In order to maintain the authenticity the following statement shall be presented in its unedited form. While reading it, imagine trying to type using a moving keyboard with your eyes closed while the room spins... I'd say he's doing pretty well actually!
From the Captain
Going well - wind is 15+ knots which is high enough to be interesting. Boat handles it well. It's been qn intersting day in that I discovered that the valve at the head discharge broke when I tried to open it switchng from holding tank to overboard the other day. Anyway, made a mess diagnosing the problem but there's nothing to be done about it until I get some where I can haul or beach - probably the latter. When I get closer I'll send yuo a list of parts required. Not a big deal, I have a bucket. Got out and checking gear and found the reefing line hanging loose. The sheet for the genny chafed over it and cut it. That's an easy fix and somethng to watch for - in the interim I put in the next reef and I'm still going 5.5 to 7 knots, so it seems that 2 reefs are probably what I should be running anyway.
That's about it - rocking and rolling on a beam reach with seas of 2 m. Saw false dawn this morinng = something I've heard about but never quite understood. About 2 hours before dawn the eastern sky got a bright orange bar like the sin was rising for a few minutes and the it disappeared. The water is neat - very clean and an icy looking blue green. Hard to describe.
I'm fine, tummy is fine. On course and generally averaging better than expected speed, whch if this holds should be on schedule or a day early but way to early to tell. The planner figured 24 days at 5 k average speed - which I thought was a bit much. Seems ok just now.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
Please don't have to sneeze... please?
I'm not sure who's bright idea it was to have a ball practice *before* wallyball playoffs because man am I stiff today... The first time swinging a bat since last season, and I should know better, I really should. There's really no excuse, this happens every year... I just don't have a 'warm up' swing... I start the season swinging for the fence.
It hurts to sneeze, it hurts to laugh... it hurts to shiver! My entire core and supporting muscles are all writing strongly worded letters to my governing committee questioning my sanity. But sitting here in my padded office chair I feel alive. Damage reports have all come back with negligible problems, nothing preventing the jump to light speed. It's just a not so gentle reminder that I did something this weekend, and I'm proud to say I earned every single one of those stiff muscles.
It hurts to sneeze, it hurts to laugh... it hurts to shiver! My entire core and supporting muscles are all writing strongly worded letters to my governing committee questioning my sanity. But sitting here in my padded office chair I feel alive. Damage reports have all come back with negligible problems, nothing preventing the jump to light speed. It's just a not so gentle reminder that I did something this weekend, and I'm proud to say I earned every single one of those stiff muscles.
And he's off!
Captain's log:
It's cold out there so I spent most of the day in the boat. I'm settling into a routine of sorts. Checking into the radio net is a long and painful exercise. It'll be an hour listening after the initial check in, waiting for my slot to report...
Anyway, making good speed if not altogether comfortable.
Editors Note: This report was edited for readability, nothing that would compromise the intent of the message was changed. (Besides, I know how hard it is to type while the boat is moving)
It takes awhile to load but you can see position reports via winlink again yipee!!! Way to go Dad :)
It's cold out there so I spent most of the day in the boat. I'm settling into a routine of sorts. Checking into the radio net is a long and painful exercise. It'll be an hour listening after the initial check in, waiting for my slot to report...
Anyway, making good speed if not altogether comfortable.
Editors Note: This report was edited for readability, nothing that would compromise the intent of the message was changed. (Besides, I know how hard it is to type while the boat is moving)
It takes awhile to load but you can see position reports via winlink again yipee!!! Way to go Dad :)
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Friday, April 08, 2011
Thursday, April 07, 2011
Why programmers shouldn't have phones
So I'm checking my annual phone message at work. It's not entirely forbidden but it's not exactly encouraged that I talk to customers... I'm a programmer and therefor socially challenged, or otherwise lacking in terms of customer service etiquette ;)
Anyways that's not the funny part. The funny part is that while I'm listening to my voicemail options drone on in the pre-recorded voice...
Press 1 to review your messages (no, actually I just called to see what you were up to this evening)... *rolls eyes*
Press 2 to randomly forward this message to someone else to deal with...
Press 3 to...
*attention span of a goldfish*
Press 77 to... *thinking* Damn, I must have missed the option I wanted... and when did we get all the way up to 77?
"To hang up, press the pound key"... waitaminutewhat!?! I have to press a button to hang up and *then* hang up? Hah! Yeah well I'm such a rebel I'm just going to hang up! How do you like that! You don't? Well, I'd like to know what exactly you are going to do about it!?!?
So there.
Anyways that's not the funny part. The funny part is that while I'm listening to my voicemail options drone on in the pre-recorded voice...
Press 1 to review your messages (no, actually I just called to see what you were up to this evening)... *rolls eyes*
Press 2 to randomly forward this message to someone else to deal with...
Press 3 to...
*attention span of a goldfish*
Press 77 to... *thinking* Damn, I must have missed the option I wanted... and when did we get all the way up to 77?
"To hang up, press the pound key"... waitaminutewhat!?! I have to press a button to hang up and *then* hang up? Hah! Yeah well I'm such a rebel I'm just going to hang up! How do you like that! You don't? Well, I'd like to know what exactly you are going to do about it!?!?
So there.
From the Captain
Sitting quietly at the San Diego Police Dock listening to cellophane crackling like fire under the boat. It's the constant noise of the pistol shrimp. Came into San Diego here, and somehow it's appropriate that this is where I spend the last night before heading off.
The last nearly two weeks have been "busy and wait". Arrived and got the transmission, and I was slow and didn't get it installed the next day. In the course of installation, I found a shaft bearing also gone so I hauled off the parts to the experts, and they ordered new bearings.
The weekend interfered, then the parts didn't arrive, then we found they were wrong. Finally got the parts and the assembly is put together and another weekend arrives. I'm working around and find another issue - so I deliver that to get addressed. No mechanic. Monday we have mechanic and parts - and he get's into and discovers a broken bracket and engine mount. In addition, he has disparaging things to say about the installation and some changes that really should be required.
That day is shot.
Fortunately, the mounts are stock and the bracket can be welded and beefed up. The next day, he and I work all day to install the engine mounts, lift the (250 Kg) engine up to do this, skid it back on the stringers to provide an extra 25 mm for a plastic disc to provide some vibration isolation and some flexibility, put it all together, do the line up and test it. Long, hard day - but it's done except for cutting off the excess end of the shaft so I can button up the engine compartment.
I check out of the marina, clean things up and get in a sweat to get going. Why am I getting stressed out and anxious? Is this why I went cruising? I only really need to get to the boatyard dock around 9 in the morning - so, I take a breath and stop. I'm staying the night and leaving in the morning fairly early.
Have a beer with John on Prudence and just chat - cruising, why we have boats, about happiness and people who work at making a lot of money but can't take the time to holiday and aren't at all happy. Stress, and the ills of western social structures, especially in the US. We covered health care, education, the military and the national budget. Much more sensible than rushing off.
Got away in the morning and got up to the yard. While they dealt with the shaft I headed out walking and on public transit to deal with Customs and Border Protection - I had to sign off my cruising permit and "clear". Three and a half hours of public transport and walking for perhaps 10 minutes in the office and one piece of paper - there really has to be a better way.
Back at the boat, motored around to top up with propane. It's now mid afternoon and the weather is squally and overcast. Good call to deal with the propane - that bottle was nearly empty.
Decided I wasn't really happy about leaving - partly it's hit me the magnitude of the undertaking and I'm intimidated with that.
I've been here before though, with work as much as anything when I've bitten off a project that seems to be beyond me. Always got through, and did some of my best work "on the edge". Indeed, I seem to have made a specialty of being out there - and this isn't that different.
Anyway, decided to stay another night so that I would have a full day of daylight to get off the coast and out of the bulk of the coastal traffic. Stayed at the police dock and that brings me back to where I started peacefully listening to the shrimp. Calm, quite, comfortable. Warm and well fed.
This is why I'm here and why I'm going cruising.
So, managed the 4 km hike to Starbucks for a coffee - and more importantly a decent internet connection from which I phoned home, and also updated my Airmail software. Home again, suppered and done for the day.
Tomorrow early, I really am away.
G'nite
The last nearly two weeks have been "busy and wait". Arrived and got the transmission, and I was slow and didn't get it installed the next day. In the course of installation, I found a shaft bearing also gone so I hauled off the parts to the experts, and they ordered new bearings.
The weekend interfered, then the parts didn't arrive, then we found they were wrong. Finally got the parts and the assembly is put together and another weekend arrives. I'm working around and find another issue - so I deliver that to get addressed. No mechanic. Monday we have mechanic and parts - and he get's into and discovers a broken bracket and engine mount. In addition, he has disparaging things to say about the installation and some changes that really should be required.
That day is shot.
Fortunately, the mounts are stock and the bracket can be welded and beefed up. The next day, he and I work all day to install the engine mounts, lift the (250 Kg) engine up to do this, skid it back on the stringers to provide an extra 25 mm for a plastic disc to provide some vibration isolation and some flexibility, put it all together, do the line up and test it. Long, hard day - but it's done except for cutting off the excess end of the shaft so I can button up the engine compartment.
I check out of the marina, clean things up and get in a sweat to get going. Why am I getting stressed out and anxious? Is this why I went cruising? I only really need to get to the boatyard dock around 9 in the morning - so, I take a breath and stop. I'm staying the night and leaving in the morning fairly early.
Have a beer with John on Prudence and just chat - cruising, why we have boats, about happiness and people who work at making a lot of money but can't take the time to holiday and aren't at all happy. Stress, and the ills of western social structures, especially in the US. We covered health care, education, the military and the national budget. Much more sensible than rushing off.
Got away in the morning and got up to the yard. While they dealt with the shaft I headed out walking and on public transit to deal with Customs and Border Protection - I had to sign off my cruising permit and "clear". Three and a half hours of public transport and walking for perhaps 10 minutes in the office and one piece of paper - there really has to be a better way.
Back at the boat, motored around to top up with propane. It's now mid afternoon and the weather is squally and overcast. Good call to deal with the propane - that bottle was nearly empty.
Decided I wasn't really happy about leaving - partly it's hit me the magnitude of the undertaking and I'm intimidated with that.
I've been here before though, with work as much as anything when I've bitten off a project that seems to be beyond me. Always got through, and did some of my best work "on the edge". Indeed, I seem to have made a specialty of being out there - and this isn't that different.
Anyway, decided to stay another night so that I would have a full day of daylight to get off the coast and out of the bulk of the coastal traffic. Stayed at the police dock and that brings me back to where I started peacefully listening to the shrimp. Calm, quite, comfortable. Warm and well fed.
This is why I'm here and why I'm going cruising.
So, managed the 4 km hike to Starbucks for a coffee - and more importantly a decent internet connection from which I phoned home, and also updated my Airmail software. Home again, suppered and done for the day.
Tomorrow early, I really am away.
G'nite
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Women are Angels
And when someone breaks our wings, we simply continue to fly... on a broomstick.
We are flexible like that.
Sunday, April 03, 2011
Solving all the world's problems in a weekend
The foods we have eaten this weekend have bordered on indecent... I should be going to church to repent the impure thoughts I've been having.
The divine smells emanating from the marinating steaks in the fridge, the chocolate chip cookies in the oven... the tastes and textures of the infamous newly invented potato salad as each bite has a party in your mouth and then tells you to invite it's friends.
The feeling of being full, but having just enough room for one more bite... Planning each meal down to the intimate details far in advance of actually having to prepare it...
Mmmmmm noms *dreamy smile*
I mean really if the entire world started their morning the way we did this morning, there would be no war. Everyone would be snuggled up with a smile on their face napping!
I'm not going to lie, I've run out of wonderful words to describe the fantastically fabulous food we've had this weekend.
The divine smells emanating from the marinating steaks in the fridge, the chocolate chip cookies in the oven... the tastes and textures of the infamous newly invented potato salad as each bite has a party in your mouth and then tells you to invite it's friends.
The feeling of being full, but having just enough room for one more bite... Planning each meal down to the intimate details far in advance of actually having to prepare it...
Mmmmmm noms *dreamy smile*
I mean really if the entire world started their morning the way we did this morning, there would be no war. Everyone would be snuggled up with a smile on their face napping!
I'm not going to lie, I've run out of wonderful words to describe the fantastically fabulous food we've had this weekend.
Saturday, April 02, 2011
BIKING!
So I know this is way behind schedule... but I've been busy busy this week with Tae Kwon Do!
Anyways we got our poop in a group last Sunday, and as we were juggling our bikes and associated stuff out to the truck... I stop. Realizing that there is suspiciously light fluffly looking white stuff falling from the sky.
Yeah, that's right. It's snowing. I look at my roommate and go "Really?" He just kind of shrugged with half a goofy grin on his face with a "Why not?". Alrighty then, here we go! I was pleasantly surprised to find that we weren't the only ones crazy enough to go out riding in "this kind of weather"
This is about where Nate shucked his pants deciding he was hot enough to ride in shorts. He's not from around here ;)
It was awesome! We had a great ride, ditching our bikes for a bit once we past the point I had ridden with other people and hiked it to see where the trail went. Promptly after retrieving our bikes I got my first bail of the season out of the way... in particular it highlight every facet of my ever present grace.
Okay I'm totally lying. Nate had slowed down to navigate a switchback that didn't have a nice berm to ride around... and I slowed down and stopped dangerously close to the edge of the trail behind him, which would have been fine except that the nimrods in charge of my balance decided we should dismount on the lack of trail side.
Luckily I wasn't clipped in or we would have had a repeat of the Kemper incident. I managed to throw myself up and over my bike more or less without tripping over it. Only to land and promptly stumble across the trail and land sprawled out on the opposite side. Mom I'm pretty sure you meant for my middle name to be Grace didn't you?
It was so much fun, the trail down had flow, and we saw a gaggle of 7 wild turkeys! They scurried up over the hill away from us much like a stampeding herd of buffalo... it was soooo cool. The air rushing past my helmet, the sound of my bike tread chewing up the trail and spitting it back out again... breaking through the surrounding silence of snow falling in the forest.
We finished the day off with a hot chocolate from Tim Hortons *grins* I totally deserved it, and I would like to declare this bike season officially open!
Anyways we got our poop in a group last Sunday, and as we were juggling our bikes and associated stuff out to the truck... I stop. Realizing that there is suspiciously light fluffly looking white stuff falling from the sky.
Yeah, that's right. It's snowing. I look at my roommate and go "Really?" He just kind of shrugged with half a goofy grin on his face with a "Why not?". Alrighty then, here we go! I was pleasantly surprised to find that we weren't the only ones crazy enough to go out riding in "this kind of weather"
This is about where Nate shucked his pants deciding he was hot enough to ride in shorts. He's not from around here ;)
It was awesome! We had a great ride, ditching our bikes for a bit once we past the point I had ridden with other people and hiked it to see where the trail went. Promptly after retrieving our bikes I got my first bail of the season out of the way... in particular it highlight every facet of my ever present grace.
Okay I'm totally lying. Nate had slowed down to navigate a switchback that didn't have a nice berm to ride around... and I slowed down and stopped dangerously close to the edge of the trail behind him, which would have been fine except that the nimrods in charge of my balance decided we should dismount on the lack of trail side.
Luckily I wasn't clipped in or we would have had a repeat of the Kemper incident. I managed to throw myself up and over my bike more or less without tripping over it. Only to land and promptly stumble across the trail and land sprawled out on the opposite side. Mom I'm pretty sure you meant for my middle name to be Grace didn't you?
It was so much fun, the trail down had flow, and we saw a gaggle of 7 wild turkeys! They scurried up over the hill away from us much like a stampeding herd of buffalo... it was soooo cool. The air rushing past my helmet, the sound of my bike tread chewing up the trail and spitting it back out again... breaking through the surrounding silence of snow falling in the forest.
We finished the day off with a hot chocolate from Tim Hortons *grins* I totally deserved it, and I would like to declare this bike season officially open!
Friday, April 01, 2011
I like big trucks :)
Okay so you heard about the shenanagins last week with my roommate and his truck, and the subsequent musical cars... well Saturday I helped him install the new starter, and by helped I mean he did most of the work and then I held it in flush while he did the bolts up.
After that though he let me drive it around town *huge grin* It's an old Toyota 4Runner, with a turbo, modified air intake... and with my limited understanding of trucks and kits I finally asked what he hadn't modified on it. I can't tell you what they were but you can count them on one hand. I have to say, his truck is A LOT of fun to drive!
Ended up in the tulies on every side of town, and showed him where a bunch of bike trails started... it was awesome!
We agreed that we should go biking the next day...
After that though he let me drive it around town *huge grin* It's an old Toyota 4Runner, with a turbo, modified air intake... and with my limited understanding of trucks and kits I finally asked what he hadn't modified on it. I can't tell you what they were but you can count them on one hand. I have to say, his truck is A LOT of fun to drive!
Ended up in the tulies on every side of town, and showed him where a bunch of bike trails started... it was awesome!
We agreed that we should go biking the next day...
Thought for yesterday
If I could teach you to look at yourself through others eyes, and see your own potential I would. Its amazing what you can do when someone believes in you, but the possibilities are endless when you believe in yourself.
Hai!
*happy dance* I passed my belt test!!!
I still don't know what order the belts go in... but I'm a half yellow belt *grins* and I know that the next one is a full yellow belt!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
What is it with 4am?!?!
Apparently I think better when I'm unconscious.
I'm a pretty deep sleeper, so I was already staggering into the living room as I re-gained consciousness... I was vaguely aware of standing there scratching my head trying to figure out what all the racket was, and why it was coming from the corner of the room... my hot water heater was sounding like an idling diesel truck with a bent muffler.
*blinks*
I pulled the cover off... tried to look at it with my eyes closed, then stumbled over to the wall and turned the thermostat all the way down. Silence, even relative silence is golden. I stumbled back to bed, and upon checking how much longer I had to sleep found it was 4am... you have got to be kidding me *sigh* it's gonna be a no-shower double coffee kind of day, I can tell already.
The funny part though was talking to my roommate as he was thinking he should have hauled himself out of bed, because it had occurred to him that I might have just killed all the breakers in the apartment.
I had to admit that it hadn't even occurred to me... although I'm not exactly sure how I thought of the thermostat either.
I'm a pretty deep sleeper, so I was already staggering into the living room as I re-gained consciousness... I was vaguely aware of standing there scratching my head trying to figure out what all the racket was, and why it was coming from the corner of the room... my hot water heater was sounding like an idling diesel truck with a bent muffler.
*blinks*
I pulled the cover off... tried to look at it with my eyes closed, then stumbled over to the wall and turned the thermostat all the way down. Silence, even relative silence is golden. I stumbled back to bed, and upon checking how much longer I had to sleep found it was 4am... you have got to be kidding me *sigh* it's gonna be a no-shower double coffee kind of day, I can tell already.
The funny part though was talking to my roommate as he was thinking he should have hauled himself out of bed, because it had occurred to him that I might have just killed all the breakers in the apartment.
I had to admit that it hadn't even occurred to me... although I'm not exactly sure how I thought of the thermostat either.
Hello?
Omg I just got an automated call from TD Canada Trust for...
*nice recorded voice* Hello, this is TD Canada Trust calling for *automated voice* T.T.S. Error
If you are T.T.S. Error, please press 1.
If you would like to pause this message for a moment while you get T.T.S. Error, please press 2.
...
If your number has been dialed incorrectly, please press 5.
If you would like to hear this message again, please press the star button.
So of course because I thought it was funny I pressed the star button and it hung up on me... I wonder what they would do if I called customer service back and told them I'd be hung up on?!?
*nice recorded voice* Hello, this is TD Canada Trust calling for *automated voice* T.T.S. Error
If you are T.T.S. Error, please press 1.
If you would like to pause this message for a moment while you get T.T.S. Error, please press 2.
...
If your number has been dialed incorrectly, please press 5.
If you would like to hear this message again, please press the star button.
So of course because I thought it was funny I pressed the star button and it hung up on me... I wonder what they would do if I called customer service back and told them I'd be hung up on?!?
Monday, March 28, 2011
Standards
Everyone knows it's righty-tighty, lefty-loosie... so how come the taps in the shower go in opposite directions?!?
Nom nom nom
"Mmmm! Brain Flavor!"
Not that I have any experience whatsoever as to what brains taste like to base this on, but they do kinda taste like chicken...
Hey Internet, does anyone know what brains taste like that is still capable of using a keyboard? If you do, drop me an email.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Cue the audience
Heh having an entourage of dogs following me around makes me feel like I'm kind of a big deal!
12 on the zombie scale
The dogs decided they had to pee at 4am again this morning... which is what it is, I mean really I'd rather let them out than have them pee on the floor. But the thing is, when I don't get enough sleep I get dysfunctional... like can't remember my own name dysfunctional.
So, there I am standing outside Tim Hortons trying to remember where the heck I parked my car... and trying to figure out how I lost it in such a small parking lot... when it occurs to me that I'm not driving my car, I'm driving the PT.
*shakes head* you might be tired when...
So, there I am standing outside Tim Hortons trying to remember where the heck I parked my car... and trying to figure out how I lost it in such a small parking lot... when it occurs to me that I'm not driving my car, I'm driving the PT.
*shakes head* you might be tired when...
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Mild mannered Sam by day...
This evening was interesting... hectic... crazy even!
It started out normal enough, I was house-sitting, chilling with the dogs, and chatting with my Mom about Dad leaving to start his adventure again when my roommate's Mom called...
It was along the lines of "Nate's having trouble with his truck, I can't do anything from here, I'm bringing his alternator down tomorrow evening but he needs to get to school for the next two days can you help him?" I assured her that I would call her son and figure something out, and not to worry.
Talking to him, his evening could have been turned into a lesson on how to trash talk your truck 101, complete with an addendum of responses from the truck. I didn't follow the mechanics of all the troubles he had... but it's along the lines of the alternator was going... he knew it was, but had his fingers crossed it would last two more days. The big indicator was stalling at a light on the way home and not being able to start it, then jump starting it in reverse cause it's a standard, leaving it running without the fan on and blowing the starter out the side of the engine block *squints* I think that about covers it.
Oh right and he wasn't so concerned about getting the alternator down here... as he was that he didn't know which tools he would need. He was sounding a little stressed, I told him I was going to make some calls, and that in the mean time he should take a deep breath ;)
Three phone calls, a friend who's a mechanic and some musical cars later I had it sorted... I would go to taekwondo to get a couple extra classes in before my belt test next week, drop my car off with him at the apartment and borrow my friend's. If she needed it tomorrow I would drop it off at her place and walk to work, if not well even better I can still get my Timmy's in the morning!
Driving home in the PT Cruiser though gave me a chance to reflect on the events of the evening... and I realized that the ability to rally your resources and just "make something work, one way or another" comes from my best friend's family.
With them, it doesn't matter who it is, if you need help they're the ones you want on your side... They have a way of pulling together, organizing and making it work. It's absolutely incredible to witness... once someone has figured out what needs to happen, there's no huge debate, it just gets done... one step at a time, with as many people called in as necessary.
It's a pretty good feeling when you can help someone else out, especially when they've tied a knot and they're hanging from the end of their rope. At the end of the day, we've all been there... when your panties are so twisted they've cut off circulation to your brain, and really... lets be honest, one of these days I'm going to need a friend when I don't know it.
So here's to paying karma forward a little, or maybe just catching up on some of the karma I must have used on our boat shenanagins ;)
Cheers
It started out normal enough, I was house-sitting, chilling with the dogs, and chatting with my Mom about Dad leaving to start his adventure again when my roommate's Mom called...
It was along the lines of "Nate's having trouble with his truck, I can't do anything from here, I'm bringing his alternator down tomorrow evening but he needs to get to school for the next two days can you help him?" I assured her that I would call her son and figure something out, and not to worry.
Talking to him, his evening could have been turned into a lesson on how to trash talk your truck 101, complete with an addendum of responses from the truck. I didn't follow the mechanics of all the troubles he had... but it's along the lines of the alternator was going... he knew it was, but had his fingers crossed it would last two more days. The big indicator was stalling at a light on the way home and not being able to start it, then jump starting it in reverse cause it's a standard, leaving it running without the fan on and blowing the starter out the side of the engine block *squints* I think that about covers it.
Oh right and he wasn't so concerned about getting the alternator down here... as he was that he didn't know which tools he would need. He was sounding a little stressed, I told him I was going to make some calls, and that in the mean time he should take a deep breath ;)
Three phone calls, a friend who's a mechanic and some musical cars later I had it sorted... I would go to taekwondo to get a couple extra classes in before my belt test next week, drop my car off with him at the apartment and borrow my friend's. If she needed it tomorrow I would drop it off at her place and walk to work, if not well even better I can still get my Timmy's in the morning!
Driving home in the PT Cruiser though gave me a chance to reflect on the events of the evening... and I realized that the ability to rally your resources and just "make something work, one way or another" comes from my best friend's family.
With them, it doesn't matter who it is, if you need help they're the ones you want on your side... They have a way of pulling together, organizing and making it work. It's absolutely incredible to witness... once someone has figured out what needs to happen, there's no huge debate, it just gets done... one step at a time, with as many people called in as necessary.
It's a pretty good feeling when you can help someone else out, especially when they've tied a knot and they're hanging from the end of their rope. At the end of the day, we've all been there... when your panties are so twisted they've cut off circulation to your brain, and really... lets be honest, one of these days I'm going to need a friend when I don't know it.
So here's to paying karma forward a little, or maybe just catching up on some of the karma I must have used on our boat shenanagins ;)
Cheers
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Baby steps
Monday, March 21, 2011
D to the O.G.S!
Dogs do not understand Physics.
They believe that no matter how many of them there are, your lap will expand to accommodate.
They're not sure what the idiot that came up with laptops was thinking, because laps are for dogs... obviously this person didn't own a dog or they would have known better.
Despite their short legs making them look deceivingly smaller, Basset Hounds still weigh a lot... especially when they step on your bladder. Even if you didn't have to pee, you do now.
They believe that no matter how many of them there are, your lap will expand to accommodate.
They're not sure what the idiot that came up with laptops was thinking, because laps are for dogs... obviously this person didn't own a dog or they would have known better.
Despite their short legs making them look deceivingly smaller, Basset Hounds still weigh a lot... especially when they step on your bladder. Even if you didn't have to pee, you do now.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Cooking for more than one
Heh I just accidentally fed your dog a slice of pizza... and by accidentally I mean that basset hounds can jump as high as a piece of pizza and by slice I actually meant half a slice.
Good thing I made a whole pizza pie!
Good thing I made a whole pizza pie!
Spring!
Despite the lingering snow on the ground Kim has broken out the flip-flops, granted there's only about a 4 month period where she *doesn't* wear them.
I guess that, and I've had the bike out for the first couple snow-free rides, and gotten my beginning of season pinch flat. I always forget that my tires need to be more inflated for the start of season side-walk ride... and that I have not yet mastered the hop to get both tires up onto the sidewalk.
The attempt usually starts out well, I get the front tire up onto the curb... results after that vary from slamming my back tire into said curb all the way to, um, falling off my bike somehow. Believe me, if I had any idea what was going awry after the front tire I would have remedied it by now. It's on my list of things to conquer.
So it's officially spring, as far as I'm concerned!
I guess that, and I've had the bike out for the first couple snow-free rides, and gotten my beginning of season pinch flat. I always forget that my tires need to be more inflated for the start of season side-walk ride... and that I have not yet mastered the hop to get both tires up onto the sidewalk.
The attempt usually starts out well, I get the front tire up onto the curb... results after that vary from slamming my back tire into said curb all the way to, um, falling off my bike somehow. Believe me, if I had any idea what was going awry after the front tire I would have remedied it by now. It's on my list of things to conquer.
So it's officially spring, as far as I'm concerned!
Your Keeper
Everyone has a keeper in their life, someone who keeps their secrets... or knows things before they've officially happened. New jobs, new boyfriends, a baby on the way, hopes and dreams... fears.
Things that change your life.
Sometimes its hard being a keeper, because when everyone else is let in on the secret you still have to pretend you didn't already know. It's special though, when only you and someone else know something...
"I promise not to tell anyone in the entire world." I have uttered this phrase and meant every word of it more than once in my life. If I keep my word, you and I are the only ones who will know... It's such an honour that you trust me to keep your secrets.
I will gladly give up being known as your best friend, for being the person you can turn to when you need someone to talk to. I will share in your joys, and your deepest darkest secrets, and help you through troubled times even if all I can do is listen... Above all else, I will keep it to myself...
I'm not perfect but neither are you, but I'm a friend you keep... a keeper of memories, a keeper of secrets, a keeper of friendship. I'm the person you can call at 3am, even if you never need to. Someone you can tell anything to, because I already know more about your life than anyone really should, in fact I could blackmail you with it. I wont though, you know enough about mine to do the same.
This to will pass, and the changes themselves will change again, but friendship remains. Even if we don't talk for years I will keep you and your memories tucked away safely until the next time they're needed.
*hugs*
Things that change your life.
Sometimes its hard being a keeper, because when everyone else is let in on the secret you still have to pretend you didn't already know. It's special though, when only you and someone else know something...
"I promise not to tell anyone in the entire world." I have uttered this phrase and meant every word of it more than once in my life. If I keep my word, you and I are the only ones who will know... It's such an honour that you trust me to keep your secrets.
I will gladly give up being known as your best friend, for being the person you can turn to when you need someone to talk to. I will share in your joys, and your deepest darkest secrets, and help you through troubled times even if all I can do is listen... Above all else, I will keep it to myself...
I'm not perfect but neither are you, but I'm a friend you keep... a keeper of memories, a keeper of secrets, a keeper of friendship. I'm the person you can call at 3am, even if you never need to. Someone you can tell anything to, because I already know more about your life than anyone really should, in fact I could blackmail you with it. I wont though, you know enough about mine to do the same.
This to will pass, and the changes themselves will change again, but friendship remains. Even if we don't talk for years I will keep you and your memories tucked away safely until the next time they're needed.
*hugs*
Friday, March 18, 2011
I am an adult child of hippies
I was raised on powdered milk... and to add insult to injury, my closest extended family members love to bring it up and embarrass me with it every chance they get...
Hold up though I know it doesn't sound *that* bad, but that isn't the worst of it...
The worst of it is when the person I'm talking to nods knowingly, while giving me a look somewhere between revulsion and fascination, and says "Oooohhhhh" while nodding in the affirmative, as if it explains so many things about me that they just never understood until now.
We can't drink milk in the winter up here because it freezes in the cow... that's how we invented milkshakes.
Oh, and just in case you were wondering, I'm pretty sure powdered milk comes from dehydrated cows...
IT camo
I was having a great discussion this morning with our IT guy... similar to how you survive a zombie apocalypse, although still involving brains only on a much smaller, less dangerous scale.
We realized that to blend in with an IT illiterate crowd one simply needs to add 'the' in front of the technical words and then use the plural... so instead of saying "What about Outlook?", you would say "What about the Outlooks?"
I'm thinking this is where 'The Interwebs' came from
We realized that to blend in with an IT illiterate crowd one simply needs to add 'the' in front of the technical words and then use the plural... so instead of saying "What about Outlook?", you would say "What about the Outlooks?"
I'm thinking this is where 'The Interwebs' came from
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Happy St. Paddy's!
It was fascinating, in high-school we had a teacher that true to her heritage would read a Robby Burns poem over the PA... I haven't thought of it in years, but today I missed it. The thick gutteral Scottish accent that washed over you like you'd been maytagged after falling off your surfboard ;)
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Sam's tech support, how may I help you?
So I get this text message around 10:50 this morning...
Which was shortly followed by a phone call... From my half of the conversation which was along the lines of
My IT guy at work quickly figured out what I was troublshooting and provided the following helpful and insightful information on getting rid of viruses;
Just tell him to:
"Activate security software? Do I hav dat ?"
Which was shortly followed by a phone call... From my half of the conversation which was along the lines of
"No, don't click that... Go to your start menu... yep... no... okay see Malwarebytes... yeah Malwarebytes... run that... yep just click it... there should be an update tab... what?!?... no second or third tab over, it should say 'Update'... yeah... no no, close that it shouldn't be a pop up window... go back to the first window you opened... *sigh*open it again... the error message says you can't run exe files? Ooooh that's bad. Yeah, turn it off I'll come take a look at it over lunch..."
My IT guy at work quickly figured out what I was troublshooting and provided the following helpful and insightful information on getting rid of viruses;
Just tell him to:
- Unplug the network cable
- Turn the computer off
- Take it out into the driveway, and drive over it with his truck
- Drive down to Futureshop and buy a new computer
- Plug it in
- Turn it on
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
You can take the wench off the pirate ship...
There were two old-school good songs in a row on the mix CD someone left in my car this morning...
I like big butts and Unpredictable... it's going to be a great day!
Nyarrrr!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Dear Payworks...
You may come out of the burlap sack now!
I'm glad to see that the beating had a positive effect, and you've stopped resizing my browser to fill both of my monitors. Splitting up the pertinent information with the crack was really annoying, especially when every time I clicked a new link you would resize the window to huge again even though I'd just made it smaller.
You have no idea how happy this makes me, it's the little things that count.
I'm glad to see that the beating had a positive effect, and you've stopped resizing my browser to fill both of my monitors. Splitting up the pertinent information with the crack was really annoying, especially when every time I clicked a new link you would resize the window to huge again even though I'd just made it smaller.
You have no idea how happy this makes me, it's the little things that count.
Occupational hazard
#1. The best way to get your IT problem solved is to have someone else report the problem you are having on your behalf...
Report Stooge: "So and so is having this problem, why haven't you fixed it yet?"
Me in my best peaches and cream voice: "Really? How long have they been having this problem?"
*alarm bells should be ringing*
Report Stooge: "Uh, I think a few weeks now..."
Me: "Really?!? Well that's interesting... This is the first I've heard of it, otherwise I would have fixed it already"
You actually have to tell me what the problem is before I start working on it. It truly is amazing how that works...
Report Stooge: "So and so is having this problem, why haven't you fixed it yet?"
Me in my best peaches and cream voice: "Really? How long have they been having this problem?"
*alarm bells should be ringing*
Report Stooge: "Uh, I think a few weeks now..."
Me: "Really?!? Well that's interesting... This is the first I've heard of it, otherwise I would have fixed it already"
You actually have to tell me what the problem is before I start working on it. It truly is amazing how that works...
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Ewww... gross
If you have a weak stomach, or really just don't like gross things that are normally associated with elementary aged children... then don't read any further. If you do anyways, then it's your own fault and I will not be held responsible for the consequences... you have been warned!
Dude... I just power sneezed while eating the last half of my granola bar... all over my glasses *and* my bare tube topped chest...
*sooooo gross*
Luckily I was able to slink into the private pooper in the first aid room for a veritable sponge bath. Even as I type this and I realize that I'm telling you anyways I guess it really doesn't matter if the hallway was clear or not... Although it might have been vomit inducing, glad I didn't find out...
Yep that pretty much negates any attempt at dressing me up, and it definitely puts the ass back in classy...
Dude... I just power sneezed while eating the last half of my granola bar... all over my glasses *and* my bare tube topped chest...
*sooooo gross*
Luckily I was able to slink into the private pooper in the first aid room for a veritable sponge bath. Even as I type this and I realize that I'm telling you anyways I guess it really doesn't matter if the hallway was clear or not... Although it might have been vomit inducing, glad I didn't find out...
Yep that pretty much negates any attempt at dressing me up, and it definitely puts the ass back in classy...
Raise the bar up... high as you can
"Always dream and shoot higher than you know you can do. Don't bother just to be better than your contemporaries or predecessors. Try to be better than yourself."
~ William Faulkner, Author
Sunday, March 06, 2011
Where's my head at
I'm not exactly sure what's wrong with me, but this morning I managed to park in *front* of a fire hydrant...
I don't know if it was some spring fever, with the shining green grass and warbling birds this morning...
Maybe it was because all the good people had filled up the church parking lot, or because there was a snowbank occupying my usual overflow parking location... or maybe I was just overly excited to start the girls brunch and hot tub morning...
Whatever the caseI was saved my car windows were saved by Aunt Charlene pointing out that I should maybe move my car... so this morning's church congregation was treated to me jogging outside, in my jammie pants and re-parking my car.
*shakes head*
I don't know if it was some spring fever, with the shining green grass and warbling birds this morning...
Maybe it was because all the good people had filled up the church parking lot, or because there was a snowbank occupying my usual overflow parking location... or maybe I was just overly excited to start the girls brunch and hot tub morning...
Whatever the case
*shakes head*
You might be Canadian...
Honda Fit $19000 + change...
Free outdoor parking included in apartment rental $1000
Snow scraper from Canadian Tire $7.99
Needing to get the frozen ice off your windshield before you can drive to Canadian Tire and buy a snow scraper? Giving new meaning to the phrase "For everything else there's MasterCard" by using it in ways it was never intended?
Priceless...
Free outdoor parking included in apartment rental $1000
Snow scraper from Canadian Tire $7.99
Priceless...
Thursday, March 03, 2011
A collection of thoughts...
Shhhhh I'm working on the crinkles in the corner of my eyes...*smiles*
When I'm old and wear purple I hope the stories my wrinkles tell, are ones filled with laughter and so many smiles it makes your stomach hurt. Not absent tears and worry, adding a delicate balance and perspective to the beautiful things in this world.
I want it to be an unspoken record that I was involved, rather than just watching things happen. In seeing, I want to be able look beyond the obvious, beyond the brash actions of anger to the source and understand where the hurt comes from.
It takes great courage to approach your differences, understanding is required on both sides to see the sacrifices and know the true value of concessions in a compromise.
I want to be a mirror, one that reflects all the good in the people around me. Then, when someone tells me I'm a beautiful person, I can tell them in all honesty not to look to me, but to themselves.
It isn't events that shape human history, it is the people who pulled together and helped one another that defines who we are and how far we've come.
Helping one another in times of need is what makes us humankind, these are our greatest accomplishments.
If you could stop, and see yourself through the eyes that love you, I hope you'd find someone you wanted to be friends with too.
When I'm old and wear purple I hope the stories my wrinkles tell, are ones filled with laughter and so many smiles it makes your stomach hurt. Not absent tears and worry, adding a delicate balance and perspective to the beautiful things in this world.
I want it to be an unspoken record that I was involved, rather than just watching things happen. In seeing, I want to be able look beyond the obvious, beyond the brash actions of anger to the source and understand where the hurt comes from.
It takes great courage to approach your differences, understanding is required on both sides to see the sacrifices and know the true value of concessions in a compromise.
I want to be a mirror, one that reflects all the good in the people around me. Then, when someone tells me I'm a beautiful person, I can tell them in all honesty not to look to me, but to themselves.
It isn't events that shape human history, it is the people who pulled together and helped one another that defines who we are and how far we've come.
Helping one another in times of need is what makes us humankind, these are our greatest accomplishments.
If you could stop, and see yourself through the eyes that love you, I hope you'd find someone you wanted to be friends with too.
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Daily sillyness
Check out the name that showed up in my inbox this morning!
As if this isn't the coolest last name evar! It would almost pass as an excuse when you get in trouble for having a trucker mouth... Weeeeeelllllll, okay maybe not.
I will just continue to blame that on proximity tourettes.
As if this isn't the coolest last name evar! It would almost pass as an excuse when you get in trouble for having a trucker mouth... Weeeeeelllllll, okay maybe not.
I will just continue to blame that on proximity tourettes.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Warning
For some unknown reason I'm feeling excessively optimistic today! Like I really can solve all the worlds problems or be anyone I want to when I grow up, even if it's a self rescuing princess ;)
As if somehow all the bills I've deferred to next month via my credit card have been taken care of by a tall dark and handsome stranger who liked my smile. In fact he liked me so much that I've been invited to attend a ball... Bond girl style in a knockout dress that conceals the true nature of my secret identity!
Just thought you should have plenty of warning before you're subjected to my bubbling no... geyser of enthusiasm! If you're a donkey on the edge, this could cause you to lose all feeling in your toes... and need a hug... which you're probably going to want from someone else ;) I might break a rib or rupture your spleen.
Caution prolonged exposure to subject may cause the following side effects: nausea, dizziness, ringing sensation in ears, increased psychopathic thoughts, vomiting, brain aneurism, internal bleeding, ruptured ear drums and in extreme cases an increased urge to stab yourself in the eye with a salad fork... or any available blunt object.
As if somehow all the bills I've deferred to next month via my credit card have been taken care of by a tall dark and handsome stranger who liked my smile. In fact he liked me so much that I've been invited to attend a ball... Bond girl style in a knockout dress that conceals the true nature of my secret identity!
Just thought you should have plenty of warning before you're subjected to my bubbling no... geyser of enthusiasm! If you're a donkey on the edge, this could cause you to lose all feeling in your toes... and need a hug... which you're probably going to want from someone else ;) I might break a rib or rupture your spleen.
Caution prolonged exposure to subject may cause the following side effects: nausea, dizziness, ringing sensation in ears, increased psychopathic thoughts, vomiting, brain aneurism, internal bleeding, ruptured ear drums and in extreme cases an increased urge to stab yourself in the eye with a salad fork... or any available blunt object.
If you experience any of
Sent... While in transit ;)
Cue circus music
It seems hard to believe that it was only last weekend that my brother was fantastic and dropped my car off!
Armed with a bill of sale, the AB registration papers and the completed and signed transfer papers I made my first attempt at insuring The Fit. The transfer papers are quite obviously only for *within* the province of BC... as the AB registration number and drivers license numbers do not fit in any of the provided blanks, but of course that's the one you're supposed to use...
Phone calls were made... information was pulled up and I was informed that I had to get my car inspected. Despite the fact that I bought it here...
Curious how you're supposed to get an uninsured/unregistered vehicle down to get inspected? Well apparently you can get daily insurance for $60. We opted for the 'Chuck it on a lowbed trailer'... which could just as easily translate to "We'll just drive it down the back roads like we're trying to shake a tail in the wee morning hours, have it inspected and over to the insurance place before anyone notices"
It cost me $100 to have the car 'inspected' aka someone went out and made sure that the VIN number was correct... and took it for a test drive. They also make sure important things like my heaters work *rolls eyes* The insurance lady then had to reconfirm the confirmation that they inspection place did. *sigh*
What's really awesome though is that last year when I paid my insurance I rounded the cost up in my head. Which made the quote I received significantly lower than I thought it would be, and I'm totally okay with that. I think I'm going to do it again for next year.
Yes, I have been known to be one of those people who sets their clock ahead so that they're "on time"... I can admit it, it's pretty awesome when all it takes is changing your clock to change your perception of where you are in the space time continuum.
The Fit fits! I'm so excited the Fit is back, chewin' up the highway like a big ole velociraptor with hypothermia!
*meep meep*
Armed with a bill of sale, the AB registration papers and the completed and signed transfer papers I made my first attempt at insuring The Fit. The transfer papers are quite obviously only for *within* the province of BC... as the AB registration number and drivers license numbers do not fit in any of the provided blanks, but of course that's the one you're supposed to use...
Phone calls were made... information was pulled up and I was informed that I had to get my car inspected. Despite the fact that I bought it here...
Curious how you're supposed to get an uninsured/unregistered vehicle down to get inspected? Well apparently you can get daily insurance for $60. We opted for the 'Chuck it on a lowbed trailer'... which could just as easily translate to "We'll just drive it down the back roads like we're trying to shake a tail in the wee morning hours, have it inspected and over to the insurance place before anyone notices"
It cost me $100 to have the car 'inspected' aka someone went out and made sure that the VIN number was correct... and took it for a test drive. They also make sure important things like my heaters work *rolls eyes* The insurance lady then had to reconfirm the confirmation that they inspection place did. *sigh*
What's really awesome though is that last year when I paid my insurance I rounded the cost up in my head. Which made the quote I received significantly lower than I thought it would be, and I'm totally okay with that. I think I'm going to do it again for next year.
Yes, I have been known to be one of those people who sets their clock ahead so that they're "on time"... I can admit it, it's pretty awesome when all it takes is changing your clock to change your perception of where you are in the space time continuum.
The Fit fits! I'm so excited the Fit is back, chewin' up the highway like a big ole velociraptor with hypothermia!
*meep meep*
Fallen angel
This could quite possibly be the closest I will ever get to angelic... and I have it on high authority you are never too old for snow angels ;)
Friday, February 25, 2011
Morning has broken
The sun rising
with a trace of a smile
a gentle fading blush
the last lingering remnants
of a dream fast fading
belying a warmth
not felt by the few souls
awake at this ungodly hour.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
This is not a test... this is a test
I'm sure this wasn't sent to test my intelligence, but here is an excerpt from an email I received this afternoon...
Now I ask you, how would I know to respond that I didn't receive this email... if I hadn't received this email?!?! Of course I replied to that effect, violating the 'Please do not reply...' *shrugs*
Lol I've recently been informed that the smiley face at the end is acknowledgement of the ridiculousness of the preceding statement. Teach me to make fun of things ;)
Actually it reminds me of highschool, they were having trouble with the PA system and made a similar announcement... "If you can't hear the announcement over the PA system, please send a runner down to the office". *shakes head* Yes, these are the people teaching your children... sometimes I wonder if the kids are alright ;)
Lol I've recently been informed that the smiley face at the end is acknowledgement of the ridiculousness of the preceding statement. Teach me to make fun of things ;)
Actually it reminds me of highschool, they were having trouble with the PA system and made a similar announcement... "If you can't hear the announcement over the PA system, please send a runner down to the office". *shakes head* Yes, these are the people teaching your children... sometimes I wonder if the kids are alright ;)
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Busy as a beaver
Dad is returning home after a week or so down in sunny California and boy has he ever been busy! I'm afraid this turned into a bit of a laundry list, but Dad refrained from including all the humorous details I would have shared had I been privy to them ;)
All in all he got the transmission checked out, replacing and fixing bits and pieces so that it doesn't leak ATF anymore (which should avoid the whole getting stuck in reverse problem).
He replaced the cushions, one of which was soaked in the heater incident mentioned previously.
He installed the new cooler unit which required some boat modification.... and uninstalled the hot water heater unit in the small forward office type area which he had soundly cursed on numerous occasions ;)
He also did the dive to replace the zinc on the prop shaft, with the foresight of placing all the screws and alan keys required into foam so that at least in the instance that they're dropped they'd fall 'up'... I thought that was pretty clever ;)
Oh and on an interestingly nerdy note, it sounds like when you are trying to replace the zinc while underwater rather than when the boat is hauled... you can get the screw in about half way and then it becomes very difficult to turn. Dad thinks this may be due to it being a blind hole, and thus being filled with water which will only compress so far...
Oh yeah and he replaced the halyards, and put together the contraption we devised to help get the dingy launched and um un-launched...
Installed a deck pipe for the anchor rode so you don't have to climb in and out of the back lazarette to deploy the anchor, not that it ever waited for that before...
Nice work Dad, you certainly got a lot accomplished!
All in all he got the transmission checked out, replacing and fixing bits and pieces so that it doesn't leak ATF anymore (which should avoid the whole getting stuck in reverse problem).
He replaced the cushions, one of which was soaked in the heater incident mentioned previously.
He installed the new cooler unit which required some boat modification.... and uninstalled the hot water heater unit in the small forward office type area which he had soundly cursed on numerous occasions ;)
He also did the dive to replace the zinc on the prop shaft, with the foresight of placing all the screws and alan keys required into foam so that at least in the instance that they're dropped they'd fall 'up'... I thought that was pretty clever ;)
Oh and on an interestingly nerdy note, it sounds like when you are trying to replace the zinc while underwater rather than when the boat is hauled... you can get the screw in about half way and then it becomes very difficult to turn. Dad thinks this may be due to it being a blind hole, and thus being filled with water which will only compress so far...
Oh yeah and he replaced the halyards, and put together the contraption we devised to help get the dingy launched and um un-launched...
Installed a deck pipe for the anchor rode so you don't have to climb in and out of the back lazarette to deploy the anchor, not that it ever waited for that before...
Nice work Dad, you certainly got a lot accomplished!
Congratulations are in order
The newest member of our extended family was born yesterday! Mom and baby are both doing well. Being the third child he's still nameless, and his oldest sister is adjusting to the idea that he isn't a baby girl *chuckles*.
I hope they have many wonderful moments together *s*
I hope they have many wonderful moments together *s*
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Cloudy with a chance of shnowwww..showers
The inuit have hundreds of words for it... and I know we're supposed to have more words for snow than places like say the Caribbean... but what on earth are snow showers?!?! Heh if it wasn't spelled out there, I would just have assumed that someone was having a little trouth mouble...
Around here I'm pretty sure we call that slush.
Around here I'm pretty sure we call that slush.
Lifting shadows
Good morning Tuesday!
I don't know if it's the Taekwondo improving my sense of well being or the lengthening days... but what a difference it makes walking to work in the pre-dawn as opposed to the depths of darkness.
There was a definite bounce to my step this morning, that had nothing to do with it warming up to minus 7 from minus 14... that's warmed up to ~19 for all my American friends ;)
I'm hoping this continues, I'm kind of done with feeling *mer*... and as much as I love winter sports I think I'm missing the sunshine. So please, can we keep it cold up the mountain with occasional dustings of fresh powder *and* have some sunshine down here? I didn't really think so, but I figured I'd ask.
I don't know if it's the Taekwondo improving my sense of well being or the lengthening days... but what a difference it makes walking to work in the pre-dawn as opposed to the depths of darkness.
There was a definite bounce to my step this morning, that had nothing to do with it warming up to minus 7 from minus 14... that's warmed up to ~19 for all my American friends ;)
I'm hoping this continues, I'm kind of done with feeling *mer*... and as much as I love winter sports I think I'm missing the sunshine. So please, can we keep it cold up the mountain with occasional dustings of fresh powder *and* have some sunshine down here? I didn't really think so, but I figured I'd ask.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Doh!
It works much better when you attach the zinc to the *metal* part of the prop shaft rather than the fiberglass sleeve... *sigh* luckily it wasn't needed.
My not new years resolution
I have been hesitant to write about starting Taekwondo, and I'm not exactly sure why. It's almost like if I talk about it, I'll stop doing it. Like the New Years resolution you can't break, if you don't tell anyone you've made it.
It's odd really because from the first night I tried Taekwondo I loved it! I can't believe I've never tried it before.
I was talking to Carol, the lady who signed me up and sheepishly admitted that I became interested by watching a video on youtube. I didn't tell her it actually started with my Xena obsession... and then I watched the videos on youtube. I mean really, "Hi, I think I'm an ancient Greek warrior with no skills, can you teach me?"
Okay but seriously the youtube video was pretty cool, it was a Master demonstrating the use of Bo-staff in defending against a sword attack. In the span of a few breaths, he had disarmed and pinned the guy with the sword. It was incredible!
In all honesty though, I wanted something that I can do to stay in shape. Something that is practiced in other parts of the world, that I can spend a lifetime learning and refining. I don't know if this is it, but I'm going to give it a try.
Besides you just never know when defense against a sword attack will come in handy... or do you? Nyaarrrr!
It's odd really because from the first night I tried Taekwondo I loved it! I can't believe I've never tried it before.
I was talking to Carol, the lady who signed me up and sheepishly admitted that I became interested by watching a video on youtube. I didn't tell her it actually started with my Xena obsession... and then I watched the videos on youtube. I mean really, "Hi, I think I'm an ancient Greek warrior with no skills, can you teach me?"
Okay but seriously the youtube video was pretty cool, it was a Master demonstrating the use of Bo-staff in defending against a sword attack. In the span of a few breaths, he had disarmed and pinned the guy with the sword. It was incredible!
In all honesty though, I wanted something that I can do to stay in shape. Something that is practiced in other parts of the world, that I can spend a lifetime learning and refining. I don't know if this is it, but I'm going to give it a try.
Besides you just never know when defense against a sword attack will come in handy... or do you? Nyaarrrr!
Boat Update
While I have returned to work and attempted to re-thread myself into the working world tapestry, Dad has finally returned to sunny California to check up on the boat.
Over the past week I've received a constant stream of emails telling me what he's been up to... and as much as things have been working out great here, getting settled in and diving back into the raging waterfall of work, I miss the adventure of the unexpected. I also miss mint Oreos...
It did make me smile though, within 24 hours of being back on the boat... In the process of unpacking a sail from his new cooler unit Dad managed to flip the brand new hole saw completely up out of the cockpit and over the side of the boat.
Oh yeah, and the heater we couldn't get working? Well I guess at some point over Christmas the fuel line cleared its throat and spit diesel all over the canned mushrooms. Dad said it smells like boat now, heh I'll just bet it does...
Sounds like he's going swimming, guess some things never change ;)
Over the past week I've received a constant stream of emails telling me what he's been up to... and as much as things have been working out great here, getting settled in and diving back into the raging waterfall of work, I miss the adventure of the unexpected. I also miss mint Oreos...
It did make me smile though, within 24 hours of being back on the boat... In the process of unpacking a sail from his new cooler unit Dad managed to flip the brand new hole saw completely up out of the cockpit and over the side of the boat.
Oh yeah, and the heater we couldn't get working? Well I guess at some point over Christmas the fuel line cleared its throat and spit diesel all over the canned mushrooms. Dad said it smells like boat now, heh I'll just bet it does...
Sounds like he's going swimming, guess some things never change ;)
I like big trucks
and I can not lie... you other brothers can't deny... Oh right heh, wrong song.
Earlier this week, I went about my morning delighting in the fact that I had my buddy Ed's truck, and I would be stopping at Timmy's *dreamy smile* I got outside and realized it had snowed.
Quite a bit...
So I'm all gussied up for work. I've been trying to look presentable at least 4 out of 5 days (Friday is usually that fifth day)... it helps that all my scruffy clothes are at my parent's. I slip slide out to the truck, open the door and get snow all over the seat.
*Damn*
I start digging around, surely Ed's got a snow scraper somewhere around here right? It's still the middle of winter, it's not like this is one of those freak March snow storms. The closest I came to anything that even resembled a snow scraper was a laminated map of Edmonton... *shrugs* close enough, I'm resourceful ;)
Oh right, I forgot to mention that Ed's truck is fairly large... Chevy, Silverado extended cab... Diesel. Translation: The windshield is, way up there! I'm not Amazon tall, but even at my respectable 5'9" I'm still down here, yep that's right, in my pretty shoes.
I get a map width and a half of snow scraped off in front of the driver, and am relieved to find it wet snow... Not frozen. Yeah! I jump in and let the wipers clear the rest and make my way to Timmy's. By this point I've accepted that I am most likely going to be a few minutes late for work, but that's a sacrifice I'm willing to make.
To my surprise there is *nobody* in the drive through line-up! I crept up to place my order. As if you can creep in a diesel truck *Rugh-rugh-rugh-rugh* ;) Hit the automatic window button, and realized half way through digging out my wallet that I don't want the window to go down all the way because the wet snow on the side window... will. fall. in.
Yeah, I totally got wet snow all down the door and the side of my leg... it's okay though once I had my large double double I didn't care ;)
Earlier this week, I went about my morning delighting in the fact that I had my buddy Ed's truck, and I would be stopping at Timmy's *dreamy smile* I got outside and realized it had snowed.
Quite a bit...
So I'm all gussied up for work. I've been trying to look presentable at least 4 out of 5 days (Friday is usually that fifth day)... it helps that all my scruffy clothes are at my parent's. I slip slide out to the truck, open the door and get snow all over the seat.
*Damn*
I start digging around, surely Ed's got a snow scraper somewhere around here right? It's still the middle of winter, it's not like this is one of those freak March snow storms. The closest I came to anything that even resembled a snow scraper was a laminated map of Edmonton... *shrugs* close enough, I'm resourceful ;)
Oh right, I forgot to mention that Ed's truck is fairly large... Chevy, Silverado extended cab... Diesel. Translation: The windshield is, way up there! I'm not Amazon tall, but even at my respectable 5'9" I'm still down here, yep that's right, in my pretty shoes.
I get a map width and a half of snow scraped off in front of the driver, and am relieved to find it wet snow... Not frozen. Yeah! I jump in and let the wipers clear the rest and make my way to Timmy's. By this point I've accepted that I am most likely going to be a few minutes late for work, but that's a sacrifice I'm willing to make.
To my surprise there is *nobody* in the drive through line-up! I crept up to place my order. As if you can creep in a diesel truck *Rugh-rugh-rugh-rugh* ;) Hit the automatic window button, and realized half way through digging out my wallet that I don't want the window to go down all the way because the wet snow on the side window... will. fall. in.
Yeah, I totally got wet snow all down the door and the side of my leg... it's okay though once I had my large double double I didn't care ;)
Monday, February 14, 2011
IT Hobo
That hobo you see running around IT would be me... Walked in to half our servers downed by a power outage this morning, an hour later crisis averted I can finally take a shower and wash the stink off... Yeah that smell you can smell? Should be gone soon ;)
Only way to start a Monday... Happy Valentines day ;)
Sent... While in transit ;)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Infecting your airspace
Damn kids, the carriers of disease and pestilence... running around swapping snot and drool, becoming a living Petri dish, hosting a collection of ick, infected with the same things every other kid has...
*blech* pretty disgusting actually.
What will take me a week to recover from, with my veteran white blood cells that have been heavily immersed in more mortal combat situations than you can shake a stick at... Kids will spontaneously replicate an army of foot soldiers crushing the enemy with sheer numbers piling bodies on top until the invading virus admits defeat signaling a retreat leaving the body by all available exits.
Little did you know, kids are actually evil minions of the flu.
Damn kids.
*blech* pretty disgusting actually.
What will take me a week to recover from, with my veteran white blood cells that have been heavily immersed in more mortal combat situations than you can shake a stick at... Kids will spontaneously replicate an army of foot soldiers crushing the enemy with sheer numbers piling bodies on top until the invading virus admits defeat signaling a retreat leaving the body by all available exits.
Little did you know, kids are actually evil minions of the flu.
Damn kids.
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Desire
Monday, February 07, 2011
Ask and ye shall receive...
Last week I picked up a couple more pieces of furniture from a guy who is moving out of the country. He gave us a hand getting them into the truck, and offered to give us a hand moving them...
Shazam and I pulled the "We're tough, we totally got this!" (because in a previous life we were warriors who shouldn't have any trouble whatsoever with furniture)... In any case, I'd just like to pause and say that I wish I'd had my previous life muscles that day, particle board desks and pull-out-bed-couches are frakkin' heavy!
So we get the particle board desk down off the back of the truck, start to swing it around to align it with the stairs and I promptly step on the only remaining piece of ice... Down I go! Somehow, I managed to catch the desk, not bruise my coccyx, and only give myself a double charlie horse!
Next we get the pull-out-bed-couch into position, maneuver it down the stairs... stand it up, and it decides to inspect the new apartment, pops out like a jack-in-the-box and pins Shazam to the wall! Luckily we managed to get it back in the box and under packing tape restraints so we could stuff it in the door.
It's been cool to watch how over the course of a month or so I've managed (with much help) to furnished a 2 bedroom apartment replete with a spare pull-out-bed-couch. I say this in the most loving way possible, but it's first year University ugly... Something only a momma bed and papa couch could love.
That said the spare bedroom will now affectionately be referred to as 'Residence'. It's more comfortable than the floor, but you wake up missing home ;)
Shazam and I pulled the "We're tough, we totally got this!" (because in a previous life we were warriors who shouldn't have any trouble whatsoever with furniture)... In any case, I'd just like to pause and say that I wish I'd had my previous life muscles that day, particle board desks and pull-out-bed-couches are frakkin' heavy!
So we get the particle board desk down off the back of the truck, start to swing it around to align it with the stairs and I promptly step on the only remaining piece of ice... Down I go! Somehow, I managed to catch the desk, not bruise my coccyx, and only give myself a double charlie horse!
Next we get the pull-out-bed-couch into position, maneuver it down the stairs... stand it up, and it decides to inspect the new apartment, pops out like a jack-in-the-box and pins Shazam to the wall! Luckily we managed to get it back in the box and under packing tape restraints so we could stuff it in the door.
It's been cool to watch how over the course of a month or so I've managed (with much help) to furnished a 2 bedroom apartment replete with a spare pull-out-bed-couch. I say this in the most loving way possible, but it's first year University ugly... Something only a momma bed and papa couch could love.
That said the spare bedroom will now affectionately be referred to as 'Residence'. It's more comfortable than the floor, but you wake up missing home ;)
Loading... loading... loading...
Last Friday morning someone put the wrong auto-pilot cartridge in, so I got up, hopped in the shower, soaped all my 2000 parts and... realized that I didn't have a car... I was walking, and I had to shower... at work.
I still had to pack a lunch *!* I dove out of the shower, did the fireman, and managed to get my poop in a group and out the door at 6:30 on the button as if I hadn't interrupted a hot shower!
It turned into a bit of a theme though when I got ready for my shower at work and forgot to grab my towel out of my office *sigh* some days it's amazing when you get ready on time despite yourself.
I still had to pack a lunch *!* I dove out of the shower, did the fireman, and managed to get my poop in a group and out the door at 6:30 on the button as if I hadn't interrupted a hot shower!
It turned into a bit of a theme though when I got ready for my shower at work and forgot to grab my towel out of my office *sigh* some days it's amazing when you get ready on time despite yourself.
Friday, February 04, 2011
Efficiency at it's finest
Swung through the Tim Horton's drive through on the way back from the airport, which was accompanied by the usual juggling of items in the front seat and digging for change, giving up on the change... paying with debit.
My friend was in the midst of putting her debit card away when the drive-through girl stuck her skinny arm and half the order out the window. Whoa whoa whoa! ... hold on a second, not *quite* ready yet...
The drive through girl replies "It's all good! It just looks really good on the video behind me!"
We laughed all the way out of the Timmy's parking lot *grins*
My friend was in the midst of putting her debit card away when the drive-through girl stuck her skinny arm and half the order out the window. Whoa whoa whoa! ... hold on a second, not *quite* ready yet...
The drive through girl replies "It's all good! It just looks really good on the video behind me!"
We laughed all the way out of the Timmy's parking lot *grins*
Pearl of wisdom...
"Gotta find a job that is constantly pushing the envelop. Not the one stuck licking it!" ~Lips
Thursday, February 03, 2011
It's like magic!
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Infiltrating your spell-checker
Every once in awhile the auto correct outdoes itself and comes up with a really good one... like this:
Omg yes thank you! I totally meant Wonderbra! *huge 50's smile with raised eyebrows*
Not.
Okay now I can see the 'wond' portion matching but what, you think I just had a spastic fit and added four extra letters IN FRONT?!?!
Seriously *rolls eyes* there are days it is a convenience changing 'hte' to 'the' and then there are days it should really just say 'Dude I have no idea what you're trying to spell... maybe you need some spaces in there, then I can help you out'... It wouldn't have been so bad if it had suggested 'Take wonder' although it still would have made me giggle.
Hmmm now I'm wondering if that is actually an advertised position in the auto-correct dictionary, do companies pay extra for that? Because really how many people use 'Wonderbra' AND misspell it when they're filling something out online?
Omg yes thank you! I totally meant Wonderbra! *huge 50's smile with raised eyebrows*
Not.
Okay now I can see the 'wond' portion matching but what, you think I just had a spastic fit and added four extra letters IN FRONT?!?!
Seriously *rolls eyes* there are days it is a convenience changing 'hte' to 'the' and then there are days it should really just say 'Dude I have no idea what you're trying to spell... maybe you need some spaces in there, then I can help you out'... It wouldn't have been so bad if it had suggested 'Take wonder' although it still would have made me giggle.
Hmmm now I'm wondering if that is actually an advertised position in the auto-correct dictionary, do companies pay extra for that? Because really how many people use 'Wonderbra' AND misspell it when they're filling something out online?
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
At least I'm entertaining
So this afternoon I joined our department meeting remotely via Skype on my iPhone. Any normal, sane person would ask why with a comically quizzical look on their face, just as quickly as every geek would answer 'Because I can!'
It's okay, I still managed to disrupt the meeting in spirit form by burning my toast and setting off the fire alarm in my apartment... working fire alarm? check!
It has been pointed out that I failed to mention I was toasting my bread in a fry-pan... *rolls eyes* details, details!
So there I am putting toast on during one of the more 'routine' portions of the meeting *wink wink nudge nudge* when I go back in to the kitchen and realize I'm burning it! Egads! I've got the phone wedged under one ear as I attempt to flip my toast and disperse the smoke by blowing, hoping against hope it isn't enough to set off the fire alarm... knowing that it is only a matter of time *as* the fire alarm goes off.
The resulting events can no longer be related sequentially as the time flow continuum stopped flowing. The following happened in no particular order: I tossed said frying pan onto another element, turned off the offendingly hot element, said something one should not say while one is in a department meeting, grabbed a dish cloth, and on the second jump managed to hit the 'Ha ha just kidding it's not a fire I just burnt the toast button' and waved the white surrender towel a couple times to ensure the barrage didn't start up again.
After it was all said and done I turned an appropriate shade of crimson and apologized, much to my chagrin and the amusement of my entire department... at least we're a small department, and luckily for me they all have a great sense of humor... hey at least the interruption wasn't from getting fragged ;)
It's okay, I still managed to disrupt the meeting in spirit form by burning my toast and setting off the fire alarm in my apartment... working fire alarm? check!
It has been pointed out that I failed to mention I was toasting my bread in a fry-pan... *rolls eyes* details, details!
So there I am putting toast on during one of the more 'routine' portions of the meeting *wink wink nudge nudge* when I go back in to the kitchen and realize I'm burning it! Egads! I've got the phone wedged under one ear as I attempt to flip my toast and disperse the smoke by blowing, hoping against hope it isn't enough to set off the fire alarm... knowing that it is only a matter of time *as* the fire alarm goes off.
The resulting events can no longer be related sequentially as the time flow continuum stopped flowing. The following happened in no particular order: I tossed said frying pan onto another element, turned off the offendingly hot element, said something one should not say while one is in a department meeting, grabbed a dish cloth, and on the second jump managed to hit the 'Ha ha just kidding it's not a fire I just burnt the toast button' and waved the white surrender towel a couple times to ensure the barrage didn't start up again.
After it was all said and done I turned an appropriate shade of crimson and apologized, much to my chagrin and the amusement of my entire department... at least we're a small department, and luckily for me they all have a great sense of humor... hey at least the interruption wasn't from getting fragged ;)
Is Mom there?
After an epic battle I was rudely awakened from the depths of slumber at 4am... uh not feeling so good...
I hate being sick, I so wouldn't have survived back in the day when sick or not you still had livestock to look after, or bandits to fight, or dragons to slay...
It served as a not so gentle reminder that no matter how healthy you are, how old you are, how well you are doing in life, or anything else for that matter... all it takes is the flu, for you to be reduced to a blubbering pile of pathetic goo that just wants its Mom.
I even tried calling my Mom actually, but she was sick too *pouts* I talked to Dad for a bit but it just wasn't the same (sorry Dad) sometimes a girl just needs her Mom... and chicken soup, and a movie... thank goodness I have people in my life looking out for me, thanks guys!
Friday, January 28, 2011
We're calling it 'Art'
A few evenings ago, much like this one... it's daytime now, but well you know what I mean my night began with a text message...
Shazam: What are you doing in the evening
Me: Nothing right now... What are you thinking?
Shazam: You... me... and some art supplies :)
Me: I like it!
My friend had found some canvases down in Kelowna, and we set about with the intention of turning the pristine blank white surfaces into art.
I always find the hardest part is getting started, because what I can imagine never quite transfers from my brain onto the canvas properly.
I hesitate, feeling for a split second like I'm going to ruin the canvas... and all the beautiful art that it could have contained by marking it. Overcoming that initial hesitation, I quickly get lost in the joy of creating... following the paint brush around the canvas.
Over the course of 3 evenings, ending with last night my cherry blossom branch took shape. There was some sage advice offered to do a test run of the blossoms on different paper. Let me just say luckily I took that advice, and I'm quite happy with the final product!
Shazam: What are you doing in the evening
Me: Nothing right now... What are you thinking?
Shazam: You... me... and some art supplies :)
Me: I like it!
My friend had found some canvases down in Kelowna, and we set about with the intention of turning the pristine blank white surfaces into art.
I always find the hardest part is getting started, because what I can imagine never quite transfers from my brain onto the canvas properly.
I hesitate, feeling for a split second like I'm going to ruin the canvas... and all the beautiful art that it could have contained by marking it. Overcoming that initial hesitation, I quickly get lost in the joy of creating... following the paint brush around the canvas.
Over the course of 3 evenings, ending with last night my cherry blossom branch took shape. There was some sage advice offered to do a test run of the blossoms on different paper. Let me just say luckily I took that advice, and I'm quite happy with the final product!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Payworks in a Burlap Sack
Dear Payworks,
While I appreciate and commend you on the flying leap you've taken into the paperless world, allowing me to view my pay stubs online... I do not need you to re-size my browser window *every* time I click something to 100% of my 19" dual monitor display.
Your site is really not that big.
While I appreciate and commend you on the flying leap you've taken into the paperless world, allowing me to view my pay stubs online... I do not need you to re-size my browser window *every* time I click something to 100% of my 19" dual monitor display.
Your site is really not that big.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
"Milk drunk"
I had a rare chance to chat with an old friend last night after she managed to bundle both kids into bed and get them to sleep early. Her husband upon returning home must have asked if she'd drugged them, because she replied "No unless breast milk is considered a drug" *chuckles*
Which spurred a discussion of the topic why it's called "milk drunk"?
They get a little loopy... sometimes they puke... sometimes they get the hiccups... they've got that whole wobbly balance thing going on... most kids pass out for a pretty good nap after...
I mean really if those aren't all signs of being a little punk in drublic! So when you think about it, a 21 year old with a bottle in the mouth, and a little one with a boob in the mouth still have a lot in common!
Which spurred a discussion of the topic why it's called "milk drunk"?
They get a little loopy... sometimes they puke... sometimes they get the hiccups... they've got that whole wobbly balance thing going on... most kids pass out for a pretty good nap after...
I mean really if those aren't all signs of being a little punk in drublic! So when you think about it, a 21 year old with a bottle in the mouth, and a little one with a boob in the mouth still have a lot in common!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Spot the white girl
So I tried Zumba tonight, and I found it to be more of a grueling workout for my cerebellum than my muscles...
While everyone else was adding in the arm movements I was still trying to figure out which foot to step on. I most certainly did *not* make as far as which muscles to flex... and you have *got* to be kidding me, this model of woman does not move like that!
It was like the captain stepped off the bridge to take a leak and an overzealous junior officer assumed command "Kick that right leg!" "Shift left, strafe STRAFE!" "Wave those arms around people! Make it look like we know what we're doing!"
There was one pivot move in particular my junior officer couldn't coordinate the movements for until it was likened to a "throw to second base"... between that and a nice lady taking pity on me we almost got it sorted out before she switched moves again!
You would have had to be blindfolded not to be able to pick me out of the crowd tonight. Where's the new white girl? THERE SHE IS!
While everyone else was adding in the arm movements I was still trying to figure out which foot to step on. I most certainly did *not* make as far as which muscles to flex... and you have *got* to be kidding me, this model of woman does not move like that!
It was like the captain stepped off the bridge to take a leak and an overzealous junior officer assumed command "Kick that right leg!" "Shift left, strafe STRAFE!" "Wave those arms around people! Make it look like we know what we're doing!"
There was one pivot move in particular my junior officer couldn't coordinate the movements for until it was likened to a "throw to second base"... between that and a nice lady taking pity on me we almost got it sorted out before she switched moves again!
You would have had to be blindfolded not to be able to pick me out of the crowd tonight. Where's the new white girl? THERE SHE IS!
It was eagerly anticipated, and did not disappoint
Less than five minutes in...
A scene that shakes the very core of your visceral being, sparking an involuntary shudder ripping from somewhere deep within...
The civilized monkey knows it should look away, but the untamed beast within is overpowering... and is captivated.
Spartacus is back.
A scene that shakes the very core of your visceral being, sparking an involuntary shudder ripping from somewhere deep within...
The civilized monkey knows it should look away, but the untamed beast within is overpowering... and is captivated.
Spartacus is back.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
It's not even noon yet!
In my random act of spontenaity for the weekend I'm down in Summerland visiting with my friend and her Mom.
So get this, she was up before the crack of dawn this morning to take the dog for half of her run... then she came back, dropped off the dog and collected me for the other half!
It was beautiful, we got to watch the sun slowly bathe the opposite hillside turning everything it touched a brilliant warm golden colour making the brisk air seem warmer, and then it cracked up over the horizon.
Half an hour later we were back in time for homemade scones for breakfast! And it was noted that there has been a marked improvement in my running. Translation: I didn't sound like the dog by the end of it, could still talk and hadn't turned an unhealthy shade of heart attack red. Breakfast was followed by a quick walk to the local grocery for milk and yogurt...
A few years ago we found this Yogopogo yogurt which was really really good, and of course we haven't been able to find it since, so we ended up Googling (on my iPhone 4 with *more* GeeBee's) what non-homogonized meant only to realize that it's a term we both know from science. *doh!*
So get this, she was up before the crack of dawn this morning to take the dog for half of her run... then she came back, dropped off the dog and collected me for the other half!
It was beautiful, we got to watch the sun slowly bathe the opposite hillside turning everything it touched a brilliant warm golden colour making the brisk air seem warmer, and then it cracked up over the horizon.
Half an hour later we were back in time for homemade scones for breakfast! And it was noted that there has been a marked improvement in my running. Translation: I didn't sound like the dog by the end of it, could still talk and hadn't turned an unhealthy shade of heart attack red. Breakfast was followed by a quick walk to the local grocery for milk and yogurt...
A few years ago we found this Yogopogo yogurt which was really really good, and of course we haven't been able to find it since, so we ended up Googling (on my iPhone 4 with *more* GeeBee's) what non-homogonized meant only to realize that it's a term we both know from science. *doh!*
Friday, January 21, 2011
2 mins for roughing
I just had a fight in my mouth and lost... it was an epic battle between trident gum and my teeth, my tongue tried to split it up and got punched in the face.
All those other words that end in 'ibble'
I just bought a $500+ fire extinguisher and they threw in renter's insurance for FREEEEEEE! Isn't that so swell of BCAA? But seriously, for the first time in my life I got my act together, sat down answered the 101 questions, some of which I had to guess on... and paid.
I don't know, I guess I feel better about being responsible and organized and all of those good things... But somehow I'm not really that excited about it. Although I did get extra phone coverage out of it... so if my phone is lost or stolen, or I have a moment and leave it somewhere, they'll replace it *and* all the apps and downloaded ringtones I had. So that's kind of cool.
The thing is if I ever have to use it I'm sure it will be the best thing in the entire world... but right now, its just one more thing to pay for while masquerading as a responsible adult.
I don't know, I guess I feel better about being responsible and organized and all of those good things... But somehow I'm not really that excited about it. Although I did get extra phone coverage out of it... so if my phone is lost or stolen, or I have a moment and leave it somewhere, they'll replace it *and* all the apps and downloaded ringtones I had. So that's kind of cool.
The thing is if I ever have to use it I'm sure it will be the best thing in the entire world... but right now, its just one more thing to pay for while masquerading as a responsible adult.
Dentisht
The dental assistant said I have cute teeth... that part was complimentary. I had to pay for the fat lip, numb nostril, and increased heart rate.
If the bruising is worse when the freezing wears off I'm telling everyone I beat up some guy who was trying to steal an old lady's purse.
I bought myself a shake for a late lunch to make up for it... yes I can still be bribed ;)
If the bruising is worse when the freezing wears off I'm telling everyone I beat up some guy who was trying to steal an old lady's purse.
I bought myself a shake for a late lunch to make up for it... yes I can still be bribed ;)
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
'Frostbite finger' threatens Canadian business productivity
Canadian doctors have noticed a dramatic increase in reported cases of 'frostbite finger'. It is believed that due to lower than average temperatures and increased sales of the iPhone 4 paired with the student deal currently being offered.
According to Dr. Soandso "There's a definite correlation between outside temperature, cell phone use and frostbite finger. We're seeing a lot of soft tissue damage, occurring in minor extremities, most notably fingers but we have had a few nose cases as well."
It is an unfortunate injury seemingly caused by texting on a touch screen in winter. We're looking into the issue and our research department is working on it Jobs reported when we reached him for comment. Because the touch screen requires that an organic item be used to activate it, they cannot be operated while wearing gloves or mittens - a special protective hand covering worn by Canadians about 80% of the year.
The greatest number of reported cases have been in the computer field with the worst cases being rendered unable to type and perform normal duties. Businesses have noticed an increase in sick leave days being taken immediately following a cold snap, and are scrambling to find a solution.
Rumors are circulating that Apple is going to come out with a new product the iMplant that is controlled via thought waves allowing you to operate it telepathically. We were unable to confirm or deny this rumor but remain hopeful that a breakthrough will be made soon, promising a decrease in cases of the dreaded frostbite finger.
*muffled* Oh! Really?!?
*ahem* This just in... the folks at thinkgeek are living up to their reputation and thinking outside of the iBox. We have just received word that they have released a product that should all but eliminate frostbite finger! We give you the Giant Pencil Touch Screen Stylus *trumpeting*
According to Dr. Soandso "There's a definite correlation between outside temperature, cell phone use and frostbite finger. We're seeing a lot of soft tissue damage, occurring in minor extremities, most notably fingers but we have had a few nose cases as well."
It is an unfortunate injury seemingly caused by texting on a touch screen in winter. We're looking into the issue and our research department is working on it Jobs reported when we reached him for comment. Because the touch screen requires that an organic item be used to activate it, they cannot be operated while wearing gloves or mittens - a special protective hand covering worn by Canadians about 80% of the year.
The greatest number of reported cases have been in the computer field with the worst cases being rendered unable to type and perform normal duties. Businesses have noticed an increase in sick leave days being taken immediately following a cold snap, and are scrambling to find a solution.
Rumors are circulating that Apple is going to come out with a new product the iMplant that is controlled via thought waves allowing you to operate it telepathically. We were unable to confirm or deny this rumor but remain hopeful that a breakthrough will be made soon, promising a decrease in cases of the dreaded frostbite finger.
*muffled* Oh! Really?!?
*ahem* This just in... the folks at thinkgeek are living up to their reputation and thinking outside of the iBox. We have just received word that they have released a product that should all but eliminate frostbite finger! We give you the Giant Pencil Touch Screen Stylus *trumpeting*
Experience...
"Good judgment comes from experience, experience comes from bad judgment" ~ Jim HorningYou can't always go back, sometimes you just have to take the plunge and do something you've never done before. Cross your fingers, close your eyes, jump and hope that where you end up is better than the place you started.
Sometimes it isn't. While you may have lost something along the way always look for what you have gained... The times when you have to look the hardest, seem to be when you must look within yourself...
At the end of the day when you can come away from it all with understanding, that is when you have succeeded.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
The humble abode
Well I don't have a spare bed yet, heck I don't even have sheets that fit my bed properly yet... but as you can tell I'm really not that worried about it. I'm moved in, I'm settling and I love it!
Mom these are just for you, and everyone else who's been asking... This is a sketched out floor plan and the numbered stars are where I took pictures from. Here's the 5 cent tour!
1. This is basically standing at the front door looking diagonally across the living room.
2. From behind the couch corner looking diagonally back towards the front door and closet.
3. From between the couch and the chair looking towards the bathroom.
5. The kitchen
6. Diagonally across the kitchen to my wicked awesome new table, thanks Nicole!
7. From the corner of my bedroom
8. Looking into my bedroom... hmmm guess I could have just put one of these in, but I've already put the stars on so here it is anyways.
9. Toight camera angle looking in to the bathroom... As some of you may know I am *not* a morning person... I do not need to see myself in the morning. The lights over the mirror are uuber bright, even with the middle one unscrewed!
10. The spare bedroom, and my mystery projects room. Shhhhhh, I don't even know what all is going on in there!
Mom these are just for you, and everyone else who's been asking... This is a sketched out floor plan and the numbered stars are where I took pictures from. Here's the 5 cent tour!
1. This is basically standing at the front door looking diagonally across the living room.
2. From behind the couch corner looking diagonally back towards the front door and closet.
3. From between the couch and the chair looking towards the bathroom.
5. The kitchen
6. Diagonally across the kitchen to my wicked awesome new table, thanks Nicole!
7. From the corner of my bedroom
8. Looking into my bedroom... hmmm guess I could have just put one of these in, but I've already put the stars on so here it is anyways.
9. Toight camera angle looking in to the bathroom... As some of you may know I am *not* a morning person... I do not need to see myself in the morning. The lights over the mirror are uuber bright, even with the middle one unscrewed!
10. The spare bedroom, and my mystery projects room. Shhhhhh, I don't even know what all is going on in there!
Monday, January 17, 2011
A few last night's ago...
Went for beer and wings last night with a friend of mine, and for whatever reason this always seems to be the time when we get onto the topic 'doing something with my hair'.
Generally she ends up cutting it, incurring minor war wounds. Last night we came up with the brilliant idea that we should do one of those perm-in-a-boxes from Walmart... I'm confident that my guardian angel was working double time last night, possibly with my friend's guardian angel because we couldn't find the right perm-in-a-box and instead settled for a streaking kit.
A few hours, and more product than I can name later I have a new do! *grins*
Note: It has been brought to my attention (thanks Mom ;) that my Dad has been scanning my blog postings and so far has come away with me dating a blind guy, and chaining him up under my bed... Should be interesting to hear what he comes away with from this one! *grins* (Sorry Dad it was too funny not to share, love you!)
Generally she ends up cutting it, incurring minor war wounds. Last night we came up with the brilliant idea that we should do one of those perm-in-a-boxes from Walmart... I'm confident that my guardian angel was working double time last night, possibly with my friend's guardian angel because we couldn't find the right perm-in-a-box and instead settled for a streaking kit.
A few hours, and more product than I can name later I have a new do! *grins*
Note: It has been brought to my attention (thanks Mom ;) that my Dad has been scanning my blog postings and so far has come away with me dating a blind guy, and chaining him up under my bed... Should be interesting to hear what he comes away with from this one! *grins* (Sorry Dad it was too funny not to share, love you!)
Friday, January 14, 2011
I am a programmer
There's nothing quite like the feeling when you surmount all odds and accomplish 'the impossible'. When magic flows from your fingertips, and all your synapses fire in harmony.
This is why I program.
This is why I program.
*shhhhhh*
I'm working magic with this programming... magic being defined as it's working, but I honestly can't tell you how it works.
Ask me tomorrow, because if it's not working pixie dust is going to come into direct contact with the rotary distribution device.
Ask me tomorrow, because if it's not working pixie dust is going to come into direct contact with the rotary distribution device.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
*excited whisper* It's snowing!!!
I'm probably the only adult age person left in Canada that still gets excited when it snows... what can I say I grew up on the Island, when snow there was a rare event.
My 1st world dilemma of the morning: Walk in the deep snow and get a good workout, or get to work on time?
My 1st world dilemma of the morning: Walk in the deep snow and get a good workout, or get to work on time?
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Duhn duhn duhn duhhhhnnnnn
Project deadlines, the inception point causing the time it takes to accomplish a simple task to expand, using up all remaining time available.
Don't look!
Me: Don't look under the bed! I say to the new not boyfriend (not mine)
Him: Ha! I'm totally looking now!
Me as an aside: that's how we got the last one under there! *grins*
Him: Ha! I'm totally looking now!
Me as an aside: that's how we got the last one under there! *grins*
What was I thinking?
Because I don't have enough going on in my life I agreed to go out on a blind date this weekend. So after moving in and unpacking a grand total of 6 bags, Rubbermaids and the assorted odds and ends I brought up with me... getting a new iPhone and transferring my contact from my old phone, which I've still only managed to add up to the 'F'... going to the Vipers hockey game... and fixing my cousin's wifis, I went out to Checkers Sunday night with a very nice young man named Chris.
Super crazy coolness, he's been through a hurricane! In other news he was a dive instructor in a previous life, while working the cruise lines but lake diving is boring so he hasn't been in a few years.
Oh and a side note: I really suck at pool. So for my friends who worry about that delicate male ego, especially on a first date... You don't have to worry anymore, I found something I don't have to let them win at *smug grin*
I realized when I got home that night that I had failed to both make plans to hitch a ride to work, and go grocery shopping. Walking to work isn't such a big deal, in fact I'd been planning to do that anyways, perhaps this was just my unconscious incentive to just hurry up and do it already.
Not having groceries though is a serious buffer overflow... segmentation fault: core dumped. I'm not sure how that slipped my mind... I mean really, whoever is in charge of that portion of things in my brain must have just fallen asleep on the keyboard. Even those little guys hit a point where even though they have all the eggs in the air, they can't keep 'em there, but really?!?! Did you have to drop the ball on that one?
Super crazy coolness, he's been through a hurricane! In other news he was a dive instructor in a previous life, while working the cruise lines but lake diving is boring so he hasn't been in a few years.
Oh and a side note: I really suck at pool. So for my friends who worry about that delicate male ego, especially on a first date... You don't have to worry anymore, I found something I don't have to let them win at *smug grin*
I realized when I got home that night that I had failed to both make plans to hitch a ride to work, and go grocery shopping. Walking to work isn't such a big deal, in fact I'd been planning to do that anyways, perhaps this was just my unconscious incentive to just hurry up and do it already.
Not having groceries though is a serious buffer overflow... segmentation fault: core dumped. I'm not sure how that slipped my mind... I mean really, whoever is in charge of that portion of things in my brain must have just fallen asleep on the keyboard. Even those little guys hit a point where even though they have all the eggs in the air, they can't keep 'em there, but really?!?! Did you have to drop the ball on that one?
Monday, January 10, 2011
Apple has a new fan girl
I have dipped my toe in and am now dabbling in the dark arts... I bought an iPhone, and I love it!
So busted...
When I said "Hey it's a naked chick" referring to the Starbucks logo as there are no discernible shirt lines, and she's got mountain nymph hair... and you immediately attempt to cover both computer monitors you might have a guilty conscience *heh*
Oh right, and lest you have a tastefully nude background rotate onto your desktop... landscape refers to the layout of the background... not the content *grins*
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Houston? I think I'm on the wrong mission
This afternoon I felt as though I was trying to fit a basketball sized chunk of information through a keyhole into my brain.
Somewhat akin to Apollo 13, using the parts 'lying around' on the spaceship to plug a round hole with a square canister... I look around surveying the available supplies.
Stapler, chap stick, paper and assorted writing implements... Hmmmm nothing is jumping out at me in a combination that says frontal lobotomy.
While you can't say that something is impossible until you've tried it... I have my doubts.
Somewhat akin to Apollo 13, using the parts 'lying around' on the spaceship to plug a round hole with a square canister... I look around surveying the available supplies.
Stapler, chap stick, paper and assorted writing implements... Hmmmm nothing is jumping out at me in a combination that says frontal lobotomy.
While you can't say that something is impossible until you've tried it... I have my doubts.
I'm baaaack!
Nothing says welcome back like 472 email messages in your Inbox. Thank goodness Aaren was keeping it pruned down! Within 10 minutes I had reduced it to 162 by removing all the automated messages. By the time I got rid of the spam I was down to less than a handful of email messages that I actually had to respond to. Go me!
The rest of the day consisted of meetings, including a meeting to meet the new lady I'll be working with in Sales. I honestly don't think I sat down for more than 20 minutes at my desk, it was crazy! The rest of the day was spent warming up so that I could hit the ground running...
Heh I'm still trying to find the brain matter that fell out of my head when I hit the ground running. I've been having University flashbacks all week of assignments like 'use this new obscure non-procedural programming language... oh and by the way it's due next week.'
Roughly translating to you have just enough waking hours in the day to learn the bare minimum basics you will need to finish the assignment, but only as long as you don't plan on sleeping or doing laundry.
Winding down from the excitement of the day I hottubbed till I pruned, and then
worked on a puzzle... because unlike at University I'm allowed to stop working at the end of the day.
Ahhh it's good to be back ;)
The rest of the day consisted of meetings, including a meeting to meet the new lady I'll be working with in Sales. I honestly don't think I sat down for more than 20 minutes at my desk, it was crazy! The rest of the day was spent warming up so that I could hit the ground running...
Heh I'm still trying to find the brain matter that fell out of my head when I hit the ground running. I've been having University flashbacks all week of assignments like 'use this new obscure non-procedural programming language... oh and by the way it's due next week.'
Roughly translating to you have just enough waking hours in the day to learn the bare minimum basics you will need to finish the assignment, but only as long as you don't plan on sleeping or doing laundry.
Winding down from the excitement of the day I hottubbed till I pruned, and then
worked on a puzzle... because unlike at University I'm allowed to stop working at the end of the day.
Ahhh it's good to be back ;)
The Unimog!
While I was gone Aaren purchased a Unimog, an old-school Mercedes-Benz German firetruck. I had no idea what it even was until I saw his kid-in-a-candy-store postings about it on facebook. In fact he's so proud of 'The Mog' it has it's own dedicated blog. Yesterday we were talking about it, and he hinted that if it snowed enough he'd bring it in and we could take it out for lunch...
It snowed enough!
I feel like a kid that just got picked up from school in a monster truck *grins*
Yep I totally just went from "Unimog what?" to "TheUnimogistheawesomestfiretruckevar!" it's pretty cool you have to step inside the wheel to get *up* into it and it even still has the hose in the back! Everything is manually controlled with switches, it has arm-strong steering, and all the labels are in German!
Pardon me
I've been extremely delinquent in keeping you updated, I do have a 'first day back to work' post in progress as well as a New Year post I'm working on. I don't even really have a good excuse like being on a boat with no internet.
Yesterday I crashed and burned... today I think I'm still smoldering.
Yesterday I crashed and burned... today I think I'm still smoldering.
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Shaken not stirred
I think while I was sleeping someone put me in a snow globe... that would at least explain all the snow, and that shaken feeling.
Monday, January 03, 2011
Making the day so much sweeter
Finding out that you're not expected at work until the day after the day you thought you were expected back at work!
The U-joint's connected to the, axe-le...
Guess what I did yesterday?!?!
Helped the Sasquatch put new U-joints in the pick up truck! Ooooooh yeah! It was soooo cool, I got to play with power tools... and not just regular power tools, pneumatic shop power tools! *drill sounds* ;)
In preparation, because I had been regaled with tales of the subzero temperatures at the shop I wore layers... and then put on overalls, gloves and safety goggles... and then removed my down vest, wool shirt and sweatshirt...
It was really cool seeing some of the inner workings on the truck, even if every time I got really stuck with something, the Sasquatch got it working and made it look like he could have done it blindfolded.
I think one of the things I want to be when I grow up is a mechanic, even if everything that needs fixing weighs more than I do. Chalk that up on the list of truck things I can fix, along with changing oil and tires *smug look*
Helped the Sasquatch put new U-joints in the pick up truck! Ooooooh yeah! It was soooo cool, I got to play with power tools... and not just regular power tools, pneumatic shop power tools! *drill sounds* ;)
In preparation, because I had been regaled with tales of the subzero temperatures at the shop I wore layers... and then put on overalls, gloves and safety goggles... and then removed my down vest, wool shirt and sweatshirt...
It was really cool seeing some of the inner workings on the truck, even if every time I got really stuck with something, the Sasquatch got it working and made it look like he could have done it blindfolded.
I think one of the things I want to be when I grow up is a mechanic, even if everything that needs fixing weighs more than I do. Chalk that up on the list of truck things I can fix, along with changing oil and tires *smug look*
Sunday, January 02, 2011
No longer homeless!
That was the least painful apartment hunt I've ever done in my life. I talked to the lady over Christmas, took a look at it, stopped by the bank for a damage deposit and signed the rent papers.
I'm so stoked, the place is wicked! Now to Martha Stewart up some furniture, you know with some basic items one might find lying around the house... like a table-saw, some pallats and some cinder blocks.
I'm so stoked, the place is wicked! Now to Martha Stewart up some furniture, you know with some basic items one might find lying around the house... like a table-saw, some pallats and some cinder blocks.
Bumper cars!
For the most part the drive up to Vernon was just plain cold, especially compared to California (where they're still surfing). My mother was questioning the sanity of leaving the temperate conditions on the Island to visit family in the outer Siberian winterland of Canada, affectionately known as Alberta and I was just questioning my sanity.
The drive was relatively uneventful, other than the mass amounts of blowing snow from Merrit to Kelowna. Now blowing snow itself isn't usually that bad, except that in this case, any time someone passed us it was so thick I couldn't see their tail lights, or where the road went. Minor detail, I mean really who needs to see the road to drive?
I didn't think conditions were really that bad, until we saw a white pick up truck upside down in the ditch. An SUV had just pulled over and a guy was hopping out, hazards on and everything. I tapped the brakes and immediately started to slide sideways, away from him thankfully. I let off the brakes and drifted around them it was beautiful! Or at least it would have been, except that buddy behind me chose that moment to play bumper cars...
And by bumper cars I mean attempt to pass using the rapidly decreasing lane between my car and the barrier. He discovered that his car and our car could not occupy the same space at the same time. If he had paid any attention in high-school physics he would have already known this.
It turned out pretty well all considering, he gave our truck a bit of a love tap and a snapple sound when it jiggles, and then so it didn't feel left out, he gently kissed the barrier. Being such a swell guy, he exchanged relevant info with Dad and then proceeded to ride my bumper into Kelowna.
I asked Dad if he wanted a new back end on the truck, he declined *shrugs*.
The drive was relatively uneventful, other than the mass amounts of blowing snow from Merrit to Kelowna. Now blowing snow itself isn't usually that bad, except that in this case, any time someone passed us it was so thick I couldn't see their tail lights, or where the road went. Minor detail, I mean really who needs to see the road to drive?
I didn't think conditions were really that bad, until we saw a white pick up truck upside down in the ditch. An SUV had just pulled over and a guy was hopping out, hazards on and everything. I tapped the brakes and immediately started to slide sideways, away from him thankfully. I let off the brakes and drifted around them it was beautiful! Or at least it would have been, except that buddy behind me chose that moment to play bumper cars...
And by bumper cars I mean attempt to pass using the rapidly decreasing lane between my car and the barrier. He discovered that his car and our car could not occupy the same space at the same time. If he had paid any attention in high-school physics he would have already known this.
It turned out pretty well all considering, he gave our truck a bit of a love tap and a snapple sound when it jiggles, and then so it didn't feel left out, he gently kissed the barrier. Being such a swell guy, he exchanged relevant info with Dad and then proceeded to ride my bumper into Kelowna.
I asked Dad if he wanted a new back end on the truck, he declined *shrugs*.
Saturday, January 01, 2011
Wheeeeeeee huah!
We interrupt these broadcasts due to sledding down the hill at the school with a 10 year old.
My inner 10 year old loved it. My kidneys hate me, I'm sure I'll feel better in the morning ;)
My inner 10 year old loved it. My kidneys hate me, I'm sure I'll feel better in the morning ;)
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