K-Bling

Stationery card

2011-11-28T15:10:00.001-08:00

Merry Little Jingle Christmas Card

Turn your favorite family photos into Christmas cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Share yourself...

2011-11-06T18:26:00.000-08:00

Lately I've had friends and acquaintances echo each other's thoughts beautifully, each time it happens I keep thinking about what a small world we live in. We live in a world where ideas and emotions are shared and despite our differences and distances, it so often seems like we are on the same page. You may be asking, what are they saying? Well they keep saying, "we are blessed" or "we are lucky" or even the more simple "wow".

Tonight I realized how true those words are. In our own way each of us has so many blessings or moments of luck in our lives. It would be wonderful if we had more time and more patience to recognize these beauties, and to even share them with others! I think that's why I was so happy to stumble upon this blog on Pinterest and to learn about one neat lady who spent her birthday sharing and celebrating other people! She didn't cry at her party, she shared her party. It's cool and it's inspiring. I wonder if I can even do one measure as cool as her 38 when I turn 30 next month.

Want to know more about what I'm talking about?? Well then you'll have to read her blog and see her pictures to really get this birthday act of kindness to others.

http://mixmingleglow.com/blog/?p=1358

"I just want to know today"

2011-10-30T04:50:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh Sunday, the day of postsecret and an extra large coffee mug with your marking pile. Last week I was getting ready for a student camping trip at Keji National Park and now as the end of October nears my thoughts turn to SNOW!

Now last week I would have died on sight if there was any snow at Keji. I can handle 2 degrees at night, but I can't handle a dusting of whiteness on my tent. However, I can handle a dumping of white (now that I'm back in the city) if it meant that we'd get a SNOW DAY! So I'm sitting here waiting, wishing, hoping for the first snow day of the school year.

So little white snowflakes start your long travel from the winterized regions of NS and make it to Metro in time for school! While I'm waiting I'll be listening to Ingrid Michaelson.

Ingrid Michaelson - I just wanna Be OK, Be Ok, Be OK, I just wanna feel ...

2011-10-30T04:48:00.000-07:00

The Healing Powers of Thai Food

2011-10-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

I woke up today with a heavy heart. My mind has been in overdrive for the last two weeks as I muddle my way through school reading and planning and try to master some new historical concepts. It's difficult when you're constantly on the go and sometimes thinking can be your worst enemy! Like a friend of mine, a good cry usually is the best thing for restoring your healthy outlook, but today I found a new healer, thai food!

Making my way down to ChaBaa Thai on Queen Street I already had a lighter heart. The next hour was exactly what I needed! I sputtered with laughter (and at the spicy sauce on my pad thai) and left the shop feeling like my good old self (and please don't remind me that I am actually old since I'm three months away from my 30th) and ready to take on the rest of the day.

Next time I want a coffee to perk me up and help me through my readings I think I might reach for a takeout menu-the results are glorious! Actually, I shouldn't say that since I found a place that still sells Perks coffee (A flower shop of all places on Queen Street and next to Sweet Pea Boutique) and I can resume my java obsession, but it's a nice, albeit strange, thought all the same!

So with those thoughts voiced, I'm heading out to complete the rest of a restful Saturday.

Peanut Butter!!!!

2011-10-11T15:38:00.001-07:00

A few days ago I said I was going to try Allison's peanut butter cup cookies and they were a success! They were filled with chocolately peanut butter goodness and melted in your mouth. She's right though, you want to make sure that you don't overcook them, a soft middle is much better than a crunchy one!

Someone told me today that I reeked of peanut butter after eating one so while it was a rather offensive comment I felt satisfied with the taste and their jealousy at not having a cookie!

Try the recipe yourself...found here...and indulge!

IPhone, I think I love you!

2011-10-11T15:28:00.000-07:00

I was born almost 30 years ago but I think my life really started in August. It was the purchase of an iPhone that started my life as I know it. Sometimes (like today) I wonder what I did BEFORE I had an iPhone. How did I talk on the phone (oh wait I didn't since my cell phone speaker was broken) and how did I send picture messages (well I could always pass a 5x7 print around the room), and what did I record my grocery lists on (oh well actually I used post it notes)?

I used to think that people with iPhones were so smug. They are never bored in line at the grocery store, they can check into the movie theatre with ease, and they always have great music at their fingertips, and they are ALWAYS ready to share a gushing account of how great their phone is. I even had one friend go so far as to tell me she couldn't handwrite any longer because she only made notes in her iPhone notepad. Ugh I groaned at her ridiculousness. Yet, I am not one of those annoying people. I caught myself glaring at people on their iPhones at the grocery story today thinking to myself that they were so smug as they waited for a long, long line up. Then I remembered that I didn't have to scan the tabloids and try to memorize magazine recipes, I could just play with a recipe app in the palm of my hand! I could be like them and that glare turned into a glazed look as I scanned my screen...oh dear...

As you can see from my inner monologue escaping my head during this post, the iPhone has changed my life and everything about it. So thanks Steve Jobs and the geniuses over at Apple for making modern life possible. Now I can, play games, make lists, take snap shots of board notes, and tweet my lessons all with ease and the touch of a smart screen. I'm even going to try and get used to being a smug iPhoner. Mmmmm iPhone heaven.

Thankful thoughts...

2011-10-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

As with so many people, I have a lot to be thankful for. But this morning as I woke up, made a coffee, and started to devour cheese biscuits and a book on Hitler (IB reading of course) I realized just how thankful I am for literacy.

Without the ability to read and decode letter symbols I'd have missed out on a lot this past year. So thanks to my parents, brothers, aunts/uncles, and early teachers who made it a priority to read with me and share lifelong learning through text.

Here's what they made possible for me this year...this is what I read...and all of it changed or enhanced my life.

1. My maternal grandmother's wedding certificate.
2. Corinthians 13:4 "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." TWO family weddings and the same reading of love and commitment.
3. Allison's delicious recipes! She is right, life is good when food is good!
4. Divergent
5. Megs' blog that teaches me what I should be reading and what I should be listening to.
6. The Help
7. Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy
8. Game of Thrones
9.websites, newspapers, and books, too many to count!

I think this year I'll celebrate my turkey dinner with a side of literacy, it is just as sweet and delicious as pumpkin pie!

Put that phone away will ya?

2011-10-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

I've done it again! Usually the thing that I most vehemently oppose I end up liking or endorsing. It drives me crazy how I can't keep my big mouth shut and I can't keep my wild opinions to myself, not to spare other people my ranting, but to spare myself the embarrassment when I ultimately change my mind!

Example 1: Skinny Jeans. I hated skinny jeans for a good two years and spent every opportunity discussing the ridiculousness of tight denim on the human form. And yet, last year I bought my first paid of skinnies and of course my life changed. Ugh, I'm a convert.

Example 2: Toms shoes. When I see people wearing them I roll my eyes heavenward at the foolish mantra of "I bought a pair of shoes for a kid in Africa when I bought these". Seriously, if you want to buy a kid in Africa shoes, just buy them shoes. You don't need to spend $70 on a pair of cloth shoe vessels that look like slippers. Again I had to deal with having my foot in my mouth when I saw an awesome pair of corduroy Toms on my of my student's feet this week. And a month prior I almost bought a pair on a little road trip to Rhode Island, however I still claim that I was suffering from jet leg symptoms (I mean a 3 hour flight really takes it out of you).

So much to my chagrin I suffered whiplash from my changing ideals again today. Typically I rant and rave about cell phone use in class and can't stand when I see the reflective glow of a cell phone on a student's face. But then today we were working in groups, and making outlines about the Manchurian and Abyssinian conflicts/crises, and I needed everyone to have the notes, and there was no time to copy down all the information. So I did what I always do, I swallowed my pride, told the kids to get out their cell phones, and instructed them to take pictures of the notes.

I'm just saying it right now though...if I ever jump on the side ponytail craze take away all my decision making faculties!

Brown Paper Packages Tied Up With Strings...and Peanut Butter Cups!

2011-10-06T14:48:00.001-07:00

The weather has finally changed and it's time to start snuggling down into some flannel sheets. It's also time to stop eating ice cream and chilly treats for desert and to delve into some warm decadence.

With this in mind I think I'm going to test out Allison's recipe for peanut butter cup cookies. Yum Yum, just in time for Thanksgiving!!!

http://lifeisgoodwhenfoodisgood.blogspot.com/2011/10/peanut-butter-cup-cookies.html

I'll let you know how they go!

"Summer afternoon - summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language." -Dame Edith Wharton

2011-08-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

"I was thinking that we all learn by experience, but some of us have to go to summer school."
- Peter De Vries

“And the sea coast shall be dwellings and cottages for shepherds, and folds for flocks.”

2011-08-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

The art of flattery and kind words

2011-08-26T19:24:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I put my foot in my mouth. Correction, I can barely walk because most of my life is spent with my foot/feet in my mouth. I'm that idiot who asks you why you aren't engaged yet, when you're going to break up with your significant other, and if I can have the last piece of your birthday cake. Yet, I still seem to have friends. I'm not sure how this has come to be, but I'm thinking that my parents adopted me (that explains the idiotic things I say) and that they pay my friends a hefty wage to let me tag along (I'm just wondering when the payments will stop).

There is hope though! Tonight on a clever little internet stroll (yes I was bored and killing time) I stumbled across the perfect website for those short of nice words. Yes friends, the next time you need help you can simple visit "Quick, say something nice!" and find a little treasure to share with the person you're in a fight with or the person that you'll soon piss off. If you have better luck than me and can usually say nice things but need a little extra oomph this site will work for you too. Personally I think "you rock my world" would work nicely...but we'll see!!!!

Happy conversating!

P.S. Listen to some Basia Bulat while you're at it...she rocks.

Back to School with Heather Morris

2011-08-23T08:52:00.000-07:00

Say Something Nice...Improv Everywhere in NYC

2011-08-23T05:25:00.000-07:00

School holidays: Lost learning time?

2011-08-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

When will these educational consultants learn that achievement test scores are NOT what drives our work. Longer school days, longer school years, and continued lack of support is not going to educate and empower our youth.

Sounds like we need Matt Damon to come North of the border and do a little preaching!!

School holidays: Lost learning time?

Above link is to the Chronicle Herald, Halifax, NS.

Come on summer, slow down will ya?!

2011-08-15T11:18:00.001-07:00

Trending in Halifax

2011-08-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

This post was (of course) inspired by Al and Pete's trip across Canada and their recognition of what's trending across this great nation. To read what's happening elsewhere, check out their travel blog and to read what's happening here just scroll on down!

1. Buskers
2. Gourmet Jelly Beans
3. City Biking
4. Croissants (mmmm butter)
5. Summer vacation laziness!

Long Live Dartmouth Clothing Company

2011-08-05T11:46:00.001-07:00

Might be time to buy a new t-shirt!!

June 2011...the end is nigh!

2011-06-21T18:02:00.001-07:00

Overheard in the Hallway...

2011-06-14T04:46:00.000-07:00

"Sometimes the world is a lot nicer if you don't understand it."

HOW true that is! I think I'm going to keep listening in and see what else I can learn today from the kids!

HRSB passes its budget, but has few answers to tough questions.

2011-06-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

Fewer sick days? Love to see how that is going to work out.

The Mute Button (I wish I had one of these...)

2011-06-01T03:54:00.000-07:00

May the towel be with you (is that too many mixed messages?)

2011-05-27T07:27:00.000-07:00

Last year I caught up with the rest of the world and FINALLY read The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. It was an entertaining July week to say the least. I learned about vogon poetry and improbability drive while all the while wondering how many drinks would have really helped Arthur Dent deal with the ending of his earthly world.

This knowledge of the intergallactic world has proven itself useful as I now understand towel references and can claim to be in the know when it comes to Douglas Adams. Now if only a PHD in trivial knowledge would help me increase my teaching liscence. I guess I'll just have to do my Masters as planned instead.

Happy Towel Day!!!

.....................................................................................................................................

"I love deadlines. I like the whooshing sound they make as they go flying by" D. Adams

Towel Day 2011 Promo

2011-05-27T07:25:00.000-07:00

Mr Bean - Sandwich making

2011-05-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

How To: Fry an egg In Emilie's and Krystal's casual kitchen

2011-05-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

Teacher Dress Code

2011-05-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

Teacher dress codes have made it into the news lately. Apparently in Cape Breton the bibbed overalls are really taking over so the Board is considering marking them as inappropriate clothing for school. Other things like short skirts and jeans of course are on the list, anything that would make a person vulnerable or too student-like.

Dress codes do make some sense. Most people follow an unofficial code anyway and make sure that their attire is clean and presentable before they grab their morning coffee and whiteboard marker. It should be a given that professionals know how to dress for their workplace (and working conditions) however it may be that some have lapsed in their judgement and that's why the issue has come up recently.

In an effort to see the issue from different perspectives I asked students in my Communications class what they thought should be in a teacher dress code. For men they listed things such as ties, collared shirts, and dresspants; all pretty benign and standard requests. However for women they had a different expectation. They expected shoes. Yes, shoes! They also thought that women should cover their bums and their stomachs. Now I'm not sure what schools these kids have gone to for the last few years but I'm pretty sure that female teachers tend to stay away from bumless chaps and belly tops. I am however going to do a survey around the school later to see if everyone is wearing shoes (or at least Kleenex boxes). I'll let you know what I find.

P.S. If you want to read more about Cape Breton go here.

Snailmail in the age of text messages.

2011-05-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

Text messages are the new norm. It's not uncommon for a Mom to receive a message that asks her to pick up her child's soccer uniform from home before the game. There are daughters everywhere reading at 11:55pm that they better get home in 5 minutes or less! Then there are the quick notes to pick up milk, tampons, and crackers on the way home from work, it never ends! All these communications happen in 140 characters (or less) and it's easy for people to keep in touch and send quick missives. Texts aren't just to do lists either; they can be a love note too! It's rather endearing to hear that someone's thinking of you and the emoticon smiley face just adds another level of cuteness. Yet, people still need to know how to communicate their thoughts and ideas through the (traditional) written word.

This week in Communications my class is going to be delving into the world of letter writing. Now I realize that many of my students have not once received a written letter in their lives and the only letters they have written have been to fulfil school assignments. It's not likely that they had pen pals in their grade 2 class or that they would write their aunties and uncles to say "thanks" for the Christmas presents. That's why I'm hoping that they will know the conventions of letter writing and will be able to focus on developing their individual voice (through writing) and to support their ideas.

During my research I found a website that offered many unique closings for letters and this got me thinking about the various ways we can say goodbye to someone. We can say, "take care" or "sincerely" or even " best wishes". Equally delightful are the closings "peace out", "rock on" and "ta ta". Here's to a week of writing and expression!

That's all for now and adios!

Finishing a Coffee Deserves a Medal

2011-05-23T10:34:00.001-07:00

Bang Bang You're Dead (2002: Directed by Guy Ferland)

2011-05-15T06:25:00.001-07:00

If you, or anyone you know, spends any amount of time in schools then watch this movie. You might just be surprised by what you learn and how you feel!

HMD!!!

2011-05-07T10:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all those selfless ladies out there! Without you driving us to basketball, wiping our noses, and reminding us to eat our veggies, we would be lost!

To Read or Not to Read

2011-01-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

January is of course the time for making resolutions and life changes. I've decided (as is the trend this year) to just add things to my life instead of taking away. So with that in mind I've decided to add some great (or hopefully great) reads to my life. I sincerely resolve to read...

The Mockingjay
The Book Thief
Impulse
Always Looking Up: The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist
The Graveyard Book
Stuff White People Like
Water for Elephants
Northanger Abbey
Catcher in the Rye
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
The Outsiders (this works since my 1950's greaser name is Tea-Kat Chai)

New Food Thursdays!

2011-01-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

Since it's a new year it's also time to try new things. Tonight I whipped up a quick and easy pasta from Canadian Living and it was pretty tasty! It might have been the big glass of wine I poured with it, but really I think CL speaks for itself and we all know they have good recipes.

Enjoy! And remember, pasta is always better with a glass of vino.

Ingredients

cups

(1.25 L)

penne pasta

cloves of garlic

jar (313 ml)

roasted red peppers

bunch (12oz)

spinach

arugula

broccoli

1/3

cup

(75 mL)

Parmesan

romano cheese

Preparation:

In large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until tender but firm, 8 minutes; drain and return to pot.

Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat 1/4 cup (50 mL) olive oil over medium heat; cook garlic for 30 seconds. Add red peppers and spinach; cover and cook until spinach is wilted, 3 minutes. Add to drained pasta along with cheese and 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt ; toss to coat.

It's all about perspective...

2011-01-05T18:12:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I think students feel like they are "pulling a fast one" on you when they put smart ass answers on assignments. I think they get a secret joy out of trying to outwit you or make a snide comment in their responses. What they don't realize is that teachers love snarky comments. They are like having peanuts on a hot fudge sundae-they just add to the enjoyment! That's why I always giggle at their insane answers when they appear, and then sometimes relish in marking them as incorrect!

Here's one of my latest finds...

Assignment Question: "What do you think of the ending of the short story? What would you do if you were the narrator's mother?"

Student Answer: "It was a typical mother thing. I don't know, I'm not a woman."

Teacher Comment: "It's too bad that you didn't utilize your ability to use perspective to repond to this question. 0/1"

Loving life and living the marking dream!

Cha-ching! Awesome time!

2011-01-05T13:22:00.000-08:00

Feeling like you need a dose of awesome? Happy Wednesday!

Back at er!

2011-01-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

Nothing fills your heart with dread....errr I mean joy, as the first day back at school after a great Holiday Break. I know that I've enjoyed myself when I have to pause before saying someone's name, because I can't quite remember what student they are. Ah, it's the little things like dementia that I live for :o)

Here's what I've been overhearing as the first day of January classes started...

"I don't want my dad to turn 66. It's like talking to an old man with Alzheimers."

"My mom is 36 and my dad is 37. Ewwwww I think I'm going to move out when they turn 40 because that is just gross."

"I just found my binder last night. I wonder if there is anything in it?"

"My sister gave me a 2-4 for Christmas. She wrapped it and everything!"

"How was your New Years? Yeah I stubbed my toe and bent the nail back. Now my toenail looks funny."

It's great to hear from the leaders of tomorrow isn't it???

Target Christmas Commercial 2010 - Is it time yet? I can't wait

2010-12-21T18:33:00.000-08:00

Careful or you'll shoot your eye out!

2010-12-19T14:05:00.001-08:00

Thank you Awkward Family Photos...without you I would have no relief for my boredom.

OK Go - End Love - Official Video

2010-12-19T07:28:00.000-08:00

Bed Intruder Christmas Carol song-Liberty University (LU) 2010 Christmas...

2010-12-17T06:27:00.000-08:00

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

2010-12-17T06:23:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is up on us! It is time for the airing of grievances (if you feel the pull towards Festivus), snacking on cookies, and harmonizing of songs. This year a new medley has been added to the repitoire of classic holiday tunes, and I rather think that many generations will come to love it. Actually, after 2010 I'm sure no one will remember the Bed Intruder song/youtube phenonmen but it can be enjoyed now for what it is!

Happy Holidays!

Pressing Questions from Brilliant Minds

2010-12-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

Just a few snippets overheard this week from the best and brightest in NS (and I don't necessarily mean that as a sarcastic comment either)!

1. "Why doesn't that dog (meaning Snoopy) ever go inside his house? Come on it's snowing out!"

2. "Do all adults really vote? Hey do you vote?" (asked to an EPA)

3. "Did that teacher really just say, 'Shut the hell up'?"

4. "Did you really choreograph a lightsaber fight? Cool, can I see it?"

5. "Well if you don't like her, why did you kiss her? Aren't you afraid of her scabby lips?"

6. "Was that Julius Caesar dude real?"

7. "Do you think Brutus wore hats?"

8. "Can we finish that movie? Oh, we did, can we watch it again?"

Love Actually

2010-12-08T06:47:00.000-08:00

What I'm loving right now:

1. That my school desk is covered with post it notes of "to dos". The desk is lit up like a Christmas tree and is a sea of yellow and orange notes.

2. That teenagers love making gingerbread houses. Yesterday, 45 kids came to my classroom and made a big old mess of frosting and gingerbread. It was goofy and fun and inspiring. I definitely took a kit home to recreate the magic at home.

3. Christmas ornaments hung with care. Yesterday I got to sit holding a sweet little baby by a Christmas tree. It was undoubtedly the best part of the day! Oh so cozy and oh so calming!

4. Lindt Chocolate Advent Calendars. Each day is like heaven when you start it with a chocolate. I'm so looking forward to the Holidays and the childlike ritual of opening a flap to reveal chocolate each day is a wonderful step towards Christmas break.

5. Wool. I would be lost without cozy sweaters right now-so thank you sheep for giving it up and thank you GAP for bringing it to the masses!

Catching Up On The Classics

2010-11-24T11:16:00.000-08:00

In class we've been reading Of Mice and Men and I cannot believe that I lived 28 years on this good Earth without reading this book. By far it is the best thing I've read this year (and come on I read The Hunger Games in 2010) and I cannot get this book out of my head. I had shivers throughout chapter 5 and 6 and let it be said that I wasn't the only one with tears in my eyes when we watched the movie in class.

Check out this student video about the friendship between Lennie and George, if it doesn't make you 1) remember the book fondly or 2) want to read the book for the first time you better check yourself, because I don't think your heart is working.

That's all for now!

How did they get there?

2010-10-31T07:06:00.001-07:00

"Raindrops keep falling on my head..."

2010-10-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

Today when I dropped my toast and it landed butter side up I took it as a sign that, despite the pouring rain, it could be a good day.

When I dropped it for the second time and it landed in a puddle I decided to not believe in omens.

P.S. Recognize the title as a beloved elementary school song? Yeah, me too.

Sundays are Fundays

2010-10-24T09:14:00.000-07:00

I discovered today that leaving your house before 9 am on a Sunday morning can make you feel rather guilty. You'll see lots of devot parishoners on their way to and from services and you'll see even more runners praying to God that they make it through their early morning ritual sans caffeine. If you, like I was this morning, driving to a destination that was not a church it's easy to feel kind of guilty. But, if your morning plan was to make sugar cookies (and of course go buy cream of tartar to make this happen) then maybe guilt should be reserved for AFTER you've eaten 5 or 6. Happy Sunday, whatever you're doing!

Pressed Sugar Cookies

1 cp margarine (or butter)
1/2 cp white sugar
1/2 cp brown sugar
1 beaten egg
1 tbsp vanilla
2 tsps cream of tartar
1 tsp baking soda
2 cps flour

Cream margarine and sugar together. Add vanilla and egg. Stir in dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, cream of tartar). Roll into balls and place evenly on baking sheet(s). Cook at 350 for 7-12 minutes (depending on thickness of cookies).

1-2-3-4-5

2010-09-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

On Friday night someone told me that we live in an "experience seeking society" and that everyone is searching for an experience. He said that the very proof of this is that people will spend $12 on nachos and consider it a wonderful gastro experience. This gentleman seemed a bit disgusted with this fact and felt that maybe we need to get back to a simpler time.

Since I had drank a few Ringwood and Lime by the time this conversation rolled I didn't really process what he was saying too much. But today as I sat down with a coffee (and sore arms-but more on that soon) I came to the realization of "who cares??" So what if we seek experiences, at least we aren't dying while living!

What brought this on? Well I think I might be a new kind of adrenaline junkie; now I am seeking loads more adrenaline charged experiences. I had 3 minutes this weekend that made a huge difference to me. "What three minutes" you ask? Well they were during 2 heats and a championship race at the Kiwanis Dragon Boat Festival in support of the Children's Wish Foundation. That's right, I was in a boat with 19 other paddlers, 1 drummer, and one awesome steerer, and felt the rush of the water and pull of the boat like never before.

The PA team came in 2nd overall and we had a lot of fun while hauling ass on Banook Lake ;we're already talking about next year's festival! I think everyone can say that they are now addicted to the rush that you get when the drum is beating out a rhythm and you're doing everything that you can to propel a boat forward. It doesn't matter if you're splashed with chilly water or if your arms feel like they can't push forward, because you just do it, and it feels awesome.

So here's to living a life of experiences, and who cares if it costs $12 or not!

P.S. Photo credits go to team member D.M. and #1 fan R.S.

Thursday!

2010-09-23T19:27:00.000-07:00

Back in the day when Dawson's Creek and Friends weren't yet syndicated shows, Thursdays held a special place in my heart. I could always look forward to a good cry and a good laugh and that's all my teenage self really needed to get through the almost end of the week. Then, as a university student, Thursdays took on a whole new meaning. What other day could a person park themselves at the Gorsebrook and demolish a pitcher before supper? Certainly not a Tuesday. Nope, that kind of magic could only happen on a Thursday.

Yet, in recent years I've started to dread parts of Thursday, namely "last period on Thursday." I'm not quite sure what takes place around 2 pm but all I can ascertain is that a unique witching hour occurs and that teenagers become maniacs. Maybe their hormones kick in extra hard, or maybe they just need another infusion of sugar and angst, but whatever it is 2 pm Thursday has to be the worst time of the week.

I must say though that my opinions of Thursday is changing again. I'm starting to see the light again and maybe, just maybe, appreciating this once so special day. The catalyst for this change hasn't fully revealed itself to me yet but I'm willing to bet that it had something to do with one of the following:

1. I was able to go to Superstore and NOT buy any Joe Fresh clothes. My wallet is so happy with me.

2. A father gently prodded his son to look me in the eye when I was talking to him at curriculum night, and he actually did! It was the first time I saw this kids eyes in 3 weeks and our conversation led to me seeing him smile no less than 4 times. That was a breakthrough!

3. Grey's Anatomy is back on tv. And although George is still dead I'm loving the adrenaline junkie storyline that has McDreamy wrapped up and heading towards danger.

4. Guacamole exists, and it is GOOD.

So thanks for coming around this week Thursday, here's to seeing you again soon!

Things I've Learned...

2010-09-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

During silent reading period (yes that still exists in schools) I've been cruising through Hornby's latest book, Juliet Naked. JN is told through Annie's perspective, and like Annie, it's clever, wry, and reflective. As the teen population in the room is learning about vampire love or surfing in NS I'm tuned into what a person goes through when they realize that their long-time partner is a bit of a weiner and that they're drawn to a mysterious personality an ocean away. So far I've learned three important lessons:

1. Admitting that you like Joni Mitchell to a man is as good as saying that it's ok if they get you accidentally pregnant.

2. Sometimes a shark's eye is a great expression of an era and,

3. An ocean doesn't mean a hill of beans for two people that have a lot of common ground.

I'm a bit sad about the Joni Mitchell tidbit, but I'll get over it by next class.

Merci buckets!

2010-08-31T12:31:00.001-07:00

In my opinion this Leah chick is a genius! If this were the case I wouldn`t mind having a `case of the Mondays.`

August Rush

2010-08-27T10:51:00.000-07:00

It's almost September (I feel the need to whisper that word), and the province is preparing for back to school season! I've already picked out a new pair of shoes and a blouse, yes everything does seem to be purple this year, but I've also found some new things to help me transition into the beginning of the semester. Yep, books and booze, a teacher's best friends, have also been on my unintentional shopping list(s).

So if you're not in the market for pencils, looseleaf, and markers, you might want to grab some of these instead...

Booze:

The Ironworks Distillery in Lunenburg fashions a smooth vodka out of apples. The finishing notes are that of butterscotch, and I must say it's far better than Smirnoff! If you're looking for something to finish a meal with their cranberry liqueur is just "too yummy" and makes perfect bedmates with vanilla ice cream. The Ironworks blog will also update you on what's new in the distilling world of historic Lunenburg in case you want to know more about pears growing in bottles.

Lately I've been expanding my beer tasting. While berries might be best (if you're talking wheat ales) I'm also starting a world tour of beer, so far I've been to Greece and France for a fraction of airfare costs! Why not sample a Mythos or a Boris for yourself?

Books:

Speak
Mockingjay
Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie

The Faces of Summer

2010-08-19T11:50:00.001-07:00

Why go somewhere else for what is in your own "backyard"?

2010-07-28T10:55:00.000-07:00

Farm Fresh? Yes please! Check out here for information about yummy NS food and how you can keep local growers/producers in the biz.

Breaking News In NS...

2010-07-26T10:18:00.001-07:00

There are many reasons why I love NS but as I read the Chronicle Herald (provincial edition) this weekend I was reminded of the number one reason I hold so much love for this province; the stories that the people in NS have.

It was a big news day in Merigomish the other day...in fact people might have spent more time talking about the following incident than they did the Saturday night church supper.

I promise I have not altered this news snippet from its original form...who would tamper with something this golden anyway?

"Chickens stolen from hen house roosts"

"The witnesses to a recent poultry theft in Merigomish are not co-operating with police. The few chickens left behind last Wednesday night provided little useful evidence to RCMP. But investigators have determined that the thief who made off with 20 brown pullets was not an owl or a fox, but human. The birds were stolen from their roosts in the Pictou County henhouse after dark, the owner reported Friday. Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to contact Pictou County RCMP at 755-4141 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477"

McNabs...Explore it for yourself!

2010-07-20T14:03:00.000-07:00

Typically as the temperature starts to rise in NS I jump on a plane or in a car and head on out on an adventure. I've been pretty lucky and have been able to check out the Tour de France as it passed through Paris, the rocky beaches of Nice, and slurp on a chunk of iceberg in Twillingate, but this summer I decided to stick around town and see what was going on at home.

That's right folks I'm calling it my "teenage summer" because I'm wearing braces, working at a video store, and reading YA fiction on beaches on my day off (ok that hasn't happened yet but it is in the works for TOMORROW). It's the ultimate staycation and I've been having a lot of fun so far. So if you ask me, "what does a teacher do with all the time off" you're bound to get a full answer...

So what really is there to see in NS on this staycation? I'm thinking Peggy's Cove and the trails near it, my deck at the cottage, Point Pleasant Park and it's professional dog walkers, Governor's Lake and it's overly friendly ducks, and of course McNabs Island, the location of my latest exploration.

Just last weekend NS celebrated Parks Day and McNabs was the site of many visitors and local history enthusiasts. I hopped on Mike Tilley's boat in Eastern Passage and made the 8 minute trek to the island with some friends. While there we checked out the abandoned Fort Ives as well as saw the childhood home of Bill Lynch. It's pretty neat to think that people used to make weekly forays out to the island to dance and be merry. It even was the site where soda pop was brewed! Yummmm get me some sarsaparilla!

All in all it's a cool island and as long as you bring drinking water you'll be fine. If you want to practice no-trace camping you're certainly welcome to and the island is also dog and bike friendly. Now that's a find if there ever was one! I might just have to head back with a tent next time.

Happy Exploring!

http://www.mcnabsisland.ca/

The Muppets know their pop culture...

2010-07-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

Since the onset of my life with braces I've learned to stay away from many things. Most notably, chewy candies and popcorn. I can however say with assurance that I still love this popcorn thanks to the Swedish Chef...check it out!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7UmUX68KtE&feature=related

If you gave them a calculator they might get it...

2010-07-03T10:56:00.001-07:00

2010-07-02T11:46:00.000-07:00

Less than a year after the treatment plant was restarted the city has declared open season on swimming in Halifax. As the Queen flies away we now can float the day away off of Point Pleasant Park and Dingle Park. Although the city reported that, "It appears it's safe to go in the water again, at least in Halifax Harbour." I think I'll be staying away from Black Rock and Dingle Park. I'd rather eat a samosa and watch the seagulls than pick a tampon string from between my toes or question why the water still tastes a little funny if you open your mouth when paddling around.

Anyone want to meet for an afternoon snack?

http://thechronicleherald.ca/Front/9017064.html

Summer Viewing

2010-07-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

My newest guilty pleasure has to be cheesy (but awesome) kids flicks. When I'm at the Quest I'm not really supposed to delve into the 14 A + category of films so I've been finding my old friends from childhood and watching a lot of Disney productions.

Trust me, they are the best conversation starters! I even had one kid ask me what a "mogley" was...WTF? Ah the Jungle Book needs to be re-released! I might even start showing Disney productions at parties just because they break the ice...naw that might be going to far!

Anyway, here's a couple of things that have been in the DVD player over the last few days. Oh and don't forget to come visit me at work!

Atlantis (2001)
The Jungle Book (1967)
The Parent Trap (1961)
Jurassic Park (1993) (those dinos are still scary)
1o Things I Hate About You (ok it's not Disney and it's not G but it's bomb) (1999-check out the soundtrack too!)

" When I get older, I will be stronger... "

2010-07-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

You know, good old Queen Lizzie is a neat kind of lady. She has been the longest serving monarch (come on who else has been working for 58 years?), is trained as a driver and mechanic (from her stint in the Women's Auxiliary Territorial Service), and has seen her family dragged through a hellish amount of personal and professional turmoil. She has bore all these challenges with grace and spirit and is undoubtedly one of the most loved monarchs of "recent" history.

I felt pretty lucky to have happened across her in London two summers ago whilst on a bus tour. My tour guide, a retired teacher called Robyn, was casually pointing out the esthetic elements of Trafalgar Square, when her car brigade zoomed through the intersection on their way to St. Paul's Cathedral. Seeing traffic stop dead to allow her passage was awe inducing and I was thrilled to catch a glimpse of her waving hand and beautiful hat. My friend Corrine had been living in London for a year by that time and hadn't seen her yet so I think good fortune was on my side that morning!

Fortune came home to roost with me again this week. I thought that I wouldn't be able to see Queen Elizabeth because of graduation and school ending, but on June 30th she made her final appearance at Government House. Now it was a 30 second appearance and the zoom on my camera is broken so I don't have photo evidence, but I can say my heart leapt into my throat when she stepped out of the door of Government House and proceeded to her car just across the street from me. Wow. Cool lady for sure.

Here's hoping I have her vim when I'm in my 80's, and maybe, that I have someone to brush the carpet outside my bed chamber too. Hell, I'd be happy with having someone to bring me toast in the morning and to walk my corgis at night. She might have it posh but she's a strong character all her own as well.

The Garden in Bloom

2010-06-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

Just 40 or so more days until tomato and pepper salad!!!

And if this crop fails I think I'll be kicked out of the apartment...I'm already on thin ice about the amount of outdoor space I'm using up.

Mandarin Salad...yum!

2010-06-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

Needed Supplies:
-Romaine Lettuce (one head)
-Almonds (roasted with sugar)
-Onions (of the red variety...cut up about 1/2)
-Mandarins (one tin)
-Celery (as desired)

Dressing:
1/4 cp vegetable oil
2 Tbsp sugar
2 Tbsp vinegar (white)
1 Tbsp parsley flakes
1/2 tsp salt
2-4 dashes of tabasco (seriously how much is a dash?)

Find some friends and open a bottle of wine. Yum!

Helllooooo (all 6,000) sailor(s)!

2010-06-26T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well it's Fleet Week in Halifax and what better way to celebrate than heading down to the waterfront to take in the sights? I did just that last night, but with visions of staff party fun more so than sailors and Queen sightings. (P.S. I'm still jealous that Prince Harry is in the Greater Boston Area whereas we have the octogenarian visiting our shores.)

Now it's generally a policy of mine that I don't take my camera to staff functions and live by the rule, "don't ask, don't tell." Of course these rules were to be instated and followed last night. Yet I find my hazy mind remembering pirate hats and aviators on the deck of the Queen Mary. I might even remember some British sailors pole dancing and snapping pictures. Now the pole dancing was a laugh but now I'm quickly realizing that while I have the memories of some drunken fools heaving their body around a support joist, they have a blackberry image of me wearing a pirate hat and smiling foolishly. Ugh...maybe it's time to start adjusting the rules!

Enjoy whatever Fleet Week brings your way!

Can I get fries...err... veggies with that?

2010-06-20T15:58:00.000-07:00

Now that BBQ season is in full swing it's time to ramp up the side dishes! I've been struggling lately and just making the "same old, same old". That is, veggies, greek dressing, feta, and sometimes pasta, tossed together in a bowl. I've been feeling the heat to change it up and of course went to Canadian Living to get some advice. Since I don't have the funds to hire Rachel Ray or Jamie Oliver for a private consult I figured this was the next best thing.

So enjoy some grilled veggies tossed with pasta and let me know what you think! http://www.canadianliving.com/food/grilled_vegetable_and_pasta_salad.php

Hmmm now to investigate some grilled peaches...

Something to go with your Sunday afternoon margarita...

2010-06-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

Good enough to eat?

2010-04-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

I can't say that I'm a model for gourmet eating (I did just scarf down two boiled hotdogs and a glass of Dr. Pepper), but I am interested in food. Today there was a small profile on "front yard salads" and the movement towards growing your own greens for consumption. Instead of buying salad greens at the local Superstore, there are lots of options available to plot owners. It's possible to eat dandelions, clover, and other green sprouts that can be easily grown in a person's front (or back) yard. I'm not sure I'm ready to construct a salad from the grass outside my window, but it is "food for thought."

Other articles worth reading....

http://www.thecoast.ca/halifax/green-halifax/Category?oid=957840

http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/how-to-grow-salad-greens-10000000688405/page2.html

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/fea/home/gardening/stories/DN-nhg_wirefrontgardens_0831liv.ART.State.Edition1.42ef5a5.html

http://urbanhomestead.org/journal/2010/04/14/living-off-the-grid-urban-homesteading-style-with-the-dervaes-family-daily-news/

Photos taken from http://www.flickr.com/photos/davidsilver/4355941795/in/photostream/

It's Not OK (in New Zealand or Canada)

2010-04-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

I'm not normally a fan of Public Service Announcements, but I can say that this anti-violence campaign has struck a cord with me. Maybe it's because I teach about families (yes, I am a Family Studies teacher) or maybe just because I love a New Zealand accent, but either way I'm "digging" this video and needed to share!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poRjb4m8RXk

Let the Library Voices Sing

2010-04-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

I don't frequent the Paragon on a bi-weekly basis, and I don't scroll through myspace daily to check out new music, so I can't pretend to even be an amateur music aficionado. I can, however, share what I like. And I like Library Voices. There is no "sssshing" in this library, just popish tunes that make your toes tap as your creep on Facebook.

Enjoy!
http://www.myspace.com/thelibraryvoices

P.S. For the purpose of this entry I finally learned how to spell "aficionado"...I feel my Scrabble skills improving!

Feeling Brave?

2010-04-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

All this midterm marking has gotten me interested in feedback. So if you're feeling brave, and just a bit interested, why not find out what people REALLY think of you. And as "they" say, "don't worry, nobody's perfect".

http://failin.gs/

Doris's Chocolate Cake

2010-04-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

I think it's important to have short term goals. Some people might envision paying off their student debt, or purchasing a new pair of shoes as the ultimate short term goals, whereas I'm more of a "learn to do" kind of goal person. With that said, it has been my goal in the last few weeks to 1) make a chocolate cake from scratch 2)finish knitting a scarf I started in November and 3)roast a chicken.

I can safely say that I've only made two chocolate cakes and haven't made much progress on either of my other goals. I did however eat some roasted chicken lately...does that count?

Why not make baking a choco cake one of your short term goals? I promise you won't be disappointed!!!

Doris's Chocolate Cake

1/2 cup of shortening (can be substituted with marg or butter)
1 1/4 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 cup white flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup cocoa
1 cup hot water

Cream shortening, eggs, and sugar. Gradually add flour and remaining dry ingredients to creamed mixture along with cocoa and hot water dissolved together. Put in 10 inch pan and bake in 350 oven for about 35-40 minutes.

Top with your fave homemade icing and enjoy !

P.S. For you storebought icing peeps try Betty Crocker if you have a nut allergic friend...I've been informed it's the way to go! (Thanks Megs)

2010-02-28T17:02:00.000-08:00

I know that cell phones are pretty smart. What other piece of technology allows someone to maintain schedules, send emails, converse with friends around the world, and unroll virtual toilet paper at the touch of a finger? Yet cell phones aren’t smart enough for me. I think that the true definition of cutting edge technology would be if phones could outsmart teenagers (and clueless adults). How would they be outsmarted you asked? By being subtly teaching and reinforcing social etiquette for the new decade.

You might think that Blackberries and iPhones are firmly planted in adult and business culture, but then you’re just showing that you only talk to people over 18 and that you’ve been able to avoid Mic Mac Mall (or any high school classroom) for the 48 months. (Note: On the latter I congratulate you, as high school classrooms are where I will lose what is left of my quickly deteriorating mind-stay away if you can. ) Instead of being a helpful communication tool they have become an extension of the teenage body. Of course we can’t forget the growing cluster of upwardly mobile adults that have BB’s and iPhones attached to their fingers as well. Technology beckons us all and it won’t be long before we all have an electronic prosthetic.

The remarkable thing is that these contraptions allow for all kinds of communication, even the basest form of it. No longer must someone upturn their middle finger at you. Very efficiently they can let you know that they don’t give a shite about you and what you’re saying by simply taping their digits across a keypad/screen and sending their 1000^th text for the day. It’s an electronic F-you and it works well in classrooms, restaurants, and in line at Superstore. You might not have noticed but someone probably told you off today by only raising a finger and not their voice.

So here is where the outsmarting the beast part comes in. The next edition of BB or the latest iPhone app should be a social conscience zap. Whenever someone goes to send a text in class, in the midst of traffic, at the family dinner table, or in front of the store’s cashier their phone will give them a low grade zap. Whamo! The new age of social training and manner acquisition will be in motion! I don’t anticipate that it would take many zaps before people would catch on like Pavlov’s dogs. Soon people will have to go back to talking to the person sharing the table with them at Starbucks or pay attention to the person sitting next to them on the sofa. It might take some getting used to but I think we might even find a way to tell each other off again like the good old days. Hello new world of electronic order...how I can’t for your arrival.

P.S. It should be said that this post is a bit ageist and unfair. Poor manners know no bounds. I’m sure that there are lots of 60 year olds who send weird and lewd texts because their bifocals can’t focus, and it’s probable that in retirement homes everywhere nurses and therapists are getting fed up with their patient’s ignoring their wheelchair aerobics instructions. To be fair preschoolers might even be causing accidents on the playground because they aren’t looking up from their phones to steer their trikes. The world really is going to hell in a cell phone case.

Glam Up Your Life

2010-02-21T12:19:00.000-08:00

We all want a little luxury in our lives. Why else would so many people be wearing their D & G glasses with their Joe Fresh t-shirts? It's important to glam up where you can. This philosophy of course extends to living space. I mean I live in a two bedroom apartment that is missing a number of cabinet door handles, but I can still claim that I live amongst some of the nicest houses in the West End. It's all about perspective. Or actually, maybe it's all about signage.

Today I was out for a stroll around the Quinpool area. Instead of seeing someone fleeing the bank with a Sobeys bag full of cash I saw a lot of people dining in various Greek restaurants and more than a few places for rent. I'm a bit of a voyeur when it comes to rental properties and family homes. I confess, everytime I walk down the street I peer in people's windows, and I'm not above peeking in through doors either, if I really want to see something. It's honestly a miracle that I haven't tripped over something on the sidewalk because I'm so distracted or at least been hollered at by some creeped out renter/home owner. I'm just lucky I guess.

So today, as I gawked around, I saw a prominently placed sign on the side of a building on Chebucto Road. The sign boasted of "Luxurious Condo Living" inside but I was confused. My brain was registering what it was reading but couldn't find evidence of it in the outside appearance of the building. Trust me, this building was mjaorly lacking in curb appeal (yeah I got that term from all my HGTV watching).

All of the units bore some signs of wear. Some had broken windows while others had saran wrap style insulation pressed on the inside of the glass panes. Still other windows had garbage bags piled high and Santa Clauses on top of beer bottle cases. I do believe though that the crowning glory of the units was the one garage door that screamed (in permanent marker) "Do not park in this driveway, please!" Maybe it's downgraded luxury that the residents are experiencing. If they were three blocks down and paid about $500 more a month in rent they could afford a valet to scream "Do not park in this driveway, please!" but for now they are taking matters into their own hands.

Maybe I should stop complaining about the missing cabinet handles in my place and just post a sign telling me that I have a gourmet kitchen. Hmmmm....might work.

Into The Wild

2009-07-18T18:43:00.000-07:00

Last year I began the summer with a hangover...err I mean a trip across the country and then jetted off to three more countries which many of our ancestors hailed (or fled) from. Now that July has struck Halifax again (with a plethora of rain and mist) it's time to pack my MEC mule pack and head on out. This year I've chosen to accompany Tracey and Allison to the later's homeland-that of Newfoundland. The last time I was in Newfoundland I was screeched in, sat around a fire burning in an old washer drum, and ate pizza with hot dogs on it. I can honestly say that I have no idea how to prepare myself for this next adventure. The sneakers are packed and so are the binoculars (for scoping out wildlife and weirdos alike) but perhaps the most important travelling companion will be my Fugi, without which I couldn't fully document the essence of this wild land called Newfoundland.

So here I go, off to see icebergs, bays named after the most intimate of actions, and the Colburns who if they are anything like one of my travelling buddies-will be absolutely nutto :o)

Only buy in bulk: this message has been brought to you by the creators of box stores.

2009-05-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

I would be remiss if I didn't comment on the most majestic of occasions, namely that of the GRAND OPENING of Costco (Price Club for all you old timers out there) in Dartmouth.

Not wanting to be left out of the good D-town fun Mama Lingley and I grabbed her "cripple pass" and headed off to Dartmouth Crossing for an evening of mayhem. It must be said that I didn't see any children being trampled but there were moments when I questioned the feasibility of getting out of the jammed aisle without a broken toe or without having the cart my mother was pushing rammed by some maniac in search of cheap milk. I could see why someone would ram her though since she is one of the classic shoppers who pauses to spoon up some rice pudding or price compare at the most inopertune times. No harm no foul I guess.

With that said it was an interesting adventure, one which afforded me an intimate look into the lives of my fellow Dartmouthians. The samples were plentiful and the odd sights even more so. There was a solid 5 minutes of the fire alarm announcing imminent doom while shoppers casually pushed their carts about. I also saw one sample person handing out "free" paper cups with nothing in them while others debated the best way to fold their plastic table to save their lower back muscles. Other people pondered the cost efficency of 230 kgs of pancake mix while one Costco employee with a standing plumber's crack assisted a woman with her load of groceries and ended up loading her car for her. Better yet was the manager who said "Kevin has to stop pulling the coupon booklet out of the crotch of his pants and asking customers if they want to see what's hot at Costco" or maybe the women who remarked, "my this must be three pounds of cake, that's too much cake" while her husband walked behind her and picked up two more.

Ah Dartmouth how I love thee... but I better log off before this becomes an ode because I really need to get cracking on that jumbo bag of bbq chips.

Au revoir!

The First Family

2009-01-21T14:53:00.000-08:00

http://www.parade.com/export/sites/default/news/2009/01/barack-obama-letter-to-my-daughters.html

"I can hear the bells"

2009-01-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

About a year and a half ago I got in angry at Facebook. Why, oh why was my news feed full of people's relationship status, and why oh why did I know that so and so, friend of a friend (who let's face it really isn't even my friend outside the Facebook-sphere) was expecting to have a bouncy baby boy?? That's right folks I was angry at the overload of useless and trivial information my brain digested everyday. As if it wasn't enough that I read tabloids in the grocery line (come on you love knowing that Brit Spears is having an alien baby too) but then my life was becoming a forced witness to a virtual tabloid of love lost and gained.

So in an effort to get back at Facebook (because we all seek revenge when we're angry) I posted that I was engaged. It all started out as an innocent social experiment; I really just wanted to know how many people would react when I did this. Well react they did. Dozens of people private messaged me, others secretly asked their Facebook friends what was up because they were nervous to ask me directly, still others sought me out in person and offered congratulations-yeah I know what you're thinking and it was embarrassing.

It was after the in-person congrats sessions that I decided that my revenge plot had to end. Everyone bought it, I had beaten Facebook at its own game, so why not give up. Well, here we are 18 months later and I'm still being asked "hey aren't you married yet", and "oh weren't you engaged?" Great...I'm not getting the "why aren't you married yet" lecture from my family but rather my loose social network...I think it's time for Facebook and I to get into another fight.

Tis The Season To Be 27

2008-12-25T20:47:00.000-08:00

Well the wrapping is in the recycling bin and the chocolates are gone-it's time to move on to another Holiday, namely my birthday!

That's right folks about 27 years ago my mother was chugging the sherry....errr I mean birthing me! Yahooo what a treat for the world a little bundle of joy and clumsiness.
I'll be celebrating with skates, french pressed coffee, and dinners in Chester. You can mark the occasion as you best see fit! Enjoy! (oh and if you make one comment about how I'm nearly 30 then you can forget living to see New Years!!!)

Pinch, Punch First of the Month!

2008-11-02T09:22:00.001-08:00

Happy November!

Fall is starting to lose its grip on us and winter is fast approaching. I mean if the Christmas wreaths on the Hfx. waterfront aren't a sign of the coming yuletide season then nothing is! My own personal observations include the chilly weather and the fact that frost is appearing on Vinny's windsheild in the wee morning hours. I'm thiking that it's time to snuggle into my MEC gloves (seriously, whoever invented Gortex was a genius!) and sip pumpking spice lattes while we weather the onslaught of falling leaves and soon snow. Imagine, in just over a month Megs will be home, we'll all be eating chili, and it'll be Christmas! Yahoo! Wait....that means I'll also be 27...UGH! Maybe I better look into life insurance and wills and control top stockings....

If you're looking for something to procrastinate with as the nights get longer and the days are shorter check out http://www.onesentence.org/ it's good for a laugh and even some "aha" moments.

Oh and if you forgot to turn your boring analog non-satellite watch back do it now...apparently it'll save your life! Yep that's right fewer heart attacks are reported the week after "fall behind" and it has some sort of link to the amount of sleep people get. Might as well get an extra bacon Big Mac combo while you're at it, your arteries are safe for a week!

2008-08-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

Good Fly

2008-08-07T14:04:00.000-07:00

Well we're home. For two days now. I know, we forgot to alert the Chronicle Herald and the Globe and Mail but people have seemed to find us alright. I mean I've already saw about thirty thousand students so word must be out that Tracey and I have arrived safe and sound.

We almost didn't make it here though...there were a few tense moments in France.

First, we didn't know where our check in station was. It was a good thing that I found a man with impeccable English language skills to guide us to gate 21. Well, by that I really mean thank goodness the man was able to say "Zoom Zoom" and "vent et une" Good thing I understood the French part of that or we would have been sunk! He was also very kind and let me follow him with his push cart to that gate (because really, let's face it, I didn't know what number he had said). With his bidding we were off towards home, it's he that taught me the great universal phrase of "Good Fly." Seriously.

The second tense moment was in Montreal where we were preparing to board our final flight. It was at this airport security station that I was instructed to sit away from my bags and surrender my shoes. What were the offending articles in my bags? A butter knife of course! The left overs of a beach snack that three other airport security check points had overlooked.

Too bad, they should have let me keep it. I might have been able to help the airline engineers repair our plane before our second attempt at take off.

So a few hours late and Tim Horton's runs later we arrived!
Hello Canada, you never looked so good!

"Thistle Do Nicely"

2008-07-31T08:18:00.000-07:00

Hello internet world!!

A lot has happened since the last posting but few events as eery as our visit to the underground vaults in Edinburgh. Crawling under the streets we toured all through former underground pubs and shoemakers rooms and visited the site of murders and ghost dwellings! The freakiest of course was when we were taken into one particular vault rumoured to house a poltergeist. This unnatural force has been known to slam and tug people and even squeeze their hands and the fact that no electronics or lights work in the room really FREAKED me out!!

Well that all seemed scary until we hit the scariest touring attraction of all... the French bathroom (or water closet or toilet). Since our arrival we've had the group bathroom on our hostel floor explode (and be out of service for 3 days), which resulted in Tracey trying to use the handicapped one and being chased out of the washroom by an irate cleaning woman. Then I tried to use a public toilet by the Sexodrome which grossed me out so much I couldn't go inside and had to sneak into a hotel Kathryn Lacerte style (just pretend you belong there she always says). The worst experience probably though was when I paid 8.40€ (the equiv. to about 13 Cdn. dollars) for two cold fizzy drinks to use one at a Cafe to later find out I could have just stalked in and paid the 40 Euro cents for the attendant fee. I'm glad we4re in Nice now...I'm just going to pee in the ocean from now on.

Some people walk 500 hundred miles...we like to climb 500 stairs.

2008-07-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

From a two hour walk around the burrows of Chelsea and Kensington, to the stairs at St. Paul's, and now the hills of Eliden in Scotland out feet have been moving!!!

Each day Tracey and I wake up, wipe the sleep from our eyes, and head out to see the wonders of the world. We've seen many great things from the Rosetta Stone, to middle aged Asians playing volley ball at Kensington Gardens, to the ceremonial head of the country, the Queen herself! Everyone we've met (except the jerks who push me on the subway or in ques for treats) has been great! Oddly enough all the tour guides are x-teachers too...a strange thing to contemplate, I don't think they put that into the retirement information packages normally!

Yesterday though Tracey and I left all things English behind and have moved onto all things Scottish. We saw all things Scottish upon our arrival in Edinburgh...a shell gas station, a MacDonalds, and a Holiday Inn. We will go back later this week to check out the more distinctly Scottish sights including the Royal Mile and the Castle. Tomorrow we're off on a big journey to Lochness and hoping to see a wee peek of the monster herself.

Coming to Scotland was a good adventure choice but perhaps not a good weather choice. While those of you in New Scotland are enjoying the sunshine and 20+ degrees we are living the dream in 12 degree windy weather. In any event Sara has been a lovely hostess, except when she signed out death certificates and hiked us up Eliden hill.

We climbed the largest of the Eliden hills...it was really steep!!!! The path was at first covered in sheep and cow poop but then it got even too steep for them and we were left with a shale trail to the top. You would have laughed to see us creeping back down and getting caught up in the brambly bushes that they have here!!! We're off to a pub in Selkirk tonight so I'm excited. That will be a bit more low key than the walking...although there were several elderly walkers who managed the rough and narrow terrain far better than us. Those Scottish love their hill walking!!!!

Tracey has just accused me of being addicted to the internet...I guess that is my cue that I better get off before my head explodes or I reach for some interet (the online version of nicorete).

Cheers!

The Elixer of Life and Other Strange Occurances

2008-07-17T03:02:00.000-07:00

Hello from Fulham!

If you want to do strange, you need to go to Stonehenge and Bath! Not only are the sights a bit spooky but so are some of the people, including the tour guides!

We had a wonderful woman named Sue driving us around but she also had a strange way of making fun of everyone with a "nice voice". For instance, she remarked that everyone from the "weird countries" was out of luck because the audio guides at Stonehenge are only in English...thank goodness Tracey and I were considered "normal"!

Stonehenge was awesome, with the local birds getting the best view as they are the ones allowed close enough to touch the stones. Of all the local lore about how they got there I like the theory that Merlin magicked them there...forget it being a place of worship and hard work during construction, I like the more mystical explanations!

Bath of course was stunning with it's hot, hot steamy waters and rows and rows of light stone buildings. I even had a glass of the Elixer of Life!! In the Pump house you can drink a glass of purified baths water...ugh my stomach is still churning!

Forget Canadian Flags...wear a MEC pack and everyone will know you're from Canada!

2008-07-11T14:50:00.000-07:00

We've arrived!!!

England welcomed Tracey and I on Thursday after a sleepless Zoom Air flight and has provided us with some fun times thus far.

We're doing all things "English". We're staying in a bedsit in Fulham (on Munster Road), ate a real pub lunch, been using the underground like a local (and haven't fallen in any Gaps) and even visited an English school.

While one the subject of school, let me praise the Canadian school system. Imagine, it taught me how multiply 9x12, a feat which suprised Corrine's gr. 8 students to no ends! One even exclaimed in utter respect, "Well of course she knows everything, she's Canadian." Oh dear...you think American's are funny asking if we live in igloos and such, these children were even more clueless. Some even asked Tracey and I if we spoke Canadian. Ha! Imagine the look on their faces when we said that we actually were at that very moment and so were they too!

Today Tracey and I puttered around and visited the Tower of London. We took in Henry VIII's strange armour, the chopping block and axe that used to be used in public beheadings, and sat in the very chapel where Anne Boylen was buried! Imagine! Seeing towers that were built in the 1100's was pretty fascinating and our "Beefeater" regaled us with excellent stories around the site.

That's all for now. Cheerio!

Hats Off To Calgary

2008-07-06T20:23:00.000-07:00

Cowboy hats are everywhere. Pink ones on old ladies, white ones on guys climbing into their pickups, and even on the street sign people that advertise an overhead walkway (we would call it a pedway, aparently those here call them Plus 15s).

We have sought refuge however in the home of one girl who isn't wearing any hats...mostly because she couldn't buy any of them in Asia. Thank you to Jennie Turner who has put us up for the evening. She has been treating us to a five star evening, complete with "Jennie's dip", laundry services, 1000 piece jigsaws, and a fashion show of all the things she has bought "cheapy,cheapy almost free" in either Thailand or China. Yep, that's right...we're convinced. Forget going to Euro we're heading to Asia to get some cheap goods. On second though, I don't think Zoom Air has any direct flights there...maybe next year!

Who ever thought that people in the West were snobby must not have met all the displaced Maritimers that clog the streets!

Thanks again to all those who have put up with us along the way from the nice (but oddly pierced) waitress in Medicine Hat, to Nicole in Ottawa, and now Erin and Jennie.

p.s. Peggy-Don't worry. We ARE NOT going to China. That was a jokey.

G'night friends!

The trip's mantra

2008-07-04T19:08:00.000-07:00

This trip has yielded a plethora of strange sights. Often at night we'll find ourselves saying, "hey do you remember _______(insert obscure landmark here)??" Ineviatably one of us then asks, "where WAS that?" Of course, the response is always, "Somewhere in N. Ontario."

Yes, that's right. We've seen a great many things in Northern Ontario...

1. Drive Through Native Smokes
2. Our Lady of the Highway Church
3. Road 83
4. Dead Horse Creek
5. 15th Sideroad
6. Giant Geese, Terry Fox, Giant Teepees and Desolation Lake
7. Seldom Seen Road
8. Ghost gas stations and motels (bragging of WiFi)
9. The Sleeping Giant
10. An Emergency STOP button on the side of a gas station

Geee....the places we've been.

Northern Ontario...a place to buy smokes from a "drivethru" and pray to "Our lady of the Highway"

2008-07-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

Tracey and I are sitting in the lovely motel lobby of the Best Western in Thunder Bay while Megs is upstairs having a bit of a rest!

Today we left Sault St. Marie and drove along the Circle Route (largely) to Thunder Bay. It was INCREDIBLE! The Circle Route (for those of you who were as ignorant as I before the last 700 kms) is a winding two lane highway that carves its way through much of Northern Ontario. The highway is flanked by TALL, jagged cliff walls, and tree lined vistas, with Lake Superior poking its head out every once and a while. You honestly feel like you are going to fly off into the sky or catapult into the ocean at some points...come on a 7% grade is quite steep!!! Other high points from the day included Tracey seeing a bear, the Wawa Goose, the epic Terry Fox memorial, and the pool at the Motel!

I met a nice lady in the Tim Hortons in Wawa-we talked about how many cups of coffee she pours a day, and a weirdo in some no-where stopoff who tried to help me find her keys in the bathroom. If you saw "Dirty Dancing" and remember the feeble couple who stole all those wallets from unsuspecting people, you'll know why I ran away full tilt from her!

That's all for now...over and out from Thunder Bay!

Joyeuse demenagement!!

2008-07-01T21:41:00.000-07:00

Allo friends!

The travelling trio has experienced the best of Canadian celebrations today! We started off in Quebec with a traditional "moving day" which included dodging flying mattresses and sipping chilly drinks on a patio in Rosemere, the tail end of the day found Tracey and I being propelled from the Mazda at a stoplight in the middle of downtown Ottawa. Megs was off to visit her family, and T-Money and I were off to visit Kathryn Lacerte on Parliment Hill.

There weren't any persons peeing on the War Memorial this year, however there were many dogs dressed at patriots, and babies strapped into strollers on the people lined streets. We caught a few strands of the concert and ate up the yummy poutine that was churning out of a chip stand. It's a good thing I got that Hep A shot I think...

The fireworks show was fabulous. Standing in the middle of the street,we saw the sky lit up with great fanfare from the crowd. Some of the fireworks even seemed to be "3-D" and as though they were coming at your face. There were some amateur fireworks as well with several teenagers lighting Roman Candles, but the cops were on them pretty quickly, spoiling all the good fun that they were having.

Hope you had a great Canada Day!

p.s. Thank You Kathryn and Nicole for putting up these weary (and stinky) travellers tonight!!!

The July Effect...a day early.

2008-06-30T07:49:00.001-07:00

If you read the Globe and Mail today you probably read about the 'July Effect'. It's the term given to the month in which interns and residents start their medical work at new hospitals. It is also the same month in which many grave mistakes take place, and in US hospitals the mortality rate rises 4%.

Well, the July Effect has come home to N.S. to roost. This morning, upon leaving Megs house and beginning the grand adventure to Calgary we met a Purcell's Cove Dumbass. This young man proceeded to rip Megs' oil dipstick in half, and then stick the broken end back into the oil tank. Now I don't know much about cars, but I do know that you don't stick a half of anything into a bottomless pit, and if you by chance do, it will only cause TROUBLE!

As you can imagine we are out of commission for a few hours. We have become best friends with the Mazda dealership shuttle and Margie has fed us twice already.

I will be sending a postcard from Calgary to our Shell Canada friend which reads "we made it to Calgary...no thanks to you."

More to come...

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

First, thanks to Proto who posted this, and who originally stole it from Nermel. I love university procrastinators and this fun "finish the sentence" format reminds me of many quizzes I filled out during an all nighter essay party. And yes, my mind did make the mental leap to the though that I probably wouldn't have had to have so many all nighters if I actually did my work on time! But, I digress...

Maybe I should: Stop hurting my back on long weekends.

I love: Simple pleasures.

I don't understand: Why I can't make my wireless router work....arg!!!

I lose: My mind...frequently.

People say I: Am silly

Love is: Elusive

Forever seems: A long ways away!

When I wake up in the morning: I grope for the snooze button.

I get annoyed when: People are stupid (including myself)

Parties are: A great excuse to laugh too loud, wear nice shoes, and slurp a bottle of wine.

My dog is: In doggy heaven... how morbid!

Today I: I got an Easter basket full of treats! Woot!!! (oddly enough, I also got a pair of socks identical to a pair I already own...and people wonder why I give odd gifts to them...clearly it's ingrained in me).

Tommorow: I'm planning my summer adventures (can adventures be planned?)

I really want: Summer vacation to be here!

I have low tolerance for people who: Are doorknobs In fact, I frequently say, "stop being a doorknob"

If I had a million dollars: I'd tell the Bare Naked Ladies all about it in a follow up smash hit.

Let the wind blow and the waves crash.

2008-03-20T13:05:00.001-07:00

A wee bit of luck on a Spring(ish) day.

2008-03-17T14:08:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day To You!

In the honour of this fine Irish holiday I have decided spend the day relishing in all things Irish. Since I live in Canada this really just means beer and fruit loops, green jello, and reading Irish authors! Below is a lovely James Joyce poem and a link to my favourite Irish (and anytime) author, Maeve Binchy.

J.J. will give you shivers of delight and make your heart think of Spring love, while M.B. will make you think of love lost, love bruised, and love found! Those Irish....they certainly know how to do beer and love!

Strings in the earth and air
Make music sweet;
Strings by the river where
The willows meet.
There's music along the river
For Love wanders there,
Pale flowers on his mantle,
Dark leaves on his hair.
All softly playing,
With head to the music bent,
And fingers straying
Upon an instrument.

~James Joyce

http://www.maevebinchy.com/ Photo Credit: Sara Britten

Is it a full moon yet?

2008-03-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

image taken from threadless.com

They say that people act strangely near the full moon. Yet I'm thinking that there must be something in the water (other than chlorine and flouride) that causes people to act a bit "off" in Dartmouth. Why else at 10 am would I see one person walking in one direction on Octerloney St. carrying an 8 pack of beer, and someone else crossing their path heartily biting into a long tube of pepperoni? Ah Dartmouth.

Happy March Break! Enjoy the local sights!

Feeling Hungry?

2008-03-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

I think that my life is somehow a part of a cosmic circle of information. Stay with me, I'm not contemplating metaphysics here, but merely wondering instead how it is that when I start a new course, do a wiki search, or teach something to my students, in the coming weeks I am bombarded with interesting information on the topic.

Today's Topic: Homelesness.

Homelessness is a near epidemic in Canada and 42% of the households that are at risk of losing their home are families-we're talking about a big social problem here people! To me this statistic speaks to the ever important fact that no one is as safe as they perceive themselves to be; just take a look south of the border at the mortgage crisis the US has been dealing with in the past months and you'll see the reality of tough situations.

I digress, or not really. Anyway, I've been interested in homelessness lately. And there has been some good coverage on homelessness in Canada, but the best thing I've seen lately is a Voluntarily Homeless awareness campaign launched by students from U of A and Grant MacEwan College, both in Edmonton. With temperatures dipping below zero over night these brave students are simulating the homeless life-by day they are hungry students, and by night they sleep in make shift shelters between doorways and atop cardboard. They're certainly going above and beyond your usual awareness and fundraising campaigns, and instead of reading a pamphlet in the coziness of their home they are bearing the brunt of Edmonton's winter on an empty stomach.

Last night on the CBC there was an all out comedy "battle" about over fed and over pampered animals. One comedian said it best when they shouted something to the effect that, "there should be a law that mandates you to buy a sweater for someone who is homeless if you buy one for a pooch!" I agree. Although my little white haired doggie did have an orange sweater to prevent her from being shot by an over eager hunter, I think that we need to stop spending money on designed dog carriers, ponchos and the like for our pets, and start spending on those people who need it most.

Maybe it's time you headed out to a shelter and helped served dinner, or made up a casserole for Hope Cottage. No judgements if you don't, but isn't it the responsibility of those with "stuff" to help those without? Something to ponder!

I know I'm going to go find that guy down by Pizza Corner who carries the sign that reads, "A pigeon stole my sandwich. Please donate money so I can buy a gun and kill the pigeon."--Just think I'd be helping the hungry and helping to get rid of a pesky bird problem. Now that's really killing two birds with one stone...errr gun.

2007-03-06T14:57:00.000-08:00

cu·ri·os·i·ty [ kyree óssətee ] (plural cu·ri·os·i·ties)
noun
Definition:

1. desire to know something: eagerness to know about something or to get information
2. tendency to pry: an excessive interest in other people's affairs
3. somebody or something thought strange: an interesting and unusual object, person, or phenomenon
[14th century. Via French <>

Eleanor Roosevelt:
I could not, at any age, be content to take my place by the fireside and simply look on. Life was meant to be lived. Curiosity must be kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life.

Change Your Life...

2007-03-04T09:34:00.000-08:00

At Christmas E Millie and Semel gave me this rocking dairy, one proclaimed to "change your life." Well there are some zany ideas in it (including taking siege of small European towns) BUT I'm digging this week's "to do" list. This week the Benrik diary encourages me (and now by assocation, YOU) to

'This week, only do things you have never done before."

Only meet new people

ONly give to new beggars

Only think new thoughts

Only read new books

Only watch new channels

Only browse new websites

Only eat new food

Only wear new clothes (now that sounds fun!)

Only visit new places

Only listen to new music

Only buy new furniture

Only seek new thrills

Only whistle new tunes

Only kiss new faces

Only dream new dreams

What will you be doing "new" this week??

Education "Prom"

2007-02-27T13:32:00.000-08:00

The World According To Miss Bling

2007-02-25T16:09:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling rather self indulgent today and since I can't take the time off of schoolwork to do something just for me I'm going to ramble about myself instead! And so...with that introduction I'll launch into a cute email survey I received from M.

Four Jobs I've Had
1) Adult Badminton Course Instructor (and yes there was a 60 year old man who always complained about the "indecent" shorts that the women were wearing and I actually had to talk to them about their wardrobe).
2) Busser @ Steak and Stein (YUCK!)
3) Baby GAP Sales Associate and Cashier
4) Oral History Assistant @ The SMU Archives

Four Movies I'd Watch 1,000,000 times
1) You've Got Mail
2) Circle of Friends
3) Shawshank Redemption
4) Oceans 11

Four Places I've Lived
1) The womb
2) Dartmouth (NOT ColeHabour OR Halifax)
3) Camp Sheldrake (various cabins)
4) Antigonish

Four Of My Favourite Eats
1) Anything from the Fireside (followed of course by raspberry couchin)
2) Feta Cheese
3) Bread
4) Homemade Cookies

Four Places I'd Love To Be RIGHT NOW
1) Anywhere but at the computer doing school work
2) Camp
3) Sea Kayaking in Greece
4) Touring around Lonon (and the English countryside) in a Mini Cooper