A long week has come to an end. How come on the weeks where you feel the busiest, time just seems to come to a halt? Like the big grandfather clock suddenly died and you keep waiting for it to start up again.
Speaking of grandfather clocks....my Grandma Beattie had the best grandfather clock...complete with the bird that would poke it's head out and chirp. It was that really nice rustic brown colour too. For the longest time it was broken, the little bird poked it's head out to chirp and never again hid behind the closed door. Not sure why Grandma never fixed it, but I remember always standing beneath it and watching the little bird; half expecting it to pull a "jack-in-the-box" and suddenly start chirping again. I wonder who ended up with that clock? I would love to find one for my house. And even though I'm 29 now, I'm positive I'll still stand beneath it watching the second hand move, waiting for the bird to chirp. There's something mesmerizing about those clocks. They seem to somehow tell time better than just a digital clock. I think those clocks will always remind me of Grandma B., and therefore always bring a smile to my face.
See. I told you this blog was going to be random. I guess I should stop trying to be less that way and embrace the fact that I write what comes to mind and rarely filter. Maybe that's what this blog is all about? Giving me a chance to let my thoughts roll honestly and freely.
June 28, 2013
June 24, 2013
So it would seem that I go through waves of needing a creative outlet. And every now and then I find myself crawling back to this blog. I don't intentionally abandoned it. I guess I just find myself short on words and I'd rather leave things unwritten then prattle on about boring notions. Although, I guess I'm somewhat doing that right now.
Not sure what my intentions for this blog are quite yet. Am I returning for good? Or just finding myself needing to type some words out and then I'll be gone for years again? Or am I reinventing it? I did change the layout...you like? A little bit more me!
I'm not making any promises of a daily post. I'm just gonna take it one day at a time - after all, these are supposed to be by day-to-day thoughts. Let's see how many thoughts I've got bouncing around inside this noggin of mine! :)
Not sure what my intentions for this blog are quite yet. Am I returning for good? Or just finding myself needing to type some words out and then I'll be gone for years again? Or am I reinventing it? I did change the layout...you like? A little bit more me!
I'm not making any promises of a daily post. I'm just gonna take it one day at a time - after all, these are supposed to be by day-to-day thoughts. Let's see how many thoughts I've got bouncing around inside this noggin of mine! :)
November 15, 2010
Favourite Time of Year...
This is probably my most favourite time of year – not because it means I turn a year older (scary!) and not because gifts are exchanged (although I admit that I LOVE giving gifts).
I could probably go on for awhile about all the things I love about Christmas, but I’ll just share a few:
- I love when Gingerbread lattes arrive at Starbucks
- I love getting to see my entire family all together under one roof (usually this entails my little nieces waking “Auntie Laura” up super early...but how can you say no to that right?!)
- I love the smell of Christmas trees
- I love decorating my house
- I love walking into work (weird..I know...but the entrance and banister are always decorated so beautifully with garland and bows and lights...it’s a great way to start the day!)
- I love the excitement and buzz in the air the closer we get to Christmas
- I know people should be generous all year long, but I love getting to see people giving back – especially the ones you least expect! A change of heart you know! So great to see!
- I love the lights – I could drive around for hours looking at creatively decorated houses
- I love Christmas baking – and not necessarily to eat it...I love how it makes the entire house smell so delicious!
- I love reading the Christmas story: we read it every year in my family. We go around the circle, taking turns reading snippets. My favourite part: I love when the shepherds hear the angel choir...gives me goose bumps just thinking about it. How awesome it would have been to be there!!!
There’s only one thing I hate about Christmas. I know. Shocking. What is there about Christmas that someone could possibly NOT love? And I realize most people would probably stick with the word “dislike” – after all hate is a very strong choice. But, if you know me, you probably already know what it is I hate about Christmas. I have for as long as I can remember (and I have pictures to prove it). And every year, without fail, everyone in my family tries to help me get over it. Not possible. I’m pretty sure I’ll hate (yes, hate) this until the day I die.
What is it you might ask?
Santa.
He's creepy ok. Enough said.
:)
October 7, 2010
Still learning
I love how I get into these theme ruts. It’s at those times that I know God is trying to teach me something....hence the reiteration. I’m in a learning rut. Which doesn’t seem so bad considering the plethora of other ruts I could be stuck in. And so I’m learning to ask questions – even when there are no immediate, or simple, answers.
And today my challenge came from 1 Thessalonians (which is quickly becoming a favourite): “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (vs. 16-18).
Excellent verse to have on my mind as Thanksgiving approaches (so thankful we’re having pumpkin pie this year...right Sam?!!).
Enjoy your weekend everybody!
September 27, 2010
Ever wish life was a musical?
If you’re like me, and tend to be motivated and hyped by music, here’s a small warning: don’t listen to Glee music while at work. On more than one occasion today, I found myself singing along......yup......out loud. I’m pretty sure my cubicle neighbours were wondering if I had completely lost my mind. It can’t be helped though. There are certain work days where you just need that extra “oomph” to get you through the day!
Why is music so inspirational?
I love how it has the ability to take you back to a certain memory. I love how it can encourage you. I love how it can bring on bouts of laughter (especially when you’re listening to a song that suddenly spurs on a dance party with friends). I love how people use songs to express themselves.
I always wished I was a great musician. I tried. Grade nine. It was my time to shine. I decided the saxophone was going to be my instrument of choice – and I was going to make it big. I even went as far as to invest in a saxophone. Most people trying out a new instrument just borrowed from the school. Not me. My ambitions were set high. Why borrow when I could buy? Besides – I needed to be able to practice whenever, and I couldn’t have my schedule work around the availability of the school saxophones. So invest I did. Mistake number 1. Then, in all my aspirations, I decided a good way to get more practice would be to join band. I couldn’t read sheet music and had only owned a saxophone for a week, but I was determined. Mistake number 2. After putting my family through horrendous practices in my room (talk about squeaking....I somehow never mastered the whole “wet reed” thing) and trying to play with sheet music (while all the while thinking I was better at just playing by ear), I decided it wasn’t for me. A year later, I sold my saxophone. Dream over.
Since then I’ve tried taking up the guitar, but never have had the time for lessons. I have one sitting in my room. It’s actually from Colombia when my family was there as missionaries. New dream – to someday sit on the back porch of my parents house and have a little jam session with my dad.
Now to begin learning.
August 17, 2010
Day 1
My heart was pounding as we plunged forward up the hill. The incline was so severe I was afraid we’d tip over and start rolling front to back. “Let us make it to the top Lord. Please let us make it to the top”. I didn’t really know what to expect. I knew the church was poor – and I could attest to that solely from the look of the neighbourhood as we made our way closer. I came only equipped with a love for Jesus and a desire to let these kids know their worth in Him. As we rounded the corner, all I could see were little hands waving in the air – they didn’t even know us yet, but they were waiting in anticipation. The van doors slid open and as my feet touched the dusty ground, small hands were suddenly intertwined with my hands – little legs trying desperately to keep in step with me as I made my way into the church. My heart was breaking – I wanted to pack each one of these kids into my suitcase and bring them home with me. I could only imagine the kind of situations they were experience at home that would cause them to reach out to a complete stranger for attention. The moment that first little hand touched mine, I was determined to put my all into making this a week that would have a lasting impact on them.
Minutes later there I was, legs crossed on the cement floor, balloons all around me, trying my very best to create things: “Espada” “Perro” “Sombrero”. It was hard enough trying to figure out what they were requesting let alone trying to bring it to life for them. After popping at least 6 balloons, and scaring the poor things every time, I created my first dog (“PERRO!”) and handed it to Alexia – who’s big eyes were beaming. As the minutes passed I somehow found my creative niche for balloon designs and was in full production mode – flowers, snowmen, dogs, hats – they named it and I would attempt it. The farthest thing from my mind was the earlier instructions we had received as a team: “Try not to use all the balloons up on day one”. How could I say no to those big eyes?
Two hours later – with duck, duck goose, a puppet story and a craft under our belt – we found ourselves at the end of day one. It had gone smoother than I had anticipated and I was elated to see just how much of my Spanish had returned to me. I knew the next 4 days would be life changing, I just hadn’t anticipated it being MY life that would be so changed from it.
My "best friend" Rebecca - she spoke English and would translate for me when I needed it. She was also a huge fan of my camera and would walk around snapping pictures!
Alexia - sweet little angel!
This little girl named her doll after me
Naomi (girl on the right) was one of the most kind-hearted kids - she was heart broken our last day.
Rebecca took this one. What a great photographer hey?!
My buddy Carlos
Lupita - so shy and so cuddly. Adored her!
July 22, 2010
I love...
I love the smell of cedar chips (there are two spots on my commute home...I know exactly when they're coming and I quickly roll --- and by roll I mean old fashion crank that window down --- so I can breathe it in).
I love trying a new recipe out. Better yet I love when that recipe is a dynamo success.
I love adventures. I love random jaunts in my boat (yup. I'm a "boat" owner). I love floating down one of our favourite rivers..making up songs...telling stories and just reveling in the beauty.
I love coming across wild life. Happens a lot more to me now that I've moved to the boonies. This morning, I walked out my front door and heard this "thud thud" sound. My first reaction was an increase in my pulse as I quickly scanned around thinking it was probably a bear getting into something. Then I look over to where the shed is, and around the corner comes this little deer...prancing and jumping and going in circles around the shed. He did maybe 3 more loops before he noticed me and then stopped dead in his tracks. Almost looked disappointed that I had interrupted his "play time". Cutest little guy ever!!!
I love how my beater of a car is dying, but that somehow I keep getting to work every day (that's a 40 minute commute each way people). I know it's not luck. It's God looking out for me. He knows I can't afford to fix it or buy a new one. Just living on grace!!
But most of all. Most of all I love God. He never ceases to amaze me. I've mentioned before how much of a blog addict I am. The majority of them have a focus on mindless fashion, photography and the like. But then I occasionally come across one that really challenges me. I love reading those meaningful blogs. The ones where people talk about what they are doing with their lives - how they are serving God in various parts of the world. Those ones inspire me.
On my commute home yesterday I was listening to that song by Hillsong "Lead me to the Cross" - I love the words: "Everything I once held dear, I count it all as loss. Lead me to the cross where your love poured out. Bring me to my knees, Lord I lay me down. Rid me of myself, I belong to you". That last line really hit me. I belong to God. All the things that I think are important can't even compare to God. It's hard sometimes not knowing what the next step is (you know me...I get restless and want to do something new...and ultimately I wish I was getting to be working in the field I studied)...but I have to just continue to trust that God knows best. I'm excited to see what comes of my missions trip to Mexico. Who knows where God could lead me after that?
"Our talents are the gifts that God gives us...What we do with our talents is our gift back to God" - Leo Buscaglia
I love trying a new recipe out. Better yet I love when that recipe is a dynamo success.
I love adventures. I love random jaunts in my boat (yup. I'm a "boat" owner). I love floating down one of our favourite rivers..making up songs...telling stories and just reveling in the beauty.
I love coming across wild life. Happens a lot more to me now that I've moved to the boonies. This morning, I walked out my front door and heard this "thud thud" sound. My first reaction was an increase in my pulse as I quickly scanned around thinking it was probably a bear getting into something. Then I look over to where the shed is, and around the corner comes this little deer...prancing and jumping and going in circles around the shed. He did maybe 3 more loops before he noticed me and then stopped dead in his tracks. Almost looked disappointed that I had interrupted his "play time". Cutest little guy ever!!!
I love how my beater of a car is dying, but that somehow I keep getting to work every day (that's a 40 minute commute each way people). I know it's not luck. It's God looking out for me. He knows I can't afford to fix it or buy a new one. Just living on grace!!
But most of all. Most of all I love God. He never ceases to amaze me. I've mentioned before how much of a blog addict I am. The majority of them have a focus on mindless fashion, photography and the like. But then I occasionally come across one that really challenges me. I love reading those meaningful blogs. The ones where people talk about what they are doing with their lives - how they are serving God in various parts of the world. Those ones inspire me.
On my commute home yesterday I was listening to that song by Hillsong "Lead me to the Cross" - I love the words: "Everything I once held dear, I count it all as loss. Lead me to the cross where your love poured out. Bring me to my knees, Lord I lay me down. Rid me of myself, I belong to you". That last line really hit me. I belong to God. All the things that I think are important can't even compare to God. It's hard sometimes not knowing what the next step is (you know me...I get restless and want to do something new...and ultimately I wish I was getting to be working in the field I studied)...but I have to just continue to trust that God knows best. I'm excited to see what comes of my missions trip to Mexico. Who knows where God could lead me after that?
"Our talents are the gifts that God gives us...What we do with our talents is our gift back to God" - Leo Buscaglia
May 20, 2010
Power outages
While most people in the world would be delighted to hear the news announce that a thunderstorm is on the way, I am not one of them. Booming in the sky. Light flashing through the clouds. Not my idea of a fun filled evening. I’d rather watch a scary movie. No. Axe that idea. I can’t even sit through that.
Needless to say, last night when I arrived home to a pitch black house, I was creeped. Yes. I live in the boonies. I should be prepared for power outages. Do I own a flashlight? No. Do I have candles handy and ready to go? No. Matches a plenty. Just nothing to light.
So in I walked, cell phone open attempting to light my path. I thought about leaving my car headlights on, opening the blinds to my room, and allowing that to be my source of light while I waited for Andrew to arrive with candles. Then I thought about how easily my car battery dies. And the last thing I need is a dead car AND a dark house. So i fired up my computer, and sat in the kitchen with it lit. Waiting. Thankfully it was only 15 short minutes before the box, yes, BOX, of candles arrived. We quickly went to town lighting up our kitchen – probably to the point of extreme fire hazard, but hey, one needs light, so “let there be light”!
Seeing as there wasn’t much to do, and it was already 10:30PM (way past my old lady bedtime), I decided to hunker down for the evening – leaving Andrew in charge of remembering to blow out the plethora of candles (danger danger danger!).
The power came back on about 20 minutes after I went to bed – my fan kicked in and woke me up! But I was grateful cause then I could sleep better knowing that when I woke up in the morning I could shower and look presentable today. Nothing like trying to go to sleep thinking that you’re going to have to go to work with the worst bed head imaginable. Makes you wanna try and sleep lighter on your pillow – because somehow you think that will prevent your hair from getting smushed! But then, in that glorious attempt, you get a kink in your neck and end up looking like a weirdo the next day anyways.
Makes one grateful for electricity.
May 7, 2010
thank you notes
dear sunshine,
you are lovely when you show up in the sky. you have no idea how much you make my heart sing. i could be having the worst hair, clothing and face day - but still you would make me smile.
feel free to show up more often!
all my love,
laura
you are lovely when you show up in the sky. you have no idea how much you make my heart sing. i could be having the worst hair, clothing and face day - but still you would make me smile.
feel free to show up more often!
all my love,
laura
April 12, 2010
Lame-o
Heya my peeps.
I'm coming back. I promise. After a stint of strep throat and then of course the Easter holiday, I'm rested and recovered and ready to start filling you in again. Much to share...including a delightful new dish I made.
Stay tuned...in the next few days there will be updates...and the much promised pictures!!!
Tootles!
I'm coming back. I promise. After a stint of strep throat and then of course the Easter holiday, I'm rested and recovered and ready to start filling you in again. Much to share...including a delightful new dish I made.
Stay tuned...in the next few days there will be updates...and the much promised pictures!!!
Tootles!
March 31, 2010
Results...
...my source was 100% accurate (refer back to “Peanut-sized brain post”) – I had not given her a bible. She loved it!!
March 30, 2010
Saga continued...
I have met with my source (you know who you are!) and we are 90% sure there has been no bible giving as of yet. Haha!
An exciting little mystery don't ya think! I will know for certain in the next few days. Take your guesses now! :)
An exciting little mystery don't ya think! I will know for certain in the next few days. Take your guesses now! :)
Peanut Sized Brain
Yes. I am little. And with that, I presume, comes a little brain too – or at least my lapse in memory would point to that! It was noticed on my trip this past summer, and since then, it’s been quite impossible to move on from – little girl’s got a short memory span!! I would like to bring to your attention, though, that most of these “forgotten” things would include movie quotes or specific dates that an event occurred – the like of which many would have a hard time recalling at light speed. The really imperative information is stored in an easily accessible section. At least I thought it was. Today, in my attempt to be an encouraging and uplifting individual, I bought a bible for a friend that needed one. It’s beautiful – green and brown with some embroidering on it. I picked a verse that made me think of her and inscribed the bible with a message. Just as I was slipping it back into its box an eerily familiar feeling rushed over me – “Have a done this already?”. Now I remember that I’ve been wanting to do this for some time, but for some reason it feels all too familiar. Of course now it’s too late to return it (seeing as it has a personal message written in it) so I must somehow solve this elusive mystery. Stay tuned. I’ll be sure to let you know how it all ends.
“Give it a second – it’s going to outer space” ~ Brian Regan
March 29, 2010
Where has the day gone?
Amidst thunderstorms, rays of sunshine, and far too many numbers, I find myself a measly 30 minutes from the end of my work day! Where has this Monday gone? While I had hoped to accomplish far more, at the very least I have had a chance to update the look of my blog (thoughts? Be honest now!). As with anything in my life, I need a quick freshener every few months - be it hair, furniture arrangement, pictures that are adorning my workspace - you get tired of the old and wanna bring in the new (I guess I better figure this out before I find me a man...otherwise I'll be switching 'em up like nobodies business!!! haha!).
In the world of news, I'm going to be an auntie again! My darling sister, Bex, has a lime residing in her belly. Well. Not just a lime. And it certainly won't remain the size of a lime (although that would make giving birth a delightful piece of cake!). "It" (since they are leaving the sex a surprise) has taken on the name NUBNN (naked unborn baby no name) - pronounced Nubin, and will be gracing us with "its" presence sometime in October.
And now I leave you with a promise to start posting more pictures! There's just something about pictures that livens up a blog don't ya think!?!
Off to learn how to save lives (First Aid, class 3) - only 2 more days and I'm certified.
See...change IS always happening! and oh how I love it!
In the world of news, I'm going to be an auntie again! My darling sister, Bex, has a lime residing in her belly. Well. Not just a lime. And it certainly won't remain the size of a lime (although that would make giving birth a delightful piece of cake!). "It" (since they are leaving the sex a surprise) has taken on the name NUBNN (naked unborn baby no name) - pronounced Nubin, and will be gracing us with "its" presence sometime in October.
And now I leave you with a promise to start posting more pictures! There's just something about pictures that livens up a blog don't ya think!?!
Off to learn how to save lives (First Aid, class 3) - only 2 more days and I'm certified.
See...change IS always happening! and oh how I love it!
March 22, 2010
Daydreaming
It’s a day dreaming kind of day...or week...or month!
Not a whole lot of exciting happenings to report, although the imagination has begun a wild trip down “I Wish” lane – no stopping me now. I’m writing lists and the travel bug has hit me hard once again. On my lunch break today I spent almost the entire time leafing through Lonely Planet guides of Spain, France, Italy and other Western Europe countries. Of course dreams have to start somewhere right?! And expanding your knowledge is step one. You want to travel somewhere, learn about the country. You want to cook exquisite meals, then sift through the recipes.
So besides having an immense urge to once again embark on an adventure to some far off country, I’m trying to find smaller, more manageable dreams to start pursuing. Top of the list is getting in shape for summer. I’ve always been interested in getting more flexible, so I’ve bought myself a Yoga DVD (thanks for the tip Jules) and I’ve been trying to get into the habit (they say a habit takes 30 days so stay tuned on whether I am successful) of doing crunches every night. Plus, I’m up to 5 push-ups. The REAL ones...not the wimpy girl ones!
A second close is finally pursuing what I’m passionate about. I realize that one of the reasons I only stay happy in a job for like 6 months is because I haven’t yet done what I’m passionate about – what gives me a sense of purpose – what makes me feel like I’m contributing and using my giftings. So I’m taking steps towards doing what I feel God has been putting on my heart. Step one: First Aid Certification. I eventually would love to work with youth (whether that be in a school setting as a youth care worker, or at a drop-in center, or wherever else) but almost all require that you have a first aid certificate. So you will be proud to know that I’ve signed up and my class begins tonight. A long 4 hour session after working an 8 hour day, but I’m hoping the information flow will help the time pass quickly. And a definite plus is that we’re required to wear “comfy clothes”. After wearing business attire all day, sweats and a comfy sweater sounds good to me!!!
In the midst of a somewhat dry season of life, I like finding the light at the end of the tunnel. And my inspiration from the day came from a fabulous Psalms: “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life”.
I might rarely know what the heck I’m doing, but thank goodness God does – and thank goodness He’s in charge!!
Back to daydreaming....
March 5, 2010
A Blog about Nothing in Particular
Bring on the weekend. Thanks to the fabulous organization I work for, we have hailed Monday as “Family Day” and so this marks the beginning (well almost – still 3 more hours of work) of a long weekend for me. There’s something about a long weekend that just makes me smile!
Things I plan on doing this weekend include, but are definitely not limited to:
-sleeping in – oh lordy lord I can’t wait!
-sipping coffee – delicious fare trade coffee, compliments of my daddy-o
-hitting up a flea market - I must give credit to Anne for this one - her idea!! Me = very excited!
-breakfast at IHOP – Anne’s never been. NEVER! Mind blowing right!?!
-Forever 21, Metrotown style
-worship night
-nachos
-cooking – haven’t in a while and NEED to
It is now 30 minutes until afternoon coffee meeting time with my fellow lovely ladies (aka coworkers!). It’s a tradition we have started – and yes, in case you are wondering, we do actually work! It’s great to debrief and share insights and discuss strategies. I tell you – I couldn’t ask for a better pair to work with!
And now I would like to leave you with a few inspirational collages. I did this first one at wordle.net – inspired by a blog I follow - JeremyandKathleen– they are my inspiration for a lot of things!!!
And this was one I did a while ago, on Facebook, to commemorate a year of status updates. So funny to look back on things and read what the happenings were!
Things I plan on doing this weekend include, but are definitely not limited to:
-sleeping in – oh lordy lord I can’t wait!
-sipping coffee – delicious fare trade coffee, compliments of my daddy-o
-hitting up a flea market - I must give credit to Anne for this one - her idea!! Me = very excited!
-breakfast at IHOP – Anne’s never been. NEVER! Mind blowing right!?!
-Forever 21, Metrotown style
-worship night
-nachos
-cooking – haven’t in a while and NEED to
It is now 30 minutes until afternoon coffee meeting time with my fellow lovely ladies (aka coworkers!). It’s a tradition we have started – and yes, in case you are wondering, we do actually work! It’s great to debrief and share insights and discuss strategies. I tell you – I couldn’t ask for a better pair to work with!
And now I would like to leave you with a few inspirational collages. I did this first one at wordle.net – inspired by a blog I follow - JeremyandKathleen– they are my inspiration for a lot of things!!!
And this was one I did a while ago, on Facebook, to commemorate a year of status updates. So funny to look back on things and read what the happenings were!
March 2, 2010
Addictions
Yes most addictions are unhealthy. Especially considering it’s defined as “enslaved to a habit”. Those four words are chilling. But I must confess something: I’m addicted to reading blogs. I find them so entertaining. My favourite is when you find one extremely entertaining blog that then mentions another blog that is just as stunning in its layout and narrative. It’s a snowball effect. Is it bad that I currently follow sixteen blogs? Although, of those sixteen, only about six are viewed daily. I’m telling you, I have an addiction. But isn’t the first step to recover admitting you have a problem? :)
I have bid my ado’s to a short lived fever – the Olympics! What an incredible two weeks:
-daily checking the medal count
-two weeks of casual wear at work
- seeing the torch in my city
-two epic trips downtown to experience the hub
-clutching a gold medal in my white glove clad hand
-riding the West Coast Express (posh train) for the first time
-seeing Tina Turner live
-proving my dance skills were BETTER than Tina Turners
-a roller coaster of emotions
-the “family feel” – random strangers interacting like long time friends
-free stuff – always a wonderful treat!
-Canadian pride
-a church potluck coupled with a US vs. Canada hockey game
-everyone’s facebook status’ somehow involving the Olympics (I barely remember what they all used to say BEFORE the Olympics came around)
-leaps of joy when our guys dominated the US in hockey
And then, I heard the words of Jacques Rogge as he declared “...the XXI Olympic Winter Games closed”, and as the crowd booed, I listened in anticipation as he called upon the youth of the world to assemble again in four years. Ok Jacques. If you say so. Looks like I’m taking a trip to Sochi in four years*.
*Just a quick aside: I remember four years ago when they summoned us all to Vancouver for the Olympic games – I remember thinking “oh boy. I wonder if I’ll be around for that. I wonder what I’ll be up to”. Once again, I’m left wondering – where am I going to be in four years? I love the anticipation of the unknown! And of course, the best thing about the future is "that it comes one day at a time" (Abraham Lincoln).
I have bid my ado’s to a short lived fever – the Olympics! What an incredible two weeks:
-daily checking the medal count
-two weeks of casual wear at work
- seeing the torch in my city
-two epic trips downtown to experience the hub
-clutching a gold medal in my white glove clad hand
-riding the West Coast Express (posh train) for the first time
-seeing Tina Turner live
-proving my dance skills were BETTER than Tina Turners
-a roller coaster of emotions
-the “family feel” – random strangers interacting like long time friends
-free stuff – always a wonderful treat!
-Canadian pride
-a church potluck coupled with a US vs. Canada hockey game
-everyone’s facebook status’ somehow involving the Olympics (I barely remember what they all used to say BEFORE the Olympics came around)
-leaps of joy when our guys dominated the US in hockey
And then, I heard the words of Jacques Rogge as he declared “...the XXI Olympic Winter Games closed”, and as the crowd booed, I listened in anticipation as he called upon the youth of the world to assemble again in four years. Ok Jacques. If you say so. Looks like I’m taking a trip to Sochi in four years*.
*Just a quick aside: I remember four years ago when they summoned us all to Vancouver for the Olympic games – I remember thinking “oh boy. I wonder if I’ll be around for that. I wonder what I’ll be up to”. Once again, I’m left wondering – where am I going to be in four years? I love the anticipation of the unknown! And of course, the best thing about the future is "that it comes one day at a time" (Abraham Lincoln).
February 19, 2010
Red Rover
A childhood game? You know it. To be played only by children? ‘H’ no! The anticipation of someone charging at you, the chant running through your head encouraging you to hold on for dear life, the excitement that spills over when you realize you have once again succeeded at gaining another player for your team – all simple joys that should be enjoyed by people of all ages.
So why the red rover plug? I had the immense pleasure of being involved in an Olympic red rover round – O3R as I’d like to refer to it as. Monumental. Historical. Moving. Inspiring. And of course – Hilarious! Last Saturday I hung out downtown with 14 awesome people – scouring the streets to find the free stuff, exploring the pavilions, chumming it up with fellow Canadians. You have to love how the Olympics creates a family feel in the hearts of everyone – you talk to anyone downtown as if you’ve known them for years. Love the community effect!!
Allow me to set the scene for you – four of us have just crossed the street. The rest of our group was caught on the other side by the red light. While waiting for the light to change to green, Andrew has a brilliant idea – “we should challenge them to a game of red rover”. Done and done! We link hands. Hearts quickening. Excitement rising. The light turns yellow. The light turns red. Their light turns green. We scream – “Red Rover Red Rover, we call EVERYONE OVER”. Tearing from the crowd, a lady in red started charging towards us. Our grips tightened. The rest of our group looked on in horror and amazement. After successfully holding her back, and winning her to our side, we exchanged laughs, and she went on her merry way. Our group got across the street, and the questions started firing – “who was that lady?”, “you guys knew her right?”, “was she a family friend?”. Amidst our laughter, we explained that we had absolutely no idea who that stranger had been, but she had, quite obviously, made our day by joining in the fun!
“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth” ~ unknown
So why the red rover plug? I had the immense pleasure of being involved in an Olympic red rover round – O3R as I’d like to refer to it as. Monumental. Historical. Moving. Inspiring. And of course – Hilarious! Last Saturday I hung out downtown with 14 awesome people – scouring the streets to find the free stuff, exploring the pavilions, chumming it up with fellow Canadians. You have to love how the Olympics creates a family feel in the hearts of everyone – you talk to anyone downtown as if you’ve known them for years. Love the community effect!!
Allow me to set the scene for you – four of us have just crossed the street. The rest of our group was caught on the other side by the red light. While waiting for the light to change to green, Andrew has a brilliant idea – “we should challenge them to a game of red rover”. Done and done! We link hands. Hearts quickening. Excitement rising. The light turns yellow. The light turns red. Their light turns green. We scream – “Red Rover Red Rover, we call EVERYONE OVER”. Tearing from the crowd, a lady in red started charging towards us. Our grips tightened. The rest of our group looked on in horror and amazement. After successfully holding her back, and winning her to our side, we exchanged laughs, and she went on her merry way. Our group got across the street, and the questions started firing – “who was that lady?”, “you guys knew her right?”, “was she a family friend?”. Amidst our laughter, we explained that we had absolutely no idea who that stranger had been, but she had, quite obviously, made our day by joining in the fun!
“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth” ~ unknown
February 9, 2010
Odds and Ends
There is no limit to the benefits that come with being a friend of someone who is health conscious. I strive to follow the food guide – giving my body all the necessary nutrients it so craves – but when it comes to tricks of the trade, Ams is my go to person! I can’t even come close to knowing half the stuff she knows. For instance – did you know that having lemons in your water helps to clean your blood? So from now on, when I ask for it in restaurants, I almost want to say “it’s for health reasons” – cause clearly it is! Who wouldn’t want to shine up that stuff pumping through their veins?
Speaking of red (great transition right?!) – yesterday was a glorious day in history: I got to experience the passing of the Olympic torch. And ladies and gentlemen, the hype is definitely all it’s cracked up to be. I’m sorry to have to inform you all that I have caught the Olympic fever – I should probably stay home for the next few weeks until I’m fully recovered (wink!). It was quite exciting though – Steve (I think that was his name) had such enthusiasm as he ran – he was jumping and cheering and smiling...definitely a top five moment for him! The crowds of red and white just made me smile. The one time that you don’t mind looking like the person standing next to you. The one time you wear red even if it clashes with your skin tone. The one time you high five a person for wearing the same sweater! I can’t wait to head downtown and get to be a part of the buzz – bring on Saturday!
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow” ~Unknown
Speaking of red (great transition right?!) – yesterday was a glorious day in history: I got to experience the passing of the Olympic torch. And ladies and gentlemen, the hype is definitely all it’s cracked up to be. I’m sorry to have to inform you all that I have caught the Olympic fever – I should probably stay home for the next few weeks until I’m fully recovered (wink!). It was quite exciting though – Steve (I think that was his name) had such enthusiasm as he ran – he was jumping and cheering and smiling...definitely a top five moment for him! The crowds of red and white just made me smile. The one time that you don’t mind looking like the person standing next to you. The one time you wear red even if it clashes with your skin tone. The one time you high five a person for wearing the same sweater! I can’t wait to head downtown and get to be a part of the buzz – bring on Saturday!
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow” ~Unknown
February 4, 2010
The Art of Being Cultured
It is possible, no matter what age, to find joy in discovering new cultures – the foods, the traditions, and yes, even the music and dance. My newly discovered culture, or rather newly refreshed love, is India. Can we please begin with a brief reflection on the clothing – I love the colour in the material...so very vibrant and full of life! The sarees are so light and comfy – I’m not sure I would do anything but dance all the time in them! And as for the food – “mm” doesn’t even come close to expressing even a tenth of what it’s like for your taste buds to experience Butter Chicken and Naan bread. On top of all the other reasons to love India, my two kids are from there. Wait. What? I have two kids?! Sure do. Adopted (aka sponsored) little Roma (my 5 yr old boy) about 2 years ago, and about a year ago added my little girl, Ritu (about 4 yrs old). I love getting to correspond with them. Despite the fact that most of our communication is through pictures right now, I love the idea that I’ll get to see them grow up (I have a secret plan to set them up when they’re older...I just think they would be so cute together!). I figured since I was going to be a part of their lives (in some aspect) I should at least learn about their culture. I hope to someday visit them, but until then, I’ll try and experience what I can of India while here in North America.
Who better to experience this culture with than my youth girls! We decided for our group night that we wanted to have Indian food and attempt to learn some Indian dance moves – perhaps even going as far as to make a Bollywood music video. Our night began with a delectable selection of Vegetable Pakora, Butter Chicken, rice, Naan bread and Saag. We quickly found ourselves stuffed, packed up our leftovers (at the suggestion of our waiter who claimed “we deserved it”), and embarked on our second adventure – the art of Bollywood music videos. After watching numerous clips online (thank goodness for youtube), we proceeded to recreate, to the best of our ability and with our own creative additions, a video of the Slum Dog song “Jai Ho”. Three observations I made:
1) It’s a lot of work to dance like those in India
2) Little trampolines are very useful for dramatic effect
3) Four white girls attempting to make an Indian music video is beyond hilarious!!!!
I’m happy to say it was a successful evening. We learned lots. We created awesome memories. And we decided we want to further culture ourselves by trying out new ethnic food more often.
“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door” ~ Milton Berle
Who better to experience this culture with than my youth girls! We decided for our group night that we wanted to have Indian food and attempt to learn some Indian dance moves – perhaps even going as far as to make a Bollywood music video. Our night began with a delectable selection of Vegetable Pakora, Butter Chicken, rice, Naan bread and Saag. We quickly found ourselves stuffed, packed up our leftovers (at the suggestion of our waiter who claimed “we deserved it”), and embarked on our second adventure – the art of Bollywood music videos. After watching numerous clips online (thank goodness for youtube), we proceeded to recreate, to the best of our ability and with our own creative additions, a video of the Slum Dog song “Jai Ho”. Three observations I made:
1) It’s a lot of work to dance like those in India
2) Little trampolines are very useful for dramatic effect
3) Four white girls attempting to make an Indian music video is beyond hilarious!!!!
I’m happy to say it was a successful evening. We learned lots. We created awesome memories. And we decided we want to further culture ourselves by trying out new ethnic food more often.
“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door” ~ Milton Berle
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