Wednesday, March 31, 2004

New TV & Reading
So, with the demise of some of my favorite television shows, I've taken to trying to replace them with new ones. First off, I watched Wonderfalls, which I heard was pretty good. It's not too bad. I enjoyed the episode, but whether Fox realizes what it has remains to be seen. Fox has this annoying habit of getting rid of shows I like. I also checked out Touching Evil. I really liked this show, and it will be a good pair with Monk on Friday nights. The title sucks, but it's worth checking out. And of course This Just In.

I picked up two books at the library this week. One I've read before Very Far Away From Anywhere Else (Ursula K. LeGuin), and a book that was made into one of my favorite movies L.A. Confidential (James Ellroy). The weather has been very kind this week, and I may tote my book to Peet's for a change of scenery. Geoff figures they should give me Peet's wear for free to promote business. I totally think so! They sell an orange baseball hat on their website that I like. :)

Speaking of promoting... The good guys of Splendourbog have a website up! It was up for a while, then disappeared. But it contained an email, so I dropped them one. I mentioned that I had bought Meghan a Splendourbog shirt years ago, but never got one for myself. Do they still have them? Indeed! So, I'm getting one for myself! Hee hee! All you who don't own the wonderful album Elevator Music, go out and get it! You won't be sorry. :) I was singing Gospel Rock today at work, as I had to catalogue a piece of gneiss. And how did I know how to spell it? Splendourbog of course! Jeff thought the chorus was hysterical!

Thank you to Diane & Athena for emailing me after my outcry for mail. And to Shannon for her thoughts on Jesus Freaks. I love you loyal readers!

I'm going to close with a quote from Michael.

Michael: Remember what John and Paul said.
Frank Quinlan: The apostles?
Michael: No, the Beatles. All you need is love.

Tuesday, March 30, 2004

Getting A Little Worked Up
I can get a little worked up at times. It's something God & I are working on, not getting so worked up about stuff. But sometimes I think it is merited. What am I worked up about today? This stupid 9/11 commission. Okay it's trite to say hindsight is 20/20, but for anyone to say now "well I would done things differently/better" is ridiculous. I'm sure that there are dozen of groups daily saying they want to lash out at the U.S. gov't, and for anyone to have the discernment to know which ones have a legitimate shot at succeeding, so they can prevent it, would be miraculous. It was unpreventable. It was tragic, but it has made the U.S. stronger. What good is going to come of blaming each other, and isn't that what they would laughing at? I had hoped that this would make the United States stay united against terrorists. Yes, I'm sure while Mr. Clinton and staff were stealing all the W's off the computers he was saying "oh yeah, deal with this group, because they are going to be your biggest threat. Obviously I couldn't have dealt with it because I was busy with my own problems." As Geoff said this morning, if President Bush had said he was going to attack Afghanistan as preventative measures, everyone (and anti-war Kerry) would have been up in arms (pun intended). But yes, let's blame it all on the mean, stupid, trigger-happy Republicans.

Alright, ranting done. On a lighter note, I caught the new Outkast video Roses and it had Kevin MacDonald in it! Way to go Kevin! I always feel tickled when I see KITH alumni on tv.

Had a pretty good day at work yesterday. I got several "good job" compliments, and I wowed everyone with my peanut butter cookies. :) Hey, I just follow the recipe, and it helps to have great sous-chefs (Geoff & Honey). I forgot to mention I made a fabulously moist chocolate cake last week. It was something else, I don't think I've ever made anything so tasty. I got the recipe off the back of the Hershey's cocoa. Then I went to the Hershey's website to get the high altitude adjustments.

I got a calendar for Christmas (or my birthday) from Diane (my mother-in-law), and it has some inspiring quotes in it. Yesterday's quote was from Martha Washington, "I have learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends on our dispositions and not our circumstances". I totally agree with that. I spent way too much of my youth not owning up to my mistakes, and blaming others. And while society would say it's okay for me to blame my parents, I don't think it's wholly their fault. No, I didn't go college, which by the way is foreign here in the U.S. Everyone goes to college. My grades weren't great, and frankly I wasn't motivated to go that far. Also, no money. Sure I could have taken out a student loan, but see points A & B. I'm still not certain I want to eventually go to college, I've done fine without it.

Lance: Dude, I never went to college and check me out. I'm kick ass!

I am still thinking about taking the Paleontology classes at the museum this summer. I'll have to find out when they are being offered, and see how that fits into our summer plans.

I used to have a billion regrets, but I realized years ago that all those mistakes made me who I am. That doesn't mean I don't look back on those decisions and shake my head. But I went through all of that to be who I am. And I'm okay, I'm not so bad. I'm obviously still going to make mistakes, and hopefully not repeat any. But when I was going through that, I thought I'd never see the other side. I spent Meg & Mike's gift opening talking with the parents of my friend Chris from high school, and after we left, they told Diane how they were pleased to see I was happy. They remembered me as a very sad teenager. Goodness yes, I was such a sullen, depressed teenager when I used to hang out with Chris. And they were happy to see that I am a happy well-adjusted young woman. That meant a lot to me.

I'm going to close with a quote from Toys. This quote is pretty much how I like my dinner plate to resemble.

Patrick Zevo: I can't even eat. The food keeps touching. I like military plates, I'm a military man, I want a military meal. I want my string beans to be quarantined! I like a little fortress around my mashed potatoes so the meatloaf doesn't invade my mashed potatoes and cause mixing in my plate! I HATE IT when food touches! I'm a military man, you understand that? And don't let your food touch either, please?

Sunday, March 28, 2004

Spring Is Here
Spring is here, spring is here,
life is skittles and life is beer,
I think the loveliest time of the year
is the spring, I do, don't you? 'course you do.

The weather was great this week, turned a little cooler yesterday, and today it snowed! It was like a mini blizzard by noon. I was so glad I started laundry early. And by 3:30, the sun was out, and there was no trace of it ever being awful. What kind of wacky spring is this?

I am becoming a kitchen fiend. I made dinner the other night, with some help from Geoff. But I came up with the menu on my own. And I made peanut butter cookies last night. They are awfully tasty. :) I may be able to fend for myself while Geoff goes to Monterey. Though I will be lonely. Poor Honey, she'll be stuck listening to me ramble on. I already have one plan for dinner while he's gone. The Museum hosts a volunteer appreciation dinner every year, and it falls the week he's gone. Now I just have to hope they serve something I eat.

I've been reading the book Jesus Freaks, and I feel like the Holy Spirit is convicting me. The book is about martyrs, people who spoke up about Jesus, and died because of it. It has a great quote from C.S. Lewis in it, that I read in his book A Grief Observed, "You never know how much you really believe anything until its truth or falsehood becomes a matter of life and death to you". When we first became Christians, and we told our families and friends, I always got the impression they thought "oh how cute" or "oh that's nice". Like they didn't get it's not hobby, it's a lifestyle, it's a relationship with God. And He calls us to tell the world about Him. It's the Great Commission. But sometimes I'm not so bold in speaking up. I get nervous of how I'll be received, and perceived. I struggle with the fact that I am not perfect, and I wonder how I can do God's work. God loves me, He knows I'm imperfect, and He always works through the imperfect. I want my life to reflect God's love to my loved ones, friends, and strangers.

So what did I do this weekend? Not a whole heck of a lot. We did the walk to Cherry Creek North, I got a great deal on a dress for Ashley's wedding, we did chores, and we just chilled out. Very laid back. We'll be going to the Bull & Bush with Brad (Geoff's boss) and his family this week. That will be fun. I love his wife and daughter. And even though money is way tight in the Armstrong household (living off one income month to month), I may try to talk Geoff into seeing a matinee. The Whole Ten Yards opens the weekend of his birthday. ;) What do you think Geoff?

I haven't been getting a lot of email lately, so please feel free to drop me a line. That would be nice. Mail is fun to get. You know what else is fun? Seeing who has visited my blog, and via what (i.e.- what they Googled). I find it odd at times. But then I Google a lot of weird things too. A wonderful invention Google.

Alright, I'm done saying what I wanted to say. I'm closing with a quote from Mystery Men.

Mr. Furious: Don't mess with the volcano my man, 'cause I will go Pompeii on your... butt.

Friday, March 26, 2004

'Cause your crystal ball ain't so crystal clear
I have a wide range of thoughts that enter my mind when I'm trying to get to sleep. Sometimes it's a song stuck in my head. Last night, I had Beastie Boys in my head. The other night, it was I Believe In A Thing Called Love. I find that listening to classical music soothes me to sleep, so I put that on.

So...Penelope & Tom broke up. Thank goodness! Now, they are always quick to mention Tom's love of Scientology, and how that isn't to blame. But, let the record show, Nicole wasn't into that, and didn't want it for her kids (smart girl). And Penelope said it wasn't for her either, but she humored him by going to some of the classes. What do I have against Scientology? Well, it's bunk.

The Devil: How would you like to make one simple decision that will change your life forever?
Elliot Richards: Ok, I'm glad scientology works for you but...


My boss Jeff is an atheist. He likes to take shots at Christianity to see how I respond. Me, I'm biding my time for when we can have a talk and I can ask him some questions. Stuff like, what happens when you die? Where do you go? Where did morals come from? I'm curious what he'll say. I always believed in God, but I didn't go any further than that. Jesus, the Bible, Heaven & Hell, I never thought about it. I guess I shouldn't have been so surprised Colin was the same. Colin, Dawn, Geoff & I talked about God, Jesus, and the afterlife during our visit. It was a good talk, and I hope the lines of communication are still open, as I think they still have questions. I have a friend named Tennille who did that for me. Just let me ask the hard questions. When I was going through my "there has to be more to this life" phase. And it was a long phase. I explored a few different possibilities, mostly cults, before coming to Christianity. And now it's hard to talk to those people who are still in those places. Just as I feel like I treat them differently, they treat me differently. Some get defensive, and don't want to talk about it. So I just pray for them. :)

Okay. Deep breath. Sigh. No big plans for today. Tomorrow we're going to walk to Cherry Creek North to window shop. I hope the weather will be kind. Well, that's all I have to say about that. I'll close with a quote from Chicken Run (one of Geoff's favorite movies).

Mr. Tweedy: What is it?
Mrs. Tweedy: It's a pie machine, you idiot. Chickens go in, pies come out.
Mr. Tweedy: Ooh, what kind of pies?
Mrs. Tweedy: Apple.
Mr. Tweedy: My favorite.
Mrs. Tweedy: Chicken pies, you great lummox.

Wednesday, March 24, 2004

Just Feel Like It
I just felt like posting, even though nothing much is new. I don't really know where this is going to lead.

One of Geoff's favorite bands is Big Sugar, and he was a little disappointed when they broke up. Gordie Johnson (lead singer), moved down to Austin, TX and started a new band, Grady. They played at SXSW, a music festival that even KUCI dj's have been known to attend. Apparently the band has a club they play at regularly on Tuesday nights, but I can find no other info on the band. And frankly I have no plans to go to Texas anytime soon.

Julia Stiles has a new movie coming out, The Prince & Me, and we saw the trailer on tv. Geoff said "Great! Another one of her movies you're going to want to watch every time it's on tv". (note: he's being sardonic). In my defense, the only Julia Stiles movie they show regularly on tv is 10 Things I Hate About You, and yes, I watch it every time. But that's the only one they show. (okay not the only one. Once a year, VH1 shows The 60's, which I feel the need to watch. If he bought it for me, I'd be less likely to want to watch it on tv. Okay, I'm lying. I'd watch some of it. It is a long movie.) But she's so darn cute, and a great actress.

I ordered a picture of Geoff & I at the wedding, and I'm anxious for it to come. Actually, the first copy I ordered, they screwed up, so I'm waiting for my replacement. I'm debating whether to order copies for my family, I may stew on it for a little longer.

Work has been good this week. I broke something at work today, so I followed the 5 steps we were taught. 1. Don't feel bad. I felt a little bad, but not as bad as if I had broken something more valuable or irreplaceable. It was a toy model of a rocket. It's just plastic.

The weather here has been great. Today was cooler than it has been, and it sprinkled for 5 minutes while I was walking from the bus stop. I think it'll rain tonight. They forecasted dry thunderstorms for this week, and Geoff wants to get a surge protector.

All the shows I watch have been reruns the last few weeks. And since some aren't coming back next year(Angel, Friends), I feel they owe me new episodes. Ah, what can you do.

We got our wedding invitation to Ashley & Chris' wedding in May. :) We're very excited. I also got an invitation to Ashley's bridal shower. I won't be able to attend, but I will fill out my recipe card, and may send something small. For all the weddings I've been to, I've only attended one bridal shower (my own not included). And there have been cases where I wasn't invited. It's one of those weird situations where sometimes you want the invite extended, even if you have no intention of attending. Guys don't go through this, just girls. Guys don't care if their buddies invite them to stuff or not.

With Geoff's birthday just 18 days away, I'm preparing to buy his gift soon. I have it picked out in my mind, and now I just have to find it. I did see something perfect for my new brother-in-law Mike (birthday in June), but
1. it would cost just as much as the gift to ship, and
2. I already have a gift picked out for him.

There you go. I found stuff to write about. :) I'll sign off now. I'll close with a quote from The Mummy Returns.

Rick: All right - you're here, the bad guys are here, Evie's been kidnapped - let me guess...
Ardeth Bay: Yes. Once again they removed the creature from his grave.
Jonathan: I don't mean to point fingers, but isn't it your job to make sure that doesn't happen?

Tuesday, March 23, 2004

Cousin Knows Best

Kelly wrote an article on the new cartoon This Just In airing on Spike TV. So we tuned in this last Sunday and laughed our butts off. I didn't understand all the jokes (as I don't follow politics that closely), but it didn't matter. There was plenty of humor to go around. The main character Brian Newport even has a blog, which I added to my List of Blogs I read, and recommend you check it out.

I think it's only slated to run for six episodes, I do hope it will get picked up for more. I better start to write to Spike TV now to let them know to keep it. Even though they call themselves "the first network for men", they have some programming that I like. Reruns of Star Trek: The Next Generation, Oblivious (minus the new "O girls" they added), Most Extreme Elimination Challenge (we've been watching that for over a year), and the first season of Slamball. I used to watch Taboo, but they cancelled that.

Find out when This Just In airs in your neck of the woods and then tune in! I'll end with a quote from Brian Newport.

Watching democrats debate is like watching children put on a play.  It’s cute, but it’s never gonna make it to Broadway.
Again With The Random Button Fun
Here's a fun one:
1. Open your MP3 player
2. Put all your music on random play
3. Write down the first fifteen, no matter how embarrassing.

Lee Tenacious D
Hungry (Falling On My Knees) Something Like Silas
Countdown To Love Streets Of Fire Soundtrack
The Stranger Billy Joel
Old Time Romans Road (Parody of Old Time Rock N' Roll) ApologetiX
Jug O' Punch Captain Tractor
Middle Class Gangsters Matthew Good Band
Someone Saved My Life Tonight Elton John
You're Still You Josh Groban
Holiday On The Cote D'Azur Johnny Favorite Swing Orchestra
Ava Adore Smashing Pumpkins
The Pony Man Gordon Lightfoot
Big Rock Candy Mountain O Brother, Where Art Thou? Soundtrack
Something I Should Know Great Big Sea
Lonely Nights Chris Isaak

Rob: he hangs out with the musical moron twins...

Monday, March 22, 2004

Lewis Black Slays Me
Lewis Black on The Passion Of The Christ
I was hoping Comedy Central would put this video clip out. :)

Sunday, March 21, 2004

Le Peep, C'est Chic
After church this morning we went out to Le Peep. It's a breakfast restaurant, and the food was pretty good. I was impressed with the portion sizes. Jayla ordered a "cinnamonster", and I couldn't believe the size of it.

Our friend Jason has to go to Salt Lake City for a conference, and he's driving, so he wants to try to swing through Denver. That would be neat. I hope it works out.

I had a very strange dream last night, someone was trying to mess with me. They sent me an email, and I traced their IP address to discover who it was. Then I had to track them down to ask why they were doing that. It was someone I knew in high school, and oddly enough he grew a foot taller since I last saw him. And I asked him why he was being such a freak, causing trouble for me. "What, do you think you're Martin Blank?" Which might seem odd to some people that you'd make a movie reference in your dreams, but to me it didn't seem so weird. The fact that he understood the reference was weird. "Yeah, I love that movie". Sometimes I really wonder about my sub-conscience.

I feel almost back to normal, though I'm sure I'll be back to my routine after work tomorrow. Since not much could have changed since I've been gone, it makes it easier. Most days we do the same things each shift. But I like that. I will go to the library tomorrow and try to get a book on Egyptology.

We need another bookcase, we have more books than we have space for. Now, true, one shelf on the big bookcase is taken up by my giraffe stuff, and another shelf is devoted to small picture frames & knickknacks, but where else would I put that stuff? Sadly there is no Ikea anywhere near us, so we're at a loss as to where we could get a nice affordable bookcase. There is a seniors home near us, maybe I should keep my eyes open for an estate sale. I've never been to one, but it might be a neat experience.

Geoff shared with me yesterday that he thought it was good that I brought up my dad at my Uncle Kim's the other night. He got the impression that loved ones who've moved on aren't necessarily brought up much, or remembered through stories. But he felt by the end of the night there was a feeling of comfort in all of us sharing. We talk about my dad, grandpa Jim, and grandma Bessie all the time at our house. We miss them dearly, but it makes us smile to remember stories about them.

Alright, I'm gonna close with a quote from Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. I still think it's a funny movie, and I will likely rent Jim Carrey's new movie once it comes out on DVD.

Lois Einhorn: How would you like me to make your life a living hell?
Ace Ventura: Well, I'm not really ready for a relationship, Lois, but thank you for asking. Hey, maybe I'll give you a call sometime. Your number's still 911?

Friday, March 19, 2004

Just When I Thought It Was Safe To Go Into The Water
Sigh. I'm still suffering from a sore throat, but it isn't so bad today. I do feel a little lightheaded as well, but... I wanted to blog.

After a day of recouping from our trip, there's talk of a new trip this summer. Right now it's just talk, which is good as I've hardly recovered from this one. A whirlwind, and nearly fitted everyone in. It's impossible to fit everyone in, especially since some people don't get along with others. Once upon a time, we could throw a party and have everyone there. Not so anymore.

Alright, let me get to the stuff I wanted to share before I forget. As I mentioned yesterday, photos are up from the wedding. A good time was had by all. Everyone looked great all cleaned up. It went off without a hitch. I tried to get the dj to play some stuff I wanted to hear, but he didn't have a lot of the songs I wanted to hear, and the one I did ask for he didn't play. Ah, well, that's why I have my iPod. I'm my own dj. :)

Now about the customs agent with attitude. We always get a little tense going through customs as we worry about some agent who decides to pull a power trip (much like the DMV incident). And wouldn't you know it. He was totally looking for a fight. We walked up to the counter and had him our passports & visas. he pulls out the visas, and without looking at them asks (in a curt voice) "what's this?". Geoff tells him it's our visas. He looks at them and asks "are you married?". "Yes". "Legally?" "Yes". At this point, we know there is trouble. He looks over the customs form as I wrote we spent $30. He asks what we bought, so I said souvenirs. "Can you be more descriptive?" Well geez, I dunno. I don't even think I spent $30, it was just a number. "Uh, a book and a cd". In actuality we bought 2 lanyards (for my work), some socks, a bra, and a cd. So he looks at my visa and passport a few times before correcting on my visa that the last person wrote I was on a J-1 visa (I'm on a J-2). I tell you, I was afraid he was going to make something up just to keep us longer. It's crap like that that makes me want to move back to Canada (or become a U.S. citizen).

So Sunday night we went to my Uncle Kim's for dinner. He makes a pizza buffet, 6 different pizzas to choose from, along with salads, breadsticks, and munchies. It's quite an event, and I feel lucky that he invites to come over for it when we are in town. During dinner, Geoff asked if we could put on the Brier. And while there was a hockey game on, Geoff resorted to playing the Wayne card "Wayne would have wanted to watch the Brier". Everyone laughed, and it got put on. And what a time we had watching it! I'm telling you we never laughed so much listening to Uncle Kim give his commentary on the game. And while Alberta lost, it was still fun. We're talking about coming to Edmonton next March as the Brier will be held there. We'll see where we are at in the Fall before we decide. But Uncle Kim thought that sounded good.

Tuesday night Colin & I went to the Oilers game. It was so much fun, and may explain where the sore throat came from. Colin says Georges Laraque scored just for me (He's Dylan's favorite). I haven't been to an Oilers game in likely 10 years. It's a little different. I wondered if I would see anyone from my days working there, and I did. A girl I knew in high school. Really, I remember hanging out with her brother Palmer more than I remember hanging out with her. And wouldn't you know it, if sitting 4 rows down was someone I knew in high school. At least I think it was, I didn't get the chance to say hello to find out. His name is Nathan, and we met in yearbook (for the 2 weeks I was in it). Then I dated two of his friends. Talking with Kirsty, she told me he had asked her out once. Funny how Kirsty and I had talked about him that morning.

Because I'm under the weather, I rented some movies from the library. I got All The President's Men (love it!), Signs (love it!), and Moonlight Mile (haven't seen). I also rented Two Weeks Notice, as I'm on a Sandra Bullock kick. Not enough to rent Speed (I've never seen it). As for Hugh Grant, I dunno. He's kinda give or take. I don't really have an opinion on him. But the movie provided some laughs, so I'll end with two quotes from it.

George Wade: Is this belt tacky or beltacular?
-------------------------------------------------------------
June Carter: Do you know what I like even more than chess?
George Wade: Pokemon?

Thursday, March 18, 2004

Still Under The Weather
Sorry, I'm still feeling sick, and I just don't want to sit and type. But I did put together the pictures of the wedding I took. Bearing in mind I was a bridesmaid, I couldn't take pictures of the ceremony. But some of the family has done that so visit here.

I will try to tackle writing tomorrow. In the meantime, Kelly has 2 new articles posted, Geoff has written about the scotch he tried at the wedding, and Chris Neuman has posted (in his words) "A somewhat compressed, very cleaned up "exchange of ideas" with the local energy concern on the topic of customer service". I feel for you Chris. :)

Wednesday, March 17, 2004

Home Sweet Home
We're finally home. There is a lot I want to write about, but it will have to wait until tomorrow. I have come down with a sore throat, I'm exhausted from traveling all day, and I have a kitty who misses her mommy. I will write myself a reminder of things I want to say, Customs agents with attitudes, Curling & the 2005 Brier, and the wedding.

TTFN.

Monday, March 15, 2004

And Now For Something Completely Different
Sigh. The wedding is over, all wedding duties are done, I can now start a hectic schedule of cramming in my family & friends over a two day period. Why must these trips always be so crazy? Oh yeah, because we're popular, and we (usually) only make one Canadian appearance a year. Naturally some people don't get so lucky to enjoy us one on one, and we'll get phone calls, or hear about from other people. I stopped letting that bother me a while ago.

The wedding was lovely, everything went off without a hitch. I feel like I really bonded with Mike's sisters, and I hope to keep in contact with them. I will post a few pics once we get back. I have plenty of funny stories to share, but that will wait until later.

I miss homecooked food. I've tried to be good about not eating gravy at every meal (though it's tempting). (Gravy isn't so easily found in yankee restaurants) We will enjoy a great lunch out at my grandparent's house today. That's always a highlight of the visit. My grandpa has a bowling tournament today, and we may go watch.

I look forward to my own bed, seeing my kitty cat, and getting back to normal.

It's only fitting to close with a quote from Canadian Bacon.

Gus: Canadians are always dreaming up a lotta ways to ruin our lives. The metric system, for the love of God! Celsius! Neil Young!

Friday, March 12, 2004

Back In Time
It's a little weird to try to visit your old stomping grounds. Yesterday I had a free day, so I took the bus downtown, walked around looking at how downtown has changed. Edmonton Centre isn't quite the dump it was when I worked there. Danny was not at Too Corny, I may try again next week. The muffin nazis are still there though.

After walking around downtown enough, I hopped on the LRT to University. It was odd for me to be on campus and not have the option to stop by Glen's office. Armed with my iPod, I walked from UofA through Whyte Ave to Bonnie Doon. Yeah, my feet were a little tired. But I did spend at least a half hour at the Wee Book Inn. Amazingly I left with only one cd.

The weather here has been great. Sunny, warmer than I expected. Today is the rehearsal, I have to pick up my dress, and I may try to spend some time with Colin.

I have been going through a wide range of emotions the last two days, and some have not been dealt with. It's a little more personal than I'm ready to share right now, but please pray for me.

I hope to try to get together with Chris for coffee one day before I go. Chris...are you reading this? Had dinner last night with Chad & Lisa. Brooke took to me well, and Laurel has always liked me. There's something about me, kids like me. :)

Well, busy days ahead. I may try to blog on Sunday, and give the rundown.

I'll close with a quote from Ocean's 11, which we watched before we left.

Danny: I'm not sure what four nines does, but the ace, I think, is pretty high.

Tuesday, March 09, 2004

Alberta Bound
I don't actually know the lyrics of the song, I always just add the Simon & Garfunkel line "I wish I was" after it. I played the song on my radio show once, defying the fact that I shouldn't actually play Gordon Lightfoot. I kinda miss my radio show, more than that though I miss my friends & former co-hosts. Kevin wants me to do an alumni show in May, and I may just do that.

Yep, tomorrow we'll be Alberta Bound. I doubt I'll sleep much tonight. I hate traveling away from Honey, but it's too much grief to bring her. And cats like their routines, she's better off here with Brad.

I finished Those Who Trespass by Bill O'Reilly. It was pretty good. I have hopes of someday meeting Mr. O'Reilly, and I finally know someone who knows someone who works for the same station as him. How's that for connections? It occurs to me that my Canuck friends may not be familiar with Bill O'Reilly. He's a newsguy here (the U.S.), he hosts The Factor (radio), and The O'Reilly Factor (tv). His website is here . He gets a lot of flack from certain people, but I really enjoy his show. Yeah, we don't see eye to eye on everything, but I respect the guy.

Over the weekend we watched a classic Mystery Science Theater 3000 episode, Pod People. It was just as funny as we remembered it. We're still giggling at some of the running gags "Shane? Shane??? Fox? John Boy? McCloud!" "HUZZAH!" I think everyone should see at least one episode of MST3K. I can recommend a few of our favorites, Space Mutiny, Manos: Hands Of Fate, Quest For The Lost City (A.K.A.- The Final Sacrifice) (filmed in Alberta), or Santa Claus Conquers the Martians. The MST3K movie is a must. That was what got us started.

I don't know if I'll be able to blog while I'm in Edmonton. I'll try. I don't have much free time there, trying to fit everything in.

Hee Hee! I just got a present from UPS. Red Dwarf Seasons 3 & 4! courtesy of my sweetie husband. Awww, I'll have to wait until we get back to get into it. Well, maybe one or two episodes to break up the packing. I guess it would be fitting to end with a quote from season three's The Last Day.

Lister: I don't mean to say anything out of place here, Kryten, but that is completely whacko Jacko. There is no such thing as 'Silicon Heaven'.
Kryten: Then where do all the calculators go?
Lister: They don't go anywhere. They just die.
Kryten: Surely you believe that God is in all things? Aren't you a pantheist?
Lister: Yeah, but I just don't think it applies to kitchen utensils. I'm not a FRYING pantheist. Machines do not have souls. Computers and calculators do not have an afterlife. You don't get hairdryers with tiny little wings, sitting on clouds and playing harps.
Kryten: But of course you do. For is it not written in the Electronic Bible, "The Iron shall lie down with the Lamp".

Sunday, March 07, 2004

Another Victim Lured In
Ha Ha!
Geoff caved in and started his own blog. It's inspiration? His love of Single Malt Scotch. I've added it to my list of blogs I read.
A Beautiful Weekend
Let me say, it's so beautiful here. The sun is shining, all the snow we got on Friday is long gone. It was nearly all gone on Friday afternoon. It had better be nice in Edmonton this week! Just because I know how Edmonton weather can be, I won't pack my sandals. Don't look at me like that, I wear my sandals here. We're practically ready for the trip, I just need to work on my attitude. I am struggling with the fact God has laid on my heart to forgive someone, and I know I should, but it's hard. That would be my prayer request, for those who would pray for me.

I had a two hour IM chat with Kelly on Friday. She's been pretty quiet on her end, and so it was great to touch base. She says she may be able to visit sometime, which is more than I could offer her. I really, really want to go to D.C., but it won't be anytime soon.

Our friends Jen & Shad are moving to Portland! I suspected it was going to come when they mentioned it as a possibility weeks ago. We wish them the very best, but we will miss them. We just started to get to know them. But that means we have another place we can visit. They will begin the process of moving, and it should be finalized late May-early June.

Yesterday I talked to the bride-to-be for an hour and a half. We haven't been good about speaking to each other much, so it was kinda nice. She's pretty relaxed, and both she & the groom are very excited. Anxious for it to all be done so they can get away on their honeymoon.

In reading The Purpose Driven Life this week, I felt a particular verse speak to me. I felt like it was God's answer to the whole baby thing. Habbakuk 2:3 (LB) - "These things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!" That brings me comfort. It will happen, in God's timing. I feel like I'm getting more out of this book then I did the first time around.

I hope to talk Geoff into a trip to Blockbuster today. I want to see a new movie, and I may be able to sway him. I think either Lost In Translation or School Of Rock. I want to see something funny.

I'll close with a quote from Zoolander.

Derek Zoolander: Oh, I thought you were going to tell me what a bad eugoogalizor I am.
Matilda: What?
Derek Zoolander: A eugoogalizor, one who speaks at funerals. Or did you think I'd be too stupid to know what a eugoogoly was.

Friday, March 05, 2004

Where Everybody Knows Your Name
I love Peet's. I am affectionately known there as "Holiday Blend Girl", because I requested it, and they gave me their last tin. I wrote a letter to the head office to tell them about how nice they were at the Denver store, and it got forwarded to them. I wanted to write down their names so I would remember the next time I go. Alejandro and Dave. I sampled a new tea (Osmanthus Fancy), and bought a tin of it, it's great. When you buy a tin of tea, you get a cup for free. So I asked them to recommend one, and I tried Imperial Red. It was also tasty. Dave wanted to make sure I liked it since (in his words) "I'm a big tea drinker". It's stuff like this that makes the "I miss Irvine, and I want to go back there" feeling fade, and make Denver seem like home. As Geoff will attest, this is a huge step for me. It takes me a while to adjust to a new place. Those few people from Edmonton who kept in touch after we moved, likely remember how I was feeling after the move to Irvine. I hated it. We didn't know anyone, I was depressed for months. I would cry, and call my friends and family often. It took months for me to warm up to it. And I still love Irvine, but Denver is home now. Once our three years here are done, it's likely I'll want to stay in Colorado. I like being able to see the mountains everyday. I'm very open to Canada too.

When I go to Peet's I like to bring a book and I've been reading "How To Be A Canadian". It makes me laugh out loud, and I think I want to get more books by Will & Ian Ferguson. I'll have to check the Wee Book Inn, as Christmas is just too far away. To give you a sample of it, here is the Canadian winter vocabulary.

Chilly: Below zero with blowing wind and sleet.

Nippy: Well below zero with gale-force winds, ten foot high snowbanks and roaming polar bears.

Cold: Minus 40 with a wind chill factor of at least 100 below.

Really Cold: Exposed flesh freezes in ten minutes.

Very Cold: Exposed flesh freezes in five minutes.

Damn Cold: Two minutes.

Really Very Damn Cold: One minute.

Freezing: Who needs all ten fingers anyway?

Too Cold To Go To The Mall: Theoretical temperature used only in scientific hypotheses (like the infinity symbol, only more abstract)

Note: None of this applies to people living in Victoria, the bastards.
-------------------------------------------------
Here is their province guide of Alberta.
Alberta: "Back Up, Nice and Slow, and No One Gets Hurt"

Location: Left of centre (oddly enough).
Main exports: Wealth and alienation.
Giant Ukrainian Easter Egg: Yes.
Giant Statue of a Sausage: Yes.
Giant Perogy: Yes.
Statue of King Kong: Yes.
UFO Landing Pad: Yes.
What, are they crazy?: And how!
Provincial Motto: "We have oil. We have money. We have guns. Don't piss us off."
------------------------------------------
Now, I've seen the egg, and seen pictures of the perogy & landing pad, but I couldn't tell you where they are. My fellow Albertans, please enlighten me if you have seen any or all of these.

Chris posted that Tooker Gomberg had died. Was he the one who wanted to ice the streets so everyone could skate to work? How sad for his family, as he was pretty young.
Hallelujah!
Colin got a job! He got connected with Chad on the weekend, gave his resume to him, Chad took it to work, Colin got called for an interview, Colin starts work today! This has been a total answer to prayer. I pray now that he loves it.

Tennille called me on Wednesday night, and we talked for an hour and a half. It was a good talk, and we each recommended some books to read. Oddly enough she was in Edmonton a few weeks ago, but she's gone back to Red Deer, so I won't see her. I may have to stop by Too Corny to say hi to Danny. Amidst all the other running around I have to do.

I was going to have lunch today with Shannon, but it's been cancelled due to inclement weather. We were going to go to Wendys, which I love. I mean the food is yummy, and they have a dollar menu. Wendys will always be special to me, because when I used to take dance, every Wednesday after practice my dad would take Colin and I out to eat there. The one on Argyle. My dad used to always get the chili. Geoff says he doesn't trust square patties, so he always gets a chicken sandwich.

Tonight is the season finale of Monk. Mr. Monk Goes To Jail. I'm sure it will get picked up for a third season, but nothing has been announced yet. I'm going to lend my Monk tapes to Dawn, hopefully she'll like it.

Now, two quotes from The Three Musketeers. A charming little movie, that is hard to find on DVD.

Porthos: He thinks he can challenge the mighty Porthos with a sword...
D'Artagnan: The mighty who?
Porthos: Don't tell me you've never heard of me.
D'Artagnan: The world's biggest windbag?
Porthos: Little pimple... meet me behind the Luxembourg at 1:00, and bring a long wooden box.
D'Artagnan: Bring your own...
Porthos: [laughs]
---------------------------------------------------------------
Bad Guy: It's Porthos the Pirate! AAAAH!
[The bad guys jump overboard]
D'Artagnan: Pirate?
Porthos: I told you I was famous.

Wednesday, March 03, 2004

Trade Ya...
So we got a letter in the mail from the Chief Electoral Officer regarding our eligibility to vote in the Canadian federal election. What does that mean? We can still vote in Canada. How weird is that? That we could have a say in the Canadian gov't, and we don't even live there. Finally, my citizenship pays off! :)

Now, I wonder...could I trade my vote for say...a U.S. federal election vote? Because that would benefit me more. No disrespect to Canada, but I live here, not there. I wonder...is that something you could buy on eBay? Someone's vote? I'm sure there are people out there who can vote, and don't. It seems a shame to waste it. I guess I'm resigned to bone up on what's happening in the Great White North.

My dad told me on several occasions, there are two things you don't talk about, religion and politics. Awww, but those are my favorite topics. Today, the topic of the Bible came up at work. And time did not permit me to have the discussion I would have liked to have. I'm always interested to hear what people think, and even more so if they are willing to have the conversation. Most of the time, or at least with people I know, they are willing to say "this is what I think", but when I ask them why, or to elaborate, they clam up, unwilling to take the conversation to the next level. That kind of bothers me, as it doesn't allow for people to open up, or share where they are coming from. It's worse if they say it's a belief system, but they don't actually know anything about it. How can you believe in something if you don't have any information on it. What makes you believe in it? These are the thoughts I've been mulling over since my boss shared he read a fiction book, and believes it is fact. I hope that I will have a chance to ask him some questions since he made some "crazy" claims. (They seem crazy to me.)

Yesterday I got a little defensive of my husband over something that wasn't worth getting worked up over. Usually I can take things with a grain of salt, so I don't know what was up with that. I think I'm just stressed about the trip coming up so fast. I'll be glad when it's done. I don't like to be stressed, and granted I don't get nearly as stressed as other Armstrongs. I guess I just get stressed about different things.

Colin had an interview today, that I am somehow getting credit for. I simply put him in touch with someone. I really really hope it pans out. I am anxiously awaiting for him to call me.

I'll end with a quote from I.Q. One of those Tim Robbins movies I like. I like his movies, but I can't say we share the same thoughts on other stuff.

Albert Einstein: Are you thinking what I am thinking?
Ed Walters: Well what would be the odds of that happening?
For My Fellow Bloggers
Geoff sent this to me, and it's pretty funny. Enjoy.

Tuesday, March 02, 2004

I Follow Where My Mind Goes
I watched Pretty In Pink the other day. That movie still chokes me up. What I find funny is when Blane finally says he loves her, it sounds so forced, and fake. But I can overlook that. Geoff thinks the reason guys don't like this movie is because instead of picking the "every" guy, the best friend who's always been there for her (Duckie), she picks the good-looking rich guy (Blane). Guys want to believe they can win the girl of their dreams. Perhaps there is truth in that. So I told him to watch Morgan Stewart's Coming Home, or Hiding Out. He gets the girl then. :)

Heather is going to come visit! Yay! We just need to set the dates. I'm so very excited at the prospect of sharing Denver with someone. That was what I loved about Diane's visit. Exploring the town with someone. I'm going to bring her a book on Denver so she can get an idea of stuff she'll want to do when she comes.

I started a new book this week, Those Who Trespass by Bill O'Reilly. I'm only three chapters in, but it's already better than Death Rat. I didn't finish it, it was too weird for me. Just not a writing style I like. I may try a different book by Mike Nelson. I'm going to reread A Wizard Of Earthsea (Ursula LeGuin) on our trip, as I haven't read it since jr. high. I got it for Christmas, and I look forward to it. Most of it is pretty hazy in mind, but I do remember loving it.

I emailed Keith & Renee (Easily Amused) to say hi, and wish them well on their tour. I mentioned I was going to be in Edmonton the same time they are, but had hockey tickets the night of their concert. Keith says I should stop by the Sidetrack after the game. :) I'll have to see how I feel. But that would be cool. Check out their website to see where & when they are playing near you, and go check them out. They put on a good live show. I love the Sidetrack. Saw Captain Tractor there for my birthday one year. A big group of us went. It was a blast. We saw Junkhouse there too, but that show wasn't as good as we had hoped.

I got an email from my mom saying my brother went down to the lanes to practice bowling. I guess he's anticipating a rematch. Maybe we should sell tickets. She claims that my bigger competition is a feisty 4 year old. Hmmm, something to consider. There is a bowling alley that is like a five minute drive from here (10 pin I'm sure). But it might be fun to dig out the bowling shoes and go one day. We'll have to see. Dawn mentioned when we talked last week that Colin wants to give me one of Dad's bowling balls. I laughed at the thought of trying to bring that home. She suggested mailing it, and I shudder to think what that would cost. :) It may have to wait for when Geoff and I decide to drive up. Not this year, too many trips already but maybe next year.

I'll close with a quote from The Princess Bride.

Vizzini: I can't compete with you physically, and you're no match for my brains.
Westley: You're that smart?
Vizzini: Let me put it this way. Have you ever heard of Plato, Aristotle, Socrates?
Westley: Yes.
Vizzini: Morons.

Monday, March 01, 2004

And The Oscar Goes To...


I can't believe LOTR won all 11 awards it was nominated for. Aside from that, my favorite moment was seeing Michael Moore get trampled by a Oliphant. :)

Okay, I've had some time to process The Passion Of The Christ. Thank you Mel Gibson for such a wonderful film. It was beautiful, and wonderful, and amazing. To see all that Christ endured for me, the immense suffering, so I wouldn't have to, so I could spend eternity with Him, is something else. To have images to the words in the Gospels. I loved it. There were tears, and there was laughter, and just a quietness in me to think of all I saw. It's a lot to take in, and that's why I think you should be at least 16 to see it. I think it takes a certain maturity level to deal with watching Christ be flogged, and crucified.

No big plans for this week. Found out that there was some money that was supposed to come in for the Egypt exhibit that fell through. So sadly we won't be doing a dig site for the exhibit. :( But I'm sure it will still be cool. I think it will be a good motivator for me to learn more about Egyptian history. I'm going to try to make an effort to go to some lectures, or maybe even train to be a guide for the exhibit.

I'll end with my favorite quote from The Usual Suspects.
Cop: I can put you in Queens on the night of the hijacking.
Hockney: Really? I live in Queens, did you put that together yourself, Einstein?