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Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Christmas Meme...

Christmas Meme - Dixie invited everyone to play, so I thought - why not? I'm not feeling the greatest, and I'm three days behind in posting. This is fun and easy!!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? If it can fit in a box, I wrap it. Heck, even if it doesn't. I just love wrapping gifts.

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial. No pine neeles sticking in the cat's paws for weeks afterwards.

3. When do you put up the tree? December 1, but if I had my way it would go up November 1.

4. When do you take the tree down? first week in January

5. Do you like eggnog? Luv it especially when it's accompanied by my buddy Captain Morgan

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Tough call. I'd have to say my Holly Hobby Doll House when I was four

7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, my mom was heavily into ceramics when I was a child, and her and my father made ours - poured, sanded, fired and painted.

8. Hardest person to buy for? My brother - he never tells you what he wants and always buys the latest gadgets before you even get the chance to think of it.

9. Easiest person to buy for? Ryan, my nephew, right now - he's 3 and obsessed with the movie Cars, so it's great.

10. Worst Christmas gift ever received? I don't know that I've ever received a bad one...

11. Mail or email Christmas card? Unless they DON'T have a computer, it's an e-card

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? It's a tie - The Year Without A Santa Clause and Christmas Even On Sesame Street

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Normally I'm shopping year round, but this year it's all last minute.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? That I have - but only when I know the other person will use it.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? TURKEY

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? White on the tree. Coloured everywhere elese.

17. Favorite Christmas song? Spiritual song would have to be O Holy Night, but for fun - nothing beats Jimmy Buffet Merry Christmas Alabama.

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay at home. There's no place like home.

19. Can you name Santa's reindeers? Easy peasy...Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph

20. Do you have an Angel on top or a star? It varies from year to year since our family angel just couldn't hack it anymore.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Well, at home we open them Christmas morning, but at my sister in laws, we do it Christmas Eve.

22. Most annoying thing(s) about this time of year? Overcrowded mall parking lots where people follow you as closely as possible to get your spot.


NOW, for my Christmas music. I've mentioned three very important holiday items to me. And I will post here for my friends (it will also make my quota for songs - YAY - two birds with one stone).

The first is a song from A Year Without A Santa Claus - it's called I Believe in Santa Claus, and it's a sweet tune and always makes me feel warm and fuzzy.




The second is from Christmas Eve on Sesame Street. Called True Blue Miracle, it's a beautiful song about the wonders of the season.




And this third one is from JB's album Christmas Island, a song from which I believe I posted in my first holiday entry. This is called Merry Christmas Alabama and it also contains Jimmy reading The Night Before Christmas at the end of it. (Sounds like the song is done, but it's not, just takes about thirty seconds for the narrative to start) It's my favourite off his album.



Enjoy gang!



Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Friday, December 07, 2007

Freestyle Fridays - Pre-Xmas Ramblings from an overworked, overstressed Elf

Just who does the big guy think he is anyway?

Oh right - I forgot. He's "Santa Clause". He knows when you're sleeping, he knows when you're awake, he knows when you've been bad or good.....

Yah, you ever stop to wonder HOW he knows all this? It's not cuz he's got super powers, or a magic mirror that tells him every single action of every single boy and girl, and it's certainly NOT because he's Albert Einstien.

It's because of US - the elves. That's right kiddies. We are the most top-secret, intricate network of spies this world has ever seen. Forget the CIA, forget the KGB. I know they spilled a little of our secret intelligence for the movie The Santa Clause (personally I think Tim Allen makes a better St. Nick than the big guy anyway - but DON'T tell him I said that), but they didn't get to the heart of the ELF organization.

I know, I know. I'm not supposed to spill any of this to the outside world, but seriously, I'm so sick and tired of S.C. getting all the credit for Christmas going smoothly. He gets all the cookies, all the milk, and all the glory, while we slave year round to make toys, gather intelligence and basically do his job.

In every town, all across the world, there are elves strategically placed in every community, in positions of honor. Some are teachers, some run businesses, and yes, some are even politicians. But it's what they do after hours that results in all the intel that S.C. has. I'm not going to give away EVERY secret, but just let me say this - check your garden gnomes periodically. Once all the information is gathered, it's compiled by a staff of four hundred female elves, all of whom are mothers, and they are the ones who make up the naughty or nice list. He doesn't know it all, he just reads it off the paper.

He's a figurehead I'm telling you. The only reason he's the face of Christmas is cuz he looks good in red - frankly it's not my colour. Not even green does me justice, but when I lobbied to change the Christmas colours to blue and silver I got death threats - if you can believe that. Who says Christmas is about peace and love? PFFT. You should see a typical day at the North Pole. Elves swearing at eachother, throwing toy parts, smoking on the line (which should be an immediate grounding, but he always lets it slide), and in general CHAOS.

Like today for example. All I did was tell Zippy that the Barbie he was working on had two left arms instead of a right and a left and he told me.....well, let's just say I can't repeat what he said without blushing, but it wasn't nice AT ALL. In fact if his mother heard that, she would have dragged him into the middle of the wash station and rinsed his mouth out. But she was on her lunch break.

I'm so frustrated I'm ready to QUIT - but there's not a lot of work out there for elves. Believe me, I've been surfing the net and the best I can come up with is working for those 1-900-sexy-elf numbers, and frankly, I find that a little demeaning. I did find an ad to work in a luggage shop, but the woman who ran it, Anndi, had an unnatural attachment to the inventory, so I high tailed it out of there.

I mean, I guess it's not ALL bad. There are worse places to work. Ever since they let Hermey open his dental shop, we've all gotten brighter smiles. And they do cover 80% of the work. Absolutely brilliant idea of his, that Hermey. Because the only place where candy and chocolate are more prevelant than the North Pole is Cupid's , but they've got their own dentist (with full coverage). And Rudolph will sometimes act as my night light if I have scary dreams about that Heat Miser guy. He threatened to melt the Pole the last poker game, all because Blitzen had a straight flush to beat out his full house. Thankfully, some guys named Vinny, Bruno and Guido talked him out of it very nicely, I'm sure.

And that Grinch guy? He's not evil. It's his JOB to steal Christmas every year from those Who's. Trust me, they know he's coming. And he hates to do it, he really does. That Jim Carrey gave him a sense of humor, but that's nothing compared to the real one. He tells the funniest jokes, and I have to be careful not to be drinking around him. Last time I did that, I spewed milk from my nose and had to clean up the stuffed cow we were sending to some crazy cow lady named Dana.

What about Frosty? Well, of course he makes his appearance every year for the kids, but the rest of the year he lazes about here doing absolutely nothing. Just sits on his fat, snowball behind and watches sports. He's got bookie in Vegas, and his gambling debts are legendary around here. SC is always bailing him out. BUT, he makes the best snowballs for the weekly battles, AND he has no problems helping out if you're REALLY in a pickle. This year, he really helped us out with his knowledge of something called Wild Irish Rose for some guy named Matt-Man. Apparently he wanted a fountain that just pushes it out all day every day. So we did that. It was nice of him. The stuff smells funny though, and Jingle and Jangle had a couple of shots of it. They couldn't stand for two days.

And, it IS great to watch the smiles of the kids on Christmas morning - we get it via satellite on the SCN. *sigh* Yes, he has a network named after him too. We all get bowls of popcorn and potato chips and veggie platters (that's Mrs. C's idea - she thinks we need to balance our diets and she's right), and watch sixteen different screens all day long. We did some pretty special gifts for a couple of very special girls named Bethany and Alice. And there's some amazing "guy things" whatever they may be, for a two select boys named Bug and Brennan. So we like to see how they react to these specialty items. There's nothing to compare to the smile of a child who's seen his hearts delight - except for maybe the smiles on the faces of the parents.

*Giggle*

I think the weirdest Christmas requests came in 1956. We had an influx of requests for hippopotamus'. What is the plural of that... oh well. Anyway, Gail Peevey released a song called Hippopotamus for Christmas, and wouldn't you know it - kids wanted them. Go figure huh? We had to do some fancy footwork around that, let me tell you. This year, we've had numerous requests for a grey haired, soul singing angel? Where the heck are we gonna get one of those?

Yeah, you know, maybe it's not all so bad. Are we underpaid? Yep. Underappreciated? Yep. Overworked? Oh hel...I mean heck yah. But, in the end, is there any place more magical at making dreams come true?

Nah. That darn mouse ain't got nuttin' on this place.

*checks list*

Black velvet pictures - check. A moose head? check. A miniature Soul Patrol mansion? And what is a Galford? And can someone tell me WHY we're running short on rubber ducks?

I think I'll go finish working on that Britney Spears play set. I just have to make the miniature booze bottles and it's ready to go.




Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Thursday, December 06, 2007

Thursday Thirteen Redux (sorry Turnbaby!) - What I Love About Christmas

Ok, got a little behind this week. (And this was ready for yesterday, but I got swamped at work and by the time I was done bowling and got home, and did laundry....anyway, you get the idea. I forgot to post). So I thought I'd take a cue from Matt-Man, and Bond, and pull a Christmas TT out of the archives. I've updated a few, but otherwise, enjoy!

Oh, and today's tune is one of my ALL time favourites - two of the most beautiful male voices ever recorded (besides Taylors) - Bing Crosby and David Bowie. This is the FULL version of Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth.



Ok, so, with it being Christmas time, I thought I would do my Thursday Thirteen about my favourite time of year.

SO….that being said – here we go…..



Thirteen Things about Angell and Christmas



13. The Carols – and no I’m not talking about my mom, although I do happen to love the woman. No, I mean the wonderful Christmas songs that fill us with cheer, a little bit of sadness, and generally remind us that there is something worth smiling about. I listen to them from the middle of November, and I don’t stop until New Years.

12. The presents – and no, I’m not talking about the ones I open up. I’m talking about the ones that I give to other people. I just love watching their faces when they open up what I’ve gotten them. This year, I got you-know-who Wrestlemania tickets, and let me tell you – keeping this secret is the hardest one I’ve ever had to keep.

11. The lights – oh my god the lights! The wonderful, colorful, fabulous, creative, twinkling, sparkling, creations that adorn the houses and trees in your neighbourhoods or in the city. There is nothing like a crisp winter night spent wandering through the streets taking in the amazing displays.

10. Family – ok, so I see mine on a regular basis, but there’s just something different about everyone getting together to pick out Dad’s Xmas gift, or finding just the right outfit to take the nephew to see Santa (after all, these pictures will outlast his childhood).

9. The Food – and yes, I mean all the junk. The cookies, baked especially for the season. The chocolates that everyone gives everyone else in the office. The smells of turkey and stuffing cooking on Christmas day. And of course, those specialty dishes that everyone hauls out for the season – and they’re ONLY made during the season.

8. Santa Claus – You’re never too old for Santa. Frankly, and to those that know me, this will come as no shock, I still believe in him. Every year, I leave out cookies and milk for the big guy, and a few carrots for the reindeer. Of course, every year they’re still there in the a.m. and I have to try and stop everyone from drinking the milk. But one day they’ll be gone….

7. The shopping – most people think I’m insane when I say that, but I love the hustle and bustle of malls during the season. It’s different from the usual crowds. Everyone seems a little lighter (even while arms are overflowing with packages), more cheerful.

6. The weather – ok, so this year is a little screwy here in Toronto. But the usual winter weather for this time of year is clear, crisp and cold. But I can usually see the stars at night – not very clearly, but I can still see them. I don’t know about you – but I can SMELL Christmas in the air.

5. Wrapping presents – yes, I know I’m insane. But I love to wrap gifts. It’s calming and relaxing, and just overall enjoyable for me. In fact, most of the family enlists me to do their wrapping for them.

4. Generosity – Yes, I agree that it should come out every day, not just every Christmas. But to see complete strangers going out of their way to help someone else makes my heart smile. If every day could be that way….

3. The events in the city – skating at city hall, taking in the windows downtown, hot chocolate in a little cafĂ© after shopping all day, concerts happening in the court areas of the malls, Santa sightings, craft exhibits. There’s a never ending array of things to do during the holidays.

2. The smiles – look at the people that surround you. Not all of them will be, but most will be smiling. Not necessarily at anything in particular, in fact, they might not even be aware that they ARE smiling. But it’s there. And it makes you think, for just one moment, that there is hope for this world after all.

1. The Holiday TV Specials – there are new ones every year to look forward to, and the old ones are still so great. I watch A Christmas Eve on Sesame Street every Xmas eve (usually by myself cuz HE’S asleep). And I can’t miss A Year Without A Santa Claus (this year they made a live action one that was GREAT).

SIGH – with so many great reasons to love Xmas, why would anyone be a Grinch?

.


Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!








Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday


(This is our tree and the song playing is a staple at Christmas time in our house - even though my Dad keeps trying to ban the CD)





Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

*cough cough* Here it comes....

Ok, this bites.

I have two major parties this weekend, not to mention the annual family Christmas brunch and a work shift - AND I'M GETTING SICK.

Grrrrr......

I mean, it couldn't come in January? After the holidays? After all the parties and fun? Of course not. Because life just doesn't ever work out that perfect. LOL.

So we put our Christmas tree up yesterday. My nephew came over to help decorate it and it was so CUTE - but of course he had to shake and ring mom's heirloom glass bells - and let's just say that's the end of THOSE ornaments. It's her own fault really. Who in their right mind gives a three year old breakable objects that make noise? Only my mother folks. Only my mother. I'll post the pics after they're uploaded.

I'd really like to write some more, but my stomach just doesn't want to allow me to concentrate on what I'm typing. It's not doing so hot. With all the stress I put myself through, is anyone really surprised?

My choice for today's Xmas tune is a little ditty that is just like me - truly Canadian. To my American cohorts - I'd like to introduce you to two gentlemen by the names of Bob & Doug MacKenzie. And I give you the Canadian version of THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS.



ENJOY!!!

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Monday, December 03, 2007

Monday again......

Well, I survived it. My first shift in blue - and I HATED it. I was almost in tears ten minutes into it. But I smiled my way through it and was assured by my supervisors that I did a fabulous job and they are grateful that I am there. And I am grateful that I still have a job, but it just showed me that I need to get on the stick about this pardon. Only then will I feel whole again (warning - Drama Queen alert!!!! LOL).

Ok then. On to things that ARE in my control but feel out of my control. It's 20 days until Xmas and I DON'T HAVE ANY SHOPPING DONE. I wish I had a credit card so that I could just shop online. I could get it all done in one fell swoop then. XD So I'm going to spend today thinking of what I need to get, and then this weekend (I know that the malls will be crowded as anything, but I can't go if I have no money right?) get it ALL done and then I can take my sweet time wrapping it all. That's actually my favourite tradition (well, one of them anyway). Sitting in the family room with my mom, cups of hot chocolate and Bailey's, with either a Christmas special or Christmas music playing, and wrapping gifts.


And speaking of Christmas music, here is a ROCKING tune by the Trans Siberian Orchestra. I just saw these guys in concert - my last one in a red shirt - and they are just too incredible. If you haven't seen them in person, or even heard of them, RUN to your nearest site and download at least one song.

And in the mean time, I found this video on Youtube, along with a whole bunch of others. Now, THIS is what an angel sounds like.




Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Sunday, December 02, 2007

Looking Good in Blue?

Ok, so today is my first shift as an usher, and I HATE it. I don't want to do this. But if I want to stay with the company, and have a chance at getting back into the security side after my pardon comes through, than I have no choice. I know that my boss and supervisor don't want to lose me, which makes me feel better I guess.

I just know that the red shirts will look at me differently. It can't be helped really. I have no power any more. LOL. That sounds stupid right? But it's true. I can't remember if I said this in my last post about my pardon, but if security gets little respect, ushers get less. And I don't know what I'm going to do with myself. I hate standing in one spot, and to be subjected to six months of the same spot....well, it's just going to drive me nuts.

I know that as soon as I put on that blue shirt and jacket I'm going to lose my mind. Completely and totally. I guess it's probably a good thing I have to leave the house early today and that I'll probably get there before most of them so that I have time to bawl my eyes out, fuck up my make up and do it all over again.

I wish someone understood how much this is going to suck, but I guess it could be worse. There could be NO way for me to still be with the company right now. If this had happened between hockey & soccer seasons, I'd be fucked out of my second job. Sure I'll probably have to take a pay cut, which is REALLY going to suck, and I won't get to work other venues, but at least I can still be with the people that make me happy.

My friends.

Now they give me reason to smile. I know at least that THEY won't look at me differently. They'll just be doing the same thing I will, and that's counting down the days until I'm in a red shirt again.

God I can't wait.

Now, enough tears. I need to smile. And one Xmas tune that is guaranteed to make me do that is a little hit by Gail Peevey back in the 1950's (I believe and please don't shoot me if I'm wrong) called Hippopotamus for Christmas. It's fun, and silly, and just the thing to get stuck in my head before a game.

ENJOY!!






Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Saturday, December 01, 2007

Twenty Five days of Christmas Music...

That is to say, I'm going to post twenty five of my favourite Christmas tunes - one a day - until Christmas morn. Now, I'll still be writing - on what subject I have no idea - but it won't JUST be music. At least I hope not. I mean, I should have stuff to write about seeing as how the Christmas season is the most exciting time of the year.

Keeping Dana's very informative list in mind (I won't post any that she has on there) I will try to cross the spectrum from traditional, to amusing.

Today, I thought I would start with one of my favourite fun songs from my King of the Keys (Florida Keys that is) Jimmy Buffet. (Warning: there will be a few from him in the coming days).

Off of his Christmas Island CD, this is Ho-Ho-Ho And A Bottle of Rum. (By the way, for those that didn't know, JB himself was born on Christmas Day 1946 - the same day God chose to take W.C. Fields from us - which Jimmy himself has said proves that God does have a sense of humor).






Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

For Sue - and Dee - with love and peace...





Oh we never know where life will take us
I know it's just a ride on the wheel
And we never know when death will shake us
And we wonder how it will feel

So goodbye my friend
I know I'll never see you again
But the time together through all the years
Will take away these tears
It's okay now
Goodbye my friend

I've seen a lot things that make me crazy
And I guess I held on to you
We could've run away and left well maybe
But it wasn't time and we both knew

So goodbye my friend
I know I'll never see you again
But the love you gave me through all the years
Will take away these tears
I'm okay now
Goodbye my friend

Life's so fragile and love's so pure
We can't hold on but we try
We watch how quickly it disappears
And we never know why

But I'm okay now
Goodbye my friend
You can go now
Goodbye my friend

©1988 Seagrape Music (EMI)


Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

And I guess it's not the end of the world...

Well, it looks like stupid mistakes will turn around and bite you in the ass.

Ladies and gents, if you've ever been in trouble with the law, TAKE CARE OF IT. Something I did fifteen years ago is now preventing me from renewing my security license and keeping me out of a job I love. Until, that is, I get a pardon.

Which, from all my research, takes TWO YEARS.

I've spent five years in this company. I've worked my way from being (what we call) a pylon, to one of the most trusted guards on any call. And now I have to wait two years for a mistake to be removed from my record. There's no appeal process, no review board. Nothing that I can do except bend over and take it.

Because I've HAD my license for five years. I've passed background checks to work a casino strike. I've worked in the school board. Not once have I ever had an issue with renewing. And suddenly, the laws change (apparently two years in the works and all security companies were kept abreast of the process) and I'm out of a job. As are several good guards, who's crimes were so petty, and yet ....

SIGH.

So now I take a step backwards (and a pay cut) and become an USHER? Been there, done that, and there's a reason I'm still not doing it. Security guards don't get a lot of respect from the general public, but ushers get even less. I've done a damn good job to earn that respect.

See the problem is (besides what's listed above) there's a dividing line in the company. Reds (guards) and blues (ushers). Like sticks to like....

I'm so depressed - I know there are worse things going on in the world, and even in the lives of people I care about. But right now, I want to be a little selfish and dwell on my own stupidity. I know dwelling doesn't help, but until I can talk to my lawyer and see if it's possible to fast track this process (according to the person I spoke to at the pardons office, there's no way of it happening but I want a few opinions on this), all I can do is be depressed.

*grabs woobie, bottle and tv remote and heads to the couch*

I'm gonna hibernate with Senor Cuervo for a bit.....

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Friday, November 23, 2007

Free Style Fridays: Just One Night (new poem)

Just one night
to be held by you
to know the touch
the smell
of your skin.

Just one night
to hear you
whisper my name;
to hear how it
falls in cascades
from your lips.

Just one night
to memorize
the incandescent lustre
of your smile,
of your eyes.

Just one night
to dance alone
with you,
to music only
we can hear.

Just one night
to decide
to live again.

©Angell 2007

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, November 07, 2007

Dona Nobis Pacem - Peace Globe Movement 2007


Visit the above link for instructions on how to get your banner and peace globe. Join the movement that's sweeping the blogging nation.

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

100TH POST

WOOOOOOOOOO! And Happy Hallowe'en!!



I made it.

My 100th post.

As I'm typing this, I'm reflecting on what got me started - silly me - BOND!! And the Soul Patrol of course.

I'm not a consistent blogger, like some of our wonderful friends. And I'm certainly not the most creative blogger in the blogosphere. I don't do profound "thinking" posts.

I don't write scathing (but amusing) social commentaries. My wit isn't razor sharp like some of our friends.

And we all certainly know that I can't share a ton of what's going on in my personal life, which sucks, but such is the way things are, right?

I get lazy. I post songs and lyrics because they're easy. BUT, when I do, I post those that have meaning in my life, even if I can't explain what it is.

BUT, I must have done something right, somewhere along the line.

Because, my wonderful gal pal Dixie, awarded me with The Wonder Woman blogging award, because apparently, I'm wonderful. (Thanks Dix - I lurves you too baby doll).





So, I'm awarding this Wonder Woman Blogger award to the following women who amaze me all the time:



*Crystal over at Boobs, Injuries & Dr. Pepper, because she ALWAYS makes me laugh to the point of tears
*Dayle over at Enchantments, because she IS a wonder, she IS a woman, and when I grow up, I wanna be just like her
*Roz from Rozzie Bear'z Sykoyd Rantz & Ravz cuz the litle spitfire knows her music
*Beck from PopEye for her scathing commentaries on everything Britney, amongst other things
*And we welcome a newcomer to the Blogosphere, and I welcome her with this award - Glinda, from Ramblings from the GW of the North


It's also Hallowe'en. And while I wanted to post a pic of me in my costume from the party I went to the other night, none of them came out looking decent. SOOOOO, I'm just gonna post this one of the girls - I'm all in black so I blend in the background, but it's still a great shot.


And, I also found these great pics on the net. So, enjoy the spook-tacular day kiddies.

Thank you to Bond for starting this. Thanks to you all for reading. And above all, thanks for sticking around for this roller coaster that is my life. And here's to 100 more rides.






Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Job DIS-Satisfaction

Ok, I'm tired of pretending that I love my job. While it's not the hardest or most challenging in the world, leaving plently of slack/surf time - I just can't take it any more. Officially, I'm supposed to be doing accounts receivable. But I'm not cut out for it. I don't have the killer instinct to say to someone "I don't care if your wife is in the hospital and she's the one that takes care of the accounts, we need to be paid or you're account will be sent to collections." (I actually had an account like that but I never said that).

This isn't what I wanted to do with my life. And I know a ton of people are thinking - yeah, but who ever gets to do what they want in life? We do what we have to in order to survive.

I know people who are doing what they love, and they are happier than most. Some of them have mad cash, and some are living with five roommates in a three bedroom flat.

But they're happy.

I'm tired of answering telephones all day because lazy people can't listen to a one minute directory telling them what extension they need to dial to reach their party.

I'm tired of my co-workers dumping the shit they don't want to do on my desk (including my boss).

I'm tired of papers piling on my desk because they need filing, or we got junk mail and we need off the fax list, or because it's an invoice that needs to be looked up (and of course can only be done on MY computer).

I'm tired of sitting in my office, listening to the guys on the order desk slack off and NOT get in shit, but just let the boss catch me ONCE during the day having a convo with a friend on MSN and it all hits the fan.

I'm tired of telling the accountant that I need to place a Staples order because we're low on ink, and being told that it can wait. Then whomever needs the ink yells at ME. When I tell them it's cuz of Frank, they go to Frank. And then Frank tells me that I COULD HAVE placed the order.....

I'm tired of working my ass off, and only getting a half hour lunch. It's not so bad when I'm IN the office, but when I have to go to the bank or to get lunch (walking no less most days because I don't have my own vehicle), it's hell to get it done in a half hour, and still manage to eat WHILE working.

I'm tired of not being told what's important around here and what's not.

I'm just plain tired.


I thank GOD I still have my security job (for now). I might not even have that for much longer because the new Universal Licensing act is in effect. That means that the Ministry is now cracking down on the little things that they had let go through before. I have a shoplifting charge from when I was 19. It could possibly prevent me from renewing my license, even though I've had it for four years now. So if that's the case, I'm royally FUCKED.

SIGH - doesn't seem like I can catch a break.

*grabs woobie, iPod, and Senor Cuervo and slinks to the corner*

Think I need to turtle for a bit - see you in twenty hangovers.

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Monday, October 22, 2007

Lost Item from our Youth: The mixed tape



I was thinking about this the other day. Now, everyone who knows me knows that I love to communicate through song. I'm really big on playing songs with lyrics that are able to convey my feelings sometimes better than I can.

This came about because I am famous for putting lyrics on my Facebook page. My cousin saw a set of lyrics and said to me, "Now, if I could only get my boyfriend to read those. They are dead on what I'm feeling."

It brought me back to my youth and the coveted item of teeny-bopper girls (ok, and teenage girls) everywhere - the mixed tape. The one thing every boy could afford that, if done right, was guarenteed to make even the frostiest of ice queens melt into a puddle. Girls that scored this holy grail of youth ooohed and ahhhed over it with their girlfriends, as they all listened to the song choices that were made.

Then they all dissected the lyrics - what could they mean? Did he mean it this way or that? Why did he put THAT song on there?

As we got older, we gathered courage, and were able to SPEAK to the opposite sex in ways that transgressed the "You've got cooties." variety of speech we'd gotten used to over the years. It was also a relief to be able to speak face to face as opposed to using the (never worked right anyway) game of telephone. But, when it came to breaking the ice, the mixed tape still held a spot in the repitoire of nervous teenage boys.

Now, though married and somewhat older, I would love to be able to give someone a mixed CD, have them listen to the lyrics, and totally understand how I feel about them. (In marriage you're expected to TALK about it - blech - cuz sometimes ordinary words just don't do it).

So I started thinking and fantasizing. If I was younger (still in this time period) and single, what songs would I put on the mixed CD I would give to my "intended". Since I have almost 3000 songs on my iPod, I figure if it's not on there, it wouldn't be on my CD anyway.

So here we go - let's say 15 tracks, and not necessarily in order. (I'm linking to the lyrics cuz not everyone will know the songs).

Iris - GooGoo Dolls
Lips of An Angel - Hinder
Another - Glen Burtnick (had to link to an earlier post for these lyrics as I can't find them on the web)
I'm Ready - Bryan Adams
Everything - Lifehouse
In Too Deep - Phil Collins
Hold Onto the Nights - Richard Marx
Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol
For Just One Moment - John Tesh (duet with I can't remember who )
Bring Me to Life - Evanesence
Together - Styx
When There's Time for Love - Lawrence Gowan
Blue Monday - Fluke
They Don't Know - Tracy Ullman
Closer - Nine Inch Nails


So who's on your list?


Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Wordless Wednesday - A Kiss says it All




The greatest thing you'll ever learn, is just to love and be loved in return.



Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Friday, October 12, 2007

Free Style Fridays

I'm having the SHITTIEST day, and it's not even noon yet. And we all know I can't rant it out on here, so rather than try I'm just gonna give you guys a great tune by some home grown talent. This song is off their best album (in my opinion), 1994's Memory Thief.

Ladies & gents, for your listening pleasure, I give you Lost & Profound...Miracles Happen! (yayyyyyyyy - leaves the stage waving arms madly a la Kermit)



Miracles happen
you appeared outside my door
wearing a cheshire grin to hide you
looking slightly bored
Talking about yourself in very
confidential tones
In words that wrap themselves around me
and pull me to the floor

Halleluiah
Halleluiah amen,
Amen

Miracles happen
Your words were ringing in the air
as you tossed around good intentions
with the usual show of flair
Talking about yourself
as if I didn't know
the strange route your life has taken
since you left so long ago

Halleluiah
Halleluiah Amen
Amen
Halleluiah Amen
Amen

Up on the scaffold
hardly looking bulletproof
Is the reprieved man
and his soul basking in the glory
of the truth

Miracles happen
God you're so beautiful
as you blow in on the winds of illusion
that dictate everywhere you go
Talking about yourself again
in confidential tones
in words that wrap themselves around me
and pull me to the floor

Halleluiah
Halleluiah
Halleluiah Amen
Amen
Halleluiah Amen
Amen
Halleluiah Amen

Halleluiah
Halleluiah
Halleluiah
Halleluiah
Halleluiah
Halleluiah
Halleluiah
Halleluiah

WOOO

©Lost & Profound 1994
Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Wordless Wednesday



Thought of Vinny, Bruno, Guido and da boys when I saw this @ MGM in Florida. Had to take the shot.



Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Friday, September 28, 2007

Get the lead out...

I miss writing with pencils.


I know that sounds strange coming from someone who spends most of her time on the computer typing. But I do. I don't know why.

I miss the smell of the pencil shavings. I miss the smoothness between my fingers (I always used the round pencils, not the hexagonical ones - and is that even a word?). I miss erasing my mistakes with a white eraser - not a red one, a white one because it left no trace.

I was always one of those kids that as SOON as the point on my pencil rounded out, I would rush to the pencil sharpener to bring it back to its former glory. I HAD to have a sharp pencil, or I wouldn't use it. I would use the mechanical pencils, if I had to. But they always seemed cold to me. And of course, as you get older, you use pens, because, let's face it, ink is permanent.

Can you imagine signing important documents in pencil? The risk of it fading, or being erased? Of course not. But I prefer lead to ink. I find, even with my "good" pens, the ink pools in the tip and leaves blotches. Or it runs out and the refills are either expensive, or a pain in the ass to find.

And of course, there are all types of pencils - they come in colours and patterns and decorated with sparkles or kittens. The variety is what makes it half the fun. These days they even have Smencils, pencils that smell of grape, or bubble gum. (I have a grape one).



I still buy pencils. I try to use them whenever possible. I have about six of them in my desk at the office, and they're all sharpened, in a "pencil" case. LOL. No, it's not one of the ones like you used to get in school. This is actually the case that the "designer" pencils came in.

I've been using pencils lately, and while there are a few things that I probably will have to go over in ink, it's a small, but important link to my childhood. One that I won't give up.

(Thought it was gonna be a profound entry huh? :P )

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Pimpin' a Blog Post

So, I haven't had much time to post lately, and I have SO much that I want to say. But for today, I shall keep it short and sweet.

There are days I manage to make it to every person's blog on my list, and then there are days when I just can't do it. Today was one of those days. Work was crazy (read: no time to slack), so I just started surfing when I got home, although it IS my anniversary and I should be spending time with the hubby.

So, while he is out indulging his nic fit, I shall toss this out to you, my wonderful friends.

You might have heard me speak before about A.D - the Ambulance Driver. He's not only very informative with regards to (um, hello?) medical issues and the lot, but he's also incredibly witty. And, in addition to this, he is also the BEST Blog Pimp that I know. It seems like every third or fouth entry involves a reader, a friend, someone who needs help or attention to their cause.

And he's done it again.

With the many friends we all have with connections to the military, I'm sure that one of us would eventually post about this. (My bet would be on Dixie or Sarge).

Pop on over to YIKES! and read about Operation: Love from Home 2007. If we start now, imagine how many kids won't feel so lonely this holiday season.

Peace and love (promise a longer post soon!)



Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Monday, September 17, 2007

phantom kisses

in my heart
i kiss those lips
gently, passionately
yet in reality
they've never met mine

in my heart
i kiss those lips
and whisper a broken
Goodbye

he doesn't need me
he never did
no more playful notes
no more deep toned calls

i can read between the lines

was it all in my head
were the feelings real
was i just a toy
was i just a game

i knew the score
when his soul touched mine
he never could be anything to me
except what i made him

phantom kisses
will haunt my heart
for what should have been
that can never be

for what i dreamed
that will remain in dreams
for what my heart wished for
that will remain silent yet true
and ungranted

in my heart
i kiss those lips
and whisper a broken
goodbye



©Angell September 2007

Sunday, September 16, 2007

One Fallen Dove

A work of fiction - done when I was YOUNGER. (so much more so than I am now)



The sound of the rocking chair on the creaky floorboards echoes eerily through the deserted corridors of James Hall. The approaching dawn bathes the floor in a soft pink light. All the doors are closed, as no doubt the co-eds are sleeping off the night before. A soft chuckle emits from the rocking chair as the occupant gazes at the hallway of closed room doors and remembers....

It wasn't long ago that he was part of the group who were locked behind those doors. They were young, they were friends, but most of all, they were alive. From all different sorts of backgrounds: upper class, lower class, Catholic, Atheist, Italian, Arabic. Social barriers had separated them at first, but they quickly discovered that they were all alike, no matter how different they may have seemed. "These are the best years of your life.” he had been told, and he had believed them. So, off to university he went, apprehensive, yet excited at the prospect of freedom. It was a concept his life at home did not allow him to fully explore, or experience. He did, however, have extreme regrets about leaving HER behind.

She was the one girl he wanted, and the one girl he couldn't have. His best friend, and fantasy, she was already taken. He had only been at university a few months, and although he kept himself busy by working hard and trying to see other girls, he missed her like crazy. But he HAD to keep in mind (for his own sanity) that they were just friends. Yet it was not possible. She had come to visit on her exam break, bringing with her (much to his dismay), her boyfriend and two others. Still, he was ecstatic to see her, regardless of who she was with. "We'll go anywhere you want to go." he had told her. When she asked for ideas, his first mistake was to mention Kelly's, a local bar, that was holding a their weekly promo night. Twelve dollars for all you could drink, and OH BOY! Did she ever. Assisting her back to the dorm room, it was ironic that her boyfriend should be there, when he had her where he always wanted her - in his arms. He wanted her to stay a few days longer - just her, no one else. But of course this did not happen and the following day, he kissed her cheek and wished them all a safe drive back.

As their car faded into the distance, he turned from the window, and forced her out of his mind. He sat down to do his art homework, and life went on as usual. The pub parties, the classes, the endless all-nighters, and of course, the homework. But he still found time to think of her.

It was a cold Thursday in February when his roommates, Keith and Ron, opened the door to his room. The three of them were so close, that they had been officially nicknamed The Three Musketeers, and they tried whenever possible to live up to their name.

"Comrade Aramis! Get thy nose out of that book and let us journey to the local tavern and get thee wasted!" Ron hammed it up with broad gestures and a deep theatrical voice. It was once again everybody's favourite night - twelve dollars for all you could drink. He threw a pillow at the door, laughingly stating "Journey to get thee wasted and raise a glass for me, for alas! I regret I cannot join you in your merriment. I've got this major paper due for English, and I have no time for frivolity."

If the truth were to be known, the paper was already done. He just couldn't take the memories of the last time he was there with her. The pain was too fresh; he missed her more than ever. She was constantly in his thoughts. As much as he tried, he couldn't get her out of his mind. Her image was permanently embedded in his brain, and he couldn't figure out a way to erase it. Keith and Ron were perplexed.

"Very well friend. But thy presence shall be missed by the lovely maidens and thy comrades." They waved as they went into their separate rooms to change. And just as he was going back to his book, he heard her voice.

"Hello Aramis. How art thou?" His eyes shot up and drank in the sight of her figure lounging in the doorway. He closed his eyes tightly, as if she were a mirage, and figured that when he opened them, she would be gone. When he opened his eyes and she was still there, his jaw dropped open in surprise.

"HELLOOOOO NURSE! What are you doing here? Who else is with you?" he asked, mystified. She giggled, and he blushed.

"You call THAT a greeting?" she teased. "Well, I'm here to see you of course, and I'm all by my lonesome. Nobody else could afford the time off." She flew into his arms and held onto him tightly. He felt uncertain as his strong arms circled her trembling body, and she began to cry.

"Ssh. What's wrong sugar? Don't cry." he soothed. She pulled away and swiped at her eyes. "I might as well tell you. He and I, well, the reason I'm here alone is that we broke up." She took a deep breath. "Last week." He felt guilty as a jolt of surprise (and pleasure) ran throughout his body.

"Why?" That one simple syllable set her off crying again."I guess he couldn't take being tied down." she sobbed incoherently. "He wants to be `just friends'." She spat the words out in disgust. "I came because I really needed to be with you, my best friend." She gazed up at him, her big brown eyes overflowing with tears. She seemed to be so vulnerable, so yielding, yet so inviting. He had to do SOMETHING.

"Porthos! Athos! Get thy butts in here!" They came racing in, took one look at the helpless girl in their roommate's arms, and looks of concern crossed their faces. "What's up boss?" They chorused in unison. "Call Whitney, Trevor, John and Phil. We are all taking my baby for a night on the town. And if I have anything to say about it," he gazed down at her lovingly, "this little lady here is going to have the time of her life!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I had a great time tonight.” she whispered as he helped her into bed. "Good." He pulled the blanket under her chin and kissed her forehead. As he turned out the light, he didn't hear her light footsteps as he felt her arms steal around him.

"Please stay." she whispered. She was drunk, depressed, vulnerable, and oh so tempting. She was begging for his company and he saw the plea in her eyes. As much as he wanted to make her forget all about what’s-his-name, and hold her all night, he had to do what was right. While his mind and heart were violently arguing, he lifter her in his arms and carried her to the bed. Once again, he laid her down and kissed her; only this time it was different.

“I love you.” He said. “I always have. And when you wake up in the morning, I’ll be here, taking care of you. For now, and always. Have sweet dreams my princess.”

That was the last time he saw her.

She was still asleep the next morning when he awoke for his first class. He dressed silently, as so not to disturb her slumber. He scribbled her a quick note to let her know he’d be back soon. A quick knock on Keith’s door let Keith know that she was still asleep, and to keep the noise down.

He grabbed his books, put on his Walkman, and walked out the door. Led Zeppelin tunes filled his head as he began the cross campus trek towards the arts building. He never saw the car, never heard the high-pitch squeal of the brakes or the loud blare of the horn, and never felt any pain…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As the alarm clocks begin to sound behind the closed doors, the occupant remains in his seat.Creak, creak.

“Another day of hell, eh Keith?” Ron’s voice carries to the silent occupant as the door to room 306 opens.

“Yeah, I guess.” Keith’s voice is despondent. Ron doesn’t have to ask the reason for his misery. He clasps Keith on the shoulder.I know pal. I miss him too.” He gazes directly at the painting above the rocking chair, of doves released from their cage and soaring to freedom. He always said that it symbolized their release from university and being set free to explore the world. Painted by their missing friend, the absent Musketeer. They stand in silence for a moment. The occupant rises, reaching out to embrace his friends, but to no avail. He grasps air instead. For more than social barriers separate them now.

More than a world separates them now.

The occupant sinks back into his chair, knowing that he is forever destined to rock alone but for his memories.

As Keith continues on his way to the common room, Ron hears a noise from the rocking chair.It sounds distinctly like someone sobbing. He once again gazes at the painting.


And remembers…………© Angell 1994

Friday, September 14, 2007

Now I've Seen It All

I came across this article on the MSN homepage this morning.

French adulterers have a new ally in web-based alibi service

That takes the cake of anything I've ever seen.

For those of you who can't click the link

PARIS (AP) - Looking to get away for a weekend fling without getting caught? A new French company provides would-be adulterers with custom-made excuses that help take the danger of discovery out of cheating.


JENNY BARCHFIELD


Founded six months ago by former private eye Regine Mourizard, web-based Ibila can cook up invites to phoney weekend seminars, fake emergency phone calls from work, invitations to nonexistent weddings - anything to justify a cheating spouse's absence.

Mourizard said her service is aimed at protecting couples and families by allowing adulterers to live their flings undetected.

"If the alibi is well done and the spouse doesn't suspect anything, this can sometimes save marriages," Mourizard said in a telephone interview.

Here's how it works: In an e-mail message or call to Ibila, the prospective client requests an alibi for a specific date and time. Mourizard concocts just the right excuse, taking into account the client's profession and personal circumstances.

She and her co-worker, a computer specialist, draw up fake restaurant and hotel bills, receipts and other documents to help shore up what Mourizard calls her "little white lies."

If the adulterer was supposed to have been away for a seminar, the company can even provide the kinds of freebies - pens, hats and T-shirts - sometimes given at such events.

Mourizard said that because of privacy issues, she could only give details about one of her past clients, whom she called "Geraldine."

Married to a "strict man," Geraldine was desperate to get out of the house for an hour-long meeting with an ex-boyfriend who lived abroad and was briefly passing through town.

"This man was practically the love of her life and she had to see him," Mourizard said. Together, they hatched a plan.

Geraldine owned a driving school, so on the appointed day, Mourizard called her home pretending to be a student who needed a last-minute lesson before her driving test the following day.

"The husband totally bought it. He even offered to get the car out of the garage for her," Mourizard said.

The simplest excuses - like Geraldine's - cost US$27, while more elaborate and time-consuming alibis can run upward of $200.

Mourizard insisted her business is completely above board because she concocts fake bills from invented companies, hotels and restaurants and does not doctor or forge real documents. She also requires clients to sign a document pledging not to use her materials to swindle their employers or the French government.

Upon request, the company can handle the logistics for clients' secret rendezvous, from making hotel reservations to booking train and plane tickets. Ibila also offers to buy gifts, so that suspicious purchases at flower, perfume or chocolate shops don't appear on clients' bank statements.

Most of her clients - about 60 per cent - are men, Mourizard said. They range in age from 25-60, but most are in their mid-40s.

Mourizard, a 50-year-old mother of two, said it was her experience as a private detective that led her to open Ibila - Europe's second such service, she said.

"For 20 years, I worked to keep people from doing what they wanted to do. And I then thought, 'What if I help them do it, in a safe way?' "

Following a "very amicable" divorce from her first husband, Mourizard remarried two years ago. Asked what her spouse thinks of her new business, she said: "He thinks I have some pretty bizarre ideas."

Is he suspicious when she gets strange phone calls or receives unexpected invitations in the mail?

"No, he trusts me completely. And I trust him. I mean, if he were cheating, I'd find him out in a second," she said.



I guess that's the one main issue with cheating - someone always gets hurt. But then Europeans tend to have a more lax view of cheating than North Americans - at least that's the way I've always understood it.

In the Italian culture, the men have ALWAYS had mistreses, or girlfriends, commonly known as goomare (am I right Vinny? You're more Italian than I am). Sometimes they have more than one. The point to the extraneous relationships is to satisfy their base, dark, kinky desires. To some old school Italian men, to have their wives perform oral sex on them is unheard of - that's the mouth that kisses their children. It's too dirty for them to do (although if they asked the women, I'm sure they'd find some more than willing to do so).

Now, I haven't done extensive research on this, simply cuz I'm too lazy to do it. But I believe that North America is one of the only nations where monogomy (*sp?*) is the norm. Can you see this spilling over into our way of life - paying someone to concoct alibis so that you can go off for a weekend with your lover?

Definately better than the frantic phone calls to alibis "DUDE - I was with you all weekend fishing ok?"

SIGH - I think I'll stop here.

Comments? Thoughts?

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Sunday, September 09, 2007

Doin' it up NW style - HAWTand SEXAY

WOOO - let me tell you, NWP (Northwest Protection - my security crew) staff knows how to do it up hawt! Don't matter the venue, don't matter the time - we know how to make it all count baby!

On Saturday, three of our guards had a birthday (yes it was all their actual bdays), and so after an eventful Brad Paisley show (such a thing does exist), we decided to head out and celebrate and blow off some steam. Thirty of us decended on a bar on the Lakeshore and basically took it over. Once we all got there, we didn't let one song pass without most of us on the dance floor.

Rod met me at the bar, and told me he had a pretty damn good time. WOOO. BONUS. :D Personally, I think he got a kick out of seeing me on the dance floor - it's been awhile since I've had an abundance of willing partners - both male and female. Here's a shot of me with two of my faves - two brothers who are the most amazing guys - and it was a BLAST.


Mostly when I go out with friends, the girls are the ones dancing, the guys stand back and watch and drink. But the guys I work with don't give a shit how much alcohol is in them - they don't care if they have white man sydrome (and most of them do). They just get out there and GO. As we say they "get it done, son".

At one point, I had all three birthday boys, and one brother surrounding me (here's the pic - you can't see the shit eating grin on my face, but kiddies trust me, it was there).


I had the best time in a LOOOOOOOOOOONG time. We're doing it all over again the weekend of the 21st. Actually, we're doing it TWICE that weekend. The West Enders (those of us that live out in "booniesville") are getting something together for the 21st and then we're all getting together after the last show on the 22nd. Maybe we'll do Sloppy's again. Who knows?

The only thing I DO know is that if this keeps up, I'm gonna have one HELL of a hockey season.


Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Thursday, August 30, 2007

I'M BACK - didja miss me?

Ok, so I really wasn't GONE per se, but life was hectic and by the time I got around to surfing and reading emails, I barely had enough energy to click the mouse. In fact, I'm at work today suffering from a major migrane (my second in a row), but I took yesterday off to veg out in darkness with a cold cloth practically stapled to my head, so today I must suck it up and deal.

Doesn't help that when I got in today that my desk was covered in crap again. Like for fuck's sake people - put on your big boy briefs and deal with your own god-forsaken paperwork!! ** Just because I am A bitch does not mean I'm YOUR bitch.** Learn how the filing system works - learn how to input actual INFORMATION into the computer instead of playing pool during slow periods.

And, most importantly LEARN how to use the inter-office message system. It is on your computer - it is NOT the pad of yellow sticky notes that sits on your desk. If you need to leave me a message - USE THE IM SYSTEM ASSHOLES.

Sorry - a bit frustrated with the morons that work here.

On Tuesday night Poison came to town - a show I try to catch every chance I get. Doesn't hurt that it was at a venue I work at, and the fact that my supervisor loves me is a bonus. It was an amazing show - I LOVE CC DEVILLE!! He's so incredibly hot......sigh. What makes this particular show a lot of fun is the fact that half the staff love Poison, so the majority of them got tickets to the show. And it doesn't matter where your ticket says you're sitting - we were right down on the floors. Ten feet away from the subject of many, MANY happy dreams in my youth (and my adulthood as well...hehe).

I'm so dead exhausted these days. I'm so glad that we're getting into fall now. All the cute sweaters that hide my hips and stomach come out - YAY FOR CAMOFLAUGE!! I do need to buy a pair of cowboy boots though - my old ones are toast.

I'm currently on the look out for a set of plush toys from the kids (and I use that term loosely) show Invader Zim. A friend of mine got me hooked on this (yes, I KNOW I'm 33, yes, I KNOW that it's a cartoon, yes I KNOW that I'm "too old" for this ...wait, no I don't know that), and I've been searching for the toys for months. The only place I can find them at this time is on anime sites, but they're always sold out, and on eBay, and we all know how expensive that can be. Seeing as how it went off the air in 2002 (I believe) I'm a little late in getting in on the action, but that's ok. :D

SOOOO, if any of you happen to come across a set of plush Invader Zim toys, especially the character GIR (pictured here) PLEASE let me know.

And for those who have never seen the show....sneak a peek at this...



This is a compliation of the best moments of GIR - the mentally deranged sidekick robot. I love him!!

Hmmm, music. Want to play something here today...the question is, what. Don't have any Poison on lifelogger......so instead I am going to play one from Caqnadian rocker chick Lee Aaron and dedicate it to CC. ENJOY kiddies!




Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Why Can't I Stay on Vacation?

Well, I'm back from the World of Mouse, and I had a great time. The weather was into the triple digits, so we were LITERALLY standing in our own sweat. Nice eh? I figure, if I had watched what I ate and drank, between all the walking I did and the sweating, I would have lost ten pounds. DAMN. Oh well, too late.

I am actually creatively stagnant right now (if there is such a phrase), and I really can't find the words to put down on the page, so to speak.

So, instead of my wonderful prose, I will, once more, post a great tune and set of lyrics from my personal collection. Let's see....I would give you some Elvis, in honor of the 30th Anniversary of his passing, but I don't have any in my account. Plus, thinking of the King makes me sad, because it reminds me of my dear friend, Ruth, whom I miss greatly. And her birthday is coming up, and I cry way too much these days.

Hmmm *scanning through lifelogger to see what's available* AH! Here we go. Some good old Canadian content.

Ladies and gentlemen (and I use those terms loosely :P), I give you - THE GUESS WHO!!!



THESE EYES

These eyes cry every night for you.
These arms long to hold you again.
The hurtin’s on me yeah,
But I will never be free no my baby, no no.
You gave a promise to me yeah and you broke it, you broke it. Oh, no.

These eyes watched you bring my world to an end.
This heart could not accept and pretend.
The hurtin’s on me yeah,
But I will never be free no no no.
You took the vow with me yeah.
You spoke it, you spoke it, babe.

These eyes are cryin’
These eyes have seen a lot of loves
But they’re never gonna see another one like I had with you.
These eyes are cryin’
These eyes have seen a lot of loves
But they’re never gonna see another one like I had with you.

These eyes are cryin’
These eyes have seen a lot of loves
But they’re never gonna see another one like I had with you.

These eyes cry every night for you.
These arms, these arms long to hold you, hold you again.
These eyes are cryin’
These eyes have seen a lot of loves
But they’re never gonna see another one like I had with you.
These eyes are cryin’
These eyes have seen a lot of loves
But they’re never gonna see another one like I had with you.
These eyes are cryin’
These eyes have seen a lot of loves
But they’re never gonna see another one like I had with you.
These eyes are cryin’
These eyes have seen a lot of loves
But they’re never gonna see another one like I had with you.
Baby, baby, baby, baby.


©Bachman/Cummings 1968

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Thursday, August 02, 2007

I'm a Rising Blogger!

I received a wonderful email this morning

Congratulations on your award on The Rising Blogger. It is a site that awards posts, not blogs. Your post from July 27, 2007 titled "Today's Blog is Brought to You by the Letter "S" won and will be posted tonight by midnight. Since we award posts, not blogs, you might even win again. To encourage your readers to comment on your award, it helps if you make the first comment on our post about your blog, yourself. We ask winners to nominate a post favorite of a fellow blogger. Call it "paying it forward". Neither is a requirement. You have won this award because we truly feel you deserve it. Great post, good job!

I have no idea who nominated me for this, but whomever it was, I thank you. I know I tend to write a lot of nonsense, but I guess that's what blogs are for right? Once in awhile, I try to write something that's relevant to others as well. To have that recognized means more to me than y'all will ever know.

I'm a real writer - go figure.



Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

WHY GOD WHY?

Oh for the love of all that is good in the world (not that there's much left) can someone PLEASE explain to me why everything these days seems to be taking AAA batteries??????

No?

Me neither.

Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Friday, July 27, 2007

Today's Blog is brought to you by the letter....

... as in slack. Because the boss is in Montreal for the weekend, and it's normally slow on Fridays anyway. So, since I haven't updated in awhile, I figured I'd just go with the moment. WARNING: there's been some serious lack of sleep in my life, so I'm praying that this will all (somehow) make sense.




Well, to start, our good friend Vinny over at the Big Leather Couch, was GOING to make reference in his Sports Friday blog to the FIFA U20 tournament that just wrapped up last weekend. However, in an effort to not drive me completely batty, he has opted not to. The reason behind his ommission is because I was smack in the middle of that incident.


My company does the security for BMO Field, which was the hosting venue for Toronto. I won't write too many details here - mainly because it was all such a blur that some of us even needed to read the newspapers the next day just to get an idea of what really went down.



The building went into lockdown mode, with no one being allowed in or out. After the game was done, we had to wait for over an hour and a half inside, praying that the riots outside would abate and we could go to our cars. The police officers insisted on escorting us to our vehicles in groups, and no one was allowed to be seen in any shirt, credentials or jackets that could make them a target for the violence outside.


We were terrified. We didn't sign on for this - they don't pay us enough to put ourselves out there. Yet, when it came right down to it, our boys were out there, despite the danger to themselves. Four of our guards got injured in the melee. I barely slept that night. Fortunately, the series wrapped up on Sunday with a double game, and the worst of it was the Argentinian fans celebrating by climbing fences and cranes left by the media in the parking lot. No injuries (well, at least to guards) and we didn't need an armed escort to the car.
Let's see, what else is going on? Oh yeah, been working non-stop at both jobs and am downright exhausted. I should be taking tonight to sleep, but no, silly me. My friends at work are taking me out for a belated bday celebration. My poison is tequila,

and everyone knows it. I have a deep sense of forboding....I think I'm in trouble. LOL.

They are also taking the list of ingredients for the Earth version of the Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster so that we all may feel like we've had our brains smashed out with a slice of lemon wrapped round a large gold brick. (All you cool froogs will know what I'm talking about).

Let's see...what else is happening in my world...?


Ah yes, let's move onto the "real" job, as my family likes to refer to it. I personally refer to it as the Pits of Hell DayCare, because I feel like I'm babysitting all 30 men that work here. Especially the one young gentleman on the order desk, Warren, or as I like to refer to him, Moron. Quite frankly, I'm tired of him making major mistakes, and ME having to clean up after him. Not to mention that his mistakes make MY job a lot more difficult. The other day I almost strangled him, and wouldn't have thought twice about it. When the boss yells at me for Warren's mistake, it's time to throw in the towel ~ almost. I am looking for something else in the fall. But I have to wait until then .... becausseeee.....

I'M GOING TO THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH IN LESS THAN A WEEK!!





(And no Vince, I don't mean here )

Mom, Dad, bro, sis in law, hubby and of course my gorgeous nephew are going to be spending a week in Orlando FLA, and I can't wait. Rod & I are driving down with the folks (which is why I haven't even LOOKED at my Harry Potter book - I'm gonna need reading material). The only thing that bites is that I don't think Rod's going to bring his laptop, so I won't have internet access for those (hopefully none) rainy days.


I am so psyched - I can't wait. It's been eight years since my last visit to the House of Mouse. Rod & I have saved for six months for this, and the reward is that we won't have to nickle and dime ourselves. We have more than enough money to enjoy the whole trip without worrying.

I'd like to say that there's more excitement happening in my life, but that's about it. But you know what? I'm glad - cuz if there was any more excitement, I don't think I could handle it. :P








Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Monday, July 16, 2007

Sleeping @ work

Here's a funny to start off the week - got lazy today - won't happen again.....


What to Say If You Should Get Caught Sleeping at Work

The top ten list of things to say when caught sleeping at your desk by the boss ...

Number 10 "They told me at the blood bank that this might happen."

Number 9 "This is just a 15 minute power-nap like they raved about in that 'Time Management' course you sent me to."

Number 8 "Whew! Guess I left the top off the White-Out. You probably got here just in time!"

Number 7 "I wasn't sleeping! I was meditating on the mission statement and envisioning a new paradigm."

Number 6 "I was testing my keyboard for drool resistance."

Number 5 "I was doing a highly specific Yoga exercise to relieve work-related stress. What? Are you discriminatory toward people who practice Yoga?"

Number 4 "Why did you interrupt me? I had almost figured out a solution to our biggest problem."

Number 3 "The coffee machine is broken ..."

Number 2 "Someone must've put decaf in the wrong pot ..."

And the #1 best thing to say if you get caught sleeping at your desk ...

Raise your head from the desk and say, "... in Jesus' name. AMEN!"


Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Chasing Cars

*I love this song, and just felt like posting it today.*






Chasing Cars
Snow Patrol

We'll do it all, everything, on our own
We don't need anything or anyone

If I lay here
If I just lay here
Would you lie with me
And just forget the world

I don't quite know how to say how I feel
Those three words are said too much
They're not enough

If I lay here
If I just lay here
Would you lie with me
And just forget the world

Forget what we're told
Before we get too old
Show me a garden that's bursting into life

Let's waste time
Chasing cars
Around our heads
I need your grace
to remind me
to find my own

If I lay here
If I just lay here
Would you lie with me
And just forget the world

Forget what we're told
Before we get too old
Show me a garden that's bursting into life

All that I am
All that I ever was
Is here in your perfect eyes

They're all I can see
I don't know where
Confused about how as well

I just know that these things
Will never change for us at all

If I lay here
If I just lay here
Would you lie with me
And just forget the world





Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

My Take on the HP craze....

Photo Sharing and Video Hosting at Photobucket




Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Canadian Idol Top Seven - Ladies....& T.O's theatre community says Farewell, as the curtain falls on a legend

Well, I WAS going to post from youtube as I usually do, but the jackasses at CTV decided that it was copyright infringement and removed the clips from the site. So, unfortunately, I don't have any to share. BUT, here are my top five choices for the ladies:

*Montana Martin Iles
*Carly Rae Jepsen
*Annika Odegard (I wish I had last night's performance to share with you - she was phenomenal)
*Mila Miller
*Martha Joy

I'll share results tomorrow with y'all - and we'll see if I'm right.

Now, onto some very sad news for those of us in the Toronto theatre community.

This morning, "Honest" Ed Mirvish was pronounced dead at his home at the age of 92. This is what was printed in the CTV news story.


The businessman known as 'Honest Ed', who entertained Toronto for decades with crazy slogans at his legendary discount department store, has died at the age of 92.


A statement from the family says he died early Wednesday at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto.

Born July 24, 1914, in Colonial Beach, Va., Mirvish was just weeks away from his 93rd birthday.

After moving to Toronto in 1923, Mirvish lived with his family above their downtown Dundas Street grocery store.


At 15, Mirvish's father died and he dropped out of school to support his family.

He was best known for his world-famous "Honest Ed's" bargain store on the corner of Bloor and Bathurst streets.

The store featured discount prices and funny slogans like:
'Welcome, don't faint at our low prices, there's no place to lie down.'
'We don't offer service. We have a slogan--serve yourself and save a lot of money.'



In a tradition that began on his 75th birthday, Mirvish gave away 1,000 free turkeys in his store to shoppers every Christmas.


Toronto Mayor David Miller, who is in Cleveland, said Mirvish's passion for Toronto was second to none.


Miller said in a statement that Mirvish could only be described as a local hero who helped to make Toronto the great city it is.


Toronto councillor and deputy mayor Joe Pantalone described Mirvish as "incredibly influential" and crucial to the development of west-end Toronto.


"He has been a pioneer and an icon. If Ed Mirvish had not been around, Toronto would not be the cosmopolitan and the cultural capital that it," Pantalone told CTV News on Wednesday.


"The city owes a lot to Ed Mirvish, that's why this is a time of sadness but also reflection and appreciation. We would not be who we are if Ed Mirvish had not made his contributions in the economic and cultural field."


Mirvish played a crucial role in expanding Toronto's entertainment scene.


In 1963, Mirvish saved the Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto from demolition, spending $500,000 on restoring it.



Mirvish and his son David ran Mirvish Productions, staging major theatre productions around the world.


Mirvish bought and restored the Old Vic in London, England and with his son built the award-winning Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto in 1993.


His theatres hosted such blockbusters as "The Lion King," "Mamma Mia" and "Miss Saigon."
Former Toronto mayor Mel Lastman said Mirvish's contributions to theatre in Toronto were unsurpassed.


"He was a great Canadian and he was a great Torontonian. He loved this city and he was Mr. Toronto and Mr. Entertainment," Lastman told CTV News.


"He brought live entertainment to Toronto. What a sacrifice, what a deal he had made at that time. He took an old shack and he renovated it a put a fortune into it."


In 1978 he was made a Member of the Order of Canada and promoted to Officer in 1987. He was also the recipient of more than 250 awards.


In their statement, the family said funeral arrangements will be announced shortly.


I had the pleasure of being part of the Mirvish family for three years as an usher at the Royal Alexandra theatre. Ed and his wonderful wife Ann would frequently drop in to see a show, whether with friends, or by themselves. He always had a kind word for everyone on the staff, from the custodians to the management. He never showed his age, and we always said he wore life well.

Those of us who worked for him knew him as a generous man, and one who would have more than likely, filled in for his employees if there was a shortage. He was hands on with all his ventures, giving way more and more in the later years to his son David.

I wish I had more to say on the man. Truth is, his legacy speaks for us all. Without him, theatre wouldn't be the mainstay of Toronto's entertainment district like it is. Without him, we wouldn't have had the pleasure, honor and opportunity to be the premiere city for the hottest show in North America - Mamma Mia. Without Honest Ed's, many underpriviledged families wouldn't be able to furnish their small apartments, or buy clothing for themselves.



Without Ed Mirvish, Toronto would just have been another spot on the map.

He was a legend. He was loved and admired and respected by all who knew him, and all who knew of him.

What a way to go.

Rest In Peace Ed. You will be sorely missed Mr. Mirvish.



Stay sane inside insanity ~ and never forget your towel.

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With love and pride