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Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Tuned In Tuesday

Inspired by the lovely Ashley at Unabashedly Ashley, I am bringing to you (well mostly myself as a place to record the music I am constantly falling in love with) Tuned In Tuesday! Ashley shared a flashback to my jr. high years this morning on her blog. I want to share Serena Ryder whom I recently discovered and who's voice I am crushing on this week.


Thanks to the people on Twitter at The Calgary Folk Festival for tweeting about Serena and introducing me to her very Melissa Etheridge type sound. Perfect to chill out to while browsing the Internet.

Monday, July 30, 2012

"Won't someone pay the rent?"

Every time I think of rent, I am reminded of this skit from Rocky and Bullwinkle. And because this is the last month that I am paying full rent on my own, I have been thinking of rent a lot (I also start thinking about the Broadway play and this song gets in my head too).

For the last 4 years, I have been paying my own way to live without a roommate. I have made a lot of sacrifices in order to keep a roof over my head and learned a lot about myself, finances and priorities in the process. I have learned to make do with the things I already own as my budget was already being squeezed with rent, utilities and that pesky thing called groceries. I have become a pro at mixing and matching items in my wardrobe so that I can use what I own without feeling like I have nothing to wear. My favorite game in the kitchen is playing "Chopped" so that nothing goes to waste and that I shop in my cupboards first before hitting the grocery store. I gave up cable and started reading more. I invited friends over and stopped going out as much. I also had a part time job for a bit to make sure everything was covered.

It has been a tough 4 years, but it has also been worth it. Living on my own has taught me greater independence and the ability to rely on myself. Not having roommates meant I am responsible for all of the messes that are made. It meant that if I wanted to sit in my living room painting until 4 a.m. while watching streamed episodes of The Hills or Jersey Shore, no one was there to judge me. I actually think that most people should spend a few months or a year living on his or her own. The growth one has when in this situation is amazing. And I feel fully prepared to have an actual room mate again.

My last month paying full rent, full utilities, full groceries. I am excited for the extra income I am about to have and tackling the last bit of my debt. I am excited to share chores with someone. I am excited to cook for someone. And even having the option of cable again.

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Sunday Morning


  • We went to The Ranche for brunch this morning. It was beautiful out so we opted to sit on the veranda. Sipping coffee, surrounded by flowers across from Rainman is my idea of bliss. We even decided in the new place we are going to put a little bistro set on our balcony and make it a Weekend thing to enjoy our coffee together out there.
  •  There was also a wedding taking place at the restaurant. For the supposed happiest day of her life, the bride didn't seem very pleased. Her husband, on the other hand, couldn't quit crying. Such a lovely day for a wedding and in such a beautiful spot --right in the heart of Fish Creek park. Witnessing their union sparked the topic of conversation between Rainman and I, and we talked about the various venues we could wed in. 
  • Yesterday at the mall, he had a jeweler measure my finger for him. Knowing its going to happen, but not knowing when is really exciting. And having Rainman check out my One Day board on Pinterest with interest offering his thoughts without fear is amazing. He plans on making me a MRS!!! Eek! :) 
  • Just a few more weeks till we move. It's wonderful how everything is falling into place. I want to say I have never been happier, but every day something happens that increases my elation. To the girl I once was that was willing (and ready) to settle? Thank you for being strong enough to get through all of that pain. 

 We had such a fabulous weekend. How was yours?

Thursday, July 26, 2012

One Week

Last night I watched the Canadian film "One Week" starring Joshua Jackson (oh Pacey, I still would choose you over Dawson). It was a random choice I found while scrolling through Netflix, but I highly recommend you watch it too.

Ben Tyler is diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Knowing his chances of survival are slim, he feels compelled to finally live. On his way home from the doctor, he stumbles upon a man selling a motorcycle  and his roll-up-the-rim coffee tells him to "go west."  All of these signs tell Ben that he must take this adventure and, although his fiancee is dead set against it (which I think is ridiculously selfish of her, even though she tells Ben he is being selfish), Ben gets on his new motorcycle and heads west.

I loved that this movie had Ben stopping at all of the "World's Biggest" landmarks. This happens to be a thing I love visiting too where ever I go. And I loved that he was in Canada and on his cross country journey I was reminded of many of the landmarks we stopped to see the time Justin, my dad and I drove from Alberta to Ontario and back. I enjoyed that every person Ben meets on his way, he alters their life somehow the same way they help alter his. I think we so often forget in our journeys that every one we come in contact with leaves an imprint on us (and that should remind us that we left one on that person too). And the soundtrack for this movie was wicked.


Overall I found this movie incredibly inspiring. The reminder that we are all on borrowed time and we should live during that time was much needed. Plus I now am more motivated to convince Rainman to buy a motorcycle so we can travel across the country with the wind in our faces, being one with the road and the world. I also remembered how beautiful Canada truly is watching this film and that I should plan to travel here more. I mean, I have lived here 30 years and I have still never been to Quebec. Or the Territories. Or the Maritimes. I am forever wishing that I could run away to another country, experience another place -- yet I have so many opportunities to do so in my own back yard.

Final message: don't settle in life. Don't settle for that job, that partner, that house, anything that you question. Because one day your time will be up, and you will want to know that you lived.






Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Sunday Stealing: The Too Tired to Think Meme, Part 1


  

1. You have 10 dollars and need to buy snacks at a gas station. What do you get? Coca cola, a bag of 5 cent candies, salt and vinegar chips.

2. If you were reincarnated as a sea creature, what would you want to be? a mermaid

3. Who’s your favorite redhead? my mommy

4. What do you order when you’re at IHOP? I have never been, but I would guess pancakes?

5. Last book you read? Lamb by Christopher More

6. Describe your mood. Pretty fantastic. Had a great day at work, received a  positive job review for the first half of 2012, sold some items from kijiji, eating a delectable dinner of perogies and yam chips that I seasoned with curry powder, cumin, five spice and some coriander.

7. Describe the last time you were injured. I guess when I wore that cast on my wrist. Aside from running pains in my calves every so often.

8. Of all your friends, who would you want to be stuck in a well with? Rainman

9. Rock concert or symphony? Both, together. I love fusions.

10. What is the wallpaper of your cell phone? The number? (We'll just say "hi" - promise.) A positive mantra:it states live with intention, walk to the edge, listen hard, practice wellness, play with abandon, laugh, choose with no regret, continue to learn, appreciate your friends, do what you love, live as if this is all there is.

11. Favorite soda? coca cola

12. What type of shirt are you wearing? I'm not. I'm wearing a dress

13. If you could only use one form of transportation? Hot air balloon. How cool would that be?

14. Most recent movie you have watched in theater? The Avengers

15. Name an actor/actress/singer you have had the hots for. Josh Hartnett

16. What’s your favorite kind of cake? Cheese cake

17. What did you have for dinner last night? I had rice with cranberry sauce seasoned with curry powder. I have a thing for curry powder this week.

18. Look to your left, what do you see? My chart to show me how many car payments I have made and how many I have left. Yes, I am nerdy.

19. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? No

20. Favorite toy as a child? My barbies

21. Do you buy your own groceries? Yes. But I also eat over at Rainman's a lot. 

22. Do you think people talk about you behind your back? Of course. It's human nature and I am not perfect nor am I everybody's favorite. The thing is, I don't really care what people say. I live a pretty awesome life.

23. When was the last time you had gummy worms? Forever ago.

24. What’s your favorite fruit? Watermelon, strawberries and mangos.

25. Do you have a picture of yourself doing a cartwheel? I sure do...on a beach in Newfoundland.

Monday, July 23, 2012

The Biggest Loser

Have I mentioned how competitive Rainman and I are when it comes to just about anything? When pitted against one another, it's a do or die situation -- when we are a team against others, sorry for your luck ;-)

So, we decided that we want to get into killer shape. And we are going to do it together. And true to our nature, we decided to make it a competition. For the next 30 days we are going to go mad hard with working out, eating right, changing up some habits and hopefully see some results (I hope to see more results than he does so that I can win).

Today was day 1. Bring it on Rainman....I think you'll be the one taking me out on a date ;-)

Friday, July 20, 2012

Fuck you Cancer!

In May, I was a part of a group that organized and hosted an event to raise money for Wellspring Calgary. We held a sold out Sunday brunch complete with an amazing silent auction, artwork, guest speakers and a raffle. We were also very blessed to have three very talented sisters play music for us (2 violinists and a harpist) while our guests mixed and mingled.

Today I was saddened to hear that those little girls lost their mother to cancer. Their mother was so brave to fight this battle against such an unbiased disease and I am even more fueled to do whatever I can in my power to help discover a cure in my lifetime (while aiding those already fighting).

My thoughts and prayers go out to this family this evening.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Obsessions

Lately, I am loving my red heart shaped sunglasses, anything with polka dots and the kid size denim jacket I picked up at Goodwill.

I discovered Blogilates on YouTube via Pinterest and have been tackling the various videos. I can't  wait to get home after work to try another one.

The sounds of 100 Mile House have been filling my head at work and home. I enjoy their folk-y vibe.

I can't get enough of the simplicity of pasta tossed in olive oil and vinegar dressing. An easy summer meal to enjoy on the balcony.

I have been hanging out a lot on Instagram and Soundcloud. Super inspired by this world of sharing that we live in. Send me new sounds to listen to and share your photos with me (I'm lowqis)!

Can't get enough furniture and decorating ideas on Pinterest as I count down the last few weeks before Rainman and I are in our new place.

What have you been obsessing over lately?




Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Anniversary

Rainman and I were discussing one day awhile ago about when our anniversary should be.


The thing with our relationship is that there was no set point or discussion where we stated that we were officially a couple. And so we looked back and pulled a date out of thin air (not really thin air-- it happens to be the date he came out to Blairmore and watched the fireworks with me when we first began to hang out and I knew he was something special. It took another 9 or so months before we started dating). Today is our "anniversary" of being a couple. 


It's been an amazing ride so far. I can honestly say that being with Rainman has changed my life in so many positive ways. He is so caring and does all of these little things to remind me that I am special. From cooking dinner together,  bike rides, photo shoots,  walking the dog, road trips, board games, movie nights, poutine crawls, pranks, picnics, Costco dates, rock hunting, dance parties,  etc. etc. etc. our life together is full of fun, laughter and lots of love.


I am so unbelievably blessed to have Rainman in my life. All of the heartbreak and sadness and struggle from before is what prepared me for this relationship -- prepared to jump in with both feet, ready to leap any hurdles that may come in our path.

Happy anniversary my darling. Here is to 60 more years together.

xoxo
Lala

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Sunday Letters

Dear Rainman, My favorite thing ever is how silly you and I can be ..from our conversations in the car, to playing jokes on each other in the house, to a "serious" game of Mouse Trap. I hope we never lose that aspect of us. I love you. xoxo, Lala

 Dear Mosquitoes, Seriously, 5 of you attack my legs at one time? How is that even fair? It's Guerrila warfare! Why must you adore my sweet blood? There is nothing romantic about your vampire-esque tendacies and revenge is best served in the form of Off! Hope you enjoyed your weekend buffet you little jerks, the kitchen is now closed. GFY, LB 

Dear Girl who's Tumblr I have been reading all afternoon, Although you write about how you feel dorky, lame and super insecure, I think you sound like a really super wicked person who is passionate about music, art and books. Love yourself and don't worry about those people who don't get you. You're 20, in 10 years you will realize that you're awesome and wasted way too much time worried about what every one else was thinking Deep respect, LB


Thursday, July 12, 2012

Putting the Me in Meme - Part 9 aka The end

181. What's the BEST rock band that you have seen live? Hands down, Garbage. Had such a blast dancing and singing along with Dan that night.


182. Could you image being in a situation where you would run from the police? No. 


183. Have you ever been asked for an autograph? No. But imagine the day I sign the inside of a book for someone.


184. What would you change about your living room? I am moving in just a few weeks, which means i am changing the entire thing -- getting rid of my couch and tv stand, working with Rainman to create a really awesome living space. I am super excited!


185. Do you drink out of glass or plastic most of the time at home? Glass. 


186. Last hug? From Michelle. She scored us some swag for a raffle we are going to create to raise money for our Team McAwesome Breakfast Club. 


 187. Have you ever had to make up your mind? Of course. We make decisions every minute of the day and sometimes feel torn. In the end whatever you decide always works out. 


 188. What is on top of your refrigerator? place mats, tea towels, dish clothes, sometimes the cat. 


 189. Did it work out for you in terms of kids? (Meaning how did it work out & are you happy. In other words, from “Have none, wanted none” to “8 kids & 3 grandkids) have none and okay with that. Pretty sure I don't want to have any, but never say never. 


 190. Are you afraid of the dark? No. Except out in the woods when its so dark and there are creepy noises. That's scary for sure! 


 191. What if you had three wishes – what would you wish for? Financial security, a cold beer and three more wishes. 


 192. Do you feel sad often? No. Today I do because of something I discovered earlier this week. But its not sadness for me. 


 193. Have you ever been in lust for an extended period of time? Well sure -- I believe that is called the honeymoon phase of a relationship ;-) 


 194. Do you shower daily? Absolutely. I don't wash my hair every day though. 


 195. Have you ever prank called someone? When I was a kid. And once I called a random number, started talking to these guys who were around my age and we ended up becoming friends, hitting up the pools that summer. The telephone, the original social media. 


 196. If you have a garage, is it cluttered? I don't have a garage, but if I did, it wouldn't be cluttered. A place for everything and everything in its place. 


 197. You are about to die. What do you do with your worldly possessions? I'm about to die. What do I care about worldly possessions? I would spend those moments with people I love and have experiences. 


198. Tell us about the first time that you bought a car. It was just a few years ago. A birthday present for myself. I still barely drive it, but its nice to know its there. 


 199. What is your favorite type of music? I don't have a favorite. I enjoy it all. 


 200. What’s your family like? Convoluted.

Dear me

I am not responsible for other people's actions. No matter if I had not been in the spot I was at the time I was, the future always unfolds the way it is supposed to. And there is no way that someone's journey down what I deem a negative pathway is any reflection of my actions. It is not something I would ever choose to do and it fills me with sadness that this was chosen as I feel it is a very limiting path. There does not seem to be pride in this decision and it leads to a double lifestyle. As well as it seems like it makes for a hard journey to get out, but it wasn't my decision, nor is it my fault that this happened. So dear conscience, please let it go and stop feeling sad about this person's future.

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Putting the Me in Meme - part 8

141. What's the difference between Stealing and other memes that you do? Not much, except that Stealing has a one stop shop for me to grab memes from.

 142. Best cartoon show ever? Tough one...I love cartoons. I guess Simpsons or Family Guy should be up there as I watch that no matter what, even if I have watched an episode already.

 143. Does it matter to you if your significant other smokes? No. I like it better now that he doesn't, but don't mind so much that he did. We all have vices (plus I smoked too)

 144. Do you ever use your full name? yes. And Rainman is in this habit now of calling me Laura Marie.

 145. Do you get annoyed easily? It really depends on my mood.

 146. Indecent proposal: Would you sleep with an attractive billionaire for millions of $? I would never sleep with anyone for money. The idea saddens me that someone would even consider that. You shouldn't make a quick dollar off of your body, you may as well sell ad space and get logo tattoos. At least you wouldn't have to worry about consequences of STIs.

 147. Where do you draw the line? When something could damage my reputation.

 148. Have you ever been on a road trip? Absolutely! One of the best ways to vacation. I have done road trips through the states, all over Newfoundland, in Latvia, from Ontario to BC, and of course all over Alberta. Its a great way to get to know the place you are in and your fellow passengers (or yourself if you choose to travel alone). 

149. What’s your favorite drink? Alcoholic: Draught Beer, Non-Alcoholic: Chocolate Milk

 150. Which is better, amazing eyes or an amazing smile? Why? Tough question. I would say smile though. Eyes are always pretty and different. I need your teeth to be straight and clean. Sorry. I'm shallow.

 151. What was your first thought this morning? I woke up next to Rainman. I wanted to call in sick and spend the day in the sun with him :)

 152. Have you ever wanted to go to sleep and not wake up? Not lately, but in the past. We all have dark moments.

 153. Would you try to take over the world? No. Too much pressure.

 154. What is the most romantic thing someone of the preferred sex has done for you? Rainman came to my house at 6 a.m. before he had to go to work on the coldest day of the year to scrape the ice from my car's windshield. I wasn't expecting it. He has also left me cute little notes stating his adoration for me. I really am very lucky.

 155. Have you ever been asked to do something disgusting? Yes. Dan and I used to play this game in jr. high and high school (who am I kidding, we still play) where we dare each other to do gross things all of the time for a quarter. Neither of us have ever agreed to do it.

 156. How much cash do you have right now? I have just over $50 on me.

 157. Tell us something totally random about yourself. I love huge rings to wear on my index finger.

 158. What really turns you off? When people blame their bad choices/bad luck on every one else but themselves. Take ownership in your life. And make choices that you can be proud of. I dated a guy who felt life had dealt him a bad hand, so he continued to do the same stupid things blaming his circumstances on everyone else. He was a loser, because he chose to be. No bad feelings leaving that guy!

 159. Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity? I get told I look like Jodie Foster.

 160. You’re having a bad day. Who do you want to talk to? Rainman.

 161. Have you ever studied the Bible? Yes. I went to Catholic school. Right now I am reading Lamb, the gospel according to Biff, Jesus's childhood friend. It is so funny because you begin to look at all of those stories from another perspective. I highly recommend.

 162. What really turns you off? Didn't we cover this in question 158?

 163. What's a goal that you'd like to achieve? Completing my English degree. Just to hang it on the wall, remembering the blood, sweat and tears I put into it. And the thousands of dollars for that piece of paper. 

164. Name one celebrity you hate, and why. Nothing comes to mind.

 165. What’s your favorite store? Shoe stores. Followed closely by book stores.

 166. What's one goal you’d like to achieve this year? Finishing my Extension Certificate in Social Media for Business.

 167. What's the first thing you notice about your preferred sex? His smile.

 168. Who is your oldest friend? How long have you known them? Dan. We have been friends for 20 years.

169. Do you like photography? Yes. And Rainman has bought a fancy camera to try his hand at this hobby. I get to model. Fun!

 170. Pain or no gain? Agree. And not just pain in the physical sense but also the mental and emotional anguish of having to sacrifice to meet your goals (thus gaining).

 171. What's something people say that you generally find annoying? When people don't listen and then ask right away about something I just told them.

 172. How often do you change your myspace/facebook/etc profile? Probably two often. I like pictures of me and my friends, and me and my boyfriend so constantly updating that profile pic.

 173. Do you ever cook? I love cooking. I like to play Chopped using random ingredients from my deep freeze and pantry hoping for the best. 

174. Have you ever been on a boat? Yes. With my flippy floppies.

 175. What do you do most when you’re bored? Surf the Internet. Fill out memes.

 176. What is your favorite musical instrument? The piano, followed by the violin.

 177. What’s your phone ringtone? I have no idea, my phone has been on vibrate since I bought it.

 178. Have you ever been in a movie? (Either amateur of professional.) Nope.

 179. Describe your life currently in five words. Full of love and laughter.

 180. Where did you last fly to and why? Jamaica. For Jenn's wedding. My first tropical vacation and I loved it.

Putting the Me in Meme - part 7

121. Have you gone rock climbing? If not, would you? No. I am not a fan of heights and I believe scaling a wall looking for little rocks that jut out, qualifies as heights that would terrify me.

 122. Do you believe in forever love in a romantic relationship? Absolutely. But you hvae to grow together as individuals to make it work. Dependency is not sexy and does not equate love.

 123. As a kid did you ever sneak anyone into your house? No. My parents wouldn't have noticed even if I had. 5 kids, cousins and friends were always around so what would be one more kid?

 124. Do you personally know anyone homeless? Yes I do. And because of that personal connection, I get that homeless people are still people and don't deserve to be ignored or looked at with disdain. No one ever said that they wanted to be homeless when they grew up. Life happens, choices are made that lead people on paths into circumstances that are difficult to get out of. They still deserve food, a friendly smile and even a beer like you and I do.

 125. Do you believe in aliens? It would be ridiculous to think that we are the only parasite in this Universe. 

126. Have you ever killed someone? No. And even if I had, it would be a weird platform to admit this on. 

127. What would it take for you to sell your soul to a devil? I think he already owns it.

 128. Top or bottom? Wouldn't you like to know.

 129. Are you happy with your career? I have a job right now as I try to figure out my next career move and the direction I should take.

 130. What's your favorite store to buy clothes? Why? Secondhand shops. I get brand name clothing at a fraction of the cost, I only buy pieces that I absolutely love and look right on my body, and I don't look like everyone else.

 131. What is your eye color? They're kind of hard to describe -- they are really pale and icy blue, with green around the outer edge and brown around the iris. I have been told my entire life that I have the strangest eyes, the coolest eyes, the prettiest eyes, husky eyes, the kind of eyes that stare right through you. My paternal grandmother passed these eyes down to my father who in turn passed them on to me. The downfall of deciding not to have kids means that these eyes won't be passed on.

 132. Watching or playing sports? playing. It's way more fun to participate in life then to watch it.

 133. Would you have plastic surgery? No. Firstly, I like me. Secondly, if something were to happen you may end up with something worse then what you have. Why risk it?

 134. Name one website that you visit daily. Why do you read it? twitter. I like being caught up on what's going on in my city, with my friends, in the world and all of those other tidbits.

 135. Are you going on vacation this year? If so, where? I don't think this year, but maybe we'll go somewhere tropical around Christmas.

 136. How do you align yourself politically? Financially conservative, socially liberal.

 137. Do you have any pets? I do. My cat Oryx, my dog Molly and I have recently adopted Rainman's cat Kitty.

 138. Do you believe in soul mates? No. I think there are a lot of people in this world and there is a chance to be in a meaningful relationship with anyone if you are in a place where you can be mature and allow the other person room to grow, while allowing yourself to grow, you will be 2 whole people sharing a life together. And that is what love is about.

 139. What’s one trait that you hate about yourself? I can find out anything about anyone on the Internet. Just a few details about you (your screen name, your phone number, an email address) and it opens a porthole that I can follow. If it's online, it for people to find. I hate this because I often find things out about people that I wish I didn't know or about people my friends know that i don't know how to tell them. It did work in my favour when I found Rainman's online dating account before we started dating. I used it to plan perfect dates ;-

Monday, July 9, 2012

putting the Me in Meme - part 6

101. Name 4 things you always have with you. my phone, my ID, my bank card, lip gloss

 102. How many SERIOUS exes do you have? 3

 103. What causes you to you admire people? When they selflessly give back to society because they want to be the change they wish to see in the world.

 104. Do you like sports? Yes. Playing more than watching, but feel inspired by watching athletes who are amazing at their craft.

 105. Would you have sex after marriage? Why or why not? Too late for this question! And its because its a personal choice that isn't about a piece of paper, but the maturity you have and how you will handle any of the consequences that could come from it.

 106. What is your favorite male name? Jasyk - I believe it's Polish. my brother's friend's name and I have adored it ever since. Also a fan of Jaxon. This may explain why I am dating a Jason.

 107. Do animals go to Heaven? Why not? It's your heaven, do you want animals there?

 108. Last time you had a great time with your dad? We went out to his place a couple of week's ago. We all sat around the fire and had some great laughs.

 109. What is your favorite hair style? That wavy look of beach hair.

 110. Do you like your name? Yes. I think it's very pretty.

 111. When was the last time that you quit your job? 5 years ago.

 112. When you wake up, what is the first thing you think? I think about what i am going to wear that day, what my plans are and what happened on Twitter to catch up on world news.

 113. Have you ever pulled an all-niter? Sure have.

 114. What is the perfect day for you? Wake up and enjoy coffee and breakfast on my garden patio while reading. Meet some girlfriends for lunch and check out a gallery/art exhibit in the afternoon. Some shoe shopping and then meet my husband for a leisurely dinner and drinks on our balcony, watching the sunset. 

115. Last time you cleaned the bathroom? last week.

 116. Have you ever failed a grade? Why? no. I have failed courses in college though. mostly because I slacked off and made unimportant things priorities.

 117. Have you met anyone online? Lots of people.

 118. Have you ever smoked? yes.

 119. Do you like celebrities? I am thankful for the entertainment they provide in movies and music. But I don't really know a celebrity to say if I liked one or not. I am sure most are fantastic people

 120. Do you like traveling? I love travelling. I wish I could spend a year travelling.

Putting the Me in Meme - part 5

81. What’s your favorite action movie? The Star Wars trilogy

 82. Have (or are) you ever been involved someone much older than you? Rainman is 5 years older than me. Not a huge deal now, but when he tells me stories of his bar days, I was in jr. high. I love teasing him about this.

 83. Do you believe in lust at first sight? absolutely.

 84. Favorite type of venomous snake? the asp that killed Cleopatra (this is only because it was the first snake that popped into my head)

 85. Do you drink alcohol? Yes. maybe too much.

 86. If you wanted to talk to someone who'd lift your spirits, who'd you call? Rainman, my mom, Dan, ghostbusters.

 87. What do you wear to feel sexy? matching underthings :)

 88. Do you like to learn? I sure do. And I believe you can learn something from every one you meet. Keep an open mind and watch it grow.

 89. Have you ever been hit on by someone who really overestimated their attractiveness? You know, one time I felt this way at a night club and turned the guy down when he wanted to dance. And my friend ended up hooking up with his friend. So we went back to their place for drinks after and the guy that hit on me and I stayed up all night watching tv and talking. He turned out to be super funny and really smart and by the end of the night I found him incredibly attractive. Never judge a book by its cover was the lesson I learned that night.

 90. Where did you last go on vacation? Jamaica. It feels so long ago, I desperately want to jump on a plane.

91. Dallas (as in J.R. & Bobby) returns this week. What film or TV series would you loved to be resurrected? None. Has humanity lost its creativity that we have to consistently and constantly remake hit shows that have nothing to do with our generation? Stop living in the past, filled with nostalgia and look to the future and what can be created.


 92. Explain your karma beliefs. I think that those who so often state that "what goes around, comes around" and worry about other people's karma are those that should be worried about their own. If you look after your own life, you shouldn't be worried about what does and doesn't happen to other people's. 


 93. When do you think that you have a hard life? I had a tumultuous childhood. Lots of drama. But the thing is, I thought it was normal until my friends looked at me in disbelief when they heard about all of the drama. I have also found as an adult, its best to date someone that has a bit of crazy home life too. That way you're both just used to drama consistently showing up. 


 94. Favorite comic strip? Archie. I love the gang from Riverdale. 


 95. Have you ever broken a heart? Probably. 


 96. Should pot be legalized? I suppose if you must smoke it, who am I to judge. But then maybe you should ask yourself why you must smoke it. 


 97. Have you ever gone skinny dipping with someone that you shouldn't have? I have never gone skinny dipping. 


 98. What do you do when you're down? Have a good cry, enjoy a bottle of wine in the bubble bath and watch cheesy 80s movies. But seriously, a little meltdown usually takes care of everything (and I am so thankful that Rainman has witnessed a couple of meltdowns and just let me have them). 


 99. Last time you were really angry? Last week. 


 100. What is your favorite flavor in general? vanilla.

Putting the Me in Meme - part 4

61. Ocean or pool? The ocean. I like the way the waves rock me, I don't mind the idea of swimming alongside wild things or with seaweed, and I find it much more calming than the pool. That said, beggers can't be choosers and I'll settle for a pool too.

 62. Fridays or Ruby Tuesdays? I have never eaten at either of these establishments.

 63. Did you want to go to college? yes. and I don't seem to want to leave it either.

 64. What did you last time at a mall? I feel like a word is missing. I will assume do and the answer is, helped Rainman pick out a new camera bag for his camera. It appears I am dating a photographer. This one likes to take my picture :)

 65. Which close friend have you known the longest? Dan Parker. We have been friends since the 5th grade, 20 years ago.

 66. Why do you like the music you do? I am pretty open to music and don't like any particluar sound. I like things that are fresh as well as classics. I enjoy opera while driving and death metal while cleaning. I once wanted to be a gangsta rapper, but growing up in upper middle class suburbia took away some of my raw angst (still appreciate it though!). Neil Young is a favorite and so is Madonna. I can enjoy bubble gum pop while on my way to a blues jam. I think its all pretty rad.

 67. Do you read much? There is no such thing as reading too much. Grow your mind and kill your tv.

 68. Favorite country? I think my country (Canada) is pretty amazing. There's no place like home.

 69. What is something you wish you were better at? Speaking up with confidence when I have ideas in brainstorming sessions and not worrying that others will think I am silly or stupid.

 70. What’s your favorite album/CD? Dr. Dre's 2001. I know every word to this album and 10 years later, still blast it! 

71. What's a good dinner order? Anything "Mexican" is pretty awesome -tacos, nachos, fajitas

 72. Planes or boats? If I absolutely had to choose, boats. I am not a fan of confinement, but get through plane rides via imagining the place i am going to. I absolutely love being on a boat, feeling the wind whip my hair around, the smell of water, the rocking motion as you hit the waves (and I love that boat people wave to each other!)

 73. One rumor that’s been spread about you: I have no idea. I don't really pay attention to rumours and the people I have as friends wouldn't spread rumours about me. Someone who once stalked my blog told Rainman I was a crazy psycho...but, meh! He knew I wasn't and that person isn't really around anymore.

 74. Who is your newest friend? I have no idea...

 75. Have you ever sat on a rooftop? Yes. Rooftop patios, the old roof of my dad's shed to read, the roof of a high rise downtown to look at the stars with my friends.

 76. Was your last text useful? Not really. Mindless chatter with Rainman about his day.

 77. Favorite soda? coca cola. followed by cream soda.

 78. Do you like yourself? I think I am pretty awesome. There are things i could improve, learn from and evolve. But overall my life is fantastic, my friends are fabulous and my adventures are fun. All reflections of who I am as a person.

 79. The worst weather: Hot or cold? Cold. Bring on the heat!

 80. Do you play an instrument? I can play a song on piano, I know how to play the recorder and a bit of the ukulele from jr. high music classes, and I rock at air guitar!

Friday, July 6, 2012

Putting the Me in Meme - part 3

41. Growing up, who was the easier mark: Mom or Dad? My parents were divorced. As much as having a broken family sucked, there were definite perks. Christmas comes to mind as well as always being able to ask for something twice. 


 42. What is the stupidest pet that you ever saw? A pet rock. And the thing that was stupid about it is that people paid money for this ridiculousness.


 43. Tell us about a band whose every CD is a “must have”. So far i haven't been disappointed in The Gorillaz or Radiohead. 


 44. Where you surprised when Jim Parsons came out? Not particularly. I don't have "gaydar" but even I picked up on this one.


 45. Have you ever shoplifted? No. 


 46. We currently have a person who plays both this meme and Saturday 9 who signs in to Mr. Linky every week. Yet, if you click on that link, you are told that only “members” can read the blog. Why do you think that person even bothers to sign in or for that matter, do the meme? (Don't misunderstand, we have no rules and we aren't angry. But it is damn peculiar, no?)For real? Why do I care? 


 47. Have you ever driven a Ferrari? No.


 48. What do you call those little plastic things on the ends of shoelaces? Lace ends? I haven't actually ever thought about this. So I Googled and they are called aglets.


 49. Have you ever walked more than a mile? yes. I enjoy running and the most i have run so far is 8 miles. Working on getting up to that 13 mark for my half marathon. 


 50. Do you believe in magic? Kind of. Everything can be explained, but the mystery and the fascination is magical. 


 51. Have you ever been arrested? No. 


 52. Have you ever skinny dipped? No. 


 53. Explain what you think about hippies. They were the hipsters of the 60s. 


 54. New York or California? New York. 


 55. Have you ever been dumped? Absolutely. It hurts, but makes you stronger. And with each break up, you learn more about what actual love really is. 


 56. What are you wearing right now? It's stampede so i am rocking the plaid button-up, jeans, cowboy boots and a straw fedora. 


 57. John Edwards had a mistrial. How do you think he conducted himself after the verdict? Who is John Edwards?


 58. Did you watch the series finale of House? No. My brother is into the hospital shows. I'm not. 


 59. You may need to go back a long way if you are old like Harriet. Who was the last person who asked you out? (Or that asked you out. Same dumb question either way.) Dating my boyfriend, we often still go on dates -- does that count? 


 60. Do you have any collections? I collect Dr. Seuss books, butterfly things, wine stoppers and McDonald Stir Sticks from around the world

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Putting the Me in Meme - Part 2

21. Have you felt that life is like being on a roller coaster? Yes. Not lately, but the last relationship I was in was forever on a roller coaster.

 22. Favorite year so far? 2012 has been pretty fantastic. Different committees I sit on have allowed me to shine in my abilities for planning and organization. The courses I have taken already toward the SM extension certificate have been incredibly enlightening. I am really enjoying this running thing. The boy has taken me to look at forever jewelry. Overall I just feel really excited about where life is going now that I have taken back the reins.

 23. Do you consider yourself religious? I am Catholic, but not practicing. I am more so spiritual I think. I often give shout outs to God and Jesus in my head, but don't really bring it up in conversation.

 24. How do you dress to impress? Dress for the occasion and the people you imagine meeting. Never be afraid to be part of the theme. And like Oscar Wilde said, a lady can never be over educated or overdressed.

 25. Have you ever been to Connecticut?I have just driven through when I went from Boston to NYC.

 26. Do you eat sushi? Love me some sushi!

 27. Would you smoke pot providing there was no risk or driving involved? Not anymore. I dabbled as a teen and have grown out of it. The times I have smoked as an adult, I felt ridiculous and immature.

 28. What do you think of Idol Winner Phillip Phillips?? Why all of these Idol questions??

 29. Do you believe that animals have souls? Why not? We are all made from the same chemical elements, but in just small percentiles of differences. There's a good chance that animals look at humans the same way we look at them.

 30. Who did you last talk to? Share, if you dare. Co-workers about work stuff.

 31. What is one thing that always annoys you? people who are perpetually late. We all have the same amount of hours in a day, if I can be on time, so can you. It's called being respectful.

 32. Do you believe in a higher being? Yes.

 33. Have you ever fallen in love with a neighbor? Not in love. It was more of a rebound thing.

 34. Any plans for this weekend? Just some more packing, putting more items on kijiji, running and maybe a bike ride with Rainman too.

 35. Would you like to rule your country, if you could? No. Because people will always want someone to blame for the downfalls in society and that lands on the person in charge EVEN if that person is doing the best to his or her ability.

 36. Do you like watching films about the nature of animals? Yes. National Geographic Channel is spectacular.

 37. What's the difference between lust and/or lust? nothing. I think there was a typo in this question. If it's about the difference between lust and love it is that lust is the physical feelings one has for another. It can lead into love over time. Love is the emotional and mature interdependent connection a person has for another human being and allows both to grow, evolve and develop without dependency and fear.

 38. Do you have a soul? yes.

 39. One best friend or many good friends? Both.

 40. Do you believe in spontaneous combustion? Yes...but don't think that it is spontaneous, so much that it's little things that are happening over time and lead to this big bang that seems so out of the blue.These little things that can't be observed or seem meaningless and just keep adding up.

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Putting the Me in Meme - part 1


1. Have you ever peed your pants as an adult? No. There have been times when I was laughing so hard there was a worry my bladder would explode though.
2. Who do you have a celebrity crush on now? I don't really have a celebrity crush. Lately I have been falling more in love with authors seducing me with their command of language.
3. Would you date someone you met online? I meet lots of people online that become in real life friends. If I was single and looking, sure. That said, I wouldn't sign up for a dating site. I would rather meet someone through conversation on a forum and see where it went.
4. Do you wear underwear always? Why do you ask this?
5. Do you hate yourself at times? We all hate ourselves at times.Its those parts we hate that we learn the most about ourselves and if we chose to change and grow, then we evolve.
7. Do you like dirty movies? This really depends on the budget involved.
8. Could you believe Josha Ledet was voted off Idol? I don't even know who this kid is. I haven't watched idol since season 1 and even then it was sporadic veiwing at best.
9. When was the last time that you bought a car? April 2010. Happy birthday to me :)
10. Have you ever been camping? Yes. So not a fan of this thing called camping. 
11. How many times a day do you go on facebook? I don't even know. Not as much as I once did, but still enough that its a habitual part of my life.
12. What was the last movie you saw in a theater? The Avengers
13. Have you ever worried that you'd cut off a limb? No.
14. Where did you get your last email from? A nutritionist that I am working with to put on a lunch 'n learn for EWIN
15. Favorite website? Lately, it's been pinterest. Followed by tumblr.
16. Are you down with ghetto? I think ghetto-chic is a cute look, but I don't think anyone is down with ghetto. Even those living in the poverty of the ghetto want to get out. Lets work together to create programs to help people achieve this.
17. Will the world end in fire or ice? Fire.
18. Do you believe in the afterlife? Yes. Not so much that I will be hanging out in heaven with my friends and family and Jesus, but more so that the chemical elements that make up my being will be redistributed to create something else. The circle of life.
19. Would you be upset if facebook stopped working? Not really. There are other platforms to connect with socially online.
20. How did you start your blog? One winter night while hanging in a hotel in Lethbridge. I had no theme, no idea of where I wanted it to go, just that the feeling that I should have a blog. I think I still have the same core readers.

Monday, July 2, 2012

Quarter 3 Goals

I feel I was fairly successful in meeting my quarter 2 goals and ready to break down the next three months to continue creating a wicked life!

HEALTHY
  • Run the Harvest Half Marathon in September. Follow training schedule for July, August and September to ensure that I am prepared for this at my best capability
  • choose fruits and vegetables for snacks over junk food. Implement this as a rule with Rainman
  • cut down on amount of alcohol consumed on weekends (work on social drinking opposed to party drinking)

WEALTHY
  • sell furniture and other household goods that I don't need and put that money towards debt (goal is $500)
  • Aim for at least 30 no-spend days. This includes entertainment, food, drinks, paying bills, anything that would involve money leaving my pocket.
  • look at options with Rainmen to reduce bills in our new place. Negotiate with the services we require to find best deal.

WISE
  • Read 3 business orientated books - anything that will help me be where I want to be in the next 5 years, a focus on marketing, social media, communications
  • attend 2 networking events to introduce me to people in the field I am looking to break into  Attended the introduction session to joining Womentum where I discussed with the CEO of Womentum brain storming ideas to engage the members of the women's network I sit on the committee of.   I also attended a  Blogger Meetup that had a presentation Vlogging. I met a wedding videographer (not quite the field I am looking into, but could come in handy!).
  • attend the Toastmasters introduction. Inquire into process for signing up as well as the commitments to completing the course.