“Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose.” -Tennessee Williams

I am incredibly lucky. I have had the same amazing best friend since I was in grade 8. I spent the afternoon with her today and I realized that the very best part of our friendship is that she makes me feel that I am the best possible version of myself. I don't have to pretend to be cooler than I am, or smarter than I am or funnier than I am...when I am with her I am the perfect amount of cool, smart, funny etc. I hope that I make her feel the same way.

In my life, this level of comfort and security has been something that I have found difficult to achieve with people outside of my family. My immediate family know pretty much ever facet of who I am and, they too, make me feel as if I am a perfect version of myself.

Someday I hope to find this quality in a mate...a man who makes me feel as if I am the perfect version of me. Who doesn't want to change where I came from, how I look, what I value or the things and people that I love. I do believe that the person you are with should challenge you to try new things and consider new ideas...but I don't want to feel as if I am a square peg trying to fit into a round hole just so I don't have to be alone.

And so...I continue to wait...

“If you blame others for your failures, do you credit them with your success?”

Blame: The state of being responsible for a fault or error; culpability.

Responsibility: Something for which one is responsible; a duty, obligation, or burden.

Not every workplace is ideal. Responsibilities are not always well defined therefore...sometimes things fall through the cracks. Tasks don't get done or they are done incorrectly - it happens, we're human. However, what bothers me the most is when no one takes ownership for their mistakes. When I say "ownership" I don't necessarily mean "oops, I messed up, I'm sorry" (although that is nice). What I mean is - seeing a problem -> looking for a solution -> putting the solution into practice. Often, instead of ownership, people just pass the buck...they don't want to make the tough decision or have the awkward conversation...instead they want to "think about it".

I know that I am new to the corporate world and it is easy for those on the "outside" to criticize. I admit that I don't have to concern myself with the bottom line, answer to the owners or reach a sales goal. I am only accountable for my small list of responsibilities however my pay scale and benefits reflect that level of responsibility. However, sadly, the people on the "outside", the people with that level of responsibility and corresponding pay scale, are the ones who have to deal with the day to day challenges which arise out of the indecisiveness.

In the end, I suppose it is just one of life's little frustrations.

“If there were no God, it would have been necessary to invent him.” -Voltaire

"I know that you don't believe in God or the power of prayer. And that's okay. To each his own. But you've go to believe in something. Something more than you can touch taste or see. Because life is too hard to go through it alone. Without something to hold onto and without something that's sacred."

A while back I had a discussion with a friend about religious beliefs. During our conversation this person revealed to me that they are an atheist and that really made me think. Atheism is a concept that I just can't wrap my brain around. I understand people believing different gods or multiple gods or "the universe" but I can't figure out how someone can go through life without believing in anything at all. Do these people believe that everything that happens to them everyday is a completely random occurrence with no rhyme or reason? I feel like too many awful and wonderful things happen every day for there not to be some sort of cosmic plan. However, to be fair, I have had of wonderful things in m life so perhaps that is why it is so easy for me to have faith in "the plan".

Although...perhaps if you believe in something less ethereal like you family and your friends you won't spend your life trying to appease your god or gods. Perhaps the atheists have it right and instead of focusing on trying to please the big guy in the sky we should focus on trying to please the old woman beside us on the bus or the young man bagging our groceries.

Personally, I think that I will always believe in the big guy in the sky and not just because of the blessings he has given me. I believe in him because in order to live my life I need to know that there is a blueprint, a master plan. To those that don't need that comfort and safety I give my kudos...I am not brave enough to go it alone.

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.”

Recently I have found myself randomly thanking the universe for things.

"Dear Parking Spot,

Thank you for showing up just when I needed you.

Love, Emily"

I'm not sure where this practice originated but by releasing these thoughts into the universe I like to think that I'm contributing a little bit of positivity and light. Perhaps by thanking the universe for these daily miracles it will feel refreshed and rejuvenated and inspired to make more magic happen.

Today I stumbled upon the blog of a woman doing the very same thing! Exciting.

The site is http://www.thxthxthx.com/ and it is delightful! Here are a few of my favorites...

What about DOUBLE rainbows?

I am married to Disney World, but New York is my mistress. She's dirty and I like it!

I wholeheartedly agree.

This happens to me all the time!

My absolute favorite because it is so true! In fact, I just did it.



The air in my apartment doesn't smell like cookies but it does smell like my cinnamon candle. YUM!

As someone who suffers from mild social anxiety this is the BEST feeling in the world!

"I began to believe the fairy tales: You know, how we're all out there looking for our magical missing half. "

Once upon a time there was a little girl who grew up watching Disney movies. Each film reinforced her desire to find her "Prince Charming" and live "happily ever after".

Now that she is grown up she still watches movies, lots of movies... and the movies still have the same message. However, now instead of looking for Prince Charming in a cape or a crown she is looking for her tortured, satirical, music loving, cardigan wearing indie boy.

500 Days of Summer

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

Youth in Revolt

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World

A young, awkward man longing for his quirky, enigmatic soul mate. The setting is different but the story and the characters are the same. How I long to be the slightly pretty and neurotic, cardigan wearing love interest...but I don't think it's meant to be. I didn't fit into the stereotype of the "damsel in distress" or "the princess" and I don't fit into the stereotype of the "pretty, complicated but endearing indie girl" either. I'm too loud, to open, to mainstream to find the indie prince charming I've been searching for. Do I need to change my expectations? Should I just settle for a nice guy who likes me?

Or will someone, someday finally be both the one I want and the one that wants me.

"God dwells within you, as you."

A few years ago I read the book "Eat. Pray. Love." At the time it was a beautiful concept...a woman who leaves everything comfortable and comforting behind to figure out who she is. When I read the book I thought "I want to do that...go away and experience other cultures...really find out who I am." Today I saw the film and I finallyl realized how sad this woman's life was...she had NO idea who she was. She had been in relationships since she was 15 years old and she never had time to figure out who she was, what she loved and where she was going. All her life she did what was expected of her- school, career, marriage, buying a house, having a child.

How awful would it be to know that there was nothing in the world that you genuinely cared about? Not people, or your job, or a hobby. She was just a mirror...instead of being her own person merely she reflected the love and passions of her friends, family and lovers. And even worse, she was totally aware of her absence of interests, faith and passion.

I could never, ever exist knowing that there was nothing unique about me.

Living the life of a chameleon...changing your colours to suit your surroundings. Sure, I think everyone does that to an extent, especially during high school and university. For heaven sakes I used to listen to Operation Ivy and wore studded bracelets that I bought at Claire's to impress a boy I liked...but eventually I understood...that wasn't for me (and neither was the boy).

I suppose everyone needs a time in their live where they can figure out exactly who they are. But...I can't even imagine how difficult it would be to start from scratch.

"Dreams feel real while we're in them. It's only when we wake up that we realize something was actually strange."

I fully intended to write about "Inception" tonight when I got home from the movie theatre. Not a review, necessarily, but my thoughts and opinions on what that has been heralded as one of the greatest films of the decade.

However...

I am fairly sure that if I attempt to delve into the layers of that film my brain will self-destruct. Even as I write these words, smoke is pouring out of my ears as a result of my brain attempting to process the information it has just been fed.

Therefore, instead of writing, I will sleep....perchance to dream.

"Love is just a word until someone comes along and gives it meaning.”

I believe that you do not choose who you fall in love with.

I also believe that two consenting adults who are in love should be able to share their lives, forever, no matter their race, sex, religion or creed.


In July of 2005 Canada legalized same-sex marriage. Our country served as a haven for couples in love who were not able to be married in their own counties, state or cities. I am proud to live in a country that recognizes the rights of people regardless of their sexual orientation. People are people.


Today, Proposition 8 was overturned, legalizing same sex marriage in California...
in this I see progress, hope and, above all, love for our fellow man.


"God doesn't make mistakes. People are born how they are born. And I think people should be able to get married and love each other."

~Kristin Chenoweth

"Thoughtcrime does not entail death: thoughtcrime is death."

Does anyone else think that "geolocation" is actually a really bad idea?

What is geolocation, you ask? Well, according to wikipedia (an always reliable source) geolocation is the identification of the real-world geographic location of an object, such as a cell phone or an Internet-connected computer terminal.

A more specific example of geolocation would be "foursquare"...what is "foursquare", you ask? Back to wikipedia for this little nugget.."Foursquare is a location-based social networking website, software for mobile devices, and also a game. Users "check-in" at venues using a mobile website, text messaging or a device-specific application. They are then awarded points and sometimes badges."

Aside from the fact that the foursquare notices which clutter up my news feed are INCREDIBLY annoying I also think that it is dangerous and a tad narcissistic. First of all , if you are in a coffee shop in the distillery district...that means I can break into your house and steal your shit, right?


And secondly, despite what you may think, I do not need/want to know where you are at all times. And even less, I do not want updates sent to me every five minutes outlining this fact. It makes me feel as if I am indirectly stalking you and I don't like that feeling.

Maybe it's just me but, in an age where parents preach constant vigilance to their wee ones and change passwords weekly to protect their identities, doesn't it seem counter intuitive to advertise your location every minute of the day?

"...but when defining Canada don't forget to mention that we have set sparks..."

The first time I heard Shane Koyczan I was rendered speechless...and that is hard to do.

I know that I am more than a little bit behind in writing about Shane Koyczan, one of the greatest Canadian talents of our time. Shane performed an extremely moving, funny and telling tribute to our country at the Opening Ceremonies of the 2010 Vancouver Games. His poem, "we are more" is a great inspiration to anyone who has ever worked abroad and had to defend their country to ignorant foreigners.

Thanks to a dear friend at work, my eyes were opened to this incredible artist, speaker, writer and poet and the voice of not only our nation, but also the voice of my generation. He speaks with truth, humour and bravery in a way that can move you to tears, to laughter or to action.

Please enjoy the text from "We Are More" below but I urge you to watch Shane recite his poetry via youtube or itunes to understand the full experience.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8BIr9oSK53E&NR=1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91CyZqlfQ7Y&feature=related (featuring Dan Mangan, who I love!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VrZE8MCnIA&feature=related

We Are More
by Shane Koyczan

When defining Canada
you might list some statistics
you might mention our tallest building
or biggest lake
you might shake a tree in the fall
and call a red leaf Canada
you might rattle off some celebrities
might mention Buffy Sainte-Marie
might even mention the fact that we've got a few
Barenaked Ladies
or that we made these crazy things
like zippers
electric cars
and washing machines
when defining Canada
it seems the world's anthem has been
"been there done that"
and maybe that's where we used to be at
it's true
we've done and we've been
we've seen
all the great themes get swallowed up by the machine
and turned into theme parks
but when defining Canada
don't forget to mention that we have set sparks
we are not just fishing stories
about the one that got away
we do more than sit around and say "eh?"
and yes
we are the home of the Rocket and the Great One
who inspired little number nines
and little number ninety-nines
but we're more than just hockey and fishing lines
off of the rocky coast of the Maritimes
and some say what defines us
is something as simple as please and thank you
and as for you're welcome
well we say that too
but we are more
than genteel or civilized
we are an idea in the process
of being realized
we are young
we are cultures strung together
then woven into a tapestry
and the design
is what makes us more
than the sum total of our history
we are an experiment going right for a change
with influences that range from a to zed
and yes we say zed instead of zee
we are the colours of Chinatown and the coffee of Little Italy
we dream so big that there are those
who would call our ambition an industry
because we are more than sticky maple syrup and clean snow
we do more than grow wheat and brew beer
we are vineyards of good year after good year
we reforest what we clear
because we believe in generations beyond our own
knowing now that so many of us
have grown past what used to be
we can stand here today
filled with all the hope people have
when they say things like "someday"
someday we'll be great
someday we'll be this
or that
someday we'll be at a point
when someday was yesterday
and all of our aspirations will pay the way
for those who on that day
look towards tomorrow
and still they say someday
we will reach the goals we set
and we will get interest on our inspiration
because we are more than a nation of whale watchers and lumberjacks
more than backpacks and hiking trails
we are hammers and nails building bridges
towards those who are willing to walk across
we are the lost-and-found for all those who might find themselves at a loss
we are not the see-through gloss or glamour
of those who clamour for the failings of others
we are fathers brothers sisters and mothers
uncles and nephews aunts and nieces
we are cousins
we are found missing puzzle pieces
we are families with room at the table for newcomers
we are more than summers and winters
more than on and off seasons
we are the reasons people have for wanting to stay
because we are more than what we say or do
we live to get past what we go through
and learn who we are
we are students
students who study the studiousness of studying
so we know what as well as why
we don't have all the answers
but we try
and the effort is what makes us more
we don't all know what it is in life we're looking for
so keep exploring
go far and wide
or go inside but go deep
go deep
as if James Cameron was filming a sequel to The Abyss
and suddenly there was this location scout
trying to figure some way out
to get inside you
because you've been through hell and high water
and you went deep
keep exploring
because we are more
than a laundry list of things to do and places to see
we are more than hills to ski
or countryside ponds to skate
we are the abandoned hesitation of all those who can't wait
we are first-rate greasy-spoon diners and healthy-living cafes
a country that is all the ways you choose to live
a land that can give you variety
because we are choices
we are millions upon millions of voices shouting
"keep exploring... we are more"
we are the surprise the world has in store for you
it's true
Canada is the "what" in "what's new?"
so don't say "been there done that"
unless you've sat on the sidewalk
while chalk artists draw still lifes
on the concrete of a kid in the street
beatboxing to Neil Young for fun
don't say you've been there done that
unless you've been here doing it
let this country be your first-aid kit
for all the times you get sick of the same old same old
let us be the story told to your friends
and when that story ends
leave chapters for the next time you'll come back
next time pack for all the things
you didn't pack for the first time
but don't let your luggage define your travels
each life unravels differently
and experiences are what make up
the colours of our tapestry
we are the true north
strong and free
and what's more
is that we didn't just say it
we made it be.

"Of all mindfulness meditations, that on death is supreme."

The next time you have to do an unpleasant task, consider the option of not being able to do it because you are no longer living. Taking out the garbage. Doing your taxes. Walking the dog. I suppose this way of thinking could be beneficial for a while but eventually would it lose its impact? Would you become complacent with the concept of death? I think that the consideration of death is an important, although admittedly morbid, practice. I wouldn't say that it is something that I think about often but every now and then a thought pops into my head...."someday I will cease to be..."

People have very different ways of dealing with the death while trying to live their lives - some people become obsessed while others ignore the inevitable completely. In "The Happiness Project" (I know, I know - enough with that book already!) the author examines her mortality by reading "memoirs of a catastrophe"; books based on the pain and suffering that others have survived. By doing so, the author found herself with a heightened appreciation for her "ordinary existence" as well as a "new and intense appreciation for her obedient body."

I find a similar type of peace in hearing stories of others suffering...how lucky am I to be a free, healthy, intelligent woman living in this era, this country, this city? As I said, I am not one to dwell on the negative or obsess over death, but I do think it is important to put ourselves in situations that remind us of how lucky we are to be alive.

"Remember, friends, as you pass by,

As you are now so once was I.

As I am now, so you must be.

Prepare yourself to follow me."

"Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.”

I have always worried that the contributions that I make to the world may not be enough.

I didn't donate enough money...

enough thought...

enough effort...

enough time...

Is the job that I am doing making a positive contribution to the universe? How am I helping the victims of an earthquake halfway around the world by planning parties in Canada?

What is the legacy that I am leaving?

When I was in therapy I would voice these concerns to my therapist, her response was that I was comparing apples to oranges...it is impossible fix all of the problems of the world. You can only do what you can do. Last night I found a similar message in "The Happiness Project".

"We expect heroic virtue to look flashy -- moving to Uganda to work with Aids victims, perhaps, or documenting the plight of the homeless people in Detroit. (Saint) Therese's examples shows that ordinary life, too, is full of opportunities for worth, if inconspicuous, virtue."

Never underestimate the contribution that you are making to the universe. And don't let anyone else devalue your contribution. Whether you are doing something small like helping to plan a fundraiser, donating $10 to a charity or volunteering or something big like dedicating your life to a not-for-profit organization or working in a research lab on the cure for cancer...every little bit helps.

"It is more fitting for a man to laugh at life than to lament over it."

So, I guess Toronto isn't as cold and heartless as everyone thought.

No, Toronto has feelings and they can be hurt just like any other cities feelings can be hurt.

Wait a second...can a cities feelings be hurt? That doesn't seem right...

The Niagara Parks commission recently launched an ad campaign that was ever so slightly disparaging to Toronto and the Torontonian way of life.

*GASP!*

How dare anyone insult Toronto with it's diverse neighbourhoods, cultural festivals, delicious restaurants, burning police cards, stunning smog-filled vistas and insane traffic jams.

Oh...wait...some of those weren't good, were they?

Now before you jump down my throat I want to make something VERY clear...I LOVE Toronto. My best friend lives just off the Danforth and I have another close friend lives who lives off Queen West. Toronto is amazing. There is great shopping, fabulous concerts, inspiring theatre, great restaurants, stunning museums and delightful neighbourhoods. However, I think it is quite narrow minded and humourless of Torontonians to be so offended by an ad campaign which pokes fun at some of the less glamours aspects of city life.

An article by John Semley of the Torontoist claims that the campaign "prove(s) that Niagara can’t sell itself without digging on some cartoonish idea of Toronto. " Really? You can't just look at yourself and see a tiny bit of truth in these advertisements? Sure, not ever alleyway in Toronto is filled graffiti and vandalism but not every street you take in Niagara leads to a winery...only, like, 75% of them do.

Semley also states that "there’s more to Niagara than sipping wine amidst a bunch of trees, riding rented mountain bikes through largely unexciting trails, and trying to snap a family photo in front of the Falls while being hassled by a human being in an anthropomorphized Hershey’s Kiss costume", pretending as if Tourism Toronto does not do the exact same thing in their advertising campaigns by capitalizing on recognizable attractions such as the CN Tower, the Rogers Center and the Toronto Harbourfront. Of course the NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION is focusing on specific, iconic locations....THOSE ARE THE LOCATIONS THAT THEY REPRESENT!

However, having said that, I do not appreciate being painted with the same brush as Niagara Falls. I work in stunning winery in Niagara on the Lake which is committed to premium wine making, responsible stewardship of the land and innovative design-not comparable with Clifton Hill. Much of our clientele (be it tours, licensees, corporate events or wine sales) originate in Toronto so why would it benefit us to "hurt the feelings" of those that are fans of our wines?

However, it's not all bad news, Marcus Gee of the Globe and Mail wrote "it would be nice if we could grow out of all that adolescent angst. Confident cities don’t throw a fit when some regional tourism group dares to imply they are less than perfect. Confident cities know in their bones that the strains of city life are more than outweighed by the rich variety of experience that big cities offer. As one Web commentator put it, “get over yourself,” Toronto."

Well said, sir.

I just think that the Torontonians offended by this campaign need to sit back and relax.

Maybe they're stressed by all the crime and graffiti...come to Niagara and have a glass of wine.

It's on us.

The Torontoist Article-http://torontoist.com/2010/07/come_to_niagara_try_the_whine.php

The Globe and Mail Article-http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/toronto/marcus-gee/thin-skinned-toronto-let-niagara-get-its-goat/article1647894/

"Times fun when you're having flies.” -Kermit the Frog

Speaking of embracing our childishness...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7UmUX68KtE

“Being happy doesn't mean that everything is perfect. It means that you've decided to look beyond the imperfections.”

So, right now I am reading a fabulous book called "The Happiness Project". The book is based on the journey of a woman who spent a year "test-driving the wisdom of the ages, the current scientific studies, and the lessons from popular culture about how to be happy--from Aristotle to Martin Seligman to Thoreau to Oprah."

Basically, the author gave herself large goals each month for instance, one month was "Aim Higher" which was her goal related to her improving her career. Within that goal, she then breaks it down into more specific, measurable actions, i.e. launch a blog. (http://www.happiness-project.com/).

Currently I am about half way through the book so I can't give you a full review however, last night, in the chapter dedicated to "being serious about play" I came across an inspirational quote and concept that THRILLED ME!

In the chapter that discussed "being serious about play" the authors tasks included "finding more fun, taking time to be silly, going off the path and starting a collection." Within the "finding more fun" task the author very seriously considered the question "What is fun?" What is fun for me is not necessarily fun for my partner, family or friends, right? After some intense soul-searching, the author decided that what she most enjoyed, what made her happiest and what she considered to be 'fun' was reading "KidLit". Therefore, in a stroke of absolute brilliance the author decided to start a "KidLit" book club.

I am often embarrassed by my love of more childish things (i.e. Harry Potter, Disney etc.) and I spend a lot of time justifying my appreciation for them. When the author started her "KidLit" book club, she sent out an e-mail containing this quote;

"When I was ten, I read fairy tales in secret and would have been ashamed

if I had been found doing so. Now that I am fifty, I read them openly.

When I became a man I put away childish things, including the fear of

childishness and the desire to be very grown up."

-C.S. Lewis

HOW BRILLIANT IS THIS CONCEPT?

Many people spend their childhood wanting to be a "grown up", wanting freedom and respect.

I was never one of those children.

I never hid my love for "play" and my "passion for the pretend"...so why start now?

“Why is it that hate comes out so easily, yet...love? It gets trapped inside.”

I think I may use the word "hate" too often.

It's convienent, the word has all the power of an expletive without all the drama.

I suppose I don't really understand the power behind the sentiment.

I use it to express frustration, anger, hurt and disappointment.

"I hate you."

"I hate her."

"I hate him."

"I hate this."

"Hate: the emotion of intense dislike; a feeling of dislike so strong that it demands action."

Yikes.

When I use the word I certainly do not intend for it to be taken in the true meaning.

For instance:

I hate that my office doesn't have air conditioning.

I hate that my car uses so much gas.

I hate that my internet is so slow.

I hate that I don't have cable.

I hate Miley Cirus.

I hate traffic.

I hate...

Tonight when I used the word "hate" in reference to a person I really don't care for.

In response,the person I was speaking with said "I don't hate anyone..."

I was shocked.

"You don't hate anyone? What about Hitler?"

His extremely insightful (albeit, out of character) response was:

"Hate is what made Hitler who he was."

Oh.

Wow.

I wish I could say something warm and fuzzy here like:

"let's take all of the hate in the world and replace it with love"

but that's extremely unrealistic.

However, perhaps the first step is restricting the use of the word "hate" in our vocabulary.

Thoughts?

“Memory is a way of holding on to the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.”

Today was a difficult day.
Not for myself but for someone close to me.
Therefore, in order to restore my good mood, I have decided to pay tribute to Miss Gala Darling (my inspiration for starting a blog), by writing a "TILT" blog or "Things I love Tuesday".

Things I Loved this Tuesday, July 13th include:

• Wearing my big girl shoes all day with relatively no pain. Yeah for me!
• Being complimented on my ensemble numerous times in one day. (I was told that I looked "put together".)
• Afternoon ice cream breaks.
• Delightful and loving text messages from my best friend while she is en route to Nova Scotia.
• Feeling more confident about my dating life. (One down, hundreds to go!)
• Finding the perfect (Walt Disney) quote for a card.
• People that are SO EXCITED about figuring out that they know my one of parents from high school.
• Making a covert trip to the garbage chute in order to dispose of something that I know does not belong in the garbage chute (cue the "Mission Impossible" theme music).
• Having a cute boy hold the door for me as I enter my apartment.
• My apartment...just in general.
• Turning on my digital frame and seeing my loved ones (past and present) smile up at me.
• The woman at the grocery store who fawned over my reusable bag. She LOVED it!
• Watching my bunny eat bananas. You will never see an animal enjoy something as much as he enjoys bananas.
• This line from "National Treasure" "Do you know what the preservation room is for?" "Delicious jams and jellies?"
• Waking up to this text message from my friend Tyler "Pretty sure Michael Eisner is waiting for the same plane as me." Uh, what? AMAZING!
• My dear Norweigan friend who translated the words to "O Canada" into Norweigan and posted it on my Facebook wall. He also once told me that I was "a cupcake with pink icing and sprinkles."

What made you happy today?

"Friendship must never be buried under the weight of misunderstanding."

When I was in high school I got to see my best friend every single day. It was great. We knew every single nuance of the days, weeks, months ahead.

When I lived in Florida I got to see my best friend everyday. It was great. I knew where she was and who she was with morning, noon and night.

Now I live on my own and I don't get to see my best friend(s) everyday. It sucks. I don't know what they're thinking, what they're doing or who they're with.

Friendship is hard sometimes.

Now, effort has to be made....when it comes to this you have two options.

1) Assume the best, give them the benefit of the doubt, look at the history of your friendship and see that you were and are friends for a reason. Trust.

2) Assume the worst, project your insecurities onto their response, ignore the history of your friendship and close yourself off. Mistrust.

If you follow Option 1, your friendship may not always be perfect but any misunderstandings or disappointments will be dealt with from a place of love, acceptance and honesty.

If you follow Option 2, your friendship will definitely not be perfect, things will be blown out of proportion and mountains will be made out of mole hills.

In this day and age contact is often diluted or misinterpreted by Facebook, text messages, e-mails, MSN and BBM. You get a message that says one thing and you believe another. Why? Simple....you put a spin on it based on your feelings, your memories and your preconceived notions. I am at fault for this as much as anyone. I am aware.

But the important question is....how do you stop it? The internet was designed as a tool for sharing information...but how can the nuances of genuine emotion be communicated by a machine? I suppose it really depends on you...not only do you need to be extra clear in the message you are sending but you also need to be open to receiving a message without bias or pre-judgement. Once again, I am at fault for this as much as anyone. I am aware.

I feel as if I'm missing the mark. I have so many ideas, concepts, theories and feelings swirling around in my brain and I cannot grab them quickly enough and force them out the tips of my fingers.

In the end...what I really want to say is...

I am extremely grateful for the very few friends that I have whom can trust completely.

I trust them not to hurt me (intentionally).

I trust them to give me the benefit of the doubt.

I trust them to stick up for me.

I trust them to consider the history of our friendship before throwing me under the bus.

“I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people”

I know, I've been gone for quite a long time.

However, the other day my "boss" (I use quotation marks because she is much more than just a "boss") forwarded me a quote that has been on my mind ever since and has inspired me to write once again.

Hooray for the 10 people who periodically read my blog!

"There are two ways of being creative.

One can sing and dance.

Or one can create an environment in which singers and dancers flourish."

For someone who has spent the past seven years of their life going to school and trying to figure out where they fit into this big, scary world...clarification like this is priceless.

Clarification of my purpose.

Clarification of my career path.

Clarification of my place in the world.

And not just clarification...but inspiration.

A motto to live by.

As a person who identifies strongly with both the left and right side of the brain, my challenge has always been how to find something-a job, a calling, a profession, a career, a goal-to do that contributes to the greater good. How do I find a job that I enjoy, a job that challenges me and a job that makes a difference and leaves a legacy?

I started my educational journey thinking I would be a teacher, specifically a drama teacher. I would sculpt the minds of young children and inspire them to be better, kinder human beings. However, things didn't turn out that way...but I still wish to inspire people and now I know that I can do that in a number of ways, both in my personal and professional life.

I am extremely happy in my new job. It is the perfect balance of frivolity and conscientiousness. I may only stay with the company for a year...I may stay with them for 10 years, but at least I will know that I started my career in a place that is making a contribution to the coming generations.

Go forth, friends.

Learn. Inspire. Conquer.

"Hope you like pancakes, Norway"

Some of the best Olympic commercials.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e54EpbcK97o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGUnZsXW9Sw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOevTBSmC4o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HPjlMIpnbo&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBpgASKC8kE

I also just saw an AMAZING Tim Hortons commercial that brought me to tears but I couldn't find it on youtube.

It is a man buying winter coats for his family who are just immigrating to Canada.

He meets them at the airport with two Tim Hortons coffees in hand, says "Welcome to Canada", gives them their coats and takes them out into snow for the first time.

So touching.

If you can find it on youtube, post it in the comment box.

"Other things may change us, but we start and end with family."

I'm famous!


http://www.contrariwise.org/2010/02/15/we-start-and-end-with-family/

But, before the sun sets on her 16th birthday, she shall prick her finger, on the spindle of a spinning wheel - AND DIE!

Would you like to meet the people who saved Disney? If so then you should check out this film.

Waking Sleeping Beauty

"By the mid-eighties, Walt Disney's fabled animation studios had fallen on hard times. The staff was polarized between newcomers hungry to innovate and old-timers who wouldn't relinquish control. These conditions had produced a series of box office flops and led to pessimistic forecasts. Maybe the best days of animation were over. Maybe the public didn't care. If you expected the situation to improve, you probably believed in fairy tales.

Waking Sleeping Beauty isn't a fairy tale but rather the true story of how Disney regained its magic with a staggering output of hits – Who Framed Roger Rabbit, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Lion King and more – over a ten-year period.

Director Don Hahn and producer Peter Schneider bring an insider's knowledge to this comeback. They were among the young Turks at Disney who produced some of its biggest sensations. Hahn's documentary offers a fascinating perspective on what took place within the creative ranks as well as among the leadership team of Michael D. Eisner, Jeffrey Katzenberg and Roy Disney (the nephew of Walt). The process wasn't always pretty. Hahn (who still works for Disney) brings a refreshing candour to describing ego battles, cost overruns and failed experiments that others might prefer to forget. During times of tension, the animators' favourite form of attack was to draw nasty caricatures of their bosses. Hahn puts several memorable ones on display and marshals a vast array of interviews, home movies, internal memos and unseen footage. Anyone with an appetite for Hollywood gossip will relish this dish.

Animation lovers, in turn, will savour the rich history that gives credit where it's due to the many writers, artists and composers who created the Disney phenomenon. The documentary even includes key figures who famously left the company, such as Don Bluth, John Lasseter and Tim Burton. At one time, children imagined that Walt Disney's signature meant a film was the creation of one man. This is a more grown-up portrayal that reveals the collaborative experience in all its complexity."

-http://tiff.net/filmsandschedules/films/wakingsleepingbeauty

Check out the trailer here!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUKELKkOuYk

"somehow it didn't seem like war at all, at all, at all..."

Eric Peterson as Billy Bishop

I am of the opinion that all theatre should tell a story, especially Canadian theatre. Having had the privilege of working and living with people from all over this great country I know that Canadians are, above all, story tellers. (Specifically Canadians from the East Coast-they have truly been given the gift of gab, even if sometimes you can't understand them). We regale friends and family with tales of drinking, hardships and adventures, big and small.

It is clear that the Canadian play "Billy Bishop Goes to War" follows in this grand tradition of story telling. The play, written in the 1970's by John Gray and Eric Peterson, has been remounted all over Canada both by Gray and Peterson and by theatre companies across Canada. A re-telling of Bishop's heroic exploits during WWI left me both moved and ashamed that I did not already know the story of this great Canadian.

Afterwards I had the honour of meeting Eric Peterson. A touchstone of Canadian theatre and a story teller through and through. He spoke candidly with my Grandfather (who had his "wings" pinned on by the real Billy Bishop before WWII) and received my compliments graciously (as I held back tears, because I have a soft spot for old men). It was an experience that was both uniquely Canadian and deeply moving and one I will not soon forget.

If you get the chance, I highly recommend seeing "Billy Bishop Goes to War" with Eric Peterson and John Gray.

I know, I know...another Lost post...

Please forgive me....but this is amazing!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-1qzelSWpE&feature=player_embedded#

Okay, I will stop now. I promise.

TOMORROW!

I CANNOT BELIEVE THAT THE LAST SEASON STARTS TOMORROW!

Check out this EPIC chess themed promo!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mzUYz6m9qE

Lost. Season 6. February 2nd, 2010.

Enjoy a little teaser...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKcKtjrL5bc&feature=PlayList&p=46651AA8D8664370&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=19

...I am BEYOND stoked.

....they all dress the same and act the same and conform in their non-conformity....

"Hipsters are the friends who sneer when you cop to liking Coldplay. They're the people who wear t-shirts silk-screened with quotes from movies you've never heard of and the only ones in America who still think Pabst Blue Ribbon is a good beer. They sport cowboy hats and berets and think Kanye West stole their sunglasses. Everything about them is exactingly constructed to give off the vibe that they just don't care."

~Time Magazine, 2009

Check out this article and perhaps it will help you understand the mystery of the hipster.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/julia-plevin/whos-a-hipster_b_117383.html

“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.” -St Francis of Assisi

"People who want to share their religious views with you almost never want you to share yours with them." ~Dave Barry

Lately I have become increasingly frustrated with people using social networking sites as a way to promote their religious beliefs. Posting links to articles on the Vatican's website or essays about the sins of homosexuality is, in my opinon, not appropriate on a website that was designed to help people keep in touch with friends and family.

I am sure that there is somewhere in cyberland that is much more appropriate for this type of disucssion-blogs for instance, or discussion forums on online religious communities. Not only will your ideas be more seriously considered and discussed but you will, most likely, not run the risk of offending people who are on the site just to keep in touch with their friends.

I am pretty sure that Jesus would like technology (he invented it, after all) but I don't think he wants his words to be misspelled, misinterpreted and plastered all over peoples FB status' in your misguided attempt to convert your Facebook Friends from sinners to saints.

"I'm not religious, but I like God and he likes me."

~Tony Kushner, Angels in America

“Faith is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted in spite of your changing moods”

A few words on faith...

When I speak about faith I don't mean faith in God. Faith in God is something that I posses but I know it may not be your "cup of tea".

So what am I talking about?

When I was in high school I had a friend who would constantly say "Don't worry, the universe will provide" and that always made me feel nice. Like the universe would magically produce a blanket when I was cold or food when I was hungry. However, after a while I saw that it really wasn't the universe that was providing these things for me, it was people (more specifically, my parents).

So what should we have faith in?

Well, of course the obvious answer is people. We should have faith in people. Our friends, our family, our lovers. People are what makes this world a happy place. However, after so many broken hearts and so much devastation in the world at the hands of "people" it is difficult to believe in them anymore, isn't it? What about all the murderers and thieves, the crooked cops and the abusive partners?

It is very easy to lose faith in people.

However, what about the time your best friend sent you a care package when you were living away from home?

Or the time that your parents came out to a play you were starring in and cheered extra loud?

Or what about the person who holds the door open for you at school?

Or the man in front of you at Tim Hortons that pays for your coffee?

Or when a teacher told you they were proud of you?

Or when a stranger said "Bless you" after you sneezed?

What about all of those little things that happen every single day that you look past? The things that you forget about as quickly as they happen.

I believe that these little things can save your faith.

Your faith in God. (if you so choose)

Your faith in the Universe.

Your faith in man.

Because really.

It's all the same.

"It's my party and I'll cry if I want to!"

Today I was at the gym on the treadmill watching a program called "Party Mama's" on Slice. The premise of this show is that it "follows outgoing mothers as they plan over-the-top extravaganza parties for their children. Gone are the days of pin the tail on the donkey and pizza parties, now it’s time to supersize these events. Party Mamas is a jam-packed, nerve-filled, triple-latte-paced ride through the lives of outrageous and energetic mothers who pull out all the stops to throw “the best party ever for their little darlings.” This is a series where “too big” and “too much” are considered a plus."

Gross.

It is a disgusting program which makes me question the validity of my current field of study. Is this all it is going to be? Planning parties for over inflated trophy wives? However, this episode was EXTRA special because it featured my small town of Brantford, Ontario and a "Party Mama" named Tracey. Not only did the episode feature stunning vistas of our beautiful town (please note sarcasm) it also featured Mayor Mike Hancock giving the woman an award of recognition in our City Hall.

I am HORRIFIED that our Mayor agreed to be a part of this revolting show and perpetuated this RIDICULOUS charade. Clearly most of the show was set up for the purpose of making 'good television'-from the moment she fired the first party planner, to forcing her poor uncoordinated daughter to take dance lessons for her 'grand entrance' and the crocodile tears as mother and daughter reconciled just in time for the party. However the mayors involvement lends validity (albeit, only a small amount) to all of this and shows our community as a place where this sort of behaviour is not only tolerated but REWARDED!


You should be ashamed of yourself Mayor Hancock. What you did was not in the best interest of our city nor was it in your best interest. You have portrayed our city as one filled with insane, unrealistic, unfeeling parents who do not give a shit about the welfare of their children. Speaking of which, the Party Mama "Tracey" (who claims that she 'runs the town' and yet I've never heard of her or her organization) should also be ashamed of herself. Even if everything she did was just for show and there was no harm to her daughter, she has harmed the integrity of our city.

It is not often that I feel to need to stand up for my community. For a long time I made jokes about our failing downtown and the painted store-fronts along with everyone else. However, over the last few years Brantford has been pulling up it's boot straps and making changes...I just hope this doesn't set us back.