Addicted
I'm totally addicted to reading Bridezilla stories on Etiquette Hell.
July 04, 2005
March 29, 2004
Progress Prompts - 3/29/2004
What keeps you going, even after you fall off the wagon, hit a wall, overeat on your program, get stuck at a plateau, etc.?
2 things:
1) I like exercising.
2) Fitting into my size 3/4, S and XS clothes. I'm trying to get rid of a lot of the size 10's and 12's so there will be no excuses for Fat Days.
February 20, 2004
Friday Five - 2/20/2004
When was the last time you...
1. ...went to the doctor?
Just before Christmas.
2. ...went to the dentist?
A couple years. She's rather anti-tongue piercing and I don't want to hear that shit.
3. ...filled your gas tank?
Yesterday, 62.9 cents/litre.
4. ...got enough sleep?
Last night...about 9.5 hours worth.
5. ...backed up your computer?
A couple months ago. Will back up more stuff on Saturday.
January 26, 2004
Progress Prompts - 1/26/2004
Do you often go to the store with the best intentions not to buy junk food, but when you get to the car, your bags are full them? Do you stick to a list? Do you go hungry? Do you avoid the "impulse" aisles? Do you have a secret to staying on course with your weekly shopping trip?
The easiest way is to pretend the aisles don't exist. Go in, fill basket with fresh veggies, leave. Those are my veggies. I let mom buy the processed crap with her money.
January 12, 2004
Progress Prompts - 1/12/2004
In 2003, what was the best thing about your weight loss program? In 2003, what was the worst thing about your weight loss program?
Best thing: reaching goal and learning about what foods best fuel my body.
Worst thing: INJURIES!
November 28, 2003
Friday Five - 11/28/2003
1. Do you like to shop? Why or why not?
To say that I :hearts shopping would be the understatement of the century.
2. What was the last thing you purchased?
A tea from Starbucks on Thursday morning.
3. Do you prefer shopping online or at an actual store? Why?
An actual store, because I like to touch stuff before I buy it. I make a lot of my clothing purchases based on texture. You can't do that online, plus I don't have a credit card.
4. Did you get an allowance as a child? How much was it?
50 cents a week when I was 10.
5. What was the last thing you regret purchasing?
Colour Moving And Still by Chantal Kreviazuk. It was a piece of shit and fortunately they let me return the CD.
November 24, 2003
Progress Prompts - 11/24/2003
People say that losing weight too quickly can be damaging for your health and your longterm success, why? There are many merits to a slow and steady weight-loss, what are the biggest ones for you?
Super slow weight loss (and believe me, I am the expert on that, having taken 3 fucking years to lose 12 measly pounds) helps hone your patience and to strengthen your good lifelong eating and exercise habits. Quick fixes for weight loss are the exact opposite, you don't learn how to be healthy and take care of your body and the weight will be quick to come right back.
November 21, 2003
Friday Five - 11/21/2003
1. List five things you'd like to accomplish by the end of the year.
• not go broke due to Christmas
• maintain current weight
• pass Fitness Leader Certification written exam
• maintain sanity
• ???
2. List five people you've lost contact with that you'd like to hear from again.
Sara B., Sarah L., Lindsay C., and Alicia J., we were inseparable when I lived in Santa Barbara. Sandra from high school so I could kick her ass.
3. List five things you'd like to learn how to do.
• cook a successful souffle
• run 5K
• use power cages and those badass machines at the gym with the weight plates
• sing better without getting serious nerve attacks
• bakasana
4. List five things you'd do if you won the lottery (no limit).
• visit Sweden :sweden
• go on a long spa vacation
• buy a grand piano
• open a Canadian flagship of Victoria's Secret in Toronto
• shop shop shop shop and shop some more!
and a very obvious bonus #6:
• BUY A HOUSE/CONDO AND MOVE OUT!!!!
5. List five things you do that help you relax.
• consume alcoholic beverages
• get massages (which I don't often enough)
• hang out with Dan
• work my bootay off at the gym
• sleep
November 14, 2003
Friday Five - 11/14/2003
OK I am in desperate need of some sleepies, but let's see how I do with the Friday Five:
1. Using one adjective, describe your current living space.
Communal.
2. Using two adjectives, describe your current employer.
Dead-end. Pays (the bills).
3. Using three adjectives, describe your favorite hobby/pasttime.
Time-consuming. Interactive. Amusing.
4. Using four adjectives, describe your typical day.
Sleepy. Sweaty. Musical. Crazy.
5. Using five adjectives, describe your ideal life.
Happy. Shiny. Healthy. Wealthy. Wise.
Holy fuck, these questions were hard. And peeps, you really have to brush up on your grammar. Most of the other answers to this FF I've read for inspiration have totally NOT been adjectives.
November 12, 2003
WiW - 11/12/2003
I wasn't gonna do WiW this week, but it's hard not to when Yours Truly is mentioned in the question.. :smile
Where do you stand on weight related surgery? Are you in favor of it? Why or why not? Do you agree with it in certain circumstances and what are those circumstances? Would do you it if you had to?
I am absolutely against weight loss surgery, regardless of the situation. Most people are deluding themselves when they opt for surgery saying that they've tried everything and failed. Have they followed a healthy eating plan and integrated it into their lifestyle? Worked out at 60% of their maximum heart rate according to the F.I.T.T. principle?
Feh, I don't think so. Get your ass out of the butt groove of your couch, get moving and eat healthy.
November 07, 2003
Friday Five - 11/7/2003
1. What food do you like that most people hate?
Spam. I think most other people wouldn't touch it with someone else's 10 foot pole.
2. What food do you hate that most people love?
Seems like a lot of people like cantaloupe, the Evil Fruit From Hades! I'm also not very fond of chocolate.
3. What famous person, whom many people may find attractive, is most unappealing to you?
Jennifer Aniston. I hate TV. I hated her ubiquitous haircut. I hated the popularity of her show. Ugggggh.
I hate Derek Jeter more. That dirty ass-shaking motherfucker.
4. What famous person, whom many people may find unappealing, do you find attractive?
Anna Kournikova. She's dumber than a doorknob and has the worst taste in men, but Jeebus, she is pretty.
5. What popular trend baffles you?
i h8 ppl who tYpE LiKe dis...
November 03, 2003
Progress Prompts - 11/3/2003
How do you measure success? Has your idea of success changed since you made the decision to become healthier?
I have to admit that I still define success mostly according to the numbers on the old scale. A 'good day' is when I've exercised vigorously and eaten few or no 'off plan' foods in controlled quantities. I've never taken body measurements on a regular basis. I don't find my clothes fitting better as time goes by for some reason. My pants from 3 winters ago are still tight across the waist despite the scale saying I've lost 15 pounds since then. Am I bitter? Of course I am.
October 27, 2003
Progress Prompts - 10/27/2003
Are your new-found healthy eating habits affecting your food budget plan? Is that good or bad? Which is cheaper, processed foods or whole-form foods? Do you find that you're spending more or less money since starting your weight-loss journey?
I've been spending a lot more of my own money to buy whatever I feel like cooking/eating. I don't plan menus for the week and fresh veggies don't keep very long anyways. Since my mom only goes to the store once a week or so, if I want it, I have to pay for it myself. Of course processed craptastic food is a lot cheaper, but I'm definitely willing to spend the extra money for healthy food.
October 22, 2003
WiW - 10/22/2003
Do you feel guilty over eating something bad or missing a workout? If not, how have you overcome that?
Oh my dear god, yes. The guilt, although horrible, helps keep me motivated...how would I learn self control if I didn't have a conscience eating away at me every time I screw up? I finally had a good day today after 5 days of eating hell. It's nice to be back on track (somewhat).
• related forum post (MT won't let me link) http://weigh-better.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1363
October 17, 2003
Friday Five - 10/17/2003
1. Name five things in your refrigerator.
pickles, milk, butter, part of a lime, expired peach yogurt
2. Name five things in your freezer.
bread, ice cream, peas, meat, ice pack
3. Name five things under your kitchen sink.
rubber bands, olive oil, peanut oil, unopened salad dressing, soy sauce
4. Name five things around your computer.
twist ties, big Dutch clog, Mats Sundin bobble head doll, chequebook, candle holder
5. Name five things in your medicine cabinet.
light bulbs, new contact lenses, Aleve, thermometer, Ace bandage
October 13, 2003
Progress Prompts - 10/13/2003
Describe your eating habits at mealtime. Do you think you need to change them in order to lose weight and get healthy? Where do you usually eat? Health experts are telling us not to eat in front of TV. Why?
Today I am not going to worry too much about what I eat, since it is Thanksgiving. However, I am still going to restrict the amount of processed carbs I eat. I either eat standing up (breakfast - on the way to the gym), in front of the computer, and sometimes I even eat properly at the kitchen table. For me, I don't think eating in front of the computer is as bad as it is for some other people. I only carry a small portion of what I'm eating up there, so if I want more, I have to make an extra 2 trips on the stairs to get it. I don't watch TV, so I don't eat in front of it, either. Why I think eating in front of the TV is unhealthy is because you are usually so absorbed in watching the show that you will unconsciously eat the whole bag of chips/carton of ice cream without thinking about portion sizes and whether you're full or not. The eating continues through the duration of the show, and usually occurs later in the day, when calories consumed are not so quickly burned off.
September 29, 2003
Progress Prompts - 9/29/2003
What is your ideal goal weight? How many pounds do you need to lose in order to reach your goal weight? Do you think your goal weight is realistic enough for your age and your body frame? Why?
My ideal goal weight is 115 pounds, about 5 lbs. less than what I weigh now. Right now I'm in the middle/upper end of what is healthy for my height (5'2") and 115 is on the lower end. In addition, I'd like to have a 5 pound "insurance" for PMS bloat, bad eating days, and I can stand the way I look at exactly 120, but not 125. It is SO hard to lose those last 5 pounds that I might someday be content with a more muscular 120, but I haven't come to that yet. I'm still optimistic that I can reach and maintain my goal weight.
September 03, 2003
WiW - 9/3/2003
What are your excuses for eating something you shouldn't or for not working out? What is the best and/or worst excuse you've ever heard?
I accept NO excuses from myself for not working out. I went to the gym even after staying up all night during the summer. Same with eating. It doesn't take any more time to eat wisely. Even if you are too pressed for time to cook and decide to go out to eat, it doesn't take one minute longer to go to Swiss Chalet drive-thru and get a quarter chicken with green salad than to drive to McDicks and get a Big Mac combo with supersize grease sticks. Yesterday on my favourite weight loss forum, this girl seriously whined about not having enough time to be healthy. That is the biggest crock of shit I've ever heard. Even after some helpful posts, she went and got a gym membership, but then whined more about how hard it was going to be to find the time to go work out. You set your priorities. Being healthy happens to be near the top in my list. If it's not, shutyertrap, because I don't want to hear those excuses.
August 20, 2003
WiW - 8/20/2003
What is your favorite on-program recipe? Please share it with us...
Yoga Journal's Miso Noodle Soup
You can basically substitute whatever veggie you have on hand in this recipe. Tofu is also a great addition. I usually omit the sesame oil because I don't think the flavour meshes very well with miso. And you don't need 2 different kinds of miso, whatever one kind you have will do nicely!
August 08, 2003
Friday Five - 8/8/2003
1. What's the last place you traveled to, outside your own home state/country?
Detroit, Michigan.
2. What's the most bizarre/unusual thing that's ever happened to you while traveling?
In 1994, my family went to New York City, and my dad wanted to see The Pierre. We walked over there and got turned away at the door by Secret Service types in dark suits, sunglasses and those earpieces. Turns out that Clinton was in town for Jackie O's funeral.
3. If you could take off to anywhere, money and time being no object, where would you go?
Sweden. Then I'd go other places in Europe afterwards.
4. Do you prefer traveling by plane, train or car?
I don't mind either one actually. I like the train for short distances, although I've always wanted to go across Canada on VIA, I don't mind cars as long as there are good tunes and I'm not driving, and I don't hate planes but I don't like them for the usual reasons.
5. What's the next place on your list to visit?
If all goes well on the piano exams, SWEDEN! :sweden
June 20, 2003
Friday Five - 6/20/2003
1. Is your hair naturally curly, wavy, or straight? Long or short?
It's naturally straight, with lots of body. Right now it's the longest I've ever had it my whole life, about an inch or two below the boob level, with a loose perm.
2. How has your hair changed over your lifetime?
I had a horrid short home haircut for about the first 10 years of my life, then an even more horrid super-permed chin-to-shoulder length bob until high school. During high school it was alternating long and short, but always straight and I was a hair colour virgin until I was 19. Colours that my hair have been include: various shades of red, gold, and blue. It's naturally black.
3. How do your normally wear your hair?
Up when I'm at the gym, or when it's hot or dirty, down at all other times.
4. If you could change your hair this minute, what would it look like?
I'd have big, lush natural waves. I can only get that look after wrestling with a curling iron for an hour or so.
5. Ever had a hair disaster? What happened?
The last time my mom ever touched my hair with scissors, I asked her to trim my hair to shoulder length and she butchered it to chin length. Last time I checked, I did have a neck.
June 06, 2003
Friday Five - 6/6/2003
Friday Five, bitter Zorbs edition:
1. How many times have you truly been in love?
Never.
2. What was/is so great about the person you love(d) the most?
N/A.
3. What qualities should a significant other have?
A pulse. A penis.
4. Have you ever broken someone's heart?
Yes.
5. If there was one thing you could teach people about love, what would it be?
You can't teach people about something that doesn't exist. :brokenheart
June 02, 2003
Monday Mission - 6/2/2003
1. One thing that really annoys me is when someone at work will just start clipping their fingernails at their desk. In most cases, it is men who do this, which only makes it worse. I can't explain why this grates on my nerves, but when I hear that "click-click-click" of the clippers, I just imagine nasty fingernail fragments flying everywhere. What habit do people have that drives you crazy but doesn't seem to bother anyone else?
Someone used to complain that the way I slurped my pop drove them off the wall. I wasn't slurping, I think I was actually sucking it between my front teeth to reduce the "carbonation sting."
update: I misread this question. OK I totally HATE when people false start when playing piano. Paul will understand this one. :spork
2. I just had to replace the compressor in my car. That was $400 I didn't have that is now gone. Have you had any expensive car trouble recently?
No, and don't jinx me please and thank you!
3. A friend of mine came over for dinner with us this recently, and brought her baby. At only 8 months he is as cute as the dickens, but when he got hungry, his momma just whipped out her boob for him to start chowin' down on. Among friends or family I can see why she wouldn't be shy, but it still made me a little uncomfortable. I realize it is a natural function and wonderful bonding experience, but I wasn't ready to be a part of it. How do you feel about mothers who breastfeed their children in public? At what age do you think they should stop?
:boobies for the purpose of feeding is acceptable, however, you can't ever argue that for the sake of gender equality that a male should be allowed to whip out his wee in public.
4. I was watching the "Antiques Road Show" recently, and the resident "expert" presented the "Atari 2600" game system as a popular collectible. I am now officially OLD! Do you recall the first item from your youth that became an "antique" and made you feel old and how you felt? Or if it hasn't happened, yet, what item do you think it will be and how do you expect it to make you feel?
Over the weekend I read something about how much portion sizes have increased in the past 20 years...20 years, that's 1983...I remember 1983 almost like it was yesterday! Oh yeah, and I see Care Bears merchandise at the store and I feel old thinking that I loved them the first time around.
5. It started raining last night as I was going to bed. Not storming or a hard rain, just a nice rainfall. The pitter-patter of raindrops hitting the window made for a peaceful way to drift to sleep (and also made it hard to wake up this morning). Do you like rainy days/nights? What type of weather makes you feel relaxed?
A sunny, lazy weekend afternoon.
6. We used to joke about the retired couple across the street. Every night, they would pull out their lawn chairs, sit in their driveway and watch the world go by. We laughed about how someone would just waste away their life like that. Now 8 years later, I pull out the lawn chairs and we find ourselves doing exactly the same thing. Life has a way of making one humble. Have you ever found that you have become that which you once ridiculed?
In high school, I ate massive amounts of junk food every day, thought exercise was for the weak, and weighed less than 100 pounds. I used to mock people who exercised and ate diet everything in order to maintain their weight. Now, I exercise like a maniac in order to not look like a lardass, but I also have to control the junk food that I eat, although I draw the line at eating low-fat this and lite that.
7. Have you ever sent an e-mail to the wrong person? What was the most embarrassing experience you remember?
I've sent emails to my boss forgetting to delete my signature "This email was brought to you by the letters F and U."
May 14, 2003
WiW - 5/14/2003
Previous to trying to lose weight/get fit has there ever been a time in your life when you felt really good about your body?
I've never been happy with my abs, but I was very proud in high school that I was skinnier than a pipe cleaner even though I ate like a pig and size 0's were big on me. Now, I'd rather have some meat on my bones and some curves. :boobies
May 09, 2003
Friday Fun
1. Would you consider yourself an organized person? Why or why not?
Hell no, but I usually know where stuff is.
2. Do you keep some type of planner, organizer, calendar, etc. with you, and do you use it regularly?
I have a little leather organizer that I write schedules in almost every day.
3. Would you say that your desk is organized right now?
It's not too bad as considering, but nowhere near this.
4. Do you alphabetize CDs, books, and DVDs, or does it not matter?
I organize CD's by genre, then chronologically by the artist.
5. What's the hardest thing you've ever had to organize?
Right now I'm in the midst of putting all my vocal accompanying photocopies in alphabetically in file folders. I have to go through my stack of old photocopies that I've amassed over 18 years of playing piano and file all the vocal music in there too. The pile is several inches high.
April 29, 2003
This or That Tuesday - 4/29/2003
This or That Tuesday, 'Take Comfort' edition:
Which is more comforting for you...
1. Lying down on the couch, or stretching out on a recliner?
A recliner if I actually owned one.
2. Going barefoot or wearing soft slippers?
Slippers, bare feet collect grody shit from the floor.
3. Eating ice cream, or pizza?
Neither, I don't take comfort in food, at least not these foods.
4. Watching on TV...a classic movie or a reality show?
Neither, TV is for stupid people.
5. Wearing: blue jeans or sweat pants?
Jeans can be constricting. Sweatpants.
6. A long, soothing bubble bath or a quick, invigorating shower?
Bubble bath, if I had the time, and the water pressure to fill the tub to the brim without it taking 3 hours.
7. Furniture: leather, or something more on the fuzzy side?
Leather furniture sticks to my ass.
8. Soft, classical music, or upbeat rock & roll?
Rock. I find classical to be the most stressful kind of music, I'll analyze it both structurally and historically to death.
9. Darkness or light?
Light, especially if I'm reading something scary late at night. It is comforting to know "certain as the sun, rising in the East..."
10. Thought-provoking question of the week: You get married, or otherwise begin cohabitating with a significant other. S/he moves into your place, but brings with them the UGLIEST chair you have ever seen! You really don't want this thing in your home, but SO says it is the most comfy chair s/he has ever sat in, and no way will they part with it. Do you: grin and bear it, or scheme to get rid of the montrosity somehow?
I'd live with it, but I'd make them put it in the basement or something.
April 25, 2003
Friday Five - 4/25/2003
1. What was the last TV show you watched?
Hockey Night in Canada, about 4 days ago.
2. What was the last thing you complained about and what was the problem?
Last weekend, one of the moms said to her daughter, "The Lark in the Clear Air sounds like it needs some work," but what she really meant was that I sucked, but didn't quite have the audacity to say so. Last night, she came for her 2nd rehearsal and the mom confirmed my suspicions, saying to me, "Wow! It sounds like you've practiced really hard since last time."
3. Who was the last person you complimented and what did you say?
I probably complimented one of my students.
4. What was the last thing you threw away?
My tasteless piece of gum, wrapped in a dirty paper napkin.
5. What was the last website (besides this one) that you visited?
This one.
Thought of the day: I've never tried to play piano while drunk.
April 22, 2003
This or That Tuesday - 4/22/2003
This or That Tuesday, 'What is' edition:
1. Yummier: Chocolate ice cream or strawberry cheesecake?
Chocolate ice cream, I don't like fruity desserts.
2. Better to watch on TV: Movies or sports?
SPORTS! I hate all movies with a passion!
3. A better web browser: MSIE or Netscape (or tell us your own favorite!)
Mozilla is by far the bestest.
4. A better way to travel: Automobile or bus/train?
Car. As long as I don't have to drive.
5. Your preferred camera: Digital or film?
Digital. Film and processing costs too much.
6. A Cooler Vehicle: Motorcycle or sports car?
I've never ridden either; I'll choose sports car.
7. More fun: Video games or board games?
Board games.
8. Sexier: A perfect body or an intelligent mind?
The brain is definitely the sexiest body part.
9. A stinkier smell: Skunk or gasoline (petrol)?
You get the gas huffers but you sure don't have skunk huffers, right?
10. Thought-provoking question of the week: What is more important to you: making a ton of money and being at the top of your field, or finding your soulmate and living a comfortable but not wealthy life?
Definitely the latter. Comfortable being the key word in the question. If it was 'living in utter poverty' I might rethink that. Love is fleeting, money can last if you manage it well.
April 16, 2003
WiW - 4/16/2003
Who do you look up to in regards to health and fitness issues?
Nobody, really. I find my own motivation, although I hope I can be someone's fitness role model.
April 15, 2003
This or That Tuesday - 4/15/2003
1. File taxes as early as possible, or wait until the last possible minute?
My dad does it for me very early.
2. File electronically, or mail paper forms?
This year, I had to mail forms.
3. Prepare your own taxes, or have someone do it for you?
My dad the accountant does it for me.
4. Are you a saver or a spender?
I am such a spender. I'm trying desperately to save some, though.
5. Do you prefer to carry cash, or pay with plastic (credit/debit cards), or by check?
I pay with cash. If I don't have the cash, I don't buy it. I started not carrying around my debit card too, but I stopped after I filled up the car only to realize I had NO MONEY on me to pay for it.
6. You're broke and desperately need a job, but the only places that are hiring are retail or fast food places. Which would you pick?
Retail for sure. I can't even get a job in retail.
7. Keeping track of your money: are you more meticulous or careless about it?
My dad forces me to be a little bit meticulous, if not, I'd let it all go to hell.
8. What do you do if you find yourself with a lot of change weighing down your purse/pocket/wallet? Do you try to spend it to *get rid of it*, or do you put it in a jar or a piggy bank?
I count out every last cent at the store. It would suck to be you if you were in a hurry and behind me in line.
9. Which form of fake money do you like better...Monopoly money or those chocolate coins covered with gold foil?
Monopoly money, especially if we were playing the game.
10. Thought-provoking question of the week: You find a wallet containing $5,000 in cash, as well as several credit cards and the owner's drivers' license. Your rent is due tomorrow and you're short $200. Do you take the money (some or all of it) and mail back the wallet anonymously...or do you return the wallet with all contents intact?
I'd totally keep all the money. It's a reward for having found the wallet.
April 14, 2003
Monday Mission - 4/14/2003
1. When I was a kid, I used to always get Strep Throat. I seemed to get it every year. Are there any illnesses that you seem more susceptible to than others?
A recurring case of Stupidity.
2. A recent poll stated that "Michael" and "Ashley" are the number one baby names in New York. (However, in Oklahoma it seems like there are two or three girls named "Madison" everywhere you go). What are your favorite boy and girl names? What names do you think are trendy or overused? If you have children, would you give them the same name if you had another chance?
Madison and Kaitlyn and Britney and all derivations of those names. Boys' names tend to be fairly generic..although I heard about a kid named Talon (aka CLAW) recently.
3. Any current songs on the radio (or elsewhere) that you think are pure crap? Why don't you like it?
99.9% of stuff on the radio is pure ass-burning crap. It's so unimaginative, to say the VERY least!
4. I used to play the trumpet in High School. I was never very good and always seemed to be last chair. I tried to play it again last week and it was a pretty sad sight. Can you (now or in your youth) play any musical instruments? Do you still play?
I taught myself how to play the flute, I guess I am not that bad except that my technique sucks, been playing for 12 years. Been playing piano for almost 18 years, I still take lessons and am totally stressed over that and don't want to talk about it. I make all my money in some piano-related way but I wish I had pursued singing as my primary instrument, I find learning vocal songs 560928350918029802356 bazillion times easier than piano. And I did take voice lessons during the summer while I was at university.
5. What is the most recent self-improvement program (fitness, weight loss, learning something new) that you began? Did you stick with it? Why or why not?
I started working out regularly 3 years ago and never stopped. I go 3-4 days a week, although I would go 7 if I had the time. I hate people who can't/won't stick to a fitness program...what is so hard about it? Do those people enjoy doing nothing and complaning that they're fat?
6. How would you look in a Hooters uniform?
Decent. At least my :boobies are real.
7. Have you ever had a dream where you interacted with a celebrity (sex or otherwise)? What happened?
I had a dream about me and Mats recently. You know, that kind.
April 11, 2003
Friday Five - 4/11/2003
1. What was the first band you saw in concert?
Slipknot.
2. Who is your favorite artist/band now?
As of this very moment, Evanescence. For all time, Guns N'Roses and Slipknot.
3. What's your favorite song?
November Rain by Guns N'Roses.
4. If you could play any instrument, what would it be?
I can already play several instruments. Heh. :piano :flute
5. If you could meet any musical icon (past or present), who would it be and why?
I should say that I want to meet any of the dead Classical greats, but honestly, I have no idea what we'd talk about.
April 09, 2003
New meme - Weigh In Wednesdays
Do you belong to any other groups/forums/clubs [aside from WiW] that help you on your way?
Nope, but I read the articles on iVillage and the occasional weight-loss blog for inspiration.
"Oh help me if I ever get as fat as you!"
April 07, 2003
Monday Mission - 4/7/2003
1. Would you rather impress or influence others? Why? Which do you tend to do more than the other?
I would love to be a (good) influence on others, but I think I try to impress them too much. Keep in mind though, that trying to impress people definitely doesn't mean I succeed. :blank
2. Are you able to admit your weaknesses to others? How do you handle your weaknesses (Can you accept them and see them as a strength? (Do you strive to overcome them? etc.)
I'm painfully aware of my weaknesses and I don't handle them very well.
3. How do you react when you are bossed around, treated as inferior or taken advantage of?
I'd treat them like shit. Actually, I tend to treat everyone like shit, so it's not like anyone is particularly special.
4. Do you live your life to meet your own needs, or do you live to meet the needs of others? Why?
No one needs me. This I am very certain of.
5. This is your Mission on Mondays, but what is your mission in life?
I don't have one. This I am very certain of as well.
6. Can you focus on your goals and achieve them, or are you sidetracked by minor distractions along the way?
No, because I don't have any goals.
7. When was the last time you cried? What were you feeling at that moment (anger, sadness, etc.)?
I don't remember, but I'm sure it was anger.
BONUS: Who can it be knocking at my door?
Quoth the Raven, nevermore.
April 04, 2003
Friday Five - 4/4/2003
1. How many houses/apartments have you lived in throughout your life?
This took me a minute to tally: 10.
2. Which was your favorite and why?
Of course I loved having my own place in London, so I think I'd say that was my favourite although it wasn't the prettiest house, I didn't have to share it with anyone.
3. Do you find moving house more exciting or stressful? Why?
Most of the moves in my life were made when I was under 10 (I lived in 9 of the 10 places before I was 10 years old) and I always found it exciting and never worried about making new friends and changing schools. Now, I'd find it stressful.
4. What's more important, location or price?
Location is great but what's the point if you can't afford the house? In Santa Barbara we rented, but we saw our dream house and could afford it, but it had lousy feng shui (obvious even to my family, the most basic feng shui practitioners) so we didn't buy it.
5. What features does your dream house have (pool, spa bath, big yard, etc.)?
Rachel Ashwell's house makes me drool with all it's Shabby Chic-ness. I love her hidden little spa and other nooks and crannies to just relax.
Weekly Wrap-Up - Singing Along
1. Do you like to sing? Why or why not?
I used to hate singing, because I didn't think I was any good. I've had a few voice lessons (a summer's worth) and I think I'm much better now. At least that's what people tell me.
2. Where do you like to sing? Why?
I DON'T like to sing in choirs, I hate choirs because being a pianist, in school they always forced pianists to be in the choir instead of band, which I'd prefer for my large ensemble credit.
3. Do you sing in front of people? Why or why not?
I sing every week at church. I play piano and sing, it gives me this cool Fiona Apple-vibe, even though it's at church, for crying out loud. I didn't want to at first, because I when I sing and play at the same time, both my singing and my playing aren't as good as they can be than if I was only doing one at a time. The people in my music group at church like my singing so much they don't care if my piano playing suffers. Fine, be that way!
4. What's your favorite song to sing along with? Why?
Until they come out with a piano/vocal book for Evanescence, I'll keep singing Only Hope by Mandy Moore.
5. What song is your guilty singing pleasure? Why?
See above. Also, Reflection by Christina Aguilera. Why? because I really don't like to be known for singing hit songs by dumb blond pop divas.
March 31, 2003
Monday Mission - 3/31/2003
1. How old will you be on your next birthday?
25, baby. Old enough to rent a car.
2. One of the presents I was given for my birthday was a "George Foreman Grill." I've always joked about them, so it was kind of a joke gift. But it turns out, it is a really neat little grill. Then it hit me, this is a gadget, except it is for the kitchen. Then I thought about it and realized that "gadgets" aren't just techno-toys, gadgets are everywhere. What is your favorite gadget?
A spork, maybe?
3. Tell me about someone that you lost touch with several years ago. Would you like to get back in touch with them again? What caused the separation? Has enough time passed? Would you still get along?
After CJB and I broke up, we didn't talk for several years. I really respect him for having the guts to ICQ me after about 4 years. Now we are friends without all that post-breakup weirdness. It rocks!
4. I've not met many online friends in real-life (I.R.L.), but I've always assumed we'd get along great if we met. But then again, if we would since my online personality (brash, outgoing) seems so different from how I see my RL offline version (introverted). Is there a difference between your online personality and your real-life version? Or are you pretty much the same person either way?
When I was young, I was quiet, really quiet, then as I spent more time online, I came out of my shell, and I think basically I am the same weirdo both online and off.
5. Being the quiet type, I have often felt like the online world has given me a greater chance to meet people I'd never meet IRL. In fact, I would bet that I would have never met any of you IRL if we had been in the same bookstore or coffee shop. So in that sense, I think the Internet has helped inter-personal communication for many people. Can you think of any ways that the Internet hinders person-to-person communication? What could we do to change things?
People who type in l337 or sTuPiD fUcKiN cApZ and other kinds of shorthand are not helping communication. One might argue that it's simply another way English is evolving, but I think it's just stupid.
6. Last night, about 1AM I was overcome with this amazing sense of inner peace. I hadn't prayed, or done anything spiritual, yet, I felt like life was truly good and things could only get better. It seemed like I was given a mental "nudge" as if to say, "You're doing great kid, stay with it and everything will keep getting better." When was the last time you felt truly happy, or had that sense of perfect inner-peace? What does it take to get that feeling back when you need it?
Goddamn. It's been awhile.
7. There are times when I just want to tell someone off. I don't usually, since I have to work with them. Sometimes it is a family member and that would be even worse on down the road if I cut loose. If you could just verbally let loose on someone and be able to say anything you want, without repercussions, who would you say it to and what would you say?
WHAT? As if I'd post it here.
BONUS: Are we alive or just a dying planet?
Are we alive or just breathing?
March 25, 2003
Top 5 Tuesday XXIX
March 24, 2003
Monday Mission - 3/24/2003
Note: This was entry #666. :evilgrin
1. Since we've covered the standard "where do you go when you die" question, let's get a little deeper. When you do die, would you like to be able to watch your funeral?
Yes, that would be so kinky. In fact, the mere thought makes me have to go get my purple friend. Excuse me for a minute, please.
2. Catholics must have the longest funeral services ever. I think there is a lot to be said for the traditions that they keep, but it was just so depressing. I'd like my funeral to be much more upbeat, like those I've seen in New Orleans. What type of funeral would you plan for yourself?
Catholic funerals are SO not depressing. They celebrate your life and comfort the living. They also aren't long. I've never been to one longer than an hour. And I sure know funerals, I average at least one a month, or more, if I'm lucky! :pleased
3. As a child, when I was angry sometimes I would wish that a parent or teacher would die. Thank goodness wishes like those are never granted. I think it probably takes the loss of someone important before you learn the value of life. When did you first realize that life was so fragile?
After 9/11, and again last week when I found out that one of my former students died of leukemia at age 15. The latter doesn't bother me, I only taught her for a month or so.
4. When we said our final respects to Grandma H. today, I though about her impact on the world. No, she didn't cure cancer or make sweeping changes to society. But she did leave a legacy of four sons and a daughter, who in turn have children and grandchildren. And maybe that was her purpose, to launch future generations that will accomplish great things. Some of us are here to make a huge splash in the pond of life, others are here to direct the ripples in the water. Of the people you've known personally who have passed away, what sort of legacy, impact, mark or achievement did they leave behind?
I don't know anyone close to me who died. 3 of the 4 grandparents are dead but I was not close to any of them.
5. One thing that struck me at the funeral, was that there were so many men were dressed in casual clothes. I was brought up to believe that men should always wear a suit to a funeral, as a show of respect. Maybe these men were never taught that. Maybe they just don't own suits. Maybe that I am just old fashioned and not hip to the times. Do you think there is an "appropriate" way to dress for attending a funeral? Or is it even important?
I see WAY too many people wearing red at funerals. That's just wrong. I always wear black from head to toe, I want to look respectful.
6. Grandma H. was far enough along in life to have been able to plan ahead for her funeral, even down to the tiny details such as song selections. It was nice to finally attend a funeral where they didn't play "Amazing Grace!" My choices would be "Ode to Joy" and "I'll Fly Away." What are some of the more memorable songs you've heard played at funerals?
At my funeral, I'd want Mozart's Requiem, especially the Lacrimosa, On Eagle's Wings, and How Great Thou Art to end. The last two are my favourite ones to play at a funeral.
7. I've been craving some home-made pickles for years now. Not just any, but the kind my dear Great Grandmother made. It's been over 20 years since she died, but I can still remember just how her dill pickles taste. No one in the family has even attempted to make them since. Today at the funeral I overheard someone wishing that they had asked Grandma H. for her home-made noodle recipe but now it was too late. Do you have any favorite foods that only one relative made, and the recipe died with them?
Hmmm, my paternal grandma's loh bak goh. We lament the lack of good loh bak goh every year at Chinese New Year.
March 21, 2003
Weekly Wrap-Up - Going To the Zoo
1. Do you like going to the zoo? Why or why not?
Yes, because I like aminals...No, because admission is damn expensive!
2. How many zoos have you visited? Where?
A couple that I can think of off the top of my head: Metro Toronto Zoo, National Zoo in Washington DC.
3. What's your favorite animal to see at the zoo? Why?
POLAR BEARS! I have to make another trip to the Toronto Zoo soon to see this little furball.
Friday Five - 3/21/2003
Friday Five (written while high on Lik-M-Aid):
1. If you had the chance to meet someone you've never met, from the past or present, who would it be?
Göran.
2. If you had to live in a different century, past or future, which would it be?
Late 19th, early 20th centuries.
3. If you had to move anywhere else on Earth, where would it be?
Göteborg, Sweden.
4. If you had to be a fictional character, who would it be?
Anne of Green Gables. It's her life that makes me want to have lived in the late 19th, early 20th century.
5. If you had to live with having someone else's face as your own for the rest of your life, whose would it be?
One of the people mentioned in #2. As long as I could keep my own brain.
March 07, 2003
Weekly Wrap-Up - Beauty
1. What is your definition of "beauty"? Has this changed over time?
When I was a kid, I used to think the stereotypical blond hair, blue eyes was the epitome of beauty. I could try to wax philosophical about 'inner beauty' and all that crap...I still think beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Although, I still find men with blond hair and blue eyes to be very bootifulicious! :drool
2. Who (famous or not famous) do you think is beautiful? Why?
Laetitia Casta, Kate Winslet, Anna Kournikova, Frances Sand
3. Is it possible to be both beautiful and ugly? How?
For sure. I can think of 2 examples:
i) Physical beauty but an ugly personality
ii) A supermodel/movie star/famous person without makeup :laugh
4. Why does society place so much emphasis on beauty? Will this ever change? Why or why not?
I think society places more emphasis on thinness=beauty. Personally, I wish it would change to healthy=beauty. There is nothing attractive about an overweight person scarfing down food like there's no tomorrow.
5. How does beauty vary from culture to culture? Is there a particular culture's definition of beauty that you admire? Why?
I wish body modification was more accepted as mainstream. So you could say that I admire the modified community's definition of beauty.
February 25, 2003
Top 5 Tuesday XXVI
Top 5 Soundtracks:
1. Backdraft
4. Lion King
5. South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut
honourable mention: Crimson Tide, Interview With The Vampire, Far And Away, Independence Day, Dragonheart, Pearl Harbor
I've actually seen the movies/TV shows of everything in the top 5 except for Backdraft. Knowing me, Miss Anti-Movie, that's quite amazing...and I haven't listened to most of these for ages!! They'll be going in the car with me tonight for sure. :listen
February 24, 2003
Monday Mission - 2/24/2003
1. Has anyone ever told you that you needed to lose weight or change something about yourself physically? Who told you and what impact did it have on your life? Your perception of yourself?
Last summer, my dad told me that he thought I was fat and then dared to ask if I got a boob job! :boobies Ummm, I wasn't about to let him have a look to prove my point. I've really tried to make changes to my eating habits, since there's nothing wrong with my exercise routine, and I've lost 5 pounds since December.
2. Do you enjoy the snow and cold weather?
No. No weather extremes for me! :hot :cold
3. Visualize the perfect winter evening. Are you alone or with someone? How does the evening start? How does it end, and everything in-between.
Candlelight dinner, a hot tub, a massage, and nookie. Doesn't matter in what order. Obviously this is not something to do alone. Right, G? :wink
4. I've noticed that people I work with, even no more than 6 feet away, would rather e-mail me a message than turn around and speak to me. Same goes for voice mail, I find I get more calls when I am away than when I am available to speak to someone. So many things that could be said face-to-face are now accomplished electronically. Do you think that technology has had allowed relationships and human interaction to become less personal? Is this a good thing?
I think that long conversations on IM have actually improved communications, I've talked about stuff with people that I'd never have the nerve to bring up in real life. As for e-mail, it's a good way to reach me, since I'm the only person on this planet now who doesn't own a cell phone, but people should never make a habit of always e-mailing and never calling, because e-mails are usually too brief to have any genuine communication happening.
5. One thing I've always wanted to learn is how to juggle. I'm pretty good with my hands, so I am sure I could do it. Yet, I've never made the commitment to sit down and learn how. Is there anything you've been meaning to learn, that you can learn, but haven't? (or maybe you have?)
I can't drive standard, even though I've had a few lessons.
6. On the other side of the coin, there is photography. As much as I'd like to, I will never be as great at it as others. And I am OK with that, still I wish I had the gifts that others have. What skills or talents have you wished that you possessed that you most likely never will? Are you content with that?
I don't think I could learn to play another instrument. I wish I was better with computer hardware so I don't have a nervous breakdown every time I have to open up my case. I wish I could memorize my piano pieces more easily!
7. "AudioBlogs" are a twist on text blogs, where the blogger posts audio files instead of writing their entries. Not far behind the curve are VideoBlogs. While I've tinkered with Audio posts before, I think it excludes too many people and personally, I feel the written word has a deeper impact. What do you think of the concept of "AudioBlogs?" Would you like to hear the voice of your favorite bloggers occasionally? Would you rather listen to or read your favorite Blogs?
I don't think the concept will take off. Too many people are self-conscious about their voices. Besides, I can edit text posts, whereas I don't think I'm eloquent enough to just let my thoughts down in a sound file without sounding like an idjut.
February 18, 2003
Top 5 Tuesday XXV
Top 5 Albums of All Time:
1. Slipknot - Slipknot
Uhh, duh?
2. Use Your Illusion I - Guns N' Roses
Not as good as II, but November Rain is the theme song of this girl's life.
3. Use Your Illusion II - Guns N' Roses
Amazing mix of power ballads and hard rockin'. It's been a favourite of mine since I picked up the CD in 1992.
4. Creed - Weathered
Say what you will, the songs are singable, the riffs are heavy, and the lyrics aren't too shabby either. I don't know why people call them sellouts, that IS Creed's style and they've stuck to it through all 3 albums, I don't see anything sellout-ish about keeping with what works.
5. Disturbed - Believe
A new favourite of mine, every song on this album just makes me want to mosh like a madwoman. I can't get it out of heavy rotation in my car.
Honourable mention: Appetite for Destruction - Guns N' Roses; Miles Davis - Kind of Blue; Enigma - The Cross of Changes; Slipknot - Iowa; Stone Sour - Stone Sour; Roxette - Greatest Hits
February 07, 2003
Friday Five - 2/7/2003
1. What did you have for breakfast this morning? If you didn't have breakfast, why not?
I had 2 pieces of melba toast with brie spread on top.
2. What's your favorite cereal?
Life!
3. How often do you eat out? Do you want that to change?
We eat out mostly on the weekends. I eat fast food once or twice during the week, I eat it really fast so it doesn't have a chance to hit my stomach and always work out the next day.
4. What do you plan on having for dinner tonight? Got a recipe for that?
I don't know yet. Probably my signature dish, fried rice.
5. What's your favorite restaurant? Why?
Shiki, a Japanese restaurant in London. It is run by Japanese people, not Chinese, and their tempura udon soup..ohmahgawd...it's orgasmic! In Toronto my favourite restaurant is Gretzky's..because it's a fun atmosphere, and cute hockey-loving waiters. :puck :leafs
February 04, 2003
This or That Tuesday - 2/4/2003
1. Morning or night person? Morning! although I sure don't feel like one today, considering I got up at 11:45am. But that's still technically morning.
2. Heavy or light sleeper? Used to be the world's lightest sleeper, now I'm somewhere in between.
3. Remember your dreams or not? Sometimes.
4. Do you need a lot of sleep, or just a little? Again, it depends.
5. Do you need something like a nightlight or TV to sleep, or do you prefer complete darkness? Complete darkness is best, but isn't that what eyelids are for?
6. Flannel sheets or some other kind? Never owned any other kind of sheets other than regular cotton.
7. One pillow, or more? One for my head, one for my feet, and one to hug.
8. Bedroom door opened or closed at night? CLOSED...I need privacy to do my schtuff. :wink
9. Wrap yourself into blankets like a cocoon, or just cover yourself with them? Totally mummified.
10. Alarm clock: wake to music or buzzer? Music...radio works too, but there are no good stations here.
February 03, 2003
Monday Mission - 2/3/2003
1. Do you remember the first LP, 45, CD or CD single that you bought? Recreate the scene for me.
The first CD I ever owned was Classic Queen. It was a grade 8 graduation gift from my mom.
2. What was the last CD or song that you actually paid money for?
Believe - Disturbed...it fucking rocks!
3. It is my personal opinion that "Munchos" and "Funions" are the most perfect snack food ever. What do you think is the best snack food ever?
Almost anything from Marks & Spencer when they still had stores in Canada. They had these salt and vinegar snacky things called Chipits. Let's see...Sting Me flavour popcorn from Kernels. I'm currently eating wasabi peas. Farmer Brand Dried Peanuts. Men's Pocky.
4. Comedian George Carlin once pointed we consider the things we like to keep around us to be our "stuff," whereas other people's stuff is just junk to us (ok, he used more colorful language, but you get the idea). What "stuff" do you have that someone else might just throw away if they were cleaning out your house?
Bubble wrap.
5. Do you think it is wrong for people to rush to e-Bay and start selling Space Shuttle Columbia collectibles?
Yeah. I really don't think it needs an explanation.
6. Does it bother you when President Bush speaks about God and invokes scripture quotations from the Bible during his speeches?
Of course, but I know why. In Dubya's mind God is American and Republican as well. Which is one fucked up idea to have.
7. I have a friend who think's she's being photographed in public restrooms. What paranoid delusion do you have?
I hate when I'm driving and someone follows me for awhile.
January 24, 2003
Friday Five - 1/24/2003
Friday Five: (only because I'm bored out of my tree)
1. What is one thing you don't like about your body?
My GUT. It has improved a bit in the past 2 1/2 years since I started working out. I guess I'm just not meant to have washboard abs. :cry
2. What are two things you love about your body?
My :boobies and my quads. (you know where to find boob pics if you really wanna see)
3. What are three things you want to change about your home?
I'd make it look all Shabby Chic (tm).
4. What are four books you want to read this year?
I don't read books. Really, I don't. Magazines are a guilty pleasure of mine.
5. What are five promises you have kept to yourself?
hmmm, I used to have all these 'solemn vows' that I made to myself, now I can't remember any of them. :biting
December 27, 2002
Friday Five - 12/27/2002
1. What was your biggest accomplishment this year?
I'd have to say establishing myself in my piano teaching profession. :piano
2. What was your biggest disappointment?
Still being single. :brokenheart
3. Will you be making any New Year's resolutions?
No.
4. Where will you be at midnight? Do you wish you could be somewhere else?
I'll be here. All things considered, it's a pretty cool place to party.
5. Aside from (possibly) staying up late, do you have any other New Year's traditions?
Staying up late is actually a fairly new tradition for me. We used to go to bed good and early.
December 24, 2002
This or That Tuesday - 12/24/2002
This or That, Christmas Edition:
1. Opening presents...rip 'em open with all abandon, or carefully open, preserving the pretty paper for recycling?
Rip like a crazy fiend!
2. Do you and yours take turns, opening one gift at a time, or does everyone just rip into everything at the same time?
We take turns.
3. If you get something you don't like...do you try to return it, or keep it so as not to hurt the giver's feelings?
We pass-it-on to someone else if the gift is really that shitty.
4. Do you spend the holiday at home (yours or someone else's), or do you go out and eat, see the newest movie, whatever?
We go to my aunt's house for the Christmas pow-wow but honestly, I don't enjoy it.
5. What do you do with Christmas cards after the holiday is over? Save them, or toss them?
I like to save mine.
6. Cook Christmas dinner, or does someone else do that?
See #4.
7. It's Christmas Eve, and you have run out of wrapping paper. Do you go out and buy more, or wrap the rest of the gifts in the Sunday comics?
Comics, fabric, regular newspaper, TP, whatever! :smile
8. On Christmas morning...up at the crack of dawn, eagerly anticipating the loot...or would you rather sleep in?
I think I'd rather sleep in. I must be getting old.
9. Do you want a white or a green Chrismas?
I dream of white Christmases, of course!
10. Going to church on Christmas...yes or no?
Yeah, I work there.
December 13, 2002
Weekly Wrap-Up - Holiday Music
1. Do you like holiday music? Why or why not?
Yes, except when they play it in the mall in late October/early November in a pathetic attempt to get the shoppers into the mood.
2. What's your favorite holiday song? Do you prefer a specific artist's rendition of that song? Why?
Do You Hear What I Hear? is my fave. I like the original choral version and Whitney Houston's version. O Holy Night with the soloist and the choir coming in at the chorus. The original band/orchestral arrangement of Sleigh Ride is a new favourite. I guess the theme is that I don't like trendy new arrangements (fuckups) of Christmas songs.
3. What holiday song(s) do you despise hearing on the radio or over store intercoms while holiday shopping? Why?
It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year and Holly Jolly Christmas I don't know why, I just hate those songs.
4. From what musical artist or group would you like to see a holiday album? Why?
Slipknot!!! :laugh with Joey as the Little Drummer Boy!
5. Create a list of 10-12 holiday songs for your ideal, customized holiday mix CD.
The songs I listed above, plus some stuff from South Park Christmas, and this cheesy 70's Christmas album that we play every year for as long as I can remember, when our record player started going wonky we had it burned onto CD, YaY!!
December 06, 2002
Weekly Wrap-Up - Winter Wonderland
1. What's the best part about winter overall? Why? The worst? Why?
The best part of winter is freshly fallen snow that adds so much to the feeling of Christmas throughout December. The WORST is dirty, brown slush soup.
2. Do you like snow? Why or why not?
Most (if not all) Canadians say they hate winter and snow, but I think it's part of our national identity, because we also tend to say we like to have four seasons, otherwise things get too boring. So I'll say, yeah, I like snow, just not too TOO much of it.
3. Have you ever traveled to get to (or away) from winter weather? Why? Where did you go?
I wouldn't say that we were 'getting away' from winter weather. It's more like, we're going on vacation and it just happens to be while it's cold in Toronto. We went to Orlando once in March and to Arizona once in November.
4. Do you like winter sports? Why or why not? What kinds do you like/dislike?
Oh I :hearts winter sports! HOCKEY :puck :fight I like to skate, and I like watching winter sports like figure skating on TV too. Which is why I prefer the Winter Olympics as well.
5. Describe your earliest or most favorite winter memory.
Waiting for the bus in -40˚C temperature, age 3, Edmonton. :cold That's my earliest memory. Definitely NOT my favourite!
November 25, 2002
Monday Mission - 11/25/2002
1. Have you ever made a wish that came true?
Not that I can remember.
2. How about any wishes that you are happy never came true?
I don't make wishes.
3. Do you like who you are? Are you the person you hoped you would become?
Words cannot describe how much I hate myself and wish I never existed.
4. I recently found some job applications that I never turned in. Back in 1986 I intended to apply at "County Seat" and "Chess King" but got an offer from Penny's (where I worked all through college). It was a good thing, since only one of the three is still around. Have you ever applied for positions, or had any interviews, where you later are glad you never got the job?
There was once when I went on this 10-hour job shadowing for a door to door salesperson job. I should have told them to fuck off and gone home but for some reason I stuck around for the whole torturous day and told them I didn't want the job after.
5. While on the topic of career opportunities, what was your very first "real" job? What job was the most embarrassing?
I've been teaching piano for almost 10 years now, although a lot of people don't consider it a real job. The most embarrassing was telemarketing for a ballroom dancing school.
6. Speaking of news, have you had your 15 minutes of fame yet? Such as being in the newspaper, on television, linked on a high-profile site or otherwise caught in the spotlight of the media?
Been on TV many times. In fact, I was on TV yesterday. I've been linked to on Aftonbladet and Expressen (on the same day!) in 1998 when my Mats page was still on Geocities! Some of you might also remember my infamous 15 minutes of Speaker's Corner fame but let's not talk about that either :dead
7. In the USA, many of us will celebrate Thanksgiving this week. Do you celebrate Thanksgiving (or something like it)? Do you enjoy getting together will your extended family for these types of celebrations?
I never go to the family holiday powwows. I literally sit at home alone in front of the computer eating ramen. It is FAR more enjoyable.
November 23, 2002
Sexy Saturday - 11/23/2002
When walking around you're house/apartment, do you feel comfortable being nude even if you're alone? Yes or No? If not, why?
I'm comfortable as long as it is warm! :laugh
November 18, 2002
Monday Mission - 11/18/2002
1. When I was a teenager, I used to ride all the "spin-y" rides at the fair and fun parks. I'd never get dizzy or sick, and I could ride them all day. My favorite was the Tilt-A-Whirl. Now I should call it the "Tilt-A-Hurl" because it seems I can't even get on a Merry-Go-Round without feeling queasy. Is there anything you used to be able to do physically that you no longer can? What changed?
I used to be able to do all these fancy dismounts after swinging upside down on the bars. It took me a long time to get up the nerve to try hanging upside down and I don't think I could get up the guts to do it again. More recently, I've lost a lot of flexibility after not having done yoga regularly for about a year. At one point I could touch my forehead to my extended knee.
2. If you could go to lunch with someone famous, anyone living or dead, who would you choose? What questions would you ask them?
I'm thinking the American architectural firm of McKim, Mead and White, I'd ask them to build me a house.
3. On that same thought, there are probably several Bloggers you enjoy reading but have never met in real life. Which one Blogger would you most like to meet for dinner? Why did you pick that person? What would you talk about? What do you have in common? What would you do after dinner?
I'd want to have dinner with bwg, I'd make him eat lo bak goh because I love it and I know that he hates it, and I'm sure you can get marvellous genuine home-cooked lo bak goh in Hong Kong. :mischievious
4. Money (or the lack thereof) is the number one cause of arguments amongst couples. Do you find this to be true? If there really was a "Money Tree" you could go and pick, would this really solve a couple's problems?
I think if a couple was wealthy, they'd have other issues to fight over. Personally I haven't been in a relationship that was serious enough to the point where money and co-habitation were issues, but I tend to get riled up about more abstract topics.
5. Speaking of arguments, have you ever been drawn into any nasty, hateful arguments? The kind where hurtful things were said that ha