Crop Circles – “The Missing Planet” - 1995

Crop circles have held the imaginations, fears and attention of humans for more then a few years now.

After watching M. Night Shyamalan’s SIGNS late one night, Duncan and I decided it would be a fun pet project to find out a little more about Crop Circles. So, next time we were at the library, I picked up a book about it. Surprisingly, the topic is full of controversy and intrigue that encompasses a field of study that includes a large array of academics: Astronomy; Engineering, Anthropology, History, Math (fractal geometry), Weather experts; Bio-whatevers; Archeo-Astronomy, Psychology; etc; and other people that have now become known as "crop circle researchers".

Crop circles in the British Isles (and likely worldwide) have occurred since mediaeval times, especially around Stonehenge, but they began to create a stir in the early 1970’s when they began to attract public attention when two witnesses claimed to have watched a circle appear in less then one minute. Every new circle since August 15th 1980, has been scrutinized to determine which “type” of formation it is. The determinations are as follows: "Authentic Crop Circles" are formations that can’t be proven as hoaxes. These formations exhibit certain criteria and characteristics that have been determined to frequent formations that are considered authentic and can not be replicated by humans outside of labs. These include: perfect geometric symmetry; bent stalks without breakage (stalks appear to be super flash heated), no evidence of human intervention, results from soil and seed samples, among others. "Fake Crop Circles" are crop circles purposely made by humans (in an effort to reproduce, or in some case, communicate). "Hoaxes" are considered to be crop circles obviously made by humans in an attempt to pretend or present an apparent crop circle.

Crop circles come and crop circles go, but every once in a while one particular formation grabs at the attention of the world. In 1995, a recognizable 240-ft wide depiction of our inner solar system appeared in a field in England. It has been dubbed the “Missing Planet”. Both Mathematicians and Astronomers have been curiously involved in trying to unravel the inner meanings, if any, of the Missing Planet crop circle formation. Interestingly enough, the depicted planets and our sun were placed with exact orbital ratios using thin bands of upright crop, and the sizes were to scale, except for the Earth which was notoriously missing from the illustration. Professor Gerald Hawkins (from Boston University) was one of the people who worked on the formation, utilizing the significant mathematical equations as pertaining to the diatonic ratios that the design contained and eventually posited that it was referring to a specific astronomical date – by considering the planetary positions over the period of one hundred years he found the following dates to be contenders: November 1903 (correlates to the first flight of the Wright Brothers), and July 11 1971 (when Mariner 9 was on its way to Mars). Further, the difference in years between these two dates is 67, also the exact number of asteroids depicted orbiting in the design.

Curious.



Why is the Earth missing?

My Jouranlistic Stint

When I was a more regular student I had the privelege of writing for the student newspaper at the Uiversity of Calgary, The Gauntlet. I had lots of fun as a news writer/journalist and actually had lots of front page stories to keep me busy in the year I worked there. I had a lot of fun, developed many skills, and was actually published. Some of my favourite stories follow:

Fear and Loathing on a Thursday Night
Iron Monkey no battle
Gauntlet Men's Supplement

It was suggested however that I write about my big story of that year, The David Gould Story. Our Campus, as well as Mount Royal Campus, was being targeted by an offender who was sexually assaulting studen women, in broad daylight, right amongst us. It was a story that the local big media neglected, but I wanted to do something about it. I wanted to raise awareness of safety on campus. I wanted women to know they were in danger. I wanted this guy caught.

Working in media gives you a chance to see just how much the journalist can influence the readership and the collective public. Because of this awareness I was always careful with my wording (in News Stories), trying to present that facts to allow the reader to come to their own opinion. But in this case I decided to use my position of influence to get the word out. I let the police know I was more then willing to operate as a tool for them and they in turn gave me the story of the year. I was given the composite drawing of the suspect to publish front page and I scooped all the big papers. They in turn the next day all used my story as breaking news (with minimal credit I might add). It was a crowning moment for sure (Campuses on Alert). As a result of his picture being splashed all over Campus (the student newspaper actually completely sold out that week, within two days) the Police took him into custody that weekend (Suspected Offender Nabbed). Not only was it a scoop, I got what I wanted, and so did the police.

View all my stories

Web Comics: Laughter is the Worlds Best Medicine

I enjoy all kinds of humor and take laughter where I can get it. I appreciate a talented and satirical approach to life’s experience within the web comics I enjoy. Often comedy is the only safe way to truly address the human condition and the problems we face individually. My favourite web comics are usually to be found at RED MEAT, I’ll post two here for you to enjoy.





Web comics have a long tradition of entertaining me. The medium has certainly come a long way, and now many different pages of comic entertainment can be found for the pleasure of the seeker, ranging from the traditional dark humor of life's gravest challenges to the more light modern hilarity some people demand.

Recently I have also been enjoying PENNY ARCADE, with it’s portrayal of popular culture and the overall gaming industry/world.

Also:

Calvin and Hobbes
Bizarro
Get Your War On
Dilbert
Garfield

Arms and the Man

For an interesting and well informed view of the latest round of social and economic inequities in Iraq you could check out Major Barbara's blog (as recommended to me by a friend). She explores and discusses the economic motivations behind certain American policies and isn't afraid to approach issues head on. Go read about the 1.6 Billion dollar oil recovery program and see if it leaves a bad tatse in your mouth.

In other news, apparently Iraqi's are glad to be rid of Saddam's son's, but would like the US to get on with it - killing Saddam's son's have done little to repair their fractured infrastructure and power grids - and they want utilities restored, please and thank you. I would have to agree with Duncan on this one, the US is not doing the best job that it could be doing in Iraq, and considering its past history of broken promises when it comes to restructuring/rebuilding, I don't know if we can expect them to do the Iraqi's any good by the end of this conflict. I am almost positive though, they will do themselves some good.

"It's about the economy, stupid."
- Bill Clinton

Trendy Diets and Weight Loss

A friend suggested I blog about the Hacker Diet. I'd never heard about it, so I was intrigued. It seems to be one of those new trendy diet schemes heralded by people who want a quick fix to their current weight situation, which isn't in itself the worst thing - but not always the best thing either.

When most people say they want to lose weight, what they really mean is they want better form - building muscles and toning. You don't need to be on a diet to do this, you need to run and do crunches and lift weights.

Truth is though, anyone can lose weight. I lost 65 lbs, in just over a year. As I previously have had two children, my body shape was not what I particularly wanted for myself. I wanted and needed a change.

I didn’t use the hackers diet mentioned above, but I incorporated a bunch of different elements into my lifestyle that worked for me, and I will share them here. First I considered very carefully what I ate, and then I began to eliminate the less healthy choices (junk food, pop, candy, fats) in favour of more healthy choices (rice, fruits, veggies) and I observed how much better my body felt when I ate them. I quit junk foods cold turkey. I realized that in our western society we ate too much, so I toned down my actual portion consumption (they say the suggested portion should be the size of your fist) and found that eventually I just wasn’t hungry all the time, like before. Then I changed the way I expected to eat – I started to eat when my body told me I was hungry, and I didn’t eat if I didn’t feel hungry. I drank water - lots of water. Through all of this I used coffee at times as an appetite suppressant (still do, and I love coffee so it’s a bonus) but never gave up chocolate (have to have your vice and rewards right?). Most importantly, I also started to exercise, mostly mountain biking (would ride 3-5 times a week for about 2-4 hours a time) and working out (3-5 times a week, running 2 kms each time), but also stairs (running up and down), roller blading, ice skating, hiking, walking and weights at home. Find a friend to do each activity with, which always makes it more probable that it will get done, as well as being much more fun. Whether running on my own or with a buddy I found fast paced music took my mind off of any discomfort.

Losing weight is also about presence of mind. If you have an eating problem, or a disorder, get some help. Any weight you lose merely by starving yourself will come back when you begin eating again - You have to convince your body that you are meant to be a different weight then you are now. Then change your lifestyle to reflect the new you that you envision: Demand your food be of a high quality; serve yourself smaller portions; Get rid of the cable; Don’t drive when you can walk or ride; Stop eating cookies, for crying out loud!

Sadly, if you aren’t ready to make these kind of choices for yourself you are likely not going to be successful with any weight loss program. Ultimately, in the end it is up to you to decide the type of person you would like to be and how much you are willing to do to achieve that. Weight loss isn’t hard, but if you continually sabotage yourself (like eating foods you know you shouldn’t) it certainly isn’t going to be an easy process. If you don’t really want to change your lifestyle, then consider accepting yourself the way you are, because it is ultimately more important to feel good about yourself.

Girls Game Too

I like to play games. I grew up with some of the first home video game systems (it was called a Coleco Vision) and eventually we got a Nintendo (which was my first major purchase when I moved out on my own, soon followed by a Super Nintendo). But as classic as those first games were (and still are, like Mario Brothers) I think any other modern gamer would understand when I say that the standard for video games has improved to such a degree that playing the games of my childhood again offers little but nostalgia for me.

Preferring consoles, I never have been much of a computer gamer, although I totally love Diablo II and Duncan and I used to play it for hours together over the internet when we were courting, and have since then as well. I have also enjoyed Civ III, the SIMS and sometimes Sim City on the PC.

Since Duncan moved in with us he brought with him his collection of console systems and games (Super Nintendo, Dreamcast, N64, Playstation 2, Game Cube and the XBox) and I have redisovered the gamer in me. Games like Metroid Prime, Splinter Cell, Eternal Darkness, Halo, Zelda: The Windwaker, and yes, even Animal Crossing, have kept me up for many hours. The most recent game addition to our home, KOTOR, has consumed much of our collective family time.

It was suggested to me to blog about my favourite games. Yet, there are so many. All the games I mentioned above are worthy of your attentions if you are looking for a game to try. If you want a deeper review, check out Duncan's online game collection.

Live life, play hard!

Good Honest Summer Rain Since 1972

I love school, but I didn't always... That statement would seem to be in direct contrast with the teenage Allie that sought (and succeeded) to find an escape from high school (I quit school at 16 years old, moved out and joined the Army) and from a school system I found suffocating. Eventually, when I was 19 I realized that I needed to finish High School and went back to finish it in a year, with honors. That year began as whet seemed like a neccessity, but with the addition of Law 12 (a locally developed course that I loved), Model UN and Work Experience with the RCMP, I learned that school was a fun place to be, and I discovered that I was most fond of learning.

By the time I began (had children first) University I was like a sponge soaking up whatever knowledge I could find. I am currently a Humanities student working towards completing a BA in Religious Studies with a Minor in Political Science. My main area of research lie within Fundamental Religion/Politics and how they relate to Terrorism (and visa versa), and International Relations.

In the future I am considering doing my Masters in Politcal Science to study terrorism more closely, and eventually maybe even law school. I am also a British Citizen, so I do everyonce in a while think of studying abroad and working in the EU for a while. But we shall see what life brings.

You're Never Alone with Summer Rain

I have a wonderful family!

Sometimes it amazes me to look at my children - I mean really look at them. It's like a shock to my system... how did they get so big? How is it possible that such perfection comes from myself? How is it possible that the tiny helpless little creatures I held in my arms those years ago are the same creatures I see before myself now? And yet they are... "they grow so fast" is no longer a mere cliche in my mind, but wisdom whispering to pay attention. My son Wesley is 10 years old now, already. His height brings him to above my shoulders. Someday real soon he is going to tower over me. My daughter Raven Dawn is almost eight. Is is a dainty 50lb girl who who somehow knows what it means to be a girly girl (unlike her mom). They are my children. They are mostly busy with kids stuff.

My boyfriend Duncan both completes our little family unit (I always said that when Duncan moved in with us he made our house a home) and brings with him a greater extended family that is wonderful to be a part of. Duncan is currently the Consituency Office Manager for Calgary Varsity's MLA Murray Smith. He will be 25 years old (soon enough) and is starting his Masters Education at the U of Alberta after completing TWO Undergraduate Degrees last year (BA History, BA Political Science) at the U of Calgary. Duncan works hard, rides a mountain bike, likes to watch movies, argue about politics and he Blogs. He loves to play video games, likely his most favourite hobby, and currently is playing his way through KOTOR again (this time as a dark Jedi). You can read about his Jedi Travels too!

In the shelter of each other we face the world. I know that together we can handle anything.

Anything Boys Can Do, I Can Do Better

Might as well tell you some little known stuff about myself to start out with.

Always a tomboy, I gained semi notoriety at 13 when I became the first female Boy Scout on Vancouver Island (BC) when I decided to leave Girl Guides in order to join the Venturer program. I couldn’t stand having to be “proper” and have my hands clean any more – I wanted to climb trees and repel down cliffs, canoe in the ocean and hike the west coast trail. I loved playing war games so I naturally found myself in Army Cadets at the same time.

In what seemed as a natural progression, I joined the army when I was 17. For six years I was schooled in a vast array of skills, including combat, small arms training, hand to hand combat, recce, night patrols and all sorts of in your face get real dirty fun. Driving cool stuff around. Shooting neat weapons. (I like to shoot). Sometimes it bothers me that I am a trained killer, but other times I am sure it supplies some confidence, and my experience with it certainly aids a deeper understanding of the situations in the world recently.

I am totally an outdoor creature and the army certainly fulfilled outside time for me. I have a passion for all outdoor activities – camping, hiking, climbing (was afraid of heights but I met that fear head on and found it to be not so bad after all), hunting (people/war games and I have had my hunting license since I was 14), I especially love mountain biking – I have a Specialized Rock Hopper and it usually goes everywhere with me… although I definitely prefer the open dirt trail to pavement (although stairs and cement barricades and sometimes even curbs atleast make urban riding interesting). I love speed, and am a natural driver, which is likely why I get paid so much to do it. I have driven many neat things (Army trucks, Armoured vehicles, Zambonis, huge 4x4 trucks, tractors, fast sports cars, etc etc…) and I don’t think there isn’t anything out there I couldn’t drive.

A grounds worker at the U of C dared me once to drive his tractor (as if being an attractive young girl means not having the skills to operate a tractor). You should have seen him jump up and run after me as I drove off with his tractor. Anything boys can do, I can do better…

Well its hard to sometimes think what to say about myself when a great deal of my audience knows me already so well. I will say it has taken me a few years to figure out who I am enough to be comfortable with my own femininity while at the same time being a tom boy! I am a woman. Here me roar!

I have always made my way in traditional male held careers, jobs or hobbies, but I claim them for myself as I am not an outsider trying to get in, but I am me.

“I am the invincible sword goddess”
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

BLOGATHON TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Anything Boys Can Do, I Can Do Better!
2. My Family
3. It's all Academic
4. Girls Game too!
5. Trendy Diets and Weight Loss
6. Arms and the Man
7. Web Comics: Laughter is the World's Best Medicine
8. My Jouranlistic Stint
9. Crop Circles
10. The Marre Man
11. The Death of the Twins
12. Culture Jamming
13. Urban Legends
14. A Picture's Worth
15. Which Direction is Perfection?
16. Four Charged in Iraqi POW Abuse
17. Email Netiquette
18. Web Blogathon is a World Wide Effort!
19. Old Turtle
20. Time In
21. A coup d'état?
22. MOVIE REVIEW: The Pianist, 2002
23. Guestblog - Deven Singhal on Doctor's Without Borders
24. Stormy Weather!
25. Web Video Art
26. My Favourite Satire Wire Story: Axis of Just As Evil
27. My Favourite Onion Story: God Angerily Declares No Kill Rule

And 2003 Blogathon is upon us!

First of all, I want to send a BIG THANK YOU to my sponsors. They have contributed $65.00 sponsorship to my cause of supporting the organization DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS. Check it out, I think you can still make a pledge to support me!

Also, while I am awake all day and night tomorrow please feel free to send me feedback either through email or the remarks/comments section... I will also be online to chat if you would like to add me (just mention "blogathon" so I don't think its my crazy stalker).

MSN Messenger - alliesmyth@hotmail.com
Yahoo Messenger - walks_like_summerrain

Tomorrow's Blogathon will also herald the launch of my new blog template. I hope you like it, and luckily there wont be too many bugs to iron out during the blogging process. Anyways, I know how patient and considerate all of my readers are!

Girls Kick Ass.

Went out for coffee with Jolene tonight (at Higher Ground in Kensington) and it was fun - we talked about girl things, did some hair stuff and she painted a cute flower on one of my nails. Oh my goodness. I am a girl! I have decided that the best part of being a girl is that it is fun to be pretty. I have spent most of my life in boy focused environments doing traditionally male jobs, and I realize that there isn't much difference between me and a guy. Anything they can do, I can do better (winks). Yet there is much that is special about being a woman. We are mysterious and beautiful creatures.

When I was a younger girl, and considering getting married, my Great Aunt had some advice for me that she really wanted to pass on. She took me aside and said "If you want to keep your man, put on make up everyday". In the harsh judgement of my youth, and being both a Tom Boy and a child of this generation, I rejected her advice mostly as old fashioned poppycock passed down in a patriarchal society. I may have even felt a little resentful that she wanted me to play the role of the submissive little woman who knows her place. But now, 16 years later, I look back upon her message with a wisdom garnered slowly over that time, and I realize what she was really trying to say.

What my Aunt was trying to articulate to me that day, was more of this: Taking care of yourself - your pride and confidence in your own body image illustrates that you love yourself AND the person you are with. Some women let themselves go once they are married because they believe they do not have to be attractive anymore, or that it is now too much work, but taking care of yourself (and it doesn't have to be putting on makeup) shows pride both in yourself and them. I am happy that my mate finds me attractive. I am willing to be more creative in my self expression when I feel attractive and it makes me happy to be pretty.

I am no beauty expert, and I am not always a girly girl (ok, maybe hardly ever), but I am happy to have found the wisdom in my Aunts words all these years later. I am confident that my beauty is not a threat to my intelligence (as maybe some of my more feminist friends would have me believe), and I might as well dress like a girl, cause well, I AM a girl! I am lucky to have girl friends around me to teach me how to do more girly girl (never learned when I was younger) things, cause it really is kinda fun.

A lifetime ago, when I was working my way into what seemed like a male dominated world, I often wondered if I would give up being a girl if the chance was offered. But having traversed those obstacles and dispelled those myths, I realize that now this is MY world, and I like being a girl. Girls Kick Ass.

There's nothing wrong with Blow Jobs...

Threat rating: High.
The Bush administration is concerned that it may not get a second term. Therefore, we are going to change the rules so that each Democrat vote only counts as 0.2 votes because Democrat is a shorter word than Republican.


What threat to the Bush administration are you?
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Every new beginning comes from some other beginnings end

Sometimes Life has a way of surprising you, just when you think your day will be about getting on with the mundane (today I had planned to start packing, thanks to Megan, who brought me over great boxes last night). In all my pretending to get on with my day today, I may have suspected something about the day would be different...

I had just made coffee when the phone rang. I already knew who it was. I think I even knew before the phone actually rang. I think I must have felt how she needed me. I hope I can be the best friend that I can possibly be today.

Nothing mundane about today, and that is ok. Today Life is all of a sudden, very starkingly, real. Hello Life. Nice of you to drop by to remind us all to get busy with the business of living. I wish you hadn't brought the man here so soon, and I wish maybe he wasn't so angry, wasn't in so much denial - this thing was over a long time ago, it didn't just end today. I wish she had been able to finish her coffee. But alas, thats Life for you.

Now all I can do is wait for her to come back.

My coffee is cold...

Cue Hysterical Laughter

I seem to remember my training - filed somewhere within the dark recesses of my mind, a couple of class discussions in basic training about enduring torture/pain and resisting other interrogation techniques... information (believe it or not) that has been useful to me now in my many (sigh) years of parenthood...

How is it possible, that normal-well-behaved-kid-noises can actually pierce through the tender fleshy parts of my mind like a barbed dagger when I have a migraine headache???

It's a nice day outside kids. Shoo.



Well, atleast I can endure my painful headache this morning and still be emotionally upbeat and happy. Yay me! I rock. Pain is all about perception. It makes me realize just how happy I am to be alive, lets me be reflective in my decision not to be a victim but to allow myself to actually welcome and feel the pain that is mine, for the brief time that I will endure it. Pain doesn't last forever, it's not an enemy - its an important part of our experience. Matter of fact I feel better already. I am a survivor.

Spending the afternoon outside in the sun beside the Duck Pond while the kids play in the park will make me feel much better. Bring on the day! Deas Gu Cath!

Some people are just sore losers!

"Im... (cough) I... I... Impossible! I can not be defeated! I am the Dark Lord of the Sith!" - Darth Malak, direct quote.

It is done.

Hmmmm... I sense... a sequel... we must remain, ever vigilant...

Busted alright - and no where to hide!

Ah, Yahoo Msn... Just found this message window on my desktop waiting for me...

kayak_stacey: dude, you gotta get away from the video games. and don't lie and say that's not what you're up to 'cus you ain't been online in days now and that's all duncan can talk about on his blog. busted!! :-)

Well now, it is nice to be missed! :-)

And the rest of the conversation:

allie: lol... theres nothing to hide behind here ;-)
kayak_stacey: LOL
kayak_stacey: i knew i had you busted. i just read your blog
allie: *giggles*
kayak_stacey: :-)
kayak_stacey: coming up for air, are you?
allie: well, actually, was just checking email... and was sort of considering going for a walk. He's still playing
kayak_stacey: okay, well, i gotta go make a call. if i'm not back in ten, i'm gone to bed. in that case, night and may the force be with you... or whatever it is you eggheads say to each other. ;-)
allie: lol. check my blog when you get back. you get an honorable mention
kayak_stacey: Whoooohoooo!!

But, alas, the game must go on! Night Five, and we are at the climax! *WAVES* A quick "HI!" to everyone... And, ah, yeah... May the force be with you!

May the Force be with Us

Still camped out in front of the TV and XBox... it's like an extended Star Wars Movie that you get to be in! Any Star Wars fans out there? You need to have this experience.

Do we really believe everything we read/hear?

Given my intrinsic mistrust of the corporate media, I'm not surprised that the recently reported Metallica E & F chord lawsuit is a complete hoax. Elements of the story actually didn't make sense, but apparently that didn't matter to the majority of people, including so called legitimate media outlets.

In an age where information travels so fast, when we are bombarded daily by so many different messages, through so many different mediums, why do people choose to be gullible rather than skeptical? A healthy skepticism is the chastity belt of the intellect! We certainly go a long way to expanding our own intelligence when we consider and challenge everything we are confronted with rather then accepting it as gospel truth.

This isn't 1938 any more, people.

It's a small world after all...

Written by a social worker (not a journalist) the article, So who's protecting the Saudi's?, is not quite as interesting as the implications to be drawn from it. Read it...

Listen to the money talk.

"V for Victory!" - Churchill, July 19th 1941.

So Thursday night we dragged our mattress downstairs, and that is mostly where Duncan has stayed since that moment... well, we went for a bike ride last night when I got home from work, and this afternoon we met our friend (the lovely) Deven at the Duck Pond by our house where we feed ducks and admired dragonflies before Deven & Duncan decided to place rocks (in artistic fashion, ofcourse) on top of the fountain pipes to create a "spray" instead of a "shoot" of water (very pretty btw... many rainbows!). But the draw of KOTOR is strong, and soon the force drew us back to our wonderfully (thankfully air conditioned) cool abode for Duncan to show off his new game. He became a Jedi yesterday - the force is strong with that one!

BBQ Sirloin Burgers are on the menu for dinner (aren't we special?) and at some point of time tonight we will likely watch "The Pianist", or the artsy Punk Drunk Love" since we rented them yesterday. Also, I am putting together some Shakespeare in the Park forays (in the next three weeks) so give me a shout if you want to know which times we are going.

Is it any Wonder that America is in the Yellow?

"The free world expects Iran to comply," Bush told reporters at the White House. "And if they don't, we'll deal with that when they don't."

Hmmm. I've heard this before... thinking... straining... can't quite get my finger on it... no, wait - same words... different country that's all.

Keep on rocking in the free world, I guess.

Todays Friday Five

I'll admit, when I first saw this weeks Friday Five my disappointed, first instinct was to feel they were intended for someone else... or perhaps my initial discomfort arose from having to consider these traits in myself, or expose them even, if they do exist there. I know I am not a perfect person, and I don’t pretend to live the perfect life, but I do believe that myself and the people in my far from perfect world have more integrity and compassion then these questions might give us credit for. But all in all, in the end I realized I am both confident that I have nothing to hide and that I like the person that I am, even if I have done things wrong.

1. When was the last time you cheated?

Define “cheating” – on a test? Never. On a person? Never. I’ve used a walk through guide when playing some video games, but never really considered it cheating. Sometimes I take “short cuts” at work, but I usually consider that to be innovation (in the more noble pursuit of laziness) then cheating...

2. When was the last time you stole?

Nothing major since I was about eight years old, really (pack of cards from a store, yes I was discovered and yes I took them back and apologized – it was all very traumatic). But then there are lots of little things I don't usually consider stealing (like how you accidently walk off with someone’s pen). Duncan took me to a wonderful hotel in Edmonton for our anniversary in June, and we had this amazingly spectacular meal and I brought home the paper menu card that was in our hotel room. Or even more recently, our next door neighbor moved and I grabbed the newspaper for a few days until it finally stopped being delivered. It was, essentially recycling, right (rolling eyes)?

3. When was the last time you lied?

I am usually painfully honest, too honest for some people’s tastes, even. I have learnt through the years that some information is better off not offered, but I am pretty straightforward if someone cares enough to ask me directly. I don’t lie well, and find myself far more comfortable just confronting the truth then trying to cover it up. I’m the one who has to live with myself right?

4. When was the last time you broke or vandalized another's property?

I can't think of anything intentional or malicious, or even anything at all for that matter... thinking... Duncan had to live with someone who used to break his stuff all the time in an effort to enact punishment on him so I understand that evil acts like that happen, but I can't actually imagine doing that to anybody. I generally have more respect for people than that, and I love the people in my life too much for something like that. But there must be something… I've always been tempted to write my name in wet concrete, but always restrained myself. When I was in the Army we “collected” (liberated) road signs for our Junior Ranks Hall… hmmm, now is that stealing or vandalism? Geez, I am going to hell!

5. When was the last time you hurt a loved one?

Wow - the moment of truth. I live with four people: two of those people I lord over as parent supreme, so I sometimes have to make judgements that they are upset with, even when trying to be fair, and of course I don’t always (snicker) agree with Duncan… but I would never intentionally hurt any of them! Obviously these things happen, but the point of life is to love, and my loved ones deserve the best loving possible. I couldn't remember the last time, so I asked Duncan for help, and this was his answer: “Can't say off hand... hurt is a pretty subjective term. Nothing really comes to mind, you will likely have to think of it yourself. Duncan”.

What is it about Hot Summer Nights?

Thanks to BJ for this Quiz! And I have to agree with him - sometimes these tests just confirm the obvious. But hey, when you've got a good thing, you might as well enjoy it! Party on.



You are the horniest of the horny. You want a**, and you want it now. Look out world, because you are on a mission.

How Horny are YOU?
brought to you by Quizilla

Anyways, it's 3:00am, and the night/morning is going well. Duncan is having fun, the game is great (watching is like watching an extended movie) and we even still have some grapes (what a great idea that was... I rock!).

HmMMmmm. Just realized today is Friday. Going to the Friday Five site to see this weeks questions... I work at the university later on today so I will blog them then! Hope everyone is having as much fun as I am tonight!

And the Night Belongs to My Knight...

With Wesley's birthday winding down and him getting ready for bed (he's been up since the dawn was a mere light on the horizon this morning) it is now Duncan's turn to celebrate - today is the day that he plays his KOTOR game for the first time ever - and he has been sooo very patient (letting Wesley have all the time on the TV for his gaming) I am so proud of him!

So Duncan has dragged our mattress downstairs so I can stay by him all night while he plays his jedi-to-be character Lina Phendrana. I bought him a big bag of grapes for snacking on and will make him coffee through out the night, so we are all set! All of life's a story to be lived, let this new adventure begin.

May the Force be with us.

Baking a cake... and he gets to eat it to!

Ten years ago today I held a tiny 7 lb 10.5 ounce bundle of joy in my arms. Ten years ago today I became a woman and a mother all at the same time. Ten years ago today my son Wesley was born.

Wesley Patrick William Smyth, after 18 hours of labor (today I get to remind him how painful that was, which usually makes him laugh) arrived in my world at 1:56 am on a Saturday morning, July 17th 1993. It was a day, a moment, an event, that changed my life in the most significant yet unpredicted way. I was 21 years old.



It is hard sometimes to believe how much he has grown (in mind, spirit and body) in such a seemingly short period of time. Ten years sounds like a long time, but it has flown by - from babe in my arms to almost my own height (his height is above my shoulders!). From his first steps (which occured at 5 - 9 months old), to riding his bike without training wheels (2.5 years old), learning to read and write (3 years old), winning an award for volunteering (5 years old), scoring his first hat trick (6 years old) to skipping out of school (yes... skipping, 9 years old) Wesley has grown into an amazing person that I am happy, blessed and intrigued to know. I love the way he thinks, marvel at the things he does and try to learn from the way he sees the world and manifests his reality in that world.

He got his presents from us this morning - A Game Boy Player and GB Advance Wars 2 Game from Duncan and I (and some books I had picked up earlier for him) and the DVD Chicken Run from Raven. I cooked bacon and eggs special for breakfast while the Game Boy Player was tested, and after breakfast we watched Chicken Run. Cathy came over for coffee this morning and Duncan and Wes took off to go collect Duncan's long awaited copy of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic game (see Duncan's KOTOR Blog for details). I have baked a chocolate cake (as ordered by his highness), and will finish decorating it as soon as it has cooled - but soon boys will descend upon us and I will need to find some small space to enjoy myself while keeping out of the way of the testosterone...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY 10TH WESLEY!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!

A Day Just For Fun!

Today was a blast! Cathy called and invited Raven and I out to share a day at Calaway Park with her and Dakota. This gave Wesley the chance to spend the day with my Mom, so we all went happily off in different directions, except Duncan, who had to go to work). Calaway Park was fun, and we managed to enjoy most of the rides before the crowds got there! Cathy's not much of a ride person, so I took the kids on lots of rides, my favourite being (ofcourse) the Roller Coaster, even if it is a small coaster (Duncan is planning a trip to take me to his favourite Roller Coasters to share with me some "real" coasters). I thought Raven was going to bail on me, but like any respectable parent would, I made her go. She held me hand the first time through, let go for the second round and was begging to go again by the time it was over. I am happy to see she has inherited my thrill for excitement. We ended our time at Callaway Park with the refreshing "splash" in the Log Ride (it was 34 degrees by then) and piled into the car to head out to Kananaskis Country. We spent the rest of the afternoon working on our tans (and girl talk ofcourse) on the shore of Barrier Lake while the kids played in the water. I miss the mountains, so I am planning a camping this summer for Duncan and I. Anyone want to come? Deven?

When I finally got home I had a surprise gift - Duncan had gone out to buy me the DVD of Gangs of New York! Its a fabulous movie (MAYBE EVEN THE BEST OF THE YEAR) by one of my favourite directors, Martin Scorses. I really love how Duncan shares my love of film, it increases the experience one has when watching and rewatching.

Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery

It's nice to know I can be a good influence at times! You're very welcome Kim, ofcourse!

Any time, Any place, Summerrain…

There now exists an admirable title block (see above) for my blog posts. Yay for html. I am pleased. I spent a small portion of my "busy" day today changing around my template, and a great portion researching topics for the 2003 Blogathon (coming up fast). Mostly I spent time researching the crop circle phenomenon - after watching M. Night Shyamalan's SIGNS again (great movie) the other night Duncan and I decided to undertake finding out more about crop circles as a mini/fun pet project, so when we were at the library on Monday I grabbed a book about it. Seems interesting, controversial (just how I like it). I will post something during the Blogathon about it. AND I am rather enjoying the new MSN 6 (IF you don't have it yet, go download it!) - not only did I chat with peeps for most of the day I also played games online with Megan and Duncan while they were at work. How much more fun can you ask from an online chat system???

So tonight Duncan, I and the kids, went to Grandma and Grandpa's house for a special dinner. Where they live now has a great dining room with most excellent food - and tonight we ate in the private dining room. The food was incredible - I very much enjoyed the Salmon Pipotte (melt in your mouth salmon) with delicious spinach, mashed sweet potato and steamed red cabbage... I have never seen Raven eat so much! I do believe that the greatest thing you can do for your body is to give it good food... and today my body got a gift for sure! mmMMmmm good food. After dinner we sat outside and watched the kids play together (Grant was there as well) and then we went upstairs and Grandma showed me about 85 years or so of photographs. What an amazing family I have found myself welcomed to be a part of. The pictures tell an amazing story. I was very honored.

Well, it is actually 4:05 am right now (woke up ans was just re-editing my today post) and I was gonna stay up a bit more but I am thinking I just might be heading back to bed to snuggle up beside Duncans warm body! Sweet dreams everyone!

mMMmmMmmm... I love sex!

And this, in my inbox today:

I love you so much. I love being with you. You are so much fun to be with and kiss. You are amazing. I hope I can stay with you for the rest of my life Allie!

Love,
Duncan

To be completely honest we (and when I say we I really mean Duncan) just erased the entire blog posting I was working on (much kissing and fawning over me ensued, so it's not a bad thing at all), and I don't really feel like spending any more time typing in my blog today, so here is the short version: Today was gorgeous, we had lots of fun shopping, in the sun and watching NUREMBERG. Our night is not finished though and I am more then eager to get back to it...

I will write more tomorrow when we get back from keeping the sabbath day holy (read coffee ritual).

THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY FIVE!



Today's Friday Five is all about friends!

1. Do you remember your first best friend? Who was it?

Of course I remember my very first real best friend. Her name is Dawn. I originally met Dawn when I was 13 years old and volunteering at the SPCA in Nanaimo BC. We actually didn’t like each other much at first, being in direct competition with each other, but we soon found that the tension between us was actually a burgeoning friendship waiting to happen. Dawn told me once that she believed I was the friend she prayed for because she was lonely, like I was the answer to her prayers. Dawn taught me how to love someone, a skill that has done me well in life. For years we were inseparable - and I would suggest today the only real separation between us is the mere 1200 or so km’s between our actual locations.

2. Are you still in touch with this person?

Absolutely! We are like sisters, or twins even… We talk on the phone constantly as well as visits when we can (She still lives in BC). I wish I could get her to email me a little more, or read my blog on a slightly more regular basis, but she lives in a place with no high speed internet offered, so she is stuck with dialup…

3. Do you have a current close friend?

I am gifted in the art of friendship, and I as a result I am blessed with many good and close friends! There is Duncan, of course, who is my best friend, lover, mentor and playmate. There is also Dawn, Cathy, Michele, Elizabeth, Julie, and Joel too, even though he is a boy. As well as my special friends who have moved away and even though I have irregular contact with them, when I do speak with them again it is always like we spoke only yesterday… Nikki in Vancouver, Renee in Belgium and Kerry in Quebec. All of you are in my heart! I should also give special mention to two of Duncan’s close friends, Deven and Quynn, because they have certainly brought a smile to my face more then once lately with their presence in my world!

4. How did you become friends with this person?

Ugh. My previous verbosity has made this a difficult question to answer, but I shall say this… I love people and I find they naturally gravitate to me, and I have always considered myself lucky that so many wonderful and supporting people have crossed my path and decided to stay in my life. I consider their friendship the highest compliment.

5. Is there a friend from your past that you wish you were still in contact with? Why?

Well I guess Shawn would fall into that category – I met Shawn in school when I was finishing grade 12… She was in all of my classes in the last semester of school and we had so much fun (read skipped out) I slipped from the "principles list" (I think the only class we ever really went to was Law 12). Years later, Shawn became Raven’s godmother, but I had already moved to Alberta. We have both moved lots since then, always seeming to find some way to keep in contact… but I fear we may have now lost each other as I haven’t been able to track her down. But now that I am thinking of it, I am going to go look for her on the internet!

So there is My Friday Five for this week!

It's the crazy philanthropist in me...



Sponsor Allie in the 2003 Blogathon!

I have decided to particpiate in this years BLOGATHON.

Blogathon is a revolutionary project that involves hundreds of Bloggers and "universal web addicts" alike engaging the internet in order to raise money (via pledges) and awareness for their chosen charities. This years event is the third annual Blogathon, taking place on the 26th of July 2003 for 24 hours straight.

Yes, I will post every half hour for 24 hours straight.

Last year's Blogathon event drew over two hundred websites and raised more than $50,000.00 in donations. This year I will be blogging in support of DOCTOR'S WITHOUT BORDERS. Please check out their website, take a virtual tour of a refugee camp, and take a moment to make a pledge towards my cause! Your support is entirely appreciated!

And... as I have to come up with roughly 48 topics to blog about during this time span, please feel free to send any requests that you would like me to tackle. Really, anything. All suggestions will be met with open mind and an appreciation of challenge.


Sponsor Allie in the 2003 Blogathon!

With Apologies, America...

I just found this in the archives at This Hour has 22 Minutes. Called "Apology to America", it's more then worth sharing here.

"I'm sorry that we called George Bush a Moron. He is a Moron, but it wasn't very nice of us to point it out...

"I'm sorry we beat you in Olympic Hockey. In our defence, I guess our excuse would be, that our team was much, much, much, much better then yours".

"I'm sorry about our waffling on Iraq, I mean, when you're going up against a crazed dictator, you wanna have your friends by your side. I realize it took more than two years before you guys pitched in against Hitler, but that was different - everyone knew he had weapons."

"I'm sorry that we burnt down your White House during the war of 1812. I see you've rebuilt it, it's very nice.

"... I'm sorry that we are constantly apologizing for things in a passive aggressive way, which is really a thinly veiled criticsm... I sincerely hope that you are not upset about this, because - we've seen what you do to countries you get upset with... I'm sorry."

No beating around the bush here...

What is a "completely unintentional mistake" anyway?



New Zealand's TV3 mistakenly labelled President Bush a "professional fascist" when a "mislabelled graphic" flashed up during its primetime news, airing to 360,000 viewers in about the 30 seconds that it remained on the air.

TV3 spokesman Roger Beaumont, on behalf of the network, said "It was an absolute case of human error. The fact that it made it to air was extremely unfortunate... What I can assure you is that it was a completely unintentional mistake."

Unfortunate? Not really. If it makes people think, nothing is unfortunate.

Remember the Early Signs of Fascism?

What a lovely surprise!

My absolutely fantabulous boyfriend gave me an awesome surprise today! While I was away at work he diligently and thoughtfully found a host and set up my allie.ca domain! Isn't he amazing?

I have owned www.allie.ca for just over a year but haven't gotten around to finding a host, etc etc... happy to procastinate between my home page and my blog. However he planned to do this for me and it was the greatest! He so sweet, I'm so lucky!

I LOVE YOU DUNCAN!!!!!

Happy July 4th America

OK, I am gonna give the "Friday Five" a whirl...

1. What were your favorite childhood stories?

For a while I read all of the Black Stallion and Nancy Drew stories, Jack London and the classics… but early on in life I discovered books like Stephen King novels, which fostered a huge interest in the paranormal/horror genre that dominated my life until my late teens.

2. What books from your childhood would you like to share with [your] children?

Bridge to Teribithia, The Chrysalids, Uncle Whiskers, and all of the classics (note that doesn’t include Nursery Rhymes).

3. Have you re-read any of those childhood stories and been surprised by anything?

Only by the perpetual sexism/patriarchy in most of the older texts.

4. How old were you when you first learned to read?

I was reading well at age four, before Kindergarten (my kindergarten teacher put me through the grade one curriculum when I was five).

5. Do you remember the first 'grown-up' book you read? How old were you?

I read the King James Holy Bible at age seven. That was followed shortly thereafter by the Unabridged version of Little Women. From then on I barely slept and read everything I could get my hands on!


Hockey News...

Sigh....

I really liked Chris Drury. I think that was the only trade I ever hollered with joy upon hearing about it. I thought just maybe "we" had finally done something right... Well, I sopose we might as well not break the tradition of bad trades in our downward spiral - no, that would be too much to ask.

Sigh, again.

Anyways, I am absent from posting this week as I am more than gainfully employed (being paid $175.00 a day!) in a beautiful place, working outside! Yay summer is finally here! I will post again soon...

Canada Day 2003



CANADA KICKS ASS

We are beginning our celebration of Canada Day as any 136th birthday should start - with BBQ'd Steak for Breakfast! Yay Canada! It's days like this that I wonder just what it means to me to be a Canadian... lots of different things come to mind that are distinctly Canadian... beer, peacekeeping, snow, ice, hockey... ME (I was made in Canada!) but in honour of Canada Day 2003 I would like to share with you a variety of snippets that will help to illustrate Canada... read/click... watch and enjoy!

The Molson's Canadian BEAVER Commercial - I love this! For so many reasons.

American: "Mr. Canadian! Mr. Canuck! HAHAHAHA Where's your pet beaver then, EH?"
Canadian: *pulls a beaver onto the bar* "Right here."
American: *dumbstruck look*
Canadian: "Attack."

The Molson's Canadian "I AM" Rant - inspired by the frustrations felt by Canadians as we endeavour to define ourselves as separate from, and out from under the definition of, the Americans...

"... Canada is the second largest landmass! The first nation of hockey!... and the best part of North America!"



And HOCKEY, ofcourse - no mention of what it means to be Canadian can avoid even a cursory glance at Hockey and how it prevades our lives (it is freezing cold here most of the year, which miraculousy corresponds with the hockey season!). In 2002, to our pride and joy, our Men's AND Women's Hockey teams took Gold at the Olympics... Medals that were celebrated nationwide with much adieu. But when I think of great Hockey moments, I think of Paul Henderson's 1972 (the year I was born) goal that brought all Canadians together in a unified group - TV's were even brought into school classrooms so everyone could watch Team Canada in the 1972 series.
With mere seconds left in the last game of the series, with all of Canada standing still (no doubt holding their breath), Henderson scored what is perhaps the most famous goal in Hockey history - watch it here!

And, now for a teeny bit of humour (as Canadians have the best sense of humour in the world): These questions about Canada were posted on an International Tourism Website. The countries of origin are indicated in brackets after the question.

Q: I have never seen it warm on Canadian TV, so how do the plants grow? (UK)
A: We import all plants fully grown and then just sit around watching them die.

Q: Will I be able to see Polar Bears in the street? (USA)
A: Depends how much you've been drinking.

Q: I want to walk from Vancouver to Toronto - can I follow the railroad tracks? (Sweden)
A: Sure, it's only Four thousand miles, take lots of water. . .

Q: Is it safe to run around in the bushes in Canada? (Sweden)
A: So it is true what they say about Swedes.

Q: It is imperative that I find the names and addresses of places to contact for a stuffed Beaver. (Italy)
A: Let's not touch this one.

Q: Are there any ATMs (cash machines) in Canada? Can you send me a list of them in Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton and Halifax? (UK)
A: What did your last slave die of?

Q: Can you give me some information about hippo racing in Canada? (USA)
A: A-fri-ca is the big triangle shaped continent south of Europe. Ca-na-da is that big country to your North . . . oh forget it. Sure, the hippo racing is every Tuesday night in Calgary. Come naked.

Q: Which direction is North in Canada? (USA)
A: Face south and then turn 90 degrees. Contact us when you get here and we'll send the rest of the directions.

Q: Can you send me the Vienna Boys' Choir schedule? (USA)
A: Aus-tri-a is that quaint little country bordering Ger-man-y, which is. . . oh forget it. Sure, the Vienna Boys Choir plays every Tuesday night in Vancouver and in Calgary, straight after the hippo races. Come naked.

Q: Do you have perfume in Canada? (Germany)
A: No, WE don't stink.

Q: Can I wear high heels in Canada? (UK)
A: You are an American politician, right?

Q: Can you tell me the regions on British Columbia where the female population is smaller than the male population? (Italy)
A: Yes, gay nightclubs.

Q: Do you celebrate Thanksgiving in Canada? (USA)
A: Only at Thanksgiving.

Q: Are there supermarkets in Toronto and is milk available all year round? (Germany)
A: No, we are a peaceful civilization of vegan hunter gatherers. Milk is illegal.

Q: I have a question about a famous animal in Canada, but I forget its name. It's a kind of big horse with horns. (USA)
A: It's called a Moose. They are tall and very violent eating the brains of anyone walking close to them. You can scare them off by spraying yourself with human urine before you go out walking.

Q: Will I be able to speak English most places I go? (USA)
A: Yes, but you will have to learn it first.


It's fair to say that I am proud to be a Canadian! Its the best country in the world... and the most beautiful (and friendly) and although I periodically consider going to work in the EU for a limited period of time, I know this place will always call me back as my one true home. Happy Birthday Canada!



This is MY Country! "I look out and I see a land, Young and lovely hard and strong, For 50,000 years we've danced her praises, Prayed our thanks and we've just begun... Yes, yes, This is my country!

Blogger block...

Ok, I will admit it, I am sufferring a little bit from blogger's block. The weather is warm here - not too hot (no one is dropping dead from the heat) but nice enough to enjoy the sunshine and think of frolicking beside mountain lakes. We have been utilizing the BBQ (Duncan BBQ's up a mean storm!) and enjoying summer evenings (the ones we get to spend at home) drinking on our patio dreaming up the ways our summer will go. Well until the motivation strikes me, please observe the Quizilla Blog rating (as pictured below) and get yourself a rating as well.


What rating is your journal?
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Disclaimer: My thoughts are mine and mine alone - and I figure if you come here to read, you are entitled to my opinion... if I do say something that offends you, leave your comments (as I am always open to other points of view). But I would admit (I adore dialogue) my aim is more to encourage independant thought in my audience so that knowledge becomes a collective wisdom shared within the expansive medium that is blog.

What if the Hokey Pokey really was all it is about?



This is what I am talking about...

BTW, I like this new Blogger. Thanks Blogger/Google!

When the search for Peace becomes Perpetual War

Reading my Adbusters (July/August 2003) today reminds me that I should still be politically motivated in my blog posts, even though the worlds media seems to have calmed down, creating the allusion that there is nothing to scream about. Well, thats a farce. Shit happens everywhere, all the time, even here (I really have meant to post about same sex marriages - which I unequivocally support). I love Adbusters. It is my favourite magazine (Duncan gets credit for my subscription as it was a Christmas gift) and I am glad it comes to pierce my awareness every once in a while, wakes me up. I have a brain for a reason. I need to challenge my beliefs and my existence, and the beliefs I employ within that existence. I need to be uncomfortable and critical atleast once in a while. An oyster slowly forms a pearl from a single grain of sand that irritates it, as it gently mulls it around...

The theme of this latest Adbusters centres around the mixed messages we are consistently bombarded with, culturally and politically (I usually refer to them as "propaganda"). The cover(s) exhibit people screaming (reminiscent of "the Scream") and sport the words:

PREEMPTIVE WAR IS NECESSARY
PREEMPTIVE WAR IS TERRORISM

The issue contains a provocative article, written by James MacKinnon, who interviewed Richard Falk (Visiting Professor of Global Studies at the U of California and Professor Emeritus of International Law at Princeton University) on the familiarilty of FASCISM in some of what we are hearing and expected to accept within our newest geopolitical climate. It's worth the read, but here is a taste to tantilize:

"Q. Can you tell us your definition of traditional fascism?

Yes: the convergence of military and economic power on behalf of an ultranationalist ideology that views its enemies - internally and externally - as evil and subject to extermination or extreme punishment."

Hmmm. Food for thought... Sound familiar? Irritated yet? Remember, the worst state of being a human can be in is the state of being "right". Wouldn't we rather have pearls? 

American's - take back your country!

Who are you selling your soul too? This will air on July 4th 2003. View it here first in Quick Time or Real Player.

A Toyota’s a Toyota

Racecar, Level, Kayak, Radar, Madam, Deed, Rotor, Eye, Civic, Nun, Deed, Pop, Toot, Pip, Poop, Peep, Mom, Dad, Sis, heh, huh... ok, ok, so I am pushing the limits now. But most are legitimately palindromes. Let me know if you can think up any I missed!

Stop me before I post again!

Check out the new blog I stumbled across. One of my favourite daydream topics! It's Matrix Essays

Out for Blood

The New York Times (24 June 2003) quoted New Jersey Mosquito Control Expert ROBERT KENT, as saying:
"The adult mosquito population is not flying, but resting and staying out of the weather like any other adult with common sense. One of our concerns is that when the weather changes and we get some hot, dry days, they are really going to be out looking for blood."

Speaking of blood sucking pests….

The ART of Seduction?

We picked this book up on one of our library forays thinking it would add to our expanding repertoire of sexual skills…. But as it turns out that the book is a twisted how to/self help concoction that is a good example of the steps a psycho-stalker goes through in selecting and harassing their prey. The book even refers to the potential “lover” as the “victim” and elaborates how to employ certain “tactics” (types of emotional and physical harassment) to “convince” the “victim” of their undying “attraction” and “devotion” to you… ummm, yeah, that’s called harassment, co-dependancy and abuse. It lays out a sick, sad kind of pseudo-relationship that could only appeal to the more deviant amongst us… you know the kind that can’t seem to have a fulfilling, healthy, loving, unconditional relationship. It’s an interesting read into the world of these people but I don’t see how you could treat someone you cared about in this manner.

So this would be a great time to re-suggest reading Gavin de Becker’s “The Gift of Fear: And other survival signals that protect us from violence” – especially in light of the above book… de Becker outlines the common techniques of sexual predators and illustrates how to utilize your instincts to escape and evade these types of manoeuvres. It’s a great read at any given time!

But for those who seriously would like to increase their knowledge in the sexual arena, and learn how to be more confident in your relationships, we highly recommend Lou Paget’s (A U of Calgary Alumni I might add) "How to be a Great Lover".

And for those of you who are actually looking for ways to expand their relationship with their partner, and indulge an element of competition and control in a safe enjoyable manner, we humbly suggest trying out one of our favourite board games, Sexy Folies. It’s an erotic, stimulating board game only for Lovers where you are encouraged to “Conquer” your mate’s body in a provocative monopoly style game. But in the end, everyone wins!

Anniversary Celebrations Galore, House hunting, fact finding, shopping and much much more!!!

Friday in Edmonton was busy, yet pleasantly successful. We managed to get everything done at the U of Alberta Campus and we left with Duncan actually being a student! After we completed our goals for the day we went to our outrageously beautiful hotel to check in for the weekend. As our trip to Edmonton also corresponded nicely with an anniversary of ours (one year of us living together) Duncan took it upon himself to plan and book a romantic getaway weekend at the lovely Fairmont Hotel MacDonald! It was so very sweet of him to think of it, and I was delighted (and he was well rewarded)! The room itself that we stayed in was impressive... a little hard to describe but the bed was amazing - it came all the way up to my waist, and the mattress must have been a foot and a half thick, maybe even two... it was a dream just to lay on it! The room had a three room bathroom, including a lovely little place for the woman to sit and doll herself up, should she so desire. Just staying at the Hotel is an experience itself, but being there with Duncan made it incredible!

Friday evening saw our celebrations begin with reservations for two at the famous Harvest Room, overlooking the North Saskatchewan River. I love eating with Duncan - and we enjoy sampling all sorts of different or exotic fare as if eating was our favourite adventure to share along with the business of living... and I thought this meal was incredible! The meal begans with an amazing assortment of tantilizing breads, which we began to enjoy with our Australian Chardonay, and then with the soups we had as an appetizer. I enjoyed the Wild Field and Forest Mushrom Chowder (with Creme Fraiche) whilst Duncan savoured his Three Year Old White Cheddar Soup. I had the most amazing course of medium rare Pan Roasted White Tail Deer Sirloin with heavenly Foie Gras Butter melted over top of it and Tawny Port Reduction (best deer I ever had!). Duncan devoured the Cider Brined Sturgeon Valley Pork Rack Chop (with smoked applewood cheddar gratin and apple corn salad). The food was absolutley delectable and the company I was entertaining was scrumptious also! It was the perfect evening! Happy Anniversary to us!

Saturday we mostly used up with "House Hunting" type activities, which actually takes more effort then it might sound, but is exciting nevertheless. We did find the area we think we would like to live in and looked at some really nice places there, close to schools and West Edmonton Mall (where we spent the majority of the rest of our time). West Ed is shamelessy consumer driven, but any Mall with an indoor hockey rink is cool in my books! And it's a huge selling point with the kids! Saturday evening we saw How to Lose a Guy in 10 days, which is worth seeing once, in the cheap theatres. I laughed more then Duncan did, but we both managed to enjoy the humour (even if some of it was incredibly evil). Sunday we merely slept in (on that great bed), had coffee and then Duncan drove us home. All in all a good trip.

My Apologies

While I remain unable to currently entertain you, I extend to you this quaint opportunity to "horse around". Enjoy yourself! I promise there is a real post coming soon...

Quaecumque Vera!

Almost lunch time and here we are at the U of A. Fact finding mission going well! Campus here is lovely, but there is a lot of traffic!

It's "O" 600... know what the "O" stands for? Oh my God it's early!

Well as we embark on our latest adventure - which includes heading out into this nasty kind of weather we woke up too - I just wanted to let everyone know I was leaving and likely wouldn't be posting much for the next few days...

We are off to Edmonton, house hunting and the like! Wish us luck!

Time waits for no one, so treasure each moment you have!

I believe that time is relevant - and relevant only to the current situation at hand. I am more abstract then linear, so a lack of time does not usually stress me out - I often find myself wandering (either distracted while on my way somewhere, or daydreaming in my head, which I am apt to do). Sometimes I sit still and purposely watch each moment go by, aware of everything that happens during that time. It's amazing what can fit into one minute. Ever quietly sat and watched an ant?

Lives are lived day by day, and therefore can change moment to moment. Each of our days are made up of many such moments. We can invest and utilize these moments as we please… inducing smiles from those we love, smelling the flowers, petting a cat, watching a sunset, or sometimes breezing too fast through already too busy days.

Each of our “yesterdays” are gone and past, how we spent them now a matter only of the memories that is our life, or have been our lives. We rush through each day, relentlessly towards each tomorrow, sometimes neglecting to recognize its mystery, the fullness of its potential, its promise of a new start. And one of our days, probably too soon even, we will discover we have no more tomorrows.

Time easily passes us by, and we don’t always notice because we are wrapped up in sometimes mundane things. We need to remind ourselves to truly live each day, recognizing the importance of each moment so as not to lose out on an opportunity to make the most of your day! Each moment is precious. Each moment is OUR life. Time is our most precious asset, and our greatest gift to give.

My friend Elizabeth sent this to me today, and it’s worth taking a minute to share with you:

To realize the value of ONE YEAR, ask a student who failed a grade.

To realize the value of ONE MONTH, ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby.

To realize the value of ONE WEEK, ask the editor of a weekly newspaper.

To realize the value of ONE HOUR, ask the lovers who are waiting to meet.

To realize the value of ONE MINUTE, ask a person who missed the train.

To realize the value of ONE-SECOND, ask a person who just avoided an accident.

To realize the value of ONE MILLISECOND, ask the person who won a silver medal in the Olympics.

Why put off until tomorrow what you can put off until the day after tomorrow??

A good friend (thank you Kristen!) sent me this in an email a while back, and I kept it with the full intention of adapting it slightly for sharing on my blog. A brief internet search turns up quite a few pages with this post, but I have otherwise been unable to locate the original source.

After every flight, Pilots complete what’s known as a "gripe sheet"; the purpose of this “report” is to convey to the ground mechanics any problems encountered with the aircraft during the flight that need repair and/or correction. After the Pilot records the original problem the mechanic reads it and does whatever is required to correct the problem. The lower half of the form records what remedial action was taken, so that the Pilots can review the "gripe sheet" again, before their next flight.

Never let it be said that ground crews and engineers lack a sense of humour.

Here, reportedly, are some "actual" logged maintenance complaints/problems as submitted by QUANTAS pilots, and the solution recorded by maintenance engineers. It has been suggested that QUANTAS is the only major airline that has never had an accident, but I was unable to find their safety records or claims on their website. Regardless, please enjoy!

Key: P = The problem logged by the pilot.
S = The solution and action taken by the engineers.

P: Left inside main tire almost needs replacement.
S: Almost replaced left inside main tire.

P: Test flight OK, except autoland very rough.
S: Autoland is not installed on this aircraft.

P: Something loose in cockpit.
S: Something tightened in cockpit.

P: Autopilot in altitude-hold mode produces a 200 fpm descent.
S: Cannot reproduce problem on ground.

P: Evidence of leak on right main landing gear.
S: Evidence removed.

P: DME volume unbelievably loud.
S: DME volume set to more "believable" level.

P: Friction locks cause throttle levers to stick.
S: That's what they're there for.

P: IFF inoperative.
S: IFF always inoperative in OFF mode.

P: Suspected crack in windshield.
S: Suspect you're right.

P: Number 3 engine missing.
S: Engine found on right wing after brief search.

P: Aircraft handles funny.
S: Aircraft warned to straighten up, fly right, and be serious.

Whats Your Summer Coffee Drinking Habits?



This picture snapped by Duncan's Dad (Neil) the Sunday he joined us for coffee (the infamous Sunday we discovered our regular habitually attended coffee place had closed). So here we are, enjoying a pre-summer morning - albeit a tad bit displaced, but content nonetheless!

Thanks to Neil for sending over the picture.

GrrrRRrRRrrRrr......



This is SO going into my sign collection!

(eventually... it is a busy weekend afterall!)

We've child proofed our home... but somehow they still keep getting in.....

Whenever your children are out of control, you can take comfort from the thought that even God's omnipotence did not extend to His own children. After creating heaven and earth, God created Adam and Eve. And the first thing he said was "DON'T!"

"Don't what?" Adam replied.

"Don't eat the forbidden fruit." God said.

"Forbidden fruit? We have forbidden fruit? Hey Eve...we have forbidden fruit!!!!!"

"No Way!"

"Yes way!"

Do NOT eat the fruit!" said God.

"Why?"

"Because I am your Father and I said so!" God replied, wondering why He hadn't stopped creation after making the elephants. A few minutes later, God saw His children having an apple break and He was ticked!

"Didn't I tell you not to eat the fruit?" God asked.

"Uh huh," Adam replied.


"Then why did you?" said the Father.

"I don't know," said Eve.

"She started it!" Adam said

"Did not!"

"Did too!"

"DID NOT!"

Having had it with the two of them, God's punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their own. Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed. Lucky us parents.......

Slow down, you move too fast...

A friend sent me this story today. It's sappy, but worth the reminder that sometimes, things aren't always what they seem. We can become so self involved at times that we may miss all sorts of opportunities or people who need us.

A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighbourhood street, going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's side door! He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown. The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car shouting, "What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That's a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?" The young boy was apologetic. "Please, mister...please, I'm sorry but I didn't know what else to do," He pleaded. "I threw the brick because no one else would stop..."

With tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. "It's my brother," he said. "He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can't lift him up." Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, "Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me." Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair, then took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. "Thank you" the grateful child told the stranger. Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home . It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door... instead he kept the dent there to remind him not to go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick just to get his attention.

Who am I?
Am I alone?

You are not alone.

Somebody tell me.
Why does it feel more real when I dream then when I am awake?
How can I know if my senses are lying?



There is some fiction in your truth,
and some truth in your fiction.

To know the truth, you must risk everything.

Today is a special day!

Today is an anniversary of numerous sorts, and of the best kind - one year ago Duncan came to live with me. One year ago, he made my house feel like a home, became part of my family and brightened my world beyond question. One year that feels short in it's brevity compared to the enormous promise of many more years to come, yet infinite like the lifetime already lived. One year that has been my beginning of loving him the way he deserves to be loved, and I will only get better at it! And, to top it off, what a better way to celebrate our day but with beer and a Stanley Cup final???

Duncan and I share a deep admiration for the sport of hockey and love the chance to share hockey together. Hockey and the Stanley Cup is why god sent me to live in Canada. There is a certain magic entertained in that vessel, like it is the Holy Grail, and to be in it's presenceis to have your heart beat in a sacred momentum with every puck on every hockey stick that has ever brought it's sniper the most holiest and sought after sports trophies. It has a spirit (and a story) of it's own.

Adding monumentally to the varied list of Cinderella Stories can now be found the infamous but woeful tale of the Mighty Ducksof Anaheim. True, it appeared just not meant to be, and although I guess I owe my hockey allegiance to Martin Brodeur for bringing us our first gold in 50 years last year, I couldn't help but feel a little remorse when I saw Giguere's few brief tears that witnessed his realization that it was all over. So close, yet so very far. When it comes to the Stanley Cup, there is no second place - and "close" only counts in horse-shoes, hand grenades and nuclear bombs. The better team won. However, Giguere's claim to the Conn Smythe was more then valid and definatley deserved - and 'bad form' to the Devils fans for boo-ing him... you did just win your third Stanley Cup in less then ten years, and after all, it was a gallant effort on the part of the ducks bringing a team like the New Jersey Devils to game seven of the Stanley Cup finals.

For those who may have missed the 3-0 win that brings the Devils the Cup - check out the video highlights. The playing of Star Wars Theme music as the Cup is hoisted was particularily pleasing for us, I am sure you will enjoy it as well!

Insert trendy Blog Title here

Red Deer was fun, I improved my tan greatly, and we had some interesting times (got to go out with some new/old friends) and well, we are home again... yesterday we had some fun down at the local park (it has a duck pond and Duncan has a remote control hover craft) - the fun climaxing with Duncan trudging past baby ducks and ornary geese to retrieve/rescue the craft as it batteries wore out in mid pond!

Today has been one of those days that you don't notice until it is gone... we have spent the entire day sitting together at the computer playing Civ III. The Aztecs have fallen to the mighty Japanese and the rest of the world will soon follow. But for now, we are taking a break from world domination to watch the Godfather Part 2. Its nice to have lazy at home days, but hopefully tomorrow we might make it outside!

On the Road Again...

Well, we are off this morning to Red Deer, Alberta! Duncan is there for work in the days, but I am there for "la Stress break" (read: heated outdoor pool, exercise room, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, sunbathing, reading books, etc etc). If on my travels I come across an internet station, I might post... but in the event that doesn't happen I won't be back until Thursday or Friday.

Sunday, Bloody Sunday....

Wow... isn't amazing how, after spending an evening in your local bar drinking, you somehow convince yourself of your sobriety and in those breif moments of infinite wisdom decide to purchase the BIGGEST bottle of wine you can buy at that licqour store on your way home? Yes... well, ahem... wise indeed (winks). Even wiser was the drinking of said bottle... Ack, who needs wisdom when you are having so much fun?

Coffee... must... have... coffee... it is Sunday morning afterall. I want my coffee!