bella's box.

Obviously I don't post anything here...

2009-12-29T19:31:00.001-07:00

... but lots is happening over here. Check out my new blog.

My new boyfriend...

2009-10-07T19:50:00.002-06:00

My wonderful friends Layne and Jessica welcomed William Logan into the world early Sunday morning. He is so wonderful that the first time I saw his picture, I broke into tears.

Congrats you two - he is the best thing in the world.

Have you tried this?

2009-09-17T18:16:00.002-06:00

Twisted Tea. Um. Totally yummy.

Grow your own food.

2009-09-15T19:56:00.003-06:00

So I'm chillin' in the bar in Whitefish, minding my own business, drinking my Malibu and pineapple and eating my chicken fingers and fries when a guy says to me, "so, you have your own garden? what do you grow?" Um. Excuse me?

Those who know me know I'm a lover of the organic, whole grain, wild food. I have been for a while. While I can't always afford to be a full-out practicer of it, I like to support it. One of the reasons I purchased this tshirt...

Now, I did it because I honestly needed some more tshirts and well... the message is kinda cool. Well. Didn't think someone would actually question whether or not I was actually a gardener...

Riding 'bitch' from here to there and back again.

2009-09-15T19:23:00.003-06:00

The man and I took a trip on the motorcycle down to Whitefish, Montana. It wasn't all awesome... my bum became number than numb while traveling the Going to the Sun Highway, I thought I couldn't sit any longer, I couldn't chew anymore bugs, couldn't take any more rocks and couldn't handle the sound of the bike anymore. But I did... and it wasn't all bad. The fresh air was nice, the scenery was gorgeous and the reassurance from my boyfriend by squeezing my leg was definitely worth it.

If you haven't seen this gem...

2009-09-01T15:52:00.001-06:00

... you should do yourself a favour and watch it.

I cried numerous times, laughed more times, sang along to the songs and sat in awe of the scenery. Who knew Canada was so gosh darn pretty?

My new fun find.

2009-08-27T11:10:00.001-06:00

How much fun are these cake toppers? Seriously!? I found them on Bakerella's Blog... but you can buy them at Etsy at the Lollipop Workshop. I like the little bride and groom...

I always knew there was some purpose for those damn hooker shoes...

2009-08-25T10:16:00.001-06:00

.. and you can buy it from Etsy.

Happy Birthday Beautiful Mom.

2009-08-25T01:00:00.000-06:00

Check out me! I'm super cool and famous... and a total geek.

2009-08-13T09:35:00.000-06:00

Sole-comfort, part deux.

2009-08-09T16:03:00.002-06:00

As my good friends and family know, these flip-flops have been a bit of an eyesore for many many years now. I purchased them in Kimberley back when I was living down there and I have had them and worn them every summer since. As I wrote last year about them, there was something about them I just couldn't let go of. Whether it was they perfect way they conformed to my feet, the story behind purchasing them or the fact that if I actually put them out of their misery and threw them out, a part of my life would also be thrown out with them.

Well. More people have started chirping up about them lately and I finally decided to take the plunge and purchase a new pair of sandals. They are a far cry from the $17 flip flops that have lasted me the last 8 years but at least I know these new ones will carry me threw at least the next 8 years.

Keeping it earthy, elegant and magical. Just have to make sure he agrees...

2009-08-05T14:40:00.004-06:00

As of right now, I have decided that I would like a midsummer night's dream themed wedding. Paige, over at Bash Eco Events put together a stunning array of items to compliment this fantasy and ethereal theme.

And no, I'm not engaged but planning for your wedding is like planning your retirement so really - no better time than now to start thinking!

People are random.

2009-08-05T13:00:00.002-06:00

This website just solidifies it.

Avoid This Job.

And then I found the delicousness that is wine.

2009-08-04T21:31:00.009-06:00

The first time I ever got drunk off wine it was a nasty, horrible and very regrettable experience. We had purchased 2 bottles of Mission Hill Merlot, sat on the couch watching a movie and ate air-popped popcorn. The wine was the most delicious thing that had ever touched my lips. I was instantly head over heels in love... with a $9 bottle of wine. This couldn't have got any better.

Oh but it did. The wine went down real smooth... a little too smooth in fact. Actually, so smooth we devoured both bottles in less than 1 hour. Do you know what a bottle of wine does to your relatively empty stomach in less than an hour? Oh I do. It was an evening of sleeping on the cold bathroom floor, hugging the cold cold porcelain.

Needless to say, I didn't have much of a taste for wine after that. And especially not much of a taste for Mission Hill or Merlot.

It took a good year or two before I dabbled in the wine again and since then, I've been delighted with the numerous wines I have found.

This past long weekend was a fantastic time for us to dabble in even more wine that we are growing to love more and more with every glass.

We had a plan to go to Kelowna and check out some vineyards but didn't know which ones to go to. I had really wanted to go to See Ya Later Ranch (as it's my fave fave FAVE as of late) but it was in Okanagan Falls which is a solid hour and a bit from Kelowna. And after being in the car for over two and a half hours already en route from Revelstoke, I didn't think it would be a great idea. So the posse went to Mission Hill instead... cute.

We had a tasting and looked for a seat on their patio restaurant but were told "all the food is spoken for... you will need to find somewhere else..." Okkkk. So then they suggested See Ya Later Ranch. Susie, oh sweet dear Susie, suggested this in fact. After asking how long of a drive it was, she said "oh only 35 minutes from here". 35 minutes? Fuckin' eh. And before we knew it - we were in the car and looking forward to being at our destination in 35 minutes. Well... 35 minutes turned to 45 minutes, 45 minutes turned to an hour... and an hour turned to an hour and 20 minutes when we finally saw the sign. Oh the sweet sweet sign.

We parked the car and bolted inside to the air conditioned tasting lounge. I was so excited to be there, I can't even begin to explain this to you. This is my new fave wine over the past year. (Side note... Ping retails for $42 in Alberta liquor stores, $27 in BC liquor stores and $30 at See Ya Later Ranch).

After a delicious tasting of their whites and both reds (Ping and Rover - both names of the Ranch's dogs who have passed on) we were out to finally have some food. Ok, so it was only cheese and grilled vegetables, but it was at See Ya Later Ranch and I couldn't be happier.

And I was with my man so it was of course, a perfect day.

I would like you to pay attention to the planned temperature on Sunday...

2009-07-27T10:43:00.001-06:00

Weather Forecast: Revelstoke, British Columbia - The Weather Network

Thank God for hot vacations.

Lesson learned.

2009-07-27T10:15:00.004-06:00

When I was moving out of the apartment I thought I needed to do an extreme purge of things I don't use or things I haven't used in quite some time. Such as, purses.

Now, being a girl I should have automatically known better than to get rid of my purses because right now I only have one, whereas before I had about 6. Stupid Megan...

I ended up selling my 4 Matt & Nat purses on Kijiji for the low low price of roughly $30 each. I thought it was great that I was getting rid of them - more room for something else in my closet...

Well shit. I went into one of the accessory stores in Southcentre mall last week and come across a wall of bags that looked awfully familiar. After picking one up, the sales girl came over and asked me if I had heard of the new Samsara line:

Me: "Not at all... they look very Matt & Natish though"

Salesgirl: "In fact, Matt and Nat have started a new line called Samsara which will be the same price range as the old Matt & Nat purses were. They have moved the Matt & Nat line to a more higher-end label now, retailing for about $350 and up".

Me: "...... I just got rid of all my purses for like, $30 each. Are you kidding me?"

Salesgirl: "Ooooh..."

And just like that, I left - absolutely pissed off that I got rid of my purses. Seriously, how would I have known? I guess I should have just not been so stupid as to getting rid of my purses.

This is just awesome.

2009-07-24T11:49:00.001-06:00

Le lazy.

2009-07-23T19:11:00.003-06:00

Nothing worse than sitting on the couch, contemplating a bowl of vanilla ice cream, drinking a smirnoff ice and watching the Last 10 Pounds Bootcamp on tv. Sigh.

Not the key to getting rid of my dimply ass.

Got the word and the word is good.

2009-07-22T17:11:00.003-06:00

And I'm glad, don't get me wrong. I don't think I would have handled bad news very well. Although... hearing today that the lump is benign was a little anticlimactic.

I mean, I'm glad it's nothing but at the same time - the past 2 months have been a little stressful and I've been a little worried and then I had the pain and the bruise to contend with and for what? Bah.

An appointment has been booked for February 10 2010 and they'll do another ultrasound and see how things are shakin'. But until then, I'll have a lump of tissue that will take about 3 - 4 months to disappear. Hot.

After-the-second-glass-of-wine thought...

2009-07-15T22:49:00.002-06:00

A year ago today I made an incredibly hard and emotionally difficult decision.

A year later?

Thank fuck.

And then this happened...

2009-07-15T20:53:00.005-06:00

Maybe the fact that mom just had her breast removed after being diagnosed with breast cancer triggered the extra concern with the beanlike growth which had "concerning characteristics". Needless to say, I was booked with the promise of a biopsy. Sigh...

Leading up to the procedure, I won't lie - I was nervous. Cried a couple times only to be consoled by O. But then things got in the way and I began thinking of other things and I completely forgot about the impending gig at the hospital. Alas, the day was upon me and I suddenly thought - shit. But mom said it was easy so it would be, right?

Mom came to pick me up with a dozen of her famous blueberry muffins in hand. Still, not even thinking much about the impending procedure, we jetted off to the Women's Clinic at the Foothills Hospital, 15 minutes earlier than we needed to be there. But alas, they were ready for me and threw me right into a gown and onto a table, but not before telling me I can't lift a vacuum for at least a week. Ha! No problemo...

Lying on the table with my arm bent so I was touching the back of my head, I couldn't help but look at the 3 screens which showed the little bean lodged in my boob with the "concerning characteristics". The nurses were genuine and friendly, a rarity in the health care system. The room was stark and clinical - not an inviting place in the slightest. The tray with the needles and gauze? Even less inviting.

"How many of these do you do a day?" I asked, now exceptionally nervous.

"Usually 5, but today the doctor is going for a record of 11", explained the nurse.

And just like that, the doctor came in, moved my breast for better access, filled it with freezing and in went the needle that made the clicking sound... over and over and over and over. And each time it clicked, I jumped. And 3 minutes later, I was told to sit up and put my arm back through my gown and get changed. No time for small talk that's for sure.

And then I was on my own and in true Megan fashion, I burst out in tears wondering what the fuck just happened. The right side of my body was numb and instead of the procedure taking an hour and a half like I was promised it would, it took no less than 35 minutes. I walked back out to the waiting room to meet an even more surprised mom and like that, we were off.

Not only was the experience weird, it was - I don't even have words to describe it. I was knocked on my ass. It hurt, it was emotional, and I have this goddamn bruise that is so ugly to look at.

To me, the bruise is a reminder that I still have to find out what the bean is.

** And yes, I realize I just posted my boob on the internet. And to note, this is my boob a week after the biopsy.

Calgary Stampede. Day 9?

2009-07-04T12:33:00.005-06:00

At the end of the day yesterday, I was far too busy to even consider discussing the Stampede. In fact, I fell asleep the minute I got home and took the ol' boots off. These shit-kickers are going to be the death of me.

And so today, another day, another bag of mini-donuts. Well, actually - I had one yesterday. Just one. I can't even consider the thought of pounding back an entire bag of those little pieces of heaven.

Notes from the second day:

This park is huge. You can't tell a client "I'll be there in a minute!" because it will take 12.
Make sure you read the person's name tag before you a-line it for them, call them something different and introduce yourself.
My feet loathe being attached to my body. I'm up for a foot massage, any givers?
Pocket Dawgs are somethin' else, you know? Ever had one? I didn't think so... it's a baguette with a hole cut through the middle of it - a hole just big enough for a hot dog wiener. But before you shove the wiener in there, you put the condiments in first. For example, I get ketchup and mustard. Others might have onions, cheese and bacon. After the hole is filled with condimenty goodness you shove the wiener in there to - voila - make the almighty Pocket Dawg. That whole process sounds rather dirty, no?
Ice is the hottest commodity on the park.
The Breyers Ice Cream shoppe is back up and running in Weadickville. Not only will they serve you a whole heaping-full of ice cream for a low price, they also have amazing an Cookies n' Cream flavour. Yes, I am lactose-intolerant and yes, it is rather uncomfortable 7 minutes after consuming but it's worth every stomach-ache.
Today is day 2 bit it seems like day 8...
Looking for cheap-booze? Try the south end of the Range where they sell the Pretzels. Vex is only $6.50 whereas it's $7.75 on the tarmac...
Coca-Cola tastes better from a glass bottle.

Happy Stampeding.

This time last year: Calgary Stampede. Day 2. 9 Days to go and Stampede Log: Good morning my little Chicadees

Calgary Stampede. Day 1.

2009-07-02T19:44:00.003-06:00

Who would have thunk it? Another Stampede in what seems like only a month or so since the last one. The past week on the grounds has been a long week. It's taken soooo long to get to this point. Finally. Sneak-a-peak.

It's pretty incredible to see the grounds transformed into a full out midway from it's usual state of a couple thousand parking spots.

So, in my second year edition of 'stories from the grounds', this is day one:

After 2 years of the same ol' tired boots (bought from Winners 3 years ago - I really can't complain) I finally had to take them to "Bob's Shoe Repair" located on 14th Street SW. Well, I needed the heels of these boots repaired on the ASAP and well I was hoping Bob could do the trick for me. After walking into his shop, the old dude was less than plussed for me to be asking him for a quick turnaround. In fact, he almost ushered me out the door. But, he said "because you good girl I do these in one week. See these other shoes? They be waitin' 3 or 4 weeks!". Rrrrright. I said, no - I need them like, tomorrow at the latest. "OK FINE I do them by Saturday at 3 p.m. 3 P.M." Ok ok Mr. Mean-Shoe-Man. So I left my true tried and faithful boots with the wacky old dude and went on my merry way. He assured me they will only be $16 so we'll see how that one pans out when I pick them up.
New to the Stampede midway this year? Deep fried jelly beans. Be rest assured I will not be trying these.
Also new to the Stampede this year? The Wine Oasis in Hall E. Be rest assured I will be trying this.
I can't even tell you the number of times I walked across park to the tents today. My legs felt like poo when I got home, however, drinking wine makes them feel quite a bit better.
Looking forward to Booster Juice being one of the midway concessions this year. In fact, very excited. Just not all that stoked to see what the price of the juice will cost...
Tonite's secret band in Nashville North? The oh so amazing Sam Roberts. P.S. - have fun in those Nashville lines... and no, I can't get you in.
Weadickville is now open and do you know what that means? BREYER'S ICE CREAM PARLOUR!!!! WOOT WOOT! (this is probably a bad time to start a dairy-wheat-gluten free diet, eh?
Lesson learned? Being really kind and polite to your fellow workers will help you in the long-run. This is essential if you neeed anything at the last minute during the 10 day festival.
Terms I am most excited to bring back? Swass (sweaty-ass), Swoob (sweaty-boobs), swack (sweaty-back) and swajayjay (yep - even your lady bits get sweat).
THE BULL RIDING IS BACK!! WOOT WOOT WOOT!

Super random experience thus far:

While walking to the tents the other day with some of the other coordinators, we walked past one one of the carnies who was clearly having a FANTASTIC DAY. How did we know? A. He was skipping down the main street. B. He was either yelling "I HAVE A DICK!" or "I HAVE A JOB" C. There is no C. Karen says it's the first, Jenn says it's the latter. I was too stunned a man was skipping to hear clearly.

And with that in mind? Happy Stampeding.

This time last year: The Calgary Stampede. Day 1.

I met another super famous person.

2009-06-28T12:26:00.003-06:00

Ok so maybe only Mike would be impressed about this but I met Kristin Chenoweth at the Chinook Centre Chapters last night. Not only is she only like 4 foot nothing, she is she cutest lady I have ever met with the even more adorable southern drawl.

Mike, I told her you loved her in Pushing Daisies and wanted me to tell her that and she immediately started looking around wondering where you were. Awwww. You might have even been taller than her.

My new fave read.

2009-06-28T12:21:00.003-06:00

Although he doesn't update everyday, when he does update he has the most incredible stories to tell. This post? Totally welled up the entire time.

Matt was on the Oprah show a few months back when she profiled super awsome amazing dads. He truly captured me and I've followed his blog ever since.

Happy Birthday O.

2009-06-23T18:52:00.001-06:00

Randoms from today.

2009-06-20T18:54:00.004-06:00

Every time I see the commercial for the movie, My Sisters Keeper, I tear up.
I got gas at the Co-Op gas bar this afternoon and to my surprise, it was a full serve station. Mike, the gas guy, came over to my car and said "I'll be your car's Prince Charming if you open the hood". I thought this was only slightly forward until I realized it was so he could replenish the windshield washer fluid.

So here I am, minding my own business...

2009-06-09T18:35:00.005-06:00

It started as a quasi normal day at work with a quasi normal drive home. Upon coming inside to grab Scrappy and his leash, I also grabbed the mail key so I could retrieve the mail from the superbox.

After a brief struggle opening the box, I grabbed the bills and we continued on our walk. After the dog's quasi normal pee and poo, we went to the big green garbage dumpster situated in the garbage garage so I could throw out the dog's smelly organic matter.

After doing so and beginning the jaunt back to the house, I suddenly realize something: I threw out the mail key with the dog poo.

Oh shit.

I go back into the garbage garage and look in the stinky smelly bin, looking for the damn key. Can't find it. So I grab a piece of eavestrough that just so happens to be laying against the wall and use it to poke around the bags of the neighbours seemingly endless garbage but to no avail. There is no key. I can't find it.

I come home and call O.

"Darling, I've done something."
"And what's that?"
"I threw the mail key in the garbage dumpster."

And what do I get? A laugh out loud, stomp your foot, crying on the ground, peeing a little reaction.

"You better get yer' boots! Yer' goin' in to find it!"

This is going to be a great night.

--

editors note: When O came home we trudged over to the garbage garage. After using the eavestrough to dig through the garbage, O jumped in to the bin and used his hands to dig through the bags. After 15 minutes of searching he says, "it's not here". He jumps out and walks around the garage to the grass to wipe off his shoes. Just then, I see a shiny object and walk to it, thinking oooooh shiny object and realize, it's the key on the keychain. Yiah. I owe him big.

I know.

2009-06-06T19:54:00.002-06:00

I know. I suck. But I promise I'll start writing again... soon... very soon...

Things I love.

2009-05-19T21:45:00.002-06:00

The smell of rain
Milk chocolate dipped in peanut butter
Cuddling in the morning
A glass of lukewarm water
Streatching when I wake up
Almost Famous, the movie
A good stretch during yoga. Om...
Bright coloured gerberas
My lululemon yoga pants
Dipping my banana in peanut butter
"Crush" by Dave Matthews Band
Very old white cheddar
Receiving mail, other than a bill
Homemade guacamole
A glass (or three) of Amon Ra
The way stilettos sound in the concourse
Real Simple, the magazine
The name Madeline
This man:

Add this to the loves.

2009-05-13T10:48:00.001-06:00

Mike suggested I add this link to my favourite new photogs. And I think that's a great idea.

Fuller Edge Photography

Sunday morning.

2009-05-10T14:16:00.004-06:00

At 5:31 a.m. this morning the birds decided to start chirping. So, in complete annoyance and disgust, I promptly get out of bed and close the windows and get back in bed - but not before cursing every bird in the world for being awake at this ungodly hour.

This afternoon while checking for a bird nest, I was startled to find something even worse swinging from the neighbours tree. A bird house. A frickin' bird house - busier than all get-out with birds.

We might have to plan an attack on this bird house. It's seriously cramping my sleeping style.

New love.

2009-05-08T15:12:00.004-06:00

I'm completely and totally enamoured with great wedding photographers lately. Can't get enough of them. I think I'd secretly love to be a great photographer, however, I have zero idea what 99% of the buttons on my camera do.

So.

Until I learn how to use the darn thing, I'm stuck just looking through portfolios of other great picture-takers.

A couple of them:

Ashley Garmon Photograph

JKoe Photography (a personal friend as well)

Kyle Hale (super favourite and author of the above photo)

Om.

2009-05-04T22:21:00.003-06:00

Tonite was my third yoga practice and dare I say, my best.

I think I am finally getting these poses which is really exciting. For the past couple of sessions, I've felt really gangly and weird. Tonite however, I managed to center my breathing, do the downward dog and the second warrior pose with no problem. And? I broke a sweat.

Practice tonite left me motivated to do something like - something. I couldn't quite nail what it was that my mind obviously decided I needed to do. I think it helped that my instructor played some fantastic sounds tonite. Example:

Bon Iver - Blindsided
Dave Matthews Band - Stay or Leave
Fishbunny - Crash & Burn
Damien Rice - Eskimo
Aisha Duo - Despertar
The Cinematic Orchestra - To Build a Home
Alvik - Wonder

Regardless, tonite made me want to take up yoga in some quiet part of the world where all I could do is sit in the seated position, find heart centre and just breathe. Just be.

Uh...

2009-05-02T13:59:00.000-06:00

I'm number one in my hockey pool. Shut the front door.

What kind of shit forecast is this?

2009-04-19T20:47:00.001-06:00

So in other words I shouldn't put my winter jacket away...

Spring has sprung on my deck.

2009-04-19T20:36:00.000-06:00

Thanks mom and dad.

I am 99.9% convinced I'm an emotional eater.

2009-04-16T20:24:00.004-06:00

Example? Half this pack is gone and I literally opened it while writing this post... if not more...

My final assignment is due in like... 19 hours. I have 33 pages that I have to edit tonite. Are you kidding me? My response? Eat some ice wafers. Why not Megan - it's not like your pants fit very well now - how about just make the whole getting-ready-for-work-in-the-morning-and-trying-on-every-pair-of-pants-in-the-closet schtick that much more fun.

Reason 6,728 why final assessment projects blow.

2009-04-10T13:31:00.004-06:00

The sun. The sun is finally out and what the hell am I doing? I'M DOING MY SEEMINGLY NEVERENDING FINAL ASSESSMENT PROJECT, that's what I'm doing.

The only thing that's making this quasi-ok (and I really mean barely ok) is the Dave Matthews DVD Live in Central Park playing in the backgroud. THAT'S IT!

Om.

2009-04-07T20:44:00.005-06:00

I registered for a beginner Yoga course at Yoga Passage West today. It starts on April 20 and runs until June 6. I'm surprisingly excited about this and even more excited since I read about the benefits...

I've never done Yoga before and quite frankly, have been terrified of the Downward Dog position since Jessica informed me it can lead to you expelling gas. Nevertheless, I'm stoked to finally start this.

And then there were 10 days.

2009-04-07T18:18:00.007-06:00

During the last year of being at my previous employer, I signed up and took the Event Management certificate course, offered through Mount Royal College. It was great, I loved it. I learned a gazillion things.

And then... and then I went to put those practices to work and realized I couldn't use an ounce of the knowledge. That everything I'm doing in my current job is completely different than what the course taught me. So, which one is right?

And now I'm struggling to finish the final project of the program so I can have that goddamn piece of paper indicating that I'm officially an Event Planner, according to Mount Royal College.

So I've hit my wall. I have exactly 10 days to get this freakin-neverending-piece-of-crap project done and I simply have lost the will to do it. I'm averaging 600 words per page and I'm on page 17 and I HAVE NO END IN SIGHT. I didn't think I had this many words in me.

However, I do need to give a shout-out to my extraordinary manfriend who literally kicked my ass on Sunday, plunked me down at the table and said "DO IT!". If it wasn't for him I would probably be sitting on the couch reading my book or watching TV.

Sigh.

And yes, that pink drink does have booze in it. It's helping to cut the pain.

Oh Henry... Oh Easter...

2009-04-06T21:12:00.001-06:00

The person(s) who invented this little chocolatey goodness treat, is a God to me. Do you hear that? A GOD.

So I get this phone call...

2009-04-06T20:23:00.005-06:00

I received a call from TD Canada Loss Prevention today. I was away from my phone so this automated voice left a message for me indicating that "Ms Megan Elisabeth Pratt must call 1-866-can't-remember immediately". So, I call and get this pleasant guy by the name of Matt.

Me: Matt, I have received a voicemail from you indicating I needed to urgently call you.

Matt: May I have your name.

Me: Blah blah blah

Matt: Your address.

Me: Blah blah blah

Matt: Your debit card number

Me: Blah blah blah blah

Matt: May I have your mothers maiden name, shoe size and eye colour.

Me: Blah?

Matt: Ms. Pratt it appears your debit card has been copied by way of a debit card machine at an establishment you recently purchased items from. In fact, this establishment is in the process of being investigated for card fraud.

Me: Jigga wha?

Matt: It also appears that your card has been used in Quebec. TD Canada Trust was able to stop track this transaction and stopped it right away. Your funds were not touched.

Me: Uh... did this take place at the Chinese food restaurant on Friday?

Matt: I am unable to verify that as the establishment is under investigation.

Me: So that's a yes...

Matt: Ahem... it would fit within the time-frame of when your card was copied, yes.

Me: That fucking dive of a Chinese food restaurant gave me the runs and copied my debit card??

Matt: Ma'am, your card has been cancelled and I would suggest going to your local branch and getting a new card along with a new pin number.

Me: Uh huh...

Matt: Is there anything else we can do for you today?

Me: Uh... nadda?

So long story short, DON'T DINE at the Signature Palace Restaurant in Signal Hill. Super dodgy. And really I don't know what's worse... the owners who are screwing around with people's debit / credit cards or the fact that I was sickeningly sick all night pleading for death after eating the sweet & sour pork.

Looks like it's that time of the year... already.

2009-04-05T12:02:00.000-06:00

Someone thought they were being cute.

2009-04-05T11:52:00.001-06:00

... on the laundry I was trying to fold.

Incentive to cook.

2009-04-02T19:57:00.004-06:00

Although I'm not usually looking this seductive in the kitchen while cooking (and by usually I mean never), I do have this apron. My apron proclaims "will cook for shoes" and I will cook to the end of the world to get these shoes.

~~Santa~~ Mom bought it for me for Christmas and it wasn't until I've moved into the new place that I've been able to hang it with pride. Since then though, I've worn it quite a bit. In fact, it might need a good solid wash.

Side note, who in a million years, would have thought I would write a blog about wearing an apron. Good God Mike, you were right. I am becoming more and more domesticated as the days go by.

Wait a minute, is she even wearing clothes? Maybe I should try that...

Check out this apron and others at Domistyle.

I understand the ridiculous cult-following now. I get it. It just makes sense now.

2009-04-01T14:51:00.002-06:00

... and when does the second movie come out??

Most delicious voice.

2009-03-30T21:11:00.001-06:00

I've been stuck listening to Sarah Slean, The Baroness, on repeat for the past couple months and I've been secretly looking for something new... quasi fresh, but with the same soulful and deep sound as the great Ms. Slean offers.

I have found Amy Seeley. Enjoy.

Shitless.

2009-03-29T17:40:00.003-06:00

Best quote of the chapter:

"I was scared shitless, even more shitless than my usual shitlessness. And when you consider the standard I'd already set for shitlessness, this new level of shitlessness was perhaps a level of shitlessness the world had never seen". - Heather Armstrong, It sucked and then I cried

A new very exciting page has turned.

2009-03-29T16:16:00.004-06:00

So I have moved out of the little apartment I took so much pride in for the past 11 months and have moved a little further from the core. I won't lie, I love it. It's quiet, there's farmland and mountains a block from the house. It's cozy and quaint and I've quickly added a touch of me to every room.

I began, unknowingly so, adding a touch of red to each room. A red kettle, red box full of DVD's, red bath mat, red 'important-document-do-not-lose' box, red Emile Henry mixing bowls, red placemats and red bed covers. It wasn't intentional by any means - it just kind of happened. And besides, red is probably a safer colour over pink, no?

It was weird once again packing up shop and closing the door - but it felt good. It was almost cathartic in a way, being able to throw some memories out. While I enjoyed the place I called home for almost a year, I knew this wasn't going to be permanent and I had a hard time considering it home. While I learned to be on my own at times it sucked and at times it was awesome. I still shudder at the time I walked naked from my bedroom to the bathroom with the hallway light on only to turn around and realize, shit, my neighbour is standing in the courtyard of the condo staring into my place. Yiah - I won't miss that...

This new chapter is hella exciting.

"... that did nothing but make me look like a cheap concubine in Humpty Dumpty's harem." - Heather Armstong

2009-03-27T15:35:00.006-06:00

Ok so the book is pretty much exactly like her website, dooce.com, but holy hell have I laughed over the past couple nights while reading it.

I feel bad for O. He's been trying to study and pay attention to his reading while I'm busy busting a gut on the couch, with tears streaming down my face because she is just so darn funny. I (un)fortunately have not got to the point where I go "hey honey listen to this part...". I fear he may beat me with a pillow or tickle me to death if I begin that nonsense. However, I feel that the time may be coming where I'll start reciting all the funny parapgrahs to him. I may as well read the whole book out loud.

Poor guy - has no idea what's coming down the pipe...

It sucked and then I cried: How I had a baby, a breakdown and a much needed margarita - Heather Armstrong

Guess who's coming back?

2009-03-27T14:37:00.002-06:00

My older-man crush.

Sigh... Peter Mansbridge...

Trying to figure out what I consumed before bed that made my dreams so f*cked up.

2009-03-27T09:40:00.002-06:00

Ok.

All of a sudden there is this war that has broken out and I'm for whatever in the middle east. There are bombs going off, people screaming and running, and it's all out war. I'm hiding in this A-frame house with a plethora of other people, some who I work with and some who I've never seen before in my life. One coworker I noticed was randomly pregnant - 11 months pregnant and over the course of my dream, her belly was the size of a hot air balloon. And then, I'm randomly in a convertible with Sarah Jessica Parker and we're going to her house. Once inside, she takes me to her bedroom to show me around and as I'm standing at the door, she screams "I saw something by that door" and I turned around only to find the Grim Reaper flying down the hallway and right through me. SJP and I bust a move out of the house and back into the car. I look around back at the house and realize it's only a bungalow but inside the house - it was a castle. We then drive through a school yard, past school kids, at mach speed only to find myself back at the A-frame house with a remote control in my hand, having been advised that the remote control operates the bomb detonator that is traveling in circles below my feet.

Then the alarm went off.

Even if you did use your turn signal, here's another reminder to use it.

2009-03-21T16:35:00.003-06:00

So I’m driving down 5th avenue, flicked my turn signal on and changed lanes. The lady beside me pulls up to a cop who was in front of me and told him I didn’t use my turn signal. Jigga what? The cop gets out of his car and walks to my window and says “it’s simple, you turn the switch you were given here – like this. It’s there for a reason”. And walks back to his car.

I USED MY FU*KING TURN SIGNAL. Such a fu*king douche bag. He stood there totally belittling me and didn’t even care if I had anything to say.

Totally burst out in tears. Fu*king cops.

Needless to say, I wasn't having a very good day.

This cute little recession is even biting into weddings...

2009-03-21T13:58:00.000-06:00

Oh you know, just having lunch with George W. Bush.

2009-03-17T18:37:00.007-06:00

When I found out O got a ticket for the Conversation with George W. Bush, I'll admit; jealously took over me. Sure, Bush isn't exactly the ideal person to want to spend your lunch time with but at the same time - why not?

And then I got lucky. O ended up finding an extra ticket to the sold out event at the Telus Convention Centre. Hoo-rah! And who did he take? His favourite person ever.

We had to arrive at 11 a.m. in order to get through the security check in time. Well - let's think about this: 1500 people, a full bag check, full body pat down and in only an hour. Rrrrrriiiiggggghhhhtttt. Not to mention the throngs of protesters who you had to walk through before you entered the building.

Lunch was supposed to start at 12... it started at 1:3o.

I was impressed with the guy... which is hard to admit. He was pretty funny - extremely self-depreciating. He knows he isn't the most loved guy in the world. He knows that what he decided to do was extremely controversial. He had a couple zingers.

I was glad I saw him - yes Mike, yes I was.

Thought.

2009-03-11T10:37:00.002-06:00

Money and time are the heaviest burdens of life and...the unhappiest of all mortals are those who have more of either than they know how to use.
—Samuel Johnson

I beg to differ. If I had more money, I would be happier. I could go back to Mexico, buy a beachside villa, drink strawberry daquiri's and do nothing.

Kijiji...

2009-03-08T18:55:00.003-06:00

Ok so I put up a schwack of stuff on Kijiji the other day and was stunned to see how interested people were in my stuff. I mean - who doesn't want a wicked kickass kitchen table, a TV or a bunch of purses. C'mon!

So I was totally thrilled to find that all my stuff was essentially sold within hours of it being on the website. After sifting through the ridiculous number of emails I received, I found myself giving people who had proper spelling, grammar and punctuation the upper hand when it came to selling them my goods.

Examples of responses I received:

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED

And that was the only thing in the email. Thanks for coming out... moving on...

hi there,
may i buy this from you.

thanks den address?

time best 4 u?

Are you f'ing kidding me?? Next!

HI!

I wont to buy this table, I can came in saturday and pick up.

Ahh! No.

Am I being too picky? I mean - is it so hard to simply say "Hi, I'm interested in your fabulous table - is it still available? If so, please let me know if I am able to pick it up! Thank you!"

Yes, apparently it is. And with that, I still own all my stuff still but have a couple very interested buyers. A couple who said they would get it today (but then changed their mind and said they would take it ONLY if I delivered... Alistair does not deliver tables and chairs thank you very much). Sigh.

You know you wwwaaannnttt them...

2009-03-06T22:28:00.003-07:00

Need purses?

Mat & Nat Brown Purse

Mat & Nat Tan Purse

Mat & Nat Black Purse

MEC Backpack

Carry-On Bag

Kitchen Table with 4 Chairs

25' TV

Wall Partition / Decor thing

A completely unscientific pie chart on who uses Twitter

2009-02-28T18:12:00.003-07:00

Thanks to The Huffington Post

And for my Twitter page? Click here...

A couple things I learned in Mexico.

2009-02-28T16:16:00.003-07:00

Spicy Avocado Pringles are delicious. Absolutely delicious.
There is nothing wrong with drinking at 9 a.m. Nothing at all.
Meercats / Merkeets are super friendly... especially when you feed them.
There is nothing wrong with being topless on the beach. And no, I will not be posting those pictures to Facebook or this Blog.
Fallen in love with guacamole and pico de gallo. Where have they been all my life?
Nachos in Mexico are totally different than nachos in let's say... Calgary.
Finding Mexican food in Mexico is actually more of a task than one would think it would be.
$35 is never $35.
Lizards and geckos aren't as creepy as Jessica makes them out to be. They're cute and... cuddly...
My body is going through with drawl. What I would do to have a strawberry margartita - 'mooey-forte'.
There is nothing more fantastic than the feeling of the white sand on your feet. Mamitas Beach Club in Playa del Carmen was incredible.
People get super cranky on the flight back to Calgary. It was the first time in a long time I wanted to call a lady a "c u next tuesday".
Mexican road-ways are f'd up.
If you are going to Chitchen Itza for the day for a tour - rent a plane or a helicopter or a time-warp machine. Trust me - it will be way less painful than sitting in a stinky sweaty bus for 4 hours... each way...
You can drink booze everywhere. On the streets, on the beach, in the bus, in the shower - everywhere. What a great rule.
Being in a place where there was no internet, news, cell phones, Visa bills and street lights was fantastic.
Wouldn't it be great if you could give your waitress, bartender, taxi driver or bell boy a $1 tip? It's too bad they would wouldn't be as grateful as when you do that in Mexico.
I cannot wait to go back.

Back from Mexico... back into reality.

2009-02-28T14:13:00.015-07:00

More here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/23897896@N07/

The worst part? I had to pay to be tortured.

2009-02-18T20:35:00.004-07:00

In my preparation for the impending trip to Mexico (2 sleeps...), I decided to venture out and do something my girlfriends suggested I have done: get a brazilian wax. Well, easier said than done.

I went at lunch today to get the ol' deed done. I was given a dab of 'scream cream' to "rub on your parts" and a pat on the back before I headed into the room of doom.

Mean Wax Lady - Take off your pants and your panties and lay on the bed with your legs open.

Me - Um...

Mean Wax Lady - Comes back and very quickly dabs wax on a strip of my hoo-ha. Then, she takes a piece of fabric and pats it down, stroking it about three times. Then, without warning - RRRRIIIIPPPP

Me - HOLY MOTHER OF SWEET JESUS

Mean Wax Lady - laughing, smirking - mocking me

Me - Mommmm...

I screamed, I had tears, I had tried pulling myself away from the wax. Needless to say, it was 20 minutes I will never forget. I will never do it again. Ever. EVER. No matter what you say - and this means you Jessica, Karen, Danielle and Ashley!

The one thing I still struggle with when cooking...

2009-02-16T11:51:00.002-07:00

... damn hard boiled eggs.

Luckily, there were no broken hips.

2009-02-16T09:43:00.003-07:00

What happens when you get a group of established mature men, after an evening of drinking copious amounts of alcohol, into the Presidential Suite of the Banff Springs Hotel? They look for ways to get into the secret door which is about 15ft up from the floor.

And no, it didn't open - even after trying to pick the lock with a bobby pin. And yes, that is Orest with a man on his shoulders, propping him up to the door.

Awwww Valentines Day...

2009-02-15T11:40:00.003-07:00

I was wondering why the house smelt like burning and then realized why. Awww... a little heart shaped cookie made for moi. How dreamy.

Observation.

2009-02-11T22:17:00.002-07:00

Dukoral? Not so good on the ol' tummy. I should have just taken my chances with the ice cubes and vegetables at the mexican hotel.

Just a little light reading...

2009-02-05T21:39:00.004-07:00

Each day I wake up and wish I could spend the whole day reading. It's an odd thing for me to want to do (just ask my dad who for years would encourage me to read something, anything). In the past couple years I've picked up a few books and have loved them. However, lately, I've stopped reading books and have since then picked up more online reading than actual paperbacks.

For example - I can't go a day without scouring through The Huffington Post. Ask me about the ridiculous corporate bailouts or the new President, who layed off 15,000 people last week or what McCain's stimulus plan is...

I read Macleans magazine over People, The Economist over The Star, Real Simple over the National Enquirer. Aren't you proud dad? I'm reading now!

Anyways, currently on the go:

Eat Pray Love - Elizabeth Gilbert

The Audacity of Hope - Barack Obama

The Historian - Elizabeth Kostova

Things I learned about my Dad... in therapy - Heather Armstrong

Jen Lancaster comes out with her 4th autobiography in a couple months and Heather Armstrong comes out with her epic shortly before that. Should be some good summer reading ahead for me.

Song for tonite.

2009-02-05T20:43:00.000-07:00

Blindsided by Bon Iver.

The Uggconomy.

2009-02-04T20:32:00.002-07:00

Why people will buy Uggs over Manolos. Quite frankly, I'm tired of seeing them everywhere. Even when they're new, they still look old and used and way too comfortable to be in public with.

Comfort to me? A stunning pair of stilettos, not clogs.

Who cries over spilled m&m's?

2009-02-04T19:28:00.006-07:00

I wrote a couple years ago that when I became super hot shit, my green room requirements would include "M&M's - no brown ones". And for the past couple of years at Christmas, I have been given a massive ziploc bag of M & M's, sans the brown ones.

Tonite, like I have done every day for the past 40 some-odd days since Christmas, I dug my hand into the ziploc bag and ate a handful. However, tonite, the bag decided to fall all over my apartment floor. Awesome.

Instead of bursting out in tears, (which is what I really really really wanted to do) I sat on the floor and ate all the yellow ones I could find. Clearly a far better idea than picking them up and putting them back into the bag. Clearly. Because clearly I'm not heading to the beach in 15 days where I'm forced into wearing wee bikinis for 9 days straight. And clearly, I'm not an emotional eater... not at all.

Maybe I need this little vacation more so than I originally thought.

What does Jaipur smell like? Happiness.

2009-02-01T11:14:00.005-07:00

While Mom and I were traveling through out Oregon, we found this great little garden store that sold these wonder little candles. I have fallen in love with these. I can't get enough of them. It's too bad they're so expensive because I could really use some more of them...

Sweet nectar of the Gods.

2009-01-31T18:09:00.004-07:00

I spoke of Amon-Ra a while back. The whole line of Ben Glaetzer wines is phenomenal. Incredible. Fantastic. Orgasmic.

The Heartland Shiraz is a cheaper bottle by the Australian winemaker. Way cheaper. Delicious.

You can find it here at Richmond Hill Wines.

Today?

2009-01-31T17:29:00.004-07:00

Today, not so awesome.

Went on a quick shopping adventure to TD Square. As the Bankers Hall parking is the only parking I'm quasi-familiar with, I park underground there. As I'm ready to get back in my car with my bags in tow, I go to the pay machine, put in my $2, collect my ticket and head to the elevator. I get into the car and pull out as someone is eagerly wanting my spot. Suddenly I realize, I don't have my parking ticket. Wtf. I pull over and dig through all the bags, my purse, my pockets and seats. I do this 8 or 9 times. I realize, this fucking sucks. So I head to the exit in hopes that the ticket collector thingie will have a help button that I can plead my case to. Well, no such luck. In my frustration, I can't find it. I put the car into reverse and back into the 'monthly parkers only' section and find a spot. I head back into the lobby where I see a sign on the door saying 'no access without a card'. Awesome. So I hop into the elevator, find the information booth and she instructs me to go to the ticket machine and push the help button. I do as she says. The muffled voice on the other end asks me a million questions and says to push the help button as I get to the gate in the parking lot and he'll let me out. Well if I had known there was a help button I would have done that in the first place. For fucks sakes. I then have to find a security guard who will take me through the 'no access without a card' door and back to my car. He waves, probably thinking - she's stupid - and I get in my car and head to the exit. I see the almighty help button and the guy lets me out. Stupid goddamn parking lot. That whole adventure (including circling the parking lot umpteen dozen times and driving in reverse for at least that many more times) stole 45 minutes of my day.
I head to Safeway to pick up a schwack of groceries for the quasi-Superbowl party tomorrow. I decide I only need a basket - I'm only getting a couple things. Well, after only shopping 2 aisles, the basket weighs more than a small child. After thinking, I should probably get a cart, I hear a 'snap' and the basket breaks. That's right. 9 sausages, 9 hot dog buns, 4 2-litre bottles of pop and 2 bags of mini-peeled carrots snapped the basket. Awesome. Heaven forbid anyone around me who sees this offer some sort of assistance. Nope. I am left to my own devices and have to leave everything in aisle 11 as I desperately look for a cart. Nice. Real nice.
I then head to the Superstore liquor store to pick up some booze for this said quasi-Superbowl party. It's all good - couple of this, couple of that. I finally get home and park beside the front door so I can unload the car instead of making multiple trips from the parking lot. As I get out of the car, I biff it and fall in a rather ungraceful manner on my ass. Awesome.
I bring everything inside, up 2 flights of stairs and put everything on the floor. Just as I pick up the box of Keith's, the handle snaps and there are 12 bottles that come crashing to the floor - exploding the minute they touch. I can handle 1 bottle - not 12. Not only was there beer everywhere, there were little shards of glass and a very eager puppy. Not a good combo.

Fingers are crossed the rest of the weekend goes ok. Today, just not my day.

Just when I think I am the Queen of loading the dishwasher...

2009-01-25T13:14:00.002-07:00

... and there is no possible way to fit anything else in it, O manages to fit a couple more large dishes in.

This article explains it.

Calgary Herald Q - Holidays with Air Cancel, erm... Air Canada.

2009-01-09T12:18:00.001-07:00

I'm usually one who likes to have faith in the system. For example, I like to believe that the people we elect will actually do a good job at representing us. I like to believe that when there is a handicap parking spot that someone who doesn't require it won't use it. And I also like to believe that when I book a flight with a major airline that the airline will do their upmost to fulfill that service; there and back.

Read the rest here on the Calgary Herald Q Blog...

I own you.

2009-01-08T22:20:00.003-07:00

Dear 2009,

This year I will conquer you. I will own you. It will be the best year of my life. In fact, this year - I will start with this book, move on to this book and then maybe this one (but just for shits and giggles).

Yes, this year will be the year of Me.

Best regards,

Me

--

You can download Suze's book for free for the rest of the week here. This book you have to buy - but it's worth every penny; you can check out the website here.

Larry Flynt and Joe Francis looking for a bailout... for the porn industry...

2009-01-08T17:38:00.002-07:00

Give. Me. Strength.

The flight that wasn't...

2009-01-03T13:48:00.005-07:00

So right now, I should be in Winnipeg taking in all it's cold beauty. I should be eating perogies and enjoying the company of new friends and family. However, right now I am sitting in my parents house eating leftovers and chilling with my dog as today really hasn't gone as planned.

My brother drives me to the airport this morning by 6 a.m. as my flight was leaving at 7:40 a.m. and well... as organized as Air Canada is(n't) I am taking no chances with the threat of long lines and rude customer service people. And, just as I thought, the lines were epic and the staff snobby.

I'm finally through security and just waiting to board at 7:05 a.m. But wait... there's no one manning the ticket desk and um - it's 7:15 a.m. Small oversight I'm sure. Suddenly there's a couple pilots and the staff - eureka. Get ready to go up and get my ticket scanned when I'm asked to please step aside for a moment... ok. So, I move myself and my bag over slightly and am promptly given a new ticket for and a different seat. No sweat - still have a window seat.

Get on the plane and realize, 'wait, this isn't just any window seat - this is first class and dude - I'm in a single seat'. Sweet ass monkey shit. Am offered a pillow, given a warm face cloth and my beverage order is taken. This is service I could get used to.

After sitting on the plane for about 40 minutes, I look out the window and realize there are suitcases still on the tarmac. This is peculiar I'm thinking... how can the plane move if there are suitcases in the way? Well, my friends, this should have been my first hint that this flight was about to go terribly wrong.

We're waiting for staff to find their way to the aircraft so they can load our luggage. That's right, there are no staff to put the luggage on the plane. Awesome. We wait for another long freakin' time as we wait for staff to show up to load the plane for our bags.

Finally get that sorted. Then the Captain comes over the speaker..

AC Captain: This is your Captain speaking... we're just turning off the engines as the pully-thing we use to push the plane from the terminal is trapped on some ice and isn't getting anywhere. We just need to wait for some sand or something to help the little pully-thing out.

Peanut Gallery: Oookkkk.

Finally get that sorted and we are on our way.

After an hour and a half of being airborne we are told that we are gearing up to land - trays must be in the upright position, bags and purses stowed away and seat belts on. But then Captain comes on again...

AC Captain: Ladies and gentlemen, it looks like we'll be circling the airport here for about 40 minutes. It seems an aircraft is disabled on the runway and they're just waiting to get it moved.

Peanut Gallery: Oookkkk.

After 40 minutes...

AC Captain: Ladies and Gentlemen, it looks like we're heading back to Calgary. The Winnipeg airport has shut the runways as there seems to be a larger problem on the ground. My apologies. We'll be in Calgary in an hour and a half.

Peanut Gallery: Mother f&^$ing sh!t for brains, co&ksucking bastards.

I'm devastated. We're literally on top of Winnipeg. I can see Winnipeg. There are people waiting for me at the airport. I'm heart broken and feel horrible.

Then, super-wigged-out-mad-as-a-bull-dude sitting 4 rows behind me decides he wants to go postal on everyone in the plane. The flight attendants warn him that there will be police waiting for him when we get off the plane... in Calgary... which is an hour and a half away...

Super-wigged-out-mad-as-a-bull-dude yells "GOOD! I'd rather be arrested than fly Air Canada again!!" Awesome. This will be a great flight back.

Finally get back to Calgary and just as we're landing, el Capitano comes on again:

AC Captain: Ladies and gentlemen, we're touching down in Calgary in less than 15 minutes. Again, I apologize for the inconvenience. Once we've parked, please head to the ticket desk where an agent will help you get to Winnipeg.

As I'm in first class, I'm the first 3 to get off the plane and in line to figure out the flight - but not before I call home. Mom and dad are already on the WestJet website looking for later flights in the event Air Canada blows goats and can't do anything for us. Oh wait... that's exactly what happened.

The oh so (not) helpful lady behind the counter gives us a sheet with a 1-800 number on it and says, "there's only 2 more flights leaving Calgary for Winnipeg today and they're full. Please call this number and arrange for a later flight. Or you can fly stand-by."

Hells no. Air Canada expected 90 people to fly stand-by. Sounds like great hostility, erm, I mean hospitality to me.

My new flight on WestJet leaves at 6:50 tonite, set to arrive at 9:43. Keep your fingers crossed this one lands.

Oh, and in case you're wondering what the epic issue was at the Winnipeg Airport? It was this.

My bros.

2009-01-01T20:59:00.002-07:00

Tonite, because a.) I was too lazy to get off my couch, b.) I had no food in my cupboards or fridge, c.) I am in a state of chaos as I attempt to pack for Winterpeg and d.) they love me oh so much, my brothers decided they were coming over to make dinner for me in my cute little apartment. And it wasn't just any sort of dinner - it was tuna casserole they were making.

Wine that got me through 2008

2008-12-31T18:13:00.000-07:00

Note: Each of these wines is to be decanted and drank from a very large wine glass. Best if drank with friends.

D' Arenberg, The Stump Jump
St Suprey, Cabernet Sauvignon 1996
See Ya Later Ranch, Ping
Ben Glaetzer, Amon Ra
Angus The Bull, Cabernet Sauvignon

The items that got me through 2008

2008-12-31T17:30:00.001-07:00

Music that got me through (in no particular order):

Brett Dennen - The One Who Loves You The Most
Bon Iver - Flume
James Morrison - This Boy
Griffen House - The Guy Who Says Goodbye To You Is Out Of His Mind
Ray Montagne - Be Here Now and Hold You In My Arms
Adele - Best For Last and Hometown Glory
Of Montreal - Gronlandic Edit
Carly Rae Jepsen - Tug of War
Dave Matthews Band - Crush
The Decemberists - The Crane Wife 3
Eric Hutchinson - Back To Where I Was
Sarah Slean - Sound of Water and Looking for Someone
Little Jackie - Cryin' For The Queen and The Kitchen

Best of 2008.

2008-12-30T16:09:00.004-07:00

2008 was good to me.

I fell in love with fine red wines, decanted and poured into an epic Bordeaux glass, with endless conversations that led long into the early morning hours and with not knowing what the next day will bring. I fell in love with my bed and the way it hugged me in the mornings, with having my own parking spot, whether covered or not, with the sound the mailman makes when he arrives to bring my bills, and with the window in my living room that allowed the squirrels to join me while I watched CNN.

I fell in love with the knowledge that I could be more than what I was and that I wasn't afraid to do it. With the laughter of new friends and with old friends, with the way my fish lays in its bowl, with the way my apartment smells when it's been without me for a day or so.

I fell in love with the 10-day debauchery that I once disliked, with the bullriding that took my breath away and with the anticipation of a pancake breakfast in the office between cubicles. I fell in love with the fact that I worked hard to get to where I am and to not even consider taking it for granted.

I learned that I can have whatever I want as long as I was willing to put my all into the journey of obtaining it. I learned that being lonely is ok, just as it's ok to invite a friend over even though it's really late. I learned how to cook, to clean and to be independent. I also learned to accept new ideas, dance in the living room and eat things I don't enjoy the taste of. I learned that putting a helmet on and jumping on the back of a bike isn't actually that scary, when in fact, it's actually kinda fun. I learned that you can meet the coolest of people even when you're not looking for them. I learned that heartache can devastate you, but the lessons you learn were worth it. I learned that new love can rock you off your chair and take the wind from you.

I learned that a good pair of shoes will carry you through years, even though they look like they shouldn't leave the closet. I learned that politics can be all-consuming, even when you have no voice in them. I learned that if you don't say anything no one will hear you. I learned that a good song will cure you of loneliness, heartache and will make you dance like no one is watching. I learned that yes, even shoes have stories associated with them. I learned to be thankful for what happened no matter how hard it is to think about.

I experienced adventures with people I never thought I'd take. I lost contact with friends but made incredible new relationships that I know will carry with me for years to come. I took chances with emotions and played poker with my heart. I became an artist and put the first picture on my fridge. Had my picture taken with the first african american President, cardboard cutout or not. I tried to make the border guard laugh but ended up smelling like garlic instead. I enjoyed last minute vacations with incredible friends and confrontations with others.

I welcome 2009 with open arms.

And another fantastic medical reason for why I should drink wine every day.

2008-12-28T23:53:00.002-07:00

... and why I do. Horray for smart doctors.

A small glass of wine could delay dementia - Telegraph

Happy Very Merry Christmas.

2008-12-24T16:09:00.001-07:00

A conversation with my brother, Ben.

2008-12-02T22:23:00.003-07:00

Ben-Jamin says:
oh man... so how come you're still up?

megan. says:
i'm just going to bed

Ben-Jamin says:
well.. go to bed with a laugh...

Ben-Jamin says:
a sex professor asks "what does your asshole do when you have an orgasm?" the female student replies "probably hunting with his buddies..."

megan. says:
hahaha... nicely done...

December 1.

2008-12-01T19:57:00.000-07:00

Bah humbug.

Christmas Find #8

2008-11-29T22:56:00.003-07:00

Shinzi Katoh Trekking Water Bottle

Christmas Find #7

2008-11-29T22:49:00.003-07:00

Super Troopers DVD

The joys of apartment living; episode 8,649...

2008-11-29T21:22:00.007-07:00

It is 3:42 a.m., Saturday morning. I am sleeping and dreaming of wonderful things. Suddenly...

O: grumble
M: wtf
O: I love this place...
M: oh for the love of jesus...

I catch complete awareness of what is going on around me and suddenly am infuriated with the nerve of people. My neighbour who's living room shares my bedroom wall has cranked George Michael on his stereo and is singing at the top of his lungs along with him. The worst part? It's "Faith".

I get out of bed, not even fixing my pjs or hair, unlock my door and march to apartment #10 and knock 3 times.

Neighbour: oh my god - it's the neighbour - turn it down!
Neighbour #2: shit shit shit shit...

I am standing with one hand leaning against the wall and other on my hip not making eye contact with the peep hole. I can see their feet under their door, open the f'ing door... finally -

Neighbour: oh uh hi...

Neighbour boy opens his door in a pair of jeans with the fly undone, no shirt and dishevelled blonde hair.

M: So like... I'm all for George Michael and all - in fact, huge fan of the song Fast Love... just not at 3:45 a.m.
Neighbour: Yah I'm sorry. Just got back from being away for the past 10 months and...
M: I saw you the other day unloading groceries from your car and the week before coming home from work.
Neighbour: ...
M: Ok so if you could...
Neighbour: How long have you lived here for?
M: 7 months.
Neighbour: oooooh.
M: Thanks for turning it down.

I march back to my apartment and gently slam the door. Head to bed and lay back down.

O: I am going to have Faith in my head for the rest of the night.
M: humming Fast Love...

* Lease is sooooo almost up... Thank. The. Lord.

Christmas Find #6

2008-11-29T21:02:00.001-07:00

Waiting to catch a wave - Susannah Tucker original photo

Christmas Find #5

2008-11-29T20:57:00.003-07:00

Double Vision Birchwater Picture Frame - The Wood Co-Op

Subwoofer = Love

2008-11-29T19:42:00.003-07:00

Orest had an extra tv receiver and graciously set it up in my apartment today. (Let's take a second to remember that my apartment is the size of a regular person's closet and I have 16 neighbours within earshot.) It took a solid 2 hours to assemble but this 5-speaker-surround-sound-mega-subwoofer-5-disc receiver looks fantastic in its cosy little enclave in the tv stand.

It's been forever since I've listened to a cd. I have an iPod - what could I possibly need cds for anymore? Well. Thank God I didn't do anything rash like throw out my hundreds upon hundreds of cds I've collected over the years. Tonite I pulled out 2 boxes of cds which I've had collecting dust in my closet and cracked it open. The sweet music I have found tonite has made me a little weak at the knees.

Back in the day I wrote for a little website called Fresh Tracks Music. In fact, I interviewed The Fray back when they hadn't yet made the big scene. Anyways, I have come across all these cds was sent, gifted (by my good friend Aaron), purchased and collected. I have been going through these boxes disc by disc tonite and man have I found some goodies: The Low Life, The Decemberists, Louis XIV, The Shins, and other cds (which I am sure some of you would laugh at me owning).

I fear for my neighbours now who have to live while I relive my music.

Christmas Find #4

2008-11-27T21:53:00.003-07:00

Chocolatiere Chocolate Jug - Bodum

Christmas Find #3

2008-11-27T21:47:00.002-07:00

Letter Candle Balls - perch! design

Christmas Find #2

2008-11-27T21:29:00.003-07:00

Recycled Glass Soy Wax Candle - Lavender - Baby Bear Shop

Christmas Find #1

2008-11-27T21:12:00.002-07:00

Fawn in the Forest Necklace - Eco-Friendly necklace by Figs n Ginger

After a glass of wine and some honey nut cheerios...

2008-11-27T20:28:00.003-07:00

Why do the people of Mexico speak Spanish? Shouldn't people from Spain speak Spanish and Mexican people speak Mexican?
If tourists are encouraged to drink bottled water - do the locals drink the tap water? If we get sick - do they? Or are they immune to it by now?
Are there spiders in Mexico?
Does tequila come standard with each meal?
If you hate someone, why would you get them a mean gadget gift? If you hate them - wouldn't spending money on them seem silly? Especially this, the usb humping dog.

Wrapped with a bow in the stocking, or under the tree?

2008-11-26T22:21:00.004-07:00

Due to the turbulent economy - people may think twice about getting that abortion that had been thinking about. It's expensive in the States, you know. Having dinner on the table, clothes on your back and a shelter over your head may take precedence over that unplanned pregnancy you're just unsure about.

However, this year for Christmas, you can give your loved one a gift certificate to Planned Parenthood in $25 denominations for yes, you guessed it: abortions.

As sarcastic as I sound, it's not a half bad idea. Although really - how do you present that gift to someone? "I'm concerned about your sexual promiscuity and would like you to use this GC at the Planned Parenthood organization for things like condoms, doctor visits and just in case - an abortion".

Awkward.

The song deserving of this evening.

2008-11-26T22:15:00.001-07:00

Looking for Someone - Sarah Slean