Hi Everyone!
This will be my last post until the new year. I fly out tomorrow and will return on the 1st. It's laundry/cleaning day and I'll finish my packing tonight.
Anyways, got all my running around done. Went to the dentist and found out some expensive news. I need to get 8 fillings. Luckily (relatively), 4 of them are to replace fillings (silver fillings have a lifespan of about 15 years) I had done as a teenager. 1 is a serious cavity and the other 3 are small but are between my teeth. Since I grind/clench my teeth, I will also need a mouth guard for when I sleep (to prolong the life of my fillings and to prevent more stress lines from forming). I've done it for years (my previous dentist mentioned it) but I didn't realize what it actually did to my teeth. The guard is expensive however so I likely can't get one until next fall. The hygenist also told me I have gingivitis and that my lack of flossing is causing huge problems. Luckily, I'm still at the stage that it can be reversed and no permenant damage has been caused yet. Quite a wake-up call for me - I've always had bad teeth but this was the first time I was explained everything that is happening.
I now have a nice electric toothbrush that has 3 settings (clean, soft and massage) with a timer so I know how long to brush. Every 30 seconds, there's a pause to let you know when to switch to the next quadrant of your teeth. As well, the hygenist gave me a tool to help me floss (a longer handle than most you get at the pharmacy) and some nice minty floss. It's pretty sad that at my age I wasn't very sure how to floss - I didn't learn as a child.
Note to all parents: teach you children how to floss and make sure they do it every day! This will save hundreds of dollars in future fillings. The dental office does have a payment plan so hopefully I'll qualify. I'll find out on the 2nd when I go for my fillings. Despite the large bill on Monday, they did spend a lot of time with me. They worked on my teeth for 1 1/2 hours (doesn't include wait times or x-ray development time) which included a cleaning.
Been having fun this week playing with my household. Mike's been waking me up when my downstairs neighbour's alarm clock goes off (6:30 am) but Whiskers has let me cuddle with her on the futon while watching/dozing through the morning news. I got Gilbert a new water bottle and so far he hasn't been playing with it as much as his last one. Guinea pigs often like to play with the ball at the end of the spout even when they aren't thirsty.
Got my Chrisco hamper yesterday. It was rather exciting to open the boxes and pull out my treats. I was a bit worried about groceries in January but I'm all stocked up for when I get back. They also included an extra box with candy canes and little treats for Christmas as a present from the company. I thought it was a nice touch. Although it more expensive than the grocery store, I just order again because it was nice to open it and generally, I find the pocket book's rather tight in January/February. If anyone else is interested in them, their website is www.chriscohampers.ca The downfalls are you have to be at home on the day they deliver, they can't narrow the time down more than 7am to 7pm and you don't have a choice of the delivery date. For those of you not familiar with Chrisco, you have a choice of many different hampers (depending on your taste) and instead of paying for it all at once, the cost is split over many months (the earlier you order, the longer you have to pay and the cheaper the weekly payment). You can pay weekly, every other week, or monthly and the money's automatically deducted from your bank account. If anyone does decide to order a hamper (they can also be sent as gifts), you can use my agent number (87751). This way, I make a little money for Christmas.
I wish for everyone to have a safe and happy holiday season!
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Friday, December 09, 2005
Turkey!!!
Hi Everyone!
Chris (senior tech) just took me out to lunch. One of our suppliers was having a customer appreciation lunch so we went for turkey. They were service deep fried turkey on a bun. It was so delicious. The turkey was juicy and the skin was crispy - just the way I like it. It's been a while since I've seen so many rough-looking people and mullets!
I've now had my turkey for the year.
Chris (senior tech) just took me out to lunch. One of our suppliers was having a customer appreciation lunch so we went for turkey. They were service deep fried turkey on a bun. It was so delicious. The turkey was juicy and the skin was crispy - just the way I like it. It's been a while since I've seen so many rough-looking people and mullets!
I've now had my turkey for the year.
Mailed Christmas cards today
Hi Everyone!
Depending on Canada Post, you should receive your Christmas card anytime next week or next month. I had good intentions of having them sent early (they've been sitting on my coffee table since before December) but it seems they always get sent out late.
Ended up waiting 40 minutes to see the doctor so I skipped choir. My feet were wet and the Chinook hadn't come yet. I find it frusterating going to the doctor because my appointment is rarely on time. I've been there about 15 times since a year ago August. In that time, 1 apointment was early, 1 was on-time and the rest ranged from 30 minutes to 75 minutes late. He works in an office that accepts both appointments and walk-ins. I don't know what a reasonable wait time is but this seems excessive.
The Chinook came night and it was a warm windy walk to work. (Hee-hee!) After work, I'll drop off presents for the toydrive, drop of treats for Inn, buy some wine and grab a pizza. What a nice way to end the week!
Have a great day!
Depending on Canada Post, you should receive your Christmas card anytime next week or next month. I had good intentions of having them sent early (they've been sitting on my coffee table since before December) but it seems they always get sent out late.
Ended up waiting 40 minutes to see the doctor so I skipped choir. My feet were wet and the Chinook hadn't come yet. I find it frusterating going to the doctor because my appointment is rarely on time. I've been there about 15 times since a year ago August. In that time, 1 apointment was early, 1 was on-time and the rest ranged from 30 minutes to 75 minutes late. He works in an office that accepts both appointments and walk-ins. I don't know what a reasonable wait time is but this seems excessive.
The Chinook came night and it was a warm windy walk to work. (Hee-hee!) After work, I'll drop off presents for the toydrive, drop of treats for Inn, buy some wine and grab a pizza. What a nice way to end the week!
Have a great day!
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Warm weather!
Hi Everyone!
I didn't have to wear a toque today! It's 0 C outside! The weather changed around supper last night.
Tomorrow's my last day of work until January. It'll be nice to have the extra few days off before flying to Ontario. Have a doctor's appointment and choir tonight. Tomorrow I have to go downtown and drop off presents (toy drive) and the last of my Christmas baking (Inn). Jodi (petsitter) is coming on Saturday to pick up keys, meet Whiskers etc. Sunday is church. Have a dentist appointment and book club on Monday. On Tuesday, I have to wait around the house for my Chrisco order to arrive and then have a Townships meeting that night. You've probably seen the commercials about paying a little bit each week and then at Christmas you get a big box of food. I ordered the cottage hamper and chocolate bar/candy hamper. (There's lots of options as to what you want to order) In hind sight, it was more expensive than going to the store and buying them. Therefore, I'm not ordering next year and I'll take the weekly payment money and put it in a bank account for Christmas presents. Wednesday is the only day I don't have something happening but I suspect I'll be doing last minute errands. I also have cleaning and laundry to do before I leave.
The Bethel party last night was very nice. My wings turned out well and I timed it perfectly so I literally took them out of the oven and caught the bus. Fell asleep watching the news so I'm a bit tired this morning.
Have a great day!
I didn't have to wear a toque today! It's 0 C outside! The weather changed around supper last night.
Tomorrow's my last day of work until January. It'll be nice to have the extra few days off before flying to Ontario. Have a doctor's appointment and choir tonight. Tomorrow I have to go downtown and drop off presents (toy drive) and the last of my Christmas baking (Inn). Jodi (petsitter) is coming on Saturday to pick up keys, meet Whiskers etc. Sunday is church. Have a dentist appointment and book club on Monday. On Tuesday, I have to wait around the house for my Chrisco order to arrive and then have a Townships meeting that night. You've probably seen the commercials about paying a little bit each week and then at Christmas you get a big box of food. I ordered the cottage hamper and chocolate bar/candy hamper. (There's lots of options as to what you want to order) In hind sight, it was more expensive than going to the store and buying them. Therefore, I'm not ordering next year and I'll take the weekly payment money and put it in a bank account for Christmas presents. Wednesday is the only day I don't have something happening but I suspect I'll be doing last minute errands. I also have cleaning and laundry to do before I leave.
The Bethel party last night was very nice. My wings turned out well and I timed it perfectly so I literally took them out of the oven and caught the bus. Fell asleep watching the news so I'm a bit tired this morning.
Have a great day!
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
-21 C
Hi Everyone!
It's friggin' cold out!! The core of my body kept warm with my jacket but even with longjohns on, my legs were very cold. It's supose to warm up to -13 this afternoon (if you call that warm) and this system is apparently going to clear out in a couple days.
The Friendship Dinner last night went really well. The food was really delicious and I found a new (yet inexpensive) wine that I like. For a present, I got some homemade baking. I think I'll end up giving it to Inn From The Cold because I'm trying to save up my sweets cravings until Ontario.
I'm stopping by Saje this afternoon to pick up a few last minutes things. They're having their annual Christmas sale and serving "refreshments" (wine and healthy finger food). I love this store - they sell essential oils and blends as well as organic skin care products. I was first introduced to their products when visiting Aunt Corinne in 2000. I've used their Peppermint Halo for my ailments (headache, jetlag) ever since. They also have an online store.
Have a great day!
It's friggin' cold out!! The core of my body kept warm with my jacket but even with longjohns on, my legs were very cold. It's supose to warm up to -13 this afternoon (if you call that warm) and this system is apparently going to clear out in a couple days.
The Friendship Dinner last night went really well. The food was really delicious and I found a new (yet inexpensive) wine that I like. For a present, I got some homemade baking. I think I'll end up giving it to Inn From The Cold because I'm trying to save up my sweets cravings until Ontario.
I'm stopping by Saje this afternoon to pick up a few last minutes things. They're having their annual Christmas sale and serving "refreshments" (wine and healthy finger food). I love this store - they sell essential oils and blends as well as organic skin care products. I was first introduced to their products when visiting Aunt Corinne in 2000. I've used their Peppermint Halo for my ailments (headache, jetlag) ever since. They also have an online store.
Have a great day!
Sunday, December 04, 2005
An interesting weekend
Hi Everyone!
Had an interesting experience at the grocery store on Saturday. I needed to buy baby food for the Friendship Dinner on Monday (it's for a charity that helps new/single mothers in need) and had to go through the store twice to figure out where it was. After all, why is food in the pharmacy section? Anyways, got to the checkout and set the babyfood and formula on the conveyer belt first before the rest of my groceries. The guy in front of my glance at my selection and got a puzzled look on his face. He was probably doing what I do when I'm in line - look at other people's purchases and try to figure out their lifestyle. My order was very odd because I had a huge variety of babyfood (both for newborns and toddlers) followed by ingredients to make wings. He kept looking back to figure me out and I had a hard time keeping from laughing. I can't believe how expensive baby food is! If I remember correctly, Christine use to eat two jars each meal. Formula was even more expensive. Why do women pay for something that their bodies produce naturally? (Yes - you can tell I'm not a mom)
Made my Zuccotto on Saturday night and I'll glaze it after supper. I decided to go the easy decorating route. I'll first glaze it with chocolate (very easy - Baker's chocolate & evaporated milk). I'll then sprinkle the dome with shaved white chocolate and my leftover roasted filberts. Around the edge of the plate (to cover where the glaze pooled I'll surround it with Cool Whip (imagine it's snow drifts) and sprinkle a bit more of the filberts and some shaved semi-sweet chocolate. It'll look really nice and yet be very simple to do.
Bought a Peace Lily for Smartie today. I've been a bit worried because Jodi (the petsitter) is only coming every other day and Smartie loves to eat. I can set up the plant so he'll get nutrients from the roots and will only need feeding once a week. Hopefully he likes it...
Have a great day!
Had an interesting experience at the grocery store on Saturday. I needed to buy baby food for the Friendship Dinner on Monday (it's for a charity that helps new/single mothers in need) and had to go through the store twice to figure out where it was. After all, why is food in the pharmacy section? Anyways, got to the checkout and set the babyfood and formula on the conveyer belt first before the rest of my groceries. The guy in front of my glance at my selection and got a puzzled look on his face. He was probably doing what I do when I'm in line - look at other people's purchases and try to figure out their lifestyle. My order was very odd because I had a huge variety of babyfood (both for newborns and toddlers) followed by ingredients to make wings. He kept looking back to figure me out and I had a hard time keeping from laughing. I can't believe how expensive baby food is! If I remember correctly, Christine use to eat two jars each meal. Formula was even more expensive. Why do women pay for something that their bodies produce naturally? (Yes - you can tell I'm not a mom)
Made my Zuccotto on Saturday night and I'll glaze it after supper. I decided to go the easy decorating route. I'll first glaze it with chocolate (very easy - Baker's chocolate & evaporated milk). I'll then sprinkle the dome with shaved white chocolate and my leftover roasted filberts. Around the edge of the plate (to cover where the glaze pooled I'll surround it with Cool Whip (imagine it's snow drifts) and sprinkle a bit more of the filberts and some shaved semi-sweet chocolate. It'll look really nice and yet be very simple to do.
Bought a Peace Lily for Smartie today. I've been a bit worried because Jodi (the petsitter) is only coming every other day and Smartie loves to eat. I can set up the plant so he'll get nutrients from the roots and will only need feeding once a week. Hopefully he likes it...
Have a great day!
Yummy Recipe for Wings
Saucy Wings
3 lbs chicken drumettes or wings
3/4 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/3 cup white sugar
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
6 tbsp all-purpose flour
Arrange chicken on foil-lined baking sheet with sides. If using whole wings, discard tips and cut wings apart at joint. Bake in 350 oven for 30 minutes.
Heat pineapple juice, soy sauce and lemon juice in saucepan until boiling.
Mix remaining 5 ingredients well in bowl. Stir into boiling liquid until sauce returns to a boil and thickens. Remove from heat. Brush wings generously with sauce. Bake, brushing with sauce every 10 minutes for about 30 minutes until tender.
Serves about 3-4 people.
When I made these, I submerged the wings into the sauce and didn't need to brush them every 10 minutes. Very yummy.
3 lbs chicken drumettes or wings
3/4 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/3 cup white sugar
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
6 tbsp all-purpose flour
Arrange chicken on foil-lined baking sheet with sides. If using whole wings, discard tips and cut wings apart at joint. Bake in 350 oven for 30 minutes.
Heat pineapple juice, soy sauce and lemon juice in saucepan until boiling.
Mix remaining 5 ingredients well in bowl. Stir into boiling liquid until sauce returns to a boil and thickens. Remove from heat. Brush wings generously with sauce. Bake, brushing with sauce every 10 minutes for about 30 minutes until tender.
Serves about 3-4 people.
When I made these, I submerged the wings into the sauce and didn't need to brush them every 10 minutes. Very yummy.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Sunny Saturday
Hi Everyone!
Love my new haircut - it reminds Velma from Scooby Doo! The colour is dark brown and looks very natural. Puttering around the house doing odds and ends but I'm heading down to 17th Ave this afternoon for a few things.
Ended up not going to the church's dinner - it was just too cold out and I had lots of food in the fridge. Watched "The Blue Butterfly". It's a wonderful movie (based on a true story) about a boy dying from cancer whose last wish is to find a blue morpho butterfly. I'd highly recommend it to everyone (including children above the age of 8). It's a Canadian movie but don't hold that against it!
Have a great day!
Love my new haircut - it reminds Velma from Scooby Doo! The colour is dark brown and looks very natural. Puttering around the house doing odds and ends but I'm heading down to 17th Ave this afternoon for a few things.
Ended up not going to the church's dinner - it was just too cold out and I had lots of food in the fridge. Watched "The Blue Butterfly". It's a wonderful movie (based on a true story) about a boy dying from cancer whose last wish is to find a blue morpho butterfly. I'd highly recommend it to everyone (including children above the age of 8). It's a Canadian movie but don't hold that against it!
Have a great day!
Friday, December 02, 2005
Haircut day!
Hi everyone!
Another cold morning (-18 C) and I'm still getting warmed up after my walk.
Made my Christmas treats last night. Much earlier than expected but not everyone is working next week (although I am). It didn't take very long as I had all my ingredients at hand and everything I needed was ready to go. I made turtle squares, peanut brittle, two-tone almond bark, unbaked honey squares and fantasy fudge. Also made some shortbread cookies and chocolate macaroons but both turned out terribly. I find shortbread very tough - mine only turn out about half of the time.
Getting my hair cut tonight and then will attend the church's annual dinner. It'll be my first turkey of the year (Thanksgiving was Indian cuisine - yum!).
Have a great day!
Another cold morning (-18 C) and I'm still getting warmed up after my walk.
Made my Christmas treats last night. Much earlier than expected but not everyone is working next week (although I am). It didn't take very long as I had all my ingredients at hand and everything I needed was ready to go. I made turtle squares, peanut brittle, two-tone almond bark, unbaked honey squares and fantasy fudge. Also made some shortbread cookies and chocolate macaroons but both turned out terribly. I find shortbread very tough - mine only turn out about half of the time.
Getting my hair cut tonight and then will attend the church's annual dinner. It'll be my first turkey of the year (Thanksgiving was Indian cuisine - yum!).
Have a great day!
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
A balmy -16 C
Hi everyone!
Wearing my long johns today. Stayed cuddly warm last night and I'm feeling better. We went for Japanese yesterday for lunch and I think the tea really helped.
Mike's been very well behaved around the Christmas decorations. He hasn't tried to attack/eat the tinsel and his new favourite spot is curled under the tree. He does pounce on the presents but so far he hasn't torn the paper.
Tomorrow's December! I made a list last night of all the stuff I had to do before flying home and so far it I have at least one thing happening each day. I've already done my Christmas baking shopping and I'll start making treats this weekend. Will be mailing out my Christmas cards on Monday. If you don't get one, there may be a few reasons:
a) I don't have your mailing address
b) it got lost in the mail
c) I didn't send you one
Have a great day!
Wearing my long johns today. Stayed cuddly warm last night and I'm feeling better. We went for Japanese yesterday for lunch and I think the tea really helped.
Mike's been very well behaved around the Christmas decorations. He hasn't tried to attack/eat the tinsel and his new favourite spot is curled under the tree. He does pounce on the presents but so far he hasn't torn the paper.
Tomorrow's December! I made a list last night of all the stuff I had to do before flying home and so far it I have at least one thing happening each day. I've already done my Christmas baking shopping and I'll start making treats this weekend. Will be mailing out my Christmas cards on Monday. If you don't get one, there may be a few reasons:
a) I don't have your mailing address
b) it got lost in the mail
c) I didn't send you one
Have a great day!
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
I've got the sniffles
Hi everyone!
Woke up feeling achy and sniffly. It's not a full-blown cold yet so hopefully I can get the drugs into me early so it doesn't.
Last night I made my favourite casserole. I had Whiskers in the kitchen with me and I think she had fun hopping around. She doesn't try to scoot under my feet so I don't have to worry about stepping on her! I then decided to make one-pan tacos for Tuesday (but still ate one taco) and made a bag of cheese popcorn. I should've realized I was getting sick because of how hungry I was.
The tv said it was -10 when I left for work and it's going to -12 this afternoon. There's a bit of snow (less than an inch) but it dusted the sidewalks so you couldn't see where the ice was.
Anyways, not in the mood to type. I'll get some more apple cider and cuddle into my nice comfy chair at work...
Woke up feeling achy and sniffly. It's not a full-blown cold yet so hopefully I can get the drugs into me early so it doesn't.
Last night I made my favourite casserole. I had Whiskers in the kitchen with me and I think she had fun hopping around. She doesn't try to scoot under my feet so I don't have to worry about stepping on her! I then decided to make one-pan tacos for Tuesday (but still ate one taco) and made a bag of cheese popcorn. I should've realized I was getting sick because of how hungry I was.
The tv said it was -10 when I left for work and it's going to -12 this afternoon. There's a bit of snow (less than an inch) but it dusted the sidewalks so you couldn't see where the ice was.
Anyways, not in the mood to type. I'll get some more apple cider and cuddle into my nice comfy chair at work...
Monday, November 28, 2005
What a weekend!
Hi everyone!
I'll start from when I last left you...
Thursday night was a great choir practise. We're doing "And the Glory of the Lord" this Sunday, which is the first choral piece of Handel's "Messiah". It's challanging but quite impressive.
Friday was our office (Calgary & Edmonton) year-end meeting. That evening, Phil invited all of us to his place for wine and hors d'oeuvers. I checked with Calgary Transit to see when the bus was going by so I didn't have to wait at the bus stop forever. I left early (to be three minutes early), I watched the bus zoom by as I was less than a block away. This really pissed me off but I decided to try another bus. Walked/jogged toward 14 St and watch bus 7 zoom by as I was 3 blocks away. At this point I was rather upset but decided I could still try catching bus 3 which runs along the Elbow River. Made quick time through Mount Royal and got to the stop. The bus came about 5 minutes later so I had time to touch-up my nails. It took me right to the C-Train and I caught it right away and got to South Centre Mall (where I was to get a ride with Lori). Even with all this transit hassle, I was on time. We (Lori, Shane & I) went for supper. I had penne with a curry sauce. A bit bland looking and different tasting (but not "different" or "unique") but I'm glad I tried it. It was penne, chicken breast, pineapple and sun dried tomatoes covered in a creamy curry sauce (looked like light-yellow sauce). I've never eaten pasta with curry before but the pineapple was a nice in the sauce. Had a lovely time at Phil's. He is a wine enthusiast so there was some great wine matched with the snacks.
What a day Saturday was!
Wasn't hungover (which surprised me although I did cut down closer to the end of the night). Picked up the rental car (Taurus with a sunroof). I had made a list earlier of all the things I could possibly need to buy before spring. I picked up supplies from the pet store and then went to Walmart. I know remember why I finish Christmas shopping in August. I couldn't believe how busy it was! Almost 2 hours later, I left for groceries. To make a long story short, instead of leaving Calgary at 3:30, I ended up leaving at 4:50. Luckily traffic was smooth, roads were clear & dry, and I made quick time up there. Got to the hotel right at 6:30 (the same time as the restaurant reservation). The restaurant was just down the street and I met Phil and his wife on the street heading there. The Santa Claus parade was that night also and we had a great view.
The restaurant - wow! www.lebeaujolaisbanff.com Le Beaujolais is an extremely expensive french restaurant that was worth every penny. We all ordered the suprise dinner ($90/p, $140 if you paired each course with wine). We were served by their maitre'd and I've never had food like this before. Basically, the chef make 6 courses that aren't on the menu. The meal can also be paired with wine to complement the food. Each course had a fancy french name but here's what the food (basically) was:
1 - pheasant. It looked a bit like the meat was flaked, fruit or nuts were added and then it was pressed look like the same shape as a salami. It was really taste (despite looking pretty gross). Lori thinks it was like a pate
2 - duck (for me) or shrimp on a bed of angel hair pasta. They had asked earlier about food preferences and I said no seafood or mushrooms. I love well-prepared duck and this stuff melted in my mouth.
3 - venison (in a yummy sauce)
break - lemon sorbet "to clear the palate"
4 - Alberta beef (about the size of your palm) with three small pieces of veal on top. It was the entree. Wow!
5 - cheese plate (about 5 cheeses) that was served with an Ukranian fortified wine (tasted similar to Port). Liked all but one cheese and really enjoyed the wine.
6 - sorbet layer cake. The top layer was raspberry, the middle was pear and the bottom layer was cake/crumbs. It was served with a slice of chocolate cake. I didn't like the sorbet but the cake was good. Served with a dessert wine I didn't like.
About half of the guests paired the meal with wine but I drank a very delicious beer called "Grumpy Bear". It's made in Canmore and is a honey-brown. As much as I hate to admit it, the beer had a nicer taste and was smoother than Sleemans.
We didn't leave until amost 11pm and I'll admit I was still not full. The courses were small (about the size of your palm) and very spaced out. Afterwards, everyone but Phil and his wife went for cigars at the one bar in Banff where you can smoke. Yes - I will indulge in the odd wine-tipped or vanilla flavoured cigar. They just smell so wonderful even if it's a once or twice a year treat. Everyone but me was disgusted with the sticky floor (from the beer spilt) but it certainly wasn't like the floor of Brothers or The Harb on a Saturday night. Went back to the hotel for a beer and then headed to bed. I actually behaved myself and didn't overindulge. The beer I had was a nice additive to the meal even though I rarely drink when eating.
Woke up around 7 but forced myself to stay in the lovely bed until 8. The room had its own coffee maker so I made a couple cups and pulled the chair up to the window. During the evening/morning it snowed lightly and my room looked out onto Banff Ave (the main street). It was very relaxing. The hotel was really nice and had a great location. Thank goodness I wasn't paying... Went for breakfast and actually ate all the ham & cheese omelet they prepared for me. Felt a bit ill eating the eggs but it just tasted so good! I headed out just after 10 because I wanted to take my time. I rarely drive and roads were at that slush/snow stage that can be dangerous.
Drivers are stupid! I couldn't believe how dangerous these people were driving! The speed limit in Banff on the TransCanada is 90 km/h and outside of it is 110 km/h. I stayed in the right lane (which was clear) while stupid people sped by me in their slush-filled lane. I had two incidences when I was left not being able to see. The first time, I was heading up an incline with a curve. The moron on my left sped by and covered my windshield with slush. It took a several wipes for me to see anything and it's a good think my hands were already set for the curve. (The driver was also speeding). The same thing happened again but it was in a straight stretch. I couldn't believe how fast people were driving with conditions like that! I'll drive those speeds and more if the road is bare and dry but those people were reckless.
Bonus - I saw a wolf on my way back. It was on the strip of grass between the traffic. I've only ever seen one in a zoo and I was very happy. Almost made up for the stupid drivers...
Stopped at Michael's for wreath-making supplies. After dropping off the rental car, they gave me a ride back to my apartment (for free!). I cleaned the bathroom and storage shelves. Got out the Christmas decorations, made my wreath, put up the tree and relaxed. Mike didn't try to attack the tree although he did pounce on a couple presents. It's just a little tree - 4 1/2 feet but it fits well in the apartment.
I have a busy week and I'm getting my hair cut on Friday. This way, if it looks terrible, I have time to fix it before Christmas.
Have a great day!
I'll start from when I last left you...
Thursday night was a great choir practise. We're doing "And the Glory of the Lord" this Sunday, which is the first choral piece of Handel's "Messiah". It's challanging but quite impressive.
Friday was our office (Calgary & Edmonton) year-end meeting. That evening, Phil invited all of us to his place for wine and hors d'oeuvers. I checked with Calgary Transit to see when the bus was going by so I didn't have to wait at the bus stop forever. I left early (to be three minutes early), I watched the bus zoom by as I was less than a block away. This really pissed me off but I decided to try another bus. Walked/jogged toward 14 St and watch bus 7 zoom by as I was 3 blocks away. At this point I was rather upset but decided I could still try catching bus 3 which runs along the Elbow River. Made quick time through Mount Royal and got to the stop. The bus came about 5 minutes later so I had time to touch-up my nails. It took me right to the C-Train and I caught it right away and got to South Centre Mall (where I was to get a ride with Lori). Even with all this transit hassle, I was on time. We (Lori, Shane & I) went for supper. I had penne with a curry sauce. A bit bland looking and different tasting (but not "different" or "unique") but I'm glad I tried it. It was penne, chicken breast, pineapple and sun dried tomatoes covered in a creamy curry sauce (looked like light-yellow sauce). I've never eaten pasta with curry before but the pineapple was a nice in the sauce. Had a lovely time at Phil's. He is a wine enthusiast so there was some great wine matched with the snacks.
What a day Saturday was!
Wasn't hungover (which surprised me although I did cut down closer to the end of the night). Picked up the rental car (Taurus with a sunroof). I had made a list earlier of all the things I could possibly need to buy before spring. I picked up supplies from the pet store and then went to Walmart. I know remember why I finish Christmas shopping in August. I couldn't believe how busy it was! Almost 2 hours later, I left for groceries. To make a long story short, instead of leaving Calgary at 3:30, I ended up leaving at 4:50. Luckily traffic was smooth, roads were clear & dry, and I made quick time up there. Got to the hotel right at 6:30 (the same time as the restaurant reservation). The restaurant was just down the street and I met Phil and his wife on the street heading there. The Santa Claus parade was that night also and we had a great view.
The restaurant - wow! www.lebeaujolaisbanff.com Le Beaujolais is an extremely expensive french restaurant that was worth every penny. We all ordered the suprise dinner ($90/p, $140 if you paired each course with wine). We were served by their maitre'd and I've never had food like this before. Basically, the chef make 6 courses that aren't on the menu. The meal can also be paired with wine to complement the food. Each course had a fancy french name but here's what the food (basically) was:
1 - pheasant. It looked a bit like the meat was flaked, fruit or nuts were added and then it was pressed look like the same shape as a salami. It was really taste (despite looking pretty gross). Lori thinks it was like a pate
2 - duck (for me) or shrimp on a bed of angel hair pasta. They had asked earlier about food preferences and I said no seafood or mushrooms. I love well-prepared duck and this stuff melted in my mouth.
3 - venison (in a yummy sauce)
break - lemon sorbet "to clear the palate"
4 - Alberta beef (about the size of your palm) with three small pieces of veal on top. It was the entree. Wow!
5 - cheese plate (about 5 cheeses) that was served with an Ukranian fortified wine (tasted similar to Port). Liked all but one cheese and really enjoyed the wine.
6 - sorbet layer cake. The top layer was raspberry, the middle was pear and the bottom layer was cake/crumbs. It was served with a slice of chocolate cake. I didn't like the sorbet but the cake was good. Served with a dessert wine I didn't like.
About half of the guests paired the meal with wine but I drank a very delicious beer called "Grumpy Bear". It's made in Canmore and is a honey-brown. As much as I hate to admit it, the beer had a nicer taste and was smoother than Sleemans.
We didn't leave until amost 11pm and I'll admit I was still not full. The courses were small (about the size of your palm) and very spaced out. Afterwards, everyone but Phil and his wife went for cigars at the one bar in Banff where you can smoke. Yes - I will indulge in the odd wine-tipped or vanilla flavoured cigar. They just smell so wonderful even if it's a once or twice a year treat. Everyone but me was disgusted with the sticky floor (from the beer spilt) but it certainly wasn't like the floor of Brothers or The Harb on a Saturday night. Went back to the hotel for a beer and then headed to bed. I actually behaved myself and didn't overindulge. The beer I had was a nice additive to the meal even though I rarely drink when eating.
Woke up around 7 but forced myself to stay in the lovely bed until 8. The room had its own coffee maker so I made a couple cups and pulled the chair up to the window. During the evening/morning it snowed lightly and my room looked out onto Banff Ave (the main street). It was very relaxing. The hotel was really nice and had a great location. Thank goodness I wasn't paying... Went for breakfast and actually ate all the ham & cheese omelet they prepared for me. Felt a bit ill eating the eggs but it just tasted so good! I headed out just after 10 because I wanted to take my time. I rarely drive and roads were at that slush/snow stage that can be dangerous.
Drivers are stupid! I couldn't believe how dangerous these people were driving! The speed limit in Banff on the TransCanada is 90 km/h and outside of it is 110 km/h. I stayed in the right lane (which was clear) while stupid people sped by me in their slush-filled lane. I had two incidences when I was left not being able to see. The first time, I was heading up an incline with a curve. The moron on my left sped by and covered my windshield with slush. It took a several wipes for me to see anything and it's a good think my hands were already set for the curve. (The driver was also speeding). The same thing happened again but it was in a straight stretch. I couldn't believe how fast people were driving with conditions like that! I'll drive those speeds and more if the road is bare and dry but those people were reckless.
Bonus - I saw a wolf on my way back. It was on the strip of grass between the traffic. I've only ever seen one in a zoo and I was very happy. Almost made up for the stupid drivers...
Stopped at Michael's for wreath-making supplies. After dropping off the rental car, they gave me a ride back to my apartment (for free!). I cleaned the bathroom and storage shelves. Got out the Christmas decorations, made my wreath, put up the tree and relaxed. Mike didn't try to attack the tree although he did pounce on a couple presents. It's just a little tree - 4 1/2 feet but it fits well in the apartment.
I have a busy week and I'm getting my hair cut on Friday. This way, if it looks terrible, I have time to fix it before Christmas.
Have a great day!
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Strange Animal Trivia
I saw this on Encarta and thought it was fun. The answers are given below.
Stranger Than Fiction
By Amy Leigh Morgan
It’s often said that fact is stranger than fiction. That’s especially true when it comes to the natural world. Take a look at the truths, half-truths, and outright lies listed below and see if you can tell the difference between them.
Fact or Fiction
1. Bacon tastes salty because pigs don’t have any sweat glands.
2. Sharks will suffocate and die if they stop moving
3. Camel spiders inject an anaesthetic into the flesh of their sleeping victims, and then eat them alive while they slumber.
4. Birds can’t burp, so if you feed an Alka-Seltzer tablet to a seagull it will die from the pressure caused by the medication in its stomach.
5. There is a South American lizard that can walk on water.
6. In the jungles of Indonesia, there is a flowering vine that can (and does!) eat small reptiles.
7. The red dye carmine, used in everything from lipsticks to Coca-Cola, can only be obtained from dried, ground-up bugs.
8. The pit bull terrier can lock its powerful jaws when it bites.
9. The only enemy of the polar bear (besides man) is the sea wolf, Lupus maris.
10. There is a type of turtle, native to Australia, that can breathe through its butt.
Stranger Than Fiction
By Amy Leigh Morgan
It’s often said that fact is stranger than fiction. That’s especially true when it comes to the natural world. Take a look at the truths, half-truths, and outright lies listed below and see if you can tell the difference between them.
Fact or Fiction
1. Bacon tastes salty because pigs don’t have any sweat glands.
2. Sharks will suffocate and die if they stop moving
3. Camel spiders inject an anaesthetic into the flesh of their sleeping victims, and then eat them alive while they slumber.
4. Birds can’t burp, so if you feed an Alka-Seltzer tablet to a seagull it will die from the pressure caused by the medication in its stomach.
5. There is a South American lizard that can walk on water.
6. In the jungles of Indonesia, there is a flowering vine that can (and does!) eat small reptiles.
7. The red dye carmine, used in everything from lipsticks to Coca-Cola, can only be obtained from dried, ground-up bugs.
8. The pit bull terrier can lock its powerful jaws when it bites.
9. The only enemy of the polar bear (besides man) is the sea wolf, Lupus maris.
10. There is a type of turtle, native to Australia, that can breathe through its butt.
Answers to Trivia
Answers courtesy of Encarta
1. Fiction - While it’s true that pigs don’t have sweat glands, it’s not true that the unsweated salt makes their flesh taste salty. Salt is added to bacon as the meat is being cured.
2. Fact - Unlike most fishes, sharks do not have muscles that can draw water across their gills. And since fish breathe by drawing oxygenated water across their gills, it follows that sharks need to keep moving in order to get that oxygen into their system. While some sharks can pump water through their gills by opening and closing their mouths, most need to keep swimming
3. Fiction - The poor camel spider is actually a timid, nonpoisonous arachnid with a bad reputation. All that stuff about soldiers having their faces eaten off in the desert in Iraq? That's nonsense. It's a fun story to tell, though, especially if the victim of the so-called deadly spider is a friend's friend's brother's buddy.
4. Fiction - It takes a lot more than an Alka-Seltzer tablet to make a seagull explode. This urban legend has been around for decades, but it's simply not true. Seagulls have been known to vomit after eating Alka-Seltzer, but they have never been proven to explode.
5. Fact – The basilisk lizard can, indeed, run across the surface of a body of still water, thus earning it the nickname Jesus Christ lizard. Basilisk lizards are found in tropical America from Mexico to Ecuador.
6. Fact - The genus Nepenthes, commonly known as the pitcher plant is a type of carnivorous plant that's found scattered across the globe. All members of the genus are distinguished by a blossom that resembles a pitcher with a lid. The inside of the pitcher is slippery and the bottom of the pitcher is full of digestive juices. When an unlucky creature falls in, it's unable to climb out and is slowly digested by the plant. Not all pitcher plants are large enough to eat small reptiles like frogs and lizards. But some of them are.
7. Fact - The red dye carmine, used in everything from lipsticks to Coca-Cola, can only be obtained by crushing huge quantities of the insect Dactylopius coccus, or cochineal. That's right--those lovely red lips you see in fashion magazines? Covered in dried, smeared bugs. Yum.
8. Fiction - The pit bull terrier does have powerful jaws and a fierce reputation. However, these much-maligned pups have exactly the same jaw structure as any other dog. They can't lock their jaws any more than you or Snoopy can.
9. Fiction - There is no such thing as a sea wolf! Besides man, polar bears have no natural predators.
10. Fact - The Fitzroy river turtle (Rheodytes leukops), native to Australia, has a highly vascularized (lots of blood vessels) set of sacs (called bursae) at the end of its cloaca (or digestive/urogenital tract) that allows it to take in oxygen through its backside, as well as through its front. In other words, it can breathe through its butt
1. Fiction - While it’s true that pigs don’t have sweat glands, it’s not true that the unsweated salt makes their flesh taste salty. Salt is added to bacon as the meat is being cured.
2. Fact - Unlike most fishes, sharks do not have muscles that can draw water across their gills. And since fish breathe by drawing oxygenated water across their gills, it follows that sharks need to keep moving in order to get that oxygen into their system. While some sharks can pump water through their gills by opening and closing their mouths, most need to keep swimming
3. Fiction - The poor camel spider is actually a timid, nonpoisonous arachnid with a bad reputation. All that stuff about soldiers having their faces eaten off in the desert in Iraq? That's nonsense. It's a fun story to tell, though, especially if the victim of the so-called deadly spider is a friend's friend's brother's buddy.
4. Fiction - It takes a lot more than an Alka-Seltzer tablet to make a seagull explode. This urban legend has been around for decades, but it's simply not true. Seagulls have been known to vomit after eating Alka-Seltzer, but they have never been proven to explode.
5. Fact – The basilisk lizard can, indeed, run across the surface of a body of still water, thus earning it the nickname Jesus Christ lizard. Basilisk lizards are found in tropical America from Mexico to Ecuador.
6. Fact - The genus Nepenthes, commonly known as the pitcher plant is a type of carnivorous plant that's found scattered across the globe. All members of the genus are distinguished by a blossom that resembles a pitcher with a lid. The inside of the pitcher is slippery and the bottom of the pitcher is full of digestive juices. When an unlucky creature falls in, it's unable to climb out and is slowly digested by the plant. Not all pitcher plants are large enough to eat small reptiles like frogs and lizards. But some of them are.
7. Fact - The red dye carmine, used in everything from lipsticks to Coca-Cola, can only be obtained by crushing huge quantities of the insect Dactylopius coccus, or cochineal. That's right--those lovely red lips you see in fashion magazines? Covered in dried, smeared bugs. Yum.
8. Fiction - The pit bull terrier does have powerful jaws and a fierce reputation. However, these much-maligned pups have exactly the same jaw structure as any other dog. They can't lock their jaws any more than you or Snoopy can.
9. Fiction - There is no such thing as a sea wolf! Besides man, polar bears have no natural predators.
10. Fact - The Fitzroy river turtle (Rheodytes leukops), native to Australia, has a highly vascularized (lots of blood vessels) set of sacs (called bursae) at the end of its cloaca (or digestive/urogenital tract) that allows it to take in oxygen through its backside, as well as through its front. In other words, it can breathe through its butt
Two more days of nice weather...
Hi everyone!
Today and tomorrow will be our last lovely days for a while. It suppose to get to a high of 16 today (if we do, it's a new record) and Friday is forecasted as a high of 12, low of -6 with increasing clouds. They're calling for snow on Saturday and maybe Sunday. It was a bit cooler walking to work today and earlier in the week but I'm not complaining...
Trying to decide on a new haircut. I got two different magazines to help me choose a new style. I got a gift certificate for the salon down the street. Well, actually I bought the gift certificate for myself. It consists of two visits. The first visit includes: a hair design and color consultation, hair cut, shampoo and designer style, custom conditioning with relaxing scalp massage and your choice of any one of the following: full color, foil or cap highlight, perm. The second visit includes: hair cut, shampoo and designer style and custom conditioning with relaxing scalp massage. I have until July to use up the two coupons. They were having a special deal for new clients so this is why I got the gift certificate. I'm hoping to get my hair cut within the next two weeks. This way, if it looks horrid, I still have time to fix it before flying to Ontario!
After work yesterday, I dropped off brownies at Inn from the Cold and then roamed around The Bay. It's such a great store to play in. I had a lot of fun trying on hats. At Bethel class we had a discussion followed by part of a movie. The movie (we've been watching it for 3 classes now) is based on the Gospel of Matthew. It's actually quite interesting for me as I'm a visual person. I find it easier to follow than reading the words. Basically, it's set up as Matthew (the tax collector) retelling his adventures with Jesus and there are scribes writing down his story. There's lots of scenery changes - marketplaces, countryside, animals such as goats and sheep, so it makes the book seem easier to relate to. The downside of the movie was the room was warm and cozy and I ended falling asleep!
Have choir practise tonight (although I won't be in church on Sunday). Aside from that, all's quiet in Alberta (except for Ralph - I may hate his ideas, but at least he gives his honest opinion).
Today and tomorrow will be our last lovely days for a while. It suppose to get to a high of 16 today (if we do, it's a new record) and Friday is forecasted as a high of 12, low of -6 with increasing clouds. They're calling for snow on Saturday and maybe Sunday. It was a bit cooler walking to work today and earlier in the week but I'm not complaining...
Trying to decide on a new haircut. I got two different magazines to help me choose a new style. I got a gift certificate for the salon down the street. Well, actually I bought the gift certificate for myself. It consists of two visits. The first visit includes: a hair design and color consultation, hair cut, shampoo and designer style, custom conditioning with relaxing scalp massage and your choice of any one of the following: full color, foil or cap highlight, perm. The second visit includes: hair cut, shampoo and designer style and custom conditioning with relaxing scalp massage. I have until July to use up the two coupons. They were having a special deal for new clients so this is why I got the gift certificate. I'm hoping to get my hair cut within the next two weeks. This way, if it looks horrid, I still have time to fix it before flying to Ontario!
After work yesterday, I dropped off brownies at Inn from the Cold and then roamed around The Bay. It's such a great store to play in. I had a lot of fun trying on hats. At Bethel class we had a discussion followed by part of a movie. The movie (we've been watching it for 3 classes now) is based on the Gospel of Matthew. It's actually quite interesting for me as I'm a visual person. I find it easier to follow than reading the words. Basically, it's set up as Matthew (the tax collector) retelling his adventures with Jesus and there are scribes writing down his story. There's lots of scenery changes - marketplaces, countryside, animals such as goats and sheep, so it makes the book seem easier to relate to. The downside of the movie was the room was warm and cozy and I ended falling asleep!
Have choir practise tonight (although I won't be in church on Sunday). Aside from that, all's quiet in Alberta (except for Ralph - I may hate his ideas, but at least he gives his honest opinion).
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
An odd morning
Hi everyone!
The hydro (although out here's it's electricity) went out sometime during the night so my alarm didn't go off. Still woke up in time for work (only a minute or two late). Checked the forecast today. It was warmed at 6am (6 C) than when I left for work (3 C). It's now back to our lovely 14 C and the nice weather should last for the next couple days.
Whiskers and Mike are funny. Last night I put Whiskers on my bed to play. She hasn't figured out that she can jump off the edge so it's easier to play with her. Mike jumped up as well (because the bed is "his" territory) and demanded attention. The two of them completely ignored each other. They wouldn't move for each other so each had to jump/step over the other.
Have a great day!
The hydro (although out here's it's electricity) went out sometime during the night so my alarm didn't go off. Still woke up in time for work (only a minute or two late). Checked the forecast today. It was warmed at 6am (6 C) than when I left for work (3 C). It's now back to our lovely 14 C and the nice weather should last for the next couple days.
Whiskers and Mike are funny. Last night I put Whiskers on my bed to play. She hasn't figured out that she can jump off the edge so it's easier to play with her. Mike jumped up as well (because the bed is "his" territory) and demanded attention. The two of them completely ignored each other. They wouldn't move for each other so each had to jump/step over the other.
Have a great day!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Updated Christmas List
Christmas List
This list seems so practical! I remember as a kid writing out a huge list with all sorts of crazy stuff on it.
cd - Confessions on a Dance Floor - Madonna (I've actually been a fan of her for as long as I remember hearing her music when visiting family in London. This album sounds rather fun)
movie - Kingdom of Heaven; Hidalgo; Contact (an old favourite) ; Tootsie (absolutely hilarious)
wooden spoons - (I could use a few extra)
warm sheets for my bed - I just have cotton sheets and need to wear socks to bed in the winter. My bed is a double and almost any colour (probably beige, sage or light steel blue) would work.
draught stopper - my back door to the hallways has a huge gap under it. This means I get light shining in from the hallway when I'm trying to sleep and when the wind comes, my apartment gets cold too. I luckily don't pay extra for heat but maybe it'll also help with noise reduction. I guess I could also use a towel...
black socks
cooking tongs
pair of nice looking gloves - I have my warm (and bulky) hand wear from MEC but it'd be lovely to wear something nice when going to church or the symphony. As well, wind cuts though fleece and you need to put your hands in your pockets.
travel coffee mug - so I can drink tea/hot chocolate on my cold walk to work.
sweater/turtleneck - maybe green or brown. Fitted rather than bulky (unless it was a lovely fisherman's sweater) that I could wear to work.
plant watering meter - my poor plants!
indoor hyacinths/crocus - I saw them in Walmart (the evil store) and thought they were nice
cordless phone - so I don't keep burning my food when having a conversation
crampons - non-technical ones that slip over winterboots/shoes. I find that my winter boots don't have enough traction when people don't shovel their sidewalks.
butter dish - I currently use a plastic container turned upside-down so the butter sits on the lid.
I'll keep adding to the list as I think of more things so check back often :-)
This list seems so practical! I remember as a kid writing out a huge list with all sorts of crazy stuff on it.
cd - Confessions on a Dance Floor - Madonna (I've actually been a fan of her for as long as I remember hearing her music when visiting family in London. This album sounds rather fun)
movie - Kingdom of Heaven; Hidalgo; Contact (an old favourite) ; Tootsie (absolutely hilarious)
wooden spoons - (I could use a few extra)
warm sheets for my bed - I just have cotton sheets and need to wear socks to bed in the winter. My bed is a double and almost any colour (probably beige, sage or light steel blue) would work.
draught stopper - my back door to the hallways has a huge gap under it. This means I get light shining in from the hallway when I'm trying to sleep and when the wind comes, my apartment gets cold too. I luckily don't pay extra for heat but maybe it'll also help with noise reduction. I guess I could also use a towel...
black socks
cooking tongs
pair of nice looking gloves - I have my warm (and bulky) hand wear from MEC but it'd be lovely to wear something nice when going to church or the symphony. As well, wind cuts though fleece and you need to put your hands in your pockets.
travel coffee mug - so I can drink tea/hot chocolate on my cold walk to work.
sweater/turtleneck - maybe green or brown. Fitted rather than bulky (unless it was a lovely fisherman's sweater) that I could wear to work.
plant watering meter - my poor plants!
indoor hyacinths/crocus - I saw them in Walmart (the evil store) and thought they were nice
cordless phone - so I don't keep burning my food when having a conversation
crampons - non-technical ones that slip over winterboots/shoes. I find that my winter boots don't have enough traction when people don't shovel their sidewalks.
butter dish - I currently use a plastic container turned upside-down so the butter sits on the lid.
I'll keep adding to the list as I think of more things so check back often :-)
Another warm day
Hi everyone!
It's a lovely 18 C outside which should break the record. Just finished lunch (and a lovely slice of Zuccotto). The weather suppose to turn nasty by the weekend so I'm trying to enjoy the sunshine while I can.
The dryer is fixed so I did a couple loads of laundry last night. To everyone who has a washer/dryer in your house - you are so lucky!
Don't really have any news today. I have a Townships meeting tonight down at Good Earth Cafe. They make wonder cranberry and apple cidar with whipped cream and caramel sauce (like Starbucks but cheaper). Received a photo of my new sponsor child. Mariama is nine year old girl from Ghana (Africa). She's in grade 1 and her chore at home is cooking. I can't imagine being her age and having this as a chore. I remember being a few years older than her and making a family candle-lit dinner of hotdogs.
It turns out that all the construction on my street is a city project. They're putting in a rain water overflow reservoir (I think this is what's it's called) under my street. I have yet to figure out why they would put this on top of a hill.
Anyways, I'm not in the mood to type. Have a great day!
It's a lovely 18 C outside which should break the record. Just finished lunch (and a lovely slice of Zuccotto). The weather suppose to turn nasty by the weekend so I'm trying to enjoy the sunshine while I can.
The dryer is fixed so I did a couple loads of laundry last night. To everyone who has a washer/dryer in your house - you are so lucky!
Don't really have any news today. I have a Townships meeting tonight down at Good Earth Cafe. They make wonder cranberry and apple cidar with whipped cream and caramel sauce (like Starbucks but cheaper). Received a photo of my new sponsor child. Mariama is nine year old girl from Ghana (Africa). She's in grade 1 and her chore at home is cooking. I can't imagine being her age and having this as a chore. I remember being a few years older than her and making a family candle-lit dinner of hotdogs.
It turns out that all the construction on my street is a city project. They're putting in a rain water overflow reservoir (I think this is what's it's called) under my street. I have yet to figure out why they would put this on top of a hill.
Anyways, I'm not in the mood to type. Have a great day!
Monday, November 21, 2005
A lovely Monday morning
Hi everyone!
I usually don't put "lovely Monday morning" in a sentence but this morning's actually pretty good. I woke up early enough to have breakfast, the weather was warm enough to go without a jacket - just a sweater and when I got to work, there were Christmas decorations!
This weekend was very productive. I must tell you about my spa adventure.
I got to the spa early so I had some time to kill. Someone took my coat for me and I was given the opportunity to enjoy two different saunas - one humid, one dry. I rather enjoyed both. I then re-hydreated with some orange water (water with slices of orange in it) and had my body wrap. The room itself had a raised platform that looked a bit like a bed. It had a gutter around the raised cushion area for water drainage. It was covered in what looked like a huge piece of Saran Wrap. The girl had me lay down and she first exfoliated me and then applied a thin layer of mud - much like you would a face mask. She then wrapped me up in the Saran wrap to let it set. Then, my hair was washed/scalp massage and instead of using a shower head, she used a pitcher of water. Very relaxing. The plastic was then removed and a set of shower heads (I think 6) rinsed off the mud/massaged me. I found I didn't like the final rinse as much - it got too steamy as it lasted about 10 minutes. After the body wrap, I had my make-up "reapplied" for "free". This girl was very nice and explained a lot about what to look for in a moisturizer and how to create a great home-made face exfoliant. (Take some baking soda and make a paste. Apply to your face. Remove very gently. Moisturize well. Do once a week.) I ended up buying some lipstick (lovely natural-looking shade) and left there feeling absolutely wonderful. Stopped for pizza and mellowed all night.
On Saturday I made hamburger soup. It was really easy and once you add all the ingredients, you put it on the stove and forget about it! I had problems cutting up the onion though. It was a yellow onion and I was crying just taking off the outside layer. Does anyone have any suggestions about cutting onions? The soup turned out really well and it was a big hit at the Harvest Lunch at church on Sunday. Some members of the Friendship Group made the soup from the same recipe so it could be intermixed with no problems. I bought an Amaryllis bulb (Huntington Society) and a ticket for the Christmas dinner at the beginning of December. I'm going to plant the bulb tonight - it came with instructions and it doesn't look too difficult to grow.
Sunday afternoon was Zuccotto time. The cakes turned out well - I used alluminium foil round pans and they came out with no problems. It was easy to shape the cake into the bowl - no breakage/crumbling. The alcohol smell was rather strong - I guess I'm not use to it anymore. There was a lot of filling so I filled both the dome and then created a layer on top. The other cake fit perfectly on top and then into the freezer for it to set. Four hours later I made the chocolate glaze (chocolate & whipping cream). In the future, I think I'll need to leave it on the stove for a bit longer - I noticed it was a bit lumpy when pouring it on the cake. Perhaps if I left it on the stove longer for it to blend and then waited for a longer time for it to thicken before pouring it on the cake. Anyways, the cake look good and we'll be trying it today. I'll let you know how it tastes.
Have a great day!
I usually don't put "lovely Monday morning" in a sentence but this morning's actually pretty good. I woke up early enough to have breakfast, the weather was warm enough to go without a jacket - just a sweater and when I got to work, there were Christmas decorations!
This weekend was very productive. I must tell you about my spa adventure.
I got to the spa early so I had some time to kill. Someone took my coat for me and I was given the opportunity to enjoy two different saunas - one humid, one dry. I rather enjoyed both. I then re-hydreated with some orange water (water with slices of orange in it) and had my body wrap. The room itself had a raised platform that looked a bit like a bed. It had a gutter around the raised cushion area for water drainage. It was covered in what looked like a huge piece of Saran Wrap. The girl had me lay down and she first exfoliated me and then applied a thin layer of mud - much like you would a face mask. She then wrapped me up in the Saran wrap to let it set. Then, my hair was washed/scalp massage and instead of using a shower head, she used a pitcher of water. Very relaxing. The plastic was then removed and a set of shower heads (I think 6) rinsed off the mud/massaged me. I found I didn't like the final rinse as much - it got too steamy as it lasted about 10 minutes. After the body wrap, I had my make-up "reapplied" for "free". This girl was very nice and explained a lot about what to look for in a moisturizer and how to create a great home-made face exfoliant. (Take some baking soda and make a paste. Apply to your face. Remove very gently. Moisturize well. Do once a week.) I ended up buying some lipstick (lovely natural-looking shade) and left there feeling absolutely wonderful. Stopped for pizza and mellowed all night.
On Saturday I made hamburger soup. It was really easy and once you add all the ingredients, you put it on the stove and forget about it! I had problems cutting up the onion though. It was a yellow onion and I was crying just taking off the outside layer. Does anyone have any suggestions about cutting onions? The soup turned out really well and it was a big hit at the Harvest Lunch at church on Sunday. Some members of the Friendship Group made the soup from the same recipe so it could be intermixed with no problems. I bought an Amaryllis bulb (Huntington Society) and a ticket for the Christmas dinner at the beginning of December. I'm going to plant the bulb tonight - it came with instructions and it doesn't look too difficult to grow.
Sunday afternoon was Zuccotto time. The cakes turned out well - I used alluminium foil round pans and they came out with no problems. It was easy to shape the cake into the bowl - no breakage/crumbling. The alcohol smell was rather strong - I guess I'm not use to it anymore. There was a lot of filling so I filled both the dome and then created a layer on top. The other cake fit perfectly on top and then into the freezer for it to set. Four hours later I made the chocolate glaze (chocolate & whipping cream). In the future, I think I'll need to leave it on the stove for a bit longer - I noticed it was a bit lumpy when pouring it on the cake. Perhaps if I left it on the stove longer for it to blend and then waited for a longer time for it to thicken before pouring it on the cake. Anyways, the cake look good and we'll be trying it today. I'll let you know how it tastes.
Have a great day!
Friday, November 18, 2005
It's Friday!
Hello everyone!
It was a warm windy morning (+9 according to the Weather Channel) when I walked to work but we've just had something happen and the temperature dropped really quickly. It dropped about 5 degrees or more and their website hasn't been updated yet.
Made Beef Satay with a creamy peanut sauce (yum!) last night. It was finished just in time to eat before heading down for my plasma donation. They're currently also looking for platelet donors so I'm waiting for a phone call back to find out more information. Walked up to choir practise (was about half an hour late) and was able to arrange a ride on Sunday. Found I had to sit while singing as I got light-headed but I generally didn't have a problem and Kacy gave me a ride home.
After work I'm going to the spa. Lori gave us gift certificates for Secretary's Day (or whatever the politically correct term is now) and I'm finally using it. I'm going to have an Essential Body Wrap (takes 65 minutes) "Total mind-body restoration. Begin with a mineral salt scrub to slough dry, tired skin. Followed with a complete application of a specialized Body Masque formulation targeted to suit your needs. We cocoon your body to lock in moisture and intensify the effects of the Body Masque, while you basque in the warm and aromatic wrap, you will enjoy a complete scalp treatment, face and head massage. To complete this experience your body is revitalized with a restorative hydrotherapy rinse. Your body feels light, soft, and luminous after this treatment." Sounds lovely, eh? They recommend that you arrive 20-30 minutes before your appointment so you can have a steam, sauna or shower. They provide complimentary tea, citrus water and fruit. After the appointment, you can have a complimentary make-up consultation. What a way to end the week!
No special plans for the weekend. I'm going to make Zuccotto. It's a fancy European cake that (if it tastes good) I will make for the Friendship Group Christmas dinner. I think it will be time-consuming but the steps themselves aren't difficult. Basically, you first make 2 round cakes. You take one and press it into a round bowl that has the same diameter as the cakes. This will create a cake dome. You put it in the freezer until the cake is frozen in the dome shape. You then take it out and fill it with a whipped filling and arrange it so the 2nd cake will act as a lid. Flip the cakes over to create a pretty dome and then cover it with a chocolate glaze. You can get really fancy with the decorating but this weekend is just an experiment. I'll let you know how it turns out.
Have a great day!
It was a warm windy morning (+9 according to the Weather Channel) when I walked to work but we've just had something happen and the temperature dropped really quickly. It dropped about 5 degrees or more and their website hasn't been updated yet.
Made Beef Satay with a creamy peanut sauce (yum!) last night. It was finished just in time to eat before heading down for my plasma donation. They're currently also looking for platelet donors so I'm waiting for a phone call back to find out more information. Walked up to choir practise (was about half an hour late) and was able to arrange a ride on Sunday. Found I had to sit while singing as I got light-headed but I generally didn't have a problem and Kacy gave me a ride home.
After work I'm going to the spa. Lori gave us gift certificates for Secretary's Day (or whatever the politically correct term is now) and I'm finally using it. I'm going to have an Essential Body Wrap (takes 65 minutes) "Total mind-body restoration. Begin with a mineral salt scrub to slough dry, tired skin. Followed with a complete application of a specialized Body Masque formulation targeted to suit your needs. We cocoon your body to lock in moisture and intensify the effects of the Body Masque, while you basque in the warm and aromatic wrap, you will enjoy a complete scalp treatment, face and head massage. To complete this experience your body is revitalized with a restorative hydrotherapy rinse. Your body feels light, soft, and luminous after this treatment." Sounds lovely, eh? They recommend that you arrive 20-30 minutes before your appointment so you can have a steam, sauna or shower. They provide complimentary tea, citrus water and fruit. After the appointment, you can have a complimentary make-up consultation. What a way to end the week!
No special plans for the weekend. I'm going to make Zuccotto. It's a fancy European cake that (if it tastes good) I will make for the Friendship Group Christmas dinner. I think it will be time-consuming but the steps themselves aren't difficult. Basically, you first make 2 round cakes. You take one and press it into a round bowl that has the same diameter as the cakes. This will create a cake dome. You put it in the freezer until the cake is frozen in the dome shape. You then take it out and fill it with a whipped filling and arrange it so the 2nd cake will act as a lid. Flip the cakes over to create a pretty dome and then cover it with a chocolate glaze. You can get really fancy with the decorating but this weekend is just an experiment. I'll let you know how it turns out.
Have a great day!
Thursday, November 17, 2005
A nice morning
Hello everyone!
Visited Marda Loop after work yesterday. Finished Christmas shopping so all I have left is a few things I need to make. Bought a really nice set of bracelettes for myself. Was tired when I got home so I ended up playing hooky from Bethel. Wrapped presents.
Wrote Christmas letters to my sponsor children, Jeysel and Yahya. I sponsor them through World Vision. Jeysel (pronounced Hazel) is a 6 year old from Nicaragua. Yahya is 5 (he'll be 6 on Dec. 31) from Mauritania (it's a country in north-west Africa). I have also just sponsored a 9 year old girl from Africa but I haven't received her information yet. I know it seems impractical for me to do this when I'm on such a small budget. I find that although my pocket book can be rather slim at the end of the month but I also know I have so many things that these children don't. We take for granted that we have a home, food to eat, hospitals and schools. I like World Vision because they assist the entire community. For example wells are dug, agricultural training is given to adults, and schools and hospitals are built. It's like the proverb "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Give a man a fishing pole and he will eat for a lifetime." The training and business skills that are taught will help to develop the entire community and, after about ten years, World Vision's work is done and they will move to another community. I love getting letters from them and hearing about their countries. I translate my letters into Spanish or English but there are also translaters that work for World Vision. This also helps me remember my language lessons.
I have plasma donation tonight and choir practise afterwards. I would normally skip practise but I'm hoping to arrange a ride for Sunday. It's the Harvest Lunch and I'm bringing hamburger soup. It's rather akward to carry so hopefully someone can help me out. Donating plasma is easy. There are only a few clinics across Canada and my blood type makes me a universal donor. They draw out your whole blood, put it through a machine that separates the plasma from the rest of the blood and then the leftover blood is returned into your body. I like it better than whole blood donation because I get too tired from the lack of iron. After plasma, I'm not tired at all and you can technically donate every week. I try to donate every third week because only my left arm gives a good draw. My veins are rather small and it takes about two to three weeks for a good donation for me. The downside is having to constantly drink water on the day of donation and no chocolate!
Anyways, it's lunch and I'm getting hungry.
Visited Marda Loop after work yesterday. Finished Christmas shopping so all I have left is a few things I need to make. Bought a really nice set of bracelettes for myself. Was tired when I got home so I ended up playing hooky from Bethel. Wrapped presents.
Wrote Christmas letters to my sponsor children, Jeysel and Yahya. I sponsor them through World Vision. Jeysel (pronounced Hazel) is a 6 year old from Nicaragua. Yahya is 5 (he'll be 6 on Dec. 31) from Mauritania (it's a country in north-west Africa). I have also just sponsored a 9 year old girl from Africa but I haven't received her information yet. I know it seems impractical for me to do this when I'm on such a small budget. I find that although my pocket book can be rather slim at the end of the month but I also know I have so many things that these children don't. We take for granted that we have a home, food to eat, hospitals and schools. I like World Vision because they assist the entire community. For example wells are dug, agricultural training is given to adults, and schools and hospitals are built. It's like the proverb "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Give a man a fishing pole and he will eat for a lifetime." The training and business skills that are taught will help to develop the entire community and, after about ten years, World Vision's work is done and they will move to another community. I love getting letters from them and hearing about their countries. I translate my letters into Spanish or English but there are also translaters that work for World Vision. This also helps me remember my language lessons.
I have plasma donation tonight and choir practise afterwards. I would normally skip practise but I'm hoping to arrange a ride for Sunday. It's the Harvest Lunch and I'm bringing hamburger soup. It's rather akward to carry so hopefully someone can help me out. Donating plasma is easy. There are only a few clinics across Canada and my blood type makes me a universal donor. They draw out your whole blood, put it through a machine that separates the plasma from the rest of the blood and then the leftover blood is returned into your body. I like it better than whole blood donation because I get too tired from the lack of iron. After plasma, I'm not tired at all and you can technically donate every week. I try to donate every third week because only my left arm gives a good draw. My veins are rather small and it takes about two to three weeks for a good donation for me. The downside is having to constantly drink water on the day of donation and no chocolate!
Anyways, it's lunch and I'm getting hungry.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
A nice evening
Hi everyone!
Hope you liked the article about Harriet. I think her birthday was yesterday - I found the news story on CBC this morning.
Last night was very nice. I had gotten a ride partway with Chris (who lives in the north) and, since I had time to kill, I walked part of the way and searched the liquor stores for Kirsch. I needed some for a recipe I want to try this weekend. Four liquor stores later, I found it. I ended up missing the bus I needed (it was pulling away from the stop as I ran across the parking lot) so I ended up being late for my appointment. Go figure - I could have been over an hour early but I ended up being 15 minutes late. It wasn't a problem however and I ended up being the last appointment of the day. He also gave me a referral for a chiropractor that's actually close to me! The new chiropractor's office is at West Hills (a shopping centre) and is the terminal for bus 6 (the bus that runs close to my place!) I didn't even have to wait very long for my connections on the way back and I was home before 8pm.
I also got my gold master card in the mail. I had received a mastercard when I bought my piano using a payment plan. I had received a letter at the end of October say that I could upgrade to a "gold" card. They offered a 1.9% introductory rate for 6 months and then 13.9% interest after that. Annual fee is $15. This is a much better deal than my GM Visa (18.9% interest, $25 annual fee) so I transferred my balance onto my new card so I can use the money I'm saving in interest to pay off the balance. It has car rental insurance too! I'm not sure what to do with my GM Visa now. I paid the annual fee during the summer so I basically have some time before I decide whether to cancel the card or if I should pay $25/year for a card I won't use. I know it affects your credit rating if you cancel at credit card but does anyone know where I can find more information about this?
Also booked my airport shuttle. I tried to do it on-line but the system had a block on Jan 1 bookings. It makes sense because it'll be the busiest (or second busiest - it changes from year to year) day of the year for flying. The airport shuttle company will want to know that there are legitimate people booking rides - not just bored freaks with nothing better to do than book rides for fake names/addresses. I also found a coupon for 10% off so I'm quite happy with my deal. Taking a taxi would cost a fortune and transit is too awkward with luggage.
Forgot to mention that I saw a coyote on my walk to work yesterday. I made lots of noise going up the path so I wouldn't startle him. He heard me and trotted off in a different direction. It's fairly common to see them when walking - in the winter I'll see one about every month. I find them to be fascinating animals. There was a program on them during the summer so here are a few things that you might not know about coyotes:
They are one of the oldest, if not oldest, indigenous species to North America. This is why they can adapt so well. When prey is scarce, they can survive eating bugs.
Population control doesn't work. If people try to kill the coyotes in an area, they will breed more. If the population is healthy, they'll breed less. This ensures the survival of the population.
They showed a segment where some scientists set up a live trap. I think they were either collecting data or micro chipping the coyotes. Anyways, a pair (male and female) saw the trap and became curious. The male ended up in the trap. The female studied the trap He was eventually released after the scientists were finished with him. A year later, the same scientists set up the same trap in the same area. The female came over, sprung the trap and got the food. How clever!
I'll describe my walk to work and the neighbourhoods around my apartment. This will make it easier when I write about my adventures. I live in South Calgary (not to be confused with that I live in south Calgary - the city is set up in quadrants). Part of South Calgary (just south of me by 6 blocks) is Marda Loop. It's a trendy area connected with Garrison Woods - a townhouse complex that looks like the English villages in movies. The houses/condos are brick and start around $259,000 for a one-bedroom. As I walk to work (along 27 Ave - my street) I cross 14th Street and enter Mount Royal. It's an older neighbour hood filled with oil families and huge houses. The streets are lined with elm trees and the gardeners take good care of things. There are some gorgeous houses and I love walking through here. I walk down a pathway along a bluff (I think it's from the riverbed or the ice-age when the rivers were much wider) past the Glencoe Club (I was curious to find out about membership to this elite club - there website stated that they were currently not accepting applications. I guess if you have to ask, you don't have enough money to join). I skim into Rideau as I cross the footbridge going over the Elbow River. This is another ritzy area. I then take the paved pathway up the hill (there's stairs) and head into Parkhill (Stanley Park is just south of it). More nice houses. I then meet up with Mission Road (average looking houses, nothing special about them) and follow the road to intersect with MacLeod Trail (major road in Calgary - all the big multi-lane roads are called "Trail"). I cross MacLeod and the road becomes 36 Ave. I'm now in Manchester Industrial North. Blackburn Road (where my office is) is a couple streets down. It takes about 45 minutes to get there, 50 to go home (it's mostly uphill). If I'm going to be late, I can get there in 35 minutes.
My church (St. Matthew's United) is in Killarney (next neighbourhood to the west). If I'm going to Westhills (shopping, doctor, movie theatre, new chiropractor), I can either catch bus 6 from the next street over from my place, or I can walk (about 1h 15 min). To walk, I pass through Killarney and Glenbrook to head into Richmond Hill. Westhills is southwest of my apartment. You get an excellent view of the mountains from there. If I want to go to Walmart (located in Westbrook Mall), I head into Killarney and Shagannappi and finally into Rosscarrock. It's northwest of my apartment (about 45 min walk).
When I refer to the Red Mile (17th Ave). I zigzag through South Calgary and end up at the corner of 14th St (the one I cross when walking to work) and 17th Ave. This is where you are seen and go to people watch during the summer.
When I'm walking downtown from work, I'll backtrack along Mission Road and follow it - it becomes 4th St when it crosses the Elbow River. 4th St (at least in the Mission area) is a trendy place with lots of artsy stores and good restaurants. I can follow it right to Stephen Ave (8th Ave) which is a shopping street. Part of it is a pedestrian street and there are lots of restaurants/expensive places along there. Over one block is 7th Ave and is where the C-Train runs. You can keep heading north and go into Chinatown and Eau Claire. These border the Bow River and there are some nice parks and pathways to visit.
I don't travel across the Bow very often - most of my adventures are in the south but I will occasionally take the C-Train to go shopping in the NE and we (people at work) sometimes go for Dim Sum in the north. Chinook Centre (biggest mall in Calgary) is accessible by C-Train (it's in the south) although I try to avoid it because it's always busy. Ikea (the wonder store) is also in the south. I access it from the C-Train station at Chinook and take bus 72. Bus 73 (they're loop buses) will actually take me to intersect with bus 6 (my favourite).
Hopefully I didn't confuse you too much with my explanations. I find Calgary to be fairly easy to figure out. The only problem I have is some of the small neighbourhoods/'burbs where you can get it but never get out! They also name all the streets the same and just change the ending (i.e. Venture Lane, Place, Road, Terrace and Way are all different streets in the same neighbourhood). The quadrant system works well and downtown has all street numbers instead of names.
Have a great day!
Hope you liked the article about Harriet. I think her birthday was yesterday - I found the news story on CBC this morning.
Last night was very nice. I had gotten a ride partway with Chris (who lives in the north) and, since I had time to kill, I walked part of the way and searched the liquor stores for Kirsch. I needed some for a recipe I want to try this weekend. Four liquor stores later, I found it. I ended up missing the bus I needed (it was pulling away from the stop as I ran across the parking lot) so I ended up being late for my appointment. Go figure - I could have been over an hour early but I ended up being 15 minutes late. It wasn't a problem however and I ended up being the last appointment of the day. He also gave me a referral for a chiropractor that's actually close to me! The new chiropractor's office is at West Hills (a shopping centre) and is the terminal for bus 6 (the bus that runs close to my place!) I didn't even have to wait very long for my connections on the way back and I was home before 8pm.
I also got my gold master card in the mail. I had received a mastercard when I bought my piano using a payment plan. I had received a letter at the end of October say that I could upgrade to a "gold" card. They offered a 1.9% introductory rate for 6 months and then 13.9% interest after that. Annual fee is $15. This is a much better deal than my GM Visa (18.9% interest, $25 annual fee) so I transferred my balance onto my new card so I can use the money I'm saving in interest to pay off the balance. It has car rental insurance too! I'm not sure what to do with my GM Visa now. I paid the annual fee during the summer so I basically have some time before I decide whether to cancel the card or if I should pay $25/year for a card I won't use. I know it affects your credit rating if you cancel at credit card but does anyone know where I can find more information about this?
Also booked my airport shuttle. I tried to do it on-line but the system had a block on Jan 1 bookings. It makes sense because it'll be the busiest (or second busiest - it changes from year to year) day of the year for flying. The airport shuttle company will want to know that there are legitimate people booking rides - not just bored freaks with nothing better to do than book rides for fake names/addresses. I also found a coupon for 10% off so I'm quite happy with my deal. Taking a taxi would cost a fortune and transit is too awkward with luggage.
Forgot to mention that I saw a coyote on my walk to work yesterday. I made lots of noise going up the path so I wouldn't startle him. He heard me and trotted off in a different direction. It's fairly common to see them when walking - in the winter I'll see one about every month. I find them to be fascinating animals. There was a program on them during the summer so here are a few things that you might not know about coyotes:
They are one of the oldest, if not oldest, indigenous species to North America. This is why they can adapt so well. When prey is scarce, they can survive eating bugs.
Population control doesn't work. If people try to kill the coyotes in an area, they will breed more. If the population is healthy, they'll breed less. This ensures the survival of the population.
They showed a segment where some scientists set up a live trap. I think they were either collecting data or micro chipping the coyotes. Anyways, a pair (male and female) saw the trap and became curious. The male ended up in the trap. The female studied the trap He was eventually released after the scientists were finished with him. A year later, the same scientists set up the same trap in the same area. The female came over, sprung the trap and got the food. How clever!
I'll describe my walk to work and the neighbourhoods around my apartment. This will make it easier when I write about my adventures. I live in South Calgary (not to be confused with that I live in south Calgary - the city is set up in quadrants). Part of South Calgary (just south of me by 6 blocks) is Marda Loop. It's a trendy area connected with Garrison Woods - a townhouse complex that looks like the English villages in movies. The houses/condos are brick and start around $259,000 for a one-bedroom. As I walk to work (along 27 Ave - my street) I cross 14th Street and enter Mount Royal. It's an older neighbour hood filled with oil families and huge houses. The streets are lined with elm trees and the gardeners take good care of things. There are some gorgeous houses and I love walking through here. I walk down a pathway along a bluff (I think it's from the riverbed or the ice-age when the rivers were much wider) past the Glencoe Club (I was curious to find out about membership to this elite club - there website stated that they were currently not accepting applications. I guess if you have to ask, you don't have enough money to join). I skim into Rideau as I cross the footbridge going over the Elbow River. This is another ritzy area. I then take the paved pathway up the hill (there's stairs) and head into Parkhill (Stanley Park is just south of it). More nice houses. I then meet up with Mission Road (average looking houses, nothing special about them) and follow the road to intersect with MacLeod Trail (major road in Calgary - all the big multi-lane roads are called "Trail"). I cross MacLeod and the road becomes 36 Ave. I'm now in Manchester Industrial North. Blackburn Road (where my office is) is a couple streets down. It takes about 45 minutes to get there, 50 to go home (it's mostly uphill). If I'm going to be late, I can get there in 35 minutes.
My church (St. Matthew's United) is in Killarney (next neighbourhood to the west). If I'm going to Westhills (shopping, doctor, movie theatre, new chiropractor), I can either catch bus 6 from the next street over from my place, or I can walk (about 1h 15 min). To walk, I pass through Killarney and Glenbrook to head into Richmond Hill. Westhills is southwest of my apartment. You get an excellent view of the mountains from there. If I want to go to Walmart (located in Westbrook Mall), I head into Killarney and Shagannappi and finally into Rosscarrock. It's northwest of my apartment (about 45 min walk).
When I refer to the Red Mile (17th Ave). I zigzag through South Calgary and end up at the corner of 14th St (the one I cross when walking to work) and 17th Ave. This is where you are seen and go to people watch during the summer.
When I'm walking downtown from work, I'll backtrack along Mission Road and follow it - it becomes 4th St when it crosses the Elbow River. 4th St (at least in the Mission area) is a trendy place with lots of artsy stores and good restaurants. I can follow it right to Stephen Ave (8th Ave) which is a shopping street. Part of it is a pedestrian street and there are lots of restaurants/expensive places along there. Over one block is 7th Ave and is where the C-Train runs. You can keep heading north and go into Chinatown and Eau Claire. These border the Bow River and there are some nice parks and pathways to visit.
I don't travel across the Bow very often - most of my adventures are in the south but I will occasionally take the C-Train to go shopping in the NE and we (people at work) sometimes go for Dim Sum in the north. Chinook Centre (biggest mall in Calgary) is accessible by C-Train (it's in the south) although I try to avoid it because it's always busy. Ikea (the wonder store) is also in the south. I access it from the C-Train station at Chinook and take bus 72. Bus 73 (they're loop buses) will actually take me to intersect with bus 6 (my favourite).
Hopefully I didn't confuse you too much with my explanations. I find Calgary to be fairly easy to figure out. The only problem I have is some of the small neighbourhoods/'burbs where you can get it but never get out! They also name all the streets the same and just change the ending (i.e. Venture Lane, Place, Road, Terrace and Way are all different streets in the same neighbourhood). The quadrant system works well and downtown has all street numbers instead of names.
Have a great day!
Tuesday - Harriet the Australian Tortoise Turns 174
(CBC) - A tortoise that was hatched in the Galapagos Islands when Charles Darwin was developing his theory of evolution has turned 175.Harriet is recognized as the world's oldest known animal.
"She would definitely be the oldest living animal on Earth. ... I can't see why she shouldn't live till 200," says Steve Irwin, owner of the zoo north of Brisbane, Australia, where Harriet lives.
The Guinness Book of World Records has recognized her as the world's oldest living chelonian (turtle or tortoise).It may have been Darwin who brought Harriet back from an exploration trip - there is dispute on that point - to start a long life of captivity.For more than a century, the giant Galapagos land tortoise was originally thought to be a male, so was called Harry.
Harriet has lived at the Brisbane-area zoo for 17 years. Zoo staff marked her approximate birthday on Tuesday with such treats as a pink hibiscus flower cake.Zoo officials say she shows no sign of physical decline, perhaps because of a strict fitness regimen. In the morning, she goes outside and warms up. When she's had enough sun, she retreats to the shade.
"She would definitely be the oldest living animal on Earth. ... I can't see why she shouldn't live till 200," says Steve Irwin, owner of the zoo north of Brisbane, Australia, where Harriet lives.
The Guinness Book of World Records has recognized her as the world's oldest living chelonian (turtle or tortoise).It may have been Darwin who brought Harriet back from an exploration trip - there is dispute on that point - to start a long life of captivity.For more than a century, the giant Galapagos land tortoise was originally thought to be a male, so was called Harry.
Harriet has lived at the Brisbane-area zoo for 17 years. Zoo staff marked her approximate birthday on Tuesday with such treats as a pink hibiscus flower cake.Zoo officials say she shows no sign of physical decline, perhaps because of a strict fitness regimen. In the morning, she goes outside and warms up. When she's had enough sun, she retreats to the shade.
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Canada Post is my friend
Hi everyone!
Discovered a great new service offered by Canada Post last night. I had to mail Mom's birthday present so I went to their website to get an idea about how much it would cost. They now have a service where you enter the mailing information, weigh and measure your parcel, print off the label and drop it off at any corner red mailbox. It worked so easy!
I wasn't the only one who thought the book club book sucked - about 80% of the club did. The next book is "The In-between World of Vikram Lall" by MG Vassanji and many were excited to read it. I'll give it a shot but if I don't like it, I won't come back in the new year. I've had two books in two meetings that I've hated.
It's cold today (-9 and a high of -5 this afternoon) and I have a chiropractor's appointment after work in the far north of the city. I'm going to ask him for a referral for someone closer. I like his services and feel comfortable with him, but except for my 15 minute appointment, I spend over 3 hours either on transit or waiting for it. It can make for a very long evening (especially in the winter). He actually went to school with the husband of my chiropractor in Chesley! Small world eh?
Anyways, my tea is about ready - Green Tea Tropical "Smooth green tea leaves harmoniously blend with sweet tropical fruits to create a sensation as uplifting as a breeze off the isle of Papenoo".
Have a great day!
Discovered a great new service offered by Canada Post last night. I had to mail Mom's birthday present so I went to their website to get an idea about how much it would cost. They now have a service where you enter the mailing information, weigh and measure your parcel, print off the label and drop it off at any corner red mailbox. It worked so easy!
I wasn't the only one who thought the book club book sucked - about 80% of the club did. The next book is "The In-between World of Vikram Lall" by MG Vassanji and many were excited to read it. I'll give it a shot but if I don't like it, I won't come back in the new year. I've had two books in two meetings that I've hated.
It's cold today (-9 and a high of -5 this afternoon) and I have a chiropractor's appointment after work in the far north of the city. I'm going to ask him for a referral for someone closer. I like his services and feel comfortable with him, but except for my 15 minute appointment, I spend over 3 hours either on transit or waiting for it. It can make for a very long evening (especially in the winter). He actually went to school with the husband of my chiropractor in Chesley! Small world eh?
Anyways, my tea is about ready - Green Tea Tropical "Smooth green tea leaves harmoniously blend with sweet tropical fruits to create a sensation as uplifting as a breeze off the isle of Papenoo".
Have a great day!
Monday, November 14, 2005
A cold morning
Hi everyone!
Hope the weekend went well for you. We were suppose to have a "snowstorm" last night/this morning - we ended up with a sprinkle (if that!) of snow but the wind is freezing.
Just spent most of my work day folding and stuffing envelopes. Brian (the folding machine) is acting up again so I had to place a service call.
Got a lot accomplished this weekend. Spent most of Friday in my pjs watching the Remembrance Day specials on tv and cross-stitching. I decided to follow cousin Kelly's idea in making a 6 Week Meal Plan. Usually when I come home, I have no idea what I want to eat so I end up eating a bunch of junk food first and never have the ingredients I need to make something nice. This way, I know exactly what I'm having for lunch and supper each day and I can plan my grocery shopping better. I arranged all this on Friday and had to get dressed to go get food. Luckily, most of the food was already on sale so I was very happy and saved a few dollars. I was a random winner of 10% groceries for a month at Safeway and I also got a few coupons for free food. On Friday, I got free bacon.
Saturday was my last Access Class and to be honest, I'm glad it's over. I enjoyed the class and learned a lot but I found I was exhausted by the end of the day. I don't know how people handle working/studying 6 days/week! Anyways, I highly recommend taking a class if you're interested in databases or if you use to it for your work.
Watched "Supertroopers" and "A Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Saturday" night. "Supertroopers" was hilarious (definitely not for kids!) and I enjoyed "...Hitchhikers...". I had read most of the books over the summer and I liked the humour. If you like British humour, you'll like this movie.Slept in Sunday and missed church.
Made a chocolate jelly roll. It was surprisingly easy but in the future, I'd use a white filling instead of the chocolate that the recipe called for. Also made some of the yummiest chocolate chip cookies I've ever had. I'd gotten some chocolate chips from Epicure (my manager sells it) and they were made of Belgium chocolate! They can't be shipped during the summer and they were a little larger than regular chips (more flat too). They tasted like heaven coming out of the oven and I think in the future, I'll be buying more of this type of chocolate. It costs a fortune but it's worth every bite.
Have book club tonight at the library. I didn't like the book (for the second time now) so I'll give December's book a try. If I don't like it also, I think I'll just stop going. There's a waiting list to join so if someone else happens to like these boring books, they're more than welcome to take my place!Glad to hear from everyone. It'll be nice to see you at Christmas. I have most of my presents already wrapped and 95% of my shopping done.
It's almost time for me to go home so see you later!
Hope the weekend went well for you. We were suppose to have a "snowstorm" last night/this morning - we ended up with a sprinkle (if that!) of snow but the wind is freezing.
Just spent most of my work day folding and stuffing envelopes. Brian (the folding machine) is acting up again so I had to place a service call.
Got a lot accomplished this weekend. Spent most of Friday in my pjs watching the Remembrance Day specials on tv and cross-stitching. I decided to follow cousin Kelly's idea in making a 6 Week Meal Plan. Usually when I come home, I have no idea what I want to eat so I end up eating a bunch of junk food first and never have the ingredients I need to make something nice. This way, I know exactly what I'm having for lunch and supper each day and I can plan my grocery shopping better. I arranged all this on Friday and had to get dressed to go get food. Luckily, most of the food was already on sale so I was very happy and saved a few dollars. I was a random winner of 10% groceries for a month at Safeway and I also got a few coupons for free food. On Friday, I got free bacon.
Saturday was my last Access Class and to be honest, I'm glad it's over. I enjoyed the class and learned a lot but I found I was exhausted by the end of the day. I don't know how people handle working/studying 6 days/week! Anyways, I highly recommend taking a class if you're interested in databases or if you use to it for your work.
Watched "Supertroopers" and "A Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Saturday" night. "Supertroopers" was hilarious (definitely not for kids!) and I enjoyed "...Hitchhikers...". I had read most of the books over the summer and I liked the humour. If you like British humour, you'll like this movie.Slept in Sunday and missed church.
Made a chocolate jelly roll. It was surprisingly easy but in the future, I'd use a white filling instead of the chocolate that the recipe called for. Also made some of the yummiest chocolate chip cookies I've ever had. I'd gotten some chocolate chips from Epicure (my manager sells it) and they were made of Belgium chocolate! They can't be shipped during the summer and they were a little larger than regular chips (more flat too). They tasted like heaven coming out of the oven and I think in the future, I'll be buying more of this type of chocolate. It costs a fortune but it's worth every bite.
Have book club tonight at the library. I didn't like the book (for the second time now) so I'll give December's book a try. If I don't like it also, I think I'll just stop going. There's a waiting list to join so if someone else happens to like these boring books, they're more than welcome to take my place!Glad to hear from everyone. It'll be nice to see you at Christmas. I have most of my presents already wrapped and 95% of my shopping done.
It's almost time for me to go home so see you later!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
I Passed!!
Hi Everyone!
Yay!! I passed all three exams!
Each exam was 45 minutes in length and also had 45 questions. I first did my IC3 2005 Standard Computing Fundamentals. I got 867 out of 1000 (800 is a pass). I got 85% in computer hardware, 78% in computer software and 94% in operating systems. You had your choice as to which exam to do first. I chose this one because a) I studied the most on this subject b) I thought the content would be best for figuring out how the questions were asked and c) if it went well, I'd have a boost for the rest of the day.
Next was my IC3 2005 Standard Living Online exam. I got 933 out of 1000 (800 is a pass). I got 100% (yah!) in computers and society, 85% in electronic mail, 92% in internet and 100% (double yah!) on networks. I wasn't so nervous about this exam as I'm finally getting use to using the internet for everyday stuff. I was rather surprised at the mark though so it really gave me a lift.
My final exam was IC3 2005 Standard Key Applications. I got 778 out of 1000 (750 is a pass). I was nervous about this exam because I use these applications on a regular basis but most of my learning was on my own. If there's something I don't know, I just use "Help". I got 75% in Common Program Functions, 80% on Presentation Functions (a surprise!), 100% on Spreadsheet Functions (a huge surprise!) and 67% in Word Processing Functions (disappointing but the tasks they asked about were things I'd never done before and I can't see doing them in the future). Although I'm a bit disappointed with this mark, I was quite happy with the presentations section as I learned about PowerPoint without any classes - just the online training offered through MS's help website. I was shocked at the spreadsheet section as I found it difficult - I rarely use Excel.
I bounced all the way home and treated myself to pizza and wings.Anyways, I'm not in the mood for typing anymore - I just want to bounce some more!
Have a great day!
Yay!! I passed all three exams!
Each exam was 45 minutes in length and also had 45 questions. I first did my IC3 2005 Standard Computing Fundamentals. I got 867 out of 1000 (800 is a pass). I got 85% in computer hardware, 78% in computer software and 94% in operating systems. You had your choice as to which exam to do first. I chose this one because a) I studied the most on this subject b) I thought the content would be best for figuring out how the questions were asked and c) if it went well, I'd have a boost for the rest of the day.
Next was my IC3 2005 Standard Living Online exam. I got 933 out of 1000 (800 is a pass). I got 100% (yah!) in computers and society, 85% in electronic mail, 92% in internet and 100% (double yah!) on networks. I wasn't so nervous about this exam as I'm finally getting use to using the internet for everyday stuff. I was rather surprised at the mark though so it really gave me a lift.
My final exam was IC3 2005 Standard Key Applications. I got 778 out of 1000 (750 is a pass). I was nervous about this exam because I use these applications on a regular basis but most of my learning was on my own. If there's something I don't know, I just use "Help". I got 75% in Common Program Functions, 80% on Presentation Functions (a surprise!), 100% on Spreadsheet Functions (a huge surprise!) and 67% in Word Processing Functions (disappointing but the tasks they asked about were things I'd never done before and I can't see doing them in the future). Although I'm a bit disappointed with this mark, I was quite happy with the presentations section as I learned about PowerPoint without any classes - just the online training offered through MS's help website. I was shocked at the spreadsheet section as I found it difficult - I rarely use Excel.
I bounced all the way home and treated myself to pizza and wings.Anyways, I'm not in the mood for typing anymore - I just want to bounce some more!
Have a great day!
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
I hate mornings!
Hi everyone!
I slept in again (although not so bad) and didn't have time for a shower. My hair feels (and looks) greasy and I feel a bit out of sorts. I was able to rush around and made it to work on time without running. When I went to bed last night, I got the chills so I ended up adding my housecoat and socks to keep warm. This morning I was snuggly cozy and although I remember my alarm going off, it was just too comfy to get up. I must have tossed a bit though, as Mike wasn't still in bed when I woke up.
After work yesterday, I crashed on the futon and napped until a little after 7 pm. I got up for The Townships Project meeting and there was a lot accomplished. There was someone there whose husband has set up organizations before and so he will help fill out all the forms needed to set up the Calgary chapter. A board of directors (I don't think this is the correct term but it's a group consisting of president, vp, secretary, treasurer, members-at-large) was set up and I've become secretary. Since I've never taken formal minutes before, I was on the internet this morning and got some templates and instructions as to how it's done. We have another meeting in December to see how the paperwork's going and to help plan a general public information meeting in January.
After the meeting (which ran late), I baked poppy seed cupcakes and made Krispie cake (but instead of putting it in a pan, I dropped them into cookies). I didn't have a recipe for poppy seed cake so I just made a yellow cake and added poppy seeds. It seemed to do the trick (my taste-test was yummy) and I used chocolate icing.Tonight's another busy night. I have some time to kill after work so I may go to Saje (amazing essential oil, remedies, etc. store) and get a complimentary 15 minute Rejuvenizer Treatment. I've never had one done but there was a coupon in my bag from the last time I was there. I'll then drop off the Krispie cake (cookies?) and spend and hour playing in the Christmas section of The Bay. I haven't been in that area yet and since I don't need any decorations, I figured it'd be safe to go just to browse.
After Bethel class (and yummy cupcakes) I'll do my last minute cramming before tomorrow's IC3 Exams. What's IC3? It's an industry standard for basic computer skills. It consists of three exams - computer fundamentals, computer applications, and internet. The applications are MS Word, Excel & PowerPoint. Since I've gotten all my computer knowledge from either long ago, or by accident, I wanted to have something that shows my skills. I'm a bit rusty in Excel & PowerPoint though but hopefully everything will go well. The exams have both multiple choice and practical questions. My exams are during the day so I don't have work. Since Friday (Remembrance Day) is a holiday in Alberta, I'll have an extra long weekend to relax.
Have a great day!
I slept in again (although not so bad) and didn't have time for a shower. My hair feels (and looks) greasy and I feel a bit out of sorts. I was able to rush around and made it to work on time without running. When I went to bed last night, I got the chills so I ended up adding my housecoat and socks to keep warm. This morning I was snuggly cozy and although I remember my alarm going off, it was just too comfy to get up. I must have tossed a bit though, as Mike wasn't still in bed when I woke up.
After work yesterday, I crashed on the futon and napped until a little after 7 pm. I got up for The Townships Project meeting and there was a lot accomplished. There was someone there whose husband has set up organizations before and so he will help fill out all the forms needed to set up the Calgary chapter. A board of directors (I don't think this is the correct term but it's a group consisting of president, vp, secretary, treasurer, members-at-large) was set up and I've become secretary. Since I've never taken formal minutes before, I was on the internet this morning and got some templates and instructions as to how it's done. We have another meeting in December to see how the paperwork's going and to help plan a general public information meeting in January.
After the meeting (which ran late), I baked poppy seed cupcakes and made Krispie cake (but instead of putting it in a pan, I dropped them into cookies). I didn't have a recipe for poppy seed cake so I just made a yellow cake and added poppy seeds. It seemed to do the trick (my taste-test was yummy) and I used chocolate icing.Tonight's another busy night. I have some time to kill after work so I may go to Saje (amazing essential oil, remedies, etc. store) and get a complimentary 15 minute Rejuvenizer Treatment. I've never had one done but there was a coupon in my bag from the last time I was there. I'll then drop off the Krispie cake (cookies?) and spend and hour playing in the Christmas section of The Bay. I haven't been in that area yet and since I don't need any decorations, I figured it'd be safe to go just to browse.
After Bethel class (and yummy cupcakes) I'll do my last minute cramming before tomorrow's IC3 Exams. What's IC3? It's an industry standard for basic computer skills. It consists of three exams - computer fundamentals, computer applications, and internet. The applications are MS Word, Excel & PowerPoint. Since I've gotten all my computer knowledge from either long ago, or by accident, I wanted to have something that shows my skills. I'm a bit rusty in Excel & PowerPoint though but hopefully everything will go well. The exams have both multiple choice and practical questions. My exams are during the day so I don't have work. Since Friday (Remembrance Day) is a holiday in Alberta, I'll have an extra long weekend to relax.
Have a great day!
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
A lovely evening
Hi everyone!
Last night went really well. After work I stopped at Safeway to pick up some cranberry cocktail so I could make mulled cranberry punch. It was not only on sale, I was also a random winner of 10% off groceries for a month!
I dropped off my library books and once I got home, I started cleaning like mad. I put Gilbert and Whiskers in the bathroom to play and proceeded to give Mike a panic attack by moving things around and vacuuming. I ended up hiding a few dirty dishes but the house "looked" very clean by 7. I got out my big pot and poured the cranberry cocktail in it. I added the mulling spice and pretty well left it on the stove to simmer until everyone arrived at 7:30. The house smelt warm and comforting from it so I ended up blowing out the candle of the diffuser I was using and just let the cinnamon/nutmeg smell float in the air (not that I had much choice!). Everyone liked it and most people asked for seconds. I'm very pleased with the results and I may bring some spice for Christmas.
After everyone left, I ended up doing dishes (we used 7/8 dishes, mugs, forks etc.) and I did a second load to help alleviate my guilt of hiding them in the oven. Tonight should have my pile back down to nil.
Have a splitting headache today and I can't tell if it's the Chinook coming or if it's cold and/or muscle tension. It's a bit better than when I first got up but I may just load up on drugs today! I slept in today and had to run most of the way to work (although I did make it on time). I try to leave at 8:15 but my alarm music was very loud this morning. I turned down the volume, which in turn, also turned down the alarm buzzer that went off 15 minutes later. I looked at my watch this morning and saw that it was 7:52. I thought "O'kay, I can doze for another few minutes." A little later, I woke up again and checked my watch - 7:52! Somehow in my sleep, I changed my watch from clock to stopwatch and 7:52 was the time my stopwatch was set at. The actual time was 8:14! I jumped out of bed and was out the door by 8:27. Luckily it's a downhill journey almost all the way to work. About the only good thing about this whole incident was the great cardio workout I got.
I have a meeting tonight with The Townships Project. It's an organization that sets up micro-lending in Africa. Their website is www.thetownshipsproject.org Some people are wanting to set up a chapter in Calgary and although I'm interested in their work, I'm unsure what I can offer to something that's still in the planning stages. There are chapters in Vancouver Charlottetown and Toronto already set up. Basically, they set up re-payable loans for small businesses in Africa. Most are women entrepreneurs who use the loan (about $100) and they have help setting up a business plan and organizing their business. There is about at 95% repayment rate (extremely high) and all the money is put back into the program to help a new business. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has recognized micro-lending as the single most effective mechanism in the front-line struggle against poverty in developing countries.
I also need to bake for my Bethel class tomorrow (I'm to bring snack and a devotional), Inn From the Cold (an organization that provides shelter for homeless people with a focus on families. I bake them cookies usually every week to try and bring some cheer to the kids. Calgary has a lot of money but there's a huge gap between the classes. Rent is very high and minimum wage is low so unfortunately there are an increasing amount of people falling through the cracks. Most shelters have trouble accommodating families and this is one of the few organizations that can handle children. They gather everyone downtown and bus them to different churches where there are beds set up in the basement.) and I may bring something in to work. I've recently gotten some new recipes that I'm wanting to try out. It's going to be a busy evening!
Have a great day!
Last night went really well. After work I stopped at Safeway to pick up some cranberry cocktail so I could make mulled cranberry punch. It was not only on sale, I was also a random winner of 10% off groceries for a month!
I dropped off my library books and once I got home, I started cleaning like mad. I put Gilbert and Whiskers in the bathroom to play and proceeded to give Mike a panic attack by moving things around and vacuuming. I ended up hiding a few dirty dishes but the house "looked" very clean by 7. I got out my big pot and poured the cranberry cocktail in it. I added the mulling spice and pretty well left it on the stove to simmer until everyone arrived at 7:30. The house smelt warm and comforting from it so I ended up blowing out the candle of the diffuser I was using and just let the cinnamon/nutmeg smell float in the air (not that I had much choice!). Everyone liked it and most people asked for seconds. I'm very pleased with the results and I may bring some spice for Christmas.
After everyone left, I ended up doing dishes (we used 7/8 dishes, mugs, forks etc.) and I did a second load to help alleviate my guilt of hiding them in the oven. Tonight should have my pile back down to nil.
Have a splitting headache today and I can't tell if it's the Chinook coming or if it's cold and/or muscle tension. It's a bit better than when I first got up but I may just load up on drugs today! I slept in today and had to run most of the way to work (although I did make it on time). I try to leave at 8:15 but my alarm music was very loud this morning. I turned down the volume, which in turn, also turned down the alarm buzzer that went off 15 minutes later. I looked at my watch this morning and saw that it was 7:52. I thought "O'kay, I can doze for another few minutes." A little later, I woke up again and checked my watch - 7:52! Somehow in my sleep, I changed my watch from clock to stopwatch and 7:52 was the time my stopwatch was set at. The actual time was 8:14! I jumped out of bed and was out the door by 8:27. Luckily it's a downhill journey almost all the way to work. About the only good thing about this whole incident was the great cardio workout I got.
I have a meeting tonight with The Townships Project. It's an organization that sets up micro-lending in Africa. Their website is www.thetownshipsproject.org Some people are wanting to set up a chapter in Calgary and although I'm interested in their work, I'm unsure what I can offer to something that's still in the planning stages. There are chapters in Vancouver Charlottetown and Toronto already set up. Basically, they set up re-payable loans for small businesses in Africa. Most are women entrepreneurs who use the loan (about $100) and they have help setting up a business plan and organizing their business. There is about at 95% repayment rate (extremely high) and all the money is put back into the program to help a new business. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has recognized micro-lending as the single most effective mechanism in the front-line struggle against poverty in developing countries.
I also need to bake for my Bethel class tomorrow (I'm to bring snack and a devotional), Inn From the Cold (an organization that provides shelter for homeless people with a focus on families. I bake them cookies usually every week to try and bring some cheer to the kids. Calgary has a lot of money but there's a huge gap between the classes. Rent is very high and minimum wage is low so unfortunately there are an increasing amount of people falling through the cracks. Most shelters have trouble accommodating families and this is one of the few organizations that can handle children. They gather everyone downtown and bus them to different churches where there are beds set up in the basement.) and I may bring something in to work. I've recently gotten some new recipes that I'm wanting to try out. It's going to be a busy evening!
Have a great day!
Monday, November 07, 2005
A wonderful weekend
Hi Everyone!
After work on Friday, I came home and let Gilbert and Whiskers play in the bathroom. While doing laundry, I napped on the floor and Whiskers enjoyed jumping over my body. I think Gilbert was nibbling on my hair but so far I haven't notice any major length differences (unlike a previous incident last year). I'm starting to think that Gilbert believes Whiskers is a guinea pig. He's be acting very odd. Usually when I have him out, he crawls under the counter and stays there. With Whiskers, he follows her around and comes out into the open. I wonder if this is because she is female (but spayed) and he's male (but not neutered).
Anyways, Saturday was wonderful! I got up early and made it to the bus on time. I was wearing my lovely (but impractical) boots and was a bit rushed for time so I was glad to catch the bus. Being so early in the morning, it would have been another 40 minutes for the next bus. The bus arrived downtown around 7:30 so I had some time to kill before The Bay opened. I went to get a coffee (A&W was the only place open but it did the trick) and on a whim, I checked to see if one of the free newspapers I read was available. Surprisingly (for downtown) there was, so I had some reading material. I got my refund from the Bay with no problems and while there, I tried on some pants. They actually fit right! Usually when I buy pants they don't fit right. My upper legs are larger than average (it's the shape of the muscle up there) so when I buy pants to fit my legs, the waist is too big. This is why I usually hate North American cut clothing. They don't expect you to have a waist! European cut seems to take this into consideration. Anyways, I jumped for joy and got the pants (for 30% off too!) and now I know where to go for pants.Had a great MS Access class and was able to follow it with no problem. I think this afternoon I will design a pretend database for a company so I can practice.
After class, I walked up to The Oasis (it's a spa) to book an appointment. They had the date/time I wanted and so in a couple weeks, I'll be having a relaxing body wrap. I slipped over to Bernard Callebaut (chocolatrie in Calgary) and treated myself to a few chocolates. Walked home without slipping on the ice and spent the evening watching tv. Hot Shots was the late movie so I stayed up to watch.
I spent Sunday in my pajamas and cross-stitched all day. This was rather nice. There wasn't much on tv so I watch most of Season Four of Babylon 5. I still love this series. It was originally planned to last only four seasons so the plot line was worked out in completely before filming. The acting's a bit funny in the first season but I love the characters and the storyline. As well, it was the first tv series to use computer graphics. All shots in space, battles, etc. are done by computer and even now, they're still pretty good.
Anyways, since I didn't do any of the cleaning I was suppose to, it'll be a bit rushed tonight. I'm having the Friendship Group (from church) at my apartment for a meeting so I've got a list of things to do before they come. I may end up hiding a few dirty dishes in the oven!
Have a great day!
After work on Friday, I came home and let Gilbert and Whiskers play in the bathroom. While doing laundry, I napped on the floor and Whiskers enjoyed jumping over my body. I think Gilbert was nibbling on my hair but so far I haven't notice any major length differences (unlike a previous incident last year). I'm starting to think that Gilbert believes Whiskers is a guinea pig. He's be acting very odd. Usually when I have him out, he crawls under the counter and stays there. With Whiskers, he follows her around and comes out into the open. I wonder if this is because she is female (but spayed) and he's male (but not neutered).
Anyways, Saturday was wonderful! I got up early and made it to the bus on time. I was wearing my lovely (but impractical) boots and was a bit rushed for time so I was glad to catch the bus. Being so early in the morning, it would have been another 40 minutes for the next bus. The bus arrived downtown around 7:30 so I had some time to kill before The Bay opened. I went to get a coffee (A&W was the only place open but it did the trick) and on a whim, I checked to see if one of the free newspapers I read was available. Surprisingly (for downtown) there was, so I had some reading material. I got my refund from the Bay with no problems and while there, I tried on some pants. They actually fit right! Usually when I buy pants they don't fit right. My upper legs are larger than average (it's the shape of the muscle up there) so when I buy pants to fit my legs, the waist is too big. This is why I usually hate North American cut clothing. They don't expect you to have a waist! European cut seems to take this into consideration. Anyways, I jumped for joy and got the pants (for 30% off too!) and now I know where to go for pants.Had a great MS Access class and was able to follow it with no problem. I think this afternoon I will design a pretend database for a company so I can practice.
After class, I walked up to The Oasis (it's a spa) to book an appointment. They had the date/time I wanted and so in a couple weeks, I'll be having a relaxing body wrap. I slipped over to Bernard Callebaut (chocolatrie in Calgary) and treated myself to a few chocolates. Walked home without slipping on the ice and spent the evening watching tv. Hot Shots was the late movie so I stayed up to watch.
I spent Sunday in my pajamas and cross-stitched all day. This was rather nice. There wasn't much on tv so I watch most of Season Four of Babylon 5. I still love this series. It was originally planned to last only four seasons so the plot line was worked out in completely before filming. The acting's a bit funny in the first season but I love the characters and the storyline. As well, it was the first tv series to use computer graphics. All shots in space, battles, etc. are done by computer and even now, they're still pretty good.
Anyways, since I didn't do any of the cleaning I was suppose to, it'll be a bit rushed tonight. I'm having the Friendship Group (from church) at my apartment for a meeting so I've got a list of things to do before they come. I may end up hiding a few dirty dishes in the oven!
Have a great day!
Friday, November 04, 2005
A frustrating choir practice
Hi everyone!
Feeling a bit crappy today - I'm coming down with a cold. Sylvia's at home sick today and I'm loading up on the vitamin C to see if it'll help.
It was a long day yesterday. After work, I had to go up to Signal Hill to pick up the Sears Wishbook (on cd). I dozed on the train and the bus. I was able to pick up the cd and still use my transfer to get back. I let Gilbert and Whiskers play together in the bathroom. It's the only area small enough that I can keep track of where they are and there's no electrical cords to chew on! During this time, I did a load of laundry. I don't know what's going on with the dryer because this was the second time this week I did a load and the clothes were still damp (and cold!) when I took them out! They weren't sopping wet so I hung them in the bathroom and turned on my space heater. Either there's something wrong with the dryer or my load was too large. I did find it odd that my few hiking clothes (they dry really fast) were dry but were cold. In the past, even if my jeans weren't totally dry, my clothes at least felt warm. I have another load or two for tonight (yes, I let my laundry get out of control) so hopefully I can solve the mystery.Anyways, napped on the floor with my buddies until laundry was done then headed for choir practice.
I was still a bit tired and probably should have skipped practice, as I'm not going to be there on Sunday. Our choir director can be very frustrating. We needed to learn the descant of a hymn. (That's the part usually sung by the sopranos that's above the tune and is often sung on the last verse) It was very difficult and none of us knew what it sounded like. Several of us asked to hear how it went but all he said was, "Sing what you see." This, unfortunately, is a skill I don't have. I can look at the notes, I could play them on the piano, I can tell you how many semi-tones between the notes and what the interval is. I can't look at the note and sing it accurately. I have to hear the melody first and then my brain is able to tell where I should pitch the note. When it comes to a new song, I take the music home and play it on the piano until I basically have the song memorized. Generally, with unfamiliar hymns, there are several patterns that make it easier to sing. With descants, harmonies etc. that pattern is often missing and it can be extremely difficult. I almost walked out of practice because I was so frustrated. At least I'm not the only person having problems - several other choir members have mentioned to me as well.
Went home didn't do the cleaning I was suppose to get done. Watched the news about the problems in Paris (rioting, anti-Semitism) and was very upset how ignorant people can be about each other. Ended up cuddling with Mike and going to be early.Woke up to a warm and playful Mike so although I was rushed, it's nice to get greetings from my furry friends.
Feeling a bit crappy today - I'm coming down with a cold. Sylvia's at home sick today and I'm loading up on the vitamin C to see if it'll help.
It was a long day yesterday. After work, I had to go up to Signal Hill to pick up the Sears Wishbook (on cd). I dozed on the train and the bus. I was able to pick up the cd and still use my transfer to get back. I let Gilbert and Whiskers play together in the bathroom. It's the only area small enough that I can keep track of where they are and there's no electrical cords to chew on! During this time, I did a load of laundry. I don't know what's going on with the dryer because this was the second time this week I did a load and the clothes were still damp (and cold!) when I took them out! They weren't sopping wet so I hung them in the bathroom and turned on my space heater. Either there's something wrong with the dryer or my load was too large. I did find it odd that my few hiking clothes (they dry really fast) were dry but were cold. In the past, even if my jeans weren't totally dry, my clothes at least felt warm. I have another load or two for tonight (yes, I let my laundry get out of control) so hopefully I can solve the mystery.Anyways, napped on the floor with my buddies until laundry was done then headed for choir practice.
I was still a bit tired and probably should have skipped practice, as I'm not going to be there on Sunday. Our choir director can be very frustrating. We needed to learn the descant of a hymn. (That's the part usually sung by the sopranos that's above the tune and is often sung on the last verse) It was very difficult and none of us knew what it sounded like. Several of us asked to hear how it went but all he said was, "Sing what you see." This, unfortunately, is a skill I don't have. I can look at the notes, I could play them on the piano, I can tell you how many semi-tones between the notes and what the interval is. I can't look at the note and sing it accurately. I have to hear the melody first and then my brain is able to tell where I should pitch the note. When it comes to a new song, I take the music home and play it on the piano until I basically have the song memorized. Generally, with unfamiliar hymns, there are several patterns that make it easier to sing. With descants, harmonies etc. that pattern is often missing and it can be extremely difficult. I almost walked out of practice because I was so frustrated. At least I'm not the only person having problems - several other choir members have mentioned to me as well.
Went home didn't do the cleaning I was suppose to get done. Watched the news about the problems in Paris (rioting, anti-Semitism) and was very upset how ignorant people can be about each other. Ended up cuddling with Mike and going to be early.Woke up to a warm and playful Mike so although I was rushed, it's nice to get greetings from my furry friends.
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Being an assertive shopper
Hello!
I had my Bethel class (a Bible study class that looks at reoccurring themes rather than focusing on specific scripture.) downtown last night so I had a few minutes before class to explore The Bay. I love this store (more to touch the fabrics and see the expensive clothes that are in the magazines) although I can rarely afford anything unless there's an amazing sale. Anyways, I was wandering around and I saw my sweater for the year. Each year, I buy one really nice sweater as a treat for myself. This gorgeous cardigan is dusty rose and instead of buttons, there is a satin ribbon that loops through two rings in the front. I saw it and thought "Yep, this is the sweater". Unfortunately, it wasn't on sale and it was rather expensive. I decided to keep going but I had to go back and try it on. Needless to say, I ended up buying the sweater.I was putting the bag away this morning and I felt a flyer in the bottom. The flyer stated that this Saturday, all women's regular-priced fashions were 30% off! I was rather upset because that 30% difference is my grocery bill for a week. I called The Bay and was told if I come in on Saturday, they can adjust my purchase.Now I'm in a great mood as I have a great sweater, and I can also get my discount. I'm going downtown anyways for my MS Access class so it's not as if it a big inconvenience for me.
After my class, I came home and took down my Hallowe'en decorations and cleaned my apartment. Unfortunately it's been a hectic few months and the dust bunnies are getting to be the same size as Whiskers! Tonight and tomorrow should have my apartment looking nice but I hate using my vacuum. It's really loud! I also only have carpet in the living room. The horrid black and white checkered linoleum covers the rest of the apartment so I'm looking for suggestions about a different vacuum. I have a Dirt Devil Scorpion and it seems to have a vent that blow air out the front which just moves my dust around! Has anyone tried a stick vacuum?The snow's still here but I was toasty warm in my new sweater while walking to work.
I have choir practice tonight and another load of laundry to do. Can you wash rugs in the washing machine?Thanks for the lovely comments. It's nice to hear from you! I'll be back in Ontario on December 15th so hopefully I'll have a chance to see everyone.
I had my Bethel class (a Bible study class that looks at reoccurring themes rather than focusing on specific scripture.) downtown last night so I had a few minutes before class to explore The Bay. I love this store (more to touch the fabrics and see the expensive clothes that are in the magazines) although I can rarely afford anything unless there's an amazing sale. Anyways, I was wandering around and I saw my sweater for the year. Each year, I buy one really nice sweater as a treat for myself. This gorgeous cardigan is dusty rose and instead of buttons, there is a satin ribbon that loops through two rings in the front. I saw it and thought "Yep, this is the sweater". Unfortunately, it wasn't on sale and it was rather expensive. I decided to keep going but I had to go back and try it on. Needless to say, I ended up buying the sweater.I was putting the bag away this morning and I felt a flyer in the bottom. The flyer stated that this Saturday, all women's regular-priced fashions were 30% off! I was rather upset because that 30% difference is my grocery bill for a week. I called The Bay and was told if I come in on Saturday, they can adjust my purchase.Now I'm in a great mood as I have a great sweater, and I can also get my discount. I'm going downtown anyways for my MS Access class so it's not as if it a big inconvenience for me.
After my class, I came home and took down my Hallowe'en decorations and cleaned my apartment. Unfortunately it's been a hectic few months and the dust bunnies are getting to be the same size as Whiskers! Tonight and tomorrow should have my apartment looking nice but I hate using my vacuum. It's really loud! I also only have carpet in the living room. The horrid black and white checkered linoleum covers the rest of the apartment so I'm looking for suggestions about a different vacuum. I have a Dirt Devil Scorpion and it seems to have a vent that blow air out the front which just moves my dust around! Has anyone tried a stick vacuum?The snow's still here but I was toasty warm in my new sweater while walking to work.
I have choir practice tonight and another load of laundry to do. Can you wash rugs in the washing machine?Thanks for the lovely comments. It's nice to hear from you! I'll be back in Ontario on December 15th so hopefully I'll have a chance to see everyone.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
New Adventure
Hello everyone!I've finally decided to embark on a new adventure in technology. I thought this may be a great way to keep in touch with everyone. Hopefully everything works out (although I imagine there'll be a steep learning curve).
It snowed last night and it was a slippery walk to work. The snow hadn't melted off the tips of the trees yet and the ice on the branches glistened in the sun. The sidewalks, on the other hand, were much to be desired. I think people have forgotten how to drive in these conditions and it was rather funny to watch one person spin the tires until the ice melted and the tires could grip the pavement.
My work hours are now switched to 9-3. It's rather nice to sleep in, although Mike thought I needed to be up at 7:15. It's a good thing he's cute!For those who haven't heard, I have 2 new friends in my apartment. Henry VIII passed away in September so I decided to get a new fish, but a different name. Smartie is a colourful Beta who was named after a little boy who was on the bus with me when I brought him home. Hopefully the name change will bring better luck to my fish. My other new friend is Whiskers. She's a black dwarf-cross rabbit. I got her from the Humane Society and she's five years old. As a senior, she'll live up to another 5 years although her energy level is like a toddler! We're still adjusting to each other. Mike wants to "play" with her and Gilbert likes to follow her around. Mike also tries to groom the other two but neither seem to like it! In case you're having problems following, Mike is my cat and Gilbert's my guinea pig.
Have a great morning!
It snowed last night and it was a slippery walk to work. The snow hadn't melted off the tips of the trees yet and the ice on the branches glistened in the sun. The sidewalks, on the other hand, were much to be desired. I think people have forgotten how to drive in these conditions and it was rather funny to watch one person spin the tires until the ice melted and the tires could grip the pavement.
My work hours are now switched to 9-3. It's rather nice to sleep in, although Mike thought I needed to be up at 7:15. It's a good thing he's cute!For those who haven't heard, I have 2 new friends in my apartment. Henry VIII passed away in September so I decided to get a new fish, but a different name. Smartie is a colourful Beta who was named after a little boy who was on the bus with me when I brought him home. Hopefully the name change will bring better luck to my fish. My other new friend is Whiskers. She's a black dwarf-cross rabbit. I got her from the Humane Society and she's five years old. As a senior, she'll live up to another 5 years although her energy level is like a toddler! We're still adjusting to each other. Mike wants to "play" with her and Gilbert likes to follow her around. Mike also tries to groom the other two but neither seem to like it! In case you're having problems following, Mike is my cat and Gilbert's my guinea pig.
Have a great morning!
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