A Brand New Woo!

Giving Up on Love

2012-01-30T18:08:00.001-08:00

It's true. I'm giving up on love. I've spent way too much of my life looking for it, and not finding it. So that's it. I give up. See you later.

Instead, I'm going to focus my energy on other things - like creating a new blog so I can get free tickets to events!! Muahahahahaha!

And you know what??? After only two weeks (not even), pure and total SUCCESS!!

I'm on a few "Opening Night" invitation lists now!! Yay!! So, I'm doing far better in this realm than I am in the looking for love category.

Have you checked it out yet? I've been working on it and sorta totally neglecting this one. But by "working on it" I mean that I've been getting out there, going to events, and just enjoying the city as much as I can!! It's quite tiring! And who knew there was so much to do in Vancouver? Right? That's the whole point of my blog!

So go check out
Fun!Fun!Vancouver! and see what I've been up to!! You can also follow me on Twitter!

Finer Feelings redone!

2012-01-25T17:44:00.000-08:00

So I need to learn to have a better poker face. I've been walking around work and people are asking me, "Are you happy to be back?!" and my lackluster replies of "Sure" or "Yeah" kinda give away that I'm miserable to be back. The other day, all I did was walk into a room, and someone sarcastically said to me, "Wow, you look like you're so happy to be back here."

Oops.

It's not my fault if I just hate every moment of it!

Today was a crazy day, but now, at home, watching this new video of Kylie singing her underrated single Finer Feelings redone in an orchestral setting - I'm feeling MUCH better!!

The Night Circus

2012-01-25T17:40:00.000-08:00

Just read this book The Night Circus last week and it completely owned me. It's a mystical, magical story about two dueling magicians.

The scenes depicted in here are truly orignal, such as the creation of a "pool of tears" where one can go, pick up a rock, sit in this room by a pool of water and have all of your troubles, worries, and sadness just seep out of you. When you leave, you drop the rock into the pool, and you will feel lighter and happier.

It's a fun, easy read (each chapter is literally 2 pages long) and it had me having wild dreams all week long!

Weekend Wrap Up

2012-01-22T19:43:00.000-08:00

I ran into The Guy today.

I was at a motorcycle show, and I had a feeling he might be there because he's gotten into riding motorcycles and also, the show was being held out in the suburbs near where he lives.

However, it's a four day event, so what were the chances he'd show up there today when I was there? Well, there he was. And he had some guy with him. Don't know who he was, don't care. I avoided The Guy. I hid so he wouldn't see me, because even though we are on good terms, I just didn't want to say hi and all that fuckery.

Anyhow, I did observe he was stomping around and that his companion was more "in tow" than he was "with" him, a feeling I'm all too familiar with. I mean, I've played 3 years of Follow The Leader with him so I can recognize it when he's doing it someone else.

Anyhow, I was out at the Motorcycle show with my biker friends and they were nice, and the show was interesting, even though I don't ride. I am planning to blog a few bits about it on my other blog, just to show that I AM getting out there in the city and looking for different things to do for FUN!

Most of the weekend was spent cleaning, in preparation for Chinese New Year! It's the Year of the Dragon, which is my year! I hope it's a good one. I can't find a decent forecast for the Year of the Dragon. Does anyone out there have a website they can point me to?

Saturday night I went with The Ex to his company's "holiday" party, which is held in late January to avoid it being called a "Christmas" party, which it essentially is. Needless to say, I got quite toasted with the free flowing liquor that was going around. And boy did I ever need it.

Being back at work this week has been totally tragic. I just felt like the soul left my body the moment I sat down in my cubicle which I hadn't been in for the past five months. By mid-week, I was yearning for a drink. So last night was therapy drinking at its finest.

Hello, Crazy

2012-01-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

So I went back to my regular work job this week.

By Wednesday, it felt like I had never even left. Like the past 5 months of amazing bliss hadn't even happened. I was back to my regular routine, sitting at my desk and hating on life. Every time my phone rang, it was some sort of complaint and I was physically cringing at it.

On top of my soul-sucking day job, there's also the Crazy Coworker. I visited him on Monday to catch up. He told me about his New Year's Eve and how much he hates countdowns and that he usually leaves to have a smoke when everyone is ringing in the new year. He then proceeded to count down in a nasally voice, "Ten... nine... eight..."

I told him I was going to use that voice for all countdowns from now on.

I admired the two calendars he had up on the walls, and he pointed at one and said, "I got totally JEWED on that one."

I scolded him at that point, "Don't say that!!"

And then he pointed he out that the calendar in question was in fact, a Jewish calendar. So I guess he actually did... Anyway, he went on to say that the Jewish calendar starts/ends in September, so what the hell is he going to do for the rest of the year? So he was forced to go buy a second calendar because he didn't want to get sucked into the Jewish cycle and have to buy a calendar every September at FULL PRICE.

He told me about how his monitor died and that he put in an IT Request to the help desk and did not get any help for 2 weeks. So, he had to go around to see who wasn't in or who called in sick for the day and would have to unhook that person's monitor and lug it into his office to use. The image of him doing this for 2 weeks brought me immense amounts of joy, especially when he was completely agitated while telling me this story.

Otherwise, he's still the same brand of crazy that I left behind five months ago. He's obsessed with his complexion still and is now convinced that he may have lupus.

Ah yes, it's been awhile hasn't it.

So I Started a New Blog...

2012-01-19T18:12:00.000-08:00

Okay, first of all, I am not abandoning you.

It's just that I have been wanting to do this other blog for a while now, and I finally got off my arse to do it. Basically, it's a blog geared at trying to find fun things to do here in the city of Vancouver.

I mean, we've been known to have a reputation for being.... kinda lame. Whether we are being dubbed as "No Fun City" or throwing hockey riots, it can be embarrassing sometimes to admit I'm from Vancouver. Plus, I am one of the many voices out there who continuously whine, "There's just NOTHING to do in our city!" and long to be elsewhere.

Yet, the thing is... there is a lot to do in our city. We just have to look for it.

So, without further adieu, I introduce you to Fun!Fun!Vancouver!

Now, I won't be talking about food much on this blog since there are so many food blogs out there that you can refer to. And it's just my opinion that is going up, so if I happen to hate an event, by all means don't take my word for it - go check it out for yourself. The point is to bring attention and support to local events and goings-on! So come on over there and join me already! If you're a Vancouverite looking for excitement in the city, or if you're a visitor and looking for something to do that isn't too touristy, hopefully Fun!Fun!Vancouver! can help you out!

TV: The Firm

2012-01-17T06:54:00.000-08:00

With the new year, comes mid-season shows on TV to help replace those shows from the Fall that didn't quite make it.

Are you watching The Firm? I am all over The Firm!

Josh Lucas stars in it as the lawyer who winds up involved yet again with an evil law firm. Josh Lucas is handsome and dapper in a 3-piece suit and he can represent me any time he wants! Josh Lucas talks with a bit of a light lisp that's got a fey affectation to it, and it is hot as hell because his voice is deep and yet when he gets to a word with an S, it really aids in my "I hope he's gay" fantasies. Also, the cute guy who works in Security at my workplace has that same type of lisp and he too likes to wear suits and look hot in them! So, Josh Lucas, you are making my January.

Canadian actress Molly Parker also stars in this, and that makes me happy. I really liked her when I first saw her many many moons ago in the little Canadian indie about necrophilia called KISSED, where she played a funeral home worker who got turned on by corpses.

But again, the deal sealer has to be the amazing wonderfulness that is Juliette Lewis. She doesn't JUST do #shitgirlssay videos, okay? She's quite a brilliant actress. Whether it was her gripping performance as a teenager in Cape Fear where she's seduced/raped by a very creepy Robert DeNiro or her drugged out haze with then-boyfriend Brad Pitt in Kalifornia, I look back at all the movies I've seen her in and there's been quite a few! Natural Born Killers, Whip It, The Other Sister, and a surprising yet much needed cameo in Due Date. Isn't she gorgeous in this photo? It is such a treat to get her every week on TV now!

Just watched the first two episodes of The Firm, and I can't wait for more!!

TV: Once Upon a Time

2012-01-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

My second favourite new show of the season had to be ABC's fairy tale drama, Once Upon a Time! Utilizing writers from LOST, it was bound to be a hit! And I know somebody who works on the production side of the show, as it's filmed here in Vancouver. He's not able to give me any spoilers though, otherwise he could lose his job. So, I'll just have to watch to find out what happens like everyone else!

The premise is a little complex, which is no surprise since LOST was complex from start to finish. However, it's definitely family fare that everyone can enjoy. It takes place in a town called Storybrook, where fairy tale characters live in the modern day world after a curse has taken them out from their fairy tale land and none of them remember who they are. It's up to one stranger to break this curse. It features many of your favourite fairy tale characters such as Snow White, the Evil Queen, Cinderella, Rumplestiltskin, and many more...

OH and let's not forget about the men of Once Upon a Time! First we have the Sheriff:

And of course, Prince Charming, HELLO!! :

Fresh from her sister-wife duties on Big Love, Ginnifer Goodwin plays Snow White, and even though I like her, you may just not be that into her.

Once Upon a Time airs every Sunday night on ABC, so check it out if you are looking for a fantasy escape to help wind down your weekend!

TV: American Horror Story

2012-01-15T13:43:00.000-08:00

This past fall, I was obsessed with the FX show American Horror Story. It was by far my favourite new show of the season! I thought I had blogged about it, but I can't find any entries on it, so here I am late. But the season was short, it's now over, so if you didn't get a chance to watch it, then you MUST!

From the creators of Glee, (I KNOW RIGHT?, WHO KNEW?) this horror/drama was filled with camp and hotness and twists and turns that rivaled LOST. So, that said, I was hooked from the get-go, even though I am not a fan of horror.

It stars Connie Britton, fresh from her turn as sunny Tammi Taylor on Friday Night Lights, y'all. This couldn't be further from her doting mother/loving wife character there. It also stars Dylan McDermott, whom I never really noticed as I didn't ever watch him on The Practice. However, he's got my full attention now! Does he have yours?

Six Feet Under's Frances Conroy (Ruth) pops up here as a slutty maid. Don't ask! Just watch! That was a very sweet surprise, as was Zachary Quinto's turn as the previous gay homeowner of this haunted mansion where our story takes place.

What seals the deal though, is Jessica Lange. She plays Constance, the insane next door neighbour who drinks and smokes for breakfast and has a razor sharp tongue, aimed at everyone, from her 20-something year old boy toy to her own daughter with Downe's. Constance is absolutely delicious to watch. Upon finding someone who has hung himself, she lights up a cigarette, crosses her arms and says, "You stupid bastard." Amazing!

Yes, I loved this show and can't wait for Season 2, though I hear there's gonna be a few changes... Season 1 was brilliant, and American Horror Story is the best show from this past fall's TV schedule!!

Books: The Marriage Plot

2012-01-10T11:14:00.000-08:00

Jeffrey Eugenides did not disappoint with his follow up to the Pulitzer prize winning Middlesex.

I mean, obviously his latest novel The Marriage Plot is nowhere near as grand or expansive as Middlesex was, in terms of time and place. However, it is just as expertly written, with beautiful prose, stellar insight, and an in-depth colouring of the three or four main characters that come alive in this book. He covers topics from religion to literature, biology to manic depression. Does this man research all his work, or is he just a bloody genius who can write stories that center around almost anything? ?

The Marriage Plot refers to novels of the Victorian era, like Jane Austen and company, where the storylines all focus on a man and woman getting married. In this day and age of divorce, the mariage plot is no longer enough of a catch for readers because even if you marry the wrong person, you can always seperate and re-marry the true love of your life. So, with that in mind, Eugenides asks the question, is there such a thing as a true love story anymore?

With grace, intelligence, and wit, Eugenides has created a new love story for our time.

Read It!

Movies: lots of them!

2012-01-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

I've been sick with the flu not once, but twice, this holiday season! That means I got to watch tons of movies during my downtime. I won't mention the ones that were not worth my or your time, so here are a few that I quite enjoyed:

The Debt

Helen Mirren stars in this action drama about three people who track down a Nazi surgeon, post WW2. I wasn't sold on its description either, but once I started watching, I couldn't stop. It was exciting, mysterious, and completely entertaining!

What's Your Number

Yes, ladies and gentelmen, that's Chris Evans in the nude! Isn't that enough reason to watch this rom-com? No, you don't get to see any of his junk, but you definitely see more skin in this than you did in Captain Boring America!

Puncture

Speaking of Chris Evans, he cleans up quite well and looks frickin' HOT in a suit, as he plays out the true story of a drugged up lawyer trying to get safer needles used in hospitals in the USA. It's a serious role for him, and he remains seriously hot in it! The movie was pretty interesting, as well!

The Skin I Live In

Looks creepy, doesn't it? In fact, it's amazing. It blew my mind. Almodovar directs Antonio Banderas in this well-crafted film about a skin doctor and his private patient, whose story will shock and amaze you and leave you absolutely blown away.

The Ides of March

I honestly didn't think I was going to like this Ryan Gosling/George Clooney (and many more) film that dealt with politics. I mean, really, politics? It's just not up my alley at all. However, I completely got into it and if I can get into it, then that means ANYONE can get into it. That said, it's a political drama that managed to not confuse me and keep me entertained.

Movies: The Artist

2012-01-07T21:25:00.000-08:00

I don't really like noise.

I'm lucky that I live in a home where I don't have to deal with noisy neighbours beside or above me. Although, I did have that situation once and I can't recall exactly how many times I phoned the police to make a noise complaint during that period.

I like noise the least when it's at a movie theatre, during a film. I wish I was one of those people who could say to the guy talking to his girlfriend, "Excuse me, but can you please BE QUIET?" but I'm not. Mainly because you never know what kind of crazies are out there. It's too bad that people feel they can talk at the movies these days. Is it a generational thing? Or are people so comfortable with their home theatre experience that they feel they can take it with them to the movie theatres?

Anyway, going to see The Artist was a blessing and a rare experience that I haven't had in a long time. The movie is a silent film, and perhaps because of that, nobody in the theatre made ANY noise. No talking, no texting, not even unwrapping of a candy bar or rustling of bags! Hallelujah!

I don't know if it was because nobody wanted to be "outed" as being the noisemaker (since the film had no speaking in it), or if the crowd that would go to these types of films aren't the chatty types that you might find at say, Mission Impossible 4.

It was a glorious experience and the film itself is a fantastic movie about silent movies! Black and white, no speaking, and an attentive quiet audience? Loved it!

SEE IT!

Boycott Urban Outfitters

2012-01-02T20:14:00.000-08:00

So apparently it's no secret that Urban Outfitters is owned by some right-wing conservative who donates money to anti-gay campaigns. Funny that, seeing as how I bet there's a bunch of gay people who work there, let alone shop there. I only found out about this because they pulled this t-shirt from their shelves that one of their designers created:

You can read the article from New York Magazine for yourself. I won't be shopping at Urban Outfitters anymore!

Even pop tart Miley Cyrus got in on the action earlier this year when she tweeted to her followers to stop shopping at Urban Outfitters.

On that note, here's some Miley!!

New Year's Eve - December 31, 2011

2012-01-01T16:13:00.000-08:00

What did you all do last night?

I went and ordered some Indian food for take out at this little dive down the street. I had some butter chicken, vegetable pakoras, rice, and naan bread. Delicious! I took it home, watched a musical movie called The Fantasticks, which starred Joe McIntyre from NKOTB, and was written by Tom Jones, and it was a little bit less than Fantastick.

I mean, I've seen worse musicals, trust me. So, it was okay, but it's not something I'd recommend, not even to those musical buffs out there.

I did get invited to some parties, but I declined the offer because I didn't want to deal with getting home afterwards. Taking the bus loaded with loaded people was not appealing, nor was trying to hail a taxi on New Year's freakin' Eve from downtown Vancouver.

Instead, I flipped from channel to channel, watching all the celebrations around the world. I stayed up just till 11:45pm and just felt so tired, that I retreated to bed to thumb through a magazine and to manage the text messages I was getting from people who were out and partying it up. I reveled in the fact that while friends were out getting plastered and trying to find a way back home in the chilly night, that I was warm and toasty in my bed! And best of all, no hangover today for me!

Looking back on the year, 2011 was fantastic. Highlights that come to the top of my head includes meeting two amazing Australians. One, of course, was Kylie Minogue!! Dream of a lifetime come true! Wow Wow Wow Wow!! And second, was the Aussie in Vegas who helped change my life and helped me get over THE GUY, finally!!!! So, I've been in touch with him still and hope to see him again in 2012 when he's done his job over in South Africa/Ethiopia/The Congo. 2011 also brought me the United Way and took me off my hell job for a good 5 months, and introduced me to amazing people and the beauty of charity. It's an experience I will never forget, never be able to replicate, and I definitely plan to keep in touch with many of the people I met during that time!

2011 had: me attending 2 Kylie shows (San Francisco and Vegas), meeting Jake Shears of the Scissor Sisters at his Tales of the City musical, old friends visiting from out of town, meeting new friends from all over the world!, crazy coworker drama, amazing trips to NYC and Toronto, progress on my children's book and meeting my editor, way way way too much drinking, Ke$ha, NKOTBSB, Britney, & Katy Perry concerts; my first Indian wedding, Outgames, the death of a wonderful coworker (you are missed), fostering kittens and the amazing Mr T, WILSON FUCKING PHILLIPS live in concert!!!!, miming on Halloween, Grey Cup, bird sanctuaries, and making memories with my amazing wonderful beautiful inspiring gorgeous lovely stunning thoughtful splendid fun interesting supportive spectacular friends. Thank you all for a wonderful year and I look forward to creating more memories with you in 2012!

Hope all of you who partied or did something chill had a blast and happy new year to everyone!!

Playlist

2012-01-01T16:06:00.000-08:00

Here's what I'm listening to recently:

Martin Solveig & Dragonette - Big in Japan

Victoria Duffield - Shut up and Dance (It's true, I quite like this song. And I'm totally ashamed of it. She kinda resembles Britney Spears back in the early days...)

Sunloverz ft. Rosette - Fire (Another one I'm totally ashamed of liking, but I guess they play it enough on the radio to have it ingrain itself into my head. It's kinda like those techno songs from the 90s, and it's totally a dirty song about a man's cum, don't you think? "wanna feel the morning come...wanna feel that summer rain" Okay, maybe it's just me and my twisted mind.)

Carly Rae Jepsen - Call Me Maybe (I refuse to like Selena Gomez though her stupid song Love You Like a Love Song is kinda catchy but I purposely turn the channel on the radio when it comes in because I do not want to get sucked in. Yet, I'll cop to liking this song? What is she, 14? Doesn't matter. The hot guy in the video and the twist at the end makes it allllll worth it...!!)

happy new year!

2011-12-31T08:36:00.001-08:00

sorry i've been such a lazy bitch with my blog lately... i just haven't had much to say!

hope everyone is well and a big happy new year to you all!

will try to write more or at least decide if i'm gonna keep this going or not!

My Night of Gay Speed Dating

2011-12-02T17:04:00.000-08:00

So last night I went to a speed dating event geared towards the queer community.

I've always wanted to go to a Speed Dating thing, so I figure why not? It was held in a library and we were all told to bring our favourite book that we could talk about, should conversation become stilted. There was a mixed crowd. The age limit was 19 - 35, and I'd say the average age was mid-20s. There were women as well as men, so we got to meet everybody which was nice. That took the pressure off a bit, turning what could've been a full on meat market into something more community-focused and where we all got to meet a bunch of possible new friends. At the very least, I picked up some book recommendations from others.

We were all given a temporary email address, so if anyone emails me, that'll be cool. Otherwise, I might try to email a few people, I don't know. It's all terrifying because of the whole "rejection" factor. In fact, I almost bailed at the very last moment when I saw a group of guys go in together. They looked young and they all went as a group, so that was a bit intimidating. But, I figured, I can't live life based on fear, so just go for it.

I'm glad I did it, and if anything comes of it, great!

Making Kids Cry just for Fun!

2011-11-27T19:57:00.001-08:00

I love this!!!

Jimmy Kimmel issued a challenge to parents to tell their kids they ate all their Halloween candy and then put a video up on YouTube... Here are the hilarious results!

Movies: My Week With Marilyn

2011-11-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

I went to see My Week With Marilyn this week, and the film itself was pretty good, but Michelle Williams' performance as Marilyn Monroe was absolutely thrilling! She was fantastic in it, and definitely deserves an Oscar nomination for sure. It made me want to go and watch some Marilyn Monroe movies after!

See It!

Dinner with The Guy

2011-11-26T00:53:00.000-08:00

So tonight I had dinner with The Guy.

It was fine, at first. I didn't give him the cold shoulder treatment. I hugged him when he got to the restaurant. We hadn't seen each other since August, after all.

We had some good conversation, and the dinner was pretty good too seeing as how I picked the restaurant! If it were left to him, we would have ended up at either Denny's or an all you can eat sushi joint.

So, after dinner, he looked me straight in the eyes and told me he had something to tell me. He told me he was sorry for not having been clear with me about our situation, and that he should have done so. He was apologizing for leading me on. It was nice to hear, and it made me a bit sad. I'm not running back into his arms, nor am I helping him with his projects anymore.

Will we still hang out on occasion? We'll see. Do I even care if we do or not? Yes, of course I do. I still do care about him. I can't just cut someone out like that, and force my feelings to dissipate. I have moved on, however, and aim to continue to move onwards.

Texts From The Guy

2011-11-23T17:54:00.001-08:00

The Guy has sent me texts sporadically over the past while. It'll pop up at the most inopportune times, like when I'm at the symphony or possibly when I'm driving. And it's random stuff. Sometimes it's just to say hi. Sometimes it's a "hope you have a great day" text.

I don't go for the bait, like I once did. I offer him the bare minimum instead, since that's what he gave me the past several years. I reply with a "Hi" or when he goes on about reading an article about some writer, I'll just say, "Ok" and let it go. Cause really, what are you doing? Why are you texting me this shit? I guess maybe he misses me? Or he misses my help with the things I used to do for him?

Anyway, today he messaged and asked if he could see me on the weekend. I warned him of my Movember moustache I'm currently sporting, but tentatively our meeting is set. So, we'll see what he wants. He claims he just wants to hang out, but I just have a feeling there's an alterior motive with him, like he wants me to help him with one of his projects again.

However, I'm not even holding my breath for this one. I mean, it is Grey Cup weekend and I'll be busy partying it down with my football freaks, right? Yeah, so we'll see if this "meeting" even comes to fruition.

The Grey Cup Is Coming!

2011-11-21T20:09:00.000-08:00

So I'm not a football fan or anything, but it is exciting for our city to have the Grey Cup event taking place this week. It's the Canadian equivalent to the US Superbowl. Playing in it will be our very own BC Lions! Let's hope they win, and should they not bring the cup home, then let's pray there won't be another riot this year! For some reason though, I think the hockey fans were more likely to foam at the mouth than these football fans. Hockey just seems to be more popular and attracts more of the wannabe fans who jump on the bandwagon and like to cause trouble when things don't go their way. But football fans seem to be a devoted group who have seen their team win and lose over the years, so are prepared for it.

Anyhow, there's lots of events taking place in the city, which is the best part of all. I will try to get out to some of them and definitely will be at one of the parties! I'm not a football fan, but I enjoy a good celebration! It's not everyday that the Grey Cup is hosted by your city, so why not enjoy it!?

Is It Wrong To Hate Your Own Niece?

2011-11-20T23:15:00.000-08:00

Ugh.

So my youngest niece, who is 17 years old, just shouted out, "Gay!" at some guy on the TV.

She knows I'm gay. Everyone else in the room (3 of my other nieces, including her older sister) all know I'm gay. She even made a big showing of how much she loves Neil Patrick Harris. So then, why?

Is it because she's 17? Is it because all her friends in high school probably do that?

Many years ago, her older sister did the same sorta thing and I was totally offended back then and went so far as to have a talk with her and we got it all sorted out. But you'd think they would have swapped notes, no?

Anyway, she's the pretty one, the popular one, the smart one. She likes to make comments like, "Oh that person got chubby" when her own sister is dealing with weight issues. She's most likely headed to university next year, and makes derogatory comments about this local community college which her own sister attended! AND, she's a super skank. It's true. I see her photos on Facebook, and it's literally like child pornography and I need to take a shower after.

For Halloween, what did she dress up as? Let's see, she went as a "construction girl" which meant putting on one of those neon vests paired with a crop top and some tight mini jean shorts. Another brilliant costume idea she had was to wrap yellow Caution tape around her tits and call it out an outfit.

It's just all so disappointing. Is it her upbringing? Is it her social circle? I don't get it.

I recently deleted all of my high school friends from Facebook because I couldn't take getting all those "here, add this person!" messages, and it would be some dick/cunt that I went to high school with that I want nothing to do with. So, instead of putting up with those messages, I just cleaned out my friends list and now have no connection to high school folks at all. Yay!

Sadly, if my niece had gone to high school with me, I'm quite certain that she's one of the people I would NOT want to get in touch with me on Facebook.

I could take the time to educate her and tell her how I feel, but you know what? It's not my job. Parents, try parenting your kid. Otherwise, don't have any, okay? Jesus Fucking Christ.

The Most Sensational, Inspirational, Celebrational, Muppetational...

2011-11-19T22:18:00.000-08:00

Today I saw The Muppets, and it was a wonderful journey of nostalgia mixed with hopeful optimism for the coming holiday season. It brought me back to when I was a little boy in England, and I thought this was the only thing on television. But I guess whenever the TV was turned on for me, it was for The Muppet Show.

It will totally bring a smile to your face, and have you leaving the theatre feeling totally happy. I haven't blogged about all the movies I've been watching for awhile now, but I just felt that this movie deserved a mention. It had everything you wanted in a Muppets movie: comedy, singing, heartwarming tender moments, everything.

SEE IT!

VOTE Vancouver VOTE!!

2011-11-18T16:05:00.000-08:00

Remember to go out and vote in the civic election here in Vancouver on Saturday, Nov 19!

Quicker than a Ray of Light

2011-11-16T22:29:00.000-08:00

Life really is quicker than a ray of light.

The 1998 song from Madonna was a huge dance hit and a Grammy award winning album for her, but she really called it when she sang this song about life passing us by quicker than a ray of light.

The crazy video also has depth, which I failed to really tune into back then. Now, with over a decade of experience to draw upon, I can see all the subtleties and meanings in the clip. Yes, some of us are spending our lives watching lame TV game shows all day. Some of us are chillin' and playing sports. Some of us are children in school and just learning about the world around us. Some of us are like hamsters running in a wheel, while some of us are busy making strategic moves like in a chess game. What are you doing?

With technology being so much more advanced these days than it was back in 1998, it's scary to think about how even faster our lives have gotten. With things like Twitter and Facebook, things are instantaneous. With iPhones and Blackberries, we are always on call, and turnaround time for communication has shrunk down to next to nothing. Are projects getting done quicker with this new found accessibility? Are our brains constantly being stimulated now, forcing us to make time in our day to relax and decompress? Are you doing that? I know I'm not.

Today while I was driving, I answered several emails because I could. I was at a red light, and I knew some people were waiting for me to respond, so why prolong it when I could easily get the job done while on the go, right?

It just really made me think about how we are so much more on the go now more than ever, and what that means and where that might lead us. The world is spinning faster and faster - can we keep up?

YVR: Reifel Bird Sanctuary

2011-11-11T23:56:00.000-08:00

I've lived here in Vancouver pretty much all my life, and yet it was only recently that I had heard about the George C. Reifel Bird Sanctuary, located a mere 30 minute drive away. Apparently, it has been around since the 1960s!

So today, some friends and I went to check it out and for an admission price of $5, we ventured into this protected area that was full of marshes, wetlands, and birds! Currently, the Snow Geese are the main attraction, and we witnessed some flying through the sky, but it wasn't till we were leaving that I spotted the field where hundreds of them were all gathered, trying to stay warm from today's wind storm that hit the Lower Mainland.

Can you see that sea of white? Yep, those are all snow geese.

We also saw lots and lots of ducks, from the lustrous Mallards to a black duck called an "American Coot."

It was crazy windy today, with branches flying all over the place, trees falling over, and we climbed a tower to get up onto an observation deck, only to fear for our lives that we'd be blown over the edge! Anyhow, it was wonderful to be outdoors today and appreciating the wonders of nature. I can't wait to bring other folks out here whether they be fellow Vancouverites, or out of town visitors! A highly recommended (and not that well known?!) thing to do and see if you're in Vancouver!

48 More Days till Christmas!!

2011-11-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I know, it's rather early to start with all the Xmas talk, but stores were already in full swing well before Halloween, so at least I waited till after that to bring up the topic!

Actually, I normally would have waited till after the American Thanksgiving before even thinking about the holiday season, but last night I ventured out to the movies by myself to catch A Very Harold and Kumar Christmas!

The movie is ridiculous but with heart. I had a great time at it, and probably would have enjoyed it even moreso had I been stoned. I also saw 50/50 this weekend and that was only alright.

I guess it's hard to make a cancer movie funny, but I was under the impression that Seth Rogan and Joseph Gordon-Levitt had achieved that. However, I was proven wrong and the movie was only okay. I had way more fun at Harold and Kumar.

In fact, I had more fun watching this teaser trailer of the new Katy Perry video than I did at 50/50.

Anyway, my work stint is about halfway through and I will soon be returning to my soul sucking day job in mid-December. Bah humbug to that!

Not much else to report, really. Been keeping busy and enjoying the chilly sunshine we're getting. Hope you're doing well!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

So it's my favourite holiday of the year, Halloween! But like most holidays, there's a lot of hype and build-up and anticipation, and when the day actually comes, it's anti-climatic. Take New Year's Eve for example - it's like everyone has to find THE THING to do. Last year, my plan to stay in and eat some butter chicken was all I wanted to get up to and it was wonderful! For Halloween, it's all about which party you're gonna go to or what costume you're gonna wear. I think about costumes all year long and this year was no different. But when the party weekend rolls around, is there even anything to do, or anyone to do it with?

Thankfully this year, a couple of friends and I managed to make a night out of it! Alexis and I dressed as mimes and went around town annoying everyone, with our friend Jill who was there as R2D2. We didn't go to a big party, rather, we just went out for drinks down in Gastown. First we hit up Guilt & Co. and after a few hours moved across the street to Diamond. We tried to get into Bao Bei and The London Pub after that, but both were busy or had cover, so we cabbed over to the gay district and got into 1181. There was no crazy dancing on tables, though we were piss drunk at this point. The evening culminated like it normally does - with a breakfast plate at the 24 hour Denny's restaurant. Trick or treat indeed!

But I've been "celebrating" Halloween well before last night came about. I've been putting together a playlist of songs that I think would be great if someone were to have a Halloween party. In fact, I'm thinking next year, I should have one! So, I best start planning now! The last time I had one was several years ago. But hopefully with your help and suggestions, I can make it one to remember! Let's start with the music! There's the usual tracks that you just gotta play: Thriller, Ghostbusters, Monster Mash. But are there any newer ones or ones that people may not think of at Halloween time but would fit the theme perfectly? Here's a few I'm making note of:

Lady Gaga's "Monster" - She sings about a guy eating her heart and her brains! It's a fun dance beat, and the chorus centers around the word Monster, so it's a perfect song at Halloween, yes?

The Cranberries' "Zombie" - Speaking of those who eat brains, this grunge era song is not exactly about zombies in the true sense of the word, but I figure it can pass. Ok so it's a song about war, but war is scary.

Fefe Dobson's "Ghost" - A song about ghosts! Fun and dancey, and hey it's Canadian, so here's the CanCon!

Bow Wow Wow's "I Want Candy" - Of course I need to include a song about candy. It'd be easy to go down the route of other candy/sugar/sweet themed songs too, but I think that would be too much like walking into Dylan's Candy Bar in New York.

So those are just some ideas, but yes if you have suggestions, please do send them in!

I'm also looking for some fun Halloween-esque movie suggestions, but I don't necessarily want the scary horror flicks. Instead, I prefer films along these lines:

Clue - One of my favourite childhood movies turned out to be the perfect comedy to watch annually at Halloween! Based on the board game, this murder mystery farce still makes me laugh even today!

Beetlejuice - Believe it or not, I never saw Beetlejuice until this last week! Winona Ryder is awesome in it, and I fully appreciated the two musical numbers that feature in it, including this famous one where a dinner party gets possessed by some dancing spirits:

Little Shop of Horrors - Speaking of musical numbers! Yeah, this twisted musical is a bit more fun to watch in my opinion than that other Halloween musical (Rocky Horror). I just like the songs here a lot more than I like doing the Time Warp, know what I mean? Why don't they have midnight showings of THIS?

The Witches of Eastwick - Cher, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer as witches? How can you not want to watch this every October? At the very least, you should watch this famous insult Cher hurls at Jack Nicholson and which I plan to use every time I want to end a bad date:

Death Becomes Her - Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn as two women who would do anything to defy the aging process and become immortal? Brilliance. This scene alone inspires me to re-enact it every morning when I look in the mirror:

What other movies would you suggest for me?

Hope everyone had a good weekend and a safe fun Halloween on Monday!

A Letter to The Guy...

2011-10-28T10:23:00.001-07:00

Love,
Me.

I'm on a Bad Dating Spree!

2011-10-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

So it's the time of year here where the leaves are falling and I have to rake them up every other day, and the sound of firecrackers own the night. Today it rained profusely, shepherding with it some winter chill. This is in contrast to the past few days where the sun was shining and the evening air was crisp with excitement.

Excitement, because I had dates lined up here, there, everywhere! Okay, well mainly at Starbucks.

I've actually been on several Starbucks-type dates recently. Trying to get out there, meet some people even though online I have zero interest in them. But hey, you never know who you might meet right?

First there was the 40-something year old Italian guy who lives with his sister and just came out of the closet a whopping 1 and a half years ago! Yay! He's never been with another guy before, because he spent his 40-something years on this planet denying his feelings and living a lie. Somebody sign me up for this one! He was nice enough, but I really don't need a fixer-upper project right now. I'm my own fixer-upper project! So, we went out to the bar one evening, and we might continue to keep in touch because he's a nice guy and he offered to teach me how to cook some authentic Italian, but I'm not attracted to him so it isn't gonna happen.

Then there was a guy who looked like an aging lesbian. There's nothing wrong with lesbians, I'm just not attracted to them. He had a grey-haired mullet. Enough said.

There are some people whom I would love to meet, judging from their photos, and who have reciprocated that they want to meet me as well. So we exchange text messages, and I eventually broach the topic of *GASP* ---- wait for it ---- MEETING IN REAL LIFE.

Hello? Hello? Where did you go?

*click*

It's like they've hung up the proverbial phone. Have we lost our cosmic connection the moment I want to actually meet? Bugger. No, actually, not bugger. FUCK YOU. FUCK YOU ALL YOU FUCKING FLAKES. There, that's better.

Then there was the self-proclaimed "Daddy" type I met the other night. See, I knew he was "older" and I still went for it, cause you know what, YOU NEVER FUCKING KNOW.
You really never fucking know, because when we met and chatted and had Starbucks, it turns out he wasn't JUST the "Daddy" type, oh no dear reader.... it turned out that he was also the "Grand-Daddy" type too! Yep, he had a grandson! Yep, he had a family in his past life! You know, probably like a few decades ago when I was being birthed!

So anyway, that didn't work out. But, he was an interesting fella. He collected ancient Chinese maps as well as porcelain. He owns a farm in TUSCANY, used to collect bird nests, and all of this was intriguing to me, but just not intriguing enough to want to carry on with him. Maybe we'll keep in touch? He said he'd be interested in attending estate sales with me, though he relies on agents and collectors to help him amass his collection. Oh, the life of the wealthy! What to do, what to collect!

Last night I met up with an Irishman. The Irishman was a red-head and worked at Home Depot and he was nice enough, but I just didn't feel a connection or attraction or anything.

I'll be keeping you all posted on my future (bad) dates that I'm sure are coming! Maybe one of those FUCKING FLAKES will get back to me and we'll hit it off, or maybe they'll be as lame as they already have been!

Until next time, happy dating to anyone out there going through the same ordeal!

Been Feeling So Fly Since You've Been Gone...

2011-10-23T18:27:00.000-07:00

So, I've heard from The Guy twice this past week.

He texted me last Sunday morning with a "Good morning. How are you doing?"

I replied with, "Morning. I'm good. U?"

He wrote back, "Doing well."

I didn't continue the conversation because I really didn't care to. If he wanted to, he should have. Otherwise, I just left it at that.

-----

Cut to this past Thursday when I was at the symphony enjoying a Russian orchestra, when I feel my phone buzz in my pocket. Who is texting me? It was The Guy.

He had written, "Just thinking about you. How are you doing?"

I wrote, "Hi I'm at the symphony right now. I am wonderful, hope you are too."

And that was it for that!

I do feel like a load off my shoulders since I am no longer pining for him. It took long enough for me to open my eyes, I suppose. I care about him, sure, but he's got a boyfriend now and so it's not my job anymore to cater to his every whim. I'm giving him back what he gave me the past 4 years: The Bare Minimum.

Brand New Woo? I'm like a Brand New Bitch!

Movies: Drive

2011-10-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much to say lately! How are all of you?

I watched DRIVE the other night with Iris, and it was unexpectedly intense and violent. I guess because I didn't know what the movie was going to be about! Whoops!

So, be warned, it can be graphic and gory at times. The best part of the movie though, was the soundtrack! Totally 80s inspired, and I couldn't wait to get the soundtrack!

Here's one song, for example:

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to a Sondheim Show

2011-10-15T23:31:00.000-07:00

I've never been a huge fan of Sondheim. Most times, I don't get it. I don't see the genius or brilliance. However, tonight Emily and I chose to go watch a local production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, a musical comedy which we found out to our dismay was written by Sondheim.

Cut to us at the end of the evening, thoroughly going over the production and how much FUN we had at it! The songs were funny and the story was fun. It was silly over the top farce, for sure, but we had a fantastic time! Who knew!?

It's playing at the Jericho Arts Centre until Oct 23, so check it out! You can get tickets here.

Vancouver Sunset

2011-10-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

Captured tonight at English Bay around 6:00pm. The days, they're getting shorter.

The New BC Place Roof

2011-10-15T23:18:00.000-07:00

I finally got a chance to go check out the new BC Place roof, which they've been working on the past year or so. The other night, Iris and I headed out for a Whitecaps game (soccer) but really we just wanted to hang out and see each other. I also wanted to see the inside of the stadium and the new open-air roof. There's a fancy new HD jumbotron in the middle too, which had fantastic quality. Here are some photos!

iphoned.

2011-10-12T17:45:00.000-07:00

I just spent most of the day today updating my iPhone w/ the new operating system released today. Well, it took forever, but I finally have it and am excited to use the new iMessage system and iCloud.

As well, I'm all over this app called MagicJack, which allows for free calls to Canada and the USA, from anywhere in the world, using your wifi or data, not your minutes!

My Super Sunday!

2011-10-09T18:20:00.000-07:00

So it's a long weekend here in Canada. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

Sundays are usually a write-off for me. I'm either hungover or just bored at home watching movies. Today was full of activity, however!

I started it off with a meetup with a group of bikers! Wait, it's not what you think. Not really... So yesterday I met up with that 69 year old fella, and we chatted and got caught up. He had invited me out for coffee for Sunday, to this gathering that takes place every week. Apparently, this group of gay bikers get together and shoot the breeze over some java and I was being invited too! I was flattered and petrified, because I'm pretty shy normally. I was on the fence about going but thought, OH stop living your life based on fear! So I went.

I arrived at the Laughing Bean cafe, which is over by Nanaimo and Hastings Street. It's got a rainbow flag sticker on the door, so that made me feel welcome. This little neighbourhood out there seems to be quite up and coming from the looks of things! A lot of gay-friendly stores, hipsters roaming the streets, and just lots of folks milling about! Who knew? Is Nanaimo and Hastings the new Mount Pleasant (aka Main and Broadway)?

So I get to the coffee shop and I see about 8 biker guys sitting out on the patio and they're all in their leather gear and they all look intimidating cause they are BIKERS. So, I see my friend, but I'm hoping he will see me, but he's 69 so perhaps his eyesight isn't that grand. He doesn't see me. I feel a bit hopeless. Like the boy in high school who didn't know where to sit in the cafeteria, so he ends up sitting outside by his locker instead. Which is basically what I did. I ordered up a green tea and sat inside at a table by myself, trying to work up the nerve to go over and say hello.

Finally, I did. Half of the group were up and leaving already, so I greeted my friend and sat with him and met a couple of the other guys, who were all friendly and nice. I may head back again next week now that I've shown my face there. We'll see! Do something every day that scares you, right? Isn't that what they say?

So afterwards, I met up with Alexis for brunch a few blocks away at the Red Wagon!

Yes, what you're seeing there is a stack of pancakes with pulled pork in between them. I didn't have that, but it looked to be a popular dish. Instead, Alexis dined on the Croque Madame and I had a goat cheese omelette. Both of which were magical in that diner kind of way! It was total hipster-ville in there, and there was a line up, so if you plan to go, get there early or plan to wait. It was fun, and I can't wait to go back!! There's a few other places on that strip of East Hastings that I want to check out as well, including the Roundel Cafe and Campagnolo Roma!

After a brief stop at home, I ended up heading out again for a coffee date with an Italian guy. Mr Italian was nice enough, but not someone I would date. I think at best, we'd be friends. He's going to teach me how to cook some authentic Italian, which I am excited about! Anyhow, now I'm off for a family dinner to celebrate Thanksgiving. Hope you're having a wonderful weekend as well!!

Mother Dearest

2011-10-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

So this morning I had coffee with a leather guy who lives nearby. He shares my fetish for men in boots, and we'd met before at Folsom in San Francisco a year ago. Turns out he lives five blocks away, so we decided to have a Saturday morning coffee together and catch up. He's 69 years old and lives with his mother, who is 89.

Of course I immediately flashed forward to my own life and saw myself sitting in front of me. Was this going to be me? He likes to travel to all these leather events and take photographs, and that was enough for him to be content. "I'm not a very sexual person," he told me.

I am feeling content these days, but at the same time I do maintain that I probably won't meet anyone to share my life with. I don't know why it is I feel that way, but I just do. I'm glad to be over The Guy, and I am going on dates more and more these days, but I don't know - there's a lot of shit out there, if you know what I mean.

Anyhow, bored at home, I decided to look up some garage sale/estate sale listings. I found two that were going on in the afternoon so I went and checked them out. I came away empty handed, but the second house I went to belonged to an older French gay couple and they were very nice and one of the guys told me how he had just put his mom into a home and sold all her stuff weeks before. I'm sad I missed out on some good finds, but also sad about thinking of this woman being put into a home. I guess it was for the better though.

Through my work at United Way, I've learned about seniors and how there are many of them who are living alone and feeling isolated and depressed and suffering health issues because of it. This of course makes me think of my own mother, whom I guess is relatively young at 77 years old, and is out and about with her friends most days. Still, I feel guilty and a nagging obligation to stay here and keep her company.

I guess for now, I have my dates, random hook ups, friends, and garage sales to keep me occupied.

OUTRAGEOUS!!!

2011-10-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

OMG, just read over on New Planet that there may be a live action movie of JEM and the Holograms coming!!! That would be sooooo truly outrageous!!

I'm excited enough as it is to find out that the entire series will finally get a DVD release in a week's time!!! WOW!!!

It's about time that a whole new generation of kids got a bit of Jem in their life!!!

Firemen, Happiness, and Carol Channing

2011-10-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

So work has me busy with doing public speaking all over the place. Last week I found myself at various government agencies talking to all of them about the generosity of donating to charity. Then one day I found myself in front of a group of firemen. Gulp! They were nice enough, but still, I felt like the nerdy gay kid in front of all the hot jocks. It was great experience though, and they were very kind afterwards, thanking me for coming in to do my speech, etc. I was hoping for at least one female firefighter there, so I could at least zone in on her but nope, it was a room full of testosterone, and me!

Saturday night, Alexis and I went to a party but before that we started the evening with perogies and several rum and cokes at her place. After a week of doing public speaking, I was ready for a drink!! We then met up with Lukasz at his place and had more drinks, before heading off to the party where we both polished off two bottles of red wine between us. Seriously, I'm not an alcoholic!

That said, though - I am obsessed with the Rihanna song, Cheers (Drink to That), which is of course a song all about drinking!!!

I'm just feeling really happy these days. It's so weird. It's nice!

So the barbecue. I hummed and hawed all day about it. Should I go? I wanted to go just because I wanted The Guy to SEE how happy I was without him. And yeah, it would have been nice to see him too. But, it was far out in the suburbs, and I was fighting off a bug, and I was totally hungover. So, in the end, I realized that going to show off how happy I was is not a good enough reason to go.

Lukasz said it best: the fact that I didn't need to go flaunt my happiness means I truly really am happy! Yay!!

I didn't want to disappoint The Guy as he kept telling me how much he was looking forward to seeing me. But you know what? Sorry but life is disappointing, and how much has he disappointed me over the past few years? Right!?!

Anyway, Alexis and I ended up going to a film at the Film Festival. Carol Channing - Larger Than Life, a biopic on the legendary star. It was a fascinating film about her life and her personality. It was inspiring to see people like her living her dreams and being a genuinely nice person where people have nothing bad to say about her. We both aspired for that!

And yes, she is totally ridiculous and crazy and we loved every moment!!!

Jam tomorrow, jam yesterday, but never ever Jam today!!!

Regrets Collect Like Old Friends...

2011-10-03T22:35:00.001-07:00

...Here to relive your darkest moments...
------

What a beautiful sentiment/line.

It's the new song from Florence and the Machine and I can't wait for the new album!

Return of The Guy

2011-09-28T21:12:00.001-07:00

So. I have been doing really well lately. I'm tentative to say it, but I do feel like I am over The Guy.

Finally!!

At LONG LAST!!

I definitely think the Australian I met in Vegas helped me out a great deal. I mean, yes we had a wonderful night together. But at the same time, he showed me there were better guys out there for me, that actually liked me, that I could possibly end up with. He gave me more in one night than The Guy ever could in 3 years.

So, there's that.

But there's a party this weekend that The Guy is throwing, and he invited me to go. I told him I was not going to make it. He wrote back, "Ok."

But then yesterday he texted with, "I really want you to come this weekend."

I replied telling him that I have been happier than I've been in a long time and that the last thing I needed right now was to go to some party to see him and his boyfriend together, so no thank you very much and have a great time.

He wrote back saying that he planned this party on a weekend purposely knowing that his boyfriend would be out of town.

WHAT? Why? Why would he do that?

Will I be going to this party this weekend? Yes, I do believe I will. But not for the reasons you might think. I am going because I want to give myself some closure. I am going so I can tell him to his face that I think he is a coward.

I am going so I can show him how happy I am. I am going so I can say goodbye.

YVR: Next To Normal, VIFF, and CBC LIVE Vancouver

2011-09-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

So I did take a break from my Game of Thrones-a-thon and made it out to some live theatre on Sunday afternoon with Emily.

We hit up the Stanley to take in the local production of the modern musical Next To Normal.

This is the hard to swallow story about a woman having a nervous breakdown due to a family tragedy 18 years in the making. The music and story are all original, which is rare these days in the times of musicals based on movies. I saw the Broadway production of this with the one and only Aaron Tveit, as well as Tony award winner Alice Ripley. I have to say though, Vancouver does this proud. The production at the Stanley is probably the best show I've ever seen there. It only runs till Oct 9, so you best get your tickets fast!

I'm really busy with work these days, so it's amazing that I even got to go watch this musical on the weekend. I spent Saturday morning talking to a bunch of Future Shop employees about donations and how they can impact their community. Today I was at their head office for a big kick off party, tomorrow I'll be speaking to the folks at Canada Revenue, and then Wednesday I have to stand in front of a bunch of firefighters. GULP. But I am LOVING IT.

In addition, I'm also doing volunteer work for the Vancouver International Film Festival! It's always my favourite time of year, and with a volunteer pass in hand, it's even better! There are so many films I want to go see this year! I'll have to blog about them, if only for "outreach" and "publicity" purposes.

And this Friday, there will be a big event over at CBC Vancouver! It's the kick off to Cultural Days, and will feature tons of CBC celebrities and a live concert! Check out the schedule here!

TV: Game of Thrones

2011-09-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in a long while, let alone about television. I've been trying to make the blog more personal, more intimate, rather than just blog about music, movies, and eating, which is what I used to do. But it's not my fault if that's all I seem to do! I have watched some good movies and some bad movies lately, but I haven't felt the need to broadcast it widely to you all.

And with the new TV season in full swing, I'm busy watching shows to see if I like any. So far, Zooey Deschanel's New Girl on FOX is at the top of my list. It is QUITE enjoyable.

However, the one show I spent the entire weekend watching was HBO's Game of Thrones. I know I'm late to the table with this, but if you get a chance to watch it and if you're a fan of fantasy, then this will delight you to no end. I was riveted from the 1st to the last episode of Season 1, and now I can't wait for the next season!

Anyhow, I'm not a huge fantasy fan, but I can occasionally get in the mood. This show quenches that thirst in a big way! So yeah, that's what I did most of my weekend. How about you?

What Happens in Vegas...

2011-09-16T19:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Peeps!! Did you miss me?

I was in Vegas for four days this past week! But before I get to that, I should let you know that my current job is so wonderful, I can't believe how fulfilled and happy I feel. Yes, I don't know what the fuck I'm doing half the time. And Yes it's completely stressful. But I LOVE IT. Doing good charity work like this makes me feel so good! And the other week, we spent a few days listening to each other's stories. We have to do speeches at workplaces about why one should donate, and many of the people's stories had us all in tears. It was an exhausting afternoon, but oh so amazing at the same time. Whether it was a woman telling us about the child abuse she suffered and the domestic abuse she lived through later as an adult, or a man who was assaulted by his aunt when he was a young boy and grew up to become a violent gang member going in and out of jail and now delivering speeches at high schools about his experience and inspiring young people to not go home and commit suicide, all the stories were so emotional and impactful and real and honest and absolutely ripe with the strength of the human soul.

So to have taken 3 days off from all this was hard for me because I ACTUALLY LIKE MY JOB! And I'm gonna hate it come Christmas when I have to go back to my real job telling people to restart their goddamn computers all day.

But, my trip to Vegas was booked and we had a superb deal for only $355, we got roundtrip airfare PLUS 3 nights hotel stay at the PARIS in Vegas!!

We ate at numerous buffets, walked the strip, did some major shopping at the outlet mall and the Fashion Show Mall...

... we did some spa treatments at Caesar's Palace, where the alarm system kept going off, which forced management to discount our massages by 50% as well as giving us day passes to come back and hang out in the spa (which we totally did, and took advantage of the Roman mineral baths, herbal steam rooms, and heated tile lounge chairs!)

We spent one evening watching Cirque du Soleil's ZUMANITY, which is its sex themed show, dubbed the "naughty side of Cirque"... it was funny, but not for everybody...

However, on another night, we saw Cirque du Soleil's KA, which literally BLEW OUR MINDS!!!! YOU MUST GO SEE KA!!!!

Also in Vegas, I met a man. We had corresponded online prior to me getting there. Originally from Australia and living in Africa, it just so happened he would be in town too, so we met up. And it was amazing. We didn't sleep at all that night, and if we did, it was with me cuddled up right next to him, which I've never really had before. It was truly one of the most memorable nights of my life. We stayed up in his suite on the 28th floor at the MGM Signature, and we watched the Nevada lightning storms rolling through the sky at 1am.

He's now back down under for the time being, heading back to Africa next month, and off to London in November. Meanwhile, I'm back home here in rainy Vancouver (summer is officially over it feels!) and I miss him terribly. I know it's silly to pine for someone so many miles away that I've only met once, but I very rarely have these types of connections and I'm glad we are keeping in touch for the time being. Who knows if this will go anywhere or nowhere? All I know is that it has definitely helped me get over The Guy just that much more, because it's showing me that there are others out there that are meant for me. This man gave me in one night what The Guy could not give to me in 3+ years. I just hope that this time, what happens in Vegas doesn't just stay in Vegas...

Sleazy

2011-09-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

So last night Alexis and I went to the Ke$ha concert - the "Get Sleazy" tour. We knew we were in for something special when we arrived at the stadium to a huge line snaking around the corner. I'd never been to a show before where you had to line up to get in! Normally it's busy but people are bustling through no problem. Ah, but yes, we were at Ke$ha. And that means: booze in everyone's purse!!

The couple in front of us had a mickey of Vodka and when they realized they were gonna get checked, they started downing that along with a can of Coke. Classy!! We watched in amazement as they tried to finish the mickey but ultimately couldn't, so the guy stuck it down his pants. I wonder if they managed to sneak it in.

We were truly amazed by all the hooch we were witnessing. "I think I saw lip," Alexis kept saying. "Is that her labia!?!"

So yeah... that was the kind of night we were in for, and so obviously we needed to get our drink on! 2 Coronas, a beer, and 2 Mike's Hard Lemonades later, we were throwing it down with the rest of 'em! Aside from the out of left field Wilson Phillips ditty Hold On, our summer song for 2011 was definitely Ke$ha's BLOW!

When she sang that, the roof nearly blew right off! It was stellar. It was early on too in the show! She did all her hits, but it was her lesser known songs that brought out those of us who really knew her music. In front of us were a pair of baby gays, who were equally as excited as us when she hit the stage with a track from her first album that should have been a single but wasn't. I'm talking "Dinosaur" bitches!

Perhaps the most memorable moment of the night was during the song "Grow a Pear" which is about a guy who doesn't have the balls for Ke$ha, and "when you grow a pair, you can call me back..." Bring up some poor audience member to be tied to a chair and verbally assaulted, throw in a dancing PEAR, and top it off with a giant dancing Penis, complete with testicles. It was amazing. Especially when Ke$ha got on her knees in front of Mr Penis and motorboated the balls for a good while! I couldn't find a good Vancouver clip, but here's one from another show she did and yes, it's just plain inspiring, is it not?

Thank you Ke$ha for bringing out the sleaze in all of us!!!

Hold On For One More Day

2011-09-05T20:44:00.000-07:00

Well here we are at the beginning of September.

It's been busy the past while, which is why I haven't had much time to blog.

My new job at United Way begins. I've just gone through the ringer with a week of training under my belt, and another week of fine-tuning coming up. After that, it's all hands on deck and balls to the wall, so I'm expecting to be horrendously busy. But I guess that will be a good thing, to keep my mind distracted.

I've heard from The Guy. He's back from his trip, and we've swapped text messages here and there. I talked to him on the phone this past weekend, and it hurled me back into the spin cycle of emotions. I know I need to get over him, get past this, but it's just SO HARD. I'm ever so slowly coming to the realization that he is not the one for me and never was, though for the past three years he was the only thing that occupied my heart.

Dating sucks and I'm ready to give up trying altogether. It just feels like nobody out there wants me, so why bother. I'm trying to not be bitter, but I know this sounds completely bitter. Oh well.

Friends Joe and Momma are both visiting from Toronto, so their presence has been a much needed distraction for me. It's great to see them, and they both leave in a day or two, so I will have to busy myself again socially with others.

I saw Wilson Phillips last week at the local fair, and it was brilliant! I was right up at the front, and during the encore, Chynna Phillips whipped her blonde hair and pointed her finger directly at me, while singing, "Hold on for one more day! And things will go your way!" Yes, Chynna. I WILL. I will hold on for one more day!

Karma Chameleon

2011-08-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

So I spent the past four weeks fostering 4 cute little kittens. They were wonderful. They brought me joy. I went from 4 down to 2, and then down to 1, and I was going to keep the 1. He was this four month old black cat whom I had named Mr T and he was terrific and naughty and cute and loving. Today I brought him back to the SPCA because I think if I had kept him, I wouldn't be able to get on with my life. Instead of blogging to you fine people right now, I'd be sitting around staring at how cute he was, taking a million photos of him on my iPhone, and just petting him until he fell asleep cuddled against me.

So it's a bit sad this evening that he's gone and I'm looking at photos I took of him and it makes me miss him. But I know it's what I wanted, and now I need to be more productive and hopefully I will. Since fostering the kittens, I feel like I've gotten some karmic luck, which is nice. Whether it's just some guys saying hello to me on my Grindr application or getting some great work-related news, I feel I owe it to my kitten karma.

So the great work-related news is also adding to my karma jackpot of late. I am leaving my work for four months to go and do work for the United Way to help do fundraising! It's a great cause, and my work is paying my salary still, and it's also a great development program for me to get skills that I don't normally get at my regular job. The best part of all? I get to NOT SEE Crazy!!!

When I broke the news to him that I'd be gone until Christmas, he kinda hung his head down low and muttered, "I hope you'll keep in touch with me." He then forced a bright smile and said, "I'm really happy for you."

Of course, if you'll notice, his first thought was about himself and not the congratulations to me. Anyway, I know he's gonna want to hang out during my time away from work and so I'm prepared to just tell him I'm busy if he does indeed end up texting or emailing me.

So I'm definitely looking forward to a break from telling people to restart their computers and doing something more meaningful and worthwhile! And yes, I'm definitely looking forward to my time away from Crazy!

When Crazy Attacks

2011-08-18T12:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, so my crazy coworker emails me the other day 10 minutes before I'm off work, asking if I'd like to do drinks after work. He then says there's some vegetarian taco place he'd like to try out.

So I call him and I say, "I'd be up for a drink, but I'm not very hungry."

He then insists, "But you'll be hungry LATER."

And I reply, "Actually I had a late lunch."

Crazy: "HOW LATE?!"

Me: Like at 2 o clock.

Crazy: (unimpressed) Well, I have to finish up some work so, we'll see.

Me: OH, well I'm off in ten minutes. When are you thinking?

Crazy: 4:30?

I could've gone home at 4, but instead, I waited for him like an idiot.

At 4:20, he emails me, "I'm going to be longer than I thought. You can go home. I release you."

He did add in a smiley face afterwards, but still, really?? I left without even replying and he texted me later at 5:15 with, "You left, right?" and I just wrote back, "YEP."

Then yesterday he emails me out of the blue telling me that he's taken Kylie off his Twitter feed because, "she's annoying the hell out of me."

OH NO YOU DIDN'T!!!!

I didn't even bother replying to that. It's like he's purposely trying to poke at me and get under my skin with that email, like WTF? Anyway, he is full on back to being crazy, and this time there's no meds to blame - it's just him!!!

I Would Like To Be a Good Person

2011-08-12T23:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight Emily and I went to watch Glee The Concert Movie in 3D. It was heartwarming and uplifting and an overall fun time, especially if you're a Glee fan, or used to be. I know the show kinda sucks sometimes and has lost its way, but watching this film reminded me how much of an impact it's had on the general public and many lives out there. Good for that!

And it made me think, I want to be a good person. I think I'm a good person, but then I question whether I could be more good? I mean, I volunteer, I am nice to people, and I don't think I'm a bad person... Bad people don't ask themselves if they're good or bad, do they?

I want to be a positive light in people's lives. But then how do you balance that with not getting taken advantage of or getting your heart broken?

There's definitely some things about myself I would like to change. Like, I think I should stop gossiping. So perhaps that means I should stop blogging about my crazy coworker. Is that gossiping? Or am I just complaining about him and the way he makes me feel?

Anyhow, I'm going to try and be a better person. I just wish I knew what that meant...

Another Bad Date, Tarot Cards, and Writers Who Hate Writing Groups

2011-08-08T15:31:00.000-07:00

I knew the date was going to be bland when I spoke to this guy online in the weeks preceding. When I would ask him what kind of movies he liked to go watch, he would reply with, "Whatever my friends want to go see."

I see.

So when we met for coffee on Saturday afternoon, the conversation was more of the same. Firstly, it consisted mainly of me conducting an interview, which always makes for a lovely date. It's basically like I'm holding a job application process! "So what do you like to do? Where are you from? Have you met many people through this online dating site?"

And do you have any questions for me? I didn't ask that, but I sat there in silence for awhile, just waiting, anticipating, he would come up with something brilliant to say!!! At LAST, he finally opened his mouth, and out comes a wonderfully perfect comment about the WEATHER.

Why YES it IS great that we in Vancouver here are FINALLY getting some sun. I was not aware of that fact before, why haven't they printed this as a headline in the local papers yet? Somebody call the press! Vancouver's summer is finally starting! Hip hip hooray!!

He mentioned he was off to dinner later that night with some friends, to which I asked, "Oh, where are you going to go eat?!" to which he replied, "Wherever my friends want to go eat."

At this point, I realized it was nearing 6pm and the liquor store was about to close, and I was in full need of a drink, so I basically left and went to get a bottle of booze instead, so that my evening was not a complete waste of time. I then went over to Alexis' who was having a fireworks party and it was there where I ate lots of cheese and drank lots of sangria and watched the boring ol' fireworks display, before heading home around midnight, only to wait for the damn bus for a full hour and getting back home at 2am. WTF!!!

--------------

Been trying to read my tarot cards on my own without the help of my "Tarot for Dummies" book that I usually flip through. I've been doing an online course on how to read tarot and what each of the cards might mean. I've learned how to get a story from each of the cards and what they may represent and that the reading is up to my interpretation.

I read my friend's tarot yesterday using this new method and it went rather well, I must say! I was able to get some meaning from the cards and give her some guidance, and when I cross referenced w/ the website, I found that I wasn't that far off with the meanings they've attributed to the cards!

---------------

Friday night I was at a party full of local actors and writers and directors. It was very inspiring to be around these folks, as they were doing what they want to do with their lives. One guy was telling me how he was working on two novels. I asked him about joining a writing group and he poo-poo'd the idea, saying that if it was a writing group that critiqued each others' work etc, then it wasn't a good way to go if I was having trouble writing in the first place. He writes every morning. I can't even get up to make breakfast every morning, let alone write or do exercise like some people do. Anyhow, he's been inspiring and I'm gonna try and harvest some of that and see where it takes me!

This Is a Book

2011-08-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

I just read Demetri Martin's book, This Is a Book. It's hipster and twee and totally hilarious. Imagine if a cabaret/burlesque/vaudeville show was put onto paper, then this is what you would get. Each chapter, a different "act" there to entertain you. Whether it's a group of random drawings, quotes, prose, or a dialogue between two people, each chapter is unique to itself and ridiculously amusing. A very very light read, but with intelligence and wit. A fun book without being completely mindless.

Read It!

Swim Team's Teenage Dream

2011-08-06T11:59:00.000-07:00

Don't Forget The Bug Spray!

2011-08-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

Last night, Alexis, Emily, and I went to Stanley Park to watch Theatre Under the Stars' production of the musical Anything Goes (which is currently a revival on Broadway starring Sutton Foster!) If you've never been, it's a wonderful evening out, watching a live musical outside in the fresh air and beneath the night sky. How much more romantic can it get? There's food, you can bring a blanket, and the smell of flowers and freshly cut grass.

However, Theatre Under the Stars has a reputation for being...amateur? Sure, but still. It's a great opportunity for locals to get their feet wet in a musical (both watching and/or being in one). As for Anything Goes, I must admit, this is one of the better productions I've seen from Theatre Under The Stars! The singing was good, the dancing was fun, and it was just a light and enjoyable show.

Ok, I could've done without the racist Asian characters with the thick accents, but I guess considering this is an older musical, it just shows the time it comes from. I saw Thoroughly Modern Millie in New York and it had the same issue of Asians with bad accents.

Overall though, if you want to go to a musical and experience a good show at Theatre Under the Stars, then put on your sailor's outfit and set sail for Anything Goes!

It's no Sutton Foster, mind you!!

An Evening With Chromeo!

2011-08-05T11:34:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week Jill and I went to the Chromeo concert at the Commodore here in Vancouver. It was a fun dancey show from the Montreal duo, who sang all their big hits and then some. Jill and I danced the night away best we could, squished up amongst the crowd.

I think my favourite number of the evening was Night By Night, because of its disco-esque sound!

Movies: Something Borrowed

2011-08-03T12:03:00.001-07:00

Something Shitty.

SKIP!!!!

It's A Beautiful Life

2011-08-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

Hello!

It's been a while. Last week was crazy busy for me, volunteering after work till 1am every night, doing outreach for the Outgames that were in town and just helping out wherever I could. Pile that on top of Pride weekend and fostering four kittens, well I'm exhausted.

A Lesbian Party is All That She Wants

On Friday night, I found myself at the Davie Street party hanging out with these beautiful buff boys and promoting the Outgames to everyone.

Afterwards, my new little bull-dyke in training went with me to Pop Opera where the turnout was pretty paltry, for a Friday night. I noticed an older lesbian sitting in the corner by herself drinking and I nudged my partner in crime to go talk with her, but she refused. So I wandered over to this woman, who reminded me of Charlize Theron in the movie Monster.

Turns out, she was an oil rigger from Alberta and was here for the games, but her event had been cancelled 10 days before the start of the Outgames. Yeah, it was a bit disorganized and chaotic at times, but we all made the best of it. She came out and did the touristy thing and enjoyed Vancouver and its sights. Plus, the weather was gorgeous. She was going to miss out on the Pride Parade however, and so her hanging out at this lame bar was the extent of her partying.

I would have none of that. I NEEDED to show her a good time. So I found out where the hottest lesbian party was taking place, and I accompanied her to it. It was absolutely brilliant! Wall to wall lesbian, with a few men sprinkled in between (probably gay men). Otherwise, the room was full of La Roux and Justin Bieber look-alikes. I left her in good hands, and ran into her the next day and she told me she had a great time, so I was glad I was able to do my duty!

I Saw The Sign

There are so many signs. I see them and I ignore them. But now, there is no ignoring.

On Friday, during the day, I went up to my Crazy Coworker's office. Before we got a chance to talk though, his coworker came in and started talking to him.

She: Should we call the temp agency? Maybe they should be notified?

Crazy: It's not my job, I'm not going to do it. I'm too busy, I have other things to do.

Me: What are you guys talking about?

Turns out, they had a temp come in for the day and that temp ended up having a stroke. So, one of their colleagues took the temp to the hospital and this is what the above conversation was about.

Crazy's coworker left, pondering what to do. She should have just called the temp agency herself, but maybe she's one of those people who need to be told what to do. Crazy's reaction however, is disgusting. Him not wanting to help or do anything about it? After his coworker had finished talking about it and had left his office, he turns to me, throws his hands up in the air and mouths out the words, " WHO CARES ?!"

What a horrible horrible excuse for a human being, yes? How could a person like you bring me joy?

Don't Turn Around Cause You're Gonna See My Heart Breaking

So, The Guy. It's been up and down the past month. Hell, the past week. It was nice to see him and to volunteer with him at points. He even came over to see the kittens on Saturday. And then he drove me downtown. In his boyfriend's car. Yeah. So there's that. It was a sobering experience amidst all the drunken haze of the past week. Like, I drank A LOT.

Anyhow, looks like they're still together even though they haven't seen each other for a month. Whatever. I think it's time I saw the sign and just get a move on, even though it's so fucking hard to do. SO Fucking Hard.

It's a Cruel Summer

To say the least. With The Guy breaking my heart officially and my coworker (one that I liked!) being murdered, I am soooo happy to say goodbye to July and to embrace all that is August. I have hopes that things can only get better.

I mean, even volunteering last week, I met some awesome people, including my new little bull-dyke pal. On Wednesday at the Human Rights conference where I was helping out at, I was picked up by someone. I say "someone" because this person may or may not have been a trans boy. Nothing against trans, but it's not what I'm looking for. He was nice enough, but even if he isn't trans, he's not really my type and I can't picture going on a date with him. You never know though, I guess.

Then there was Saturday night, when Emily and I attended the Dragonette/Ace of Base concert. (Hence the heavy motif I'm doing with this post!) It was a fun time and I drank WAY too much and continued to drink well afterwards when I went out to a nightclub and made out with two random guys. The attention is nice, and I guess I'm trying to deal with how to get over The Guy. I know it's not the wisest road to go down, but it's helping a bit.

Sunday was Pride, I helped out volunteering in the parade. Met up with friends and had more drinks. Overall, I had a wonderful week meeting new people, making new friends, and hanging out with the old ones.

Despite the dark cloud of sadness that is threatening to overtake me, I know that in the end, it really is a beautiful life.

Movies: Crazy Stupid Love

2011-07-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

I was at the preview of Crazy Stupid Love this week, amidst all my volunteering duties for the Outgames. It was nice to sit and relax for a few hours. I haven't seen a bad movie all summer and my trend continues, though this was probably my least favourite out of everything I've seen thus far. And that's only because this is not really a laugh out loud comedy, but more drama. It's good, don't get me wrong. It's just not Bridesmaids or Bad Teacher or Horrible Bosses.

What it is however, is Emma Stone being awesome, Ryan Gosling looking HOT!!!, and Julianne Moore being under-utilized. The story is smart and has its share of surprises. One thing I didn't like is its stance on Soul Mates and how they tote the message that everyone has their One Soul Mate out there. Not that I'm turning sour or bitter when it comes to the love department, but really? Come on now. I used to believe in soul mates, and I think part of me still does, but I guess I wonder if sending a message like that out there is really all that good? I suppose there's nothing wrong with having more romantics in the world, right? I guess you just gotta take it with a grain of salt and if you're going to believe that yes soul mates exist, then you should probably also know that so does heartache and pain. Just saying.

Rent It

The Return of Crazy

2011-07-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

So. I let the Crazy Coworker back into my life a smidge, thinking he had changed and was better to deal with now, but turns out, nope, he's still CRAZY.

July has been a rough month, and I appreciate those of you who have reached out and been supportive, whether you're a friend, an acquaintance, or a stranger I haven't even met. Thank you.

Often times I feel like I'm a good friend to most people and am there for them, so in my time of need it was nice to see the favour returned for the most part.

With Mr Crazy however, his reactions to what was going on with me were a bit abnormal and not comforting whatsoever. When I discussed the situation with The Guy with him, he'd start grilling me with questions like, "How did he tell you that he was seeing someone else? Was it a big production??? Or was it just mentioned casually in a conversation? What's the new boyfriend look like? Is he hot?"

Um, when I'm trying to tell you about how broken my heart is, those questions are not helpful, savvy?

When I sent him a photo of The Guy's new boyfriend, his reply was, "He looks like he has a nice body."

OH REALLY? WELL THANK YOU VERY FUCKING MUCH ASSHOLE.

A few weeks back when I attended my murdered coworker's funeral and watched him get cremated in front of us, he texted me on the phone, "When are you back in the office?"

Fortunately, the service was done by the time he messaged me but what if it wasn't? It was only noon after all. How inappropriate, I thought. And if you are going to text, wouldn't it be more fitting to ask how the FUCKING FUNERAL WAS or gee, I don't fucking know, maybe HOW ARE YOU?

Shit.

So then I replied I would be back in an hour or so. He wrote back, "I guess you don't have time to go for a walk." And he followed this up with a frowny face. :( A FROWNY FACE! BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO GO FOR A WALK WITH HIM!!!! Perhaps he had some errands he wanted to run with me alongside?? I told him I was just leaving the funeral, you fucking fuckwit.

He then asked, "Was it open casket? Did you find out what happened? Did you meet his parents?"

W T F.

FUCK YOU. FUCK YOU SO MUCH.

Anyway, one day he did mention, "You know, last night I was thinking to myself: I should stop being so self centered. I should start asking people more questions about their lives."

So we talked about that for a bit. Yes, we talked about him being self centered. So basically, we were STILL TALKING ABOUT HIM.

OMG, I don't even CARE anymore if I piss him off. I swore I wouldn't be passive aggressive about it and instead, call him on his shit this time around, but frankly, I just don't CARE.

I would rather have zero friends at work than have to deal with this sociopath!!

The Outgames are Here!

2011-07-25T14:51:00.000-07:00

So the North American Outgames are in town this week!

I'm volunteering for them and it's been fun and chaotic and a great way to meet new people! I'll be volunteering all week, and it's Pride as well! So, definitely hoping to have a good week ahead!

The Guy is also volunteering. I bumped into him last week at the orientation session and it was very nice. Saw him again yesterday during a shift, and had a memorable and sweet exchange. I don't want to go into details about it because I don't want to place too much significance on it, as I guess I am trying to move on somehow, but yeah, it was really fucking nice.

Anyhow, happy Pride to everyone and enjoy the Outgames!!

I'll Be Your Teenage Dream Tonight

2011-07-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

Oh to float around on a cotton candy cloud. That's what Katy Perry did last night at her last Canadian stop of her sold out California Dreams tour. I managed to snag tickets to the exclusive event after checking on Ticketmaster every single day until more tickets were released.

I loved that the entire show centered around her "kitty" and following her into a magical world full of candy and cupcakes. Her cover of Whitney's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" was a high point, as were all of her hits. I wished she had saved Teenage Dream for later on in the show instead of opening with it, but it was still awesome to jump up and down screaming like a schoolgirl when it started.

"Have you guys ever been depressed? Some of you don't even know what that word even means. Oh to be nine again." She was very interactive with the audience, talking and making jokes. It was nice to see that she comes across as funny and quirky live as she does in her videos. Her sense of humour really shines through! She talked about going bowling in Vancouver, how she loves Canada because we spell "coloured" the right way, because there is colour in U!

From the moment we stepped into the stadium, we were greeted with folks selling cotton candy. How fun is that! She had several moments where she allowed audience members up on the stage, including one lucky guy who was only allowed up if he took his shirt off. He complied, got up there, and got a kiss from Katy and she even allowed him to return one. Very sweet!

And not to mention the entourage of fans she brought up to dance during I Wanna Dance With Somebody. She took one girl aside and asked if she wanted to take a photo together for her Facebook. Too cute!

And then there's her singing ability. I've seen her sing live on tv and it has SUCKED. So, I did not expect much. But she delivered! She sounded great last night!

It was a fun show, light and fluffy and perfect for the summer!

Google Plus

2011-07-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

What's the deal with Google+ ? Anybody?

I joined it the other day because I'd read it's better than Facebook and you can organize things so much easier and blah blah blah. It's tipped as being the next big thing. It doesn't make you uncomfortable not wanting to accept a friend request, it allows you to share your photos of a drunken night out with only your friends and not your family or work colleagues.

But so what? You can do that in Facebook too. It just takes a bit of time and creation of "lists" (as opposed to Google+'s "circles").

I don't know. I wasn't keen on the layout and was rather confused with how things worked...

If you want an invite to it, leave your email and I can send you one to try out.

Movies: Horrible Bosses

2011-07-16T21:21:00.000-07:00

If you've been reading my blog since the days when I was Bitterwoo, you'll know that I've had my share of horrible bosses. I couldn't relate more to this movie if I tried. Yes, I've had horrific bosses in the past and yes, I've even contemplated their demise.

There's a lot of star power in this movie from Jennifer Aniston to Jason Sudekis, Colin Farrell to Kevin Spacey, Jamie Foxx, Donald Sutherland, and of course, Jason Bateman. I was laughing all over the place and wished the rest of the people in the audience were following suit. I think the jokes in here were a little too high brow for the suburban clientele I was sitting with, or they were too busy catching their breath from the last joke!

Anyhow, this is another perfect summer comedy that fits right up there with Bridesmaids and Bad Teacher, in my books.

See It!!

Movies: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

2011-07-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

Amazing. It all ends here. It's been a decade of Harry Potter novels and movies and it all comes to a fantastic ending. There's nothing like closure, is there?

See It.

Rest In Peace, RC

2011-07-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the funeral of a coworker. No, it's not my Crazy Coworker. Crazy is still around and Crazy is still Crazy.

RC was a coworker who worked in my department, who was nice and friendly and always had a smile for everyone. He was gay as well, but not out. He was out to me because well, obviously.

Anyhow, he went missing two weeks ago and the news that he had died surfaced this week. It's all under very mysterious circumstances and I have heard rumours that he was murdered. It's very sad and tragic. He was 43 years old. I have not heard anything on the news about it, so I don't know if there is an official investigation or if they are ruling it out as something else?

He was a sweet, gentle soul.

Today's memorial service turned out to be a cremation ceremony, which none of us expected. We were all in a bit of shock after the service was over and they cremated him right in front of us. Well, they took him into a room next door and we could hear all the noises and the casket going in. One of my other coworkers was a pallbearer and had to be in that room, helping. He and RC were really close and so, thus given the honour of helping with this, though I can't even begin to imagine what that was like for him. There was a glass window for people to run up to and look through if they wanted to witness it.

It's a sombre day.

Rest in peace, RC. You are truly missed and the world has lost a bright light. My sympathies and condolences go out to all your friends and family.

The Guy

2011-07-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

So The Guy texted me this week.

I know this was big for him. I know it took a lot for him to take that step.

It has been a rough July so far, emotionally. But I went to my shrink on the weekend and learned some stuff and gathered some tools to help me cope. One of the things I learned was that I often feel that people are using me, or out to use me. This is because I have been used before in the past, and so it's now been programmed into me that the only reason anyone would want anything to do with me is because they want something.

Anyhow, the text. He's currently in Toronto and he texted that he just wanted to say hi. So, to him and maybe moreso to me, this was a big deal, given the past two weeks we've had, and considering the emails we have exchanged.

The last I had heard, I had left the ball in his court. I had told him I was not going to contact him and that it was up to him if he wanted to contact me, and so he did. And I'm not reading too much into it because well, he is seeing someone.

But at the end of the day I was very glad to hear from him. Am I still holding a candle for him and waiting for him to fall in love with me? I'm trying not to. Do I still want him in my life and is it going to be difficult? Yes and yes.

I know this won't be easy, but I have to give it a try. I didn't think I was going to make the effort, since the last time it all blew up in my face. But last time I was in my 20s and last time it wasn't with The Guy, whom I am much much closer to than the other person all those years ago.

This is the journey I am choosing to take. Who's to say if it is right or wrong? I'll just have to see.

Martin Creed exhibit

2011-07-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I visited the Rennie Collection, currently hosting an exhibit on British/Scottish artist Martin Creed. I was really excited about this show because it was one of his pieces that reached out to me one cold lonely night. Specifically, it was the piece "Work No. 560 - Everything is Going To Be Alright" which is on permanent display here in Vancouver on the outside of the Wing Sang building.

The first piece that you experience is a room full of pink balloons. It's titled "Half The Amount of Air in Any Given Space" and you literally have to walk through this room. I was basically screaming the entire way because I was TERRIFIED that one of the giant balloons was going to explode in my face. I have a major fear of balloons popping!!

I quite liked the second piece, named The Broccoli Prints, of which there were 1000.

One of the most hilarious and unique things I've ever seen in an art gallery has to be this installment, titled The Runners. It features stone-faced sprinters running through the art gallery at 20 second intervals. When the tour guide was trying to tell us about a piece, it was hard to not break into laughter when suddenly a sprinter would round the perimeter of the room. We were told that The Runners represent life (if death = stillness, then life = fast motion). The artist also wanted to create art in motion, as the runners become a blur of colour.

There was also a film of people inducing vomiting, and a room full of metronomes going. I highly enjoyed and recommend this exhibit! It runs until October.

This Used To Be My Playground

2011-07-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

Early Saturday morning, I found myself out and about by 8am. Jessica had invited me to come help out at an event she was organizing that included building a brand new playground for an elementary school. Turns out the school is just five minutes away from me, so I had no excuse not to go help out! Plus, I got to hang with Jess.

But let's just say that I never need to see MULCH again ever!! I shoveled and moved mulch all morning long and I think I did something to my back! What an idiot!

But it was fun and I was thrilled to be helping out and giving back to the community. When the kids go back to school in the Fall, they'll be super excited to see their brand new playground, especially when their old one had been condemned!

Eating: Nelson The Seagull

2011-07-13T21:47:00.000-07:00

On the weekend, Alexis and I hit up the new sandwich spot, Nelson the Seagull, named after Nelson Mandela, a fitting tribute since the owners of this Gastown eatery hail from South Africa.

It's a very cute place, with old school tiles that seem to be left over from whatever inhabited this space before. The clientele was notably all hipsters, with their skinny jeans and ironic 80s glasses. The food was delicious, and Alexis exclaimed, "I don't feel like I'm in Vancouver!"

Plus they sell these witty tote bags:

Today's Laugh Brought to You by Ke$ha

2011-07-13T08:57:00.001-07:00

Joe Vs Jordan

2011-07-10T13:42:00.000-07:00

So last night I went to the NKOTBSB concert. That's the New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys together on one stage. It was supposed to be New Kids vs Backstreet, but really let's get real. New Kids all the way!!!

I was there for Jordan Knight, but oh my goodness, when Joey McIntyre pulled his tanktop up to reveal his abs of steal, I think the entire arena exploded with estrogen. And that was just me.

So yeah, it was Joe vs Jordan. The Backstreet Boys were fine, but their songs are so fucking DEPRESSING!! Like seriously boys, what's with all the sappy forlorn ballads? I feel like cutting!!! Oy!

Opening act Matthew Morrison from Glee was no better. Iris and I would turn to each other when he wasn't doing a cover song and rather, sing something original from his latest cd, and we'd say to each other, "Let's go get a beer!" Thanks Mr Shuester for supplying us with our drinks/bathroom breaks.

So anyway, Joey McIntyre was bringing it! And he had me converted over from Jordan Knight's camp in the wink of an eye, and the flash of some skin!

However, I looked up one of his latest solo releases and the video's hot, but the song is only meah...

Then there's Jordan's latest solo release - good catchy dance tune, but video could've been a lot better...

Movies: Bad Teacher

2011-07-08T14:28:00.000-07:00

Aside from drinking, the other thing that I've consistently been doing to get over my heartbreak is to distract myself with things that entertain me. It's not a stretch, considering I read and watch movies and television all the time anyway. Now I'm just doing it with a purpose.

So I went to watch Bad Teacher, and I was won over immediately when Cameron Diaz delivered the line: "Honey, take your dick out cause I'm going to suck it like I'm mad at it!"

Amazing.

Laughter just might be the best medicine.

I found this movie even funnier than Bridesmaids and loved it! What's not to love about a movie about a teacher who's mean to kids and couldn't care less?

A++++!

See it!

Random Hook Ups Don't Seem to Help

2011-07-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

So, I'm finding that hooking up with random people in an effort to get over The Guy isn't quite helping.

I met two people yesterday. The first was to see if we wanted to hook up, so we just went for a drink. After the drink, we left the bar and who do I see walking up the street but The Guy's current new boyfriend. Blah.

Anyhow, we decided we would hook up later on sometime, so I ended going over to some other random person's place and hooking up with him. While I was there, I had a flashback and started thinking about The Guy.

You know things aren't going well when your random one night stand looks at you and says, "Are you okay?"

Obviously, I wasn't. So, I had to leave.

So yeah, random hook ups don't seem to be the answer...

Eating: Big Lou's Butcher Shop

2011-07-07T09:27:00.001-07:00

I tried out Big Lou's Butcher Shop a week or so ago down in the outskirts of Chinatown. It's unbelievable! It's tiny and isn't really a sit-in kinda place although there are stools for you to sit and eat, which is what Jill and I did. I had the porchetta sandwich and it was DIVINE!!! OMG, it was crispy and so much amazing goodness. Can't wait to go back and have some more goodies at this place!

Eating: Faubourg

2011-07-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

One way to get over a broken heart is to try and eat your emotions! Yay!!!

Actually, I honestly have zero appetite because I'm quite depressed, but I guess it doesn't hurt to try to go out and eat something. Philip took me to Faubourg in Kerrisdale a while back to help me cure a hangover. It was fabulous and I've been itching to go back to this little bakery cafe to check out their Afternoon Tea menu! Any takers?

Stronger Than Yesterday

2011-07-04T20:23:00.000-07:00

So I had a good but rough weekend. I'm glad I went to the pageant and participated and helped out. I really didn't know how I was going to handle it, but I think I managed. I broke down a few times and cried but that shouldn't be too unexpected. Anyhow, not sure how much I want to get into it, but overall, I'm glad I went. Not sure what's going to happen with The Guy and myself. I know he wants me in his life still, but I don't know if I can do that, now that he's seeing someone. We talked a little bit today, but nothing too deep. We'll see where this chapter leads, and if it's time to move on to the next.

I don't know if a lot of people could have done what I did. It would have been a lot easier to just not go to the event and cut The Guy out, become bitter and just get over him. But right now, I don't feel bitter and just full of love. I think I've been bitter before in my life, and I'm not interested in being that person again.

On a different note, Friday night I went to the Britney Spears concert with my nieces. They wanted to see opening act Nikki Minaj, but I accompanied them to see Britney. She was surprisingly very good and I had a blast at her show! Who knew!? I saw her Circus tour a few years back and she was totally out of it and not at all engaged. She lipsynched badly and was just carried around the stage by her dancers. This time around though, she seemed way more into it and there was much more dancing on her part. Lots of hairography. It was a total blast, so if you have a chance to go see Britney's Femme Fatale tour this summer, you won't be disappointed!

Sadly, she didn't sing the song that I was listening to most of the weekend to help get me through this rough patch I'm having:

Grace and Fortitude

2011-07-02T22:40:00.000-07:00

Those are two words I've been trying to live up to this weekend.

It's been a rough week. The event this weekend is a beauty pageant that The Guy puts on every year for charity. It's a good cause and the people who come to it are of good hearts and this isn't a typical "beauty pageant" in that it encompasses all shapes and sizes and places emphasis on the beauty within.

I have spent all year working on this with him, sending out press releases, interviewing candidates, and putting in my energy and time into it alongside him. When I found out last week he was seeing someone, and that this new someone would be at the pageant, my immediate reaction was to not go. I didn't think I could bear it. I've been in this position before, having to be friends with the person you love, and them dating someone else. It's not an easy ride, and I didn't want another go at it.

However, all week, the thought of not going to the pageant ate away at me. In fact, it pissed me off that I had invested so much of myself into it all year and suddenly felt like I had been banned from going. It was a self imposed ban, mind you. But I didn't think it was fair that this new guy got to go, and I didn't. So, I talked it out with The Guy, who was equally as torn up about me not going but didn't want to say anything as he wanted to give me space. But we managed to break through that wall of communication that he seems to have such a hard time with, and it was decided first by me, and then agreed to by him, that I would in fact go.

So I've been attending all weekend, beginning Friday morning up until this evening. The first person I met was the new boyfriend. I don't have much to say about him. He's nice, I suppose, but I really am not interested in pursuing that avenue. I'm nice to him, engaging him, helping him out with tasks, so it's not like I'm merely tolerating him or shunning him. I'm not embracing him as my new best friend, either.
I know it isn't his fault that I'm hurt.

So I carry on. I brought my A game, pitching in and helping out and showing that I am useful and a part of this. The Guy's mother embraced me in her arms when she saw me, because he had told her that I wasn't going to be there and she was sad about that. So, it was nice to get that reception from her. I actually ended up going over to her house to help pick up some stuff and saw a bunch of baby photos and high school pictures of The Guy.

I carry on with grace and fortitude. I have put on my best pageant smile and am walking the walk. The Guy had told me he was worried I might break down and that if I did, he would too and that he'd be a mess all weekend if that happened. I got through yesterday okay, as it was great to reunite with all the other people who come out every year to help with this event. Today was a bit tougher, when those same people started talking about The Guy's new boyfriend. "Isn't he cute?" one asked me. Meah. I wouldn't go that far, but then of course I'm biased against it.

However, it struck a chord, and it stayed with me all day until it manifested itself as a heavy heavy feeling in the centre of my chest. I knew I'd explode if I didn't run. So, I left a bit earlier than planned tonight, didn't say goodbye to The Guy, and drove the long highway home, tears blurring my vision for most of the journey.

One more day to go, and I would like to keep my head on straight for most of it. Tomorrow is the big show and the grand finale. In more ways than one. I'm not sure what's going to happen after it's all over. Do I need time to get over The Guy? Ignore him for awhile until I feel the love fading? Who knows how long that will take? Maybe I'll never see him again.

Whatever happens, I would like to take the higher road. I could easily turn bitter and depressed, take it out on him, heck not even show up tomorrow and really make him miss me. But I want to be classier than that. I also want some closure, I suppose, and maybe that's what this weekend is really all about. Closure, grace, and fortitude.

The Grieving

2011-06-28T08:45:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'm going through some sort of grieving process. I mean, I have spent the last 4 years being in love with The Guy. And now I have to let it all go. It's only been two days and it still smarts. Actually, it hurts like hell. I get angry, I get sad, I feel shellshocked, I feel lost, I want to contact him (and I have), and I want to ignore him (and I'm trying).

This upcoming weekend we were supposed to see each other all weekend. It's an annual event that he puts on and I've helped with it, and this year would have been perfect because Friday is a holiday in Canada, and I have the Monday off, so I was looking forward to it. However, with the bombshell dropped on me that he's seeing someone and that someone will be at this event all weekend, I just can't do it. So, that makes me sad that I'll be missing out on this charity event that I've been an integral part of for awhile now. He wants me to be there and says it won't be the same, but that he understands why I can't go. I wonder how the weekend will go. I wonder if I'll hear from other people involved in the event, like his friends or his mother. I wonder what he'll tell them to explain my absence.

Anyway, the sadness comes in waves. He's only the 2nd person in my life that I've ever felt these strong feelings about. The first one was back in 1998 and it took me four years to get over, and I can't do that again. I'm hoping that I know myself a little better now and that it won't take me that long to recover. However, the 1998 guy was totally different from this guy. This guy was so much closer to me, we shared so much more, and so maybe that'll make it even more difficult to move on?

I'm trying to choose to be happy, but at the same time I need to acknowledge this heavy heavy weight that I'm feeling on my chest. It's there and there's no denying it. So even though I'll try to put up a brave front and act normal, I am also having a very hard time just doing the simplest things like walking up the stairs. Work is kind of a write-off, but I'm trying. I could try to exercise but that's already an uphill battle as is, let alone with this to deal with.

Anyhow, thank you dear reader for listening!

Heartbreak Make me a Dancer

2011-06-26T22:18:00.000-07:00

"Love, stop bringing me down..."

Well, I knew the day would come, and it has. The Guy is dating someone. And it isn't me. He broke the news to me earlier this evening. I took it okay, but of course as the night wore on, it sunk in more and more and now I'm completely devastated. It's not like I didn't expect this would happen eventually, but I guess there was that small glimmer of hope inside of me that one day it would be me.

I feel dejected and that I never get the guy. He's only the 2nd guy in my entire life that I've had strong feelings for. And the first one was also unrequited. Maybe it just isn't written in the stars for me, I don't know.

I've done a bit of crying, a bit of feeling sorry for myself, and hopefully I can get over this sooner than later. I felt like all the air has been let out of me, and it's hard to bring myself to do anything right now. Although, blogging about this seems to be helping!

So is this Sophie Ellis Bextor video. If only I looked as fabulous as her while going through heartbreak!!

Books: Stories I Only Tell My Friends

2011-06-24T22:38:00.000-07:00

First of all, you need to know that Rob Lowe is number one on my list of celebrities I'd love to sleep with. Like Miranda said in Sex and the City, "Yesterday, today, and tomorrow..." Like a fine wine, Rob Lowe has only gotten better with age. Though I'll take him when he was at the height of his fame in the late 80s, running around being a bad boy and making sex tapes.

He touches upon all this in his memoir, Stories I Only Tell My Friends. I read this in a matter of days, as I could not wait to get home every day from work, crawl into bed and pretend I was laying in Rob Lowe's lap and having him read all his stories to me. The stories themselves were also fascinating, from when he met Liza Minelli as a child to acting with Janet Jackson before she was Janet Jackson, to hanging out with Charlie Sheen and his brother Emilio Estevez, working with Tom Cruise before he was Tom Cruise, and so much more!

I'm not a huge non-fiction reader, but I think because of the topic, I was truly enthralled with this book!

Movies: Bill Cunningham New York

2011-06-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

Alexis and I met the hardest working man in a movie theatre in all of Vancouver today. The location: the newly renovated and magical Denman Cinemas, located at the Denman Place Mall down by the beach on Denman Street in the West End. This theatre has new seats, new sound system, and bargain movie prices, including cheap Tuesdays and a Monday night special where for $10, you get admission, popcorn, and a drink. What!!

So the guy who sold us the tickets, proceeded to take the tickets. Then he hustled over to the concession stand and sold us our popcorn. Then he hustled back to the front counter, because that's where I had to pay for the popcorn since that's where the only credit card machine was located. Inside, we saw him roam the theatre, checking the lights, and eventually fussing around up in the projection room working the movie reel. I assume he also cleaned the bathrooms, vacuumed the carpet, and cleaned up after the show was over. I'm surprised he didn't make a cameo in the movie.

So, the movie. If you're a fashion fiend, you will absolutely LOVE it. Bill Cunningham works for the New York Times, riding around on his old school bicycle taking photographs of people on the street and what they are wearing. He's been at it for years, and even Vogue editor Anna Wintour makes an effort to try and get photographed by Bill. .

The documentary is inspiring, heartwarming, heartbreaking, and in short, fascinating. It was thrilling to see someone so passionate about something and just going out and doing it. He's as comfortable taking photos of hoodlums on the street as he is at high society dinner parties or exclusive fashion shows. Some may not think he's changing the world, but to him, he believes in fashion and thinks it's the armour we wear to fight off the realities of everyday life.

See It!

Kylie Aphrodite Les Folies Live in London!

2011-06-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

They aired it yesterday in the UK on TV, but it's edited down so it's not the full show. That's okay, I'll take what I can get right now until the official DVD release comes out.

Here's the opening number and it's magical!!!

Movies: Super 8

2011-06-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to watch Super 8, which was a fantastic throwback to those movies I enjoyed as a kid, like E.T. or The Goonies. In fact, if JJ Abrams were to write a love letter to Steven Spielberg, then it would come in the form of this movie. It's a place where the kids are smarter than the adults and though it has some Cloverfield mysteriousness and suspense to it, it is much more vintage Spielberg than anything else. Super 8 is pretty darn super!

See it!

Books: Wall and Piece

2011-06-17T12:07:00.000-07:00

Banksy's book Wall and Piece is coffee-table book-esque in that it's a great document of his work and you can flip to literally any page and be amused at what you'll see. It was this book that drew me in when I was wandering around a bookstore in Toronto. As I flipped through the photos, I found myself laughing, contemplating, and being impressed with this graffiti artist turned global phenomenon. His work has become art, but at the same time he shits on the concept of what is art.

Books: Bossypants

2011-06-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Just read Tina Fey's book, Bossypants. It's the perfect light summer read to get your book club started. Grab that bottle of wine, laugh over her stories of growing up, working for Saturday Night Live, raising her daughter, and making fun of the idiots of the world. It's nothing groundbreaking, but you know she can write and it's done well here.

I liked her line about how gays aren't trying to convert people, "that's Jehova's Witnesses you're thinking of." Like, right!? It could be any religion really.

There's more but I don't want to give it away, should you pick this up. Funny and intelligent, like the woman herself!

Blowjobs May Have Helped

2011-06-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

The estrogen in me could sense the high levels of testosterone permeating the city of Vancouver yesterday before Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Whether it was all the men wearing their hockey jerseys or the organic beef burger I was munching on from Fresh Local Wild, I was definitely titillated.

By the by, Fresh Local Wild is one of the many food trucks that are now inhabiting the streets of our city selling various and copious amounts of choices in terms of cuisine. From their name, you can tell that the food they are peddling comes from local sources and is relatively fresh and wild. My organic beef burger was indeed delicious, and it did make me wonder where they managed to find wild cows. Jokes, jokes. They were once situated by Pacific Centre mall on Granville Street, but now they've renovated and relocated to across the street from my work on the corner of Burrard and West Hastings, complete with a built-in sitting area (seats 4 max).

Luckily it was a beautiful sunny day yesterday, so I could eat outdoors if I wanted to. Of course, since I am now once again hanging out with my Crazy Coworker (I confronted him, we cleared the air, it's okay now - that can go into a different post), he insisted we go back indoors and eat the burger in his office. Well, alrighty then. Because we get so many sunny days in Vancouver.

Anyway, it definitely was the perfect day to win the Stanley Cup. Unfortunately, it wasn't the Canucks who would win it. Oh well, everyone is disappointed. I found myself at Lukasz' place watching the game last night and he lives in the heart of downtown. Five cans of beer later, I was pretty much gonzo, and so were the Canucks. They were down 3-0, and there were only 10 minutes left in the third period. So, I packed up my things, bid everyone adieu, and hustled my way out of the downtown core.

When I got home, I passed out on the couch, but not before seeing the final 4-0 score and the rioting aftermath taking place down near where I had just been.

There's more photos all over the internet, you just have to google or open up your local paper since it's making headlines. Here's some from CBC.

It really is a shame to see that some people chose to go this route and ruin it for everyone else and make our city look like a giant dumbass. Especially after we had the Olympics last year and everything was so amazing and people behaved so well. Now we have this to smear our city's name? Meah.

Perhaps I should have posted that ad on CraigsList earlier in the day offering up free blowjobs for guys during the hockey game. Perhaps that would have helped relieve some of the tension that was building. Perhaps that would have prevented the violence that did occur. It's all my fault!!!

And where were YOU?? Why weren't you handing out free blowjobs on the corner of Robson and Georgia?? Hmm?? Instead of people trashing hummers, they could have been GETTING hummers!

Well at least now we know for next year!

GO CANUCKS GO!

2011-06-15T09:19:00.000-07:00

Tony Awards 2011

2011-06-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

Fine, so the Canucks didn't finish it off last night, so we have Wednesday to look forward to.

Go Canucks Go!

In the meantime, I am still on a high from the weekend's Tony Awards. It is seriously by far the most entertaining awards show out there, at least to me. I wasn't bored at any point of the broadcast and it just all flew by too quickly (whereas other awards shows tend to drag and drag and drag).

Alexis and I watched together over chilli and pink wine, the entire time commentating, laughing, gasping, guffawing, and marveling like Broadway theatre nerds!

From the hilarious opening number by Neil Patrick Harris (despite the Brooke Sheilds fail)...

...to Daniel Radcliffe singin' and dancin' his way out from the Harry Potter shadow. He literally blew the roof off, along with the rest of the cast of How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying!

I'm always a glutton for Sutton. Here she is in Cole Porter's Anything Goes tapping and trenching like there's no tomorrow:

I prefer Neil Patrick Harris' hosting talents over Hugh Jackman's, unless of course Hugh hosted with his shirt off the entire time. This duet they did was cute and wonderful!

I personally thought Patina should have won for her role in Sister Act, though you couldn't really tell from this performance how good she is. I guess Sutton Foster winning was the next best thing, though I still haven't forgiven her for doing Shrek The Musical.

Here's a performance from Catch Me If You Can. Needs more Aaron Tveit. Just sayin'.

The big winner of the night was Book of Mormon, and rightly so. They ended up showcasing one of the more tamer numbers from the show, but it was still funny and amazing. It's definitely a must-see show! Go if you can!

There was also a lame number from SpiderMan, a special presentation of Sondheim's Company, performances from The Scottsboro Boys and Memphis, and of course, all the touching and some off-the-cuff speeches.

Finally, the closing rap from Neil Patrick Harris was genius, brilliant, on the fly, and I love the mic drop at the very end! END SCENE!

Go Canucks Go!!

2011-06-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

The city of Vancouver is on the verge of losing its mind with tonight's Canucks vs Bruins hockey game. I saw last Friday's game at a crowded restaurant in the gay village, having nabbed the last table an hour before gametime, which relatively speaking, was late. Most people go to their respective bars and eateries and camp out there all day saving a table for their friends. I tried to find a spot in the bustling Yaletown area but even showing up 2 hours before the game started was not enough - pretty much every spot was taken, with no seats left anywhere. At least, none that was in viewing distance of a television screen. I wasn't even going to dare head down to the CBC headquarters to sit amongst the throngs of people lining the streets watching on the outdoor big screen.

It's a fun and exciting time for the city, for sure. The Canucks have never won the Stanley Cup before ever, so tonight is going to be a huge night when they do beat out Boston, because I do believe that they will do it!

I'm not a huge hockey fan to begin with, but I know my hat-tricks and shut-outs and the basic rules. I was into Mens' Hockey games during last year's Winter Olympics. Now, with the Stanley Cup, I understand that it's a huge deal and so of course I jumped onto the bandwagon once Vancouver made it into the playoffs.

So who's your favourite Canuck? I know my friend Iris (along with a thousand other people!) are head over heels in love with Ryan Kesler.

Me? I'm torn between Maxim Lapierre, who scored the winning (and only) goal in the last game...

...and Kevin Bieksa, who can body check me anytime he wants!

Go Canucks Go!!

Thursday Night Drunks

2011-06-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

So here's the premiere of the new Katy Perry video for Last Friday Night!

It reminded me of the other night when Alexis, Chris, and I went out for a few cocktails. Doubles were on special, so of course we obliged. Three (but really six) drinks later, plus a few tequilla shots, and we left the lovely 1181 bar and crossed the street to check out Junction, the newest gay spot in town now that The Odyssey has closed its doors. It was busy, but the music left much to be desired, so we only had one drink and then tried to make our way over to Numbers, which is usually the last stop on nights like these. It's where everyone goes at the end of the night after they're done at the other places and they go here on their way home just to check it out and maybe dance to some gay tunes. (You know this place is always playing Cher at some point in the evening.)

So, we arrive at the door, and the bouncer guy looks at the three of us who are probably swaying back and forth at this point, and he basically tells us he won't be letting us in. What!!! Denied entry at Numbers of all places? Wow, that's a new low, and I like it! This will be my goal from now on, every time I go out! "So you had a good time the other night? Yeah but did you get denied at Numbers?!"

Anyhow, here's some Katy Perry with her own Sasha Fierce alter ego - Kathy Beth Terry! So much amazingness in this video!

My Big Fat Indian Wedding

2011-06-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

So a few weeks ago I went to my very first Indian wedding. You'd think that living in Vancouver, and growing up with tons of South Asians, that I'd have already gone to one of these legendary functions, but alas no... So leave it up to my coworker to invite me to my first one ever, and now I'm hooked!

I went with my friend Jennifer, who was an intern at my office and also knows the groom (my coworker). We trekked all the way out to Surrey, and it took about an hour to get there on transit. Not too bad. We were disheartened to see that we had to get to the transit system by 12:30am in order to catch the last train, otherwise we'd have to fork out $$$ to cab back into the city.

We arrived promptly at 6pm, just like it said to do on the invitation. Mistake #1. Apparently there's something known as "East Indian time" which we were informed of upon our arrival. There was us, and there were the servers and workers scurrying about getting ready for the big reception. We had skipped the Sikh ceremony earlier that morning because it was even further out from the city and we couldn't make it.

Anyhow, we were told people probably wouldn't start showing till about 8pm. The bride and groom didn't even appear until 9:30pm, we discovered. So we sat at a random table since there was no seating assignment, and we were promptly served some snacks and food. We of course tried to eat the snack, but had no clue how to do so. The plate came with chickpeas, fried shells, and a cup of liquid. We snacked on the chickpeas and shells, and sipped on the cup and commented that this "drink" had quite a nice little punch to it.

The server had to come over and teach us how to eat this dish properly. Apparently, the chickpeas were to be scooped up and put inside the fried shells (which you had to poke a hole into) and then pour the sauce (not a drink!) into the shell. And that is how one eats Puri. Whoops!

The food just kept coming. There was fish, butter chicken, this giant plate of pakoras...

...which later on found its way into my right coat pocket. (There were several drinks that led me to this point...)

Oh yes, the open bar. Let's not forget the open bar, that we kept going to time and time again to refill our cocktails. There were performances from 3 different dance groups, including the one pictured in the photo at the start of this post. And of course, there was the dancing to the bhangra music. Here I am with the groom:

And here I am with Jennifer, my lovely ex-intern. There were 700 guests at this wedding, and she and I were the only two non-brown people there. Everybody else was South Asian. Really? We are the only 2 non-brown people you know? What!?

We somehow managed to make it on the last train back to Vancouver and ended up at a gay dance night at this bar, where I ran into some other friends who ate all the pakoras out of my pocket.

I woke up the next morning somehow in my bed. My dress shoes were covered in grass clippings because I suppose I was running up and down people's lawns the night before on my way home after getting out of the cab two blocks away from my house. I did find some lovely Indian desserts squished in a napkin in my coat pocket, but I definitely lamented the loss of my pakoras, cursed my friends for that, and then checked my phone to see all the poor souls I happened to drunk-dial in my intoxicated stupor.

Thumbs up to Indian weddings! Can't wait to get invited to another one!

Britney covers Madonna

2011-06-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

It doesn't even compare to the original, but it's enjoyable. It's Britney covering Madonna's "Burning Up" :

Download it here. (Click on the Hulkshare download button.)

Kylie: Live in 3D

2011-06-09T13:12:00.001-07:00

And I cannot wait for this to hit cinemas, and I hope it comes to North America for us to see on the silver screen!!

Katy Perry: This Friday Night sneak peek

2011-06-09T13:11:00.001-07:00

I cannot wait for this video!

Meeting My Publisher

2011-06-07T15:54:00.001-07:00

So during my last day in Toronto last month, I met up with my Editor. Did I mention that I have a children's book coming out in Fall 2012? Yes, I'm very excited about it! The publisher is based in Toronto so it dawned on me at the last moment during my visit there that I should try and meet up with my editor and to see the publisher's office!

Here's the building, it's brand new and located down by the waterfront:

It was so cool to be there! I felt like a kid in a candy store, just snapping photos of everywhere. The receptionist must have thought I was insane! Here's a photo of their snazzy lobby! I felt very Carrie Bradshaw being there!

My editor herself was younger than I expected. She was around my age, it seemed? Anyhow, she reminded me of my friend Susannah, so that was cool. We sat and had tea and chatted about the book - MY book!!! She has JUST found an illustrator for it, which I thought had already been decided but apparently no. So, she showed me some of the illustrator's previous artwork and I was quite taken with it. I really didn't know what to expect. I was worried it would come out looking very cartoonish or just plain ugly. But having seen the artist's work, I'm confident that it will come out looking beautiful! Or at least I hope it does!

She is a Quebecois illustrator, and you can check out some of her work here.

And here's a photo of the inside of the office. They've got shelves and shelves of their kids' books that they have published. I'm assuming mine will be up on those shelves someday soon! Can't wait!

Robyn - Call Your Girlfriend!!!

2011-06-03T19:04:00.001-07:00

Cat Hugs Teddy Bear

2011-06-03T13:43:00.001-07:00

Could watch this all day. In fact, I have!

Movies: Bridesmaids

2011-06-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

It's true, believe the hype. Bridesmaids is a good solid movie, with enough laughs to start up your summertime goodness. If you need something to help you kick off the season, then definitely go See This!!

Movies: Hall Pass

2011-06-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Needs more Applegate.

It's an okay movie that is perfect if you're nursing a heavy hangover.