I know, you all must be sick and tired of me posting about Canada's Olympic medal wins, and considering this is the third medal in an hour, I forgive you if you're irritated. But what can I say? Three medals in an hour is impressive.
This time, our third medal comes from women's weight lifting, 63kg category. Christine Girard couldn't fully lift the weight to get herself a silver, but her performance earned her a bronze medal. Her combined total weight after the two lifts that really counted was 236kg. Good job, Christine Girard.
Stay tuned for more potential Canadian Olympic updates!
Tuesday 31 July 2012
Back Kicking Ass
Canada medals again!
We all know just how much Canada kicks ass (I may be biased, but it's totally true). Well, Canadian Antoine Valois-Fortier solidified that statement by defeating the USA in the 81kg Judo Bronze Medal final.
Along the way, Valois-Fortier knocked off a former gold medallist, a silver medallist, and anyone else who got in his way. His bronze medal win has made Canadian history for the second time today.
Well done, Antoine. Own the moment, own the spotlight, and congrats on your awesome, Canadian-history-making performance.
Let's go, Canada! Keep kicking ass!
We all know just how much Canada kicks ass (I may be biased, but it's totally true). Well, Canadian Antoine Valois-Fortier solidified that statement by defeating the USA in the 81kg Judo Bronze Medal final.
Along the way, Valois-Fortier knocked off a former gold medallist, a silver medallist, and anyone else who got in his way. His bronze medal win has made Canadian history for the second time today.
Well done, Antoine. Own the moment, own the spotlight, and congrats on your awesome, Canadian-history-making performance.
Let's go, Canada! Keep kicking ass!
Dive Bomb? I Don't Think So!
Canada has done it again!
Moments ago were the Women's Syncronized Diving finals off the 10 meter platform. Wearing the maple leaf was Meaghan Benfeito, and her diving partner Rosaline Filion. Their diving history is somewhat comedic. Back when they first started diving, they were partnered up because they were the two shortest people on the team. The pairing turned into a close friendship, and that friendship has lead them to the podium (the first time Canada has medalled in this event since 1996). This medal-winning performance is Canada's second of this Olympics thus far. Bravo, ladies, bravo!
Congrats to Filion and Benfeito on your Bronze Medals!
Go, Canada, Go!
Moments ago were the Women's Syncronized Diving finals off the 10 meter platform. Wearing the maple leaf was Meaghan Benfeito, and her diving partner Rosaline Filion. Their diving history is somewhat comedic. Back when they first started diving, they were partnered up because they were the two shortest people on the team. The pairing turned into a close friendship, and that friendship has lead them to the podium (the first time Canada has medalled in this event since 1996). This medal-winning performance is Canada's second of this Olympics thus far. Bravo, ladies, bravo!
Congrats to Filion and Benfeito on your Bronze Medals!
Go, Canada, Go!
Monday 30 July 2012
A Girl and Her Car: Part III
Yes, I have another story involving my dear, darling 2002 Saturn SL. Poor you. But it's not like I bombard you with tales of my wheels, so I'm certain you can handle it.
So, my poor car was having droop issues that I'd dare to compare to a saggy old lady. You know how there's fabric inside the top of the car (the head-liner)? Well, the glue wasn't holding, and the fabric started to fall, and since my hair was starting to brush against the bottom of the droop, I figured it was time to perform some minor surgery.
I wasn't quite sure how to fix the problem. My mum decided to look up some Youtube videoes to see how to repair my sagging car fabric. The bulk of them told how to detach the fabric, reglue it, and basically get messy. Then she found a video that suggested using twist pins. Twist pins are used with upholstery to keep fabric bits and pieces in place. So we went to Fabricland, and for roughly $5, I bought two 10-packs of twist pins.
Once we got home, we attempted to perform droopy head-liner fabric surgery. Wouldn't you know it, the darn things actually worked. Check it out:
The pins are shaped like little flowers as well.
I know it's not duct tape, which is the handyman secret weapon, but perhaps twist pins could be the handywoman equivilent. One thing's certain, though. My fix would likely cause my pappa to turn his hat sideways (it's what he does when he's befuddled, and at a loss for words).
My car is happy yet again. If only all sagging issues could be solved for $5 (ladies, you know what I mean).
So, my poor car was having droop issues that I'd dare to compare to a saggy old lady. You know how there's fabric inside the top of the car (the head-liner)? Well, the glue wasn't holding, and the fabric started to fall, and since my hair was starting to brush against the bottom of the droop, I figured it was time to perform some minor surgery.
I wasn't quite sure how to fix the problem. My mum decided to look up some Youtube videoes to see how to repair my sagging car fabric. The bulk of them told how to detach the fabric, reglue it, and basically get messy. Then she found a video that suggested using twist pins. Twist pins are used with upholstery to keep fabric bits and pieces in place. So we went to Fabricland, and for roughly $5, I bought two 10-packs of twist pins.
Once we got home, we attempted to perform droopy head-liner fabric surgery. Wouldn't you know it, the darn things actually worked. Check it out:
The pins are shaped like little flowers as well.
I know it's not duct tape, which is the handyman secret weapon, but perhaps twist pins could be the handywoman equivilent. One thing's certain, though. My fix would likely cause my pappa to turn his hat sideways (it's what he does when he's befuddled, and at a loss for words).
My car is happy yet again. If only all sagging issues could be solved for $5 (ladies, you know what I mean).
Sunday 29 July 2012
We're on the Board...The Diving Board!
It's day 2 of the Olympic Games in London, England, and Canada has put itself on the medal map. Earlier today, the women were doing syncronized diving, and our Canadian ladies scored themselves a bronze medal. However, that's not the only way this great put itself on the medal board today.
The Canadian diving pair was made up of Jennifer Abel and Emilie Heymans, and this latest medal-winning dive was a record breaker for Heymans. She's won medals in four consecutive Olympics, and is the only female diver in Olympic history to do so. As if Canada wasn't already awesome enough!
So congrats to Abel and Heymans! If you still have more dives to do, all the best, kick some ass, and GO CANADA, GO!
The Canadian diving pair was made up of Jennifer Abel and Emilie Heymans, and this latest medal-winning dive was a record breaker for Heymans. She's won medals in four consecutive Olympics, and is the only female diver in Olympic history to do so. As if Canada wasn't already awesome enough!
So congrats to Abel and Heymans! If you still have more dives to do, all the best, kick some ass, and GO CANADA, GO!
Friday 27 July 2012
Olympic Junkie
I'm very excited for today. Actually, I'm very excited for the next few weeks. The Olympic Opening Ceremonies are tonight, and I can hardly wait! My mum and I will have ourselves planted in front of the television (I know, shame on us), trying to take in as many events as possible. Even though we prefer the Winter Olympics, the Summer Games are pretty good too.
One of my favourite Olympians will be making what I believe is her final Olympic appearance: Clara Hughes. She started off as a cyclist back in... '96, I believe... won a couple of medals, and then swapped to long track speed skating where she won a few more. Now she's back on the bike. Let's see if she can set another record, and add to her six total medals. She's the only Olympic athlete, in the world, I think, to have won medals in both summer and winter. She really is amazing.
Simon Whitfield, a triathlete, will be Canada's flag bearer for the opening ceremonies. When triathlon first became an Olympic event, he won the gold it's opening year. I wonder how he'll do this time around?
I'm hoping Alexandre Despatie does well with diving. He usually does, but he recently hit his head off a diving board in practice. Though he said he's recovered, and ready to compete, hopefully the stitches have done their work, and won't negatively impact his performance.
In Beijing in 2008, Adam van Kooverdon was on track to medal with the rowing, but fell short, and ended up fourth. I hope he's able to redeem himself this year.
I'm not sure what else I'll watch. Probably a little bit of everything. That aside, good luck to the countries who read this, and of course, GO CANADA, GO!
One of my favourite Olympians will be making what I believe is her final Olympic appearance: Clara Hughes. She started off as a cyclist back in... '96, I believe... won a couple of medals, and then swapped to long track speed skating where she won a few more. Now she's back on the bike. Let's see if she can set another record, and add to her six total medals. She's the only Olympic athlete, in the world, I think, to have won medals in both summer and winter. She really is amazing.
Simon Whitfield, a triathlete, will be Canada's flag bearer for the opening ceremonies. When triathlon first became an Olympic event, he won the gold it's opening year. I wonder how he'll do this time around?
I'm hoping Alexandre Despatie does well with diving. He usually does, but he recently hit his head off a diving board in practice. Though he said he's recovered, and ready to compete, hopefully the stitches have done their work, and won't negatively impact his performance.
In Beijing in 2008, Adam van Kooverdon was on track to medal with the rowing, but fell short, and ended up fourth. I hope he's able to redeem himself this year.
I'm not sure what else I'll watch. Probably a little bit of everything. That aside, good luck to the countries who read this, and of course, GO CANADA, GO!
Wednesday 25 July 2012
Know When to Hold 'Em, Know When to Fold 'Em
Those who are familiar with my posts, or with me in general, know how I feel about LGBT rights, equality, and homophobia. In short, I'm an LGBT ally. Even though being an ally, for me, means speaking up, and supporting the gay community, sometimes a person, such as myself, needs to know when to zip the lip, and bite the tongue. This evening was one of those occasions.
I won't drop any names, but I will say that I was with people I very much enjoy. This made biting the tongue much more dufficult. You'd think expressing an opinion about, or support for, the gay community would be easier and more accepted. Given their religious background? Find me a casket, and start digging my grave.
The household I was in currently has a guest from south of the Canadian border. Mention had been made of an area to visit in said guest's home state. Apparently, such an idea was great and all, but there was problem: it catered greatly to the LGBT community. Considering there was an extreme homophobic in the room, you can imagine just how well that idea went over. You have better chances of spotting a flying pig.
I wanted so badly to speak up, especially when the homophobic in the room started going on about how unnatural and wrong being gay is. The person sitting next to me, who knows I'm an LGBT supporter, kept looking at me and mouthing, "don't say anything about your friend." Keeping quiet was hard. Thankfully, I was able to speak up without being skewered when the homophobe made mention of the time a gay person built up the courage to ask him for his number. I said, "did you take it for the complement it was?" Naturally, the answer was no. I'm pretty sure you can figure out the reason why.
I really can't explain why it was important that I bite my tongue for the minutes-long homophobic rant. I don't fear persecution, and I don't fear a lack of respect, or being viewed negatively. Sometimes, your intuition speaks to you, and you'd be wise to listen to it. It spoke to me this evening (to go with the mouthing member of the house I was in), and I reluctantly chose to listen.
I still have a huge problem with homophobia. I also hate that my intuition encouraged me to resist the urge, and keep quiet, along with a resident of that house. It would have been a messy battle, but at least someone else in the room knows where I stand and why. If only the other homophobics in this world would open their eyes, and see the light. Maybe then we could all get along... And I'd no longer have to hold my tongue.
Tuesday 24 July 2012
I May Not be Jamie Oliver, but Damn It, I Can Pretend!
Last night, for the first time since January, I decided to make gnocchi. This time, I decided that I wanted to attempt a rose sauce instead of straight-up tomato. Reason why I haven't made gnocchi in so long is the boyfriend has taken me to this Italian restaurant called The Express, and their gnocchi filled me with all sorts of happy. I was basically put into a new gnocchi bracket (anyone who's a fan of Corner Gas knows what I mean).
Well, I decided that I was going to try making gnocci again, and see how well I could do compared to The Express. I was definitely getting my Jamie Oliver on as I'd taste this, add a pinch of that, and a splash of something else. It's definitely a learning process. However, I can honestly say that the smell was wonderful, and I think it looked pretty good too.
Well, I decided that I was going to try making gnocci again, and see how well I could do compared to The Express. I was definitely getting my Jamie Oliver on as I'd taste this, add a pinch of that, and a splash of something else. It's definitely a learning process. However, I can honestly say that the smell was wonderful, and I think it looked pretty good too.
My gnocchi simmering away
I gave my final product a try, and here's my verdict: I'm no where near as good as The Express, but I think I can hold my own. I was informed that the tiniest bit of sugar would reduce the acidity, so I'll do that next time. I think I'll also add a splash more cream, and if I have to use the pre-roasted, pre-ground garlic again, I'll use half a shake less. But, overall, it was still pretty good. The only thing I got on par with The Express was I managed to cook the gnocchi so it'd melt in my mouth.
The finished product
I may not be Jamie Oliver, but damn it, I can pretend.
Monday 23 July 2012
What a Flood!
Last night, Hamilton and the surrounding area, was flooded in a storm that gave us a month's worth of rain in two hours. I swear, I thought I was going to have to canoe out of my driveway, it was so flooded. At one point, I couldn't see my car outside of our kitchen window (which is only about ten feet away), and the rain was horizontal. I thought for sure we were going to have a tornado touch down. Luckily, such was not the case. Also, the power kept surging. It was quite the chain of storm cells (the average thunderstorm cell lasts 15-30 minutes, so you can imagine just how many went through last night). But, everything drained quickly enough, the grass looks infinitely greener, and the crops are definitely happier. If you were caught in the flooding, I hope all is alright. If you didn't get any rain, I would have gladly shared it with you, and hopefully you get some soon.
And here are a few pics from last night's insanity:
And here are a few pics from last night's insanity:
The driveway
The favourite climbing tree
The ditch along the edge or one of our fields
Review: Heat Rises
Fans of the television show Castle will probably be well aware of this book. For those who aren't familiar with it, Heat Rises is a book that's branched off the show, and is the biggest inside joke ever.
On the television show, Richard Castle writes a series of books based on Detective Kate Beckett. He names his character Nikki Heat, and from there comes the Heat books, Heat Rises included. When you go to pick up this book off the shelf, it's written by Richard Castle (yes, the television character).
Heat Rises is a fun read. It isn't a deep, serious book like what I prefer, but given the joke with it all, it was pleasant. A Catholic Priest is murdered in an exotic, erotic club, and Nikki Heat, along with her newspaper reporter partner Jameson Rook, is on the case. There are dirty cops, those who you think you can trust can't be trusted after all, explosions, and true to show form, someone's always trying to kill Nikki Heat.
Overall, this book was worth reading. It was silly, and I could visualize all of the characters from Castle in this book. That being said, I really look forward to reading something gritty and deep again.
On the television show, Richard Castle writes a series of books based on Detective Kate Beckett. He names his character Nikki Heat, and from there comes the Heat books, Heat Rises included. When you go to pick up this book off the shelf, it's written by Richard Castle (yes, the television character).
Heat Rises is a fun read. It isn't a deep, serious book like what I prefer, but given the joke with it all, it was pleasant. A Catholic Priest is murdered in an exotic, erotic club, and Nikki Heat, along with her newspaper reporter partner Jameson Rook, is on the case. There are dirty cops, those who you think you can trust can't be trusted after all, explosions, and true to show form, someone's always trying to kill Nikki Heat.
Overall, this book was worth reading. It was silly, and I could visualize all of the characters from Castle in this book. That being said, I really look forward to reading something gritty and deep again.
Friday 20 July 2012
Review: The Dark Knight Rises
If you've read my previous post, you'll know that last night, I was sitting in a movie theatre in Oakville waiting to watch the 12:10am showing of The Dark Knight Rises. Every other film is going to get destroyed at the box office this weekend by this movie, and it'll be well deserved.
When Catwoman leans into Batman in The Dark Knight Rises, and tells him that a storm's coming, she's not kidding. The bulk of the film really is a war between Gotham City, and Bane, and it's fantastic, especially since Bruce Wayne's toys are used against him.
I only had one issue with this movie, and it was my difficulty with being able to understand Bane. Because of his mask, he had a machine-like sound, but unlike Darth Vader, I had difficulty making out what he was saying. If Darth Vader was made easy to understand in the 1970s, there's no excuse for the audibility difficulties with Bane in 2012.
All things considered, this movie is definitely worth seeing. I won't say that seeing it in theatres is a must, but you'll appreciate the experience a whole lot more.
When Catwoman leans into Batman in The Dark Knight Rises, and tells him that a storm's coming, she's not kidding. The bulk of the film really is a war between Gotham City, and Bane, and it's fantastic, especially since Bruce Wayne's toys are used against him.
I only had one issue with this movie, and it was my difficulty with being able to understand Bane. Because of his mask, he had a machine-like sound, but unlike Darth Vader, I had difficulty making out what he was saying. If Darth Vader was made easy to understand in the 1970s, there's no excuse for the audibility difficulties with Bane in 2012.
All things considered, this movie is definitely worth seeing. I won't say that seeing it in theatres is a must, but you'll appreciate the experience a whole lot more.
Thursday 19 July 2012
Waiting for the Knight to Rise
I couldn't help but share that I'm either awesome or foolish. Methinks I'll go with awesome.
As many of you are probably aware, The Dark Knight Rises officially comes out in about an hour and a half. Guess who's currently sitting in a movie theatre at the Oakville-Mississauga border waiting for it to begin? That's right. Yours truly. Oddly, I never did such a thing with Star Wars. Strange.
Anyways, when the final installment of this trilogy is over, I'll be certain to post my review. With luck, this film won't disappoint.
Quail of a Tale
As you all likely know, I've been job hunting a lot lately. Just in this past week, I've had three interviews. One didn't go anywhere, I had a follow-up with one today, and I'll hear my fate about the other next week. I didn't think I'd ever classify a follow-up interview as delicious, but today, it definitely makes sense.
I had a meeting at the Oakville campus of Liasion College, which, for those of you who don't know, is a private culinary school (it's geared a bit more for those who are mid to late twenties+. Not that they're particular about ages, but it's a case of if you attend a more public college, at least there would be extra curricular activities, however, if you're looking at changing careers, it's the sort of place you'd want to attend). I was introduced to the head chef, and the students who were there. One of the students, who's in the advanced program, was making quail. I was informed that if I was still around, I'd get to give it a try. What you need to know is I've never had quail before, and I wasn't quite sure what to expect... if I hadn't left yet, that is.
Well, I was having my follow-up, everything's going well, and then there was a knock at the door. Sure enough, just like the student had said, he brought in a small plate with the quail he'd prepared for the interviewer and I to share, and some cutlery. I can say that my first quail experience was quite good. It was slightly gamey, but not in a bad way. I think that's how it's supposed to taste. I swear, the quails looked like over-sized chicken wings. But then, I didn't really know how big or small they were to begin with.
So that's my story. Taking the position at the college would mean that I'd be very well fed. And the best part is apparently Mondays are baking days. I'm thinking my arm could possibly be twisted.
I had a meeting at the Oakville campus of Liasion College, which, for those of you who don't know, is a private culinary school (it's geared a bit more for those who are mid to late twenties+. Not that they're particular about ages, but it's a case of if you attend a more public college, at least there would be extra curricular activities, however, if you're looking at changing careers, it's the sort of place you'd want to attend). I was introduced to the head chef, and the students who were there. One of the students, who's in the advanced program, was making quail. I was informed that if I was still around, I'd get to give it a try. What you need to know is I've never had quail before, and I wasn't quite sure what to expect... if I hadn't left yet, that is.
Well, I was having my follow-up, everything's going well, and then there was a knock at the door. Sure enough, just like the student had said, he brought in a small plate with the quail he'd prepared for the interviewer and I to share, and some cutlery. I can say that my first quail experience was quite good. It was slightly gamey, but not in a bad way. I think that's how it's supposed to taste. I swear, the quails looked like over-sized chicken wings. But then, I didn't really know how big or small they were to begin with.
So that's my story. Taking the position at the college would mean that I'd be very well fed. And the best part is apparently Mondays are baking days. I'm thinking my arm could possibly be twisted.
Monday 16 July 2012
Review: I Suck at Girls
I Suck at Girls was written by Justin Halpern, who just happens to be the same guy who brought the world Shit My Dad Says. And yes, much of the content in this book is shit that Halpern's dad has said.
Justin Halpern decides that he wants to propose to his girlfriend, and the first person he tells is his dad. His father, in the only way he knows how, informs Justin to take a day to think everything over, so he can be certain that he is making the right decision. This book is the 24 hours worth of stuff that goes through his mind that pertains to the female gender, to help him confirm or deny with himself that proposing really is what he wants to do.
The book starts with Halpern's childhood, chronicling his first attempts at trying to impress a girl when he was seven or eight years old, to losing his virginity, to going off to an island in Spain, and getting his party on for nights on end. The entire tale, from start to finish, is absolutely hilarious.
If you like sarcasm with hits of profanity with a mix of innocence and desperation, I'm certain you'd enjoy I Suck at Girls.
Justin Halpern decides that he wants to propose to his girlfriend, and the first person he tells is his dad. His father, in the only way he knows how, informs Justin to take a day to think everything over, so he can be certain that he is making the right decision. This book is the 24 hours worth of stuff that goes through his mind that pertains to the female gender, to help him confirm or deny with himself that proposing really is what he wants to do.
The book starts with Halpern's childhood, chronicling his first attempts at trying to impress a girl when he was seven or eight years old, to losing his virginity, to going off to an island in Spain, and getting his party on for nights on end. The entire tale, from start to finish, is absolutely hilarious.
If you like sarcasm with hits of profanity with a mix of innocence and desperation, I'm certain you'd enjoy I Suck at Girls.
(Partially) Crossed Off the List: #15
For those of you who've been keeping tabs on my Summer To-Do List, I've already started to make decent headway on #15: See as many summer blockbusters as possible. I think I'm off to a half-decent start.
Back in May, when I wrote the initial summer to-do list, I had The Avengers on it for #15. For me, that was my summer blockbuster start (sorry Hunger Games, but you don't count for this). Since, I've seen Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, and The Amazing Spiderman (reviews for both of them can be found on this site). Well, this week, I'll be adding to the list.
Only once have I attended a movie on its opening day, and that was back in 2008 when Inglorious Basterds came out (my cousin and I went to an early evening show). This Thursday night, well, Friday morning if you want to get really technical, I'll be going with a group of people to see the third and final installment of Chris Nolan's Batman saga, The Dark Knight Rises. It'll be the 12:10am show on the Friday, and I'm feeling equal parts foolishness and excitement. Excited, because the first two films, particularly The Dark Knight, were fantastic, but foolish to be going to see a film at such a crazy hour. But, I get the feeling that it'll be worth it.
So, come Friday, you can expect a review for the latest item on my list. Let's see how many more blockbusters I can add to it...
Back in May, when I wrote the initial summer to-do list, I had The Avengers on it for #15. For me, that was my summer blockbuster start (sorry Hunger Games, but you don't count for this). Since, I've seen Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, and The Amazing Spiderman (reviews for both of them can be found on this site). Well, this week, I'll be adding to the list.
Only once have I attended a movie on its opening day, and that was back in 2008 when Inglorious Basterds came out (my cousin and I went to an early evening show). This Thursday night, well, Friday morning if you want to get really technical, I'll be going with a group of people to see the third and final installment of Chris Nolan's Batman saga, The Dark Knight Rises. It'll be the 12:10am show on the Friday, and I'm feeling equal parts foolishness and excitement. Excited, because the first two films, particularly The Dark Knight, were fantastic, but foolish to be going to see a film at such a crazy hour. But, I get the feeling that it'll be worth it.
So, come Friday, you can expect a review for the latest item on my list. Let's see how many more blockbusters I can add to it...
Saturday 14 July 2012
Bastille Day
To my readers in France, I hope you're all having a good Bastille Day celebration.
For those who have never heard of such a thing, the Bastille was a prison in Paris for the higher class crowd (if my memory serves me correctly... If I'm mistaken, please let me know). During the French Revolution, what was known as the "Storming of the Bastille" occurred on this day in 1789. The prison was seized, and those inside were released. Since it was such an important event to occur during the Revolution, the French have celebrated the Bastille's storming ever since.
Happy Bastille Celebrations, France!
For those who have never heard of such a thing, the Bastille was a prison in Paris for the higher class crowd (if my memory serves me correctly... If I'm mistaken, please let me know). During the French Revolution, what was known as the "Storming of the Bastille" occurred on this day in 1789. The prison was seized, and those inside were released. Since it was such an important event to occur during the Revolution, the French have celebrated the Bastille's storming ever since.
Happy Bastille Celebrations, France!
Review: The Amazing Spiderman
Before I get started, I must first admit that I only saw about 15 minutes or so of the Spiderman with Toby Whatshisface (which I found to be incredibly cliche, and therefore a combination of cheesy and tacky), so this review will likely be biased.
Last night, I went to see The Amazing Spiderman, and yes, it was fantastic. Other than a guy dressed up in a spandex suit shooting webs from his wrists, with a touch of sarcasm, I really wasn't sure what to expect from this movie. I had been told that the particular Spiderman comic that this film was supposed to be based on was his origin story. So that's what I had to go with.
I wasn't disappointed. The action was fantastic, there was plenty of humour, and Stan Lee made his cameo appearance, like he's known to do in all the other films based on his comics. Some of the story was heartbreaking, such as the fate of Perter Parker's parents, and his Uncle Ben. However, all the swinging around that Spidey was doing made me a wee bit envious. It looked like he must have had a ton of fun doing the filming.
There were members of the cast who I hadn't seen before (I couldn't tell you the name of the actor who plays Peter Parker/ Spiderman, or Dr. Connors), but there were also some names I hadn't seen in a while (Sally Fields and Martin Sheen). Also, Dennis Leary did a pretty good job as Captain Stacey, and I could see why people enjoy Emma Stone so much. I liked the mix of the known, and not so well known in the acting business.
I would certainly suggest going to see this movie, especially if you're a fan of action films.
Last night, I went to see The Amazing Spiderman, and yes, it was fantastic. Other than a guy dressed up in a spandex suit shooting webs from his wrists, with a touch of sarcasm, I really wasn't sure what to expect from this movie. I had been told that the particular Spiderman comic that this film was supposed to be based on was his origin story. So that's what I had to go with.
I wasn't disappointed. The action was fantastic, there was plenty of humour, and Stan Lee made his cameo appearance, like he's known to do in all the other films based on his comics. Some of the story was heartbreaking, such as the fate of Perter Parker's parents, and his Uncle Ben. However, all the swinging around that Spidey was doing made me a wee bit envious. It looked like he must have had a ton of fun doing the filming.
There were members of the cast who I hadn't seen before (I couldn't tell you the name of the actor who plays Peter Parker/ Spiderman, or Dr. Connors), but there were also some names I hadn't seen in a while (Sally Fields and Martin Sheen). Also, Dennis Leary did a pretty good job as Captain Stacey, and I could see why people enjoy Emma Stone so much. I liked the mix of the known, and not so well known in the acting business.
I would certainly suggest going to see this movie, especially if you're a fan of action films.
Friday 13 July 2012
Who Did the Rain Dance?
For those who don't know, southern Ontario has been terribly dry as of late. I would even dare to utter the word drought. I realize that it's summer, and that people want heat and the sun, and that's great, but I'm still surrounded by farm property, despite my proximity to the Hammer, and the crops out here have been in dire need of rain. I can't remember the last time I saw corn so stressed, and the beans in our fields were looking worse for wear too.
People who aren't accustomed to country life, or who see crops in the fields, probably forget that those crops not only feed us all, but they're someone's livlihood. Some people drive their cars to the office, farmers take their tractors to the barns. It was hard enough that the warm weather came early, and then snapped back to cold, killing large percentages of produce we take for granted, such as cherries, plums, and blueberries. To have a drought add salt to the wound? It's been a rough season.
Rain wasn't even in the forecast today, so I was slightly confused when I thought I heard thunder. I checked the radar, and there was a blip so small that had I blinked, I would have missed it. The rain has been coming down for about a half hour now, and I hope it goes for a bit longer. The grass is greener, the beans are jumping, and we'll finally have some relief from the heat and drought.
For everyone else who's in dire need of rain, I hope you get some soon. Whoever did the rain dance, the farming community thanks you.
Friday the 13th
For those in North America with a motorcycle, particularly Southern Ontario, especially within a few hours of Lake Erie, today is their day. Every Friday the 13th, thousands upon thousands of people with their motorbikes make their way to Port Dover (on Lake Erie) for what is quite possibly the biggest bike rally the world has ever seen. According to The Hamilton Spectator, roughly 150 000 bikes are expected for this year. As this one has come in July, I wouldn't be surprised in the least.
A few years ago (ok, maybe more than a few... I can't remember if it was before my move to Thunder Bay, or after I returned back home), I attended a Friday the 13th rally. No, I didn't have a bike to ride out (the best I've done is a dirt bike I used to ride when I was younger before I outgrew it), but I do have an aunt who lives in Dover. People can get in and out of the town with their four-wheeled vehicles on the Thursday and the Saturday, but the Friday is so busy, that unless you have a motorbike, or the three-wheel equivalent, you're not going anywhere, and I don't think you're allowed to for the day anyway. But I must say that it was quite the experience to sit on her front lawn, and watch a never-ending line of motorbikes enter the town. Walking down to Main St to look at a fraction of them would leave you rubbing elbows with the person next to you. It was all bikes for as far as the eye could see.
Back when I was in grade 12, I did my co-op at Peninsulair, which was a flight school at the Hamilton Airport. Sure enough, Friday the 13th came around while I had my co-op. It was either in May or June, I can't quite remember. What I can remember, though, is one of the PA-140 Cherokees was fresh out of the shop with some brand-spankin'-new parts, and it's reintroduction to the sky was a flight to Port Dover to check out all the bikes. I had been asked if I wanted to go along. Methinks the answer is quite obvious with that one. There were three of us in the Cherokee, and another three or four people in the PA-160 Warrior, and off we went to fly over Dover for part of the afternoon (best co-op day ever). That, I must say, was an interesting experience. Everything was so shiny and bright, you weren't exactly sure where the lake ended and the bikes began, the metal and water were glistening so much.
If you're wanting to take part in Friday the 13th, but you have no means of getting there, or you simply live too far away, follow the link I'm attaching for the official Friday the 13th site from Port Dover. There are pictures, facts and pieces of history surrounding the event, as well as a link for a live video feed.
Happy Friday the 13th, everyone!
Friday the 13th link below:
http://www.pd13.com/content/1/Home
A few years ago (ok, maybe more than a few... I can't remember if it was before my move to Thunder Bay, or after I returned back home), I attended a Friday the 13th rally. No, I didn't have a bike to ride out (the best I've done is a dirt bike I used to ride when I was younger before I outgrew it), but I do have an aunt who lives in Dover. People can get in and out of the town with their four-wheeled vehicles on the Thursday and the Saturday, but the Friday is so busy, that unless you have a motorbike, or the three-wheel equivalent, you're not going anywhere, and I don't think you're allowed to for the day anyway. But I must say that it was quite the experience to sit on her front lawn, and watch a never-ending line of motorbikes enter the town. Walking down to Main St to look at a fraction of them would leave you rubbing elbows with the person next to you. It was all bikes for as far as the eye could see.
Back when I was in grade 12, I did my co-op at Peninsulair, which was a flight school at the Hamilton Airport. Sure enough, Friday the 13th came around while I had my co-op. It was either in May or June, I can't quite remember. What I can remember, though, is one of the PA-140 Cherokees was fresh out of the shop with some brand-spankin'-new parts, and it's reintroduction to the sky was a flight to Port Dover to check out all the bikes. I had been asked if I wanted to go along. Methinks the answer is quite obvious with that one. There were three of us in the Cherokee, and another three or four people in the PA-160 Warrior, and off we went to fly over Dover for part of the afternoon (best co-op day ever). That, I must say, was an interesting experience. Everything was so shiny and bright, you weren't exactly sure where the lake ended and the bikes began, the metal and water were glistening so much.
If you're wanting to take part in Friday the 13th, but you have no means of getting there, or you simply live too far away, follow the link I'm attaching for the official Friday the 13th site from Port Dover. There are pictures, facts and pieces of history surrounding the event, as well as a link for a live video feed.
Happy Friday the 13th, everyone!
Friday the 13th link below:
http://www.pd13.com/content/1/Home
Saturday 7 July 2012
Our Newest Addition (Introducing Meu)
A little over a week ago, on a night when we were having a bonfire, a cat that we had never seen before, wandered over to keep us company. The night turned into the next day, and still she stayed. We'd hear her meowing constantly. We started to give her a bit of food, as she was terribly skinny, and some water. After a week, we knew that we were going to keep her.
My mum had called Glanbrook Animal Control, and no one and reported this talkative little tabby missing. We figure that someone decided that they didn't want her anymore, saw our barn, and dumped her off. Honestly, it's not uncommon to see dumped off cats wandering around. Until Meu (said me-you), they'd all kept to themselves, and did their own thing. Meu was wanting someone to love her.
So, yesterday, we took her to the vet, and got started on her shots, as we have no idea if her previous owner had done so. We also established that she's about 1 1/2-2 years old, because we had no clue, but figured she was pretty young. However, she was already litter trained, so that was a bonus.
Throughout the week, we'd kept Meu in great gram's part of the house. Yesterday was her first day in our part, and she's settling in nicely. Last night she cried a bit, but once she came into my room, she hopped up into my bed, and her crying stopped. Who knew something so little could take up so much space? Once Meu got herself comfortable, we were both able to sleep well.
A new day, a new addition to the family. Life's good.
My mum had called Glanbrook Animal Control, and no one and reported this talkative little tabby missing. We figure that someone decided that they didn't want her anymore, saw our barn, and dumped her off. Honestly, it's not uncommon to see dumped off cats wandering around. Until Meu (said me-you), they'd all kept to themselves, and did their own thing. Meu was wanting someone to love her.
So, yesterday, we took her to the vet, and got started on her shots, as we have no idea if her previous owner had done so. We also established that she's about 1 1/2-2 years old, because we had no clue, but figured she was pretty young. However, she was already litter trained, so that was a bonus.
Throughout the week, we'd kept Meu in great gram's part of the house. Yesterday was her first day in our part, and she's settling in nicely. Last night she cried a bit, but once she came into my room, she hopped up into my bed, and her crying stopped. Who knew something so little could take up so much space? Once Meu got herself comfortable, we were both able to sleep well.
Wednesday 4 July 2012
Monday 2 July 2012
An "Oh, Canada!" Celebration
Last night, like many years before, my family and I made our way to the ArcelorMittal Dofasco Rec Park for Canada Day festivities. Like every year, the party didn't disappoint. There were games and activities, more so for the kids, a photo booth, free mini putt, and assorted musical acts.
Every year comes with a musical tribute/ impersonator. Past acts, all of which I've enjoyed immensely, include Abba Gold (Abba), Stayin' Alive (BeeGees), Shania Twin (Shania Twain), but the best by far are The Caveners (Beatles tribute). I'm not exactly a Beatles fan (I think they're overrated and mediocre), but The Caveners are fantastic, and I'd even dare to say that they've been my fave tribute act at the park. Last night was a Michael Jackson impersonator. I must admit that even though I prefer Prince over MJ, the Jackson tribute was quite well done.
For as much as I enjoy the afternoon's activities, and the musical acts, the fireworks display is always the best part. However, last night's Canada Day fireworks display was amazing! It's always top notch, but this year was the best yet. They really outdid themselves, and I loved it!
The rec park always sets their fireworks to music, and I don't know how they're going to top this year's score. Sure, fireworks exploding to James Bond is pretty awesome, and West Side Story has some excellent music, but there's something about the grand finale, the biggest explosions, and most spectacular in-air display being set to the theme from Star Wars. As I'm a Star Wars freak (see my May post titled "May the Fourth Be With You"), this definitely made me very happy. My mum had commented earlier today that she wasn't sure what Star Wars had to do with Canada, so drawing at straws, I told her that a Canadian played Anakin Skywalker in two of the prequels. But I was still more than content either way.
Well, for those of you who live in this great nation, or are from the great white north, I hope you had yourself a fantastic Canada Day as well. If not, you missed out on one hell of a party!
Every year comes with a musical tribute/ impersonator. Past acts, all of which I've enjoyed immensely, include Abba Gold (Abba), Stayin' Alive (BeeGees), Shania Twin (Shania Twain), but the best by far are The Caveners (Beatles tribute). I'm not exactly a Beatles fan (I think they're overrated and mediocre), but The Caveners are fantastic, and I'd even dare to say that they've been my fave tribute act at the park. Last night was a Michael Jackson impersonator. I must admit that even though I prefer Prince over MJ, the Jackson tribute was quite well done.
For as much as I enjoy the afternoon's activities, and the musical acts, the fireworks display is always the best part. However, last night's Canada Day fireworks display was amazing! It's always top notch, but this year was the best yet. They really outdid themselves, and I loved it!
The rec park always sets their fireworks to music, and I don't know how they're going to top this year's score. Sure, fireworks exploding to James Bond is pretty awesome, and West Side Story has some excellent music, but there's something about the grand finale, the biggest explosions, and most spectacular in-air display being set to the theme from Star Wars. As I'm a Star Wars freak (see my May post titled "May the Fourth Be With You"), this definitely made me very happy. My mum had commented earlier today that she wasn't sure what Star Wars had to do with Canada, so drawing at straws, I told her that a Canadian played Anakin Skywalker in two of the prequels. But I was still more than content either way.
Well, for those of you who live in this great nation, or are from the great white north, I hope you had yourself a fantastic Canada Day as well. If not, you missed out on one hell of a party!
Bursting With Pride
My home country was quite the place to be this past week. Not just because yesterday was Canada Day, but for the LGBT community and its Allies, it was Pride Week, particularly in Toronto, Ontario. There was also a Pride celebration in the Hammer recently as well.
Many people view Pride in different ways. I choose to see Pride as a celebration of both difference and unity, a time when everyone can come together to celebrate the human spirit as one, while as a whole fight homophobia.
I must confess, I've never been to Pride. I was once asked to go by one of my closest friends. I had said yes, that I'd join him, and then something came up on his end, and we didn't end up going. That being said, if he ever asks me again to join him, of course I would go. He's my longest-standing friend, our dearest friends are also our family, and there are some things you do for family without a second thought.
I remember when that specific friend came out to me a few years ago. He was really nervous about doing so. Even though he knew I wouldn't think any different of him, he still wasn't sure what my reaction would be. When he came out to my family, my mother hugged him, and then we all told him that he was still loved the same as always. As for me, I don't know who was in deeper denial about him being gay (him or me), but I can tell you that while many other people weren't surprised, I was shocked. But, after we laughed over my foolishness for a few minutes, we had a serious conversation. In his culture, being homosexual is punishable by death, particularly stoning. Think what you want of me, but it'll be a cold day in hell before I let anyone harm him for his sexual preferences. And even if it is a cold day in hell? I'm Canadian. I'm built to withstand the cold. And same for the rest of you who are members of the LGBT community. I will ALWAYS stand by your side, and treat you as equals.
I'm certain you've all heard about the bullying going on in schools, and the number of kids who are choosing suicide because they can't take the abuse anymore. Well, I can tell you of at least one high school that has chosen to fight back: Saltfleet District High School (my former high school). My sister Allie is one of the founding members of Saltfleet's Positive Spaces club. I'm not sure who chose to start it, but my sister joined it because one of her dearest friends is homosexual. The Positive Spaces group was for everyone who felt out of place, and needed somewhere to belong. It was where the LGBT kids could feel a sense of comfort, and openly discuss their sexuality without judgement. The world needs more people and places like this. My sister may not be in high school anymore, but last I heard, the Positive Space club was still in operation.
Perhaps I'm naive, as I will never understand homophobia. As far as I'm concerned, we are all people. We all live. We all breathe. We all feel, and if someone feels comfort and compassion with a member of the same gender, who the hell cares? So long as the relationship that person is in is caring, and built out of love, trust and respect, why should others feel the need to make it their (negative) business? As far as I'm concerned, and my family thinks the same way, what two consenting people choose to do in private is no one's business but their own, and if you want to marry, we will support you. If people could put as much effort into getting along as they do into hatred and discrimination, this world, our world, would be a much better place.
For more on the subject, please refer to my October 2011 posts, "Why So Homophobic?" and "Why So Homophobic?: Part II".
Sunday 1 July 2012
A Few of My Favourite Things: Oh Canada! Edition
For those who live in Canada, you already know what's significant about today. For those of you who don't, it's Canada Day, the day where all of us in this nation celebrate the birthday of the best damn country in the universe!
I have a little tradition that I try to uphold every year on Canada Day, and if you don't mind, I'd like to share it with you. For the entire day, I will only listen to the best music that Canada has to offer, and I'm not talking about this Justin Bieber crap either (he's just embarrassing). No, I'm talking stuff like Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Alanis Morissette, Tom Cochrane, Bryan Adams. So, to start you off, here are some kick-ass Canadian tunes.
First up, Alanis Morissette, "All I Really Want".
Bryan Adams, "Run to You" (I know, you were expecting, "Summer of '69").
You can never go wrong with a little BTO, "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet".
Randy Bachman, who's the Bachman half of Bachman-Turner Overdrive, is also part of another awesome Canadian band: The Guess Who. I think Guess Who's, "No Sugar Tonight/ New Mother Nature" is warranted right about now.
Now, in other countries, such as the USA, when references to the "big leagues" are made, it generally refers to baseball. If you're Canadian, and if you're familiar with Tom Cochrane, you'd know that his song, "The Big League" is all about the sport that this country cherishes most: hockey. I must confess, I love the onomatopoeia in this song.
I'm such a terrible Canadian! I almost forgot about Rush (I think I'll go with a little "Tom Sawyer" for this list)
and Loverboy. Yes, "Working for the Weekend" is totally cliche, but hey, we're having a long weekend in Canada at the moment, so it's totally appropriate.
Of course, Canada has other big name retro artists, but I just can't leave out some of the more modern-day groups, such as Hedley. "Never Too Late" has summer written all over it.
State of Shock is awesome too. I saw them open for Hedley once a few years ago, and they were fantastic. "Hearts that Bleed" happens to be my personal fave.
Carly-Rae Jepsen has been doing very well for herself lately, and even though, "Call Me, Maybe" is her big song as of late, Allie and I prefer, "Curiosity".
Marianas Trench is pretty fantastic too. "Fallout" is their hit song at the moment, and I'm also loving it at the moment too (don't worry, they have tons of others).
There are many more Canadian artists from the present day, however, I just don't have enough hours in the day to post them all. But you know you've heard them, many many times.
Though I love to spend my day listening to the best music that my home and native land has to offer, one of my favourite things to do on Canada Day is watch Molson Canadian beer commercials. I hate to break it to all the other countries out there, but Canadian beer commercials are awesome. If you live in a place that doesn't air commercials for alcoholic beverages, I apologize, but, at least you don't have to be sheltered anymore.
To get an idea as to how epic Canadian beer commercials are, I'm going to start you off with the "Joe Canadian" rant.
This rant makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and incredibly patriotic. Perhaps it's because Joe rants of so many truths.
And now for a few others that don't really have names associated with them, however, they're still epic.
Oh, breaking stereotypes. Gotta love it! To finish, I leave you with Molson's, "I Am" anthem. How many other countries have an unofficial (alcoholic) anthem?
Sure, our music is awesome, and our beer commercials are epic, but those are just a part of why I love being Canadian. It's my heritage. I'm about as purebred Canuck as you can get. I'm sixth generation on the family property (we've had it since 1871), but my family has been here since long before then. My great gram's family has been on Canada's soil since the 1700's. I had a great grandfather, whom I never met, who was born in the Eastern Townships of Quebec in the 1800s, and guess what? His parents were born in Quebec as well. My grandmother is Metis ( her mother was Abenaki from Quebec as well). Yep. I'm Canadian born and bred, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
So, as I bid you all farewell for now, I'll leave you with two more anthems of importance. If you're from Canada, you'll definitely now this one. After all, it involves hockey. For the record, I prefer the original. If you are utterly clueless as to what this hockey anthem is, it's the CBC's original Hockey Night in Canada intro.
And that's how Canadians do national anthems!
Happy 145th Birthday, Canada!
I have a little tradition that I try to uphold every year on Canada Day, and if you don't mind, I'd like to share it with you. For the entire day, I will only listen to the best music that Canada has to offer, and I'm not talking about this Justin Bieber crap either (he's just embarrassing). No, I'm talking stuff like Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Alanis Morissette, Tom Cochrane, Bryan Adams. So, to start you off, here are some kick-ass Canadian tunes.
First up, Alanis Morissette, "All I Really Want".
Bryan Adams, "Run to You" (I know, you were expecting, "Summer of '69").
You can never go wrong with a little BTO, "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet".
Randy Bachman, who's the Bachman half of Bachman-Turner Overdrive, is also part of another awesome Canadian band: The Guess Who. I think Guess Who's, "No Sugar Tonight/ New Mother Nature" is warranted right about now.
Now, in other countries, such as the USA, when references to the "big leagues" are made, it generally refers to baseball. If you're Canadian, and if you're familiar with Tom Cochrane, you'd know that his song, "The Big League" is all about the sport that this country cherishes most: hockey. I must confess, I love the onomatopoeia in this song.
I'm such a terrible Canadian! I almost forgot about Rush (I think I'll go with a little "Tom Sawyer" for this list)
and Loverboy. Yes, "Working for the Weekend" is totally cliche, but hey, we're having a long weekend in Canada at the moment, so it's totally appropriate.
Of course, Canada has other big name retro artists, but I just can't leave out some of the more modern-day groups, such as Hedley. "Never Too Late" has summer written all over it.
State of Shock is awesome too. I saw them open for Hedley once a few years ago, and they were fantastic. "Hearts that Bleed" happens to be my personal fave.
Carly-Rae Jepsen has been doing very well for herself lately, and even though, "Call Me, Maybe" is her big song as of late, Allie and I prefer, "Curiosity".
Marianas Trench is pretty fantastic too. "Fallout" is their hit song at the moment, and I'm also loving it at the moment too (don't worry, they have tons of others).
There are many more Canadian artists from the present day, however, I just don't have enough hours in the day to post them all. But you know you've heard them, many many times.
Though I love to spend my day listening to the best music that my home and native land has to offer, one of my favourite things to do on Canada Day is watch Molson Canadian beer commercials. I hate to break it to all the other countries out there, but Canadian beer commercials are awesome. If you live in a place that doesn't air commercials for alcoholic beverages, I apologize, but, at least you don't have to be sheltered anymore.
To get an idea as to how epic Canadian beer commercials are, I'm going to start you off with the "Joe Canadian" rant.
This rant makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and incredibly patriotic. Perhaps it's because Joe rants of so many truths.
And now for a few others that don't really have names associated with them, however, they're still epic.
Oh, breaking stereotypes. Gotta love it! To finish, I leave you with Molson's, "I Am" anthem. How many other countries have an unofficial (alcoholic) anthem?
Sure, our music is awesome, and our beer commercials are epic, but those are just a part of why I love being Canadian. It's my heritage. I'm about as purebred Canuck as you can get. I'm sixth generation on the family property (we've had it since 1871), but my family has been here since long before then. My great gram's family has been on Canada's soil since the 1700's. I had a great grandfather, whom I never met, who was born in the Eastern Townships of Quebec in the 1800s, and guess what? His parents were born in Quebec as well. My grandmother is Metis ( her mother was Abenaki from Quebec as well). Yep. I'm Canadian born and bred, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
So, as I bid you all farewell for now, I'll leave you with two more anthems of importance. If you're from Canada, you'll definitely now this one. After all, it involves hockey. For the record, I prefer the original. If you are utterly clueless as to what this hockey anthem is, it's the CBC's original Hockey Night in Canada intro.
And that's how Canadians do national anthems!
Happy 145th Birthday, Canada!
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