Wow. This makes me laugh:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AN5YbfFszlI
Monday, May 31, 2010
Coffee Talk
While my true and first coffee love is Starbucks, I have finally found a drink at my local coffee haunt which has warranted my praise: the frozen caramel latte.
Delicious.
Delicious.
Team America
So I've called this entry "Team America" as that's the only pop culture-y reference I could think of involving Kim Jong Il...
So, Departures, one of my favourite shows, had a two hour visit to North Korea... and now I want to go there quite badly. It was nothing like I expected. Granted, the access they had to the country was pretty much limited-- certain things couldn't be filmed, the trip was organized by the North Korean government, etc... But it still looked like a great time.
What impresses me, every time I watch Departures, is how we are so much more alike than different... and I don't think we always appreciate that. The tour guides in the show could have been any of my friends. They were professional when they needed to be, but they relaxed and sang during their downtime. At the end of the show, one of the guides said that travelling with Justin and Scott was like being on holiday for him... and that relaxed atmosphere was so nice to watch.
Let me in DPRK... I wanna visit.
So, Departures, one of my favourite shows, had a two hour visit to North Korea... and now I want to go there quite badly. It was nothing like I expected. Granted, the access they had to the country was pretty much limited-- certain things couldn't be filmed, the trip was organized by the North Korean government, etc... But it still looked like a great time.
What impresses me, every time I watch Departures, is how we are so much more alike than different... and I don't think we always appreciate that. The tour guides in the show could have been any of my friends. They were professional when they needed to be, but they relaxed and sang during their downtime. At the end of the show, one of the guides said that travelling with Justin and Scott was like being on holiday for him... and that relaxed atmosphere was so nice to watch.
Let me in DPRK... I wanna visit.
Rockin' the Suburbs
I know it's been around for a while, but it's only been within the last few months that I've played a bit of RockBand. How enjoyable it is!
A friend of mine has had me over several times and we've played the game until late in the evening. I like that it allows everyone, even just for a minute, to fulfill that dream of pretending to be a rockstar. I am horrible at the drums, but I can get by on guitar (easy setting of course) and I enjoy singing the most-- even though my poor friends might not.
It's always a good evening when Rock Band is brought out.
A friend of mine has had me over several times and we've played the game until late in the evening. I like that it allows everyone, even just for a minute, to fulfill that dream of pretending to be a rockstar. I am horrible at the drums, but I can get by on guitar (easy setting of course) and I enjoy singing the most-- even though my poor friends might not.
It's always a good evening when Rock Band is brought out.
Frosty
I love a Frosty Shake. Wendy's was smart to introduce them. They are delicious.
Moreover, they remind me of some happy times. A couple of friends and I used to always get them last year when they first came out... it was sort of "our thing" to do. The FS now reminds me of the good times I had with those people. In fact, I almost become nostalgic whenever I have one which is weird for me...
Either way, they are delicious, and just what is needed on a hot day like today.
Moreover, they remind me of some happy times. A couple of friends and I used to always get them last year when they first came out... it was sort of "our thing" to do. The FS now reminds me of the good times I had with those people. In fact, I almost become nostalgic whenever I have one which is weird for me...
Either way, they are delicious, and just what is needed on a hot day like today.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Simon Says
So tonight was Simon Cowell's last night on American Idol. It was actually pretty sad. When most of the past idols joined together on stage to sing a farewell song to him, one realizes the profound impact he's had on popular culture over the past decade.
Sure, musically, there's been an impact. Some fantastic artists have been discovered and millions of records have been made. But beyond that, the impact he's had on television is truly astounding.
I've been a way bigger fan of the X Factor for several years now, and I can't wait to see its American incarnation.
Thanks, Mr. Cowell. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Sure, musically, there's been an impact. Some fantastic artists have been discovered and millions of records have been made. But beyond that, the impact he's had on television is truly astounding.
I've been a way bigger fan of the X Factor for several years now, and I can't wait to see its American incarnation.
Thanks, Mr. Cowell. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Heat Wave
We are currently experience a heat wave where I live. We're almost 10 degrees warmer than we usually are at this time of year.
While I'm not a beach boy or anything remotely close, I do love the first hot, humid, sticky days of the year... It starts to feel like summer and all of the good things that come along with it.
And although I might complain about the heat in a few weeks, it's this time-- when I realize how much I've missed it over the winter-- that I really appreciate it.
While I'm not a beach boy or anything remotely close, I do love the first hot, humid, sticky days of the year... It starts to feel like summer and all of the good things that come along with it.
And although I might complain about the heat in a few weeks, it's this time-- when I realize how much I've missed it over the winter-- that I really appreciate it.
PVR
I don't know if there has been a better invention in the last decade than the PVR. Seriously. It's the most amazing thing for tv lovers.
The thing I most appreciate about it is the fact that it's given me time back. I no longer have to watch commercials or sit through useless drivel. I can now watch an hour drama in 40 minutes. American Idol takes me less than 15 mins. I am gaining so much time that I can put into work or spending time with those I care about-- and it's gained conveniently.
I'm amazed by how much this invention has changed my life... and I'm truly appreciative.
The thing I most appreciate about it is the fact that it's given me time back. I no longer have to watch commercials or sit through useless drivel. I can now watch an hour drama in 40 minutes. American Idol takes me less than 15 mins. I am gaining so much time that I can put into work or spending time with those I care about-- and it's gained conveniently.
I'm amazed by how much this invention has changed my life... and I'm truly appreciative.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Post It
Thank goodness for the Post-It.
I have been sitting here for a couple of minutes, trying to figure out what to blog about, and then I noticed the plethora of yellow sticky notes on my desk, reminding me to do reports or what songs to download... or even a reminder to blog!
It's a pretty simple invention, but it makes my life easier!
I have been sitting here for a couple of minutes, trying to figure out what to blog about, and then I noticed the plethora of yellow sticky notes on my desk, reminding me to do reports or what songs to download... or even a reminder to blog!
It's a pretty simple invention, but it makes my life easier!
Gleek?
I don't love the show "Glee." Perhaps I would if it was 13 years ago and I was still in high school. I do, however, enjoy the cast's covers of various songs. Right now my favourite is their cover of the All-American Rejects' "Gives You Hell".
I've always been a sucker for a cover song... it is one of the things listed on the "Stuff White People Like" blog...
I *may* be a stereotype. My bad.
I've always been a sucker for a cover song... it is one of the things listed on the "Stuff White People Like" blog...
I *may* be a stereotype. My bad.
London Calling
I need to go back to London. It's my favourite place in the world. Just for a couple of days... to go back and walk through those city streets, ride the tube, stroll along the Thames.
I have a Union Jack flask which I purchased several weeks ago. It sits on my desk and almost mocks me and my desire to go back to the UK. It's been too long.
I love the flask though, for reminding me each day of my need to go back and because it is merely sitting there, reminding me I will have something to look forward to.
I have a Union Jack flask which I purchased several weeks ago. It sits on my desk and almost mocks me and my desire to go back to the UK. It's been too long.
I love the flask though, for reminding me each day of my need to go back and because it is merely sitting there, reminding me I will have something to look forward to.
The Right Combination
Is there really a better combination than Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato, with a smidgen of mayo?
I think not.
I think not.
Take a Picture
I purchased a new camera. I have a few little trips coming up, so I figured it was time to upgrade from my 5.0 MP to something a little more... adventurous.
So far, so good. My favourite new feature is the front LCD screen which makes those self portraits I'm somewhat notorious for that much easier to take.
So far, so good. My favourite new feature is the front LCD screen which makes those self portraits I'm somewhat notorious for that much easier to take.
Side of the Road
As I was driving to the gym today, I noticed a car parked awkwardly on the side of the road. After the bend, I saw what I assume was the driver walking back towards his car with an armful of garbage.
It's pretty big of some random man to pick up other people's trash. I thought it was pretty nice of him.
It's pretty big of some random man to pick up other people's trash. I thought it was pretty nice of him.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Face in the Crowd
Even though my profession requires that I speak in front of groups of people frequently... ok, daily... I don't seek opportunities to do so and I still get a bit nervous many times when I must.
Today I had to do a presentation for someone in front of a crowd where I only knew one person. It was a positive experience as it was a positive presentation-- presenting someone with an award.
As I spoke, I happened to notice that one smiling face in the crowd who was clearly paying attention and so happy to hear what I was saying. I always try to find that face whenever I have to present... it always helps me feel valued and respected as a facilitator or presenter.
So thanks, face in the crowd. You helped me out today and I appreciate it.
Today I had to do a presentation for someone in front of a crowd where I only knew one person. It was a positive experience as it was a positive presentation-- presenting someone with an award.
As I spoke, I happened to notice that one smiling face in the crowd who was clearly paying attention and so happy to hear what I was saying. I always try to find that face whenever I have to present... it always helps me feel valued and respected as a facilitator or presenter.
So thanks, face in the crowd. You helped me out today and I appreciate it.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Rockin' Robin
So this is a for sure sign of my impending descent into senility... but here it goes.
I have been fascinated by the nest of robins that have been chirping outside my window. Three little blue eggs have recently hatched, and I'm truly impressed by the care momma robin takes of her babies. She's so protective and nurturing. It's been really interesting to watch.
The animal kingdom is pretty cool. I am impressed with the care that's taken yet how at a certain point, it will just end. Momma will realize that "it's time" and her babies need to be on their own. Babies accept it and move on.
Still, it's pretty neat to see her feed them and warm them for these few weeks.
I have been fascinated by the nest of robins that have been chirping outside my window. Three little blue eggs have recently hatched, and I'm truly impressed by the care momma robin takes of her babies. She's so protective and nurturing. It's been really interesting to watch.
The animal kingdom is pretty cool. I am impressed with the care that's taken yet how at a certain point, it will just end. Momma will realize that "it's time" and her babies need to be on their own. Babies accept it and move on.
Still, it's pretty neat to see her feed them and warm them for these few weeks.
Manny!
Manny Delgado makes me laugh so much. I know I've written about Modern Family before, but we're less than a week away from the season finale, and he's said two things in the last week that cracked me up. I try to incorporate them into every day conversation... and while it's only mildly working, they crack me up every time.
"I'm just a boy trying to bring style back to travel."
"Let me just say what everyone is thinking: my jacket's a mess. It wouldn't be, but someone used the iron to make grilled cheese."
"I'm just a boy trying to bring style back to travel."
"Let me just say what everyone is thinking: my jacket's a mess. It wouldn't be, but someone used the iron to make grilled cheese."
Let the Sunshine In!
So I think I'm enjoying nature more than I ever have before.
Look, I'm not going to start hiking or doing zipline tours of the rainforest's canopy, but a nice walk outside on a sunny day is pretty spectacular.
I am looking out my window and seeing the cracks of blue sky through my blinds and I just want to get out there.
People are friendlier on sunny days too. I try to go for walks (keep up that damn cardio) and on cloudy days, my fellow walkers tend to keep to themselves. On sunny days, everyone is so happy and cordial.
Can't wait to get out there after lunch!
Look, I'm not going to start hiking or doing zipline tours of the rainforest's canopy, but a nice walk outside on a sunny day is pretty spectacular.
I am looking out my window and seeing the cracks of blue sky through my blinds and I just want to get out there.
People are friendlier on sunny days too. I try to go for walks (keep up that damn cardio) and on cloudy days, my fellow walkers tend to keep to themselves. On sunny days, everyone is so happy and cordial.
Can't wait to get out there after lunch!
Your Love is My Drug
Ah, the guilty pleasure.
I have so many of them. I try my best to project a manly, stone-cold exterior... but a flip through the songs on my iPod tells quite a different story:
I love pop music.
There.
I said it.
My current guilty pleasure is ke$ha's "Your Love is My Drug". Oh it's pretty terrible, lyrically. And I'm sure there are more grammatical errors than I've even picked up on. But dammit, it's catchy. And it stays in my head for hours on end.
I can't get enough of it.
At the moment.
I have so many of them. I try my best to project a manly, stone-cold exterior... but a flip through the songs on my iPod tells quite a different story:
I love pop music.
There.
I said it.
My current guilty pleasure is ke$ha's "Your Love is My Drug". Oh it's pretty terrible, lyrically. And I'm sure there are more grammatical errors than I've even picked up on. But dammit, it's catchy. And it stays in my head for hours on end.
I can't get enough of it.
At the moment.
You Got What I Need
While I love Starbucks more than life itself, I don't actually live near one. At all.
One of my closest work friends, however, does. And at least once a week, I am greeted with a text in the morning that says "Starbucks 108" which is code for the fact that she's purchased me a delicious beverage and it's waiting in her room for me.
What's more is that she seems to know the days I really need one. I know it's purely coincidental, but I'm so very grateful. It always makes my day.
One of my closest work friends, however, does. And at least once a week, I am greeted with a text in the morning that says "Starbucks 108" which is code for the fact that she's purchased me a delicious beverage and it's waiting in her room for me.
What's more is that she seems to know the days I really need one. I know it's purely coincidental, but I'm so very grateful. It always makes my day.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Falling Slowly
Once is one of my favourite films of all time (#5 to be exact). It's so simple yet so powerful. I saw it about a month after a trip to Dublin, so I'm sure that had something to do with my enjoyment of it.
Although I haven't LOVED American Idol this season, tonight my two favourite remaining contestants, Crystal and Lee, did an amazing duet of "Falling Slowly" from the movie. I watched it on PVR three times. It was the first time this season that I got goosebumps from a performance.
So good.
Although I haven't LOVED American Idol this season, tonight my two favourite remaining contestants, Crystal and Lee, did an amazing duet of "Falling Slowly" from the movie. I watched it on PVR three times. It was the first time this season that I got goosebumps from a performance.
So good.
Monday, May 10, 2010
That's My Goal
While I, of course, love accomplishing my own goals, it's almost like I get more out of seeing other people accomplish theirs.
Someone I know wanted to get into a certain school so very badly. It was one of his dreams and it has been for a long time. He had doubts for sure about his ability and whether or not he was putting all of his eggs in the wrong basket. Today, however, I found out the he got into it, and into the program he wanted. I'm so very happy for him. He deserves it.
While it is only Monday, the happiest I've been this week has been because of that news. It's not like things are going crazily wrong or anything-- the news was just so exciting for me to hear.
I know schadenfreude (sp) is German for "joy in other people's misery"... what is the German for joy in other people's joy??
Someone I know wanted to get into a certain school so very badly. It was one of his dreams and it has been for a long time. He had doubts for sure about his ability and whether or not he was putting all of his eggs in the wrong basket. Today, however, I found out the he got into it, and into the program he wanted. I'm so very happy for him. He deserves it.
While it is only Monday, the happiest I've been this week has been because of that news. It's not like things are going crazily wrong or anything-- the news was just so exciting for me to hear.
I know schadenfreude (sp) is German for "joy in other people's misery"... what is the German for joy in other people's joy??
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Focus Features
I got a new car this week.
Time to pour one out on the concrete for the car I've had for the past 8 years and 235000 kms. So many great memories in that bad boy. Fantastic road trips, great friends past and present who have sat in that passenger side. That car has heard so many stories and laughs. If those (sedan) walls could talk...
I think there's something about a car that makes it easy to reveal secrets and things one normally wouldn't. The fact that someone is driving makes it virtually impossible to maintain eye contact at all times... and getting stared down is a reason why people remain mum. I know that's true for me. The last quasi-big, relationship-altering revelation I disclosed to a friend was while driving as I knew eye contact wouldn't be possible. I didn't want to see the look in the person's face as I knew it wouldn't be pleasant.
It's weird... I am logical and relatively dead inside, but dropping off my old car was kind of hard. I just kept thinking about all of the good times and good people who have been with me in that car and the memories. And for some reason, it felt like I was leaving all of that. Silly of me, isn't it?
I've been thoroughly enjoying my new ride a lot. And I so hope that the memories in this vehicle are even better than the ones I recently left behind.
Time to pour one out on the concrete for the car I've had for the past 8 years and 235000 kms. So many great memories in that bad boy. Fantastic road trips, great friends past and present who have sat in that passenger side. That car has heard so many stories and laughs. If those (sedan) walls could talk...
I think there's something about a car that makes it easy to reveal secrets and things one normally wouldn't. The fact that someone is driving makes it virtually impossible to maintain eye contact at all times... and getting stared down is a reason why people remain mum. I know that's true for me. The last quasi-big, relationship-altering revelation I disclosed to a friend was while driving as I knew eye contact wouldn't be possible. I didn't want to see the look in the person's face as I knew it wouldn't be pleasant.
It's weird... I am logical and relatively dead inside, but dropping off my old car was kind of hard. I just kept thinking about all of the good times and good people who have been with me in that car and the memories. And for some reason, it felt like I was leaving all of that. Silly of me, isn't it?
I've been thoroughly enjoying my new ride a lot. And I so hope that the memories in this vehicle are even better than the ones I recently left behind.
Black Horse and the Cherry Tree
Hmm... this blog's title is quite misleading.
Just recently have discovered a new highlight beverage at Starbucks:
Grande Dark Cherry Mocha Frappucino Light Blended Coffee.
Delicious.
Just recently have discovered a new highlight beverage at Starbucks:
Grande Dark Cherry Mocha Frappucino Light Blended Coffee.
Delicious.
Telephone
I'm not a fan of the orignal artist or song in anway way... but I do enjoy the Posh Radio 4 Lady's version of the song from the Scott Mills Show.
Vickers
I love the X Factor... it's the UK's Idol show. It's just way better on all levels. The contestants seem to be much more talented. Also, the production value is so much higher.
One of my favourite contestants from a couple of seasons ago has recently released her first single and it's gone to #1! She came in 4th, but her unique style has clearly given her staying power.
I'm pleased that, unlike American Idol, contestants who don't win actually have a chance to be successful... as long as they have the talent to go with potential celebrity.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmfZU9YJQnU
One of my favourite contestants from a couple of seasons ago has recently released her first single and it's gone to #1! She came in 4th, but her unique style has clearly given her staying power.
I'm pleased that, unlike American Idol, contestants who don't win actually have a chance to be successful... as long as they have the talent to go with potential celebrity.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmfZU9YJQnU
Golden Girl
Some of my earliest television memories are of my mom and I watching Golden Girls. It used to be her favourite sitcome (may still be even) and I clearly remember Saturday nights watching it with her. It came on NBC at 9:00 and was followed by Empty Nest. We used to laugh so much at it. The show is now out on DVD and I've purchased all of the seasons for her. When I've watched it lately, I'm shocked at how much scandalous content there is-- wow... either my mom didn't get a lot of the jokes or she just hoped I didn't get them!
Anyway, last night Betty White hosted SNL... and wow, it was the funniest SNL I've seen in a LONG time. She was so bawdy but hilarious.
I guess it just goes to show that really truly funny people remain that way forever. So few people aren't just flashes in the pan.
Anyway, last night Betty White hosted SNL... and wow, it was the funniest SNL I've seen in a LONG time. She was so bawdy but hilarious.
I guess it just goes to show that really truly funny people remain that way forever. So few people aren't just flashes in the pan.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Patio Lanterns
As someone who is practically albino (yep-- that Northern Europe/ Scottish glow really suits me), I'm not a big fan of the outdoors. I burn easily in the summer and I'm not big on insects either.
However, it's only April at the moment, and therefore, the things I really hate about nature haven't reared their head yet. A couple of nights ago, I got to enjoy an evening on the patio. We had an unseasonably warm Friday night, and after work, many of us went for drinks on a local pub's patio. It was great-- warm sun, cold beer-- what more could one ask for.
I had dinner plans and had to leave earlier than I'd hoped, but when I got to my next shindig, lo and behold-- more patio time! I was rockin' my aviators and I looked pretty good if I do say so myself. I had an awesome time-- great food, great friends, wonderful weather... outdoors.
Could I be turning into a patio guy? Am I becoming a Canadian stereotype???
Well... I haven't started enjoying camping yet, so I think I'm still safe for a bit.
However, it's only April at the moment, and therefore, the things I really hate about nature haven't reared their head yet. A couple of nights ago, I got to enjoy an evening on the patio. We had an unseasonably warm Friday night, and after work, many of us went for drinks on a local pub's patio. It was great-- warm sun, cold beer-- what more could one ask for.
I had dinner plans and had to leave earlier than I'd hoped, but when I got to my next shindig, lo and behold-- more patio time! I was rockin' my aviators and I looked pretty good if I do say so myself. I had an awesome time-- great food, great friends, wonderful weather... outdoors.
Could I be turning into a patio guy? Am I becoming a Canadian stereotype???
Well... I haven't started enjoying camping yet, so I think I'm still safe for a bit.
Old School
I decided to go through some of my old university notebooks today. Wow.... that took me back. I ended up throwing most of them out... don't worry, I recycled. It was really an expensive box of recyclables. I spent tens of thousands of dollars on those lecture notes and papers and exam booklets and planners. Was it all worth it? I'm not sure. It was a means to an end-- I needed to go to university to be what I wanted to be, so perhaps necessary evil is a more appropriate term.
When I was going through all of my notes, however, I found pages of notes that my one friend and I would write back and forth to each other during class. We'd sit at the back and just jot down jokes, cracking each other up all class.
Anyway, I called her as I was going through the stuff and we laughed and laughed. I miss those times in so many ways. We'd all stress and stress about our work, but wow, we really had it pretty easy-- 16 hours of class a week! And while I don't see my university friends as much as I'd like to, we did share a lot of goodtimes (sic). So many late nights, just sitting up talking or watching a movie or sharing some drinks. I had much firmer deadlines then, but much more time to complete what I needed to. I don't think there's ever been a time in my life where I knew my friends better than when I was at university. My relationships were very much closer, most likely due to similar schedules. And proximity.
Maybe university was worth it after all.
When I was going through all of my notes, however, I found pages of notes that my one friend and I would write back and forth to each other during class. We'd sit at the back and just jot down jokes, cracking each other up all class.
Anyway, I called her as I was going through the stuff and we laughed and laughed. I miss those times in so many ways. We'd all stress and stress about our work, but wow, we really had it pretty easy-- 16 hours of class a week! And while I don't see my university friends as much as I'd like to, we did share a lot of goodtimes (sic). So many late nights, just sitting up talking or watching a movie or sharing some drinks. I had much firmer deadlines then, but much more time to complete what I needed to. I don't think there's ever been a time in my life where I knew my friends better than when I was at university. My relationships were very much closer, most likely due to similar schedules. And proximity.
Maybe university was worth it after all.
Lazy Sunday
I am up and at them generally every morning before 6:00.
One of the simplest pleasures, therefore, of my week, are the days where I sleep in and don't wake up to an alarm. I'm usually up before 9:00 (unless it was a really late night), but just getting up in my own time or having the luxury to lay awake in bed for awhile in the morning is wonderful.
I got to do that today.
One of the simplest pleasures, therefore, of my week, are the days where I sleep in and don't wake up to an alarm. I'm usually up before 9:00 (unless it was a really late night), but just getting up in my own time or having the luxury to lay awake in bed for awhile in the morning is wonderful.
I got to do that today.
Goodies
In Survivor: The Australian Outback, I clearly remember a scene where Jerri and Colby are laying in the river discussing "Which is better" food comparisons. One of the ones they get to is "Chocolate Chip cookies or Oatmeal Raisin"?
They both agree and Colby says, "Oatmeal raisin never had a chance."
I totally disagree. In fact, done properly, Oatmeal Raisin is my favourite cookie. The best one has to be from Subway. Yes. It's the best in the world.
Mom bought me a pack of in-store bakery oatmeal raisin cookies today... Delicious.
They both agree and Colby says, "Oatmeal raisin never had a chance."
I totally disagree. In fact, done properly, Oatmeal Raisin is my favourite cookie. The best one has to be from Subway. Yes. It's the best in the world.
Mom bought me a pack of in-store bakery oatmeal raisin cookies today... Delicious.
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