I don't usually use this blog for messages directed at a certain person or group of people, after all, this isn't a bulletin board. But, since it's my blog I can do what I want, I'm breaking the rules for this one.
I was talking to Jer and Gorski over the past few days and it seems that the two of them, plus Tara, are planning on moving to Grande Prairie or some other northern outpost. My only question, is why?
Well, actually I know why. You want to get better jobs, live on your own, and all that stuff. Those are good enough reasons, there's no denying that. But, as someone who currently lives in Northern Alberta, I'd just like to say this: Alberta, and the north in particular, isn't all it's cracked up to be. Now, hold on a minute before you get all mad, and let me explain. Ever since I was in high school I've always heard millions of people say "oh I'm going to Alberta to work." I never got that really, but since I didn't know, I just figured Alberta was this mecca for employment and cash. Well now that I've lived here for a bit, I can tell you this: The 'mystique' of Alberta is non-existent. That's not to say it's not a nice place, because it's fine. But there aren't riches beyond compare as soon as you get east of the Rockies. It is colder though.
The saying "The grass isn't always greener on the other side" is a saying for a reason. It's usually true.
Now that's not to say you guys shouldn't go - I mean you can obviously do what you want. I'm just saying that you probably aren't going to find any better or more jobs in Alberta than you would anywhere else, especially now that the oil rig jobs are done for the season (As is my understanding). Trust me. Of course, I don't expect any of you to listen to me, after all, Jeremy is just as stubborn as me, if not more, so I don't expect you to take heed of any of this stuff. I'm just tellin' you what I think that's all, since I'm the one who's here -- I don't really mean to discourage you.
But hey, do what cha want. Just think about it good first, that's my advice guys. Like I said, the grass ain't always greener. If it were, I wouldn't be trying to get back to the original side of the fence.
Friday, January 30, 2004
Wednesday, January 28, 2004
So it's come to this...
The current sub-zero temperatures here in Peace River have been well documented, so i won't go into that again. I would however, like to mention, that the heat in the Record-Gazette office is all but broken. This is a very old building, it's very drafty and everything from the heat to the electricity has it's problems because, like I said, the building's old. I wasn't here right at 9 a.m with everyone else, but apparently it was colder inside than out.
In an effort to keep warm, the following measures were taken, with funny albeit unfortunate results.
Instead of smoking in the "lounge" in the basement, Kristin and the rest of the R-G'ers who smoke have taken to smoking in the tiny, dark boiler room where it's warm.
RESULT: Almost got stuck/locked in there when the door got stuck.
In the absence of real heat, Deb, the publisher, went out and bought four or five little portable heaters to keep us warm. So we plugged them in under our desks...
RESULT: The heaters shorted out most of the fuses in the building, leaving us with no lights, printers, computers or much else for over an hour. Like I said it's an old building.
Ken, (who's heater was the only one that didn't blow a fuse), the only one besides Deb who has a real office, closed his door in order to keep the heat in.
RESULT: He's turned himself into a hermit, and communication between Ken and his 2-person editorial staff is non-existent. Therefore I don't do any work. On the positive side, with the door closed he can't throw pencils at me all day.
In order to preserve what little body heat we've got left, both Jen (crazygirl) Dayna, Shelly and myself are all wearing tuques, despite being indoors.
RESULT: We all look like Elmer Fudd. (Except for me with my black tuque, Ken says it makes me look like a gangster or thug of some sort)
The current sub-zero temperatures here in Peace River have been well documented, so i won't go into that again. I would however, like to mention, that the heat in the Record-Gazette office is all but broken. This is a very old building, it's very drafty and everything from the heat to the electricity has it's problems because, like I said, the building's old. I wasn't here right at 9 a.m with everyone else, but apparently it was colder inside than out.
In an effort to keep warm, the following measures were taken, with funny albeit unfortunate results.
Instead of smoking in the "lounge" in the basement, Kristin and the rest of the R-G'ers who smoke have taken to smoking in the tiny, dark boiler room where it's warm.
RESULT: Almost got stuck/locked in there when the door got stuck.
In the absence of real heat, Deb, the publisher, went out and bought four or five little portable heaters to keep us warm. So we plugged them in under our desks...
RESULT: The heaters shorted out most of the fuses in the building, leaving us with no lights, printers, computers or much else for over an hour. Like I said it's an old building.
Ken, (who's heater was the only one that didn't blow a fuse), the only one besides Deb who has a real office, closed his door in order to keep the heat in.
RESULT: He's turned himself into a hermit, and communication between Ken and his 2-person editorial staff is non-existent. Therefore I don't do any work. On the positive side, with the door closed he can't throw pencils at me all day.
In order to preserve what little body heat we've got left, both Jen (crazygirl) Dayna, Shelly and myself are all wearing tuques, despite being indoors.
RESULT: We all look like Elmer Fudd. (Except for me with my black tuque, Ken says it makes me look like a gangster or thug of some sort)
Tuesday, January 27, 2004
:: A Beautiful (bored) Mind ::
I was supposed to work tonight -- Nav's game, but due to the shitty weather, it was postponed. Again. So I had the night off, which I spent listening to the Canucks/Blackhawks game on the radio, watching Sports Night, and generally letting my mind wander to wherever it felt like going. Some of those things are documented below for your blogging pleasure.
- There was a faint glimmer of hope that the sports reporter job at the Langley Times was open. I investigated, and now that glimmer is gone. No new job for me. In the meantime I guess I'll stay here in Peace River, complete with snot-freezing, air-so-cold-you-can-see it weather. It's -50 give or take a few degrees. Still wanna visit here next week Chris? Also on the subject of moving, Jer informs me that him and Gorski want to move up here and work. God only knows why.
- The opposite of freezing, obviously, is burning. Which is what happens to your tongue when you put 10 "Extra Strong Mint" tic-tacs in your mouth at once. Just in case you were wondering.
- I have to come up with new things to talk about with my friends. It's getting a little boring, I'm sure for everyone else as much as me. Not to say you guys are boring by any stretch, but if I'm not talking about the cold weather with Melissa, I'm talking about jobs with Ian, or trading barbs with Mike. I need to find some interesting topics o' conversation. When I do, I'll let you all know, I'm sure you'll appreciate it.
- Sports Night is just as good the 40th time as it was the 1st. Well okay, maybe not the 1st, but the 25th definitely.
- I'm losing my patience with stupid people. I used to tolerate them when they'd come around, then mock them ruthlessly behind their backs once they'd left, but now I can't even do that. I don't have it in me. I've had to listen to people call me at work to piss and moan once too often. The next person is not going to like what I have to say.
- I don't really have a favourite in this year's Super Bowl. I like the Pat's because they killed everyone this year despite playing with third and fourth stringers at nearly every position - the word decimated doesn't begin to describe their injury situation. I like the Panthers because two years ago their quarterback was a waiver-wire cast-off who couldn't even earn a starting job in NFL Europe, and I like rags to riches stories. That said, my prediction: New England wins by 3 on another clutch FG from Adam Vinitieri.
- Speaking of rags to riches, where the hell are my riches? I think i deserve a raise. Right fucking now.
That's all the randomness I can handle right now, and I'm sure it's more than enough boring shit for you all to read, so I'll stop for now.
I was supposed to work tonight -- Nav's game, but due to the shitty weather, it was postponed. Again. So I had the night off, which I spent listening to the Canucks/Blackhawks game on the radio, watching Sports Night, and generally letting my mind wander to wherever it felt like going. Some of those things are documented below for your blogging pleasure.
- There was a faint glimmer of hope that the sports reporter job at the Langley Times was open. I investigated, and now that glimmer is gone. No new job for me. In the meantime I guess I'll stay here in Peace River, complete with snot-freezing, air-so-cold-you-can-see it weather. It's -50 give or take a few degrees. Still wanna visit here next week Chris? Also on the subject of moving, Jer informs me that him and Gorski want to move up here and work. God only knows why.
- The opposite of freezing, obviously, is burning. Which is what happens to your tongue when you put 10 "Extra Strong Mint" tic-tacs in your mouth at once. Just in case you were wondering.
- I have to come up with new things to talk about with my friends. It's getting a little boring, I'm sure for everyone else as much as me. Not to say you guys are boring by any stretch, but if I'm not talking about the cold weather with Melissa, I'm talking about jobs with Ian, or trading barbs with Mike. I need to find some interesting topics o' conversation. When I do, I'll let you all know, I'm sure you'll appreciate it.
- Sports Night is just as good the 40th time as it was the 1st. Well okay, maybe not the 1st, but the 25th definitely.
- I'm losing my patience with stupid people. I used to tolerate them when they'd come around, then mock them ruthlessly behind their backs once they'd left, but now I can't even do that. I don't have it in me. I've had to listen to people call me at work to piss and moan once too often. The next person is not going to like what I have to say.
- I don't really have a favourite in this year's Super Bowl. I like the Pat's because they killed everyone this year despite playing with third and fourth stringers at nearly every position - the word decimated doesn't begin to describe their injury situation. I like the Panthers because two years ago their quarterback was a waiver-wire cast-off who couldn't even earn a starting job in NFL Europe, and I like rags to riches stories. That said, my prediction: New England wins by 3 on another clutch FG from Adam Vinitieri.
- Speaking of rags to riches, where the hell are my riches? I think i deserve a raise. Right fucking now.
That's all the randomness I can handle right now, and I'm sure it's more than enough boring shit for you all to read, so I'll stop for now.
Sunday, January 25, 2004
I didn't think Mike had done the Friday Five with him being busy on his beer-guzzling tour of Newfoundland, so I was going to do the 5 in his absence. However, I see now that he's done it, but i'm going to do it anyways since I already thought of answers.
At this moment, what is your favorite...
1. ...song?
The Long Winters "Government loans"
2. ...food?
bacon and sausage thin crust pizza
3. ...tv show?
well I just started watching the Sports Night series for the billionth time.
4. ...scent?
french bread
5. ...quote?
"If you can't run with the big dogs you better stay on the porch!"
At this moment, what is your favorite...
1. ...song?
The Long Winters "Government loans"
2. ...food?
bacon and sausage thin crust pizza
3. ...tv show?
well I just started watching the Sports Night series for the billionth time.
4. ...scent?
french bread
5. ...quote?
"If you can't run with the big dogs you better stay on the porch!"
Thursday, January 22, 2004
:: Blogging by numbers ::
I just realized today that it has been almost a year since I started this blog-- a year and two days to be exact. It's been one hell of a year, with more..activity I guess I'll call it, than any other year of my life. This blog is one of the few things that has kept my attention for more than about 20 minutes, so to celebrate that fact I've come up with this list summing up my blogging year.
Total posts: 193
Times Mike has tried to make me look stupid, either on his blog or mine: 52,042*
People who read my blog: Oh I'd say about six.
Times Melissa's been quoted out of context: 56
Comments left by people in Langley: about 5
Comments left by random internet strangers: 1
"Deeper than fishbowl"posts: 10 or less
Times I've stuck my proverbial blogging foot in my mouth: 8
Times I've tried to be sneaky or vague in a post to avoid saying what I really mean: 200
References to Eddie Murphy: 1
Times Silv has said 'gross' since I've had this blog: 593
Times the word 'sneaky' has been written here: 3,435
Blog designs/colour schemes: 4
Cities I've blogged from: 3 [Kamloops, Langley, Peace River]
Percentage of posts written after 1 a.m: 79
Number of angry posts directed at Diana Skoglund: 1
Quotes from Meghan or Melissa regarding being naked or having no pants: 3
Posts that served as reminders to Mike so he didn't forget something: 1
Song lyrics posted here, in whole or in part: 8
Angry rants: 7
Sad depressing posts: probably 5 or so
Shameless acts of self-promotion: 4
Posts that began with "Well we were drinking last night..": Almost all posts between Jan 03 - April 03
Posts written while drunk: a few - one obvious one can be read here
Posts written about my desire to be somewhere else: 4
Insults disguised as advice spoken by Omega editor Neal Pobran: 1
Ranking of this blog in relation to other websites: 1
*some "facts" are nothing more than estimations or gross over-exaggerations.
I just realized today that it has been almost a year since I started this blog-- a year and two days to be exact. It's been one hell of a year, with more..activity I guess I'll call it, than any other year of my life. This blog is one of the few things that has kept my attention for more than about 20 minutes, so to celebrate that fact I've come up with this list summing up my blogging year.
Total posts: 193
Times Mike has tried to make me look stupid, either on his blog or mine: 52,042*
People who read my blog: Oh I'd say about six.
Times Melissa's been quoted out of context: 56
Comments left by people in Langley: about 5
Comments left by random internet strangers: 1
"Deeper than fishbowl"posts: 10 or less
Times I've stuck my proverbial blogging foot in my mouth: 8
Times I've tried to be sneaky or vague in a post to avoid saying what I really mean: 200
References to Eddie Murphy: 1
Times Silv has said 'gross' since I've had this blog: 593
Times the word 'sneaky' has been written here: 3,435
Blog designs/colour schemes: 4
Cities I've blogged from: 3 [Kamloops, Langley, Peace River]
Percentage of posts written after 1 a.m: 79
Number of angry posts directed at Diana Skoglund: 1
Quotes from Meghan or Melissa regarding being naked or having no pants: 3
Posts that served as reminders to Mike so he didn't forget something: 1
Song lyrics posted here, in whole or in part: 8
Angry rants: 7
Sad depressing posts: probably 5 or so
Shameless acts of self-promotion: 4
Posts that began with "Well we were drinking last night..": Almost all posts between Jan 03 - April 03
Posts written while drunk: a few - one obvious one can be read here
Posts written about my desire to be somewhere else: 4
Insults disguised as advice spoken by Omega editor Neal Pobran: 1
Ranking of this blog in relation to other websites: 1
*some "facts" are nothing more than estimations or gross over-exaggerations.
Wednesday, January 21, 2004
"Ah the life of a swingin' bachelor. I remember when I was single....eating out all the time and drinkin' beer, never cooking for myself. Now I'm married though...and actually, still don't cook for myself."
- Darcy, hockey coach, when we were sitting around eating pizza after the game and I said I like coming to their games because I can basically eat dinner for free.
EDIT: As an aside - pepperoni, bacon and sausage thin crust pizza from panago is quite possibly the best pizza ever.
- Darcy, hockey coach, when we were sitting around eating pizza after the game and I said I like coming to their games because I can basically eat dinner for free.
EDIT: As an aside - pepperoni, bacon and sausage thin crust pizza from panago is quite possibly the best pizza ever.
Tuesday, January 20, 2004
:: The Devil no more ::
In a previous post I talked about how I am the Devil. Well, I'm here now to disprove that claim. I was at that school tonight talking to a high school football player named Daryl about sports reporting for this work experience project he's doing in school. Because I volunteered my time, the school gave me a Glenmary keychain. And when I held this keychain from the Catholic school, it did not burn my palm ala Gollum and the elvish rope in the second Lord of the Rings movie, and not once did I scream out "It burns us, it burns us!"
If I were as evil as originally thought, this religious relic would surely have seared my evil flesh, don't you think?
In a previous post I talked about how I am the Devil. Well, I'm here now to disprove that claim. I was at that school tonight talking to a high school football player named Daryl about sports reporting for this work experience project he's doing in school. Because I volunteered my time, the school gave me a Glenmary keychain. And when I held this keychain from the Catholic school, it did not burn my palm ala Gollum and the elvish rope in the second Lord of the Rings movie, and not once did I scream out "It burns us, it burns us!"
If I were as evil as originally thought, this religious relic would surely have seared my evil flesh, don't you think?
Monday, January 19, 2004
Saturday, January 17, 2004
:: Where have all the good people gone? ::
Just a quick question: Where the fuck is everybody? I seems like I haven't talked to anyone in ages, with the exception of Meghan who I talked to the other day. It almost seems like people are avoiding me. Chris seems to have fallen off the face of the earth and whenever I talk to Mike I get the "Can't really talk now whaddda ya want?" and when Melissa's online it's a quick "anyways, bye. ttyl"
Where do you guys get off going out and getting social lives? Just kidding. Make an token appearance once in awhile, that's all I ask.
Just a quick question: Where the fuck is everybody? I seems like I haven't talked to anyone in ages, with the exception of Meghan who I talked to the other day. It almost seems like people are avoiding me. Chris seems to have fallen off the face of the earth and whenever I talk to Mike I get the "Can't really talk now whaddda ya want?" and when Melissa's online it's a quick "anyways, bye. ttyl"
Where do you guys get off going out and getting social lives? Just kidding. Make an token appearance once in awhile, that's all I ask.
Friday, January 16, 2004
Alright everyone, the comments are back in action, but due to the new website that runs the comments, they don't look as nice as the other ones - now as you can see, they're just plain old boring white. But until I find a way to edit them, it's as good as it gets. I notice that Mike hasn't fixed his comments yet. But that's to be expected from him - Mike's always late.
Feel free to go back a few posts and comment on them, I always like reading what everyone has to say, even Mr. Eng on occasion.
Feel free to go back a few posts and comment on them, I always like reading what everyone has to say, even Mr. Eng on occasion.
Thursday, January 15, 2004
:: Scattered Thoughts from an Insomniac ::
For some reason I'm not in a super great mood right now. Don't know why, just not feeling too peppy. Also it's 12:41 a.m, which may or may not have something to do with this lack of pep. My insomnia is back, if you couldn't tell. So I figure the best way to get out of this mood i'm in, and also get rid of this insomnia, is to blog, so here are some random thoughts events and ideas in my head right now. Yeah that's right, I actually have thoughts and ideas - it's not just a few rocks bouncing around inside my head you know (Mike, shutup).
-The hockey game was cancelled tonight because the visiting team from Slave Lake couldn't make it here due to poor road conditions. Of course, I didn't hear about the cancellation - which was apparently announced on the radio which I don't listen to. So I showed up, camera in hand, only to be treated to...a practice. Woo-fucking-hoo. So I hung around a bit, talked with the trainer for awhile, got laughed at by the players and Darcy, the coach: "Oh you didn't hear? Well, it was in the news." Yeah, yeah, real funny guys. Make fun of the sports reporter for not knowing the sports news. I figure it balances out for last friday when I didn't think there was a game but there actually was. Wasn't so bad though - this way I got to watch That 70s Show and the O.C instead. Who schedules hockey games on the best TV night of the week anyhow? I really like that show The O.C I didn't want to watch it at first, figuring it was a new version of Beverly Hills 90210, which I've always despised, but I started watching it and it's pretty good.
-Speaking of The O.C, I've really noticed how all these drama-type shows aimed at younger audiences are basically the same, plot-wise anyhow. I'm not going to go into detail, but in every one of these shows there's one character who keeps getting their ass kicked, metaphorically speaking or sometimes literally, yet they still come back for more, time and time again. It's almost painful to watch sometimes, but what can you do? It reminds me of an observation Eddie Murphy made in his hilarious stand-up comedy movie Delirious:
He says something along these lines: "Why are white people so stupid when it comes to strange, bad shit happening to them? Like in that movie Ghost those people move into that house. They hear the voice of the ghost telling them to get out, but do they? Hell no, they stick around and bad shit happens to 'em. If that was a black couple moving in that house it'd be like this:
Husband: Well honey, its a great house, big kitchen, great yard, and it's close to schools.
Ghost's voice: GET OUT!
Husband: Too bad we can't stay baby.
Okay, now you're probably wondering what does that joke have to do with anything? Nothing really I guess, except some people make good choices and stay alive, while others get repeatedly attacked by ghosts. It's baffling to me.
Some more random gibberish:
- I sometimes wonder why I have a cell phone when the only thing I use it for is Blackjack and saying "Sorry, you've got the wrong number."
- Nice to see that my deco-esque newspaper The Classic Times is such a big success. The guys in Grove seem to like them and since I've got a lot of time on my hands they are being produced at a feverish pace - three already. I think maybe I need to get a social life.
- I think my sleeping problem is being caused by the same thing it has been in the past - overthinking while I'm lying in my bed. Similar to last year in Kamloops, but now that I have a real job i've got even more to think about on top of the old stuff. I'm getting ready for a lot of nights of 3-hours-of-sleep.
- The comments being down on this blog, and mike's, really pisses me off. Maybe it'll be fixed by next week. Maybe.
Well, that's all the random crap I can think up right now, and this post is probably long enough. As Chris always says - I think I'm gonna hit the sack....and then I'm gonna go to sleep. (you're a funny guy Chris. Funny indeed)
For some reason I'm not in a super great mood right now. Don't know why, just not feeling too peppy. Also it's 12:41 a.m, which may or may not have something to do with this lack of pep. My insomnia is back, if you couldn't tell. So I figure the best way to get out of this mood i'm in, and also get rid of this insomnia, is to blog, so here are some random thoughts events and ideas in my head right now. Yeah that's right, I actually have thoughts and ideas - it's not just a few rocks bouncing around inside my head you know (Mike, shutup).
-The hockey game was cancelled tonight because the visiting team from Slave Lake couldn't make it here due to poor road conditions. Of course, I didn't hear about the cancellation - which was apparently announced on the radio which I don't listen to. So I showed up, camera in hand, only to be treated to...a practice. Woo-fucking-hoo. So I hung around a bit, talked with the trainer for awhile, got laughed at by the players and Darcy, the coach: "Oh you didn't hear? Well, it was in the news." Yeah, yeah, real funny guys. Make fun of the sports reporter for not knowing the sports news. I figure it balances out for last friday when I didn't think there was a game but there actually was. Wasn't so bad though - this way I got to watch That 70s Show and the O.C instead. Who schedules hockey games on the best TV night of the week anyhow? I really like that show The O.C I didn't want to watch it at first, figuring it was a new version of Beverly Hills 90210, which I've always despised, but I started watching it and it's pretty good.
-Speaking of The O.C, I've really noticed how all these drama-type shows aimed at younger audiences are basically the same, plot-wise anyhow. I'm not going to go into detail, but in every one of these shows there's one character who keeps getting their ass kicked, metaphorically speaking or sometimes literally, yet they still come back for more, time and time again. It's almost painful to watch sometimes, but what can you do? It reminds me of an observation Eddie Murphy made in his hilarious stand-up comedy movie Delirious:
He says something along these lines: "Why are white people so stupid when it comes to strange, bad shit happening to them? Like in that movie Ghost those people move into that house. They hear the voice of the ghost telling them to get out, but do they? Hell no, they stick around and bad shit happens to 'em. If that was a black couple moving in that house it'd be like this:
Husband: Well honey, its a great house, big kitchen, great yard, and it's close to schools.
Ghost's voice: GET OUT!
Husband: Too bad we can't stay baby.
Okay, now you're probably wondering what does that joke have to do with anything? Nothing really I guess, except some people make good choices and stay alive, while others get repeatedly attacked by ghosts. It's baffling to me.
Some more random gibberish:
- I sometimes wonder why I have a cell phone when the only thing I use it for is Blackjack and saying "Sorry, you've got the wrong number."
- Nice to see that my deco-esque newspaper The Classic Times is such a big success. The guys in Grove seem to like them and since I've got a lot of time on my hands they are being produced at a feverish pace - three already. I think maybe I need to get a social life.
- I think my sleeping problem is being caused by the same thing it has been in the past - overthinking while I'm lying in my bed. Similar to last year in Kamloops, but now that I have a real job i've got even more to think about on top of the old stuff. I'm getting ready for a lot of nights of 3-hours-of-sleep.
- The comments being down on this blog, and mike's, really pisses me off. Maybe it'll be fixed by next week. Maybe.
Well, that's all the random crap I can think up right now, and this post is probably long enough. As Chris always says - I think I'm gonna hit the sack....and then I'm gonna go to sleep. (you're a funny guy Chris. Funny indeed)
Monday, January 12, 2004
:: Runnin' with the Devil ::
As I'm sure many of you are now aware, courtesy of my mass-emailing earlier in the day, I am the devil. Or so some people would have you believe. Let me fill you in on what's gone on:
When I arrived at work today, Shelly asked me if Ken had told me about "The Glenmary thing." I said "No." In fact, I didn't even no what "The Glenmary thing" was. Shelly's response: "Oh, I better not tell you then. Maybe Ken doesn't want you to know." Of course i eventually convinced her to tell me. So here's the deal.
Shelly has two twin nieces, who goes to the public high school. They happen to know some of the girls on the Catholic high school's -- Glenmary's-- volleyball team. This team was very successful this year, and they constantly complained about what they perceived to be a lack of coverage--which was unfounded and plain false.
Anyways, to say these girls -- more specifically Glenmary's coach-- are bitches, is the understatement of the year.
Well, they went one step further today. This bitch/coach is leaving next season, so her players lovingly made her a scrapbook of their season. And, privileged as I am, an entire page in the scrapbook is devoted to me. Not my stories, to me personally. They even drew devil horns on one of my pictures.
So apparently now I'm Evil Incarnate, which is a promotion from my current job. One minute i'm re-writing a press release, the next I rule all Hell. Sweet.
Now, being insulted and called the devil doesn't bother me. After all the shit these Glenmary* girls have given me over the past three months, it doesn't surprise me. What bugs me is the absolute hypocrisy of the situation. This is a religious school - and I'm no expert, but doesn't the Catholic religion, and basically all religions outside of Satanism (my chosen faith!) preach understanding, decency and general goodness? I haven't read the bible in..well, ever but I'm pretty sure I'm right. And here are these girls complaining non-stop, insulting me and generally being mean. Not exactly the definition of a good catholic, is it? But despite this, they think they're so saintly and good because "they go to church." Which is my inherent problem with Catholicism, and a lot of religions in fact. I don't mean to paint all religious people with the same brush, the aforementioned Shelly is Catholic and one of the nicest people I've met here in Peace River, but it's been my experience that most religious people reek of this hypocrisy.
They talk a good game, but when it comes right down to it, they aren't any better than the rest of us. So if I'm the devil and am going straight to Hell, I'll keep a few seats warm when I get there, because they'll be coming along right behind me.
*I'm using the word Glenmary as often as possible in the hope that google will pick up this post and forever attach it to the word 'Glenmary'.......Glenmary Glenmary Glenmary.
As I'm sure many of you are now aware, courtesy of my mass-emailing earlier in the day, I am the devil. Or so some people would have you believe. Let me fill you in on what's gone on:
When I arrived at work today, Shelly asked me if Ken had told me about "The Glenmary thing." I said "No." In fact, I didn't even no what "The Glenmary thing" was. Shelly's response: "Oh, I better not tell you then. Maybe Ken doesn't want you to know." Of course i eventually convinced her to tell me. So here's the deal.
Shelly has two twin nieces, who goes to the public high school. They happen to know some of the girls on the Catholic high school's -- Glenmary's-- volleyball team. This team was very successful this year, and they constantly complained about what they perceived to be a lack of coverage--which was unfounded and plain false.
Anyways, to say these girls -- more specifically Glenmary's coach-- are bitches, is the understatement of the year.
Well, they went one step further today. This bitch/coach is leaving next season, so her players lovingly made her a scrapbook of their season. And, privileged as I am, an entire page in the scrapbook is devoted to me. Not my stories, to me personally. They even drew devil horns on one of my pictures.
So apparently now I'm Evil Incarnate, which is a promotion from my current job. One minute i'm re-writing a press release, the next I rule all Hell. Sweet.
Now, being insulted and called the devil doesn't bother me. After all the shit these Glenmary* girls have given me over the past three months, it doesn't surprise me. What bugs me is the absolute hypocrisy of the situation. This is a religious school - and I'm no expert, but doesn't the Catholic religion, and basically all religions outside of Satanism (my chosen faith!) preach understanding, decency and general goodness? I haven't read the bible in..well, ever but I'm pretty sure I'm right. And here are these girls complaining non-stop, insulting me and generally being mean. Not exactly the definition of a good catholic, is it? But despite this, they think they're so saintly and good because "they go to church." Which is my inherent problem with Catholicism, and a lot of religions in fact. I don't mean to paint all religious people with the same brush, the aforementioned Shelly is Catholic and one of the nicest people I've met here in Peace River, but it's been my experience that most religious people reek of this hypocrisy.
They talk a good game, but when it comes right down to it, they aren't any better than the rest of us. So if I'm the devil and am going straight to Hell, I'll keep a few seats warm when I get there, because they'll be coming along right behind me.
*I'm using the word Glenmary as often as possible in the hope that google will pick up this post and forever attach it to the word 'Glenmary'.......Glenmary Glenmary Glenmary.
Wednesday, January 07, 2004
A case of the blahs
I'm feeling very weird these last few days. At work I never feel like I'm doing anything - sometimes I'm not but I'm usually keeping busy. Nobody calls me back for my articles, almost every story I have is falling apart, and the worst part is, I don't really care. Before I even write them I know they'll be terrible.
It's like they pre-emptively suck.
And then today in our editorial meeting, the publisher was going on and on about how we need to get good experience by summertime so we can cover for Ken when goes on vacation. All I could think of, was, "Summer? Are you fuckin' kidding me? I can't stand doing this until then."
I wonder what it'll take to get out of this rut I'm in.
Meh..That about sums it up
I'm feeling very weird these last few days. At work I never feel like I'm doing anything - sometimes I'm not but I'm usually keeping busy. Nobody calls me back for my articles, almost every story I have is falling apart, and the worst part is, I don't really care. Before I even write them I know they'll be terrible.
It's like they pre-emptively suck.
And then today in our editorial meeting, the publisher was going on and on about how we need to get good experience by summertime so we can cover for Ken when goes on vacation. All I could think of, was, "Summer? Are you fuckin' kidding me? I can't stand doing this until then."
I wonder what it'll take to get out of this rut I'm in.
Meh..That about sums it up
Monday, January 05, 2004
Following Mike's lead, I've done this survey on the year that was.
A 2003 Survey
1. What did you do in 2003 that you'd never done before?
- Got a "real", (ie: post graduation) job.
- Threw a Christmas tree off a balcony
- got drunk by the early afternoon.
2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I didn't keep my last year's resolution, and I didn't make one this year, because I never keep them anyways.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Not that I can recall.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
No, thankfully.
5. What countries did you visit?
Just Canada.
6. What would you like to have in 2004 that you lacked in 2003?
A promising career path. Oh, and money.
7. What date from 2003 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
March 8 - A party gone horribly wrong.
April 9 - Last day of classes ever at UCC
September 11 - I officially took the job in Peace River
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Graduating university.
9. What was your biggest failure?
There were two: 1) Failed to find a job close to home. The second one i'll keep to myself, but it has something to do with the party gone horribly wrong, and my 2003 New Year's resolution.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nope, except for the usual end-of-year burnout in April, but I knew it was coming.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
I bought a few good things: 6 disgusting orange ties, a bunch of furniture for my apartment, and I bought a lot of beer.
12. Whose behaviour merited celebration?
Melissa's, for coming to Peace River to spend New Year's with me. Also, the boys in Walnut Grove, for no specific reason other than whenever I come back from wherever I've been, they're always there, same as always, and it's probably the nicest part of coming home.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
A few anonymous friends from UCC who, at times over 2003, acted like idiots. Not towards me, mind you, but to people I know.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Alcohol, rent, tuition, car payments.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Many things: The martini night, end of year j-school blowout, coming home for the summer, Merritt Mountain Music Fest, coming home for Christmas.
16. What songs will always remind you of 2003?
Gob - Ming Tran
James Kochalka - Monkey vs. Robot
Flock of Seagulls - I Run (from playing too much Vice City on PS2)
Brooks and Dunn - Red Dirt Road
Simple Plan - Addicted
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
i. happier or sadder? a little sadder
ii. thinner or fatter? dunno, thinner maybe.
iii. richer or poorer? about the same for the moment.
18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Looked harder for a job (in the beginning)
19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Thinking.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I spent it in Langley with my family.
21. Did you fall in love in 2003?
no
22. How many one-night stands?
None to speak of unfortunately, but not for lack of trying. (Isn't that right Jer? - "within reason...but, not really.")
23. What was your favorite TV program?
Canucks games on SportsNet. And DVD episodes of Sports Night.
25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
No I don't hate a lot of people. I'm on pretty good terms with mostly everyone in my life right now.
26. What was the best book you read?
Shoeless Joe by W.P Kinsella
27. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Billy Talent, Alexisonfire, and a lot of rare, old Matthew Good songs.
28. What did you want and get?
My diploma, a job, a lot of new friends.
29. What did you want and not get?
-A Canucks Stanley Cup win
-to end "the slump."
30. What was your favorite film of this year?
Pirates of the Caribbean
The Return of the King
(mike's addition): What was the worst films you saw this year?
Almost the same as mike's list:
Swept Away
Courage Mountain
Legally Blonde 2
Maid in Manhattan
31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 22. I spent it in Kamloops with Mike, Meghan and Melissa. We went to Earl's then back to the girls' place where Meghan and Melissa proceeded to phone and break "the news" to Vanessa's family. The Canucks also lost 6-0 to St. Louis that night.
32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Being able to stay in the Lower Mainland.
33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2003?
I don't know, casual mostly, but I clean up real nice when I have to. Orange ties were also a fashion statement last year.
34. What kept you sane?
my family, sleep, watching Sports Night.
35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
None that I can think of right now.
36. What political issue stirred you the most?
I guess, aside from the whole Iraq-war deal, I'd agree with Mike and say the Gordon Campbell DUI arrest for the simple reason that it gave us a reason to get wasted on martinis, in his honour of course.
37. Who did you miss?
My friends who aren't here right now, and of course my family. My friends are spread out now, and will be even more come Spring, so wherever I am, I'm always missing someone.
38. Who was the best new person you met?
In no particular order: Melissa, Mike, Meghan, and Sean. Four of my best friends.
39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2003?
Don't be afraid to take a chance once in awhile, but be prepared if it doesn't work out.
40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
"I missed the last song
I blame myself for just standing there too long
I missed the last song
I blame myself for just standing there" [Theory of a Deadman "The Last Song"]
"I'm twenty two, don't know what I'm supposed to do
or how to be, to get some more out of me.
I'm twenty two, so far away from all my dreams" [Millencolin "twenty-two"]
A 2003 Survey
1. What did you do in 2003 that you'd never done before?
- Got a "real", (ie: post graduation) job.
- Threw a Christmas tree off a balcony
- got drunk by the early afternoon.
2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I didn't keep my last year's resolution, and I didn't make one this year, because I never keep them anyways.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Not that I can recall.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
No, thankfully.
5. What countries did you visit?
Just Canada.
6. What would you like to have in 2004 that you lacked in 2003?
A promising career path. Oh, and money.
7. What date from 2003 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
March 8 - A party gone horribly wrong.
April 9 - Last day of classes ever at UCC
September 11 - I officially took the job in Peace River
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Graduating university.
9. What was your biggest failure?
There were two: 1) Failed to find a job close to home. The second one i'll keep to myself, but it has something to do with the party gone horribly wrong, and my 2003 New Year's resolution.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nope, except for the usual end-of-year burnout in April, but I knew it was coming.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
I bought a few good things: 6 disgusting orange ties, a bunch of furniture for my apartment, and I bought a lot of beer.
12. Whose behaviour merited celebration?
Melissa's, for coming to Peace River to spend New Year's with me. Also, the boys in Walnut Grove, for no specific reason other than whenever I come back from wherever I've been, they're always there, same as always, and it's probably the nicest part of coming home.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
A few anonymous friends from UCC who, at times over 2003, acted like idiots. Not towards me, mind you, but to people I know.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Alcohol, rent, tuition, car payments.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Many things: The martini night, end of year j-school blowout, coming home for the summer, Merritt Mountain Music Fest, coming home for Christmas.
16. What songs will always remind you of 2003?
Gob - Ming Tran
James Kochalka - Monkey vs. Robot
Flock of Seagulls - I Run (from playing too much Vice City on PS2)
Brooks and Dunn - Red Dirt Road
Simple Plan - Addicted
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
i. happier or sadder? a little sadder
ii. thinner or fatter? dunno, thinner maybe.
iii. richer or poorer? about the same for the moment.
18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Looked harder for a job (in the beginning)
19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Thinking.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I spent it in Langley with my family.
21. Did you fall in love in 2003?
no
22. How many one-night stands?
None to speak of unfortunately, but not for lack of trying. (Isn't that right Jer? - "within reason...but, not really.")
23. What was your favorite TV program?
Canucks games on SportsNet. And DVD episodes of Sports Night.
25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
No I don't hate a lot of people. I'm on pretty good terms with mostly everyone in my life right now.
26. What was the best book you read?
Shoeless Joe by W.P Kinsella
27. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Billy Talent, Alexisonfire, and a lot of rare, old Matthew Good songs.
28. What did you want and get?
My diploma, a job, a lot of new friends.
29. What did you want and not get?
-A Canucks Stanley Cup win
-to end "the slump."
30. What was your favorite film of this year?
Pirates of the Caribbean
The Return of the King
(mike's addition): What was the worst films you saw this year?
Almost the same as mike's list:
Swept Away
Courage Mountain
Legally Blonde 2
Maid in Manhattan
31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 22. I spent it in Kamloops with Mike, Meghan and Melissa. We went to Earl's then back to the girls' place where Meghan and Melissa proceeded to phone and break "the news" to Vanessa's family. The Canucks also lost 6-0 to St. Louis that night.
32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Being able to stay in the Lower Mainland.
33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2003?
I don't know, casual mostly, but I clean up real nice when I have to. Orange ties were also a fashion statement last year.
34. What kept you sane?
my family, sleep, watching Sports Night.
35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
None that I can think of right now.
36. What political issue stirred you the most?
I guess, aside from the whole Iraq-war deal, I'd agree with Mike and say the Gordon Campbell DUI arrest for the simple reason that it gave us a reason to get wasted on martinis, in his honour of course.
37. Who did you miss?
My friends who aren't here right now, and of course my family. My friends are spread out now, and will be even more come Spring, so wherever I am, I'm always missing someone.
38. Who was the best new person you met?
In no particular order: Melissa, Mike, Meghan, and Sean. Four of my best friends.
39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2003?
Don't be afraid to take a chance once in awhile, but be prepared if it doesn't work out.
40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
"I missed the last song
I blame myself for just standing there too long
I missed the last song
I blame myself for just standing there" [Theory of a Deadman "The Last Song"]
"I'm twenty two, don't know what I'm supposed to do
or how to be, to get some more out of me.
I'm twenty two, so far away from all my dreams" [Millencolin "twenty-two"]
Friday, January 02, 2004
There's a feeling I get when I look to the West
And my spirit is crying for leaving.
After a whirlwind festive season, I finally have some time to reflect.
It's been the craziest Christmas I've ever had, for the simple reason that it was the first time I wasn't at home in the days and weeks preceeding the 25th. In fact, it feels like I've been moving in fast-forward ever since about the 21st of December - from finishing up work, to packing for Christmas, to going home for Christmas, packing up again, flying back, spending four days, including New Year's, with Melissa, and now life is finally back to its usual quiet ways - except for the cold I have acquired.
It's this oncoming cold/flu that's made me realize how worn out I've become - for years I always get sick after long periods of stress or activity, like the first weeks during winter and summer breaks from University. But I'm not necessarily complaining about this worn-down feeling, because I had a great Christmas and New Years. I got to go home, hang out with Chris, Jer, Ian, Sean and company, I got to see my family, and since it was Christmas, I got tons of presents, so really, what's not to like?
The trip home to Langley was an arduous one: Peace River-Grande Prairie-Edmonton-Calgary-Abbotsford-Langley. Yep, not cool. But it didn't bother me because it was that final destination that I was looking forward to. There really is nothing quite like coming home. The only problem with coming home is that, inevitably, you have to leave. It was tougher than I thought to get on that plane back to Alberta. It really was. Even though my job in Peace River is great, and I really don't have a damn thing to complain about, it's still not home, and after being back for a week, home is where I wanted to be. It occurred to me, as a sat on the Abbotsford airport tarmac, that I've always made the smart, logical decision, as I was again doing by going back to Peace River. I really wanted to convince myself that a job wasn't everything, and that being home, and having everything that goes along with that, was more important that a job. But then common sense prevailed, as it always does when I get a brief irrational thought in my head, and here I am again, in Peace River.
Now, I don't want people to get the impression that I'm unhappy here, so do me a favour and don't fill the comment box full of inspirational "you're paying your dues, it'll get better" comments. I don't need to be cheered up, but that's just how I sort of feel now that the holidays are over. I just wish that sometimes the thing I really want was also the right thing to do.
But it rarely is, and without it being right I can't do it, because I don't have an irrational bone in my body.
And my spirit is crying for leaving.
After a whirlwind festive season, I finally have some time to reflect.
It's been the craziest Christmas I've ever had, for the simple reason that it was the first time I wasn't at home in the days and weeks preceeding the 25th. In fact, it feels like I've been moving in fast-forward ever since about the 21st of December - from finishing up work, to packing for Christmas, to going home for Christmas, packing up again, flying back, spending four days, including New Year's, with Melissa, and now life is finally back to its usual quiet ways - except for the cold I have acquired.
It's this oncoming cold/flu that's made me realize how worn out I've become - for years I always get sick after long periods of stress or activity, like the first weeks during winter and summer breaks from University. But I'm not necessarily complaining about this worn-down feeling, because I had a great Christmas and New Years. I got to go home, hang out with Chris, Jer, Ian, Sean and company, I got to see my family, and since it was Christmas, I got tons of presents, so really, what's not to like?
The trip home to Langley was an arduous one: Peace River-Grande Prairie-Edmonton-Calgary-Abbotsford-Langley. Yep, not cool. But it didn't bother me because it was that final destination that I was looking forward to. There really is nothing quite like coming home. The only problem with coming home is that, inevitably, you have to leave. It was tougher than I thought to get on that plane back to Alberta. It really was. Even though my job in Peace River is great, and I really don't have a damn thing to complain about, it's still not home, and after being back for a week, home is where I wanted to be. It occurred to me, as a sat on the Abbotsford airport tarmac, that I've always made the smart, logical decision, as I was again doing by going back to Peace River. I really wanted to convince myself that a job wasn't everything, and that being home, and having everything that goes along with that, was more important that a job. But then common sense prevailed, as it always does when I get a brief irrational thought in my head, and here I am again, in Peace River.
Now, I don't want people to get the impression that I'm unhappy here, so do me a favour and don't fill the comment box full of inspirational "you're paying your dues, it'll get better" comments. I don't need to be cheered up, but that's just how I sort of feel now that the holidays are over. I just wish that sometimes the thing I really want was also the right thing to do.
But it rarely is, and without it being right I can't do it, because I don't have an irrational bone in my body.
Thursday, January 01, 2004
:: No Sugar Tonight ::
Upon arriving in the mighty town of Peace River, and more specifically my wonderful apartment, Melissa was startled to discover that I had no sugar in my possession. She seemed baffled as to how I survived without it, after all, how do I bake and eat cereal without it? Well, I don't bake and I don't eat breakfast, so that answered that, but she still thought it odd. And Meghan, upon hearing of this lack-of-sweetener, wondered exactly "What the hell kind of person doesn't have sugar?"
Well, the sugar problem was soon fixed - Melissa bought a sack 'o sugar, and I'm sure it will last me until the end of time. She bought it not only so she'd have something to sprinkle on her rice krispies in the morning, but so I'd never be without sugar after she left. How sweet (no pun intended).
Melissa: Well you had sugar as soon as I walked in the door, but I can't exactly bag myself up and stay here.
So there you have it folks, my apartment is no longer sugar free, and that's pretty sweet (pun intended).
Upon arriving in the mighty town of Peace River, and more specifically my wonderful apartment, Melissa was startled to discover that I had no sugar in my possession. She seemed baffled as to how I survived without it, after all, how do I bake and eat cereal without it? Well, I don't bake and I don't eat breakfast, so that answered that, but she still thought it odd. And Meghan, upon hearing of this lack-of-sweetener, wondered exactly "What the hell kind of person doesn't have sugar?"
Well, the sugar problem was soon fixed - Melissa bought a sack 'o sugar, and I'm sure it will last me until the end of time. She bought it not only so she'd have something to sprinkle on her rice krispies in the morning, but so I'd never be without sugar after she left. How sweet (no pun intended).
Melissa: Well you had sugar as soon as I walked in the door, but I can't exactly bag myself up and stay here.
So there you have it folks, my apartment is no longer sugar free, and that's pretty sweet (pun intended).
:: In the Cold, Cold Night ::
Last night was, of course New Year's Eve, and it was a pretty good night - we went out for Chinese Food, sat around drinking rye, then hit up The Moon Saloon, which Melissa says was a typical northern bar. Not having any previous experience with northern bars, I just took her word for it. So we danced and drank and generally had a fun time at the bar - it was packed, and I saw a few people that I knew, it was a good night.
Until the end of it.
You see, not only was The Moon a typical northern bar, outside it was also typical northern weather. Cold. Like -28 kind of cold. We wandered outside at about 1:30, intent of beating the rush for cabs. No cabs were waiting outside, so I called for one, only to be told that the company was incredibly busy, and there was a minimum 1 hour wait for a ride. So we wandered across the road/highway to a closed Esso station where there was a phone booth and phone book. I called the only other taxi company in town, and they only had a 20 minute wait. Perfect right? Nope.
The cab never came, and after another phone call we were assured that one was "on the way", which of course, was bullshit. No cab was going to stop at a closed gas station when all the people were across the highway at the bar. So we waited and froze - especially Melissa, who's feet were so cold and sore she couldn't walk. After awhile a cab finally came, but it wasn't even the one we called for. "I just saw you guys standing there as I drove by and figured you needed a ride," the cabbie told us. Regardless, we got home at about 2:15 and starting the process of thawing ourselves out.
I made it my new year's resolution to never go to the Moon Saloon without my car ever again.
Last night was, of course New Year's Eve, and it was a pretty good night - we went out for Chinese Food, sat around drinking rye, then hit up The Moon Saloon, which Melissa says was a typical northern bar. Not having any previous experience with northern bars, I just took her word for it. So we danced and drank and generally had a fun time at the bar - it was packed, and I saw a few people that I knew, it was a good night.
Until the end of it.
You see, not only was The Moon a typical northern bar, outside it was also typical northern weather. Cold. Like -28 kind of cold. We wandered outside at about 1:30, intent of beating the rush for cabs. No cabs were waiting outside, so I called for one, only to be told that the company was incredibly busy, and there was a minimum 1 hour wait for a ride. So we wandered across the road/highway to a closed Esso station where there was a phone booth and phone book. I called the only other taxi company in town, and they only had a 20 minute wait. Perfect right? Nope.
The cab never came, and after another phone call we were assured that one was "on the way", which of course, was bullshit. No cab was going to stop at a closed gas station when all the people were across the highway at the bar. So we waited and froze - especially Melissa, who's feet were so cold and sore she couldn't walk. After awhile a cab finally came, but it wasn't even the one we called for. "I just saw you guys standing there as I drove by and figured you needed a ride," the cabbie told us. Regardless, we got home at about 2:15 and starting the process of thawing ourselves out.
I made it my new year's resolution to never go to the Moon Saloon without my car ever again.