Hi Everyone!
I can't believe it's been over a month since I've written! I've been crazy busy but things are calming down and I'll have more chances to keep this up to date. At my new work, I can't use the internet to update my blog so I have to remember to do it while I'm at home.
It's been a good day today. I've got a lot done. I slept in but still made it to church on time. The annual meeting was today so I didn't have to worry about lunch. So far today, I did two loads of dishes (I know, bad me for leaving it this long), did laundry in the tub (and it's now hanging to dry on my little rack), made chocolate carrot muffin (using a mix for the first time - they're actually pretty good and all you need is water-and chocolate), cleaned out the furry family's cages, changed the water in the beta's (still not named yet) bowl, filed some paperwork, played the piano, got things ready for work tomorrow and tried a new recipe. It was couscous and vegetables - very yummy and surprisingly filling. It's a vegan recipe I'm trying for lent.
I've been researching lenten traditions and I'm presenting it to the church in the format of information pages, including a vegan recipe each week for those who which to modify their eating habits for the season. It's taken up quite a bit of time but it's quite interesting to see where some of the traditions come from - and how old they are!
I got a couple new fish. They're called fire-throat cichids and although they're suppose to need a heated tank, both seem to be doing well. My apartment's pretty warm and I've noticed the tank water is warmer than the room. I think it may be the filter motor I'm using. They're silver with a black dot on them that looks like another eye.
The Townships Project is hosting a breakfast fundraiser at the end of April. Although I want to be more involved, I just don't have the time. I still have a couple things to do with updating our brochure and newsletter but it won't take long once I get the information.
School is going well. I've decided to take a break and wait until the summer before taking my next class. Basically, it'll mean a 6 week break after my current class and then I'll go into Life of Christ. I can take Interpreting and Applying the Bible later - it just means I'm doing things in a different order and I'll do Hebrew Wisdom Literature & Poetry by correspondence to make up for taking the time off. It'll give me time to finish my pschology course, which was put on the backburner so far. I have until the end of May to finish it but I'm wanting it done by the end of April.
The new job is going well. I'm at the point that I feel comfortable and like I'm fitting in. They are very nice there - not like what I expected. There is a large age range but there are several people my age. I've got everyone's name memorized (there's about 30 people) and everyone knows me too. They were very welcoming and were happy to answer any questions I had. It's a busy day. I work 8-4:30 with 30 minutes for lunch. I could take an hour for lunch but I need the extra money. My two 15 minute breaks are actually when I go pick up and drop off the mail. My suit did me well and I now have the same combination in black. I basically have a three week revolving wardrobe by wearing the same suit jacket twice a week - once with the pants, once with the skirt. I've had several comments on my wardrobe so I'll have to tell my salesperson advisor the next time I'm in...
Whiskers has been a pleasure this week. I've been able to pet her without having to trap her. I can reach out and most times she will let me pet her (for a few seconds at least). I had a nice cuddle with Gilbert this afternoon and got a couple of his claws trimmed. He's difficult because his nails are black so I can't see the quick (vein). Mike did very well at his vet appointment last weekend. He was very well behaved and the vet said he was very pretty. In July, he will be a senior and we'll need to switch food. He's not too happy with the new food I'm trying out for him. It's a bit more expensive than I had been using but the ingredient list seemed more healthy. Apparantly the cheap food is the equivalence of giving kids candy and that's why Mike gobbled it up so quickly.
Anyways, it's time for bed. Have a great day!
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Tired but content
Hi Everyone!
I'm super tired so I'll wait until the weekend to tell you about my new job. So far everyone's been nice and I'm enjoying it.
Finished my finals for school so next week will be my first counselling course - Biblical Foundations of Counselling.
Have a great day!
Karen
PS - no cavities at the dentist!
I'm super tired so I'll wait until the weekend to tell you about my new job. So far everyone's been nice and I'm enjoying it.
Finished my finals for school so next week will be my first counselling course - Biblical Foundations of Counselling.
Have a great day!
Karen
PS - no cavities at the dentist!
Friday, January 19, 2007
A new suit
Hi Everyone!
Wow, I've never spent that much on clothes in one day. I knew I had to do it so I set up a limit and headed downtown. I was going to go to Banana Republic because although they're expensive, I figured a few quality pieces would be worth it. On my way there, I stopped at Cleo.
I've never shopped there but there was a bunch of suits that caught my eye. As I looked around, I discovered almost half of the store was Petite! I grabbed a suit and some shirts to try on. I explained to the salesperson my situation and she was amazing. She had me try on another suit (which I ended up buying), got me in the right sizing (I was choosing too large), and found me all sorts of options of tops to wear under it. Altogether, I was in there for about an hour. I ended up with: navy on navy striped blazer with matching pants and skirt, white collared shirt, red knit tanktop I can wear as a camisole, navy top (with cap-like sleeves so even though it's a tanktop, all of the shoulder is covered) with blue and white flowers on it, and a great red top with 3/4 length sleeves and outlined circles of white and navy on it and is crossed at the front but looks amazing (which I would never have picked out but it turned out to be my favourite). I came in under budget so I looked for shoes.
I didn't really have any great shoes to wear with navy for winter. Actually, my tan shoes are scuffed and I think my dark brown shoes would look odd with the navy. I stopped at Aldo but didn't find anything. Nine West was a couple stores down so I decided to stop in, even though I couldn't afford it. I really love mid-season sales! I got a great pair of heels (1 1/2" high) that are medium brown. The colour varies throughout them but they look great and they still kept me under budget.
With my savings, I spent the last of my money on a cd. It was Pussycat Dolls - fluffy fun for studying or cleaning to.
With my new purchases, I have enough clothes for next week (and there's no hemming involved). This way, I can get a feel about how formal the dress code is. I'm not sure if sweater vests over collared shirts are suitable but I hope so - don't have any yet but I like how it looks and it would mean I could wear my other dresspants. Next paycheck, I will go back to Cleo for a brown suit. I think altogether I'll need the brown suit, three more tops, black pants and a red or burgundy skirt to be completely set. I have a black mandarin collar jacket so I'll need to bring it when I get my pants (and maybe a skirt). Once spring comes along, maybe a lighter gray suit would be nice.
Question: When wearing a blazer, does the collar of the shirt go over the lapel or is it tucked under?
Overall, I feel really comfortable in the clothes I bought and I feel ready for my new job on Monday.
Have a busy weekend. I got a dentist appointment tomorrow (they had a cancellation and mananged to fit me in). I also have to make a couple dozen muffins for coffee hour at church and finish up my final papers for school. I want to have them done by Sunday so I'll really need to focus (and drink a lot of coffee!). I need to hand them in by Tuesday night as on Wednesday is the Townships Project dinner. The apartment is really messy and it's all my fault. Lisa hasn't been there for a few days and I've been so tired that I've let it get bad. That's my task for tonight.
Have a great day!
Wow, I've never spent that much on clothes in one day. I knew I had to do it so I set up a limit and headed downtown. I was going to go to Banana Republic because although they're expensive, I figured a few quality pieces would be worth it. On my way there, I stopped at Cleo.
I've never shopped there but there was a bunch of suits that caught my eye. As I looked around, I discovered almost half of the store was Petite! I grabbed a suit and some shirts to try on. I explained to the salesperson my situation and she was amazing. She had me try on another suit (which I ended up buying), got me in the right sizing (I was choosing too large), and found me all sorts of options of tops to wear under it. Altogether, I was in there for about an hour. I ended up with: navy on navy striped blazer with matching pants and skirt, white collared shirt, red knit tanktop I can wear as a camisole, navy top (with cap-like sleeves so even though it's a tanktop, all of the shoulder is covered) with blue and white flowers on it, and a great red top with 3/4 length sleeves and outlined circles of white and navy on it and is crossed at the front but looks amazing (which I would never have picked out but it turned out to be my favourite). I came in under budget so I looked for shoes.
I didn't really have any great shoes to wear with navy for winter. Actually, my tan shoes are scuffed and I think my dark brown shoes would look odd with the navy. I stopped at Aldo but didn't find anything. Nine West was a couple stores down so I decided to stop in, even though I couldn't afford it. I really love mid-season sales! I got a great pair of heels (1 1/2" high) that are medium brown. The colour varies throughout them but they look great and they still kept me under budget.
With my savings, I spent the last of my money on a cd. It was Pussycat Dolls - fluffy fun for studying or cleaning to.
With my new purchases, I have enough clothes for next week (and there's no hemming involved). This way, I can get a feel about how formal the dress code is. I'm not sure if sweater vests over collared shirts are suitable but I hope so - don't have any yet but I like how it looks and it would mean I could wear my other dresspants. Next paycheck, I will go back to Cleo for a brown suit. I think altogether I'll need the brown suit, three more tops, black pants and a red or burgundy skirt to be completely set. I have a black mandarin collar jacket so I'll need to bring it when I get my pants (and maybe a skirt). Once spring comes along, maybe a lighter gray suit would be nice.
Question: When wearing a blazer, does the collar of the shirt go over the lapel or is it tucked under?
Overall, I feel really comfortable in the clothes I bought and I feel ready for my new job on Monday.
Have a busy weekend. I got a dentist appointment tomorrow (they had a cancellation and mananged to fit me in). I also have to make a couple dozen muffins for coffee hour at church and finish up my final papers for school. I want to have them done by Sunday so I'll really need to focus (and drink a lot of coffee!). I need to hand them in by Tuesday night as on Wednesday is the Townships Project dinner. The apartment is really messy and it's all my fault. Lisa hasn't been there for a few days and I've been so tired that I've let it get bad. That's my task for tonight.
Have a great day!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
I got a job!!!!
Hi Everyone!
Just got a call from my consultant (shortly after 9) and I got a maternity leave until June at an oil company downtown! Good pay, hours and location. I'm so happy!!!
Anyways, it starts on Monday so I'll be shopping tonight for a couple suits. It's professional business dress.
Have a super, lovely, wonderful day!
Just got a call from my consultant (shortly after 9) and I got a maternity leave until June at an oil company downtown! Good pay, hours and location. I'm so happy!!!
Anyways, it starts on Monday so I'll be shopping tonight for a couple suits. It's professional business dress.
Have a super, lovely, wonderful day!
Chicken Joke
An advertising agent for KFC had an audience with the pope. While there, he said "I'll give you one million dollars if you change the Lord's Prayer from 'Give us this day our daily bread' to 'Give us this day our daily chicken.'"
The pope refused.
A week later, the agent returned for another audience. "I'll give you ten million dollars if you change the Lord's Prayer from 'Give us this day our daily bread' to 'Give us this day our daily chicken.'"
The pope refused.
A week later, the agent returned again. "I'll give you twenty million dollars if you change the Lord's Prayer from 'Give us this day our daily bread' to 'Give us this day our daily chicken.'"
The pope said that he'd think about it.
At the next budget meeting with his advisors, the pope announced, "The good new is we now have twenty million dollars. The bad new is we lost the Wonder Bread account."
The pope refused.
A week later, the agent returned for another audience. "I'll give you ten million dollars if you change the Lord's Prayer from 'Give us this day our daily bread' to 'Give us this day our daily chicken.'"
The pope refused.
A week later, the agent returned again. "I'll give you twenty million dollars if you change the Lord's Prayer from 'Give us this day our daily bread' to 'Give us this day our daily chicken.'"
The pope said that he'd think about it.
At the next budget meeting with his advisors, the pope announced, "The good new is we now have twenty million dollars. The bad new is we lost the Wonder Bread account."
A Great Afternoon
Hi Everyone!
Yesterday was really great. At lunchtime I went downtown to one of the temp agency's open house. They said on their website that it was a time to drop off your resume and get an interview.
I went in, dropped off my resume and had an initial assessment. Basically, they wanted to know what type of work I was looking for, my availablity, location of work & wage expectations. From the reaction I got, apparently I'm someone they're looking for. They then asked if I could stay for some assessments.
I was tested for grammar, typing, reading comprehension and math. I was worried because I didn't get even close to answering all the questions before the time was up. I ended up doing quite well.
I was then tested for Word, Excel & Access. I was a bit worried about Excel & Access because although I brushed up on them over a year ago when I did my IC3 Certification, I haven't used them since. I figured I was entry level for them and entry to intermediate for Word.
I was wrong! I tested intermediate to advanced on all three!
I then went in for a formal interview. I think it went really well because of my consultant's reactions to my test results and my description of working at Weed Man. She is to call me either today or tomorrow with the possibility of starting Monday somewhere. Assignment lengths could be anywhere from a couple days to a long term contract. I'm o'kay with this. There's a chance I could get the office administrator job at the church starting in March but there's someone else also interested who has more experience. It will also get me a chance to experience corporate downtown Calgary.
They took all my tax form info and I was finally done after three hours. I read through their employee information pamphlet and from my reading, I can apply to several agencies and just notify each when an assignment comes up that I can't take.
I'm going to take it easy tonight and apply to a couple more agencies tomorrow. I'm also going to get an expandable file folder so I can keep everything organized.
Class went well although it ran a bit late so I'm super-tired today. Oh, by the way, I got summoned for jury selection in two weeks. I was so excited! From the panflet, I go down there on the Friday and they're see if I'm suitable for an upcoming trial. I've only ever saw this on television so I'm interested in seeing how it actually works in the Canadian justice system.
Have a great day!
Yesterday was really great. At lunchtime I went downtown to one of the temp agency's open house. They said on their website that it was a time to drop off your resume and get an interview.
I went in, dropped off my resume and had an initial assessment. Basically, they wanted to know what type of work I was looking for, my availablity, location of work & wage expectations. From the reaction I got, apparently I'm someone they're looking for. They then asked if I could stay for some assessments.
I was tested for grammar, typing, reading comprehension and math. I was worried because I didn't get even close to answering all the questions before the time was up. I ended up doing quite well.
I was then tested for Word, Excel & Access. I was a bit worried about Excel & Access because although I brushed up on them over a year ago when I did my IC3 Certification, I haven't used them since. I figured I was entry level for them and entry to intermediate for Word.
I was wrong! I tested intermediate to advanced on all three!
I then went in for a formal interview. I think it went really well because of my consultant's reactions to my test results and my description of working at Weed Man. She is to call me either today or tomorrow with the possibility of starting Monday somewhere. Assignment lengths could be anywhere from a couple days to a long term contract. I'm o'kay with this. There's a chance I could get the office administrator job at the church starting in March but there's someone else also interested who has more experience. It will also get me a chance to experience corporate downtown Calgary.
They took all my tax form info and I was finally done after three hours. I read through their employee information pamphlet and from my reading, I can apply to several agencies and just notify each when an assignment comes up that I can't take.
I'm going to take it easy tonight and apply to a couple more agencies tomorrow. I'm also going to get an expandable file folder so I can keep everything organized.
Class went well although it ran a bit late so I'm super-tired today. Oh, by the way, I got summoned for jury selection in two weeks. I was so excited! From the panflet, I go down there on the Friday and they're see if I'm suitable for an upcoming trial. I've only ever saw this on television so I'm interested in seeing how it actually works in the Canadian justice system.
Have a great day!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
So much for keeping this up to date...
Hi Everyone!
I'm in my last week of work and I've dropped off a couple resumes around the neighbourhood and also applied to a couple at some placement agencies. I'm going to an open house tomorrow afternoon and I think I'll drop by a couple other places while I'm downtown. As much as I wasn't looking for an office job, the pay's much better. If I get something downtown, I woould't mind transit (or it's a 1 hr walk) - I just don't want to transfer buses or work more than 40/wk. I was told today that although I'm done this week, I'll still get paid for next week as a bonus. I was rather surprised (but very appreciative since I need the money). My replacement is working out well and there's not much for me to do this week.
Have a lot of homework to do tonight. Have started my final papers but I'll need to hold off until Thursday to get back to them. I should have one done Thursday night and I'll do the rest on the weekend. I have some ideas so it's just a matter of turning scribbles into a paper. I have three to do but they're six pages, double spaced, big font etc. As part of this course, I had to read books 2 & 4 from Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis). I knew a little about him but I had only read his Narnia series. I rather liked the book. It's based on a set of talks he gave on BBC during WW2. I found it easy to follow and quite interesting.
All the fish are still alive! I got a new filter for them and I think that's what's helping. The Sea Monkeys are visible and thriving.
It's a busy week for me. Last night was a Townships Meeting. Next Wednesday, we are inviting people over for a dinner to see if they'll help us plan the gala in May. Tonight is homework and baking. It's Chris' b-day tomorrow and he mentioned he likes lemon mereingue (and don't laugh at my spelling!) pie. I found a recipe that doesn't involve a box but my last experience with mereigue didn't work very well. At least my eggs are old this time... On Wednesday is job stuff and class. Thursday is choir and homework. Friday is homework. As well, each night will be job searching/applying.
Last night I watch Dr. Who (I'm so happy it's back) and Little Mosque on the Prairie. I laughed within 30 seconds so I'd recommend it. It's a bit over the top but I could relate to a lot of the "small town" stuff. My tv watching is now changed to:
Monday: Dr. Who, Little Mosque on the Prairie
Tuesday: nothing
Wednesday: nothing
Thursday: Grey's Anatomy
Friday: Royal Canadian Air Farce, This Hour Has 22 Minutes, The Rick Mercer Report,South Park
Saturday: nothing (except maybe a movie)
Sunday: 7th Heaven (and maybe a movie)
I try to watch The National at night to keep up to date on world new and CTV News at 6 so I know what's going on in Calgary. I'm going to work really hard not to keep the tv on when I'm doing other things (like homework and cooking). It's far to distracting! I find myself mindless staring at whatever crap is on rather than focusing on homework and chores. Back to grooving to the radio for me.
My New Year's resolution is doing well. I've decided to eat breakfast every morning. A healthy breakfast - not cookies (well, maybe oatmeal cookies). So far it seems to be either yougurt or oatmeal. I've decided to expand this health kick by ending my love of plastic cheese. I'm now using block cheese despite the pain of shredding it for omelets and wraps. I'm starting to not recognize my kitchen anymore - whole wheat pasta (but I still have my KD for comfort), 60% whole wheat bread (it keeps better), Caesar salad, real cheese, yougurt, eggs (for eating and not for baking - they're free-range) and only one bag of chips in the cupboard at any one time. To give you an idea, none of these foods would have been in my kitchen 2 years ago (or even last year for most of these things). It's hard to say how long this'll last but for the time being...
Anyways, it's warming up this week (-20 last week) and it's rather pleasant to be outside.
Lisa (roommate) has changed jobs and she seems much happier. She's training at a health food/supplement store. I think it's right up her alley as she eats organic/healthy food. The store's in the mall so it's handy and she saves on gas. She had a super-long commute at her old job.
Have a great day!
I'm in my last week of work and I've dropped off a couple resumes around the neighbourhood and also applied to a couple at some placement agencies. I'm going to an open house tomorrow afternoon and I think I'll drop by a couple other places while I'm downtown. As much as I wasn't looking for an office job, the pay's much better. If I get something downtown, I woould't mind transit (or it's a 1 hr walk) - I just don't want to transfer buses or work more than 40/wk. I was told today that although I'm done this week, I'll still get paid for next week as a bonus. I was rather surprised (but very appreciative since I need the money). My replacement is working out well and there's not much for me to do this week.
Have a lot of homework to do tonight. Have started my final papers but I'll need to hold off until Thursday to get back to them. I should have one done Thursday night and I'll do the rest on the weekend. I have some ideas so it's just a matter of turning scribbles into a paper. I have three to do but they're six pages, double spaced, big font etc. As part of this course, I had to read books 2 & 4 from Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis). I knew a little about him but I had only read his Narnia series. I rather liked the book. It's based on a set of talks he gave on BBC during WW2. I found it easy to follow and quite interesting.
All the fish are still alive! I got a new filter for them and I think that's what's helping. The Sea Monkeys are visible and thriving.
It's a busy week for me. Last night was a Townships Meeting. Next Wednesday, we are inviting people over for a dinner to see if they'll help us plan the gala in May. Tonight is homework and baking. It's Chris' b-day tomorrow and he mentioned he likes lemon mereingue (and don't laugh at my spelling!) pie. I found a recipe that doesn't involve a box but my last experience with mereigue didn't work very well. At least my eggs are old this time... On Wednesday is job stuff and class. Thursday is choir and homework. Friday is homework. As well, each night will be job searching/applying.
Last night I watch Dr. Who (I'm so happy it's back) and Little Mosque on the Prairie. I laughed within 30 seconds so I'd recommend it. It's a bit over the top but I could relate to a lot of the "small town" stuff. My tv watching is now changed to:
Monday: Dr. Who, Little Mosque on the Prairie
Tuesday: nothing
Wednesday: nothing
Thursday: Grey's Anatomy
Friday: Royal Canadian Air Farce, This Hour Has 22 Minutes, The Rick Mercer Report,South Park
Saturday: nothing (except maybe a movie)
Sunday: 7th Heaven (and maybe a movie)
I try to watch The National at night to keep up to date on world new and CTV News at 6 so I know what's going on in Calgary. I'm going to work really hard not to keep the tv on when I'm doing other things (like homework and cooking). It's far to distracting! I find myself mindless staring at whatever crap is on rather than focusing on homework and chores. Back to grooving to the radio for me.
My New Year's resolution is doing well. I've decided to eat breakfast every morning. A healthy breakfast - not cookies (well, maybe oatmeal cookies). So far it seems to be either yougurt or oatmeal. I've decided to expand this health kick by ending my love of plastic cheese. I'm now using block cheese despite the pain of shredding it for omelets and wraps. I'm starting to not recognize my kitchen anymore - whole wheat pasta (but I still have my KD for comfort), 60% whole wheat bread (it keeps better), Caesar salad, real cheese, yougurt, eggs (for eating and not for baking - they're free-range) and only one bag of chips in the cupboard at any one time. To give you an idea, none of these foods would have been in my kitchen 2 years ago (or even last year for most of these things). It's hard to say how long this'll last but for the time being...
Anyways, it's warming up this week (-20 last week) and it's rather pleasant to be outside.
Lisa (roommate) has changed jobs and she seems much happier. She's training at a health food/supplement store. I think it's right up her alley as she eats organic/healthy food. The store's in the mall so it's handy and she saves on gas. She had a super-long commute at her old job.
Have a great day!
Monday, January 08, 2007
I'm Back!
Hi Everyone!
I know it seems like I've dropped off the face of the earth but it's been a busy time for me. Had a lovely visit in Ontario but I'm glad to be back. Poor Mike! He had hairballs, lost weight, acted pathetically lonely...I feel loved.
Bought some new fish on the weekend. I should just never buy fish from Walmart. I've replaced them several times already. This time, I got fed up and bought 58 cent goldfish. I also got a new Beta and got a new little bowl for him. He's not named yet so I'm looking for suggestions...
I've been training my replacement. She looks promising. Phil is being flexible as to my end date. Right now it looks like January 19 but this can be changed. I'll be sending out resumes and filling out applications this and next week.
It'll be a busy week. Townships meeting tonight, church Christmas tree take down tomorrow, class on Wednesday, choir on Thursday.
A word of warning - grass and toilets don't mix. I was cleaning out Whiskers cage (she does her business on the bottom of her cage instead of in the wood shavings and I decided to dump everything in the toilet. I figured since everything was natural and biodegradable it wouldn't be a problem. $250 later, the problem has been fixed. Luckily I didn't need to replace the toilet, unlike a story I heard from the plumber who did that for a tenant that flushed 2 flower stems. PS - had amazingly fast service, less than 3/4 hour from when I phoned.
Anyways, now that I've got some stuff straightened up, I should be able to keep this blog up to date more frequently. I'll also include some photos.
I know it seems like I've dropped off the face of the earth but it's been a busy time for me. Had a lovely visit in Ontario but I'm glad to be back. Poor Mike! He had hairballs, lost weight, acted pathetically lonely...I feel loved.
Bought some new fish on the weekend. I should just never buy fish from Walmart. I've replaced them several times already. This time, I got fed up and bought 58 cent goldfish. I also got a new Beta and got a new little bowl for him. He's not named yet so I'm looking for suggestions...
I've been training my replacement. She looks promising. Phil is being flexible as to my end date. Right now it looks like January 19 but this can be changed. I'll be sending out resumes and filling out applications this and next week.
It'll be a busy week. Townships meeting tonight, church Christmas tree take down tomorrow, class on Wednesday, choir on Thursday.
A word of warning - grass and toilets don't mix. I was cleaning out Whiskers cage (she does her business on the bottom of her cage instead of in the wood shavings and I decided to dump everything in the toilet. I figured since everything was natural and biodegradable it wouldn't be a problem. $250 later, the problem has been fixed. Luckily I didn't need to replace the toilet, unlike a story I heard from the plumber who did that for a tenant that flushed 2 flower stems. PS - had amazingly fast service, less than 3/4 hour from when I phoned.
Anyways, now that I've got some stuff straightened up, I should be able to keep this blog up to date more frequently. I'll also include some photos.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Merry Christmas!
Hi Everyone!
Been busy doing all sorts of last minute stuff before flying back to Ontario. I fly out tomorrow.
For those of you I will be seeing over the holidays - see you soon!
For those of you I'll miss over the holidays - Merry Christmas! and Happy New Year!
Although I was mostly organized for Christmas, I left Christmas cards too late so I won't be sending them out. Just know I'm sending virtual hugs to everyone.
Been busy doing all sorts of last minute stuff before flying back to Ontario. I fly out tomorrow.
For those of you I will be seeing over the holidays - see you soon!
For those of you I'll miss over the holidays - Merry Christmas! and Happy New Year!
Although I was mostly organized for Christmas, I left Christmas cards too late so I won't be sending them out. Just know I'm sending virtual hugs to everyone.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
A gray afternoon
Hi Everyone!
What's the difference between "gray" and "grey"? I use both but have no idea why.
Just finished my homework for my first class of my new course. The course is called "Understanding Worldviews". The course will explore ways in which the student can develop a positive relationship with God as he/she explores the role of general revelation (the creation), special revelation (the Scriptures) and the experiences of God at work in the modern world.
I've had a lot of difficulty doing this week's homework. This week was about Protestant liberalism vs evangilicalism and the decline of the importance of God in today's society. I think this is difficult for me because the author of the textbook attacks a lot of issues in liberalism that I think are important. I am active in the church because of these issues. God is important to me and I feel a loss when I'm not in the community structure of a church.
I think tonight's class will be interesting as I'm one of the few who belong to a traditional liberal church. I hope to gain some insight.
Have a great day!
What's the difference between "gray" and "grey"? I use both but have no idea why.
Just finished my homework for my first class of my new course. The course is called "Understanding Worldviews". The course will explore ways in which the student can develop a positive relationship with God as he/she explores the role of general revelation (the creation), special revelation (the Scriptures) and the experiences of God at work in the modern world.
I've had a lot of difficulty doing this week's homework. This week was about Protestant liberalism vs evangilicalism and the decline of the importance of God in today's society. I think this is difficult for me because the author of the textbook attacks a lot of issues in liberalism that I think are important. I am active in the church because of these issues. God is important to me and I feel a loss when I'm not in the community structure of a church.
I think tonight's class will be interesting as I'm one of the few who belong to a traditional liberal church. I hope to gain some insight.
Have a great day!
Thursday, November 30, 2006
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!
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!
Monday, November 27, 2006
-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!
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!
Friday, November 24, 2006
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!
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!
Thursday, November 23, 2006
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!
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!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Friday, November 17, 2006
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!
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!
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
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!
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!
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
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!
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!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
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?"
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?"
Monday, November 06, 2006
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!
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!
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