Interpretive Stance.

Work It Out At Home With GaiamTV

2012-02-14T12:20:00.000-08:00

If you follow this blog, you're well aware that I am constantly on the search for new fun ways to stay fit (and get fitter). In 2011, my fitness goal was to run 4 - 5 k, two to three times a week. I did that. And then I stopped doing that because on the whole, I hate running. I never really found that elusive "zone" that runners talk about. It always felt like hell. And I always felt like the minutes ticked by slower than a heard of turtles in peanut butter.

Near the end of 2011, I found yoga. It's my happy place and I truly feel that I am becoming a better person, body and mind, with yoga. It is not just a good workout, it keeps you limber, helps with your posture and flexibility, and tones your muscles. Because I spend the better part of my day sitting in my office (or on my couch, much to the consternation of my RMT), it's been a lifesaver.

Of course, unless you're doing power flow yoga every day, you can't live on yoga alone if you want to see results. You need to do cardio and you need to do strength training. Most importantly, you need to find fun, challenging ways to do this.

Introducing, GaiamTV. I first heard of this via Skinny Dip. As you also may know, I enjoy the fruits of Netflix, and basically GaiamTV is the same idea, except it's all workout movies and talks based on health.

I generally do yoga on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, so I am often looking for something fun to work up a sweat on my off days. I work at home and sometimes leaving the house to workout seems like pulling (my own) teeth. I have been doing the Surfer's Workout a few times, but I don't like to get bored. I like to keep it fresh.

Today I signed up for the 10 day free trial of GaiamTV. Because, why not? I enjoyed the workout my Bellyfit class provided last week, but not the mortification of being the only one there. With GaiamTV you work out at home and you have a wide selection of workouts to chose from. Anytime. Anywhere. 24/7. For $9.95 a month. Which is SO much less than a gym membership (which you will never use) and you can take it anywhere so long as you have a laptop or a mobile device.

After I signed up, I decided to do a search for "Zumba". No luck. Then I tried to search "BellyFit". No luck there either. I entered the decidedly more general "Dance" and lo and behold, scores of dance based workouts came up. I picked one that looked fun - Hip Hop Dance Party and ended up doing all three in that series - Hip Hop, House Party, and Latin.

It was about 60 minutes of sweaty fun, lead by a hot Asian guy. What more could you want? I burned an estimated 500 calories.

This would be ideal for new mom's who can't get away to do a workout. This is ideal for someone who hates gyms, or needs variety. There is yoga, pilates, dance, aerobics, strength training - you name it, they pretty much have it. Not only that, but there are scores of inspirational movies and documentaries. It's not JUST fitness, it's lifestyle.

Give it a try free for 10 days. What do you have to lose except maybe some lbs?

Thoughts on Valentine's.

2012-02-14T10:01:00.000-08:00

Oh, Valentine's Day. The day that women use to make other women jealous. I'm not sure it's really so much about love as it is about "Look what my boyfriend gave me!" (AmIright?)

I like the idea of Valentine's Day - a day in which we all stop and take the time to say "I love you" to that special person in our lives. A day in which maybe you take just a few extra minutes to do something over and above what you do on a daily basis.

Personally, I am a big fan of the simple things on Valentine's day. You will never catch the husband and I at a fancy restaurant on Vday (we think those people are suckers - no offense). You will find us at home, eating a delicious meal one of us has cooked. Sometimes there might be small gifts, like flowers, or homemade cookies. Maybe a cute or funny card. The point of it is to dedicate the time to spend together, no matter what we may be doing. I like it best at home with my little family, being thankful for each other and what we have - which is, namely, love.

I know so many women that have the highest expectations of grand gestures on Valentine's Day. And it becomes this thing - this insurmountable pressure that they lay on their partners. And it becomes less about their partners doing something thoughtful and from the heart than making sure their girlfriend has something to show off the next day.

I was totally one of those girls. Mind you, that was high school. So, if you're reading this thinking "Am I one of those girls?" and the answer is yes, maybe it's time to re-evaluate your priorities. It's not about how much money he spends on you, it's not about bragging rights. It's about you and him (or her) and celebrating the uniqueness of your love and the fact that you're lucky enough to BE in love and be loved. It doesn't matter if you didn't get a promise ring, or a tacky heart shaped necklace (please God NO), or a bouquet the size of a Mini Cooper...it's about how you make each other feel! If that is through tangible gift giving, then that's great, but I hope you also make the gift of time. I am not against gift giving, but the expectations of gift giving. It kind of takes away the point when you have someone tell you they BETTER get you a present or else.

So, what are we doing? Tonight we're cooking a meal at home - wild salmon, yams, garlic green beens. We're going to share a bottle of our homemade sparkling wine. Maybe we'll watch a movie (I totally joked that he was going to take me to see "The Vow" tonight and he just about died - ladies, don't make your man see that kind of movie. That's one for your girlfriends or your mom. Besides, you might want to have an ugly cry that no man needs to see).

I did arrange for a little treat for us on Friday - a hot stone couples massage. I have always wanted to try hot stone massage, and saw a great special at Spa Sirona (60 mins for $150 for you and your partner), so Valentine's Day was my excuse, though I would have bought it anyways.

And if you don't have a LOVAHHHH in your life, don't feel bad because whether you know it or not, you DO have LOVE in your life. It may not be the romantic kind, but this day is about celebrating all kinds of love (in my opinion), so tell your parents and your friends how much they mean to you today.

And if you have kids, make sure they send a Valentine's Day card to EVERYONE in their classroom, not just the kids they like. It's a great opportunity to teach your children to love and show kindness. Children can be mean, but most kids are capable of compassion if they have parents and people in their lives that lead by example. Be that example for the kids in your life so that no kid will ever feel the loneliness of feeling "unloved" on Valentine's Day. Or on ANY day, for that matter.

Tell someone you love them today. Show someone you love them today. Be the person who deserves to be loved and give that love right on back. Smile at a stranger. Show compassion to those less fortunate because they deserve love too. The world would be a better place if there was more love in it. So today, tomorrow and every day - When it comes down to it - All you need is love ( and hot stone massages ).

There's nothing you can do that can't be done
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung
Nothing you can say, but you can learn how to play the game
It's easy
All you need is love
- The Beatles.

I made this cake for my lovaaaaahhhh.

Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow Airport. General opinion's starting to make out that we live in a world of hatred and greed, but I don't see that. It seems to me that love is everywhere. Often, it's not particularly dignified or newsworthy, but it's always there - fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, husbands and wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, old friends. When the planes hit the Twin Towers, as far as I know, none of the phone calls from the people on board were messages of hate or revenge - they were all messages of love. If you look for it, I've got a sneaking suspicion... love actually is all around.
- Love, Actually.

365 Questions: Parts 8 - 12.

2012-02-13T16:48:00.000-08:00

I'm going to have to do some major catching up as we're on what...day 45 or so of 2012, and I haven't even reached double digits. I'm going to focus on five questions today, to make up for lost time. In past posts, I've focused intently on one question at a time - today I offer up my deep thoughts in bullet points.

8. Who do you love and what are you doing about it? I love my husband. I love my mom and dad. I love my brother. I love my friends. I love my dog. How do I show it? I make time for them. I try and be a good listener. I try to make them laugh (or bark). I try to be the best version of me when I am with them (but also know that I can be the worst version of myself, and that's ok too...to a point, anyways). I also tell them because I believe you should never be afraid to tell someone you love them. Unless, of course, it's creepy. Then don't.

9. What belief do you hold with which many people disagree? That everyone deserves a second chance. Of course, this statement needs to be quantified with some sort of spectrum, based on the deed at hand. But basically what I'm saying is that we're all human - and we ALL make mistakes. Sometimes it's okay to forgive and forget and move on. You know?

10. What can you do today that you were not capable of a year ago? Pigeon Pose! That sucker hurts! My hips are tight as. It's still almost the worst yoga position for me, but I have learned to breath through the awkward discomfort. Go me.

11. Do you think crying is a sign of weakness or strength? It depends on the person. I think it's okay to express your emotions, and it's okay to cry. Sometimes it takes a lot of strength to give in and let go. And sometimes it takes strength to know when to keep it under to control. There is no right answer to this. Except I'll tell you this - it's weak when you cry to Grey's Anatomy. That's EXACTLY WHAT THEY WANT.

12. What would you do differently if you knew no one would judge you? I'd totally become a professional singer - I'd secretly like to be the lead singer in a cover band. I don't have any desire to write my own music, I'd just LOVE to have the freedom to cover everything from Gotye to Coldplay to Radiohead to Pearl Jam, to see my name in lights, to sing my little heart out to all my favourite songs and to know they love me. THEY REALLY LOVE ME!

Today's deep thoughts were sponsored by Marc and Angel Hack Life, Blue Monkey Coconut Water, and computer viruses.

Monday Morning Musings.

2012-02-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

Hello my lovelies. I've been off the radar for the better part of the week due to some travel I did for work (meetingsmeetingsmeetings), and the extended stay in Vancouver over the weekend.

It's Monday now, and I've been rendered useless by the fact that my work PC has apparently become infected with AIDS. As I await for a technician to finally return my phone calls, I realize yet again how dependent we are on the machines. They are taking over.

So, until someone returns my phone call (damn you FAMILY DAY....a stat holiday every where but in BC??!), I'm here....doing this. Cleaning my already clean office. Making phone calls, just like in the 80's. I might actually talk to some real people today, too.

Anyways, obviously the big question on every one's mind today is "Where were you when you found out Whitney Houston died?" Amiright? I was actually in the car, driving back from White Rock into Vancouver. My friend Jen, who we had just been visiting, texted us to tell us this not-so-shocking news.

Regardless of the fact that you probably could have seen this coming from a mile away (take note, Lindsay Lohan), it's always sad when someone is visibly struggling with various addictions (drugs, booze, fame) and it's just a reminder that even though you might have everything handed to you on a silver platter (or a mirrored coffee table), money just can't buy you happiness. Or sanity. Or perspective - which, I would argue, is a most important attribute.

But, it can buy you drugs. And enablers. And constant negative media attention that will eventually overshadow your talents. It's all just too sad.

This sadness was reflected at the Grammy's last night, which I did deign to watch for a little while. I usually skip watching the award shows, preferring to instead read or watch the highlights the next day. I have to say that Whitney's demise was probably the single reason (other than to watch Coldplay perform with Rihanna) I tuned in in real time. I was never a HUGE Whitney fan - I mean - I definitely remember singing ' IIIIIIIIIIIIII Wanna dance with somebody, I wanna feel the heat with somebody!" in the 80's, and was definitely caught more than once trying to hit that high note in "I Will Always Love You". AND, who didn't LOVE the movie The Bodyguard? I mean seriously. I certainly did. Before I came to my senses about Kevin Costner.

Anyways, sad stuff. RIP Whitney. If we can learn anything from her untimely death it's that crack is whack. And, not to be disrespectful in any way but these parodies that Maya Rudolph does of Whitney on SNL are a good reminder of it.

I'll be checking back later today with some reviews of Vancouver establishments, a recipe round up, and the continuation of "365 Thought Provoking Questions To Ask Yourself This Year" posts.

For now, let's just take a moment and give thanks for good health, good people, and perspective.

Peace out.

Taking Stock Of Goals - First Month.

2012-02-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

I think it's always a good idea to take stock of the goals you set out for yourself. It's good to check in with yourself frequently and take an honest look at your progress with regards to your intentions.

I have essentially five goals for 2012. If you're interested, click here for a more in depth look, and see below for my one month check in.

1. Yoga - The goal was three times a week. I definitely do that, but sometimes it's only once or twice. If I don't go to yoga for whatever reason, I do make sure I get in a work out, so I'm pretty happy with this progress. More often than not, it's twice a week, so I think this is decent progress. I am wonderfully impressed with my own practice - I am by no means awesome at yoga, but I can feel my body adapting and wouldn't you know it? I can flow from downward dog, to plank, to cobra now. FLOW. Not all creaky and cracky and in stages. This is a big deal for me.
1b. Since I set this goal, I have also started a new work out regime in addition to the yoga - something that is much more high impact. I do a variation of THIS about twice a week. It's hardcore.

2. Nature - The goal was to spend more time outside. In the past month or so since I set this goal, I have taken advantage of both the beautiful sunny days that look like spring AND the snow. I walk a lot. I work inside and feel like I could definitely benefit from a scheduled mid-day dog walk, so that's something to add to the roster.

3. Less Screen Time - FAIL. Total fail. Work in progress. I suck at "unplugging".

4. Re-evaluation of personal habits - I'm really happy with this one. I have made a few small changes to my lifestyle that have not only proven to me that I have will power, but the capability to change.

5. Become a social butterfly again - I have made a point to schedule things during the week nights, and have said yes to things I would normally say no to. I'm starting to initiate social gatherings again and I'm spending less time on my couch at night (happy place alert!). A lot of my friends would laugh if they saw this goal - they are under the impression that we're always busy and on the go - and, that's true. I think it's because I spend so much of my time alone (as I work in a remote office at my home), that I often feel disconnected.

I'd like to add a goal too. It all stems from THIS post, asking the question - When was the last time you tried something new? I resolve to try new things - it didn't matter what it is, or what level of bravery it requires, but that I try something new. Sometimes with hilarious results.

Like the time I tried Bellyfit.

Self-evaluation? So far so good. Keep on keepin on.

My Life, According to my iPhone {January Edition}

2012-02-05T14:40:00.000-08:00

A watery January commute

The view from my home away from home

Morning skyline

Room service

Winter is coming

Self portraiture

Winter in my neighborhood

Little Doggy Adventures

Beautiful snowy days.

Kids, and adults just being kids.

Beacon Hill tobogganing

Geoffrey ~ James ~ Christopher

Cider tasting with Kate

Baby Ben photo montagery.

I am obsessed with chandeliers that juxtapose the dominant style of a room

Lindsay came to visit

Romance

Me and my love

Vicky and Lindsay

Cheers!

Man love.

Breakfast tipples at Tre Fantastico.

Bellywhat?

2012-02-02T16:46:00.000-08:00

I was walking past the Cook St. Village Activity Centre last night, when I noticed that it has moved from a 55+ facility, to an 18+ facility. I grabbed a program and immediately was stoked to see that they offer a number of fun fitness classes that I have been wanting to try, namely Bellyfit and Zumba.

After work today, I threw on my work out gear and jogged over to the centre. I wasn't sure what to expect - I was fairly certain that even though it had recently expanded to allow young folk like me, it was going to be me and a bunch of little old ladies shaking our groove thangs to belly dancing music. This sounded like an easy introduction to Bellyfit, and I was game. How hard could it be?

I got there with about 5 minutes to go, and wouldn't you know it...I was the only person that showed up for the class, aside from the instructor.

Oh no.

I was horrified at the thought of having to do this alone. There would be no escaping the attention of the instructor as I attempt to blend in to the back of the room (like I usually do). There was going to be ample chance for awkward eye contact while we shook our hips and slithered around the room, trying to be all sexy like. This was going to be awful.

I debated making a run for it, but I'd already paid, so I was kinda stuck.

And you know what? It was crazy fun.

Sandra, the instructor, was NOT banking on having only one student that day. And she certainly was not banking on that one student being young. She worked me hard. I made her work hard. By the end of the cardio portion, we were both sweating up a storm, but we were having fun. And there was no awkward eye contact. {Relief}

I got my sweat on, my dance on, and then did a bit of yoga and stretching to finish it off. Sandra was great. She is a fabulous lady in her early 60's who told me with a little wink that Bellyfit made her sex life better, even at her age.

Wink, indeed.

Did I mention that there was a 92 year old lady who watched the whole 60 minutes?

All in all, I burned about 600 calories. I laughed. I was not mortified. I had fun and I'll probably go back again the week after next (as I have work commitments next Thursday). Come join?

When: Thursday 3 pm
Where: Cook St. Village Activity Centre
What: Bellyfit - wear running shoes, bring a yoga mat if you have one (they have some on hand). H20!
How much: $10 drop in fee.

Ladies only. Sorry, gents.

Pic of the Day - Thursday Edition.

2012-02-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

Remember, a mere two weeks ago...when it was snowing? And then yesterday, it felt like spring with all that sunshine and blue skies and temperatures around 10 degrees. As much as I can't WAIT for spring to arrive, I'm glad I got to play in the snow with this man, for one day, at least.

How To Pamper Yourself At Home

2012-02-01T14:24:00.000-08:00

I am a big fan of pampering. I, like most people, am at my best when I am rested, relaxed and feeling good.

A big part of that is taking time for yourself. When I can, I try to get myself to a spa for some quality "me" time. I enjoy the process of being at a spa - the quiet, the hushed tones, the treatments. If available, I will spend a serious amount of time soaking in a mineral bath after my treatment, or sipping tea by the fireplace. Anything to stretch out my experience before heading back into the real world.

Of course, these "me" times come with a price, and it's not something I can afford to indulge in as much as I'd like to {and, this blog is not GOOP}. So, how do you recreate for yourself the spa experience at home, on a budget? There are plenty of ways to set the mood and customize your own at home spa date with a friend, or yourself. None of these are by any means revolutionary, just my own tips for how to create a spa like atmosphere in your own home, without breaking the bank.

{Hydra Therapy at Home}

1. I draw myself a bath. I favor using lavender scented Epsom salts not revive total body weariness (you can get 2kg of these at Pharmasave for $9.99), or my favorite Rose scented bubble bath by Tokyo Milk.

Rose scented heaven.

2. I set the mood. We are lucky to have heated tile floors in the bathroom, so the room is always at a consistently lovely temperature. I like to dim the lights over the bathtub and light a couple of candles, so that the light is soft and low. Sometimes, I'll light some incense.

3. And because this time is all about ME, I take this time to either just lay quietly with a cool washcloth over my eyes, or maybe a few pieces of cucumber....or read a book.....or {and this is my personal favorite} watch a BBC mini series on my laptop {something romantic or tragic}, which rests on my toilet seat out of harms way. This is definitely my happy time.

{Facials at Home}

There are a couple of easy ways to give yourself a facial.

1. Go to Silk Roads Tea and choose a customized facial steam mixture. You can use these in a home face steamer {which you can pick up at a drug store}, or just over a bowl of steaming water. These open your pores and the scents are either relaxing or invigorating. Steaming water alone will do the same thing, but adding a scent adds a little something special.

2. Pick a treatment. I like to use a deep cleansing clay mask that is from the dead sea - it's rich with minerals and nourishing for your skin. But my hands down favorite face mask? It's completely home made and as easy as you can imagine. You simply mix up a combination of oats, plain yogurt and lemon juice and spread it all over your face until it dries. This will soften and nourish your skin thanks to the yogurt, but also acts as an astringent because of the lemon, so it's really great if you're battling problem skin. You will, however, look like a freak, and animals will want to eat your face, so wear at your own risk {and in private}.

{Bonus Facial Tip: For the Great Outdoors} - when James and I are camping or sailing, we often miss a warm soothing shower at the end of the night. We boil water, and will add a couple of tea bags - either green, peppermint, or chamomile, and give ourselves facials. We let wash cloths soak and then we use them on our faces and necks before we go to bed. The tea acts as a light astringent, and it makes you feel like a completely different person before you crawl into your bed away from home. It's amazing how something this simple feels SO luxurious when you're camping {just like how food always tastes better in the woods!}

{Massages}

1. You don't need anything fancy - a simple lotion of your favorite scent will do. This works better with a partner, but you can self massage. Learn some pressure points on your feet, learn some tricks to massage away your headaches, pay attention to your hands, give yourself a total body lotion application and take time doing so. The point is, spend some time massaging yourself, or your partner. You don't really need to know what you're doing - a lot of the time, just a light back rub from the one you love can be soothing and relaxing AND it is a great way to foster intimacy.

{Mani/Pedi's at Home}

I have a really hard time actually wanting to PAY for a mani/pedi. That's not to say that I don't enjoy them when I get them, I just find them to be pricy, considering my polish always chips off days after paying 60 some-odd dollars to apply it. When I do pay for a manicure, I make sure to get something that I wouldn't be able to do very well on my own - such as a french manicure, or a really dark polish application.

When I'm at home, I favor fun colours on my toes in the summer, and I generally keep my finger nails bare, or at the most, a clear polish. But just because you aren't paying for it, doesn't mean you can't have beautiful hands and feet!

1. Get a GREAT nail buffer - one of those four sided jobbies. Follow the steps and before your favorite sitcom is over, you'll have gorgeous clean, buffed nails that look like they have polish on them, when in fact, they don't. Follow up with a thick lotion and apply almond oil on your cuticles. Boom!

2. If you have a big bowl, or a tub, it's good to soak your feet in Epsom salts, or in water than has essential oils added to it. After your feet are clean and softened, you can loofah those puppies and apply lotion for soft feets. After that, apply polish or buff to your heart's desire. BOOM! Pedi.

{Spa "Exrtas"}

You know when you go to a spa and they always have these beautiful teas or fancy drinks? You can make these at home too. When you're settling in for some relaxed me time, I think it's just as important to nourish your insides as well as your outsides. When I'm relaxing, I'm either constantly hydrating, or I'm being indulgent. Here are some of my favorite ways to relax and indulge...

1. Cucumber is the new lemon. Instead of lemon slices (though they are great too!), I add slices of cucumber to my water and put it in the fridge. The gentle cucumbery flavor seeps out and you end up with cucumber infused water, which tastes amazingly fresh and fancy.

2. Cinnamon has a lot of health benefits and tastes amazing too. Did you know that you can simply add a stick or two of cinnamon to a carafe of water, leave overnight, and you'll have a beautiful scented flavored water that will not only hydrate, but can actually help FIGHT certain things?Yeah.

I think we'll agree that these two beat "Vitamin Water" hands down, yeah?

3. Lastly, if I'm feeling like I'm well hydrated, and I just want to REALLY relax, may I suggest a champagne cocktail with homemade lavender syrup?Yes, yes I can.


{Homemade Lavender Syrup}

What do you guys do to relax at home on a budget?

January's Obsessions

2012-01-26T17:45:00.000-08:00

Formerly known as "Stuff I Like" posts, this is just a little peekaboo into what I'm digging these days.

{Kathleen Edward's newest Album - Voyager. It's sublime and dreamy.

I cannot get enough of her voice.

I sing when I walk.

It's hard to contain.}

Source

{Secondly, I am really crushing hard on Life Unexpected. It's on Netflix.

It's well written, and well acted, and pulls just enough heartstrings without making me want to vomit.

It's funny, too.}

Source

{When I'm not sitting around watching tv shows that infuriatingly only have two seasons on Netflix, I am getting my yoga on. My experience has been made better as of late

because of my new skidless Yogitoes mat.

Mine is hippie tie-dye green/blue.

James thinks it's hideous.

I love it.}

Source

{Lastly, I have been treating my face with this little line up.

It's going to be available in Canada on Jan 29th,

so it can be yours soon too!

There are 13 skus for us here in the Great White North.

I personally favour the scrub, the cleansing wipes, and the toner. Not to mention the great daily moisturizer. Best part? It's for sensitive skin, so you'll find

no harsh chemicals or fragrances here.

Come look at my face. I'll show you.

It's SIMPLE.}

Source

You should be able to find this in a grocery (such as Thrifty's) or drug merchant near you by the beginning of February. Watch out for it - it's a spectacular product line - the first sensitive skin line in Canada.

Your face could be as smoooooth as eggs.

That's it, that's all.

What are your January loves?

365 Questions to Ask Yourself in 2012 - Part 7

2012-01-26T17:14:00.000-08:00

I'm enjoying this exercise in writing and openness. It's been good for my writing and good for my mind. And, it gives me a chance to delve a little deeper into my favourite subject, which of course, is...me.

Moving on (to me). Today's question is - "Do you ask enough questions, or do you settle for what you know?"

BAM! This is an interesting thought. And, my answer in contingent on what situation we're talking about here. Because I am certainly guilty of not asking enough questions at work - I am, for the most part, content to go about my business and will only ask questions if I run into a roadblock. I've never claimed to have an analytical mind for business, so often these types of questions don't immediately occur to me.

That's not saying I am not good at my job - I am merely NOT the typical business, marketing, or economics graduate that I am sure makes up about 98 % of my coworkers.

Regardless, I bring other strengths to my job as I continue to retrain my brain so as to continually improve in these other, more trying aspects of what I do. I have learned to ask more questions and I have learned more about business than I ever would have if I had majored in that, rather than Art History (which would never have happened in a million years - straight A's in Art History over here. Let's not talk about how I did in math in university.)

It's interesting where life takes you. I use math every day and often find myself being able to calculate things faster than my friends who excelled in math, or my engineer husband. And I don't even have to use my FINGERS. See? We can train our brains. Brain juice can be generated. And no, it has nothing to do with Alpha Brain, Joe Rogan.

I never used to want to ask questions when I first started my job because I was afraid it would make me look stupid. I was afraid, during my especially challenging learning curve from sales rep (when this blog was called Wiener Sausage Chub - an homage to my lucrative career as a sales rep for a national processed meat company....and my wholly immature sense of humour), to my current role as an account manager for a global consumer packaged goods company (and my somewhat more evolved sense of humour, I hope), that I would be discovered as a fraud. That I didn't know what I was doing! My only related previous experience stemmed from mainly making displays out of bacon and packages of hotdogs. Mind you, I had balloons too. So there was that.

Source

I was lucky that about 6 months in, after a bit of a corporate shuffle, I found a new mentor in the person that has been my boss for the past 4 years. Working under someone that you not only respect, but can have candid conversations with, has been a life saver, and a career saviour. I am ever grateful for the opportunities that this mutual relationship of respect and friendship has brought about in my career - confidence being only second to the knowledge. He is my Yoda, but much taller.

And all because I was encouraged to ask questions. And once I was comfortable? I did. And do. It's so important to continue to pursue knowledge and not become complacent in our small worlds. In my business, we're constantly asked to look outward - Be external. Know what's happening in our marketplace. To do this, you have to ask questions. For me, asking enough analytical questions is still a work in progress, but usually someone else asks first, and information is shared, so it's not a big deal. Go team!

Sometimes these questions are related to feedback. Getting feedback is often getting an answer to a question you never asked, and sometimes it can feel unwelcome. But it's a necessary part of growth. No one likes criticism (even when it is cleverly disguised as "constructive"), and it can hurt your feelings, your confidence, your relationships. But not if you let it do the job it was intended for - to get you to question YOURSELF, your methods, your motivations. We're getting feedback every day, in every situation, whether we know it or not. And, we adjust our behaviours, whether we know it or not.

Interesting to think about, yes?

Conversely, in my personal life, I never stop asking questions. Because, I guess, that's where I have always been the most confident and comfortable. My career as ME is going on 31 years now. Plus, I'm nosy as hell. Sometimes it's hard to get me to shut my mouth, in my personal life. You would have never guessed that about me, I'm sure.

Source

Do you ask enough questions in your life?

Dear Dinner Carbs...Part 2.

2012-01-23T14:38:00.000-08:00

Um...so....remember this grand little statement from last week? I was SO going to stop eating carbs after 5 pm. That SO did not happen. At all. On any day. Even on the day I declared it so.

I blame the snow. It got cold and I felt compelled to continue layering on the carbolicious layers of fat I would need to be able to stay warm while playing in the snow. I blame laziness too, as I just couldn't make myself go to the grocery store. We ate out last week. We ate random things in our cupboards. We ate. And ate. And ate. And I only did yoga once. And I only ran around in the snow a couple times. I did not burn more calories than I consumed last week. The crispy pork shoulder that I ate at Zambri's (and then ate the rest of for breakfast the next day), totally did not help my cause. Key words: "Crispy" (and delicious).

I also basically slothed around my house this weekend. I wanted to get outside and go for a long walk, or a hike, but the weather was not cooperating. So other than a little minor Saturday morning yoga session with myself, I essentially did nothing except move from various seats and couches at our house and our friends houses and masticated.

So what? There's always this week.

So far, so good. I know. It's only lunch time on Monday, but things are going good. I've been tracking my foods on my iPhone, via the Lose It! App. It's an easy way to set a weight goal for yourself and then try and stick within your daily caloric intake. I am allowed just over 1600 calories a day, so that shouldn't be too hard. I am not really one to diet, but it's become clear to me that I absolutely NEED to track my intake, because I have no idea about how much I eat, or what kind of value I'm getting from it.

Breakfast today:
1/2 cup of Bob's Red Mill Oats
1 tbsp of Skippy Natural PB
1/4 cup of Unsweetened almond milk
1/2 small organic Banana
= 457 calories

Green tea = 0 calories (yay for green tea!)

Lunch Today:
California Roll, 6 pieces (wouldn't normally eat this, but it's from Thrifty's and they are limited)
2 pieces of Salmon nigiri
Soy Green tea latte
= 632 (this would have been MUCH better without the green tea latte I had on my coffee date with my dad, which was 270 calories alone! Thanks a lot, Starbucks! I'll be sticking to tea from now on!)

This leaves me with about 653 calories for the rest of the day. I'll be filling in the blanks with lots of lemon water, maybe an apple to snack on (95 calories). Dinner is going to be homemade beef stew, which will be about 250 calories or so for one serving. Based on this estimation, I should be well within my caloric range for the day, with room for some dark chocolate for dessert. We'll see.

I also had a GREAT yoga class this morning, which you can also track in the app. So far this Monday has been great for my body AND mind. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and everything is a-ok.

Mindful living is what I set out to do this week - what I put in my body, how I use my body, and how I treat my mind. Get out and enjoy the sunshine while it's here, YYJ!

365 Questions to Ask Yourself in 2012 - Part 5 & 6

2012-01-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

I've been a bad blogger. My time has been thinly spread the last couple of weeks, so I just couldn't (wouldn't) find the time to post. I'm back, rest easy. I know you missed me.

Mark and Angel Hack Life has been getting a fair bit of play lately on my Facebook feed. It's not just me trying to look inward, and better myself in 2012, it's all of us. Or, it should be.

Today I ask myself these questions - "What life lesson did you learn the hard way", and "what did you wish you spent more time doing 5 years ago?"......

The first one? That has the potential to be a doozy of a question. I could tell you I learned the hard way to never leave your email account open. I could tell you that I learned I needed to set boundaries. I could tell you that you should never friend your boss on Facebook unless you have him on limited profile (which, I really hope you do). I could tell you that your metabolism starts to decline in your late 20's, so you really should get yourself into some good habits or you'll be battling the bulge before you know it.

But, I'm going to tell you about debt instead. Debt is SO easy to get into. It is SO easy to use your credit card, then pay your credit card off via your lower interest line of credit, and then rent a place that is too expensive for you to really live in, and eat out all the time, and ignore your bills. Before you know it, you are in debt. Big time. It's far too easy to not live within your means. We have credit cards to thank for that. What ever happened to saving up for something? We purchase on impulse and we purchase on want, not need. We live in a debt ridden society, and it's only getting worse. You have to TAKE CONTROL of your finances, before you find yourself in a hole that you can't even fathom how to begin climbing out of.

I learned this the hard way in my 20's. Back when I had my first job out of university, and was making $40 k a year, I spent money like I was making $60 k per year. Guess what? Something had to give, and that something was my spending habits. Know your limit, spend within it. While spending money may give you a high, debt feels crippling. Just...don't. Trust me.

I don't have many regrets, but those that I do, I have at least learned a valuable lesson about myself, sometimes good, sometimes bad. I wish that 5 years ago, I had saved more money. I wish I had taken better care of my body. I don't drink much, or smoke cigarettes, or eat very much unhealthy food. BUT, I wish that I had found yoga 5 years ago and embraced it like I do today. I wish that I had seen how damaging gluten is to my system and committed to a gluten free lifestyle like I should have, rather than occasionally. I wish that we had begun trying to get pregnant five years ago because now I feel like the only person in the world that doesn't have a baby, or one on the way (what is TAKING SO LONG?!!). I wish, 5 years ago, that I could have told myself that the stress I was feeling over my new career path was going to be fleeting, and that I didn't have to worry about getting fired. I wish I had taken more time for myself, like I am learning to do today.

That's me. What about you?

365 Questions to Ask Yourself in 2012 - Part 4

2012-01-17T14:17:00.000-08:00

Today's question is - "What gets you excited about life?"

I didn't even have to think about this one. The first thing that jumped into my mind was "TRAVEL". Which is why, in 2012, I am beyond sad that we will not be boarding a plane to some new destination. We have decided to pay off our BMW instead. How boring of us.

Don't get me wrong - we'll be taking holidays. We'll be jumping in the car and driving to the Interior for a wedding in Rossland in July, followed by 10 or so days at our family cabin in the Kootenays. That leaves us with a week that will either be broken up into long weekends or maybe a week sailing or camping. Not sure, but whatever we do, it will be relaxing.

In my heart, I yearn for an extended hiatus from my real life. To be able to say "Guess what? We're moving to France for 6 months!" or "We're driving a van around Australia" or "we're moving to Santa Teresa for the dry season" or "We've rented a sailboat and we're doing all the Greek islands...don't know when we'll be back!"....I could go on and on...and ON.

The first time I left North America, I was 22. Me and one of my best friends, as a university graduation present to ourselves, decided to go to Europe. After researching it for a few months, we determined that we wanted to see as much as we could, and not being seasoned travelers, we opted for a Contiki Holiday. These are pre-packaged tours for 18 - 35 year olds. Being 31 now, I couldn't imagine ever going on one now, but then? It was the best possible thing for us to do (at the time, of the 50 travelers that were with us, we were all primarily in our early to mid 20's, with a few outliers on either end of the age spectrum).

We decided on the 5 week "European Adventurer" budget tour that they offered. We'd never been to Europe before, and we figured that it was the best possible way for us to actually stay on budget (as you know upfront what the majority of your costs are), we didn't have to worry about where we were going to stay, or how we were going to get there, and it covered off pretty much every major European city - it was, in a word, a taste. A delicious, exciting taste.

Paris, 2002

We had the time of our lives. It's possible that I have never had that much fun in my life, or will again. It was the first taste of "freedom". I had just spent 4 years in Uni getting my art history degree, so the sights we saw, really hit home. I was living my dream! We met some incredible people - it really was like a traveling summer camp. It's been nearly 10 years since we embarked (June 7th, 2002), but we have made lasting friendships and memories. I'll never forget the way it made me feel. It wasn't about the partying (as so often the Contiki tours are known for), though there was a fair bit of that. It was about waking up to something new every day. It was about me, being on my "own", for the first time. It was enthralling. I was hooked.

Soon after I got back, I started working. Then I got my first post University big girl real job. My holidays were now to be paid, and limited. I've been working now for 9 years, and I only have three weeks paid holiday every year (how depressing is THAT). I don't have the luxury like some of my friends, who seem to be able to take off for months at a time - seriously, where do you get your money, people? (Mommy and daddy, one snarkily {and probably correctly}assumes). I also take my career seriously, so I'm not one to just jump off the boat when it suits me. Oh, to be free. Or rich. Free AND rich. Must be nice.

I take my time off very seriously. When it's limited, you have to make the most of it. So, in 2004, on my first ever paid vacation, my mom and I went to France for a week. Why only a week? Well, that's all I had for my entire first year of working. And I certainly wasn't about to sit back and not doing something epic. My mom and I spent 8 nights in Paris (you learn to get tricky with long weekends), and a day in Bruges, Belgium. We loved it. We hit up every church you could possibly imagine, and ate pastries for days. It was Heaven.

It's blurry because we were in a rush to eat as many pastries as possible while moving.

In 2005, we went to the Bahamas. I won the trip through work. It was only for 4 days, and though it was beautiful, this was the trip that made me realize that all-inclusives are NOT my thing. If I can help it, it will be my first, and last.

Freeport, Bahamas, 2005

In 2006, I got married. We wanted to do something amazing for our honeymoon, but soon realized we didn't have the budget for our champagne tastes. In the end, we chose to go to Hawaii for two weeks because it was close and neither of us had ever been there. We figured it was a bit of a cliche for a reason - and it is. We spent a week on Oahu and a week on Maui. It was just the kind of relaxation we needed after the big day. Mahalo.

Aloha, bitches! 2006

2007 and 2008 - I was sick with my Crohn's issues - resulting in a canceled trip to France in 2008 so I could have surgery........

In 2009, I finally got to take my husband to my favorite country, France. We took our three weeks and used every single second of it. This trip continues to inspire me. We did it right. We flew into Paris and spent a sexy three days in the heart of my favorite district, on Rue Cler. We drank champagne under the Eiffel Tower, we ate, we walked, we drank more wine, we people watched. Then, we got on a train to Avignon to meet our friends Jon and Diana and their boat (a 60 foot barge) on which we spent the next 12 days floating down the canals from Avignon to Arles to Montpellier and everywhere in between. THIS is the way to travel, if you ever get a chance. There is nothing like it. You will see things and places you will never see by road. For example, the wild horses of the Camargue, or entering the Med. It was truly incredible and once in a lifetime. Once we hit Montpellier, we took a train back to Paris, where we were met by my French family, and we stayed with them in their house in Boissy, just outside of Paris, for another week. What an amazing experience, and one I often look back on with joy.

Canal du Midi Pirates

Swimming in the river in the remote Camargue

Versailles

Drinking champagne out of a bottle is actually really hard

In 2010, we took two trips. The first one was to celebrate my 30th birthday in on Grand Cayman Island. We have family there, Liz and Gary, and they own the number one dive company, Living The Dream Divers. We were there just as they were getting started. It was the most incredible week of diving (I got PADI certified - something that was on my bucket list), and on my actual birthday I got to swim with sting rays in the wild. Liz and Gary were incredibly generous with not only their occupation, but their time. They opened their home to us, and made sure we experienced the best of the Cayman lifestyle. It was 9 days of paradise and we can't wait to go back.

About to dive with some rays!

Amazing! We were the only ones here!

Cayman has my heart.

Later that year, we took a trip to San Francisco, Napa Valley, Santa Cruz, and Los Gatos for Liz and Gary's wedding. We rented a silver Camaro and enjoyed stuffing as much as we possibly could into 5 days of travel. We did a limo tour of Napa, drank too much wine, toured San Fran for our anniversary, drove the coast, rode roller coasters on the Santa Cruz pier, went to a wedding...it was a blast.

Yountville

Del Dotto Winery, Napa.

In 2011, I won a $3000 travel voucher at a golf tournament. What a prize! After MUCH debate - like, whether or not to stay within the confines of that $3000 by simply going to an all inclusive in Mexico, how long to go for etc, we decided that we really needed to get away for 2 weeks. And wherever that was going to be, it needed to be warm, and there needed to be surf. We ended up in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica for 17 glorious days in Feb/March 2011 and it was spectacular. It was our first Central American experience, and it was the best. The $3000 covered our flights. The accommodation was $700 for two weeks - we found an adorable and affordable casita off Craigslist of all places. The food was amazing, and ate out a lot, despite also having a kitchen. The beaches were truly amazing, and the people were friendly. Our biggest splurge was keeping an ATV for 2 weeks - it's all we used to get around Santa Teresa, Mal Pais, and Montezuma. Worth it! Can't wait to go back someday.

Santa Teresa

Our sweet ride

Montezuma

Within all these years, I've also managed to squeeze in a week at the previously mentioned summer home, which is hands down, my favorite place on earth. And this year, we'll get to spend more time there as we won't be flying anywhere exotic. This year, 2012, we'll be "home" for the holidays and it will be good. I'm looking forward to it.

Not too shabby!

See you in 2012!

But oh. Travel. How I will miss you. You excite me so!

New Music Monday

2012-01-16T13:45:00.000-08:00

Casually righteous.

Introducing you guys to...RIGHTEOUS RAINBOWS OF TOGETHERNESS.

We were introduced to the music of Righteous Rainbows by our good friends Laila and Dallas, who are friends with them. If you like ambient, crazy techno music, then this is for you. Apparently, the live shows are to die for. We missed them at Rifflandia this past year, but will be catching them sometime soon.

Check out their bio (and images), which I found on the Rifflandia webpage:

"Righteous Rainbows of Togetherness formed at the final soundwave to make righteous techno. They make this techno live with drum machines and synthesizers, before your very eyes. The fact that the techno is for dancing to can’t really be emphasized enough."

Righteous. And local. So check it out.

Dear Dinner Carbs, This Is Your Eviction Notice.

2012-01-16T13:27:00.000-08:00

We're all familiar with the tightening of the waistbands post holiday season. We've all indulged in too many rum and eggnogs, sweet treats, and heavy meals. Come January, everyone is ready to make some changes.

It's not just about exercise, as you need to be fueling your body to enable your metabolism AND to give you the energy to tackle those resolutions.

My resolutions included doing something active every day - whether that be yoga (3 times a week) or one of two DVD's that I reserve for days when I just can't get outside (30 Day Shred or Get Ripped), or a brisk walk with a friend. So far so good. Not perfect, but on the right track. My eating habits could use a little help though.

I realized the other day that I had fallen back on carb loading. Carbs - delicious, delicious carbs. This was on the second day where I'd eaten a big bowl of steamed white (gasp! evil!) rice slathered in sesame sauce. My favorite comfort take out Japanese food. I've also been indulging in Udi's gluten free bagels which are MASSIVE and leave me hungry two hours later for something else. That's the thing - while temporarily satisfying, simple carbs don't have the longevity to keep you feeling satisfied. You eat more and get less out of it.

Boooooo.

I've recently decided to try and eliminate most carbs after 5 pm. That means for dinner we'll be having lean protein and A LOT of vegetables. I am not cutting carbs, completely, but I will be only enjoying complex carbs (brown rice, quinoa) during the day. This is when I NEED the energy, not only for my brain, but this is also when I exercise. Come night time, I generally sit around, so I need my metabolism to not be sluggish with carbohydrates and sugars. Oh yeah, white sugar is something I'll be trying to say adios to as well.

For breakfast today, I enjoyed two eggs, cooked easy style (in a bowl, in the microwave) on two small pieces of Udi's gluten free bread. For lunch, I am drinking a smoothie. This is going to fuel me through my yoga practice later this afternoon. A smoothie can virtually be a meal in drink. Observe:

~ 1 medium organic banana
~ 0.5 cups of frozen bloobs
~ 1 tbsp of Skippy Natural (soon to be in a Canadian grocery retailer near you)
~ 8oz of unsweetened vanilla almond milk
~ 2 scoops of Vega Whole Food Green Smoothie Infusion

This little concoction has about 320 calories and 12 (12!!) grams of fibre, not to mention protein. See? It's a whole meal deal. I'm making an effort to ingest smaller meals, several times a day, as my metabolism just can't handle what I currently do to it. Not snacking is bad (tsk tsk), but you have to chose your snacks wisely. If it's tempting and evil, just don't buy it.

As for dinner, tonight will be baked salmon and a mound of steamed veg. And then probably cake because I made that YESTERDAY, before I had this mind revelation about my eating habits. But you get the idea.

Here's to you and here's to our healthy asses!

365 Questions to Ask Yourself in 2012 - Part 3

2012-01-09T16:53:00.000-08:00

If you're just checking in, I'm using this list as a focus for my writing and as a means of looking within in 2012. It's all part of my process to be self aware and to keep things in perspective.

"What's the most sensible thing you've ever heard someone say?"

Oh boy. There are a lot of pearls of wisdom from which to chose. We've all heard someone say "always wear clean underwear" (as if you wouldn't?), or "save for the future" (which you should - nobody wants to be a 55 year old hobo), but what is that one thing that has stuck with you since you heard it and has made an impact on you in your life?

I am the daughter of sensible parents - they have given me more than enough sensible and practical advice for one lifetime. I have been lucky. I was raised by sensible, stable people. I believe that this is why I am generally sensible and stable myself. No one likes it when I become unpredictable, so I prefer to remain somewhat on the straight and narrow, with the occasional dose of ridiculousness, just to keep it fresh (and to give the relatives something to talk about). I am, overall, sensible and reliable and feel good about knowing that people can count on me, or put their trust in the fact that I am extremely punctual (which is a virtue that is next to Godliness - I'm lookin at YOU, 99% of my friends).

This piece of advice is something you will all be familiar with -

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.
The prayer of Serenity. You don't have to be Christian, or believe in any God, to understand the simple and sensible advice behind this prayer, attributed to Reinhold Niebuhr, who first used it in a sermon in the 1940's.

Accept the things that are not in your power to change. Courage to change what you can. Wisdom to know the difference between knowing what you can and cannot affect.

My late grandmother had this verse cross stitched and framed. It resides now on a wall, in the kitchen, at our family cabin. I remember asking her once what it meant, and she simply explained that sometimes in life there are things we cannot change because it's out of our hands, but that it should never stop us from doing what we can to help others, or ourselves, if that is God's will.

I think the general message of the prayer is a very sensible one, religion aside. Take God out of it and you still have a clear piece of advice, that can apply to many situations in many different lives. Sometimes, the best advice is to just accept and let go.

Serenity. Acceptance. Courage. Wisdom. Faith.

What is the most sensible thing someone has ever said to YOU?

My Weekend, in 1000 Words or Less.

2012-01-09T16:18:00.000-08:00

My weekend rocked! It was the first weekend in MONTHS where we had absolutely nothing planned, and I was ecstatic about that. After a busy fall and holiday season, I was ready for some rest and relaxation AND just going wherever the wind took us.

I have been fighting a cold since the holidays, and it caught up with me last week. I'm back to sniffles and coughs, but I'm past the contagious phase so don't worry - you can bring me treats and I won't infect you. In my old age, all of my colds go to my sinuses and cause post nasal drip, so they just looooove to hang on. I feel like hell when I wake up in the morning, but am fine during the day, so it's pretty much business as usual (plus nasal steroids).

So, back to my awesome weekend. I am in the habit of starting my weekend with a yoga class on Friday afternoons. I take my lunch break a little later in the day and hit the studio for a good practice. I find it sets me up for the weekend, and makes me feel better about whatever I might do (or not do) to my body in the next two days. This past Friday's class was intense - a lot of downward dog (but not as much as today - I counted 17 downward dogs...wtf!), but enjoyable. I left feeling refreshed and ready to finish the day's work and prepare for the weekend.

The hubby had a flex day Friday, so he went surfing, then went into work to finish up some important things. He came home with sushi and we watched Cedar Rapids on Netflix in bed. It was the perfect, relaxing Friday night after a hectic week.

I got a text on Friday night from my friend Liv, who asked 'Day drunk at the Beagle tomorrow?' (because the Canucks were playing Boston at 10 am). I replied "Nope, not I. Not drinking right now". This awesome resolve lasted through the night, but ended as soon as I woke up and all I could think about was having a Caesar, so we decided to have breakfast at The Beagle, and I downed two spicy caesars while watching the Canucks feed it to Boston (sweet revenge).

We ended up at our friends L&D's house for a late afternoon board game of Dixit (new favorite game alert!), another caesar (Dallas makes them with pickle juice and they were INSANELY GOOD) or two, dinner (we brought salmon and the boys cooked up a delicious meal while Lai and I drank some wine), and then a movie. Dallas wanted to watch a post-apocalyptic film and I am always happy to do that, so we settled on something called Stake Land, which turned out to be pretty good (end of the world AND vampires? Check), even though it starred Eric from Gossip Girl. Lowered expectations = better experience.

My favorite new game!

It was a lovely, casual Saturday and we were in bed by 11, reading our books. Bliss!

The hubby got up early Sunday to head out surfing again, while I got up later after a glorious sleep in. But! It was Super motivated Sunday, so I went grocery shopping and got all the ingredients for dinners this week. I was craving lasagna - so I made the world's most expensive lasagna (the joys of living gluten free and cows milk free) and a big salad for dinner that night (and lunches this week). I took down the Christmas tree and decorations and put them away for another year. I cleaned. All before 2 pm.

James came home and we decided to go to a late afternoon movie - we settled on Hugo in 3D, which was beautifully filmed, and a lovely little story. Slow in parts, but generally enjoyable. It's set in Paris in the 20's or 30's and so we felt particularly nostalgic for our favorite city in the world. It seemed to me that it was Scorsese's whimsical tribute to cinema and film - and a fine tribute it was.Suitable for children and adults, it's something everyone can enjoy.

Sunday night was spent waiting for the lasagna to cook, and reading our books, listening to CBC and enjoying a glass of shiraz by the fire.

It was a perfect weekend. How was your weekend?

365 Questions To Ask Yourself in 2012 - Part 2

2012-01-06T15:41:00.000-08:00

Moving right along to deep thought of the year number two - Who do you compare yourself to?

Who DON'T I compare myself to? Whether it's comparing my yoga abilities to the somewhat more nubile older woman next to me, or the way my jeans make my ass look compared to the stick thin girl walking in front of me while I readjust my muffin top....the basic truth is that we all compare ourselves to others. Possibly without even realizing it - the thought may be fleeting, disappearing before we even get a chance to recognize it.

Currently? I suppose I compare myself to my pregnant friends, or friends who have just welcomed new babies (Hi Ben! Hi Chris! Hi Eli! Hi Anna! Hi Naia!) and I wonder why my womb remains persistently empty. I compare my life, a happy one, to the lives of my new mom friends - the nerves, the sleepless nights, the lack of spare time, the screaming babies, the body that is no longer their own - and I remind myself that I have it pretty good over here, living my relaxed life. But....I want what they have. And I wonder when it will be my turn to bloat, leak milk, and endure night after night of feedings and changings? Not to mention the wonder of looking into your baby's eyes and recognizing a part of yourself, or the first time your baby smiles at you, or the love that cannot be compared to anything else.

Or so they tell me.

For now, I will be happy with what I DO have - a loving husband, a home we own in an area we love and feel proud to live in, a good job, a happy little dog whom I love to bits, our families close by, and a lot of laughter.

Who do YOU compare yourselves to?

365 Questions to Ask Yourself in 2012 - Part 1

2012-01-04T14:12:00.000-08:00

Something I hope to do more of in 2012 is to write, whether it be this blog or another. And, sometimes I get writer's block (bloggers block?) and lose focus, motivation, and inspiration. Cut to this article, entitled 365 Thought Provoking Questions to Ask Yourself This Year. Not only does this give me a focus in my writing, a ready topic at hand if you will, but it allows me to do a little more of what I set out to do each day, which is to look inward and work on myself, my attitude, and the things that will inspire me to lead the best life I can. This won't be in meme format, but I may tackle one or two or even three questions during a post. The point is to provoke some thought on my part, and maybe give you a little further insight into my psyche (as if this blog isn't enough).

*Drum roll*

To start things off, question numero uno - "When was the last time you tried something new?"

Hmmm. Okay, I suck at trying new things. I am often afraid of looking silly, or not being able to pick up something as fast as my counterparts, at least when it comes to things that require tenacity and coordination at the same time (read: sports). I suck at sports.

I often try new things when it comes to cooking, but isn't that part of cooking? So, that doesn't really count. I often try new television shows, or pick up new books, but those don't count either because who doesn't do those things? When I travel, I pick new and exciting places to try. But that's just part of living, in my books.

For me, the last really major thing I tried was to learn how to play the ukulele. I played it in grade 4 and 5 as a part of the mandatory school district 61 program and I ruled. Cue to 20 years later, when I determined that my guitar was too big for my arms, and the metal strings were too mean to my fingers. I figured I could go out and get myself a cute little blue ukulele and it would be as easy as 1-2-3.

But did you know you have to practice to be good at stuff? Yeah.

So I took some lessons and learned some chords and a few songs. And you know, I was getting to be alright. My fingers started to have memory. I could strum some chords and sing some songs...that was all I wanted. But then my left thumb started hurting. I thought perhaps I was being too aggressive with my playing (which seems hilariously improbable when it comes to a tiny blue ukulele), so I decided to put it down for a while until the pain resolved. But 6 months later the pain is still there. And I haven't picked up Lady Blukulele since.

Which leads me to believe that I am dying of bone cancer in my thumb.

Which leads me to book an Xray that I have still yet to go to.

Which leads me to inform you that I am both a hypochondriac and a procrastinator.

This year I'm going to pick up Lady Blu and try something old and make it new and make it mine, sore and possibly cancerous thumb or not.

When was the last time YOU tried something new?

New Years, a Recap.

2012-01-03T12:12:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve. Almost always a great time, don't you think? True, it can be highly overrated, and there are some years when I crave movies and my couch and a few close friends as opposed to spending the big bucks, putting on heels, and drinking way too much champagne. But since I figure once we have kids, those nights will be all the more likely, we may as well enjoy it for all it can be now!

This year we headed to Heron Rock Bistro for our night. We did this last year, and had a blast. This year was also a great time, though we left earlier than the previous year because the live music turned out to be jazz as opposed to electronica dance music like last year (no offense, jazz....you're fine for dinner, but not for boogy down productions). The 5 course meal (at $60) was delicious - fresh Effingham oysters, prawns, prosciutto wrapped halibut, green tea sorbet, lemony dessert. Mmmm. Unfortunately, I tend to lose my appetite the later it gets in the evening, and after a few cocktails, so I couldn't finish my main or my dessert. As we had a late seating, they spaced out our dishes so that we were eating until just about midnight. Then, they popped bottles of champagne so everyone had something to toast with! It was a lot of fun and, I'm not gonna lie...a bit blurry by this point.

mmmmmm

Me and my future sister in law

Meliss and AZ sippin on cocktails

My bro and Chris enjoying themselves

What I got to look at all night

Somewhere around 1 am, we left. We needed to dance (see comments about dinner jazz above). So about 10 of the 16 of us decided to head back to my place. Of course cabs are at a premium, but we only live about 2 km away from the restaurant and it wasn't raining, so we decided to walk (in fact one of the many reasons we chose to repeat our location from last year). This turned out to be my favorite part of the night. It took us about an hour and a half to walk the distance as we kept stopping to cheer on fellow NYE walkers. And, a drunken stumble is not complete without a walk through Beacon Hill Park (safety in numbers, my friends) and a 45 minute pit stop at the playground. Much howling at the moon, swinging, wrestling in the wood chips, and acting like 8 years olds ensued (albeit tipsy 8 year olds).

While the boys discuss things like BMW's and politics....

...the girls take self portraits.

We then made the final 5 minute trek to our place, where we put on Gotye (at my insistence), set up some NYE shisha action, and danced baby danced like the world is ending. And yelled. And laughed. And pumped some bass on the new GZA record we got. And used our Christmas lights to jump rope in our living room. And realized that cabs were not going to happen. Ever.

Finally, at about 6 am (after about 2 hours of me trying to stay awake) I slept for a couple of hours. The three people who were not within walking distance to their homes, finally gave up and crashed on our love seat (ouchie) and our blow up mattress we reserve for such occasions. At 7 am I woke up to get some water and briefly considered staying up (as I often do, and then regret) and noted that everyone was still zonked out. Went back to bed until 930 and then got up again to check on the dog and noted that the couple on the floor had sobered up and snuck out to head home to their own beds in the meantime.

Our last guest was unable to get a cab until 1030 am. That must be a new record, right?

We spent the day relaxing, having brunch with my family at the Marina and generally feeling like a giant bag of ass. As per usual. While my husband went to the annual Victivus party our friend always throws (and I never ever ever go to), I got in my PJ's and finally got around to watching the final season of Entourage and was in bed asleep by 11. With one more day off, and another chance to read, chill out, and watch some movies, I am now feeling almost back to normal. Revenge of the two day hangover, indeed.

Next year, we'll change things up a bit. Who know what 2012 will bring? Will we be celebrating with a quiet night at home, or will we be dancing until our feet hurt? To be continued.

Day by Day Resolutions

2012-01-03T10:55:00.000-08:00

Ah, resolutions. You know, those things we're all gung ho about on the first of January, in our slightly (read: extremely) hungover state of mind? The dawn of a new year, a new life, a new YOU.

But I don't really think I need a new ME, entirely. I'm not making any resolutions to lose weight or change the world. Those are big things. And it's time to think small. It's time to think day by day. Why? Because day by day is something we can all do. 365 days in advance is intimidating and a set up for failure. There are going to be days when we are our best. And, conversely, the days when we fall back into old patterns. It's okay, though. We can take it day by day and before you know it, the "new" you, is just simply...you.

Resolutions are important. They are simply just goals, and as we all know, having goals are important. And apparently, if you write them down, you're more likely to follow them. So, here are my day by day goals for 2012...

One: Yoga. I found a certain sense of peace and strength from yoga in the last few months of 2011. It was like a "where have you been all my life" kind of thing. I have done yoga on and off for years, but never really "got it". I used to find it incredibly boring. Now, in my advanced age (nearly 32 *gasp*!), I don't think it's something I can live without. So, my goal for 2012 is 3 times a week and maybe, just maybe....try something other than Hatha. Anusara, I'm looking at you.

Two: Nature. A large part of my fitness routine and zen seeking came from spending hours in the outdoors. Mostly, alone with the dog, but sometimes with a partner. Did you know that your IQ is proportionate to the amount of time you spend wandering amongst the trees? Apparently so. This year, I want to get outside more. I spend far too much time in my home, as this is where I both live and work. Nature, I'm coming for you.

Three: Less screen time. I spend my days looking at a computer screen, and my nights watching films. I love the internet and I love movies, but I need to save my eyeballs. This year, I plan to unplug, just a little bit. This means when I am at home, sometimes the TV will be off, the laptop will be put away (unless it's playing music), and my iPhone will be somewhere not attached to my hip (not literally...only guys that wear black socks and sandals attach their phones to their belts, but you get the picture). So, if I don't answer a text right away, don't be concerned. I'll get back to you. Still probably faster than most, because I think it's rude otherwise.

Four: I want to re-evaluate my commitment to my own well being and health. We're on a journey this year and I feel like it could be the year that a certain dream comes true, but I'm going to be a large part of whether or not that happens. And there are certain habits that I fall back on to make me feel better that I am not sure are helping me reach that goal, despite my feelings on the positive effects of the habit. In 2012 I am going to put aside some habits that I believe may be hindering me in my ability to reach certain goals. This was vague as hell, but essentially this fourth resolution is about being truly good to my body, inside and out.

Five: I spent a lot of time on my own in 2011. My friends think I am this ridiculous social butterfly, but the truth is, I am happy to spend time by myself at home. Somewhere along the lines, I have turned into a major homebody. I'm happiest in a quiet place. There is nothing wrong with that, but there were reasons why I was happiest at home, and I'm unsure if that will continue to be the case if I truly stick to goals one through four. This year, I'm going to be more social. I'm going to make more time for those friends who I haven't seen much of in the past year, because I turned into a bit of a hermit. This year, I'm going to be authentic with my friendships, and by my actions am going to show my friends that they are important to me. I think they all know this, but I feel that I have really pulled back in the past year, and I want to put myself out there again.
(God that sounds exhausting already).

Essentially, I want 2012 to be the year of me. A better version of me. A healthier, more outgoing, complete me. I want to try new things, get off the couch more, and find a new passion. I will write more, and I will live more. So 2012, here's to you, and me.

Here's to me, and here's to us. 2012.

Post Christmas Read, Watch, Recommend.

2011-12-29T11:36:00.000-08:00

It was a loverly Christmas in the Groliver households. A time for family cheer, eating, drinking, gift exchanges, laughter and falling into bed at night utterly spent.

The past week has been fantastic, if not completely exhausting. The days haven't been too bad, but every night has us driving to some event or another. Predictably, I have started to come down with a cold. Being run down and tired, as well as mingling with infected individuals has meant my immune system is starting to weaken.

Happily, though the nights are packed, the days (aside from actual Christmas) have been nice and quiet. Husband and I have taken the opportunity (except on the days where we have to work) to sleep in, read by the tree, stroll through downtown, hit up a matinee, eat sushi. It's been so nice to spend time with him like this, savoring the quiet moments and the spare time.

Aaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh......the luxury of spare time!

This week I read one of the books I got for Christmas from my mom - Mistress of the Sun by Sandra Gulland. It's about King Louis XIV of France and his mistress, Louise de la Vallière. Historical fiction is totally my thing and this one was particularly well written and interesting. I actually did not want to put it down and finished it last night when I should have been asleep. I recommend it if you like this genre. Next up, Villa Triste by Lucretia Grindle, a WWII story about partisans who fought the Germans. Can't wait to get stuck in.

We also made our way over to a theatre to catch a viewing of the latest Mission Impossible installment. Big, slick and flashy, this is pretty much what you would expect from the franchise. I really like these movies for what they are - fun, action filled, easy intrigue. We were nearly the only people in the theatre, and sat in front of everyone, so it felt like we had the place to ourselves, while we enjoyed our contraband coffees from Habit and our Christmas goodies I had stashed in my purse.

On the boob tube, I have been enjoying season two of How to Make It In America. I never saw season 1, but goddamn I like this show. It centers around twenty-somethings trying to get their clothing label going in NYC. It's a bit reminiscent of Entourage - not surprising, as it's HBO. It's got a good story line, some good sexy bits, and a really really good soundtrack. Don't watch it with your mom.

What are you watching and reading these days?

Last Minute Gift Ideas.

2011-12-23T12:41:00.000-08:00

I'm so totally one of those people that hates getting asked 'what do you want for Christmas?' Since entering the working world in 2003, I have had my own money to buy the things that I need and want all year round. When the big gift giving day draws closer, I always find myself at a loss when my mother in law asks me what's on my list. The reason? I never have one.

This might sound like a gift givers nightmare, but I am really easy to buy for. I'd be happy if every single year someone bought me a massage or a facial from the spa. I have a Kindle, so it's hard to buy me books. I download all my music from iTunes directly to my iPhone, so it's tough to buy me music (also, there is a good chance if YOU have heard of the band, I already have it on my phone...I'm pretty in touch with the musical happenings thanks to all the hipster Tumblr accounts I follow). As a general rule of thumb, I don't like it when someone else buys me clothes, unless it's a simple thing like a hoodie or a coat. Tastes change and it's hard to buy for someone like me (tall, long legs, short torso).

Next year, I'm thinking my go to answer will be "make a donation in my name to the local food bank". Or, you know, by 2 chickens and a goat for that family in Africa as I did last year. Or, of course....a massage. You'll never see me say no to a massage. Or a foot rub. Or a facial.

If you're struggling to find last minute gifts this year for that hard to buy person on your list, I've got a few suggestions for you.

For the charitable minded - go to World Vision and give the gift of sustainability to a family in need. You can buy a goat and two chickens and feed a family for as long as those animals themselves live. Eggs, milk and cheese provide essential proteins. It just feels good. I did this for my family a few years ago (as well as some other fun personal items) and everyone was happy to know that chickens, pigs, and goats were going to feed some hungry mouths for months and months to come while we sat down to gorge ourselves on Christmas dinner.

If you're more into being regionally conscious, make a donation to your food bank in the form of money or shelf stable goods. There are plenty of hungry families in the CRD and not just at Christmas. If you don't want to make a gift of it, simply add $5, $10, $20 on to your bill at Thrifty Foods in their Food for Families program, and they will donate goods to local food banks on your behalf. It really couldn't be easier.

If you have a music love in your life, I am going to recommend the following albums. These are my favorite albums of 2011.

1. Gotye - Making Mirrors. You know when you listen to an album and you feel like it has kind of changed your life? This album has a profound effect on me whenever I listen to it. It crosses musical genres and it's truly a piece of art. It's happy and sad and uplifting and incredible. It's easily and hands down, my favorite album of the year. UNREAL. Some of my friends will be getting burnt copies of my purchase along with their Christmas gifts because I just want to SHARE this with the world. It makes me feel alive.

2. Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto. Amazing album from my favorite band. I'll be seeing them for the 5th time in April, and I cannot wait to hear them sing 'Paradise' live. As is usually the case for me with Coldplay, their initial singles tend to be my least favorites on any given album, so if you weren't blown away by 'Every Teardrop is a Waterfall', give the rest of the album a go. It's beautiful.

3. M83 - Hurry Up, We're Dreaming. I downloaded this album about 5 months ago, before Victoria's Secret started blasting 'Midnight City' in their adverts. French, synth heavy, this album is like a dream. My favorite tracks are the aforementioned 'Midnight City', 'Reunion', and 'Steve McQueen'.

4. The Black Keys - El Camino. Wasn't really a huge Black Keys fan prior to this album, but was totally hooked once I saw the video for 'Lonely Boy'. Completely entranced by this album as a whole. It's a rock out good time.

5. The Naked and Famous - Passive Me, Aggressive You. My friend Liv introduced me to these peeps after she returned from an extended stay in New Zealand (is it just me, or is NZ producing some pretty awesome acts these days?). I was immediately drawn in by tracks like 'Punching in a Dream' and 'Young Blood'. It's dreamy and dancy and fun.

6. Foster the People - Torches. You'd have to be living under a rock not to have heard at least some variation of 'Pumped up Kicks', but that's the least of it. The album is spunky and poppy and fun. Your 53 year old boss will love it just as much as your 16 year old kid (if your boss is as awesome as my boss anyways).

7. Watch The Throne - The Throne. Jay Z and Kanye really lay it down on this album. To solidify my love for it, I was at the concert last Saturday at Rogers Arena and let me tell you, they killed it. These two are legit and anything the put out is going to be slick, heavy on the beats, and with sick rhymes. Hip hop at it's finest.

8. Awolnation - Megalithic Symphony. We saw these guys live at Rifflandia in September, and they were stellar. I found this album while cruising through Grooveshark last spring and immediately loved it so was thrilled at the chance to see them live. 'Sail' is the best known track off the album, and it's sultry and sexy. 'Knights of Shame', at over 14 minutes long, knocks down the walls between genres, and has a really Gorillaz vibe to it. Love.

9. The Midway State - Paris or India. I immediately fell in love with this band when I heard 'Atlantic', followed closely by 'Fire'. They remind me a bit of Coldplay, with just a slightly more electronic sound. Big lyrics about love just out of reach....it's catchy romance at it's best.

10. Theophilis London - I Want You. Technically released in 2010, but whatever, this is my blog. This is a great hip hop album from Brooklyn born rapper, Theophilis London. Check out the track 'Starry Eyed' for a dance vibe and 'A Strangers Heart' for an awesome base line. This album has a really 80's dance feel to it. It's incredibly fun and makes you want to kick your feet up.

Now that music is out of the way - a really easy gift by the way - either by going "old school" and picking up an actual CD or record, or a gift card to iTunes - it's hard to go wrong, let's talk about the myth of gift cards.

It seems that older people don't like to give gift cards or money. Ok, so money, while appreciated by the recipient, may cause the giver some unease. Gift cards to favorite stores, restaurants, or *ahem* spas, are ALWAYS appreciated. It's the thought that counts, and you have given this person the gift of doing something they love, paid for by you, whether that be shopping, eating out, or getting their massage on. It may seem uninspired, but I am here to tell you that I LOVE GIFT CARDS. It takes the guess work out of it and I get really excited when I open a gift card as opposed to a crocheted pair of earrings with matching collar that I have to pretend to like for a decent amount of time before donating them to the church rummage sale.

What are you buying your loved ones this year? Are you trying to shop local or going homemade?

Two more days my lovelies! Shop in peace!

xx H

Merry Stressballs.

2011-12-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

Friends, I am beyond busy.

Every summer, there is a part of me that can't wait for October because September is a month of birthdays (people's parents looooved to hump in January, apparently), social engagements, and music festivals. September signals the end of the summer social season, and by then I am ready for some serious hibernation and I won't have to see another mojito or patio for quite some time.

I love an excuse to sit by the fire, watch movies, read books, drink red wine and veg with my husband. I'm also great at solo hangsies and enjoy my alone time so very much. Fall is great for that...people always wonder where I disappear to. Unless you're one of a very few select people, chances are you will barely see me. No offence, it's just what I do. I hermit. Especially this year, for some reason.

In the past, we were the ones to host lots of parties, several times a year. Now? Just don't really feel like it. Someone else can have parties. We'll go to them and then not have to clean up afterwards. I think this is a sure sign we're fully entrenched in our 30's. When did this happen?

Now that it's December 21st (how did THAT happen?), I am having a mild bout of anxiety about the number of social engagements we have in the next two weeks. It all started last weekend with the epic slew of concerts - Prince and JayZ/Kanye...INSANITY. Great concerts and if you ever EVER have a chance to see Jay Z and Kanye live, please do it - I have seen them each three times now and together it was just mind blowing. We got in some seriously quality friend/fun time and also some family time. I am still exhausted for a variety of reasons and it's only just begun.

I like being social, don't get me wrong. I just need downtime because I get so tired. Did you know when you have Crohn's disease, it often can be likened to having chronic fatigue syndrome? Yep. It can. So my friends..if I am already fatigued NOW, what will I feel like by Jan 2?

I'm gonna lay out my social tableau for you here:

Dec 21: Dinner with friends. This has been a date we have been trying to secure for MONTHS, and I haven't seen them in ages. Can't wait to see them and their ever growing daughter. I'm making salmon! This will be relaxed and I am totally looking forward to it.

Dec 22: Dinner at another friend's place out in Langford. Yep, I have to drive to Langford on in rush hour traffic. FML. But, it will be fun to see these people and how nice is it to get a dinner invite? I believe it's going to be a full on Christmas dinner shebang. Nomnomnom.

Dec 23: SPARE TIME. Don't you dare invite me to anything. I plan on being at home in sweatpants, other than having to bottle 32 bottles of 'champagne' that afternoon (that I was supposed to bottle in July).

Dec 24: Christmas Eve means dinner with the family, church pageant, and then a Christmas eve party at our friend's house who lives nearby. Always a good time.

Dec 25: Christmas Day. 'Nuff said.

Dec 26: Boxing Day. Usually a day I like to rest and eat anything BUT turkey, but my in laws always think it's great to host a MASSIVE sit down dinner with every one's leftovers for all their family friends. The idea of it makes me want to kill myself every year. Not because I don't want to see everyone (everyone is great!), but because it's honestly too much by this point. I just want sushi and my pj's and solitude. Not a sit down dinner with small talk (#ungratefulbitchmuch?). By this point, I won't want to see turkey until next October.

But wait, that's not all!

Dec 27: My friend's engagement party. This will be great because I haven't met his fiance and we're going to the wedding in March, so a pre-meet is necessary and I am very much looking forward to connecting.

Dec 28: One of my besties' birthday party. I can't wait for this. Won't be too wild as some of us have to work the next day :(

Dec 29: Open house at a family friends...prooooobs won't go. That smells suspiciously like a lot of small talk. I'm GREAT at small talk but I hate it. LOATHE it. I like BIG talk.

Dec 30: SPARE TIME. Don't you dare invite me to anything. I foresee a bubble bath scheduled in my future.

Dec 31: NYE. 'Nuff said. Could get crazy.

Jan 1: Brunch at the Marina for my dad's birthday and then a Victivus party later that night, which I NEVER attend but James does (usually because I am way too tired and a wee bit hungover from NYE). Even the idea of attending this makes me feel like putting on my grumpy pants. By this point, alone time will be 100% necessary, so I imagine I will have a date with my dog while my husband goes for round 2. Oh, to be syndrome free.

Jan 2: SLEEP ALL DAY.

Aside from the night time activities, both James and I have to work on non-stat days because we don't have any more holiday time. At this point, I really wish we hadn't put a cap on travel in 2012. I am thinking by Jan 3rd, I could use a week away on a sandy beach for some R&R.

I adore Christmas and all it brings, but this year I am daunted by the jam packed schedule this year. Next year? Hawaii. Am I right?

Tuesday's #Firstworldproblems Comedy

2011-12-20T13:08:00.000-08:00

Source.

Mind: Blown!

2011-12-15T15:58:00.000-08:00

Since am going to be elsewhere this weekend (oh yes, did I mention Prince and The Throne?), I am going to leave you with this mind blowing invention. Only the Dutch. Only the Dutch.

Thanks to the hubs for sending this my way and also for teaching me a new word: Strandbeests, which means "beach animals" (according to Theo Jansen anyways).

Gnaw on that for a few days, and then I will return with shiny tales from the bright lights, big city.

Big Wheel Burger - A Review

2011-12-14T15:03:00.000-08:00

I was pretty excited to see that my neighborhood was getting it's very own little burger joint. The humble hamburger is definitely the new black - it's gotten very trendy as of late.

I am a big fan of Pink Bicycle. They have delicious burgers and amazing fries. They also recently got on board the gluten free bun train, which makes this gluten reduced burger lover very very happy!

(Sidenote: Why wouldn't an establishment have a gluten free bun option? You buy a few dozen to start, chuck them in the freezer, and see how it goes. We have an amazing local bakery that does wholesale buns and breads for those of us who are glutarded).

When I saw Big Wheel Burger was opening in my hood, I was giddy with anticipation. Burgers! Burgers will help me deal with my Mexican Food Truck problem (I go to La Taquisa so much they know my name and order). I like Big Wheel's premise - basic offerings, but burgers made with local, sustainable, happy meats.

I had read some of the reviews on Urban Spoon, and they are mixed at best. I am always happy to give a new restaurant some time to grow and settle in, so I only take these with a grain of salt if the restaurant has just opened (unlike, say...an established restaurant like Pablo's, which should just know better than to suck that bad).

I have been twice now. I dig the vibe of the place. It's simple. You order, you listen for your order to be called. You take it to go, or you eat there. It's totally fast food, but it's a bit fancy because it's specialized and they use quality ingredients.

The first time I went I had a basic burger on a gluten free bun. The quality of the meat was apparent. It was cooked perfectly. The fries, which seem to be part of an ongoing learning curve, were nothing special, but were not bad. They were thick cut yukon gold fries and I *think* they might be of the frozen variety. I personally think if you're going to open a burger place with limited offerings, you should strive to do what you do well. The fries, in my opinion, should be hand cut and made on premises, not from frozen.

Let's consider the claim on their website:

"We use ingredients that support agricultural longevity with minimal environmental impact. Sourcing product from within 100 miles of our location to limit carbon footprint and support local economies. Use environmentally safe packaging materials while instituting recycling programs on every product level".

Love it. Love this premise. Unsure if the fries fall under this - will be asking next time I go in. I hope, if not, that they will consider making the switch.

The basic burger, while good, could have used a liiiiitle bit more of...something. I don't think it had anything on it except lettuce, pickles and tomato. I think I must have missed where the condiments were (I was in a rush that day) because it could have used a little mustard and mayo, but that's just me. Otherwise, it was delicious and I was very satisfied with my burger.

The second visit was actually less of a visit, and more of a request to my husband, who happily picked it up after a busy day at work. This time I had a cheese burger on a gluten free bun and it was SO GOOD. It had lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, cheese, and some kind of sauce. Now, I am a sauce girl, so sauce makes me happy. The hubby thought it was a little too saucy for his liking, but what are ya gonna do! Can't please everyone it seems.

He got me fries (same comments as before), and he got himself some chili fries, which I have never actually had before. Well...I am a fan. These were delicious. Sinfully delicious. A meal in themselves, some might say. I could taste cinnamon and maybe even a hint of cocoa in the chili? Whatever it was, it did it for me. Chili fries, you are delicious.

Overall, I am happy to give Big Wheel Burger my occasional patronage. They have good burgers, some good alternative options (such as gluten free and vegan). I hear the shakes are good too, though that's a little too much dairy for this lactard. I'd love to see some further improvement on the fries.

Let's give this new restaurant some time to spread it's wings and grow. I'm more than happy to pay more for a quality burger, where I know the cow that I am currently eating had a happy life until it became my meal. I am also more than happy to support a restaurant who supports the local food movement!

So, Big Wheel.... I like you. Welcome to the neighborhood.

Why I Love Coldplay

2011-12-14T11:32:00.000-08:00

It's a little controversial to say you LOVE Coldplay. It's not like they're Nickleback or anything, but when you tell people you are a Coldplay fan, you usually get extreme reactions of either "ME TOO! I LOVE THEM!!" or...usually just a look that implies that you are soooooo not a hipster.

Which I am not.

SO! On 4.20.2012, myself and two of my best girls are heading to Vancouver to see Coldplay on their Mylo Xyolto tour. This will be my fifth time seeing them in concert. To recap:

2003 - A Rush of Blood to the Head Tour
2005 - X & Y Tour (probably, to date, my favorite)
2008 - Festival circuit at Pemberton
2009 - Viva la Vida/Death and All His Friends
2012 - Mylo Xyloto (I am ecstatic about this album - it's fanfrickintastic)

Now, I have been to upwards of 60 + concerts in my lifetime. I have seen JayZ twice (third time this coming weekend!), Kanye, Lady Gaga, Death Cab, N.E.R.D, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Spice Girls (yep, and it was awesome), Britney Spears (less awesome - actually the worst), Madonna, Ben Harper, The Gorillaz, more than I can recall right now and dozens of bands on festival tours....but Coldplay remains my favorite act due to the emotional connections I have with their big cheesy songs, and their ability to connect with their audiences during their stadium shows.

Their lyrics inspire me. They always make me feel like they know exactly how I feel. Pretty words to pretty tunes. It's a formula that works for me and gets me every time. They make me feel things. Good things. Coldplay has music for every occasion - sad, happy, joyous, angry, bitter, elevating, inspirational, weddings, funerals, quiet days, loud days. There is something for every single one of my emotions (of which I have plenty).

Their lyrics are poignant and speak to the human experience - it's often about love and relationships...something we can all relate to. We have all felt the joy and conversely the pain of love. It's universal and it's why it appeals. Their shows are big and yet they feel intimate. I will be there on April 20th, holding back tears of joy (yes, Coldplay are MY Beatles but you won't catch me losing my shit or anything) and singing along to every single word.

I can't wait.

Until then! Prince and JayZ/Kanye - Watch The Throne this weekend!

Ten Rules for Being Human.

2011-12-14T08:44:00.001-08:00

It's A Christmas Miracle!

2011-12-13T19:48:00.000-08:00

I have issues. When it comes to keeping a clean house, I fall under the category of "squirrel". I like my home to be tidy, but my version of tidy usually just means out of sight, out of mind.

I put things in drawers, cupboards, or trunks (we have two, how many trunks do you have?). I might put things in the trunk of my car, in anticipation of doing something with them...eventually. Often, when I "clean up", I do so in a bit of a daze. I'm like the absent minded professor of my own squirrelly habits. I honestly do not do this on purpose. I have to CATCH myself in the act, and remind myself that no, the remote control does NOT go in the fridge just because your friends are 2 minutes away and you hate visible clutter.

In our house, everything in fact, DOES have a place. I am good with the things I use routinely, such as my keys (which is why it always freaks me out when they are NOT in their place and yes, I always check the fridge) or my iPhone. Or the thing I lost last week that I still haven't found and I have looked EVERYWHERE. It, along with all the socks, simply must have been carried away by the gnomes that do such things because no other explanation makes sense.

And don't bother asking me what the thing I lost was because that is none of yer biznzazz.

Anyways, this little habit of mine is probably the one and only thing that James and I have continuous, shall we say discussions, about. It might go a little something like this:

J: "Heath, where is the (insert anything he cannot find here)?
H: "I haven't TOUCHED IT!" (said very indignantly, of course)
J: "But this is where it goes and I need it and why would you move it? (said with exasperation only James can manage)
H: "I have no idea. That's weird. Stop blaming me!" (self doubt is beginning to set in...this is when I usually flashback to the hazy tidy sesh earlier in the week and remembered seeing it...and putting it....somewhere logical, sometimes)
J: "AHHH! (extreme exasperation) MISE EN PLACE, babe! Everything in it's place" (yeah, I roll my eyes a little too, but he has a point I SUPPOSE)
H: (on the move) "FOUND IT!" (Triumph. All's well that ends well, right?)

I am the worst squirrel, but I can usually find things pretty fast, so it's not a problem. The real problem is when you have an entire room dedicated to things that you just don't want to deal with looking at every day. So your home office becomes a bit of a disaster of muppet heads (more on this in a sec), books, recylcing (not in a weird Hoarders kind of way, it gets taken out on schedule thankyouverymuch, just in a very untidy heap until then), generic construction items from when we (and by "we", I mean James) did the bathroom in May. Not a nice place to do business, so I had moved into the kitchen table and close to the fire place as winter set in. I only used this room to store my abundance of samples from my company, to print things, and to house Muppets.

Yesterday, it all changed. Ladies, and gentleman...I cleaned my office. I don't have a janitor, so someone had to do it. That someone was me. After a couple of months of pretending that it didn't exist, I went to town on my office and now I don't ever want to leave it. It's so zen in here. When I worked today, I was inspired by my awesome office organizing skillz, that I think I might have increased productivity by 11.3 %. Thereabouts.

You wanna see it now, don't you?

Ooooh...aaaah. So efficient. So tidy.

I don't have "before" pictures, but here is some of the stuff that I removed.
Guitar cases, rackets for every sport, a Dell screen that has never been used, CDs, Poker and bocce balls

AND, James' Halloween costumes need to find a NEW home.
#sadmuppets

Be jealous of my office. I have a guitar and a ukulele AND some French art
(I'm fancy like that)

A fav pic of me and my bro and my mantra -
homemade interior design skillz, I haz them.

My new years resolution is going to be No More Squirrelling. I will calmly (while drinking tea, obvs) recite "Mise en place" in my head and try not to roll my eyes at myself.

What is YOUR Christmas miracle? Do you plan on doing any non-fitness related resolutions for 2012? (I don't wanna hear about fitness ones, yo. That's just standard issue. Give me the goods.).

A la prochaine! (My own eye rolling French tagline).

16 Years Together? But It's Only JUST Begun!

2011-12-12T13:19:00.000-08:00

Dec 10th, 1995. I went on my first date with the boy who would ten years later become my husband.

This Christmas will be our 16th Christmas together and I'm only 31.This is a person I have been with for more than half of my life, and I am thankful every single day that he is by my side, for better or for worse (but mostly for the better).

Here is the story of our beginning...

"An 18 year old boy met a 15 (but nearly 16) year old girl on Thetis Island at a weekend youth camp. A few weeks later, he called her up and asked her out for coffee. She could barely even comprehend what he saw in her. He was so cool. She was so....not cool. In her eyes, anyways.

Her experience with boys had been limited - a few "dates" here and there with boys her own age. A few awkward make out experiences that she found far too aggressive and slobbery for her tastes. Her first kiss had been with her best friend's older brother as a dare, playing Truth or Dare...and it was more startling than anything as he had seemed prepared (as if it was planned) with his bottle of binaca. This first kiss lead the girl to believe she had a crush on him, but she quickly realized that if he was 17 and hanging around 13 year olds stealing kisses through devious means, he probably wasn't the guy for her.

There were other boys at school - ones she went to dances with, ones that cornered her in hallways for sneaky (and gross) make out sessions, ones that were nice enough, but just didn't cut it.

Then, out of nowhere, she met "the" boy. He was tall, dark and handsome. He was funny and seemed to be the center of attention. It was clear that all the girls liked him. There were whispers about him being the popular guy, the one that alllll the girls fell in love with. She had met him when she was 12 and he was 15, but obviously 12 year old awkward, brace faced girls are no match for popular boys.

But in 1995 she no longer had baby fat, or braces, or bangs, or mousy brown hair. She was blossoming.

When she finally worked up the courage to talk more with him, she found herself trying to make it seem like she was cooler than she was (because she figured she would never see him again). Yes, she liked "Primus". Yes, she sometimes drank booze or smoked weed. Um..duhhhh, she was COOL!

She didn't do any of those things because she was only 15 but what did it matter? She felt like something had happened inside her - a switch went on. She was bolder with this guy (was it because they were in a different area code and no one really knew her at this retreat?) - so she made the first move and put her head on his shoulder and in turn he rubbed her back. It was thrilling and innocent and lovely.

When he called a few weeks later, she nearly died of anticipation and nervousness.

When he came to pick her up, (he had a car!), her parents made him come in so they could inspect his sort (much to their disappointment, he had a nose ring....which SHE thought was beyond cool), but agreed that he seemed like a nice young man, so they let her leave with him. Little did they know that they had just met their future son-in-law.

He planned to take her to QV's - but it was closed for a private function. So they had coffee at Starbucks, chatted, went for a drive, and then he dropped her off at home. There was no kiss, only a respectful hug. Her memory of that night is blurred because she was so impossibly nervous beforehand, and then impossibly hopped up on caffeine after the fact. She probably talked too much. She was probably the opposite of cool. She was, in a word, herself. Because that's all she really knew how to be, in the end.

She didn't care either way because she thought she might be in serious like. OMG.

Over the next few weeks things sped up - they shared their first kiss at her high school dance (he was kind enough to escort her to a few of those even though he had already graduated) to a NIN song that involves a cracking whip in place of the naughty word (THIS was their first dance AND their first kiss? They SHOULD have had this as their first song at their wedding, but thought that it was a tad on the inappropriate side). And then....during the Christmas season, mere weeks in to the relationship...he told the girl he loved her and gave her a ring he had woven out of blackened sailers rope. She said she loved him too and she wore the ring until it turned white, and even longer than that..until it broke and fell off.

10 years later he put a different kind of ring on her finger, and they haven't looked back since."

Our story is uncommon (and disgustingly cute). It's not often you meet the love of your life in high school. It's not often these stories end well. We have only been married for 5 years, but we have spent the past 16 years growing up and beginning our journey into growing old together.We have walked hand in hand on this journey together - through hardships and bad times, through good and bad health, through bouts of selfishness on the other person's part, through time and space. Always with love in our hearts, no matter what was happening around us.

In the end, none of it matters when you love the one you're with. My one love, my truth, my everything. Can't wait to spend my 16th Christmas with you.

Music To My Ears.

2011-12-09T09:31:00.001-08:00

Put these tracks in your ear hole and love them this weekend.

1 - the first track I heard off of The Black Keys new album 'El Camino', called Lonely Boy (Is this song about Dan Humphries??) This album rocks. Recommend.
2 - the latest track from Miike Snow. Love Miike Snow called Devil's Work. Get involved.
3 - an awesome mashup by Basic Physics called Strength in Numbers. Techno Coldplay vs Daft Punk? Yes please.
4 - House of Balloons/Glass Table Girls (what's THIS song about, hmmm?). Anyways, the best track off of the latest Weeknd album...in fact the only awesome track (otherwise this band is mostly too whiny R&B for my tastes). This song though? Dopeness.
5 - The Look, by Metronomy. I love this vid and the song is catchy. These people are adorable.

That's 5 sweet tracks to wish you a very Happy Friday! And go!

Looking Forward

2011-12-08T14:59:00.001-08:00

'Tis the season to be jolly and we are on track over here in Cook St. Village. This weekend we'll be setting up the tree, hanging the lights with care, and stuffing as much cheer into 700 sq foot as is humanely possible. But not in a tacky way. Ok, maybe a little tacky. It IS Christmas after all. Tackiness and Christmas seem to go hand in hand these days.

But I don't mind a little tacky in my life - what's not to love about twinkly lights, and trees and ornaments? These things would look ridiculous the rest of the year, so I may as well live it up while it's socially acceptable (yes, we judge you if you keep your Christmas lights up all year long...unless you're 92 years old).

Finding space for our tree in our little space is challenging, but we make it work.Observe:

Christmas 2010

Some old school ornamentation from James' great aunt. It's from the 40's!

I can't imagine Christmas without a tree! The scent of it just makes me happy! My parents have a fake tree now, and while I can appreciate the convenience...it's just not Christmas without that pine smell...or the threat of a tree fire because you keep forgetting to check your water levels...or....you use candles instead of lights (does anyone still do that?)

I had my first (soy) egg nog last night and my taste buds nearly cried with the spirit of Christmas! The only thing missing was spiced rum (Sailor Jerry's, thankyouverymuch) and the tree itself. Oh, Tannenbaum!

We'll be buying a local tree either from Thrifty Foods or from the Cook St. Marketplace (you know, that old fellow that has been selling veggies since the beginning of time? He's the nicest and always gives me a few extra handfuls of blueberries). We'll be decorating it with decorations we started to accumulate during our first Christmas living together in 2002, a few things from our childhoods, and the gifted ornaments which aunt's seem to really like giving. Our tree is full of memories and love - it's perfect, even if it's an imperfect tree.

Outside of the home, there are several Christmas traditions we observe - from the Christmas eve pageant at St. Matthias, to our friend's Christmas eve party (until the weeeee hrs), Christmas day with our families, Buchart Gardens, night walks/drives to check out all of the lights, mulled wine, boxing day parties....the list is endless (and at times exhausting).

This year? We'll be adding skating in an outdoor rink to our list! Either downtown or the one in Langford, I will be sure to lace up some skates this year. And my hot chocolate will definitely be spiked with Fireball.

mmmm Fireball.

This year, for the first time, James and I are also cooking the turkey for the big combined family Christmas Day dinner. We get our turkeys from the butcher in Cook St Village (yay for local happy turkeys), and we'll be roasting it in the turkey roaster for all to enjoy! This is our other new tradition and will take a load off whoever is hosting (our place is not big enough to host that many for a sit down dinner). Look who's all grown up??

What are your Christmas traditions? Anything "not to be missed" in #yyj during the festive season?

Yay Groupon! Boo Pablo's!

2011-12-08T14:45:00.001-08:00

BIG ups to Groupon, who totally, and without question, refunded my money on an expired Groupon for Pablo's here in Victoria. I was unable to use the Groupon before the expiry date (despite two phone calls to make a reservation, plus an attempt at using their online booking tool) because the people there would not return my phone call with reservation requests, and my online attempt was ignored back in August.

When I asked the owner (who FINALLY responded after I left a comment on their website) if they would honor the amount I paid, which was $30 and is Groupon's policy that that amount never expires, he ignored me. But only after telling me that I had never called (one message I left on a machine and the other was with a an actual human), and they had no record of my online request. No IP address matched up. So basically, he was accusing me of lying. When I point blank asked if they would honor the Groupon for the $30 as per the policy, I was ignored once again. I was polite, and wasn't asking for an extension - I was simply making sure that I could use it for the price I paid at some point in the future. He STILL hasn't gotten back to me, despite me asking point blank (and very politely) twice.

This experience, combined with the fact that they have absolutely terrible reviews on Urban Spoon now, didn't really make me want to fight him for the right to use it further. So, I contacted Groupon and told them of my situation and they refunded my purchase - not only for the amount paid, but for the promo amount. So, I now I have $60 Groupon bucks waiting for me to use.

In a word? Awesome. THAT is customer service.

Pablo's? You suck and I will never visit your establishment, which, by the looks of things, desperately needs an overhaul. You need to work on your customer service, your ridiculous menu prices, and your tourist trap appeal. According to all the latest customer reviews, Victoria is not fooled. You and Wharfside Eatery can just continue to be the worst. $35 for a Caesar salad for two? Are you kidding me? Lettuce, some anchovies, some parm and some oil does not equal $35. You are not the Union Club.

Groupon? Thank you for your great policies. You do not suck. I will continue to happily use your site and buy your product.

My Skin Hurts.

2011-12-07T13:06:00.001-08:00

I can't believe it's already Wednesday! I have been sososososososooooo busy at work, it's been all consuming. I have been working longer than usual hours to get stuff done, and at the end of the day I am uninspired to blog my thoughts.

Other than work, what have I been up to?

I have been cooking again, after several weeks of being a bad wife. It feels good to be back in the kitchen, preparing delicious meals. I will have a risotto recipe up soon that features prawns AND crab - locally sourced, of course. I also baked for the first time in quite some time - the classic apple spice cake (gluten free) with vegan cream cheese icing. Uhhhmazing. And can we talk about the super simple, super easy brown sugar/soy wild salmon with black bean noodles and kale? Yes. Yes, we will get to that too. Probably in another post, when I do a recipe recap.

I have also been eating out - the usual taco truck, the new burger joint in the village, the attempts at using my expired Groupon at Pablo's (fail), and breakfasts out with my people.

I have been maintaining a consistent three day a week yoga practice at Hemma - getting stronger and better and more flexible with each class. It's interesting how my perspective on yoga has changed over the years - I used to think it was boring. Now I know it's the opposite of boring. In fact, it's just what I needed and I wish I had been doing it consistently (rather than just periodically) over the past few years. But, it's never too late is it? Well, at least not in this case.

I spent the last weekend on Pender at my friend's place there. Four of us hung out, played games, cooked, drank wine, danced around the living room, took the canoe out for a sunny Sunday paddle in the bay, played frisbee golf, at at the pub, and acted as worker ants trying to fill their empty hot tub with boiling water to get it up to temperature so we could use it. Hilarious. And it worked, by the way. Due to our awesome team work we got it up to temperature in 3 hours (it would have otherwise taken all night) and we got to enjoy a 2 am hot tub under the stars.

Uuuuuunfortunately, I also contracted Hot Tub Folliculitis (yes, that's a REAL thing). Basically, despite our boiling of the water, it was well water, and I guess there is bacteria in it (or in the hot tub itself) . Combine that with the fact that I was wearing a one piece suit and I have a shitty immune system and sensitive skin....I was the only one that contracted it. SO, as a result...I have red bumps ALL OVER MY TORSO (which looks like really bad acne) and I have to take 10 days of antibiotics. Go me. Basically, my skin hurts and looks disgusting. Good thing I am not required to wear a bikini for at least another 7 months.

The morale of this story is...don't wear a one piece, or your torso will end up looking that it needs to apply for a ProActiv commercial (starring Jessica Simpson). ALL hot tubs, from this moment on, are going to be subjected to some SERIOUS SIDE EYE and treated as enemies of the state (my body) until proven otherwise. Apparently since my body is the only REALLY sucky one on the block, I should also consider carrying my own hot tub water testing kit. This has not been suggested to me, but I figure since I really like hot tubs and this basically ruins my LIFE, I should be prepared. I am going to science that shit from now on.

Anyways, that's my quick check in. Recipes, pics....coming soon.

Peace out.

Joyful Practice!

2011-12-02T14:45:00.001-08:00

Ok, I know my last post said I was gone for the weekend but I just need to tell you how AWESOME my yoga class was today! I hit up the lunch time Community class at Hemma today. Friday's community practice is led by my friend Jill.

I hadn't taken one of her classes before, but I knew I was in for a good workout because the class I attended with her in Costa Rica was incredibly difficult and she had told me it was EASY. For her, maybe. For me and James? Notsomuch.

Community classes are great because they vary in style, so it never gets boring. Also, at Hemma, the proceeds of these classes go to charity, which is wonderful.

Jill is a very joyful, take life by the horns kind of gal. It comes through in her practice, which is the opposite of the other two classes I take there. It's a FANTASTIC Friday class because it gets you amped for the weekend, and it's the best workout of the three. Monday's classes are gentle, Wednesday's classes are more intense...and this? This was crazy.

Crazy awesome. I love the variety I have in my practice and the way it builds throughout the week.

First of all, music. I was thinking last night how much I would love to go to a class that gets me jacked on tunes. None of this new wave, meditative music for Jill. U2, Jack Johnson! Fun songs to get you moving! Secondly, the singing. Yeah...we sang today. And then? We danced...for 5 whole minutes. All over the place...all around the room.....on our mats. Then she made us run around the room. It's hard for some of us not to feel a little bit silly, but you just gotta let go.

Then, just when you have worked up a ridiculous amount of sweat for a Hatha class, you do an intense series of Sun Salutations. And, as this is a flow class, the move fairly swiftly and they flow from one pose to the next. Insane workout.

I sweated, I laughed, I sang and I danced. What a refreshing way to start your weekend!!!

Jill teaches private classes and she is doing the community class on Friday's at Hemma for an indefinite period. I'll be there again for sure!

Namaste, bitches!

Friday!

2011-12-02T10:51:00.001-08:00

SO happy it's Friday.I'm heading to the southern Gulf Islands this weekend for a little casual cabin time with friends. I am super excited to get away and relax! Yay for relaxing!I'll be back soon with pictures and updates and my latest list of favorites just in time for Christmas.In the meantime, can I leave you with this?

Gotye's "Making Mirrors" is my new favorite album. Incredible.

Happy Friday!

Namaste, Bitches.

2011-11-30T12:16:00.001-08:00

So hum. I am that.

This is the mantra I learned in yoga today. I like that.

"The simple, yet profound, So Hum Meditation technique is probably one of the most popular Mantra Meditations. It emerges from the Yoga school of Hindu Philosophy and belongs in the category of Japa Meditations (Meditations that require the chanting of Mantras).

The So Hum (aka So Ham, Soham or Sohum) Mantra Meditation, done sincerely, is very effective in bringing about a complete transformation of individual consciousness. So Hum literally means "I am That" (So = "That" or "Thou" or "Divinity"; Hum = "I am") and the mantra’s aim is to bring about this union (yoga) between your individual consciousness and Divine Consciousness. Another way to interpret this purpose, is that the meditation brings about the realization that all that you see is yourself — The Observer is the Observed.

Primary Benefits:

Realization of your Divine Nature.
Realization of the non-dual Nature of Reality.
Stress Reduction, Relaxation, Peace and Tranquility.
Spontaneous Joy and Happiness.

Secondary Benefits:

Promotes Self-Healing.
Builds mental focus and concentration."

Source.

I am terrible at meditation. My attention span is like that of a gnat. I have modern A.D.D due to the various technological sources I am attached to on a daily basis - usually more than one at a time. But today I tried, without trying too hard (because that defeats the purpose, I think) to really just focus on my breathing. I...Am....That. Soooooooo hummmmmmm.

It worked for a few minutes at a time before my mind wandered to what I would need to take with me to Pender this weekend, or work, or the fact that I am learning the art of the cabbage roll with my mom tonight (yay for family recipes being passed down!).

Even though I suck at staying present in meditation, I am loving the regular yoga practice I have found myself in. Monday, Wednesday, Friday I practice and I am feeling more connected to my body and am feeling my strength building. Downward dog was almost easy today. What the what?

I am hoping that continued regular practice will help my Crohn's and help my terrible posture from sitting at the computer all day. I am hoping it will promote healing of the body and of my mind. Regardless, it will help lengthen and lean me out, so that's good. I am at LEAST that.

Where are you finding your fitness inspiration these days? For me, it's inside my yoga studio and long blustery power walks in nature solo or with a friend. Finding your bliss is not as hard as it sounds.

Namaste, bitches!

A Holly Jolly Christmas Rant.

2011-11-29T09:54:00.001-08:00

The season has shifted. I don't mean weather so much (though it does continue to try and prove that it's nearly winter), but more the less than subtle shift that happens the first day of November. I'm talking about Christmas. November 1st, when we are all still basking in post Halloween glow, we are bombarded with images of "Christmas", or more appropriately titled "Xmas" when in retail outlets because this sort of thing has absolutely NOTHING to do with Christ, and more with BUY! CONSUME! WANT! It irritates me and NOT just because November 1st is way too soon, but because I see it all over my Facebook feed - people bragging about all the stuff (plastic crap) that they have just bought their kids. Or their husbands. Or themselves.

ie: "My baby is going to be SO spoiled this year! "Santa" went a little overboard!"

You're essentially bragging that your baby is going to grow up being spoiled. Spoiled people are the WORST. And YOU, my friend, are doing it to your kid. A baby doesn't give a rats ass about the newest whatever - YOU do. And YOU are buying into exactly what has made Christmas less about what it should be about (religious beliefs aside) - family, love, togetherness, thankfulness. It's become this disgusting display of greed, money, and gorging.

Ok, so I don't have kids. Yet. So I know I am totally on a soapbox here, and it's easy to do from the comfort of my living room, with my pseudo-hippie values, and my persistently vacant womb.

I grew up like most other first world kids in the 80's - I looked forward to Christmas because of the presents. But....and here is the thing.....it wasn't JUST about the presents. It was about the special feeling I got when Christmas started to approach. It was about the family that came together to sing, to worship, to laugh, and drink egg nog by the tree. It was about being thankful for what we had and what we were about to receive.

When I grew up, it was about acknowledging the reasons for why we were celebrating - the modern holiday has it's origins because we are celebrating the birth of Christ. Which, despite being the Messiah, was born in humble surroundings, and offered gifts from humbled kings. It was a humble experience and Christmas, in this day and age, lacks humbleness.

I grew up as a Christian, so for me, my Christmas has always centred on this. And while I obviously was a normal kid (relatively) and I got things like She-ra's pink castle and the doll that peed itself, the things I remember the most were the stories, the love, the tree, the family, and the church pageant (where I was everything from a sheep's butt to an angel to Mary herself over the years). It was the anticipation of Christmas, which USED to start building in December, that was excitement for everything to come, not just the gifts. It was also just as much about giving as receiving, and counting our many first world blessings.

Did you know that Santa usually doesn't visit the poor? What a dick.

I was onto Santa when I was about 4 or 5. I guess my awesome brain powers just deduced that there was no way in Hell a fat man on a sled pulled by reindeer was making it around the world in one night. Or that he could be so unfair (much like God...hmmmmm). Or could fit down my chimney. And, when I asked my mom about Santa's existence....

5 year old Heather: "Mom, is Santa real?"

1980's Mom: "What do you think?"

5 year old Heather: "He is obviously not real, but it's ok to pretend".

OH MY GOD. SO WISE! This was a ruse that I kept up for my little brother until he caught on (much later than myself, mind you), but I do think I may have let the cat out of the bag to some very distraught little friends. Typical me. I LOVE knowing shit first. It's a superiority complex that probably stemmed from that little Christmas revelation.

Anyways, my long winded point is this: Christmas should be about the people, not the stuff. I am not suggesting you become one of those people that don't get their kids gifts (those people are also on the spectrum of things known as "THE WORST"), not because they can't afford them (because I am pretty sure you can always make stuff out of sticks and leaves and glue and it's the thought that counts anyways, right?), but because they think that they are teaching their kids values. And while it may sound like I am completely contradicting myself here, I am not. Let me explain.

Celebrate Christmas in ALL it's glory. Celebrate the family, the love, the feeling. Part of showing love has also, since the beginning of time, been about gift giving. And part of that is the joy of giving and seeing the delight on the faces of those receiving. But maybe we could take it down a notch? Can you restrain yourself, just a little? For the sake of your 6 month old who would rather have hugs from you and NOT the latest and greatest 50 plastic whateverthefucks. For the sake of your 7 year old who already has her nose in her iPod Touch more than a book. For the sake of Christmas as an age old tradition of thanks - can we NOT turn our kids into little spoiled minions of commerce?

We are already doing a great job of that ourselves. It's time to teach our kids values again, that are not centred on consuming like it's their God given right. Can we not teach our kids the value of family, of the environment, of love... in place of more presents than one knows what to do with, that will likely be collecting dust, forgotten, in mere weeks?

Can we REFOCUS Christmas on what it should be, despite your religion or lack thereof? Don't put away your wallets altogether, but keep the spirit of true Christmas alive in your kids by teaching them to be humble, to be grateful, to pour out blessings on those who need it the most. These are the teachings of Christ, but you don't have to be Christian to have the same values - Christ is merely a figurehead (and arguably just as pretend as Santa) for what really amounts to a set of good values on how you should live your life.

The best gifts are ones that change your outlook on life for the positive. They are life long lasting gifts of family and treasured memories, not the hundreds of gadgets that will be outdated in 2 months time.

So, get your kid the iPad (can you get me one too?) but also remember to instil in him humility and kindness and recognition of his very privileged position in life this Christmas. Show him that not everyone has a bed, or a hearth for a stocking, or a home at all. Teach him humbleness and lead by example. Teach him to love his neighbor and lead by example. This is the essence of Christmas, not what is in that shopping bag.

End Rant.

Ok, so that's done. It's a bit long and rambling but you get the idea. It really gets my goat when I have Christmas shoved down my throat when I go out before Remembrance Day. It's just so...blatant that everyone is trying to cash in. It's off putting. Which is why I have done the majority of my shopping online for the past two years. I can't stand line up's and hearing the same Christmas song over and over again until I want to punch Mariah Carey in the uterus. It also breaks my heart how red cups at Starbucks instantly trigger the start of the holiday season.

Oh, and one last thing? Don't get your kid a fucking puppy if you don't plan on taking care of it. It's people like THAT who don't deserve Christmas. Animals are not disposable like 99% of the stuff you just bought your kid, and yet a puppy is the thing that will statistically get returned the most (stats: made up in my head but I am pretty sure I heard that somewhere one time, conveniently). That's shitty. Think first. Please. Animals are not plastic. They have feelings, and they need love and stability.

And get them spayed and neutered because unless you live on a farm, you're being an idiot. How would YOU like to get forcefully humped by stray dogs and have to give birth to 5 puppies a year until your owner stops being a selfish fuck?

I would wish you a Merry Christmas, but it's not yet December and that goes against everything I just ranted about so....Happy Almost End of November, yo.

Lessons from Calvin & Hobbes.

2011-11-24T11:47:00.000-08:00

Happy (American) Thanksgiving.

2011-11-24T10:47:00.001-08:00

Inspired by American Thanksgiving (happy Turkey Day, partners to the south...gobble gobble), this is a post about all the blessings in my life. I have so much to be grateful for, and often it's the little things that matter the most. But, there are a few big things in here too :)

First off, I am grateful for a roof over my head and a hearth to warm my toes by. It's on days like this, where the rain is falling and the wind is blowing, that I realize more than ever how blessed we are to have a home.

Secondly, I am feeling very blessed by the people in my life. I am so very thankful for my family and friends. I have some of the best people in the world by my side. Laughter and love are never short. These are the people that keep me grounded, keep me going on hard days, and lift me up when the going gets tough. I am constantly inspired and amazed by them and thank God every day for the gift of community.

Thirdly, I am VERY happy to have rediscovered yoga. I haven't practiced in months and I didn't realize how much my body and spirit needed it until I began again this week. Two classes in and I feel so rejuvenated and centered. I love my studio - the warm friendly faces, the tea, the hardwood floors in the old building, and the feeling of being aware of my body (in a positive way) for 60 minutes. My hips and spine are happy too.

Fourthly, I am super excited for our new (to us) car. We traded in our 1993 Subaru Loyale for a 2002 BMW 325i wagon. It's black, with leather seats and a moon roof. It's pretty swanky. I had no problem with the Sube - I am NOT a car person, and we generally drive my company car anyways. But the Sube was coming close to having had it's day. Things were looking sad. This new car is pretty. Very pretty. AND, it's suitable for both surfboards and future family members. What I am not grateful for is the new balance on our line of credit.

Fifthly (am I just making up words here? Feels like it though spellchecker says no), I am grateful for all the new little lives that have been, or will be soon, brought into this world. To all my friends and family that are new mothers, or soon to be mothers, you are inspiring to me. It's pretty amazing to watch your oldest and closest friends go through the adventure of becoming a mother. It's something I hold close to my own heart as it is a wish I have for myself, but it's utterly awe inspiring to see these wonderful women adapt to their new life circumstances so brilliantly. I am feeling pretty blessed to be in a community of so many fantastic new mothers and know that when my time comes I will have so much wisdom to pull from. To these friends, you are my heroes! You all make it look so easy (even though I know it's not).

Lastly, I am grateful for this blog, and my readers - you allow me to have an outlet for my thoughts, my ideas, and my passion...which is writing. I don't know where my writing will take me (if anywhere at all), but that's not the point. It's something that makes me happy. And that's all that matters.

Peace, love and happiness to you all.

(barf)

Can We Talk About My HAIR?! Just for a minute?

2011-11-23T14:52:00.000-08:00

Cool. Thanks.

This is me last month. Just look at those split ends.

I am getting my hair cut today for the first time in a year! A YEAR, people! THIS coming from the girl who, for a period of time between September 2006 and November 2010 coloured, cut, and highlighted her hair in every imaginable colour (I covered off all shades of blonde, brunette, nearly black, dark magenta, and red).

And then...with the last dye job in November of 2010 (a sassy red, for your reference), I just decided to let it go. I wanted long hair. And, as the colour started to fade into something resembling my natural hue, and the roots were not terribly noticeable...I just decided to give it a rest.

Today I won't be getting a hair cut, so much as a trim and style. There is nothing I loathe more than split ends on women with long hair, so before this gets out of control...we need to do something. My husband is fretting that I am going to come home with a pixie cut or something short and funky...but, no. I have come THIS far, so this one is all about healthy hair maintenance. I am enjoying the long hair, and I have learned my lesson about cutting my own bangs, so there will be none of that again (for a while at least). It takes me FOREVER to grow my hair and I have recently gotten past that awkward is it long or is it medium stage and my bangs are finally grown out, so here we are. Facing the grim reality that I NEED a cut. Desperately.

And, the other day, when I (like a typical girl), asked my husband what he loved about me, he replied: "I have always loved your forehead". Umm...thanks?

So do not fret my dear, there will be no bangs when I come home today...just something healthier and hopefully still long.

And now, it's a motherflippin hair montage!

Me at 16. Long and blonde.

Me at 25 - medium and WAY too blonde.

Me at 26 - first time going brunette! Post honeymoon. Always looks better with a tan.

Me at 28 - reddish brown.

Me at 30. RED! Last dye job standing.

Me at 24. This is pretty cute, I think.


Blackish - very drunk in Vegas doing THAT. Bad hair, bad face.

UPDATED: And...this is me now. $55 + tip poorer. It might look the same but it's not. It's healthier and about an inch shorter. Sweet. I'm good until next November. Thanks, as always, to Danielle at Shampoo Hair Bar. She's the bestest!

Where I Have Been

2011-11-21T15:47:00.001-08:00

I've been a little bit too busy to blog much this past week. Tofino > Calgary > Victoria. Pleasure, work, play. I had lots of work to do, and then a little party to plan for Saturday as one of my oldest and closest friends will be welcoming their own little bundle of joy in early January. Turns out, baby showers are not that hard to plan - all you really need is good food, good people, good music, and some other people's real live babies to play with! Sweeeeeet.

Updates will be forthcoming, and very soon...my first guest post on another blog! Excitement for me!

Today I did my first yoga class in 4 months - the first one since the "incident" (don't eat before you go to yoga, ok? Just trust me on that), and I left the class with a HUGE smile on my face and in my heart. What a beautiful re-introduction to my practice. My spine and hips are happy!!

New Awesome Project

2011-11-21T15:36:00.000-08:00

Me and my two best girls started a new blog called "Lookin in the Mirror. Just Workin on Looks". Mostly an inside joke, but mostly AWESOME.

Basically, it's play on those pictures people take and post on Facebook of themselves in mirrors. We are among the guiltiest and find it amusing.

Check it out HERE.

Yeah. It's pretty sweet.

Long at Long

2011-11-14T14:02:00.000-08:00

Aaaaand we're back! For a day, anyways. I returned late yesterday afternoon from a lovely 4 day mini-break in Tofino with my hubby, our dog, and some friends. It was a beautiful 4 days - we were blessed with unseasonal and un-rainforest like weather - it was sunny! For the first time in the 5 years that I have been going to Tofino for the November Long Weekend, it didn't rain the whole time. In fact, it was downright beautiful!

James and I left Victoria (by way of breakfast at Tre Fantastico) on Thursday, as we both had the day off. We got out of town by 11 am and on the road. The drive to the Pacific Rim National Park is a stunning drive - more so when it's not through a downpour (though that is also beautiful - just different). We always enjoy a good road trip - and four hours always seems to fly by when you have a comfortable ride, good music, podcasts and sunshine.

Cathedral Grove.

Since we were not able to check into our resort until 3 pm, we headed first into Ucluelet and made our way to Ukee Dog, where we partook in our once a year hot dog feast. I had a Japanese Dog - it came complete with wasabi mayo, nori, and teriyaki onions. It was totally delicious.

Ukee Dog!

Long Beach

We hit up some beaches to check out the waves and then slowly made our way to Cox Bay Beach Resort, where we would spend the next 3 nights.The resort is lovely - it is made up of condos, so it's self catering and fully equipped. However, because it is a resort, you don't have to clean it when you're done, which is nice. We're used to staying with TVR properties when we are up there, so some of the rules of the resort (no surf boards in your rooms, the gated community aspect) were a little different, but one of the reasons why this is such a pristine beach front property. For the low price of $150/night it was a steal during the long weekend storm watching season. I would definitely stay there again. One of the reasons I chose the property was the availability of pet friendly suites and their hot tub. We never used the hot tub - the benefit to having your own place with it's own hot tub is that you can go in it anytime you want, which of course is not the case with a resort. And it was either full of kids (which would have totally harshed my mellow), or closed for cleaning (probably because kids are dirty)...so, that was the only downside.

After the first night, we got a roomie in the form of our friend Olivia. We had other friends in a different location, but there was no room for our little orphan, so we took her in. We had a great time! She stayed on the pullout couch and reports that it was divine. If it was anything like the bed we had, her sleeps would have been dreamy, pillowy goodness.

We observed two minutes of silence on 11/11/11 and counted our many blessings at having the freedom to explore our beautiful home and native land. Friday, November 11th was sunny, happy, and beautiful. We went on some beach adventures, ate some delicious foods, and visited our friends at their cabin about a 5 minute drive down the road. It was a day of laughter and remembrance.

On Saturday, while the others surfed (yeah yeah...I was GOING TO....but then....I didn't), I sat by the fire, read my book, and went for long walks on the beach with the dog.

Later that afternoon, my cousin and his girlfriend, who live in Ucluelet, came to visit! They ended up deciding (after only ONE of Liv's caesars) that they should stay in the resort too! They checked in and James and I went and bought live crabs, while cousin Keith (who is an offshore fisherman) brought some of his freshly caught tuna. We feasted on fresh crabs, tuna tataki, salad, and wine. We got caught up - I hadn't seen Keith in 6 years, and I got to finally meet his lovely girlfriend Liisa (outside of just Facebook), and had hours and hours of laughter. It was a VERY late night for us - I think I finally got to bed around 4? Yikes. But so worth it.

Sunday was a day for moving slowly...and then very quickly...when we realized we had less than an hour to make our breakfast, pack and check out. We managed to get our shit together, eat a yummy breakfast prepared by Liv, load up the car, and spend our last 20 minutes in the resort's Lookout - channeling inner peace and wishing for a hangover cure. Turned out, smoked meats are not the answer.

Then, sadly...we were off. Another fantastic West Coast Long at Long weekend done. Already planning my next! For the album in it's entirety - check it out HERE.

Until next time, Tofino.

WTF Wednesday

2011-11-09T10:03:00.000-08:00

This link is probably NSFW, but I am going to direct you to HERE if you are intrigued with the types of sexy things you could buy if you have more money than sense.

Cherry wood spanking rod anyone? Anyone?

This is Pretty Cooooool (if you like Coldplay..if not...sorry 'bout this)....

2011-11-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

Happiness Is...

2011-11-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

~ Waking up early and realizing I had the motivation to lace up my running shoes and head out in the rain for an interval run. Equal parts jogging and power walking - about 4 km. Knowing that this morning's exercise is already out of the way, and I can focus on strength training later on from the comfort of my home. I have decided that I need to work out twice a day - and I am hoping that I can stick to a morning / afternoon routine.

~ Doing the Elk Lake 10 km Loop with a bestie is a fantastic way to burn calories, catch up, giggle, and appreciate the beauty of our changing season. I love power walks in the fall - much less sweat!

~ Brunch with friends. Some I haven't seen in a while, one from Vancouver, and another couple with their adorable new baby boy. Seeing them being able to enjoy a brunch out while their little guy slept peacefully, reassured me that I will be able to still brunch if we ever have our own baby. I love brunch.

~ Finally finding a television series my husband deems to watch with me. James hates TV. I love TV. We don't have cable, but thanks to Netflix and other online streaming sources, I am never without things to watch. James is irritatingly scornful 99% of the time...that is, until Netflix starting streaming "Breaking Bad". BOOM.

~ Games nights. Friends cozied up in our wee home, firing roaring, rain falling outside. Music, wine, and rounds of Whoonu! I love that game.


Best game ever for drunk people.

~ Having my brother visit and take ME for lunch! My "little" brother was in town for a conference this past week (he has a big fancy job in real estate acquisitions) and took me for lunch on Friday. We got caught up over yummy food and drinks at Spinnakers, his favorite local haunt....and then joined our dad at HIS local for a few more.

~ Sleepovers at my parents house. When hubby plays poker, I take the opportunity to head to my parents house with my dog. They cook me dinner and we watch movies and hang out. It's fantastic! We watched "Water for Elephants", which might be the only movie I have ever seen my brother make it through without falling asleep. Then my mom and I watched "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan", until the wee hours. The next morning, after a fabulous sleep in my old bedroom, they made me crepes. FTW.

~ Knowing that in two days, you get to leave for a mini break to Tofino! Surf, waves, wind, storms, beaches, fires, friends! 4 days at Cox Bay Resort for a truly West Coast Long Weekend. T - 2 days.

I will be back.

2011-11-07T18:29:00.000-08:00

I promise.

Tomorrow.

I'm really lazy tonight, duderinos. It was a day.

Rad.

2011-11-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

So THIS is happening.....

Followed closely the next night, by this....

Dec 16th and 17th, Vancouver BC. Should be a pretty epic couple of nights with my man and my besties!

Meatalicious

2011-11-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

The hubby complained that we had been eating too many vegetarian meals in the past few days, so last night I decided to cook up some chicken thighs (yeah, skippin straight to the brown meats) ala Chrissy Teigen, who is a model and also John Legend's girlfriend. I follow her on Twitter because she is funny, beautiful, hates Air Canada as much as I do, loves to eat, and she is John Legend's girlfriend (I love him - holla holla hollaaaaa).

I made a few changes based on what I had in the house, but her original recipe can be found in it's long and somewhat vague format here. I added things like rosemary in addition to the thyme, because why not? I also didn't use drumsticks because I don't really like them, and I used boneless, skinless thighs because that is just how I roll. I added Duana's (from Lainey Gossip) recipe for Kale salad that she tweeted to me (no big deal, just rubbing tweets with pseudo celebs), and made it extra lemony and delicious so that James would hate it and I could have more. Mission accomplished.

{Kale Salad - garlic, lemon, olive oil, rock salt - massaged}

The chicken itself was a BIG hit. Although, the gravy that I attempted to make (as per Chrissy's instructions) looked so much like jizz that my husband preferred it without, and I have to say I agreed. No one likes jizzy chicken. Plus there was so much delicious broth left in my pan, that it was more than enough to use as an au jus topping for the finished meal. Please note - pseudo celebrity tweet rely #2 - Chrissy Teigen acknowledging that the gravy, does in fact, resemble jizz.

{Lemon/Bacon/Garlic Chicken)

If you do follow her recipe and use boneless, skinless thighs like I did - you should note that I seared them in bacon grease first (yes I did), and then baked them for 45 mins only. PERFECTLY DONE, folks. Much mouth happiness.

{Yep, this happened}

{Homemade blueberry and apples from our tree crumble}

{Fully cooked deliciousness}

{Plated joy - Bacon/Garlic/Lemon Chicken with garlic beans and mushrooms, and kale salad. BOOM!}

As a second dessert, George Strombolopolous replied to my tweet about Prince. I am just a teeeeeeny little bit cooler now that he recited Pussy Control lyrics back to me. Right? RIGHT??!

Run

2011-11-03T15:41:00.001-07:00

Today I ran 4.5 km in 38 minutes. I burned 361 calories. I also determined it was too hot to run on this November 3rd. Booyakasha.

Running sideways and taking a self portrait....win?

GORGEOUS DAY!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Fact.

2011-11-02T16:35:00.001-07:00

There is A LOT more guitar riffing in the original 90210 than the remake.

2011-11-01T17:34:00.000-07:00

Pretty accurate, I'd say.

Oooooh yeah! Confession time! After 6 months of running in the first part of 2011, I totally fell off the running wagon for basically June and July, most of August, September AND October. In fact, the last time I ran was August 10th - I did 4.06 km. I set out to do 5 km, but lost interest about 2.0 km in and turned back.

It's not that I was just sitting around - As you know, I have been doing the Ripped DVD series, and even got reacquainted with Jillian Michaels. I also walk. A LOT. In the summer it was fairly consistently long distances - 10 km, a few times a week. I biked a little bit, and I danced in my living room. The Ripped series has been great for toning my arms and legs - all those squats, lunges and chest flies are fabulous. I can do it at home, in front of my laptop, while breaking from work. It's not easy, but it's easy to do.

But running is always there, in the back of my mind, mocking me. Taunting me. Reminding me that the only reason I am walking instead of running is because it's easier for me to walk instead of run. Not that I am knocking the walking! Walking at a good pace is great exercise! It's easier on your knees. It's the time I spend with my thoughts, or more accurately, Joe Rogan's thoughts. I love his podcast.

Today I laced up my runners once more. Maybe the fact that I had the weekend I did - not too much candy (go me), but more booze than I normally consume, and the recent bought of take out food we have been having - inspired me. Maybe it was the beautiful day I just had to take advantage of. All I know is that when inspiration and motivation hits, I best be ready to go.

Today's run - the first one in just under three months - was great. I did another 4 km (seems to be my magic number) in 33 minutes. Considering my original goal last January was to be able to run a 5 km in 30 minutes, this isn't too bad for not having run more than three times in 4 months. Go me. *Pats self on back*. Who knows? Winter seems to be my running time, so we'll just see how it goes from here. I will try to get it back into my routine of 2 - 3 times per week, combined with the weights and toning. I'd like to lose 20 lbs by next summer. I think that's doable, yes?

Yes.

Hallowhat? 2011

2011-11-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

This was, hands down, the best Halloween I have had in years. Sure, the year we went dressed as generic Central Americans (ethnocentric costume alert!) and posed with real Llamas was pretty dope; and sure...last year's Antoine Dodson (internet sensation) costume made everyone want to hide their kids, hide their wives...but nothing could top this year's Halloween weekend.

On Friday, we hit up my hubby's staff party at the new Langford Lanes bowling alley. I'll tell you one thing - She-ra is a pretty awesome bowler. Better than Beaker, but worse than the New Jersey Devil. And I learned that a large number of people (not born in the late 70's or early 80's) will confuse She-Ra, Princess of Power, with Wonder Woman. C'mon people! Get your lady superheroes straight!

Beaker bowls.

She-ra bowls better.

Saturday night was the big night here for Halloween parties. We were extremely fortunate in that we had a designated driver who had access to her parents mini-van (just like high school!), and who partakes in Sober October, which greatly benefits the rest of us. Since we had such illustrious means of transport, we decided that we would party hop, much like last year. Party hopping mini-van times are the best!

First stop? Meet at our place for some warming up drinks. My drink of the night was Three Olives Bubble Gum vodka and soda. YUMMY! So not gross (even though it sounds gross). Best part was that I didn't have a hangover the next day (thanks to the non-sugary soda water that I mixed in with the vodka...and transported in my Nalgene bottle), despite going to bed at 5 am.

Skelator and AC Slater.

Gonzo, She-Ra, and Sexy Sax Man getting down.

The White Stripes came to party with us. We're so cool.

After we felt we were all sufficiently lubricated, we all loaded into the mini-van and headed to party #1 - the awesome spooky soiree that Trek Bike Shop holds each year. There is a DJ, free booze, pizza, and a large crowd of awesome people. There may have even been a fighting dance off - She-ra vs both Skelator AND Robin Hood (those bitches came at me fast, luckily good prevails and I totes won). Hilariousness ensued.

She-Ra and Skelator dance baby dance

Sexy Sax Man, She-ra and the Sexy Chauffeur

Gonzo channels Hunter S. Thompson.

Playing our instruments in very appropriate ways.

Then we headed to Party #2, of which I have no pictures because we basically stormed into a friend's very casual houseparty, easily doubled their numbers, caused a loud, drunken HILARIOUS scene, and then left. This was in the van on the way to said party - we were jamming. We would like to thank our very patient sexy chauffeur.

Weezer car jams.

The third party of the night was one we crashed a few years ago, and also had an awesome time at. It's a house in our hood, so it's super convenient for when sexy chauffeur decides she has had enough. It is always, by far, the best Halloween party ever. A beautiful home in Fairfield, a gorgeous backyard with twinkly lights and a fire pit, a DJ, a dance floor, food. Not to mention all the cool party people! We have never actually met the hosts of this fine party - but I hear that they are a lovely pair of gay doctors that basically open their home every year. My kind of people!

Slater and Sexy Sax Man getting down.

Hulk Hogan (aka DJ Anger) ripping up the tunes.

After the last party ended, some of us ended back here at our place, where it all began. We ate pizza, danced, smoked some shisha out of our hookah (because, why not?), and then fell into a deep sleep around 5 am. It was a glorious GLORIOUS Halloween. One to be remembered for a long time to come.

Meat Free Mondays!

2011-11-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

The last couple of months, I have been partaking in Meat Free Monday.

The basic principle of the movement is that if we all have one less meat based meal per week, we can play a large part in helping reduce harmful global Co2 emissions. Click the link for more details (such as, this is Sir Paul McCartney's baby, it's healthier for you, etc etc).

When we were in Costa Rica in February, we ate very little meat for the 15 days we were there. Part of it had to do with the lack of available meat in the market. Part of it was that we fell in love with the abundance of available fresh seafood - sea bass sushi in a pagoda in the rainforest? Yes please. But the biggest part of it was of course the fact that a traditional Costa Rican meal is primarily rice and beans - at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It may be served with bread and eggs, or guacamole, or plantains - or, all of the above. I delighted in the deliciousness and simplicity of these meals, whether we bought them or cooked them ourselves in our casita.

We got home, and it's all we wanted to eat. Especially me. I make it all the time. Sometimes with meat, most of the time without. Last night, it was all about being meatless. It was all about being quick, as we were having people over to watch a spooky movie (Scream 4) and hand out candy to trick-or-treaters (we got 1). It was also all about using some of the items we had on hand, and because I was too lazy to go any further than the village. So, what did I make?

Heather's Gluten Free Black Bean Quinoa Red Pepper Sweet Potato Burrito's.

1 can of Black Bean Quinoa Chili by Eden Organics.
4 Gluten Free Brown Rice Tortillas.
1/2 red pepper, chopped.
1 sweet potato (microwaved for 10 minutes, chopped)
3 avocados, cubed
1 tomato, chopped
Salsa
Daiya Vegan Cheese, as much as you want.

Heat up vegan chili in pan, spread over each tortilla. Add red pepper and sweet potato. Roll up like a burrito, using a toothpick to hold in place (because they are gluten free, the wraps will crack - it's normal). Place on baking sheet and sprinkle liberally with cheese. Bake at 350 for 5 or so minutes, then broil for another 5 or so minutes, depending on if you like your tortillas to be on the crispy side (I do).

While this is happening, make your guacamole. I make mine by cubing my avos and adding a tomato. I lightly salt it, add the juice of a fresh lime and a fresh lemon, and then add a few dashes of balsamic cream - a very thick, reduced balsamic vinegar. This brings out the flavor of everything you have just mixed. Normally I add a bit of garlic, but I didn't have any, and to be honest, it wasn't missed.

When your burritos are done, serve immediately with guacamole and some salsa to top. Have a side salad. VOILA! Meat Free Monday!

Moments before going straight into my face hole. GuacaMOLE MOLE MOLE!

Fresh out of the oven - crispy as can be.

Get in mah BELLY!

Side Salad with mushrooms, figs, seeds, cukes and balsamic cream. Yum!

Chocolate Snacking Cake

2011-10-28T15:26:00.000-07:00

Rainy, chilly nights make me feel like I need to consume calories in order to keep up with the shivering I do when I take my dog out for night walks. But seeing as I don't want to consume TOO many calories, I thought I would try my hand at making a delicious and relatively healthy cake.

I decided to adapt a recipe from "The New Canadian Basics Cookbook", simply because it looked too easy not to. I really don't love baking, but I love running down to the bakery in the pouring rain even less, so this was definitely the easiest option to indulge my chocolate craving.

I'm such a good little Canadian.

I made my version gluten free, and I will note other substitutions as I go along.

Chocolate/Fig/Almond Snacking Cake

1.5 cups all purpose flour (I used Namaste's Gluten Free All Purpose flour for about 1 cup of this, the rest was made up with bean flour because I didn't have enough).
1 cup of granulated sugar (I used liquid stevia as a substitute, but found (as usual) that it tastes a bit weird, so added a couple of dashes of agave syrup)
3 tbsp of cocoa
1 tsp each of baking soda, baking powder
1/2 tsp of salt
1/3 cup of vegetable oil
1 tbsp of white vinegar
1 tsp of vanilla ( I like vanilla, so I liberally splashed in some organic vanilla from Mexico)
1 cup of warm water
1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (I didn't have any on hand and find walnuts are starting to bother my mouth anyways so I used chopped raw almonds and added chopped dried figs too!)

** I also added a couple of dashes of cinnamon because I like it, though the recipe does not call for it.

>> In mixing bowl, combine dry ingredients (except nuts and fruit); mix thoroughly. Add liquid ingredients; stir with whisk until blended. Add nuts and fruit. Pour into lightly greased 8 inch cake pan. Bake at 350F for 30 minutes or until tester comes out clean.

Fresh out of the oven!

Plated and pretty.

Verdict: Not sugary, but the figs sweeten it just enough to satisfy your craving. My original (and more sinister) plan was to frost this concoction with Nutella, but there wasn't enough in the jar. In the end, I ended up with a fairly healthy, satisfying treat that didn't need icing. A crowd pleaser for your health conscious friends that can be jazzed up if necessary by icing it. Which totally would have happened except I was out of everything required to make such evil and delicious things.

Nomnomnom

Mylo Xyloto - Stokeage Abounds.

2011-10-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

On the whole, AMAZING album. Coldplay is my FAVORITE band of all time. They speak to me, duderinos. I heard a few singles off the latest album a few months back, and have to admit to being skeptical of this latest effort, their fifth studio album. However, the album as a whole, and through my awesome speakers (and not just my laptop), has just made me so indescribably happy! I am dancing with joy! My boys are back, as good as ever. Each Coldplay album sounds different than the last - this is something you can not deny. This record is nothing like Parachutes. I love Parachutes. I love everything in between, and I love Mylo Xyloto. I'll be there for concert #5. Who's with me?

Officially yours in drinking the Coldplay Koolaide since 2002,
~H

My Current Favorite Breakfast

2011-10-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

Source.

That's right. Brown rice, with an egg on top - green onions, and a spritz of wheat free tamari. YUM. YUM!
It's also really delicious with Daiya Vegan Cheese and organic salsa. Delish to the maximus.

Stuff I Like

2011-10-27T08:54:00.000-07:00

What's #Occupymyhome? Just some stuff I have purchased lately, and totally dig.


FINALLY made up my mind as to which new Converse kicks to buy - grey leather high tops. BOOM! Love.

High waisted leggings! Mama doesn't want no muffin top, and these babies are the perfect fit.
In cotton though, not pleather.

EDEMAME Hummus! Amaze! Lower cal than regular hummus. So delish.

That's my Halloween costume, kids (minus the tragic red lips). Princess of Power. KaPOW!

Carving yet another special needs looking pumpkin, next to a special needs looking person (me).

2011-10-25T10:15:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was filled with so many good things. Friends, friends with new babies (I got to meet and cuddle not one but TWO adorable newborns on Saturday - welcome little Ben and Chris to the world - Auntie Heather thinks you're both ace!!), parties, walks, sunshine, and food. It was pretty full on and absolutely delightful. It was a weekend to feel blessed in so many ways - love, warmth, and joy were all around us!

As it often does, we get a little head start on the weekend on Thursday nights. This past Thursday we had dinner at our friend's Heidi and Steve's place. It was a chance to see them and their lovely little girls (who had their noses in their respective iTouches, so they were very preoccupied), and to enjoy a lovely meal. After the girls went to bed, the adults had a few wines and played a round of "Probe", a word game. Super fun.

{Let me Probe You.}

{My super lame word.}

{James and Heidi play the game well.}

Friday after work, I set out to help my mom with our once a month Altar Guild duties at St. Matthias. I don't attend church regularly anymore, but it's good to know that my flower arrangements and silver polishing skills are jazzing up the sanctuary, just a wee bit.

{No matter your beliefs, churches are peaceful places.}

{Silver polishing skillz.}

I didn't snap any pictures of either newborn babe this weekend (not that I didn't WANT to, but I figure there is lots of time for that) but I will tell you that they are both the cutest, sweetest little men ever, and I can't wait to watch them sprout up. They are both blessed with stellar parents - lucky little ducks.

After we did our "oohs and awwws", we headed over to our friends for a pumpkin carving party. I am not the most adept carver, I leave the artistic stuff to my hubby.

{Team Pumpkin Carvers.}

{James working on his masterpiece.}

{I did it totally freehand, guys. Impressed?}

{James' piece, coming along.}

{Some Halloween decor.}

{The finished pumpkins in all their glory.}

{Spooky surfboards.}

On Sunday morning - a beautiful sunny October day, the complete opposite to the rainfall of the previous day - we met up with some friends for brunch at The Village, in Estevan Village. It's a great little spot, with a lovely patio. We took advantage of the sunshine and basked in it while we ate our yummy food.

{James and Chris getting down on their eggs.}

{Uncle AZ and Meliss - action shot.}

After brunch, I took the dog for a nice long walk through our neighborhood, which of course included a lovely sunny walk through Beacon Hill Park.

{Fall.}

{Beautiful day.}

We met up with more friends to play a little afternoon interpretive bocce and drink some wine. Very Continental of us, I'd like to think.

{Interpretive Bocce at it's finest.}

{Time for a self portrait. Why so serious?}

{Sunset.}

{Enjoying the last bit of sunshine.}

Later that night (see, told ya it was busy), we headed over to Marion and Aren's for a fantastic games night - the inaugural meeting of the Super Secret Adults Only Club (no kids allowed). We drank Negroni's, ate some amazing fondue, played Balderdash, and danced in the kitchen. Observe:

{Kitchen dancing.}

Weekends. You gotta love them, right?

Friday Jam

2011-10-21T16:38:00.000-07:00

Can't get enough of this! M83 just released their whole album and if the rest of the album is like this, I will be incredibly happy. LOVE THIS SONG.

Netflixin

2011-10-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

It's time again to admit to you how much Netflix I absorb on a weekly basis. I swear, I have a pretty active social life (just last night, in fact, we were at our friend's for dinner - a couple we have been trying to connect with for what feels like months), it's just...well, you know. I likes my stories.

I'm going to go ahead and recommend some television series that are currently streaming on Netflix here in Canada.

First up - AMC's The Walking Dead. I am not a zombie freak or anything - you won't see me participating in a Zombie Walk any time soon (way too lazy for that), but I am seriously intrigued by the story line in this series.

Rick wakes up alone in a hospital bed. He has no idea what's happened. It's eerily silent (and as I am well aware of, hospitals are NOT quiet places). He soon discovered that some crazy apocalyptic shit has gone down. But what? His main mission is to find his wife and son, who he believes to be alive, as their house remains intact but empty of certain belongings. Thus begins the journey of Sheriff Rick and those he meets along the way, some of which are in fact the walking dead.

There is only 6 episodes in season 1, and I am chomping at the bloody bit for season 2 to start streaming. It's extremely well written, taut, and intense. It's not Zombieland (which, if you haven't seen it, do. It's hilarious), it's darker and grim, but really fun. Get involved.

Secondly, The Big C. Friends, I LOVE Laura Linney. I find her to play characters you can relate to. She is an empathic actress. The Big C is about her character - a mother, wife, sister to a crazy but loveable homeless man - and what happens when she finds out she has an incurable cancer. It's hilarious, sad, touching, and heartwarming. I laughed, cried (yeah, I'm a tad emotional at the best of times, so it comes easy), and pondered my own mortality.

What would you do, and how would you act, if you found out you only had a limited time left on this earth? It's not a cookie cutter show, and I imagine it might offend some people who have been affected by cancer, but I can't help but think that everyone would react differently and there is not right way to live a limited life. I loved it, and would recommend that you give it a shot too.

Lastly, The United States of Tara. I mentioned this briefly in a blog post from last week, but I'd like to expand on my praise. This show was canceled I believe, so watch and get engaged at your own risk. I believe there are three seasons, so I have two more to go (if Netflix ever gets on that), and that thought is what keeps me sane.

Speaking of sane, Tara is a mom and a wife and a sister. Something traumatic happened to her in her late teens, and it sparked the onset of her dissociative identity disorder. You'll meet T (a 16 year old hyper sexual party girl), Alice (a 1950's style June Cleaver type housewife), Buck (a redneck dude with a penchant for drinking and fighting), and Gimme (an animalistic and savage personality). These personalities come on when Tara experiences stress and the results are humorous. Extremely humorous. It's NOT a sensitive portrayal of this very real mental disorder, but it does shed some light on things. It's over the top but it's warm and full of love as her character is surrounded by her loving and patient husband (played by John Corbett, who will always and forever be the lovely Aidan) , remarkably well adjusted kids, and her less than sympathetic sister. This was written by Diablo Cody, of Juno fame, so if you dug that, you'll love this.

Currently, I am getting stuck into Survivors, which is a British show about a group of people surviving in England, after a major global flu pandemic wipes out masses of the population. As you might know about me, I am alllll about this post-apocalyptic stuff (to watch, not actually to live it - let's face it, I have Crohn's - I would NOT be one of the survivors), and so far so interesting. I like, very much.

And guys, if you think I should read more, I'll have you know that I am nearly done book two in the Game of Thrones series - Clash of Kings. It's phenomenal.

My Coastal Commute

2011-10-20T17:16:00.000-07:00

As a resident of Vancouver Island, we often take for granted the beauty of the landscape we live in. We are blessed with the mildest climate in Canada, but we still have the balls to complain about the rain.

And, if I had a nickel for every time I heard someone complain about having to take a ferry to get to the mainland, I'd be one of the 1%. I have definitely done my share of complaining about the reservation fees, the line ups, the missed boats, the fees....but I chose to live here and it's a small price to pay to live on an island (and let's be real, does it REALLY feel like an island? It's pretty big. We have TWO highways, guys).

Yesterday I caught the 7 am boat over to the mainland for a store opening. I decided to make a reservation late last week and thought I probably wouldn't need it, but I've been burned before, and besides, this is on company dime as I was on official company business, so $17.50 ain't no thang, baby (fact: I always make a reservation because I like being punctual and hate waiting).

I did not regret the 1.7 minutes it cost me to do that because as I drove past the ferry sign over the highway just outside of Sidney, it warned me that the 7 am was in fact full. I looked at my clock on my dash and it read 6:24. SHIT. I had 6 minutes to get there before my PREPAID reservation was going to be null and void. Peddle to the metal.

I narrowly avoided getting a ticket by getting stuck behind the slowest person in the world, and managed to keep up a good within range speed of the speed limit to get myself to the ticket booth at 6:29:38 am. Phewf.

I had been awake 1.5 hours and I had already broke a nervous sweat at least twice. Off to a good start.

I hit up the SeaWest Lounge on Coast Celebration because I enjoy the quiet space, the view, the gossip magazines, and the pastries. You pay a small premium of $12.50 or so, but when you consider that you'd probably spend at least that buying magazines, coffee, or sides of Triple O sauce in the cafeteria, it's a sweet deal. Pastry selection could be more varied - the subpar croissants would have been better with some jam. Just sayin.

{Morning}

{Here we go}

{Just leaving Swartz Bay}

{Extraterrestrial}

{Currents}

{Hello sunshine}

{Head towards the light}

{Killing some time}

I was able to get some work done in all this quietness and guilty pastry snarfing, and in between emails, I watched the sun rise for the first time since July. It was beautiful. And, as much as I hated my alarm at 5:15 am, I was happy I was awake, caffeinated, and on the ocean.

I did my business in Vancouver, enjoyed myself immensely, and then turned myself around and got back on the 3 pm ferry. First of all? Super impressed with myself that I didn't get lost once. Just another reason why iLove Steve Jobs.

And since I didn't need to keep my hair looking awesome, I decided to hit the upper deck for some windy self portraits and late afternoon October Gulf Island scenery. I realized that if I had to commute once in a while, THIS was the way to do it! I would MUCH rather spend my time on a boat in the ocean, than stuck in traffic. On a bridge.

{Afternoon}

{Windy Self Portrait on the Upper Deck. Slightly Awkward.}

{This was my lunch at Joey's in Coquitlam - Joey's, for a chain restaurant of this type, is AWESOME}

{I thought this was really cute}

{Product Placement}

{Passengers}

{And everybody waves hello}

{Stunning light}

{A la prochaine!}

"Morning Rise & Shine"

2011-10-18T13:12:00.000-07:00

I got my little Crohny hands on a new product last night, something that is meant to both enhance alkaline levels in your body (it's bad to be too acidic) and help promote healing in your bowels via aloe vera. It's also meant to act as a detoxifier, so I thought I would give it a go! If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that I am all about trying new and natural ways to treat my Crohn's - diet, supplements - anything to avoid the nastiness of the pharma world. 13 years in, 1 surgery down, so far so good. Ps. This stuff tastes amazing and it's not just for Crohn's.

Read on, if you're interested.

Wake Up! Time to take your “Morning Rise & Shine”

As children, many of us heard the expression, “Good Morning – Time to Rise and Shine”. And often, we did just that!

Now, starting the day feeling energetic can often be a challenge

Early morning fatigue

The “need” for caffeine in the morning

Bad breath & a coated tongue

Indigestion & bowel issues

Joint pain & stiffness

Weight gain & low moods

These are usually signs of toxicity or acidic waste accumulating in the body. An imbalanced diet high in acidic food (animal protein, sugar, breads, cereals, colas, fried or processed foods, caffeine) can cause far-reaching damage to our health.

Alkaline Minerals are a Key to Health
If you are like most people, your diet is not providing enough minerals to sustain a healthy and optimum performing body. The body needs an abundance of minerals, however minerals are sorely lacking in the average North American diet.

The body’s natural pH balanced state is alkaline; the over-consumption of acid-forming foods places stress on the body. In doing so, key alkaline minerals - calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium – are leached from the bones and vital organs in an attempt to alkalize the body’s fluids and balance pH. (Using pH paper, a simple test of saliva and urine can be performed daily; a balanced pH is between 6.8 and 7.2). Over time, the body becomes depleted of these valuable alkalizing minerals, and acidic waste builds up in the cells and tissues. Consequently, it becomes more difficult for the body to naturally cleanse and detoxify itself - resulting in a lack of energy and vitality, and eventually chronic disease.

Start the Day in a Better Way with – Lemon, Aloe & Minerals
The “Morning Rise & Shine” is the first of its kind – a delicious lemon, aloe and mineral drink made from a blend of natural whole lemon juice concentrate, aloe vera juice extract and alkalizing minerals. The early morning is the natural cleansing period for the body. Mixing 1 scoop of the Morning Rise & Shine powder in 12 -16 ounces of water every morning will support the rejuvenation of your cells by bathing them in pure phyto-nutrients, anti-oxidants and minerals.
Lemon:
The cleansing power of the lemon is legendary; this fruit has been used for centuries to naturally clean both externally and internally. The Morning Rise & Shine drink is made with 72% natural lemon juice powder concentrates. This drink when taken ever morning can assist your body to naturally release harmful acidic impurities and other toxic build-up that retard metabolism and add weight to the abdominal area.

Aloe Vera:
The superior-quality organic aloe vera 200:1 extract powder used in the Morning Rise & Shine drink supports the cleansing process, reduces inflammation and helps to heal ulcers and the lining of the digestive tract. Aloe is know to support normal cell growth, and is used by many cultures as a general overall tonic.

Minerals:
The “Morning Rise & Shine” drink is specially designed to provide the rare and valuable 80 trace minerals and the nutritionally important alkaline minerals including: calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium. An abundance of minerals in the tissues and cells of the body promotes cellular detoxification, improves pH balance and helps to restore the body to its natural alkaline state.

How the Morning Rise & Shine Drink will Benefit Health

Enjoying the “Morning Rise & Shine” drink upon waking assists your body in removing toxins and can help promote:

Hydration & Alkalinity

Energy & Physical Mobility

Normal Appetite & Weight Loss

Brain & Memory Function

Digestion, Assimilation, Elimination

Liver Cleansing, Detoxification

Healthy Aging, Healthy Skin

Tissue Healing & Healthy Bones

It’s – Simple – Safe – Effective

Holistic Pharmacist, RoseMarie Pierce, B.Sc.Pharm, formulated the “Morning Rise & Shine” drink to offer an easy-to-take alternative to her popular recipe version. RoseMarie believes that replacing the morning coffee (or sweetened and processed drinks) with the Morning Rise & Shine drink will provide the double benefit of eliminating acid-forming drinks and offer instead a health-giving alkalizing, energizing alternative. By starting the day with this healthy morning drink, you will also help to improve nutrient absorption and create lightness in your digestive process.

Morning Rise & Shine Drink – Features

Easy-to-mix powder (with handy scoop)

Offers a flavour typical of fresh lemon

Sweetened with stevia, no added sugar

All ingredients are natural and pure

Contains no added: sugar, yeast, gluten, egg, dairy, artificial colour, sulfites, or artificial preservatives,

Major minerals are in a citrate form, and semi-soluble

Le Paludier® salt, harvested ecologically & has EU organic certification

Lemon is EU organic compliant, GMO free, & Kosher Certified

Organic Aloe Vera powder extract is 200:1 concentrate & IASC certified - guaranteeing aloe content and purity

The flavour is quite pleasant, delivering a fresh citrus taste, with a tangy natural lemon flavour and a hint of energy.

One serving contains the equivalent of:

Juice of ½ lemon
30ml (1 oz) Aloe Vera Juice

Source.

Saturday Mornings in the City

2011-10-17T21:31:00.000-07:00

Sunset Photo Shoot in the City.

2011-10-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

Letting Go.

2011-10-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

I have lived in the same city my whole life, so it has enabled me to foster lasting friendships. Friends, that no matter the geographical divide now faced as adults, will always be friends. Happily, many of these friendships from childhood and high school have continued to flourish because no one leaves Victoria, or when they do, they usually find themselves back here. Ah, the allure of the west coast.

This has created within myself an innate inability to let go of friendships - even ones that are past due. Ones that have been outgrown. Ones that need to be let go of. It's hard for me to do this - everyone that has come into my life has meant something to me, and I am not someone who just forgets or puts aside those who have touched my life in the smallest way possible, for the better.

You may think this sounds like a good quality, and I think, that inherently, it is. However, sometimes you just have to know when to cut team Sometimes these friendships are toxic to you or those around you. And you just need to .....let go.

I still find this difficult. I don't know why. People are not disposable to me. However, I have decided, at the ripe old age of 31, that there are people in my life that I just don't need there. I'm not saying that I am going to "de-friend" anyone, or go out of my way to tell these people that we are no longer friends. It's not that. It's just me...letting go....of them. I will not pursue a relationship with these people because I just don't need the drama or the negativity that swirls around their heads like a dark cloud of persistent misery. I don't want my friendship with with anyone to interfere with my happiness or those I am more wholly connected to in my present and my future.

So if you're reading this, and you're wondering "does she mean ME?" ask yourself these questions: Do you create unnecessary drama and negativity in your life and the lives of others? Have you treated people as disposable beings? Do you consistently put yourself and your happiness first, not caring how your actions affect those who care for you? Do you believe that you're self aware, but in actuality everyone knows that you're just completely self involved?

If you answered yes to those questions, maybe someone is in the process of trying to figure out how to let you go. In my case, it's just as simple as disconnecting. I don't have to extract myself, or make it messy or dramatic. It's just pulling back and disengaging, because this time? I'm putting myself AND the people I love before the people who just don't give a shit, and who I am beginning to give even less of a shit about.

Sometimes it's not even about a particular person doing anything "wrong". Sometimes it's just time to say goodbye - this doesn't have to be a physical or verbal goodbye - sometimes it's enough to let go in your heart and mind. Releasing yourself from the binds of a relationship that no longer belongs in your present. Sometimes letting go of the past means letting go of the people in it, who, for all intensive purposes, no longer have a place in your life. And in my case, these intensive purposes all come from negativity, so it should be easy, right?

Wrong.

But nonetheless, here it goes. Goodbye, good luck, and good riddance.

10 Things That Make Me Scrumtrulecently Happy!

2011-10-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

1. Cool, crispy SUNNY fall weekends! I LOVE fall clothes and this past weekend I was finally able to wear them without getting too sweaty. You know that awkward time in between summer and fall when you just don't know what to wear? In Victoria, no matter WHAT the season, the rule of thumb is to always layer because you just never know. This weekend though? I could rock my jeans and coat with no fear of schweddy balls.Ok, maybe a little schweddy balls.

2. Bocce ball in the park in the middle of October with wine in brown paper bags and friends.

3. Sunsets! I saw two SPECTACULAR sunsets this weekend - one from the top of the Yates St. parkade after a sushi dinner and a walk with my man, and the other from Beacon Hill, post bocce.

4. Going for drives. When James and I were younger, we used to take whatever car we could get our hands on and go for drives, listen to music, and talk about...whatever. We took a drive the other night, through the darkened streets, just listening to music and talking and laughing.

5. Getting up early on Saturday morning, putting on aforementioned fall clothes and taking the husband and the dog on a tour of the neighborhood. First stop? Latte's at Caffe Fantastico. Then we walked in the sunshine, and up to Moss Rocks (where he proposed to me) and took in the views of the glorious day that lay spread before us.

6. Quiet weekend nights at home. I hate to sound old, but I loved going to bed early this weekend and getting up early - we had such full days. It felt SO great, after such an imposing sickness, to be out and about and getting fresh air during the day, and to get a great night's sleep at the end of it.

7. Babies! I attended a baby shower this weekend and it was fantastic! I got to cuddle with a few littles and it was awesome! Babies are the cutest and I am pretty excited that my friends are having their own wee ones.

8. Peacocks in the park! These exotic animals wander around Beacon Hill park freely. They strut like the bird pimps they are. The males are especially beautiful - colours from my dreams! We fed one by hand this weekend. I love that it trusted us. Trust between an animal and a human is something beautiful to behold.

9. The United States of Tara - which, I believe, was canceled? Regardless, I did some quality viewing of season 1 in the bathtub this weekend and it is SO funny. SO SO funny. It made me happy. And then sad that it only has three seasons. But moreso happy that it got made in the first place.I will probably review this in more depth as part of my Netflixin' posts, but I just wanted to give you guys the heads up.

10. My new Ray Bans! Our friend The Chief dropped by on Sunday morning bearing gifts. One of which was a brand spanking new pair of Ray Ban Wayfarers. Black. Exactly the ones I have been wanting. Who does that? Someone who buys in bulk apparently. I LOVE THEM!

WTF Friday

2011-10-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

A collection of some of the best "WTF" things I have found on the interwebs this week! Prepare to waste some serious time, but as John Lennon once said "Time wasted that you enjoyed, is not really time wasted" (or some shit along those lines).

1. Dancing Alone to Pony.
2. Selleck Waterfall Sandwich.
3. Hipster Puppies.
4. Passed Out on Public Transportation.
5. Fake Science.
6. High Expectation Asian Father.
7. Cheese People.
8. Hungover Owls.
9. I'm Remembering
10. Shit my Kids Ruined.

This Should Be Our Song

2011-10-13T17:25:00.000-07:00

I know what you look like in the morning
Your kisses are soft and warm
I can draw you with my eyes closed
See you with nothing on but the radio
I know how many years of French you took
Your favorite movies, your favorite books
I know what really gets you going… glowing

I know where you go with your beautiful friends
I know what you taste like when the night ends

I know the kind of thing that makes you laugh
The way you tilt your head for a photograph
What other guy knows you like that?

And I can name the first guy you ever kissed
I can name the perfume on your wrist
What other guy knows you like that?

Oh, Anne
Oh, Anne

I know what you want by what you're wearing
The kind of night you're preparing
I know what your hands do when you're kissing
Your number one and number two favorite positions
I know how your skin glistens… listen

I know where you go with your beautiful friends
I know what you taste like when the night ends

I know the kind of thing that makes you laugh
The way you tilt your head for a photograph
What other guy knows you like that?

And I can name the first guy you ever kissed
I can name the perfume on your wrist
What other guy knows you like that?

Oh, Anne
Oh, Anne
Oh, Anne
Oh, Anne

I know where you go with your beautiful friends
Yes I know what you taste like when the night ends

I know the kind of thing that makes you laugh
The way you tilt your head for a photograph
What other guy knows you like that?

And I can name the first guy you ever kissed
I can name the perfume on your wrist
What other guy knows you like that?

Oh, Anne
Oh, Anne
Oh, Anne
Oh, Anne

I Feel That Way Too.

2011-10-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

Source.

Love.This.

2011-10-13T10:25:00.000-07:00

THEN RAISE THE FUCK OUT OF OUR KIDS!
AND GIVE YOU ALL THE MOTHERFUCKING LOVE AND SUPPORT YOU’D EVER FUCKING NEED.
AND PAY THE HELL OUT OF THAT FUCKING MORTGAGE.
AND THEN WHEN THE GUTTERS ARE CLOGGED I’LL GET UP THAT FUCKING LADDER AND CLEAN THAT SHIT UP WHILE YOU STAND BY THE KITCHEN WINDOW COMICALLY JUDGING MY WORK.
AND THEN WE CAN VACUUM THE FUCK OUT OF OUR CARPET SO HARD THAT WE’LL HAVE TO GET A NEW ONE.
WE’LL WASH OUR CLOTHES SO GODDAMN FUCKING HARD. FORGET NO RINSE, WE’LL USE HIGH FUCKING SPEED.
BUY A FUCKING MINIVAN TO STUFF OUR BEAUTIFUL FUCKING BABIES INTO IT AND DRIVE THE FUCK OUT OF IT.
THEN WE CAN GO SOME FUCKING PARENT-TEACHER MEETINGS AND MEET THE FUCK OUT OF OUR KID’S TEACHER. THEN JUDGE THE SHIT OF HER IN THE CAR.
AND WE CAN THEN PILE ALL THE CHILDREN IN THE FUCKING MINIVAN AND GO TO THE STORE AND SHOP FOR GROCERIES SO HARD THAT WE ACTUALLY HAVE TO MAKE MORE THAN TWO TRIPS TO GET ALL THAT SHIT INSIDE THE HOUSE.
AND THEN COOK THE FUCK OUT OF OUR KITCHEN UNTIL WE HAVE NO FOOD LEFT AND WE FEAST ON THAT SHIT FOR FUCKING DAYS.
I WILL EAT THE FUCK OUT OF YOUR HOMEMADE COOKIES.
THEN WASH THE SHIT OUT ON THE DISHES TOGETHER UNTIL OUR ENTIRE HANDS GET FUCKING PRUNEY.
WE’LL WATCH OUR KIDS FUCKING GRADUATE AND MOTHER FUCKING TEAR UP LIKE THE BADASS BOSSES WE FUCKING ARE.
WE WILL GROW SO DAMN OLD TOGETHER, WE WILL LOOK LIKE FUCKING RAISINS.
I WILL FUCKING TELL YOU EVERY SINGLE SECOND HOW MUCH I FUCKING LOVE YOU.
HOLDING EACH OTHERS FUCKING HANDS SO HARD THAT WE SHIT OUR SELVES.
UNTIL WE DIE AND ROT AS MOTHERFUCKING CORPSES TOGETHER.
TIL DEATH DO US FUCKIN PART.

HAPPILY EVER FUCKING AFTER.

Just Like Music

2011-10-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

Heyyyyy girl. I think you should check out music from some of the following bands, because they're rad. Get down with your bad self and these songs.

Am I right?

Gratitude

2011-10-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

A long weekend always comes around when you seem to need it the most, you know? I was in desperate need of some rest and relaxation after my two hectic weeks. Because, on top of having the black plague that was making the rounds (terrible cough, sinus infection, sneezing, sore throat, fatigue - you name it, I had it), I had an absolutely RIDICULOUS two weeks of work. And, when you work from a home office, it's kind of hard to justify calling in sick when the only person you can infect is yourself. That being said, had I not had a number of urgent things to get through, I probably would have taken a few days off. But I didn't, so I was looking forward to three days of rest.

And, for the most part, that is all I did. I spent time in hot baths, I slept in, I sat on my couch and watched movies, I went for some slow strolls in the fall sunshine. And, just as I thought I was never going to feel better again, my immune system gave me a break. Just in time for a Thanksgiving dinner party.

When I had awoken that morning, I wasn't sure if I was even going to go. I got up at my usual time, around 8 am, and immediately went back to bed until noon (very unlike me). I did absolutely nothing the rest of the day, besides drink water and contemplate whether or not I would be able to leave my house ever again. I guess the thought of seeing some friends I hadn't seen in a while, as well as the key words "Thanksgiving Potluck", snapped me out of my funk, because three hours later I was stuffed, laughing, and having a Thanksgiving dance party in my friends living room with about 20 other people. In that moment I was grateful for friendships, food, laughter, and record players.

Some serious dance moves.

Some serious making out.

These cool dudes showed up.

Our hostess with the mostest, Marion.

Aren and his baby.

Friends. Libations.

Laughter.

Kitchen party.

Kids provide the best entertainment.

Psychedelic jello. RESPECT.

Vicky, Marion, Aren.

Susi and her bourbon ham. YUM.

Me and my love.

Me and Vicky making my picture face.

Since both of our parents were out of town this Thanksgiving, James and I found ourselves to be Thanksgiving orphans. The party the night before had satiated our social needs but had only fueled our need for leftovers. James had made a stellar Brussels Sprouts dish for the party, and when I woke up the next day, it was all I could think of.

And just like that, at 1130 am, we decided to go about cooking us up a Thanksgiving meal for two. Talk about last minute, right? Well the turkey gods were smiling down on us as we got the last local fresh free range turkey in the village. It was 18 lbs. That's a lot of turkey. But, we reasoned it gave us the perfect excuse to finally use the turkey roaster we had in our possession (that was merely collecting dust on top of the cupboards), AND it would provide us with meals for the next...week. Or more.

While James prepped our kitchen for project Thanksgiving, I ran to the store to grab the essentials for what was going to be our first fully prepared by us turkey and all the fixin's meal. With me as the kitchen manager and sous chef, my master chef was able to create a masterpiece. It honestly was the best Thanksgiving meal ever. EVER! Last night, I was thankful for stat holidays, a warm home, and a talented and loving man.

Master chef James.

We tested our microbrew wine and it was AWESOME!

Roasted brussels with leeks, bacon, feta and cashews!

Mashed sweets.

The Oliver Secret Stuffing! SO good. So lemony.

As English as it comes - bread sauce.

Turkey roaster WIN!

Thankful for this man.

Thankful for this meal.

Obviously, we have leftovers coming out of the wazoo, so we're having a friend over for dinner tonight to help make a dent in them.

Lastly, since the weekend helped me finally mostly recover from my ridiculous ailment, I finally FINALLY laced up the sneaks and worked out today - first time in two weeks. Felt AMAZING. So today I am thankful for friends who we can feed and for returning health!

Today I was even thankful for Jillian Michaels.