The Fish Mongress

Just In Case

2007-05-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

You didn't already know....you can keep up to date with my life now on Face Book! It's my new thing! (and it's a bit easier to figure out than blogging)

Hope to see you there!

Hello?

2007-03-19T20:54:00.000-07:00

Any body still out there?

Wow! It's been a long time!! I could have so many fantastic excuses, but really it comes down to being too busy to post. Simple, I know, but true. Life at the fish market certainly curbs the amount of time I get to spend on a computer and I find it rather sad some days. (This is also why not too many emails as well!!)

So what's been going on, what's new? Well still climbing lots. Rye and I got out to Bataan a couple of weeks ago (okay, I got out once, I think Rye's been out about 4 or 5 times now!). It was so nice to feel the rock under my finger tips - it was not so nice feeling the snow all around me and the mud and ice on my butt. I am looking forward to more outdoor excursions (how do you spell that?) and I know there will be many more to come!

The salsa performance went very well. I had a blast doing it, but my gawd it takes a lot of time and effort to put on a performance at that level!!! I really didn't have much of a life leading up to it. I have to admit though, the very next day, I woke up thinking, I want to do it all over again!!! It was fun, fun, fun. I will post some photos of the evening, but you can also check some out at the mambopro website.

Other than dancing and climbing, Rye and I are moving! I don't know that I'm excited about the whole moving part, but the living with Ryan part I can certainly say I'm extatic (why am I choosing words today that I really am not sure how to spell?!). Possesion date is this Thursday, but we're going to wait until the end of the month to do the majority of the move...because we had already planned the move for then as the possesion date got moved up last week. I guess that's going to be another excuss to post more photos after we move in too....I promise to do that some day as well.

And then there's work...it sucks some days being the manager...it's great other days (today sucked).

That's it, that's all! A couple of months go by and really not much to say. Okay I could go on tons and tons and tons, but really, it's all in the past now...I really will do my best to post more often.

And She Does It!!

2007-01-21T17:21:00.000-08:00

I know there's tons to catch up on, and possibly some day I'll spend the time to do that...right now I don't seem to have much down time. My days consist mostly of work, dance, climbing, house hunting (for Rye and I) and resting (really that means sleeping - haha). But I do have to say that I finally achieved my goal of not coming in last place in a climbing competition! This past Friday was the second C3 Comp at the Climbing Centre and I managed 5th place (with a total of 8 contestants). Yeah!!! Middle of the pack!!! I was so excited!! It was an awesome night and I have to say I was very proud of many people for entering the comp (Chandra, Andrew, Allison, Nathan - way to go!!).

The pain I'm feeling now isn't so much fun - it's best described as the achy feeling you have with the flu, but without the flu...yeah a lot of pain in my muscles right now. I will survive!

In other news....

My very first salsa performance is coming up (other than the Student Night Out performances I've done in the past). Mambo Productions is putting together an evening called Jazz & Mambo Gala and there's a small section where the all-girl group I'm dancing with will perform. I'm rather excited about it as well as extremely nervous - haha! That's part of my not having a life right now; we're practicing a few times a week to get up to speed (and we really need to too!!). If you're interested in coming to watch (and then there's dancing for everyone after the show), it's at MacEwen hall on Feb. 16th at 9pm. You can get all the details at Mambo Pro

Happy New Year!!

2007-01-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

The craziness of the holiday season is finally over!!!! Yeah!!!! And I survived too - it's pretty much a daze to me know and I don't know how I managed, but I am here to say that I survived!

I don't remember the last time I was so tired all the time - retail at Christmas is absolute madness! I apparently am getting lots of praises for managing the market so well (I laugh everytime I hear that...I pretty much was struggling just to keep my head above water!) and it was an awesome year for the market. I think the thanks has to go to everyone I work with - I don't know how I would have managed without them.

So it was crazy days at the market daily and then it was puppy sitting in the evenings, which really meant that I had to run "home" and walk/feed the dog, then usually change my clothes and run off to what ever event was going on that evening. It truly was a none-stop month!

I know it seems like I"m complaining a lot (I possibly am), but I was just exhausted for all of it. Was it worth all the effort? Absolutely! Highlights of December:

Visit with Melanie, Suresh and Savith
Visit with Allison and Jarred
Visits with Mikaela and meeting her boyfriend Kevin (sorry that snuffalupogus didn't make it out guys)
Christmas with my family
Dinner with Lynne
Dinner with Hali
Dinner with Melissa & Bart
Ryan coming home (personally my favourite event this season - my opinion may be biased!)

Downfalls of December:

No rest

Now I was holding off somewhat with this post as I was hoping to be doing this on my new laptop!! Yeah to joing Christmas/Birthday presents!! I just got it today from my love and unfortunately have since found out that it's defective. So tomorrow I will return it for a new one and possibly have a new post for tomorrow...but I really wanted to download photos on my laptop and not on Ryan's roommate's computer (but I really appreciate him letting me do that all along!).

So hopefully tomorrow things will run better and I will be posting more often - much easier with your own computer!

I hope you all have a very Happy New Year!!!

So far behind I could almost be ahead!

2006-12-18T07:05:00.000-08:00

Really, do I need to say much more than retail at Christmas and Ryan's in Thailand!?!?!

I guess it's more that Rye's away right now, that I"m so far behind on posts (you're not missing much though - life isn't overly exciting right now). I of course, do not have my own computer so posting is difficult and I often use work's computers to post with...at the market, our computer is also our cash register and with it being the month of December...well, I really don't get much time on the computer for personal stuff!!

So, there's really not much to say right now other than life is crazy busy and will be until the end of the year; Ryan's away in Thailand without me (wahhhh!) but is returning on the 30th, and other than that, life is pretty good.

I promise to catch up with everything in the new year, but in the mean time.....

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!!

It's a step up?!

2006-11-26T15:04:00.000-08:00

This past Friday the CCC had a bouldering competition and crazy me attempted it. Okay (and I know it's just excuses), I was exhausted after work - to the point that I was trying to stall so that I could possibly be late enough to not compete. Apparently some little voice within really wanted me to go and make an ass of myself though, so I made it just in time to start and competed. Now my goal this competition (I've been in two before for anyone counting) was to not come in last place (as i did in the first comp - have no idea how i did in the second on though). I entered in the female intermediate catagory and climbed my tired little heart out (did I mention I was really tired?).

My lovely photographer and chearing section - Chandra

Working problem #27 - please note: there are no hand holds!!
problem #22 - didn't finish it until Sunday

So the results were up at the gym today...I came in 11th place!!!! (There were only 11 girls in my catagory!!) Next comp is Jan 19th - hopefully I will do better.

(Y - fantastic!! 6th place!!)

Gala's, Climbing, Managing, etc...

2006-11-23T12:30:00.000-08:00

I realize that I'm really behind but lots been happening and I don't have access to a computer as often any more...makes it rather difficult to post with no computer! So What's new:

The Calgary Climbing Centre had their 10 year anniversary (one year late) last weekend. It was so much fun! I have to admit that when I got there, I didn't think I knew anybody, but as I was waiting to check my coat, I realized that I knew almost everyone...just didn't recognize them without chalk bags and harnesses! Everyone looked smashing, there was a buffet dinner, lots of drinks, a fantastic MC (Ryan you rock!), an awards ceremony, a climbing movie and even a live band (Ryan you rock!!). The evening was a blast, but short lived for some (damn work on Saturday morning $&@!$%!!). Just a few shots below of the event:

The Pepe Bros and Moi

Rye - MC-ing and Band playing

Rye & Walson (founder of CCC)

Saturday was rather lame for me...having to work...but exciting at the same time...working my last Saturday at the office!! Yes that's right folks, the promotion actually happened! I am now the General Manager of the fish market! Yeah!! I wasn't singing praises on Saturday however...what a way to sick it to me one last time. Work at the office from 7am to noon and then straight to the market and stay there until 6:30pm. Too long a day after the CCC gala is you ask me! By the end of the day, it took all the energy I had to not cry I was so tired (it's a girl thing!). I was so happy that Rye was extremely hung over that day (of course feeling poorly for him as well - it's not fun being hung over) and bed time was very early for the both of us (I love it when things work out that way!!). I think he learnt though, the one question you do not ask me when my feet hurt and I'm over tired is "Do you want to go to Bataan tomorrow?"

I still went to Bataan Sunday (yes, I'm crazy - but that's why you all love me!). I will admit that it was not with great enthusiasm in the morning, but like most days where I know there's a 1.56 hour constant up-hill, gruling hike, I'm not enthusiastic until we've reached the top...then the day gets good. We had one other crazy with us, Tracy, and we only managed to do 2 climbs each - these short winter days don't mesh well with outdoor climbing - really cold rock (really who needs feeling in their finger tips when climbing) and the sun goes away quickly. We did almost see an awesome event on our hike up...two mountain goats almost ramming heads...or at least we were hoping they would...it didn't happen.

Waiting for the ramming

Surviving the day

Now almost another week has passed...it's Thursday and I've decided - being the GM and all (okay also having my staff threatening to yell at me if I did show up) to take the day off. Really not doing much...really must get a start on the day soon...soon it will be time to end the day!

Cuty Patooty

2006-11-06T21:03:00.000-08:00

It's been a little while since my last post, but nothings really been going on...just the same same on a different day. Guess I should appreciate things being a little slow right now - I'm sure it's going to change in the next month or so!

This past weekend I had a few things going on. It was our "End of Session Student's Night Out" with Mambo Productions. The class I'm in did a performance (I managed not to screw up this time!!! But I did accidentally smack my dance parter in the face while taking our bow -oops!) and then it was dancing for everyone. It was a great night, and Melanie and her dad came out to watch as well...that was an awesome surprise!

A horrid picture of me - but performing none the less

Another exciting thing that happened this weekend is Rye won a fuse ball table at work. I'm fore-seeing many tournaments occuring in the near future! Although I hated it the first few games we played, after I finally scored a goal, its becoming more fun...also getting a 5point lead helps out tons as well!

The "new" common sight at Rye's

I also spent as much time as I could with Melanie (visiting from California) and her son Savith this weekend. I had a lovely dinner at her parents place on Saturday night (and they took my money while playing cards!!!) and then we had them and Allison over for dinner on Sunday. Here's just a few shots of the cuty!

Weekend Photos

2006-10-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

Okay - to clarify - it was the best weekend I've ever had! Here are some picts for ya.

The start of the weekend - Driving to the mountains

Our cabin at Baker Creek

Our hike around Lake Louise - I thought it was a neat shot of Rye

Half way up the Big Bee Hive with a view of the Chateau in the back ground

The far end of Agne's Lake (the tea house is at the far end of the lake)

Ange's Lake

Our Hike around Lake Louise - The rounded rock formation on the left is the Big Bee Hive and the Little Bee Hive is the rock on the right just behind the trees.

Our dinner at the Grizzly House

The BEST Weekend EVER!!!

2006-10-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I had our first "romantic get-away" this weekend and it was the best weekend ever!! We started Friday night out in Banff for a sushi dinner and then ventured out to Baker Creek (on the 1A between Banff and Lake Louise) where we checked into our private cabin out in the middle of no where! It was awesome! It was a loft cabin with a ladder to the upper level, wood burning fireplace, little kitchen area...hmmmm no tv though. As sad as it sounds, we decided not to stay both nights because of that, and the fact there was no hot tub there either. Very beautiful spot, but we wanted a little bit of the "spa" retreat as well.

Saturday, we had a lovely breakfast (lox and bagels with coffee and Baily's) and then headed to Lake Louise where we did a day hike. We started with the Big Bee Hive then down around Agne's Lake to the tea house (which was closed) and then up to Little Bee Hive and then back down. All in all, it took us about 4 hours. The views were magnificant, the weather was perfect for hiking, lunch on top of the Big Bee Hive was spectacular and only having to carry the pack for half the hike (down hill mostly too) was fantastic!! We went to Banff and checked into a hotel there and hot tubbed for a bit to relax the muscles from the day. We took our chances for dinner and tried the Grizzly House. It was booked solid until 9pm unless we wanted to sit outside on the patio. Fortunately Rye and I are just crazy enough to do that, so we had our fondue dinner on the patio, which was really nice until the sun went down (just before dessert) and then it turned really cold! We were happy to gulp down the chocolate fondue and then run to the car for warmth...but what else should we expect choosing to sit on a patio in the middle of October in the mountains!

A chillaxin evening of watching a movie and crashing was all we could do that evening.

This morning, we had another fantabulous breakfast and watched another movie (I truly do not recomend Miami Vice...just not worth it). We headed into Canmore where the Vsion was having a climbing competition, so we enrolled in that and climbed the afternoon away.

We're now back in Calgary and I'm about to have a bubble bath to see if any of the muscles in my body will ever like me again (right now they certainly do not!).

I'm sure it will take a day or two, but I will post some picts soon from the weekend.

Did I mention that it was the best weekend ever?!

Hearts & Toes

2006-10-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

The weeks are just flying by these days!!! Make it slow down!

Let see, where to begin...

I finally am back in my cozy little condo and it's rather nice being home again.

Work has been going fairly well...I've been working at the market lots and am up for management position there (keep your fingers crossed). It's a riot seeing all my old Portage customers again. However it's busy for me at the moment, and it will continue on so until they either hire me or someone else, as I work the mornings at the office and afternoons at the market. A lot of running around and catching up...but it's fun for change!

Had a great weekend...Saturday morning I woke up and found this outside:

I have the best boyfriend in the world!!!

After that lovely surprise, I got to go to work (blah), then met Chandra for a quick session at the gym, followed by some shopping and then ended the evening watching the Alberta Open Salsa competition and doing a bit of dancing too.

Sunday was just an overall relaxing day. I started off with moving out from P&Y's and then hanging out with Rye. We decided we had to do something so we went and had pedicures!

What Pretty Toes!!

Sunday evening was dinner with my mom and Leath.

This week is proving to be a busy one...had dance on Monday and then watched Rye play hockey, climbing last night, birthday dinner with Melissa this evening along with dancing right after, dinner with Dad tomorrow (he leaves for Mexico next week!!!) and then off to Lake Louise Friday! Fun, Fun, Fun!!!

Kitty Babies!

2006-10-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay! It's hard to down load pictures and up date blogs when you don't have a computer!!

Here are the two critters I'm looking after right now...Pima is full of love and fun....although I'm not so sure about getting my feet clawed in the night? Cahlee is coming around...I've figured out that I can give her some loves while she's drinking out of the bathroom sink.

I think they miss P&Y very much! But we're having lots of fun (I love playing with Pima and the lazer light!!! What a riot!!)

A Special Day

2006-10-05T09:39:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYAN!!!!

Today is a very special day! At least I'm having a ton of fun doing wonderful little things for my Ryan. I think I have more fun doing things for others on their birthday than I do actually celebrating my own! It's a awesome spoiling Ryan; I love spoiling Ryan; I love Ryan!!

Catching up

2006-10-01T17:50:00.000-07:00

I just seem to be behind on posts these days! Why - I really don't have an excuse.

Had a fantastic weekend. No wait, back up!

So Ryan has finished house sitting in Bragg Creek and I've since started Cat-sitting in Calgary. Better that we're closer to everything now (although Bragg was really beautiful). I'm looking after Pima and Cahlee (photos will come) for Pete and Yvonne. Pima is a crazy cat (like Mercury, loves having his belly rubbed!?!?) and gets into everything - I love it! I'm still working on Cahlee - she's doesn't seem so fond of having me around, but we are getting a little bit more affectionate (it really helps when Rye's around to keep Pima occupied and away from us). So, once again...not home (really gotten to the point that I just don't care any more...as long as Ryan's around). So we've been at P&Y's off and on all week and another 2 weeks to go.

Had a fantastic weekend. (hee hee). Friday night we had a lovely BBQ at P&Y's and then headed over to Walson and Rhonda's for drinks along with Knut, Colleen, Ines, Kid and Zusana. We didn't stay too long - Ryan had hockey at 10pm and I went to visit with Melissa. (it was way too long since our last visit...I really shouldn't let that happen).

Of course I had too much to drink (okay ready for how pathetic this is!?). I had one strongbow, one beer and 2 vodka waters. I woke up Saturday morning feeling like I was going to throw up (a feeling by the way I haven't had since my work Christmas party back in January - yeah Alanis!!). I worked through it and got out to Cougar to climb with Chandra and Ines (moving to Calgary and it was our first climb together - a great girl and I'm looking forward to doing more climbs with her). We had a great girl's day...not too strenuous and accomplished a couple of good climbs (at least in my mind!).

It somehow pooped me out completely though and Saturday night, I could hardly keep my eyes open. Thank gawd Ryan is borrowing a play station for a little while and that helped in keeping him pre-occupied while I pretty much crashed.

Today has been a totally relaxing day...slept in, had lox and bagles for breakfast with coffee and Baily's, played some video games, had a nap...it's been wonderful! I did get out to run a couple errands (preparing for someone's birthday coming up this Thursday:)!) and now I"m looking forward to taco's for dinner - yummy!

This week coming up should be pretty normal...salsa on Monday, climbing on Tuesday, salsa on Wednesday, Rye's birthday on Thursday and Friday....too early to tell.

(P&Y - I hope you're having a fantastic time in Font! I will post picts soon of your babies)

Last Week

2006-09-22T11:19:00.000-07:00

I finally finished cat/dog/house sitting last week on Thursday (I think it's been almost a 2 month stint of non-stop sitting), only to have Ryan start a cat/dog/house sitting job that same day! What are the odds?! It's super nice though, we're looking after a house in Bragg Creek (okay the daily commute isn't always wonderful), but the scenery is beautiful and it's so peaceful out there. The other bonus is this is the house with the bouldering wall in the garage!! Unfortunately Dom hasn't reset many of the routes and they're way beyond my ability. I still try, and laugh a lot.

Ryan and Finnigan in the garage

We've had a couple shocks in the past week. The first was waking up to snow last Thursday!! It wasn't in Calgary, but Bragg Creek got a good dump.

The other shock was Dom's cat, Mercury, not coming home for 2 whole days. I was getting really worried - the cat is an out-door night cat - with the wilderness around, I had horrid visions of coyotes feasting on poor Mercury. I realize that Dom and family should understand the risk of letting their cat out all night, every night; but it's entirely different if the cat dies while we're looking after it! If it were to happen, I'd much prefer for it to take place when he's not under our care! I know there's the option of not letting the cat out at night as well, but then we have to listen to him meowing and scratching all night, trying to get out. I'm a little selfish and like getting a good night's sleep.

What else...oh yeah, last week I got to spend most of my week working at the fish market in Willow Park. What a riot that was! I saw at least 4-5 old Portage customers each day. I realized how much I missed doing that kind of work, dealing with the public, being able to move around, it was a breath of fresh air for me. I have mentioned that I would be interested in staying over there and acting as a manager - they are thinking about it but they haven't said "no" so far. This week I'm back at the office (surprisingly it's a good week - bossy boss has not been bossy!). Next week - who knows! They're looking for more people to work at the market and until they find someone, office staff are working both locations, so I may be back there next week (I hope!).

Baby Erik's Shower

2006-09-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

My gawd - I thought it was last weekend that I went to Edmonton, but it was already 2 weeks ago!! I really am behind!!

So my family went to Edmonton to meet the newest cousin Erik. Now all my cousins in Edmonton (3 of them) all of sons, and I found it hilarious that each son is pretty much just like their dad. Henry is a big, sturdy boy; Ryan is slim and fast; and well Erik, it's probably too soon to tell, but I'm guessing he'll be the one that gets picked on by both Henry and Ryan.

I do wish they lived in Calgary though, they're all adorable boys and I think they would really love hanging out with their crazy cousin!

The man of the hour - Erik

Crazy cousin & Ryan
Henry
Fore-seeing what Erik will be like as an old man -

pants pulled way up with his hand in his pants

House Boat Photos

2006-09-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

Finally I'm getting around to catching up - I don't know how much further behind I could get!!

Okay - to start...a couple house boating pictures.

Leiane and me

A beach we stopped at where the boys went cliff jumping (I chickened out)

Group Shop

Lei & Geoff, Chris, AJ & Ray, Cory & Rena, Me

Lei & Rena (I think on the way to drunk)

Ray & AJ - with the beautiful sun set

These next photos are dunk ones...relax your face and shake your head back and forth while you take the picture...it was too much fun!!!

So Sorry!

2006-09-12T19:04:00.000-07:00

This week is turning out to be a non-stop one! We are short handed at work - both the warehouse and the retail store - and it's my turn to work both! I love being at the market, it so much fun and it brings back so many memories of Portage...how could it not, half the customers I'm serving are ex-portage customers!! It's wonderful to be out of the office for most of the day...but...I get to start most mornings there and then go over to the market to finish the day. Usually after 11 hours of work, I stop functioning and really just want beer. Only three more days of it left - that's if I don't have to work this Saturday!! (Please don't make me work Saturday!!!)

So that's the excuse for no pictures (funny ones of Ryan or otherwise) or updates. LIfe should be back to "normal" next week...I have lots to catch up on!

Reminders to myself:
House boat pictures
Dinner with P & Y
Weeknd in Edmonton for Jeff & Anita's baby shower
More pictures of Ryan

Oh yah! I'm not downloading pictures right now as I'm using someone's computer who may not appreciate me downloading pictures on...I'd rahter waste time at work doing that any way!

More to come as soon as I can I get to it!!!

Time for more beer now.

I'm Back!

2006-09-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

Very slowly I'm getting back to reality!

Last week's house boating adventure was fantastic! We laughed a ton, couldn't have asked for better weather, ate copious amounts of wonderful food, drank muchos cervesas and G&T's...it truly was an awesome getaway. The only thing I would have changed would have been having Ryan there with me (yup, I'm a suck!). I'm still working on downloading photos from the trip and when that's done, I'll expand more on the holiday...always more fun to have photos to go along with!

Now even though I was on holidays, work still managed to piss me off...Saturday I went to take out money from the ATM only to realize that there wasnt' any! Apparently young boss was too "busy" (or golfing as some would say) to get pay roll done on time. No direct debit for this month...rather a pay cheque sitting on my desk that I didn't get access to until Tuesday. I love my job!!!

Any way, we got back to town last Saturday, so Sunday morning Ryan and I went to Prairie to climb. I suggested I do some major training because eating, drinking and doing nothing for 7 days straight was probably not the best thing for me (although it was fun!). Just the hike in almost killed me! Amazing how soft you become being lazy for a week! We did have a great day climbing - coming home, not so great...something about a $177 speeding ticket (but for what could have been worse case scenerio - not so bad to pay).

Monday I finally spent some time at my place, did some cleaning and laundry and then met Chandra for a couple pints on the patio for the afternoon. Very lovely.

Tuesday was a rude shock, having to get up for work! Although, I have to admit this week is turning out to be fun...they actually have me working at the market part time, learning the ropes there. I love it! It's nice to get out of the office for a bit. I still need a new job.

2 More Sleeps

2006-08-24T07:11:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited...2 more sleeps and I'm off to Salmon Arm to go house boating for a week! I went two years ago with (almost) the same gang of people heading out this year and we had the most spectacular time...tons of laughs, wonderful meals, great games, fantastic weather! I hope for the same next week...I'm sure it will be!

So between now and Saturday...I have tons to do!!! Each couple going is responsible for 3 meals (Ryan's not going (wahhhh!) but I'm being paired up with Chris for cooking) so we have to shop for all the food we're preparing, I have to pack, plus pick up random stuff from various places (like floaty things from my mom's house). I guess having all of that to do isn't too bad, but I'm still puppy sitting until tomorrow! So I'm not even at my house and that's causing a lot more running than I'd normally have to do this week. It will be all well worth it once I'm on the road though...I just hope I survive until then!

Weekend Update

2006-08-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

It was busy and rather go, go, go, but all in all a very fun weekend. It actually started on Thursday evening with drinks and dinner at Classic Jack's with Kelly and Chandra. That was a hoot! I think the three of us share the same mind! Rather scary at times but an absolute riot!

Chandra, Kelly and me at Jack's

Friday started off with a massage. Normally I would love that, but I threw my neck/back out and it didn't matter how much she worked those muscles, I still hurt after (I've since managed to crack it out and feel much better now)...there's just something missing when you leave a massage and you still can't move your head to one side. After that I met Leianne for lunch at the Cactus Club and caught up on life with her and then spent the afternoon running errands. Friday evening Ryan and I met up with Pete, Yvonne and Pepe for "Taste of Calgary". It was my first time attending and wow! -Lots of good food and drink!! I think Pete and Ryan were suffering a bit from adult ADD - there was just too much to choose from! We didn't spend tons of time there, the weather cooled down and our poor bodies just weren't used to it.

Ryan, Pete & Yvonne at "Taste of Calgary"

Ryan bought new golf clubs that day and was super excited about that. To say the least, I shouldn't have been surprised at 7am Saturday morning when he was all excited and eager to go golfing!! No sleep in's for this girl!! haha!! So we went golfing at Lake View (my second time ever on a course) Saturday morning and had a great time! I had to thank the two other gentlemen we golfed with for their patience...I certainly slowed the game down at times!

Saturday afternoon Ryan got an invite to go golfing again (lucky him!), which gave me the opportunity to finish errands and have a little nap. Saturday evening I met up with Allison, Jarred, Wero and John (visiting from NY) at the Ship and Anchor for some pints. It was awesome to see Wero and John again and I hope to get in another visit or two while they're here this week.

Alli, Wero and me

Sunday Chandra and I met up and ventured out climbing at Cougar Creek on our own. I think we did fairly well at it too...we're both still alive!! haha!! We stayed to the easier climbs...working on building the confidence to lead them on our own. More practice is needed for sure...but we're having tons of fun doing it! What we learnt on that trip - we need to learn how to use a squid and Chandra really is terrified of spiders!

Photos

2006-08-09T07:05:00.000-07:00

Not the best shot of Malcolm...but it is the four generations!!

Ryan in the Raspberry patch

Cougars Climbing

2006-08-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Okay...at one point we were cougars! haha!

I guess I missed posting last week....ummmm...We had a BBQ at Ryan's, did lots of climbing at Acephale and...Oh!...My cousin had her baby (3 weeks early!! but both mom and baby are doing great!!) - I'll get a picture of Malcolm on soon - he's adorable!!

Okay, this week. I'm still doing tons of house/plant/puppy/kitty sitting. It seems I have no less than 2 jobs going on at a time. Rather hectic and I think I'm nearning the end of all this "sitting". It was wonderful when I had no fixed address and was single...I miss my house now (and it's going to be another 6 weeks before I'm in it again!) and I miss Ryan too (not that I don't see him a lot, but I certainly feel that I miss out on lots having to tend to the pets). So I will finish the jobs I've booked to the end of the year and then it will be time to move on. Any one interested in "sitting" next year...I have a few people who would appreciate it!!

It was the long weekend and I certainly did not get much of one. My turn to work this weekend...so Saturday I worked in the morning, ran around to feed cats, water plants and walk dogs and then met up with Dave for a walk in Fish Creek. Sad but true - it was the first time I'd ever walked there. I think I got too much sun though and was pretty much done for the rest of the day!

Sunday I met up with Ryan and Chandra and we headed out to Cougar Creek to initiate Chandra's new rope and draws!! It's absolutely beautiful at Cougar...a few photos...

It's the back ground I'm going for here!

Chandra climbing...check out what the belayer has to stand on!
Almost at the top of Critical Mass - very fun climb!
I don't remember the name of the climb - it was a 5/7 - it was the initiation climb for the new rope and draws!!
It was a great day...weather was beautiful and hot (although you're not supposed to do it...I did rather appreciate Chandra lowering me into the river after my climb!), lots of laughs (as there always are) and great company!

Sunday, lucky me got to work again! Not that bad I guess...I was done by 10 am. Again, fed the cat, walked the dog, moved to the next house sitting job! I went out to High River for dinner at dad's and to see Michelle and Dave's new place (that's right, had the baby on a Friday and started moving into their new house on the Tuesday) and to meet Malcolm. Dinner was fantastic...Ryan made it out in time to eat as well and meet more of the family. I think the highlite for him was dad's raspberry bush in the back yard!

This week is a pretty normal one...but I'm looking forward to the weekend. My friends Wero and John are coming in from NY for a visit. Very excited for that!

Building a home

2006-08-03T07:13:00.000-07:00

I made a shocking discovery last night which leaves me no choice but to make a decision...either stay home all the time or purchase screens for my windows...

Damn pigeons!

Weekend Photos

2006-07-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

A little delayed, but just a couple shots from the weekend. Brooklynn with her wonderful face painting and the Mambo Productions booth with very shady people working inside! haah!!

Crazy Busy

2006-07-25T08:37:00.000-07:00

This summer is getting to be way too busy...some days I love it, other days I hate it! Last week was stupid busy with bosy boss away on holidays. Lucky me got to start at 5:30am three days in a row! Not so bad if I got to leave early...no, no such luck for this girly! It's apparently hard to leave work early when everyone else in the office are at meetings or golf tournaments! So busy and LONG days! I didn't like that too much, nor did I like having to work Saturday as well...I do look forward, however, to this Friday when I get the day off again!! Yeah!!! Sleep in!!

Friday night actually wasn't that busy for me...Ryan I chilaxed at his house, played some chess and watched a movie. Saturday I got up early to work and then Rye and I headed out to Acephale for the afternoon. It was brutally hot when we arrived there. Hiking up hill in 33 degree weather is not fun!! Okay - it's not fun for me! Ryan was apparently still having fun hiking up:)!! I did enjoy dunking my hat in the creek everytime we passed by it though. All that said...I forget pain quickly! Haha!!

I had a great afternoon climbing (climbing gibberish coming now!). I free pointed the 11a warm up on my third attempt and feel pretty confident the next time I go, I'll be able to redpoint it. I'm pretty excited to accomplish that!

Saturday night, we had some wonderful pizza and enjoyed watching Point Break (Keanu and Patrick - hot, hot, hot!!?!).

Sunday was the Sun and Salsa Festival in Kensington. I helped out Mambo Productions selling salsa lessons for the day. It was a great day! Again, the sun was shining and hot! Tons of people made it out to the festival including my mom and Brooklynn. I got to take off a little early to go home with them and we (Boo & I) had a blast running through the sprinkler and playing volley ball in mom's back yard.

Once we were done playing in the sun (actually the rain ended that for us!), I headed over to Rye's house and we ended up going to Moti Mahal for dinner. It was wonderful...so yummy!

It's now Tuesday afternoon and I'm happy to report that my week is half over!! Two more days till the weekend for me!

Weekend Up-Date

2006-07-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

It's busy this week for me as Bossy Boss is away on holidays for the week (I have to admit, Bossy has not been so bossy lately - rather nice!!) and now I have to figure out how to do his job and mine. Stressful at times, but I'm getting through it.

I had a fantastic weekend...as they often seem to be...I actually got Friday off from work! Wow!! I didn't really know what to do with myself, so I ran some errands, visited some friends and hung out with Ryan after work. I'll get better at using these days off though as I apparently have a few "Friday's off" coming my way. Yay!!!

Saturday ended up being a lazy day. Got my hair cut (nothing drastic!) and then spent most of the afternoon and evening visiting with mom.

Sunday I was supposed to go climbing with Chandra - but apparently the bull riding she did during Stampede caused some damage to her ankle and climbing was out. So I hooked up with Rye and troops and we headed out to Acephale. I always find it a bit embareassing to have to say (but everything at Acephale is really hard!) but the route I'm working there is the warm up! Haha!! It's actually called "The 11a Warm Up". And yes, it is an 11a (if you know climbing routes, you now know why I'm working it!). I will be so psyched if I can send this route by the end of summer!

Weekend Report

2006-07-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

I wish everyday could be a weekend - they're so much fun! I have a feeling though, that's not going to happen for another 30 years or so!!

Friday - I had to take my car into the shop for a leaky something underneath. Not sure what it is, but it's ready to pick up today and they didn't call to say "it's major "blah, blah" and is going to cost $bizzilions" so I'm assuming it was minor! One of the Reps at work was a sweetheart and leant me his truck for the weekend so I could still get around. So generous of him! Friday night I just hung out with Ryan and enjoyed an evening in (for a nice change!).

Saturday - It was my turn to work, so I spent the morning at the fish office. Rather a slow day, but I got lots done. I had to run a couple of deliveries after work and then met up with my friend Dave for the afternoon. We walked from my place down to Eau Claire and then back up 17th Ave, stopping at the Bier Market for a quick pint and then back to my place. It was hot and beautiful outside and that kicked my ass! I was exhausted for the rest of the day and didn't have any energy to do a thing! I mustered up enought get-go to get over to Ryan's house that evening and fortunately he was just as exhausted and we both crashed early.

Sunday is becoming a regular climbing day. We met up with Chandra and headed out to Cougar Canyon in Canmore. Gogeous walk in with amazing scenery everywhere...until the strom rolled in! Chandra was on a 10c route when it hit...she tried her best to get to the top to clean it, but just couldn't. So then Ryan had to climb up to clean the route. At that point, it was a full on storm and no protection from the rain what so ever!!! We looked like drowned rats by the time we left! Even though it was freezing and uncomfortably wet - we all had a great laugh and it was still, all in all, a good day.

Last night Ryan and I met up with his sister and dad for dinner at the Garlic Clove (I stink today!) and had a leisurly evening enjoying many different appetizers and fantastic wine. After dinner, we watched the rest of a movie we'd started earlier this weekend and then watched the lightning storm out side - pretty spectacular.

8 Year Anniversary

2006-07-06T08:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked Melissa and my 8-year anniversary of friendship! We celebrated by going to Chianti's for dinner...gorging ourselves with way too much food and wine. I loved every minute of it!

Luckiest Girl!!

2006-07-05T04:43:00.001-07:00

My opinion may be biased, but I think I'm the luckiest girl ever to have Ryan in my life. The sweetheart brought me these for making dinner last night.

Canada Day Long Weekend

2006-07-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

It was a great weekend, full of activities, friends, adventure and fun! A breif overview...

Friday

Appointment with Melissa and Bart's mom Mary to get "Pretty Toes"
Kayaking at Bowness Lagoon (I need to build more confidence for rolling)

Saturday

Finished looking after Nikki
Grocery shopping
Afternoon visit with Kathy
Dinner with Mom
Movie and sleep-over with Ryan

Sunday

Climbing at Lake Louise with Ryan, Pete and Yvonne
Dinner at the pub at Lake Louise Chateau (not the best experience)

Monday

Was supposed to go to Acephale to climb but was too tired and sore so I stayed home.
Laundry
Bought my first Grigri - in burgandy!
Visited with Melissa
Brad came over for dinner (and brought dinner too - great guest!!)

Now it's Tuesday and back to "real work". Although a short week is always nice!!

Weekend Photos

2006-06-27T08:54:00.000-07:00

Chandra & I at Moxie's

The Girls with Cabby Jose

BBQ with Weldon & Ryan

Aletha climbing

Chandra & I at Grassi
the 100th Birthday

Happy Girl!

2006-06-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

It's Monday morning and I'm exhausted from another busy weekend...all good stuff, but I need to learn to start resting now and again!!

Friday night I met up with Chandra and her friend Lisa for an evening of girl talk, food, drinking and dancing. It was so much fun! We had a wonderful cab driver - we named Jose - who was a just a hoot for our short drive from Morgans to Tantra! I should have booked him to drive me home though...apparently I was someone cabbies did not want to pick up when it was time to go home. Good thing I live within walking distance of most bars now - I was not impressed:(!

Saturday arrived way too early for the hang-over I was experiencing...but I had to get up and head off to work for the morning. Ran some errands after and then visitied Melissa at her dad's Mohawk for their grand re-opening. Got some great deals, but was too early for hot dogs and pop (boo-urns). Then I got the best surprise ever!!!! Ryan came home a day early from holidays! It was too hot to climb in Penticton, so they came home to get one more day of climbing in in Calgary. I love surprises like that!! So to say the least, I spent Saturday night with Ryan and his roomy Mike catching up on all the events of their holidays, making dinner, having some bevvies and just enjoying time together again.

Sunday morning was an early one again for me. I met up with Chandra and Aletha to head out climbing in Grassi for the morning (that was another surprise - Aletha missing church Sunday morning to come out climbing - I was delighted that she came!!). We had a great day and are feeling more and more confident climbing with out the boys. Aletha also did really well, being only her second time out. We got her up on a 5-8 and she gave it a good attempt...I think she's starting to get addicted like me! It was so much fun!

Leath and I had to head back to town early for a birthday dinner last night (strange but true, we celebrated my Popa and Great Uncle's 100th brithday even though they're both dead). Any reason to get together for good food with my family is always welcome! I tried to make it an early night, being tired from my day out in Grassi...but Ryan and I ended up renting movie and staying up rather late again...ugh - I tired today (all well worth it though :)) - I'm a very happy girl!

Three more Sleeps!

2006-06-22T10:27:00.000-07:00

Unless it's four. I will be very disapointed if Ryan decides to come home Monday...on the up side, he may be home by Saturday too! That really gets me giddy...but I'm trying to keep my cool. In the mean time I try to keep very busy.

I went bouldering both Tuesday and last night (had a really good session last night with Etienne), but I will definitely have to give my body a rest for a couple days now. I also met up with mom last night to watch "Take the Lead" with Antonio B. Yup - I'm a goof and I loved it, but probably more for the dancing than the actual story line or anything else.

Tonight it's dinner with Kelly and then off dancing with Alex. Tomorrow, possibly a piss-up with Chandra; work on Saturday morning and then climbing on Sunday with Chandra again. How does life always get so busy?!? Oh yeah, that's right - I'm trying to keep it busy to make the time pass by more quickly!!

Girl's Climbing!!!

2006-06-20T07:37:00.000-07:00

Although I had a very full and fun weekend the highlight of my weekend was climbing at Grassi with Chandra and Aletha. Our very first attempt climbing with no boys! It was awesome!!

Okay - back it up now....Friday night...I met up with Miss Alli at Ceili's for a tardy-birthday drink (sorry again Alli!) but couldn't stay too long. I also had to make an apperance at Juan's for yet another "Student's Night Out" with Mambo Productions. An evening full of drinks, dancing and good friends, makes for a good night!

Saturday morning I cursed the road crew who started working at 7am. Usually that wouldn't be much of an issue as I'm an early riser...but having not gone to bed until 1am the night before...I was not a happy camper! After being rudly awaken, I spent most of the day chilaxing, meeting up with Melissa for lunch and to do pretty toes and then off to visit Brad for dinner and a movie. Another fantastic day!

Sunday! Chandra, Leath and I met up for photos...a very belated mother's day/mom's birthday/father's day-but maybe on time for dad's birthday present...We wandered around Confederation Park and I think we got some pretty good shots. We even climbed trees! After we were done with our posing...it was off to Grassi.

It was Aletha's first time climbing and we set her up on a 5'7 (really should have started on a 5'5). She didn't make it up too far the first time, but it's also very scary climbing for the very first time. Leath hung out and watched Chandra and I attempt a couple routes and then we were back with her on the 5'5 which she successfully ascended. I was so proud of her!

Chandra and I decided to try out Choss Toss (the 10b/11a route I'm determind to finish this summer) but really didn't make it past the second clip. Then we had to figure out how to get the equipment down from the second clip - that proved to be interesting and scary (at one point I was postive that Chandra had, at the very least, sprained both her ankles!). We managed though and considered ourselves to be quite deserving of the beer we had left in the lake on the way up to the car.

I'm not sure why I'm so excited about this climbing trip - but I think it's because Chandra and I really did do it on our own! I'm hoping to get out again soon...just the girls! On that note - I miss Ryan dearly!! BUT only 5 more sleeps until he's back!

For Reid

2006-06-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

Ask and you shall receive!!

Yeah!!!!

2006-06-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

For once I love the rain!!! Ryan's golf tournament got canceled today due to the rain and he's on his way home this afternoon. My perma-grin is back - I'm a very happy girl!!

Wednesday Blahs

2006-06-14T05:25:00.000-07:00

It's Ikky Wednesday again and I'll admit that it's not been a good start to the day...A thunder storm woke me up in the middle of the night - possibly a good thing as the rain was pouring in my open windows!! And I forgot to turn on my alarm last night! I still managed to make it into work for 6am though (and that's waking up at 5:36) - damn I'm good!! (Tee-Hee)

This past weekend...

Saturday I attended a salsa & swing workshop during the day. Was taught techniques and new patterns from world winning salsa dancers Maria and Jose. The day was tons of fun and challenging, but in the end completely pooped my out and I ended up not going to the evening events for their performances and social dancing. I've learnt my lesson for the next workshop...don't do all the classes available and expect to keep dancing that night!! I didn't feel to bad for missing the social dance part as it's our end of season Student's night out this Friday...I will be there!

Sunday, Ryan and I took our chances at Lake Louise for climbing (the weather wasn't being overly cooperative) and managed to get in a fairly decent day. The two French Men also joined up with us for the afternoon, which was fun. We timed our departure well; the skies opened up and poured on us just as we were nearing the parking lot to leave! We decided to stop for a hot tub in Banff on the way back and then had dinner in Canmore as well. It was a fantastic day!!

Ryan's away on business this week and then is turning around and is on holidays for 10 days - I'm a very sad girl and I already miss him (but he's having fun so I guess that counts for something too;)). I was planning to meet up with him on his holidays in Penticton for a weekend, but life just keeps throwing more and more obstacles at me to keep me from going. I guess it will just be that much more exciting to see him when he gets back now! I can't wait!!

Ikky Wednesdays

2006-06-07T06:39:00.000-07:00

I've decided that I really do not like Wednesdays any more. They start way to early in the morning...really, how human is it to have to be at work for 5:30am??!?!? The day just drags on way too long - did I mention I have a work meeting today that starts at 3:30pm for about an hour? ARGH!!

To add insult to injury, I woke up this morning with a sty and a cold sore!

I hate Wednesdays!!

(On the up side, Melissa and Ryan came over for dinner yesterday and the evening was very nice - Tuesdays are good!)

Weekend Photos

2006-06-07T06:26:00.000-07:00

Jon & Sara at the Ship
Rope burn from falling off Meet Hooks

Mik & Mel - I thought you might get a kick out of this one!!

Chris - once the love of my life - What was I thinking?!?!

Late Report!

2006-06-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

My gosh!! I'm behind on my weekend post!! Time to catch up!

Friday afternoon I enjoyed a couple pints on the patio at the Ship and Anchor where I finally got to meet Sara (Jon's soon to be wife!!). We had a really nice visit but short. I headed home to rest and get some things done for Saturday night and then was to head back out to Jon's for his going-away party...but instead, fell asleep! How pathetic after only 2 beers!!!

-Jon - I'm sorry I missed the party...I hope you have a safe journey and congratulations to both you and Sara!! I'm so happy for you!!

Saturday...I went climbing at Grassi with Ryan (what a shock!!). Very proud of myself...I red pointed "Real Good Time", onsighted a route on Gardener's Wall and started working a route on "Meat Hooks". (I realize this is gibberish to many of you...just think "good for you!")

Saturday evening my family had a small birthday celebration for mom (and they finally got to meet Ryan!). It turned out to be a great evening. Ryan is wonderful and managed to fit right in with my quirky family...(I have the best boyfriend in the world!!).

Sunday I decided to pass on climbing and stay in town to get some things done. Did a little shopping at Deerfoot Mall and then had a visit with Kathy & Roger in the afternoon. It was so nice to see them...it's been way too long!!! In the evening I got an invite from Chandra for dinner (that girl is amazing as she just moved into her new place the day before!!), so I had an enjoyable evening with her (Rye and Weldon stopped by too for a quick hello).

My gawd - I look back and it was a really busy weekend!!

My new favourite game

2006-05-30T06:54:00.000-07:00

Strip Mini Golf (played at Ryan's house). It's a game you just can't lose at!

Sorry - no photos this time :)

Bragg Creek Comp

2006-05-29T07:16:00.000-07:00

This weekend just flew by! Of course I had to work on Saturday, so that never helps with the whole "I have a two day weekend" thing!!

Friday night was faily relaxing with mini-golf and dinner at Ryan's. We had the Frenchman over as well...I will admit, I'm still in awe when it came to cleaning up dinner. They made me sit and drink my wine while they cleaned up everything!! I'm not used to that - haha!! It was an early night as work starts early Saturday morning - blah!!

Saturday, once I was done work, I headed to the gym to climb with Chandra for a bit. Jon showed up as well and we had a short bouldering session too. I didn't work too hard though, as I was invited to a competition that evening out in Bragg Creek.

I met up with Pepe in the afternoon to head out to the comp. It was an interesting set up...The comp was held by a fellow climber, Dominique, who has built a bouldering wall in his 3-car garage. This was his third annual competition and it's by invite only that you may compete (my invite was solely through association). About 20 people showed up - I recognized most of them - and we were allowed 3 hours to climb. There were 30 different problems, each one worth 10 points, every fall you took attempting the problem you subtracted one point.

Number of problems I completed - zero!

Part way through the evening though, I realized this competition was set up for the small group of climbers who were invited - all of whom are excellent climbers (one of them even a professional). I didn't feel so bad then! I figure I added some entertainment value as well...I certainly still attempted lots of different problems and laughed lots!

After climbing, we visited, ate tons of food, drank beer and played a few games. Ryan and I didn't stay too long (he showed up late as he was taking a course during the day) which was fine by me...I could hardly keep my eyes open on the way home!

Sunday was the perfect rainy day...I felt no pangs of guilt staying home and doing nothing all day! I think my body truly appreciated that as well!

Here's a photo of Ryan and Cathy climbing - photos of me are on someone elses camera (hopefully some day I'll get some copies for me to laugh at!)

So Random

2006-05-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

It's Saturday morning, it's raining, I'm extremely tired and I'm at work...but life is good! I feel like sharing some random thoughts in my head (I'm in a rather weird head space today!)

I love feather rests on beds - puppy sitting this week, I got to sleep on one. It's like sleeping on a cloud (cloud 9 of course).

In door mini golf at Ryan's - still a ton 'o fun! Although I was cooking last night while the game took place (Pepe came over for dinner). Some how it was still fun for me even though I wasn't playing! I'm going to play the next game.

I have a stupid grin on my face all the time - I love the feeling that goes with the grin!

Excited to for the bouldering competition I'm going to tonight in Bragg Creek (in someone's basement!!). It's lots of climbers (obviously), food, beer and fun. I'm sure you'll get to read all about it next week.

I need a nap!

Long Weekend Fun

2006-05-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

Tuesday morning after a long weekend and I will say - Life is Fantastic!! I think I'm still on a high from the weekend...the natural kind of course!!

The weekend started off with Kelly and Matt coming over to Ryan's house for a BBQ. We played a complete 9-hole game of mini golf inside Rye's house...It was a riot!! I look forward to many more indoor golf games!!

Saturday morning we were up early and off to Acephale to the lower wall (somewhat easier routes there for me) where I spent the morning working...."Keys Locked in Car" 10c?...(I need to get my own guide book because I don't remember!!). I made some good progress (in my mind at least - ha ha), but had to leave early to head back to town for a dinner. I left Ryan there and he spent the rest of the day at the upper wall working "Sweet Thing" (13something - or really hard!!). I looked like crazy girl walking back down to the car...someone mentioned to make some noise to keep the bears away. I had a wonderfully loud conversation with myself for the 35/40 minutes it took to get down the hill! Not a great time to run out of water either - very dry mouth when I got to my car...but was so happy to find bottled water we forgot in my car!!

Saturday night I met up with my dad and we went to visit Rose and Giermo (friends he met in Mexico) for dinner. It was such a beautiful night, but (and I should really know better) I was exhausted from climbing and ended up being the party pooper and leaving around 9pm...really sad considering I was the youngest there by 30years!!

Sunday morning, it was up early again (this time I woke up saying "oww - my body hurts!") and Rye and I picked up Chandra and were off to Lake Louise. Ended up having to take a bit of a detour due to a car accident, but still got there in fairly good time. Now this is where I have to admit that I am the most pathetic Calgarian ever...in my 31 years of life, that was the first time I'd ever been to Lake Louise! Truly sad - I know. (Thank you Ryan for finally taking me there!)

Lake Louise was fantastic!! First off, I really like the hike in - no up hill what so ever (yeah!!), the scenery is gorgeous and there's tons of routes to choose from. We spent the entire day there and got lots of climbing in...or at least as much as we could each handle! We were almost like walking zombies leaving, we were so tired!! I'm excited to go back though!

Rye, me, Chandra, Peggy, Sam & Hoggy

Chandra climbing

On our way back, we stopped in Canmore at the Rose and Crown to meet some more of Ryan's friends and to have dinner and pints. We didn't stay too long; keeping our eyes open at that point was really difficult! To say the least, it was early to bed again Sunday night.

Jeff, Danny, Andrea, Mike, Ryan & me

Monday it was yet another early morning...but this time I got to go home and take a nap...not so bad!! I ended up doing nothing all day Monday...and I think it was needed. My body definitely took a beating this weekend with all that climbing!! All well worth it though and I can't wait to get out to do more!!

Prarie Climb

2006-05-18T07:21:00.000-07:00

All right Jon - here's your mid-week post!

I was prepared to tell you all about the Big Rock Clean Up I was supposed to go to last night...but alas, plans changed. First off, what's the Big Rock Clean Up? It's an annual event put on by the Calgary Mountain Club to help preserve an climbing area out by Okotoks. From what I've heard, lots of people go, pick up garbage, drink some beer, do some bouldering and generally have a good time. Ryan and I had every intention of going last night...but then Ryan decided that with the beautiful weather we should really take advantage of Prarie (another north facing wall that's cold to climb on unless it's damn hot outside!!).

So we went to Prarie.

We stopped for some fantastic Vietnamese on the way out of town and then drove out to Powder Face trail to hike up to Prarie ... either it wasn't that bad of a hike, or I am getting used to hiking because it really wasn't that bad! We ended up being the only two up there and it was awesome!!

Ryan had me work a route called Pleb which is a 9+, and I managed to red point it on my third attempt!! (red point - climbing a route from start to finish with out taking or falling, but knowing how to climb it because you've worked on it) Not only that, I cleaned the route as well!! (Cleaning - basically securing yourself at the top of the route, taking your rope off and retying again through chains so you can bring down all your gear - scary!!). I was so excited for doing it! I also have to say that I admire Rye's patience with me and climbing and having to stay on really easy routes for him because of me...I appreciate it!!

Of course by the time I did red point Pleb (and I'm glad I did when I did because Rye said we weren't leaving until I did!) the sun was starting to set, so we hiked back to the car and drove back to Calgary. We decided that we were both starving (I had forgotten we had actually eaten dinner before we left; I was that hungry!!), so we stopped at one of Rye old watering holes (Buffalo Bill's - I think) for wings and beer - so yummy after climbing and hiking!! I think it was close to 11:30 when we got home and I will admit - I was exhausted!!

I hate my alarm clock and I'm tired today - but it's such a good tired!

Whirl Wind of a Weekend

2006-05-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

It's Monday!! Time to post (Jon, I will try to do more than one post this week just for you!!).

It was a super busy weekend but so much fun was had!! Friday night, Rye came over for dinner and then we headed down to the Mercury for drinks with his friends from high school. I have to admit, it was dissapointing how little dirt they had on Ryan for having known him for so long. I expect better!! After a while, we sauntered over to the Rose and Crown to hang out with people from CCC for JayLo's birthday party. It was fun to see them outside of the gym...they're good people.

After far too many beers, we finally headed home and crashed. Saturday morning was not as pleasant as it could have been...damn hangovers!! That didn't stop us though from heading out to Acephale for the day. For my first time there, I think I did all right with the hike in...only a couple areas where it got quite steep - and I was somewhat embarrassed for having to stop and rest at one point - I realized afterwards that I truly was only 2 minutes from our destination!! Acephale for beginner climbers is not the kindest wall! I started working Batile which is an 11b (very hard route for me in other words!!) and couldn't even get past the third bolt. This is the easiest route at the upper wall of Acephale and was the warm-up route for the rest of the boys...me, I had trouble figuring out how to even start the damn thing!! Having frozen fingers didn't help either! So I didn't do much climbing at all but thouroughly enjoyed the camp fire and roasting marshmellows for the majority of the day!

By the time we got back to Calgary it was almost 7pm and I was supposed to be at Alex's (my salsa teacher) house for 6pm for munchies, wine and salsa videos. So I arrived late and camp-fire smelly (yup, I passed on showering - I'm sure Alex loved me for that!!). I got lots of info on salsa competitions and performances and hopefully in about a years time, I will be doing the same! I'm very excited for that!!

I was way too tired (and smelly) to go out dancing with her after, so I headed back to Ryan's where there was supposed to be a get together...but alas...I've finally met someone who throws parties like me. Ryan and his roommate were the only two there!! A couple of the guys who had been out climbing with us earlier that day did stop by for a bit, but I have to admit, I was delighted to be able to go to bed early that night.

Sunday was my first relaxing day so to speak. I did some much needed cleaning and laundry at home for the morning. I headed out to watch Melissa play base ball for a bit in the afternoon...where I managed to burn half my body very nicely (a walking piece of art I am!!) and then went home for a quick nap before heading to Leath's house for mommy's day dinner. And what a lively bunch we were that night!! We had eaten and cleaned up everything are were out the door to go home by 7:30! Of course as tired as I was, I wasn't smart enough to stay home, but instead met up with Ryan again to watch a movie. So another late night (really not smart to do on Sunday night!), but worth it!

I have a few things going on during the week...but I think I will wait and post later on about them...(would that make you happy Jon?)

And of course I also have photos from the weekend...but I forgot my camera today, so they will turn up here soon enough!

Photos

2006-05-09T12:38:00.000-07:00

As usual the photos are not up-loading!! Here's the second attempt.

Barrier Lake

2006-05-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

It's Monday again and time to post!

Had a busy weekend this weekend, but it was fun! Friday night I went over to Ryan's for dinner (stuffed pork tenderloin and veggies - yummy!) and a movie (Fever Pitch - not that bad!). Spending time with Ryan is always a good way to start anything it seems these days and it was a super way to start the weekend!!

Saturday I had to work the morning...blah...but then I got to enjoy a nap almost all afternoon! I meant to only lie down for a half hour, but apparently turned my alarm off without knowing and slept for almost 2 hours. I guess I needed the rest and I refused to feel guilty about it! I then met Melissa for some afternoon cocktails and munchies. It was great to hear all about her trip to P.E.I and Halifax (I'm so jealous!). I dropped her off at Bart's parents place and then headed to Joey's Eau Claire to meet Ryan and Etienne for dinner. We had some really good laughs and I enjoyed hearing all their stories of climbing at Acephale that day. I'm looking forward to making it out there someday, but apparently I won't be climbing much there - way too advanced for this beginner! Ryan and I just went back to his place to relaxed and had an early night.

Sunday was an early morning. We decided to head out to Barrier Lake to go climbing with Chandra. Not a bad hike in...I'm still getting used to this hiking thing! The view was fantastic from the base, but the wind was not pleasant! Rye assured us girls that once the sun came out, it would be beautiful...and I'm sure it would have been beautiful had the clouds gone away as well. None the less, we pulled through and got some good climbs in - or at least good beginner climbing!! I took my first un-intended fall (scared the crap out of me) and I'm a little bruised from it but still very much alive! The sun did evenutally make an appearance just as we decided we were too cold and tired to carry on...so back to Calgary we went.

Once we got back into town, it was a quick shower and off to mom's for dinner. I felt bad at 7:30 when I told her I had to leave...I could hardly keep my eyes open! It was another early night for me!

I have a feeling that many of my post-weekend posts will be about climbing now...sorry.

What to do?

2006-05-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

It's Friday; almost noon; and I have nothing to do!! I am so bored at work right now and the worst part is trying to appear to be busy. I do not want to admit my bordem at the office in fear that there's some horrific job that actaully does need to be done...like scrubbing some corner floor with a toothbrush! It's way too geogeous outside to be sitting in-doors doing nothing.

3 more hours till quiten' time!

Photos

2006-05-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

Ryan having a snack - and no - harnesses do not look appealing on men!!

My belayer paying close attention to my climb!!

The view at Grassi

Leads at Grassi and More

2006-05-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

I have to say this was a fantastic weekend! Of course Ryan and I went to Grassi Lake on Friday after work and I completed four climbs - all of which I lead!! I was super excited to find out the last climb I did was rated a 9/10a...we forgot the guide book to know what routes we were actually climbing! It was an awesome experience and I can't wait to get out and do more! We stopped in Canmore for dinner at the Grizzly Paw on our way back to town and I have to admit, I can't remember a beer ever tasting so good! I guess that happens when you put that much work before hand - Ha Ha!! It was pretty late getting back to Calgary, so it was home and off to bed right away for me.

Saturday ended up being a busy day with lots of errands to run and cleaning to do. I went to CCC for a couple hours in the afternoon and had a fairly good session with Chandra and Etienne (which also included drinking green tea and eating cookies!). I was ticked with myself for not completing one route I've been working on for a while now...I fell off going for the very last hold and had no energy left to attempt it again. Shit! I had fun just the same!

Saturday evening involved family coming over for dinner. Cousin Michelle and hubby Dave were originally invited, then dad got back from PV and I could hardly wait to see him so he got the invite and then, of course, you have to invite mom and sis. It worked out well and a lively bunch we were that evening. Everyone was fed-up full , fading off to sleep and left at 9pm. Yeah! Party animals!!

Sunday's sleep-in was greatly appreciated as well as a generally relaxing day...until...I realized I had to get my taxes done and the person who helped me was my Uncle in High River. So Sunday turned into a nice day for a drive out in the country! Sunday night Ryan came over for dinner and movie (which we never got around to watching - much more interesting conversations going on instead!), but it ended up being a very late night and I"m certainly paying for it today:(!

All in all though....terrific weekend!

Here's the photos I promised from Grassie.

Okay, so posting photos is not working right now...I will try again later. Blahghghg!

Hooray Hooray

2006-05-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

Hooray Hooray
The first of May
Outdoor screwing
Starts today!!

Grassie - Here I Come!

2006-04-28T08:14:00.000-07:00

It feels like summer is finally here this week and all I've been able to do is work and sleep! Blah!! I've been battling a head cold/flu like thing all week and it really kicked my ass, however, I think I am finally making a come back and will be able to fully enjoy the beautiful weekend coming up. I may be a little over-zealous too...I've just made plans to go to Grassie after work for climbing - I get to practice lead climbs too!!! Admittedly I'm rather nervous. It's the first time out-side climbing for me this season and I've grown to be really comfortable in the gym. I'm heading out with Ryan G and I know he trustworthy and patient. I just hope he'll enjoy his afternoon climbing with such a newbie!

Hopefully I will have photos on Monday to post!

Firemen!! YES!!

2006-04-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

A wonderful weekend was had!! First off, had a date on Friday night! I'm apparently not really into dating yet...but have a good friend out of it now and Ryan is someone I can drink beers with and go outside climbing with - bonus!! Saturday I had a great session at CCC and accomplished some more difficult routes (with much help from Etienne and Josh - thank you!) and then got to have lunch with Etienne at the Cactus Club - yummy good food and company!

Saturday night I got to go the Lady's Night Out at the Italian Club for the Fireman's Burn Unit Charity fund raiser (that's a mouth full!!). Oh my god it was sooo much fun!! I will admit, at times it was embarassing to see how that many women in one room with hot men will act (especially when those men aren't their husbans or boyfriends). And, yes, I enjoyed the debauchery as well! First time I've been drunk in a long time too. I really didn't like Sunday!

Our fireman waiter - Devon with Leianne, me and Erin

Alanis, shirtless Derrick and Erin

Alanis' shooter time!

The Girls! - Leianne, AJ, Erin and me

Disastrous

2006-04-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

I don't know if it's karma coming down on me or if it's just I'm a disaster when I have a cold! I've got the sniffles/not-quite-there sneezes/watery eyes head cold...along with that, my hair dryer died this morning (I'm a vision of beauty today), and if I walk into one more thing, I think amputating my left leg would be the best answer! My left shin is killing me from walking into a cart this morning...all black and blue and still rather swollen.

No, it's not karma - I'm just a plain disaster!!

Issues!!!!

2006-04-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

I don't know why this happens...sometimes pictures up-load, sometimes they don't. Rather frustrating!!

Any way, a few photos from the weekend...

Prego No. 1 - Melanie & Suresh

Saturday night beers with Allison, Melanie, Suresh & Malcolm

Jarred, Bry & Caroline

Prego No. 2 Michelle (front row with me) and the family for Easter Dinner

Easter Weekend

2006-04-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

First off I hope you all had a wonderful Easter weekend and that the Easter bunny was wonderful to you!!

My long weekend wasn't so long this time. I had to work on Good Friday, but with a wonderful twist of fate, I was sent home early. When they said we were closed that day, we were really meant to be closed!! Of course every other long weekend there's been over the past year, we've had to work the holiday Friday/Monday, so really, why would I think any different this time?! So work was done by 9:15 and I got the rest of the day to do what ever I wanted! Really exciting having that extra time to get laundry done! I did get out to the Calgary Climbing Centre to do some bouldering and then the rest of the day I truly did nothing!!

Saturday morning started with having to go to work - again! This time I had to stay for the duration of the morning. Boo hoo. After work, I went to check on Dolly (Kelly's cat) and then relaxed for the rest of the afternoon. Had a surprise visit from Brad and ended up going over to his friend's house for a quick beer before heading out to meet up with Melanie and Suresh.

It was wonderful to see M & S and to rub M's tummy (the first of the pregos)! She's just starting to show and I'm just so excited for her!!! We had a great visit and they got to come over to my humble abode for some sweets at the end of the evening. One dissapointment - they forgot to bring the pictures from their ultra sound. I'm quite anxious to see the photo of their son sucking his thumb!

Sunday was truly a day off for me, but busy as usual. I went to see Dolly again and then met Chandra at CCC. Scooted off to mom's after where Aletha met us and drove down to High River for Easter turkey dinner - yum! Got to rub prego belly number 2. My cousin Michelle is about 10 days ahead of Melanie. Just starting to show as well and again, I'm just so excited! I love babies!!!

Weekend of the Prego's!

2006-04-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

Easter weekend's coming up and I get to spend the majority of it with pregnant women! I'm actually quite excited. Melanie and Suresh are coming up from California for the weekend. They just found out this week that they're having a boy and are now researching Indian names. I just can't wait to see the pictures they have so far from the ultra sound.

Then on Sunday it's out to High River where my cousin Michelle is pregnant too (about 5 months I think?).

I appologize now to both you girls...I will be feeling your tummies!!

Friday's Salsa night

2006-04-11T07:18:00.000-07:00

I had fantastic fun on Friday night dancing the night away. The performance went fairly well...I only screwed up when I heard someone in the crowd scream out "check out the hottie in the back!!". Seeing as I was the only girl on stage at that point, I knew it was me and I got all flustered...but eventually got back into it to finish. We all had a good laugh.

The rest of the evening I spent dancing with various people...including icky Mike (he managed to get me up for a bachata...I did not like it!!), but I thouroughly enjoyed dancing with everyone else. Melissa came out to watch as well and got bits and pieces on video - I love watching it.

After our evening at Juan's was complete - I could not dance another step I was so tired - Melissa and I went back to my place for a few drinks and she ended up crashing there (at 3:30am when no cab had arrived still, we decided it was better just to sleep!!). To say the least, such a late evening for me resulted in a right-off for the rest of the weekend.

Saturday was very quiet - I drove M home and then puttered around the house. I did manage to get out to pick up a propane tank and have a quick visit with mom. Dave came over that evening for dinner (somewhat for selfish reasons - I wanted someone else to hook up the propane - it scares me!!), but it was an early evening and he left at about 9pm and I was in bed by 10!!

Sunday was super quiet as well - I got out to the climbing wall for a couple of hours and mom came over for a last minute dinner.

That's it, that's all!! I think I'm still recovering from Friday night (I also put my back out, so quiet is good until I can stand up straight again).

Salsa Friday

2006-04-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

I'm excited for Friday night. The salsa classes I've been taking with Mambo Productions always have a student's night out at the end of each term. Tomorrow night is our party night and the class I'm in gets to perform. I'm anxious, excited & nervous. We performed at the last student night and it was fun and I'm sure it will be again tomorrow...the hardest part right now is figuring out what to wear!! We've been given strict instructions that black is not allowed and that a dress is preferable- good-bye 3/4 of Alanis' wardrobe!!

Weekend in Review

2006-04-03T07:27:00.000-07:00

It's the first Monday after Daylight savings and I am really dragging my ass today. It's 8:30am and I already need a nap! Although it could be a result of this weekend's debauchery too.

Friday night started as usual, with Latin dancing (we learnt the Cha-Cha!). Afterwards, I met up with Kelly and Matt at Brewsters DT for a couple pints, but ended up having a fairly early evening.

Saturday was my last day looking after Max, so the morning was spent cleaning/washing sheets and towels, taking Max for a walk, packing, etc. I spent most of my after noon at the climbing gym. (Apparently I'm getting over-ambitious with the bouldering problems I'm choosing, but Etienne is taking great pleasure in finding other problems for me to do to learn the technique required for the more difficult routes. I love it!!) After that, got cleaned up and went over to Brad & Derek's for dinner and a movie (Memoirs of a Gisha). The movie was okay, it wasn't really what I expected it to be...very much a chick-flick. After that (if you can believe it) Brad and I went to the Underground for a CD release party. One of his co-workers (Steve) is the lead singer for Inner Surge. Can't say it's music I could really appreciate; although Steve does have a very nice voice, you rarely heard it as he prefered to scream. So really, not my cup of tea!

I did find this amazing though...it's been about 10 years since I've been to the Underground/Warehouse (at one point it was where I practically lived) and the bouncer at that time is now a bar tender. He remebered me! I couldn't believe it!

After the Underground, Brad came over for a few munchies and water. He finally left at about 3am...that' just wayyyyy tooo late for me!

Sunday, I was pissed off when I woke up at 7:30. I need more sleep! I did manage to have a short nap in the morning, but it wasn't enough. I just puttered around the house, got some groceries, had a quick visit with Melissa in her new place and then had dinner with mom and Aletha. I was thankful that mom's feeling under the weather (not good for her) and was completely pooped by 7:30 and sent us home. Last night was early to bed, but damn, I think it's going to take me another couple of days to recover from Saturday night!! Getting old sucks!

I got 5th place!!

2006-03-29T06:40:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately there were only 5 girls in the beginner category!

Second Attempt

2006-03-27T11:46:00.000-08:00

I don't know what's going on, but all the photos keep dissapearing...it's pissing me off...here's another try.

Adam & me

Apparently I stand with my hands in my chalk bag alot - it's my pacifier!

Ryan climbing above & with me below

Ross' Birthday - BBQ at Geoff & Leianne's

The results are NOT in

2006-03-27T09:13:00.000-08:00

The Tour De Bloc competition was a ton of fun...extremely hard...but fun. How did I rate overall? I really couldn't tell you yet as I don't know! The competition went from 12:20 to 4:40, then there was a break for dinner for an hour and then the elite climbers competed for a couple hours. After all of that's done, they have their awards ceremony - I was at Geoff and Lei's for a BBQ at that time...so I do not know how I did...but I will let you know when I find out.

As for how I think I did... There were 30 routes to do; number one being the easiest, 30 the hardest. Each route is worth so many points (route 30 being worth the most) and you lose points if it takes you more than one attempt to complete the route. The judges take your 8 best climbs to calculate your total. I was not in a math mood to figure out my total, but choosing my best 8 was easy... I only completed routes 1-7!! I said it once, I will say it again: It was Hard!!

Still I had a blast doing it and look forward to the next competition! Here's some shots of the weekend (really I was climbing in these photos...I just never got far off the ground when people were around to take pictures).

Etienne - Climbing above; with me below

wish me luck

2006-03-24T07:43:00.000-08:00

I do question my own sanity in this matter...I have actually registered myself for a climbing competition that's taking place this Saturday!! My hands start to sweat just thinking about it!!! I'm competing in the women's beginner level (of course!) and am hoping that it will just be a ton of fun. I'll let you all know how I do next week!

Marketing Dinner

2006-03-22T06:04:00.000-08:00

Well lucky me finally got to attend my first marketing meeting last night. I was rather bitter about the whole thing too. The invite came about 3 hours after everyone else was informed (my guess, someone here mentioned that maybe I should attend as an after thought), then I was ticked as I had planned to boulder most of last night and to top it off, I really wasn't keen on spending my time with work people - especially bossy boss. Well it turned out that I got to leave early from work so I got in 2hours of bouldering and bossy boss feels a little sicky and didn't make it to dinner - ah poo!

The evening itself was actually quite nice. We dined at the Highwood (a restaurant at SAIT where all the staff are students training for the industry) where we enjoyed a 5-course meal (I could have stopped after salad - I was full then). My dinner was appetizer: snow-crab cake with avocado and red pepper sauce, soup: seafood bisque, salad: classic caesar, main: rack of lamb, dessert: dark chocolate creme brulee with chocolate truffles. I think I gained 50lbs last night!

As for the marketing side of things...interesting taking it all in. It seems as though everyone wants to say more about bossy boss, but not willing to come out directly with it. Of course there's still no sign of me getting any more responsibilities in the marketing department (which they hired me to do!).

All in all it was a pleasant evening...other than it went a little later than I'd hoped for and getting up at 4:15 this morning was not pleasant!

Oh BTW - I have officially started working on my resume! Soon now, soon, I will be taking that leap into something new - hopefully good too!

Something I love

2006-03-16T13:17:00.000-08:00

I always love mornings like this but never actually take the time to take photos. I decided that work could wait an extra 10 minutes today...I would have loved to have more time but alas I was filled with guilt.

This is something I love to see - the eerie calmness of hoar frost.

What Mixed Drink Am I

2006-03-15T10:21:00.000-08:00

God I hope this works

You Are an Appletini

Most of the time, you're a typical party girl / guy.But when you get super sauced, you really up your sex appeal.

What Mixed Drink Are You?

A lovely week - No yelling!!

2006-03-15T06:16:00.000-08:00

Another crazy week it's been for me...although nice crazy this week (mean boss is in Boston this week - YEAH!!!!). So I've had the luxury of not being yelled at all week. It is a lot of extra work (I somehow have to figure out how to do his job while he's away) and I'm exhausted by the end of the day...but I say well worth it:)!

So what have I done...
Friday - Work, then dance class (which I'm going to look into to see if I can help teach the beginner class next semester) and then I met up with Kelly and Matt and Classic Jacks for a couple of pints.

Saturday - was my day off, but ended up working! Did a bit of bouldering at CCC, met Melissa for a couple of pints and then went to Hillhurst United Church for an evening of Salsa dancing - very fun! Apparently they have this about once a month, so I'm looking forward to going again...I need to practice dancing when there's no choreography (not the best at that!!)

Sunday - my "do nothing" day, other than I went to CCC for a couple of hours again.

Monday - just worked (way too long of a day!)

Tuesday - Work and then met Jon at CCC to boulder again.

And of course the whole time I've been puppy sitting too...gosh I seem to be a busy girl. I'm rather looking forward to next week when I have no dogs and get to be back in my own place.

The pups: Kaley, Toffee and Kristie

2006-03-09T07:10:00.000-08:00

I think I'm becoming a climbing addict! I went bouldering last night on my own and was fortunate enough to have a fellow climber, Etienne, spend time with me, teaching me much needed climbing basics. As he called it "Climbing 101". I love that someone is actually taking time out to help me along. Learning just the little that I am, gets me motivated to climb even more! I love it!!

Climbing 101 - the first thing I learnt is how to tape my fingers properly (I mean really, we started at the very beginning!)

Other than that there are four things I have to have put into memory by next week:

1. Movement is alway left, right, left, right
2. When moving your right hand up, all your weight is on your right foot and vice versa
3. Your hips are either square to the wall or at 45 degrees (or more) - if you're turning your hips, your left hip is against the wall when you're reaching up with your left hand and vice versa
4. Use the tip of your shoe and not the side - you get more power this way

It seems so obvious, but put it to practice and I can hardly tell my left from right!

Climbing & Sicky

2006-03-08T08:29:00.000-08:00

I went bouldering/climbing last night at the Calgary Climbing Centre with Jon - fun as always. We had a race going on all week as to who could finish "The Red Route" first...Jon won last night. I, however am not giving up - I must finish it!! I'll let you know when I do - it could take me a week or two:).

Today was another 5:30 morning for me at work, and I'm wondering now if I'm coming down with something...in a way I cheer (maybe some time off work) and then I worry (no dancing or climbing if I'm sick). I did not sleep well last night so that could be part of it, but I can almost feel the sickness creeping into my body. I don't like it! Time to up my dose on vitamin C.

It's for the dogs

2006-03-06T11:41:00.000-08:00

I spent the weekend looking after William and Rachel again. They're easy kids to deal with as they pretty much can take care of themselves, but man, do they have energy! I was exhausted every night and I really didn't do much of anything. They talk non stop! And they can't stand still while they're talking...a little over-stimulating if you ask me.

Any way, I'm feeling rather overwhelmed right now as I seem to be doing stuff for everyone else and not myself (who's fault is that - mine!). I miss my place and I'm starting to resent dogs that need so much attention. I've taken on dog-sitting jobs for almost the entire month. I know the extra money is a good thing, and I just have to grin and bear it. April, I will have my life back. In the mean time there isn't much of a "social butterfly" in me these days.

He did what?!?

2006-03-06T11:29:00.000-08:00

I had a very shocking moment today - My bossy boss apologized for his outburst on Friday. I actually got an apology from him!! Now, I must maintain composure...not let this go to my head (after all - I'm 99% sure that the only reason he apologized is because he got into shit for making me cry), as I'm sure it won't happen often, if ever again.

What happened to make me cry? Friday, before I even had 1/2 a foot in the door, I was being yelled at for the voice mail not working. How this is my fault, I have no clue other than Bossy Boss cannot blame himself. I apparently wasn't taking the situation seriously enough, but truly, how serious is boss-man taking it when he's been at work for 2 hours already and hasn't done anything about it. So long story short - he blew up at me and I cried. I hate my job.

I got an apology today - I still hate my job.

Weekend Photos

2006-02-28T13:36:00.000-08:00

Friday Night - Me, Ellen and Aletha

My mom, Colleen & Ellen

Saturday Night - Leianne, AJ & Ray

Geoff & Ross

Dave

Me & Geoff

Sunday Night - Kathy & Roger

Miss Social Butterfly - Pooped!

2006-02-27T10:00:00.000-08:00

Well I had a great weekend visiting and catching up with all sorts of people - but I'm paying for it now! I'm exhausted!

Friday night was dinner at mom's and it was her friend Ellen (my true mommy) that was visiting in town. It was great to see her and catch up. We laughed until my stomach hurt...as we always do. Everytime I see Ellen and her and my mom get going, I wish I could travel back in time to see them in action...they have done some hilarious things in their past.

Saturday was full of running around. I went to visit Dolly (Kelly's cat) who had managed to get the lid off her treats jar and eat every last one of them. She then kindly regurgitated them on the floor to share with me. A lovely way to start the day I would say. I got a bit more of a visit in with Ellen and then headed off to the gym to do some bouldering. After two hours of that and ripping my fingers apart, it was home for a quick nap and getting ready for the whole clan coming over that night. It was a great night visiting with Geoff & Leianne, Ray & AJ, Dave and Ross...although I think my age is really starting to show...I hardly remember the conversations going on for the last hour as I could hardly keep my eyes open. Damn I hate being an old Fart!!

Sunday - to say the least, was very low key. I needed lots of rest to recuperate from Saturday. Visited Dolly again - no pukes that day - and stopped my mom's again, but missed Ellen as they were out for breakfast. I really didn't do much of anything until dinner when Kathy and Roger showed up for our feast of Mussels Marinere....Hmmmm Yummy!

Thank goodness Roger and Kathy are of an older generation, so 8:30 was the perfect time to say goodbye and good night. And yes, I'm that old that I was in bed and sound alseep by 9:30!

I think I may just need some more practice...I used to be able to do late nights/early mornings all the time!!

Thursday Fallout

2006-02-24T07:22:00.000-08:00

Well my weekend of entertaining has started off with one no-show. I hope this isn't a prelude to the rest of my weekend!! It's an understandable no-show though. Kelly and Matt were supposed to come over for dinner last night, I first visited Kelly to get my hair done - I'm a "real" blond now - and she was talking about what she needed to do before leaving today. Her Uncle passed away earlier this week and she's now off to Trail BC for the funeral.

It's a good thing she dyed me blond because I certainly had a blond moment thinking she was still going to make it over! Part of her chore list was to reschedule two days worth of clients at her salon, so she was working until 9pm last night. So really, I'm not sure how I didn't figure it out right away that she wasn't coming over!

So my Thursday night ended up being very relaxing. I put the Mexican Lasagna I made in the freezer for a future get together, made the appetizers I need for this evening, worked on a cross word puzzle, had a bath, did some streching and went to bed. It turned out to be rather an enjoyable evening, even if it was without company.

Up Coming Weekend

2006-02-23T07:25:00.000-08:00

I have a very busy weekend coming up and I just realized that I'm quite poor for all the entertaining that's about to take place. I'm going to have to find ways to be crafty to get through.

I have my friend Kelly and her boyfriend Matt coming over this evening. Matt's an electrician and I have a couple of issues at home he said he'd look into for me...if it only costs me a dinner, I can live with that.

Friday my mom has asked me to come over for dinner. I ask the reason why and she tells me I just need to be there for dinner. My mom is the worst ever at keeping secrets and although I commend her efforts this time...she forgot to not mark the occasion on her calender. So Friday night is dinner with my "true mom" Ellen and I'm excited. Ellen and my mom have been friends since grade school and Ellen, for as long as I can remember, lives in Toronto, so I don't get to see her all that often. Honestly, my character matches more closely to Ellen than anyone in my family, it's almost eerie!

Saturday night I'm having the 'Ole clan over - Geoff and Leianne, Dave and Erin, Ray and AJ and Ross - for beers and cards.

Then to finish off the weekend I'm having Kathy and Roger over on Sunday for a much overdue dinner.

My gosh, you could almost say I'm a social butterfly! If I survive this weekend, I think I'll be out of the social scene for a while to recover. Ha - who am I kidding?!

Psycho, Crazy Dance Partner for Sale

2006-02-23T06:32:00.000-08:00

My dance partner is driving me crazy!! However much my friends tell me that he just wants to be friends with me, all I see is some potential stalker psycho killer...maybe I'm over reacting a little. He truly just annoys me and I, unfortunately, am too nice to be a bitch to him. I realized his freakish possessiveness when I mentioned last month that I was excited to dance with new people this semester. Michael (psycho crazy guy) did not agree. He was quite adiment that I do not dance with others. He and I are partners and he doesn't want to dance with anyone else, so therefore, I shouldn't want to dance with others either. I made it as clear as I possibly could that I was going to dance with other men in my class this semester. I'm not quite sure how he's taking that right now...he's always watching me when I dance with someone else. And now he seems to have changed the emphasis and is trying to get me to go out with him.

Every week I see him he asks what I'm doing for almost every day of the week. I've had excuses as lame as "I need to stay home and eat the rotting vegetables in my fridge!!" Last night I almost lost it on him. I forgot my water bottle at class last week - really not a huge deal, but it's a Roots water bottle and I really like it. I couldn't find it for a while and Michael kept on about how he would just get me a new bottle.

"Alanis I have lots of water bottles at home, I'll bring you one next week."
"Michael, it's okay, I'll be fine without it. I just really liked that one."
"No, no, I will bring you a new one. It's free! Don't worry, I will bring you one."
"I have other bottles at home as well. It's not necessary. Don't worry about it."
"No really, I have lots at home. I have those Gatorade bottles. I will bring you one next week."

In my head - Get a fucking clue! I don't want your damn water bottle!!

In the end I did find my precious water bottle and am now off the hook for having Michael bring me one next week. I'm not off the hook from his freakish behaviour.

Anyone want to come to class and dance with Michael to give me a break - He's really nice?!?!?

Mexico Photos

2006-02-16T12:37:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos from my trip to PV...If you want to see more, let me know and I'll email the photo album...but there's about 150 photos in total - too many to post!

Huevos Divoriados at the market

Melissa on the beach at sunset

Sexy ladies on the beach!

Dinner at the taco stand

Yummy Margaritas!

And what happens after too many margaritas!

My dad & me

Doing my Tequila Shots

And the results of doing shots!

ARRGH!*#^!!!

2006-02-16T09:37:00.000-08:00

It's just one of those fucking days - or weeks I should say - where it doesn't matter what I do, work fucking suck!!! Apparently my boss (who I truly think his only goal in life is to make my life miserable) was wonderful last week, being all happy and considerate. Now that I'm home, he's all grumpy and moody again. Warm, fuzzy feelings flow intensly through me when I think of me being the reason for his fucked up attitude! I know the only way it's going to change is if bossy-boy does a re-hall on his attitude (not likely to happen ever) or I find a new job. Time to stop bitching and start looking.

I'm Baa-aack!

2006-02-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

Why I came back, I'm not entirely sure, but none the less I'm back living in reality again. Looking at the weather that we're about to suffer through, I'm thinking I may have done better to leave on holidays now! Oh well, such is life and either way, I had a fantastic time in PV.

The weather was fantastic, the food was exceptional, the beer very cold and the Mexicans, as always, ever so generous! There's just too much to say about everything, so here are a few high-lites from the trip.

Of course seeing my dad is always a delightful moment for me. And I love his place and really appreciate where it's at in PV...nothing fancy, but full of character and right in the heart of Old PV.

Eating at Yogi's - my favourite restaurant that's a block and half up from dad's. The best meal in PV in my opinion and you're stuffed full for only $30 pesos...about $3.75 Cdn. Not many tourists either as the restaurant is further up from where tourists go and the couple who run the restaurant don't speak English!

Dancing at La Bodegita de Media (a Cuban club) with Roberto - an actual gentlemanly Mexican (with a few too many Michael Jackson moves thrown into the salsa dancing), and drinking Mojito's.

Eating Tacos and Quesedilla's at Louis' Taco stand at 2 in the morning.

Finding Toto's bar (the local hang out that's only a block away from dad's) where cervesa's are only $12 pesos...no margarita's there if you're interested though.

Swimming in the ocean.

Eating Chile Reno's at Eva's stand...I was sad that she had to move from where she used to be (in this beautiful park) and she's now behind the fish market (very stinky) just off the beaten path...I really hope she can still make a go of it.

There's just so many! That's a few to start with. As for photos, you'll have to wait a day or two. I didn't want to spend the time at work on my first day back downloading pictures. I didn't think that would go over too well with certain people here at the office.

In the mean time though...for all of you out there reading this...I hope you all have a very Happy Valentine's Day!!

Three more sleeps!!

2006-02-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

That's it and then I'm on a plane to sunny Puerto Vallarta! I can hardly wait. I've come to the conclusion that my patients ware thin when I know a holiday is in the near distance...everyone at work tend to irritate me a bit more, I'm a tad bit more tired everyday and I really just want to go now! Of course that could just be the job itself too.

Any way, having been to PV several times, there's many things I'm excited to get too again... most of them having to do with food and some new places/events have been brought to my attention aswell, so I'm curious to try them out as well. But I thought I'd list out some of my favourite things to do in PV to share with you.

Sitting at Buro's Bar with my feet in the sand, a margarita in one hand and fresh chips and salsa in the other, watching the sun dip down into the ocean.

Going to Yogi's (a hole in the wall about a block up from my dad's) for Queso con Chorizo (their version of cheese fondu - Yum!)

The market (up stairs) for Huevos Divorsados and Hamica Juice...best breakfast ever!!

Two for one Margaritas on the beach - I love it when I forget and order two and end up with four!

Going to Eva's (my dad's friend who lives about an hour out of PV) for dinner...usually a meet dish of somesort is served, but always with my favourite - Chile Renos...The best ever!

And of course, you have to go to one of the stands on the road side for tacos and churo's.

You see, everything has to do with food! Oh I can hardly wait...I want to be there now!
Oh anybody want anything? I can't promise I will remember, but sometimes I can get my shit together and remember stuff.

Early Mornings Make for a Grouchy Me

2006-02-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

It's not quite 8:30 am and I've already been at work for over 3 hours! My work started this last week where once a week I have to come in early so my boss can sleep in, in an effort to make him happier (notice it's happier, not happy). So I've been up since 4:15 and am feeling almost dizzy I'm so tired. Even the dogs I'm looking after right now, looked at me as though I were fucked in the head when I was trying to get them to go outside this morning! The more I think of it, the more I realize that I'm crazy for not looking at other employment opportunities now. Time to adjust my way of thinking and start looking!

Babies, babies, babies!

2006-01-30T12:03:00.000-08:00

Had a good weekend up in the Chuck...well actually Spruce Grove, but close enough. My middle cousin Dave and his wife Tina, just had a baby boy December 22nd, so of course we all had to make the trip up for the baby shower. It can all be rather depressing seeing them all. Three cousins, all of them around my sister's and my age, all of them married, all of them now either have a baby or are pregnant! And all live in beautiful homes (I swear, my whole condo would fit in Tina and Dave's master bedroom!!) I sometimes wonder if my sister and I will ever get it together!! Just the same, I always do enjoy seeing them all, and wish I could get it together to make the trip up there more often. My cousins are some of the best story tellers you could ever meet. Seeing them more often could be one of my "late" new years resolutions...I'll just have to see how I make out with that.

Baby Ryan with proud mom

Big cousin Henry with Daddy Bruce

All the Cuz - Jeff, Anita, David, Heather, Tina & Bruce

Questions for Jon

2006-01-30T09:05:00.000-08:00

1. You are a very active, outdoorsy person with your foot in a lot of different sports and activities. If you were only able to choose one activity to do for the rest of your life, which one would it be?

2. Lots of people have a flare for music, but much of your collection is on LP...how did you get into collecting records and which one was your first purchase or absolute favourte purchase?

3. You've been mentioning lately of your dislike of your job...not being busy enough, not enough training, etc. If you had the choice to do anything, anywhere you wanted too (career wise), would you stay in engineering or do something different?

4. What is your most endearing childhood memory?

5. If there was one moment in life that you could back and redo, whether you wanted to change the moment or re-live it, what moment would it be and why?

Viva La Mexica!!

2006-01-25T11:54:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's right folks! It's that time of year again when I head off for sunny Puerto Vallarta!! In one and a half weeks, I will be laying on a beach, sipping back (okay chugging!) margaritas and feasting on wonderful Mexican delights!! I can hardly wait! Although, I have to admit, that I don't think I'm nearly as excited as Melissa...now there's some who's almost giddy in anticipation of our departure.

I promise to have a margarita/servesa/tequila/etc. for all of you!

Another Weekend Gone

2006-01-23T11:22:00.000-08:00

Well here's my usual "weekend in review report." It seems to be about the only thing I blog about these days...Once I have internet access (plus a computer) at home, there will be more frequent posts - I promise. In the mean time, I have to steal time from work, which isn't always the easiest thing to do!

So my weekend - Friday night was a blast. I picked up my friend Melissa and she came over for dinner (at least that's what we call nacho chips and salsa!!) and then we headed out to Juan's Mexican Restaurant where I performed along with my salsa class mates! It was a good time - and good margaritas!! The performance was very quick and then I spent the rest of the night dancing with various gentlemen. It was tons of fun!

The Salsa Queens (Alanis, Melissa and Melanie )

The Salsa Kings (Mikeal, Rikki and Mohammad)

After our feet were tired of dancing, Melissa and I headed up to her neighbourhood pub, Pints and Half Pints, where we met her boyfriend Bart and his bro Randy. Stayed for some pints - of course - and some pool. It was off home to bed shortly after - these late nights are hard for this old couger to do any more!!

Saturday was a busy day, once I managed to drag my ass out of bed, I went and met Jon at the Climbing centre to get in my work out for the day and then we headed over to Metro Cafe for a quick bite of lunch...yummy Ruben!

Satuday evening was North Sea's Christmas Party at La Luna Rossa. My good friend Dave was my date, and we had a lovely evening of fantastic food (king crab legs, bruschetta and calamari for appetizers, salad, Chilean Seabass and Veal for dinner and Tiramisu for dessert!) and lots to drink.

Dave and I wondered over to the Reagle Beagle on 14th after for a couple more pints and one of our old "heart to hearts". Over all a wonderful night - until about 4:30 am when the vomitting and "runs" started...Sunday was not a pleasant day.

Not too sure what hit me (no I wasn't that hung over!!), but Sunday was spent in bed or bathroom.

Now it's back to the usual grind. I start puppy sitting tonight for my friends Brad & Derek, but other than that, I have a fairly quiet week. It's about time!

Answers to Jon's questions

2006-01-16T14:32:00.000-08:00

Interview Questions for Alanis
1. You’ve said repeatedly that you despise working in the fish industry but you seem to keep going back to it. When are you going to move on and what do you plan on doing?

It's always so easy to go back to what you know and I know fish!! I think 2006 will be the year of change...it better be, because I don't know how much longer I will survive at this job. What I plan on doing - I've always wanted to have my own business. Doing what - not entirely sure, but I really enjoy planning events/parties and make up.

2. You recently bought a condo, your very first place. Prior to that you were a professional house sitter and moved from place to place on a weekly and monthly basis. How does on go about becoming a professional house sitter?

It really all happened through word of mouth. You do it for one person and they tell people or you talk about when you were staying at so & so's looking after their pet...it snowballs really fast if you want it to. But a word of caution - it can be a lot of responsibility (actually having to go home on the weekends) and it can also get tiresome living out of a suitcase. Although it can also be a ton of fun!

3.Your Mom is constantly getting on you about your financial situation. What past financial indiscretions prompted this?

You know, I really don't know! I think she may be concerned from her own financial hardships in the past (at one point her teaching salary was carrying a family of four). Or, it could be that I do not have that Jone's gene of not spending money. Everyone else in my family is really good at saving - I'm better at enjoying!

4. We took Salsa dance lessons together back in the fall and you continue to take them. You’re a good dancer and I know that you’ve been going to salsa bars to dance. Are you secretly hoping to snag a little Latino man?

You figured out my secret! No, I have to say I really have no preference in what nationality my man is...but if he can dance, that is a huge bonus!

5. What meal would you prepare if you had Canada’s political leaders over for dinner and what topics of conversation would you pursue?

Really!? That's your last question? You are soooo mean. Okay, first off, I would hold a pot luck - those politicians get enough free rides...let them do something for me!! My share of the meal would be something with fish - planked salmon, BBQ prawns, sauteed scallops. As for discussion - really what does it matter! It's all bull shit that comes out of their mouths!! But if I had to choose one topic, it would be interesting to see how close you could get all of them working together to make Canada the best it can be...In other words, how far would they all be in agreement on all general issues. However, this conversation would not last long as I'm sure they would all start debating and raising their voices, maybe even start yelling, and that would make me very uncomfortable and and I would have to leave in an attempt to find my happy place. Oh gawd - PLEASE don't make me have this dinner!!

So there you have it folks. Now apparently I was supposed to copy and paste the instuctions on this, but now can't find it...but if I remeber correctly in my comments section you can ask me to interview you. I'll post your questions on my blog and then you copy and paste into yours along with answers...is that right?

Weird

2006-01-13T11:15:00.000-08:00

Okay, apparently I don't understand the meaning of a time line...so the latest post (besides this one) is below my last post!?! I didn't realize that if you save a draft, it gets posted in order of dates saved - makes sense though...guess that's why I'm so pretty.

Any way, one picture went missing when I posted so I can add that now.

Post Coming

2006-01-12T11:45:00.000-08:00

Too busy!! This move is killing me! I am working on a post with photos of the condo and how things are coming along - but I just don't always have time at work to put these posts together. Soon though, I promise, soon you will have a new post that's interesting to read.

Slow Moving

2006-01-11T13:26:00.000-08:00

It's been a bit since my last post, but I've been so busy with moving and work (okay, not so much work, but sometimes it's just not possible to do these personal things at work). So I've been really busy with moving and quite frankly, I'm exhausted from it!! I spent last weekend painting for two days and then moved on the third day (I took Friday off to paint). I think by Sunday night I was a walking zombie I was so tired! But the work is starting to pay off. Here are some photos of the disaster so far.

Now I just need to go shopping to get the rest of the items I need to help organize things - when you have little space, you need to be savy with it! Hopefully a house warming will be happening before the end of the year!

My Birthday Me?

2006-01-03T12:02:00.000-08:00

Your Birthdate: December 30

You have the type of personality that people either love or hate.
You're opinionated, dramatic, intense, and very outspoken.
And some people can't get enough of you - they're totally addicted.
Others, well, they wish you were a little more reserved.

Your strength: Your flair

Your weakness: If you think it, you say it

Your power color: Scarlet red

Your power symbol: Inverted triangle

Your power month: March

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

I don't know...is this really me? Am I really that out spoken?

Happy New Year!!

2006-01-03T09:01:00.000-08:00

Well it's the beginning of a new year and I have a feeling this is going to be a great year! First off, I started the year without a hangover (that truly is a first for this gal!) and secondly, I finally got to move into my condo - YEAH!! I really don't know how much better it can get?!

Had a fabulous time at Reid and Joe's on New Year's Eve. They are so sweet; it was Reid's birthday that same day so they had a birthday cake for him, me and their friend Curtis. So considerate! And they know how to do a party up right, tons of food, wonderful martini's, party hats and noise makers (they forewent the ballons having found out my fear of them - also very considerate).

Party Host and Birthday boy

The Hostess with the Mostess!!

Brian, Alanis & Tracey

The Birthday Crew - Curtis, Alanis & Reid

A poor attempt at a Madonna Impersonation

Thank you boys for the fantastic night!! Also made a new friend Tracey, and I look forward to holidays in Kelowna and climbing in Skaha with her this summer!! Tracey I'm still considering the "pass it forward" you offered...maybe!

January 2nd marked the first day in my new condo...very exciting for a moment and then just cleaning for the rest of the day. I do wish I had taken more time off of work this week to work on things at home, but I guess working will help pay the bills as well. So this week, all my evenings will be filled with cleaning, prep work and painting and then finally Sunday (if everything goes well) I will be moved in! The excitement comes back again!

Holiday Cheer

2005-12-28T07:57:00.000-08:00

It seems like this holiday is never ending and I really need a holiday to recover!! Christmas ended up being really nice with a few dinners (one very last minute, but very much appreciated) and lots of visiting with friends. It started on the 22nd at Mikaela's parent's house with our annual "Girl's Christmas" - we're going to have to alter the name as more and more husbands are turning up each year. The evening was fantastic with tons of food, drink and laughing as we reminised about our school years together (Allison, Mikaela, Shelley and I all met in Junior High!)

Shayna, Geoff, Mikaela and Allison

Joe, Jarred & Jennifer

The evening took on a different direction when we started talking about blogging (Jarred is becoming an avid fan and I'm trying to convince him to start his own blog) and every subject after that came back to blogging (or my cleavage...and it is a great place to hide snacks for later!).

One topic we covered is Mikaela's taste in music and I was reminded of the radio show she hosts in Montreal. Check it out (and I promise to do the same some day!). It's called Lessons in Lo-Fi and you can hear it at www.cjlo.com If I remember correctly it's on Fridays from noon to 2pm EST. I don't really know what it's all about, but I hope you all enjoy!

Work in between the festivities was crazy, but to be expected working in food service. We managed to get a quick pose in for what we think should be our Christmas card next year (ha ha!).

The North Sea Troups Tyler, Mark, Dean, Sue, Seamus and me...What a pretty bunch!

On the 24th Melissa had me over for dinner along with her cousin and Bart's dad...I ate way too many appetizers and then could hardly eat my dinner - but I'm thouroughly enjoying the left overs she sent home with me. It was a nice, relaxing evening and she spoiled me rotten!

Rob, Bart, me and Melissa

I got to enjoy turkey dinner again on the 25th as well at Marie and Peter's. It was all very last minute, but we managed to have our usual Christmas with the family (less my parents who are enjoying Puerto Vallarta right now), which was such a nice surprise. My sister Aletha and I knew we were going to Pete and Marie's (we found out on the 24th!) and were surprised to find out Aunt and Uncle there as well when we arrived...it was a fantastic night!

The whole fam-damily

Of course Christmas doesn't end on the 25th for me (my family is all about spreading out the holidays)...so on the 26th I went for a visit again with Mikaela; had a great lunch at Earl's and then went to visit Kathy and Roger before their Christmas dinner (poo for me eating too much at lunch and not having room for prime rib!). I had to decline the dinner invite that evening because of my full belly, but also because I know I have absolutely no self control and would be horribly hung-over for work the next morning (damn work!).

Now it's a few days before New Years (and my birthday) and it doesn't look like anything is slowing down...I had a Christmas dinner with Jon last night, tonight is drinks with Rich, tomorrow is birthday dinner with Kathy and Roger (it's Rog's b-day too), Friday night has yet to be determined...(I'm up for ideas as to what I should do for my birthday)...and then New Years with Joe and Reid.

Some day the craziness will end!...I think!

Merry Christmas!

2005-12-25T10:22:00.000-08:00

I hope Santa was wonderful to everyone and you're all having a very Merry Christmas!! I'm enjoying a restful day of doing nothing but look forward to eating tons of turkey tonight. Yummy...I love gobble, gobble!!

Here's a quicky

2005-12-20T06:08:00.000-08:00

The maddness of it all! Has the holiday season always been this busy? I truly don't remember the past years being this hectic. Ah well, it's still nice that most of the hecticness (sp?) is being spent with friends and family.

I had a good weekend, spending Friday night with Brad and Derek baking cookies (7 batches!!) until the wee hours of the morning. Fortunately they let me spend the night because I couldn't see straight for all the raw cookie dough I consumed (or maybe it was the Baja Rosa?). The Saturday morning it was up, bright and early to finish baking (thank gawd I only do this once a year!!). I got to join Brad at his yoga class that morning...the first time I've ever done yoga. Rather interesting...not as easy as it looks. I then scooted home and got ready for our family Christmas gathering out in High River with the reli's.

I know, how corny! But it's my family and I will admit...it's fun!

Sunday I actually slept in with out feeling pangs of guilt for not getting up and doing. I enjoyed a relaxing breakfast and then headed out to meet Jon for a bit of bouldering and the we went shopping and enjoyed a pint and grub and a visit with Joe at Swans. Also got to see what Santa's up to before Christmas!

Now it's back to work (ugh!). I met up with Kelly last night for Sushi (yummy!) but enjoyed a fairly quiet evening otherwise. This morning I was reminded of why my mother had children as I got up at 4:00am to drive her to the airport...she's off to Puerto Vallarta to visit dad and family for Christmas! And now I sit here at work, it's way too early, and I only hope that I manage to stay awake thoughout the day!!

Tonight I'm meeting up with Jon again to go climbing at the Calgary Climbing Centre and then tomorrow is my last salsa class before the holidays. Thursday night it a get together with friends and then Friday I think I finally get to relax! Whew, it's a busy time!

Craziness of a Time

2005-12-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

I'm going to apologize now for the few posts you're going to see over the next month or so...life is just way too busy and having a computer only at work, there isn't much time to blog. So I'm going to try and get a good one in today and then it may be the New Year before there's any more.

So yes, life is busy! But December always seems to be that way. I spent the past week puppy sitting (that's Niki to the left), which adds to the hectic pace as I then had to go "home" every day to feed/walk/pay attention to the dog. But I do love puppy sitting, so it wasn't all that bad. In between running from work to Niki, I also managed to squeeze in climbing a couple of nights, salsa dancing on Wednesday as well as shopping with Melissa, attended an open house at The Dance Studio Saturday night (more dance classes for me in 2006!), visited with Allison Saturday afternoon and more shopping on Sunday again with Melissa. Wow it really was a busy week.

I'm trying to calm things down a bit this week, but I don't think I'm being too successful at it. The realization that Christmas is just around the corner and then moving a couple of weeks after that is looming rather heavily on me. So this week holds lots of phone calls to set up things like phone/utilities/etc. (Oh by the way, I just signed all the papers this morning so it is truly all official now!), finish Christmas shopping, dance on Wednesday, get a visit in with Kelly (that's the next kitty-sitting job), bake cookies on Friday and Saturday, 2 Christmas parties to attend Saturday night and drive mom to the airport for Mexico (yeah, that's a 6am appointment). I keep thinking that I'll be so happy once January comes and the craziness is over, but then I realize that it's only going to be different kind of crazy - really, when is my life not crazy?! Maybe I'll be back to "normal crazy" soon.

Any way, I hope everyone reading this is doing well and if I don't get the chance in person to do so I wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and Joyous New Year!

Midst Weekend Report

2005-12-03T19:55:00.000-08:00

Oh dear...I'm puppy sitting again and I've drunk half (okay 3/4 to almost whole) bottle of wine by myself, taken Nikki (the pup) out for a walk and had to turn down an opportunity to visit friends at the bar (because I'm already too drunk to drive!!!). Yes, my life is something to be insperational to others....really shouldn't blog when drunk! It is Saturday night and I'm looking forward to spending the rest of my evening at home. Really?? That's not really me, or is it now? I did go out last night with my friend Allison. The evening could have been spectacular, but ended up being just so-so. No fault of Alli's. We met at the Yard house (heating busted there and wayyyyy tooo cold to stay and drink) but before leaving, her friend (along with a couple of male companions) showed up to join us for the evening. From there it seemed to be a downward spiral for me. I met a gentalmen ( not to be mistaken with the "Order of Gentlemen" - I'm sure that would have been way more fun) by the name of Captain Bruce at Melrose. Nice enough man, age 60-something I would gather, thinks I have a "great personality" and am good looking...I'm way too nice and ended up chatting with Cap't Bruce for too many hours (eventually Alli did save me from him) - I'm going to be mean and not show up on Sunday for brunch at Melrose with him...I know that makes me a bitch (you should be proud of me!). Then we tried to get rid of Cappy by going to the Metro 17th, but unfortunately someone in our party told Bruce that's where we were going. Guess who showed up at the Met? Not only that, by the time we got there, we managed to lose one of our own group (I have no clue how that happened?!). I now really just want to go home but in true spirit, suggest a new location to the party and head off to the Bier Market. I really just want to go home. We get to the Bier Market (after finding a ticket on Alanis' car...damn secret parkade) only to get word from our MIA. Back to the Met to pick up MIA. Finally make it to the Bier Market. Please can I just go home?! It's now been brought to my attention that Alli's friend (completely intoxicated and already doesn't remember where she is) is infatuated with one of the "male companions", only to realize that he has a crush on me...not interested and I REALLY need to go home. Why is it that you can't enjoy your evening as soon as it doesn't go to plan?? 11pm and I went home. I was done - no where near intoxicated (I apparently left that for tonight) - just done. Alli and I get a second chance next weekend, but I really find it weird that when an evening changes from what you originaly plan, that either it's fantastic or "eih". Why does "eih" have to happen?

Again...really shouldn't post when drunk!

Ups and Downs of the Weekend

2005-11-29T08:42:00.000-08:00

I had a very odd experience last night. My mom's neighbour passed away and was found last night in her bed (the assumption so far is she died from a heart attack in her sleep at age 75). I'm feeling pangs of guilt as I noticed her newspapers piling up on her front steps since Saturday. I did eventually ask my mom if she knew if Lou was away, but I was concerned that it might be something more. It turns out that she had passed away sometime between Friday night and Saturday morning. I know there's nothing I could have done about her passing on but I feel bad, she could have been found sooner if I had mentioned something. I must learn to speak up! On the up side (if there is such a thing with death), it's nice to see that she got to stay in her own house right up until the very end - no ordeals with nursing homes - and she had just returned from a trip to Mexico the previous Tuesday, so she really lived right until the very end.

Now on the other end of the spectrum, I'm just soooo excited about my condo again! I went to revisit it on Sunday past to sort out measurements and colors that I may paint once I move in. It's starting to take it's toll on me as I'm having a hard time falling asleep for all the planning I do while lying in bed. Only 34 more sleeps (not that I'm counting!!)

My beautiful purple and orange kitchen - soon to be different colors.

The living room and balcony.

The bathroom.

I'm also open to suggestions for decor...so far I'm thinking a light forest green for the walls...