Just Because

Last week, I placed a Boylan's Vanilla Soda in the freezer to chill before drinking after purchasing it. Well, I forgot about it and it froze and expanded in the freezer. I had never seen the result of it before. It was kind of cool in a science experiment kind of way.


A really cool guy sent me a Haiku:

Alas my dead dog
Trusty friend for all these years
At least I won't starve


I bought two new rugs at Ikea the other day. The cats love them (like the futon Fasty & Gia gave me). I swear cats think you purchase stuff for them. I wanted to purchase a new entertainment unit, but I could not figure out what parts to choose to replicate the final result.


I thought of a great triple-feature 80s night. The movies would be Weird Science, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and The Breakfast Club. Popcorn anyone?


So, a dear friend of mine came to visit me with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. When I asked why he was giving them to me, he said to thank me for a favour I did for him months ago. I was gobsmacked. I helped me because he asked for help. But the gesture was lovely.

We went for a walk at Kits Beach and stumbled upon a picnic with a great people beside Bitchez's car. We sat with them for a bit, laughing, people watching and graciously accept their offerings of delicious salad, sushi and cherries.

We continued on to Swiss Chalet for roast chicken dinner and Caramel Fudge Cheesecake.

Listening to: Simple Minds - Don't You Forget About Me

 

Happy Canada Day

Happy Canada Day everyone! Yes, I am one day late, but I have a cold even though it's 20-ish Celsius out. Last weekend, I went camping in the hills near Mount Baker with BT and Harley. Beautiful area, views of Mount Baker, and nothing but songbirds singing. It was about 28C. I picked up two and a half bags of trash. Litterbugs sux!

Had dinner Sunday evening at the great North Fork Brewery on Mt. Baker Highway. Best pizza I have had in a very long time. I had a delicious Mediterranean pie with home-made rootbeer. Yee haa! Definitely comfort food after being in the woods two days.


Trying to figure out my weekend. So many social invitations and activities to choose from. Off work sick today. Lovely to have a hoarse throat and cough in the middle of summer. But what's a girl to do but go get a slurpee and get things done?


One and a half weeks to VEGAS. How I long for the glam and glitz of Vegas. One of my favourite, trashy, excessive American cities.



Here are some White Trash Party photos.

Listening to: Starkillers - Discoteka

 

Help For Little Victims

From VancouverSun:

Dogs injured in the earthquake that killed 70,000 people in China on May 12 are getting a second chance at life, thanks to a private shelter run by Chen Yunlian in Sichuan province. Many of the dogs taken in by the shelter were found dragging crushed hind legs through the rubble-clogged streets of Sichuan province.


They were the lucky few -- stray and abandoned dogs were mostly shot by police and soldiers in the wake of the quake for fear they would spread disease. One of the about 100 dogs rescued by Chen from devastated cities including Beichuan, Wenchuan, Qingchuan and Dujiangyan takes a rest as it learns to walk in a home-made walker. One of the eight staff members at the shelter trained dogs over the weekend to use their walkers. Chen, 60, has been rescuing stray dogs for a decade and now has about 900 dogs and 100 cats in the shelter just outside Chengdu, the provincial capital.

Dog ownership has grown more popular as Chinese become wealthier, but few people have the emotional attachment to pets that is common in the West. Indeed, dogs are still often seen as a source of meat for the family stew pot, especially in some rural areas.

 

Truly inspirational.

 

I Love You

You people are amazing! Thank you for showering my life with joy and positivity.




There isn't one day that goes by that I take your friendship for granted.

XoxoX

 

J'aime Au Chocolate

I love chocolate and chocolate loves me! Nothing beats coming home after a long, stressful day at work to find a bar of Endangered Species chocolate in the fridge. I love the Rhino Dark Chocolate Toffee and the Tiger Dark Chocolate Espresso bars. Proceeds go to protecting endangered species in their natural habitat and the bars are organic. Once you taste good, dark chocolate, you never go back!




Love Catherine Ledner's animal print series of animals with wallpaper.




Really feel a strong desire to paint my apartment. I even picked out colours for the living room, kitchen, bathroom and hallway. But my body is so ragged from my muscular-skeletal soft-tissue problems. I think I am going to commission my father to create a framed chalk board for the kitchen wall. Better yet, I should pay him to paint my apartment. Hmm... now there's a thought.

Listening to: INXS - Pretty Vegas

 

A La Weekend

I had a great, relaxing weekend that finally felt like summer! So many options--it was difficult to fit in as much fun things as possible in only 2 days.

I arose early on Saturday and went to yoga. Then, I headed out to the burbs to visit my dad, niece, Max the dog, and the two cats. My niece, her friend and I went to the primary school playground for the afternoon. We hung out and played in the woods behind the school. We built bridges through bushes and ate salmon berries. It reminded me of being a kid (minus the bmx bike). My niece's friend exclaimed, "You're so cool!". Damn skippy.

Finished the evening off visiting with BT, Delilah and Jay. We opted for gelato at La Casa. Always a tough decision there with all those flavours and huge lines, but I opted for the usual maple walnut and banana fudge. Delish! We chilled and watched old retro silly clips on You Tube.


On Sunday, I went to Amanda and Geoff's for pancake breakfast. Best pancakes eva! We went over to Commercial Drive for Car-Free Days. The event seemed even busier than last year for it's third official annual event. I did not like the Tribal Harmonix stage at the bottom of the street at Veneables. Lots of live music, peformance art, booths, and vendors. I bought two gorgeous pairs of poi. I cannot wait to jam with them at the beach.

Met up with Poiboy to hit up the Main Street event. It definitely had a different vibe with the hipster crowd. Not bad for their first year.


So ANNOYED at the Conservative Tories government for proposed Bills to restrict nautropath and natural products, new immigration restrictions (deemed racist), fines for copyright infringement ($20k for uploading and $500 for downloading), and censorship on television and films (Young People Fucking). I did not vote for the Tories. Boo on you apathetic Canadians who did not vote. *sigh*

Listening to: John Lennon - Working Class Hero

 

Vegas, Baby

Lately, I have been looking at photos on Flickr and researching Vegas. My friends K&S are getting married there in July. I am so excited! I love Vegas. However, I have not been since 1999-2000 for NYE. No one ever wants to go! I love that city. I am attempting to find a companion for that weekend adventure.



Listening to: DJ Tiesto - Beautiful Things

 

Vegas, Baby

Lately, I have been looking at photos on Flickr and researching Vegas. My friends K&S are getting married there in July. I am so excited! I love Vegas, and have not been since 1999-2000 for NYE. No one ever wants to go! I love that city. Attempting to find a companion for the weekend adventure.



Listening to: DJ Tiesto - Beautiful Things

 

Critical Massive

I went down Thursday evening to Critical Massive at the Skaltitude Retreat south of Carlton in Washington. I should have taken an extra day off because it was about a 5 hour drive without stops for groceries and dinner.



The weather was moderate for alpine country, but the evenings were cold and windy. I had an amazing time being part of Blues Dome. I relaxed in a hammock, tended bar, roamed, gazed at stars, laid under art, and danced. On Friday, we took a group photo in the labyrinth and burned a Man on Saturday. Inside the Man, there was a beautiful metal heart. Met lots of new and great people, and one particular Brit.

I am still radiating from the energy and people from the event of 350 people.

Listening to: Diana Krall - I've Got You Under My Skin

 

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

 

A la weekend

Whew, weekend went by quick, but I am so at ease because I quit my job on Friday. I have been there just shy of two years, but it was time to let go and move on. Also, passing through another cold. Nothing like the flu last month, or these sinus infections going around.

On Friday, I went to the VanCity Theatre downtown to see Daft Punk's Electroma. A fantastic artistic film about two robots attempting to become human. The film has long sequences with no dialogue. I found it interesting and intense. I think watching clips online would take away the impact of this film as a whole. I wish Daft Punk were touring in Vancouver.

On Saturday, I went for brunch and our first Burn BC board meeting. Long, but we managed to cover almost every agenda topic. A good start to a new beginning. I went over to A&G's after to play Cranium. First time ever and I am hooked! Cranium is awesome! I think it would be even better with more pairs of competitors.

We went over to Commercial Drive to get some take away. We saw an intriguing window display at Mintage. There were two mannequins in bed and a photographer taking their photo. A's son and I immediately thought of Hair Peace with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. A's son told me that Yoko is almost ready to forgive the assassin of John. We continued on by discussing the US presidential race and voting in Canada. That kid really wows me sometimes. He's so far along at his age.

After chowing down on Red Burrito and Belgian Fries, we watched I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry. Halfway through, B&D came over and I went to chat them up in another room. I missed the last half of the movie, but I heard it was quite predictable. We were all too knackered for another round of Cranium. Never did make it to the Work Less Party's Enchanted Forest.

Sunday, I slept in very late (which helped my health and lack of sleep all week). Went out to Surrey to visit with my niece. I have not seen her in a month and a half. We did the belated Xmas thing. I also took her to the mall so she could play at the indoor playground. It's such a test to take a child through the mall and do the tug-of-war of let her look at stuff and move her along. Finished the evening watching her play a N64 tank game and helping my dad surf real estate on the Internet. Even got some doggy action with Max.

Listening to: Dave Matthews Band - Too Much

 

So, you get off on torturing animals?

A cat is back with its owner after getting shot in the face. The vet bill is at least $11,000. The cat had to have it's jaw rewired and eats through a tube. I can understand the owner's love for the cat. A pet is sometimes an extension to the family, like a child. I remember paying $1,000 for Bear to have a broken canine removed after he was hit by a car crossing Cornwall Avenue years ago. Luckily, he had no internal injuries, but he could not get himself home. He lay between parked cars meowing until someone found him and took him to a 24-hour vet hospital. I eventually got him back from the SPCA. I was so mortified when he did not come home for 2 days. He's all happy-go-lucky now; he is missing a tooth.

There is also the story about the guy in the West End who repeatedly beat his puppy with a hammer because it bit a friend. The puppy was probably teething. The puppy's injuries were so severe, it had to be put down. The SPCA is calling for charges. But animal protection laws are so weak and laughable that probably nothing will happen. Why doesn't the SPCA lobby for stricter laws and fines? Puppy millers usually get a slap on the wrist. I remember reading about a puppy mill where dogs lived outside in chicken wire cages in the snow with frozen water and maggot-infested food.

Top Culture Moments of 2007

CBC's web site has an article listing their favourite top pop culture moments of 2007. The moments that I personally enjoyed were: Daft Punk Live, return of the Coen Brothers, HBO tv show Tell Me You Love Me, My Humps by Alanis Morrisette, and Ellen Page in Juno.

I just watched the pilot episode of Cashmere Mafia. I love it! I really like Frances O'Connor's character. Hmm... successful and powerful women in New York balancing the work-family-play triangle. I wonder how it will compete against Lipstick Jungle.

 

Love this video Here It Goes Again by OK Go.




My laundry beckons.

Listening to: Hanson - Go

 

Camrose, Alberta teens microwave cat for fun

It is amazing what teenagers will dream up as ideal fun when they are bored.

Link: Cat torture case elicits calls for vengeance

*sigh*

Happy New Year

Yep, another year has gone by. I have to admit it, 2007 was one of the best years I have had in awhile. Why? I participated in local and regional BM events more, I hung out with old friends, I camped a lot, I went to England, I started dating again, and I got to hang out with my niece. There was also a lot of that maturing, growing and soul-searching hub-bub. But really, I am grinning, and it is from ear-to-ear.

I had to work new year's, but alas it's how I pay the rent. I grabbed Delilah and we met up with about 20 or so friends at a Skytrain Station for the 2nd Annual NYE Skytrain Party. There was even a live brass and percussion band. We decorated the train, danced, and drank. The Skytrain staff laughed hysterically and took photos when we rode by. We did a loop on the Millennium line. Most riders who got on our train were estatic and started dancing along with us.

After the train party, we went to Amanda and Geoff's for a lively and energetic karaoke party. They, as always, host with the most. We continued on to a loft party near Main Street where the mood was more demure. Both parties had impromptu fire performance jams. Rang in the new year well amongst great friends and free of paying a cash grab for entrance to a lame-ass bar or club. Could have continued on to another party, but decided to call it a night at 3 am.

I finally figured out why my Langara College registration time was so late from the start these past semesters. Apparently, the college did not process my transcript from first year. I learned this after receiving an error while trying to apply for second year courses. I did not fill out a Credit Transfer Application. Shesh, no wonder my GPA was ZERO. I did get into one course: Intro to Cultural Anthropology. Jesse always said I should take this course. Let's see if he's right.

Listening to: Timbaland feat. One Republic - Apologize

 

Feast Navidad

I finished up my turkey dinner leftovers on Saturday. BT makes really good potato crack. On Xmas Day, I cooked a 20 pound turkey with stuff, gravy and cranberry sauce. It took 7 hours to cook, not including preparation time, but it turned out delicious. My 4th or 5th turkey to-date. I could be a domestic diva yet.

On Friday, a group of us went to Shabusen downtown for all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ and sushi. I tend to not be a huge fan of AYCA because one tends to gorge on low-grade food. But I love social gatherings and I got to meet a friend of a friend from Thailand. After, we went for Japanese crepes at the Japanese grocery on Robson street. We also went to Mondo Gelato a few doors down. I had no room for dessert.

On Saturday evening, I had the pleasure of going to Kino Cafe on Camie and 18th Streets. The food is dull and the service is atrocious, but the live Flamenco dancing and Spanish singing is extraordinary. I think if you only go to Kino Cafe for drinks or Sangria and to see the live show, it would be the perfect combination. The place calls itself a Spanish tapas restaurant, but there are really no tapas on the menu.

We went for Sunday brunch at the Best Western Inn in Coquitlam. For about $22, you can have a brunch buffet with seafood. I thought for the price, the food was good. The service was mediocre at best. Bit of a drive from Vancouver though. I really wanted to try the brunch at the Hilton Metrotown, but it was $29 and you had to make a reservation.

I have uploaded GEoff's Vancouver SantaCon photos to my flickr account.

Listening to: The Bravery Believe

 

Santa, Come Out, Come Out...

Santa, where ever you are...



Listening to: Depeche Mode - Policy of Truth

 

Victoria SantaCon

Victoria is such a beautiful, quaint city. I have not been there for about four years. I went over this past weekend with some friends to participate in Victoria SantaCon.

What an amazing cacophony event. We started at Big Bad John's Bar, went to a string of bars, picked up a Santa flying in at Harbour Air, sang carols, played Twister, Soprano's for karaoke, and Monty's for strippers.



We also tried to go to the Fairmont Empress lounge for a drink, but it could not accommodate our large group of 80 Santas. Lucky's Bar and Hush were also not having Christmas Cheer. Hugo's was a fun stop, but they did not have enough staff to keep Santa merry. Swan was fantastic though with a great live band.

The Jellyfish was very pretentious-pathetic basement chic. Overpriced drinks in a stark, plain white basement room. I think the staff and patrons were terrified of us. But Santa just wanted to drink and be merry.

Santa's Little Elf - Candy Cane (Rendition of Cocaine by Bob Dylan)

 

Santa Loves Victoria

Well, I am off tonight to Victoria for SantaCon. I have never been to Victoria's SantaCon before and I am very excited to partifipate. I have heard great things about it.

I am going over with Fasty, Gia & BT. I love taking the ferry. It brings back fond memories travelling with my family as a kid. It is such a journey. I haven't been to Victoria in years.

I am trying to figure out how I can fit in the Royal BC Museum. I am disappointed I missed the museum's Titanic Exhibit. It ended in October.

Vancouver's SantaCon is next week. So excited! I actually feel festive this year and am going to put up my family's old fake tree. I haven't seen that out of the box since 2001.

Kate Nash - Shit Song

 

Gray Goes Well With Red

8:30 pm: I am ready to go to bed. But it's too early. The sun is long gone from here. I read a few short stories from Margaret Atwood's Good Bones.

Attempted to sleep, but still restless. I go through periods of non-sleep to exhausted sleep. She says I am too eager. Is she right? Does she know me better than I know myself?

It is amazing how so many drifts in the storm can make you so strong-willed. It's good to know which clothes to arm yourself with and what equipment to take on the path with you each day. It ensures your survival.

The snowman reminds us not to throw our discarded Starbucks cups on the ground.

The Rolling Stones - Let It Loose

 

Cirque de Sag - Friday, November 30th

Our second event of the year since creating Burn BC in September 2007. The main three goals of this founded organization is to coordinate a Cascadia Burn, an industrial arts centre, and a fire guild.

Listening to: Donna Summer - I Feel Love

 

Is It the Weekend? Really?

Wow, where did the year go? It really flew by. It is such a cliche to say that when you were younger, time moved so slowly. I am glad I am making the most out of my seasons. Thank dogness for no homework! That will hopefully change next season. Maybe some other aspects of my life will change too! (Definitely working on them.)

Last weekend, I went to Seattle, Washington to attend the annual Burning Man Seattle Seacompression event. It was held at a military barracks on Lake Union. Over 1,466 people attended. The theme was unicorns and rainbows. The community put on an amazing and successful event. I had a wonderful time and it really brought back the essence, art, and music of the playa.

Here are TW's photos.

The event and the Seattle community give me inspiration and encouragement for our local community in Vancouver. During these past few months before the end of the year, two other sub-culture groups have decided to start-up projects and fundraising organizations. Our main community has also decided to create a legal entity, which is long overdue, but a necessary next step.


Yesterday, I went to the new H&M store in Coquitlam Centre. I love H&M from London and New York. We are truly blessed to have such a cool clothing chain at low prices Yes, I am advocating a corporate chain that most likely uses sweat shops. I should actually do some research to see how evil they may be.

Last night, we celebrated Amanda's birthday with a Scorpio Party. Mark Brennan DJed and was amazing. Great food spread and an awesome group of people. One of the best parties I have seen come together at her place. It was a Tops and Tails theme. I made delicious Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Squares.

I can't stop listening to this electro-house trax. I am so silly. There is just something about a rhythmic dance mix with sexy vocals that makes me want to move.

Listening to: Freeform Five - No More Conversations (Mylo Remix)

 

Weird Al's Canadian Idiot

I'm am so proud EH!



 

Sky Train Party, Parade of Lost Souls

On Friday, I went to the Sky Train Party that was looping from Clark Station to Main Street. The party filled up three train cars and had a live DJ on the first car. The attending police were very cool and laughed a lot.

There was an outdoor party afterwards with free jello shots. The Master was my favourite costume.

Then we went to the Anza club for a drink and live music. I had never been there before. It is like an old cottage or coach house on Ontario and 8th Avenue. Our last stop was Gigi's for baked pasta on Broadway between Cambie and Main Streets.


On Saturday, a friend I went to Commercial Drive for the Parade of Lost Souls. We started our evening at Stella's. I had a delicious raspberry vodka cocktail called a Blind Date. We shared tasty tapas including calamari, hummus and ahi tuna. We had a great view of the costumed revelers on the street.



Some of my favourite costumes were this orange demon, Lego Man, Beaker, Princess and Mario, the Fortune Teller, and a bartender with his own bar. Wish I saw the Queen of Narnia, Facebook and A-Team, and Robot Kitty.

Watched the second show by Radiant Heat at Mosaic Park off of Charles and McLeans streets.

Listening to: The Shins - New Slang (Garden State Soundtrack)

 

Mark Tewksbury Is a Great Movtivational Speaker

I had an opportunity to hear Mark Tewksbury speak at the annual Vancouver Tourism Awards. The event took place at the Sheraton Wall Centre. Beautiful hotel and a successful event. Wished I worked in the front-line of the tourism industry because the door prizes were amazing. Trips, nights at hotel, tours, dinners, and the three grand prizes were packages to Whistler, Seattle, and Banff and Calgary.

Mark Tewksbury is an Olympic bronze, silver, and gold swimmer from Calgary. He talked about 5 steps to visualize, plan and achieve your goals. I guess they are summarized from his new book. He is a good public speaker and very inspiring and motivational. I left the gala on an elated high.


I am trying to figure out the weekend. There is the Parade of Lost Souls of course. I really want to go to that unless it is pouring rain. Maybe mix in a few chores, some social mixing, and a movie and coffee or two and we might have a weekend.

I am so dismayed that my Calculus II course I need to take to finish my first year is being offered in the middle of the day. The college used to offer one of the courses in the evening. Don't they realize some of us have to work during the day? That college is so poorly managed, it is unbelievable.

I also have to go down to South Vancouver to update my address at another college. Useless. I would rather do it online or over the phone.

Listening to: Paula Cole - I Don't Wanna Wait

 

Autumn Has Arrived

I am trying to remember the past month and a half, and I cannot recollect what I has transgressed. I know there has been plenty of movie nights, potlucks and movie viewing. On Thanksgiving weekend, I got to hang with my niece for two days and one night. That was awesome as usual. We went to Mill Lake Road Park, the Vedder River for salmon fishing, and she read to me before bed time. We also walked the dog Max.

I also volunteered at the After Burn to fundraise for the Burn BC project(s). That was a long, but exciting evening. The first party at the Waldorf was an incredible success and exceeding our expectations. There were DJs, performance artists, live bands, stilters, and a fire show.



 

This past weekend, I went to the Work Less Party Masquerade. It was a blast! A great mix of good energy, people in great costumes, performance art, body painting competition, and live music. My only dismay results from the fact that the two crowd favourite competitors, Fatman and Spiderman who were both outstanding crowd favourites, did not win any of the four categories for body art and talent. Some great costumes were Princess & Mario, Ghosbuster, Brokeback Mountain, and a gorgeous Silver Hooper Goddess.

I also went to Shebeen Whiskey behind the Irish Heather on Friday for a friend of a friend's birthday. What a grand place to celebrate. It feels like you are at a little bar in the old world (19th century Coach House). Met a few folks who worked with people from my past. The place is a bit tricky to find, but cozy once you get there.

Listening to: Jim Sturgess - I've Just Seen a Face (Across the Universe Soundtrack)

 

Burning Man As Burning Does

I just woke up from a 3 hour nap after work and I am eating a grilled turkey and swiss sandwich. I had chocolate earlier and a pecan cinnamon muffin. I also had Memphis Blues ribs with friends on Commercial Drive for dinner last night. Ahh, the things you crave in the desert.

Been back from Burning Man for two days now. The population total this year was 47,700 people. I really felt the tourist yahoo factor on the last weekend. Garbage everywhere (especially by the dance camps on 2:00). Lots of creepy guys, people not participating, and bikes not lit up at night. There was a suicide and an arsonist burned the Man on Monday during the lunar eclipse.



I had a great burn. I camped with Kamp GFY near 3:30 and Desert. We got many thanks for not playing trance all weekend from many folks including DPW and the Rangers. Theme camps and citizens came by to gift us with ice cream bars, freezies, snow cones, and entertainment. Our agent missions were a blast.

We built a bike ramp on the street and heckled passer-byers. Visited many friends and danced most nights until 4 am.

My second home was the Lost Bar at 2:00 and Landfill. I participated in Free Hugs.



Some of my favourite art pieces were the Crude Awakening, two oil tanker trucks, Treehouse, this synchronized light piece, and the Temple.

Oh, there was this crazy gorilla and snake eating apple merry-go-round that created a motion picture when it was peddled (better in the evening). Went to Cereal Thrillers a few times for my journey down children's memory lane. Saw a camp that built a waterslide, took a kayaking lesson with James, and went to Costco Soulmate Trading Post to find my Soulmate.

Impressive dance camps this year. Of course there was Opulent Temple with mega-superstar DJs and fire cannons. But there was a gigantic dome with excellent breaks called Eschon Village. Moon Base was fantastic too with drum & bass and lasers you could see across the city. I also went to a beautiful wedding at the trash fence during the lunar eclipse.



There were two white-out dust storms two days in a row. The weather was generally warm with warm nights. Long drive home. Wished I stayed overnight in Reno or Oregon to break it up. We were rear-ended by a woman from Fort McMurray in the exit line out (exodus). The temple burn was magnificent.

 

On Tuesday, I went to the Vancouver Art Gallery with a friend to see the Monet to Dali exhibit from the Cleveland Museum of Art. It is probably the best exhibit to date at the VAG. Paintings from Impressionist, Post-Impressionists and Expressionists. The art is absolutely breathtaking.

There is also an exibit by Andrea Zittel titled Critical Space. She is an artist from California and her exhibit showcases works and textiles influenced by mainstream culture, psychology, technology, and consumerism. I really loved the Escape Vehicles, floating islands, modular living spaces, capsule living unit, and dresses.



 

Last night, I went over to a friend's to sew fun-fur boot covers. They look so cute! Eskimo kiss anyone?

Working on last minute preparations, scavenging and shopping for my trip to Burning Man. I am on track with only a few more things to get (parasol, cd zip case, groceries...). I am starting to feel the butterflies and jitters. I can't wait to be on the road. I started writing down events, parties and invites in my little black book.

I think I am going to volunteer at Costco! So excited. That afternoon, there is a Catholic skool party. Hmm... the possiiblities! Can you tell I am giddy like a skool girl?

Listening to: Stereo MCs - Step It Up

 

Still Radiating From the Weekend

My long weekend in Seattle was a blast. We stayed with friends in South Park and kept singing our "theme". Arrived very late on Friday, chatted with our hostess for a bit, and then crashed.

On Saturday, our hostess made us waffles, eggs and bacon. Delicious. I love their dog. She's wonderful. Very friendly and obedient. She can close the door after she goes outside all by herself.

Since everyone was going roller skating and then to a wedding later, I opted to meet up with a friend. He and his loved one were hosting a get-together in West Seattle for a friend that was passing through town. We stopped off at the Utilikilt store. The store was out of basic black kilts in my size. My friend insisted I try on a new style that was blue corduroy. I was resistant at first, but then, oh my, it was a perfect fit! Felt comfortable and not heavy or hot like I anticipated. I got one and ordered the black one. My friend tried on a red corduroy one. He looked so *hawt*. He took it too.

We went back to his place. Some friends came over and we worked on our camp banner for Burning Man. Then we played cards. I was so ecstatic. No one I know plays cards anymore. When I was young, we could not sit at the grown-ups table unless we played cards. They taught me a game called Presidents and Assholes. It was a lot of fun, except when you are an Asshole. My President's rule was pass your worst card to the left and your best card to the right.

After, a bunch of folks came over to hang out. I met lots of new people, including Mom and Dad. Mom was very loving, but she reminded me how important it is to buy your mom a Mother's Day present every year. I took a nap for a bit and started laughing when I heard Diem's voice.

I got up and people had come over post-wedding. Fasty & Gia came by to pick me up and take me to another house party. I wore my new kilt. Woo! It was great to see the bride and groom. I gave them my congratulations. They both looked lovely. I saw a few pictures from the wedding. The location was a beautiful garden and the reception was under outdoor tents. I heard the food was amazing and there was even belly dancing.

On Sunday, we went to the PAD for brunch. Fasty & I cooked brunch. I had a blast. The PAD is wonderful and has a huge back yard. One wonders how one will ever afford that kind of palace in Vancouver.

We went to the Fremont Market after and ran into Johay and Merry. We checked out the market and went for drinks on a patio. Worst waitress ever (well, almost). We went back to visit Jelly and Queen of the Harpies. We bought them snacks and treats. We watched the end of Who's That Girl. That was a riot! Madonna during her Marilyn Monroe phase.

We did a bit of shopping to kill some time because we weren't quite right for dinner. We opted to go to a great Mexican restaurant in South Park, but it had just closed when we arrived. Tsk Sunday hours. We grabbed some take-away from the deli of a grocery store along the I-5 and headed north at around 9 pm. The border line-up was killer. I got in at about 1 am.

The holiday Monday was nice and relaxing. The weather was still stunning. We met up with Diem, K8 and BT to watch The Simpsons movie. It really is awesome! It holds its own as a movie. I laughed all the way through. Fantastic! We gave BT some silly birthday presents.

After, I went to Fasty & Gia's to hang out and play Super Nintendo. We chilled all afternoon. I was so low-key; it was great. I went for great Japanese food near Metrotown at Tomoya off Nelson and Kingsway. I had a wonderful Burnaby roll and 2 pieces of hamachi sushi. Yum.

Best weekend I have had in a long time. I did not even have to go camping!

Listening to: Pink Floyd - Learning To Fly

 

Summer Feels Good

Yesterday was fun. Not the work part, but the post-work part. Some coworkers and I met up after work and we went to the new Hapa Izakaya in Kitsilano. Yummy Japanese tapas and drinks. Ahi tuna, sashimi salad, chicken wings and Korean rice along with raspberry vodka ice-tea (I am going to try it replicate it). Not difficult for four people to spend $80 and still be hungry and sober.

We kicked it up a notch with Bellinis at Browns Social House. Much better with spinach and artichoke dip and yam fries. The drinks and yam fries were divine. I think we have to keep up traditions for Tuesday Bellini night. I think I will be back there on Friday for dinner before heading south to Seattle.

We finished off the warm evening by watching the Celebration of Light with China's fireworks display at Kitsilano Beach.

 

After work today, I went to MEC to get a head lamp for camping and some turtle LED lights. I have been wanting a head lamp for years and it really helps see in a dark tent at night.

At home, I managed to cool off by drinking Breyers vanilla frozen yogurt and Baileys in a Simpsons slurpee cup.

Currently, I am painting my toes Suzy Loves Sydney by and Bogota Blackberry OPI. Got to have pretty toes for holey soles and my new Utilikilt.


Listening to: Alex Gaudino - Destination Calabria

 

Garfield Disliked Mondays

Well, it's interesting how when you are in dire need of doing laundry, you have to resort to wearing pretty, sexy panties to work. They are not the most comfortable to wear all day long at work (being, you know, their cut, style, lace and size), but hey it's better than going commando.


Saturday evening, Illuminaries at Trout Lake was magnificent. I missed it last year, due to attending an 80s themed birthday party at a posh house in West Vancouver. We watched the fireworks from his parents expansive stone-tiled deck facing downtown. I can't resist anything to do with the 80s. Nonetheless, the lantern festival this year had even more lanterns, performance art, fire shows, and people this year.

Radiant Heat rocked it with their choreographed performance and beautiful costumes. I almost missed the second show because we could not find the correct location (there were three fire shows in all).

After the show, I sat with friends on the hill and had interesting conversations about relationships, chemistry, defense mechanisms, and communication issues. Funny, how as adults, we still go through the same motions.


I have a new guilty pleasure: Gene Simmons Family Jewels. My cousins were watching the tv show marathon on A&E. I laughed constantly during the episode and the Simmons Family. Total riot! It did not feel or seem as staged as some of the other celebrity reality tv shows. I was surprised to learn that he and his wife Shannon are polyamourous. I was also impressed the kids are so down-to-earth and normal.

 

Thank Dog It's Friday

Woo Friday! I thought I would never make it. My back/shoulders/neck are killing me. I have had a tension headache for almost two weeks. I have orthopedic therapy today. So, looking forward to that.

I am going dancing at Organix tonight (won't push it too hard though). Some Seattlites are coming up to visit for a friend's birthday. I think while they are paint balling tomorrow, I'll run some errands. I need to buy a head lamp from MEC and a parasol in Chinatown. My last blue metallic one had to be thrown out after many trips to Burning Man.

Oh yes, after attending Critical Massive, I decided to go to Burning Man this year. I am in such a great, positive and happy place... and I am single. Hmm... The possibilities for a great experience are endless. It felt good to take a break last year. It felt really great to say Yes to going. So much for quitting!

Listening to: The Beatles - Come Together

 

I Am A Springfield-ian

I recently created my own Simpsons character avatar for the new Simpsons movie.



What a load of phun: P H U N!.

 

What Do People Envy About You?

People Envy Your Compassion

You have a kind heart and an unusual empathy for all living creatures. You tend to absorb others' happiness and pain. People envy your compassion, and more importantly, the connections it helps you build. And compassionate as you are, you feel for them.

What Do People Envy About You?

 

White Water Trash Fight

Participated in the water fight at Stanley Park's Lumberman's Arch on Saturday afternoon. What a great way to cool off for 15 minutes. The rest of the conspirators continued for another hour and 15 minutes. A pick-up truck full of water dumped a waterfall off the bridge.



Funny, how information spreads like wildfire on the Internet. Most conspirators were teenagers who fought around small children and families and did not pick up their water balloon garbage.

In the evening, I went to the annual White Trash Party. I wore a Coors Light visor, tank top, jean skrit and sneakers. Upon reflection, I probably should have wore my cowboy hat.



We ended up crashing the Richmond Night Market. There were a group of volunteer firemen at the entrance selling raffle tickets for Tsunami victims. We bought tickets and one of the prizes was 5 firemen for 5 hours to do what you want with. One bold firemen kept flirting with the trailer party chicks. Overall, a hilarious night.

Back at the party, there was a lawn mower motor hooked up for shredded stuffed animals and there was a toliet and sink hooked up in the yard for, well, you know.

Listening to: Bryan Adams - Run To You

 

Hot In the City

It has been so hot this week. Finally summer! I am not complaining--I'd rather take heat any day over rain or snow (except with humidity). I was melting away on the couch with the kitties yesterday. Too hot to do anything. There was the possibility of watching Transformers at 10:00 pm in the surburbs, but then I would be in bed by 1:30 am. It might not have mattered anyway; I am having trouble sleeping this week. Woke up again at 4 am and could not get back to sleep.

I am looking forward to a Gastown roof-top party apres-work for two coworkers celebrating a going-away to Australia and a wedding shower. I just want to see the loft and the roof-top view! I bought Lebanese and sundried-tomato hummus, Que Pasa tortilla chips, soy crisps, and green olives.

I think my old neighbours are also having a house warming/welcome a friend back into town get-together. This weekend has not even started yet and it already seems action-packed!

Listening to: Axwell - Feel the Vibe

 

That's All

It is interesting when you meet someone, and the encounter his you
like a brick wall. When you kiss for the first time, you feel the earth
move. Even every single time afterwards, when you kiss the earth seems to stand still.

You talk about feelings, what you want, the possible future. Things seem to move quickly and easily become intense because it is real
chemistry. You try to slow things down, but it is difficult because
you both fit so well like two missing pieces of a puzzle.

I never understood chemistry before, but now I do. You feel their
presence from across the room. You feel every molecule inside you
vibrating. It's more than a crush, desire or lust. You think about
how you have to have this person in your life until eternity.

But then, one of you panics or self doubts, and thinks about all the what-if's. The same person retracts the things he or she said and how he or she behaved. Defense mechanisms run so deep. You have to love like you have never been hurt before. It is so difficult.

Best to play it safe and continue your life with your security blanket firmly attached to the ground. Why take risks when you can settle for the safety and comfort of what is familiar and predictable. Because you have full control over your vulnerability. No sense in changing everything you have ever known for ultimate happiness, passion, and balance.

Listening to: Duncan Sheik - Barely Breathing

 

June 2007

June usually feels like summer, but this one did not. I went up to the Sunshine Coast to camp with about sixty people for Lemuria. I had an incredible time being cozy in the tent playing Zigity with friends, dancing, listening to music, and hanging with great people. I love being out in the woods and listening to the sound of the wind rustle the trees and the birds singing. Little weekends away from the city are marvelous.

I also went to the Car-Free Commercial Drive Festival. This is one of the best street fairs I have ever attended. The streets from 1st Avenue to Venables were closed off to the traffic. There were street performers, art, music, DJs, information booths and vendors. I was there for four hours and saw many familiar faces. Stopped for ribs at Memphis Blues. There will be another festival in late July.

I went to a BC Cancer Fundraiser for a coworkers' team that participates in the Breast Cancer Walk. There were door prizes, a silent auction and stand-up comedy. The restaurant Zawa was terrible: poor service, warm drinks and minimal staff. However, we were there for a great cause. I did not manage to win any of the great prizes, such as hotel, whale watching or dinner. But all was good because the team raised what they were hoping for.

I was selected to participate in a sexual boundaries workshop with a group of twenty other people. It was interesting to hear other people's perspectivies on what constitutes consent. The idea of asking permission for anything new every time even with people you have previous established intimacy with was an interesting concept. So was checking in often as to whether or not the other person is still feeling good and having fun.

Lastly, I went to Critical Massive in Washington. It was at a private camp ground in Maple Valley with about 250 people. There was art, music, DJs, and great people. I really enjoyed the Equilaterial Electric trio playing string fusion late Saturday evening. The whole experience and camping with Kamp GFY moved me to go to Burning Man this year. I am in a positive and happy frame of mind, and single, I though it would be great to down to the burn with these folks. We had such a great dynamic and sense of family together that weekend. This will be my sixth burn. So much for quitting.

Listening to: Tommy Largo - Chacaron

 

Faithless - Bombs

New Faithless music video banned by MTV.



 

Wow, Dashboard Sucks

Well, I just changed my blog frame and surprisingly, it erased all my template customization. Hmm...

I don't think I have a back-up of that...

*grr*

Does what happens in the Facebook stay in the Facebook?

Facebook collects information about you and stores it in a database and profiles you into statistics it sells to third-party corporations and government organizations.


Watch this:

http://albumoftheday.com/facebook/


I never joined and never will. I always kept asking the people that kept sending me the invitations to join, what are they doing with your information? People would always respond with, "Nothing!". I really hated it how you could not browse Facebook to see what it was about and what their policies were.

When you join and agree to the Terms of Service, you are agreeing to much more than you think. You are actually violating your personal privacy.

May 2007

May was action-packed and very enjoyable. Celebrated Cinco de Mayo at Amanda and Geoff's. Actually looked up the holiday and learned that it was to celebrate how Mexico over thrown the colonial stronghold. I made wicked layer dip and delicious pineapple/malibu rum daquiris and strawberry-lime/rum daquiris. Complete with live music and a great mix of people. We also had a little fire show out back. I met a nice young lady from Australia who declared me as her new best friend.

Went to brunch at Leanne and Renee's new place to help raise funds for Amnesty. We managed to raise almost $200! The girls slaved all weekend to cook us two kinds of lasagna, salads, salsa, potato and cheese bake, and coconut pie. Delicious! I love being in a room full of pscyhology masters.



Managed to visit the Vancouver Art Gallery to see the Fred Herzog photography exhibit and the Huang Yong Ping's House of Oracles exihibit.

Fred Herzog's photography exhibit from the 50s and 60s in early Vancouver were a delight to look at. Small houses in downtown where high rises now jut up to the sky. The old culture of different neighbourhoods and the styles of days gone by.

Huang Yong Ping put up media articles and a sign of protest and distaste at all the controversy strummed up by the SPCA about his art piece with live lizards and insects. He had even added better lighting, water, food and shaded areas for the critters. But when that was not good enough, he pulled the art piece. Censorship. The SPCA should be focused and doing a better job on protecting cats and dogs. Hmm...


For May long weekend, I went to Oliver with Amanda. We stayed at her brother's Chris' home away from home. He plans to renovate it completely and then retire in it. Wonderful, small rancher with a beautiful backyard. We discussed hardwood floors, bathroom design, double-pane windows, and Japanese landscaping. Finally, someone home-nerdy like moi!

Oliver was great. I realized it was more practical to purchase a vacation home in this area, than buy a one-bedroom condo in the far reaches of the GVRD. Only a half hour to Penticton. We sang karaoke two nights, relaxed in the sun, drank wine and ate, danced and toured around. The sounds and smells of a summer weekend were a nice touch and helped me recharge for the gloomy spring back in the city.

Went to see a great play at the Vancouver Playhouse titled the Andersen Project. A story directed, written and starring Robert Lepage who plays three characters: an French-Canadian albino playwright, a Parisian Opera house director, and a Moroccan graffiti-artist immigrant.



The play was captivating to watch and provided a great balance of drama, comedy and romance. I loved the dance scene on the train after he took the dog's prozac. The way the stage design changes for each scene and the use of computer projection was fantastic.


Went down to Seattle for a Space Bus Fundraiser called BollyHouse. It was produced by Doc and Geminitrix. I loved Seattle and I have missed her dearly. I think she missed me too. We also celebrated Geminitrix's birthday. The venue was a beautiful 2-room artist's studio with a hot tub. We had some nice hot tub relax time and some mad Chinese food before the party started. Doc made this amazing Bollywood video sequence he projected onto a deep-red wall that was hiliarious to watch. There was also beautiful performance art in the art by a lovely couple. Definitely a memorable weekend.


Went to see The Police at GM Place opening night. Great seats off the edge of the stage with a direct view of Sting's derriere. I was pleased and estatic to see the group has still got it. Great live show and I loved the raised additional drum section for Stewart Copeland. A giant gong, a xylophone, and various Asian wind chimes. The Asian drumming and chiming during Wrapped Around Your Finger, and another song I cannot remember at this very moment, were amazing. The crowd singing along to Roxanne as the stage was bathed in red light. The opening with Message In A Bottle. With two encores and I managed to get onto the floor twice. Amazing show!


Last, but not least, I went to the Backstage Lounge for Abel's birthday. Half price martinis and a beautiful view of False Creek. We drank and listened to the The Wet Spots. A great looking and sounding 40s-style band that sings wymsical and perverted lyrics. They were very entertaining, but also sassy and charming.

The service at the Backstage Lounge still sucks, but everything else was wonderful.


Listening to: The Police - Synchronicity II