irregardless

San Fran Roadtrip 2007

2007-07-13T08:44:00.000-07:00

Along our trip, I kept a journal of various events. It is a little choppy, but I was writing more to track our experiences. The notes work well withe the photos (check my flickr site for those).

Day #1 - Sat June 30th

Picked up the car at Avis - a Pontiac G6 with lots of power - 2647 km on it.
The radio says the borders are "a mess" with waits of 3+ hours. Good thing I brought games!
Stopped at Melriches - I got an excellent Americano, Mich got a less than mediocre latte. 8:47am and we will soon be at the border.
9:23am - just jumped the line at the border by visiting the Duty Free! Had to buy something, wound up buying cologne. Not bad - only 30 min. to get through border - Ha!
11:33am - Driving through Seattle as we speak. Clear sailing for us, but the traffic going the other way is *nuts* - really heavy.
4pm (ish) arrived in Seaside Oregon. Stayed at the Hostel. Walked along the boardwalk to the beach - long, power soft beach - some dune-style grasses. Georgeous. Walked back along Broadway, bought some salt-water taffy, ate dinner. Very touristy city, but stunning beach and coastal views.

Day #2 – Sun. July 1

Left the hostel at 8am. Visited the Seaside Coffee Roasting Co. Wow – first, they sell ‘muffin tops’ just like on Seinfeld. Plus, they make their own scones – best scone I have ever had…
10:10am – Driving through Manzanita – what an awesome little community. Just like Cannon Beach – it has long soft beaches that stretch forever down the coast. You can hear the waves crashing, the air is cool, fresh, salty. Very cool.
2:20pm – Just left Newport. We stopped in Tillamook at the Cheese Factory. Toured around, ate samples, bought some cheese. Very tasty.
3:15pm – Ate lunch while sitting on a log at Seal Rock (in the company of 3 seals). Have realized we may be behind schedule. May have to cut out certain stops.
6:30pm – oof! Long driving day. We are in Bandon, Oregon staying at the La Kris Inn. We left Seal Rock, stopped in Florence at the Dunes, then back on the road. Lots of bridges, even draw bridges. Drivers are either too slow or crazy. Mich has enjoyed several naps while I’ve been driving (she says roadtrips make her sleepy). We are in Room #2 at the La Kris Inn – the ‘Safari’ room (every room has a theme I guess) . Nice enough… fridge, microwave, DVD etc. We borrowed ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ to watch tonight. Anyhow, gotta find dinner and see the beach (Bandon is supposed to have one of the most beautiful beaches).

Day #3 – Mon. July 2

8am – leaving our Safari room at the La Kris Inn. Lastnight we drove along the ‘Beach Loop’ (beautiful!). Ended up at a restaurant called ‘Billy Smoothboars’ for dinner. A bit of a treat – I had prime rib, and Kenny had steak. Returned at 9pm very tired. Watched the first 30 min. of ‘Pirates’ then fell asleep.
10:00am – Stopped at Gold Beach to pee. Coastal drive has been very rocky with long white capped beaches.
10:31am – Driving through Brookings, sunny 68F, crisp sea air.
10:41am – Crossed California border. Saw orange jump-suited men from a nearby prison working on highway (our second spotting).
11:50am – Stopped in Klamath, CA. There is a giant Paul Bunyan (and Babe, his blue ox) at the “Trees of Mystery”?! A voice comes out of Paul – so that he is talking with visitors. Pretty funny – I am sure he was flirting with some girls. The kids were posing for pics under the bulls nuts – that was even funnier.
12:40pm – 5 miles to Trinidad, CA. and 24 mi to Eureka!
12:52pm – Just entered Arcata, CA. Very ‘valley’ like, fields with cows, clear sunny skies with many hawks/eagles (not sure which bird of prey it is)
1:40pm – Back on the road. Stopped at ‘Kristina’s’ for lunch, beef dips with giant salads and giant sodas.
2:18pm – Redcrest, CA. 90F and hotter! (phew)
3pm – Checked into room 11 at the Humboldt Redwoods Inn in Garberville, CA. Napped a bit, watched some TV (thank god for air conditioning). Swam in the pool (ah, a refreshing game of Marco Polo). Then off to dinner at a local Italian-Mexican restaurant called Sicilitos – great thin crust pizza. Today’s drive was spectacular: the rocky coast, beaches, valleys, giant redwoods, fields with berries, cows. We ended the evening watching some marathon of Little House on the Prairie.

Day #4 – Tuesday July 2

9:30am – Driving through dense redwoods – HUGE trees. The pics won’t do them justice (you’d have to stand beside one to really appreciate the size). Very dry country here – like Interior BC. Lots of country music on the radio. Going to stop in Leggett, CA. to drive through a tree.
10:20pm – Paid a ‘nominal’ fee of $5 to drive through the ‘Chandelier Tree’ in Leggett.
10:30am – Your tax dollars hard at work! More CDC Prisoners spotted doing roadwork along the highway just south of Leggett. The orange jumpsuits are quite fashion statement.
10:50 – Laytonville, CA. The day is heating up! Saw a bio-fuel gas station. Nice. This area reminds me of the Valley in BC – lots of farm country, cows, bales of hay, hawks/eagles. But everything is super dry. The grass looks burned.
11:08 – sweet rainier cherries, windy mountain roads, 80s music, 34 mi to Ukiah.
11:13am – as driving through Willits, CA drove under a group of 15+ eagles all soaring above.
11:30am – speed enforced by helicopter – just saw one!
11:47am – Have started driving through vineyards – vineyards everywhere.
12:31pm – Entering Cloverdale, CA. There is a Citrus Fair Drive – Mich wants to know if she can sell me there. (how rude). 93F – so firkin hot. Windows wide open, but hot air only creates a hot breeze. My sweat runneth over.
12:40pm – Traffic entering Santa Rosa is heavy – construction. Looking for Sonoma Valley exit. AC back on. Have discovered a woe of driving in this sun – arms & knees are red and crispy.
3:20pm – After getting lost we found & toured Sonoma – many vineyards. Had lunch at a bakery/café; had tastings at the Sebastiani vineyards and winery. Now on to San Fran.
4:30ish – arrived at Golden Gate – hiked up to view point. Fog swirling around everywhere, but most of it blew off once we hiked up. Definitely cooler here. Stunning and surreal to be here.
6:00ish – Arrived at hostel (after getting lost). Room #5 (4 person room). Hostel is at Fort Mason.

Day #5 – Wed. July 4

Arrived lastnight. We drove down to the Fisherman’s Wharf for a bit. Ate Mexican at Las Margaritas. Visited Ghirardelli Square.
Today – what a riot! We took a cable car ride from Fisherman’s Wharf downtown. Our drive was a big fella named Rufus. We stood at the back with him, and when he saw us taking photos, he took our camera and took photos of it. It became a bit of a photo shoot, including photos with Rufus. Great guy. We stopped and shopped in Union Square. Mich got new Oakleys. We took the BART to Oakland (the Coliseum) to see an Oakland A's game. We wanted the cheap $2 tickets, but they were sold out. Wound up paying for $22 tickets which were in the shade (thank god – the heat and sun was killing me). Sat in an area with Toronto fans (cool). The Jays spanked the A’s 10-0. Took the BART back to Nordstroms Shopping Centre (8 floors!). Wandered around looking for a certain restaurant, and accidentally wandered into an area called ‘The Tenderloin’. This is the sketchy part of San Fran – like Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. We suddenly realized where we were, and Michelle encouraged me to put away the map and look tough. As we meandered along skid row, we found ourselves at a restaurant called “Chutney” – Indian food. SO good! Who knew the Tenderloin could offer such tasty delights?! Made sure to get out of that area before the sun went down. Back at the hostel, we freshened up, and headed out to the July 4th fireworks. It was great because the hostel is on park land right by the Bay, so we just took a 2 minute walk out the hostel, and we were there. Great fireworks.

Day #6 – Thurs. July 5

Our routine is this:
Shower at night then to bed by 11pm.. I wrastle my way up to the top bunk. I usually wake up a couple of times in the night (not the most comfortable bunk). 6:30am – get-up, pee (after wrastling down the bunk bed). I pay $3 for 30 minute of Internet from 7-7:30pm while Michelle dozes, then we get ready. Our breakfast coupon gets us a bagel or 2 waffles, tea/coffee/juice. Nothing fabulous. We usually end up going downstairs to the big kitchen, and eating our own cereal. Then we are off.
Sharing a room is interesting. We have a roomie from Sweden (Marianne) who is great, then this other roomie – I call her the ‘New York Noodle’. NY Noodle snores, as does Michelle, as do I probably. This morning I was woken by a burning smell. NY Noodle was ironing at 6am.
TODAY: Took the cable car to Lombard Street (Crookedest St in the world). Walked down through a really neat area called North Beach (the Little Italy of San Fran). Walked back along Stockton St. past Telegraph Hill, down to the Wharf area. Visited Trader Joe’s, Cost Plus, then further into the Wharf we found Boudin – this is the company that has been making sourdough since the 1800s in San Fran. After eating lunch (chilli in a sourdough bread bowl), we hopped on the F Train to the Ferry Building. It is like a high-class market with lots of neat shops. After much perusing, took F Train back to Pier 39 to see the sealions (usually there are hundreds that gather hear on the docks). Most are down south breeding, but a good 10 or so remained. Went over to Pier 33 and caught the sunset cruise over to Alcatraz. What a surreal tour… to actually be walking in and around buildings that have such history. Returned late to the hostel – exhausted from all our walking. Mich has 5 blisters on one foot, and I have pulled muscles in my legs.

Day #7 – Fri. July 6th

Slept in then packed. Had breakfast with the Marianne. Drove over to Ghirardelli to buy chocolate. Looked for the photographer we found earlier in the trip who was set-up at the wharf (David Campos) but he never showed up that day. We bough some jewellery from a local artist named Shirley (me a necklace, Mich 2 rings).
Drove over to our next home – the Willows Inn B&B located in the Castro District. We checked into Room #31 with a bay window overlooking the street. Met Allan and Terry (Innkeepers). Have to walk up 2 flights of stairs to get to our floor. There are 2 WC on each floor (just toilets) then separate shower rooms (huge spacious showers). Kitchen on 3rd floor, lounge on 2nd floor. Our room had fridge, TV, sink, comfy bed, desk, walk-in closet. We were hungry, so we walked along Church St. and stopped at Sparky’s Diner. Mmm – good comfort food. Hopped on the F Train back downtown to visit Jeanine Payer store. She is a San-Fran based artist who designs some really neat jewellery. We spent a long time looking and trying on rings. Walked over to the Ferry building, bought a few more things, then F Train back The Willows. Every night at The Willows, they host a cocktail hour from 6-7. It is like a meet & greet for guests. We went down – I got to try a local San Fran beer (Anchor Steam Beer), met a guest named Rich (nice guy from Arizona), and another Innkeeper named Mike. After our drinks, we walked around the Castro District, Market Street, Castro St. Got take-out from an trendy Italian restaurant called Fuzio – the best Italian I have had, and considerably cheap compared to other restaurants. Went back to The Willows, ate dinner, watched TV in bed, then slept.

Day #8 – Sat. July 7

Our last full day. Great sleep – very comfy bed. Woke up around 8am, and headed down to the kitchen for breakfast. Yummy breakfast – lots of baked goods, fresh fruits, juices, coffee. Met Larry & Collum (from Vancouver as well – originally from Nova Scotia), Rich again (great guy), Francois and Pascal (2 very French guys from Montreal), Johanna & Kim (who loved our accents (what accent?)), and a group of women who were celebrating a 50th birthday. Lots of food, good conversation. I think the cocktail hour and great company at breakfast really make The Willows a great place to stay.
Took a streetcar to Alamo Park to see ‘The Painted Ladies’ – the postcard Victorian houses that you see in images from San Fran. Took lots of pics, then back on the F Train to Castro-Mission area to visit the Tartine Bakery. Really great place, but totally packed. Visited a shop called the Bi-Rite, which had a terrific wine and cheese selection. 2 guys (staff) ended up talking to us for about an hour about local wines, and sampling cheese for us, which was great. Walking back along Castro, we stopped back at Fuzio for lunch (mmmm). Hopped on the F Train back downtown to visit Jeanine Payer. Decided on our rings – the rings we chose for our wedding bands. Jeanine will make them and ship them to us – should get them in around 6 weeks. Walked through downtown a bit more, went to the Fresh store to buy some soaps, then back to The Willows for cocktail hour. Met some more guests (Ken & Eric, Rich, Paulo) over drinks, then went out for dinner with Rich to a well-known restaurant called Catch. Rich had seafood, but Michelle and I craved steak. Had an incredible rib-eye steak. Our priciest meal of the trip, but also our most delicious. Returned to the Willows, packed, and slept.

Day #9 – Sun. July 8

Up and having breakfast with Rich by 8am. Out by 9am, and off to Bi-Rite to buy wines, aged gouda, fresh sourdough, Anchor Steam Beer. Left San Fran over the Bay Bridge (2 levels). Driving out on the I5 and it is HOT and DRY (through Redding, CA the temp got up to 114F). Arrived in Medford, OR. Around 4:30pm. Checked-in at the Days Inn. Transferred the chocolate to the fridge – there were some casualties (melted). Went to the Harry & David store, bought an insulated ‘stay cool’ bag for the chocolates. Ate at Shari’s for dinner, then to Fred Meyer to shop a little. Found a Tazo Tea that they no longer sell in their Starbucks stores.

Day #10 – Mon. July 9

Up at 7:30pm – packed, ate cereal, etc. Made icepacks for the chocolate, loaded the car, and off. Cooler (a bit) today. Driving through mountains, Grant’s Pass, dry but green shrubs and trees. Stopped for gas, and was reminded that Oregon is a ‘No Pump’ state – you can’t pump your own gas. They pay attendants to do it for you (safety issue I guess).
The I5 is less exciting than the coast for sure, but we make better time. Arrived in Kelso, WA at the Econo Lodge at around 4pm. A bit of a sketchy hotel – no fridge or pool, but hey, that’s what $46 gets you. Ate dinner at a local restaurant called ‘Stuffy’s’. Dessert at Baskin Robbins.

Day #11 – Tues. July 10

3441 km from Van to San Fran and back.
Home Sweet Home.

Anniversary, Cruise, Waffle Night, and more

2007-05-18T23:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the absence.

Truth be told, I haven't suddenly become super busy.

Yes, truth be told, I have developed an addiction for a certain online social networking site... let's call it... Facebook. Even my work has been affected. Much deliberation and craftiness has led to my discovery and use of a 'proxy' so as to bypass the school filters.

heh.

NOW - too much to say, but here is something:

Mich & I celebrated our 9th anniversary.

Pics can be found at my Flickr account (HERE).

Coming Soon: pics of our 1 night cruise aboard Holland America, and the recent House of Waffles Social.

Loafing

2007-03-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

I am home sick, and can't really bring myself to do anything. I joined Facebook after being invited by a friend. Turns out there are lots of old friends on there, and it has been really nice to re-connect. Gave one of those old friends a call lastnight, and it was so nice to talk again... made me miss home. Sometimes Vancouver is just too far away.

Sunshine at last...

2007-03-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

It may only be for one night, but the rain finally let up...

In other news, I have uploaded pics from the trip to Oyster River...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/asthmatic1973

Spring Break

2007-03-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

How excellent is this...
Just as I am about to burnout, I get a whole week off to relax.
As it turns out, I am off to Oyster River to see my dad for a few days, then back to the big city to do 2 assignments for my course. BUT I will sleep in - AND I will go for a walk along the seawall... AND I will go to my favourite coffee shop for coffee and to read my current addiction...

Harry Potter.

Ridiculous that I am only now reading this series, but hey. Better late than never.
I am on book 4 - the goblet of fire or something like that.
I figure I can get through the next 2 before the 7th and final book comes out.

The S Experiment

2007-03-03T23:53:00.000-08:00

Well, my sanity has returned... I ended the S experiment. Thought I wanted it, thought I needed it, realized it was making me crazy, and thus it is over.
Happy to announce I have updated my photos from my birthday weekend.

Click here for my photos.

34 Years... a serious post

2007-02-02T23:02:00.000-08:00

Today I am 34.

This is the same age that my mother was when she died.
How different our lives are...
When she was 34, she had a husband, a house, and 3 young kids.
As I turn 34, I have a partner, an apartment, and 3 cats.
I just can't imagine having 3 kids at this time. Not that I don't want children, but I look at my life today, and I see our lives as being polar opposites. I am in my 2nd and still developing career. She was a stay at home mom.

And then she died.

I don't remember that night, although I can picture it after being told the story so many times.
What I wouldn't give to be able to meet her. My father did remarry, and my mom (technically step-mom) is wonderful... this post isn't meant to imply anything like that.
I just wish I could sit with my biological mom over coffee, tell her about my life, learn about what hers was like... what did she like? what were her hopes and dreams? is she proud of me? How do I take after her?
She would be 65 this year...
When I see her in pictures, her 34 looks older than my 34.
Tonight in the shower, as I listened to my shower radio, her song came on.
It was one in a string of many odd things that have happened today.
Gordon Lightfoot - If you could read my mind.
Maybe she was letting me know she was with me to celebrate my birthday.
Maybe just coincidence... there is a full moon after all...

Happy Holidays from Connecticut

2006-12-28T08:42:00.000-08:00

The holidays away from home are nearing an end, but what fun it has been.
Air hockey tournaments, Go Fish and random card tricks (ahhh the magic that a 5 year old believes), Cranium Pop 5 with a special performance of 'Betty Davis Eyes' by yours truly, Ice skating, a visit to Yale and the Peabody Museum, bowling, and an adults only viewing of JackAss 2. I have never seen the first, but it was pretty funny. And the food... good grief, diet here I come.

Me with Jupiter at the Peabody Museum

Tired...

2006-12-13T23:48:00.000-08:00

In and around the daily happenings of my life, I have become aware of things....

and the rest is edited. a rant that will not be heard.
I guess it could be summarized with 'if you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all". Keep snide comments to yourself, and - if you want to discuss something, say something, ask a question - be kind. Treat others the way you want to be treated. Karma, baby.
Part-time goodness doesn't cut it.

The First Ever Annual Kenny Lemmon Christmas Wine & Cheese Party

2006-12-04T23:05:00.000-08:00

This weekend we hosted our first party in this apartment.

We went way out - spent a lot of money getting organized - everything from buying wine glasses, some new serving dishes, decorations, booze, wine, cheeses from around the world, ingredients to bake...

We wrapped the door with a big gift tag with our apartment #. Put up the lights, and various christmas knick-knacks. We had around 20 ppl in our apartment, which is no small feat, given the size of the apartment. Our last guests left at 3:30, and we have been assured the party was a tremendous success.
Good thing, we are so exhausted by it all, I doubt we will do another party for a year. I learned that skipping lunch and dinner because you are too busy setting up for the party is a bad idea, especially when followed by 4 glasses of wine.

I suffered for much of Sunday, but felt great today. I even did my best to stay in control on the Elliptical machine in the Fitness Room - an act which takes a lot of work - I am not so coordinated on that machine.

Tonight I am grooving to a combo of christmas music (i.e. Barenaked ladies - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen), some cheesy 80s christmas music (Wham - Last Christmas) to 70s (Boney M - Brown Girl in the Ring) to cheesy pop (Jessica Simpson - Public Affair) to a little bit o' my fave tunes right now (Imogen Heap). What the hell is this song (Brown girl in the ring) really about anyway???
She looks like a sugar in a plum???
truly odd.

SN*OW

2006-11-26T10:53:00.000-08:00

The first snow of this year.

Water, water everywhere, and not a drop to drink

2006-11-22T18:51:00.000-08:00

Wow

The weather here in B.C. is pretty crazy right now...
Torrential rains have left 2 out of 3 reservoirs with high turbidity and potential bacterial contamination.
And the rain continues. And the Boil Water Advisory continues.
Fisticuffs at Costco and Superstore as grown men and women trample children and seniors for the last few cases of water.
Crazy.
We have a water cooler (Canadian Springs) and at work I have been boiling and Brita-izing the water. Hopefully no gastro-intestinal distress for me.

More importantly - I have made good progress in my reading:

Unless (Carol Shields)
Excellent book. I really like her writing style, and this story kept me hooked throughout as I discovered clues and finally the reason for Norah's self-imposed homelessness and search for 'goodness'. I highly recommend the book - 2 thumbs up.

Short History of Progress (Ronald Wright)
I don't have a strong background in history, which is probably why I like historical fiction. Now saying that, I recognize this is nonfiction. But my point is more that this book enlightened me as to the history of our little world, and how we as a society seem doomed to repeat the same mistakes over and over. As much as the book was enlightening, it was also depressing. I used to see the world as a whole - society as a whole - the environment, wildlife... I used to see it all with a 'glass half full' type of mentality. I'm afraid to admit that these days, with the people we have in power, the current governments, the global companies that rape and pillage for profit... I think I now see our future through a 'glass half empty' perspective.
Depressing, I know.

The Notebook

2006-11-14T22:38:00.000-08:00

I love a good love story.

As I sit and watch The Notebook, I feel this tingly chemistry as Noah and Allie go through their struggles and get together, and I sit here, sniffling and teary-eyed, as I realize this has been the story of their lives. I am such a sap.
But just when I think I am pathetic, I look over at M on the couch, and see she is all sniffly and teary-eyed, and I realize how perfect we are for each other.

Oyster's Paradise

2006-11-13T21:41:00.000-08:00

This weekend included a trip to Vancouver Island, to the small community of Oyster River, where my Dad lives in a wood cabin within a stone's throw of the riverbank.
While each visit to my dad is memorable, I think this has been one of the best yet - which is interesting because we really didn't go anywhere.
The weekend was spent talking and sharing stories, discussing the family tree and getting to know relatives long gone. Music blared from the little cabin, from scottish music to french music, to 70s, and even some radio shows. We flicked through TV, pausing at news to discuss world events and rant a little (lot) about the evil little man currently in charge of the States. We played our traditional Backgammon Tournament, for which I was not the victor, but did put up some good competition.

A wonderful weekend, even if I almost got stranded on the ferry due to a lengthy nap, almost missing boarding the bus as we arrived in Nanaimo. Photos availabe HERE.

The Biggest Chocolate Bar in the History of chocolate bars

2006-11-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

It is huge - as seen in the photo below.
It was a gift from a friend in the UK.

Eating for the sake of food availabilty - Phat File vol.1

2006-11-09T21:52:00.000-08:00

Tonight I got together with a colleague at the VPL to work on an assignment that is due next week. Frustrations from that assignment aside, I realized something tonight.

I was meandering through downtown, contemplating taking a bus, when it occurred to me that I could grab a bite to eat. I cannot adequately relay to you, dear reader, the internal process that ensued.
Lots of chit chat between my "good guy inner self" and some "internal bad guy"... that little devil voice that told me how good Wendy's would be. Or a shwarma. or.. or ... or...
Lots of options along Robson Street, as I tried to stay focused on the task at hand - getting home.
As I tried to ignore my internal bad guy, I peered impatiently down Robson, willing the bus to come. Now here, dear reader, is where you realize I could walk home if I wanted to. It really isn't that far at all. A nice hike, even though I have about 50 pounds of books on my back, including exciting titles such as the Sears List of Subject Headings (and the Canadian Companion).
The debate between my good guy inner self and my internal bad guy went on for about 5 or 10 minutes, when I finally, and proudly, went with the good guy, and not only did I not grab a bite to eat, but I decided to walk home.

The biggest realization- the a-ha moment- I wasn't even hungry.
Nope.
Still actually quite satisfied from the sushi I had for dinner.
So why all the thoughts of grabbing a bite to eat?
Because I could.
Because it was there.
Because I knew it was yummy, and could ignore that it wasn't the healthiest choice.
Eating because the food is available.
Makes no sense. none. zero. zip. zilch.
It's like putting gas in your car because you are passing a gas station, except you don't need gas, so the gas overflows, catches fire, car explodes, tragically taking you with it. The End.

Tonight was a victory for me. A very small one, considering a bigger victory would be to get up early and go to the gym. But atleast I have recognized that, although I am sort of on this round-about quest to lose weight and get in shape, I continually sabotage myself and my efforts.

Well, this has been a most honest blogging session.
Probably enough for now.

recipes wanted...

2006-11-05T14:33:00.000-08:00

Heads up! Chef Citron is in the kitchen!

I am reviewing my selection of recipes, plus collecting and trying new recipes.
Got any to share? I am aiming to combine my favourite new recipes, with my traditional favourites, into a wee cookbook.

mmmmmmmm

Halloween

2006-10-30T23:17:00.000-08:00

On the eve of Halloween, I have crafted my costume (a "serial killer" (cereal killer)), and carved (markered) two tiny pumpkins, fondly known as Little Boo and Baby Boo. Little Boo came to us from "Apple Barn Pumpkin Farm" where we went about a month ago to pick apples. Baby Boo was adopted just days ago, on our visit to Granville Island.

I think we will actually carve Little Boo tomorrow night ... I suspect Baby Boo is just to tiny to safely manipulate a knife.
Mich and I have a bet as to how many seeds are within Little Boo. She threw out a guess of 3, likely more as a joke. I ofcourse took the bet as a challenge, and am going to say 17 (lastnight I said 50, earlier today I said 20, but I will hold at 17). I will even attempt to roast said seeds (I have not endeavoured to do this before). I must admit, though, it will be hard to carve him when he has such a cute face. Oh the guilt, the slaughter.

arrrrr

2006-10-29T23:07:00.000-08:00

Lastnight we went to a Pirate-themed Halloween party until the wee hours of the morning. Lots of pirate music and pirate costumes, lots of gold and miscellaneous loot, lots of food, lots of wine and pirate punch.
I've got a pirate-sized hangover today.
(that's big)

arrrrrrrr

Top Five Things about my Saturday

2006-10-28T16:15:00.000-07:00

1) Riding the little ferry over to Granville Island
2) Visit to J.J.Bean for Americano, and trip to La Baguette & L'Echalote for fresh-from-oven croissants
3) Miscellaneous stationary purchases at Paper Ya, featuring 4 journals and several hand-made Christmas cards
4) Shopping at the market, and purchase of tiny pumpkin (a.k.a. Little Boo) to decorate and put outside door
5) Romantic dinner for two at the Banana Leaf

Final Comments:
* I *love* the new Imogen Heap CD and Delerium CD.
** Have been trying to use the Elliptical machine at the Fitness Ctr at school. Feel awkward and lumpy as I move about on it. Also, sweating like a banshee. Can't do very long. Think I may have pulled something.
*** Found out I share the same birthday as Ina Garten (The Barefoot Contessa) - who I adore. Must remember to send a birthday card.

Wishful Thinking...

2006-10-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

My motto (in general) is "Life is Good".
As good as it is, I do occassionally find myself engaging in a little wishful thinking. Below are some of the various things I think wishfully about...

Wishful Thinking #1 - the house
I walk by this house every day. It isn't huge. But I love it. Now the price - yikes. These are Vancouver prices - notably higher than the price you'd find for the same home in a nice neighborhood in London, Ontario.

Whishful Thinking #2 - the car
Mine would be yellow (fitting, I think).

Whisful Thinking #3 - the scooter
This model can be 'sooped up to go faster than traditional scooters. Can also ride with 2 ppl. Goodtimes.

Wishful Thinking #4 - the B&B
I like cabin #12 (Jacob's Creek cabin)

Wishful Thinking #5 - true love
Just kidding - I've got that one already!

Fall atlast...

2006-10-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

A busy week, with most of the excitement coming by way of a trip to the island to attend a conference. While I could see a trend towards the more hip, nouveau-chic librarians, there was still a good representation of the old-school hair-in-a-bun classic librarian. I enjoyed the luxury of the Sidney Travelodge, and the complimentary continental breakfast. Obviously I am easily impressed.
And today, a glorious fall day... started with coffee, continued with some shopping, a long walk to Stanley Park to pick up some artwork from a local artist, and now home.

Life is good.

Weekend of the Turkey

2006-10-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

M & I spent last weekend with her cousin, aunt, and uncle, enjoying a little R & R at a cabin outside of Hope, BC. It was quite the weekend, and seemed to follow a general schedule:

* wake-up
* eat
* read
* eat
* nap
* walk or read
* eat
* walk, read, or TV
* sleep

It was incredible. Truly relaxing. Food, drink, naps. Curling up by the fire with books, magazines, the paper... white wine, red wine, beer... coffee and fresh-from-the-oven pull-apart cinnamon rolls... turkey with all the fixin's... walking on a gorgeous sunny fall day, in a valley surrounded by mountains...
and have you notice that fall (the season) has a smell? Crisp and cool, leaves on the ground, the scent of smoke from the chimneys of most cabins...
I wore my new blue Gap hoodie, which was very well suited to the sunny but cool weather.
I have photodocumented the trip, which can be seen at my flickr site.

The week since has been crazy busy, highlighted with me consuming excess amounts of Cold FX (everyone around here is sickly), stressing over my upcoming cataloging assignment, and madly trying to finish Saturday (Ian McEwen). Thoughts about the book: long. I think I am used to reading a book that is more fast paced. The whole novel takes place in one day (Saturday), and while I did enjoy the beginning and the end (it got really exciting near the end), the middle spent many pages describing things like his squash game, and was just too long-winded and slow.
Next book up: Unless - Carol Shields.

Decaf Non-Fat Caramel Macchiato...

2006-10-04T21:04:00.000-07:00

mmmm.

Generally speaking, I don't really like Starbucks coffee.
I find it to be the crap coffee of the coffee world, but because it is so mainstream, people flock to it. Usually, if given the opportunity, I will endulge myself with a coffee from a place called Melriches, located nearby on Davie St.
They make *the* finest Americano I know - strong coffee flavour - with depth to it - and without any bitterness.
Melriches was a common hang out for me in the summer, when I would roll myself out of bed, throw on some clothes and a hat, and trudge up Davie with a book in hand.
It is a relaxed, laid-back coffee shop in the heart of Vancouver's West End. It feels cozy inside, but they have lots of seating, some booths, and local art on the walls. I like to go with a good book, grab an Americano, and nestle into a booth where I can take turns reading and people watching. The Americano gets served with the hot water on the side, so you can add as much or as little as you want... and you can check for yourself to make sure they have poured an espresso shot with good crema.

Now having ranted about the delicious taste sensation that is the Melriches Americano, I bring myself to the reason of my post.
The Starbucks Caramel Macchiato.
That is a weakness for me, if I have to get Starbucks that is. Tonight I have purchased such a drink, and am happily licking off the caramel-topped foam.
I am supposed to be focusing on doing my latest Dewey assignment.
But that is another post waiting to happen... the one where I tell you the exciting life of cataloging and working in a library...

Wine, chocolate, and more cowbell...

2006-09-29T23:58:00.000-07:00

Friday is a magnificent day - the end of the week... a celebration, the start of relaxation and rest...
Our good friend Rick arrived (for the weekend!) yesterday from England. Lastnight we were both too tired to reminisce and catch-up. But today, we are re-energized and enjoying the time together...
Having ended my workday early (yay for early dismissal days), we met and watched the movie "Little Miss Sunshine" - and may I add, what a freaking hilarious movie. I *loved* it. Totally recommend it.
We met Michelle and feasted at Cactus Club, then off to the Liquour store to pick a nice bottle of Australian Shiraz, which we are just polishing off as I write this.
Warm, little boozy butterflies are swirling inside me...
I am singing a Sufjan Stevens song (that was featured in the movie earlier today), looking forward to my haircut tomorrow. Last weekend I was OK with my hair - it was still 'working' for me. But around Tuesday it started to become unmanageable. As of yesterday, no amount of gel and gentle coiffing could control the volume and curls that fight to be free. Tomorrow, my Farrah Fawcett hairdresser will tame the beast that is my hair. For now, I enjoy my shiraz, my Hershey kisses, the good company of my pal Rick, the "Last Kiss" soundtrack, and later, the cuddles and warmth of my lovely wife.
On a closing note, the subject line refers to "more cowbell" - another freaking funny thing is the SNL Christopher Walken "more cowbell" episode (the bit about Oyster Cult & Don't Fear the Reaper). Totally funny... run it through google. or follow the link: http://webfeedcentral.com/2005/01/21/more-cowbell-video/

Back to the shiraz...

A New Start

2006-09-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

Et voila!

More to come...

Summer of Steph II

2006-08-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

It has been almost a year since I last blogged... what the hell happened that I COMPLETELY forgot I have this blog?
I guess life got busy.
I am currently enjoying the S.O.S.II
It is *lovely* as was last year.
Maybe I stopped blogging because I have little to write about.
I have started a Flickr site, and that seems a better way to post what is happening in my life.

10 random updates

2005-09-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

Life seems to have become too busy to blog.
Maybe I just have nothing to say?
Well, here are some random thoughts and updates:
1) I miss my lazy summer days. They were good, but life can't be all about loafing.
2) I have a classroom for 4 months. Great kids, great grade level (although still on the dependent-needy level)
3) I will soon have a very nice supply of cash (see point 2 above)
4) As of Tuesday, I am on phase 1 of a Strike, so a potential veto to point 3 above.
5) I got a head cold because I was stressed out and not sleeping. It still lingers.
6) I went cosmic bowling lastnight and drank a LOT of beer. that may affect point 5.
7) My dad was sick, which added stress. Happily, after much hospital attention, he is home again.
8) I am going to see a couple Van. Internation Film Fest movies.
9) I am seriously getting grey/white hairs - most noticeable along the sides of my head.
10) I am spending more time with new friends from softball this summer. It has been great expanding my circle of friends - good people, good times.

Well, that ought to do it.
I need coffee.

The Receding Goodness of Summer

2005-08-30T08:32:00.000-07:00

Looking out my 14th floor panorama, the north shore is hidden under a dense cloudy blanket; the city glows dull and grey, seemingly lifeless.
The breeze through the balcony door contains no warmth, no matter what the radio says about a potential 18 degrees.
I will find my solace in a hot cup of coffee, a lit candle, a warm breakfast.
I have the latest Georgia Straight to read, in addition to my Maisonneuve, and the current novel, A Complicated Kindness.
I should be excited... a week today, I could be getting that call to go to work.
I am excited that a decent revenue is coming, but it is hard to not miss this life I have enjoyed for 2 months now. I have *loved* it. Seriously. It is not a bad thing to be a lady of leisure... Wouldn't it be nice if everyone could enjoy such a life. Work 9 months, get 3 weeks at Christmas, and 2 months during summer.
My accomplishments are many, my experiences priceless.
Sure, I never lost those 20 pounds I thought I would. I discarded a few briefly, but they missed me and came back. But my LOVE cup runeth over...
I will think fondly of this time, as I start my preparations to return.
I will look forward to it, as I make my way through the year.

But it isn't over just yet!
One more wild weekend to go!

Rules of the Sidewalk

2005-07-28T06:48:00.000-07:00

At the tender age of 16, most kids obtain their Learners permit and commence their life-long journey of automotive transport. I actually waited until I was 18. There didn’t seem to be a purpose, as my parents were pretty good about dropping me around town.

I like driving.
I almost always listen to music, and exclusively listen to mixed tapes or CDs, as my patience with radio inevitably leads to constant channel changing. This I figured was a dangerous practice, given the one incident years ago, where I swerved off the road and onto a neighbour’s lawn as I fiddled with channels.

Having been a student for years, and only now just getting on my feet, I have been unable to afford my automotive pleasures. To make me feel better, I can think of a plethora of reasons why public transit makes sense for me.

1) Gas prices have gone through the roof, these days averaging more than a dollar a litre
2) The cost of purchasing and insuring the car is beyond the limit of my piggy bank
3) While drivers sit in constant traffic, I am able to read, nap, people watch etc

Given these reasons, you will usually find me walking the pavement around my neighbourhood with other pedestrians. Here is where my dilemma unfolds.
Generally, people who drive abide by the rules of the road. We drive on the right side, we follow the speed limit, and we signal to indicate our intentions at an intersection.
How is it that when people get out of the car and onto the sidewalk, they throw these rules out the window?

Pedestrian misdemeanours can be grouped into the following categories:

1. Speed Limit Violations
2. Incorrect Lane Usage

Speed Limit Violations:

When driving a car, you will always have a posted maximum speed. For many, this is the speed you try to maintain at all times, so it becomes like a minimum and maximum together…a suggested speed. People will of course slow down when necessary, perhaps when turning, or due to traffic, or inclement weather. When driving significantly slower, you risk getting a ticket, as you are now a safety issue to the other cars actually doing the posted limit.
Pedestrians don’t get this ‘posted limit’. In my experience, peds don’t lean more towards exceeding the average rate, but rather towards creeping along more slowly. Let me point out that I am not a fast walker. I have little legs, and I don’t move them very quickly. Having said that, I don’t doddle. I know where I have to go there, and my legs go with the intention of getting me there without wasting any time. How frustrating it is to constantly be navigating through a sea of doddlers, the slow walkers … the Sunday drivers of walking. Suggestion: two lanes of pedestrian traffic in each direction. A slower lane for the window-shopping, ho-hum pedestrian, and a faster lane for the no nonsense walker. If sidewalk room doesn’t permit two lanes each way, then one lane with people ‘pulling over’ to let faster walkers pass would suffice.

Incorrect Lane Usage

How many people, driving down a busy street, could just come to a complete stop when in conversation or deep thought? Pedestrians do this little trick all the time. The complete stop usually occurs after they have seen someone they know, and both stop to converse. Maybe they are pondering entering a shop, or forgot something (which is followed by an illegal turn into oncoming traffic). Either way, it is followed with me having to dart around and avoid a collision.
This category also describes the occasions where a pedestrian emerges from a store or another walkway, and merges into sidewalk traffic, without looking to see if there is room or if they will be causing a potential collision. Often, this incident is followed with a complete stop in motion. Not only have they turned out into my path, but then they stop to talk to the person behind them, causing another quick swerve in my path to avoid a collision.
A final violation worth noting in this category is the ‘group’ scenario. When a group of friends is walking down the sidewalk, there should still be ample room to let by a pedestrian walking in the opposite direction. How many times have you been forced onto the grass when a group goes by, because if you didn’t move, you would surely collide with the group? Groups tend to spread and monopolize the sidewalk, in attempt to keep everyone engaged in the conversation. Etiquette would dictate that a group keep single file if possible during moments of passing traffic, and paired walking at other times. If you want to include your group in conversation, turn around to give a quick look and smile. Do not, of course, stop walking and turn to engage the rear walkers - this would be the type of violation mentioned in the previous paragraph.

You may find my Rules of the Sidewalk too strict. I am not trying to take the fun out of walking down the street, but I do think it necessary to be courteous. If I run into some friends on the street, I should be making every effort to get out of the flow of traffic to continue my conversation. If I remember I forgot to pick something up at the Safeway down the street, I should make sure I am not cutting anyone off before doing my little U-Turn. If I am emerging from a store, I should pause just outside the door, and look for my turn to enter traffic. If I want to meander down the sidewalk, pondering the mysteries of life, that is fine – but I should take myself out of the way of faster traffic. If there is room for two ‘lanes’ then take the lane closest to the building. If the sidewalk is tiny, and traffic is steady, maybe I should get off that sidewalk, and find myself one that has a slower pace. Safety first – I don’t want to cause anyone any grief, and I want to maximize my walking pleasure.

Following these simple rules will enhance the quality of your walking experience.
If you are still unsure of the Rules of the Sidewalk, imagine you are in a car – can you do what you are doing and not get a ticket?

Happy Walking!

Changes

2005-07-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

October 2 2002.

This date is significant for two reasons.
Firstly, it was my grandmother's 80th birthday.
Secondly, it marks the last time I visited home.

I am going home for the first time since that date.
I am anxious.
Lots of contemplation provided a few theories about my anxiety.

* I struggle with my weight. Am I worried that I am not as thin as I would like? Last time home, I was heavier than I am now, and since then I have lost about 30 pounds, but then recently gained back about 15 of those. Needless to say, I still feel thick and it makes me feel insecure and strips me of my self-confidence. No matter how much I brush my teeth to whiten my smile, it does nothing for my love handles.

* I don't know yet if EI has approved me. I thought they had, but turns out they haven't for sure yet. Either they are figuring out how much to give me, or still wonder if they should pay me. I recently discovered I have $32 in my bank. Hmmm. I wonder what that will buy? I bought 4 cobs of corn tonight. There goes $2.49.
I have the opportunity to go to Tofino on Wednesday for 2 days. Can I go?
No. Not with $32 dollars in my bank account.

* I will be reunited with my mother, who I have not spoken to since Christmas, due to her unfair and unethical handling of post-divorce financial matters with my father. It isn't that I want to write her out of my life the way my siblings have, I don't feel I can do that. But how can I maintain a relationship with her when she continues to screw-over my father? Further, if we talk, what will we talk about?

* I anticipate a certain unspeakable feeeling... perhaps jealousy, or maybe it is envy, or maybe it is just a lingering wistfullness when I see how certain long lost friends that I have been completely horrible at maintaining contact with have advanced along the road of life that most in society strive along. In less wordy terms: when I see friends that are married with children, house, car, etc etc... I feel somehow left out. This is stupid - I know. I am doing my thing and loving it.
I have a partner of almost 8 years whom I love so much and who is so good to me. We live in a new apartment in one of the greatest neighborhoods (West End/English Bay)in one of the greatest cities (Vancouver). We have three wonderful cats, and enjoy life to it's fullest. Well, as much as we can afford to. But we still haven't had the ceremony I want to - still not sure if we want to go the whole legal wedding route. I have seen enough relationships falter and fail, that really, I just want a ceremony where we say "I love you", and we celebrate with friends and family, eat drink and be merry. We don't own a house or a condo. Some days I wish we did, other days I am glad we don't. We don't own a car. Again, it would be nice, but I can still put forward an arguement for not having one in this city. We don't have kids. We want kids, but ofcourse it requires a little more work for us to do this. Plus we just don't feel like we are 'ready' yet. I am not a fulltime teacher, and we only just started making ok money. We still are burdened financially by things like the devil we know as Student Loan. Yet, as everyday goes by, our little eggs get older.
See the details I think of? Endless.
But I do love life - I enjoy every day. But will I compare where I am at vs. my friends? Will I feel badly because they are rolling along one route, while I am meandering along another. I shouldn't, but sometimes I do.

MY TRUE POINT:
One thing I realized today.
I have a friend visiting from the UK.
He is one of my closest friends, or was when he lived here - he lived with us for 6 months when his marriage suffered a meltdown. Then he moved away. He has met a wonderful woman, and is now engaged to be married again. Good for him - he deserves happiness. Anyhow - our friendship was very tight. When we hung out, he would be intently focused on me or our conversation or whatever.
Now, his attention and concern lies with his fiancee. He focuses on her, and if it was only the two of them he would be fine. And that is normal and that is fine. But still I notice the different 'feel' to the friendship. It isn't bad, just slightly different.

I think finally perhaps i know it is this anticipated difference in friendship that makes me anxious.
When I lived at home and hung out with my friends, we were all so close.
We went in and out of relationships, but largely were single. As time has passed, people have paired off, had families, developed careers and other interests... so when I visit, i will be seeing them in an entirely different role. They are no longer "Jane Doe" highschool friend of mine, they are "Mrs. Jane Smith", wife of so-and-so, mother of so-and-so, busy with this and that, which is all foreign to me, because I haven't seen them in years.
I guess I see them, frozen the way I remember them, fresh out of university, partying etc, when really they have moved on.
I will look at them and think perhaps "they look older" like I do with movie stars, as though I expected them to stay the same age forever. They will ofcourse look at me and think "hmm, she's pretty thick, I thought she lost weight?" or "hmm, wrinkles and grey hairs. she old". People don't say this, but surely they think it - your mind makes the comparisons. I do it with my family. I saw my sister for the first time in a couple of years last summer, and I do remember thinking she looked older. But how stupid of me, ofcourse she would. And so did I. It took a few minutes to re-acquaint, it is like you are getting used to that person again.

How very rambly of me.
Perhaps I can leave all my insecurities here, and just go out and have fun.
I am still me, they are still them.
Time changes some things, but if I loved you once, I will love you again.

Will you feel the same?

Hide & Seek

2005-07-20T16:30:00.000-07:00

Do you ever forget who you are?

In the elevator just now, as I rose slowly to the 14th floor that is my home, I asked myself,

"who are you?"

I didn't have an answer.
Not a good one, anyway.
Who are we anyway?
Are we who we *think* we are?
Are we what other people think we are?
Are we two things, separate and equal, all at once? Sort of like how the voice I hear and know as my own is very different from the voice you hear when I speak, yet they are one and the same voice.
When I look at myself in the mirror, do I see what you see? Are my eyes kinder, or do they seek the flaws I know exist?

I will have to ponder these questions further.

What I do know:
The summer of Steph started approx 3 1/2 weeks ago.
Many a goal I set for myself. I was probably too ambitious in the creation of that list...

If I am playing Hide and Seek with myself, searching for who I really am or who I would like to be, will I find myself by achieving these goals?

Doin' Drag

2005-07-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

9 hours and counting.

At 8pm tonight, your truly is taking part in a drag show for my baseball league.
Yikes.
I am nervous. I am scared.
I know this is just about having fun and being silly, but my costume is elaborate, and I don't have my moves down really well.
I suspect I need the help of alcohol.

My back-up dancers (the boyz) arrive in 2 hours, then our dress rehearsal begins.

*gulp*

Wish me luck.

Wounded

2005-07-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Summer of Steph has taken a turn for the worse.

Yesterday was a shyte day in so many ways.
I was feeling a little low... not so good about myself.
I went to my ball game, and my coach schedules me to play a half game.
This makes me feel even worse about myself.
She had said "everyone will play a half game" (because we have too many players) but then has proceeded to sit me out for over 5 half games. She hasn't sat out the star players, but me, well... i'm not that good anyway - I am a new player who makes a lot of errors. Clearly I am the logical choice to sit out more than others, yes?
No.
This is a rec league - we are supposed to be having fun.
Honestly, I would rather lose a game and feel good about myself, than win and feel incompetent.
It is no wonder when I came in half way, that my game was off.
I made more errors, and fumbled to get a ball and make a play, which I didn't, and then I realized I had mangled my leg. About half of my calf is oozing and attempting to scab. It is gross, and I can barely walk.
If I could, I think I would quit the team.
I am not a quitter, or am I?

So, my morale is down.
I can't go to the pool.
I can't do my walks.
I can't play tennis.

damn.

Tennis, anyone?

2005-07-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

I am nearing the end of Week 2 in the Summer of Steph.
Funny how time flies. It makes me think I am not doing enough to celebrate this freedom. Yet, isn't not doing much just as much of a celebration?

I created a list of goals for the summer. Goal #2 involves 'Getting Fit'.
Most days I take a pretty good stab at achieving this goal.
I swim at the Aquacenter nearby - and walk to and from.
I am also doing the daily regimen of a certain Jorge (whore-hay) Cruise.
Just 8 minutes a day to the new me. More like 15 when you incorporate time to march on the spot (warm up) and stretches afterwards. The marching on the spot seems to freak the cats out - they panic and scatter. I guess I am quite a sight - marching in my underwear in the living room.

Today instead of swimming, I played tennis.
I hit the ball around, practised my serves, but mostly played against the wall.
Seems those lessons I took 20 years ago are long forgotten.
Oh well.
And strangely enough, after about 30 minutes of banging the ball around, my hand started to hurt. I have developed what I call "tennis claw". Maybe I am hanging on to the racket too hard?

I took the stairs today - 14 flights down.
But down is the easy part.
I tried to take them back up too.
Hmmph.
I made it to 5, where, huffing and puffing and a sad, sorry mess - I took the elevator the rest of the way. Maybe I will try to see if I can do 6 floors tomorrow?

Stanley Park Chicken (S.P.C.)

2005-06-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

I did an abrupt double-take the day I saw a chicken in Stanley Park.

I was driving home with some friends from a softball game in Brockton Oval.
For those who may be unfamiliar with Stanley Park, it is situated near Vancouver's downtown core, and is home to many things. There are tennis courts, a miniature railway, an aquarium, a plethora of gardens and trails, totem poles, and even a pitch an putt golf course. Surrounding the borders of the park is the seawall, measuring over 8km in length, and providing a daily source of exercise to joggers, cyclists and rollerbladers.
In addition to the hundreds of homeless squatters living in Stanley Park, it is frequented by hundreds of thousands of visitors and tourists every year. The type of wildlife generally seen in the park includes a variety of fish and waterfowl, raccoons, great blue herons, squirrels, turtles, frogs, skunks, coyotes, crows, eagles and hawks.

But rarely, if ever, does one see a chicken on the side of the road.

By the time I realized what I had seen, our car was accelerating quickly away from the chicken. "Oh my god, did you guys see that chicken beside the road?!" I exclaimed.
They had not.
Was the chicken a figment of my imagination? Perhaps it had escaped from the children's animal farm, located somewhere within the park. A fugitive chicken... a chicken on the run.

The following week, as we again departed from a softball game, I sat keenly beside the window, peering out at the dense foliage and massive trees as we drove out of the park. Sure enough, as we neared a familiar bend in the road, I saw it.
Quietly pecking and searching in the shrubs and brush, the chicken seemed unphased by the passing traffic. This time, I was quicker to point it out to my fellow passengers.
"Look! There is another chicken!"
Yes, we all were in agreement that it was truly odd to see the chicken in the park. Were there more chickens? How did they get here?
Several jokes flew around the car, the highlight of which was "SPC - Stanley Park Chicken - it's finger licking good!"
Driving away, conversation in the front of the car resumed, while I remained pensive about the chicken. I felt an inner glow of happiness to know I lived in a city, a very big city, a city with a population of 600,000 lying within a greater region of 2 million, the largest city in B.C., and the 3rd largest city in Canada, but more importantly, a city with wild chickens. The elusive Stanley Park Chicken - rarely seen, but always cherished.

Up until today, I thought I was the only one who had given the chicken so much thought. Perhaps I was the only one thinking of the chicken, because, as it turns out, I need a lesson in farmyard animals.

My Stanley Park Chicken wasn't a chicken after all.

No, it seems this rogue park visitor is ... a rooster.
The Stanley Park Rooster. SPR.
Further, not only I am not the only one to notice the rooster, just today an article appeared in the Vancouver Sun regarding the rooster.

Someone leaving roosters at Stanley Park petting zoo
VANCOUVER - For more than a decade someone has been dropping roosters off in Stanley Park.

As I am not a subscriber to the Vancouver Sun online, I was only able to view this little 'teaser'. It turns out, according to a lovely woman at the Vancouver Parks Board office, that someone has been abandoning roosters in the Park.
She herself had only noticed the rooster a month or so ago.
The roosters have not been captured and integrated into the park's 'animal farm' because their health is unknown - they may be unhealthy or diseased.
I don't think the chicken/rooster I saw was diseased, but what do I know.

Heck, I didn't even know he was a rooster.

Ghetto

2005-06-24T21:57:00.000-07:00

Who said you can't roast marshmellows in the city?

One of the reasons I was keen to move to this apartment is the balcony.
Although it isn't terribly spacious, it gets the job done.
We moved from an apartment sans balcony, and I vowed that when I did have a balcony, that I would be out there everyday having my coffee. I haven't really done that yet... but let's blame all the rain we have been having for that.
We did purchase a balcony size BBQ (no, not a Hibachi) - it is called the 'Porta-Chef'. It has ample grilling space, and a warming rack. We have only had it for a few months, and thanks to the many BBQ'd meals we have enjoyed, we have already blown through a 20Lb tank of gas.

Earlier this week we found a new use for the Porta-Chef. While one friend has called this 'ghetto', I like to think we are crafty.
We removed the grill, lit her up, and ripped into a bag of soft, spongy, synthetically good marshmellows. I had crafted two roasting sticks from coat hangers, taking time to create a comfortable handle out of tape.

We roasted under the stars, usually doing the:
1)burn and char
2)remove charred layer
3)eat carcinogenic charred layer
4)repeat steps 1 to 4

We mixed in a little 'smores' action for good measure.
Nothing like having a marshmellow roast in the city.
yum yum.

Revealing the ABBA in me...

2005-06-19T00:04:00.000-07:00

I had *such* a good time tonight!
M and I went to a dinner at Seany's tonight with another couple, and after beer, wine, salad, pasta, dessert, liqueurs... oh what a time we had!
We listened to a variety of 70's hits, and stayed a long time on two different ABBA albums, one of which was Voulez Vous. SO GOOD.
We danced, and sang, and drank, and laughed, and shared tales of childhood and our younger years. We listened to ABBA, the Mamas and Papas, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Supertramp, and misc 80s.
Such fun. I think I am a little pickled, and I have to play softball at 9:30 am (yikes!)
But, boy, I had a good time. I can only hope for more of the same as the Summer of Steph approaches.
Life is good.
love n' hugs,
the asthmatic

Goals

2005-06-16T23:14:00.000-07:00

The Summer of Steph (SOS) approaches, and I find myself generating a mental list of all the things I want to do or accomplish over the next 2 months. This list grows and evolves every day, and although I started to type it out just now, perhaps I will simply mention my goals as they are being worked on or achieved.

Good grief, I was going to describe my first goal, but am overcome with gastrointestinal distress. yikes! pardon while i go lie down. hopefully this is nothing serious.

To Be Continued...

Scottish Dancing, Mining, and Herons

2005-06-14T16:33:00.000-07:00

While seemingly unrelated, all of the above were witnessed by me in the last 24 hours.

Yesterday I finished my day with a happy sigh.
I believe I actually said "boy, it's good to be alive."

The little things that make me happy are occasionally bizarre.
For example, after an *awesome* dinner, me and M decided to take a walk around the seawall. First off - that felt good. So many nights, we get sucked into the endless cycle of reruns and sitcoms, that while pleasant for the moment, leave me feeling a little empty after all is said and done.
We walked, briskly I might add, alongside the ocean as the sunset before our eyes.

It was invigorating.
Clearly I don't go for walks enough anymore.
At a certain point, I distinguished the sound of fiddles/pipers.
Enter exciting event #2 - the Scottish Dancing in Stanley Park. Apparently, throughout the summer, the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society dances in the park, combining free instruction with dancing to music.
Perhaps it is my Scottish heritage, but I think it is a hoot - and plan on going.
There were young and old, scottish and other, men, women, kilts, you name it.
The older woman who was the "caller" reminded me of an elderly Jennifer Saunders.

Anyhow. Good times at the park. Our walk continued by a location where Herons are nesting. WOW! What a noise these birds create! Overwhelming sounds of little babies chirping, and the adults squawking back (incase you haven't heard the Heron - while beautiful, they do *not* sound pretty). We stood in the middle of about 5 very tall trees that are FULL of big nests. A racoon made his way under the nests - he seemed to be nibbling on a little bird that must have fallen out. That tragedy aside, it was SO cool to be there.

My final observation to mention came today at school. I was teaching a grade 6/7 class, but across the hall was a grade 4 class (who I had taught before). After lunch, as students lined up to come in, I looked out the door and saw a grade 4 girl in line, and she was ... mining.
Now, most cultures would accept that nose picking is innapropriate.
Well, she appeared to know this, and had taken steps to make her actions less obvious. She stood there, with one hand over her nose, shielding it from view, while the other hand was working underneath.
Quite a sight.
It made me chuckle - I have witnessed other little ones use this technique.
I call the manoever the "Block and Pick".

Ever listen to The Postal Service?
I am listening to "Such Great Heights" - good song.
Turn it up. Most music is better when it is loud.
Yours in Happiness,
The Asthmatic

Summer

2005-06-12T21:08:00.000-07:00

I have 2 weeks left of work.
I am both excited and nervous.
I am assured that I will qualify for EI, but I am nervous, given that I have an ROE with a code that = quit. I am assured that it is ok to quit one job for another, but then I am told that having that 'quit' on an ROE send up flags.
What makes matters worse is that I will not know for sure if I qualify until well into July.
Good thing I am putting money aside, but will it be enough.

*gulp*

Scissor Sisters

2005-06-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a guy on my ball team, I am now addicted to 'Comfortably Numb' by the Scissor Sisters.
He would be the same fella who is responsible for my addiction to the song "Numa Numa" (officially known as Dragostea din tei) by O-Zone but which actually became famous thanks to this guy.

JUMP!

2005-06-10T07:09:00.000-07:00

Lastnight, I tossed and turned. I yawned repeatedly.
Yes, I was tired. Yes, it was close to midnight, well past my bedtime.
Yet, while my body craved sleep, my mind raced like a sports car in the Indy.
I am not stressed out by any means... it isn't that I am worrying. Just that I am thinking alot. Additionally, I became hyper aware of noises around me. People on a balcony sharing drinks and tales, a rubby in the alley pushing his cart full of recyclables, the cats in the apartment dashing down the hall only to race back to their post, Michelle sleeping beside me...
I guess I finally managed to shutdown and sleep, only to be woken at 2:30am by a familiar tone... the synthetic cell-sounds of the song 'Jump' by Van Halen.
I chose that particular ringtone for when I receive a message on my cell.
Who the hell leaves me a message at 2:30 in the morning?

Turns out it was FIDO. Seems I have only used 78 of my 100 monthly daytime minutes.
Keep Talking! they wrote. Sure, they'd like that. F*ckers. I think I will call them today requesting no more 'messages'.

Preoccupied

2005-06-09T21:40:00.000-07:00

I am overwhelmingly preoccupied with such random deep thoughts that my mind is swimming. I seem to be in a mental tail-spin since the Campbell River trip.
I am seemingly paralyzed by a desire to write, but feel constipated somehow because no words will come out. I think of my past - my family history, of which my father spoke at length during our visit. I think of his past, my past, our theories around the unravelling of my treasured family nucleus. I think of how crucial my friends have been to me through my life, and yet how I have lost touch with so many of them since I have moved to BC. Is it a reflection of living in a different province, a different time zone, in a different life? Is it that I am essentially married, and as we go, day to day, living happily in our world, that I let slide the world I shared with my friends. Don't get me wrong - I am very much in love and love our life - we are finally building it and enjoying it, as we are both out of school and with good jobs. But I am aware that I have neglected other parts of my life, something I would like to remedy.

Well, I have been inspired lately - in my last post I called it 'illumination'. Things in my life are gaining meaning. I am starting to realize some priorities in my life. I think one of my latest revelations is that time just flies by too quickly. i know it. But really. It is SO easy to get wrapped up in your own life, that days blend, weekends come and go, months pass, seasons change, and suddenly you stop and look around and the landscape of your life has changed. Friends have married, had babies, bought houses, moved away...

I have changed from being a participant in so many lives, to being a distant spectator.
I DO NOT want to be the distant spectator.
Hell, even in the lives of my family, I am a spectator. How has this transpired? All the things I want to be and the person I want to be in my family life is not who I am. Much of this is not really my fault - the life of the poor student does not afford the luxury of regular visits home.

Irregardless, something has changed in me.
Something has 'clicked'.
I have a vision... I know what I want to do (almost too much - ambitious as always) and I am beginning to realize who I want to be. It feels good.
I welcome the upcoming changes that I need to make ... that I WILL make.

I am 32.
Life stops for no one.
Life will not leave my behind.
I will live it. I will love it.

Illuminated

2005-06-05T21:11:00.000-07:00

I have returned from a weekend away visiting my father.
He lives alone, having separated and divorced in the last few years.
The journey was not so bad ... a comfortable coach-ride, a ferry excursion, then more coach-riding.
This particular trip was made worse by the sudden onset of *cramps* in the last leg of the trip.

Excruciating.

And no option of laying down in a fetal position with a hot water bottle.
Searching my bag for a water bottle was fruitless... I had been organized in pre-pouring a bottle and chilling it in the fridge, but neglected to remove said bottle and pack it with me.
Desperate for relief, i did the only thing i could. I spent a minute or so collecting saliva in my mouth, then downed a Tylenol and swallowed. The saliva aided the tylenol in going down, atleast partially.

It seemed to get stuck about half way down my throat, where I spent the next 20 minutes swallowing repeatedly to encourage its passage.
All that aside, the trip was enlightening.
Having run out of time now, I will have to say more later.

Back to the blog...

2005-05-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

i left blogging for quite a while.
it had lost its meaning, become something forced instead of something natural.
might be my need to express myself, might be the need to rant about the endless annoyances i am witness to and experience day to day.

either way, i am back.