, sabelfish, and peach and berry crumble. Extraordinary compared to last week's choice Blue Water Cafe (disappointing to say the least).



Saturday, Omid and Kelly picked me up for brunch and we headed over to Main and Broadway for some delicious diner food at Slickety Jim's. I had already eaten so I opted for a fruit plate. But their benny breakfasts looked and smelled devine. I will definitely go back for breakie after I move apartments.

In the afternoon, I went to MoFaux's because we were fire techin' for Radiant Heat's show at Light Water Drums. While she got ready, I walked Sienna, the dog. She was lovely to walk except when we neared the park. I was shocked to learn she was a pitbull. I have always been afraid of pitbulls, but she has completely won me over.

We met up for fire practice at the PNE near the lake. The stage was like a skating rink with frost. We had to put down a bag of sand before the show. I watched a practice dry run and teched a practice lit run. We went into the Hastings Community Centre for some warm beverages and snacks.



 

I also teched the smaller group by the stone steps. But the finale was fantastic. Fire waltzing, fire fingers, fire fans, fire breathing and fire poi. Radiant Heat performed their best show to date.

Afterwards, MoFaux and I went back to her place to freshen up and change. Then we walked Sienna, grabbed some sushi from Clubhouse on 6th Avenue (before Cambie). We finally made it back to Amanda's for the after-party and MoFaux's birthday. The cake was delicious with yellow and red flames on the edges.

DJ Mars kicked it way up with amazing psychedelic trance. I love psych trance and I never really hear it in Vancouver. It reminds me of party days gone-by in San Francisco in the 90s. Georgie tagteam djed with great progressive house and breaks.

I danced a bit, munched sushi and socialized. The party was intimate and chill, just what I needed. Unfortuately, I had to leave at 1:30 am because I thought I was doing the family thing tomorrow. However, they later cancelled at the last minute and I acutally could have stayed out even later.



Sunday, was a slow start after being woken up by an early phone call. But it turned out quickly to be a lazy Sunday, which are my favourite. I was kind of groggy from going to be late and getting up early. I hate that disoriented feeling of I think I need to get stuff done with what am I suppose to be doing right now?

Gia came to visit me a bit in the afternoon. It was great to see her. I managed a few social calls throughout the day here and there. Amanda and Geoff phoned me late afternoon asking me to go for brunch. The idea of microwaving tofu wieners with sliced white cheddar did not sound appealing, so I opted to join them. Hey, I am moving Saturday and have refrained from buying groceries, so I have meal limitations.

They took me to Dutch Wooden Shoe Cafe on Cambie Street. I was surprised to see so many closed shops and restaurants on Cambie Street due to the rapid transit construction. My first de dutch pannekoek and it was delicious! I got the one with ham, gouda and tomato. Wow, filling and delicious. I get what all the fuss is about now.

Sunday kind of flew by eventhough I did not do much. Watched the Simpsons and Family Guy. Read a book of Margaret Atwood short stories before bed. I have decided not to renew cable when I move. I pay $60 per month for it and there is never anything on it. I think I need to disconnect from tvland for awhile again. My extra $$$ on rent needs to be recouped somehow. I figure I can always rent movies and tv shows from the video store.

Listening to: Michelle Branch - Breathe

 

Left My Heart in San Francisco

I went down to San Francisco to spend 7 days through New Year's. I love San Fran. I have not been there in about three or four years. I find San Fran to be the most European city in the United States. It is about four times the size of Vancouver. The city has great culture, nightlife, shopping, and people.

I went to visit friends, whom I have not seen for over a year. I got to see live Blues at the Boom Boom Room, went to Japantown and bought a cast-iron teapot with blue dragonflies on it, stayed at the W Hotel next to the SFMOMA, shopped at and around Union Square, ate delicious dim sum at Yank Singh, and saw the Woman and Child from Burning Man 2005 at Pier 14.



I ate at Nara Sushi, Hobson's, Flipper's, Crepevine, and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Sadly, Haight Street has turned into another Yuppie Mecca. I also walked in Golden Gate Park and around Stow Lake.

Spent New Year's with a wonderful group of people. We started the evening eating cheese and chocolate fondue. My first time and it was delicious! We continued the celebration by toasting champagne at a couple's condo in the Castro at midnight. I left the festivities early to sleep (yeah, well it was 1:30 am), while the others continued on with two other after-hours parties.

Overall, a wonderful and memorable year-end--one of the best I have had in a long time.

Listening to: Andain - Beautiful Things

 

Fa, La, La, La, La

Well, I am not a huge Christmasy-type person. I have most of my shopping and wrapping done, except for pictures developed from Future Shop. When I went there on Thursday to grab them, the guy forgot to give me a pack. So, I have to go back and get them. What a waste of time. One of my hard drives failed in my computer, so a technican came on Thursday after work to fix it. My Shaw digital movie channels have been on the fritz for 2 weeks. I waited for 2 hours for the technican to come on Friday, but he never showed.
So much for catching up on movies while school's out.

I went to Granville Island last night for Winter Solstice. It was so beautiful down there, lights done up, lantern procession and art structures. I volunteered to do fire tech safety for Radiant Heat. A group of four talented performers did a fire performance on top of the hill on the east side of the island.

On Thursday, I went to Doolin's Irish Pub with Lianne and two of her Ozzie friends. We had a few drinks and hung out. I was so exhausted, I ended up going home for a good night's sleep. Missed out on them going to Republic. I have been eager to check out this new bar on Granville Street because I hear it plays a fair amount of retro music.

 

The weekend prior, I went to Omid's family annual Iranian buffet. It was delightful and delicious as always. I got to catch up with people I had not seen in a very long time. Unfortuately, the power went out, but all of the food had already been prepared. The family had a generator and the power was restored. The storms this winter have really hit a lot of people hard.

I hope the power stays on Monday for Christmas dinner. I will be cooking turkey dinner with all the trimmings for my father and brother. We are hoping to see my niece, but we are not guaranteed to have her. I still have to grocery shop for Christmas dinner. I do not want to go when it is too busy. Earlier or later? I am yearning to go see a movie. There are so many movies out I want to see and I have not seen a movie in the theatre since August.

 

SantaCon Vancouver was awesome this year. We started out on Commercial Drive. The people on The Drive were very receptive, honking and accepting tonkens of our Christmas cheer. We stopped at a pub before 1st Avenue and then walked up to Toby's Pub and Grill. Santa dipped and smooched me. A Santa from Christmas past came up to me. It was my old boyfriend from Grade 10. That was bizarre as the old and new worlds collided.



 

Poor Santa was kicked out of Metrotown Centre because the security thought Santa was protesting consumerism and Santa was going to rampage. Santa just wanted to spread Christmas cheer by giving out candy canes, gingerbread men, and misfit toys. We had dinner and drinks at the Station Square Pub.

 

I have officially joined Happy Bats Cinema. I have been eargerly yearning to join this video store for almost a year. It has a great selection of films and tv shows. My virgin rentals are: The Entourage, Freaks & Geeks, The 70's Show, and Robot Chicken.

Happy Holidays everyone! See you in the New Year!

 

A la weekend

Last weekend, I went to Amanda and Geoff's for a potluck dinner. It was wonderful with a great mix of people. We also played Greed with secret Santa presents. We drew playing cards and a dealer went through another deck of cards elminating or calling rules on the fly with the second deck. We went through various: pick a present, switch presents, rearrange presents and do something to this person for their present. It was a total blast! I got a nice bag with Harajuku love phrases all over it. Some people got neat things, other people got quirky items like straws.

I also went out to visit my cousin and brother. My cousin's cat Fluffy was having breathing problems due to a chest infection. She has lost so much weight from being ill and she is already diabetic. I went with my cousins to pick up Fluffy from the vet. I hung out with Holly and Gabby (three-legged black cat) in the waiting room. Fluffy was woozy from the medication. We got her back home and she was still out of it, but realized she was finally home with her family. Eventually, she jumped on the sofa and curled up on me and took a nap. She has never jumped up to cuddle or be near me.

 

My calculus final exam is this Tuesday. I have finally come to terms with it all and stopped stressing over it. We did a practice final exam from last term and it was very difficult. We were all kind of anxious after it. But the end is near and freedom is around the corner! I am looking forward to watching movies, reading, cleaning, watching tv shows on DVDs, and overall having a social life again (at least for two weeks).

 

Last week, my work took us to dinner at Beyond for our Christmas Party. I had a delicious steak and chocolate-fudgy cake for dessert. There were door prizes, a manicure at Absolute Spa, dinner at O'Doul's Restaurant & Bar, and a suite at the Pacific Palisades Hotel.

The grand prize was a trip for two round-trip to Whistler on the Rocky Mountaineer Whistler train. I had no idea there was a grand-prize trip. Well, we had to play heads or tails to win it. Basically, each round you put your hands on your head or butt. We went two rounds, and I was the last contender with a co-worker's boyfriend. I was so nervous! Well, I won the trip! I was flabbergasted to say the least.



So, my plan is to go up in summer for my birthday and hopefully get some folks up there to rent a condo with a hot tub for some summer birthday fun.

 

So many parties and festivities were happening this weekend, and I had to study (*pouty face*). Donna and Jenn's martini party (dang! another great party they are hosting that I could not attend!), martini and brunch today, and ice skating this afternoon (I went to the last one). Oh, the dedication and discipline I practice for my school courses.

Last night, I did go to Katia's birthday party. It was a pleasure to celebrate her birthday with her and her friends. We did arts and crafts of oven clay and painting. There was also some drumming and guitar. Shawn made a delicious vegan chocolate cake (when I am rolling in dough, I will hire Shawn as my personal chef/caterer). Katia gave me a beautiful Yin Yang pendant. Silly me, I forgot her present at home! I will have to give it to her when she returns from her trip to South America.

Listening to: Coldplay - Don't Panic

 

Winter Wonderland

So, I officially have the day off due to snow of 20 to 40 cm from a period of constant snow fall from Saturday evening until Monday morning. I was getting ready for work and had a thought of, maybe I should phone first. Sure enough, no one was at work. Thank goodness I did not bus out and try to go all by my lonesome self!

 

Anyhows, on Sunday I went for cocoa with Leanne to Bean Around the World on Cornwall yesterday afternoon. We sat and talked for a bit which was nice. The snow is so peaceful and tranquil. Unfortuately, most Vancouverites cannot drive in it, especially without experience or snow tires. Warnings say stay off the roads!

I met up with Danielle for dinner and we went to the Cactus Club on Robson Street for dinner. I had my usual Jack Daniels burger (Homer drool...) with fries. I had not had fries in a few months and they were tasty! I have been craving a Vera's Burger Shack barbecue burger, but J.D. will have to do.

We went back to her suite at the Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel and watched the Simpsons, Family Guy and War at Home. All good bets. Her bed was so comfy, I did not want to leave! But with no PJs and it is always good to wake up in your own bed. I wonder if her flight will be able to leave Vancouver.

 

On the previous weekend last Saturday, Michael, Lola and a few other good samaritans of the newly formed Free Hugs Vancouver collective went down to Robson Street in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery to proudly initiate the very first Free Hugs Campaign. It was originally created by this guy (video on YouTube) who started the idea. He was shut down by security on a shopping promenade, but he started a petition to get it going again with over 30,000 signatures.

So, now there is Free Hugs movements all over the world.

The Free Hugs Vancouver went for about 4 hours. It started out slow. People were skeptical. Many responded with, "What's the catch or gimick?" and "What company do you work for?" or "What product are you giving away?" Eventually, people caught on, including a woman who gave a hug from her father on the other side of the world (it was his birthday). Another guy said he had a terrible week and could really use a hug. I am going to try and go to the next one, which will be at Granville Island.

More adults need to hug more often in the world--with friends or even strangers. People hug so much when they are young, as adults we are obsessed with this 2 feet of personal space and do-not-enter my boundary area. I am lucky to have a circle of friends who hug upon meeting and parting.

 

Whistler and Sunday Dinner

Wooo... still cresting from the awesome weekend. I have awesome friends. I am so lucky to have such a great circle of people of diverse interests, education and quality of life. People I consider family.

A group of us went up to Whistler this weekend to rent a 4 bedroom, 3 level condo in the Upper Village for Amanda's birthday. I met a great group of wonderful new people. We had dinner at Tapley's Pub Friday evening. We went into the men's washroom because we were told there was female porn over the urnial. There was, but there was no male porn in the women's bathroom. We complained, but the boys said they created the shrine and that the women staff need to create one for the men. Then went to Buffalo Bill's to shake shake our booties. I could not believe the circling predator sharks there. The ambiance and music were great. But the young bucks and old men that suddenly appear in your face, grinding you with their cheesy pick up lines are unbelievable. Once guy said to me, "Are you old enough to be in here?" They were so aggressive and would not take a simple and polite, "No." for an answer.

Saturday, we made brunch and hung out around the fireplace. We went into the village and walked around. We had lunch and drinks at Citta's Bistro in the Village. Luckily, Citta's had hot man sexy pics in the women's washroom. Not as much nudity though--still very good. I was sad to discover that my favourite clothing store Willy's was gone forever. I guess the rent was too much to bear. A clothing store like that would do well in East Vancouver.

In the evening, we cooked potluck. Amanda made a delicious apple and coconut crumble dessert. A few more friends dropped in to join us. We played Backgammon, Jenga, and Uno. Marvelous! We did plenty of soaking in the hot tub throughout the weekend.

On Sunday, we went for brunch at Function Junction at a simple cafe next to Lordco. Drove back to Vancouver and I was home by early afternoon. I was relaxed and stress-free, completely back on top of my game and ready to take on the world (or at least calculus).

 

Sunday evening, a another group of us went over to a friend's on the North Shore for dinner. Lianne cooked up a feast of roast chicken and veggies, vegetable casserole, scalloped potatoes. We brought wine, appetizers and apple caramel dessert. Three days of glorious gluttony. We finished off the evening with dancing in the living room.

Listening to: Madonna - Sorry

 

You Are My Sunshine

Well, I officially miss the sun and warm weather. Mind you, I am adapted to the gray and rain. Calculus is difficult. I did not realize how stressed I have been for the past month and a half until I barely made it through this week. School, work, and trying to find a new place to live is one gigantic barrel of monkeys.

Last weekend, I had a blast going ice skating with a group of people at Kerrisdale rink. I felt like we were Peanuts skating around and around. Even the music was retro--80s music and The Beatles that probably played on casette tapes that had not been changed in 20 years. Afterwards, a few of us went to Chill Winston in Gastown for a round of drinks. Not a bad place, but the menu was not very enticing. However, I heard it is great for weekend brunch.

Tonight should be good though. A group of us are heading down to Doolin's for their Four Year Annivsary Party. I could really blow off some stem and laugh with a good group of people. I just have to make it to the weekend for our getaway for a friend's birthday. Are we there yet?

Listening to: The Beatles - Hey Jude

 

Bah-Humbug!

Well, last year the Christmas crap was in the stores the day after Halloween. That I can handle. But this year, it was up and ready to roll early October. I was flabbergasted to say the least.

I was at the mall yesterday, puttering around looking for boots when I stopped dead, perked my head up and thought, "Is that a Christmas tune?". I checked my date log, yep, today is November 10th. Hmm... I asked the staff about the Christmas songs and she replied that many customers were complaining about it.

Nothing like the corporations and shopping chains to get the Christmas consumerism ball rolling early--Buy More Stuff!

Listening to: Matthew Good - 21st Century

 

Here Comes the Rain Again

Blah, I hate canker sores. I use to get them years ago when I was in a stressful relationship. I do not think I have been stressed as of late, other than the make-up calculus mid-term. That means another mid-term and final exam to go!

Well, there is the part about trying to find a new place to live. Slim pickins' in Kitsilano and everything is either very expensive for a one-bedroom or No Pets. What's a girl to do? You read in the media about poor folks being evicted on Xmas because building owners want to renovate and charge sky high rents. You just never think it is going to happen to you. Not too mention, people who put down a measley down payment and expect a renter to pay the mortgage at $1,000 per bedroom.

On a side note, I started mingling in the dating scene again. It has been so long, I have to really analyze siutations to figure out whether or not I am being flirted with. "Is that a line?" and "Are you hitting on me?". Amongst other things, my Gaydar is completely off. I cannot tell if a guy is Metro or Gay these days.

Last weekend, a group of us went Cosmic Bowling. It was such a blast! I had not been for a few years. I used to go often before my body was ravaged by a few car accidents. The muscle tension and knots hold me back (no pun intended). Yoga will help though, I should drop into a class this weekend. Hopefully, by spring I will be able to be more active.

Tis' the season of rain and gray in Vancouver. Oh wait, there's wind today too. Today is my stat holiday for the long weekend. Everyone else is getting Monday off. Kind of wierd, but it was set by the head office in Toronto at the beginning of the year. I just have to make it through the next month of math homework and tests, work, and then there is Christmas fun! *Santa, Santa, Santa... Presents, Presents!

Listening to: Eurythimcs - Here Comes the Rain Again

 

A la weekend

On Saturday, I offered my fire tech safety skills for Radiant Heat for their two performances at the the Parade of Lost Souls at Granview Park. The show consisted of scafolding risers with poi spinners, stilters, fire breathers, hoopers, staffers, sword fights, and a headless horseman. The shows were fantastic!

Afterwards, we hung out at Todd and Fyrespryte's place to chill and relax. It had been a long day. They have a beautiful view of downtown Vancouver from their balcony. Then we all went over to Amanda and Geoff's spooky Halloween party. Their living room was decorated eerily with cobwebs, ghosts, limbs, and tombstones. We chilled for a bit before I headed home. I did not end up making the rounds to other house parties.

 

On Sunday, I met up with Fasty, Gia, and their friend Wanda for Indian buffet at Saffron in Burnaby. The food was delicious and not too spicy. A great deal for $10 bucks. We went back to Fasty & Gia's and watched their wedding video. It was so wonderful to see it because I was not there with them at the first wedding. We hung out and looked at pictures for a bit. Then we went to look at a two bedroom for sale near Central Park. It is amazing how much condos go for in the Greater Vancouver Area. Gia's sister just purchased a three bedroom, three bathroom townhouse near Cambridge for under $200k. Yeah, yeah you cannot compare the markets and prices, but one has to wonder how one will ever be able to afford a one bedroom condo in Vancouver with the prices escalating (highest prices in Canada).

In the evening, we chilled and watched American History X. This film had been on my rental list for years. I can see why so many film critics and fans say this movie is one of the best contemporary movies ever made. Not too mention Edward Norton looks great and lusty as a bad-ass testosterone alpha male skinhead.

 

Bill Maher

Oct 16, 2006 - nyc

bill maher might have his shortcomings, but his epistles are always really good.
-moby

Oct. 13, 2006 | If you think the worst thing Congress doesn't
protect young people from is Mark Foley, wake up and smell the
burning planet. The ice caps are cracking, the coral reefs are
bleaching, and we're losing two species an hour. The birds have
bird flu, the cows have mad cow, and our poisoned groundwater has
turned spinach into a side dish of mass destruction. Our schools
are shooting galleries, our beaches are cancer wards, and under
George W. Bush -- for the first time in 45 years -- our country's
infant mortality rate actually went up.

Read the labels on your food. It turns out the healthiest thing
you can put in your body is Mark Foley's penis. He was probably
the first fruit those pages ever came into contact with that
wasn't drenched in pesticide.

But that's America for you -- a red herring culture, always
scared of the wrong things. The fact is, there are a lot of
creepy middle-aged men out there lusting for your kids. They work
for MTV, the pharmaceutical industry, McDonald's, Marlboro and K
Street. And recently, there's been a rash of strangers making
their way onto school campuses and targeting our children for
death. They're called military recruiters.

More young Americans were crippled in Iraq last month than in any
month in the past three years. And the scandal is that Mark Foley
wants to show them a good time before they go? When will our
closeted gay congressmen learn? Our boys aren't for pleasure.
They're for cannon fodder. They shouldn't be another notch on
your bedpost. They should be a comma in Bush's war. If I hear a
zipper, it had better be on a body bag.

Why aren't Democrats and the media hammering away every day about
who we're supposed to be fighting for over there and what the
plan is. Yes, Mark Foley was wrong to ask teenagers how long
their penises were -- but at least someone on Capitol Hill was
asking questions. We're the predators. Because we have an entire
economy built on asking young people what they want, making the
cheapest, sleaziest form of it they'll accept, and selling it to
them until they choke on it and die.

You know who's grabbing your kids at too young an age? Merck,
Pfizer and GlaxoSmithKline, by convincing you they're depressed,
hyperactive or suffering from attention-deficit disorder and so
they must all get medicated. The drug dealers hooking your kids
aren't in South America, they're in the halls of Congress handing
out campaign donations to your congressmen. Mark Foley says he
never slept with those kids, and I believe him, because American
children are so hopped up on pills I doubt any of them could get
it up.

From 1995 to 2002, the number of children prescribed
antipsychotic drugs increased by over 400 percent. Either our
children are going insane -- which we might look on as a problem
-- or, more likely, we have, for profit, created a nation of
little junkies. So stop already with the righteous moral
indignation about predators -- this whole country is trying to
get inside your kid's pants because that's where he keeps the
money Daddy gave him to stay out of his hair.

I don't care if Mark Foley had been asking boys to describe their
penises because I have some sad news for you: Your kid is so
larded out on Cheetos and Yoo-hoo, he can't even see his penis.
We live in a country where the ultimate consumer is an obese 16-
year-old hooked up at one end to a Big Gulp and at the other to a
PlayStation. So many of our kids today are fat drug addicts, it's
almost as if Rush Limbaugh had had puppies.

In conclusion, we can pretend that the biggest threat to "our
children" is some creep on the Internet, or we can admit it's Mom
and Dad. When your son can't find France on a map, or touch his
toes with his hands, or understand that the ads on TV are lying
-- including the one in which the Marine turns into Lancelot --
then the person fucking him is you.

-- By Bill Maher

From: Moby.com

 

Eviction On the Horizon?

Less than a month ago, our low-rise building in Kitsilano was sold. A neighbour informed me the other day that the new owner let it slip that he is planning on renovating the building to charge higher rents. He can evict us with 2 months notice. I checked online at the Rental Tenancy Office and I think this is true. I would hope it would be 6 months (better vacancy options in April because of the students finishing), but it looks like the tenancy law in this area is weak.

I have lived in this building for 6 years and love the location and building itself. I half expected the rents to increase with the new owner, but I never expected I may be out on my ass in Christmas. I read all the time in the local newspapers how landlords are evicting people to renovate in order to charge higher rents because of the economic boom. Nonetheless, you never expect it will happen to you and you may be homeless. I hope I can find something in time. I think the earliest we will be out is February 2007, but one never knows.

Listening to: Barenaked Ladies - If I Had A $1,000,000

 

Annual Brupper, Pumpkin Carving and Work Less Party

The month has been good so far with the odd low points relating to calculus homework. On Friday, I went to Leanne's birthday party at the Yaletown Brew Company. After waiting for almost an hour for our reservation, we sat down. Almost everyone had thin-crust pizza. It was interesting being surrounded by people with Masters degrees in Psychology. It was also great meeting new people who I could engage in good conversation with other than the regular ho-hum topics.

Afterwards, we went over to dance and drink at the pub next door to the restaurant. This Samuel Jackson-type charming middle-aged man came over and tried to buy us drinks. I politely declined. He was with two other gentlemen from New York. He was taking them out for a night on the town and hoping to "get laid". Overall, a fun night.

On Saturday, my brother came into town with my cousin. We hung out with our cousins at the BC Lions street fair at Robson and Beatty Streets. After, we went to Bazaar Novelty to check out the Halloween costumes and decorations. For dinner, we went for Japanese at Clubhouse. It was great to see him and catch up. While our cousins went to the BC Lions football game, we went down to Trout Lake to watch people spin fire. The fog was heavy and we half expected zombies to come out of the trees chanting brains.

On Sunday, Leanne had her annual Brupper Day (brunch + supper). She cooked up a slab of pancakes. People brought various toppings including oreos, jelly bellys, strawberries, apples, bananas, whipped topping, jams and syrups. Surprisingly, every pancake was declicious (must have been made with *love*). I enjoyed the banana and cinnamon.

 

The previous weekend, I went to Katia's pumpkin carving party. Met some wonderful new folks and we sat on the folded out futon and chatted. The pumpkins turned out great.

On the Saturday, we went to the Work Less Party. Had a blast, lots of great costumes and a variety of fabulous entertainment including bands UFOMP, Carnival Band and Freeflow, belly dancing by Dance Bellys, body painted performance art, and the B:C:Clettes.

Now, if I can only get the momentum to work on my Safari Guide costume for next Saturday's Parade of Lost Souls. I will be providing fire tech safety for the fire show featuring Radiant Heat.

Listening to: K-Os - Love Song

 

Cambridge, Ontario and Fasty & Gia's Wedding

I went to Cambridge, Ontario for Fasty & Gia's wedding on Thanksgiving weekend.

It was such a pleasure to attend the wedding and meet both of their families. I learned a lot about Portuguese culture and family spirit. There was plenty of feasting and festivities. I was officially adopted by Gia's father into his family.

The day of the wedding, Gia's sister rented a Rolls Royce limo and we rode around in it while we had our hair and makeup done. Fall is so beautiful in Ontario. The trees were brushed with reds, oranges, and yellows.

I was nervous about speaking at the wedding (first wedding speech ever). But it went over very well and I received compliments. Not only did I make Gia cry, but her father as well. I kept it all together during the ceremony and speeches, but I completely lost all composure during their first dance to Peter Gabriel's In Your Eyes.

Being at the wedding and staying with Gia's family really encouraged me to find someone to spend the rest of my life with and build a relationship that is based on a foundation of committment, respect, loyalty, and communication.

All the couples on both sides near my age range never fought and you could feel the connection of love, support, and happiness between each. Lots of little ones too. I got to spend some memorable and fun moments with Fasty's niece.

Listening to: Lee Ann Womack - I Hope You Dance

 

Tourism Vancouver Open House

After work, I went down to Tourism Vancouver for their annual Open House. The place was jammed packed with folks from hotels, restaurants, landmarks and various affiliates including our company. I put a few faces to names and got to sample tasty bites from Red Door Pan Asian Grill, Bridge House from Capilano Suspenion Bridge, and Canadian Maple Delights. I sampled another place that had delicious pumpkin cheesecake, but cannot remember the name of the establishment.

The wine and beer were flowing from Vintropolis, Doolin's Irish Pub, Steamworks Brewing Co., and other fine places. Unfortunately, I had to go home and pack for tomorrow's flight to Cambridge, Ontario for Fasty & Gia's wedding.

I very exhausted. Work is crazy and school is going full speed. I have one midterm out of three done. I am looking forward to the long weekend. I also get to spend Thanksgiving with Gia's family. I heard her mom is a very good cook. It is not often I get home cooking!

Tomorrow will be a very long day. I have corporate HR training downtown at a hotel, then work, night school, and then take a cab to the airport for my flight. Hopefully, I can sleep on the plane.

Have a great long weekend everyone. Thanks to Poiboy for cat sitting.

Listening to: Peter Gabriel - In Your Eyes

 

A la weekend

Another great weekend with great weather. Yay Indian summer! On Saturday, K8, Amanda and I organized a beautiful 50s-themed shower for Gia. It was such a blast! The boys crashed it afterwards for a Hanky Panky toy party. Then the party got into full swing with music, lights and brie.

The only thing that went wrong that day was my car got a flat tire. I almost did not make it to the shower. I had to stop and add air to my tire.

On Sunday, we went to Bon's for breakfast at Nanaimo and Broadway. We just beat the hungover lineup. I had the Western omlette which was decent. A older security guard went around filling up people's cups of coffee.

After that, BT, Geoff and I played Zigity while we waited for BCAA to come and put on the spare on my car. I have never played this card game before, but it was lots of fun. Great to find another person that likes to play cards and board games.

While some went to see Jackass II, the rest of us went to Memphis Blues on The Drive for dinner. I ordered the half order of ribs and ate only half of it. All is good though because I got to eat it for dinner the next day. Rolled home on my spare (thanks BT!) and proceeded to get horizontal with the cats and watched the Sunday lineup.

Listening to: Colin James - Just Came Back To Say Goodbye

 

The Duck Is Dead

A woman goes into the vets with a duck under her arm. The vet lifts the ducks head and it flops back down. "This duck is dead," says the vet. "I do not believe it", says the woman. "I want another opinion."

The vet opens the door and in comes a black Labrador. The dog sniffs the duck and shakes its head.

"There I told you," says the vet. "The duck is dead."

"I want another opinion," says the woman.

The vet calls and in comes a Siamese cat. The cat sniffs the duck and shakes its head.

"There I told you," says the vet. "The duck is dead."

"OK," says the woman. "I accept your diagnosis. Please give me your bill." (not part of the joke)

The vet gives her a bill for $2500 and the woman exclaims, "But you only said the duck was dead!"

"Yes," said the vet. "But I had to base my expert opinion on a lab report and a cat scan and they are expensive."


From: latenights in lotusland

 

Margaret Cho, Last Kiss, and The Drive

Good weekend overall. I studied calculus, cleaned, and had lots of fun and sunshine. You think summer is officially over, but then you have a warm and sunny day like Sunday.

On Friday, Kelly and I went to see Margaret Cho at the Orpheum. I had only ever seen her stand-up comedy routines on DVD or video. I was so excited to see her live. We stopped at Doolin's Pub prior to the show for some drinks and eats.

Prior to Miss Cho taking the stage, the Gay Mafia from Los Angeles took the stage. MC Lisp and L Word took the stage and dropped dope rhymes about gay culture and lifestyle, including Take You Homo and Funky Fag Hag. They both were hilarious and got the crowd going.

Then Margaret Cho took the stage. She looked absolutely fabulous! She said she finally had accepted herself for who she was and what she looked like, and I guess the inner beauty finally came through.

Her comedy set was hilarious, as always. Plenty of jokes about all kinds of topics, including gay and lesbian culture, predjudice, ignorance, politics, US vs. Canada, pop culture, and personal stories. I love her mom impressions. We laughed non-stop.

After the show, we phoned up Omid; but he did not answer. We left a message stating we needed help and we could not find cake. We wanted to track him down to go for dessert. But I guess it was not in our destiny.

 

On Saturday, I got my hair trimmed up for Fasty & Gia's wedding. (Not the playa one, the Thanksgiving one.) Brandon flat-ironed it and it looked awesome. The red and caramel-blonde highlights really came back out. I purchased a flat-iron from a coworker, so I just have to start practicing myself.

I was so annoyed on Friday when I was heading downtown because I noticed a parking ticket on my windshield wiper. I went to Safeway after class Thursday night. I was exhausted and I ran across the street to Shopper's for hair product. Then I went to go to Safeway for cat litter. I guess the parking attendant was watching me and saw that I left the parking lot. He enforcer gave me a $50 parking ticket. That seems excessive and outrageous. I have to print out my bank statement and haggle Safeway management after work today to try and get it reduced or removed.

After studying for an hour, Poiboy called me up. We were going to see The Last Kiss with Zach Braff. The movie was great. Kind of an updated Swingers. The directing, editing and characters were wonderful. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie about a lead character going through a half-life crisis and his friends' relationships collapsing around him.

I spent the evening studying more and then I watched Serenity by Joss Whedon. I am a huge Buffy and Angel fan. I have not seen Firefly, which this movie is based on. The movie was great, full of action, thrilleresqueness, and science fiction. Good special effects, and enjoyable and entertaining overall. I am definitely going to check out the tv show.

 

The last day of the weekend, Sunday, was beautiful. The sun was shining and it was warm. I did some more homework and some cleaning. I met up with K8 and we went to Commercial Drive to so some window shopping. We stopped in at Havana for lunch. I had the usual chicken salad and she had the crab salad. The place was packed throughout and the staff is awesome.

We checked out a few shops including Banshee, Beckwoman's, Ten Thousand Villages, and Womyn's Ware. Gia dropped by to meet up with us and things just got better and better! We walked back up the other side and stopped at Grandview Park. There is a new waterpark there with beautiful painted flowers and bugs all over it.

We continued back towards 1st Avenue. We stopped for Red Orange Gelato (yum!). We ran into Howler at another Gelato store while waiting for BT to meet up with us. We stopped at the Red Burrito for bites. The food smelled great, but I was not hungry. We continued towards Trout Lake, but ended up calling it an afternoon. I chilled and read Irvine Welsh's book Ecstasy while cuddling a cat. Finished the evening off with Simpsons, Family Guy, and The War At Home.

Listening to: Green Day - Wake Me Up When September Ends

 

I Know That I Have Found Her

I Know That I Have Found Her

To proclaim that I love her
Is so easy to say
And for that, I will tell her
In my own special way

Through meaningful words
And the warmth of my touch
Through these nights of romance
She deserves o' so much

She's trapped in my heart
She's always on my mind
She gives me her love
Our hearts intertwine

For the woman I love
I have searched my whole life
But I know that I have found her
Because I made her my wife

- Jeff Kovich -