Hanging out with other couples (married or not) is like dating. Some couples you click with and others you just don't.
Dave and I had dinner at another couple's house and I knew before going in their home that we wouldn't click. I knew the relationship was over before it had started. We just had nothing in common. It was the first time we had hung out and we went through the niceties of "where do you work? where did you serve your mission? etc" But after that is gone we had to find different commonalities or interests. This couple did not have cable which meant that they did not watch television. Generally speaking, conversations seem to always revolve on what happened on Grey's, Survivor, or whatever the flavor of the month is. So, the television conversation piece was abruptly thrown out the window and the next thing you talk about is the weather. One can only say "oh ya, it is cold out eh?" so many times before it gets old. Some couples are board game fanatics; our date was not. Needless to say, we left their house with Dave saying "ya, we'll have to have you over for dinner to our place sometime." Knowing full well that this probably won't happen. It's not that I hate this couple or even slightly dislike them, it's just that we did not click. Plus, I think we would corrupt them with all the movies and video games and systems we had.
After the first date, the next stage is the awkwardness of having polite conversation with them because honestly, how do you break up with them. It's not like when you were dating and you could just say "it's not you it's me" or "I just don't see this working out"... And then, what do you do when they invite you over again, to pretend your busy or tell them you are seeing another couple?? It just doesn't work that way. It's worse when you are married because the other couple may still anticipate a relationship of sorts but you can never really tell them it's over.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Fly birdy fly
Well, winter has finally fallen upon us here in Calgary. Winter actually fell a few days ago when it snowed a bit and the temperature was below zero. Even though it may have snowed a few days ago, I take my cue from the birds.
Birds generally form their beautiful V shape and fly south for the winter. On this particular day last week I noticed there was an abnormal amount of birds in the sky. I felt as though I was in Hitchcock's The Birds. I love my drive home because I get to look at the city centre and the snowcapped mountains that serve as it's back drop. I was completely distracted by the birds. I was distracted by them because of the beautiful chaos. Beautiful because of the way nature works. Chaos because I don't think they had a clue where they were going. Birds were flying in every direction. Picture a pregnant woman with her husband and kids at home. The woman's water breaks... dad starts to panic... grabs whatever is close by and runs out the door. On his way out he realizes he needs his wife and should probably take the kids because they are too small to stay at home. Needless to say he runs back in the house grabs them and then dashes again out the door. The birds that day were no different. I think they forgot that winter was a season.
So the birds finally arrive in the south. they are safe and they are sound but their little bird hearts are racing faster than a cheetah. They then make a resolution to be more prepared for next winter. Let's face it, people and birds are very similar... both deny winter for as long as they possibly can.
Birds generally form their beautiful V shape and fly south for the winter. On this particular day last week I noticed there was an abnormal amount of birds in the sky. I felt as though I was in Hitchcock's The Birds. I love my drive home because I get to look at the city centre and the snowcapped mountains that serve as it's back drop. I was completely distracted by the birds. I was distracted by them because of the beautiful chaos. Beautiful because of the way nature works. Chaos because I don't think they had a clue where they were going. Birds were flying in every direction. Picture a pregnant woman with her husband and kids at home. The woman's water breaks... dad starts to panic... grabs whatever is close by and runs out the door. On his way out he realizes he needs his wife and should probably take the kids because they are too small to stay at home. Needless to say he runs back in the house grabs them and then dashes again out the door. The birds that day were no different. I think they forgot that winter was a season.
So the birds finally arrive in the south. they are safe and they are sound but their little bird hearts are racing faster than a cheetah. They then make a resolution to be more prepared for next winter. Let's face it, people and birds are very similar... both deny winter for as long as they possibly can.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Are people really THAT dishonest??
Generally I try not to rant on my blog but I figure it is entertaining for you and cathartic to me. Plus, people tend to give me reasons to rant.
When I was working at the elustrious shelter I used to park my car in the underground parkade (for staff only). One day as I was gracefully leaving work I thought to myself "I wonder if someone would leave a note on my car if they scratched it with their car door?" The answer came about thirty seconds later and became extremely ironic. Someone did in fact scratch and dent the door and did not leave a note. I knew who was parked beside me and asked him if he hit my car door and surprisingly said no. What a surprise. I then asked the other person who was parked there in the morning and surprsingly she had the same answer. Both stated that they would leave a note had they done something like this. My next thought: You are so going to hell for lying to me right now.
C'mon people, you KNOW when you hit someone's door with yours. You KNOW because you check to see if you left a scratch or a mark... You KNOW because that you use your thumb or finger to wipe away the evidence or to see if there is a scratch...
Case in point: a person (name withheld for insurance reasons) drives into a parking lot at the mall and the passenger (name witheld for insurance reasons) opens their door and hits the one beside them. The passenger looks at the driver and says "Um, yeah, we can't park here. We need to move." Granted there was no damage but still... there was the knowledge of hitting and the checking... hmmm.
I digress. At work the other day I came out to the parking lot (not underground and any tom DICK and harry can park there) and noticed a nice three part scratch on the door. Seriously?! How stupid can you be to hit the car not only once but twice and wait... three times? I guess people are that stupid. And they didn't leave a note.
I'm not here to get money from people it is the principle of the matter. I would not call their insurance company. I would thank them for their honesty (if they leave their number) and leave it at that because it's just a car. I just wish people would be more honest.
As I sit here and rant about this I am sure you are wondring if I would leave a note. The answer is no I wouldn't because I wouldn't hit someone's door with mine.
When I was working at the elustrious shelter I used to park my car in the underground parkade (for staff only). One day as I was gracefully leaving work I thought to myself "I wonder if someone would leave a note on my car if they scratched it with their car door?" The answer came about thirty seconds later and became extremely ironic. Someone did in fact scratch and dent the door and did not leave a note. I knew who was parked beside me and asked him if he hit my car door and surprisingly said no. What a surprise. I then asked the other person who was parked there in the morning and surprsingly she had the same answer. Both stated that they would leave a note had they done something like this. My next thought: You are so going to hell for lying to me right now.
C'mon people, you KNOW when you hit someone's door with yours. You KNOW because you check to see if you left a scratch or a mark... You KNOW because that you use your thumb or finger to wipe away the evidence or to see if there is a scratch...
Case in point: a person (name withheld for insurance reasons) drives into a parking lot at the mall and the passenger (name witheld for insurance reasons) opens their door and hits the one beside them. The passenger looks at the driver and says "Um, yeah, we can't park here. We need to move." Granted there was no damage but still... there was the knowledge of hitting and the checking... hmmm.
I digress. At work the other day I came out to the parking lot (not underground and any tom DICK and harry can park there) and noticed a nice three part scratch on the door. Seriously?! How stupid can you be to hit the car not only once but twice and wait... three times? I guess people are that stupid. And they didn't leave a note.
I'm not here to get money from people it is the principle of the matter. I would not call their insurance company. I would thank them for their honesty (if they leave their number) and leave it at that because it's just a car. I just wish people would be more honest.
As I sit here and rant about this I am sure you are wondring if I would leave a note. The answer is no I wouldn't because I wouldn't hit someone's door with mine.
Friday, November 09, 2007
Monkey Business
Dave and I recently went to Utah for Canadian Thanksgiving. Who in their right mind goes to another country to celebrate their own country's holiday? Well, we do. Actually we went to a church conference and visited with friends whom I haven't seen in a few years and whom Dave had never met. We stayed with a friend Janaya and her husband Burton. We were driving home one night and monkeys came up. Janaya proceeded to tell us that human beings are so obsessed with monkeys (or any primate) that you cannot go for one day without hearing about or seeing something to do with monkeys. Since that day, Dave and I have seen and or heard about a monkey or something related to a monkey every single day.
I challenge you here and now to look for or hear about the not so elusive monkey. It's kind of crazy that you cannot do the same thing with man's best friend.
I challenge you here and now to look for or hear about the not so elusive monkey. It's kind of crazy that you cannot do the same thing with man's best friend.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
True story
I recently started my new job and let me tell you, it is fantastic. I have only been there a week but I really love it.
When starting a new job, one likes to make good first impressions... which I have done. The impression that one does not want to give off is that of a lazy loaf or someone who can't remember to do things. Well, I went to work this morning and met a co-worker at the court house. No, I am not in trouble. Even before I could really go into the main part of the building I needed to go through security. This is very similar to airport security only I did not have to remove my shoes or take off my belt (not that I was wearing one). So I took my bag and my long jean jacket coat and put it in the plastic bin. I walked through the metal detector, and of course it beeped but the guard just told me to go through. I thought this was odd. I grabbed my bag put on my jacket and proceeded to the courtroom. We got back to the office around 1145am which gave me enough time to get a few things done before lunch. After lunch I went back to my office where I discovered, I forgot to put on my bra. Seriously... I forgot. I am really not sure how that happened but it did. I wanted to call someone and tell them but didn't know who to phone. I wanted to tell someone in the office, mainly because I thought it was the funniest thing EVER but I refrained for fear of looking like a complete moron. I am sure you are wondering how I went through the day without anyone saying anything or even myself noticing. It was a good day to wear a short skirt and a LOOOOONG jacket (don't worry, other clothes were in place). I never took the jacket off all day except when I went through Security (which explains him telling me to go on through... he could probably tell I wasn't wearing a bra)!!! Without my jacket on it was somewhat noticeable that I was not wearing a bra (I checked in the bathroom later). If I were fifty then it would have been a very noticeable problem down around my waist. After I realized that I am moron I walked around with my arms crossed so nobody could really tell or wonder. Moral of the story, breast examinations are good to do!
When starting a new job, one likes to make good first impressions... which I have done. The impression that one does not want to give off is that of a lazy loaf or someone who can't remember to do things. Well, I went to work this morning and met a co-worker at the court house. No, I am not in trouble. Even before I could really go into the main part of the building I needed to go through security. This is very similar to airport security only I did not have to remove my shoes or take off my belt (not that I was wearing one). So I took my bag and my long jean jacket coat and put it in the plastic bin. I walked through the metal detector, and of course it beeped but the guard just told me to go through. I thought this was odd. I grabbed my bag put on my jacket and proceeded to the courtroom. We got back to the office around 1145am which gave me enough time to get a few things done before lunch. After lunch I went back to my office where I discovered, I forgot to put on my bra. Seriously... I forgot. I am really not sure how that happened but it did. I wanted to call someone and tell them but didn't know who to phone. I wanted to tell someone in the office, mainly because I thought it was the funniest thing EVER but I refrained for fear of looking like a complete moron. I am sure you are wondering how I went through the day without anyone saying anything or even myself noticing. It was a good day to wear a short skirt and a LOOOOONG jacket (don't worry, other clothes were in place). I never took the jacket off all day except when I went through Security (which explains him telling me to go on through... he could probably tell I wasn't wearing a bra)!!! Without my jacket on it was somewhat noticeable that I was not wearing a bra (I checked in the bathroom later). If I were fifty then it would have been a very noticeable problem down around my waist. After I realized that I am moron I walked around with my arms crossed so nobody could really tell or wonder. Moral of the story, breast examinations are good to do!
Thursday, September 27, 2007
This is for all people everywhere
So I have this best guy friend that we will call John Doe. We have been best friends since our first year of college back in 2001 or 2002. We have travelled overseas together, go for lunch all the time, pay one another do homework etc. We were really good friends.
My friend John got married a few years ago. I have met his wife a few times and we have hung out. She is a very sweet girl. Myself, I have been married for just over a year. My best friend came to my wedding reception with his wife and parents.
So when I call him the other day and talk to him for about five to ten minutes about nothing and inquiring when the four of us could get together, it was a shock when he called me back to say not to call him or email him again by the request of his wife... I was shocked. My husband was shocked. I had to ask John if he was kidding... to which he replied he was not. I felt a plethora of emotions. I was sad because I am losing a great friend and even more sad because he is stuck in a relationship that is controlling like that. It was one of those moments where I wanted to tell him to call me when the relationship ended. I would never do that because I would never wish that kind of torment upon anyone. As a result, I figured I will let his wife get over her insecurities and they can work through their marriage and hopefully then he will call me. I just hope he does not regret some of the decisions and sacrifices he has had to make.
Did I forget to mention that I am a very happily married woman who would never in any way jeopardize that relationship. If I got together with anyone else, it would be a step backwards. Sorry guys. I married the best and would never settle for less.
This is not the first time this has happened to me. I have had two other guy friends do this very same thing to me. My reaction: jaw drop and an "are you kidding me?" response. I do not have any sort of gay tendencies but let me just say this... all these women are hot. C'mon people!!!
If I were walking down the road with any one of these women most guys would look at her and think: dang she's hot... and then see me and have a pondered look on their face that says "I wonder if she's gay".... I do not consider myself to be a model or even 'hot' but I am comfortable with who I am. Women who read this... pull yourselves together and get your heads out of the sand. If you are in a relationship with someone, remember, he chose you. This also includes men. Jealousy is attractive for about two seconds and then it gets old. The more you try to control someone the more they will want to do the opposite.
My friend John got married a few years ago. I have met his wife a few times and we have hung out. She is a very sweet girl. Myself, I have been married for just over a year. My best friend came to my wedding reception with his wife and parents.
So when I call him the other day and talk to him for about five to ten minutes about nothing and inquiring when the four of us could get together, it was a shock when he called me back to say not to call him or email him again by the request of his wife... I was shocked. My husband was shocked. I had to ask John if he was kidding... to which he replied he was not. I felt a plethora of emotions. I was sad because I am losing a great friend and even more sad because he is stuck in a relationship that is controlling like that. It was one of those moments where I wanted to tell him to call me when the relationship ended. I would never do that because I would never wish that kind of torment upon anyone. As a result, I figured I will let his wife get over her insecurities and they can work through their marriage and hopefully then he will call me. I just hope he does not regret some of the decisions and sacrifices he has had to make.
Did I forget to mention that I am a very happily married woman who would never in any way jeopardize that relationship. If I got together with anyone else, it would be a step backwards. Sorry guys. I married the best and would never settle for less.
This is not the first time this has happened to me. I have had two other guy friends do this very same thing to me. My reaction: jaw drop and an "are you kidding me?" response. I do not have any sort of gay tendencies but let me just say this... all these women are hot. C'mon people!!!
If I were walking down the road with any one of these women most guys would look at her and think: dang she's hot... and then see me and have a pondered look on their face that says "I wonder if she's gay".... I do not consider myself to be a model or even 'hot' but I am comfortable with who I am. Women who read this... pull yourselves together and get your heads out of the sand. If you are in a relationship with someone, remember, he chose you. This also includes men. Jealousy is attractive for about two seconds and then it gets old. The more you try to control someone the more they will want to do the opposite.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Jerry Maguire Moment
Today was my last day of work. I had worked at the shelter for about 5.5 years. I have gained a lot of skills and abilities that I will take with me into the next chapter of my life. I have also gained a lot of funny stories... to which I will share at another time.
There is something somewhat empowering in handing in one's resignation notice and basically stickin' it to the man... when I handed in my notice I left work feeling happy. I was listening to my iPod wanting that Jerry Maguire moment where I skip the songs looking for that perfect song that makes me scream at the top of my lungs... this did not happen. I did however listen to U2's Stuck in a Moment which is somewhat symbolic of the job itself but not very empowering.
My co-workers, bless their hearts, threw me a going away get together for my last few hours of work. It was nice to say goodbye to people, in all honesty, that I may never see again. That's the wierd thing about jobs... you make great relationships with co-workers and then you leave them or they leave you with the 'ya I'll call you for lunch sometime' adage knowing full well that this will probably not happen.
I did not have a box of stuff that one assumes one would have when clearing out their office... instead I had a Safeway bag to my belongings in... oatmeal packages that i would eat for breakfast, pen holder, insignificant papers, etc. The ironic part is that when clients leave the shelter they always take their stuff in plastic bags... it made me laugh that I was doing the same. I handed in my keys and as I walked with my big bag of stuff, my water bottle, jacket, and purse I thought I am missing something... my work keys. I felt naked without them.
I got in my car and switched the station and listened to Natasha Beddingfield's Unwritten.... it was my Jerry Maguire moment. It was the end of the song but who cares... it was my moment.
There is something somewhat empowering in handing in one's resignation notice and basically stickin' it to the man... when I handed in my notice I left work feeling happy. I was listening to my iPod wanting that Jerry Maguire moment where I skip the songs looking for that perfect song that makes me scream at the top of my lungs... this did not happen. I did however listen to U2's Stuck in a Moment which is somewhat symbolic of the job itself but not very empowering.
My co-workers, bless their hearts, threw me a going away get together for my last few hours of work. It was nice to say goodbye to people, in all honesty, that I may never see again. That's the wierd thing about jobs... you make great relationships with co-workers and then you leave them or they leave you with the 'ya I'll call you for lunch sometime' adage knowing full well that this will probably not happen.
I did not have a box of stuff that one assumes one would have when clearing out their office... instead I had a Safeway bag to my belongings in... oatmeal packages that i would eat for breakfast, pen holder, insignificant papers, etc. The ironic part is that when clients leave the shelter they always take their stuff in plastic bags... it made me laugh that I was doing the same. I handed in my keys and as I walked with my big bag of stuff, my water bottle, jacket, and purse I thought I am missing something... my work keys. I felt naked without them.
I got in my car and switched the station and listened to Natasha Beddingfield's Unwritten.... it was my Jerry Maguire moment. It was the end of the song but who cares... it was my moment.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
A few things...
Top 3 Worst Inventions/ideas:
2. Hand dryers... It is more effective if I just blow on them myself.
Top 3 Best Inventions
1. Sliced Bread... c'mon you know it is and you know I had to say it.
2. The internet... although it has it's evil points the good far outweigh the bad... online banking, wikipedia, email, (not facebook), etc.
3. the wheel... think about how many things operate using a wheel (bikes, rollerblades, cars, airplanes (obviously not when they are flying in the sky))... modes of transportation use the wheel... if we didn't have one we'd still be walking.
Monday, June 18, 2007
New vs Old
We have recently acquired a brand new 2007 Nissan Versa. Color: blueberry (with a capital B). It is a sweet ride. It has so many cool features. My favorite being the handsfree Bluetooth. It allows me to call and speak to someone without actually talking into a phone. Their voice comes through the 6 speakers and subwoofer. It's awesome! Plus, I can actually drive this car. The old car was a standard and I do not know how to drive it. Frankly, I did not care to learn on it. I knew we would be getting a new car that was automotic (cheaper on gas for city driving).Now you may be asking "what were you driving before Alisha?" Well let me tell you..
There are crappy cars and then there are really crappy cars. Case in point: our 1989 Ford Mustang. I actually should not be saying 'ours' because I had and did not want any ownership of said vehicle. This car in no way shape or form can be mistaken for a 'muscle' car. Let me begin by stating that Ford circles their problem:
Now Dave bought his 'stang from our friend's dad for $600. This guy sold it to him thinking that he made a deal and that he may have potentially ripped off some unsuspecting 'kid'. Little did he know that two years later the damn thing would still be running.
Why am I mocking this car you ask? Well let us list... yes list... off the problems with this vehicle. Where do I begin? Let's start with the door handle on the passenger side. It takes a magician to open it. It takes a certain amount of skill in hand movement and position. If you do not get it just right it will not open and you're left looking the fool because you are not smarter than the car door.
There are crappy cars and then there are really crappy cars. Case in point: our 1989 Ford Mustang. I actually should not be saying 'ours' because I had and did not want any ownership of said vehicle. This car in no way shape or form can be mistaken for a 'muscle' car. Let me begin by stating that Ford circles their problem:
Now Dave bought his 'stang from our friend's dad for $600. This guy sold it to him thinking that he made a deal and that he may have potentially ripped off some unsuspecting 'kid'. Little did he know that two years later the damn thing would still be running.Why am I mocking this car you ask? Well let us list... yes list... off the problems with this vehicle. Where do I begin? Let's start with the door handle on the passenger side. It takes a magician to open it. It takes a certain amount of skill in hand movement and position. If you do not get it just right it will not open and you're left looking the fool because you are not smarter than the car door.
The window... well let's just say when it rains I feel it. The seal is completely gone and the water leaks through the window and soaks the seat and the person sitting in that seat.. namely Me.
Exibit A: the stains on the seat. Please remember that these stains were from actualy rain water and not from some freak 'accident' that I had. Notice the dark marks... no it is not some cool camera feature.. it is water stainage.As we continue to move on, we no longer have beta. We have managed to acquire a car with a CD player... a six disc player at that.
I have to say that the best features are found on the exterior. Dave kept telling me that the one headlight will always short out no matter what. To which he stated that the headlight was broken.
I have to say that the best features are found on the exterior. Dave kept telling me that the one headlight will always short out no matter what. To which he stated that the headlight was broken.
Exibit B: now you may be wondering what the odd discoloration is in the headlight and why it is two toned. Do not be mistaken my friends.. two toned headlights are not an extra feature on the 1989 ford Mustang... or any car for that matter. It is indeed water.
We could probably replace the bulb but as soon as it rained we would be without one head light. Plus, when driving this car at night Dave had to use his highbeam (yes only one highbeam for the one working light). I should mention that here in Alberta... the wonderfully rich oil free province that we are, it is a $115 fine for having a burnt out headlight... yes I did say $115. How do I know this? We got one. The only problem was that once we paid that fine we couldn't afford to buy a freakin' bulb.
Next, let's move to the high quality paint job on this 'stang. The paint as you can tell is a nice blue color. Exibit C: The paint job. Be aware that that is NOT water down the middle of the car. That is indeed the finish.. peeling away with every storm or whenever I peeled it off. Some enjoyment is found in doing this. It is similar to peeling off a sunburn.
There is more. the emergency break is broken and therefore always has the bright red indicator light on reading "BRAKE". The car's bumper is also tied on using zip ties. Yes, I did say zip ties. Oddly, it happens to work really well.
I am sure there is more to say but I believe that is all I've got to say about the car other than you can see the road through the base of the driver's side door when it is shut. It is definately the feature that really makes me feel safe and comfortable.
Needless to say: new car good, old car sold to some poor sucker for $100. I told Dave to try and get $200 but I fear that may be pushing it.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Facebook...
The whole world seems to be gravitating to this phenomenon of facebook. At first I was completely opposed to it mainly because almost everyone I went to Nicaragua with was in love with this webpage. Ironically when I came home from that trip I discovered that I had an invite and joined without hesitation... so much for my convictions of never joining the silly group.
Once you sign on to this website you will find yourself checking your email every ten mintues to see if someone has sent you a message or if someone has invited you to be their friend. Some of these people who invite you to be their friend have not seen or spoken to you in about 20 years. No joke. I found my neighbour from about 20 years ago... how did I find him??? I stalked him out and searched... *sigh* When one does not receive an invitation to be another's friend suden disappointment sinks in and leaves the person thinking they have no friends at all. To date I have almost 200... my goal is 500.
Five minutes after I checked my email the other day I checked it again and discovered that someone had invited me to be their friend. I almost fell off my chair because of laughter and complete shock. This reaction came from the fact that this person who invited me to be their 'friend' is the same person who wanted and tried to beat me up in school on more then one occassion... needless to say I accepted her friendship...
Once you sign on to this website you will find yourself checking your email every ten mintues to see if someone has sent you a message or if someone has invited you to be their friend. Some of these people who invite you to be their friend have not seen or spoken to you in about 20 years. No joke. I found my neighbour from about 20 years ago... how did I find him??? I stalked him out and searched... *sigh* When one does not receive an invitation to be another's friend suden disappointment sinks in and leaves the person thinking they have no friends at all. To date I have almost 200... my goal is 500.
Five minutes after I checked my email the other day I checked it again and discovered that someone had invited me to be their friend. I almost fell off my chair because of laughter and complete shock. This reaction came from the fact that this person who invited me to be their 'friend' is the same person who wanted and tried to beat me up in school on more then one occassion... needless to say I accepted her friendship...
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Becoming A Girl
I was at a friend's bridal shower a few weeks back when my friend (and hairdresser) told me that her salon was shaving heads for cancer. I said I would do it. It was a sort of half hearted comittment. Then I got more information and sent out an email announcing the event. At which point I realised there was no turning back.The picture to your left shows my luscious locks prior to the shearing.
There are benefits of having hair that long or longish hair in general. One being that most people will assume that you are not a lesbian.
I was on the bus going to my 'appointment' to shave my head and I was angry with my hair. Let me tell you why I hate(d) my hair. First, my hair had this wonderful talent of tangling itself. I know you are thinking that most people with long hair have the same problem. Mine is different. After brushing my hair I swear my strands of hair decide to have a party and make a big nest. The only way to really untangle the mess is by ripping out the rats nest that has occured. I am surprised I was not bald before shaving it off. Second problem with long hair: static. Mabey it is just the subarctic temperatures and desert dryness that causes it but my hair had a mind of its own and would try and get away from me.
So the act of shaving my head was not really that big of a deal. I was completely fine with having no hair. I now have other problems to deal with. I am not your average makeup wearing gussy myself up everyday kind of girl. As the first picture above will tell. Who would want to get all gussied up to work at a homeless shelter?? I know what you are thinking... "wow she pulls off hotness really well". That is a talent God has blessed me with... now I have to work a bit harder for the hotness, we are all given challenges in life and this is mine. I realised that I will have to put on at least mascara and possibly some earrings so people will be able to tell I am a girl. Even that does not stop people from questioning my sex, guys wear makeup all the time... eyeliner and mascara and some of them look really good. So I am resorting to dressing like a tramp, tight clothes and all. I do love having no hair because it saves money on hair product and shampoo. Plus I can take a shower 5 mintues before going to bed and not have to wait until my hair is dry. Now I just need to figure out what to do with the 200$ hair straightener I bought 4 months ago...
Thursday, April 12, 2007
The Soundtrack of My Life...
If my life was a movie, what would my soundtrack be?
So, here's how it works:
1. Open your music library
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool.
Opening Credits: Steal My Kisses by Ben Harper
Waking Up: My Immortal by Evanescence (this is sad to wake up to)
First Day At School: Last Night by The Strokes (haha... this should be for waking up)
In Love: How to Save a Life By The Fray (I LOVE THIS SONG!!!)
Fight Song: Sooner or Later by Switchfoot
Breaking Up: See The Sun by Pete Murray
Prom: Cream by Prince
Life's OK: Wherever you Will Go by The Calling (can anyone say stalker??)
Mental Breakdown: Light Shine Down by Collective Soul
Driving: Love My way by The Psychadelic Furs (I was really hoping for ACDC Highway to Hell)
Flashback: High Rolling by Beautiful Girls
Getting Back Together: So This is Christmas by John Lennon (I do not know what to say to that)
Birth of Child: Landslide by Smashing Pumpkins (appropriate???)
Wedding: Man! I feel LIke a Woman by Shania Twain (haha)
Final Battle: Jem and The Holograms Theme Song... I kid you not!
Death Scene: My Way or the Highway by Limp Bizkit
Funeral Song: I Want to Break Free by Queen (this is wicked! Totally my funeral Song!!!)
End Credits: Heart of Gold by Neil Young
So, here's how it works:
1. Open your music library
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. Don't lie and try to pretend you're cool.
Opening Credits: Steal My Kisses by Ben Harper
Waking Up: My Immortal by Evanescence (this is sad to wake up to)
First Day At School: Last Night by The Strokes (haha... this should be for waking up)
In Love: How to Save a Life By The Fray (I LOVE THIS SONG!!!)
Fight Song: Sooner or Later by Switchfoot
Breaking Up: See The Sun by Pete Murray
Prom: Cream by Prince
Life's OK: Wherever you Will Go by The Calling (can anyone say stalker??)
Mental Breakdown: Light Shine Down by Collective Soul
Driving: Love My way by The Psychadelic Furs (I was really hoping for ACDC Highway to Hell)
Flashback: High Rolling by Beautiful Girls
Getting Back Together: So This is Christmas by John Lennon (I do not know what to say to that)
Birth of Child: Landslide by Smashing Pumpkins (appropriate???)
Wedding: Man! I feel LIke a Woman by Shania Twain (haha)
Final Battle: Jem and The Holograms Theme Song... I kid you not!
Death Scene: My Way or the Highway by Limp Bizkit
Funeral Song: I Want to Break Free by Queen (this is wicked! Totally my funeral Song!!!)
End Credits: Heart of Gold by Neil Young
Friday, March 23, 2007
My stay at the hospital
Last weekend I went snowshoeing and it is normally a lot of fun... when you are not sick. I woke up Saturday morning feeling like poop but I went snowshoeing anyways. As we were shoeing I was completely exhausted and felt like just lying in the snow and having a nap. I also realised that if I did that I would probably freeze to death. I am sure my friends would not allow that to happen... I think.
When I got home from this excursion I went straight to bed and tried to sleep off my sickness. At about... really late o'clock I had severe abdomen pain and needed to go to the hospital. I went to one and because they take all the gang bangers and drug lords there I was going to have to wait about 9 hours. I almost resorted to stabbing myself with something in order to get a bed quicker... Dave would not let me do that and he took me to the other hospital. We waited for about a half hour and then I was sleeping in a bed with my new best friend Morphine. Her and I get along quite well. She came by my room at least 4 times through the night.
The doctor thought I may have something wrong with my gall bladder. He was doubtful because problems with the gall bladder generally happen with 'chunky people'... I did not fall into that category. They did an ultrasound to check the gall bladder out. Turns out that there is just 'sludge'. (I read it on my chart... not too sure if I am to read that but if they are going to stick in my lap I am going to read it.) Anyway, they then decide to do a CT scan which just confirmed something else for me: I am not pregnant. Apparently they cannot do a CT scan if you are pregnant. That's beside's the point. CT scans are wierd. First I had to drink a litre and a half of this stuff called tetrilix (I think) and I had an hour to drink it. This amount of 'water' plus the 200ml/hr that the IV was pumping in me made me have to pee every 45 mintues I swear. The nurses had me lie down on this thing and they covered me with this blanket that I swear was just out of the dryer... it was so warm and welcomed. The nurse then tells me that she is going to inject something in me that will give me this warm sensation all over my body and oh yeah, the sensation like you are peeing. First it was not a 'warm' sensation. I was bloody hot. Second, I totally thought I was wetting my gown (wasn't wearing pants) but it was really hot. Thankfully there was no urinating because that would have made things awkward for everyone.
Back to the hospital room I went. Keep in mind I am still in Emerg and it was now Sunday afternoon. The CT scan showed that I had an inflammed appendix. By this point Morphine was not allowed to visit me. This was fine because there really was not any pain. So a resident surgeon came in and told me that I had this inflammation and that I would need surgery. I was okay with this. Then her 'boss' surgeon came in and told me that I would most likely not need it considering I was not in any pain. I was slightly disappointed. I would not have minded laying in a hospital for a few days (remember that for later) I never had surgery before. I asked if I could have something to eat and he just said I could drink something... oh yippee it felt like i had not drank anything for ages (note: sarcasm). It is Sunday night and I had not eaten or really drank anything for over 24 hours. I can get combative when I have not eaten.
A little while later I was in a different hospital room in an actual bed that was so much more comfortable. The woman in the same room was just out of surgery and was in pain, was crying... I did not sleep well. Although, in hospitals how much sleep can you really achieve. As soon as you fall asleep a nurse is waking you up to take blood or vitals or asking how you are.
They moved me the next day into the lounge... yes the lounge. Apparently I was not 'bad enough' to warrant an actual room with a comfortable bed. The only good thing about the lounge was that I had my own free cable.
By Monday night the Dr. finally came back and asked me if I wanted to go home. I said yes. About a half hour before this I was crying because I was tired of being in the hospital and not knowing what was going on with me. I mainly said yes because I just wanted to eat something. It was Monday night 6:15 and I was finally allowed to eat... over 48 hours without food. I wondered how that was really possible since I did not really have hunger pains. Apparently the nurse was giving me drugs so my stomach would not start eating itself.
I still do not know what happened... I may have some 3rd world virus. I am leaving my life to God.
When I got home from this excursion I went straight to bed and tried to sleep off my sickness. At about... really late o'clock I had severe abdomen pain and needed to go to the hospital. I went to one and because they take all the gang bangers and drug lords there I was going to have to wait about 9 hours. I almost resorted to stabbing myself with something in order to get a bed quicker... Dave would not let me do that and he took me to the other hospital. We waited for about a half hour and then I was sleeping in a bed with my new best friend Morphine. Her and I get along quite well. She came by my room at least 4 times through the night.
The doctor thought I may have something wrong with my gall bladder. He was doubtful because problems with the gall bladder generally happen with 'chunky people'... I did not fall into that category. They did an ultrasound to check the gall bladder out. Turns out that there is just 'sludge'. (I read it on my chart... not too sure if I am to read that but if they are going to stick in my lap I am going to read it.) Anyway, they then decide to do a CT scan which just confirmed something else for me: I am not pregnant. Apparently they cannot do a CT scan if you are pregnant. That's beside's the point. CT scans are wierd. First I had to drink a litre and a half of this stuff called tetrilix (I think) and I had an hour to drink it. This amount of 'water' plus the 200ml/hr that the IV was pumping in me made me have to pee every 45 mintues I swear. The nurses had me lie down on this thing and they covered me with this blanket that I swear was just out of the dryer... it was so warm and welcomed. The nurse then tells me that she is going to inject something in me that will give me this warm sensation all over my body and oh yeah, the sensation like you are peeing. First it was not a 'warm' sensation. I was bloody hot. Second, I totally thought I was wetting my gown (wasn't wearing pants) but it was really hot. Thankfully there was no urinating because that would have made things awkward for everyone.
Back to the hospital room I went. Keep in mind I am still in Emerg and it was now Sunday afternoon. The CT scan showed that I had an inflammed appendix. By this point Morphine was not allowed to visit me. This was fine because there really was not any pain. So a resident surgeon came in and told me that I had this inflammation and that I would need surgery. I was okay with this. Then her 'boss' surgeon came in and told me that I would most likely not need it considering I was not in any pain. I was slightly disappointed. I would not have minded laying in a hospital for a few days (remember that for later) I never had surgery before. I asked if I could have something to eat and he just said I could drink something... oh yippee it felt like i had not drank anything for ages (note: sarcasm). It is Sunday night and I had not eaten or really drank anything for over 24 hours. I can get combative when I have not eaten.
A little while later I was in a different hospital room in an actual bed that was so much more comfortable. The woman in the same room was just out of surgery and was in pain, was crying... I did not sleep well. Although, in hospitals how much sleep can you really achieve. As soon as you fall asleep a nurse is waking you up to take blood or vitals or asking how you are.
They moved me the next day into the lounge... yes the lounge. Apparently I was not 'bad enough' to warrant an actual room with a comfortable bed. The only good thing about the lounge was that I had my own free cable.
By Monday night the Dr. finally came back and asked me if I wanted to go home. I said yes. About a half hour before this I was crying because I was tired of being in the hospital and not knowing what was going on with me. I mainly said yes because I just wanted to eat something. It was Monday night 6:15 and I was finally allowed to eat... over 48 hours without food. I wondered how that was really possible since I did not really have hunger pains. Apparently the nurse was giving me drugs so my stomach would not start eating itself.
I still do not know what happened... I may have some 3rd world virus. I am leaving my life to God.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Nicaragua
I have just returned from Nicaragua where I was doing a volunteer project with 15 other students.
We flew from Calgary to Houston to Managua and from there we drove in mini buses to San Juan Del Sur. The drive from Managua to San Juan was about 3 hours long. The roads there are not even comparable to the roads here. They have potholes the size of smart cars. Drivers will swerve to miss them so sleeping is not really an option because when they swerve you question whether you are about to go over a cliff or run into a wild dog.
San Juan Del Sur is a beautiful little town but unfortunately is turning into a touristy place for gringos (Americanos). I say unfortunately because there is nothing more that I hate than when a really poor country or community is exploited when Americans come in and develop 5 star hotels leaving the poor even worse off. None of the money they make goes back into the community. It is really sad. Those living at the bottom of the hill, in respect to the 5 star hotel, do not have water running or electricity running 24/7. The hotel does. We lived with families and were able to experience somewhat how they live everyday. Granted we did live in the 'nicer houses'.
The communities we went to were pretty bad. They did not have running water and had to get their water from a well that is most likely contaminated from their latrines. We were told not to drink the water or we would get sick. They did not have proper stoves with ventillation which made respiratory disease huge. The picture below is a photo of one family's stove. Notice that there is no chimney here. So all the smoke from their fire goes up into the air of that house. There is no proper ventillation. Imagine standing in front of a campfire in an enclosed space three or four times a day. This is exactly what was happening for these people. Which explaines the respiratory diseases.
The experience was quite humbling because I recall whining about my little one bedroom basement suite when all they had was the house pictured here.
Their latrine looked like the outhouse pictured here also. To the left of the latrine is where we were building a composting toilet so their water wells would not become contaminated.
The circumstances we walked in upon were very sad indeed but they had to be the most humble people I have ever met. One community in Capulin bought the lot of us (16) fruit to eat on our lunch break. At the end of the day when we were leaving their community for good they thanked us for what we were doing for them and we danced on their front lawns. it was pretty fun.
With all the hard work we did have fun there. We went on a boat ride from hell that consisted of a beautiful sunset.
The hell part arose when it became darker and the winds were muy fuerte (very strong). So there we were riding in this boat in the dark of night with the strong wind and firehose like spray coming off the waves and straight into those on the boat. I did not want to go swimming because I would be cold on the way home. So much for my plan. Everyone on that boat was drenched. Others were enjoying it a little too much. By the end of that ride the a few of us were not impressed about it and suggested that they not do this again next year.
The trip has changed me in many ways. Ways that I am not even aware of yet. I know that I see things differently, like running water. I try not to waste it. I will admit that I enjoy being able to come home with the assurance that my water is running and I can go to the bathroom but I also know that somewhere else in the world there are people who go without. I love the assurance of knowing that when it is really windy a piece of my roof will not fly off. I am gratful for everything that God has blessed me with in my life and I hope I never forget this experience and what it has taught me. I realise that even though I am blessed in many materialistic ways these people are blessed in ways that others cannot see and when they do see how those others are blessed they themselves are humbled by it.
Monday, January 01, 2007
shock the rock
The new year has started out fantastic with me. I have kept all my new years resolutions, mainly because I did not make any. I find New Years to be dramatic and over rated. I have no problem staying at home and getting an early night to bed (I'm so old).
Aside from this, I started a new position at work. For those of you who do not know, I work at The Salvation Army Centre of Hope (not a thrift store... I don't even get a staff discount). The centre of hope is a homeless shelter. I have been working there for about 5 years. Before I started my fab position I had a love hate relationship with the place. Okay, so the love hate thing is still there but I get more money.
So, my new position is called Major.. kidding. I'm not a part of the Army at all, just a worker there. I am a Resource Counselor. Essentially resourcefully counsel people who live at the shelter. I refer them to external agencies and internal programs. Being a Resource Counselor is a fun job but it is such a busy one. Today was the first day that I actually left on time and I still did not finish what needed to be done. Ugh. Tomorrow is a new day.
At the shelter we have free beds and rental rooms. My boss wanted myself and my colleague to check on all the rental rooms (approx. 75-80 may be just a bit less; may be more). She wanted to make sure that people were following the policy and rules (no smoking; no perishable food; no fire hazards; no drugs/alcohol; etc). Last Thursday we undertook this task and set out on our huge job. We got about half way done when we opened the door and the first thing we noticed was a space heater (huge fire hazard). Almost simultaneously the smell hit me and my head turned to another part of the room and there he was. The man renting the room was dead on his bed. We were both in shock and ran to my colleague's office and called security and they came up and called EMS (911) and they took care of it.
I have to say it was one of the most shocking things I have ever seen. I will not describe the scene but let me just say I will never wish that upon anyone. The client we found, a man whom I had been dealing with for a little bit, was completely unrecognisable. Not because of how he died (it may have been natural but it could have been suidice; we don't know) it was because of how much 'weight' it looked like he had gained (his body bloated alot). So anyway... it was not pleasant. I was in a bit of a shock and it takes much to shock me.
The closest I have come to finding a dead person prior to this was when my roommates ex boyfriend tried to commit suicide and I found him in time to call 911.
My reason for telling this story is simply to get it out of my head. It is like a debriefing of sorts. Oddly it has not caused me to think of my own mortality but rather you never know just what is going on in another's mind. Prior to finding him I had thought to myself that I had not seen this person in a few days (he saw me in my office quite a bit: almost daily basis) but I never went to check his room.... you just never know. My advice: if you have an impression about someone act on it. Do not wait. There is a reason for the impression in your mind.
Aside from this, I started a new position at work. For those of you who do not know, I work at The Salvation Army Centre of Hope (not a thrift store... I don't even get a staff discount). The centre of hope is a homeless shelter. I have been working there for about 5 years. Before I started my fab position I had a love hate relationship with the place. Okay, so the love hate thing is still there but I get more money.
So, my new position is called Major.. kidding. I'm not a part of the Army at all, just a worker there. I am a Resource Counselor. Essentially resourcefully counsel people who live at the shelter. I refer them to external agencies and internal programs. Being a Resource Counselor is a fun job but it is such a busy one. Today was the first day that I actually left on time and I still did not finish what needed to be done. Ugh. Tomorrow is a new day.
At the shelter we have free beds and rental rooms. My boss wanted myself and my colleague to check on all the rental rooms (approx. 75-80 may be just a bit less; may be more). She wanted to make sure that people were following the policy and rules (no smoking; no perishable food; no fire hazards; no drugs/alcohol; etc). Last Thursday we undertook this task and set out on our huge job. We got about half way done when we opened the door and the first thing we noticed was a space heater (huge fire hazard). Almost simultaneously the smell hit me and my head turned to another part of the room and there he was. The man renting the room was dead on his bed. We were both in shock and ran to my colleague's office and called security and they came up and called EMS (911) and they took care of it.
I have to say it was one of the most shocking things I have ever seen. I will not describe the scene but let me just say I will never wish that upon anyone. The client we found, a man whom I had been dealing with for a little bit, was completely unrecognisable. Not because of how he died (it may have been natural but it could have been suidice; we don't know) it was because of how much 'weight' it looked like he had gained (his body bloated alot). So anyway... it was not pleasant. I was in a bit of a shock and it takes much to shock me.
The closest I have come to finding a dead person prior to this was when my roommates ex boyfriend tried to commit suicide and I found him in time to call 911.
My reason for telling this story is simply to get it out of my head. It is like a debriefing of sorts. Oddly it has not caused me to think of my own mortality but rather you never know just what is going on in another's mind. Prior to finding him I had thought to myself that I had not seen this person in a few days (he saw me in my office quite a bit: almost daily basis) but I never went to check his room.... you just never know. My advice: if you have an impression about someone act on it. Do not wait. There is a reason for the impression in your mind.
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