Eh! O' Canada Go!

I am feeling intensely Canadian today. With the Winter Olympics in Vancouver fast approaching, the energy and excitement has been at an all-time high -- at least in Calgary. I had the amazing opportunity to see a portion of the Olympic torch relay this morning. It was amazing! We (my parents, grandparents, and Uncle Marsh, and their dog Charlie, too) settled by an elementary school that was along the route. The kids were so cute, and so excited. I'll admit that I got a little teary eyed hearing the chants of "Go Canada, Go!" coming from the little ones holding their flags. I am so proud to be Canadian. This is my home, and no matter where I end up, that will never change. 

Patiently awaiting the torch! Sporting our Canadian Pride!

Not a very good picture of me, but I'm excited to get a shot with the torch. Unfortunately, my camera battery decided to die right as the lit torch was coming around the corner. So, if I can snag one of my dad's pictures, I'll post it sometime.

The Good Life

Last night, along with millions of others, I partook of the Golden Globe experience. I was mainly watching it to see Ricky Gervais (I love that man!), and because I was crossing my fingers that Glee would take away a prize (which they did -- hooray!). Watching these people, and seeing all that their lives encompass, I was reminded over and over that I have a wonderful life. Sure, I don't get to wear Oscar de la Renta or Dolce & Gabbana, but I have a family who loves me, and I don't have to worry about my life's troubles being broadcast to all who care to see. Some may take a look at my life, and see that it is void of glamour, but I'm okay with that. I have my own kind of glamour. I get to spend my evenings watching Jeopardy with my parents, and I have a wonderful man in my life that loves me enough to write me every week while he's surrounded by all those California girls. I get to spend five days a week basking in knowledge, and reading things that don't always make sense at first glance (thank you William S. for making me think). I am surrounded by love and happiness every day of my life, and for that I think I have something better than anyone that gets millions to say a few words with a camera in front of them.

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One Fish, Two Fish...

I'm nearing my twenty-first birthday, and yet I am still very fond of Dr. Seuss. I grew up reading those stories, and a great swelling of happiness ensued -- which I later identified as my love for reading. This man was a genius, truly writing for the masses, even if he didn't know it. But, maybe he did.

What is your favourite Dr. Seuss story?

mine is a tie between How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Green Eggs and Ham (and Oh! The Places You'll Go comes in at close second)

I should have listened to Popeye

Yep, that's right. I like spinach. I used to hate it. Absolutely hate it. But I've grown to like it (it's not love yet). My trick is to mix it with other things, so that I get the goodness without the taste that I'm not always fond of. I am also now a fond of experimental cooking. I love to cook, and it is so fun to just throw things in and see what happens.
My latest creation: spinach, cheese, black olives and eggs.
Yummy! This was my lunch today, and it's still making my tummy happy.

My Wonderwall

My heart is overflowing with memories today. Two years ago, probably around this time, my boyfriend Justin and I decided to be 'official' after three months of dating. Two years ago today, I decided that I wanted to keep this guy in my life, and spend as much time with him as I could. And, I am so thankful I did! I still remember that night. I remember after we decided that we'd be "boyfriend" and "girlfriend" that I found a post-it, and wrote: "January 17: I have a boyfriend!" I wanted to remember that day forever, because I knew that it would have a huge impact on my life -- and it has! 
895 days ago, I met an amazing guy. I had no idea how that meeting would affect my life. And I'm still learning today. I don't know what tomorrow holds (or the next two years), but I know that if Justin is in my life, I'll be happy. I love this guy. I have been so, so blessed to have Justin next to me always (just in spirit these days). I can't wait to be in the arms of this wonderful man again (only 621 days). But until then, I'm living in his letters. 
I love you, Justin. 

Here we are on our first New Year's Eve. Just weeks before it became "official".

Thrilled to be celebrating six months in July 2008. Spending some time at Prince's Island and Crescent Road. How lucky am I?

Hallowe'en 2008. Clark Kent and Lois Lane. He will always be my Superman.

See why I love him so much? New Year's Eve 2008. 

Spending our one year anniversary with Sam Roberts and The Stills. January 2009.

A spring day at our park and the temple. May 2009.

A fun-filled day at the zoo. September 2009.

Our last PM date (pre-mission). September 2009.

The last day that we spent together before he headed for sunny California. I love this guy!

And after all, you're my wonderwall.

"Tradition, tradition!"

Ah, Tevye. Until I fall asleep, and probably even when I wake up those words, along with that fiddle, will be playing in my head. 

Tonight, I had the awesome pleasure of going to see Fiddler on the Roof put on by Broadway Across Calgary. My mom and sister were unable to go, so I got to take my great friend (and cousin -- I am doubly blest!) Candi with me. We had such a good time. I loved it. I wanted to be up there dancing and singing with them! But, how grateful I am that we now marry for love, and I won't (I hope) have to ask my husband twenty-five years from now if he loves me.  I have missed live theatre so much! Hopefully, there will be many more plays to be seen in my future!

Harvesting the Heart

Harvesting the Heart by Jodi Picoult. I just finished this one today. It's been long time since I've read one of her novels, and after reading this one, I remembered why I love her so much. Picoult writes about real things. Her novels are about real, true human experiences. And she's not afraid to delve into the unknown, the hushed-up, or the controversial -- all the while keeping things tasteful and writing with exceptional style and talent. Reading this novel, I fell for each character in a different way. Instantly, my sympathies go to the protagonist, Paige, and they remain there until the end. However, through Picoult's incredible ability to show the point of view of each character in a different way, my levels of sympathy go up and down throughout the novel, and that's something I love, and truly respect about Picoult's work. She makes me think, and that is the test of a great writer -- to make you question, but also to reaffirm your own beliefs in values. This was a great read, though I did skip over a lot of her detail about the heart surgeries... not my cup of tea. All in all, a good one. 

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Recap

Hello, Friday! Goodbye, first week of the semester! I had a great first week back. Probably the best I've had in a really long time. It started with Canadian Literature. I was kind of skeptical about it, but  I think I like it. It's not an English major course, so my instructor is always defining super easy terms, which I find amusing. Next, came Shakespeare. I was so, so excited to have this class back in my life! I love, love, love it! In case I haven't mentioned it before, I kind of adore William Shakespeare. I think my favourite class though, would be Art History. My professor is hilarious! And very knowledgeable. I love art. 

Ah, I love school. Have I said love too much? Oh, well. I mean it. 

I love it!

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In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning

I was at school at 7:20 this morning. I misjudged the time I had to get to school, so I was a tad early for my 8:00 class. But, since I was there so early, I had the chance to walk around, feel the emptiness and enjoy the stillness (while listening to a little Bowie). I loved it. I think I've found a new favourite time to be on campus.

I love my university's campus (regardless of the fact that my brother-in-law tells me it's not a "real" university). I have a lot of good memories there. I've fallen in love there. I met my guy on a sunny day in August 2006, I found a place where I felt I really belonged that fall, and my love for learning and knowledge has grown with each semester I've spent there. I just love it. Love, love, love it.

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Progress

I'm seeing some progress! My hair is slowly, but surely, getting longer! Hooray!

But, I wish it would speed up a bit!

Desert Island

I was watching The Office today, "The Fire" episode ("Ryan started the fire!"), so I was inspired to figure out what I would choose as my 'desert island' books and movies.


Movies -
1. Breakfast at Tiffany's
2. A Knight's Tale
3. My Fair Lady
4. Sound of Music
5. Ferris Bueller's Day Off


Books -
1. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
2. The Book of Mormon (or the Standard Works if my quad counts as one book)
3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
4. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
5. Secrets of the Vinyl Cafe by Stuart MacLean

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What would you chose as your 'desert island' books and movies?

ps: my mom just informed me that she will be taking me with her to see "Fiddler on the Roof"! Hooray! I can't wait!

Missionary update

Today was Justin's third transfer of his mission! It seems like such a short amount of time, yet sometimes I can't believe he's been out for so long!
He has a new companion (which is a good thing!), so hopefully he'll get along with this one! Also, he has been made co-senior companion. Apparently that's a big deal when you've only been out for three months (almost three and a half!). I am so proud of my missionary!

(in case you didn't know, he's the cute one on the left)

Giddy like a school-girl

Yep. That's me. Giddy and a school-girl. I get to go back to school in the morning after a very long break! Granted, I needed that break, but I've been dying for the past week desperately wanting some knowledge to be stuffed in my brain. 
This semester, I get to continue my Shakespeare class (yay), and I also will be taking Art History and Canadian Lit. Should be an interesting semester.
Man, I am excited! Hopefully I'll still be able to sleep tonight! 

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Our Endless Numbered Days

Last night, I realized that I missed a very important moment this week. On Friday, it had been 100 days since my missionary, Justin left! I've survived 100 days (101 today!). I am so happy I've made it this far. Some days are so tough, but knowing that in 629 days, I get to see him again it gets me through. Also, letters help. I was spoiled this week with four letters! The mail system was pretty lame during December, so I felt like I deserved it. Also, yesterday I finally got one of my Christmas presents. He sent me a ring (no, not that kind of ring), but we assumed it had been lost because it took so long to get here. It's so nice. It's a really simple CTR ring. I love it.

Anyway, just thought I'd share that exciting moment with you. I'm not sure if anyone else considers it a milestone and at all interesting, but it's a big deal to me. 

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The Bard

William Shakespeare. Love him? Hate him? Adore him? I adore him. This week I've been reading Twelfth Night  in preparation for my Shakespeare class on Monday. It's been a month since I've been in that class, and  I actually really miss it. I have a fabulous professor and even better material: the Bard. Shakespeare was a genius. I don't care if you believe he stole ideas, he was a genius. If those ideas weren't wholly his, he was a genius to put them together in a manner that would make them immortal. Genius.

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Listen to the Music

Growing up in a household where music was always playing, there's no way I could escape having a deep, soulful love for the sweet sounds of any music. Whether it was The Beatles, Led Zeppelin or The Carpenters, I was happy because I was hearing some great tunes.
Music motivates me. Music inspires me. Music changes me. Music pushes me. Music calms me. Music soothes me. Music makes me nostalgic. Music sends me to a different world. Music gives me hope for the future. Music understands me.
Working out, I find music to be a great source of motivation. Today, my power song was "Okay I Believe You, But My Tommygun Don't" by Brand New. Fantastic song. How could you not want to run and run and run while you hear it? "Oh, we're so c-c-c-controversial!"


What's your power song? What songs make you happy? What songs put you to sleep? 

post script: music isn't my boyfriend; it's my life.

Better?

mug 1 |məg|noun1 a large cup, typically cylindrical and with a handle and used without asaucer.• the contents of such a cup : a large mug of tea vanished in a single gulp.
Cereal. Tea. Hot chocolate. Soup. Ice cream. To me, these all taste better in a mug. What's the magic of the mug? I don't know. But, whatever it is, I applaud the inventor of this contraption. What are your thoughts? Does food really taste better in a mug?

 

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Wrapped Up in Books

I've started a new blog. It's not a replacement, just an addition. Wrapped Up in Books. Check it out.

 

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Introduction

I love to read. I also love Belle & Sebastian so that's how I picked the title for this new blog.
I decided that I need to read more this year, and not just textbooks. So, I'm breaking rules.
I'm going to read books that aren't on my reading lists! I'm a rebel.
As I'm reading, or once I've finished, I'll blog about it. Or even just about some of my favourite literary moments.
Enjoy. Go pick up a book, curl up in bed, and go to a different world. That's my favourite thing to do. 

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Dancing by Myself

What do you do when the house is empty, and you've got some time to spare? I shut my door, turn up my music really loud (usually some Motown classics), imagine I'm a member of the Glee Club, and belt it out with my lame dance moves. I did it today, and it was amazing. Try it.
What's your song? Today mine is "Heat Wave" by Martha Reeves & the Vandellas. There's no way that you could hear that song and not sing-a-long. No way. Also making the list is Metric's "Gimme Sympathy". 

Who'd you rather be? The Beatles or the Rolling Stones?

Something that Produces Results

I feel like I've had a very productive day. A long day followed by a perfect night. I worked eight hours among the crazy boxing day shoppers (who need to practice their literacy skills. If it doesn't say "take an extra x% off, then the price is as marked!). After that, my tired eyes and tired legs came home and I enjoyed some yummy shrimp cooked up by brother. What could make this night greater? "Gilmore Girls" whilst scrapbooking. For Christmas, I decided to make my sister and brother-in-law a wedding scrapbook. But, I wasn't able to finish it before Christmas, so I'm working on it now. I was able to finish two layouts and I think they turned out pretty well. Using all the lovey-dovey type embellishments, I was inspired to make a card for my guy since our anniversary is coming up in a few weeks (two years!). Making this evening even more productive, I prepared my lesson that I get to teach in Relief Society tomorrow. I'm actually pretty excited to teach. I'm the secretary in the Relief Society presidency, so I don't get to teach very often, but since the regular teacher wasn't able to, I was asked to. I love teaching. I'm crossing my fingers it goes well! 

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"I'm in one ear... and I'm in the other!"

Picture this: Bob and Doug. Twelve Days of Christmas. How does it get better than that? I'll tell you. Right ear: me. Left ear: David. Since we could only hear Bob (me) or Doug (David), we decided to repeat everything we heard for a cohesive effect. This was driving home from the Live Nativity Pageant last night. Mom thought we were doing it from memory. I wish! Merry Christmas all! I am very jealous that I am not currently in a living room a few hours from here, listening to the wonderful voice of someone I love very much. But, it's okay. I can wait. I am very blessed to have the family I do, and that we always have such a good time together.Thanks for the laughs. (Name types of paints: red and blue!)

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Fineto!

I am done! Done. Done Done! I had my last exam today! I am so thrilled to be done! Now, I get to read whatever I like, and I won't feel guilty! During my month off (yes, a month!) I plan to work work work, spend a lot of time with my family, read novels not on my reading lists, read some Shakespeare (since I still have that class next semester), write lots of letters, and patiently or not so patiently await the beginning of Winter semester because I am truly a nerd who needs her learning, lecture halls, and books to make her happy! Also, besides the end of the semester, this day is great for some other reasons. My brother is in town (and he is awesome!), I got a package from Justin yesterday (he sent me enough candy to last me until he is home!), and it was a beautiful day out today! I didn't have to wear my winter coat, and no gloves. I love chinooks.

 

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Dear Jack

I need to thank two boys who decided to play "Banana Pancakes" at the my first EFY. That was my first experience with Jack Johnson, and I am so glad for that. Jack Johnson has a special place in my heart for many reasons. Hearing that soft acoustic guitar makes my spirit feel light, and reminds me of listening to my guy strum his guitar. Doesn't his music just make you want to jump a plane to Hawaii, have a bonfire party on the beach then catch some waves in the morning? That's how I feel. Love just melts out of me when I hear that voice. Not only are his melodies beyond beautiful, some of his lyrics are definitely on  my list of "I wish I wrote that". For example, "If I had eyes at the back of head, I would have told you that looked good as I walked away". I just love the simple genius of that. 

Here is Jack Johnson and Matt Costa (another one who melts my heart) singing "Lullaby".

Same Girl

This is me about eighteen years ago. I've changed a little bit. No more blond hair, the chubby cheeks aren't so cute anymore, and I won't be sporting the overalls anytime soon.
But, I think I'm still as happy. I still love being on a swing at the park, and I'm pretty in love with life. Sometimes, it's not so fun. But, it will get better ... until it gets worse. But, then better. And I'll just keep learning. Because being able to learn from my trials is the greatest blessing my Heavenly Father could have ever given me, besides the amazing people I get to share my life with. 

ps: Happy fiftieth post!

Cursed.

I have a curse. I have suffered from this curse for a very long time. And it doesn't look like it will soon become one of those "blessing and a curse" deals any time soon. What is this curse? Expensive taste. For the longest time I have been plagued with a love all things that I can never afford. And it's getting worse! I have recently discovered Christian Louboutin. I want to wear his shoes every day! Every single day. However, one pair cost about the same as I make in a (good) month. But I really, really want them.
Aren't they fabulous? And that signature red sole? Love.

And these Valentino peep-toe pumps? If only money grew on trees. Or even better -- shoes!

Rule Breaker

By nature, I am not a rule breaker. But, today I broke one of my rules. I have a rule for myself that while I'm in school, I don't read any books unrelated to my courses. As an English major, I have plenty of reading to do throughout the semester so adding a 'just for fun' book to the mix is generally not a help. However, last week I picked up a copy of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol and with the snow we've had the past few days, I couldn't resist taking it on the train this morning. So far, ten pages in, I love it. And I keep picturing the characters as the muppets since "A Muppets Christmas Carol" is my favourite. I plan to break this rule all week. I'm a true rebel, I know. 

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"We're after the same rainbow's end"

Who doesn't love Audrey Hepburn? Really. If you find that one lone person, sit them down and make them watch (and ENJOY!) one of my all time favourites. Breakfast at Tiffany's. You haven't seen it?! You must watch it! You've already seen it? Watch it again! That's my plan for the evening. My heart just aches (in a good way) every time I hear Audrey sing "Moon River". Holly Golightly, you are a girl after my own heart.

"You gotta swim"

I have a lot of favourite songs. They change almost daily. Today, the prize goes to "Swim (Music Box)" by Jack's Mannequin. It's been my anthem of sorts this week. Once again, Andrew McMahon makes life worth living. 

"You gotta swim,

Swim for your life,

Swim for the music,

That saves you,

When you're not so sure you'll survive,

You gotta swim,

And swim when it hurts,

The whole world is watching,

You haven't come this far,

To fall off the earth."

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Love from California

After ten days without a letter, I finally got one! Two actually. Not talking to Justin has been so hard these past eight weeks. Since the day we met, we have had some sort of communication every day (minus a week), so my withdrawal experience has been a painful one.
He is doing well, though he has his challenges. But he works through them, and he is growing so much. I wish I could be there with him. It sounds like such a beautiful place. But, he has promised to take me to California when he gets home. We've talked about living there too. I've always had this fascination with California since I was a little girl. It's always been my dream to go there.
I've learned a lot these past eight weeks. I've learned about my strengths, my weaknesses. I've realized how much the gospel, and my family mean to me. And, I've learned that I really miss this guy. But, who wouldn't, with a face like this?

Opinions Needed

As I have mentioned before, after a year of keeping my hair short, I have decided to grow it out! I miss my long hair (though I love my short hair!). But, I tend to get bored with my hair, so on Friday, I decided to cut myself some bangs. Thoughts? (please give your opinion. I miss having comments!) 

And, tonight, I have found that I am having success! I can now put most of my hair into a ponytail without having to attack it with bobby-pins! I'm sure you all understand what a breakthrough that is! 

Applied

I did it! After three years of saying I would, I did. What is "it" you ask? I applied to be a counselor for EFY! I've been saying I would for years. But, after talking to my good friend, Chantelle, about it I decided that this is the year. So, we'll see what happens! (Fingers crossed!) I only have two summers left to do it! Hopefully after that, I will no longer be eligible to do it (ie. married!)

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Better Open the Door

I got two letters this week. With pictures! I love letters. I get so excited when I get mail. It's ridiculous! Seriously. Ask my family. For example: last night. My brother picked me up after work (because we had a fireside to go to: with Elder Richard G. Scott speaking!) and we had to get gas before going to the chapel. So, I'm sitting in the passenger seat, minding my own business, and David puts the letter against the window. I was so excited, I couldn't think. I couldn't remember how to open the door. It was quite hilarious. I fool people with my smart brunette locks.

 

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Love.

During the past eight weeks, I have developed a deep and abiding love for poetry. Poetry of all forms, but mostly sonnets. I love sonnets. Along with my love for poetry in general has come the love of this man. 

E. E. Cummings. Genius. I am not a fan of all of his work, but I am a fan of a huge chunk. For instance, this sonnet. 


i carry your heart with me(i carry it in


i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart) 

Let's Dance!

I was looking through some pictures that my Uncle James took at my sister's wedding reception and I stumbled across this one. Meet Tyler. He was my favourite dance partner of the evening. Ty is three years old (soon to be four!). He is my cousin Sarah's oldest boy (his younger brother Jake is quite the dancer too). He is such a blast. I love hanging out with this kid. This boy has moves! 

The Boy Who Blocked His Own Shot

Meet Jesse Lacey. Music love of my life. When I was fourteen, I heard about this band named Brand New. After hearing their song "Sudden Death in Carolina", I instantly fell head over heels in love. People always say that there was a specific band or album or novel that changed their life, and it seems like it couldn't be true. I never believed it. But it happens. It happened to me. (Actually, it happens all the time). Brand New was such a big influence on me as I was going through my adolescent years. I began to appreciate the art of music so much more when I listened to them. True, Jesse Lacey has some serious anger issues ("Seventy Times Seven" anyone?), and could use some quality time with a professional psychiatrist, but he is immensely talented (if you forget their newest album... what's up with that?!). Really, truly. Find Deja Entendu, sit on your bed, and fall in love. It will make your heart happy.

ps. Is anyone else seeing the resemblance to Morrissey here? I think it may have been planned.

Listen. Watch. Love.

Letters, The Bard, E-mail and Hughes

I love Mondays. Love, Love, Love! "With a capital 'L'!" as Justin says. 
Today, I got an e-mail. A letter. I got to sit in my Shakespeare class and soak up the genius that is William S. I heard and read the beautiful, and moving poetry of Langston Hughes. It was a good day.

 

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