Blogosphere – The New Political Arena? I think not.

I was reading a paper today on my morning commute into work, and I came across a column written by a University of Calgary professor who described bloggers as “isolated and lonely, living in a virtual reality instead of forming real relationships or helping to change the world.” He also says that “bloggers are living in a world where emotions may be real but everything else is make-believe”.

Well pardon my french, but *#@! you, Mr. Professor. I’m not sure about the rest of you out there – but for me blogging is just one way that I express my creative side; how I share some thoughts that I find interesting. Sure – some of my posts are more personal and geared towards close friends and family – but does that make me isolated, lonely and living in never-never land? I don’t think so. I’m actually happier in my life now than I’ve ever been.

And what is reality anyway? To me, reality is whatever you perceive it to be. So if you want to get technical – there is no reality – there is only perception. (I think Dr. Phil would agree).

In any event – I think bloggers are people who are not afraid to test the boundaries – who are creative and intuitive and strong-minded. I’m not trying to toot my own horn – I’m just saying that it sometimes takes guts to put yourself out there. Are we changing the world? No. But perhaps we’re lightening it just a little for someone who might be having a rough day. So put that in your pipe and smoke it Mr. Prof.

The end of an era!

"Well I just heard...the news today....seems my life....is gonna change..." - the other day Depeche Mode - today Creed (sorry honey - know you hate them). Well, I'm not expecting a child (as the song alludes to), but I did hear some news today. I knew it was coming. Just didn't know when. The little white house with the red door has been sold. My parents' house has been sold! My favourite place in the whole world has been sold! Now, to most of you 'normal' people out there...you're wondering "yeah,...and...??" - like you're waiting for a punch-line or something. But you don't understand. That's it.

This house is our family home. It has been for 34 years. It's a beautiful, lovely, warm, inviting home which backs onto the water. I spent all my years growing up looking out my bedroom window at the sailboats going by and falling asleep to the sound of the waves. It was magical. Why else do you think I stayed till I was 30! It wasn’t just a house – it was part of our family.

But my brothers have their own homes with their families, and I have my home with my boyfriend, and my parents' have a new home up north - so it was time to sell their precious abode. And sell it they did! It is a good thing - don't get me wrong. Their new home is just as warm and homey and lovely as the old, and is also on the water. (we’re a boating/kayaking family – so water is a big plus!!) Also – it’s steps away from one of the best shoe stores in Canada!! What's not to love!?

So although it will be hard to say good-bye to the little white house with the red door, it gives me comfort to know that my parents will have new adventures in their new home with lots of opportunities to travel and explore. And mom - maybe you can get a job at that shoe store so I can have staff discount K? I know you’re about to retire….but take one for the gipper. ;)

Expectations and Assumptions

"People are people so why should it be....you and I should get along so awfully....?" Even Depeche Mode doesn't know the answer to that question. Granted "awfully" is a pretty harsh word - I don't know anyone that I get along 'awfully' with - and now that I read that - it's kind of an oxymoron no? Get Along Awfully? Oh well...the song has made millions so what do I know?

I get along with pretty much everyone I meet. At least I think I do. However, there are times when I question the way others think and act. But who doesn't right? Sometimes when I feel strongly about something, that to me is so obviously correct, I just can't understand why the other person doesn't see it the way I do. So...I have a tendency to get a bit defensive, a little suspicious, and perhaps a touch self-protective - which is wrong - I know. However, having said that, there are certain things that I just won't budge on. Phoniness for example. Probably one of my biggest pet peeves. If you're phony, I'll see right through you.

But in most situations, I do need to realize that just because someone is not meeting my expectations, it's not fair of me to assume that it's because they just don't care, or that they are insensitive or eeevil. They deal differently, act differently, think differently. That doesn't make them bad, or wrong, or "awful". I DO know this in my heart of hearts (i'm not just another pretty face you know) - but you know when you just want to shake someone until they see things the way you do? Well...it's not gonna happen. "People are People" as the song says.....Plus, you can get arrested for that kind of stuff.....apparently.....

So...to all of you out there who do not meet my expectations....it's okay! It's cool! Y'all ma peeps...you can't help it if you're wrong....OOOPS! I mean Different! Yes...Different! It's good to be different and it's OKAY! Just don't come within shaking distance to me and we'll be fine!!

Things that Make you go Hmmmm

I came across an interesting e-mail the other day that posed some serious questions...I thought I'd share them with you here....

• Why do we press harder on a remote control when we know the batteries are almost dead?
• Why do banks charge a fee on "insufficient funds" when they know there is not enough money?
• Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet?
• Why doesn't glue stick to the bottle?
• Why do they use sterilized needles for death by lethal injection?
• Why doesn't Tarzan have a beard?
• Why does Superman stop bullets with his chest, but ducks when you throw a revolver at him?
• Why do Kamikaze pilots wear helmets?
• If people evolved from apes, why are there still apes?
• Why is it that no matter what color bubble bath you use the bubbles are always white?
• Is there ever a day that mattresses are not on sale?
• Why do people constantly return to the refrigerator with hopes that something new to eat will have materialized?
• Why do people keep running over a string a dozen times with their vacuum cleaner, then reach down, pick it up, examine it, then put it down to give the vacuum one more chance?
• Why is it that no plastic bag will open from the end on your first try?
• How do those dead bugs get into those enclosed light fixtures?
• When we are in the supermarket and someone rams our ankle with a shopping cart then apologizes for doing so, why do we say, "It's all right?" Well, it isn't all right, so why don't we say, "That hurt, you stupid idiot?"
• Why is it that whenever you attempt to catch something that's falling off the table you always manage to knock something else over?
• In winter why do we try to keep the house as warm as it was in summer when we complained about the heat?
• And my FAVORITE...... The statistics on sanity are that one out of every four persons is suffering from some sort of mental illness. Think of your three best friends -- if they're okay, then it's you.

TGIF - Have a great weekend!

Baby, it's cold outside....!

brrrrrrr. brrrrrrr. brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Well - winter's here. Sorta. Not so much snow, but definately chilly temperatures - which is a good thing for the polar bears at least! The past few days I've been walking to the train station for my morning commute to work. It's only about a 20 minute walk from my house and, in all honesty, it can be quicker than driving when the weather is bad. No warming up the car; no scraping the windshield, no trying to find a parking spot when cars are parked three deep cause the lines are covered over by snow. (I saw that this morning actually...some poor sucker isn't going to be getting home too soon tonight - there's a car in front of him and a car behind him....can't believe some people!). Anyway - so yes - very cold - but I put on my hot-chillis (long underwear) and away I went.

As I was walking along, I thought to myself, "Self......doesn't this feel good? Don't you feel alive and invigorated by the crisp cool air? Isn't it grand to see the sun begin to rise? Don't you love that you can walk by a park and say hello to nature and marvel at the land that is?" But after about 10 minutes into my walk, my thoughts changed a tad cause my bum was cold and my lips were twisting sideways cause my face was starting to freeze and I couldn't see due to the windgusts throwing ice pellets in my eyes. So at that point, i thought to myself, "Self....you are stupid to walk today". But it was too late...I was already 1/2 way there. So I trudged along. After a frigid wait on the platform for the train to arrive (they're rarely on time - but they do "apologize for the inconvenience", so of course that justifies the $180 I pay to their late arses every month), I hopped on and got settled in.

As I was taking off my hat and scarf and mitts and earmuffs and getting out my book and changing positions about 40 times to get comfy, I noticed that something was different. What was this sensation I was feeling? Why were my fingers turning blue? OH! That's right - there was no heat on this train! I couldn't believe it. Heaters weren't working in my car, and after the walk outside in minus 15 degree weather and then waiting outside another 10+ mins for the train to come - some heat would have been a really nice treat! Not to mention an expected utility in the middle of winter on a commuter train. But to change train cars would have required me re-gathering my hat and scarf and mitts and earmuffs and putting away the book and readusting my papers and schlepping through the train, yadda yadda yadda, so I just snuggled up in my coat - wrapped my scarf around my head and dealt with it. I got into my book and started to forget about how cold I was, until I looked up to see what stop I was at and realized that I was the only one on my train car. I guess the others couldn't take it. They had abandoned the non-heated car. Wussies. So, I continued to read and shiver, and sing........"baby it's cold outside".......

And that was my morning. I have nothing better to blog about today, so perhaps you will get some entertainment picturing me wrapped up in a scarf and mittens singing in an empty train. brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Mexico can't come soon enough! Adios.

A shout out to my Meho

So, this Friday I am going to see my meho. My meho is actually my friend, Shannon, but to me she is meho. I think that started when we went to Cuba together and I heard someone say it - not even sure what it means - "little one" or something like that?? anyway - my meho and I have a date this Friday and I can't wait.

We have known each other about 9 years now I think. We met in college and then ended up working at the same firm together. We have pretty much the same sense of humour, so we can have some pretty good laughs about stuff. Don't get me wrong - we've had our moments that weren't so peachy - but we've always worked it out - which is what's important. What's funny about my meho and I is that even though in some ways we're very much alike...there are more ways in which we're complete and total opposites:

1. We don't like the same music (like c'mon - who doesn't like Gordon Lightfoot!??)

2. We don't like the same stores (like c'mon - who doesn't like Winners!??)

3. We don't like the same tv shows (like c'mon - who doesn't like The Biggest Loser!??)

4. We don't like the same clothes (like c'mon - who doesn't like Dickies!??) haaaa. kidding. although I used to have a nice red one.

The point is - we may disagree on a lot of stuff, but when we're together we have a lot of fun. We were both single for a long time so we were each other's travel companions. We've been to Cuba a bunch of times together and always had a blast. Our first trip was the best! Ahhhh...the memories. (Shan....remember when we stole all the buns? and the time we jumped in people's pictures and pretended they were our friends? and the time we sang at the piano bar with all the senior citizens? - good times). The other good times cannot be mentioned at this time as my parents and boyfriend read this blog. ;)

So, I'm looking forward to seeing my meho on Friday. We will laugh and dine and drink and reminisce and maybe even have a fight. (kidding). Unless she keeps pulling her cell phone out every 5 seconds... OOPS! did i say that out loud? ;) See you soon sista!

El Niño? El Scarrio!

It's the talk of the town here in Canada - the weather. People are marvelling in how awesome it is. Today is January 5th, and I think we had a high of 13 degrees above zero. To us Canadian folk, that's bathing suit weather. Normal daytime average this time of year is probably around minus 2 on a good day. I have to admit - the fact that I'm not driving on snow-covered roads and scraping my windshield does bring me some relief, but at the same time it scares the poop out of me that this is happening to our climate. Greenhouse gasses? Polar Ice caps melting? the depleting Ozone? Our poor mother earth is getting damaged every day, and all anyone seems to talk about is that we can still jog outside in January with only a windjacket on.

I'm not here to preach. I too am guilty of commenting on how great the weather has been. But at the same time, I am trying in my own small way to treat my environment better. I don't use anything aerosol. I commute to work by train. When in my car, I don't let it idle. I recycle and compost and never ever litter! I even voted Green last election! But those are just small little things that little old unimportant me is doing. In all honesty, I don't really know what else to do. I need to educate myself more on what other changes I can make, and I plan on doing just that. One thing is clear though, global warming is no joke. Heat is trapping polution and it's building up in the atmosphere. I'm sure I'm not even aware of all that is happening out there.

I guess I'm writing this post to just maybe get one person who may be reading, to think about what they could do to help out a bit. Just a small change they can make in thier daily routines to help (and not hinder) this great green globe of ours. Here are few ideas you can do in and around the home. By taking these actions you really can have a direct impact on the earth's climate - wouldn't that make you feel good?!

• When replacing light bulbs in your home, use compact fluorescent bulbs; switching to just one of these light bulbs will save 500 lbs of coal.
• Purchase appliances and electronics with the "Energy Star" label.
• Recycle aluminum cans, glass bottles, plastic, paper, cardboard and newspapers which will reduce the energy needed to make new products.
• Turn down your water heater, or call a service person to adjust it.
• Install a programmable thermostat to save energy.
• Change or clean your furnace and air conditioner filters regularly to keep heating and cooling systems running efficiently.
• Regularly check your car's tire pressure - poorly inflated tires waste gas.
• Buy a fuel efficient vehicle, such as a hybrid car ( i know, i know...$$$$) or - Better yet, carpool or take mass transportation whenever possible.

If I could, I would reach out and give Mother Earth a great big hug, cause boy-oh-boy, she's been taking a beating.

My Bro's...

How many of you are lucky enough to have a brother? Well, I am. I have 2 actually. Both older. Both wiser. Both of them mean the world to me. There's a few years between us, 10 yrs between me and Cory and 8 years between me and Rich. And yes, my boyfriend and brother have the same name, so it gets a bit confusing sometimes to my 90 year old grandmother when I tell her I'm going to Rich's (boyfriend) mom's for dinner and wants to know why she can't come, etc. But I digress.....

Growing up, people would say to me that it must be hard to "only have brothers and no sisters" - but not for me. I loved it! I was the youngest, the only girl, well taken care of (i.e. spoiled) and loved loved loved having my brothers around. Often they would be my baby-sitter when my parents were out. I grew up loving sports (don't tell the boyfriend) because of them. I always felt protected and secure and even though I was (and still am, obvioulsy) younger than them, they always made me feel important and took time to teach me things and laugh and spend time with me.

Now that I'm older, I appreciate my time with them even more. Even though we may not see each other as often as we used to, they are in my thoughts every day. We are as close as siblings can be. Get us together in a room and the laughs begin as memories are re-lived. Not to mention the guitars and singing as we all play and goof around making up songs about each other or our family, etc. Cory and Rich - I love you guys. Thanks for being the best brothers a girl could have. You make my life more beautiful.

And don't forget....my birthday is coming up soon ;) (totally kidding)....(not really)....(yeah...kidding)....(kinda).

Would you like to buy some Rocks?

Ring Ring....Ring Ring....Ring Ring.....Ring Ring....."Hi..you've reached Rich and Lisa, sorry we missed..." Click.

That's what occurs in my house about 3-4 times a night during the week. It's them. They're out there. Trying to get to me. But I won't let them. I shall not succumb to the wants of telemarketers. I understand that they "are just doing their jobs". But I don't want them to do their jobs in my home - which is what they are in fact doing each time my phone rings. I'm a smart girl. If I want my windows cleaned, I know how to look in the yellow pages and find someone. If I want the newspaper, I'll subscribe. If I want to donate my $$ to an organization, you can bet I'll find out how.

It wouldn't be so bad if when I answer and they do their shpeil, and I say "no thanks, I'm not interested" - that they said ok and ended the call. But any good salesperson wouldn't let that happen right? So they start into shpeil B, and so on and so on. This usually ends with me just hanging up, which I don't enjoy, as I'm not a cold-hearted person and do realize they are just trying to earn a living and then I feel bad. So..usually I just don't answer (thank goodness for Caller I.D.) and that's that.

But it's getting annoying. I don't like listening to a ringing phone. So, I've decided on a new approach. Next time I see a 1-800 number or an "unknown" number, I shall pick it up. I shall say in my most pleasant voice "hello?" "yes...this is the lady of the house"......(pause while they do shpeil A)..."no thanks - I'm not interested".....(pause while they do schpeil B)....."as i said before, no thanks"....(pause for shpeil C) at which time I interupt them with my own shpeil, which goes a little something like this:

"um...excuse me sir...sorry, don't mean to interrupt you, I know you're on a roll, but since you're so keen on me buying this new fabulous water fountain you speak of, I thought that perhaps you may be interested in some painted rocks that I've been working on. They would look great in your garden, or on a window sill, or in a vase - you name it - I can do it for you. No, no, just wait....hear me out....I just happen to have a bunch ready and for sale at a very reasonable price. I could customize it to your liking, add your name, whatever you prefer...yes, yes, I know you were just trying to do your job...now tell me, what's your favourite colour? I'll paint the rock just how you like it...when would be a good time for me to come and show them to you? oh, and did i mention - If you purchase one now, i'll throw in another free for your lovely wife, what's her name? what's that? you're not married - no problem! kids? dogs? you name it, I'll paint it!....how's that sound sir? Sir? Sir? Hello?"

Mission accomplished. One down, 1000's to go. Bring it on.

A New Year - A New Me?

Happy New Year to you! Hope you had a memorable new years' eve celebration and that your cerebrums are in full working order and you're ready to make 2007 the best year of your life!! (thank you Tony Robbins...)

I don't like to call them "resolutions", but there are some things I'd like to improve on in 2007. For one, I'd like to be able to do the splits again by the end of this year! For my 'newer' friends - you may not know this, but I was a gymnast for about 15 years and then coached when I finished competing. I was the most flexible thing this side of Lake Titticaca! I could bend and twist and flip and jump....limber as an alley-cat....but now that I'm older, my flexibility is not as it used to be, and I miss it. I miss springing out of bed in the morning and taking the stairs 2 or 3 at a time. So, I'm going to start a stretching regimen to get my flexibility back, and I will send you a picture near the end of the year showing you how "low I can go" (get your minds out of the gutter!)

Secondly, I have to accept that Rich loves sports and when he lived alone he could have watched it 24-7, so the fact that he only watches it 2-7 now is pretty good. He bends for me and my makeover/shopping/cooking/dating/reality shows, so I need to ease up on him a bit and let him watch that basketball game, or hockey game, or football game, or soccer game or all 4 at the same time while flipping during commercials as they are ALWAYS ON THE TV NO MATTER WHAT DAY OR TIME IT IS ALL THE TIME FOREVER ALWAYS. But I'm okay with it. really. I am. totally. allll gooood....yup...

Third - I want to get my finances in order. So that means NO MORE SHOES! (or frivolous buying for awhile). 2006 was truly an amazing year for me - but i'm feeling the effects of it now. Rich and I both agree that we have to make the most of our time here on earth and that we want to travel travel travel. So, in order for us to do that it means NO MORE SHOES! (till spring anyway) ;)

Fourth - as my father always tells me "Lisa...you need more patience". So - I will try very hard to sit back, take some deep breaths and count to 10 before jumping the gun as I do in some situations. I do think I'm better now than I used to be...but I still can improve on that front.

I'm sure there will be more that come to mind as the year progresses, but I will start with those and see how it goes. And who knows...maybe this time next year when you're putting away your Christmas cards, you will look fondly at the one with the picture of the barefoot girl doing the splits, while high on a mountain in the Himalayas, smiling down at her boyfriend who is playing soccer with the buddhist children, as the sun sets slowly behind them..........What!? It could happen.

So...???

Did everyone have a good Christmas and holiday? I sure did! Lots of fun, laughs, good eats (too much!) and drinks! Spent a lot of time with family and aside from a bit of driving - most of it was pretty relaxing. Have to say though....i'm kind of glad it's over and there's no pressure to do anything for awhile now. Santa was good to me...have some shiny new jewellery (no goalie pads - thank goodness!), a beautiful world globe on a wooden pedestal, perfume, clothes (from MEC too! love that store!) and a variety of gift cards that will be well used!

I have to say that 2006 was probably one of the best years I've had. In one year, I went to Florida, New York City, London England, Paris, Nice, Monaco, Provence....places I only dreamed of going. I developed new friendships at work, which is hugely important in the environment we work in, and can come into my job knowing I'm going to have some laughs and share a story or two. I moved in with my boyfriend and we've made his house a home and we're having so much fun together. I was the golf champion at his annual family golf tournament which has been occuring every year for the past 25+ years! But the most important thing is that my family is together and healthy and we have new adventures for 2007 already planned. Sometimes I have to pinch myself!

With Christmas and all the hooplah - a lot of focus is put on the gifts and people get so busy that the fact that it's also a time to spend with loved ones is sometimes lost in the shuffle. So even though I received some wonderful presents, the thing I'm most grateful for are the wonderful people in my life - my family, Rich, my friends...Spending time with my grandmother the past few days was awesome - she's going to be 90 in March and I don't get to see her often. Those are the best gifts!

Wow - who knew I was so mature!? Hope you were able to be with family and friends too! I will talk to you in the new year!

The joys and oy's of Christmas

I am Done! Donzo! Finito. Completo! Ne Plus Pas! My Christmas shopping that is. And it feels sooooooo good. My stresses seem to be easing up and now I'm in the celebratory frame of mind. Went to a couple of parties on the weekend. Saw lots of friends and family and had lots of 'good cheer' ('hic...) All that's left to do is bake some cookies for a cookie exchange I'm having at work with my BFAWs and then it's smooth sailing till good 'ol saint nick comes by, because as i'm sure you're all aware, I have been a VERY good girl this year!

On the topics of gifts, I'm a tad nervous 'cause Rich asked me last night if I would like a set of goalie pads so he could take shots on me in the driveway. He followed that up with "it will be our special time together". But that leads me to my next point which I hope will shed some light to some of my dear friends who just don't know me as well as they think they might.

As it's time for gift-giving and receiving, a few of my friends have asked "what do you think Rich will get you". In most cases - this is a normal question right? Thing is though...when it's asked of me, what they're really trying to say is "do you think he's getting you a ring for xmas?" I know this because the question has that "tone" and is usually followed by a *wink wink*. So, I'm taking this time to shed some light on the do's and dont's of Christmas Questions.

1. DON'T ask me (either directly or in a round-about way) if I think Rich will get me a ring.

2. For Birthdays, Valentine's Day, New Years Eve, Easter or any other 'occasion' - refer to # 1 above.

3. DO think about the after-effect of that question: "no - i didn't get a ring. guess he hates me. I'm a big loser".

4. DO know that i know you mean no harm, and I still love you.

When that day comes my friends - you will all know it. I will shout it from the rooftops! but right now - the only thing that will be coming from the rooftops are the sounds of reindeer paws....and of course, that's only if you've been good like lil 'ol' me! Have a very merry Christmas and don't let your egg nog! ha. I kill me.

My 'Rents Rock

Me luvs my mom and dad. You know how people say "I have the best parents in the world"? well...they're all liars because "I" have the best parents in the world! I gave a shout out to my friends the other day - so I thought it only fitting to do a brief mention of my mom and dad. They rock. They're awesome. Happily married for 46 years (and counting) and still madly in love and have tons of fun together. They're so young at heart and fit and enthusiastic, that I can hardly keep up with them.

I have two older brothers (who are amazing too and I will blog about them another time!) who would say the same thing. I have too many memories to write about on here - so I will just say that mom and dad - you provided me with the best possible childhood I could think of - you treated me with dignity and respect as I was growing up and in my teenage years - you guided me in the right direction and helped me with tough decisions and you always always stood by me no matter what I chose to do. And look...I turned out pretty good right?? (RIGHT!?) Well - I think so. So here's to you. I wouldn't be the person I am today if it weren't for the love and kindness and strength and structure you provided me. love you mom and dad!

(there....that should secure me a great xmas gift this year!). ;)

"Friends.....how many of us have them....Friends.......ones we can depend on....let's be friends"....(do you remember that song!?)

I have friends. All different kinds. Some close by, some far away, some old, some new, some funny, some serious - but they are all my friends and all bring something different to my life. As the holiday season is upon us, we find ourselves taking that extra initiative to hook up with our pals that we might not see on a regular basis - or throw in that phone call that's long overdue, etc.

Saturday night, I had a 'christmas get-together' with my two closest friends in the world. They are sisters and we grew up together. We lived 3 houses apart from each other on the same street since we were toddlers and until we all left home as young adults (or older adults - as in my case - heh). Both of our parents still live in those same houses - 3 doors apart - and they are just as close as we girls are. Even though we don't really live that far apart from one another, we don't often have the chance to get together. Both of them have children, so it's harder to find the time on thier end. But when we do - it feels soooo good to sit down and talk and laugh and reminisce about old childhood memories and the fun we used to have - and also about the new things going on in our lives now. When I think of these two girls - I think of the true meaning of friendship. I know that no matter what I tell them, I won't be judged. And no matter what they share with me - they are not judged. If I'm up, down, sideways (which tends to happen time to time) - I know I can go to them for sound advice, or just an ear and that they will always lift me up when I'm down. It really feels good inside to know that these girls will forever be my best friends. They have been for the past 30 some odd years...and will continue to be. There are many things in my life I have yet to experience, and I'm so happy that they will be able to experience those things with me. So....Sarah and Sam....this one's for you. Love ya's.

Who's messin' up my mornin'....

You know...for the most part I'm a pretty happy person. I generally get up in a good mood - and start my day in a good mood - and don't have many reasons to be stressed out. But of course there is the odd time little miss sunshine isn't so sunny. This morning Rich and I drove into work (we usually commute by train). We work in a busy, hectic city - lots of people, lots of traffic and lots of yahoos on the roads. Rich is a pretty calm, easy going guy....but get him on the road with idiot drivers and he's a different person. I understand this. I do. I don't like it. But I understand it. That is why I don't drive in the city and also why I don't drive on the major highways where there is heavy traffic flow. I just don't need the stress.

So this morning as we're driving in the car, listening to our favourite morning show on the radio - i'm smilin' and humming along - thinking about my day ahead - trying to ignore that every five minutes someone is either cutting us off, crossing the wrong way, stopping for a streetcar, turning on a "do not turn", etc. etc. In the meantime, my darling boyfriend is *calmly* calling them names and waving his fists...but I continue to hum and smile and look out my window at the passers-by. This continued for about 30 minutes. I'm thinking to myself that I just can't wait to be out of this car and in my building away from the craziness.

Then...on go the brakes - full stop. Some A-Hole literally cuts right in front of us with not even an inch to spare and then slams on his brakes! Thankfully Rich was paying attention and swerved around him - but man-o-man.....I had HAD it! No more humming , no more smiling, I was pissed! I turned and said to Rich - "That's IT! I'm never driving into the city again! Forget it! This sucks! I can NOT start my mornings this way!". And he turned to me and said in a calm and loving voice "but poopy...(my nickname - long story..) we have to drive in tomorrow too." I grabbed his hand - gave it a kiss and said to him "you're on your own pal". And then, as we passed by A-Hole, we honked and gave him the finger (mature i know....) and sped away. That was the only fun part of the drive!

The Sunny South, Chicago and Shoes....

Yesssssss! Our trip to Me-hi-co is booked! We don't leave till beginning of March - but thank god i have something to look forward to during the hellish cold of winter we Canadians are so lucky to have. It's funny - i'm already thinking about what to wear/pack, etc. I'm a nerd.

Went to see Chicago last night. The musical - not the city. heh. In a word - fantastic! I was surprised by all the 'youngish' girls in the audience...but then I realized why. The male lead ("Billy Flynn" - Richard Gere's role in the movie) was played by none other than Kevin Richardson of the Backstreet Boys! He actually did a really really good job. I highly recommend you go see it if you like musicals. High energy and great performances.

You know how everything old is new again? Well...what's your feel on the "ballet-slipper" shoes that are out now? When I was shopping in Niagara last weekend - I was *this* close" to buying a pair of Steve Madden ones - black patent leather - but of course...I procrastinated and didn't. And now - that's all I can think about! So yesterday I went and bought a different kind - not patent - but still sort of the ballet-style. Sometimes I look at my feet and think "cute!". Other times I look and think "granny!". Actually - the travel agent who booked our trip told me she is going shopping to the exact same outlet mall this weekend in Niagara, NY - I've never seen the girl before I booked the trip with her - but I'm considering giving her a call and asking her to pick up the Steve Maddens for me.

Anyway - looking forward to dinner out with some of my BFAWs tomorrow and then a nice weekend of nothing! Sometimes there's nothing like 'chillin' like a villain'.
Later Taters

I have the best boyfriend in the world....

I had such an amazing weekend. On Friday, Rich and I took off work, and headed to Niagara Falls. Our plan was to spend most of our time relaxing, going for walks, and doing a winery tour or two, hitting the casino for a little while, then heading home. It was just a 'quick getaway' for us.

Well, we arrived to our hotel - valet service promptly greeted us, took our bags and parked our car. In we went to check-in; easy peasy; get to our room - and wow! what a view - 27th floor with a huge window spanning the wall which looked out onto the Falls....both the Canadian and American ones - and they were all lit up at night all different colours - it was gorgeous. Also - we had a jacuzzi that overlooked the falls too....(i know what you're thinking - but it wasn't a heart-shaped or anything...not cheesy at all...quite fun actually! ;)

Anyway....we were totally happy with the view and the room, but we had places to go! Things to buy! People to see! Well...we didn't actually have to see any people - so strike that last part. So, I turned to Rich and said 'so...what do we do first?' - and this is why he's the best boyfriend in the world....he said "Do you want to go shopping at the Outlet Mall across the border?" Like Hello......for real? (and No! he's not gay...not that there'd be anything wrong with that...well - there would if he was my boyfriend - which he is - but No! he's not gay). My baby just happens to enjoy shopping! LOVE HIM! anyway....so off we go (luckily he packed our passports - so no problems) and after BAD directions from our hotel - we finally made it to the Prime Outlet Mall in New York (it was actually only about 20 minutes away if you knew where you were going). I was in heaven. Heaven! Every store I would want to be there was there. Coach, Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Tommy, Nike, Guess, i can't even remember them all - but boy, was it great!

So after spending a lot of money we had worked up an appetite, so back we went to our hotel. Where for dinner? Where else - the Casino Buffet! Hell ya...that's all i can say. I managed to stick to my eating plan (i'm still watching those bad carbs!) and didn't have any sugar/dessert, etc. but wow - did it ever look good!! It was a great dinner. We played some blackjack and some slots - I lost about 10 bucks - then a quick walk after dinner and to our delight - fireworks were being set off over the falls - it was beautiful! The weather was cool - but no rain - so it was great. Saturday a.m. - we had buffet breakfast at T.G.I.Fridays - which was located in our hotel - and was FREE! so good! and then packed up and headed to Niagara-on-the-Lake for a wine tour and tasting at the Inniskillen Winery. mmmmmmmmmmmmm. I bought a few bottles of the Late Harvest Reisling and can't wait to crack those baby's open.

Anyway - that was my great weekend. Now I'm back home and back to reality and thinking about what to make for dinner. Rich is outside raking leaves so i'm going to make him something really nice cause he deserves it! I wonder if he likes peanut butter on his toast..... ;)

i'm still here.....

sorry haven't blogged for a bit....can't do it during the day, and lately have had some busy nights....working late, visiting family, buying furniture, putting together furniture, rearranging furniture, being exhausted....you know how it is.

So - just briefly....what's new? um...oh - well - we bought a fireplace! it's very cute - white - looks great in the living room - very cozy. We just sit on the couch now and stare at it. It's funny. I'm going to Niagara this weekend - both the Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake - going to chill out, take in some wineries, see the sites, got a great room overlooking the Falls with hot-tub - yee haw!! Going to see Chicago (the musical) next week...then going to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra the following week with my brudda! - supposed to be an amazing show. Starting to think about our vacay down south in Feb...leaning towards Puerto Vallarta....but that's about all that's new for now!

The invitations for Festive get-togethers are starting to come - family ones, friend ones, work ones, etc. Haven't even thought of buying gifts yet!

Hope you're all getting in the holiday spirit! And oh ya...I'm totally going to join the shazzizle. (my devoted readers will know what i'm talking about). Anyway - sorry for the short post - but will try to make it up to you later.

Peace/Out/Word to your Motha

Bells & Whistles, or Nuts & Bolts?

So, on Tuesday I went to the complex on a guest pass and did a fitness class. It was called "stretch and tone" and the instructor was "Emily!". "Emily!" is just a little spit-fire of a thing. She looks about 17, is very tiny and is full of piss and vinegar. Even her name has energy..say it with me..."Emily!" - she was great.

At first I had my doubts as I walked into class - it's not the poshyist place on earth. But in the same respect, people are just there to workout. Nobody cares what kind of shoes you have on; how good your hair looks; if your mascara is sweat-proof or not - they don't really look at you at all. The class was great - a mix of cardio and weights and stretching and toning - I worked up a good sweat and really enjoyed it.

Tonight I'm going back (have one guest pass left) to try the "Much more than Dance!" class. description: "Dance, get fit and have fun! Each week learn a new style of dance. From jazz to hip-hop to Latin and more! Add in some muscle-toning and you've got a fabulous, energy-filled hour!" Sounds fun yes!? I'll give it a go. Oh, and guess who's teaching? "Emily!"

Here's my dilemma. This complex has everything I need - weights, cardio equipment, aerobics, yoga, swimming, aquafit, whirlpool, sauna, a spa, massage studio, and is only a five minute drive from my house. BUT...it's really 'plain jane'. No fancy neon lights, no shag carpet in the lobby, no mirrors in aerobic studio...no shazzam you know?...more like just a shazzizle. Then there are places like Extreme Fitness (for example) which is more poshy - offers all the same equipment/classes, is only a little farther away and is priced comparably. It has the 'shazzam!'

What to do, what to do? I kind of like the laidback, low-key atmosphere of the complex, but sometimes I also like the froo-froo too. It makes you feel kind of fancy; music is usually upbeat; bright lights big city feel. But, I've done the froo-froo before and often felt like I was in a fashion show and couldn't go workout till my hair was perfect and my nike pants matched my nike top. And god forbid you leave the gym without a total makeover after your workout.

Not sure I want to be bothered with that when all I really want to do is run in with my gymbag, throw my hair up, work up a good sweat, and get outtie. Hmmm...maybe I just answered my own question. What do you think? When it comes to choosing a gym...do you go for the Shazzam or the Shazzizle?

Holiday stress.....I mean fun.

Christmas is a comin' and the goose is gettin' fat...
please put a penny in the old man's hat...
if you haven't got a penny, then a hay-penny will do...
if you haven't got a hay penny, then god bless you.

...and for all my friends who aren't 100 - a hay penny is half a penny and that's a song that my mom and I would sing for no apparent reason - mainly cause it had an easy tune I could play on the guitar.

but it got me to thinking...that christmas is definatley coming! I know because of the difficulty of planning when and where to see everyone. It's starting already. My friends at work and I had a hell of a time just finding a night for the four of us to go out for dinner. Also - with my family, we have to start early for our xmas plans, as there are the "in-law" families to co-ordinate as well...my brothers' wives need to work around their families too, and aunts and uncles always come for dinner. Throw in my boyfriend's family and there ya have it - just a touch of stress. who's house christmas eve? Who's house christmas day? who's house boxing day? and so on...

But...it won't take away from the excitement I seem to feeling more and more each day. I'm not sure why, but for some reason I'm really looking forward to this holiday season. Has nothing to do with gifts at all - just the thought of getting a tree, and decorating the house and playing christmas music and drinking hot chocolate, and seeing friends and family, etc. I think I might get a menora this year too - and celebrate Hannukah as well. I'm totally into it this year. It's just that little bit of anxiety that comes up when I think about making everyone happy with the schedules - cause i'm a people pleaser you know...I want it all to always work out the best it can for everyone...so I try to plan ahead.

but...if planning ahead is supposed to ease my stress...why does it seem to cause me more? I think this year I should just let everyone else figure things out and I'll just show up where and when I'm supposed to. As long as I have one full day with my family, I'll be happy. (ok...maybe two) ;)