Take The Long Way Home- Sunday Hike

I went for a 22 km hike on Sunday to a lake west of Calgary called Lake Minnawonka (or in my speak- Lake Willy Wonka). It was beautiful- here are some pictures to illustrate the stunning beauty of a portion of the Rockey Mountains.

First view of the lake just past the boat launch.

Lake Minnawonka is deep and an ideal place (because where I live there is no ocean.) to learn to scuba dive. I don't know why they would rather be under the water rather then enjoying that amazing mountain view.


I've been told though that there are ruins from an old coal mining town at the bottom of the lake so that would be interest to investigate. Being a mountain lake I can imagine it being a bit chilly.



Waving at the camera


a little mountain goat family. They were loosing their winter fur- STILL... I really wanted to brush them because I think it would have helped a lot. They were all matty looking. First rule of hiking though- do not approach the wild animals.

first bridge that crosses a decent sized cannal.. look at the color of the water. That's real boys and girls.

Me and the bridge

Look at the design on the mountain... interesting.

Deer or in my speak- Bambi.

There is a small marina at the lake but it was very quiet. Very relaxing and quiet.

We found part of the abandoned town that was above the lake. These are the stairs that led up to the church. They were build in 1902. in 1912 ( I think) the church was cut in half and taken to Calgary where it functioned as a church till 1962- not sure what happened to it after that. I must do a little research. It was some what erie being there because almost 100 years ago there were people unaware of the future walking up those steps...

I've Out Grown You

Last night I watched "The Bridal Wars" or something to that title. I usually don't like those kinds of movies, or at least I say I don't. They often leave me cranky, bitter and full of angst because I swear that they create unrealistic expectations for romance. I wrinkle my nose (for real- I do... just thinking about it I found my self doing it.) at those tear jerking moments of glee between sweet love.

All is always so convenient, and perfect and so unlike life. I can feel the disappointment building up in the countless single women out there when they realize that men fart, and sometimes are jerks and say shitty things. They don't know the difference between Birks and buying a necklace from one of those quarter machines at the doors in the supermarkets and truth be told and they don't want to always rub your feet. All in all, really it doesn't matter... the air clears, they say they are sorry (and sometimes we can be jerks too) and isn't it just nice that they were thinking of you when they bought you that shiny bit of something?

OK- off topic.. what I initially wanted to talk about was change...evolution. There was a moment in the movie last night that one of the main characters said to her soon to be husband "I'm not the girl I was 10 years ago, the problem is... you are still in love with the girl from 10 years ago."

In other words- I've out grown you. That is a wonderful and scary place to be all at once. On one side you realise that you do have a back bone.. you've grown as a person and posses a whole new plethora of skills. Ones that might allow you to speak your mind, be your self or possibly regenerate like some superheros I know... on the other hand though its scary because it means that in order to obtain satisfaction from life you have to be true to your self. What may have been good 10 years ago may not be good now. The wonderful thing is that usually... if we don't try to hang on to what isn't ours we shed these old people, patterns and things like snakes shed their skin (i.e: lose the death grip).

It sometimes scares me when I see this popping up in my life, I want to grab everything and keep it just so until I am ready to make sense of what's about to happen. I make myself sick trying to take control of the uncontrollable making a bigger mess then what naturally would have been. Then I realise that things are just adjusting to the times and my shoulders relax and I finally let go and fall back into life. When I think of this moment I see a flower bursting open wide and bright-full of life. Unafraid of the visitors that come to play in their pollen and accepting of the elements around them. Fully participating in life. It's all rather wonderful... I'm fully participating in my life.

Ogopogo Body Found

Move over Nessie- Canada's own Lake Monster, the Ogopogo is making waves! A Kelowna kayaker found what they thought was the washed up carcass of one smallish Ogopogo. Reports state that the body measures about 1.5 meters long- about that of an average beaver *gasp!*, coincidence... they think not. Excluding of course Arlene Gaal, who has written three books about the creature and has documented its many sightings over the years. She's calling this a "very important" find.

The Ogopogo lives in waters of Okanagan Lake and has the body of a snake and the head shape of a horse. It is usually reported as dark blue, black or brown with a lighter underside. It can move with astounding speed but many sightings in calm weather have been made of the creature apparently feeding on either fish or aquatic weeds.

Skeptics however have come to a less creative idea of where this monster actually comes from. British cryptozoologist Dr. Karl Shuker has categorized the Ogopogo as a 'many hump' variety of Lake Monster suggesting it may be a kind of primitive serpentine whale such as Basilosaurus. Due to the lack of clear physical evidence it has also been suggested that the sightings are misidentifications of common animals, such as otters, and inanimate objects, such as floating logs. It is also possible in some cases that Ogopogo could be the misidentification of "a seiche" which is a standing wave in a lake that travels below the surface in a long serpentine motion.

Regardless, the Ogopogo myth has resurfaced again for the moment which to my child like glee sends shivers down my back. I am reminded of hot summer days spent in Lake Oakangan, one time in particular I was learning to water ski. The skis had fallen off and I was left there bobbing in the water as the boat turned around to pick me up. My eyes were glued to the murky water below me, I couldn't even see my feet as I treaded them slowly. My imagination went wild as my feet connected with drift wood and weeds floating just below me, I couldn't get out of that water fast enough.

Boogger

As mentioned in a previous post Queen Bee, I Google EVERYTHING. I've been meaning to write a blog for a while because, well... it's been a while. My loyal fan is begging for more! Anyway, I opened my Google and typed in "Blogger" as I usually do but missed the "L" and entered an extra "O" hence the word "Boogger".

"Did you mean: booger" asked Google

"No" I giggled to myself (yes, giggled... we have discussed this. I am still some what 8)
Next it showed me links for...

Urban Dictionary: boogger

boogger shot pictures from news photos on webshots -

my welchy: Little Boogger

then I found this:

I think that might actually be scary? I'm not really sure what it is... My volume is muted on the computer because I'm at work... but for some reason it popped up becasue of the word (if it even if one) "Boogger"... so excuse me if it's offensive.

That has been my adventure thus far and it's only been about 15 minutes. Now I'm going to try and write a "real" blog.

The End

The Best Stampede Breakfast Other Then My Own

Calling all Calgarians! Community Natural Foods is having their annual Stampede Breakfast THIS Saturday, July 11th between 7am and 11am at their Chinook location.

Bring your own dishes plus a non-perishable donation and enjoy the best breakfast (other then my own)!

click HERE for details

You Don't Want My Love

That was all kinds of wonderful, don't you agree?

Monkey Business

I get excited when new things are discovered. New planets, new elements to add to the periodic tables, new bugs, new places to eat- it's glorious! Today I read that there was a new monkey discovered in Brazil. Well, it's actually more of a sub-species of the Saddleback Tamarin monkey from the upper Amazon Basin.

The small monkey, which is mostly gray and brown and weighs 213 grams, has been named the Mura's Saddleback Tamarin after the Mura Indian tribe of the Purus and Madeira river basins where the new sub-species was found.

It is 240 millimeters tall with a 320-millimeter tail.That's almost a pocket monkey!

*takes a moment to add "Pocket Monkey" to holiday wish list*

Like most animals, they are threatened by several planned development projects in the region. One in particular a major highway cutting through the Amazon that is currently being paved (is that even allowed? I obviously didn't learn all that I needed to learn about Brazil and the Amazon in Grade 8.). Other threats to the region include a proposed gas pipeline and two hydroelectric dams currently in the beginning stages of construction.

The study's lead author for International Journal of Primatology who printed an article in June regarding the monkey's discovery has been quoted "This discovery should serve as a wake-up call that there is still so much to learn from the world's wild places, yet humans continue to threaten these areas with destruction."

The People Across The Way

There is an apartment across the way that houses 4 cats and a young couple. I image that the cats are the woman's and the guy just became step daddy to them. They are in their mid 30's with a certain bohemian air to them. They spend lazy afternoons lofting on their west facing balcony as 3 of the 4 cats gracefully walk along the railing. I'm always so impressed by this, first because they can balance so well and second "mum" doesn't flip out. She must still believe that cats have 9 lives and always land on their feet.

This couple exudes a earthy charm with their longish hair and bare feet. They drink their beer out of the bottle and even from here I can see that they love each other very much. I like that. I'm not a gushy, mushy kind of girl... but I like affection. I like to see people walking down the street holding hand. A kiss goodbye and even a private make-out in a dim doorway along 17 ave. It doesn't have to be dirty but I just like seeing people in love. I feel good seeing other people in that glow- though I must admit people in Walmart were a bit off tonight. Numerous amounts of couples were clinging to each other in almost every aisle I went up- as though they might loose them selves amongst the strange plastic smell.

Even now- he sits outside in the sunset reading his book. I can't see her- she somewhere in the apartment I guess. It reminds me of comfortable summer times much like that, sitting in the back garden with a book in hand, listening to the noises and enjoying the moment. Hearing footsteps shuffle across the hardwood floor and knowing that there was someone in there that loves me.

There is a certain completion that comes with being loved by another. Yes, of course I love myself deeply and relish the time that I spend by myself. But being able to go home and share that with a person is vital to being human. Relating and connecting...

I don't really know what I am trying to get at here, I just walked into the living with my book to read before bed and I caught a glimpse of the guy across the way book in hand. Inspiration and yearning came forward for me and so I decided to write about it. Just as simple as that.

That and I'm really not a creep- I enjoy all the people (as long as they stay remotely quiet past midnight) in my neighbourhood. It's one of the joys of living centrally. Plus I don't even need to own a car.

Which Is Sillier

I can't decided- which "news" story is sillier...

Rihanna Being Investigated For Illegal Tattooing

OR

David Fincher in talks for Facebook movie

At least neither has anything to do with Jon and Kate *shudders* that was an embarrasing two weeks in the news world.

Green Party (not the political kind)

This post has nothing to do with the Political Green Party of Canada and a lot to do with just plain old parities- particularly children's birthday parties (which really, my only experience with those were when I was a child.)

I was reading my way through the newspaper this morning and came across an article about something called a Green Party that a young boy in Vancouver had. Having sent out invites to 20 of his closest friends he had made one special remark "Bring money, not toys". The money was to go to the charity of the birthday boys choice.

A month before the mother had sat down with her son to talk about his birthday- she had asked him if he really did think that he needed 20 more new toys and that a Green Giving Party might be a nice alternative. He agreed and already knew the charity that he wanted to contribute too, he picked Malaria No More, a charity dedicated to providing mosquito nets to families in Africa, where a million children die each year from malaria.

Everything was outline in the invites about the purpose of a Green Party and what the charity of choice was. The birthday boy was so into it that he even asked his relatives to follow the same gift giving guidelines and ended up donating over $250 to the cause. Another bonus of the party was cleanup was a snap- rather then having piles of plastic, bows and wrapping paper all they had left at the end of it was a handful of envelopes.

The trick to making this work is first and foremost ensuring that the child is on board. That they make the choices and it's not forced on them by a parent. I think this installs a healthy sense of empathy at an early age which is vital to existing in this world. It teaches the child as well that they have enough and live in abundance just the way things are.

Tips for Having a Green Giving Party:
The Giving Party
Have the birthday child choose a social cause and ask guests to bring a donation in lieu of gifts. Half the collected amount will be donated to a cause or organization chosen by the birthday child, while the other half is for him or her to choose a meaningful gift.

Invitations
Use the Internet and e-mail sites like http://www.evite.com/ or http://www.pingg.com/. If your child is more of a traditionalist, there are wonderful handmade papers embedded with seeds that can be planted after it's been used.

Goodie Bags
Consider one "thank you" item that will be remembered and used months or years to come.
Great ideas are practical items that parents appreciate such as stainless steel water bottles, books about nature and the environment, sketch books and pencil crayons for their stories and pictures.
Link:
Green Planet Parties

The Ever Changing Facebook

It seems that Facebook will be changing again.

Or so that is the plan.

So I read.

I'm actually pretty excited about this one- being a babbler, blogger and note writer I have never truly felt that comfortable writing freely in Facebook. I came from the world of MySpace where I had 4 different setting for my blogs:

• Public (the whole world can read it)
• Friends Only (only people who were on my friends list can read it)
• Private (only the I could read it)
• and my favorite, Preferred List ( a small group of people I had hand picked to be the only ones able to read my blog.)

I miss that Preferred List setting a lot with Facebook and therefore don't write as many (if any) personal notes. I like to write about some of the closely personal things in my life, getting it out of my head . My preferred list on My Space had been a part of some of the more difficult situations and choices in my life. I don't think I could have been as strong as I was without that support and distraction.

Now, as things pop in and out of my life (or just don't go away, yeah- some of you know what I'm talking about...) I still want to turn to writing. I've abandoned MySpace because everyone has collectively moved over to Facebook and on Facebook I can admit that maybe I have more friends then I want (though 200 isn't anything compared to the 1200 I had on MySpace- I learnt my lesson about friend collecting. It can result in obtaining a stalker. A real stalker.). People from the past that I really don't talk to but don't want to loose track of again. I am leery to be so personal with everyone...

I've changed a lot over the years and have abandoned that part of me that is the exhibitionist. In a way I've grown up but I still crave that small community of friends where I can go and be my messy, messed up self. The new privacy controls that they are working on currently with Facebook promise that, or something close to that. That doesn't mean I'm going to be on Facebook anymore then I am now ( I go on once every few months or whenever I have actual pictures to upload- 98% of my Facebooking is done via text message on my phone.) but I might try writing on there again. Most of my blogging is done through Blogger and I just have it piped into Facebook from the site... because of that I'm still resistant and keep the personal blogs short and somewhat cryptic.

Read the article-I can't get on to actual Facebook right now because I'm at work and they have it blocked.

New Facebook Privacy Controls Take On Twitter

RIP Blue and Green

I was at a backyard party this weekend and one of the bowl of munchies on the table contained Smarties. This of course carried on into a conversation about which is better- Smarties or M&M's. Personally, I've always favored Smarties over M&M's... partly because of the shape, partly because of the chocolate but mostly because of the colors Red, Orange, Yellow, Pink, Purple, Brown, Blue and Green. (Useless Smartie Fact- I remember as a child that there use to be dark brown and light brown... blue took the place of light brown.)

That has now changed, open up a box today and you will find two things- there are no longer blue Smarties and there are no longer green Smarties *GASP!* Nestle Canada has decided that "natural" dyes are the way to go and as a result they have forgone the blue dye. No blue also means no green either... *pouts*

Studies show that people have become weary of synthetic additives in their food and prefer "natural" especially when their food is considered. Of course natural does not equate to safe any more than synthetic equates to risky. Strychnine is quite natural, but we wouldn't want to eat it. We reserve it for sentencing rats to death. Aspirin is a synthetic compound (Not actually found in the bark of willow as many myths claim.) and many people find it quit a useful substance.

Natural colorants extracted from Lemon for Yellow, Radish for Pink (ew- Radish), Black Carrot for Purple, Hibiscus Fruit for Red, Safflower for Orange and Spirulina for a pretty anemic looking Green. However, Nestles problem came when they tried to create a "natural" blue dye. It was nonexistent and the synthetic dye known as Brilliant Blue (FD&C #1 in the U.S.) just could not be replaced.

That is until 2009 when they found one in an unlikely place. Bacteria. *insert EW here*

Specifically, cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae (Yes, that algae) which is a source of phycocyanin, a blue pigment being used to color Smarties in Europe. This however hasn't been approved in Canada as an appropriate way to color the candy shell. But just you wait! Don’t fret all you blue Smartie lovers out there... if the Blue is a must Mars is still producing their M&M's with the blue candy shells- they haven't jumped on the “Natural is Better” bandwagon just yet and are using a mixture of Brilliant Blue and Indigo (yes, the same stuff used to dye your dark denim jeans.).

So why doesn't Nestle just use this to produce blue Smarties? First, it’s not ideal for candy production and really needs to be mixed with Brilliant Blue to provide the desired color. Another issue is Indigo color isn't really natural. The plant contains no blue compounds and only upon fermentation of the leaves (traditionally in a vat of diluted urine *insert EW here*) is the blue actually produced. There is a way to produce it synthetically (read: sans urine) but then that just wouldn't be natural.

So long story short- for now, here in Canada we are stuck without our blue and green Smarties. If you still happen to have any of last years Halloween candy left over- keep it. If I learnt anything for the book Candy Freak by Steve Almond is covet thy candy and thou shall not share it.

RIP Blue and Green Smarties, you will be missed.

Links:

Nestle talking about All Natural Coloring

About "Smarter Smarties"

Tree House Envy

Over the last few days I have read a handful of posts revolving around lovely people and their lovely "tree houses". These "tree houses" are delicious backyard/condo patios draped in lovely lines, downing in fresh flowers and surrounded by a variety of tree's. Perfect spots for reading, writing, painting, sunning and drinking Sangria with others. I'll admit- I've been indulging in a little "tree house envy"- my "tree house" is more of a cinder block with AstroTurf (it's the first time AstroTurf has actually improved something.) for birds to poop on. OK- it's not that bad but it's north facing, second floor in the middle of downtown. It's great for people watching as long as my neighbours upstairs aren't renovating because if they are I usually get sawdust all over me and my indoor/outdoor carpet.

Because I rent I can't really do too much to change the area however I think I might still get a nice little bar high bistro table with chairs and add a planter of flowers. There is a plug out there as well so I could also hook up a simple little water fountain which actually might be nice.

So though I may not be able to have my "tree house" just yet I can have my little oasis in the city. My little haven from the rat race below me and perhaps make peace with some of the spiders.

The Things I Should Have Done Tonight...

What I should have done tonight...

• I should have gone to the bank to deposit that cheque


• I should have gone to Lulu Lemon up the street and done some free yoga


• I should have put my luggage back down in the storage unit


• I should have taken pictures of the items I want to sell on Craig's List


• I should have sorted through all those books that I don't plan on reading a second time


• I should have gone for a tan


• I should have done some laundry


• I should have made a proper dinner and maybe even lunch for tomorrow


• I should have cleaned up the bit of clutter in the corner


• I should have updated done some research about what to do Canada Day


• I should have called my mum


• I should have done the dishes right away


• I should have earned 10 Airmiles

What I ended up doing instead...

• Putting some old pictures from the end of May on Facebook


• Got some new music


• Earned 5 Airmiles


• Researching ideas to finish up my living room


• Updated my Calendar so I don't forget anything


• Watched a Mythbusters


• Organized my Podcasts


• Scratched my mosquito bite


• Did some thinking


• Ate some cake- yum


• Listened to the new Wilco album which comes out tomorrow.


• Read some blogs that I've been meaning too for the last week


• Looked at houses for sale

When I Know It's Actually Summer

Summer has OFFICIALLY arrived! I know this NOT because of the warm weather or the flowering gardens or the fact that my calender tells me that June 21st is "the first day of summer"... I know that it is summer because I got my first mosquito bit on Saturday! It happened sometime between the beer run and the cake run during a friends backyard birthday bash... I felt the little bugger bit me and I slapped him hard. I've been relishing in the whole "scratching it good!" feeling since.

I'm fortunate- unlike most of the other people in my life, I don't get bitten that much.. the bugs don't really bug me. I run from wasps because they are just mean and spiders are... spiders are a whole other story.. ugh. I just find them a little creepy- NOT that I have anything to worry about living where I do... I just don't like all those itty bitty furry legs. Mosquito's though- they would rather dine on the other people then me. I'm like leftover Jell-o to them- tasty but who'd want boring ol' Jell-o when they can have Chocolate Mousse , Crème Brûlée or Pecan Pie.

However, take me to the sea side and put me on the sand in sandals and watch as the sand fleas eat away at my tender feet! Sand fleas totally dig Jell-o, I think! It's really not that horrible, I end up with about a half dozen tiny red bites along the tops of my feet and ankles that last for about a week. I get optimum scratching out of them and the mosquito's still don't bother me! Plus it means to me that I was at the beach and that I had fun- THE most important thing in my life... To have fun.

Old Love Hurts

My heart is pounding, palms sweaty, I'm light headed and I feel as though I've had too much coffee. Fear. I pick up the phone and dial the numbers... slowly, postponing what I am dreading. My tummy is sick and I don't want to do this but I want this to stop.

*takes a deep breath and picks up the phone again just as you send me another message*

B In The City: June 25- July 2 2009

Weekly list of some of the events going on in Calgary for the week of June 25th - July 2 2009

Calgary Jazz Festival
If jazz of any sort is your thing I've heard some amazing things so far.
June 24th- June 28th at various venues
See website for details and tickets

Russell Peters: 20th Anniversary Tour
Need I say more?
Playing one night at the Saddledome June 26th @ 8pm
Tickets still available $52.25-$100
NOTE: Russell Peters Official After Party at Flames Central, tickets $20

Paul Potts
Before Susan Boyle there was Paul Potts- Mum's everywhere (or at least mine) is waiting patiently for this night
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, June 28,
Tickets $49.50-$89.50

Free Gas at Shoppers Drug Mart
Spend $75 at Shoppers Drug Mart and receive a $20 Esso Gas Card (are there any Esso's left in the city?)
June 27th-27th

Stephen Avenue Walk Green Market (On Going)
Every Thursday from 10:00am to 3:00pm, Stephen Avenue Walk will be the location for a new green market. Fresh food, fresh music and fresh people...
Stephen Avenue Walk is situated along 8 Ave SW downtown.
Starting June 25th every Thursday till August.

Sled Island
I know I mentioned this last week but still... go.
June 24th- June 27th at various venues
Please see website for ticket info

Vinyl Retro Dance Lounge

AND I quote from the web page "One of Calgary's Newest & Hottest night clubs is so popular because of its OLD SCHOOL/RETRO vibe. Along with the funky decor, the DJ brings it back to the 80's & 90's with the best old school Mash-ups! Vinyl has revolutionized the night club scene by moving backwards through time. "

Didn't the place just open? I'm not a bar going kinda girl but who can turn down a retro dance party with a bunch of strangers?

located 213 10 Ave SW, Cover $8 (includes coat check)

My Choice Picks if I wasn't already slammed full of stuff this weekend:

Sled Island or Calgary Jazz Festival ... (or if you are particularly ambitious BOTH) nothing beats being music drunk. THOUGH if you are under the age of 25 you might actually want to go check out Vinyl but then I might doubt that you'd even remember the 80's. Of course I plan to buy some num-num's at the Stephen Avenue market this summer... I just forgot today. Tuna was calling my name and so was "Bear-a-me".

Hide-a-TV

I want to hide my TV- well... it's actually my computer but it's my TV too. I fought with my living room last night- I packed up and moved EVERYTHING out of there in an attempt to rearrange it (goal was to make the TV a non-focal point in the room). Long story short I put everything back to the way it was and got a bonus work out to boot (who needs the gym when you find yourself pulling a full sectional/hide-a-bed couch around for 3 hours... alone).

AARGH!!! My space is smallish (not New York apartment small but 1000 sq feet total small) and I'm trying to make the most of what I've got... I'm just frustrated. I want it all- I want a space that is comfortable and inviting for a casual night alone or with friends... AND I want to be able to entertain and not have an awkward TV in the way. I rent so I can mount much other then some art on the walls and I can't paint anything an exciting color.

I thought perhaps of putting a decorative screen in front of the space that houses my computer/TV/entertainment centre but that feels like even more bulk in an already small space. I've toyed with the idea of just getting rid of the whole lot but THEN what will I do when Gossip Girl comes back for it's 3 season... I'll have nothing to watch it on! *sigh* So perhaps I could create a space behind my stand that I can slip my screen into when I'm not using it? Lucky for me, most of the contraptions of my computer are hidden with the exception of the 24" monitor.

I understand that really, it's not that important. It's not like my life is going to end because my computer screen is the focal point of my room. I just want my place to feel like home and right now home is where the computer screen is. blah.

Time

Time? Is that you?? Is it time? Time to go back to bed is what I am waiting for... I've been run-run-run for weeks it seems. My usual 9pm curfew has been blown out of the water and I haven't even been THINKING about bed never mind getting into bed till after midnight. Good news is I am still getting up at 6am! Way-ta-go there Blanche!

Last night I saw Fleetwood Mac just by fluke! The company I work for has an executive box as the Pengrowth Saddledome so long story short- they gave me tickets. Amazingly- my friends and I were THE only ones in the box so we had an intimate dance off party for 3 hours. It was great.

I really do think I should have been born 15 years before I actually was- no matter how much I enjoy current music nothing really sticks to my bones like classic rock.

So regardless, I didn't fall asleep till the wee hours of the morning. My body is use to it through- it's been doing in most of the month. Only complaint- I'm falling asleep making spreadsheets. Zzzzzz.... doing the nod and bob is usually frowned upon at work.

It's been a busy week (my head is cloudy) and I still have lots to report just haven't found the time or motivation to get back on the computer after having been on it all day. Time will come and I'll tell you a bit about my holidays.

Ta for now!

What's In Your Freezer?

It was during a recent conversation with Laura that she informed me of the death of Shakespeare, the shop pet. He was a chatty blue budgie who I had spent much time making bird noises with while waiting for Laura to finish up at work. Sondra, the shop owner, took Shakespeare to the vet last week because he wasn't acting like his typical Shakespeare self. Sadly, the vet put him down so Sondra took his little body home and put it in the freezer-

"The FREEZER?!" I said, shocked.
"Yes," said Laura "the freezer."
"I've never heard of such a thing..." trailing off in though... I pictured myself at Sondra's house opening up the freezer to look for food and finding a frozen budgie instead. *shudder*

Laura then went on to tell me about the things her former roommate (who is also one of her good friends) left behind in their freezer:

1. a piece of her parents wedding cake


2. a piece of cake that had something to do with her sisters daughter


3. a dead hamster from 10 years ago


4. AND (wait for it)... her sisters placenta from her first born child. Just in case.
   

I was shocked, all I have in my freezer is food that I plan to eat like frozen veggies, ice cream, cookie dough... Again, my mind wandered off into the dark world of reaching into the freezer for a popsicle and pulling out someones frozen placenta. *shudders* This makes the dead bird seem a lot more acceptable now. I guess people can be sentimental about things and who am I to judge. I still have some old love letters I got in Jr High School, but I don't keep those in the freezer. I suppose I understand the cake- especially the parents wedding cake. But weren't they suppose to eat that on their first year wedding anniversary?

"Another wedding cake tradition is to have the top layer of the cake made out of fruit cake. This layer is saved and frozen for the bride and groom to eat on their first anniversary."

Aw how romantic... I don't think I could wait a year for cake. Oh wait.. it's fruit cake- I can wait.

So tell me, what do you keep in your freezer?

What To Do Calgary: June 18th- June 25th 2009

This is a test post- I don't know if I will ever write another one like it! I suppose it's a passion of mine, knowing what's going on in the city- where to eat, what to do and where to party (though I don't really party). Here are some of the picks for the week- though I am sure there is a lot more then I've mentioned. Let me know if you happened to take up one of the events and what you thought..Evil Dead- the Musical
If you're into zombies and you haven't seen this yet- buy your tickets soon because it's almost done never to come back again (this year.). Word of advice... I understand "the splatter zone" after seeing THE LIEUTENANT OF INISHMORE and that perhaps wearing white is your best option. Enjoy!
Playing now till July 12th (extended due to popular demand) at Vertigo Theater Centre
Tickets $48.50 (see website for details)

Sled Island '09
4 days of parties, music, art and film- You are bound to find new things to lust after.
Taking place June 24th- 27th all over the city (including Tubby Dog)
Full VIP Pass to all events $199
Festival Pass $99

Summer Art Classes at Studio Todorovic
Can't commit to a full course but want to take art classes- Studio Todorovic at Art Central has what you need!
Starting June 20th - July 18th Open Studio & Workshops “Saturday Sessions” 10 am - 1 pm
Bring your own materials or buy them here!
(student discounts apply)
3 hours for $52.50 per attendee
Located at Art Central

Calgary Folk Festival: early bird tickets
Just a little reminder that the early bird ticket sales for this years Calgary Folk Festival ends on June 21th. Hurry to get your passes!
Early Bird Adult 4 day pass $130
or you can pick it up at Megatunes on 17th Ave (I *heart* Megatunes)
Check out what the festival has to offer!

Fathers Day Run and Walk
We can't let mum's have all the fun! Say "Happy Fathers Day" by walking in this fundraiser to end prostate cancer.
June 21, $35 (registration closes June 20)

A Summer Solstice Champagne Bus Tour
Now THIS sounds like my kind of pub crawl! Put on by Slow Food Calgary they explain this even best... "This progressive dinner welcomes summer, on the road and rolling from Calgary to Black Gold Country and back again. After a welcoming glass of Champagne, embark by bus from The Cookbook Co. Cooks (722-11 Ave. SW), with delicious pit stops in Okotoks, Black Diamond and Turner Valley at Divine, Bistro Provence, Wild Horse Bistro and Route 40 Soup Co."
Sunday June 21 @ 4pm
Tickets are $100 for members; $110 for none members.
For more information or to book your seat call 403-265-6066


Mmmm this is making me hungry...

Tuesday's Coming, Did You Bring Your Coat?

There are some things in life that just never stop being amazing.

(Thank you Myles)

Real Age?

Today I was watching an old episode of Oprah on You Tube. In the episode they were chatting about being the best you you can be. It was a week long series of episodes that touched on health, sexuality, spirituality, money and Oprah gaining her weight back. They brought up something called "Real Age" and it was a test that you took online (for free) that told you due to your life style what your REAL age was.

One woman was devastated when a year before she had the "Real Age" of 60 something but in reality was only 41. She had her moment of awareness and started making changes in her life so when Oprah and Dr. Oz followed up with her a year late she had brought her "Real Age" down to below her actual age- following me? No- that's OK... you don't need too...

Curious about this I logged on to the site and starting taking the test. After taking the test for 1 minutes and entering my email a million times I got the calculations of my "Real Age". I was amazed that I was 4.5 years "younger" then what I actually am. The site which kept my preferences saved scolded me for worrying too much and not doing any strength training. Oh and for being on birth control *shrugs*.

There are these things- like this- that pop up in my life that always seem to surprise me. I worry (see I worry to much.) that I'm not as healthy as I actually am or have as much money as I really do. Maybe I'm smarter then I think or happier then I tell myself I am. Seems as though I have limited my thinking a bit... Hmmm that's something to be aware of.

Anyway- being that I am only in my early 20's now I can stay up a little later and watch an episode of 24- it's been a few days and I wonder what kind of trouble Kim has gotten herself into now.

What's your "Real Age"?

Free Music For The Week of June 15th

There is an online Canadian music store called Zunior and every two weeks they release a compliation album with a bunch of fantastic up and coming artists. It's nothing mainstream which is fine by me and it's all free- no questions asked! It's awesome and though I keep iTunes in business it sure beats thier once a week free download (which is usually something that I've already purchased 3 weeks prior.).

So visit the site --> Zunior

and download the free music --> Free Music

Previews - Zunior Music Sampler ver.4.11

1)

Let's Break Up -
Hayden
2)
Swallowing Werewolves (I Hear Mary Timony Used to Live Here) -
Bloodsport
3)
Lowiza -
The Lovely Feathers
4)
Independence Is No Solution -
The Blankket

5)
Walk On Boy -
Jim Byrnes
6)
Long Hauling -
Copilots
7)
I Know Nothing Anymore -
Dave Marsh
8)
A Thousand Jacobs -
Flotilla
9)
Imaginary Friends -
Little Girls
10)
Against the Day -
Land of Kush

"They Said Their 'thank-yous' and Departed... "

thank-you
n.
An expression of gratitude: said their thank-yous and departed.

Some might argue that thank-you keeps the same company as other assumed over used words like love and sorry. They have become so much a part of our day to day conversations that they have lost all meaning. It's become somewhat stylish to be complacent and unaware of other people in their lives... Or at least this has been a recent experience of mine.

The expression of gratitude is delicious for both the thank-er and the thank-ie. Think back to the last time someone give you a genuine appreciation... more then likely you did something common that you would usually do. One time I went with a friend of mine to Walmart to help him pick up stuff for a new place that he had just bought. I didn't do anything special... I just walked up and down the aisles with him and chatted- helping him to the car with some of the bags. No big deal- the next day though he sent me a wonderful little card thanking me for my company. It was sweet.

The absence of thank you can often be detected. I never find myself feeling entitled to have another person swoon in gratitude over things like I do (often going over the top when something is tasty and makes my belly happy.). I do search for some type of subtle reaction though, a sigh of contentment or an expression of enjoyment is all the appreciation I need- after that the words are just dessert (if they happen to appear).

So be aware, look at the people around you and all that they do. Tell them you are grateful for who they are and how they contribute to you life. If they are important to you then it's important for you to express that.

Thank you.

Just Don't Drink the Unpasteurized Milk

In and amongst my Internet hiking today I came across this fancy dancy link:

• Alberta Farm Fresh Producers Association

WAIT! Don't leave just yet!!! So I lied about it being "fancy-dancy" but it is "sustainable-obtainable"!

This year, at least five farms just on the outskirts of Calgary will sell fruits, vegetables, meats or herbs—all (literally) at their front door. Gate sales are seasonal, so check with the individual farms before heading out. June is a great month for asparagus, lettuce, onions, peas, radishes and tomatoes. PLUS we are just teetering on the edge of strawberry season...

Mmmmm...

**

Here is a copy of the guide in case you'd rather not get them to mail you one: the guide

PLUS a little strawberry treat from a blog I covet.

Tisk- Tisk

Nothing says “Welcome back to work- we’ve noticed that you have been wasting your morning on none work related things.” like a big fat paper cut.

tisk-tisk

Up

I'm not sure what it is about animated movies... I hate (yes- HATE.) about 96% of them. I get annoyed at the how unlikely Nemo's escape could really be or that Happy Feet still has his baby feathers as a grown bird (and he picks the most superficial girl bird on the iceberg.). It's silly and pointless I know but they bother me... a lot. I don't usually watch them because it's often so hit and miss with me, even Bolt which I found entertaining... I had a hard time with it. Mostly because I really don't like the idea of a lost dog (enter scene of me bawling like a baby for 1/3rd of the movie- what am I? 8???).

On Saturday I saw the movie Up- an animated movie from Pixar I had NO intention of watching. From the trailer it looked like it was about a grumpy old man floating around in a house powered by a huge bushel of helium balloons. I had however heard a bit of a rumble about it being "good!" "great!" "wonderful!" and I just like watching movies so I went.

• First of all- see it. I enjoyed it so I imagine that the rest of the world will adore it.
• Second of all- bring tissue. I cried sobbed through most of it.
• Third- if you know dogs. See it. Period.

The animation was stunning. The story was overwhelmingly heart warming and there was just right mix of adult and children storyline to make it compatible for all ages. I was surprised at how much I resonated with the movie... and how I was the only one in a theater of 30 children who was bawling her eyes out *ahem*. Though I must tell you that for every good cry there were about 2 good laughs.

I'm trying not to say too much as to not spoil the story if you choose to watch it. Do watch it though.. it's good for the heart and the mind. I mean, you can only go Up from there....

(BOOOOO HISSSSSS!! I know, I know...)

I've Been Away

Oops- I guess that was a little rude of me. I took off without even saying Goodbye. I'm sorry!

I've been away for the last few weeks on a magical adventure exploring the west coast of Canada. I have many tales and the pictures to illustrate but haven't really felt much like sitting in front of the computer and putting the work into publishing them (so to speak.). I haven't even spent much time unpacking.

I got back home late Saturday night- I threw all my bags and such on the floor and went straight to bed. The next day- kicking it all to the side- I showered and dashed out the house. The sun was beating down and it air was finally warm (that was a loooong winter *shudders*) so I spent most of the day going into shops and trying a few new pub that opened up near my place. I read my stolen Sunday paper in the park and didn't come in till the thunder clouds became alarmingly close (false alarm).

When I got home from sunning myself I ended up doing a bit of unpacking but I avoided the laundry. I did empty my suitcases (half heatedly.), put my shoes away and make a small trip to the grocery store so I wouldn't starve to death. I listened to a few of my accumulated Podcasts and watched a little 24 (I'm half way through season 2- I'm so behind in the times.). To be honest- and forgive me if I offend any of you- Jack Bauer is a bit annoying and Mr. Sutherland looks like he drinks too much in real life. He has that stringy-limb alcoholic look to him. Not sure how accurate that assumption is.

So here I am at work- not really sure where to start. It feels semi-good to be back but still... I'd rather be fishing.