Bashir Lazhar, Griffin & Sabine

I sniffle while watching Bashir Lazhar.  Partially from another summer cold, mostly because this Fringe holdback play is sad.  Recent immigrant, Bashir Lazhar, is hired on as a substitute teacher for an elementary school.  Through dreamscapes and flashbacks super-imposed on his current experiences, one learns he has lost his wife and children to war.  I watch puzzled, trying to piece together the story and figure out what the second actor, a dancing, flitting figure exactly is (A halluciantion? A memory of his dead children?).  Still not quite sure still at the end, but Paul and I both agreed it was overall, really well done. 

On the way back to Paul's, luck would have it, we come by another yard sale!  Paul gained some dishes and I some sparkly bits. 

Back at the house, Paul showed me the troublesome couch now comfortabley inhabiting the otherwise empty garage. 

We started reading Griffin and Sabine: An Extraordinary Correspondence by Nick Bantock.  The beautiful book is made of postcards and removable letters written and illustrated by the characters Griffin and Sabine.  A mystery from the very start as to why Sabine can see in her mind Griffin creating his art.  Paul played Griffin well, but did have to comment, "[Griffin] has anger management problems."  I kind of had to agree.

Not really a Canadian Thing

He suggested one block... so I played along.  It was fun. 

When Paul and I arrived at Feast there was a great crowd.  Some of were outside on the patch of grass and some of were happy inside, in the shade.   

(Right: A kind of lineage)

Things kind of got silly outside.  We tested our "eyed-ness" and looked for floating sausages...

(Above: This is so weird!)

Eventually, after lots of salad was eating, Rem brought out his guitar and we sang. 

Everyone: Row, row, row, your boat... 

Erik: Everybody ROW now! 

Even when the sun went down, we continued our sing-a-long. 

Mr. Anderson demonstrated just how dodgey and rude Care Bear names could be.  (Or really, just how dirty our minds are.) 

(Left: Floating sausages, anyone?) 

We also tried our memories on whether cauliflower or broccoli was genetically engineered.  I suggest the broccoflower, which to me looks the weirdest (but apparently can be created by cross pollination - per wikipedia).

A Train Approaches

The final TA tryout came and went.  I was feeling dizzy and nauseous for most of the day (nerves?), but thankfully did not throw up during the class.  Paul met me afterwards and we walked downtown.  The fresh air did some good.  We took the bike path that ran next to the LRT tracks. 

I walked on the line on the path and wandered at points to be right next to the tracks.  Paul wasn't compelled to do the same.  But, the rail lines are electified where he comes from. 

I was vaguely aware that there's graffiti in this area from taking the train (usually I'm reading by this point of ride).  This time we take a good look.  Among the tagging there was a WING's fortune cookie message and brightly coloured murals - I wished I brought my camera.  I would have also taken photos of all the abandonned chairs (none quite fit Paul's decor).  Bathed in twilight, it was all beautiful.  But when the sun set and we were in the main of downtown, we saw someone (hopefully) sleeping on the path - it brought us back to where we actually were. 

In Churchill Square we sat next to the water fountain.  Paul threw in coins to test if the value of the coin made a difference on whether a wish would come true.  It didn't help that he made the wishes logical loops of each other.  Silly boy. 

He waits with me at the bus stop.  Buses go by.  A pan handler asks us for money.  More buses go by.  We talk about Calvin and Hobbes (the comic).  Eventually, I catch a bus home. 

Lana's World

... According to Sarah Slean

1. Are you male or female:   Modern Man I & II
2. Describe yourself:   Book Smart, Street Stupid
3. How do you feel:   Euphoria / Comfortably Numb
4. Describe where you currently live:   No Place At All
5. If you could go anywhere, where would you go?:   Lonely Side of the Moon
6. Your best friend is:   Awake Soon
7. You and your best friends are:   Compatriots
8. What's the weather like?:   Blue Parade
9. Favorite time of day:   The Score
10. If your life was a TV show, what would it be called?:   Notes from the Underground
11. What is life to you?:   Hopeful Hearts
12. Your last relationship was:   Last Year's War
13. Your fear:   Drastic Measures
14. What is the best advice you have to give?:   Get Home
15. How would you like to die?:   ["In" not "By"] Somebody's Arms
16. My soul's present condition:  Playing cards with Judas
17. My motto:   Your Wish Is My Wish

Kathy and Neil: Married!

"Where is he?"  It probably wasn't the best idea to send the groom to find someone else who was missing (like D&D said, don't let your dance partner leave your side), but Kathy didn't have to worry - Neil was back in no time.  And then the ceremony started.

Meaghan, Rem, Erich, and I sing into the breeze.  Kathy and Neil repeat their vows, exchange rings, and sign the register (Steph and Rem witness).  And they are introduced as married!  It was all done in a flash - short and sweet. 

Hugs were exchanged.  We, the audience, blew bubbles from small containers of solution and there were lots of photos. 

For the rest of the afternoon, we stayed in the park and played.  Kathy and Neil had planned well for us, including snacks and games. 

After a short to visit to Meaghan's parents' place, we were back at the hall.  More photos, this time, befit our maturity, at the playground!

We ate a lovely dinner and finished off the meal with delicious ice cream wedding cake.  After some brief words, we danced!  And ran after the kids. 

Congratulations again, Kathy and Neil! 

A few more details and photos here.

A Non-Work Week

A whole week off from work!  Time for Fringe, some niggly stuff, and getting ready for the wedding. 

Stage a Fringe Revolution

More of the same volunteer wise for the Festival.  I felt a little silly wearing the revolution logo (definitely not one I can give Dad to wear), but as required, wore the shirt for all my shifts.  Was paired up, at one point, with a new to Edmonton theatre design student.  John was passionate about the shows and had a whole pocket full of tickets for plays.  I really think he would have slept on site if he could.  Was unexpectedly paired up with Micah for a shift as Mobile Front of House and saw what it really was like to be on the inside - she knows everyone! 

Erik changes Movie Night to Fringe Night.  We watch Grimmer than Grim - a bloody, and cartoony version of lesser known Grimm fairytales.  The theme song is still in my head, but I didn't think it was really my kind of play.  Will have to have to look up some of the tales in my book of collected Grimm.  Later, loitered at "the Sev" with Chris, his friend, Paul, and Catherine after picking up a slurpee.  There was a hole in the wall (that I refused to stick my hand into) and we sang the Inspector Gadget theme.  Chris has a motorbike! 

Didn't watch a play with Catherine or Andrea as originally planned.  Instead, caught the Be Arthurs Reunion Tour with Drew.  He had no idea what I was dragging him to, but I briefed: Edmonton's "official" ukelele cover band reunites after their huge breakup!  Catherine saw it the other day and gave it good reviews.  And of course, it's the Be Arthurs!  What I didn't expect it to be organised in two parts: A documentary (a large screen played interviews of fans, past tour clips, and a gave a history of the band - Jill Pollock made an appearance as creepy-stalkerish fan) and a concert.  The band arrived in the second half in a cloud of smoke and play something awesome, followed by a Snoop Dog cover (slowed down to ballad), plus, to tempo with dance, of Beyonce's Single Ladies.  Hilarious!  Would have been a wonderful night, except afterwards I realised my cell phone had at some point fallen out of my pocket.  Dang. 

"For a young girl you're really falling apart."


Definitely not something one wants to hear from their doctor.  Yes, annual check up time... um... about 2 months late.  Better late than never.  I really hope he was joking. 
My Love's an Arbutus

"What modern stuff your friends did!  The piece had semi-tones... and quarter tones... and interesting time changes..." ~ Meaghan, with a possible response to our performance

I'm told the tenors got a good part.  I don't notice this much... I'm busy trying to get the melody (my part) in my head.  And to sing out. And not fall into Meaghan, who is super strong.  And to SING-OUT.  It hurts, and it's hard, but it sure feels good to be singing again (and very glad not to be doing the alto part).  More rehearsal this afternoon!

Canadian Gothic

"Just because I don't know anything about gardening, doesn't mean my friends don't."  I countered Mom and Dad and showed them the perfectly formed carrots from Shauna and Jesse's garden. 

Last night's belated birthday barbeque was simply relaxing.  Jazzy, Howie, Shauna, Jesse and I lounged in their backyard, enjoying the gentle breeze and sunshine. 

We caught up over hamburgers and veggies from the garden. 

Jazzy and Howie have been doing some landscaping.  Jesse and Shauna have done some great work on the house (getting ready for baby), plus work in the garden. They show us the motorcycles they have in the garage (Jesse, remember to wear a helmet!).

Over dessert (saskatoon berry pie and cake), we laughed over the bond between Howie and Chad (his best friend). Jazzy said they go on "Man Dates".  Their latest one was the wedding for Chad's friend - who happens to be Ryan's brother!  What a small world!  So while it's been difficult to inspire Howie to take dance classes again, he did have to say that Christiana and Ryan's performance was dazzling. 

(Left: Jesse still dreams of their acreage... until then, it's corn in the backyard.)

It was great to see them and enjoy a summer evening together.    Too bad the rest of the TC girls couldn't make it, but I'm sure we'll be getting together soon.  Almost time for a baby shower!

Deep South We Go

... to celebrate Rini's birthday. 

"Oh, you see, she has to be home... she invited us over for a party... would you please just call her?" I tried to explain to the neighbours how I didn't have Rini's number on me, and that she indeed should be home even if her parents weren't there... even if she's not answering the doorbell.  I nudged Paul to speak - come on, they'll believe you, you're British! 

We eventually got hold of Rini, and I was not longer looked upon like a crazy person... at least by the neighbours.  Rini had been giving a tour of her parents' garden to Clarence and Darren when Paul and I had arrived, hence did not hear our attempts with the doorbell.  Now with us safely inside, we asked for the same tour.  It's magnificent: A pond with water lilies, flowers everwhere, and even a gazebo. 

Rini had prepared a great feast for us.  As we ate, we caught up comings and goings.  Clarence with all his travelling (Las Vegas, Singapore, Australia), managed still to take Mandarin classes (and demonstrated he's learned the most important phrases).  Darren went on a family trip (casino fun).  Rini's building a house!  I've... um... crawled out from under a rock. 

"Cassa de Darren: Pretentious to a fault.  If only it was Clarence Miles friendly..."

We take turns diving behind the couch to sign Rini's card.  You'd think she'd be suspicious... but I guess our eccentricities are beyond suspicion.  Also, she was concentrating on serving us her delicious birthday "not cheesecake." 

I can't believe it's not cheesecake!

I can't believe it's not pork!

Maria arrives from reviewing a Fringe play (Repo Genetica Opera - Better acting and dialogue than Transformers).  It turns out she's been taking a contemporary fiction class. Awesome!  She was required to read science fiction (Neal Stephenson), which launches us into a discussion of robots (I must read some Asimov).

Before heading out, I remind Darren he promised to send me a song back from Brad and Dianna's wedding.  Unfortunately, neither us could fully remember it.  It was... a Latin dance, sang by a female, involving... underpants?

Sketchy as it was (I'm pretty sure people don't tag or organise their music this way), Darren and Clarence came up with the right one: Bitter:Sweet's Dirty Laundry.  Thinking on it, there are probably more out there that fit my description - the items aren't that random... Or maybe, if we can think it there is a song.  How about one with... cheesecake... robots... and a gazebo?

Friday, 14th August 2009 - Guest entry by Paul

"You did what?" -- This was a fairly typical response to my explanation to those present for why my left little pinky was covered in blood, and the rest of the hand pretty badly scraped. I couldn't understand the incredulity that permeated Feast as I described what had happened earlier that evening. After all, what's so remarkable about dropping a door on your hand? Surely that kind of thing happens all the time? You don't have to be so very careless in order to find yourself prostrate atop a door with your left hand inconveniently wedged under the whole lot. Or maybe you do...

The operation was to be simple. The couple selling me the couch had very kindly agreed to deliver it from Sherwood Park, at no extra charge, to my new home in Parkallen. A quick job -- twenty minutes max -- and I could then meet up with Lana to go and celebrate Rem and Steph's wooden wedding anniversary. The Sherwood Park couple arrived with couch on pickup, and I was full of optimism. My first proper piece of furniture! (Save for the bed that is, but that goes without saying.) A good hour later, with four pairs of hands on deck (my landlady happened to pass by and joined in on the act), we were standing around the stubborn object perplexed and exhausted. We had tried everything, even taking the side door off its hinges in order to create more space for the couch. So desperate was I that, quite without thinking, I asked my landlady whether there wasn't some other door to the house that I hadn't yet discovered, through which we might squeeze the couch -- a pretty stupid question for someone who had been living there for a month.

We finally resigned ourselves to the reality that this oversized seat was not going to go through either of my doors, and the windows were equally impassable. After some discussion, I agreed to take the couch anyway and store it in my garage for my landlady's handyman to look at: perhaps he could take it apart and reassemble it inside. It was worth a shot at least; and I did, after all, feel pretty bad about dragging the couple selling this thing all the way from Sherwood Park. So, the gentleman drove it round to my garage, where we unloaded it, and after some small talk I dejectedly returned to the side door of my house. Push door-knob -- expect swinging motion -- instead see falling motion -- huh? -- ah yes, door still off hinges -- arrgh! -- panic -- grab edges of door with both hands -- door too heavy -- door pulls me forward with it -- plummet -- smack -- door and idiot fall flat on kitchen floor -- ouch, what's that? -- hand! -- trapped! -- ow ow ow -- still trapped -- ow ow.

Anyway, it's not so bad. The finger nail should be fully restored by, oh, mid-March say, and at worst I'll get a tiny ganglion cyst in my finger tip, but nothing to speak of. A cycle ride later, I was at Feast, happy to be celebrating Rem and Steph's anniversary amongst friends.

Anniversary the Fifth

Was late getting to Rem and Steph's (having made a short stop at John's barbeque and swing dance party first), but was still surprised Paul was already there (with a banged-up hand).  He had called before telling me he was delayed - he was having trouble getting his new couch into the house.*  Turns out, he eventually stopped trying and the couch is now in the garage.  Regardless, he was happy to be there.

Our first and last love...is self love...

And I was happy too!  It was Rem and Steph's 5th - the wood - anniversary!  Many people stopped in to enjoy the company and re-staging of the wonderful wedding cake / dessert (DIY sundaes). 

(Right: Yay!  Five years!) 

It had taken me a while to decide what to put in the large wooden cigar / snake oil box (my yard sale / off-the-lawn find).  Paul suggested a cat, so I obliged with a Ding-Dong keychain (left), with other wooden goods, and a dash of fortune cookies. 

The time is right to make new friends...

The couple shared their fortune cookies and we all had a laugh.  I was happy to see that Paul had gotten the hang of it (he had bitten into his first like an apple). 

(Right: The Chin!) 

(Left: Per Paul, only slightly slower to load than Windows IE)

* I immediately had images of Dirk Gently's couch issues in my head (followed by the Friends episode...). Though, what I remembered wouldn't have helped (taking down a wall or waiting for a dimensional shift to happen)

Not Bad (Not Good); Sane enough

"That was not bad... if it were good, I would say it was good... It was not bad... if it were bad, I would say it was bad... So, not bad." ~ Eric

Another TA tryout over, with more cuts to come.  Was surprised again with changes - this year there were interviews.  Was it to figure out if we're "sound" to teach?  I fretted about it through Eric's explanations of pendulum and metronomic swing (ack!), but end up not being called for one... I guess Big Mark figures I'm not completely crazy. 

Andrew was waiting for Beth after the class.  I was lured by the promise of homemade pie and tea to come along for a visit.  We walked to his house - an adorable, almost 100 year-old, house with the creepiest basement I've ever been (Beth started quoting from Silence of the Lambs), near Stadium station.  Unfortuantely, he said, he'll have to sell it soon because it's too hard (and expensive) to maintain.  I looked out of the kitchen window and waved to the people looking in.  Neighbours?  Actually, random people who like to hang out near the fence.  Um... in that case I probably shouldn't have made eye contact.

With pie on plate, fork in hand, Andrew says, "Class must have been good, I didn't hear any yelling." Well...

"Even though I'm from Liverpool, I haven't done that before." 

It was all legal, but taking something off of someone's lawn was apparently still fairly surreal for Paul.  My take on it: Beats finding things on dead hobos!  Once I got to Erik's though, I had to hide my find. 

Lana sticks in her thumb, and pulls out a key lime cupcake.

It was a good Movie Night.  Michael has a new job and brought mini cupcakes to celebrate (Congrats, Michael!).  We settled down with the goodies and watched Charlie Wilson's War.  It was intriguing and suspenseful and quite funny.  Knowing that the ending couldn't be a happy one, (the little that I know of the situation in Afghanistan points to that), I was totally engaged and rooting for Charlie and his gang of misfits. 

Charlie Wilson: How old are you?

Mike Vickers: I'll be 30 next week.
Charlie Wilson: This is CIA's weapons expert?
Gust Avrakotos: One of them.
Charlie Wilson: But he's the most senior.

At the beginning it was easy to dimiss Charlie Wilson as a stereotypical politician - worse because he was also sexist.  It seemed like he fell into being involved with such an operation  - but later one sees he's smarter than he acts.  I Loved the character Gust (Philip Seymour Hoffman), and the interactions between Joanne Herring (Julia Roberts) and Charlie (Tom Hanks) - though it was puzzling. 

It was too bad the movie ended the way it did, in the sense that it was too real, and the reality is sad. 

"How long have you been jiggling?" ~ Paul

It wasn't exactly a short movie, but certainly didn't feel long.  We weren't ready to leave yet, so before we went home, Erik showed us his *juggling*, Beth showed us some yoga moves, and the tribble was was loosed.

In today's other news: Beth and I have made the first round of TA cuts!

Ouran, Rumpelstiltskin, Midori, and Munchkins

Celina and Kevin were super excited - a whole day of anime!  It still, however, took some work to get them out of the house to Grant McEwan College.  Paul was already there waiting for us. 

It's been years since I've been to Animethon, but it still worked pretty much the same way: Basic admission, a donation to the food bank, meant you had access to see the films being shown in the various rooms.  What I had not counted on was how much bigger it's gotten since those years past, how many people there would be involved with cosplay (Left: Is that you, Pikachu?), or that higher level admission was required to go into the vendor room.  The kids were a little upset on that last point - they had brought money with some big plans.  (I was a little glad - in memory that area was a mad house, and it also meant I wouldn't have to explain to the 'rents why I let them buy things.)

I distracted them with the schedule - What did we want to see?  Unfortunately, because of our late start, we had missed out on some of the series they were most looking forward to (Full Metal Alchemist, Ranma 1/2).  With time running out, I suggest we just jump into a room and watch what was there.  I was not prepared for Ouran High Host Club. 

Ouran High Host Club apparently is about a male student group at an upscale school, whose main purpose is to host / entertain. 

There seemed to be all the required elements I've come to expect of this comedic type of anime (not that I actually have that much experience):

1. Confused genders / sexuality - A girl pretends to be a boy in order to serve the club and pay off a debt.  Some members of the club know this, others do not, most people are attracted to her and question their own and others sexuality as a result.
2. Props appear out of nowhere - The Host club room is the music room, but there are no instruments until a grand piano is required for the plot - Members of the club do question this (which is a little unusual)
3. Fluries of sparkles / flower petals / confetti framing softlens closeups.
4. Plenty of wacky situations, with wacky solutions.
5. People rarely get physically hurt (despite taking a mallet to the head)

There were quite a few laughs despite the confusion (we'd come in at episode 5) and I think the kids enjoyed it.  However, Paul and I walked out of room thinking, "Is host club actually a male escort service?"

We take a lunch break.  (Left: Celina doesn't eat the beans from her chili; She creates "butter beans", which I decline to taste.)

Paul: There are two reasonable guesses.

Lana: Roger?
Paul: There are three reasonable guesses.
Lana: Rupert? 
Kevin: Randy?
Lana: Sweetie, that would be just too cruel.  (Reminded of this Buffy episiode.)

Reginald, Ryan, Randolph, Ruxpin, Rudolph, Robert, Reggie, later...


Paul: I didn't realise there were so many R names. Maybe this one just isn't that common in Canada...
Lana: Wait! Is it Richard?

Returning from the washroom, I passed by people who look as though they should belong in Zelda eating lunch with someone in a Hobbes suit.  I continued to walk and gape - as Catherine had predicted there were cat girls, people withi ridiculously large weapons (video game characters), gothic lolitas and more.  With all this, guess what the kids took pictures of? 

(Right: Someone dressed as Lei Lei, the cutest Chinese zombie/vampire I know)

Still unable to agree on what to watch we jump from room to room (vetoing one with ghosts that was deemed too scary, another for being too complicated - a political battle in space with many, many characters) until we land at Midori no Hibi.  Again, bizarre.  A high school student finds his right hand has turned overnight into an attached, doll-sized girl!  He hides her, Midori, by bandaging her up and telling people he's injured his hand.  Meanwhile, we find out Midori's real body is in a coma in a hospital.  The two episodes we watched also introduced a creepy doll/puppet enthusiast who stalks and pesters the pair.  Weird. 

It seems the kids had enough anime for one day (considering what was still available).  We wander around a little more (they didn't want to go home) and stumble on the games room.  Perfect!  Not sure if we technically were authorised to have access, but we were there and no one kicked us out.  We choose a table and the game Munchkins.  The kids had a great time - this kind of wacky they could handle.  (Left: Paul and the Tuba of Charm - how fitting.)

I take the kids home and go over to Paul's for dinner.  He cooks and we eat out on the deck (his only furniture inside is the air mattress from our river rafting).  An improvised dessert later (raspberries from the garden mixed with a smushed granola bar from my bag), it was time to call it a night.

Swing in the Park

I had been fairly jealous of David's California stories of outdoor, live band, swing dancing twice a week.  To the rescue: Sugar Swing! 

After dinner, Drew and I head out to Borden Park for their Swing in the Park event.  A little searching later, we arrived on site - a large patch of grass and concrete next to a fountain with speakers set up on the side.  The lesson started not long after and we danced.  

Beth, John, and Patrick arrived after the lesson.  There was a birthday jam, some dancing on the picnic tables, and even dips and tricks! 

It wasn't the best dance floor (poor grass!), but it was great to be outside. A couple barefooted steps into the fountain solved any overheating problems. And an unexpected bonus: No bugs!

Light hearted and joyful, it seemed another perfect way to enjoy the sumemr - I hope there's another outdoor dance soon. 

Happy Go Lucky

"Those who don't worry just don't have a good imagination," I quoted Catherine.  It seemed a reasonable counterpoint after telling Paul about Mom's tendency to jump to disaster scenarios more often than not and would be considered paranoid by some... Myself? Well, I haven't thought about it in a long time... I still get into my states, but I definitely worry less than before (not sure why there was a change). 

We complete the walk to Beth's disaster- and accident-free and was rewarded with pina coladas and other food delights.  She'd cooked up a storm.  After a couple of finishing touches, we (Paul, Andrew, Beth and myself) sit down to the grand meal which included a curry of (unintentional) Cs (chickpeas, cumin, coriander, curry powder...). 
After dinner, the three of us set up to watch Happy Go Lucky.  I'd been led to believe it would be a hilarious movie from Paul Matwychuk's Hidden Gems on DVD, but had found it much quieter.  Well, that would be quiet aside from all the hms and ah-has and other happy / bright sounds coming from Poppy (our protagonist).  This was kind of annoying at first, but somewhere along the way, Poppy won me over.  Her little sounds and fluttering, constant around people, gave great contrast to the moments of absolute silence and stillness she has by herself.  She wasn't an airhead, but someone who genuinely saw good and tried hard to be nice. 

During our intermission more pina coladas were poured, but I opted for pretty water. The pretty additive:  orange flower water.  I used it to again test Paul's sense of smell. In an earlier test, a dab of vanilla on the wrist, had envoked "onion" - this time he was closer. Drinks in hand, we go back to the movie.

What followed were more scenes from Poppy's life that didn't seem really to have a story, but I was still interested in watching to find out what (and if something) happens.  Perhaps it was the allergy drugs making me loopy, but the movie seemed to get better and better, and the flamenco dance class scenes seemed fantastic.  The dance instructor was intense, and made me want to stomp along.  Another highlight was the driving instructor, Scott.  He was funny, unfortunately, in a sad, troubling kind of way - he took life way too seriously, and we mostly laughed at him.  Poppy interacts with both her teachers without missing a beat of optimism, and no matter how inappropriate it was to wear them in either of these classes, she does not abandon her boots - brilliant! 

The open ending bothered me a little, but I was still charmed and I felt good about the world.  Still disaster- and accident-free!  Here's to less needless worrying! 

Reality is like...

Reality Television

"My Spidey-senses are tingling." ~ Beth

TA tryouts first cuts are next week! I mentioned this to a co-worker. His reaction: Wow, it's like a reality show. I still don't watch television, but I'm pretty sure if there are similarities, it would be because television is imitating real life, not the other way around (well... at least in this case).

Tonight's tryout class focused on tango and was taught by Martin from Calgary. I remember seeing him at competition and thinking, "He seems slimey." Maybe it was the Calgary-Edmonton rivalry talking... or his super slicked back hair... Turns out, however, he's fun! After a warmup that involved isolations and stretching to music, we get to work on tango. The footwork seemed almost secondary as he kept noting for us to smile... or at least grimmace... or agressive-passive-agressive teeth baring.

After class, I walk with Shane, Beth, and others to salsa dancing at On the Rocks. While catching up was nice, it also made me feel old. Shane and I were reminiscing of the old "glory" days with D&D. It seemed that we were the only ones left from those days, the others have either left UADC (now at Elite) or switched to executives roles (of them was Big Mark and Danielle - who are engaged!).


A Broken Record

For almost two weeks, since they found out I was looking at condos, there has been only some curious inquiries (what's out there, what are you looking at, what do they cost...)  Last night the objections started.

Or, should I say, attempts to discourage / entice me to another path. 

Mom assured me there is no pressure for me to move out, after all, the goal is just to make sure your money doesn't shrink through inflation, it's not as if they were kicking me out. I told her that wasn't the reason.  The reason is I want to move out.

"I understand all your friends are buying places and that's why you want one too..."  I, still calm, tell her it's not about what my friends are doing - it's because I want to move out. 

She regrouped and offered: How about if we got a bigger, nicer house together?  I told her she and Dad could get a newer, bigger, nicer place if they liked - I want to move out.

I still don't think I'm getting through. 

It's (still) a Small World After All

Heritage Festival 2009 (Part II)

Andrea and I meet at the University and shuttle down to Hawrelak park.  It's been years since we've gone together to the Heritage Festival.  Rather than the full day of meandering of back then, Andrea had her map and menu marked with pavilions to visit and sample the food.  As we headed to the far end near the pond (which I didn't see yesterday), Andrea shared her bad news from months ago (she had wanted to tell me in person).  

(Right: Wooden clogs - Just what are those red "jelly beans"?  Andrea couldn't guess, but I know from Feast!)

Kenman rode by on a golf cart (standard transportation for coordinators and other festival bigwigs) and both of us waved to him.  Confusion crossed his face as he waved back. The reason: He didn't know Andrea and I knew each other!  Along the course of catching up (between the three of us) I also found out that they knew someone I didn't expect: The bride of the super fancy wedding held at Shaw this weekend.*

Andrea's list had included Italy for pasta, which was very near Sri Lanka (I picked up another tasty curry plate).  We sat in the shade to eat and talked about how much some things have changed.  This was the first year the Festival had brought in biodegradable plates and utensils, plus separate waste bins for compostable waste.  Back in in the day, the junior high days of SKEC, we were already trying to promote such things at the school and in the school yard... but instead of being hailed "cool" as it was today, we were shunned.... oh, well, at least people seem to be finally getting the message. 

It was then onward to Japan for the chicken skewers.  Once I heard the Japanese drummers I had to stay and watch.  Normally, I don't like very loud sounds, but they were mesmerising.  Kita No Taiko played songs about fireworks, to bring rain, and to celebrate an 80th birthday. I watched them complete a complex dance - members would strike certain drums, while others would spin and leap to others, the sticks an extension of hands, expressive (showing the movement of fireworks in one piece).  It was amazing to see such coordination.  I hinted to Andrea that we should try it (one day). 

After saying goodbye.  I headed over the Alberta Legislature to meet Drew.  I was a little early, and wandered the grounds and took a close look at the flowers - who knew there were so many unusual ones? 

When Drew arrived, we were in time for the final tour of the day.  Our guide was friendly and very knowledgable.  She showed us the "magic spot" and even told us the real reason why the palm trees in the dome (gifted from California) were no longer on tour.  My favourite triva facts on the tour were related to the original mace.  The mace was an important symbol, and "needed" for the assembly to act.  Instead of waiting (lots needed to be done), the first mace was put together by a jeweler from household items (parts of a toilet and bed, mug handles...) and covered in gold paint.  That's some Alberta ingenuity for, ya!  This "temporary" mace was used for 50 years and is currently on display in the legislature (also in the virtual tour).

I'm sure our class visited when I was in elementary school, but I definitely don't remember it being this cool back then.  

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* Michael had tipped us that the food was $ 100 per plate, with a huge number of guests, which led to Feast discussions of whether a gold-plated bride would be the ultimate display of wealth.  Andrea confirmed that it was a very nice affair - the groom had arrived on a white horse. 

Heritage, Glorious Heritage

Heritage Festival 2009 (Part I)

After finally figuring out what day of the week it was (not Saturday, in fact it's Sunday), doing my time at a food ticket booth, I was realy to meet up with Christiana, Beth, Paul, and Andrew to taste some heritage.

Heritage Days / Heritage Festival, I'm told, is the place for meat on a stick - No matter where (which pavilion) you go, there should be something to fit that meat on a stick need.  But there are indeed other foods.

Our first food stop (after watching lion dancing) was for elephant ears / beaver tails (cleverly disguised as Croatian doughnuts).  Paul (jokingly?) thought that there would actually be ear of elephant, or tail of beaver on the plate, but I think overall, was really happy instead of disppointed that it was fried dough topped with icing sugar.  We each took bits of it and attempted to not get sugar everywhere.

We watched the Thai dancers and Japanese drummers.  I caught up with Christiana along the way: She and Ryan were to perform at wedding that night in Lacombe - granted it didn't storm (the night before, while Catherine and I were inside, the festival was evacuated). 

We wandered the site some more and bumped into Chris.  Who would have thought?  He was there to volunteer at the Sri Lankan pavilion. 

Music was all around, Beth and I decide to dance (I attempt to lead).  And then we take a break for more food - pasteries at Serbia and a stop at Sri Lanka (dropping Chris's name to see if we could get extra eats) for curries with rice.  All, of course, delicious. 

Having completed about a third of circuit there was still lots to see and do, but most of us were getting tired.  It also looked like it might rain. 

I invite Beth, Paul, and Andrew over to Erik's.  On the way, we saw a Guerilla Garden, the update to the Joker on Whyte, and the protest that followed.  Arriving at Erik's we commenced another "must" for summer - lounging and loafing.  Mm... nice.   

More photos from Heritage Festival here.

Garden Vandalism

I had thought it was because of the storm.  But a closer look showed exactly what had happened.  Someone, maybe more than one, had come into our back yard and trampled and pulled out Dad's vegetables.  Auntie Ada and Uncle Johnny were pretty upset too, as whoever it was also went into their garden.  Auntie Ada kept saying "Young people these days have not respect for other people's property...", which I mildly objected. 

In the alley we saw dirt and other uprooted vegetation.  What ever the vandal(s) was looking for it didn't seem to be broccoli or onions - what was the point then in going into a garden?  I guess I would have some sort of sympathy (or feel better) if I thought it was someone who needed and taken food, then there would be some reason behind it.  But it certainly doesn't look like it.  All that was done was damage. 

Dad got me to call the police station.  The person on the line said they really can't do anything.  I could come in to make an official report with the photos, but it wasn't likely that they'd be able to catch anyone.

A footprint doesn't seem to be helpful outside of detective novels and television. 

Searching for a Star

"David's Place" has a fitness room.  At least that's what the listing said, so Lynne and I went down the back stairwell, into the belly of the building, to what seemed like a dungeon area, in search.  Catherine stayed in the lobby sketching out the unit we had just saw (similar layout to David's, but definitely needing some work). 

The viewings yesterday had been more fun.  Catherine saw things I didn't see, and had some really good recommendations.  In the end though, there didn't seem to be "The One" (David's had been close with the lowest condo fees around, reasonable convenience, and a lot of space.) 
With the viewings completed, Lynne dropped us off at my place.  I quickly changed into a dress - it had gotten really warm outside - and Catherine and I set off to find a patio (to fulfill the requirement of atleast one outdoor patio meal during the summer).  We didn't make it. 

As Catherine drove, we saw the wind bring in dark purple and black clouds.  Rather than gambling that the storm would pass us by, we went to Erik's (currently on vacation).  We made it with only moments to spare.  Soon, big raindrops were hitting the sidewalk and the windows.  We cracked open the balcony door to take a peek, but didn't open it all the way since the wind was blowing wet inside.  Now very glad that we had not chanced eating outdoors, I made some pasta and we watched Stardust. 

Claire Danes (while very luminescent) was distracting as a blonde.  Otherwise, it was great.  I was wondering along with Catherine, "Why don't guys wear those type of clothes all the time?"  Robert De Niro stole the show as Captain Shakespeare (the flamboyant and fabulous pirate captain).  We watched the special features too, which included an interview with Neil Gaiman and a short visit to the pirate ship.  Fabulous.

Fragments from Feast

Paul and I found Ronald McDonald (the beanie baby version) in some shrubs.  I tucked him into my pocket, and the three of us arrived at Feast.

While Rem and Michael read the rules for Killer Bunnies in the Quest for the Magic Carrot in the side room, Kathy and Neil recounted some of their adventures in wedding planning (we're getting close!) outside.  Took off my socks and stretched out on the patch of grass.  Inside Dawn had announced her pregnancy, and the room was divided between those who were curious and questioning, and those who were not.  Malcolm arrives later - it's nice to see him, but we know the reason he's back in town early is that the prognosis is not good.