Des' Reluctant site

Yeah Thanksgiving!

2009-10-04T23:53:59Z

For all those who are wanting to know, I am indeed having my Orphans Thanksgiving Dinner again this year.

So, if you, or someone you know, can't or doesn't want to go home for Thanksgiving, you/they can come over to my house for a dinner with all the fixin's. (Including cranberries.) I will be serving Ham, Lamb, and *possibly* turkey (depending on attendance).

This will be happening on Sunday, October 11, 2009. Comraderie accepted after 3pm, dinner served at 6:15-ish. More comraderie to follow. Kickout is midnight.

Send me an email for directions if you don't know where it is.

Cheers!
Des

Dilemma

2009-08-12T19:15:10Z

This is a theoretical question with no "practical purpose".

What is more important to you in the workplace and why?

Co-worker Solidarity (United Front)

or

Accountability (Personal Responsibility)

(Assume they are in conflict)

Cheers!
Des

This can't end well.... can it?

2009-02-13T08:20:35Z

Leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember. Don't send a message, leave a comment here. Next, re-post this in your notes/LJ and see how many people leave a memory about you.

"I'm going to move over here, now"

2009-01-05T07:08:38Z

After 5+ days of no internets, I am back online. Whew!

Note to self: I hate packing. Really hate it. With proper labeling, the moving part is alright. With proper planning, the moving part goes smoothly. With proper weather, the moving part can be almost pleasant. Almost.
But I *LOTHE* packing.

For all intents and purposes... I have moved 3 feet to the left. I have a 30-paces walk to the bus stop that takes me to work instead of a 10 minute jog. T now has a 9 minute walk to work instead of 13. C gets on the school bus 10 mins later, and arrives home 9 minutes earlier. Somehow, somewhere, the gods are laughing at me. I just know it.

I have moved into a house that cannot be described as anything but "Organically grown". A regular house that has had rooms added as needed....with all the electrical mystery you could want. For my sanity, I've labelled all *known* switches. In green tape. Don't laugh. I've done it to my kitchen cupboards too. I really can't find anything!!!! I've stopped short of labelling all the computer wires in the lab room cause mine's the only one assembled and running right now!

I have done away with my sewing room. *Gasps and shocked looks abound* In the old place, I was using it as fabric storage, but when your fabrics and sewing machine are lightly covered in dust, you know you need to change something. So, I have. In the new place, I now have a reading room. I can't call it a living room, as that's what T calls the TV room. (Cause we all know the TV must go in the living room!) I'm actually excited to have a room that is just for talking and socializing in that is away from the idiot box. The possiblilies are endless-ish. Now all I need are a few comfy rocking chairs and a couch. I'll have to work on that one.

The new place does come with a few drawbacks. Most are just minor irritations, but nothing compares to the neubery of the lone washroom. In a 5' X 5' space, we have a pre-fab (unfinished) vanity that takes up 9.5'. When you sit on the toilet, your knees knock into the sink. When you take a bath, you have 1 foot length between the tub and vanity. When leaving the room, you have 6" between the rim of the toilet and the EDGE of the vanity. Somehow, I can't imagine this to be legal. But, we'll see how it all plays out.

Now, to unpacking, sorting, SallyAnn runs, and homecooked dinners again. Oh, and work. Gotta go back to work.
I'm taking next Christmas off.

Cheers!
Des

For the deeply interested in human nature and how it affects me....

2008-12-30T19:22:14Z

K.

~~C's Room~~
~~Sewing Room~~
~~Living Room~~
Kitchen
Bathroom / Closet
~~B's Room~~ (o.k., mostly. Really!)
~~Compu~~ter Area (well, almost)
Basement Storage

I'm exhausted. I know I'm not done, but, I'm done, ya know? After wheezing dust for 3 days, my lungs are done too. I've given up with purging before I pack. I'm out of patience and time. I have 2 boxes of books, 3 garbage bags full of C's old clothes destined for SA, and enough garbage to start my own landfill project.

Bathroom will be easy, so I'm not worried about that. I am worried about the basement storage, as that is all awkwardly sized stuff that won't fit neatly into boxes for moving. I think I'm going to be the coward and make T do the rest of the computer area and the Storage. I'll tackle the kitchen and leave the bathroom for the morning of.

I can't wait to be done this. *Ugh*

Des

Out with the Old, in with the "relatively" New

2008-12-28T02:35:48Z

Well, Christmas is done. Since we are moving, I used only the very top part of our fake tree to make a small bit of Christmas for our presents to go under. It worked out quite well: in less than 1/2hour, the tree was up, decorated, and glowing with lights. It was so simple to do that I think that may become our new "tradition" at our house. I can more than live with that. :)

For the first time that I can remember, I cooked dinner ontime. Not even 10-30 mins late (which is my usual). I did have to skip desserts this year, but I did it. If I were to plan this again next year, I would make up my desserts the week before and freeze them. Then, on Christmas day, all I'd have to do is stick them in the oven to warm up while we were eating our food. I feel pretty accomplished.

I am now in full moving mode. Boxes retrieved and all that. Where the hell did we pick up all this junk?!? My biggest problem will be C's room. It. Is. A. Living. Disaster. I think I will tackle it by putting everything in boxes, and telling her she can remove only 15 items in the new place, and the rest will go to the SallyAnn. The next biggest job will be my sewing room. OMG!!! I'm not looking forward to that one. I have fabrics in there I have not touched since I moved into this place. I think I will need to find a good home for them. Others I will keep. Anyone looking for some fabrics?!?

Well, here's to a bright new Year in 2009. May she be gentle and loving.
But not too loving.

Cheers!
Des

IT'S HERE, IT'S HERE, IT'S HERE!!!!!

2008-11-10T22:17:10Z

I am in drool heaven!!!!

POF 4 arrived today.... I've been reading it and drooling over the pictures. OHMIGAWD!!!! Amazing. Just awesome! Worth it, worth it, worth IT!!!!

In comparison to previous POF, this one is about 1/2 colour photos. Chalk full of examples of linen garments in paintings, and extant examples. As per the standard for POF, many closeup pictures detailing certain aspects of sewing or construction. The pattern diagrams that make up the last half of the book do not dissapoint! Boy's Shirts, Men's Shirts, Ruffs, Pickadils, Supportasse, Rebatos, Cuffs, Partlets, Falling Bands, Coifs, Womens Drawers, Hose, Boothose, and Smocks. The very end of the book contains a series of picture step-by-steps on starching ruffs... the right way.
With a price range of $45-$80 CDN for the book (*really* shop around), for those people that want to be more authentic, it is well worth the price. You'll have inspired projects for several years. :)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Patterns-Fashion-construction-neckwear-accessories/dp/0333570820/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1226355802&sr=8-1

Methinks I will be busy for the next year or so.... time to break out the needle and coloured threads.... Momma *needs* a new smock!!!

Cheers!
Des

SQUEEE! (times 4)

2008-10-31T04:26:17Z

Patterns of Fashion 4:

SHIPPED TODAY!!!!!

OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!
OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!OMG!

I took a look at the price of POF 4:
Amazon.co.uk BP21.
Amazon.ca $60.45
Amazon.com $62.99 Outside seller
Chapters.ca Not selling

Ouch!!! So glad I pre-ordered from co.uk
So, very, very glad.

Cheers!
Des
(who is very, very distracted...)

Book Meme (swiped from jillwheezul)

2008-10-14T09:33:10Z

Grab the nearest book.
* Open the book to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post the text of the sentence in your journal along with these instructions.
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the cool book, or the intellectual one: pick the CLOSEST.

This really is my closest book:

"Eleonora indossa una sottana di 'velluto bianco' e sopra accosta una 'veste all spagnola id drappo d'argento molto bella', sfoggia quindi una stoffa tra le piu care tessute a Firenze."

and for the translation impared (like me):

"Eleonora wore a petticoat of white velvet with over it a 'Spanish-style gown of silver cloth, most elegant", flaunting what was one of the most expensive fabrics woven in Florence."

*sigh* Now that sounds lovely. Just lovely. *sigh*

From: Moda a Firenze 1540-1580 by Roberta Orsi Landini and Bruna Niccoli

"The world is a mess and I just need... to... rule it."

2008-10-07T08:31:53Z

Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog is awesome!

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dr._Horrible

www.youtube.com/watch
That is all.

"Have you seen this room? What a beautiful room!"

2008-09-23T19:39:32Z

So, I had a good long weekend.

It was spent cleaning the house and preparing for T's Birthday. I was so involved with it all I forgot that I needed to take care of me. As a result, I now have a wicked chest cold.

T is now 34. As a joke, I reversed the candles on his cake and said he was 43, but everyone sang anyways! All his friends from up island came down, and some even stayed overnight. It was a great time, and I'm glad he got to spend time with his friends.
He got lots of well-wishes, cards and presents. His favorite thing was a green spiral flourencent bulb that he immediately plugged into his desk lamp. Now, whenever he sits at his desk, he looks sick and unhealthy. He loves it!

C had her first school dance. When she arrived home, I asked her what she did at the dance.
"I sat around and listened to music."
"Oh. That's all? You didn't dance?"
"No."
"Oh. Well, did any boys ask you to dance?"
"NO. And if they did, I'd punch them!"
"Well, then, why did you beg me to let you go to the dance?"
"Cause, mom. It's the thing to do."

I love my daughter. I really do. *sigh*

My Scholars projects are coming along, I'm starting to feel like they have a cohesive structure, although I'm a long way off from being completed... Brandy style. In a frenzie of fun, I orderded 3 new books, and ILL'd 2 more. I'm starting to get energized from my projects again, so it's fueling a minor boom to my production level. I'm taking it as a good omen, and riding it as far as I can.

Well, that's my life in a nutshell,

Cheers!
Des

Today's Word brought to you by the Letter "H" and the number "10"

2008-09-19T17:24:15Z

H, H, Nothing beats an H...

1.   HarrytheFish - the alterego of my partner, T. "No, you can't have one, you can't have one, you can't have one without the o-o-other!"

2.   History - There are so many interesting things that went on in history. So many changes, so much development.... to me, the topic in general is facinating. There are so many tangents, topics to explore, applications to be made.... *sigh* It's all good stuff right there.

3.   Hubris - "exaggerated pride or self confidence often resulting in retribution" I have a hubis, but I'm not going to share what that is.....  ;P

4.   Hiatus - This is a great sounding word. Hiatus is just so fantastical a word to use for something so mundane that it's always amusing when I hear it used in a sentence. Usually, it will make me giggle.

5.   Heckling - "to harass and try to disconcert with questions, challenges" This especially applies to my love for the hecklers from "The Muppet Show"

6.   Higgily-piggily - it was one of those words from my childhood that could make me laugh no matter what I was feeling or what was happening. It was such a ridiculous sounding word, like...

7.   Helter Skelter - another one of those words from my childhood that my grandmother would say. I very rarely hear the world nowadays, but, it alwas makes me smile with surprise.

8.   Halloween - My FAVORITE holiday. Planning another girls only Halloween Trip to Disneyworld for Oct 2009. Can't get enough of dressup or spirits, I guess. Maybe it's the candy, or the makeup.... or the crisp evenings, or the bonfires, or the marshmellows... or the kids, or the (ugh) hot chocolate... or maybe cause it happens to be my birthday month....

9.   Hair - Love it, Love it. Head hair (long variety), chest hair, beards, arm, leg... love it all.   Hairy Men are sexy.

10. Host - I am an extrovert. I love to entertain and have people over. 'Nuff said.

Comment and I'll give you a letter, list ten things you LOVE which begin with that letter, then post this in your journal and give out some letters of your own.

Updatey goodness....

2008-08-27T19:59:29Z

So, it has been pointed out that I haven't posted a serious post in a while. I will fix this now

I have been playing (unsucessfully) tug-o-war with my partner over SCA events since he moved to Vic to be with me. He doesn't like history, doesn't like dressup, and is shy to the core. Not to mention, wallflower is his <u>favorite</u> pasttime. Recently, he bought a skookum camera (his words) and has been playing japanese tourist ever since. I *casually* suggested that he come out to an event to experiment with the capabilities of the camera, while providing me with some documentation of the events I attend.
He agreed. Easily.
He limited himself to a few hours on Saturday, but it was enough to get him <s>suckered</s> interested in archery. He complained that late period puffy shirts just didn't work with archery strings, and that he'd need a different shirt.
Hmmm...
Well, if I *have to*.... I *could* make you an archery tunic....   (I've already started)
He shot well, and has made the loosest of plans to do more archery. (Anyone know where archery is happening lately?)

Cassy is becoming quite the rules Lawyer, and I'm having an amusing time trying to keep up. Even the minutae splitting of hairs has become a game where the winner is not always me. So, I'm going to have to resort to some broad sweeping tactics just to get a breather, I think. On the upside, Cassy has been exploring new career paths, and has decided that she wants to have a couple of engineering options, so has committed herself to learning hard math in order to take the hard math electives in later grades. I'm so very proud of her!
We've finished her testing, and now know what to emphasize when we set up her next IEP in the fall. It's still going to be a bit of a rough road, but I think we should be able to make it work. Now that I know what to do, I just have to find the programs/excerizes/games/challenges that will help her.   Not too sure where to look at this point, but I've got a few leads.

I've been keeping busy with life mostly. I've been putting off projects that I should be doing around the house, but just haven't felt modivated to do. I need to go through my sewing room and take a hard look at what's in there, and maybe get rid of some of it again. I also need to go through Cassy's room and pare her down to 10 items in an effort to get the room cleaner, and remove the old clothes and toys that's she's too big for now.
The move that we thought we'd have to do for October 1, is now not happening, much to my relief. The landlord is giving us the option of buying the place, but without a downpayment, I don't know if we would be able to swing it. We have 6 months to decide and come up with the payment. We're currently looking into that; it might be do-able, and the price is right for us. It would be nice to not have to move ever again!
This is the year that I have noticed that I don't have anything new to wear at events. This is troubling to me, as I have been wearing the same outfit for the last 7 years. I need new GARB!!! But, I am picky. In my mind, I am the only one that can sew for me. And that makes for some interesting fittings! I formulated a plan a few years back to make a foam body double of myself, tested the theory on someone else earlier this year, and it turned out to be a good idea, with merit.   The materials used have a shelf life and are a bit time sensitive, and the building of the double does require more than 1 helper, so you have to be ready to go when you commit to doing it. I want to document the process and post it on my website, as I think it would be useful stuff for others. Luckily, I know a guy with a camera. *wink, wink*
I have scores and scores of SCA garbing things to do for me, for Cassy and for others. I should get started, but my Scholars projects are very interesting to me, and I find myself spending hours online researching, or reading books I've bought or ordered. Everytime I think I'm done with a subject and can start writing on it, I find some new aspect to explore, and then I'm off and running again.
I've come to the conclusion I'm a research whore. I think I need to learn research discipline.... maybe.
I've become the event co-ordinator for a club that Cassy belongs to, so I've got to get the welcome letter compose and out to the members as well as the schools to "troll" for new recruits, but I'm not good at letter writting. I've tried a couple of times to get going on that, but it's not going well. I've got to get it done soon, as our first meeting of the year is in 3 weeks! I think I'll recruit someone whom I know is good at letters, and leave that part to them. I'm kinda excited to be organizing events for the group; I have some good ideas that I'd like to test out.

Anyways, I think I've updated enough for now. We'll see how things are in a month or so.

Cheers!
Des

I nearly spewed coke out my nose!!!

2008-08-11T08:25:27Z

If Don McLean's biggest hit and William Shakespeare's biggest hits had a bastard child, it might "be" something like this.

http://www.thefump.com/fump.php?id=1014

It’s the sporadically annual...

2008-06-23T16:33:16Z

“Ohmigawd-I-can’t-believe-I’m-not-going-to-Clinton-and-3-year-anniversary-of-living-in-this-house-and-I-may-have-to-move-out-in-October-impossibly-long-titled-48-hour-party!”

EVERYONE WELCOME
Come! Enjoy good food, good company, and a spacious back yard.

August 2-3, 2008 (Sat-Sun)
1040 Jenkins Rd
LANGFORD

Steak and Chicken offered on the BBQ. Vegan options available on request ahead of time.
Please bring a pot luck item to share.

BYOBooze; tents can be set up in the back yard, or crash space is available in the house. Own bedding is helpfully requested if you plan to crash.

If we are all very lucky, we will have a trampoline this year. We also will be getting a permit and having a brazier lit. Marshmellows provided.

Children welcome. Misbehaved children will be given sugar-infested, lactose-laden ice on a stick and forced to watch our "It's a Small World" Video on repeating loop and then given back to thier parents.
No, seriously. Children welcome.

Dogs welcome (there are no downstairs neighbours or dogs)

Come on out and have a great time!

Cheers!
Des

Feeling Victorious!

2008-03-27T17:52:48Z

So, as some of you may or may not know, I have been working with the Prov Govt off and on for 2 years-ish. Inbetween stints, I have been working for a temp agency that focuses on gov't contracts.

I finally got tired of no benefits and pension plans, so I decided I should start applying on some REAL jobs. I applied on a job with the Attorney General helping in the Freedom of Information dept. Very busy, lots of required skills but entry level. 44 applicants and 8 invited to the interview. From there, a secondary interview for the final 2. I was one of those final 2. I was given a call and and offered a 6month contract term as supplimental help to the office. It would be the exact same duties as the other position, but instead of one desk, I would float between 3 offices. Even though it would be a short term with no perks, I took it, as it was a better job, better pay, and had the distinction (in writting) of being extended pending review at 6months.

Well, I got a call today, asking me if I would like to take on the original position I applied for (1 year with option to test into permanent position) as the winning applicant had called and said that they couldn't accept. They went on to tell me that we had both scored really well in the interview, but that I had lost out because she had approx 6 months more experience in gov't than me. But, now all that changed, and they were really happy to be offering the position to me, as they felt that they would not be loosing any quality by hiring me instead.

Would I accept? Hmmmm... a job I like with the option of permancy.... gheee.... lemme think.....Ummm...

So, I start April 1.

YEA TO ME!!!!!! A REAL JOB!!!!!!!!

Des

Today is a day but not like so many other days....

2008-03-25T16:56:52Z

Well, I suck.

Cassy and I were so caught up in cleaning up the house and preparing easter dinner, that we forgot EASTER! No decorating eggs, no hunts, no anything.
So, I told her we'd make it up tonight. We've planned to decorate eggs, and Cassy is supplying her own basket as this easter bunny is not buying any more baskets.... we live in the SCA for crying out loud!
We've also planned a chocolate egg hunt in the house (in case it rains, or *gasp* snows), and probably watch a really cheezy Easter movie. This easter bunny is kinda against tons of chocolates loaded onto pre-teens, so as a savory alternative, Cassy will get a game instead. After easter, the bunny tends to go on vacation, so Cassy will also be getting $10 to spend any way she likes, and then, will be done with the Easter that came late.

The start of the long weekend was good, but mostly spent pretending to clean the house. Saturday was a lazy sleep in day followed by some slightly serious efforts at housecleaning, but that's hard to do when you are relaxed, in PJ's and there's a great movie on the TV. Sunday was full cleaning mode followed by more cleaning and some cooking thrown in to boot. I chose this year to not have as many dishes, and it worked out better for me. Not only was I not overly stressed, but having less to cook meant that I SERVED ON TIME THIS YEAR!!!! (well, I was off by 10 mins, but for me, that's on time!). Dessert was simple and uncooked fruit salad with whip cream. I actually think that is my favorite dessert, but cheesecake may still win out in a showdown.... The lamb was tender and perfectly cooked, slightly red in the very centre, and moist and succulent on the outside. MMMMmmMMmMmmm Lamb......
I know what I'm eating for dinner tonight.... :)

Everything considered, a pretty good weekend. Good Food, GREAT COMPANY, would do it again, any holiday. Execpt Hallowe'en. I have other plans then.

Cheers!
Des

The daffodils are rising!

2008-03-17T16:01:55Z

Well,

After not doing much of anything SCA related for 4 months, it was nice to come back and see everyone! For reasons I can't fathom, every year that I come to Daffodil, there is never enough time. By the time you get your stuff unloaded, it's opening court. By the time you get settled in the A&S room, it's time for lunch. By the time you get the food back to your seat, it's time to help judge. By the time you've judged and eaten, it's just enough time to get a drink and get waylaid by friends new and old. Paruse the merchants for a few minutes, and get waylaid by more friends new and old, and by the time you get back to your area with your drink, it's time to start moving stuff around for dinner.
I chose to off-board this feast, as there really wasn't anything that appealed to me, and I have to say, after the hustle and bustle of the day, it was nice to be in a quiet room with low lighting and just eat my meal in peace.
But, by the time all that was done, it was time to pack up and prepare to leave. After socializing for a bit more, I was done, the girls were done, and I needed to get away.

I never once picked up my sewing I brought with me.

All in all, a great day!

Cheers!
Des

Swipped from many peoples....

2008-03-01T19:20:00Z

Copy and paste into a new post. *Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following...
*they have to be real places, names, things...nothing made up!
Try to use different answers if the person in front of you had the same 1st initial. (WHICH BY THE WAY IS HARD IF YOU ALREADY READ THEIR ANSWERS)
You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl.

1. What is your name: Des
2. Four letter word: done deal!
3. Vehicle: Dodge Dakota
4. City: Drunkin' Duncan!
5. Boy Name: Danny Duval
6. Girl Name: Daisy Duke
7. Alcoholic drink: dirty daniels
8. Occupation: ditch digger
9. Something you wear: denim dress
10. Celebrity: Duke Darius
11. Food: Drowned Dumplings
12. Something found in a bathroom: dried dung (it didn't say it had to be MY bathroom!)
13. Reason for being late: didn't dodge
14. Cartoon Character: Daffy Duck
15. Something you shout: Dumb Dickwad!
16. Animal: dik-dik (betcha don't know what that is!)
17. Body part: diaphragm
18. Word to describe you: Deadly Dichotomy

Cattle Mutilations are Up.....

2008-02-27T04:35:38Z

I went to get bus tickets today from the local corner market.

I walked up to the counter, and this is what insued:

"Hi, I'd like to buy a sheet of 2 zone adult tickets."
"Ah, there is no such thing."
"Oh. I'm sorry, I understood that you could buy bus tickets here."
"Uh, we don't sell those. *blank look* You'll have to down to the bus station for those."
Me: Frowns. "Why would I need to go downtown? You can buy them lots of places. I understood this store sold them."
"Nope." Long pause.

She looked at me stupidly.

I moved out of line so she could help the next customer while I thought about what to do next. There was a man cashing in Lotto tickets. He had one of those Vacation for Life scratches and had won $2. The girl refused to validate his ticket because the Vacation for Life series was now discontinued. He asked what he could do with it, and she told him that he could mail it into LottoBC headquarters. I shook my head. As he was leaving, I said,
"You can go into any Lotto Centre and they will honour them on the spot."
"Oh, really? Well, Thank you very much! I will do that later. That's good to know."

She glared at me.

I went to the back of the store and pulled out a $20 from my account, and decided I would just coin it for the week. But, I knew they wouldn't just make change, so I pulled a pop from the cooler, and on my way up to the till, I see the bus sheets on the shelf behind the register. *sigh*

"Oh, hey, can I have a sheet of those bus tickets?" I say, pointing with my finger.
"What tickets?"
"Those, right there, where I am pointing."
"Oh, those are bus transit tickets."
"Yes. That is what I mean. Can I buy one of those?"
"Sure." But as soon as she gets it, I can see that it's a 1 zone adult.
"Ah. These are 1 zone, and I need 2 zone. Are there any 2 zone around there at all?"
"No." she says, without looking, holding the sheet of 1 zone.

I pause. She looks blank.

"Ok. Well, could you please sell me a sheet of Adult 1 zone bus tickets?"
"Sure."
"Ah, since I need adult 2 zone," putting my drink and bill on the counter, "could I please get some change so that I can make up the difference?"
"Difference of what?"
"I need to get on the bus and travel two zones in order to get home today. It costs $3. These tickets have a value of $2.25. I need some change to make up the difference."
"We don't sell coins for the bus here."

I pause. She looks blank.

"Sell? I just need some quarters. For. the. Bus."
"These sheets are all we have for the bus. We don't sell anything else."

"You know what? I think I'll just buy the sheet of tickets."
I reach into my pocket and pull out my bank card. I go to hand it to her, and she's already taken my $20 and dipped into the "pennies for everybody" to make up the additional .25 cents that the sheet costs.
"Uh, I was going to pay by debit, cause I need that cash to get additional change for the bus."
"Well, it's already been rung through as cash. Sorry."
"I see. Well, Thank you anyways." I grabbed my pop and left.

She didn't even notice.

(Some people make Darwin proud. Others do not.)

Cheers!
Des

This could be fun... (from Morel and Iago)

2008-02-19T19:33:23Z

60 Things Total You Possibly Didn't Know About Me

If you are not interested, don't click here.

1. What is in the back seat of your car right now?
Probably crushed car parts. The same as the rest of my car.

2. When was the last time you threw up?
2 years ago to the day.   Don't ask.

3. What's your favorite curse word?
Frak me! Liberally, and frequently. Usually other curse words follow.

4. Name 3 people who made you smile today?
My daughter, my driver, and the bus driver.

5. What were you doing at 8 am this morning?
Wishing the bus was headed in the direction of home.

6. What were you doing 30 minutes ago?
contemplating applying for a new job.

7. What will you be doing 3 hours from now?
Frantically catching up from the computer explosion earlier today.

8. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Yes. I have a lovely 1st edition signed Calvin and Hobbes.... (Well, not anymore, my ex stole it from me...) Oh! You mean a "strip" club. Yea, I've been to a few of those. Inside? Well, yes, but not for the reasons you might think.

9. What is the last thing you said aloud?
"Oh! You mean a 'strip' club!"

10. What is the best ice cream flavor?
Island Farms extra creamy French Vanilla Bean.

11. What was the last thing you had to drink?
5 Alive. (Blech!) There's no Coke in the machines in this building.

12. What are you wearing right now?
Clean undies.

13. What was the last thing you ate?
Bagel with Ham, Swiss, and tomatoe.

14. Have you bought any new clothing items this week?
Nope. Don't like clothing too much.

15. When was the last time you ran?
Last night when I was playing Tag with Cassy around the house.

16. What's the last sporting event you watched?
Hockey Fight in Canada?

17. What is one thing you could totally live without doing?
A job.

18. Who is the last person you emailed?
Me. I frequently send email reminders to myself about things I have to do.

19. Ever go camping?
Only SCA, and usually only when Cassy begs me.

20. Do you have a tan?
A tan what? Purse? No. Tanned hide? Yes. It's in my fabric room.

21. What is your guilty pleasure?
Everything and nothing.

22. What kind of foundation do you use?
Trust, communication, and teamwork. How else is Cassy going to get that award-winning personality?

23. Who is your cell phone service provider?
Some pay-as-you-go thing.

24. Do you drink your soda from a straw?
Blech! No.

25. What did your last IM say?
"Oh. K. Nite."

26. Are you someone's best friend?
I hope so, otherwise I've been embarrasing myself for years....

27. What are you doing tomorrow?
Tomorrow is.... Wed. Hmmm...Sleeping. Waking, rushing, working, rushing, napping, eating, watching, sleeping. Repeat as necessary.

28. Where is your mum right now?
Far, far away from me. That's a good thing.

29. Look to your left, what do you see?
Nature pictures. BC Parks related stuff. A phone. My pen.

30. What color is your watch?
Watches are not for me.

31. What do you think of when you think of Australia?
The Penal Colony. Yellow, A sadlehorn.

32. Would you consider plastic surgery?
Well, alright. What do you want me to consider about it? The question is rather vague. I could consider the words. Plastic is pretty common in our day and age; I'm reminded of the slogan, "Plastics are the new glass". Surgery is an interesting word, having roots in Old French... but I don't need surgery right now.   Alright, I've considered it. Do I get a prize?

33. What is your birthstone?
Depends on my mood.

34. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru?
Since I don't have a car, fast food is very limited. We just eat at home or get delivery. (Not delicio)

35.How many kids do you want?
3. But I get 1.

36. Do you have a dog?
Thank God I don't have a dog.

37. Last person you talked to on the phone?
A CRMS access expert, Kirk.

38. Have you met anyone famous?
Yes. David Suzuki. At ScienceWorld in Vancouver.

39. Any plans today?
Sleeping. Waking, rushing, working, rushing, napping, eating, watching, sleeping. Repeat as necessary. See #27 for clarification.

40. How many Provinces/ Territories have you lived in?
3. Now, ask me how many countries I've lived in.

41. Ever go to college?
5 years of various colleges and universities. I was a little lost at one point in my life.

42. Where are you right now?
A borrowed desk at my work.

43. Biggest annoyance in your life right now?
Need space.

44. Last song listened to?
It wasn't willingly listened to.... but Todd screeching out lyrics to RockBand music.

45. What do you wash first in the shower?
Shoulders and chest.

46. Are you allergic to anything?
Water.

47. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time?
4 year old blue and grey Nikies.

48. Are you jealous of anyone?
No.

49. Sweet foods or Salty?
Salty.

50. Is anyone jealous of you?
If they are, they haven't told me....

51. What time is it?
a quarter past a freckle's hair.

52. Do any of your friends have children?
Almost all of them.

53. Do you eat healthy?
Not really, but can be altered to appear as such.

54. What do you usually do during the day?
Pretend to work while reading LJ and facebook. When at home, I like to research.

55. Do you hate anyone right now?
Yes. Unabashedly Yes.

56. Do you use the word 'hello' daily?
Yuppers.

58. How old will you be turning on your next birthday?
Past 31 and under 33.

57. Favorite time of the day?
After Midnight.

59. Have you ever been to Six Flags?
Yes. Never went inside. Parents were too cheap and trying to prove a "christian" point.

60. How did you get one of your scars?
I was famous in college for being able to flip full glasses of milk upside down without the contents spilling out. (yes, famous). Some time later, a few friends and I were in the HardRock Cafe in West Ed Mall where we had a terrible male waiter who was a serious jerk, and rude too boot. So, we all dug our change out of our pockets and dumped it into a water glass. We figured he was going to have to do some actual work for the whole .72!   The stemware water glass must have gone through the dishwasher one too many times because when I flipped it, shards went into my hand, water went everywhere, and I had to go get 2 stitches. I still smile, tho, because he still had to clean it up! JERKWAD!

Love is a Battlefield

2008-02-15T16:53:03Z

So, I got home 35 mins late last night, but Todd, being the wonderful cook that he is, didn't start cooking until I walked in.

So, I had a bath. A nice luxurious one lasting all of 10 mins. Apparently, that's how long dinner was going to take to cook.

Rushing out, I'm dressed nicely, perfumed and pretty, and Todd invites me in to a kitchen that looks like a tornado hit it.

"I'm not going to tell you that going out for dinner would have been cheaper." I'm greeted with.
"Oh, why not?"
"Cause it's Valentine's Day, and I'm being nice."
"Alright then."

I get seated and served a WHOLE LOBSTER, steak, and pesto linguini, and.... chocolate milk.

(He forgot about a drink when he was buying things at the store).

Anyone here eaten lobster? Well, Todd and I hadn't before. Regardless, we had fun trying to figure out. It involved a nutcracker, a knife, then a sharp knife, the internet, a spoon, some wooden toothpicks, a book about cooking, a can opener, bacon, garlic butter, and finally, running water.

When we were finished, the table resembled the rest of the kitchen, but we didn't care; we now knew the internal anatomy of two lobsters!

Long live Love and Lobster!!

Cheers!
Des

Ever wanted a slightly used gourmet cook?

2008-02-15T00:16:14Z

It's Valentine's Day!

This is normally the day that everyone wears red and pink and goes around with bright smiles on their faces, and do little sugar-y treat-at-your-desk-I-like-you-so-much type stuffs.

I participated. I wore red and pink polka-dotted underwear, and left chocolates all over the work office in a random, anonymous sort of way.

Now, I get to go home, have a relaxing bath, and walk out to a finely prepared dinner from darling Todd, who thinks of the kitchen as a hostile foreign country.

Life is so interesting. Oui?

Cheers!
Des

Grrrr.

2008-01-24T03:12:01Z

You know how something gets under your skin and you just wish that it would.... just.... dissapear without too many questions?

Yea.

I hate Rock Band/ Guitar Hero. There are only so many times I can hear a broken record before Chinese water torture becomes preferable.

Todd bought the damn thing last weekend.... the "kit" no less. Guitar, mike, and drums. Everyone who comes over thinks it's the shit, and gets sucked in for hours.

I'm thinking it needs to have a serious accident with my front window.

Des.

Thanks, Bear_Hugs!

2008-01-02T09:46:09Z

Bold all that are true for you.

1. Father went to college.
2. Father finished college.
3. Mother went to college.
4. Mother finished college.
5. Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor.
6. Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers.
7. Had more than 50 books in your childhood home.
8. Had more than 500 books in your childhood home.
9. Were read children's books by a parent.
10. Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18.
11. Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18.
12. The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively.
13. Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18.
14. Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs.
15. Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs.
16. Went to a private high school.
17. Went to summer camp (day camp only).
18. Had a private tutor before you turned 18.
19. Family vacations involved staying at hotels.
20. Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18.
21. Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them.
22. There was original art in your house when you were a child.
23. You and your family lived in a single family house.
24. Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home.
25. You had your own room as a child.
26. You had a phone in your room before you turned 18.
27. Participated in an SAT/ACT prep course.
28. Had your own TV in your room in High School.
29. Owned a mutual fund or IRA in High School or College.
30. Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16.
31. Went on a cruise with your family.
32. Went on more than one cruise with your family.
33. Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up.
34. You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family.