A balmy -2

Hi Everyone!

The weather changed last night and it's -2 this morning. I've been sick for the since Monday night but I'm feeling better and I'm back to work. Stupid tummy, soup and crackers.

Anyways, got my final paper handed in last night after waiting 50 minutes for a bus that runs every 15. This is getting very fustrating as my waiting was done before the weather change and by the time the bus came, my toes were getting numb (wearing winter boots) and even after a bath when I got back, I still wasn't warm. The warm weather should get things back to normal. There were people with stalled vehicles in their driveway that had to wait 3 days for a boost as the towtrucks/mechanics worked overtime and good luck getting a taxi.

Have a great day!

-42 Wind Chill

Hi Everyone!

It's -27 (stayed pretty steady all day) tonight and I've decided not to go to my meeting. Between the weather, my ride cancelling due to health reasons and my paper not being done yet, I think I've made the right choice. Although it was going to be an interesting meeting, I don't think I actually need to be there. I'm no longer on the executive and at this point my contribution to The Townships Project is the unapproved (or not yet approved) newsletter.

This morning, Sylvia and I met at the C-train station (as per usual) but no train arrived (unusual). The first announcement said there was a 15-20 minute delay to to weather, a medical emergency and an accident. When it was repeated, it was medical emergencies and a couple accidents. About 5 minutes later, it was announced again but we were then told to find alternative transportation methods. We ended up calling Chris to pick us up. By the time he arrived, the train also came. Never did get fully warmed up until now.

The weather isn't forecasted to break until next week.

Did some Christmas baking on the weekend and put up my wreath. Lisa and I will decorate this week and I don't know if I can wait until the weekend for the tree. I pulled out my prettily wrapped present last night but a stupid little fluffy bunny started eating the corners. I'm not impressed.

Anyways, I need to focus on my paper tonight so I'll write again in a couple days. Have a great day!

A crunchy snow day

Hi Everyone!

It's -16C (-25 with the windchill) this morning. The walk from the C-train station to work was teeth chilling.

I've gotten through most of the week but my calender keeps filling up. Although I love the social aspect of this time of year, there are times (especially with this long-term cold snap. It's predicted this'll last for a couple weeks!) that I'd rather just stay inside with some hot chocolate and cuddle with the furry family.

My schedule for the next week:

Tonight-decorate Christmas tree at church
Saturday-American Thanksgiving (yum!)
Sunday-church
Monday-Townships meeting
Tuesday-school Christmas dinner/hand in final paper(exam) for class
Wednesday-no class!
Thursday-choir
Friday-skipping out on the church Christmas dinner (too expensive and I'll need the break)
Saturday-first aid course (1 of 2)

I'm writing this out mostly for me-I can't always find my calender so I can quickly check any computer and see what the day holds.

On Monday, I went to Phil's (my boss) house for the work wine evening. Indulged quite a bit and was hung over the next day. I should know better but this was good quality wine and the hors d'oeuvres were paired with them.

Tuesday was the fancy work dinner at Capo. This restaurant was ranked #2 new restaurant in Canada by Enroute (the posh Air Canada magazine). Amazing meal - extremely expensive (glad I wasn't footing the bill). Was very good and only had a couple drinks. Each course was paired with wine but I don't even think I had an entire glass (except for the drink at the beginning). I needed to finish up my homework later that night. To give you an idea of this place, check out their website www.caporestaurant.ca. They have a separate water menu ($7.50/bottle). I urge everyone to look at it for the descriptions.

Meal:

drink-Aperitivo Rose (white wine, strawberry purree, orange twist)

1st course-(bottom to top) thin shortbread wafer, carmelized onion (which I actually ate-at least a little bit-very sweet) and mushroom (nice try), cheese, green leafy stuff (looked a bit like dandelion-very bitter). On the side of the plate was a tiny egg (robin sized) cut in half with a cherry tomato cut in half and they were piece together.

2nd course-pasta in a butter sauce covered in a veal tomato sauce (amazing)

3rd course-steak, 3 baby potatoes and mashed rutabega (I know my spellings wrong but so was it). The steak was amazing.

4th course-bread pudding flavoured with chocolate and ice-cream on top. I didn't mind the outside but the inside was a bit odd. The outside reminded me of a brownie but as you got closer to the centre, it wasn't as nice.

Wednesday was the final in-class night for my first course. I wasn't able to complete all of my homework but I did finish the paper worth 20% of my final mark (vs 6% for homework. I did get about half done and handed it in). We had a potluck dinner and I brought chicken satay and chocolate dipped fruit.

Thursday was choir practise. We're doing Jesu, Joy... and a Mozart piece on Sunday. I enjoy the Mozart piece (Bach still doesn't do anything for me).

I've got a pile of things to do this weekend. I need to finish a couple cross stitch pieces, do my final paper, laundry and start Christmas baking. Sometime next week, I'll likely start decorating but I'll wait on the tree until next weekend.

Have a great day!

The Forbes Fiction 15

Hi Everyone!

I thought this was rather funny. Here's a link it the entire article.

http://ca.pfinance.yahoo.com/ca_finance_general/91/the-forbes-fictional-15

1. Daddy Warbucks
2. Montgomery Burns
3. Scrooge McDuck
4. Richie Rich
5. Jed Clampett
6. Mr. Monopoly
7. Bruce Wayne
8. Anthony Stark
9. Prince Abakaliki of Nigeria
10. Thurston Howell III
11. Willy Wonka
12. Lucuis Malfoy
13. Tony Montana
14. Lara Croft
15. Mario

Have a great day!

Help to choose the new 7 wonders of the world

Hi Everyone!

Thought this was an interesting website:

www.new7wonders.com

Have a great day!

Friday!

Hi Everyone!

I suspect it's going to be a slow day.

I hope this will be a productive weekend - I've got a lot of stuff I need to do.

Friday - put away dishes (they air dry), wash dishes (too lazy over past couple days), sweep outside steps, clean out Whiskers' cage, clean bathroom, tidy livingroom

Saturday - laundry, school reading, make hamburger soup, pay bills, start essay & homework, write letters to Jeysel & Yahya (my sponsor kids), look at psychology course, work on choir music

Sunday - Harvest lunch at church, finish essay, complete blanket (which I'll also be working on over the weekend), clean out Gilbert's cage, complete homework

It'll be interesting to see how much of this list actually gets accomplished.

Next week will be busy. I have something going on almost every day.

Sunday - harvest lunch
Monday - get together at Phil's (my boss) house.
Tuesday - office Christmas dinner
Wednesday - final class for my course, potluck supper
Thursday - choir
Friday - free!!!!!!
Saturday - American Thanksgiving at Leslie's

My weeks generally aren't this full so it's important to get all my schoolwork done on the weekend. I am looking forward to everything though so at least my week isn't filled with things I'm dreading. I'll do my best to keep you up to date.

The furry family's doing well. Mike's been meowing at the door and sitting on the mat as if he thinks that if he does this for long enough, the door will magically open and he can stroll out to enjoy the outdoors. Whiskers has been strangely well behaved. One of my black moors passed away this week. I think he was already ill as he wasn't looking good for over a week. The other guys seem o'kay. Gilbert is loving my new salad cravings as he get to have a bit of romaine lettuce when I make a salad. Iceberg lettuce is too nutrient-deficient for him but he likes romaine.

Last night I gave a letter and form to our church board chair to show my interest in becoming an "inquirer". In the United Church, if you are interested in a vocation, you go through a process called "discernment". Basically, you meet with a committee for a period of a year or more and work through if and where you would be best suited. Since I'm still a little unsure, but think at this point it may be as a staff associate, I think this process will be very useful.

Next Wednesday is my final class for my first course. I must hand in my final essay by the following Wednesday. We're having a potluck meal at the beginning. It's amazing how quickly the time went.

Have a great day!

Getting ready for class tonight

Hi Everyone!

Work's winding down for the day and I'll be heading home in a few minutes. Finished my homework over lunchhour (I tend to gather my written thoughts better under pressure). Made my Hazelnut cake last night. It has an odd texture but I removed them from the pans this morning and the crumbs tasted fine. It's strange that there was no flour in the recipe. Anyways, have everything ready to go at home to make the mocha whipped icing. I should even be able to fit in my journal writing (I tend to do it last minute so I have all of my thoughts for the week) and a light supper.

Yesterday I had an interesting conversation about fuzzy socks. I'm talking about the warm fluffy socks for women that feel like the're from a chenille sweater and they feel as if they're giving your feet happy little hugs. They don't make these type of socks for men! I tried explaining my pleasure to the guys at work and they gave me blank looks. So, after work, I headed down to The Bay. I think this would be a great product for men (after all, why should they have to suffer with icky harsh cotton socks). If anyone knows where fuzzy socks exist for men, let me know so I can get a couple Christmas presents for work!

After my fruitless search, I headed down to the make-up counter. I had bought some eye shadow last week and was quite happy with it. The name of the manufacturer is Shiseido and they're Japanese. Anyways, I was looking for something less neutral and the girl did an amazing job. She repeatedly showed my how to apply the look and how to incorporate the colours I already had. As part of the eye makeover, she also curled my eyelashes. I've never had that done before. It didn't hurt and there was a noticeable difference. The only problem I had was when she was touching up the mascara and the wand made a downward pressure on the lash. That surprisingly hurt. So far I've had amazing service from them. The eyeshadow glides on very nice, it doesn't feel heavy and blends nicely. Highly recommended.

Have a great day!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Hi Everyone!

When I came into work this morning, Christmas greeted me! Lori's mom decorated over the weekend.

Didn't work on Monday. Remembrance Day is a holiday here so although we weren't too sure what to do because it fell on a weekend, Chris made an "executive decision" and gave us the day off. Slept a lot (and missed church).

I've been craving caesar salad all weekend. Have no idea why. Have even been using the dressing (although it's drizzled on, not drenching it). It's a caesar romano dressing and I'm wondering if it's the vinegar taste in it.

The furry family is well. I found the laser pointer so Mike's been thoroughly entertained.

I've been having troubles concentrating on my homework. I think it's more the content rather than boredom. It seems that a lot of this week's work involves looking at my first week's work and making changes to it. I've brought it to work today so hopefully I can answer a couple questions during lunchtime and I'll finish the rest tonight. I've bowed out of a Townships Meeting to focus. I'm also trying a new recipe tonight - chocolate hazelnut layer cake. I'm bringing the snack for class tomorrow and although I've never made this recipe before, it looks straightforward. I'll let you know how it goes.

My schedule's starting to get busy again. Although this week isn't bad, next week is the start of Christmas parties. Sunday is the Harvest Lunch (I need to make hamburger soup - yum), Tuesday is Christmas dinner for work, Saturday is American Thanksgiving at Leslie's (a friend from church).

Have a great day!

Why I love being a member of the Unitd Church...

Ad campaign aims to fill the pews
Provocative United Church ad features bobble-head Jesus

PAUL WALDIE
From Tuesday's Globe and Mail, Posted at 4:41 am EST on 07/11/06

The United Church of Canada is launching the largest advertising campaign ever by a Canadian church in an attempt to spark debate about religious issues and encourage people to come back to the pews.

The series of advertisements poke fun at some traditions and tackle controversial topics such as sex and gay marriage.

One includes statues of two grooms on a wedding cake and asks, "Does anyone object?" Another features a can of whipped cream with the question, "How much fun can sex be before it's a sin?" Still another depicts a bobble-head Jesus on a car dashboard and asks, "Funny. Ticket to hell. What do you think?"

The $10.5-million project, to be officially unveiled today in Toronto, includes advertisements in magazines, community newspapers and on the Internet. It will also include the creation of a website called WonderCafe.ca which will feature discussion forums on a variety of social issues. The church also plans to hold seminars to teach its 3,500 congregations how to be more welcoming to newcomers.

The United Church of Canada is launching a $10.5-million promotional campaign that includes ads in magazines and the Internet, as well as a website.

"We are trying to increase the visibility and awareness of the United Church of Canada," said Reverend Keith Howard, who is heading the three-year project, called Emerging Spirit.
"We have become aware that particularly for people in the 30- to 45-age group, many of them do not even know that the United Church exists, much less what we stand for."

Membership in the church has been declining steadily in recent years and stands at about 573,000, still making it the largest Protestant denomination in the country.

According to Statistics Canada, while more than 80 per cent of Canadians say they believe in God, less than 19 per cent attend a place of worship regularly.

Dr. Howard, who is based in Victoria, said the church spent more than a year to research why people, particularly those between the ages of 30 and 45, have been turned off by organized religion.

It found there's a perception among many that followers of established churches are judgmental, arrogant and unwilling to listen.

For example, in a poll conducted by Environics Research for the United Church, 64 per cent of respondents in that age group claimed some religious affiliation, but 73 per cent said that "organized religion tells you what you have to believe."

"The United Church of Canada must establish its own unique positioning, promote its own values and help people break damaging stereotypes of organized religion," researchers hired by the church concluded in a recent report.

The church said it hired Smith Roberts & Co., a Toronto-based ad agency, to create a campaign that would attract attention without appearing too slick, too packaged or too evangelical.
Some seminars for congregations have already started to explain the rationale for the campaign and to help church members improve "the welcoming etiquette of their congregation," the church added, which can include everything from proper signage to whether coffee should be allowed in the pews during sermons.

The overall objective of the campaign is not to convert people to Christianity, Dr. Howard said, but to speak to Canadians who already consider themselves Christians.
He added a major focus of Emerging Spirit is to encourage people to visit the WonderCafe website and talk about ethical and religious questions such as "Does God hate me because I am gay?"

The site makes little mention of the United Church and it will be managed by an outside agency with content coming from a variety of sources. While the website has no direct contact with the United Church, it does include a list of United churches across the country and a small Web page for each one.

"Down the road, we hope that people will somehow become aware that the United Church exists and that we have something of value," said Dr. Howard, who previously was acting executive secretary of the church's B.C. council.

The ad campaign received overwhelming approval at the church's general council meeting in August, but some members have grumbled about the cost, saying the money could be better spent elsewhere.

Dr. Howard said the church is aware of the concerns. "It was a tough decision for the church because we know we live in a world in need and the United Church has always had a strong commitment to justice and social issues," he said. "I think, though, in the end the church sees this as an investment in our being able to equip a church that will be able to continue and grow in that kind of work."

Other churches have had varying degrees of success with ad campaigns. Two years ago, U.S. television networks refused to air ads by the United Church of Christ that depicted bouncers standing in front of a church door deciding who could enter. The message read "Jesus didn't turn people away. Neither do we." The networks objected, saying the ads highlighted the exclusion of gay couples and other minorities by other organizations.

The United Church's campaign will begin with a magazine ad aimed at the coming holiday season. The advertisement shows Jesus, instead of Santa Claus, in a shopping mall with a child on his lap. "Would you still take your kids? After all, isn't Christmas supposed to be about Him, not the guy in the red suit?"

A gray Monday

Hello Everyone!

It's gray out-foggy in places, but the snow is melting.

I went to Ikea last week and bought the last bit of shelving I needed for my room. It consists of 2 metal bars that you fasten to the wall and you hook your shelving into it (kinda like what you use on moveable shelving for bookcases but in a larger scale). I have a top wire shelf, a clothes rail under it and a smaller wooden shelf that sits slightly above my laundry basket. I now have everything set to keep my room organized. I'm rather pleased with how everything looks (and it was inexpensive-to get a similar unit at Home Depot was going to be 3x the price).

Didn't get a lot of homework done on the weekend so I'll be focusing on that tonight. Part of my homework is about spritual gifts. I did a test because I was struggling a bit and they told me I have a teaching gift. I actually knew this before but my mind was acting rather blank and it took a computer to remind me about it. If anyone is interested in taking the test, the website is www.churchgrowth.org.

I've been trying to eat healthier so this was the second weekend in a row that I had salad (in a bag). It was romaine lettuce though and I discovered that it has lots of vitamin A in it. I also had cod liver oil for the first time yesterday. It was peach flavoured and it is supose to have vitamin D in it. As Canadians, even with fortified milk, most of us still don't get enough so I'm seeing if this'll help.

I'm back to working 9-3. Hooray for salary!

Attended the Rememberance Day service yesterday. I didn't realize it before I was heading up to the choir room. I found it a bit difficult (especially when singing) but after it was finished, I was glad that I went. Clint (minister) also gave me a bunch of old reference books. Another minister (who has retired) was clearing out his library so although they're a bit old, there's some very interesting information in them. I think if you totaled the thickness of the four books, it'd be about 8"!

Anyways, I'm excited that Dr. Who is on tonight (they had some stupid special on last week). I'm limiting my tv viewing (I generally turn it on when I get home and turn it off at bedtime) so I'm dropping it down to 3h/night. I know it's still a lot but it'll be 1 hour of fluff, 1 hour of my daily show (Dr. Who-Monday, Gilmore Girls-Tuesday, Grey's Anatomy-Thursday, South Park-Friday, Jericho-Saturday or Sunday) and 1 hour of news. If this goes well, I may drop it down further to 2 hours. This is probably why I don't get a lot of things done. After all, studies have shown that there is more brain activity when sleeping than when watching tv.

A big "Hello!" to my new cousin Kyra. She is Tammy & Pete's new daughter. According to Aunt Linda, she's "cute as a button".

As part of my homework, I have to come up with some abilites/skills that I have. I'll post some of the stuff and if you'd be willing to comment on anything, it'd be very appreciated. I'll probably put any entries like that under "Homework" title.

Have a great day!

Happy Hallowe'en!

Hi Everyone!

We had 24 trick or treaters (and 1 Rottweiler) tonight - a new record! There is still leftover candy however.

It's really cold (-5 and dropping) and there's snow everywhere.

Anyways, back to homework...

Personality Test

Hi Everyone!

As part of my homework, I was required to take a Myers-Briggs Personality Test. I have pasted the results below. It was interesting seeing how accurate it seemed to me. I'm hoping to get your opinion to see if you agree/disagree with it and overall comments you may have.

Have a great day!

Personality Questionnaire Results

Congratulations, you're an ISTP !
That's an Introverted Sensing Thinking Perceiving type.
Percentages of Results: E/I S/N T/F J/P
31/69 60/40 69/31 47/53

Portrait of an ISTP - Introverted Sensing Thinking Perceiving(Introverted Thinking with Extraverted Sensing)

The Mechanic

As an ISTP, your primary mode of living is focused internally, where you deal with things rationally and logically. Your secondary mode is external, where you take things in via your five senses in a literal, concrete fashion.

ISTPs have a compelling drive to understand the way things work. They're good at logical analysis, and like to use it on practical concerns. They typically have strong powers of reasoning, although they're not interested in theories or concepts unless they can see a practical application. They like to take things apart and see the way they work.

ISTPs have an adventuresome spirit. They are attracted to motorcycles, airplanes, sky diving, surfing, etc. They thrive on action, and are usually fearless. ISTPs are fiercely independent, needing to have the space to make their own decisions about their next step. They do not believe in or follow rules and regulations, as this would prohibit their ability to "do their own thing". Their sense of adventure and desire for constant action makes ISTPs prone to becoming bored rather quickly.

ISTPs are loyal to their causes and beliefs, and are firm believers that people should be treated with equity and fairness. Although they do not respect the rules of the "System", they follow their own rules and guidelines for behavior faithfully. They will not take part in something which violates their personal laws. ISTPs are extremely loyal and faithful to their "brothers".
ISTPs like and need to spend time alone, because this is when they can sort things out in their minds most clearly. They absorb large quantities of impersonal facts from the external world, and sort through those facts, making judgments, when they are alone.

ISTPs are action-oriented people. They like to be up and about, doing things. They are not people to sit behind a desk all day and do long-range planning. Adaptable and spontaneous, they respond to what is immediately before them. They usually have strong technical skills, and can be effective technical leaders. They focus on details and practical things. They have an excellent sense of expediency and grasp of the details which enables them to make quick, effective decisions.

ISTPs avoid making judgments based on personal values - they feel that judgments and decisions should be made impartially, based on the fact. They are not naturally tuned in to how they are affecting others. They do not pay attention to their own feelings, and even distrust them and try to ignore them, because they have difficulty distinguishing between emotional reactions and value judgments. This may be a problem area for many ISTPs.

An ISTP who is over-stressed may exhibit rash emotional outbursts of anger, or on the other extreme may be overwhelmed by emotions and feelings which they feel compelled to share with people (often inappropriately). An ISTP who is down on themself will foray into the world of value judgments - a place which is not natural for the ISTP - and judge themself by their inability to perform some task. They will then approach the task in a grim emotional state, expecting the worst.

ISTPs are excellent in a crisis situations. They're usually good athletes, and have very good hand-eye coordination. They are good at following through with a project, and tying up loose ends. They usually don't have much trouble with school, because they are introverts who can think logically. They are usually patient individuals, although they may be prone to occasional emotional outbursts due to their inattention to their own feelings.

ISTPs have a lot of natural ability which makes them good at many different kinds of things. However, they are happiest when they are centered in action-oriented tasks which require detailed logical analysis and technical skill. They take pride in their ability to take the next correct step.

ISTPs are optimistic, full of good cheer, loyal to their equals, uncomplicated in their desires, generous, trusting and receptive people who want no part in confining commitments.
Jungian functional preference ordering:

Dominant: Introverted ThinkingAuxiliary: Extraverted SensingTertiary: Introverted
IntuitionInferior: Extraverted Feeling

Careers for ISTP Personality Types

Whether you're a young adult trying to find your place in the world, or a not-so-young adult trying to find out if you're moving along the right path, it's important to understand yourself and the personality traits which will impact your likeliness to succeed or fail at various careers. It's equally important to understand what is really important to you. When armed with an understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, and an awareness of what you truly value, you are in an excellent position to pick a career which you will find rewarding.

ISTPs generally have the following traits:

Interested in how and why things work
Do not function well in regimented, structured environments; they will either feel stifled or become intensely bored
Constantly gather facts about their environment and store them away
Have an excellent ability to apply logic and reason to their immense store of facts to solve problems or discover how things work
Learn best "hands-on"
Usually able to master theory and abstract thinking, but don't particularly like dealing with it unless they see a practical application
Action-oriented "doers"
Focused on living in the present, rather than the future
Love variety and new experiences
Highly practical and realistic
Excellent "trouble-shooters", able to quickly find solutions to a wide variety of practical problems
Results-oriented; they like to see immediate results for their efforts
Usually laid-back and easy-going with people
Risk-takers who thrive on action
Independent and determined - usually dislike committing themselves
Usually quite self-confident

The ISTP is fortunate because they have the abilities to be good at many different kinds of tasks. Their introverted and thinking preferences give them the ability to concentrate and work through problems which leaves many doors open to them. However, to be happiest, the ISTP needs to lead a lifestyle which offers a great deal of autonomy and does not include much external enforcement of structure. ISTPs will do best working for themselves, or working in very flexible environments. Their natural interests lie towards applying their excellent reasoning skills against known facts and data to discover underlying structure, or solutions to practical questions.

The following list of professions is built on our impressions of careers which would be especially suitable for an ISTP. It is meant to be a starting place, rather than an exhaustive list. There are no guarantees that any or all of the careers listed here would be appropriate for you, or that your best career match is among those listed.

Possible Career Paths for the ISTP:

Police and Detective Work
Forensic Pathologists
Computer Programmers, System Analysts and Computer Specialists
Engineers
Carpenters
Mechanics
Pilots, Drivers, Motorcyclists
Athletes
Entrepreneurs

ISTP Relationships

ISTPs are generally extremely capable individuals who are good at most things which interest them. They are usually bright, interesting, and exciting individuals with a lot to offer. They live almost entirely in the present moment, and usually do not make commitments beyond the immediate foreseeable future. An ISTP probably coined the phrase "nothing is unconditional". They strongly prefer to take things one day at a time, rather than make long-term commitments. If a relationship interests them and satisfies their needs, the ISTP will do their part on a daily basis to keep the relationship strong and healthy. If they lose interest in a relationship, their natural tendency will be to move on.

ISTP Strengths

Good listeners
Usually self-confident
Generally optimistic and fun to be with
Practical and realistic, they handle daily concerns
Are not threatened by conflict or criticism
Able to leave a relationship with relative ease once it is over
Able to administer punishment, although they're not interested in doing so
Likely to respect other's needs for space and privacy

ISTP Weaknesses

Living entirely in the present, they have difficulty with long-term commitments
Not naturally good at expressing feelings and emotions
Not tuned in to what others are feeling, they may be insensitive at times
Tendency to be overly private and hold back part of themselves
Need a lot of personal space, which they don't like to have invaded
They thrive on action and excitement, and may stir things up to create it

ISTPs as Lovers

ISTPs can be very intense and exciting individuals. Their strong Thinking preference makes them seem rather aloof and "hard to get". Their Sensing and Perceiving preferences make them sensual, earthy individuals. These attributes frequently make them attractive to the opposite sex. ISTPs live entirely in the current moment, which makes them especially interested in new sensations and experiences. They strongly dislike routine and strict schedules, and resist being controlled by others. They are fiercely independent and need their own space within a relationship. When involved in relationships which provide for their basic needs and which present them with new experiences, the ISTP will be happy to do what's necessary to keep the relationship alive and well. If a relationship becomes boring or oppressive to the ISTP, they will try to fix it, or move on. ISTPs take their commitments on a day-by-day basis. Even if they say "I do", it usually means "I do for now". They do not like to make lifelong commitments, although they may very well be involved in lifelong relationships which they have taken one day at a time.

Sexually, the ISTP approaches intimacy as a physical act rather than an expression of love and affection. They are earthy and sensual beings who enthusiastically experience sex with all five senses. They bring spontaneity, creativity, and enthusiasm into the bedroom, and enjoy new experiences. Since aesthetic beauty has such strong appeal to them, they appreciate the "setting", i.e. bedding, lingerie, cologne, etc.

ISTPs love to fix things, and may create problems in their personal relationships, just so that they can have the fun of fixing them.

They have a tendency to hold back their own views on things. They like to listen to other people's views, but are generally non-commital about expressing their own opinions. ISTPs have a habit of evading answering questions by asking more questions. This can be frustrating at times to their mates, if they are after a direct answer. The ISTP's decision making process is entirely internal, so they don't feel much need to share their opinions with others. When they are interacting with others, they are in "information gathering" mode, so they tend to ask questions rather than share views. The ISTP just doesn't feel the need to expose themselves fully to others. When it comes to intimate relationships, the ISTP has the further motivation of protecting themselves. Most ISTPs are afraid of having to deal with their deeper feelings. Since their Thinking preference dominates their personality, their Feeling side is their least developed (inferior) function. Consequently, ISTPs are usually quite vulnerable and perhaps weak when dealing with their feelings. Their habit of keeping part of themselves hidden may also serve the purpose of keeping a protective wall around their hearts.

Although the ISTP does not usually have a well-developed Feeling side, they frequently do have intense feelings for people. They can feel overpowering love for their mates, although they are likely not to express their emotions, or to express them inadequately or inappropriately if they do venture towards expression. However, unlike many of the other personality types, ISTPs feel strong affections one day at a time. One day, they may feel completely, intensely in love with their mate, and the next day they may be totally disinterested, or perhaps even ready to move on. This "live for the moment" type of approach is different from how most other types experience their feelings, and is difficult for many to understand. Consequently, the ISTP may be called "fickle" or "cold". In fact, they are not really fickle, and certainly not cold. They simply experience their lives on a moment by moment basis, and go along with it's natural flow. However, since most people need more commitment than can be offered when taking things day-by-day, the ISTP who wants to remain in a relationship will have to resolve themself towards being involved in a more traditional commitment. For most ISTPs, making a commitment to an intimate relationship will require an effort to stretch themselves outside of their comfort zones. However, those who do so will realize that they can enjoy the benefits of a strong, committed relationship and still live their lives in the present tense.

Although two well-developed individuals of any type can enjoy a healthy relationship, the ISTP's natural partner is the ESTJ, or the ENTJ. ISTP's dominant function of Introverted Thinking is best matched with a partner whose personality is dominated by Extraverted Thinking. The ISTP/ESTJ combination is ideal, because both types share the Sensing preference for perceiving the world, but ISTP/ENTJ is also a good combination

ISTPs as Parents

ISTPs are flexible, laid-back, uncontrolling parents who like to take things as they come. Their dislike of being controlled or controlling others extends to their children as well, and they're consequently likely to give their kids a lot of breathing room and space for individual growth. However, when discipline is required, the ISTP will be able to administer it without too much difficulty. They may have difficulty mustering up the enthusiasm to discipline their kids, but once they get going they'll be effective.

ISTP parents are likely to maintain a distance between themselves and their children. They do not feel a tremendous need to pass on their values to their children, or to influence their decisions in life. They're likely to rely on their mates for creating a structured environment for their children to live within. ISTPs do not like to be directed or controlled, and are not likely to direct and control others - including their children. They're likely to be relatively uninvolved with the daily happenings of family life, without making a conscious effort to keep interested.
ISTPs will enjoy spending one-on-one time with their children pursuing outdoorsy activities, such as fishing, boating, hunting, etc. It is during these private moments that the ISTP will take the opportunity to get to know their children's perspectives, and to pass on the ISTP's interests and perspectives.

ISTPs as Friends

ISTPs have an enthusiastic, childlike approach to life that is attractive to others. As Introverted Thinkers, they also have some real substance to them which prevents them from being entirely frivolous and hedonic in their pursuits. They are laid-back and flexible, and generally accepting of a wide range of behavior. These attributes make them valued friends and confidantes. ISTPs usually have a selection of friends who share their love of particular hobbies and pasttimes. They might have a friend who they ski with, and another who they shoot pool with, etc. They generally have no interest or patience with individuals who do not share their interests, and will spend little or no time with them. They have a difficult time understanding people with extremely strong iNtuitive preferences, and are not likely to spend time with these individuals unless they share a common interest or hobby. They enjoy spending time with Extraverts, whose enthusiastic, talkative natures are attractive to the more reserved ISTP, but they will eventually tire of their "bubbliness". The ISTP is able to get along well with people of any personality type, but is likely to value and bond only those with whom they have common interests

A Cool Friday

Hi Everyone!

It's gray and cool today, a bit damp. Finished my homework Tuesday night (well, Wednesday morning). I'm going to stay more focused and have it completed this time on the weekend. My first class was relieving. The teacher was very nice (his wife baked us treats) and it was a relaxed atmosphere. I felt better that I wasn't the only one who struggled with the homework. I didn't get home until almost 11:30 (bus connections) and ended up napping after work on Thursday rather than go to choir practise.

Will be doing a lot of things around the apartment this weekend and running errands.

Have a great day!

Tuesday already!

Hi Everyone!

The past week has flown by! I still have a bit of homework left for tonight but I already have things laid out in my head.

I've been working on a newsletter for The Townships Project. I have another meeting on Friday night with Bill to work on it. If it wasn't for the fact he's over eighty, I'd have a social life! He is a rather sweet old man who always picks me up, even if I'm able to walk the 5 blocks to the coffee shop.

The weather's been nice. Warm and dry.

Have a great day!

It's Wednesday!

Hi Everyone!

The snow that came on Monday has melted and the air's warmer. Went to work on Monday but was sent home as I could only single-task (with a lot of concentration). Slowly getting better.

I'm looking forward to going home tonight and having a nice nap.

Have a great day!

Sick again

Hi Everyone!

I've got a cold but I think I'm through the worst. I think with the move and everything going on this fall, my immune system was lower than usual and that's made me more suseptible to everything going around. Was off work on Friday. Had some energy for laundry on Saturday but had to rest afterward. Went to church for the first time in almost a month (sickness, vacation) and although I was tired after, I'm glad I went. I missed the fellowship and music. I'm hoping I'll be back to choir on Thursday.

Have a busy week - a Townships meeting tomorrow, off to the bookstore for a study bible on Tuesday, choir on Thursday, and possibly a breakfast/fundraiser on Saturday (it's for Results Canada and the speaker will be talking about micro-financing). I also need to do homework. I received my assignments and textbooks on Wednesday. I was told to expect about 10 hours of studying/homework a week.

My first class is called Personal Life Strategies. Course description - "The setting of goals, as well as priorities among those goals, with an emphasis upon how those goals and priorities relate to the realities and aspirations of life. The attitude of the individual including ohter aspects of psychological makeup and how it impacts upon the ability and willingness to set goals and priorities. An emphasis upon how goals, priorities and attitudes can lead to effective Christian personal management." I think this will be a very challenging course as I've never sat down and thought about my goals and my future before (and written my thoughts down). I've always floated around from place to place (and job to job) relying mostly on feelings. I'm curious to see I what I will get out of the course.

I've also registered for my psychology course. It's though Athabasca University and it's a traditional correspondence course. I find when it comes to learning, it's easier to learn from a textbook and paper in front of me than a computer screen. It starts in December. Since I have a few weeks off at Christmas, I think it'll give me a good chance to focus.

I've got my new computer and have internet all set up at home. It's nice to have it back. Although I generally hate working on computers, I've come to realize just how important they've become in my life. Still haven't decided if this is a good thing or not, or if it's just something I have to deal with.

I've put the psycho fish in with the rest of my fish. So far, everyone's getting along. I think Rainbow was so use to being alone that he couldn't adjust to an aggressive school of fish. My fancy tails are pretty active and since one psycho fish jumped down the drain a few weeks ago, I think the dynamic of their school has changed. The other two don't seem to gang up on anyone. My upside-down cat fish is very interesting and the others seem to ignore it. It's quite interesting to watch the fish tank with all the movement.

Trimmed everyone's nails (except mine) last night. I hit a quick (vein) in Gilbert but he's o'kay. It's very difficult to trim his nails as they are dark (can't see the vein) and he doesn't like being held in one place. I've had a couple nice cuddles with Whiskers this weekend. Mike's been a bit of a suck but I think it's because I've been napping so much over the past several days.

The weather's rather cool and misty tonight. There's a chance of snow.

Have decorated the door with Hallowe'en peel on/off stickers and have my pumpkin lights draped on the upper railing. Can't plug them in until Hallowe'en as there's no convenient outdoor outlet but they're still festive. Got a bunch of candy. I'm unsure how many kids to expect (a lot of children will go to parties or community events instead of trick or treating - for safety reasons) but the more I buy, the more there will be left over!

Recycling starts tomorrow and I'm starting a subscribtion with the Sun. It's nice that I'm starting to get everything established here - makes things more homey.

Have a great day!

A Quick Hello!

Hi Everyone!

Had a nice Thanksgiving. Had Greek instead of bbq but it was really good.

Registered for class last night and got my textbooks. Will update you in a couple days about this.

Have a great day!

Thanksgiving

Hi Everyone!

My tummy's feeling so much better - hoorray for yucky yougurt! I have now caught a cold and stayed home yesterday. Still feel crappy but the long weekend should allow me to recover.

Had a wonderful time in Edmonton. The trees were changing colour and there were lots of pretty oranges and gold leaves. There isn't the reds here (no maple trees) but there was a lot of contrast. I had a great visit with Corey. We went to the conservatory (4 climates for plants), strolled down Whyte Ave (people watching, trendy stores) and went to West Edmonton Mall. We were there first thing Sunday morning so we went on the amusement park rides and there was no line-up! We also went to the aquarium and saw the sea lion show. There is so much to see there that I don't know how people shop. It sensory over-load. The bus ride was very nice - I took the Red Arrow rather than Greyhound. Very plush seats and lots of legroom. It was also a lot more convenient as there weren't a lot of stops.

I'll be taking it easy this weekend. I think I'll do Korean bbq (I found a restaurant nearby). I'm hoping to stay in my pjs for as long as possible. Lisa headed home Tuesday night for the holiday so it'll be just me and the furry family.

I got some new fish! There are 3 fancy tail (small fat goldfish with large tails) and an upside down catfish (to clean the tank). I haven't put the psycho fish in with them as I'm afraid they'll kill my new fish. They are very pretty and so far everything is going well.

Anyways, my laptop is somewhere in transit. It's being couriered up and should arrive today. What a fiasco.

Bought some moon cakes. It's the Chinese Harvest festival on Saturday.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm back!

Hi Everyone!

Still don't have internet at home yet - my computer disc drive has died and since it's over 5 years old, it's a better value to just buy a new computer. Definitely not in my budget, but Dell has a payment plan. It's been a pain getting my order all straightened out (some of my records still have the old address on them) but everything should be straightened out today.

Heading to Edmonton on Friday to visit with Corey (friend from Base Borden). I'm quite excited.

My stomach's been upset for the past couple weeks - not sick but constantly queasy. I mentioned it to my co-worker and she suggested it came from my cleansing. I was trying a new eating regime (shakes and weekly cleansing). I stopped a couple weeks ago (very expensive products) and have had this feeling ever since. It has been slowly increasing over time. There's a chance that when I cleansed, I also got rid of all the good bacteria so I'm not digesting food properly. It's weird - I can eat whatever I want but the feeling doesn't go away. I'm going to eat some yucky yougurt for the next week to see if if this is the cause. If it ends up being a stomach bug, I'll feel a whole lot worse but at least I can narrow things down...

Shannon left on Monday morning heading back to Ontario. We had a great visit.

Got my acceptance letter yesterday so I've e-mailed it to the bank today. This is so I can re-open my student line of credit. Registration is on October 11 and my first class is October 25. I'm really excited!

Have a great day!

I'm moved!

Hi Everyone!

I'm tired, sore and have a splitting headache. I hate moving! Anyways, my stuff is all over at the new place and there are boxes and stuff everywhere. It's driving me crazy. The furry family is slowly adjusting. Mike's hiding in corners and when he isn't, he's on me. Whiskers has explored the place but I think she's happy that the bed is set up (a favourite spot of hers). Gilbert is squeaky as always.

Lisa (new roommate) is moving in on Friday.

The movers broke a window bringing the piano in so I've looked on-line to see how to replace it myself. It doesn't look difficult - any advice you have would be appreciated.

Cold and rainy - chance of snow.

It 's busy at work so I'll update next week. Phone will now be hooked up on Sunday (after I called to cancel) but internet will be another week or so. Phone number hasn't changed. I'll e-mail everyone my new contact info soon.

Had a wonderful time with Shannon. Will update you on our adventures soon.

Have a great day!