Graduation Day

I thought I would have a lot to write about my graduation day. But now I find myself lost for words. Perhaps the celebration drinking killed all the brain cells that had insightful things to say about completing an MBA. Maybe the bobby-pins holding on my awkward mortarboard caused some mild nerve damage in my head so that I cannot comment on my convocation. Maybe it just felt SO huge for SO long that to finally have it over is almost not enough. I am not sure what the reason but I know that I do feel relieved. I feel proud. I feel ready to move forward.

Special thanks to Ash who took the video and Jodi who took the time to be there.

Bio-Blog #22 - Christine

The story is always the same. We met in grade 8 but were in different classes and different friend groups. I always thought something was a bit weird about the fact that she wore two different earrings at once. But it was the late 80s so all is forgiven now. For the May long weekend I was graced with the kickass presence of one of my oldest friends: Christine.

In truth, our friendship did not solidify until grade 10 on a school ski trip and it has been sustained throughout the years in spite of life and distance between us. Chris and I always seem to eventually end up back in each other's company usually having a few too many drinks, getting into an argument and learning more about ourselves and each other in the process. I have been her pain mentor as she braved both her tattoos and he is also one of my only friends that likes to play crib with me. She has had her fair share of touch knocks in life and I continue to be amazed by her resiliance, her strength and her capacity to make her life her own. So in honour of her recent visit I share my friend Christine.

I am ... Christine Longpre
I can ... organize the shit out of anything! I'm also told I'm a very good list maker.
I love ... hanging out with my friends and family, reading books, & - I hate to admit it...watching tv.
I will ... always try my best and aim to please. Not always a good thing...

What is your sign? Sagittarius
Where were you born? Timmins, Ontario
Where do you live now? Ottawa, Ontario

What has been the best place you've visited in between and why?
France. My first trip to Europe, my first trip on my own. It was a BIG deal at that time in my life. I spent some time alone in Paris and then took a train to the south of France to visit Nat (yes, THE Nat) and Blair. What a fantastic trip. Sightseeing with friends who have their Masters in English rocks, and no, I'm not being facetious!!

What is your favourite:
Movie - My fave new movie is Juno but my all time favourite is Pride & Prejudice. Mmmm...Mark Darcy.
Book - I've read alot of good books but still love Pride & Prejudice
TV Show - The Office
Drink - Beer

Who is your celebrity hottie of choice?
Jason Statham...yum, yum.

If you could have lunch with anyone in the world ... who would it be and why?
Ayaan Hirsi Ali - she's been through hell and back and still has the courage to keep moving. Read her book Infidel, you'll understand.

How do you know Raye?
I met her in grade 8, probably my first day at McLeod Public School. I don't remember much about it...due to my very poor memory...but I'm sure Raye could tell you all about it...part of why I love her so much. She's got the memory of an elephant!

What 3 words would you use to describe Raye?
Independent, stubborn, adventurous (oh yeah, and crazy!)

Do you have your own website? No, where can I get me one of those? :)

Freckle Fear

Sometimes on this blog I like to comment on little things in the world that catch my attention. These things are usually pointless observations that tickle my brain for what they may represent in a larger context. Recently I have noticed an annoying trend in the photographs of actress Blake Lively. (Blake caught my eye first in The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants and is now headlining the addictive "Gossip Girl" on TV.) The thing that bothers me about these pictures is that they prove to be purposefully airbrushed to remove one of the quirky features of the girl. If you check the image to the left you will notice that Blake has a cute, dark freckle next to her nose. I think the blemish offers her face a wonderful sense of whimsy and enhances her features by drawing the eye further into her face. However in most of her staged photos this dot of individuality has been clearly erased. It is gone.

Of course we all know about the fake quality of magazine images, especially those of women, but for some reason this current example really bothers me. It might be because Blake is stunningly beautiful and should not need any alteration. It might be because she is a young actress to whom young women will definately perceive as a role model. It might be because I find it fascinating that such a minor detail can be erased and create such an impact on her overall look. And it makes me sad that such a lovely new talent is being photoshopped into banality with obvious consistency (here, again, and again, and again, and again!).

I guess the only thing that saves this story is that Blake (and whatever makeup artist she may be using) have chosen NOT to cover her beauty mark for in-person appearances. When that occurs then I will know that the dark side has truly won. OK, useless topic done for today.

WTF? SJP!

I don't normally blog about fashion. I usually leave that task to the marvelously catty mistresses at Go Fug Yourself for such insight (who didn't miss a beat on this one), but I was unable to leave this particular infraction alone. Look at that HAT!! This image is one of the many floating around from the Sex and the City movie premiere this past weekend in London (London? Ummm, why a definitive NYC flick is opening in the UK is another story!). But the HAT! What is with the HAT! Was this really SJP's selection? Did she lose a bet with Patricia Field? What exactly is going on here! When did the red carpet become a derby day at the racetrack? It boggles the mind. Truly.

If Anyone Could Make Me Like Golf...

it would be Adam Scott. OK ... so anyone who follows golf is probably highly aware of this guy but my introduction happened today while flipping through my Canadian Business magazine and seeing this Rolex ad. I have never really thought of golf as being young and hot but here it is. Here is a sexy, 28-year-old Australian guy on the greens that makes me smile. I mean, seriously, has golf ever looked like this? Supposedly he is ranked 6 in the professional tour and one of three golfers born in the 80s (oh my!) to be in the top 10. So I guess that makes him kinda good on top of being kinda hot.

WANT

"The first essentials, of course, is to know what you want." - Robert Collier

"I don't want to earn my living; I want to live." - Oscar Wilde

"If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things." - Albert Einstein

A few posts ago I mentioned a horoscope that directed me to identify my conscious wants lest my subconscious run amok with my life. And for the last couple of weeks I have been all ove the map. I have flirted with industry. I have made drunken missteps. I have reorganized my priorities. I have slept on it all. And slowly, while walking to work and taking photos of flowers, I came to this:

I want to be involved in shaping the way business education is done. I want to build a curriculum that teaches new business leaders how to be critical thinkers, problem solvers and ethical decision makers AS WELL as savvy financers, inventive policy makers and efficient managers. To do this, I must be involved in business academics. For me, the path to business academics is through a PhD.

Next step ... PhD.

Team Canada Moment

Canada vs. Norway - that was game. I hadn't planned on going. The tickets were quite expensive. But when World Hockey fever actually descended upon the city it was hard to avoid. It all began on Tuesday while watching the Canada vs. USA game at Boston Pizza. Admittedly, it must have been the thundermug of beer talking because I agreed to buy a ticket for Canada's next game following their 40-second-to-the-end-triumph over the States.

Which brought me to the Halifax Metro Center at 4:30pm to watch the red & white take on the red & blue. And I am SO happy that I went. I have never been SO close to a game before. Our seats positioned us near the net and only 5 rows away from the glass. Luckily, most of the action occurred at our end and the Norwegian fanclub was closeby. The game was MUCH closer than anticipated and almost got to nail-biter status. What a rush to be in the stands and feel with swells of audience energy. I sometimes forget how great it can be to go to world class events. This time I took the chance and scored.

Bio-Blog #21 - Heather

Okay, bio-blogs are not just about friends. They are also about some of the family members who make life great. This week I want to introduce my cousin Heather to the world. Heather is my book-end. I am the eldest grandchild and she is the youngest.

The reality of this relationship means that, until recently, our lives were very different. With almost a 10-year age gap between us (and 5 other cousins) our lives have only recently converged. And for me, that reconnection is very cool. Because this cousin of mine is a kickass young lady.

She is bright and fashionable and interesting. She is working through her first university degee and dating a "great guy" and she smiles alot - which she didn't do so much for a while there. She has also grown to be an amazingly supportive sister and I have seen her deal with her life's challenges with a tremendous amount of grace and care. So check her out!

I am ... a HUGE procrastinator
I can ... eat more then most men! (Probably shouldn’t be too proud of that!)
I love ...Fridays, when the school week is over!
I will ... travel the world! Starting with Italy next year.

What is your sign? Pisces
Where were you born? Dryden, Ontario
Where do you live now? Sudbury, Ontario

What has been the best place you've visited in between and why?
NYC baby! New York is really the only place I have been (not well travelled in my twenty-four years) that is worth mentioning. It was exciting and I hope I can visit it again.

What is your favourite:
Movie – The Goonies
Book – We Are Hungry By Dave Eggers
TV Show – Veronica Mars
Drink – gin and tonic

Who is your celebrity hottie of choice?
Kristen Bell (I have a bit of a VM obsession).

If you could have lunch with anyone in the world ... who would it be and why?
I read this and thought ok, what celebrity, politician or super elite do I want to choose?! And I’m going to be lame here, but the honest answer is- all the girlies in the family. This Christmas was the first time that I was not considered the bratty little cousin, since we were kids. We all sat around talking over wine-it was great! (So now the pressures on Raye)

How do you know Raye?
She is my much smarter cooler older cousin!
What 3 words would you use to describe Raye?
Intelligent, charismatic, insightful

Do you have your own website? Nope.

Classic Grey

I am hesitant to proclaim that "Grey's Anatomy" is back lest I do so too early and I end up looking like a fool next week. But I am going to say it anyway - "Grey's is Back!". Tonight's episode left me satisfied in a way that I had not felt since the dying days of last season. So while the writer's strike may have hurt paycheques over the winter it offered instead a resurgence in storytelling. Or, maybe, it was just the return of Addison! Either way the show finally matched the mix of meat and sizzle that made it such a hearty favourite in the first place.

All the characters were in fine form and have even grown a little bit. Addison's revelation that Meredith and Derek have not endured was a great grounding touchstone for the show. Her presence also offered the necessary mirror to see the development of the tragic couple beyond a romantic fantasy. The frazzle-ment of Christina continued but finally received the necessary recognition that her potential greatness remains. George found his place and has recommenced the path of the young doctor that once operating on a heart in an elevator. Alex opened himself up to being a better man (sadly he's about to get trounced!) and Izzie found some strength (which I can only hope moves her character out of my Hate-on category for being such an medical moron!!) Lastly, Callie and McSteamy go to get it on - to remind us that even "gods" are weak and need refirmation, validation and hot sex sometimes. Grey's it at its best when the characters' flaws resonate with the audience and pivot the plot into new directions. The first half of this season was spinning its wheels. It is a joy to see them moving again.

Monkey Do

Today I have to talk about one of the best restaurants in Halifax: The Wooden Monkey. The Wooden Monkey is located in a old corner building on the main social drag of downtown HFX. When I first moved here I had heard that it was a vegetarian restaurant and so ... I never went. I know that sounds bad, but that was the reason.

Then a new program year started at work and I was invited to go with a couple of co-workers to try the vegan nachos. They were excellent!!! And from that moment forward I became a fan of the monkey. I have been back rather consistently and I always try something new on the menu. That doesn't mean I don't have my favourite. The lamb burger is by far one of my favourite eats in the city. It comes with a mint-infused chevre spread that is to-die-for! It even has all my favourite micro-brew beers on the menu! (More exclamations points!!)

Tonight was another work event and I so I enjoyed another lamb burger. But I did try the organic blueberry pie. What a treat. Just a touch of maple syrup added to the field berries - the small ones - and a spelt crust. The same pie that Keith Richards demanded to have delivered backstage at last year's Rolling Stones concert. Thus, I was prompted to devote a few lines to this special Halifax place.

You can scope it out here: The Wooden Monkey.

When Judy Greer is My Best Friend...

... I will be about to meet the man of my dreams.

You see, Judy is a consistent go-to gal pal for up-and-coming actresses staring in their first romantic comedy. I offer the following evidence:

2001 - The Wedding Planner with Jennifer Lopez
2004 - 13 Going on 30 opposite Jennifer Garner
2007 - 27 Dresses supporting Katherine Heigl

And in these chick flicks the starlets are always on the brink of being romanced by Mr. Right and Judy is there to offer (a refreshing)comedic edge. And so, if Ms. Greer were to suddenly become my best friend I don't think I would be far off in thinking that love was soon to follow. And really, as love may arrive with this guy, or this guy, or (goodness) this guy ... I would not complain.

OMG! Ted & Barney Broke Up!

Not everyone I know watches TV like I do. That's fair. I understand. A lot of people have very busy lives and hours of TV watching just doesn't make sense. For me, TV has always been a bit of a staple on my agenda. And, as evidenced by this blog, has even been a consistent date on my calendar. Yes, I am one of those people that will plan things AROUND TV programs. Even in this age of downloading, I still enjoy the moment of deliberately sitting down to watch something ... on purpose. And, in a similar vein, I have not converted to downloading my TV archives. Thus, my bookshelf is full of actual boxsets rather than reams of disks. And one of the shows that has managed to retain status in both ways is "How I Met Your Mother".

I first mentioned the AWESOMENESS of HIMYM a couple of years ago. And, amazingly the show has maintained its momentum and continues to be a worthy diversion. I recently aquired the first two seasons on DVD and consumed them at a mad pace.
The Pineapple Incident - featuring a guest role by Danica McKellar (Winnie Cooper people!!!).
Game Night - where the seattle-ness of the 90s is fully exposed.
Slap Bet - the greatest betting system ever and the introduction of Robin Sparkles.
Showdown - cause anything featuring "The Price is Right" is awesome!
It is addictive. And it makes me laugh. It makes me laugh out loud in my living room and joins the entertainment ranks of "Coupling" and "Arrested Development". It should not be denied.

Currently the show is in its third season. And admittedly, it was a challenge to catch all the Monday night episodes last fall. However, after the writer's stike the show returned last week with a comedic vengeance (80s pop referencing, Dawson Leery and Canadiana ALL in one episode). Then, tonight the show continued form by breaking up the friendship of two main characters. Intense. What a fabulous turn. I cannot wait for next week? What will we do without Barney in the mix? How will he redeem himself? What will everyone say to Ted? See ... addictive.

If that doesn't sell you it might be helpful to know that the show offers a TV version of the emerging comedy kingdom currently ruled by Judd Apatow. And while Judd has moved on from his TV activities ("Freaks & Geeks", "Undeclared") into the world of the big screen (40 Year Old Virgin, Knocked Up) his influence is still on HIMYM. The obvious link is the casting of Jason Segel who began on F&G, rules on HIMYM and is currently starring in Forgetting Sarah Marshall - written by Segel and produced by Apatow. Add to the mix the retro cache of Neil Patrick Harris, the cult lovability of Allyson Hannigan and a series of in-joke cameos and you can't go wrong. Seriously, try it.

Marvelous Munchkins

This is one of those posts that is all about showcasing my niece and nephew. Sometimes they offer up moments of amazing-ness that cannot be denied. This one is all about the youthful shagginess of soft, fine hair. And the flushed cheeks. And the coming together of a brother and his little sister standing together on the edge of life's beginning!

What To Do???

Ok ... here is the situation. I have NO idea what to do with my life. Seriously. So I turned to my trusted Free Will horoscope and received this comment:

"If you don't articulate your conscious desires, your unconscious patterns will come true."

So what do I do? What job do I try to find? Should I do my phd? When? Where? Do I move to Ontario? Do I stay in Halifax? Do I work in management consulting? Do I try to get some teaching experience? Do I stay doing what I'm doing?

I am feeling so completely lost right now. I have three months to build a plan. Three months to decision time. I had made up my mind to leave my job, finish school and move to Ontario to be close to family. I needed to do this to motivate myself to make a change. To push me out of inertia. But now that the school is done I find myself wondering if the decision that made me move is really a decision TO move. And I am feeling (as Nat rightly intuited - smart girl that one!) that my fear over the phd has subsided now that the stress of the master's paper is over.

But what does that mean? The earliest a phd could begin would be September 2009. So do I want to start it now? I had almost convinced myself that some work experience beforehand would be an asset (it would be) but if I go to work now, will I ever go back to school? And I feel like I am running out of time. If I start a phd then I will be 38 when its done ... what does that mean for equity-building, a relationship, children? What does it mean if I don't do it? Will I be further ahead or farther behind? How does one decide?

So here I sit on a sunny day trying to take control of my life and finding it to be a slippery bar of soap that I keep dropping. Which brings me back to that scarily accurate horoscope line. I guess this means I have to write out what I WANT lest my fear, inertia and indecision return to take me on another detour.

Totally Teeth

Here it is ... Maebe's teeth shot. I love the idea that two big chompers in the front take a kid's smile from gumminess to totally adorable. It completely changes the look of her face to have a couple of pearly whites in the mix. And look how happy she is!! Love it!

Being Loved

So when you have a crappy week and you call your mom in tears she can do a really nice thing for you ... like send you flowers. And if the delivery guy doesn't mess it up too much you will actually get the flowers the next day after they have sat in the rain. But the rain will offer some moments of photographic joy trying to capture the drops on the petals.

...

And you will feel sunny and loved even though the world outside is grey and you are very tired from the week. Thank you to my parents for all their love and support. And for reminding me to see the raindrops on roses.

F & A

There is a line in the film Rounders that explains how many guys can't play no-limit hold'em because they "can't handle the swings". I think this concept could also apply to my mental state in the last 24hrs. This week was my last week of school - the last week of my MBA degree. It was also a big week at work. And so I found myself with too much to do in the hours I had available.

The casualty of this situation was study time for my final in accounting. And so I found myself on Thursday evening sitting down to a 3-hour exam completely unprepared. I even arrived with the wrong bag meaning I had NO calculator, pencil or pen for the exam. I should have known at that moment things would not go well. The exam itself was a stress marathon of NOT knowing the answers and I left sad and tearful. I admit to being a drama queen about my grades but I truly hate the feeling of failure. So Thursday was an F.

So Friday arrived and my energy was low. I was also feeling mildly panicked about my final research paper being in limbo and unsure about it getting confirmed before the next week's deadline. But with one email all of that changed and the paper was approved, my academic albatross given its freedom and my grade assigned ... and A.

And so the pendulum swings back the other way to a state of glee and satisfaction. To be honest ... such swings are exhausting. But in the end the balance will turn out to be positive so I can't really complain.

His Crushworthiness

Yes, time to extoll the virtues of another crush of mine as his recent appearance in the Man of Style section of my In Style magazine suggests he is about to become a BIG name. Interesting his characteristics are the complete opposite of my last crushboy - James McAvoy. So meet Gerard Butler. My first notice of him was in the Lara Croft sequel where he romanced Angelina Jolie with so much masculine charm I thought the screen might melt. Since that time he has been a cinematic favourite of mine (although I did skip out on The Phantom of the Opera).

The thing about Butler is that he manages to be manly and soft at the same time. He has eyes that burn right into you and arms so sculpted you want to be held in them for days. He has somehow managed to be an action star and a romantic lead with equal skill and this mix is what makes true crushes worthy. A native of Scotland, Butler's big break was obviously 2006's 300 but the ladies will launch him to stardom based on his work in last year's P.S. I Love You. I challenge anyone to find a more perfect, sexy and romantic leading man than Butler in that film. I was reminded of Butler this week as the ads for the family adventure film Nim's Island kept popping up on TV. There are also rumours around that he is dating Cameron Diaz which I really hope is untrue. Still I am taking some time to honour his crushworthiness before the bandwagon gets too crowded and there is no longer any room for my swooning self.

Bio-Blog #20 - Anna

Spring is here so bio-blogs are back! Another chance to share my friends with my friends - cause who else would be reading this rambling page! So for the first entry of this year I want to present my friend Anna. First off, Anna got these great pics done this year to celebrate her happy life and puppy (Stella) which is why she is rocking the photographic hotness. This is not to say that she doesn't rock naturally because she does.

My friendship with Anna really began over a cup of coffee on the Halifax waterfront in the summer of 2007. Since that time she has emerged as a true supporter and confidante at a time when I really needed one. The fact that we can shop, riff on shoes, enjoy Clive Owen's sex appeal, talk about boys and drink red wine together only helps the situation more. Finding genuine friends is always a gift and I am so happy that Anna happened to arrive in my path. Here is to the year behind us and the years yet to come.

I am ... a litle bit country and a little bit rock&roll
I can ... touch my nose with my tongue
I love ... being greeted by my dog every day when I go home. It reminds me that no matter how crappy my day was, she loves me for who I am. Or, she really needs to pee - one or the other.
I will ... not eat yellow snow

What is your sign? Capricorn
Where were you born? Antigonish, Nova Scotia
Where do you live now? Halifax

What has been the best place you've visited in between and why?
Northern California. Great sunshine, great beaches, great energy, beautiful scenery, and any place where you risk sunburn in February is a-ok with me.

What is your favourite:
Movie - Napoleon Dynamite
Book - 'Eat, Pray, Love' - and not just because it's trendy.
TV Show - What Not to Wear
Drink - SCHOONER!

Who is your celebrity hottie of choice?
I am married to Clive Owen. One of these days he'll actually know it's really true.

If you could have lunch with anyone in the world ... who would it be and why?
Stephen Lewis. I forever admire his tireless commitment and passion to making the world a better place. He reminds me that even if you think you're just one little person, you can make all the difference in the world.

How do you know Raye? Through friends
What 3 words would you use to describe Raye?
Kind Hearted - Loyal - Intelligent

Do you have your own website? Nope.

A Sunny View

I thought it was time to post another pic of my niece as I have been negligent about that. It is that second child curse of there always being fewer pics in the album. But there is something about her fairy-like face that makes me calm inside. And calm is what I need. The last two weeks have been a whirlwind of stress, illness, sleep deprivation and mental acrobatics. I have been so tired. And so messed up. And not sure which way was UP so it seemed best to stay horizontal - a lot. But I woke up this morning finally feeling rested. One more major deliverable (god! I am starting to hate that word!) done for school. Only three big steps left in the next two weeks and the MBA commitment is done. And knowing that feels sort of like this image of Maebe - a sense of wonderment of looking out of window and smiling at the view. I am still not sure what the view entails and that is still freaking me out but I am looking again. I am sitting up - for a couple of days at least. I am not kidding myself that the next week will be easy. I have, as usual, procrastinated myself a stuffed plate that it will be a challenge to finish. But I have joy in my darling niece to see me through. Sunshine and smiles CAN save you.

The State of Things

"She keeps working to make connections but the pile of near misses is starting to overwhelm her. What she needs is an omniscient voice to illuminate and spotlight her. And to inform everyone that this one has value. And then to find her counterpart and bring him to her."

This is the opening to the movie Shopgirl. This is how my days feel.

Tudor Style

In the last year I heard a lot about "The Tudors". With the dreamy Jonathan Rhys-Meyers headlining the Showtime series as Henry VIII it was hard not to stare at the TV promos about the show. But it was not until this weekend that I finally got around to checking out the eye candy. Long weekends are always very good for such pursuits especially when the Season 1 box set is only 10 episodes long.

"The Tudors" is by no means perfect. It is choppy. It takes wide creative license on history. It isn't even well-written at times. And it clearly uses its occassional steaminess to compensate for these sins. Luckily, this trade-off works. If one is willing to surrender to the soapiness of "The Tudors" then the weaknesses seem to disappear behind leather boots and heaving bosoms. Not to mention the fact that the series is populated with seriously beautiful people. (At this moment it behooves me to mention my new crushworthiness: Henry Cavill!)

But I think what really makes the show successful is the performance level. The characters are wonderfully created. Rhys-Meyer's Henry is egotistical but conflicted. Catherine of Aragon is portrayed with an enviable steeliness that you can't help but find believable. The series' Anne Boleyn is a wonderful mix of political pawn and passionate paramour. And Sam Neill is incredible as Cardinal Wolsey offering a peformance that anchors the season with its depth.

Admittedly I spent my viewing time surfing wikipedia to check out the inconsistencies but that might make it more fun for some. And for the rest of you, just kick back and enjoy because "The Tudors" is a tale worth retelling.

Birthday Blues

I was SO excited for my birthday this year. My first "real" party on the east coast with a collection of friends that I had finally acquired. We hadn't had a party in awhile and it just felt like it was going to be "the best". And things started to unravel - in my mind. The week leading up to the party was an intense brain bender of writing. I had isolated myself to do my writing and it made me kind of loopy.

On the day of the party I had 6 hours of class (including two presentations) to get through before the good times could begin. But the day had a weird cast on it. I didn't hear from anyone. I wasn't sure how things were going to be. And then the snow came and I became positive that it was all going to fall apart. What can I say - I am a paranoid skeptic about valuable relationships in my life. Class finished and I went off to my scheduled hair appointment to look pretty and get my "rock star" vibe going for the event. But the hair was a disaster. It had to go. I had to undo the 1950s prom curls and start from scratch. And this made me feel pressed for time. I hadn't decorated yet. I hadn't eaten yet. And yet I pushed off into the snow to try and get things going. But my heart was feeling heavy before it even began. Why do I do this to myself? By the time I had gulped (and I do mean gulped!!!) my third double drink I was toast. My brain had seized to make any sense but it wasn't doing me any favours either.

The party was a success. It was full of happy people and good cheer. There was a fabulous cake. There were smiles and laughs and funny poses. But at times I felt lost. Surrounded by love and still alone. And it made me crazy. There is something in the air that is putting me on edge now. It is the realization that everything is about to change. I am actually going to graduate. I am leaving this place behind. I have no idea what I am doing next.

And so I woke up on my birthday and I felt weird. A mild hangover but more of am emotional hangover. A lingering feeling that all was not well behind the happy face of birthday goodness. And then I felt bad. Sad that I had done that to my friends who had provided me with SO much on my special day. Sad that I was letting the good things in my life turn into problems. Why do I do that? This year was the first I felt old on my birthday.

Tag Turns Three

Happy Birthday to my nephew today ... he turns 3!!! I think my sister-in-law is a bit freaked out that she has a 3-year-old but for me I can't believe he is only 3 because if feels like he has been in our lives forever. The little monkey has been a constant source of smiles, laughs and hugs for me. Of course he has moments of screaming brat-ness but then he gets all wiggly cute again and it's a decent trade-off. I miss him. I hear he gets to celebrate twice as he is heading up to see Nana & Nono later this month. I hope this birthday for him is a happy one.

Dealing with Me

I often think that I am a pain in the ass and a little bit crazy. These days, as my school anxiety is hitting the roof, I have to take some time to reflect on my personality and mitigate the trouble spots.

I have my "personality" profile information that I sometimes use to diffuse my angst. I am a solid INTJ - and while I haven't completely figured out how to leverage my skills they are there.

Then this time around I found an interesting website that had a list of things to keep in mind when dealing with someone like ME - and they rang true. So as I am about to go off the deep-end it is probably helpful for my friends and coworkers to keep these in mind...

Be willing to back up your statements with facts - or at least some pretty sound reasoning.

Try not to be repetitive. It annoys them.

Do not feed them a line of bull.

Expect debate. INTJs like to tear ideas apart and prove their worthiness. They will even argue a point they don't actually support for the sake of argument.

Do not mistake the strength of your conviction with the strength of your argument. INTJs do not need to believe in a position to argue it or argue it well. Therefore, it will take more than fervor to sway them.

Do not be surprised at sarcasm.

Remember that INTJs believe in workable solutions. They are extremely open-minded to possibilities, but they will quickly discard any idea that is unfeasible. INTJ open-mindedness means that they are willing to have a go at an idea by trying to pull it apart. This horrifies people who expect oohs and ahhs and reverence. The ultimate INTJ insult to an idea is to ignore it, because that means it's not even interesting enough to deconstruct.

Do not expect INTJs to actually care about how you view them. They already know that they are arrogant bastards with a morbid sense of humor. Telling them the obvious accomplishes nothing.

Rosebuds

If I had to declare a preferred subject for my photography these days it would be rosebuds. I love the dried, shrivelled and expressive bods twisting on spikey stems. There is a hedge of rose bushes by a local school that has become a favourite place of mine. Recent treasures:

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2 Weeks and Counting ...

As usual I find myself being reflective in the weeks leading up to my birthday. Two weeks till I turn 33. As I look back through this blog I realize that it has (unplanned) become a chronicle of my 30s thus far. I began my online ramblings a few weeks before my 30th birthday and have attempted to keep up-to-date since then. So now I am about to celebrate my 33rd year of life and I am not quite sure what to make of it all.

I came to Halifax with a particular plan in mind and that plan lays in tatters behind me on paths I did not take and on detours I found. I am four weeks away from confirming my graduation status with a thesis still to write, two courses worth of deliverables to complete and a job to satisfy. I don't feel secure that I can do it and yet I see no other choice - what a corner I have painted for myself. If I look back to my young adulthood and the impressions I had about what my life would be at 33 I find no similarities. I have no relationship. I have not started a family. I don't own a home. I have not begun my career.

This view sounds depressing doesn't it? But I am not depressed. My life feels more connected and secure than it has in ages - in spite of the change and ambiguity on the horizon. I am happier now than I have been in the last couple of years. I have taken some hard knocks and I am getting over most of that now. Some days I catch myself just smiling for no reason. And while there are still many things I would like to do that I cannot figure out how to achieve there is a frisson of potential in the air that I had forgotten. I must remind myself to carry this energy into my birthday wishes to bless the opportunities that can arise in year 34.

Oscar Night in 2008

I was not sure if I would be into the Oscars this year. I had not seen many of the films and with the writer's strike the entire affair has been under a cloud of doom since the fall. But I put on my PJs and sat down with my Dr. Pepper and Pringles anyway to see what was what.

And I must confess to really enjoying the telecast this year. I think the last minute writing kept things simple rather than bloated. I think the 80th anniversary tributes added star-power and sincerity rather than time spent on lame gags. I think removing the intros (and clips) of the nominated films was good choice. (I think removing the performances of original songs would be a good one too!) I think that the party felt much more like the Golden Globes. There was a lightness in the air at the Kodak Theatre last night. The sense of relief of having the "show go on" was palpable and it made everyone relax and enjoy the moment. And in the end it was enjoyable for all. Random observations below:

Why is Miley Cyrus at the Oscars?

Jon Stewart's opening monologue makes me laugh more than any host since Billy Crystal's original stint. Of course I don't understand why ANY monologue is necessary but at least Jon is entertaining.

Cate Blanchett has the most radiant smile. I dare anyone to not want to be in its path. But her billowing purple bump dress isn't a bit mainstream for me. I was hoping for something edgier from her.

Twenty minutes into the show and I teared up! Damn tributes and that Titanic song! I'm such a softie for people honestly being touched by recognition.

Pirates doesn't win for make-up instead the honour goes to La Vie en Rose thereby signaling that the ability to make a hot woman (Marion Cotillard) unattractive and older (as Edith Piaf) is considered quite the feat!

The Golden Compass wins for visual effects and all I can think is that Jeff is going to pissed off! It feels wrong when compared to the effects in Pirates of the Carribean. Interesting that the film's first cut was considered SO lacklustre that Disney ordered up more cash to redo the effects. I guess you could say the investment paid off.

It still freaks me out to see Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart together - even though it has been 7 years! But it gives me hope that maybe life can spin on an unexpected dime and you get Indiana Jones as your man.

Javier Bardem takes the supporting actor prize - the first acting non-surprize of the night. It reminded me of Bencio Del Toro's wind with a bit of Jamie Foxx thrown in with his Spanish thanks to mama. Man, I love grown men taking their moms to the big show!

Loved all the English-as-second-language moments for the winners (the guy for live action short, the Italian costume designers, Marion Cotillard). All so heart-warming.

Tilda Swinton takes supporting actress as if to follow the last year's Arkin upset. A well-deserved award but sadly she wore a velvet trashbag to the event. But then ALL is redeemed as she totally takes the piss out of George Clooney by commenting on his "commitment to his art" by wearing his batsuit ("the one with the nipples") under his clothes.

God I LOVE James McAvoy's accent. And his pep. And his dry humour. And his eyes!

Jonah Hill & Seth Rogen appear looking identical. It is both hilarious and creepy. And the future of suburban cineplex fare.

An early presentation for Best Actress yields another surprise. Hmmmm ... Marion Cotillard wins and the Blanchett's look of surprised glee almost overshadows the French actress' beauty. "You rocked my life" ... "Thank you life. Thank you love"

Colin Farrell returns! Yeah! I have been mssing those chocolate eyes. And he talks about Once which Keir recommended so I guess I have to see it now.

The tribute to the last 79 Best Picture winners really showed how movies have changed over time.

Patrick Dempsey is introduced as "versatile and handsome" - good thing the writers came back!

Jon Stewart brings the second original song winner back out on stage post commercial to give her chance to actually say thankyou. A wonderful gesture and the work of a true master of ceremonies. The winner then goes on to deliver a fantastic speech about Hope and the arts making the action worthwhile for us all.

Cameron Diaz rocks the best nude lips in history. How did she get that shine?

Where is Keira Knightley???

Diablo Cody wins original screenplay for Juno. She must be the first Oscar winner who was previously an exotic dancer and has a bikini-clad woman tattooed on her arm. A breath of tiger-print fresh air to the night.

Daniel Day Lewis wins Best Actor. The man has serious action chops. But I really dislke him. Can't watch him. He drives me nuts. And the earrings? Dude - WTF?

No Cecile B. DeMille award. Guess there wasn't an old guy in Hollywood that needed to be honoured in 2008. Hmmmmm...

Best Picture goes to No Country for Old Men

No big sweeps. Lots of interesting supporting awards and a sense of fun that has been lacking. The End.

2005 ... 2006 ... 2007

Red Carpet Rundown

OK .. new thing for this year because I sat and watched the red carpet pre-show (the one with Regis NOT the one with creeeepy Ben!) and made a bunch of comments on the fashion. As the first major red carpet for Hollywood this year it was a bit of big deal and I wanted to see who was doing what with their fashion time.

I found a few favourites and was horrified by a few others. But it appears that my taste is not like that others. Many of the outfits I disliked the most ended up on Best Dressed Lists and many I loved were criticized. It just reminds me that fashion is a personal thing and by better be okay with because people are watching! hahaha

Jessica Alba wore a fabulous wine-colour that is perfect for her newly bumped bod but suffered by having an ostrich wing sewn to her chest. WTF?

Oh Jennifer Hudson. Someone had to remind her that racer-style halter necklines are not made for bigger girls. (just ask Triny & Susannah)

Marion Cotillard looked like a scallopped goddess in Jean Paul Gaultier.

Javier Badem did the tux & scruff thing and made me sit up and go Mmmmmm.... Seriously, smile lines will get me every time.

Helen Mirren looked incredible in red with crystal sleeves. Every woman needs to take grand dame notes from her.

Katherine Heigl continued her assault on Hollywood rocking her usual Escada. But, man, I hate her. Hate the short hair. She needes to get off my TV.

Jennifer Garner has boob problems AGAIN! Remember the baby blue squishiness of her first appearance? I am sensing that star stylist Rachel Zoe isn't so good with the bust line measurements of her clients.

Daniel Day Lewis' wife showed up looking like a British medal of honour.

Heidi Klum kicked some serious red carpet ass in a red confection of elegance.

Cameron Diaz is back in structured pink (one step up form her origami white from last year) but it's BORING. And a dress that hugs her ASS is not the best choice since it made a tall, lithe woman look lumpy and padded.

Amy Adams has the sweetest little ski jump nose. No wonder she played a live-action version of a Disney princess.

Steve Carell can totally rock a tuxedo. There is an old Hollywood look about it that reminds me of the man behind the comedian and he's very attractive.

I could not figure out what Penelope Cruz was going for. She managed to tackle almost every trend of the evening in one dress. But anything that makes one walk around with a cascade of feathers on the ass needs to be re-evaluated.

Keri Russell is SO pretty.

Ellen Page - she's so clever - but putting her in spaghetti straps was maybe not the best choice.

Hilary Swank brought a great dress this year. Not too poofy. Not too different. Just Versace goodness.

Renee Zellweger shows up in a liquid diamonds dress with a thigh-high slit. I can't imagine how heavy it was but it flowed beautifully - like a ray of sun dancing on snow. Gorgeous and back to her best-dressed status in spite of the hair.

Nicole Kidman - GASP! - Necklaces galore in dripping chains of diamond crystals. Impeccable. Decadent. Wonderful. Just WOW! All down the front and All down the back. A fashion statement for another newly bumped star to firmly keep the attention on her face and luminous skin.

Feathers, one-shoulders and excessive folding - there was something about dress design this year that was just a bit annoying and hopefully not a sign for what lies ahead.

Barely Sports

You know what I love? Each year that the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition is published the women wear less and less swimsuit. Apparantly, the ideal swimming attire for 2008 is a giant necklace. I'll get right on that!

SI Cover 2008

The Gift of Choice

I am not posting this graphic to be controversial but it may inevitably be so. What comes to mind most about this image is that there is a growing generation of young women who will NOT understand its meaning. They have not grown up in a world where the choice for abortion was NOT a reality. They have not grown up with pregnancy termination being illegal. They have grown up with an assumed cushion that many can't even acknowledge.

It does not matter whether or not one agrees with abortion. It does not matter if one would make that choice. What matters is that the option exists, freely, to be exercised. And this option creates a world of sexual freedom, physical control and personal choice that women did not always possess. What a world that would be.

The choice to terminate pregnancy is now available to Canadian women in almost all provinces (PEI excepted) through provincial health care in hospitals or hospital-based clinics. And many major cities in Canada also have private abortion clinics that charge for the practise. These facilities are the direct result of the efforts of Dr. Henry Morgantaler who established the first clinic in Canada and continued to perform "illegal" abortions until all remaining legal restrictions against abortion were abolished. (It is important to note that Morgentaler's delivery was not pristine. And the practise has improved beyond the black-market operations and medical impropriety for which he was charged in the 1970s.)

The legal status of abortion changed in 1988(!!) due to a case involving Dr. Henry Morgentaler. Prior to that date (for about 20 years), a safe, hospital-based abortion could only be granted if a hospital therapeutic committeed determined the pregnancy a danger to a woman's health. This process was deemed constutionally unfair in the Morgentaler case and the last hurdle to a woman's right to choose was removed.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the important ruling. As such, a group of pro-choice groups in Canada mounted a campaign to have Henry Morgentaler invested into the Order of Canada. (It is the third such attempt to have the doctor honoured.) The Order of Canada is given to recognize a "...lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian society. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country."

This week the Globe & Mail posted a poll asking if Morgentaler should be nominated. The results were overwhelmingly in the negative (85%). You can see the results here.

As of today, it appears that the advocacy for Morgentaler has fallen on deaf ears as his name was not amongst those to be recognized this year. It is time to really think about how we perceive people's achievements and what their actions truly do for our nation as a whole. As women move forward in their lives let them continue to live in a free space of personal life choices and the challenges that such a choice must surely bring to the individual. Let us not move backward into a world that regulates one gender because of a biological mechanism beyond its control. And let us recognize the contribution of the man who fought for the right to choose a safe choice.

Exposure

Sometimes I like to play with my random photo editor (that is NOT photoshop but whatever) and see what I can create. It makes me feel like an "artist" even though I am still an amateur. That being said, I do really like the images below that I blew the constrast on. So I thought I would share them.

Oscar Thoughts

What can I say? My movie madness has been lacking in recent months. Funny how things in your life that seem SO real are sometimes the things that are most mutable. Since I went to my first film alone in highschool I have been cultivating my own brand of flick smarts. This "talent" has led me to become a devotee of the annual Oscars telecast and maintained alot of the content on this blog. But this year has been notably different. After two years in HFX I have finally developed a bit of a social network and if there is one thing that gets in the way of rampant film-going it is hanging out with REAL people.

And so, my movie reviews have evaporated and the Writer's Strike has put a definite kink in my awards season trajectory. All of this to say that I am not sure - at all! - what to say about this year's nominees for the Academy Awards. But in one week I will be in my living room, in my PJs, and watching "The One, The Only, The Oscars" so I figured I should say something! As always, I never try to truly predict the winners (If you want to check out the betting odds - I was curious this year considering I had seen so few films - check them out at the aptly-named website: gambling911.) This year, with the void of telecasts, my choices are based on who I want to see on that stage - laughing, crying, looking fabulous. So let's do this.

Best Supporting Actress
Cate Blanchett in "I'm Not There"
Ruby Dee in "American Gangster"
Saoirse Ronan in "Atonement"
Amy Ryan in "Gone Baby Gone"
Tilda Swinton in "Michael Clayton"

This race is an interesting one. I would say that Blanchett is currently the favourite for her gender-bending turn in the Bob Dylan indie fantasy "I'm Not There". She was the only female to make 'Esquire's' Best Performances list and has proven herself an awards darling in previous years (all completely deserved). Also, I figure this is the likely spot for her award considering her double-nomination this year. Having not seen Ganster or Baby I cannot clearly comment on the performances of either Ruby Dee or Amy Ryan. Still I am stoked to see an actress directed into a nominated performance by my boyfriend (that would be Ryan). Tilda Swinton was exceptional in Michael Clayton in what can only be viewed as her most "normal-looking" character ever extending her phenomenal range even further. And while Saoirse Ronan perfectly captured misguided maturity in Atonement the nomination of her performance is likely a sufficient accolade.
Likely Bet: Cate Blanchett
Podium Preference: Tilda Swinton

Best Supporting Actor
Casey Affleck in "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford"
Javier Bardem in "No Country for Old Men"
Philip Seymour Hoffman in "Charlie Wilson's War"
Hal Holbrook in "Into the Wild"
Tom Wilkinson in "Michael Clayton"

It is always interesting when a supporting actor category contains past nominees of the lead actor category (Bardem, Hoffman, Wilkinson). The talent pool is deep this year and always makes it trickier to call the final count. The nomination of Holbrook is reminiscent of Peter O'Toole's late career nod. The dark horse and intriguing entry is Affleck. What a coup it would be for this young character actor to take the prize. But this particular year is Bardem's without much of a fight. Since Country opened it has been Bardem's sadistic killer with the funny haircut that has received all the attention. Since his skill has been recognized by his peers through the nomination it is almost quaranteed that the Academy at large will not vote him to the gold.
Likely Bet: Javier Bardem
Podium Preference: Casey Affleck

Best Actress
Cate Blanchett in "Elizabeth: The Golden Age"
Julie Christie in "Away from Her"
Marion Cotillard in "La Vie en Rose"
Laura Linney in "The Savages"
Ellen Page in "Juno"

This category is potentially the most difficult for me to call. I have only seen two of the films in question (Eliabeth and Juno)and neither will yield the winner. As mentioned above, Blanchett's dual nominations push her chances into the supporting and her second turn as the virgin queen pales next to the original. And while I would LOVE to see Page on that stage the quirky and nuanced performances selcom take the top prizes. So I am left to ponder three talented ladies in three very different roles. It would take a major upset to put Cotillard's name in the envelope. Linney has been nominated before and in cases when a clear winner is not evident the Academy has been known to reward a body of achievement. But the odds are moving strongly in favour of Christie and I can't complain about that as her role was in the first film by Canadian Sarah Polley.
Likely Bet: Julie Christie
Podium Preference: Ellen Page

Best Actor
George Clooney in "Michael Clayton"
Daniel Day-Lewis in "There Will Be Blood"
Johnny Depp in "Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street"
Tommy Lee Jones in "In the Valley of Elah"
Viggo Mortensen in "Eastern Promises"

Whew ... what a category. Again, my first-hand knowledge of these achievements is minimal as I have only seen Clooney's Clayton at this point. Still this year the nominees embody the widest breadth of actor attributes I have seen in ages. Clooney is the matinee idol gone golden. Lewis is the consummate actor's actor. Depp is the scene-stealing artiste. Jones is the working man. And Mortensen is the character-maker. The nominated performances reflect these strengths and so it is Day-Lewis in the lead with a hungry and determined pack behind him. Depp is only one nomination behind Lewis in Oscar races and I don't think anyone doubts how amazing it would be to see such an original actor win a major award. Unlike Lewis, Depp has managed to generate outstanding performances and sustain films with broad marketability. This range should be recognized ... at least once!
Likely Bet: Daniel Day Lewis
Podium Preference: Johnny Depp

Best Adapted Screenplay
"Atonement"
"Away from Her"
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly"
"No Country for Old Men"
"There Will Be Blood"

Best Original Screenplay
"Juno"
"Lars and the Real Girl"
"Michael Clayton"
"Ratatouille"
"The Savages"

The writing categories are interesting because it is where three things happen:
1 - the BEST films are rewarded because a solid script is a necessary foundation (Country, Blood)
2 - films that are considered strong but unlikely "top" prize winners are favoured (Atonement, Clayton, Juno)and
3 - films of originality are honoured with nominations (Lars, Butterfly, Savages)
Calling the winners for this category is linked very much to other categories as I assume that while some voters consistently reward a single film others like to spread the wealth. But you never know because you can have a year like 1997 that was dominated by Titanic but gave screenplay awards to L.A. Confidential and Good Will Hunting. So for this year I don't know if the big films will dominate all, the underdogs will get rewarded or scripts completely off the pace will be gold. I really do love these categories.
Likely Bet Adapted: No Country for Old Men
Likely Bet Original: Michael Clayton
Podium Preference Adapted: Atonement
Podium Preference Original: Juno

Best Film
"Atonement"
"Juno"
"Michael Clayton"
"No Country for Old Men"
"There Will Be Blood"

And so the big prize (well there is directing but I always skip that one!) comes down to a tragic romance, an unconventional love story, a character-driven conspiracy tale, a twisted crime thriller and a turn-of-the century greed story. The romance is subtle and beautifully filmed. But it is not superior film-making in the way that previous winners have set the standard. The quirky tale has the perfect blend of sweet and dark to make it genuine. But it is hardly a triumph of cinema or storytelling. The conspiracy in challenging and complex. But it never finds a solid center and so it spins mildly askew in its execution. The thriller is unique and inspired. But it suffers from an abrupt and confusing exit. The greed is deliberate and fully-developed. But it is heavy and too internal to reach its audience at times. The field is full with adequate contenders this year but a true champion has not made it to the horizon. But if I had to call it - Country by a hair.
Likely Bet: No Country for Old Men
Podium Preference: No Country for Old Men
(yeah, I'm picking a flick I haven't seen - but of the others on the list it HAS to be better considering the buzz it is generated)

Indy

Seriously... how AWESOME is this gonna be!!!

http://www.indianajones.com/site/index.html

May 22. Be there!

Crush Boy Update

Okay, so he is a thin, pasty, young Scotsman with wispy facial hair and a lack of decent photos. But put James McAvoy on the screen and he (and those eyes!) just pop and he makes you love him. He is not manly. He is not steaming hot. But the strength and warmth of his talent takes his boyishness to remarkably sexy heights. James sort of snuck up on me.

My first notice of him was in Wimbledon when he played Paul Bettany's younger brother - a scheming, lovable loser clad in bicylce spandex - but my interest was firmly on the blonde Brit at the time. When he showed up as Mr. Tumnus in the adaptation of my favourite childhood novel "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe" I was impressed. He was genuine but hardly attractive with his CGI legs and extra back hair. Ohhhh ... but the eyes.

Public notice of James began when he held his own against Forrest Whitaker's award-winning acting in The Last King of Scotland. A bit more rugged, a bit more challenging, James proved that he wasn't a just a pretty face. But for me it was the one-two punch of period romances that cemented the deal. As Tom Lefroy in Becoming Jane and Robbie Turner in Atonement, McAvoy solidly shows the women of the world that a leading man doesn't have to be the most debonair man in the room but rather he is the one who loves you with the greatest sincerity. And at this emotion James excels. He will warm your heart and it will break when his does. This is the luck of being a man with a boy's face - the vulnerabilty increases his presence.

And now, with the acclaim for Atonement including multiple nominations for James himself, he is about to break into world of stardom. This spring he romances Christina Ricci in the fable Penelope and later this year tackles his dark side along with Morgan Freeman and Angelina Jolie in Wanted as the Harry Potter of assassins (heehee). Let's just say I will be there for both! Oh, and I have to love his name. It was my grandfather's afterall! Funny that.

Other Crush Boys:
Hugh Dancy ... Nikolaj Coster-Waldau ... Bradly Cooper ... Jeremy Piven

Mika-licious

The world is full of wonderful things that are the catalysts for fantastic memories. Sometimes you need an anchor of inspiration to give you motivation the edge it needs. Lucky for me, I was able to put these two things together in a Mika moment of greatness. With the start of 2008 I discovered the original and creative pop-stylings of Mika. His album has become the soundtrack of my year of renewal. In a year devoted to balance, it has been this record that has kept me on the positive edge I need. It generates a happy twist to any day and I welcome that joy. I am singing in my head at all times and life is lovely. So when the chance to see Mika in concert arrived I could not let it go by. The cosmos were on my side. Yes, it sounds crazy and impulsive and impractical and, well, awesome. So I got on a flight to Toronto and joined my friends Jodi and Cindy and my sis-in-law Kat for the event. Everything fell into place. Cheap flights. Time off from work. A chance to visit friends and family. Arriving at the venue at EXACTLY the right moment. And then the music began. I understand that Mika is a "love him or hate him" kind of artist. But he is an artist. A musical talent and showman that is rare these days. His voice is incredible. The show was fresh, creative and spectacular. And, as one of the gals put it - "I doubt there is a straight bone in his body, but if there was ... I do it!" And so, by proving himself sexy beyond his expected awkwardness, a true STAR is born. Glad I took the time to revel in the entertainment.

Good-Bye Mr. Ledger

Almost 10 years ago I made a group of my girlfriends watch a movie called 10 Things I Hate about You. I promised them that they would fall in love with the star ... a young actor named Heath Ledger. Since then I have seen every movie Heath has made (save his last two recent releases) and I remain stoked for his fight with Christian Bale in the upcoming Dark Knight.

So when I opened my internet today and read the headline that he had died ... well ... I really didn't know what to say. My instant thought was "No Way". And my second was a stunned deja vu of that moment on Halloween 1993 when River Phoenix left us all behind. Heath joins him now in the hall reserved for talent taken away. May he rest in peace.

Thanks to punklegolas on YouTube for this tribute.

Gone Globes Gone

On its 65th birthday the Golden Globes did not celebrate. As the first major awards casualty of the writer's strike, the cancellation of the Globes highlights the integral role that writers play in ALL our entertainment. I mean, the very fact that an awards show cannot be presented because the banter and introductions cannot be written astounds me! But in the end I don't think this was the problem as the hour long "newsconference" went along just fine.

The issue was the refusal of Hollywood stars to cross the strike line and for this reason I find the writer's strike an intriguing experience in the unions vs. management debate. It should be noted that the SAG awards have been given a waiver by the WGA to go as planned thereby illustrating union solidarity between the scribes and stars. And this is as it should be since the WGA agreement will set an valuable precedent for the actors negotiations come June. Hold onto your hats everyone, this year will likely change the entertainment industry forever. And then, hopefully, the awards shows will be back (cause I really like the Globes with its champagne on the tables and half-drunk speeches and prom/dinner party vibe!)

But political commentary aside you may have noticed a lack of movie reviews on this site as of late. This of course would have been combined with the fact that I missed the Globes newscast completely and didn't even remember to look up the winners until late the next day Iyou can find them here). And so, for the first time since I began my blog there is no Globes commentary. And if there had been it would probably have been about how many of the films I had not yet seen and TV series not available in my area. What has become of me? I promise I am not on strike. I'm just working a bit more on my "real" life rather than the reel ones.

Globes 2006 ... Globes 2007

MIKA - Likey

Every once in awhile I hear a new tune that just sticks in my mind for ages and makes me all smiley when I hear it. At the moment that song is "Grace Kelly" from Mika. For the life of me, I don't know where this guy came from (ok, apparently it is London by way of Beirut) and the song doesn't make a lick of sense but it is SO fun. A trip to his website will have you humming to the rest of the tunes and wondering why music isn't always this zany. He actually reminds me a bit of some of Hawsley Workman's early stuff with its random poetry, melodious riffs and pop culture referencing. Now I am sure I am late to some bandwagon here because I know nothing about music and I am usually the last to find out about about some singer/group/movement that everybody else is on to .. but, well, whatever. I like it. Try it out here.

2008 Awaits

I woke up in a new year to a world painted in white. The trees were slip-covered in snow and the air was still, sleepy. In the country's largest city it felt as if the world has stopped and truly taken a moment to savour the new beginning. My recent memory cannot recall a more perfect, more pristine, entrance for a year. It put my mind at ease to think that all would be well.

But truth be told the arrival of 2008 puts me into a bit of a panic. A pure tummy-butterfly panic! On the one hand I am happy to be moving forward. I have a portion of a plan again. I have my health, good friends and a wonderful family. I am not on the brink of emotional turmoil (2006) or embarking on an ill-fated romance (leading to emotional turmoil - 2007). I am calmer than I have been in ages. But then there is the panic.

You see, 2008 is also a year of big choices which lead to big changes. It is a turning point year. And although that sounded all rosy and optimistic in 2007 when I was planning it out, the actual ACTING on it is rather scary. In the first place I have negotiated a new work situation that enables me to spend more time on my studies. It also compacts my responsibilities and reduces my wages thereby stressing my pocketbook and limiting my social (shopping?) life.

Secondly, I have made a commitment to graduate in May. This goal of course demands the completion of two courses and a major research paper in the next four months. It also puts forward the question of what I will do AFTER I graduate causing all types of job-related issues to emerge.

Lastly, I have decided that I should leave the east coast and relocate near my brother's family in order to be near my niece & nephew and enhance my work opportunities. After years of deliberately being away from "home" I thought it would be nice to go back - on my own - for a spell. And this means organizing a move and finding a place to live elsewhere and goodbyes and ... well, whew. It won't even be September yet. And so, butterflies.

How to fight the butterflies? In the past couple of years I have adopted a theme for my year ahead. 2006 = Clarity. 2007 = Breathe. This year the theme is Balance. It is not about getting rid of the butterflies but about balancing the panic with the exhilaration of momentum. It is about struggling through those classes AND planning my graduation party. I can do this.

On the day I decided that I was going to approach work about changing my situation in order to make all my other plans possible I had a portentous horoscope. So as the new year dawns I must remember it:

Today is a good day to take chances, dear Pisces. You will be quite successful, if you are ready to defend the things you really care about. Pretend that you are the director of a film and that you have just met a potential producer for your movie. You just happen to have your script in hand. Are you ready to move up in the world? Are your ready for success?