And more on relationships...

"And the Chuks and the Skis don't get along." ~ Darren explains to me some Ukranian dynamics

Just finished watching the Bond movie, Casino Royale, with Dad and enjoying a little bit of computer time at the library. Wow, what a movie. Dad says he's never seen Bond suffer so much before. And the accountant was hot! (O.k. Bond wasn't bad either.) And despite my joking that Dad doesn't need subtitles to enjoy the Bond films, in actuality there was a lot of translating on my part. Very glad other patrons did not throw us out of the theatre.

So Christmas day had a little bit more magic this year. It's about the kids. And since I've become if not adult, no longer a kid in parents' eyes, the day can be kind of dull. But Celina and Kevin gladly came over to our house (since Jack was here), and we had a pretty good afternoon together. They opened my gift to them, a boardgame pack to share, and managed to get interested enough to play. And it was fun. Among Chinese Checkers and chess, they had something call "Timber Tumble" (i.e. generic version of Jenga). More fun to make the whole thing fall over than to build. And I heard some genuine giggles (not so common any more from Celina). Dinner wasn't so bad either. A definite fusion of Chinese and Western tastes. We had a turkey! And gravy and potatoes that completed the basic "traditional Christmas menu". But everything had a bit of the Chinese spin - cooked lettuce instead of salad. Rice. And so, Jack who was quite particular on having cranberry sauce, got creative and used jam. I was "allowed" to have some white wine - despite mom's protestations that I was too young.

Jack's stay ended, and soon the house was back to normal, but there was still some excitement in store. The dealership called and we Dad and I picked up our new car. I guess I should have ended that last sentence with some sort of exclaimation. But I was never terribly excited about it. After visiting dealerships, with many moments of aggrevation discussing the placement of radio anntenae, colours... I had enough. And it caused some crazy (ugly) family dynamics. Now I can sort of laugh about it. And on the plus side we do now have a reliable mode of transportation. Maybe Steph and Anne will reconsider going to Sherwood Park with me driving.

Also on the news front: Darren has a new dance partner! He and Linda have been practicing and will be competing soon. Darren also moved to his new condo :) And so with Christiana's visit back home we all congregated there for some tea (awesome finds from Ottawa), chocolates filled with margaritas (yum), and updates. Christiana, who I always knew would cause a stir, related on how the heads would turn when she and the other interns would go to "The Market". Oh, and the antics at a bachelorette party - which she would only partially disclose. I gave Darren his present: A brand new shoe brush! He said "I feel bad for my old brush." And then we launch into IKEA commericials.

On Christmas Eve...

"Call me Zebulon!" ~ Chris

After leaving work on Friday, headed over to Chris's sport and social club. He was still so sick. Skating didn't happen. But we did have a good time chatting. Ali has returned from a housebuilding expedition in Mexico and shared some stories and photos. More people showed up and before you know it, Chris starts talking about chocolate and French cooking ("Truffles - it's a French delicacy, and that can't be a good thing."), pickup lines and strategies (World Vision Campaign: "You. Me. Africa next week."), and the potentials for Sudafed in ballroom dance ("Sudafed - it makes you healthier"). Finally Nader arrives. And I have to call it a night.

And the next day *blush* Last minute shopping. Remember the people we used to make fun of at the last day of Bissell Centre gift-wrap? Poetic justice again? Still managed to meet up with Rhianne and Chris to make a phone call to Margaret. We talked about Christmas plans and tried to track down Fort Qu'Appelle. Good thing there is internet. Rhianne says the magic words to make sure the government is listening. I'm sure we foiled them though - Margaret's phone was cunningly cutting out.

My last few hours of "family-free" time today was for visits. Arrived on Malcolm's doorstep realising that my initial plan to pose as a caroller in case I was at the wrong house, was probably not the best idea. Good thing he opened the door! The real tree was lovely with ornaments, and there was a trifle in progress (starfruit - who would have thought?). And then I witnessed the complexities of changing and testing an answering machine message, and how that would delay the youngest Roberts's son from emptying the dishwasher. Made Sarah cat purr - nice.

Onward to Jackie's. Good news is he's on the path of healing. He showed me his latest Wii game "Elebits". A ray gun of sorts and lots of little devils and blue blobs posing as electrons. How come it's so much fun to shoot cute things?

Back home - Jack, Angela, and Patrick have arrived from Calgary. And we have a Christmas Eve dinner out with the babes (Celina and Kevin). Between all of us, the stress evened itself out. The kids played with their Tamagotchis (an upgraded version) and picked at their food. I half caught "grown up" conversations that I'm usually not privy to. And managed to go leave feeling not too piggish.

Us "kids", all head over to Theresa's place, and then the excitement begins: Jack teaches us all how to play poker (Texas hold 'em) and Black Jack. I rationalize that at least the little ones are learning how to add. Somehow as the dealer, I manage to go bankrupt. Maybe Jack's system does work...

Tomorrow is Christmas :)

The count down...

Just finished a good batch of power filing. Yes, this is a workout. And yes! Christmas break here I come :) So excited! Oh, but first... to blog :P

Santa came extra early at work. Big box on Lidia's desk. She was so excited. Upon opening I exclaimed: "Wow, an adding machine! What every accountant wants for Christmas." I don't think she understood that I was joking. But it was good, she was still very happy.

Last weekend seems so far away. Was late (again) to Charlotte's bachelorette party. But despite not getting the initial introduction, it wasn't too long before I clued into who (what) BOB, Dewey, and Lily were. And had a good laugh at some of the "toys" that were on the market. Some things have changed since Steph's party (my first introduction), but flashing lights were still a big hit. Unfortunately Char was pretty sick to enjoy it all.

I cut out early to head over to Grace's housewarming / Christmas party. I'm glad I did - I needed the head start. Another cross city trip in which I got quite lost, so that Catherine, who I had invited as a guest, and had left Charlotte's later myself, arrived 30 minutes before me. *shaking head* Yes, I need a navigator. And probably more sleep... and something else to help me be less airheaded. Upon arriving, found out that "munchies" at Grace's party meant "meal" and then dessert on top of that... I'm not sure what to expect for an actual dinner party. The food highlight for me was the grilled zuchini. Yum. Caught up with the dance crowd gossip, officially heard Amber's engagement story, and saw videos of Grace and David doing a walk-off in the streets of Las Vegas and breakdancing moves in the hotel lobby. They were quite drunk. They still looked great. It was HIL-arious!

Next day, couldn't believe I had agreed to wake up (relatively early) to volunteer for the Bissell Centre giftwrap. I was there! But the shoppers were not. I don't think the other volunteer recognised me at first as "old blood" and I was surprised when she pulled out a binder of procedures and time sheets. Woah. When did Circle K get so organised? We chatted, wrapped a couple of presents, and then I headed over to the Winspear.

I have never heard the ProCoro Canada before, and was delighted to see them perform with JUBIOLOSO! Bells of Concordia. Trent Worthington and David Garber are in the choir! Um... o.k. this probably would be more exciting if you loved VOCE as I did. The handbell players were entrancing: Flashes of gold, the sound of bells... I heard the notes, saw the movement, and thought of the inner workings of a music box... how I would watch the rolling reel of pegs strike the chimes to produce a melody. These pieces of course were millions of times more complex, and each person was responsible for so many different notes. I wonder how you would practice a piece on your own? Rushed out at intermission to help sell CDs.

And then after the concert - back to the gift wrap table to find that I completely missed the wrapping rush. More volunteers had shown up to help. I did some planning and made some phone calls. I chatted with this "new blood". I felt kind of old. But was laughing when finishing up a phone call with Chris that they asked: "Was that THE Chris?" Yes, Chris is a Circle K icon.

The rest of this week was a huge effort of trying to work and while being very distracted. Every day since Monday has felt like Friday. I ate my tofu and garlic, searched for the files that my desk must have surely ate, and listened to Lidia and co-workers talk about making pickle soup for Christmas. Anyway - So glad that Christmas break is here. And that Winter Soltice was yesterday. The days will become longer! The sun will return! :D

Not sure when I'll be writing again. So here goes: Happy Holidays!

On Making Gingerbread Houses

Christmas Friday Feast

"I'm perfectly well behaved." ~ Steph

Rem handed Erik and Michael hard coverbooks so that they work on the blueprints. But they were quickly being inspired by some of the "Wonders of World" featured within.

Michael: How about a gingerbread Stonehenge?
Erik: What's the worse that could happen?



Blueprints completed (a castle decided upon) - Rem proceeds with implementation.



The first house is ready for assembling and decorating. Anne's brought the most awesome candy including candy coated chocolate that look like rocks. We go to it.

"Don't you dare eat that door!" ~ Steph

Beth takes charge on some of the design details, adding tiny silver balls to the outline. Malcolm's decided that not only are gummi bears the inhabitants of the house - they are also an integral (structural) part of it. Soon he was conducting grafting experiments...



The pieces of the castle have been baked. Dave and I set out to put it together. The gears in my brain were turning: Hm... wouldn't gummi bears on pikes be a good addition? And in the silver ball candies there was a green one!



We take a break to eat sugar plums. Beth voiced my surprise: I thought they would look more like overgrown California Raisins.

I had to leave before the decorating was done. And Rem's design was just coming into fruitation: A 70's inspired resort (complete with overindulged gummi bears).

I hear there are stories to each of them now. I'll have to get the others to tell them. Pictures of the finished product can be seen at Steph's blog. Here are the pages 1 2 3. Is that a congo line at the resort?

Almost forgot:

"... He learned the proghorn antelope are found nowhere else but the North American prairie. The proghorn is not a "true" antelope, a fact that took so much explaining that Jonas began to daydream about how weird thumbs are, when you really think about them."

~ Todd Babiak, The Garneau Block

I really should have cleaned. But I didn't really expect any one to come. And so, I showed off my crumb encrusted keyboard, dust laden lamp, and massive piles of red files to dear Stephanie, and then to Rem. (Rem did remark that I seem to be diversifying - my piles now also included green and yellow files). They got a couple of treats, and I got them to pose for pictures to add to my growing divider "wall of fame". Their blending skills were so exemplary, my co-workers asked me the next day which department they were from! Thank you so much for visiting!

If that wasn't enough excitement for one day, later that night was Matt's dinner and games party. A different set of dogs greeted me. Found out one of the Sams played accordian. Washed some dishes and missed my special personalized gloves from Steph & Rem's. But was happy to discover some cutlery with lovely lines. Almost passed off a Safeway saskatoon berry and rhubarb pie as my own. ;) Played "The Farm Game" (?) Which was surprisingly like Monopoly, but not. Players sitting on bundles of firewood made it feel slightly more authentic. Smelled Matt's goblet of wine, as he told squirrel jokes. And we all "danced" to the music of TURBO Cranium from the other table. Called it a night before things got too "nutty".

All week I had been eyeing the office mini Christmas Tree and the mound of Secret Santa presents (one labelled with my name). And finally in booked meeting room, amid thunderous ripping of wrapping paper... I took pictures. Boss Michael got a selection of imported beers... I got candle holders fit for a princess. Moments of confusion, one of Tamin's bottles goes missing. Next day, this (right) was found. Those chickens are troublemakers.

Only a week away from holiday break! And gingerbread at Feast tonight!

Viral Marketing... and more stall tactics

Following the popularity of my non-week summarizing post (Oh, Malcolm!)

This is cool, and I'm awful at selling, so I'm going to steal the spchiel right off of Stephanie's blog (though I would consider those "sausage dogs"):

For Sale: Wearable Art
Interested in getting a funky new t-shirt in the mail every three months without every having to enter a mall? How about in supporting a really cool visual artists' collective? Or maybe you just like shirts covered with monsters, beagles, overly-eyed babies and hairy dudes in hats. If so, head on over tohttp://www.latitude53.org/ They're selling the series of 4 shirts for $100 as a fundraiser and will mail them straight to your door. You can see the picture down below.


More next time :)

More fowl play

groan...

"It's you isn't it?" Nikki blows into my office and gives me the eye. Could I be part of PLO (Poultry Liberation Organization)? I think she takes me as innocent (for a change) and goes on to tell me about the blog supposedly set up by all those liberated rubber chickens. I half expect pictures of them with a little leprechaun (and possibly the gnome) to start showing up in the mail. And before you know it, they'll be some where out east drinking beer.

Yes, I did hit my head this weekend. How'd you know?

It was another busy weekend starting off with the TA Christmas Social. We had a special fenced off area in Manulife Place across from Zenari's. Wonderfully delicious Italian food that was great to eat, but made everyone sleepy. And here we had a floor and music! Manoj and I did manage some salsa dancing before the gift exchange. *evil laugh* Many DVDs with cheesy dance related titles, and seemingly endless steals (*sniff* I was so close to walking away with a Chapters gift certificate), Manoj ends the game grabbing the jar of pickled herring (cleverly disguised as a candle). The proprietor requested to see a tango demo. And so in my socks, with Darren, Amanda and Pib, we danced. We camped it up (a rose between the teeth would have been perfect), and mid-song, we executed a very difficult move: the partner switch. Laughs all around. After that, most of us stuck around to chat. I roped a couple more people into "The Funky Sock Exchange". And apparently more people were headed off to Las Vegas (Manoj had just returned from his trip). When they dimmed the lights... and stopped the music... and moved the tables... we got the notion it was time to leave.

Next day, finally took up Chris's invitation to visit the sport and social club. People who were there less than 12 hours ago for Chris's birthday party, were there again to play dodgeball and volleyball. Ah dodgeball... I'm not so good at dodging. It was still a lot of fun. But I have to say, the volleyball court was sure slippery.

And after getting all sweaty from the running around - there was more to the day. Got changed and dolled up, and onward Chris's office party at the Celtic Hall. We were late, and didn't get to meet the royal family. But they were a pretty crazy bunch, and so, I don't think we missed too much. Through some cheesy music numbers they issued challenges to pick the next "Knight of the Brown table". I got try to a "Brown Cow", and this right after talking to Chris about how much we missed Margaret (Margaret, we miss you!)

Who would have guessed that I would know so many people there? Connie and Wilson, I had expected, and were glad to see. But totally did not expect to see Sherman from High School. We reminised, and caught up on all that's been going on in the last 8 years. Eight years. Both of us were feeling old. And I asked the question: Would you go to our 10 year reunion (if we had one)? Like me he had only kept in contact with a few of our group after graduation. What would he hope to gain by going? He said he never thought I would become an accountant.

And then after many photographs (where I may have embarassed Chris by taking pictures of random beautiful people), we go home. Oh, and listen to Sarah Slean in the car - Orphan Music is a great album.

Sunday: get even more seriously behind on Christmas type errands, and go over to Andrew's sister's to work on his and Sherry's wedding invitations. Many rubber stamps. Lots of paper. It was a mini feast for the eyes. (Apparently stamping is like crack.) His sister kept on track and we worked on the invites in a manner that I would think of as elves in a toy making production line. The invites were neopolitan :)

I go to bed thinking - I have no clue how I'm going to be productive at work until Christmas break. And so far I still haven't figured it out. Dang chickens.

Remki, Wii, and a whole lot of chickens

"If you have one Remkes... do you have two Remki?" ~ Rem & Steph

I am a killer. All the those cuttings from Marie have died. Some later than others, but all met the same fate. Poor plants. Despite this, the spirit of holidays is still in the air. The office is all nicely decorated, and Christmas cards have been showing up in the internal mail. Oh, and listening to the Canadian Brass's "A Holiday Tradition" all morning has helped.

Lots of activity since the previous real update. The last dance class of the season went really well. The evaluations read on Monday were brutally honest, but did give me a new strategy: talk more in the first class; talk less in the second class. Wasn't sure how to react to the comment that I was "organic". But I'm sure this means "super-awesome-cool", or some variation on that theme. And I therefore do not need to make any big changes in relation. I'm so lazy.

Friday Feast - now a whole week ago - was a small, tight-knit affair. Steph, Sophie, Anne and I caught up on some of the details, and worked our way through "lumpy" thoughts (the product of long work week). Christmas plans, Christmas decorating... and somewhere along the line the topic of Christmas ornaments in an autoclave. Rem insisted that it was a great night for a bike ride to Matt's housewarming. So, as he chiseled away at the ice on the balcony door, I got to do my dishes. Despite all of our protestations, he did not take the stuck door as "a sign". He laughed at the door (and the notion of luck)... the door laughed back. And then he rode in the car with Tom and I to Matt's.

Matt's place is wonderful. I told him immediately that I wanted to steal it... I guess I have some "conveting" issues, non? The fireplace warmed the living room. The grand tour revealed Lana-sized walk-in closets, a vent hole in the second level floor that looked into the living room, and a partially started "The Garneau Block" by Todd Babiak. Within minutes, Abby stole my heart (sorry, Taiga). I know I'm shallow: her beautiful doggy eyelashes and eyebrows spoke volumes as I looked into her eyes... Or maybe it was time to go. Matt had brought out his troll lawn ornament. Many hand signals to Malcolm to indicate that Rem and I were leaving. He was suffering from allergies, I was sleepy (and was not a loser). We left. In the car we sang "Route 66" and "Isn't It Romantic?", though we had completely different vocal arrangements in our heads. It was good.

Tried to rest for the remainder of the weekend. But among other tasks, had to make a short trip to visit Jackie who had dental surgery (Get well soon!). Our main form of communication was through pen and paper - reminicent of old High School note passing days. His parents, like my parents if we were in reversed situation, plied me food and drink. Which I consumed with guilt since Jackie couldn't eat anything solid. We played a couple of games with his Wii game system. Never before would I have thought that bunnies could be so frightening. I guess that's why they called them "Rabbids".

Made a PowerPoint presentation (sorry, Allison) for the office Christmas party. It was all a lot of fun. Big Boss Bill wrote a skit (to be played by volunteers) set in sub-arctic survival situation at our retreat. That "swine" of a chicken manages to crash the plane (after drinking all the rum), leaves everyone stranded, only to be redeemed with a "Hollywood ending" by rescuing everyone at the end with Santa's sleigh. I'm sure Matt (called in last minute) had no clue what was going on, but he proved to be a good sport: kept himself busy when I ran off to help with some detail, and then making me laugh. Another handful of table confetti in the bag... and then it was homeward bound. Upon leaving the Faculty Club, was immediately confused as to which way to go. Fitting that the crackers at the table had granted me a compass.

More excitement to come this weekend - birthday wishes for Chris and Nicolas :)

A cool quiz... and stalling for time

This is a cool quiz that I picked up from Jaclyn's blog. Won't ask you all to share... but you know I'm curious :P Will use these "powers" for good. And will update soon.

Genii & Smart Asses

I'm still at work. Testing out the now not-so-new laptop that I was going to write this entry. Propped up right in front of the regular monitor, I've been grabbing the mouse that is not connected, and generally getting frustrated with myself. Stupid brain. And stupid laptop... it's not connecting to internet. So... back to the regular computer, and a note to call nephew to fix.

Otherwise, it has been a very cool weekend to recover from. Denis Tremblay came to town for UADC workshops and taught some amazingly fun routines (which I can no longer remember). It's official - no formation team this year. So it was good to get some of that Broadway musical-feel chereography and short lesson on musical expression. "Ti-ta-ti-ta-ching-ching" and "Chica-chica-cong-cong-cong"... can you tell what dances those are for?

With all these cool moves still in my head, slipped off to Remedy cafe for the Mathies' celebration of "Math, Music and Saturday". In no time, the place heated up. I manned the jellybean guessing contest and took pictures. People move too much, and made crazy guesses. Rem and Malcolm taking the extremities of "there are no jellybeans in the jar they are a part of your imagination", and something I was told was close to infinity. And here Andria had promised no math! :) Andrew B and friends (Thomas / Tomaz / Elaine) played music including a heart wrenching Hallejuah, and ended his encore with Heart of Gold. With the formal program somewhat over, I dragged Rem onto the dance square, and we danced to random guitar strummings. I said goodbye... and returned not long after. I had walked away in socks.

Next day: Sarah Slean concert! So much fun. Chris and I met up for dinner at Earls. And then treked to Myer Horowitz. So cold! To my surprise I bumped into Liz (of Lister Hall) in the bathroom! I bring her out to meet Chris. We laughed, reminiscing over last year's concert and how James would strike up a conversation with someone in the bathroom... a prime meeting place. We have a talk about "artistes!" Would "You're a complete open book to me - I understand you completely" be the worse thing a artist could hear? And so I ask, if one is an artist, does one need to prove it? And would being completely inarticulate, unintellible, and thus beyond understanding (as I am) mean I have running chance at being an artist? Chris couldn't see me dying for my scrapbooks... I would have to agree.

Anyway, we finally get inside and settled, and wait for the opening act. Two guys walk onto the stage, one of which has a tambourine strapped to his shoe. That was Christian Hansen. He and his friend really like the tambourine. They start playing originals that were really catchy and had quirky lyrics (I want to say Barenaked Ladies-esque). In his song "The Rapture" he predicts "In 15 years... driving would be a crime." In another, he describes the life of a Westcoast Housewife... I joined his mailing list. Let's see what will happen.

In the short intermission that follows, Rem buys Day One, and between the three of us, we now own all her CDs!

"Hello, Dahlings!" She greets us in her throaty voice. She sits down to play. We love her. We all love her. So much that when she calls us her "little science project", and she forgets the words mid-"Out in the Park", we all cheer. And she called us "Musical Genii" *happy sigh* I guess it helped that (as Rem identified) many Kokopuffs were in the audience. I swear in the sing-along portions they were harmonizing :) She played some new material (written in France) and covers. Told us about the song she wrote in A-major, because it had to be least the favourite key. And then a spiritual her favouite of the songs in the very popular key of C (which of course us musical genii knew without saying). Made me cry with "Last Year's War" followed up with "California". And really before I knew what was happening, she played the last song of her encore (with a glass of wine propped on the piano), and it was time to go. Wouldn't it be awesome if she really did write a musical about us? (I'm such a geek)

Outside Rem waxed poetic about the with windchill -40 weather. Yes, the snow drifts are amazing (note to self: must take pictures for Christiana). Yes, the air is clear, and crisp. But wouldn't it nicer just a tad bit warmer?

To home - to bed - and tomorrow, the last dance class of the season.

Sleepless in Edmonton

"This e-mail has been brought to you by linking prepositions and the letter "A."" ~ Nikki

Work Email Inbox: 424
Days to Sarah Slean: 2!

Brr... super cold outside. Boots, coat, mitts, and many, many layers. Pib had once suggested that I should grow a beard to improve my dancing. Can't say it made sense, but I can see it as a possible benefit for right now: a scarf that I wouldn't absentmindly (easily) leave at restaurants.

Malcolm came to visit on Wednesday! Wearing a kilt! Lidia was convinced he had visited before, which he hasn't. Which lead to the question: Is there a Math aura? I entertained him with some of my nicknacks and showed off my red files. He made me laugh... and from his splockasthkelar he pulled out a cell phone! It's so nice to have visitors... hm... I should have offered some tea...

A bout of insominia has hit our house. Dad has his mind on the car; Mom's is preoccupied with finding a new family doctor (must speak Chinese); and me... stuff. Such as the proper count for quickstep. Could it be that the music is in 4/4 time, but the basic is in three? Such questions students ask! Grr! Or more troubling, how adamant I was about being right, only to find that I was wrong. Is this a sign of close-mindedness? And when does confidence become rude?

With the added snow fall, decided to finally start Christiana's snow album. Here is Part 1.

AIDS Awareness Week starts today and ends 01-DEC-2006. Lots of activities going on. "We are the Remedy" concert at Remedy on Thursday the 30th. And really curious about Condom Art Pins being displayed at Nokomis, and SUB on the 1st. More details here.

Rem & Steph - get well soon!

... Warmth in Winter ...

Chris: He just wants to manipulate on a grand scale.
Malcolm: How do you know I don't?
Sam: Hey, do you have a thermostat in your office?

Dance class turned out o.k. and I managed to buy Sarah Slean tickets for her show in Edmonton! *swoon* And over the weekend so much stuff happened so that I was too busy to return my library books... ah the weight of library fines on the mind...

But I digress.

Anne's birthday celebrations included pastries, cornbread, and polenta at Friday Feast, followed by drinks at her new "local" the Hotel MacDonald. We were lightly serenaded by bagpipes at 10:13 p.m. I took pictures, listened to the sound of ice cubes in the glass, warmed my feet between the couch cushions. Malcolm insisted that the water tasted like celery. Which prompted an Iron Chef challenge. What they were drinking smelled like wet wood to me (billed as "Double Wood"). And though we waited, there was no bagpipe encore to mark the hour at 11:13 p.m.

Winter Waltz the next day and I couldn't seem to get anything right. There driving involved, and at some point I had to figure out where to park. Ugh. Parking. Atleast Darren tipped me off that Canada Place was close by. But weren't the doors supposed to automatically open? Some sensor, some where was supposed to detect me and the vehicle and open the door. Right?! But it didn't. I drove until the bumper kissed the door, and still no granted entry. And I thought this only happened for regular doors because I was too short. Dang! Opted for parking at the Library parking lot. I should have never strayed.

Inside things started to improve. Dinner, which answered the question: What does one eat soup with? The answer: a knife! We toasted to the Queen... while Beth toasted to the Governor General. Followed by lots and lots of dancing, after lots and lots of photos :) How could I resist - they were simply gorgeous dahlings! Was painful to sit through the Gotan tangos, but Pib did rescue me for one of them. And Steph let me "lead" her through a rumba. Thank you both! Didn't think I had the energy to stay to the very end. But I did. And with another handful of confetti tucked away in my purse, Anne and I drove off into the night.

It was weather to confuse the vegetation. Plus weather, and the snow was turning into ice. At some point, I will have to learn that sometimes doing too many things at once just means nothing will be done well. And you might slip and fall along the way, and it'll all be more painful too. Made cross the town trips to visit with Charlotte for her wedding shower (Congrats!) in Sherwood Park, and then to Rutherford House to meet for Anne's Birthday High Tea. It was quite the fashion event: Anne wore her new hat and Malcolm showed off his new reflective sash, Sophie simply looked great, and both Rem and Steph were not clashing :P I'm pretty sure I combed my hair. And it was there where I cut and created corners, we discussed whether a Star Trek or a Star Wars wedding would be best, along with some real estate developments.

I get home and fall asleep while listening to Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire. Not sure if I dream of the answers to: What is evil? Or what is consciousness? I wake up to another Monday.

Buzzwords

"Screw you! I'm in a Christmasy mood!" ~ Catherine, while driving

Only an hour away from class and I'm thinking of what happened last week. Having already demonstrated that I cannot count, and that left and right are true challenges, inability to differentiate clock vs. counter-clock wise is added to the list. Not too big of deal... I mean... digital is quickly taking over the world, and soon children everywhere will just give you scrunched up "what are you talking about?" looks when it's mentioned. Kind of like the idea of "tying shoe laces" when there's velcro, zippers, and slid-ons... What was I talking about? Oh, right, class tonight. Maybe it'll all be redeemed with one word like last week. The word was: Disengage. Thank you, thank you! I would like to dedicate that one to Star Trek TNG, and Captain Picard...

And so I finally meet the other Lana. I can't say it was surreal, but it did pose some problems. I'm not used to using Lana except when referring to myself in the third person. And at some point in the party, half of the female population were Lanas (I know Bob the Angry Flower says it's wrong to use the apostrophe there, but it sure looks funny without it), and all the men were called Mark. Bizarro. All this happened at Ali's November get-together for the a celebration of initials... I don't know what else to call it. Attendees were to bring something to share that had the same initials as their names. I manage to find something other than lighbulbs and linoleum.

The rest of the long weekend was pretty busy too. Agreeing to a free dinner promised by sister Theresa had strange political consequences. It was a fundraiser for the provincial Progressive Conservatives! Ack! Held by the Chinese Free Masons! Double ack! And they roped my dad into signing up for a membership. I figured the menu of almost all fried foods was enough of punishment. But apparently for true absolvement, I must "perform 40 "Hail Raj Pannu's" while singing jazz to a duck." Thank you, Jeff, at least I know I am redeemable :)

Next morning, I head over to my sister's (not for revenge) to enjoy the some internet access and peace and quiet. Celina and Kevin though weren't so happy with the idea of me not working while they have to go school. Too bad! I got to play on the internet - read random tidbits of James Bond movies from Pib, while chatting with Vienna. The kids come home for lunch and cause a ruckus. Malcolm re-names Kevin "Le garcon fromage" - superhero extrodinaire... with the power of cheese...

Navigated the snowy streets and got lost on the way to Anne's. Once arriving though, she plies me with lots of tea. Perfect. Warm up to the "Happy Anne" soundtrack which contains a verions of "I will Survive" by Cake, and get to work. Building desks... changing toilet seats... Anne has tools. Which is sooooo cool. O.k. I'm over that now. We also get to the one of the main reasons I was there - to flip through some of her grandma's estate. Photos... old coins... keys without locks... questions to be answered. In many ways I envy her having such a connected family. But then remembered some of the crazier bits of family that I'm already too connected to.

Yikes! Must head off to class!

the Time in Between

As Andrew would say it, I've been seeing a "holy man"... I had to smack him for that. Be assured, I have not found religion. In the time in between, I've been seeing an accupuncturist! (O.k. Steph you should probably skip to the next section.) The place is located in HUB Mall, and offers both massage and acutherapy. HUB Mall is very deceiving in that the narrow store opens up to a reception area and then 3 treatment rooms. You walk in, and feel wrapped in calmness. Neutral colours, low lighting, bamboo plants, and water fountain in the corner all help to set the scene. So, how does this work? I show up, I tell him what's hurts, and then he goes to work. The sensation of the actual treatment is difficult to describe... he showed me the needles before hand (tiny things with a coloured plastic top) and a plastic figurine that had energy flow lines marked all along it. Tap, tap, tap... the needle goes into the pore (I imagine Steph with a tiny hammer), and then a small twisting sensation. For the next half an hour I lie there listening to some nature sounds overlayed on flute / harp music, as I wait for the energy to do its work. Lidia says she usually falls asleep during this time. I try to do the same, but keep feeling itchy at all the treatment sites. Maybe I'm just turning into an itchy person? In the end, I walk out feeling less pain. Which is a good thing.

Small adventures of late have been educational... if trivial in nature. I joined a lunch tour for Studio Theatre and got to see what happens back stage! Wow! Photos might actually be posting again. (Wish I knew what exactly the trick is.) Anyways, here are some pictures I took:

The stage for "The Double Inconstancy"/ Set model of "Crimes of the Heart"

Clocks Birdcages


Ladies dressing room - yes they have the lights! / All types of facial hair...

More photos, along with my notes of things.

And also in line with why I love working the U: I was waiting for the LRT when Nick walks up to me and says hi. This isn't Nick who's in Calgary. Rather this was Nick who I haven't seen more than 4 years, and used to live near my house. I want to call him "Turkey Nick" but that doesn't seem right. Anyway, he's part of the team that put together "There's Heifer in your Tank". And the next thing you know, I've been given a ticket to go see the show where they answer questions I didn't even know I had about Agriculture. No matter that when I showed up to the Agricom I got lost and was mistaken for a junior high student. I was awed from the cows (Farmfair International), and learned lots of cool facts: Such as how many teeth cows have... how many cowboy boots you can get from a cow... the process for making beef jerky... and many more. And all in an entertaining way. The cowboy boot questions was answered by a group of "elves" competing to be "[Canada's] Next Top Elf". And there people were dressed up as cows (all seemed to be named Bessie) and chickens! It was an overall fun night, though so very cold...

O.k. off to Friday Feast with me! Stay warm.

NLC III

"Almost anyone can become comfortable in a skirt."

~ Stuart McLean, "Sam the Athlete"

I did head home early on Friday, but not before visiting Rem & Steph's for Friday Feast. It's seems like such a long time since we were all sitting together, enjoying the food and company... away from the cold. I had to do a triple take (?) to register the changes: new artwork, the table, couch and television moved... the new spice rack... Simony showed up and talked a little about Vegas, while shuffling cardboard coasters from the Edmonton Arts Council. And when it was time for dishes we challenged each other to remember where everything went... I jump out of the kitchen brandishing part of a spatchula "Grr!"... yes, very frightening. Both Na and Chris brought computer speakers (the rest of us must have missed the memo). There was cake as promised for Jen and Reese's birthday, and eggnog (*making face*). Malcolm revealed a grand idea involving the Heritage Ampitheatre, dressing up, and dancing... and if we don't cheap out, a portable cello and grand piano... all to go over the fence :)

Spent the rest of the night getting ready for the competition. Did the little things that Pib mentioned... though not the same areas... And tried to get last minute details sorted out. Come morning, I was nervous and jittery.

Darren picked me up and we headed to the Polish Hall. He saw it the night before while helping with setup, but he didn't prepare me for all that was there. I walk inside and see: chandeliers, large windows, and spot lights! Beautiful. Great vantage point from the balcony, and awesome lighting... um... where's my camera? Dang! I forgot the camera! And I had planned to bring two - so that I could try film photography again. Argh. Oh, well, Darren was nice and lent me his for some shots.

Went downstairs to the change rooms, and was hit with a feeling of fear. De ja vu again... and this time it made me worried. Something in a dream had me in this basement (same wood panelling, same checkerboard tiled floor) and doing massive moving of chairs, and tables... Got ready despite the feelings of foreboding, and danced.

The next part, Pib described as a gong show. I would have to agree. More couples than in Calgary vying for the same amount of space. And there was all this dust. The conditions really tested the competitors' floor craft. And amid all the stopping, starting, and slipping, Darren and I didn't do our best in Standard - and didn't make the finals. It was disappointing, but it felt pretty special to have Olga (TA for our Wednesday class) shouting our number, and Clarice cheering all the way.

Break for lunch. Went to Tim Hortons with Darren, Vienna, Sylwester, Ryan, and Dexter. I drowned a bit of my sorrows in green tea and Timbits. But still didn't quite want to go back. Wanted a nap... or to go shopping with Vienna. Yes, my focus was gone. But, in my absence, after considering costume fit, height... we realised that Dexter would have to take my place and dance with Darren. Not everyone was happy with this idea, though, so I went back.

Latin portion was just as crazy. This time quarter finals, and 14 couples on the same slippery floor. Surprisingly though, Darren and I had probably our best Latin performance ever, and made the first cut. There was barely a pause before the semi-finals started. Didn't go as well this time, I got kicked and stepped on... and again didn't make the finals. We both agreed though, that it was a good run, while it lasted :) It'll be a while before we compete together again.

The day events ended, and when we returned for the night the harshness of the spotlights was intensified without the warm light from the windows. It was not flattering at all. But to compensate, the costumes and dancing were magnificent! I was a runner that night, which meant a better than front row seat... though I wasn't allowed to be so entranced by the dancing to forget my duties. The judges had a little fun with me - I guess I run like a duck?

The Champs really knew what they were doing, and I saw their secret - To avoid slipping: apply Liquid Vitamin E.

The Pirate was there, and during general dancing, I did think maybe, I could ask him for a dance... a Standard one? But I chickened out, so again, no new gossip, peoples.

D&D's show was wonderful starting off with a bunch of the guys carrying Dominic onto the stage as though he was a statue (Dance Machine to be exact) for a waltz, and ending it all with a super fun "How to Exorcise you Partner" jive to "Devil in a Blue Dress." Wow!

So the official night program came to an end. But for the volunteers, there was still the matter of clean up. Mark with the fractured rib, stuck around to move the risers ("Back go cracky, snappy.") Darren and Clarence too. Amanda and I were "fellow-fellows". She moved risers, while I mostly concentrated on collecting sparkles. And around 2 a.m. I finally get home, scrub off the makeup and sleep. Sleep. I like that.

"Other" Encounters

Days until NLC: 1!
Big announcement: Lorena is my new boss!

Finally got a chance to see Andrea's new place (hm... this has been close to 3 weeks now). Married life seems to be treating her well. She and Bob are so sweet together and I love to tease them for it. Bob cooked us dinner (goose medallions in a cream sauce), and kept me entertained (and with tea) between my bursts of enthusiam at seeing their home, Andrea's stories, and Marie's plants. As the proud owner of cuttings for 4 different plants, I have my fingers crossed that they will spout roots, and redeem me of all the cut flowers I have killed in the past month. Marie assures me if these don't take,we can get another from the original plant. I like this kind of back-up plan.

Things have not been exactly calm since coming back from Calgary. It has been snowing, and it feels like winter, ugh. Not a happy feeling.

Rhianne was in town for a couple of days, and we met up Chris to attend Jay Ingram's lecture "Are Animals Conscious? Dog Dreams and Parrot Petulance". He starts off his talk with some of the challenges in observing animals and how people have a tendency to anthropromophize (I hope that's right), and ended with question period. I didn't have anything intelligent to say. Chris only wanted to know if there was a way to get rid of the "annoying" co-host... so we went straight for the wine and cheese. Next, armed with soon to expire Entertainment coupons, we headed out for dinner, caught up on some gossip (sorry, Rhianne, nothing new since), and headed to Whyte. We saw people lined up and crowded around a church. Rhianne relayed that it must have been the ghost tour. Next we visited Death by Chocolate. Only a visit you see... because they didn't accept coupons. I was in a frenze - must use coupons! Must only patron businessness that accept coupons! It was that kind of night *blush* Truly, coupons are dangerous things...

Next day, back at work, with a aluminum foil hat and Lisa and Wendy - made a relatively convincing alien autopsy scene out of an unfortunate pumpkin. The idea was born from "sick" minds. But we won the pumpkin carving contest!

Should head out, and rest. Big day tomorrow! NLC - here we come... hm... I wonder if I'll see the Pirate again...

Wobbly, Wobbly

"Oh, Lana. Have you been eating a lot of carrots?" ~ Lidia, concern regarding my "tan"

Thank you people for all the good luck wishes for Wildrose! Between Blogger outtages, getting ready for Wildrose (and now NLC), sporadic internet connection, and being lazy, I haven't had much of a chance to write. But I took notes! Here was our trip to Calgary:

Friday, 20-OCT-2006

"It might take me 6 hours to get to Calgary, but I speed through yellow lights." ~ Darren

Darren and I both took the day off. We head over to Dance Central in the morning to practice some of the last minute tips Delphine gave us at our last minute lesson. I was worried about my arms, and the "Chicken Wing" position they gravitate to. She said it very much suited my dancing... hm...

All sweaty and tired, we eventually call it quits around 1 p.m., and go pick up Ryan. He was armed with lots of treats for the trip, and his laptop for entertainment. A stop at McDonald's for the traditional "lunch of champions" and then we're on our way! For the next hour we're singing and grooving along to hits such as "I Will Follow Him". Ryan then plays 2gether's U + Me = Us. Darren and I sat stunned for a moment, and then burst into hysterical laughter. Who'd of thought "calculus" would be worked into a "love" song?

The sun broke through the clouds when we reach Red Deer, and the city looks beautiful. We didn't just skim past Gasoline Alley, we drove through, and made a stop at Ryan's home. We met the infamous Putter, Cuddles, and Pinta - adorable cats that almost immediately set off my allergies. I played with them anyway, while Ryan showed off some of his mom's nature photographs.

We make it to Calgary and the Sheraton Cavalier around 6:30 p.m. Start unpacking, and I check my messages. Jeff had been phoning and text messaging to figure out where we were. He comes to pick me up. It was a tight schedule - the only time we both were available to go and visit Uncle Raymond and Auntie Grace.

Uncle Raymond is not doing well. He's moved from an upstairs room to one on the mainfloor. He's even thinner than before. I sat next to his bed, and we talked. About nothing really. It was tough seeing him like this. I was mostly quiet... but then he made me laugh. He said he's been watching out for us - he gave his collection of coins and stamps to my sister, just so she'll have something to do rather than calling us up all the time, and trying to interfere with our lives. He also told me he had no regrets, and was actually thinking how lucky it was that he got to do all the things he's done. And told me to remember to do the things I love while I can. He was getting tired, and told me to go and talk to his daughters (from Toronto and Hong Kong). His way of saying that life goes on? We ate apple-pie and watched "What Not to Wear" with Auntie Grace, as her daughter Amy worked on transforming vintage scarves into brooches. They were smiling, and laughing. And accepting.

Jeff took me back to the hotel after picking up Jack. They were up to some "night on the town" activities. Jack still bugged me with some crazy math in his head, he concluded that we took 6 hours to get to Calgary. And thus again, complained about how slow my friends drive. Yeesh!

Seemed that Darren and Ryan didn't have a light night either. I got back to the hotel room finding they were talking about "Ultimate" and "Perceived" realities, and 9/11. I took a shower as they continued talking. I concluded as the "Speakman" showerhead made awful squealing noises, that it did not like me. Then onward to sleep!


Saturday, 21-OCT-2006

"He's got a name in his click!" ~ Darren

I remember dreaming about another city, with another dance competition. Rem and Steph were there. I awake from loud exploding noises, I amble to look out the window, I see an airplane had crashed in nearby. Sudden flurry of action as everyone started to evacuate the hotel. It was daylight, and definitely not Calgary.

Wake up for real this time from cell phone alarms, set the night before by Darren and Ryan. One was a march, followed by something else, and something else after that. We were all awake, but no one wanted to get up. I snuggled deeper into the sofa bed, and I told them to go first. Smack! I was dive bombed by Ryan's teddy!

Eventually they get ready, and I start my monopolization of the washroom for hair and makeup. Delphine had done this for me the other times. This time I was on my own. Almost break a mirror in my acrobatics with the hairgel bottle. And everything seemed lopsided... and the makeup... arg. But when we got to the Polish Hall, Delphine said I looked good. Thankyou, thankyou!

The next part of the day was all about dancing. And waiting... and then more dancing. Heard "Banana Phone" song done as a quickstep... finally I understand what Steph & Rem have been singing! Jeff showed up with a friend to take pictures. His first look at me: Does your mom know you dress like this?! *laugh* And then instructions: Uncle Raymond expects a gold. But Darren and I didn't make the finals in either Standard or Latin. I got to take my fake eyelashes out before heading out to dinner - Bliss! And afterwards sat down to watch team Edmonton take most, if not all the syllabus categories. Ryan and Mel did awesome, winning their Latin category, and placing third in Standard.

At some point I talk to the Pirate! And watch a dazzling / inspiring professional show by Andre & Natalie Paramonov (Latin), and Alexandre Chalkevitch & Larissa Kerbel (Standard). My eyes wanted to pop out when Paramonov steps onto the floor with this "Exsistenz" / organic like dress, which had crocheted dangles, and before you know it she was back on stage again, this time in a diamond fishnet dress. Wow! But I was most estatic when Chalkevitch & Kerbel ended the show with a fusion of tango, waltz, I think there was some QS as well, to a piece by Gotan Project!

We head back to the hotel. But the night wasn't over yet! First to shower and get rid of all the make up (Ryan: Good, you look human now.) And then to watch Russell Peters. I now understand! After many treats, past 2 in the morning now, we head to bed.

I ask: Did you guys brush your teeth?
Silence.


Sunday, 22-OCT-2006

"Aren't we cool?" ~ Darren as Russell.

Sleep-in but still feel... ugh. But still all manage to pack up and get ready to go. The guys indulge me by posing for pictures. And lots at that. After lunch with Darren's friends, we head back. Stop in Red Deer again, but this time to visit Glenn's - the big pink teapot. We try some "Jazzy" Rooibos tea. We take some trick photos. But the main goal: to write some postcards and use the stamps I bought in Edmonton especially for the occassion. Oh, they probably sell stamps in Calgary, but I wasn't taking any chances... The answer to "Are there post boxes in Red Deer?" is yes. And despite knowing they are involved, and looking hard for them, there were no pixies, elves, or gnomes around. They're sneaky.

I fall asleep in the car for the rest of the way. Darren takes me home first, and I pop in a country CD as I leave. World back to normal... or is it?

And they're off!

"* English * Sarcastic * Geeky * Musical * Able to imitate a relatively convincing Scottish accent on request" ~ Personals Advert

Within 15 minutes of arriving, Simony had us all in a tizzy... I think that's what you would call it. He's heading off to a trip to Las Vegas... and he was going to buy Rem a small appliance of his choosing... related? Um... probably not. Rem was laughing at the randomness of it all. And thus, maybe we just shouldn't even try to figure out the connection. Anyway, with a portion of Friday Feast in our stomachs, Simony, Rem and I set out to find a rice cooker for sale. In Edmonton. At 8 p.m. It was reminicent of photo scavenger hunts past: Mug shots poses in Superstore, team members in doghouses, snow "angles"... But I digress.

We made it to London Drugs after driving through a small construction obstacle course, (Lana: Go Left! / Rem: Go Right! / Simony: What the f**k!) to be reminded: Always check inside the box! Someone before us had pulled a "switcheroo", so onward we went to Sears. Passed by the Perfume counters en route to household appliances, and couldn't resist a spray of one my favourites: Very Irresistible for Men... um... or should I say "Very Irresistible" for Men? (Really, are there degrees of irresistible-ness?) Either way, Simony was willing to give it a try... though probably not one to the face... which is where I expertly aimed *blush* Blinding the person who was driving, not a good idea. Only 30 minutes remaining on the clock. Rem watched all of this is mock disgust. Though I know he had a good laugh too... something about Pi. Yes, we are so mature sometimes.

Returned to the apartment sans Simony, but with, *drumroll*, rice cooker! It's stainless steel, and it makes congee! Which Stephanie "lovingly" calls rice gruel.

The rest of the evening was no less exciting - Michael makes me a film star. 30 seconds of fame in his class assignment as "Girl who walks down hallway." And I finally got my photos downloaded and somewhat organized. While doing this, was thinking I needed to start a folder for "Random photos of mathematicians with beards".

Next day got major house envy while visiting Kim in Leduc for her housewarming. Two adorable white kittens named Mouse and Bird, crystal chandelier in the dining area, and a secret attic... we talked, ate, and watched "The Pigeons" *cue sinister music* gather on a neighbouring roof. Hm... maybe I should watch "The Birds".

Lead-footed and Heavy of Stomach

O.k. it's done. I've handed over my credit card number, and I'm officially registered for the next CGA course on the list. Only took me... um... eight months to actually get to it. No, of course I wasn't procrastinating.

Just like how I wasn't procrastinating about the "owning a car" situation. I've kind of, sort of, put it out to my network, that a vehicle purchase was in order. For one, the Sherwood Park incident a week ago didn't improve things (though we do have a new battery now). But is still took a trip to Edmonton for Angela, a promise that I would spend Saturday with her, and then for her to use that promise to get me into the car dealers, and into some cars. Boy these psychological barriers are fun to overcome!

If anything, most of the day was a laugh. I saw the stereotypical used car salesman, in brown suit and stripped tie slightly askewed, something greasy about him... though I couldn't put my finger on it... Offered to teach me how to drive standard. If I bought the car. Followed by an eye-widening moment when I climbed into a Honda Civic: My head hit the ceiling! What the heck?! Ah, vertically adjustable seats. Just turn the dial, and I can feel like a giant too. Driving Dad's car definitely has me trained... weight trained, resistance trained... Who knew these new cars were so sensitive? I was feeling emensely sorry for the salesman who had to sit through my starts and stops, and sharp turns, reminiscent of student driver parodies... And now I know how much of a workout I'm actually getting while driving Dad's car :)

Spending the whole day driving and with with my sister... *sigh* I wish I could say we got along fine, but in reality, my head and stomach were hurting, and I couldn't wait to get bed.

I woke up in a panic. Less than 2 weeks to Wild Rose! Ack! Um... sometimes a full 8 hours of sleep and clear thinking isn't such a good thing. Pushed the thought away, more pressing matter: Thanksgiving dinner at Malcolm's.

Malcolm greeted us with "I have no clue what I'm doing." He was in charge of "the bird". But everything looked more than fine, and it smelled nice. Not long after though, things fell into chaos! Twice the estimated number of people arrived. Too many chefs in kitchen. An incredibly cute eggplant was found. Lana was armed with a camera:

(And Blogger is giving me picture posting problems again... so... let's go around it...)

Malcolm carved the bird sans book, and we ate. There was tofu (yay!), blackberry sauce, gravy, potatoes, cheesebaked cauliflower, bread... Funny how Qian, Na, and I were most interested in the turkey bones. Dinner melded into dessert, and many math (with an odd splash of other) jokes. We retired to the sitting room to listen to Rem on piano and Graham on double bass. And finally, rolling off the couch, we headed home.

I didn't think I could do any more eating for a long time. But Nick promised to take me out for lunch the next day. So off to the Sugarbowl! (*laugh* Only a few more days to the End!) First time inside and sitting down. Liked the art, and the menu ("Harvest Burger: Home-crafted out of four-beans, three seeds, two grains, and a fruit.") He presented me with a Lana-sized hat, and we talked about other things that I procrastinate on...

"We ended with the chicken lighting the matches, drinking the rum, and then running into the bushes..." ~ Bill on the doings of the rambunctious rubber chicken

You're welcome, Anonymous Person! ... um... what goodies?

Super surreal moment: Lorena in the hallway! My old boss from Allstream is interviewing here for Michael's old position. Crazy or what?! I might end up having the same boss all over again! Lorena is very sweet, so this is good news. She told me this was her first interview in 12 years, and reminded me that it's almost a year since Chantal had her baby. Time flies.

I wonder if someone reading I Was There: A Century of Alumni Stories about the University of Alberta, 1906-2006 would feel the same sentiment? Went to the book's "not your usual book launch". The U of A Mixed Chorus sang the official Cheer Song, and two Aggies burst through the doors at Convocation Hall with the Two-step (to illustrate Bar-None). Darren, Savannah, Manoj and I were also part of the live entertainment, and demoed "The Banned One-Step". We hammed things up to the ragtime music, and before I knew it - it was over (so much for getting nervous and itchy backstage). Many people came up to us afterwards to say: They banned that?! Things have definitely changed since the 1920s.

Picture: In the Old Arts building, Manoj, Lana, Darren, and Savannah practice "Conversation"

Survived another class of teaching. This time managing to give Darren and my TAs a good scare by squeezing in at the last minute... then forgetting how to do the Cha-cha basic *blush* I feel really sorry for the people in the first class. They're definitely my test class. The second one usually turns out better. It was also "Ettiquette" class this week - we had lots of fun with the skits. Olga does the "Talk to the hand" better than anyone I've seen. When I prompted, "What did she do wrong?" A student answered "She ripped his heart out." Wow. That's cool - in such a sadistic way... I'll be quiet about that now.

Happy Birthday, Margaret!
Happy Mid-Atumn Festival! Check out the full moon tonight.

Interventions

Whirlwind adventures: 1
Day: "I don't think I saw him yesterday... Maybe on Monday?" But today's Tuesday...
Recent Surreal Moment: Squirrel Stare-Down in Quad
Unofficial role when visiting the Mathies: A Muse... as in...

Was in a wonderful mood today after visiting the Math people. Not only did I catch Rem, who served me tea and illustrated just how scary squares can be, Ben, Malcolm, JM, and Joe were there too. Yes! Real people! Social contact! It's been a harsh withdrawal from such a busy and social weekend. Just staring at the computer screen... zzz...

So it all kind of starts on Friday when "Beer Wench" became part of my job description... I had signed up to be a "Beverage Server"at the Health and Wellness Oktoberfest... but I guess the nature of the drinks... and the costume... All in all it was a success (despite initial double-booking venue scares)... and yes, beer was involved. And that lead to polka-ing and strange words that sounded almost German. I walked away with newly honed bottle-opening skills and $ 1.52 in tips. Look out dollar store!

All the while this planning at work was going on, I was being swept up in another whirlwind: Chris (random-florist guy) was treating a select group of ladies (of my choosing) for a night of floral design (which Anne gives an awesome account), because... well, not sure what the "because" is. Lidia had thought it was to convert us all! Into florists!(?) Comment horrible! *laugh*

Before all that though, 4 hours at Tango's studio *ouch*, back home to meet up with all the girls. It was the first time most of them have seen my room... and Steph was immediately talking about closet interventions. *Hmrph* At least Catherine understands... maybe. Show up at his store Elegant Solutions, which smells as expected. Flowers *sigh* So, much food, much"playing with flowers", some dancing, an introduction to the 12-Step Floral Designing program, pictures, and the much surprising air mattress in the back...

There was the bit about the car, but what Anne doesn't talk about during all that singing and Wayne's World moments in the car, the driver (me) was laughing so much that she had to slow down, and was seriously thinking of pulling over... not that she could see through the floral arrangements to do a lane change. What a great night!

And you'd think one would sleep in the next day after such adventure? No, it was onward to OPDS, help take Mabel to the carwash, and then to Anne's to catch Margaret and Morgan on their visit. So I'm tired, and headachy... but it was worth it :)

Happy birthday Matt!

What Would Freud Say?

"American stamps, [Professor Dr von Igelfeld] had observed, always showed people doing things, whereas German stamps were designed not to excite people too much and were somehow more appropriate."

~ Alexander McCall Smith, The Finer Points of Sausage Dogs

Engagements, babies, breakups... was I living in a completely different world this summer? My mouth dropped when I heard all the "news" that had been going on in the past 4 months. Oh, right, I was supposed to be paying attention to the class: Mel and Ryan in the middle of Dinwoodie, setting the teaching bar high for their Newcomer Is. I showed up too to catch some pointers, and maybe settle down some of the butterflies. Took many notes the night before in TA Class, but they only looked like blotches and scribbles in the daylight. They named their team "D2" after someone *ahem* brillant made the suggestion. (Must brainstorm a cool name for our team...)

Woke up this morning unsettled. In my dream I was trying to teach a dance class in my kitchen. The room stretched and warped to fit over 10 people... and I could feel the dreaded microphone headset heavy on my head. I think we were doing Jive.

Agh, sorethroat... can't seem to stop anxiety eating... ack! *deep breath* Here goes nothing.

"Is that a tattoo?!" I imagine my mom's eyes bulging out cartoon-like, but I'm only half paying attention, devoting my energy to moving the flowers, balloon, books... etc. into the house. What a surprising weekend.

While taking me home from Friday Feast, Chris fills my head with "Nine Million Bicycles". I don't think I dreamed of them, but feel so worn out that I wonder what had been playing through my head. Thought about skipping technique class... but I go. Practice rumba, samba, and my barbering (hacking) skills... and then head over to Lidia's. The deal: I peel the apples; We bake. By the end of the night I had earned "Apple-peeling machine" status with 2 apple crisps (mushes), and an apple pie cooling on the tile counter. It was all so relaxing. Unless you were watching Lidia. She moved like a whirlwind, all at once making pie dough, peeling potatoes, frying fish for dinner, and talking on my cell to a rep at Shaw about getting her phone fixed - a blur! She prepares Yerba Mate for me and I sleep well (though it might not be related).

Wake up the next morning to a sky blue and clear for the HIV Edmonton Walk for Life. At City Hall, I am "Tattoo Girl" *cue theme music*. Armed with a water spray bottle, fueled on Cookies by George, with the special powers of being there. Offered to put one on a gentleman who was sitting on the steps waiting like me. Felt tiny when he said, "No, thank you. I already have one." and showed me his inner forearm. In simple black and red: HIV+

Ask myself over and over again: What am I doing here? They didn't need another photographer. There were cameras left, right, and centre. I was getting gear envy. I'm short. I'm not good at climbing things. And I have shaky hands... I have no business in taking action shots. But all that didn't stop me from taking lots of pictures anyway. Sat in rapture listening to the Japanese drummers in the opening ceremonies. Started talking to "The Balloon Guy". And the plans for the rest of the day flew out the window.

Eventually made it to Anne's Housewarming Tea with "Balloon-Guy-Florist-First-born-Metrosexual-Overachiever" Chris in tow, and a crazy story from the Roost (or more accurately from the parking lot of). Anne graciously greets us - thankyou for "party karma". Her place looks great! People laugh as I'm a bit "dim" at putting the lamp together. We listen to Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen, entertain the theory that the Queen is a lizard (and something about Free Masons?), and drink tea and disguised tea-looking substances. There were still lots of goodies from Anne's efforts (tea sandwiches, scones and blueberries... yum). Had to laugh at the "How to Tea" book from...? Good thing Anne didn't buy flowers - as the book suggested, the ladies might have fainted :D Did anyone notice there was Queen Anne china in the collection? With most of the dishes washed, the food finished, and minimal furniture broken, it was time to go. A trip to Sherwood park turned out to be very fruitful - or flowerful...

What a weekend.

A Very Merry Un-Birthday

"That would be the ballastic model of trust." ~ Malcolm

Chocolate cupcakes, hairclips, stickers, hula grass skirt, very delicious Friday Feast including green garlic and salsa, new wash gloves, glass charms by Stephanie, candy jewlery, sunshine, chicky socks, bubbles, sunsets, Rem's tea ceremony, and the game "Pit". A Very Merry Un-Birthday indeed :) Thankyou.

"Listen to your heart, but pay particular attention to your liver, because your heart is a little unreliable sometimes, but your liver will never lie to you. Also, your spleen is pretty trustworthy. But when your kidneys start talking to you, it's time to quit drinking."

~ Better, Deeper, More Advanced Inspiration Quote from The Dog Ate My Resume by Zack and Larry Arnstein.

The CBC radio says it's Day 10 of rainy weather. I'm dragging my feet to work, but other people are making the best of it. Imagine finding him (left) perched on top of the watertank in the women's bathroom. *smile* Cute isn't he? Others have been redeveloping a filing system with gusto. To each their own.

Lidia broke her tooth again - the second time this month... ah so hard to resist the lure of caramels... "Sometimes I think if I was really grown up..." Thankfully my encounters with caramels haven't been so bad.

Went to the dentist Wednesday and glad to report that the wiggly tooth is not falling out. And no cavities either! Other signs of falling apart are being attributed to patellar tendinitis. Drugs have been prescribed, and soon I'll be dancing with... well... minimal complaining.

Rem tried "reminding me" about rational and irrational numbers. And Celina tried to trick me with a few French phrases. Really peoples, I didn't think I needed to know this stuff after high school.

Anyway, should head back to work. *sigh* Almost there!

Oh, almost forgot the other big news! An interesting twist of events: I am no longer TAing at St. Basil’s for the Newcomer II and Pre-Bronze class. Instead, I’ll be teaching at Dinwoodie for Newcomer I! Anxious about it all, but excited too. Next week classes start!

The End is Near

"Only time can heal your broken heart. Just as only time can heal his broken arms and legs." ~ Miss Piggy

So excited! The End is near! The final book of A Series of Unfortunate Events is finally coming - to be released on Friday, October 13th. Yay!

Now for more puzzled moments: Guerlain has launched their new scent - and now you too can smell like Insolence... I think I must have missed something here... does one really want to smell rude or offensive? Or is this a one up on Dior's "Addict" line, and Poison? Strange stuffs.

It's been another fun weekend, including a private lesson with Delphine where Darren I recevied a new routine for quickstep. The dreaded heel-turn shows up twice... what we were doing wasn't "the weirdest thing" she's seen... but we have a lot to work on... such as the new "thumbs-up" hand hold that is all the rage ;)

Rushed home after the lesson to get glammed up for Malcolm's Flaming Friday! Celebrations for the Master of Chaos included drinks on fire (mixed and lit by Treena), liberal sprinkling of rose petals, Remkes on the piano, beautiful people dressed up in versions of their finest (complimented with thick socks!) And roaring renditions of "What do we do with a Drunken Mathie?", "Scarborough Fair", and an alternate version of "Happy Birthday". And one cannot forget the cake: moist chocolate cake with stawberries, white chocolate, and (removable) cream... yum... Hm... wonder if he understood the ruler? Congratulations and thank you again, Malcolm!

Had to head home early despite interesting debates, and more singing, because the next day was technique class at Tango's. Delphine told us this time we were making little tornados, and she wanted to see BIG tornados. (Ironic (?) since it was tornado weather than stopped D&D from going to a Worlds competition in Ukraine this past summer.) And that we want to look insane... Um... o.k. At least it's not Dominic talking about his magic hands :P

Headed over to the Stanley Milner Library and met up with Chris, Liz, and Nader to catch "Splice of Life" presented by AP!RG. The musical was about GMOs and featured a swarm of killer bees, a Terminator plant who sang falsetto, biopirates armed with cotton swabs to "take samples" of the audience for "Activist Genes", and many more. Even Dolly and clones made an appearance - though I was a little disppointed that they were the billed "tap-dancing sheep".

After much indecision, had lunch and went over to Nader's for some cathartic cleaning. Chris allocated me to the kitchen... I hope that wasn't some sort of commentary :P

Sunday was dreary, but at least I got to enjoy it with Catherine. Though she rolled her eyes, I think she was excited as I was about the Accordian Extravaganza coming this weekend... or then again, maybe not. Not that I can attend, it's going to busy with the EPL Fall book Sale and HIV Edmonton's Walk for Life (care to sponsor me?). And some time during the weekend - I might make a pie!

Yikes - have to head home for Dad's second birthday of the year. Lunar calendars... fun...

Catherine and Charlotte - get well soon!

Catching Up

"... It came from aliens, and only infects tall people..."

~ Ted, with an example of a "red flag" response to
"What do you know about HIV/AIDS?"

Raining blustery day. But I'm in high spirits! May be due to the sugar, or the knowledge that it's only hours away from the weekend?

Michael's moved to a nice office with windows. Not so easy for him to just yell across the hall for an request. But he did send me a "warm fuzzy" by email. I'm a sucker for praise. At least that means I'm doing some part of my job well.

Sometimes, it really is the little things that can make a difference. This kept me smiling for the LRT ride: A mathematician was carrying a ruler, a protractor, and a calculator in his carry-on and was arrested by airport security. His crime? Carrying Weapons of Math Instruction. *laugh, laugh, snort* That was one cool LRT driver.

Blogger has finally fixed what ever it was that was not working with photos... but still not letting me add them to old posts (dang!). So here's a "collage" of photos I promised:


Leva Girls (the girls adorable)


Cheryl (the girl adorable)

Anne Hosts Friday Feast

Proof that Lana cooked something edible


Happy Weekend! Stay warm!

(ir)Rational Fears of the Week

“You shouldn’t use four letter words like that!” ~ Tamin, on the forecast of snow

Nikki told me last week that dreams where your teeth fall out are "classic" dreams about fear of getting old. Hmph. Yeah well... I am. I signed up someone for dance classes, and they were born in 1988! I mean... is that even legal? (*Pause for simple math in head*) *Gasp!* It is! My eye sight is already going, and I have all these aches and pains from dance. Is dancing still a good idea? Am getting almost daily calls from Angela warning me about the consequences of not taking care of myself. Maybe the dream is really just about me falling apart... incidently, there is a tooth that feels kind of wiggly...

Not very productive today either, but did answer a questionaire on perceptions and reactions to a pandemic in Edmonton. "Which of the following do you believe can help prevent a pandemic?" One of the choices: Sauerkraut.

Lots of movement of people in the last little while. Just received two emails one from old Circle Kers. Lindsay T is currently in Sri Lanka (!), and Alto is in Calgary with plan of heading out to Australia in 4 months.

Tabs on other people: Malcolm has passed his defense (Congratulations!) and probably drinking as I write :) Jaclyn has survived her first University Tuesday, and aptly makes the observation: It was just like a Thursday. Christiana's been exploring more of Ottawa, and encountered this animal. She's puzzled, I'm puzzed. Any guesses? I'm pretty sure it's not a squeaver, or a squirvel...

Headache... looks like rain... time for some diet Coke and Mentos therapy. Or going home to sleep.

What to do

There is something wrong with trying to speed read through a book of meditation and relaxation, isn't there?
The work day was dragging. Have a song stuck in my head that's both beautiful and sad, and completely infuriating! Distracted between the music in my head, wanting to dance to it (possibly Viennese), and then cringing from all the muscle pains from last night's first TA class of the year. It was tough. All these happy excited firstyears there, and I was dead tired from work. But the good news is after the first hour, body parts started getting numb and the endorphins kicked in! Yay! I didn't even flinch too much when Dominic said, "GIRL! What are you doing? You're dead!" That, by the way, was in referrence to my hips.

Tired, tired, tired. It has been another busy stretch that's been very quotable! Just need to remember the quotes...

"It's Moxie Frugal!" ~ Malcolm

First up was Friday Feast. It was an intimate (small) affair, where Rem cooked and served Thai food. After talking about gambling schemes, football, contributing to the betterment of society, and some grammar, Steph and Malcolm introduced me to "darmok". Wikipedia shows this as an episode of Star Trek the Next Generation. Their explanation to me involved metaphoric language, or the allusions within a subculture. I just wanted to make the blog more interesting... so any references to toast, green tea... and um... reading will actually mean *nudge, nudge, wink, wink* :P

Headed out with Chris to pick up Liz to visit the Ivory Lounge. In which on the way there, we start discussing who would win in a "Most Screwed Up" contest. I didn't plead my case too much. Didn't stay long. Certainly thought piano bars would have a different image.

"I have magic hands. " ~ Dominic

Technique class at Tango's, UADC dance registration, and then to the Math Department picnic. I wasn't the only odd one there, but I'm starting to think I should have some cover story for being around... Dave says he's a Master's Emeritus... Rem told us to watch out for squeavers (squirrel and beaver crosses - frightening).

"Ah, the blend of 3 colognes... the smell of desperation." ~ Clarence

Then onward to the Maria's birthday dinner at Matahari! Lots of picture taking, lots of good food, wacky conversation some too racy to involve here, there was quite a bit of reading of the menu and drinking green tea. Headed over to Brad's for cake and Family Guy. And finally home to sleep.

Relaxed on Sunday. Listened to the rain, and then heading over the Catherine's to hang out. We watched Miami Ink, which is where people go for tatoos and therapy (they say it's real). Now, if I only didn't have to donate blood...

Catherine: It's hard to figure stuff like that out, I mean, he only died hundreds of years ago.
Jaclyn: And they wore really tight pants.

- On the death of Christopher Marlow... because it's all related *laugh*

Hopped on HK Pop

“It’s about people with OCD.” ~ Jeff on Amelie... what?!

Simply love short work weeks. Brain is virtually fried right now from not getting enough sleep, but I only have one more day to go before the weekend!

Returned home late on Monday night after subjecting Matt to close to 2 hours of HK pop music. What a good sport! He survived with minimal ear bleeding, and I got to sample some of my new musical purchases. Though it was slightly embarassing - he's a musician, and I was playing for him some of the sappiest pop music in the world. Good thing there were a couple of Wong Faye selections that were um... a little better.

Spent most of the rest of the work week listening to the remaining CDs while trying to concentrate. Not working so well. I'm in a sappy mood, the sun is shining outside, and there's so much activity at the U. Rem says there are too many people in the way. But I want to be out there @ WOW ("Geeks Unite") gaping at all the students, following the footprints on the ground (whomever they are modelled after has a huge gait, high arches, and is bow-legged), and scamming a daytimer (Catherine says I should just take one by force - those first years are small).

In other news: Ben has passed his defence, and is now Master Ben! Conga-Rats for Ha-Master Ben! Malcolm has finished his thesis... and probably that bottle of scotch. Both Anne and Christiana are settling in... and I have a Method named after me! And all this time I only had a building. Exciting :) Oh, and Dad has taken over the bike :( Well, at least it's getting used. One day, Lana, one day.

Had a good chat with Darren and though he has not revealed to me how my badly mailed postcard from Melfort (first wrong mailbox... then wrong address?) made it to him - we did get some paperwork done. We're going to Wild Rose Ball! Yes, another trip to Calgary. Told you this was a year for travel ;)

Ah, time to get back to work. Only a day more until Friday Feast, yay!

From Amelie:
Narrator: Nino is late. Amelie can only see two explanations. 1 - he didn't get the photo. 2 - before he could assemble it, a gang of bank robbers took him hostage. The cops gave chase. They got away... but he caused a crash. When he came to, he'd lost his memory. An ex-con picked him up, mistook him for a fugitive, and shipped him to Istanbul. There he met some Afghan raiders who took him to steal some Russian warheads. But their truck hit a mine in Tajikistan. He survived, took to the hills, and became a Mujaheddin. Amelie refuses to get upset for a guy who'll eat borscht all his life in a hat like a tea cozy.

Calgary: Ray & Grace

"Sometimes we need to educate our parents." ~ Uncle Ray

Finally, a little bit of downtime. J&J have been keeping me busy with not exactly wholesome activities. Jeff said he wanted me to think of Calgary as being a place of fun - where I'm free! Well, it's sort of working. He took me downtown several times while running errands, and I'm finally starting to appreciate how beautiful it is.

Woke up yesterday morning to a quiet house. Ah, the silence. They were sleeping in, and I got to lurk around and investigate. The pantry and fridge were stereotypical bachelor. At first glace there were only marshamallows, peanut butter, and rice crispies, with no milk (so, rice crispies squares anyone?). There were rolls of film in the freezer... After some more searching, I managed to whip up some toast and tea for breakfast, and was slightly thankful that Mom had put another stash of fruit into my bag. There was a shimmer and glint in the old room I used to stay in - Jeff has taken over the space for his collection of antique cameras. And the whole place looked a lot better (i.e. cleaner) than the last time I visited.

Eventually Jeff woke up, pulled me away from my book, and we started running errands. Went to Chinatown to pick up some of Uncle Ray's favourite pastries. Stopped at Farmer's Market for some fruit. And then to Uncle Ray and Auntie Grace's...

First impression: They've lost a lot of weight. I don't remember what I said. My mouth was probably open in half shock... seeing something so different from what I remember, but also better than what I expected. The two of them ushered us in, and Uncle Ray and Jeff started talking about cameras.

Uncle Ray and Auntie Grace are brother and sister. I first met them when I was visiting sister Angela in Calgary in 1994 (or so estimated). I'm not sure how they came to be friends with Angela, but they've been part of the family since then. Maybe even closer - since our family is... slightly odd. Uncle Ray would take us out to flea markets, teach us how to shoot cameras, and firearms... Auntie Grace would play the flute with me, and said that if I moved to Calgary she would teach me piano and stain glass work. Both would give us advice. Uncle Ray and I would write letters to each other, but I haven't seen either of them in almost 3 years. A lot has happened since then.

Auntie Grace officially retired from her teaching days for drawing / art, and piano, and on this visit showed me some of her works from way back - back when Marilyn Monroe, Ingrid Bergman, and James Dean were on the silverscreen. She had sketched these old screen stars for fun, and they looked amazing. Turns out she illustrated a children's riddle book too. Uncle Ray brought out his fireworks slides. We talked, watched some Iron Chef. All in all a great night. They're still the same... loving, caring - though I felt a bit awkward. Uncle Ray then started answering the questions I couldn't ask: It's been over 18 months since he found out he had cancer. He's on his second treatment of chemotherapy. No one knows how things will go, but at least the side affects haven't been that bad. He has good days and bad days, and today was a good day. He also offered some suggestions for me and my parents. Ah, good ol' Uncle Ray advice.

Anyway, with my main mission of visiting them accomplished, the rest of the rest of the weekend in Calgary was just icing. I yielded 30 cents at the casino (one of the not so wholesome activities alluded to above), having found it on the ground... and the slot machines not accepting my money. And I got a good dose of Chinese / Hong Kong culture (food, music, trying to speak and understand Mandarin). And had a picnic with J&J's other aunts, and grandmother at Bowness Park.

Matt will be picking me up soon to head back home. Can hardly wait.

Made it!

"You're not allowed to ride? What kind of f*%#$@ Walk is this?"

~ Matt, on the HIV Edmonton Walk for Life

I made it! I'm here in Calgary and I'm on a computer. Note the time. Didn't think I would be up this late and blogging. Internet access... *drool*

The trip down was uneventful, and seemed to go by really fast. We talked, we laughed... I answered frantic phone calls from Mom and Dad (we were running late)... and at some point fell asleep. Arrived in Calgary before 11 p.m. and stopped by Matt's sister's place. Colourful. She fed us cookies, and we ranted about Nelly Furtado. Remember the whole scandal about the magazine cover... and then now? O.k. maybe we're the only ones who paid attention. Anyway, J&J picked me up and took me to a sushi bar. Eating at this hour... yikes. All the way J&J complained about how long we took: "He drives like a granny" Which he didn't. I had another narcoleptic episode when they started to talk about cars... Got another call, this time from Angela: Don't go to bed too late, don't drink... Why can't I get cool calls like Matt? His brother called him to ask a physics question. Addendum: No tax questions!

Really impressed that Jeff is learning Mandarin from a friend (I can't even bring myself to take a class). The friend gives him homework - complete with sentence composition. He showed me some works: Ne ze dow wo jia dung ne ma? *laugh* My brain is sooo sleepy.

O.k. I'm getting kicked off by Jack. More tomorrow.