Mood: bored beyond belief.
Hating: a lot of things.
Loving: friends and honourary family members. Oh, and the lovely game of Taboo =]
Lip-Syncing: anything by HU <3
------
So it's been awhile. Hi =] Some patience is going to be needed, seeing as how all three of us are in the midst of the few final weeks of school. It's getting insane, and a little overwhelming...
Now, although they've been around for quite some time, I've recently found my obsession for all things HU escalating. Sad, really. Rather pathetic. But with songs like this, I don't think I'm far off-base. It speaks for itself. Just some food for thought...along with a new anthem.
Hollywood Undead -- Young
We are young
but we have heart
Born in this world as it all falls apart
We are strong
But we don't belong
Born in this world as it all falls apart
I see the children in the rain
Like the parade before the pain
I see the love, I see the hate
I see this world that we can make
I see the life, I see the sky
Give it all to see you fly
Yes we wave this flag of hatred
But you're the ones who made it
Watch the beauty of all our lives
Passing right before my eyes
I hear the hate in all your words
All the words to make us hurt
We get so sick, we're so sick
We never wanted all this
Medication for the kids with no reason to live
So we march to the drums of the dammed as we come
Watch it burn in the sun
We are numb
We are young but we have heart
Born in this world as it all falls apart
We are strong
But we don't belong
Born in this world as it all falls apart
As we walk among these shadows
In the streets these fields of battle
Take it up we wear the mantle
Raise your hands with burning candles
Hear us whisper in the dark
In the rain you see the spark
Feel the beating of our hearts
Fleeting hope as we depart
All together walk alone
Against all we've ever known
All we've ever really wanted
Was a place to call our home
But you take all we are
The innocence of our hearts
Made to kneel before the altar as you tear us apart
So we march to the drums of the dammed as we come
Watch it burn in the sun
We are numb
We are young but we have heart
Born in this world as it all falls apart
We are strong
But we don't belong
Born in this world as it all falls apart
We will fight
Or we will fall
'Till the angels save us all
We are young
but we have heart
Born in this world as it all falls apart
We are strong
But we don't belong
Born in this world as it all falls apart
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Saturday, April 11, 2009
A Point Between Extremes
Mood: odd.
Hating: this throbbing in my left shoulder. It hurts like crazy. But why am I still awake at 3.00am?
Loving: Easter.
Lip-synching: This Beautiful Republic -- A Point Between Extremes
------
Remember when getting high meant swinging on the playground? When protection meant wearing a helmet? When the worst things you could get from boys were cooties?
Daddy’s shoulders were the highest place on earth and Mum was your hero. Your worst enemies were your siblings. Race issues were about who ran the fastest. War was only a card game. And the only drug you knew was cough medicine. Wearing high heels and a skirt didn’t make you a slut. The most pain you felt was when you skinned your knees, and goodbyes only meant until tomorrow.
Lollipops turn into cigarettes. Innocence turns to ignorance. Homework goes in the trash. Mobile phones are being used as lifelines. Detention becomes suspension. Soda becomes vodka. Bikes become cars. Kisses turn into sex.
And we couldn’t wait to grow up, huh?
Hating: this throbbing in my left shoulder. It hurts like crazy. But why am I still awake at 3.00am?
Loving: Easter.
Lip-synching: This Beautiful Republic -- A Point Between Extremes
------
Remember when getting high meant swinging on the playground? When protection meant wearing a helmet? When the worst things you could get from boys were cooties?
Daddy’s shoulders were the highest place on earth and Mum was your hero. Your worst enemies were your siblings. Race issues were about who ran the fastest. War was only a card game. And the only drug you knew was cough medicine. Wearing high heels and a skirt didn’t make you a slut. The most pain you felt was when you skinned your knees, and goodbyes only meant until tomorrow.
Lollipops turn into cigarettes. Innocence turns to ignorance. Homework goes in the trash. Mobile phones are being used as lifelines. Detention becomes suspension. Soda becomes vodka. Bikes become cars. Kisses turn into sex.
And we couldn’t wait to grow up, huh?
Thursday, March 12, 2009
A Different Kind of Love Song
Lately I've found myself having to constantly defend my beliefs and morals.
All my life I've been surrounded with people who agree with my point of views.
I've never even had to talk about it because everything is the same.
Some people don't go around other people or interact with those of opposing religious views,
but i belive what better way to strengthen your faith.
Now I hang around with a Jew, a Roman Catholic and an Atheist
while I am Penecostal Christian
If you can be with a goup of people with 4-6 religious beliefs and
still be strong in your own then aren't you good?
In questioning your faith you see how much faith you really have.
I believe that if you don't have someone agaisnt your faith you'll never have a reason to defend it.
I revel at the idea of someone telling me my faith is wrong or stupid, if I can defend it and still believe
then i know I still have my faith and it is solid in my mind.
It doesn't matter to me if I've convinced the other people,
as long as i believe what I;m saying thats fine.
and although most people in my religion would not agree with me
but i think everyone is entitled to their beliefs and whatever they choose to believe in is fine.
I'm not going to convert everyone... sorry.
You Found Me - The Fray
I found God on the corner of 1st and Amistad
Where the West was all but won
All alone, smoking his last cigarette
I said, "Where've you been?" He said, "Ask anything."
Where were you, when everything was falling apart.
All my days were spent by the telephone that never rang
And all I needed was a call that never came
To the corner of 1st and Amistad
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded
Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you?
Just a little late, you found me, you found me.
But in the end everyone ends up alone
Losing her, the only one who's ever known
Who I am, who I'm not and who I wanna to be
No way to know how long she will be next to me
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded
Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you?
Just a little late, you found me, you found me.
The early morning, the city breaks
And I've been calling for years and years and years
And you never left me no messages
You never sent me no letters
You got some kind of nerve taking all I want
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, Where were you? Where were you?
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded
Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you?
Just a little late, you found me, you found me.
Why'd you have to wait, to find me, to find me?
All my life I've been surrounded with people who agree with my point of views.
I've never even had to talk about it because everything is the same.
Some people don't go around other people or interact with those of opposing religious views,
but i belive what better way to strengthen your faith.
Now I hang around with a Jew, a Roman Catholic and an Atheist
while I am Penecostal Christian
If you can be with a goup of people with 4-6 religious beliefs and
still be strong in your own then aren't you good?
In questioning your faith you see how much faith you really have.
I believe that if you don't have someone agaisnt your faith you'll never have a reason to defend it.
I revel at the idea of someone telling me my faith is wrong or stupid, if I can defend it and still believe
then i know I still have my faith and it is solid in my mind.
It doesn't matter to me if I've convinced the other people,
as long as i believe what I;m saying thats fine.
and although most people in my religion would not agree with me
but i think everyone is entitled to their beliefs and whatever they choose to believe in is fine.
I'm not going to convert everyone... sorry.
You Found Me - The Fray
I found God on the corner of 1st and Amistad
Where the West was all but won
All alone, smoking his last cigarette
I said, "Where've you been?" He said, "Ask anything."
Where were you, when everything was falling apart.
All my days were spent by the telephone that never rang
And all I needed was a call that never came
To the corner of 1st and Amistad
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded
Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you?
Just a little late, you found me, you found me.
But in the end everyone ends up alone
Losing her, the only one who's ever known
Who I am, who I'm not and who I wanna to be
No way to know how long she will be next to me
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded
Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you?
Just a little late, you found me, you found me.
The early morning, the city breaks
And I've been calling for years and years and years
And you never left me no messages
You never sent me no letters
You got some kind of nerve taking all I want
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, Where were you? Where were you?
Lost and insecure, you found me, you found me
Lying on the floor, surrounded, surrounded
Why'd you have to wait? Where were you? Where were you?
Just a little late, you found me, you found me.
Why'd you have to wait, to find me, to find me?
Sunday, March 8, 2009
This One's for Me
Mood:...odd.
Hating: this weird pain in my chest. I keep checking my left arm every few minutes...Haha. I think it's just a pulled muscle, even though the pain is incredibly annoying...And also how it is unbelievably cold at school. Stupid broken boiler...
Loving: how calming the drama room feels to me.
Lip-syncing: Jonathan Clay --This One's for Me
------
Sometimes when you're young, you think nothing can hurt you. It's kind of like being invincible, or immortal. Your whole life is ahead of you, and you have these big, elaborate plans. Huge plans to find your one perfect match, the one that completes you; to follow your dreams, to change the world.
But as you get older, you realize it's not always that easy. It's not until you've wasted so much time -- time you can never get back -- that you realize how the plans you made were simply that: plans. At the end, when you're looking backwards instead of forwards, you want to believe that you made the most of what life gave you. You want to believe that you're leaving something good behind.
You want to believe that it mattered.
You want to believe that you mattered.
Hating: this weird pain in my chest. I keep checking my left arm every few minutes...Haha. I think it's just a pulled muscle, even though the pain is incredibly annoying...And also how it is unbelievably cold at school. Stupid broken boiler...
Loving: how calming the drama room feels to me.
Lip-syncing: Jonathan Clay --This One's for Me
------
Sometimes when you're young, you think nothing can hurt you. It's kind of like being invincible, or immortal. Your whole life is ahead of you, and you have these big, elaborate plans. Huge plans to find your one perfect match, the one that completes you; to follow your dreams, to change the world.
But as you get older, you realize it's not always that easy. It's not until you've wasted so much time -- time you can never get back -- that you realize how the plans you made were simply that: plans. At the end, when you're looking backwards instead of forwards, you want to believe that you made the most of what life gave you. You want to believe that you're leaving something good behind.
You want to believe that it mattered.
You want to believe that you mattered.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
A Heart Must Go Where It Belongs
Mood: incredibly lazy.
Hating: that I have no motivation to work on any of the 101 things I have to finish in the imminent future.
Loving: the beautiful snow that's falling tonight.
Lip-syncing: Thriving Ivory -- Twilight
------
At the risk of being declared the most cynical out of Me, Myself and I, I once again return to the topic of relationships and love. With one of the most Hallmark Holidays just past, I find it hard to believe amidst the stress and horror stories.
I wonder why. Why have we been programmed into sharing? Why do we risk the heartache? Yes, sometimes it is better to have loved and lost, and whatever is worthwhile is worth the fight. Sure. Cliches are cliches simply for their relation to reality, right? But eventually, all the things we love fade away, going places we can't follow. Friends, family, pets, lovers. We surround ourselves with these things so much that levels of attachment are created, some stronger than others.... But it's these attachments to the things we love and care about most that will do nothing but hurt us in the end. It always happens that way. We always lose the ones we love...
So why bother even loving at all? Why put ourselves through the time and effort of forging these bonds when we know that it will only end in heartache?
Hating: that I have no motivation to work on any of the 101 things I have to finish in the imminent future.
Loving: the beautiful snow that's falling tonight.
Lip-syncing: Thriving Ivory -- Twilight
------
At the risk of being declared the most cynical out of Me, Myself and I, I once again return to the topic of relationships and love. With one of the most Hallmark Holidays just past, I find it hard to believe amidst the stress and horror stories.
I wonder why. Why have we been programmed into sharing? Why do we risk the heartache? Yes, sometimes it is better to have loved and lost, and whatever is worthwhile is worth the fight. Sure. Cliches are cliches simply for their relation to reality, right? But eventually, all the things we love fade away, going places we can't follow. Friends, family, pets, lovers. We surround ourselves with these things so much that levels of attachment are created, some stronger than others.... But it's these attachments to the things we love and care about most that will do nothing but hurt us in the end. It always happens that way. We always lose the ones we love...
So why bother even loving at all? Why put ourselves through the time and effort of forging these bonds when we know that it will only end in heartache?
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Your Thoughts of War, Religion and Love
Mood: confused, tired.
Hating: that I got nothing done today.
Loving: the amazingness known as chocolate.
Lip-syncing: David Cook -- Last Request
-------
As of Tuesday, January 20th, 2009, Barack Obama officially became the President of the United States of America. Only two days into office, and he's started his work. I like to think that closing down Guantanamo Bay is only the first of a great many of changes.
I've noticed that lots of people are buying into the "Obama-mania". There are the shirts, the buttons the mugs, the books, the hats, the bobble heads; they're even putting him into a curriculum in a Toronto school! This Obama Fever is just incredible to witness.
Although not quite old enough to remember first-hand, I can't help but think of the Canadian equivalent. "Trudeau-mania", anyone?
Some people are just being negative though. Their criticisms are flying left and right, and so many are claiming that Obama will be ruined by coming into power during such a time of economic crisis. He's just making more promises that, as a politician, he is bound to break.
When did we start viewing politicians as the lowest of low?
Why is it not okay to view Obama as a sort of hero? I don't 100% agree with the idea of throwing him into an educational curriculum just yet, but I think that Obama has accomplished a great deal. He is the first African-American to win presidency. He's renewed the faith in democracy and the freedom of men that many had lost.
Sure, he may not follow through with everything he's claimed, but I think Obama - for lack of a better word - overseeing the U.S. is such a feat in itself, that anything else he accomplishes is just icing on the cake.
Just listen to his speech, if you doubt. It's nice to hear coherent sentences from a president, is it not? The vivid imagery and strength in his words encourage and inspire; isn't that what a politician should do?
So perhaps people should tone down the politic-hating, and appreciate the beauty and freedom that is democracy. If only for a little while.
In the meantime, despite the creepy factor, I'm going to out and hunt down an Obama bobblehead.
Hating: that I got nothing done today.
Loving: the amazingness known as chocolate.
Lip-syncing: David Cook -- Last Request
-------
As of Tuesday, January 20th, 2009, Barack Obama officially became the President of the United States of America. Only two days into office, and he's started his work. I like to think that closing down Guantanamo Bay is only the first of a great many of changes.
I've noticed that lots of people are buying into the "Obama-mania". There are the shirts, the buttons the mugs, the books, the hats, the bobble heads; they're even putting him into a curriculum in a Toronto school! This Obama Fever is just incredible to witness.
Although not quite old enough to remember first-hand, I can't help but think of the Canadian equivalent. "Trudeau-mania", anyone?
Some people are just being negative though. Their criticisms are flying left and right, and so many are claiming that Obama will be ruined by coming into power during such a time of economic crisis. He's just making more promises that, as a politician, he is bound to break.
When did we start viewing politicians as the lowest of low?
Why is it not okay to view Obama as a sort of hero? I don't 100% agree with the idea of throwing him into an educational curriculum just yet, but I think that Obama has accomplished a great deal. He is the first African-American to win presidency. He's renewed the faith in democracy and the freedom of men that many had lost.
Sure, he may not follow through with everything he's claimed, but I think Obama - for lack of a better word - overseeing the U.S. is such a feat in itself, that anything else he accomplishes is just icing on the cake.
Just listen to his speech, if you doubt. It's nice to hear coherent sentences from a president, is it not? The vivid imagery and strength in his words encourage and inspire; isn't that what a politician should do?
So perhaps people should tone down the politic-hating, and appreciate the beauty and freedom that is democracy. If only for a little while.
In the meantime, despite the creepy factor, I'm going to out and hunt down an Obama bobblehead.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
writing blah
I find it weird because i don't mind writing when i'm in the mood but most of the things i write i would never let anyone see. When i write i write fromthe heart and it is all very personal. I don't write stories or amusing antidotes for fun, i write them when i must. In writers craft we had to write many times and i did everytime, most of the time however i wrote the night or worse the period before. The worst mark i ever got was a 75. But when it means something to me i can actually write well, and enjoy it!
i think thats the problem with this whole blogging thing, nothing inspires me to write because i just don't care about anything!i am the only intressting thing in my life! :P
kidding but honestly i can't think of my own topics. but not a lame one because lame topics create lame writing.
i think thats the problem with this whole blogging thing, nothing inspires me to write because i just don't care about anything!i am the only intressting thing in my life! :P
kidding but honestly i can't think of my own topics. but not a lame one because lame topics create lame writing.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Monday, December 22, 2008
Christmas Lists
Mood: excitedHating: that Robbie's flight has been delayed; hopefully he'll still make it here in time for Christmas...
Loving: THE HOLIDAYS =D
Lip-syncing: Kelly Clarkson -- My Grown-Up Christmas List
-------
Dear Santa,
My parents and I recently discussed our Christmas wish lists. It was a short discussion, because all of us said that we have enough stuff already, and we didn't really need or want anything else. Actually, I'm going to ask my mom to mend a few loose buttons on my jacket. It would take me ages, but she's an ace with a needle and thread. That aside, I'll be happy to enjoy a week with my family and friends.
I'll be honest, Santa, my cup of Christmas cheer has seemed half empty lately. With news stories about acid being thrown on schoolgirls in Afghanistan and terrorist attacks in Mumbai, it's easy to get discouraged about the state of the world. Of course, the one in six people living on less than a dollar a day don't even make the headlines. That's not “news” - it's “still happenings”. The Walmart worker getting trampled to death by a consumerism-crazed mob*, now that's news!
(*mob: noun, some regular folks whose enthusiasm for low prices cannot be contained by silly little things like electromagnetically locked doors)
So this year, Santa, I was thinking that it'd be great to leave the sweaters and toy dump trucks in the workshop and focus on some things that will put a smile on people's faces and leave their cup of cheer overflowing! It doesn't take any money to make a positive difference: bake cookies for a neighbour; study a world map with a child; write a handwritten letter; ask someone to teach you a skill they have; even just look a homeless person in the eyes as you pass. It doesn't even need to take a lot of time!
Still feel like you should spend some money on someone anyway? One of my friends wrote a blog a few days ago (*cough* check underneath *cough*) that really got me thinking. And I agree. Try making a charitable donation in someone's honour. It'd be a phenomenal gift! There are so many organizations doing such great work. Choose your cause: Racism, Sexism, Homophobia, Heath, Environment, Poverty... the list is huge!
In fact, Santa, I discussed this idea with a friend of mine. And unlike me, he has his dream job of speaking to and inspiring people; he also has enough time to make an online wishlist and set an ambitious goal of raising $1000 from 50 donors to support my three wishes:
1.Canadian youth become engaged global citizens, committed to fighting poverty.
2.Canada's government becomes a global leader in the fight against poverty (instead of riding out a reputation of past good deeds).
3.Fair Trade products become a common consumer option for all Canadians, allowing people to support farmers from the developing world with their daily actions.
Obama's inspiring democratization of fundraising made it obvious that every donation counts. Whether it's $1, $10, $20, $100 or more, I'm asking YOU to be one of the 50 people who give the gift of opportunity. I'm kicking off the effort by donating $100 myself (Any gift of $20 or more is tax deductible).
Visit http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=1772106&msgid=56121&act=GG24&c=223122&admin=0&destination=http://www.giftofopportunity.ca/joel for more info on how you can help make wishes come true. And please, pass this letter on to your friends, family and colleagues. There's simply no better gift!
Thanks Santa, and have a safe and happy holiday!
My parents and I recently discussed our Christmas wish lists. It was a short discussion, because all of us said that we have enough stuff already, and we didn't really need or want anything else. Actually, I'm going to ask my mom to mend a few loose buttons on my jacket. It would take me ages, but she's an ace with a needle and thread. That aside, I'll be happy to enjoy a week with my family and friends.
I'll be honest, Santa, my cup of Christmas cheer has seemed half empty lately. With news stories about acid being thrown on schoolgirls in Afghanistan and terrorist attacks in Mumbai, it's easy to get discouraged about the state of the world. Of course, the one in six people living on less than a dollar a day don't even make the headlines. That's not “news” - it's “still happenings”. The Walmart worker getting trampled to death by a consumerism-crazed mob*, now that's news!
(*mob: noun, some regular folks whose enthusiasm for low prices cannot be contained by silly little things like electromagnetically locked doors)
So this year, Santa, I was thinking that it'd be great to leave the sweaters and toy dump trucks in the workshop and focus on some things that will put a smile on people's faces and leave their cup of cheer overflowing! It doesn't take any money to make a positive difference: bake cookies for a neighbour; study a world map with a child; write a handwritten letter; ask someone to teach you a skill they have; even just look a homeless person in the eyes as you pass. It doesn't even need to take a lot of time!
Still feel like you should spend some money on someone anyway? One of my friends wrote a blog a few days ago (*cough* check underneath *cough*) that really got me thinking. And I agree. Try making a charitable donation in someone's honour. It'd be a phenomenal gift! There are so many organizations doing such great work. Choose your cause: Racism, Sexism, Homophobia, Heath, Environment, Poverty... the list is huge!
In fact, Santa, I discussed this idea with a friend of mine. And unlike me, he has his dream job of speaking to and inspiring people; he also has enough time to make an online wishlist and set an ambitious goal of raising $1000 from 50 donors to support my three wishes:
1.Canadian youth become engaged global citizens, committed to fighting poverty.
2.Canada's government becomes a global leader in the fight against poverty (instead of riding out a reputation of past good deeds).
3.Fair Trade products become a common consumer option for all Canadians, allowing people to support farmers from the developing world with their daily actions.
Obama's inspiring democratization of fundraising made it obvious that every donation counts. Whether it's $1, $10, $20, $100 or more, I'm asking YOU to be one of the 50 people who give the gift of opportunity. I'm kicking off the effort by donating $100 myself (Any gift of $20 or more is tax deductible).
Visit http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=1772106&msgid=56121&act=GG24&c=223122&admin=0&destination=http://www.giftofopportunity.ca/joel for more info on how you can help make wishes come true. And please, pass this letter on to your friends, family and colleagues. There's simply no better gift!
Thanks Santa, and have a safe and happy holiday!
Friday, December 19, 2008
December Never Felt Better!
While the weather outside may be frightful, I believe that this time of year is really all about warmth and companionship. I may seem hypocritical as I always write complaining about the materialistic mess that secularized Christmas has become.
Christmas shopping never seems like a daunting task to me, partially because I love to shopping. Many of my holidays are solely devoted to finding a new wardrobe for back-to-school, winter, summer, any excuse will do. In addition, I never find myself grasping for knick-knacks on December 24. Many ridicule me as I tend to do thing way ahead of time. Unlikely many people my age, I don't find myself procrastinating, but rather managing my time to fit everything into my somewhat busy schedule. It was November first, and I was already planning my ambush on the malls of Mississauga.
This year, my grandmother has stressed that she does not need anything. Nothing, at all... Years past, we ended up giving her a candy dish, or tickets to a show. Yet, how many of these ambiguous objects can one person get? At over 70 years old, she has simply realized than rather receive, she would rather give back. Sadly, the fortunate few do not realize that the amount of Christmas gifts we see under the evergreen is not the standard in every household. One in every eight children live in poverty in Ontario, not to mention the startling numbers overseas.
So while it may seem a bother to brave the malls this season, why not give a spin on the tradition present? With all "need" extinguished, many things that grace the lists of our friends and family members are fillers and wants. A suggestion to the traditional gift is to give to a significant charity in the person's name.
In grade nine, I was affected by my mother's breast cancer diagnosis. For our drama class' Secret Santa, my friend donated to the Cancer Society in my name. Although I didn't walk away with a sweater or a stuffed animal, the thought and meaning behind it was more than any present stuffed in a box.
Another great aspect to these gifts is that crowd-fearing shoppers can purchase these gifts online, over the phone, and in place (such as the hospital) where you aren't going to find a mob of people. While it is personal, the gift has an impact on the person on the receiving end, and at the same time sets an example to give back at this time of year.
Christmas shopping never seems like a daunting task to me, partially because I love to shopping. Many of my holidays are solely devoted to finding a new wardrobe for back-to-school, winter, summer, any excuse will do. In addition, I never find myself grasping for knick-knacks on December 24. Many ridicule me as I tend to do thing way ahead of time. Unlikely many people my age, I don't find myself procrastinating, but rather managing my time to fit everything into my somewhat busy schedule. It was November first, and I was already planning my ambush on the malls of Mississauga.
This year, my grandmother has stressed that she does not need anything. Nothing, at all... Years past, we ended up giving her a candy dish, or tickets to a show. Yet, how many of these ambiguous objects can one person get? At over 70 years old, she has simply realized than rather receive, she would rather give back. Sadly, the fortunate few do not realize that the amount of Christmas gifts we see under the evergreen is not the standard in every household. One in every eight children live in poverty in Ontario, not to mention the startling numbers overseas.
So while it may seem a bother to brave the malls this season, why not give a spin on the tradition present? With all "need" extinguished, many things that grace the lists of our friends and family members are fillers and wants. A suggestion to the traditional gift is to give to a significant charity in the person's name.
In grade nine, I was affected by my mother's breast cancer diagnosis. For our drama class' Secret Santa, my friend donated to the Cancer Society in my name. Although I didn't walk away with a sweater or a stuffed animal, the thought and meaning behind it was more than any present stuffed in a box.
Another great aspect to these gifts is that crowd-fearing shoppers can purchase these gifts online, over the phone, and in place (such as the hospital) where you aren't going to find a mob of people. While it is personal, the gift has an impact on the person on the receiving end, and at the same time sets an example to give back at this time of year.
December Never Felt So Wrong...
Mood: exhausted
Hating: that I'm still nauseous...hopefully it's a 24 hour thing...
Loving: that winter break is almost here! Christmas is in ONE WEEK!
Currently lip-syncing: Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson -- Winter Song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUO0gd7cr9o&feature=related
------
It's such a shock to realize that you're growing up. Remember when you were a kid, and you thought reaching 10 years old was a huge deal? You're in the double digits now! Yeah, whoop-dee-doo. When you hit three digits, let me know.
Today, I had to stay late at school to help run a rehearsal. Which normally wouldn't be a problem, but I felt so ill that it was just a trainwreck from start to finish. After that disaster, I ended up having to go out shopping with my sister. I had forgotten I promised her I would start our Christmas shopping today.
So feeling nauseous and shaking uncontrollably, I was dragged from store to store to store. If I didn't feel sick before, the massive amounts of people taking advantage of holiday hours and sales would have done the job. It's insane to see people fighting over little boxes of chocolate, just because they're 75% off (they were those expensive seashell belgium chocolate things, but still...). My sister was picking things off the shelves left and right, throwing them into a basket (or cart, depending on where we were), whereas I was plodding along slowly. Partly because I was feeling like crap, and partly because I like to think about the gifts I'm buying.
This year, I optted out of buying Christmas cards and little trinkets for everyone. I just found that last year, it was just unnecessary work. I'd rather hang out with the person than just hang them a card with a candy cane. Not to offend those who do, of course. But I've tried it. And I don't think it's for me. My sister was outraged, calling me lazy and selfish, not wanting to give people little red and green coloured pieces of cardboard.
On top of that, while I started buying gifts today, I caught myself actually doing some math. That's a big deal, if you know me. But that's not the scariest part. I was calculating how much I could spend, how long it would take me to pay back, and adding in when my bills and such were due. To add more, I was also thinking about my laundry that needed to be done, other errands (like filling up the car with gas, picking up some lettuce, etc.) and my next shift at work. When I realized what I was doing, I literally froze.
It's crazy now that I think about it. Somewhere further back, I became a job-working, bill-paying, hard-working young adult.
Wow. Never thought I'd see the day.
Hating: that I'm still nauseous...hopefully it's a 24 hour thing...
Loving: that winter break is almost here! Christmas is in ONE WEEK!
Currently lip-syncing: Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson -- Winter Song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUO0gd7cr9o&feature=related
------
It's such a shock to realize that you're growing up. Remember when you were a kid, and you thought reaching 10 years old was a huge deal? You're in the double digits now! Yeah, whoop-dee-doo. When you hit three digits, let me know.
Today, I had to stay late at school to help run a rehearsal. Which normally wouldn't be a problem, but I felt so ill that it was just a trainwreck from start to finish. After that disaster, I ended up having to go out shopping with my sister. I had forgotten I promised her I would start our Christmas shopping today.
So feeling nauseous and shaking uncontrollably, I was dragged from store to store to store. If I didn't feel sick before, the massive amounts of people taking advantage of holiday hours and sales would have done the job. It's insane to see people fighting over little boxes of chocolate, just because they're 75% off (they were those expensive seashell belgium chocolate things, but still...). My sister was picking things off the shelves left and right, throwing them into a basket (or cart, depending on where we were), whereas I was plodding along slowly. Partly because I was feeling like crap, and partly because I like to think about the gifts I'm buying.
This year, I optted out of buying Christmas cards and little trinkets for everyone. I just found that last year, it was just unnecessary work. I'd rather hang out with the person than just hang them a card with a candy cane. Not to offend those who do, of course. But I've tried it. And I don't think it's for me. My sister was outraged, calling me lazy and selfish, not wanting to give people little red and green coloured pieces of cardboard.
On top of that, while I started buying gifts today, I caught myself actually doing some math. That's a big deal, if you know me. But that's not the scariest part. I was calculating how much I could spend, how long it would take me to pay back, and adding in when my bills and such were due. To add more, I was also thinking about my laundry that needed to be done, other errands (like filling up the car with gas, picking up some lettuce, etc.) and my next shift at work. When I realized what I was doing, I literally froze.
It's crazy now that I think about it. Somewhere further back, I became a job-working, bill-paying, hard-working young adult.
Wow. Never thought I'd see the day.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
All Hope Is Not Lost
Mood: mellow
Hating: stupid ISU assignments from school...and the fact that I haven't started my Christmas shopping...
Loving: that we only have two more days of school!
Currently lip-syncing : All Time Low -- Umbrella
------
I have always considered myself as a fairly responsible person. Of course, occasionally I'll forget something here, misplace something there. Unfortunately for me, one of the things that I misplaced the other day were my keys.
Now, to be completely honest, I have never lost a pair of keys. I've lost cellphones, yes, but for some reason I've always managed to hold onto my keys. But yesterday, all that changed. I couldn't for the life of me find them! I searched left and right, up and down; they were no where to be found. I started having a mild panic attack then. You see, not only do I have my house key and an extra set of car keys, but I also have job obligations. Working as a (sort of) night manager for my store, I carried a key to the actual store, the vault (in the backroom) as well as a key to our cash till. So needless to say, losing my keys was setting me up for a massive heart attack.
I've never been a fan of our school, seeing as how it's 50 years old and is falling to pieces, but it's nice to know that the people inside make all the difference.
I had run in yesterday, panting and desperately asking the secretaries if anyone had turned in a set of keys. They replied with a non-chalant, "Nope!" without even looking up from the magazines they were reading (I know they were magazines because I saw the Cosmo logo on one of them, and a picture of Angelina Jolie on the other). Disheartened, I had left.
But today, I walked into the office to check my mailbox for the Student Activity Council. Just as I was riffling through some junk mail, one of the secretaries called out to me, "You lost a set of keys, right?"
Confused, I replied with a hesitant, "Yes..." and with a grin, she triumphantly held up my keys from behind the desk! I was so happy I almost hugged the woman. It definitely frightened her. When I asked who had returned them, the secretary simply told me a person had found them in the school doorway and turned them in. They hadn't even left a name.
Despite my happy exterior, I often find myself being extremely cynical. But today, having a person do a random act of kindness really melted my heart a little bit. Someone turned in some keys they found without seeking any sort of recognition, just like a good Samaritan. Maybe we shouldn't give up on humanity just yet, huh?
More on the topic of the Sex Phone Operator
This exact thing happened to me this morning and then as we were standing listening to the 5 minute long announcement about how the boys hockey team won their tournament over the last two days(which by the way 2 of my teachers are coaches for so for two days and two classes i did absolutely nothing!) Anyways as waiting for the announcements to finish consuming my life, not one but two teachers walked by! 2 teachers. Why are they allowed to walk around because they don't have class, but when i don't have class either i still have to wait and listen to Ben and the sex phone operator, stuffed in a tiny stairwell with fricken mrs. Laba standing there saying them allowed just in case we didn't hear them. God i hate this school
Sunday, December 14, 2008
"True Patriot Love"
I am the least patriotic person you will meet. Which is odd seeing as I am American- land of the free and home of the brave, or really a meeting place for ignorant flag-waving country-loving, pardon the generalization, hicks.
I have never liked standing for the national anthem, and I have always felt awkward singing along to the old ditty. This brings up my problem from Friday. Lets start out by saying I have a spare, first spare, excellent for those who like sleeping in, but if I get up ten minutes after the regular time, I feel like a slacker. So I went to school at 7:50, with only one hour and 36 minutes to kill. So before the lovely hurry up music started, I went to see my drama teacher. Being the wonderful student I am, I signed up to volunteer with the bake sale and went above and beyond by making signs (which I still haven't done, but am assuming will take 10 seconds to do so). By the time I got to my locker, our monotoned secretary murmurs something about standing for our national anthem. Its odd because our secretary has the voice of a phone sex operator, even those I don't know what they sound like, but that's how I envision they speak. After the song is done, I reach for my locker, clutching at my coat collar, which is collecting my sweat. (what a great way to start the morning :D) But no, because I am LATE (1 hour and 36 minutes mind you) i have to stand for the whole bloody thing. Announcements about our lame teams accomplishments, Man of the Match Honours goes to the same person for the 8 billionth consecutive game, and something about candigrams. My blood was boiling, and not just from the coat. I was be punished for being early!!! Whatever.
So this brings me to "national", in our national anthem... Whenever it is any sport season, people dust off their national flags which grace their cars, houses, jerseys, anything with a blank space... Notice how a minority of these flags are Canadians. We are a nation of immigrants (I am one too, so I can say that without sounding too insensitive) and its great. With the melange of cultures, we have great food, great music and great accents! Unfortunately though, many people keep their culture and do not assume ours. There is no Canadian. So why make these people stand for a song that they don't care about, nor do we even know the words.
Oh Canada, our home and (Native) land, true patriot love...
I have never liked standing for the national anthem, and I have always felt awkward singing along to the old ditty. This brings up my problem from Friday. Lets start out by saying I have a spare, first spare, excellent for those who like sleeping in, but if I get up ten minutes after the regular time, I feel like a slacker. So I went to school at 7:50, with only one hour and 36 minutes to kill. So before the lovely hurry up music started, I went to see my drama teacher. Being the wonderful student I am, I signed up to volunteer with the bake sale and went above and beyond by making signs (which I still haven't done, but am assuming will take 10 seconds to do so). By the time I got to my locker, our monotoned secretary murmurs something about standing for our national anthem. Its odd because our secretary has the voice of a phone sex operator, even those I don't know what they sound like, but that's how I envision they speak. After the song is done, I reach for my locker, clutching at my coat collar, which is collecting my sweat. (what a great way to start the morning :D) But no, because I am LATE (1 hour and 36 minutes mind you) i have to stand for the whole bloody thing. Announcements about our lame teams accomplishments, Man of the Match Honours goes to the same person for the 8 billionth consecutive game, and something about candigrams. My blood was boiling, and not just from the coat. I was be punished for being early!!! Whatever.
So this brings me to "national", in our national anthem... Whenever it is any sport season, people dust off their national flags which grace their cars, houses, jerseys, anything with a blank space... Notice how a minority of these flags are Canadians. We are a nation of immigrants (I am one too, so I can say that without sounding too insensitive) and its great. With the melange of cultures, we have great food, great music and great accents! Unfortunately though, many people keep their culture and do not assume ours. There is no Canadian. So why make these people stand for a song that they don't care about, nor do we even know the words.
Oh Canada, our home and (Native) land, true patriot love...
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Don't Wanna Be a Canadian Idiot
Oh how proud I am that I am Canadian.
Governments and companies all over the world are working furiously to protect their citizens and assets. There are alliances between rivals, unheard of attempts at saving money, and billions of dollars being spent on bailout plans.
And what is the almighty Prime Minister of Canada doing?
Nothing.
Canada, at the moment, has no government.
During a time of economic crisis, where everywhere you turn, people are trying to save the world from implosion, Stephen Harper used the threat of a recession to destroy his opposition. With a bill that would remove tax funding for all parties, the Conservative Party tried to put on a facade of actually caring about the Canadian people by "saving money." Because each Canadian pays $1.90 in taxes that goes straight to government campaigns, Harper thought that would make a huge difference.
With the Conservatives receiving most of their money from private investors, it wasn't a huge deal. But for all the other major parties, it could turn into quite the blow.
So what did they do?
Outraged, the other three parties in the Parliament banded together to form a coalition. Translation?
They decided to hijack the government.
Barely eight weeks ago, we had an election, where about 300 million dollars was wasted on something most Canadians didn't even care about. This 2008 election had the lowest voter turn out in pretty much over a decade, yet the Conservatives did manage to win enough seats to become another minority government.
Although I may not like Stephen Harper, I have to admit that he has at least won over enough Canadians to become our official leader. What gives the Liberals, New Democrats and the Bloc Quebecois the right to seize power away from him, without permission from the public? What kind of democracy is that?
What makes even less sense is that Stephane Dion, the leader of the Liberal party, would head this coalition. With a voice reminiscent of Kermit the Frog, no clear understanding of the English language and the charisma of a kumquat, who the heck would want him to lead an entire country? Under his reign, the Liberals lost so many seats that I don't even want to try and write some half-intelligent comparison. Yes, he may be incredibly eloquent in french, but let's face it. How much of the general public really follows the french debates? Most don't even remember their mandatory french classes from grade school. Dion can't even sway the province with the highest population of french-speakers. Instead, most people in Quebec support the Bloc Quebecois.
On top of all his ineptitude, Dion had already announced that he would be stepping down as the leader of the Liberal party in March.
So...becoming the leader of a hostile take-over in Parliament...
Last Thursday, there was a company off of the 400 series highway that made an interesting political statement. People who commute to work were use to seeing the large Canadian flag flying outside Dickie Moore's Rental, but it caused quite the traffic slowdown the other day. Flying the flag at half-mast and upside, the employees decided that it would efficiently embody their feelings towards our government. Well done. I think they've got the right idea.
But back to my point earlier...
Thanks to all of the political turmoil, the Governor-General had to end her European tour earlier and return to Canada. Granting Harper's request, the House is now in recess. That's right, during a time where three of the biggest North American car industries are almost going under, where consumer spending and tourism is at an all time low, and people left and right are desperately trying to keep themselves clothed and fed, there are no efforts being by our government to save us from a recession.
Lovely, isn't it?
Oh Canada...
Governments and companies all over the world are working furiously to protect their citizens and assets. There are alliances between rivals, unheard of attempts at saving money, and billions of dollars being spent on bailout plans.
And what is the almighty Prime Minister of Canada doing?
Nothing.
Canada, at the moment, has no government.
During a time of economic crisis, where everywhere you turn, people are trying to save the world from implosion, Stephen Harper used the threat of a recession to destroy his opposition. With a bill that would remove tax funding for all parties, the Conservative Party tried to put on a facade of actually caring about the Canadian people by "saving money." Because each Canadian pays $1.90 in taxes that goes straight to government campaigns, Harper thought that would make a huge difference.
With the Conservatives receiving most of their money from private investors, it wasn't a huge deal. But for all the other major parties, it could turn into quite the blow.
So what did they do?
Outraged, the other three parties in the Parliament banded together to form a coalition. Translation?
They decided to hijack the government.
Barely eight weeks ago, we had an election, where about 300 million dollars was wasted on something most Canadians didn't even care about. This 2008 election had the lowest voter turn out in pretty much over a decade, yet the Conservatives did manage to win enough seats to become another minority government.
Although I may not like Stephen Harper, I have to admit that he has at least won over enough Canadians to become our official leader. What gives the Liberals, New Democrats and the Bloc Quebecois the right to seize power away from him, without permission from the public? What kind of democracy is that?
What makes even less sense is that Stephane Dion, the leader of the Liberal party, would head this coalition. With a voice reminiscent of Kermit the Frog, no clear understanding of the English language and the charisma of a kumquat, who the heck would want him to lead an entire country? Under his reign, the Liberals lost so many seats that I don't even want to try and write some half-intelligent comparison. Yes, he may be incredibly eloquent in french, but let's face it. How much of the general public really follows the french debates? Most don't even remember their mandatory french classes from grade school. Dion can't even sway the province with the highest population of french-speakers. Instead, most people in Quebec support the Bloc Quebecois.
On top of all his ineptitude, Dion had already announced that he would be stepping down as the leader of the Liberal party in March.
So...becoming the leader of a hostile take-over in Parliament...
Last Thursday, there was a company off of the 400 series highway that made an interesting political statement. People who commute to work were use to seeing the large Canadian flag flying outside Dickie Moore's Rental, but it caused quite the traffic slowdown the other day. Flying the flag at half-mast and upside, the employees decided that it would efficiently embody their feelings towards our government. Well done. I think they've got the right idea.
But back to my point earlier...
Thanks to all of the political turmoil, the Governor-General had to end her European tour earlier and return to Canada. Granting Harper's request, the House is now in recess. That's right, during a time where three of the biggest North American car industries are almost going under, where consumer spending and tourism is at an all time low, and people left and right are desperately trying to keep themselves clothed and fed, there are no efforts being by our government to save us from a recession.
Lovely, isn't it?
Oh Canada...
Sunday, December 7, 2008
I talk to Me and Myself
As Me and Myself have already introduced the general idea for this blog, I thought I'd stop by and add a little something as well. This is exciting, mostly because I've never had a blog before. It should be fun! Actually, this is pretty monumental. I just posted my first blog ever on my own profile. It was thrilling. So I headed over here to get some more kicks.
Huh, seeing as how it's almost 2.00am though, I'm thinking I should keep this short. Just like me. Ha-ha.
But I also threw in a random image, just because I like how cool Me's entry looked with the comic picture. It's to honour the wonderful day that is Sunday. Fittingly, it's called Faith.
The word Faith holds so many connotations, but most associate it with religion. I do. I've just always been curious about the idea. Faith can be anything from putting your right foot foward, to praying for someone to live through a disease. I'm not quite sure how anyone could live without faith...
But since I promised this would be short, I shall end it here.
A lovely Sunday to all!
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Song of the Day
"Picture" by Kid Rock ft. Cheryl Crow
http://www.lyrics007.com/Kid%20Rock%20Lyrics/Picture%20Lyrics.html
"Picture" by Kid Rock ft. Cheryl Crow
http://www.lyrics007.com/Kid%20Rock%20Lyrics/Picture%20Lyrics.html
Great...
My family and I got together tonight to celebrate my Nanny's 70th birthday. Being a 100% Caucasian family, we of course got Mandarin! (yes imitation ethnic food!!) But maybe I'm hypocritical, because I actually do love chicken balls. So we all sat around my table, squeezing "duck sauce" out of plastic wrappers and shovelling something we couldn't pronounce into our mouths. My cousins, they opted instead for pb&j sandwiches, but to each his own.
So after we threw away all the greasy take-out container, it was time to break out the fortune cookies. In little print straight from the Far East Fortune Cookie Co. (aka: the fortune factory) my fate sat in that deliciously crispy cresent. "Select a goal early in life and work toward it". I'm seventeen for crying out loud! And yes, these are mass-manufactured slips of paper, but really?!?!? Guess I better select my courses....
So after we threw away all the greasy take-out container, it was time to break out the fortune cookies. In little print straight from the Far East Fortune Cookie Co. (aka: the fortune factory) my fate sat in that deliciously crispy cresent. "Select a goal early in life and work toward it". I'm seventeen for crying out loud! And yes, these are mass-manufactured slips of paper, but really?!?!? Guess I better select my courses....
Oh Dear The Future Already
University Applications.
how ironic that i was just doing that online?
not applying but looking through programs and schools.
personally i think its kind of fun! i mean its your future.
but before I start I think i should mention how university is not the only option!
I mean I personally am thinking about College for my future!
I think its stupid that people look down on it. The thing is it is more practical!
it's more hands on and for some courses and careers you need a college education
not a university one. If you want to be a fire fighter should you have to go to university to learn about fires how their made and the chemical ways to extinguish them? No, thats stupid! You need to learn how to use a hose and how to get the fire out. Knowing the chemical make ups of a fire isn't always gonna save people lives!
well whichever you like, it doesn't matter, they both have their own pros and cons.
the only thing i don't like is that when you are applying if you want to apply to 5 colleges for the 95 dollars great but if then you want to apply for 1 university you must pay the $95 so you might as well just apply to two other random things. I think the whole thing is ridiculous. i have to pay 200 dollars to apply to one college and one university, or one college and three universities or 5 colleges and 1 university or 5 colleges and 3 universities. All in all the whole application process is outrageous.
But still i'm excited. I want to move forward in life. I want to be grown up and i want to have more freedom. Escape from the all too tight grasp of my parents. The only problem is most of the schools i'm looking at involve staying at home; meaning more time with the 'rents. I guess part of growing up is learning how to cope and deal with things. But in the same way i don't want to grow. I want to be able to love stupid things like High School Musical and the Disney Channel. It's hard. I'm a rock in a hard place.
I've heard it only gets harder with time. That sucks! Well maybe someday... maybe
Anyways. Either way i will survive.
Oh and in contrast to Me. I think that the best song for me to relate to this subject is...
Carrie Underwood: The Night Before (Life Goes On)
http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/carrieunderwood/nightbeforelifegoeson.html
how ironic that i was just doing that online?
not applying but looking through programs and schools.
personally i think its kind of fun! i mean its your future.
but before I start I think i should mention how university is not the only option!
I mean I personally am thinking about College for my future!
I think its stupid that people look down on it. The thing is it is more practical!
it's more hands on and for some courses and careers you need a college education
not a university one. If you want to be a fire fighter should you have to go to university to learn about fires how their made and the chemical ways to extinguish them? No, thats stupid! You need to learn how to use a hose and how to get the fire out. Knowing the chemical make ups of a fire isn't always gonna save people lives!
well whichever you like, it doesn't matter, they both have their own pros and cons.
the only thing i don't like is that when you are applying if you want to apply to 5 colleges for the 95 dollars great but if then you want to apply for 1 university you must pay the $95 so you might as well just apply to two other random things. I think the whole thing is ridiculous. i have to pay 200 dollars to apply to one college and one university, or one college and three universities or 5 colleges and 1 university or 5 colleges and 3 universities. All in all the whole application process is outrageous.
But still i'm excited. I want to move forward in life. I want to be grown up and i want to have more freedom. Escape from the all too tight grasp of my parents. The only problem is most of the schools i'm looking at involve staying at home; meaning more time with the 'rents. I guess part of growing up is learning how to cope and deal with things. But in the same way i don't want to grow. I want to be able to love stupid things like High School Musical and the Disney Channel. It's hard. I'm a rock in a hard place.
I've heard it only gets harder with time. That sucks! Well maybe someday... maybe
Anyways. Either way i will survive.
Oh and in contrast to Me. I think that the best song for me to relate to this subject is...
Carrie Underwood: The Night Before (Life Goes On)
http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/carrieunderwood/nightbeforelifegoeson.html
Friday, December 5, 2008
Song of the Day:
Taylor Swift "White Horse" (Album: Freedom)
http://www.metrolyrics.com/white-horse-lyrics-taylor-swift.html
http://www.metrolyrics.com/white-horse-lyrics-taylor-swift.html
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