Bathroom Travailes

I'm not sure if "travailes" is a word, but I'll use it anyway. We're finally sourcing out the tiles and other details for our bathroom...I'm excited.

Until I realize how much work is still involved actually doing it.

Time...I just need time

Fightfightfightfightfight!

So our soccer game today ended (predictably) with a loss, and (unpredictably) with a fight. I wasn't involved, nor was I willing or wanting to. I think it was partly Trent (my teammate's) fault, but the other team was playing way too aggresively for a rec league. Trent even ended up with a gash by his eyebrow.

Quite frankly, this is the reason I sometimes hate playing organized sports, especially with testosterone-filled idiots who take these games too seriously.

Besides, I'm a lover, not a fighter.

(And thank goodness I was on the bench as opposed to on the field, otherwise I may have reluctantly had to get invovled...and get beat up...lol)

The Brotherhood Of The Travelling Skirt

Okay, yes, I'm a girl. I just watched that movie with Sharon.

I think I still have a thing for Rory

Longest Week Ever

So I figured this week I worked an extra two days. Four straight days of leaving ridonkulously early just to finish a project I've been pretty much working on the past year.

Or in other words: what it feels like to work for private industry?

I'm pretty tired

My Mom Is Funny

I haven't done one of these posts in a while. So I went to my parents house for dinner, and my Mom asked me to install MSN messenger for her so she could chat with Con on the computer.

Well I installed it, but she had to go to her prayer group. So I showed my Dad how to use it to show my Mom. I then added her as a contact and then left the house.

When I got home and signed in, I messaged my Mom who was now online. Here is how the conversation went:

Jason said:
So do you know how to use this now?

Imelda says:
hi jay its working its mom testing123

For some reason it reminded me of the time we first got call waiting years ago. When my Mom came home that evening, she asked me if the call waiting worked. I said yes. She asked how did it sound. I told her it was a beep. She proceeded to ask me what kind of a beep, how long did it last, what did I say to the person I put on hold, etc.

Old people and technology make for a great combination

And Then It Hit Me

While at work today, I realized that it's gonna be a while before I get over it.

My heart is just not in it right now. To be dramatic (a la American Idol): my spirit is broken.

A trio of black leaders will help me through this:

I will overcome. Yes, I can. You go girl*.

(*oh would you look at that, someone is already joking)

Who's Next?

*coughcoughbeegayorargaycoughcough*

Congrats go out to Team Mistie. I do find it funny thought that Dr. Sy had to include in his text message, "she said yes!"

Was there any possibility she would have said "no"? It's not like he moved halfway across the country for her or anything...

Sore Loser Talk (Or Rationalizing...It's All Relative)

So I didn't get it.

And the only reason I found out was because the person who did get it told me. In other words, I haven't been officially declined yet.

Yes, I am upset and somewhat saddened by the fact I didn't get it. I would like to think I did all the necessary steps to achieve it, but I guess it wasn't meant to be (this time...or next...still stings a bit too much right now to really decide if I would ever go for it again). Doesn't help that a lot of people at work, even the person who did get it, was convinced I would get it, saying things like it was mine to lose. I felt like I was the only person who didn't think I would, despite the fact that deep down inside I thought I would get it. Sucks and still hits you hard when it actually comes true.

For the record, I am very happy for Kathie; she is one of the people at work I genuinely call a friend. There is absolutely no way I should be bitter about the fact that she got the position; she is qualified and I said time and again that if I weren't to get it she would be the only one I would want to get it. While I may have had some advantages for the position over her, she did too over me; so really, it's came down to the manager's decision. I guess this softens the blow a lot more than if anyone else were to get it.

I think, really, one of the things that have me disappointed is that for the past few weeks I have started to think of myself in that role. Now I have to revert back to the position I currently have (which I do like on occasion), but the double whammy in this is that Kathie was the best partner I had and now will lose. And plus, I wanted to buy suits!

But for some reason, I would like to think of this as a blessing in disguise. I have always said that I value time just as much as money; I think in this case, I put the latter above the former. With a dog hopefully on the way and maybe kids in the distant future, I am going to need it. And plus, the people I would have had to supervise would have been a challenge. I might not be ready for that right now.

So now what? I guess pick myself up from the sadness and put on a happy face. My life is very blessed and I still consider myself one of the luckiest guys on earth. Things happen in life for a reason; I don't know what this reason is just yet, but I'm sure it will display itself sooner or later

'Tis The Season For Consumerism

Lately I've been thinking about how I've been very much the "consumer", even in these times of economic insecurity (recession!). At the same time, I've heard that the best way to get out of the doldrums of a recession is to contribute to the economy (aka. "spending").

What's my point to all of this? I bought a bunch of stuff recently that I wonder if I really need (clothes, glasses just because it's for free through my insurance, garage door, garage door opener, soon-to-be front door). Or maybe it's because I've been scrooge-like ("frugal", "money-wise", "cheap") recently and have been wanting to save more money than I regularly do. The thing is, we do save money quite responsibility, so it's okay if I splurge here and there. Yay again for rationalization!

Spared!

Thank God, Sharon was spared from the axe this week. I think we would have been fine either way, but at least now...we can get a new front door. Consumerism rocks!*

By the way, regarding the previous post, I noticed I named the store as "R & W". Apparently I think not only can I buy clothing there, but also a Mama Burger. I'm such a FOB... "RW & Co." is what I meant to say.

*not really

Find A Deal? Buy in Bulk!

So Arvin always makes fun of me that when I find a good deal, I tend to buy in bulk (ie. in different colours where possible, or just "extras" just because I wouldn't be able to buy it again at that price). I don't blame him; I do that.

Lately I've been good, controlling myself from the conspicuous consumerisms.

But today? Damn you R & W for having a sale! I was at the mall on break with Kiri and was just going to buy a bun for lunch. A bun. Next thing I know, we went into the store on the insistence of Kiri and all of a sudden, I was able to qualify no problem for the free scarf promotion (basically if you spend $95 pre-tax, you get a free scarf).

I do have an excuse though: it's near impossible for me to find something that fits me. I have one of those retarded out-of-the-95-percentile body types, thus I don't fit into the clothing that most stores offer. The clothes at R & W fall into the 5 percentile!

I'm great at rationalizing

Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

It's that time to consider if I should go back to my soccer team for the next session. Soccer is fun, it's a workout and all, but I was thinking of doing something else (like basketball).

And if I do go back, I might have to kiss salsa goodbye for now; all these activities can get pricey. Afterall, it's pretty tense times in the Lobo-Marquez residence due to this economic downturn. In fact, we should know by tomorrow or Wednesday what the deal is. I feel bad for my baby, but I am confident things will be okay.

On a brighter note, our new garage doors will finally be installed tomorrow (I hope). Who knows with this company we're going with (Dodd's Garage Doors)...we thought they were a reputable company, but as of now they seem shady. Eh, we'll see

Argh...Another Bad Eating Weekend

I've been fairly good the past few months, but this past weekend was just horrible.

Time to step it up and work-it-out.

I'm gonna die in soccer tomorrow

It's All About Timing

So Carlo and Kalina came over for dinner today, and I attempted to cook a prime rib roast with veggies, garlic mashed, fried onions, sauteed mushrooms and buffalo shrimp. You know what I found out was hard? Trying to make all of them at the same time, or at least serving them at the same time warm.

Sucks...and to top it off, I left the roast in the oven too long and it turned out medium-well (as opposed to the ever great medium-rare). Next time, I suppose

Rub Me Down

Can't wait till tomorrow when I go for my massage appointment.

I think I would be depressed if I didn't have a job that gave me all these benefits

The One That Got Away

Funny game that soccer...it screws with your emotions.

At first, I didn't want to go to this game because for one, it started at 10:40pm. But then I found out that we were going to be (majorly) short players due to injuries, so I decided to suck it up and play. When I got there, we had a bench of one. Needless to say, I was dreading the fact that we would have to run like crazy today against a team higher than us in the standings.

And then something interesting happened...I actually scored a goal. I was obviously happy because I didn't think I was going to score this season, and at that point, we were down 3-1, so I thought we would still be in it.

A few plays later, Trent passed a ball absolutely perfect to me and all I had to do was head it in; instead, it glanced off the post. I let out one of those primal screams because I don't think I would ever get an opportunity like that again.

We kept hustling and something I would've never thought happened: I actually scored again. We eventually lost 7-3 and you would think I would be happy with all the factors going against us and the fact that I scored two goals and that I didn't originally want to play.

But no...all I can think about now is the fact that I missed a header. Honestly, I think I would trade my two goals for that one goal.

Like I said...funny game

Uh-Oh, Here We Go Again

Nervous time tomorrow. But like I (try) to maintain: if it doesn't work out, I'm not going to be all that sad. Besides, I am looking at it strictly from the $ point of view.

If anything, I'm more worried about Sharon's situation. But whatever happens, I am hopeful and confident we will overcome

Happy Birthday Mon Papa

Can't believe my Dad is 61 years old today. Never thought of my parents as being over 60 (or considered senior citizens). Makes me kind of sad thinking about how life goes so fast

Dammit Tricked Me Again!

Damn Raps...lulled me into thinking it was going to be a good season. And already, the frustrations begin.

* * *

Near the snapping point at work. Not really liking the people I work with right now

Lest I Forget

Thank you

Another One Joins The Club!

So the wedding went yesterday and last night and it was quite the affair.

My speech went like much of my jokes: met with silence or the sounds of crickets...haha. Oh well, I don't care, as long as I was amused.

I am happy another couple made the plunge. As I always (semi?)-joke: misery loves company!

Let The Festivities Begin!

So today was the wedding rehearsal for Ken and Janice. It's so great to be not the one getting married and having fun as just a guest. Well, okay, I'm the Best Man and it involves a little more work, but not as much as a Groom.

Now then, I have less than two days...to write my speech. Hmmm...

* * *

Apparently I still have that reputation. Blah, whateves...it's not my business and I shouldn't be disappointed and instead happy, which I am, but still...

(Oh, I understand, it's some people that don't understand me)

4 Guys, 3 At A Time...

...equals one friggin' exhausted team that lost, yet again. We were down 3 guys today, and I was running ragged.

Yeah, this soccer season is not turning out to be as fun as the previous ones.

On the bright side, Andrew "Hollywood" de Angelis stopped by and it's always fun catching up with him. I secretly hope he writes a killer TV script and I somehow get to star (or, okay, at least guest star) in it. Yes, I'm a geek

* * *

November 17. Time to start freaking out for two weeks!

Call Me Jay The Plumber

But not a good one. So I went into my first foray into actual plumbing today as I was doing my bathroom. Aside from almost burning down the house, I became one of those DIYer's that I never wanted to be: mistake after mistake and running to Rona twice (and all for $1 worth of copper).

And the worst it after finally finishing (good thing Sharon wasn't home and no water was needed): I realized I put a pipe in the wrong place, I cut my finger and hands up, and I had anxiety the whole time (again, fear of burning down the house).

Okay, so I feel like crap, but really it was my first time doing it, and doubly good that my Dad wasn't here (double the pressure). Maybe I shouldn't be so harsh on myself. Who knows, one day (in the far, far future) I'll remember it as a "fun time"

Foot Of My Life

So Sharon and I went on a date today. Ate at a Mexican Taco Bar in Kensington Market (tres yummy), followed by the 3rd installment of a play we've been watching called "Inch of Your Life". It was and still is a very funny play. It's almost like Will and Grace on stage (yes, there are gay jokes all over the place).

It wasn't as funny as, say, the first two parts, but it was still good. I think what was missing was my friend Andrew (who starred in the first two, but unable to star in the third one). Oh, and also, the ending left off with another "To Be Continued..." Dammit. Thus the title of this post

14th Time To Say "It's That Time Again"

The Raptors are back for season 14. It seems they have a new team, and actually won a convincing game.

I'm excited, but let's check back in after game 43 to see how I feel.

One plus from watching the game today was getting invigorated to play ball myself.

Again, let's check back after I play my 43rd game to see how I feel.

* * *

Went to see my old massage therapist Leslie, who know works at a men's dress shirt manufacturer (they are having a liquidation sale, which I bought some stuffs). She was showing me the shirts, and I think some of the workers there thought I was her boyfriend. What can I say, I'm suave?

(Ever since reading the book "The Game", all of a sudden I think I'm a playa.

No.

I didn't forget I'm married)

Par-tay! On A Mon-day!

Considering my cousin Bobby and his wife Ning had their wedding reception on a Tuesday (it was an auspcious day in the Chinese calendar), it really shouldn't have come as a surprise that their baby Calvin's 100th Day of Birth Celebration came on a Monday.

Always fun to see family. Even funner to overeat. Sort of. Not really.

Tito George even wore the "#1 Lolo" shirt we made for him and gave him on his birthday a few months ago

After Socialing, What Did We Learn?

I have a long, long, long way to go to being even half-decent.

Gotta practice like crazy...errrr...at least learn the basics and fundamentals

* * *

Said it before, said it again, will continue saying: strip clubs are just not my thing. Went to one today for a bachelor party, and was exactly what I thought: waste of money and time. I guess it floats the boat of some people, but you know it's not for me when I end up watch UFC (and I don't even watch UFC!) instead of watching the nekked girl gyrating on stage. On top of that, we were in the "VIP area", and it was just, well, a sausagefest. Blah, whateves.

I will say though, that watching a guy have actual sex in one of those booths was quite a surprise. But those booths had UV lights and the seats lit up like fireworks, so maybe it wasn't too much a surprise

Another Stressful Week Gone By

I sometimes become worried that life is passing by too quickly, and during the brief time I actually realize it, I was more or less stressed out (at least at work). I can sort of see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it doesn't help when the tunnel is 5 km. long and I have one leg cemented into the ground and the other really cramping (how's that for a dramatic analogy?). And since when did my feelings get so affected by work of all things?

I hope things get easier in the next few weeks...just gotta put my head down and plow through the work without (or at the very least very little) complaint

The Other Football

So my workmates and I played some football after work today in the freezing cold.

Good times! I even scored the winning touchdown.

The best part? I got to "two-hand touch" the girls at my work, and it was perfectly okay. Score!

Friggin' Crap Yo

So when you give an absolutely brutal giveaway to the opposing team for the eventual winner, it's all of a sudden clear why people get so passionate about futball.

(If you haven't guessed, I did that today and we eventually lost 3-1, after leading 1-0)

I feel like crap.

On the brightside, I don't live in South America. I would've prolly been killed by now (that's not a stereotype at all).

At least something did make me laugh at the game today: Andrea (maybe 31 years old) was there watching the game, and one of my teammates kid (maybe 9 years old) kept asking her if I was her husband and he was acting jealous, like the lovesick puppy he was. It was quite amusing, really. Which just proves: I'm a threat! Yeeeeeeeee...boi!

Babies Babies Galore!

So both Kat and Ruthie came in today with Elizabeth and Shekinah. Such awesome and beautiful kids!

I even fed and burped Elizabeth. And then I realized that when the bottle was leaking a bit, I had Kathie's boob-juice on my hands. I, ummm...never thought I would have a co-worker's bodily fluids on me before.

I also really, really wish Kiri has one soon. God willing.

I can't wait...to get a dog. And then a child. At least, I have to trick Sharon into having one. Time to get scheming

R.I.P. Sheila

Sucks...found out the sweet lady that lives beside us just passed away suddenly (in the sense that she was going through chemo and all signs pointed towards a recovery).

Her and Murray just celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary last week.

Kinda puts things into perspective and makes you realize how short life is

Forever!

Well, at least that's what it feels like doing this bathroom renovation.

It's getting there. Unfortunately, "there" seems to be so far it away it would take forever to get there. Wait, I think I just said that...

Another Stressful/Busy Week Gone

Sigh...when will the insanity end?

(I have an idea, although it would involve firing old people and hiring new, harder-working people)

* * *

Visited Che and Reccie and Elmer and the kids today for the first time in a while. Sometimes hanging out with family is just as fun as having a social life. Hmmmm...

I May Be A Minority...

...but I ain't no Conservative.

Good news: Conservatives only won a minority, and looks like my Liberal vote made a difference (at least in my riding).

Bad news: Harbush is still the PM. Here comes Canada, hell!

One Year Ago Today...

...I made the best decision of my life.

I love you baby...here's looking to at least seven more years

Giving Thanks...

...for narrowly avoiding clogged arteries.

Although this Thanksgiving Weekend is not over yet, so I'm not in the clear just yet.

And what says Thanksgiving better than...Peking Duck? Well, according to my family it'll do just fine. Yum...duck skin

Thanksgiving At The Marquez-Lobo Residence

Slash Welcome Back To Ontario Team Beevy Celebration. Should be an interesting experience. That is, guests are coming in 2 hours, and I'm on the computer. Hmmmm...maybe I should start cooking

Jawbroke

So I had some jawbreakers today for the first time in years. (Why? Because it was there as a "treat" at my meeting).

It left my tounge feeling coated and all sorts of nasty for the rest of the day. I think it will be years again before I forget and have another one (or two).

* * *

It's decision time again. Another position came up at work that I think my Supervisor and Manager is trying to get me to apply for.

I'd like to go for it because it would be a pay raise.

I'm hesitant because I don't like the actual work involved and the people involved.

Then I think about the economy and how I would like to maintain a certain lifestyle (Great Dane). So I went from an 80/20 no/yes ratio to 50/50 and now it seems like it's 92/8.

In no way, shape or form am I a shoo-in for the position, but I would like to think I have a good shot. I just better not screw up in the interview. But first things first...gotta print off the resume and be sure I actually 100/0 want to apply...

Nothing Makes A Handyman More Deflated...

...than screwing up. And having to do twice the work.

But luckily I'm not a handyman, and screwing up is always part of the entire equation.

Damn bathroom fan!

That Was A Long Week

On top of starting the soccer season, playing basketball every morning this week after taking a week off being sick (in essence killing me physically), working crazy hours topped off with an ememrgency overtime shift today (first time I've been in the field for over a year; don't eat Iceburg Lettuce if it comes from Michigan!)... I so tired.

I think I need at least 53 hours off. Straight. That way I can concentrate on the renovations at hand

Don't Know Much Politricks...

...but screw you Harper, you wannabe Bush.

I think I'm going Orange

And The Nausea Begins

So I started my soccer season today. Unfortunately we lost 2-1. Even more unfortunate was that I had two glorious chances to score and I muffed it up.

We have new players on our team that appear to be superstars. As well, Rosemarie put us in the "intermediate division" (two above "beginner" and "novice" and one below "expert/insane").

It's gonna be a long season

Be Careful What I Wished For

Or something like that. I pushed a work colleague of mine to join my team and essentially be my partner (while my quadrupley-better regular partner is on mat leave). I thought she would pan out okay...so far, 1.5 months in? Not really. As a result, I do seem to be working a whole lot more harder, which of course can't be good. Maybe I'm just comparing her too much, but really...you have to work at least 20 minutes out of a 7 hour day.

Maybe it's just me.

The thing that really sucks? She's a friend. So I feel like I can't hate too too much.

* * *

What qualifies as exciting for me these days? We're going front door "window shopping" tomorrow (does that make it front door door shopping?). Oh to dream large.

* * *

Still trying to get over this sickness. Hey, I may not get sick much these days, but when I get sick, I get sick.

He Ain't Hebby, He My Brudder

So Con is leaving for the Philippines tomorrow for a month, followed by his moving to Australia for (at least) 10 months. He's going on an adventure, and who knows where it will take him and for how long.

I really hope he finds peace of mind and the calmness he seeks.

* * *

So my dream came true at work today: I was able to take part in the hiring process for a new employee.

However, my nightmare also came true today: there were no hot girls. The successful applicant was qualified and all, but that's besides the point

It Was Bound To Happen...

...got sick. Argh. I hate the feeling.

And I was doing so well.

But at least I got to spend a sick day...washing and waxing my car? I've been neglegent in the upkeep/maintenance of my car. She deserved it.

Back to work tomorrow, unless I feel really horrible (and right now that seems like a possibility)

How?

How do I live the life I want without disappointing people?

Why do things have to change?

Those are enough thoughts to make someone go depressed...sigh

I Have No Friends

My wife is not going to be home tonight so I want to eat out. But I have no friends anymore.

What the heck happened?

Aw Shucks, Thanks?

So I did a moderating session today and apparently got all sorts of accolades from the speakers, to my director, to my manager, to my supervisor, to my big head. I'm never good with accepting compliments. Awww shucks...but I guess I'll just gloat this one time. Makes me feel good!

The keynote speaker this morning was Pinball Clemons. Absolutely great speaker. He said a couple things that really resonated with me (in the sense that it is a good way to think of things):

-"I may be an MVP of the CFL, but more importantly, I am the husband of Diane. I live to serve her"

-"material things do not matter; it is the relationships you have and foster that matter most in life"

-"circumstances do not make you who you are; how you deal with circumstances do"

-"realizing not how important you are, but how unimportant you are puts things in perspective"

140!

So I'm a criminal...I drove well above the speed limit today, and all for the sake of not being late for a salsa class. (But really, it's okay because if I drove the same speed as everyone else, then I'll jump off a bridge too...I think that's a moral of the story or something). If only the class wasn't located so dang far away.

I had an excuse though; the Rye High classmates came over today. Good times.

And now it's like I'm back at school procrastinating yet again; I'll be moderating at the annual PHI educational conference tomorrow morning, and I have to write a "script" as to what I'll say. Where am I at right now with that? "Document 1"

Yikes

All For Nothing

So I went for a jog this morning. A nice jog.

Then I ate the day away. I hate it when that happens.

In my defence, it was my Godson Mikey's birthday party, and Kim always prepare enough food for 73 people, despite the fact only 17 showed up. And the food is always so dang good (aside: it would be funny if food rhymed with good).

Tomorrow my Ryerson classmates are coming over...ulp...here we go again...

Five Years...

...ago, my Lola passed away. A lot has certainly changed in my life. I don't visit her at the cemetary enough, and I don't think about her much; at least as much maybe as I feel I should. I'd like to think though that she understands

Uneasy Times

But then again we always tend to overworry about pretty much everything.

One step at a time

A Stone's Throw(n Away)

And the mass exodus of the stuff we don't want in our backyard continues. Thanks to my lovely wife and the power of Craigslist, we will be absolved of about 2000 lbs. of landscaping stone that we do not want. My back will be plenty happy.

One man's junk is another man's treasure, even if they come all the way from Markham (considering the price of gas, wouldn't it have been cheaper for them to just buy new stones?)

TWOthreefourfiveSIXseven

So I started my on2 Salsa classes. And? It's fun! (except for that whole sweating profusely part). I hope I learn something in the next 8 weeks

9021-Oh-Oh

So where the heck did I get the idea of watching the 2 hour premier of the new 90210? Seriously, it sorta...sucked. (And yes, I do realize I watched the whole thing so that in essence makes me sucky.)

But anyway, it will be one show I won't be watching in the future.

If only they had even one hot girl...

One Man's Junk Is Another Man's...

...well, quite frankly, I don't care. The hot tub is gone!

Thank goodness for people who think hot tubs are useful. Yee-uh!

Derth

So I've been not posting lately. I started this blog as a collection of future recollections, and now I've just been too...apathetic?...to continue posting.

Luckily nothing much has been going on with life. Just another summer coming to a close with a ton of things on my plate left to do (in terms of housework, workwork, lifework).

I've also made a concerted effort to not be on the internet so much (failing at that).

But nonetheless, maybe my posting will pick up in the near future. It's inevitable I go through lulls

Another Phase?

Since I've come back from my vacation (a very long 3 days ago), I've made a somewhat new commitment.

I shall exercise more and I shall spend less time on the internet.

We'll see how that goes

Work

Blah.

So I find out that I was right at the top of the interviews for the position I did not get, and it was basically a "coin-flip" to see who got the position. The person who got the position got it because she was already in the Mississauga office, while I am in the Brampton office.

Quite frankly, I don't know how to feel about that

Am I Refreshed?

Ready to go back to work?

I'm not sure

Las Vegas And Los Angeles?

Good times...but am glad to be back home

"Sorry, But..."

Well at least I got the answer before I leave for Vegas. I'm not overtly upset, but no one of course likes being rejected. I still believe that I would have been the best candidate; but no sense fretting.

Which reminds me, I guess I should pack. Especially since I'll be leaving in nine hours from now.

And what sucks? I'm getting an upset stomach. I hope I didn't get food poisoning. That would just suck so bad, it would be suckbad

"Well, I'd Like To Understand The Situation First"

I think about 40% of my answers today on my interview started like that. Well, I don't think I got the job, but it's all good; no harm, no foul, great experience. Still got my old job which I do like.

It was somewhat fun though wearing a suit to work and having some of the ladies call me, amongst other things, "hot". wtf? Never been called that before. I know I'm an attentionwhore, but I think that was a wee bit too much attention.

Three Little Words

So there was something Arvin said today that confirmed that he will be getting married soon (I predict 2010):

"I like stability"

(What's love got to do with it?)

Almost There...

...then my tingly biyag can subside. I hope!

Feels like I'm in school again

Dammit, I'm Sick!

Looks like I got a Facebook virus. Oops! Don't know how that happened...

Focus Man, I Gotta Focus Man

Time to step it up, clean it up, and concentrate

* * *

This time next week I'll be in Vegas...looking forward to it, but I also have a lot of stuffs to do in the meantime

I'll Have Some Chips With That Salsa

New hobby for the fall: Salsa On2. (No, seriously...I'm all signed up, paid and ready to go starting Sept. 7)

UhOh

Could it be? Have I stopped updating on a regular basis?

I guess that happens when life gets busy. Well, that's a lie because I'm still on the internet a lot. But I have been busy these past few days, including:

-tearing up the last bathroom to be renovated. I hope I know what I'm doing

-going to Carlo/Kalina's BBQ, a couple we haven't seen since our honeymoon where we met

-hectic day at work as two new people started

-getting ready fo something I think I secretly wished for but am very apprehensive about. Tingly biyag!

That Pit In My Stomach

It's seems omnipresent. It'll go away soon...I hope

My Dad Is Funny Pt. 42

"Hey Dad"

"Hey, how was your camping trip?"

"It was okay. I got bit by a lot of mosquitoes, and it rained a lot. There was lightning too"

"Did you get hit?"

Them Eyes Will Burn Right Through You

So Sharon and I had our first camping trip of the year: Bon Echo. We went a couple of years ago, and it was a lovely site.

Still is.

Except...for the raccoons. Proving we're still not quite past the "city slickers" stage, we foolishly left our food out. In the middle of the night, the raccoons came, ate all the remaining food (with the exception of pancake mix and apples). But it wasn't just that they ate it; it was how they ate it.

Let me tell you, waking up to a screeching, growling raccoon getting into the food bins is scary enough. But when you stick your head out from the tent and see five eyes staring right back at you...yeah, you just sort of give up trying to scare them away and let them eat all the food.

On the bright, rationalized side, they ate our junk food which, of course, was what we should not be eating.

Oh yeah, the weekend was pretty rainy, but we watched DVD's (camping, nature, what!), and I actually read a book (Bringing Down The House). I don't know what's gotten into me lately; two books in one week? Whaddahell?

* * *

Got some thinking to do for a possible position at work

Joy And Disappointment

So the baby shower I planned for Kathie turned out to be a success (well, at least in the fact that she was surprised and really liked the gifts we gave her). Ruthie even brought Trinity and she didn't cry! In fact, I think she likes me because we had some rather insightful, articulate conversations. Seriously, this baby is the smartest two year old I have ever come across. I can't wait until Sharon and I...get a dog. And then a child. Hopefully.

But then there was the disappointment for the day: our contractor, who is 95% complete our bathroom, did not show up again today. Sharon is understandably upset. We're so close, yet, so far away.

I'm trying to take a new route so that I don't pop a blood vessel. Patience. There is nothing I can do when it's up to others thatwe rely on. I understand that we paid him a lot of money for a good product; which, it admitedly is. The problem is, as is most things in life, the service we expect is turning out to be horrible.

In the grand scheme of things, the bathroom will be complete and we will be happy with it. But I guess that saying of "the ends sometimes does not justify the means" applies.

* * *

Going camping tomorrow for the first time in a long time. Bon echo! Hopefully it does not rain too too much. Would love to go canoeing again...hopefully we don't fall in.

* * *

Finally, one of my best friends at work (and, well, best friends period I guess) is having a hard time. She desperately wants a child, but is not having any luck yet. To make it more unfortunate for her, our other friends are going on mat leave soon. When they leave, it will just be us two again (when I first started for the Region, she and I were the youngest ones there and we really clicked. Let's just say she's as retarded as I am).

For a long time I selfishly did not want her to leave (even on mat leave) because she's my lunch buddy and someone I talk to and tell things to that I really don't tell anyone else (with the exception of Sharon, of course). But for the past few years, I've seen the pain in her face.

Now, more than ever...I'd rather be alone at work and her on leave (she admitted she probably would not return if she got preggers). I can't wait to meet their future child; no doubt it would feel love that any child would want, and more.

I wish when the time comes, Sharon and I do not have that problem

Blukackular

Haven't had that in a while: was knocked out yesterday from food poisoning.

I think it stemmed from eating the leftover pulled-pork sandwich from the ribfest (I don't think I'll be able to eat pulled-pork sandwiches for years to come now; the thought of it makes me nauseous).

I don't know if I could've avoided it. It's not like I know anything about food safety or anything. Loser!

Git Me A Bib For That Rib

Going to the Ribfest tonight at City Hall. Let's hope it's not too crowded, because, you know, I'm all sorts of crankey when it comes to that

iRed?

So I did something today that I haven't done in a long time: I read. A book. For fun.

I was teaching a course with Kathie and it was at a place that I couldn't leave during my breaks. So I decided to read the girly book she brought ("If you can see me now" by the same authour of "P.S. I love you"). It's a 355 page book and I got to page 102. I told her to bring it in again when she's done with it (I always finish what I start...sometimes...most times.)

Couple this with yesterday's post, it would be safe to say that I'm looking awfully fruity these days.

All I Needed Was The Touch Of A Man

Okay, the title sounds tres homo, but it's true.

I went for a massage therapy appointment today (to make it doubly gay, his name was Ricardo), and, well...it was the best massage I ever had. Maybe it was due to the fact that "man hands" make for a deeper tissue massage. Or maybe it was due to the fact that it was all business, with no small talk or idle chatter. Or maybe it was because his technique was so different from the previous massage therapists I've had. Or maybe it was all of the above.

Whatever the case, my muscles just felt like it went through a workout of the good kind.

Ummm...I think I'm gonna go chop some wood, shave my beard and make out with my wife now

OhOh...It's Peaking

Just watched a show on Food Network called "In Search of the Perfect Peking Duck". Not surprisingly, I'm a little dehydrated due to the drooling.

Oh yeah, and the 8 month project of finishing the shutters is nearing done. Mind you I have motivation: finish the renos, get a Great Dane. I wish!

First Time In A While!

Staying home all weekend and having no events, that is.

So we took advantage and worked around and out of the house. I finally 90% finished the California Shutters project I started about, oh, 8 months ago. I even borrowed my neighbour's tall ladder and (without looking down) climbed up high to take off the decorative shutters from the second story window while my wife mocked me.

Now I just need to concentrate on the backyard...

Nevermind You Eastgate

For the past few years I've been getting my eyeglasses and contacts at Dixie Park Optical. After I went to look today, I think I'm done with them. Aside from the fact that they don't have that much selection, it's also quite pricey.

I'm gonna find another optician (and not in Markham anymore, as more and more it's not worth it anymore to drive down there)

Craziest Thursday Jaunt Ever!

Woke up at 4:00am to drive parents to Buffalo.

Finally got to Buffalo airport at 7:15am-ish.

Got to Mercer, PA at 11:15am-ish.

Went crazy shopping.

Drove to Walden Galleria to eat at Cheescake Factory (one word to describe the place: ridonkulous).

Didn't get dinged at the border (score!).

Got home at 10:25pm.

Go to gym tomorrow morning.

Die.

But at least it's the weekend after that!

Pence Ill Vay Nana

So looks like we're gonna couple our trip to Buffalo with Pennsylvannia. All in one day.

Like, whoa!

That's It?

So after three faithful months of watching Hell's Kitchen, the show came to a close today. And I can't help but feel...unsatisfied. I don't know what it is.

Maybe this is why I shouldn't be watching reality TV

* * *

Slightly irritating change of plans for Thursday: was supposed to drive my parents after work to Buffalo for their trip. Instead I find out it will have to be before work. Oh well

And You Are...?

"The Workmate! Not the husband!"

And thus went my day at the Emergency Room at the hospital. Ruthie somehow fainted and bumped her head at work today, and an ambulance had to be called. I decided to go along with her so that she wouldn't be alone. It's true what they say at the ER in Peel...four hour wait for a five minute checkup.

But hey, at least she was okay. And it did lead to this somewhat amusing exchange:

Me (phonecall to my cell, where there is hardly any reception in the ER) : "Hello? Hello?"

Sharon: "Hello? Are you in a meeting?"

Me: "No, I'm in the hospital"

Sharon: "What...*click*" (lost reception)

I wish there was more dramatic suspence, but she called a few seconds later and the story was cleared up. But still, nothing like hearing your spouse is in the hospital for reasons unknown

Happy Debut Cessy

So I went to a debut today, and somehow ended up in it. Oldest Rose there.

And just when I thought I was done with it, ten years later I get sucked back in.

But whatever, it wasn't that that bad

Now Who's Gonna Rub My Body?

My massage therapist is leaving her clinic and her field altogether. I finally found a good one (albeit she did talk a lot), and now she's leaving.

Looks like I have to find another set of capable hands

Goal Update

Remember that goal of 155 by August? I suppose I'm still on my way...if I point out how I didn't technically say what year. Let's just say I tried to go running today, and crashed and burned.

160? Maybe more reasonable. If I was a reasonable person.

* * *

Finally put up some Maritime pics on my Facebook account. Of course I always have to try to be a comedian, so it took me over an hour. And now what? Looks like I'm not gonna sleep a lot for tomorrow; and yet, I still post this. Sounds about right

Happy BirthCanadaDay Baby

28 years young...and doesn't look a day over 29. If that makes sense.

What better way to celebrate than to have friends and family over, and on top of that the next day being a stat holiday meaning no work?

No way!

For some unknown reason, she got stopped at the border for a "random terrorist check". Some unknown reason

And what says Birthday and Canada Day better than a Mexican party?

Nothing!

Backabreakah

Man oh man carrying those stones from the pond is heavy. Hopefully it'll look good in the end.

* * *

Team Miktie (aka. Chrischael) is in town. They just came over and we spent hours talking, as if nothing has changed. In a way, nothing really has...it's not like we see our other friends on a more frequent basis. I suppose that's what happens when you gets olds

* * *

My darling's anniversary on the date of her birth tomorrow, which can only mean one thing: Mexican party!

Motion For Laotian Nuptualotion

So we went to Ian and Maunly's Laotion wedding today...very interesting.

It was kind of like going to an auction house. Sounds mean, but really, it was. That along with loud, high-pitched singing and cold food, it accounted for a unique outing

Being Green = Melting

So it's mighty hot in our house (think 29 degrees) because I suppose we are being "green".

I think I want to re-label "green" as "sweat".

* * *

Long week of work done (and on the first week back from vacation too!). Thank goodness, cause I worked some mighty hours. I think I need (another) vaykay

* * *

Gonna watch "Inch of Your Life: Episode 2" tonight, my friend Andrew from work's play. I hope it ends with Episode 3 because if it gets to Episode 17 or gets to "Inch of Your Life: The Movie", I might go broke

Goodbye Pond, Hello Swamp

So we are going through the stages of getting rid of our pond in our backyard. Long story short: leaking, too much work, waste of water.

Short story long: as in, work. Damn it's gonna take a long time to get rid of it. On top of that, water is stagnating in the hole and stinking up the place like no one's business. It's a swamp.

I started getting rid of the water (manually, with a bucket) and got eaten alive by the mosquitos (hello West Nile Virus!). I started trying to get rid of the liner so the water could seep back into the earth, and what do I find out? The stupid idiot previous previous owners used old pieces of carpet, tarp and other crap under the liner. What the F?

RIP Pond

So the big job turned even bigger.

And on top of that, our bathroom is still a couple weeks from being completely done because the countertop and sink are on back-order, and our contractor will have to move our toilet a few inches to the left for better clearance. I'm just really, really glad that he's doing it and it's not me. But regardless, it'll be a while before we can use the bathroom and I don't imagine my wife being all too pleased with the prospect of that.

But hey, I'm working overtime. I don't know how that's supposed to make me feel better, but I suppose money is always a good thing. Gosh knows I'm running out of it...haha...oh wait...

Back To Work

And...back to not wanting to be at work. That can't be good

Lobster Tailin' It Outta There

Well, that was a blast, but it's time to return to reality. Back to the grind tomorrow, but I feel a bit more refreshed.

The Maritimes is beautiful (I'll see if I put up pics in the future...don't hold your breath).

Perhaps one of the most poignant moments of the trip came courtesy of my wife, who said this gem: "We are overeating too much. Hey, you think obese people are the way they are because they think they're always on vacation?"

I love her

Maritimistamines

What the hell...how do I get crazy allergies here. I think it got to the point I developed a headcold.

Why the hell do I always get sick when I go on vacation? Seriously...what the F?

Aside from that, we're here in beatiful PEI. New Scotland was fun and all, but we needed a change of scenery. Too bad the motel we're at is all sorts of ghetto. Hope we don't get body lice from the sheets or anything

It Was Bound To Happen

Getting lost! Luckily it was only a matter of 60 km. But with gas at $1.45/l here...yikes.

So to counteract that (and for the sake of my health), I plan to skip lunch for the next couple of days. Right. Let's see how that turns out.

We're here in Lunenburg, a mighty quaint town, home of the Bluenose (that which appears on the Canadian dime). Ironically, the Bluenose isn't in town. It's in Ontario (no joke)

Off to Cape Breton tomorrow

Whale Of A Tale

Saw some Minke Whales today; no Humpbacks (or "Hunchbacks" as Sharon called it). But that's okay, because we also saw some seals (aka. dogs of the sea). Fun times, and we didn't drown!

The overeating tour continues...

Overeating?

Check.

Going whale-watching tomorrow...only one potential problem: there may be no whales to watch. We'll be hopeful. If not? I'll just take off my shirt and look in the mirror