Yoork

MOVED!

2010-04-26T13:25:00.001-04:00

I have moved!

Check out my personal blog:

www.katelynlikesthis.blogspot.com

If you love Coronation Street, check out my updates on the WWBS blog:

www.whatwouldblanchesay.wordpress.com

Thanks!

Quote of the Day

2010-04-15T00:00:00.002-04:00

"It's gonna be hard for Barack Obama to be president, 'cause Barack has to overcome a handicap that the other candidate does not have to overcome. That's right. It's gonna be hard for Barack to be president because Barack Obama has...a black wife. And I don't think a black lady can be the First Lady of the United States. Yeah, I said it. I said that shit! I don't believe a black woman could be First Lady, 'cause you know why? Because a black woman cannot play the background of a relationship! Don't get me wrong, a black woman could be President with no problem. First Lady --- too much shuttin' up in that job. Can you imagine telling your black wife that you President? 'Honey, I won, I'm President!' 'No, WE President! And I want my girlfriends in the cabinet! I want Kiki to be Secretary of Defense! She can fight, she can fight.'"

- Chris Rock, Kill the Messenger, 2008

Quote of the Day

2010-03-19T00:00:00.001-04:00

On John McCain being too old to be president,

"When you die at 72, no matter what you die of, it's natural causes. Even if you get hit by a truck, it's natural causes. 'Cause if you was younger, you'd have got out of the way!"

- Chris Rock, Kill the Messenger, 2008

Quote of the Day

2010-01-25T00:00:00.003-05:00

"When did clear heels become the new whore uniform? When did that happen? Was there a big ho convention, and all the hos got together and said: 'We need something new! Something that just says nasty'...And one girl said: 'I got it! Clear heels!' 'Uh, girl, you're disgusting!'"

- Chris Rock, Never Scared, HBO, 2004

One Son

2010-01-17T17:16:00.001-05:00

His life was his. Quiet, uneventful, safe, loving, yet secretly conflicted. Did his mother love his father? Is it his face she sees on every man she meets? Is that why she’s so devastated by them and cannot let go. How does she feel when she’s in their arms? What is she thinking? He doesn’t know because he is on the outside looking in.

He formerly despised not being let in, in his youth. But now, with some of the age he’s collected, he still doesn’t like it, but he knows that by now that’s where he belongs – on the outside.

He doesn’t want that for himself. He wants love and belonging. As long as he does everything right, he’s entitled to it. It’s only fair. He still believes that life is fair for those who follow the rules and work hard. He’s got karma on his side. He is decided, but doesn’t fully realize how indifferent it all really is yet. He’s got statistics on his side too. If you always answer true each time you’re questioned, you should at least wind up with a 50% oucome. 50% is half, and to him, that’s a glass half full.

He knows he has lived, loved and lost, but this burdens him not. For he is resilient with hope and determination for a better future in a better world. He dreams and he lives, all by the same cause. He’s only got one shot, and he’s going to make it.

A Day in the Life: OMG It's 2010!

2010-01-17T16:30:00.000-05:00

Holy canoli! It's 2010. And I have YET to blog a post!

I have excuses, but you don't want my excuses, do you?

I can't believe I've let the new year go on for 17 posts. Longest. Ever.

Moving on, I started school and that has kept me VERY busy. And before you wonder --- I HATE it. I effin' hate it. I don't know what I was thinking. This program would have been fantastic if I were 18 and just out of highschool, and erm, knew NOTHING about graphic design, or well anything in general. BUT, that's not the case. I have forwarded in the curriculum to the last year to find that I am already equipped with the majority of what this course will teach me. Ugh. Ugh. Ugh. The first week was a real slap to the face from my old pal reality. Add a few other cons to the mix: Ontario College Teachers might go on STRIKE, which means I'll have a repeat nightmare of what I went through back in '06. Oh, this courses takes up a considerable amount of my time with all the "down time" in between since when putting the schedule together no one thought of how inconvenient it would be for a student to waste chunks of time in the middle of what could be a working day. We're poor here! Recession anyone? Plus, I have a big feeling that a lot of the kids I met in the class a) weren't going to be in it for much longer, or b) weren't going anywhere with it. Just a hunch.

So besides that, there have been other things keeping yours truly busy as well. First off, I've decided to jump in head first and just label myself a "designer" regardless of a formal education. I have spent several years working in marketing/advertising/design and am very apt to what is what. I also have a huge portfolio of graphic design work I've done for clients in the past, which is more than most graduates would have anyhow. Starting with that, I have also joined with a partner to start up a jewelry business. Yeah, I know how that sounds, but trust me, it'll be good. It's good stuff coming now. Oh, I'm also looking at the job market, which DOES seem to be turning up these days. If I can find something with good potential, or the ability to suit my other ventures I will interview, deffo.

Now that I've got the details of my personal life over with, I can answer your burning question. Yes, I have still been writing and will continue to write. Stay tuned to this blog post for more verbal diarrhea and some, well, more solid pieces.

Till then,
xoxo
Yoork

Quote of the Day

2009-12-31T00:00:00.001-05:00

"Are you doing what you're doing today because you want to do it, or because it's what you were doing yesterday?"

- Dr. Phil

Happy Holidays to All!!!

2009-12-25T00:00:00.005-05:00

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Holiday season!!!

My only request is that everyone enjoy what the holidays are really about: the food.

I hope you drink, eat, hug, and love lots!

xoxo
Yoork

I am Navy Blue (10th DoM - "Fear in Shattered Colour")

2009-12-24T04:19:00.001-05:00

I am Navy Blue
I am dark, strong, classy, neglected, misused, underused and underrated.
My socks always match.
You can't have me on your arm unless you're wearing the right shoes.
I am the jealous overlooked sister of Black.
Why am I so popular?
Because I will always be true.
I am your Navy Blue.

I am Off-White.
I am soft, dependable, concise, wise, subtle, and even wistful.
I am perfect in every situation and easy on the eyes.
The older I get, the more my beauty intensifies.
If you can not appreciate me, I will be glossed over easily.
Why do you choose to leave me?
Because there is a fire within you I cannot ignite.
I am your Off-White.

I am Magenta.
I am young, fresh, expected, bright, sweet, flashy and obvious.
I light up the room with my appeal.
A little bit of me, goes a long way.
I am bold and overpowering which is more than you expected of perhaps wanted.
Why do I excite you?
Because you love drama.
I am your Magenta.

I am Aubergine.
I am dark, mysterious, unexpected, rare, stunning, confident and never ever fully understood.
You don't know where I come from, or if I even occur naturally.
I am the secret ingredient in all the very best blends.
I can be dangerous and am only to be indulged in small doses.
Why do I intrigue you?
Because I am nothing like anything you've ever seen.
I am your Aubergine.

I am Baby Pink.
I am nice, soft, joyous, ordinary, pretty, safe and refreshingly simple.
You feel happy and peaceful in my embrace.
I am everything you wanted me to be, and everything you expected I'd be.
I am so sweet I will make your teeth hurt.
Why do you love me?
Because you are a cold day, and I am a warm drink.
I am your Baby Pink.

I am me.
I am all of the above.
I am some of the above.
I am none of the above.
Why do you fear me?
Because I am shattered in colour.
I am yours.

_______
Written by Yoork for The Tenth Daughter of Memory

A Day in the Life: I Can't Bake

2009-12-22T12:00:00.019-05:00

I officially can't freakin' bake anymore! I used to be a fantastic baker! What on earth has happened to me? Maybe it's my new stove, not sure. I'm one of those bakers that doesn't even need to follow the recipe anymore because it's in my blood and engraved in my brain these things. Well, clearly, I need to pull out the recipe book, because something's rotten in my kitchen and it's not just my attitude.

I have Scottish lineage. As a result, I have been making shortbread (the real bread kind, not children's cookies) since I was a babe in arms. Well, maybe not THAT far back, but pretty close. It's a pretty simple recipe. Year after year, I make this, and people love it and want more. I always want to branch out and make something new and sometimes I even do. But, people toss the fancy drop-cookies aside for the comforts and buttery indulgence of this shortbread. Well, people are going to starve this year, because the bread has fallen flat. It is just one awful greasy mess. Maybe I'm off my game, but I have to throw everything out and start all over again methinks.

Maybe it's my chagrin for the holiday season? Maybe I don't CARE to bake, which is why it's turning out so poorly. I don't know. This is the first Christmas that I haven't decorated. The holidays can be a sad time for me as it seems like every year that goes by I lose more people in from my life, and never gain any new ones. I think it's time for a new tradition - and a new dessert. What do you think?

Also, I couldn't stand to bake yesterday because for some reason, I could NOT abide by the smell of the cookies after a while. I was sat on my couch just shivering because I had the windows open the entire time to release the scent. There's far too much food and overindulging around the holidays. I can't even stand the smell of food anymore and Christmas isn't even here yet! I am also getting a mini-gut which means that I should probably stop indulging in the drink as well. Ugh, it's the most wonderful time of the year.

Truths: Mon Dec 21, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-12-22T04:25:00.001-05:00

Molly finds out about Sally and Kev's trip to Paris and isn't happy about it. Sophie gets baptised and dumps Ben. Tina finds out that Jason's not divorced and meets Nick Tilsley out on the town. Zoe's not happy with David. Deirdre and Peter compromise for Christmas. Steve replaces Ashley in the Christmas panto as Prince Charming.

Get the full review here.

Brittany Murphy - Dead at 32 :(

2009-12-21T22:05:00.002-05:00

So I heard the news today that young movie star, Brittany Murphy, died of cardiac arrest yesterday. It's so shocking when someone so young dies. Especially from something like this. I'm sure there will be more details to follow. For those who don't know who she was, here you are. She was in quite a few films, but wasn't the most memorable actress, although I always thought she was good. I personally will always remember her as the quirky chubby friendless girl in Clueless.

When I was looking for the news story, I came across this slideshow of "Sudden Endings: Stars Who Died Too Soon." It's shocking to realize how young these people were.

A Day in the Life: Fa La La La La

2009-12-19T22:51:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm kinda crusty about Christmas, but kinda happy too.

I'm going to divide the reasons why I'm similarly divided on my feelings towards this holiday season:

CRUSTY:

- Stupid, pushy idiotic shoppers ruining my shopping experience at the mall, or heck, even the grocery store. (I need Condensed milk, why is there only powdered milk???)
- Stupid, pushy idiotic drivers on the road trying furiously to get to whatever Xmas party, shopping establishment, strip club, I dunno, wherever it is folk rush around to get to around the holidays. I effin' hate it.
- The parking lot at my building, always full! Hrmm, I'd like to go out and get milk. Can I? No, because some arsehole decided to completely wedge me into my spot. I mean, I COULD get out of my spot, but that means it won't be there when I return. Another car will simply absorb my space. Which means I have to park on the street, but only for three hours before my tires get chalked and I have to move my car about 2 feet up etc etc. Fuck fuck fuck. Sometimes I hate living in Urbania.

LUST:

- Hrmm, spending time with my lovely friends.
- Eating people's lovely foods and desserts that they've taken hours to prepare just for me. Well, it feels that way anyway. The secret ingredient is love, or sweat, or tears, either way - it's all love.
- Finished my courses for this term, so having FUCK ALL to do, and loving it. Do you know how good it feels to NOT have to leave the house if you don't want to?
- Mmm, new lusty relationship that is keeping me very holly this season, I must say. Mistletoe included ;)

There's probably more, but those are the CRUST/LUST reasons that describe how I'm feeling about these upcoming holidays.

So, I hope that all you have more LUST than CRUST in your holidays. And worse comes to worse, alcohol is basically a de-CRUSTifier. Instructions: Take a drink, and watch the crusts come of sip by sip. It's bloody genius!!!

Happy Anniversary!

2009-12-14T00:00:00.001-05:00

Today is the anniversary of mine and my dog Frodo's. I adopted him on this day back in 2003. Frodo is 6 years old now, and has been the greatest friend a dog (or even some people) could ever be.

Quote of the Day

2009-12-12T00:00:00.001-05:00

"There seems to be some perverse human characteristic that likes to make easy things difficult."

- Warren Buffet

Father Christmas: Mon Dec 7, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-12-08T05:33:00.001-05:00

The war of the granddad's is official on and Ken loses his job as Father Christmas. Sophie gets ready for her baptism. Molvin continues ad nauseum. Claire and Becky plan to do a Christmas panto in the Rovers for the first time in ages. Gary decides to join the military.

Get the full review here.

A Day in the Life: Ahhh

2009-12-05T23:52:00.002-05:00

Life has been great lately. Which is probably why I haven't posted very much lately. Everything's been really great lately, probably due to my meeting a wonderful new person! Yes, the dating front has been on the up! Won't gore anyone with the details there, but it's pretty fantastic.

Otherwise, I have some exams next week for the courses I've been taking. Stressing out mildly over those. Just mildly though. I'm just looking forward to my course in January to let the stress of the current course bother me right now. That's not to say I've thrown in the towel or nowt, just that I'm not stressed out.

I haven't quite gotten into the Christmas spirit, nor do I plan to, besides you know, on Christmas day. I have pretty much completed my Christmas shopping with the exception of a few final gifts. It's always the way, isn't it?

So, not much else going on right now. Not too much gossip or anything even.

Till next time,

xoxo
Yoork

Quote of the Day

2009-12-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

"A man is only as faithful as his options."

- Chris Rock

Quote of the Day

2009-11-28T00:00:00.001-05:00

"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe."

- Albert Einstein

Quote of the Day

2009-11-27T00:00:00.001-05:00

"I really had a lot of dreams as a kid, and I think a great deal of that grew out of the fact that I had a chance to read a lot."

- Bill Gates

Little Ashes

2009-11-26T11:11:00.007-05:00

I'm actually ashamed to say why I watched this movie. But I will, because I don't care what you think. I am a fan of the Twilight Series (shaddup), and when I heard about this movie, I did want to watch it since I'm also a Dali fan, but it's really because Robert Pattinson was in it that made me actually watch it. I was curious to see if he's any bit of a good actor at all. Maybe Twilight was just a stain? I had heard him sing once, and thought it was pretty fantastic, so I gave his "real" acting a chance. Well, it was aiight.

"Little Ashes" is a 2009 Spanish-British drama film written by Philippa Goslett and directed by Paul Morrison. The film stars Robert Pattinson (Twilight), Javier Beltran, Matthew McNulty (Control) and Marina Gatell.

Little Ashes is about the early adult life of Salvador Dali (Pattinson). It chronicles his time at university in Madrid where he met two other notable young talented men; film-maker Luis Brunel (McNulty) and poet Frederico Garcia Lorca (Beltran). The young Dali and Lorca embark on an innocent, yet passionate love affair. Set in Spain in the 1920's/30's, there is a lot of backlash against homosexuality, therefore forcing Lorca and Dali to keep their relationship behind closed doors. Whereas we know how passionately Lorca feels towards Dali, we feel that his efforts are no reciprocated. The film leaves the reader wondering if Dali is truly homosexual (I believe so) or not, whether he really loved Lorca (I believe so) or not, or whether he was just plum crazy (I believe so). Or, all of the above? The film ends somewhat tragically, so be prepared if you don't know the story. Also involved in their love affair, is Luis Brunel, who we believe know about their homosexuality and while it disgusts him, he does not make an issue of it. We also have Magdalena (Gatell), the beautiful independent writer that is madly in love with Lorca. She also knows of his homosexuality, but loves and admires him so much she doesn't care and cannot face it. He tells her, if it were any different, she would be the one.

This film was strangely laid out. I was really hoping for more on the life of Dali, but I realize that we only really have two hours and this film sought to show Dali's life in the earlier formative stages, concentrating heavily on his pseudo-homosexual relationship with Lorca. Okay, let's be real here, it was homosexual. I mean, you don't have have full homosexual intercourse with someone to mean that you are in a homosexual relationship. An intimate relationship, is a relationship. Clearly, there was something. I enjoyed Beltran's (Lorca) acting so much that I completely forgot that this film was supposed to be about Dali.

I suppose Robert Pattinson's acting wasn't SO bad, but it wasn't very good either. I really felt he was overacting the role. I mean, why was he even cast as Dali? I can't figure. But this was an English film with a lot of English actors portraying Spanish personalities, and some very famous ones, and I didn't think it "translated" well. Maybe Pattinson would have stood out more if it weren't for him being completely upstaged by lesser known co-stars Beltran (Lorca) and Gatell (Magdalena). I had such a hard time watching Pattinson over-act Dali's character. He didn't portray enough of a sensitive side for the character, all we saw was a crazy, cold, indecisive person. You didn't want to love and hate him, you only wanted to kinda hate him.

BEST PART: Okay, I have to say that the cuckolding sex scene or voyeuristic threesome, whatever you want to call it, between Dali, Lorca and Magdalena. See it, and you'll know what I mean. It could be because this was the best acting Pattinson did for Dali throughout the entire film. It was the only time that the character of Dali wasn't overacted, in my humble opinion.

WORST PART: When Dali went stark raving made, and we were show images of Pattinson with a shaved head (not a good look for him), a maniacal laugh, and a shit-eating grin. It made you think, "WTF is this?"

RATING:
Acting: 8/10 (I thought everyone was great, but Pattinson kinda brought it down for me)
Storyline: 8/10 (I wished they showed a bit more first-person from Dali)
Dialogue: 7/10 (no further comment)
Wow Factor: 6/10 (did nothing for me)

OVERALL RATING: 7.5/10

Quote of the Day

2009-11-26T00:00:00.001-05:00

"History was written by the winners."

- Tony Gordon, Coronation Street

A Day In The Life: Hump Day

2009-11-25T17:58:00.002-05:00

And by hump day, I mean Wednesday, of course. Get your mind out of the gutter! Well, it's raining again here, but since it's late November in Toronto, one cannot justifiably complain about rain since it's not snow. Thank goodness *knocks on wood*.

I went to see my mother last weekend. For anyone who doesn't already know, my mother suffers from MS and suffered an MS attack last week. She lots the feeling in about half of her face/head. Just happens. No one really knows why. Well, maybe one guy. Vascular surgeon, Dr. Zamboni, in Italy thinks he may have discovered an MS breakthrough. He figures that MS isn't neurological, but a vascular problem. He found in research studies that almost all MS patients had a narrowing in the veins in their neck, and wonders if it could be what causes issues associated with MS. If you're interested, read more here. In any case, my mother has signed herself up for the pre-screening for this treatment (a balloon in the neck?) in Buffalo. Hopefully she gets in there soon enough. Time will tell!

Oh, on the dating front. I have a few dates scheduled this week, to the point where I feel like a "player." Haha. I'm not all that excited about going on them, however. It's not the guys themselves, it's just that I really hate dating, and I'm not really "feeling it" in a way. I just don't have it in me to a certain point I suppose. I still do feel lonely, but maybe I actually prefer it that way. Not sure, oh well. I'm in no rush to find someone to be honest. I really enjoy my own time.

So...if anyone's been anywhere near a mall or shopping centre, you'll know that CHRISTMAS is here. Yay. At this time we can think of all the things we're grateful for. For me...I'm grateful for the fact that I don't work retail anymore and hopefully never will again! I can't freakin' stand Christmas music. I only like it on two days: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Any other time I feel it's just off-limits. So help me god if I ever have to hear a Mariah Carey Christmas looping over and over again. Each year that goes on, I start to enjoy the holidays less and less. Well, that's enough Scrouge ranting for today!

School is driving me nutso. There's a group project for an online course. Stupidest idea ever. Of course, only one person ends up doing the work. And yes, folks, that one is me. Partly because I want to make sure it gets done right, and partly because I'm the only one with professional English writing skills. Yeah, I'm the only one who can write well enough in English to make this a professional report. Sometimes this bilingual country drives me crazy, but what a pretty mosaic, eh? Haha.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-20T00:00:00.003-05:00

"Procrastination is the art of keeping up with yesterday."

- Don Marquis

A Day In The Life: La La La

2009-11-19T15:56:00.002-05:00

So, where did I leave off? Can't even remember. This has to be the fastest November of all time. I usually can't stand November - most depressing month of the year.

The weather's nice. Well, as good as it can be for November. It's relatively mild, not too wet. Decent.

I finally paid for my education tuition yesterday! Yay! It's all set. I'm so excited to start school now. I'm so bloody bored here! Although, I have been writing a lot, so look forward to seeing more posts. I might even do a theme Thursday next week for the first time. We shall see though. I might just plaster my own blog with gibberish.

The dating scene, is looking up. I went out last night, and got completely spoiled. I was treated to a very fancy restaurant, some good conversation, and even roses and chocolates! A girl could get used to that. We'll see how this goes, I do have another date booked. I'm trying not to be skeptical and just enjoy things for what they are.

Anyway, that's all for now!

xoxo Yoork

A Day In The Life: Been a WHILE!

2009-11-16T17:39:00.002-05:00

So...it's been a really long time since I've blogged anything real. I've been on a little bit of a blogging hiatus. Lots of things going on in life, but mainly because I needed to concentrate 100% (well, 90-something percent) on some very neglected studies.

So what to tell. Well, I had a rather busy week since my friend, Eileen went in for some "elective" surgery let's just call it. I offered to have her spend her recovery at my place. So, it was a rather exhaustive week.

Plus, on the dating front...things are sucky also. I started dating someone who seemed promising, but ended up being disappointing. Yes, I know, age-old story. Anyway, that's what I get for going out on a date with someone who's 24 I suppose! Pffft. I'm not too upset by it, just more concerned about any time wasted I suppose. So, it's back to the drawing board. I have another date setup this Wednesday with someone who also seems quite promising. Will this date suffer the same fate as the last? Let's hope not, but I won't be surprised at least. Disappointment's a funny thing. Even though you can be used to it, expect it, it still sucks just the same.

Family side of things? It's all good. Not much going on. Feeling guilty about not seeing my Grandmother in a while, however. Maybe...I...should...call? I still haven't had her or my aunt over to my new place, and it's been months.

Another thought on my mind lately: Christmas. It's started. Remembrance Day is over, and Christmas has begun. A friend of mine wanted to go to the Santa Clause parade on Sunday, but I couldn't give a fig. I slept all day instead. A much better way to welcome Christmas in my opinion. That, and eating an entire advent calendar on the first day. Anyway, I don't like Christmas. I don't really have any "hate" for it, or particular reason why I don't like it. I guess it's just waning on me. Every year that it comes by I have more distaste for it. Maybe this is why people have children, so they can relive life when it gets old and boring? I've already gotten about 3 Christmas Party invites. Not that excited about it. Just glad that I'm not going to the trouble to do one this year. It always seems like no one appreciates it anyway. No one eats desserts anymore either. Just not worth it! Also, we have the regular rigamoroll or "figuring out where to spend the holidays." Since I'm single this year, for the first in years, it will be a little more simple - less people to see. But, since I come from a divided family, there's still issues. No one wants to go out. Everyone wants to have their own holiday, and just have people come to THEM. Well, because I'm the singleton, I always have to be the one to go to everyone else. Fuck it. This year, one Christmas only. The one day, that's it. No more.

Well, after that little rant, not sure what else to say. I'm going to pay for my tuition tomorrow. Really can't wait to start my new course. I wish January was already here. But, you know, without the snow and cold that comes in it's handbag.

xoxo Yoork

Quote of the Day

2009-11-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

"I'm an idealist. I don't know where I'm going, but I'm on my way."

- Carl Sandburg

Sitting Duck: Fri Nov 13, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-11-14T00:00:00.005-05:00

Hayley and Roy leave town after being scared for their lives, Tony tries to find out where the Croppers are headed, Kev realizes that leaving Sally is more trouble than it's worth, John gets a job at the cafe, Eileen finds out about Jesse and Julie, Stevey-boy is back and finds out about Lloyd and Theresa.

Get it here.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

"I have a love interest in every one of my films - a gun."

- Arnold Schwarzenegger

Quote of the Day

2009-11-11T00:00:00.001-05:00

"Someone's sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago."

- Warren Buffet

Quote of the Day

2009-11-10T00:00:00.001-05:00

"I found there was only one way to look thin - hang out with fat people."

- Rodney Dangerfield.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-05T00:00:00.001-05:00

"Between two evils, I always pick the one I never tried before."

- Mae West

The Odd Couple: Mon Nov 2, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-11-04T01:55:00.004-05:00

Written by Lucy Gannon, directed by Tim Dowd.

Tony bribes Roy with a charity donation to keep quiet, Jake stays the night only to leave Weatherfield the next day (but he'll be back - who cares), Jesse and Julie are still performing behind Eileen's back, Leanne and Peter meet George who is Simon's other granddad, and Gail and Joe finish off the boat!

Get the rest here.

Trick or Treat: Fri Oct 30, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-11-01T01:42:00.003-04:00

Tony confesses to Roy about killing Liam on his assumed death bed, Molly and Kev try to fool Pam, Jake finally takes Michelle on a date, and Leanne and Simon have a Halloween accident.

Check it out here.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-01T00:00:00.001-04:00

"The person who writes for fools is always sure of a large audience."

- Arthur Schopenhauer

Quote of the Day

2009-10-31T00:00:00.000-04:00

"Time is a great teacher, but unfortunately it kills all it's pupils."

- Louis Hector Berlioz

Man With Ladder: Thu Oct 29, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-30T04:37:00.002-04:00

Rosie's still whinging, Sally takes Rosie's old PA job, Kev tells Molly the "need to talk," Hayley and Roy are back from Romania, Michelle calls the police on Jake, Tony collapses outside the Kabin in pain, and Ashley finally gets the snip.

Get the rest here, hot off the press.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-30T00:00:00.001-04:00

"Be thankful we're not getting all the government we're paying for."

- Will Rogers

Capitalism: A Love Story

2009-10-29T12:00:00.003-04:00

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. I pondered doing a review on this movie, or any Michael Moore film for that matter, and then I caved. I'm doing it. I didn't want to do a review of this movie because as much as I actually enjoy his films I just find them to be these complete clusterfucks of what's fact and what's fiction and then question where on earth fact and fiction ever meet. So just to set the record straight, I'm not going to give my opinion on Michael Moore's point of view, OR the subject of the movie at hand, OR "who's right - and who's wrong." No, I'm only going to base this movie review on exactly that - the movie. The following that you are about to read was intended for pure entertainment purposes.

"Capitalism: A Love Story" is a 2009 American documentary film directed by and starring Michael Moore. The film centers on the financial crisis of 2007-2009 and the recovery stimulus, while putting forward an indictment of the current economic order in the United States and capitalism in general.

Michael Moore seriously has some of the worst childhood issues ever. Do any of his documentaries (obsessions) ever stream away from his "hometown of Flint, Michigan?" He acts as if this place was a utopian paradise where the Great American Working-Class Male thrived, a place where the mighty have fallen. A town that was once dominated by blue collars is now dominated by orange collars. A town that was once the pinnacle of American Capitalism is now the by-product of it, akin to hot-dog meat. A town that was once a great place to live, now just a place to grieve. You get the picture. He is clearly someone who enjoyed his childhood over his disappointing adulthood (like most baby-boomers), and can't understand where it all went wrong. Somewhere, in his life, about 25 years and 125 pounds ago, something went wrong and he couldn't figure out why. Until now. Now Michael Moore has decided that he's got all the answers and would like to share them with the American, or general, viewing public. Only, he doesn't have any real answers, he only highlights, and in some cases exaggerates, the problems. As one hippie once said to another, "if you're not a part of the solution, you're a part of the problem." And Michael, awareness isn't a problem solved, only a problem identified. And in this case, sensationalized.

Now that I've got that off my plate, I also want to say that this was a most entertaining film to watch. Michael Moore always manages to inject his "every day normal American guy" persona into his films, which lends great comic relief after all the head-shaking. From the parts where he had to have a few different professionals try to explain to him what a "derivative" was with glazed-over expression to putting crime-scene tape down Wall Street, he did afford a more than a few chuckles from the audience. I had to admit, I was laughing pretty much all the way through. Especially when he attempted his billionth time at trying to get into GM headquarters to speak to the chairman, since Roger & Me. The film left me wondering if a) He'd ever get into GM Headquarters, 2) What about the USA he was going to exploit next, and c) If he is ever going to wear out that pair of easy-fit wranglers he's been wearing in every documentary he's done since the 80's.

BEST PART:

When Michael Moore recalls his childhood in the comfortable, copious envelope of post-war capitalism and we get to see childhood photos of his, and some other footage from back in the 1960's.

WORST PART:

When he interviews people who's loved ones had passed away, and after they had passed away their employers had cashed in on a life insurance policy that they had taken out on them. He thought this was wrong, and that the family should have gotten the money. I completely disagreed with this. The family should have life insurance policies on each other, and the departed should have read the fine print before they signed off on employment documents. I have had a life insurance policy since I was 22. Companies take out many different insurance policies on employees, it's very common practice. I can't abide by a people that don't do anything to protect themselves, then when shit goes sour, they try to find someone to blame. That someone they blame is usually someone smarter, and richer than them, and they therefore feel that that person (company) owes them something. Well, no. Welcome to capitalism folks, they don't call it an iron hand for nothing. As Chris Rock would say, "You can't complain that the fire that cooks your food also burns your hands."

RATING:

Acting: N/A
Storyline: 7/10
Dialogue: 9/10 (for sheer hilarity)
Wow Factor: 8/10

OVERALL RATING: 8/10

A Day in the Life: Rain, rain, go away.

2009-10-29T02:41:00.006-04:00

Today was another rainy day in Pizzaville. I've been suffering from acute insomnia, again, and it sucks. I'm really so unproductive when I do suffer from insomnia because for the hours that I'm awake and I don't want to be (wee hours of the morning), I'm also too tired to do anything productive. Therefore, I'm just wasting time. And I can't afford to do that. So as a result, I'm working harder, sleeping less. What a great combo, eh? Nothing better.

So I've decided that I must try to "normalize" my schedule. This basically consists of me waking up early, when I should wake up, regardless of how much sleep I have, then falling asleep at a decent hour at night since I should be too tired not to. Hence, normalizing, no? This isn't fool-proof, but it's worked a few times in a past and any thing's worth a shot. Especially today, since I had to wake up early anyway to visit my friend Melinda's father in the hospital.

Melinda's father is suffering from some sort of issue where the lobes in his lungs become very thin in places and randomly tear. Yes, this is as bad as it sounds. He's already had a couple of incidents since this summer of this happening where he's had to rush to the hospital to get repaired. Because of the situation, he can't fly on a plane since the pressure would absolutely cause a tear, causing him to have to take the train to his son Cole's wedding last August in Edmonton. As you can imagine, her father probably feels like a ticking time-bomb.

Now, this fall he's had a laproscopic operation performed to essentially repair the lobe that is continuously tearing and to remove some scar tissue from the site. Well, when they went in, they realized that this lung-tearing is going to be a chronic condition and was probably something he was born with. So, for the rest of his life he'll have to worry about this.

This really sucks. Melinda is one of my best friends, and we grew up together very close, so I know her family, and her father, very well. I also know how important he is to her in her life. So, I went today armed with a pot of mums and my best face-forward, since I detest hospitals, to see them. Well, Melinda's a nurse so she was basically fixing all that the "other nurses" had done wrong. She's a nurse in a children's hospital, and the level of adult care is significantly less "urgent" let's just say. I know what this is like, because I've been through this with my father in the past, and I know all about incompetent (and some competent) health care workers. You really have to be the squeaky wheel I find. Anyway, I saw them, her father seemed in good spirits, so we went to lunch then I went home.

I don't know if it was the weather, or what not, BUT I the second I got home I was OVERWHELMED with lethargy! I was so, so tired, I could barely stand up. So, I was like "i'll have a 30 min lie-down and that's it." Because, if I nap, I'll fuck up my sleep schedule again. Of course, I napped for about 5 hours!!!! Which is why, dear readers, I'm publishing this at the ungodly hour of 3am.

Oh, more goss. So, I randomly get on a chat with my ex the other day and I, stupidly, ask him if he's dating anyone. I don't know WHY I did this. The second I typed it, I regretted it, but I was also curious, so I let it slide thinking he probably wouldn't answer anyway. Well, he did. He asked me if I'd be talking to Elaine. Elaine is another best friend of mine, but has nothing to do with him. At which I'm thinking "What? What on earth does she have to do with anything?" I find out that he had been at a concert some Thursday night with a date, and that he saw her there, and he's sure that she saw him. Well, I immediately texted her about it, and she first denied it, then admitted it after I'd told her that I'd spoken to him directly about it. I can't figure why she didn't tell me? Do you think she really forgot? Or do you think maybe she was just protecting me from knowing since he was there with someone else, and maybe she thought it'd hurt me to know? I don't know. All I know is two things now: 1) I don't like people keeping things from me, even if it's to save my feelings, and 2) I shouldn't ask so many goddamn questions!

Wrong Side of 40: Wed Oct 28, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-29T02:36:00.004-04:00

Written by Daran Little, directed by Tony Prescott.

Pam lays into Molly and Kev about their affair and wants it ended, Kevin acts like a jerk towards Molly, Ben moves in with Michelle and Ryan, Michelle shows some skin and gets a snog from a new man, Norris decides to put an ad out for a new shop assistant, Rita calls from holiday, Kirk and Tony get close, and Maria prepares for Cypress.

You know you want it - get the full review here.

DELIGHT: Dr. Phil.

2009-10-28T02:45:00.007-04:00

Don't you just freakin' love Dr. Phil? Okay, maybe you don't love him. It's so unlike me to like someone like Dr. Phil. But I just do. You know, I should boil it down: I like Dr. Phil's teachings. I can't say I like him personally, I don't know the man. I even find him a trifle annoying at times. He's like that embarrassing uncle that you kinda can't stand, but he's great and you know you love him anyway? Maybe? Haha. Okay, I'm done trying to rationalize why I like Dr. Phil. I just freakin' do. I like what I like. There is no method to my madness.

I was actually inspired to file this DELIGHT on Dr. Phil after reading a piece written by a blogging peer, which you can find here. Her piece probably had NOTHING to do with Dr. Phil, but the part about "Authentic Self" is what got me thinking about him. Dr. Phil has many wildly popular self-help books. Among one of them is a book called "Self Matters." This book is about finding your "authentic self" and therefore guiding your way to eternal happiness. Okay, so I paraphrased that bit, but that's what I think the book is about at least. Well, I read this book in jest - it was a gift from my mother, who always think my life needs helping, and is also a Dr. Phil fan. She probably should have bought TWO copies, but we'll not go there. I picked up the book one day after it sitting on my shelf for a very, very long time and started to read. I have insomnia, in case you don't know. The usual cure for that is reading old text books, but I'd gotten rid of those so I thought Dr. Phil's book would be the next best thing. I couldn't have been more wrong. The book doesn't follow the normal instructional style of self-help books, it's a pedagogical - and - autobiographical read. And if you know me, you'll know about my little fetish for autobiographies.

Moving on, I couldn't put this book down. In the end, I may not have found my authentic self. The book makes you feel motivated when reading, but when you put it down, the motivation falls away like sand through the hour glass. But, it was a very delightful read, and Dr. Phil is a much more interesting person than I thought. Although, aren't most people that way when you get to know them? First, you like them. Then you get to know them more, and you can't fucking stand them. Then you get to REALLY know them, and they're fantastic. It's just the way it goes.

"Self Matters" is not my only positive Dr. Phil experience. I've always enjoyed his little kernels of wisdom, doused in Southern "charm", through the years, such as - "No dog ever peed on a moving car", "You're only lonely if you're not there for you", "Your feelings? To hell with your feelings!", "Don't make me put your head in my blender", or my personal favorite, "This ain't my first rodeo, son!" I recall a personal time, after I'd suffered a great loss, where I happened to be occupying a couch for a very long period of time. And, it's almost a rule that when one does occupy a couch for a significant period of time, they must watch a Dr. Phil episode, or two. Well, I happened to catch an episode that was also based on loss. I swear to god, it's as if he was speaking to me himself. Not god, Dr. Phil. And I listened, and I swear, I immediately felt better. I will never forget it!

So, DELIGHT in Dr. Phil! Yay!

Mister Lonely

2009-10-27T12:00:00.005-04:00

Alright, I watched this movie late at night and I was flipping through some channels, saw it, and read the synopsis. This is what it read: "Impersonators go to live in a commune in Scotland." I thought "whaaat? I have to see this now." Unlike other movies, I did not know what to expect from this one at all.

"Mister Lonely" is a 2007 American drama film directed by Harmony Korine, and co-written with his brother Avi Korine. The film stars Diego Luna and Samantha Morton.

"Mister Lonely" is about a young man (Luna) (who's supposedly American, but he clearly had a Spanish accent and didn't seem very American to me) who is living in Paris and making that living as a Michael Jackson impersonator. He does his impersonations on the street, tourist locations, and elderly homes. He meets a Marilyn Monroe Impersonator (Morton) (also American) who invites him to live with her and her husband, among other impersonators, in a commune in the Scottish Highlands. They're basically like a bunch of hippies living on a commune completely out of touch with the real world. But unlike hippies, they're in costume. The whole movie is about a bunch of dreamers that don't fit into the real world, so have created their own. Although, nothing is ever as real as it seems. Also, through different parts of the film, we are cut in and out of scenes about a priest and some nuns who are doing missionary work in Africa. These scenes are are presumably metaphoric. At least that's what I gathered, otherwise I'm a loss.

This film was so bizarre. I know that a lot of independent films can be "out there," but this one really took the cake. Trust me, I'm willing to "go there" with the writer, but I'm pretty sure I got lost along the way. Maybe I was supposed to? I would say this film is slightly entertaining. It wasn't exactly a show-stopper, and I admit, I had trouble keeping interest. At times, having to watch these "impersonators" so their thing made me feel like I was at someone's house and was forced to watch their children "perform" some kind of song and dance out of courtesy whilst banging my head from the inside the entire time just wishing I hadn't declined that glass of wine.

The acting, was good, however. I didn't particularly enjoy Diego Luna's performance. Sure, he gets good reviews, but I just don't like him, because I just don't believe him. I didn't believe him as Michael, I didn't believe him as an American (the actor is Mexican), and mostly I just never find myself caring about the characters he plays. I do however, LOVE Samantha Morton, (I think she should have played Young Victoria, and not Emily Blunt) and seeing her name in the synopsis credits is what propelled me to decide to watch this movie. She did a fantastic job playing the tortured soul of Marilyn Monroe (through and through). You believe her story. Also, a nice little highlight was her real-life daughter, Esme Creed-Miles, playing her on-screen daughter, "Shirley Temple." Creed-Miles is a gifted little actress and absolutely adorable!

I just want to add as a final note that I thought it strange that they chose a Mexican actor and an English actress to play the parts of Americans. Why didn't they just find American actors? Morton did a good job at it, but not Luna.

BEST PART: When "Michael Jackson" (Luna) performs for an old-folks home in Paris. He cannot speak French, and not that it really mattered since his audience was completely placid-faced the entire time. Watching him try to entertain them was like watching someone squeeze blood from a stone.

WORST PART: When the Impersonators opened their own barn-theatre and put on the lamest, most dreary show to the small audience (even including me) possible. Ugh.
RATING:
Acting: 8/10 (good, not great)
Storyline: 5/10 (where was it going?)
Dialogue: 6/10 (typical)
Wow Factor: 5/10

OVERALL RATING: 6/10

Silence is Golden: Mon Oct 26, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-27T01:43:00.000-04:00

Michelle lets Ben stay with her and Ryan in the flat, Dev refuses Bill's business, Barry and Helen finally leave, Joan deafens Norris with her silence, Molly and Kev get caught in the act by Pam, Pam confronts Molly about her affair and Minnie flirts with Tyrone.

Get the rest here.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-27T00:00:00.001-04:00

When Al Bundy gets his ideal toilet, the Flushmaster 3000:

Peg: "Al, what does that toilet have that I don't?"

Al: "A job."

A Perfect Getaway

2009-10-26T03:00:00.003-04:00

I watched this movie based on a recommendation that it was "good." Well, it was good, but that's about it. Well, I actually think it was more "okay." I usually like thrillers like this and after I read the teaser for this film I thought it'd be something along the lines of "The Beach," just without Leonardo.

"A Perfect Getaway" is a 2009 thriller written and directed by David Twohy, starring Chris Hemsworth (Star Trek), Milla Jovovich (Resident Evil), Kiele Sanchez (LOST), Timothy Olyphant (Damages) , Steve Zahn (Strange Wilderness) and Marley Shelton (Planet Terror/Death Proof).

A Perfect Getaway is about a couple who goes to Hawaii on their honeymoon and opts for the "choose your own adventure" holiday as opposed to the more standard "lay by the pool and get drunk and burnt" holiday. Well, after a helicopter tour, they decide to take a hike to this elusive "perfect" beach. Isn't there always an elusive "perfect" beach in these stories? Anyway, this couple, Cliff (Zahn) and Cydney (Jovovich), meet two other strange and suspicious couples. Suspicious only because there was just a killing of a honeymooning couple on another island just the other day. Each couple suspects each other, and our honeymooners just want to get this hike over with. Then, of course, trouble starts. Won't give it away, but for any seasoned thriller-watchers, it should become increasingly evident as to who's-who with all the elephant-sized hints that the writers have dropped along the way.

This film was kinda funny and strange on many different levels. I would say that it was entertaining. I didn't get up to go to the bathroom in the middle of it, so that's always a plus. There were some things that I found humorous along the way. When I first tuned in, I didn't realize that our honeymooners (Americans) were in Hawaii. I thought that maybe they were in Thailand or somewhere a little more foreign and exotic. Only Americans can be "American Tourists" in their own country, I tell ya. Cliff (Zahn) was even wearing transition lenses!

The acting? I'm not going to go into that too much, since it was a thriller, but no one made me cringe, so I suppose that was a good thing. I would say that the standout performances for me in this was first, Timothy Olyphant. He had the best character, so he may have had an advantage. I don't often think Timothy Olyphant is ever bad though. Another, I'd have to say was that of Chris Hemsworth (he's going to be Thor, folks!). He was in the film for SO little and deserved so much more screen-time. But, whattayagonnado?
BEST PART: The faces of confusion and disgust that Cliff (Zahn) was making throughout the entire film.
WORST PART: When Cliff (Zahn) pulls out a wad of cash in the "tiki shop." When is it EVER a good idea to pull out a wad of cash ANYWHERE? Nevermind when traveling, and especially in the US.

RATING:
Acting: 7/10 (meh)
Storyline: 6/10 (predictable)
Dialogue: 8/10 (mostly Olyphant's lines)
Wow Factor: 6/10

OVERALL RATING: 6.5/10

A Day in the Life: Yawwwwn

2009-10-25T17:13:00.002-04:00

So, it's been a while since I've posted. Mainly for two reasons: my life's boring lately, and I've been somewhat down.

I don't know if one is causing the other, or vice versa, but it is what it is. Why boring? Mostly due to the fact that I've been a complete recluse as of late since I've got an overwhelming amount of studying and work to do for my studies. Did I mention I hate school? Ah, a means to an end.

I haven't been COMPLETELY reclusive. I visited my grandmother on Thursday, a friend and I went out for a dinner/movie/bar night last night (Saturday), and today I'm meeting my mother for dinner, again. I sound busy, but really it's just playing the same old track over and over again sometimes. I can't wait until these courses are over. I'm beginning to realize that regardless of the convenience, online classes just aren't for me. I hope to never do one again, but I don't want to speak too soon.

I got the program information package for my new program this Winter 2010 (Can you believe? 2010 already?) and I noticed that Semester #1 would be in the Winter (Jan-Apr), and Semester #2 would be in the Summer (May - Aug), which I wasn't expecting. I was fully expecting to get the summer off and to resume my semesters in the regular Fall-Winter timeline. But this works out great, because it means I only have one "summer" (Fall, Sept - Dec) off, then I go back for two semesters and that's it! I can finally work and be done with school, haha. I was afraid I'd have two summers, which wouldn't work well because then I'd have to find two temporary jobs. Originally, I'd planned to spend my summer doing some temp work, and taking a holiday to Europe to visit my relatives, some friends, and try to relax? Well, it seems I'll have to post-pone my holiday break to next Fall. Now I wonder when my reading week will be, since my good friend and I were planning to take a holiday down south for the week. I hope it's February, because going down south in June doesn't make much sense. We shall see.

So, in case you were wondering, as far as my dating life goes, it's pretty much a big zero at this point in time. I still have someone that's very much on my mind and I feel like I can't do much about it, so for the time being, I'm satisfied being single. Besides, I remember dating, and it wasn't that pretty. I also don't have the time for it either to be honest. Men take up a lot of time! Haha.

In my "downtime", I'll veg out (literally, I'm like a vegetable) watching movies. I have a donkey-cart-load full of obscure and popular movies that I've watched over the past while that I promise when I get a chance, to do reviews on!

Other than that, the weather's been complete rubbish until today. It's a beautiful, gorgeous day, so I took advantage and got straight out of bed and headed straight outside to take my dog on an endless walk around the neighborhood. He just loves the fall season and nice days. Since he's lost weight, he just wants to run all the time. He wanted to run, so I thought "what the hell" and ran around the block with him, trying to keep up!

'Till next time,

xoxo
Yoork

Borrowed Time: Fri Oct 23, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-24T04:30:00.003-04:00

Written by Chris Fewtrell (7:30) and Simon Crowther (8:30), directed by Duncan Foster.

Baby Liam finally gets christened, Tony finds a way to get rid of Carla with Jimmy's help, Joe starts work on his boat, Norris interviews for a new shop assistant, and Molly and Kev try to figure out a way to meet now that the home gym takes away their excuse to get together.

Get the full review here.

Going Nowhere: Thu Oct 22, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-22T23:56:00.002-04:00

Tony manipulates Carla again, Rosie becomes more and more unbearable, Gail jumps aboard Joe's boat project with him, Norris interviews a new shop assistant, and Molly receives a surprise birthday gift from Tyrone.

Read the full review here.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-22T00:00:00.001-04:00

"My theory on Scottish cuisine is based on a dare."

- Mike Myers

A Day in the Life: I Got In!!!

2009-10-21T14:48:00.003-04:00

Let me start with the good news: I got accepted to the design program!!!

YAY!

Okay, that's exciting and all. I'd been on edge the last few weeks as to whether or not I would be accepted. And now, I'm considering whether or not I even want to do the program anymore. Ugh. So, in the end I've decided to "accept." If I really hate the program, or want to go back to work after all, then quitting is always an option. It could be great, or it could be terrible, but you never know until you try, right?

A lot of the people in my life are wondering why I'd try to hard to get into a program, then get accepted, only to consider turning it down. I don't know what to say to them, I simply am incapable of making decisions lately. I'm in a place right now where I'm completely unsatisfied with the decisions I have made, and I don't know what decisions are going to make me happy in the future. A lot of self-doubt I suppose. Part of me thinks that I should get my life together, take this program and stay on the straight and narrow. But, the other half of me feels as though I should just can everything and move far, far away and reinvent my life! Haha, I'm sure everyone feels like that at some points in their life. The only thing that's really holding me down from doing that is my excuses. In the end, that's all that ever holds you back really.

Not much else is new. I somehow fell behind in my current studies because of my recent lack of concentration and focus. I've been watching a bunch of terrible movies instead. Now I'm working my little butt off to get caught up. Now that I have to get caught up, that means more time spent indoors studying, and less time spending socially.

It's another rainy day here in Toronto, however it has warmed up a bit. Not that you can enjoy it, but regardless, it's not snowing yet! *knock on wood*

Quote of the Day

2009-10-21T00:00:00.003-04:00

"Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past."

- George Orwell (party slogan from the Ministry of Truth, 1984)

Quote of the Day

2009-10-21T00:00:00.001-04:00

"If you need a shoulder to cry on, pull off to the side of the road."

- Maxine

Ripped Off: Mon Oct 19, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-20T14:09:00.004-04:00

Helen and Maria mend fences, Carla returns and threatens Tony, Joe brings home a boat to Gail, Luke skips town with Rosie's dosh, Rosie panics once she's realized she's been "ripped off", and it's Molly's birthday.

Check out the full review here.

A Day in the Life: Mon October 19, 2009

2009-10-19T16:13:00.005-04:00

After a rather uneventful weekend, I was looking forward to Monday for once. Why, you ask? Well, I received an invite to attend a charity "Women in Business Awards" luncheon. I thought that this would be a great networking opportunity and overall entertaining afternoon. Was I wrong to think that? No. Is that how it went? No.

As far as networking was concerned, the audience was full of women mostly from the retail sector. Seeing as that hasn't been my primary industry since I worked at a Fairweather store about ten years ago, it just didn't work for me. This is nothing against folks in retail, it's just not what I had expected. The event was sponsored (put on) by Sears, Meridian Credit Union, Coty, and The Standard - the local paper. Oh, I didn't mention, this was a Niagara Region Business Area event. Not in Toronto, where I live, so it was useless in that sense as well. But you never know!

The event also had a terrible keynote speaker. Won't even mention her name, because it'd just be such bad press. She was a Naturopathic Doctor that basically went on about how her mother's death from cancer ruined her life, and that her mother basically caused her own death with her mental health problems. Oh, did I mention that the charity this event was supporting was Breast Cancer?! And that one of the "Woman of the Year nominees" was currently battling breast-cancer. Can we say tactless at best, rude and ignorant at worst?

There was also an almost comedic (but not intended to be) "fashion show" that showcased Sears employees modeling the very best women's fashions that Sears had to offer. Which begged the question, "When were the late 90's back in style?"

Oh, then there was the lunch table-mates of catty perfume-counter ladies whom thought that being a "beauty advisor" (read: makeup lady) employed by Sears was synonymous with being "self-employed." Basically, they were a bunch of self-important busybodies. Direct quote from one of my table-mates: "Carol runs a VERY successful makeup counter." But, they were kind of a laugh, I have to admit. Good character material, that's for sure. Did anyone ever watch "Are You Being Served?" Very Mrs. Slocombe.

Then to top it all off, I got a goody bag full of useless crap including pamphlets to buy more stuff I don't need, a mouse pad (who uses those anymore?), a lunch bag, a tape dispenser shaped like a high-heel shoe (I needed tape!) and some perfume samples. Perfume samples featuring the "Sarah Jessica Parker Collection." What do you think that smells like? If you were thinking "cigarettes and panty sweat" then you were right.

After it was all said and done, they did raise a lot of money for Breast Cancer research, and even though it was a bit of a waste of time, you could say "well, it was for charity." Oh, another thing. Remember when I was considering whether or not I should go back to school? Well, this event definitely helped me in making that decision!!!

Speaking of which, I still have NOT heard back as to whether not I have been accepted to the design program this Winter. Argghhh!!!!

Quote of the Day

2009-10-18T00:00:00.001-04:00

"Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."

- Abraham Lincoln

A Day in the Life: October 17, 2009

2009-10-17T13:31:00.005-04:00

So what's new since I last posted about my life yesterday?

Oh, a couple things. So I spoke to an old friend from college today, and she had two bits of good news. For one, it seems as if her and her boyfriend will be moving to the Toronto area (well, Hamilton, but it's close enough!) because he'll be taking his masters at McMaster U this fall, I think? Or was it Spring? Details, details. For two, before they move, they're both going to quit their jobs, put their stuff in storage, and travel southeast Asia for about 3-4 months. Can I say - JEALOUS??? That sounds awesome, assuming they get all their shots. It's making my outlook for 2010 look even more grim than it did before. Ugh!

Another thing, I've also finally purchased a gym membership. I had been researching different gyms in my area for a while now, and had finally made a decision to go to Premier Fitness. Mostly because they have tonnes of locations, a pool, and a women's only facility (because sometimes you don't want to get hit on at the gym!). Anyway, in a strange twist of fate, I get this email from a friend who says that her employer is offering corporate memberships at Premier Fitness for family and friends it's employees. Well, that's freakin' awesome because the corporate membership is a STEAL compared to the retail price. It's about $275 a year, compared to a regular fee of about $60 a month or so? Don't quote me on that, I'm just making approximations here. So for those who aren't quick with the math, that's $60 a month versus $23 a month, which is chump change for me!

How do I decide what is alright to spend on a gym membership? Well, when making purchases, and deciding whether or not something is "worth" the price, I use something I like to call the "shoe system." The shoe system works like this: If I'm going to spend an amount of money on something, I first think about how many pairs of shoes I could buy with that money. Then I think about whether I'd rather have "Object A" or those pairs of shoes. If I'd rather have the shoes, then I therefore deem that the amount of money that "Object A" is selling for, isn't worth it. Get it? It's more or less an opportunity cost system.

Back to the gym conversation. So I also have two other friends who also want to take advantage of this opportunity. We were going to sign up for classes with the City of Toronto, but now I think we're going to all sign up for Premier Fitness after all. So now I have gym buddies!!!

That's all that's new with me. I have some half-assed plans for the weekend, nothing special. Although, the weather today (sunny, 7) is a marked improvement from how the rest of this last week has been so maybe I'll actually get out there and enjoy it while it lasts. Nahhh!

Fantasists: Fri Oct 16, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-17T03:59:00.005-04:00

Theresa's curry's a hit and she spends another night with Lloyd, Darryl quits Prima Doner and leaves the street for Spain, Umed admits to having gambled away his life and moves back to Mumbai, Deirdre and Liz become Thelma and Louise for the day, Tony proposes to Maria and she accepts, Leanne tells Carla over the phone what has been happening on the street, and Luke charms Rosie into putting 90 grand into his account under the ruse that she will be buying his shares.

Get the full review here.

The Lives of Others (Das Leben der Anderen)

2009-10-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

I finally got down to the business of watching this film. I'd had this on me for ages, but I'd never found the right time, or mood to watch it in. I knew that this wasn't exactly the type of film to watch "with the girls," (Subtitles??? No hot guys???) or even when I'm feeling particularly brain-dead on a Friday night. Well, thanks to the ever chilly weather here that's increasingly keeping me indoors, I finally had a chance to see this wonderful film and I'm so glad I did. Silver lining, folks.

The Lives of Others (Das Leben der Anderen) is a 2006 German drama directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck. The film stars Ulrich Muhe, Martina Gedeck, Sebastian Koch, and Ulrich Tukur.

Set in East Germany (DDR) in 1984, the film is about Stasi spies looking to take down any pro-western sympathizers. In particular, it is about one Stasi interrogator Wiesler (Muhe) who has been set out to monitor (spy on) playwright and poet Georg Dreyman, (Koch) based on suspicions that Dreyman is plotting against Stasi rule, by Minister Hempf, a very powerful man in the Stasi. Wiesler soon finds out that the real reason he's to find incriminating evidence on Dreyman is because Hempf is obsessed with Dreyman's girlfriend, Christa-Maria Sieland (Gedeck) and wants Dreyman out of the way. This is how it all starts, and it only gets more complicated, controversial, convoluded and unfortunate after Wiesler himself starts to question what side of "right" he's on.
I spoke about this film when I reviewed "After the Wedding." This film won best foreign film that year over After the Wedding, and at the time, I thought that was a mistake because I couldn't believe anything was better. Well, I still personally enjoyed "After the Wedding" better, but "The Lives of Others" was absolutely outstanding and well deserved to win that award.

Moving on, "The Lives of Others" is another foreign film that I have seen this year that has no disappointed! I will start with the acting performances. They were fantastic. I thought the entire cast was without pause. I especially enjoyed the performance of the main character, Weisler, by Muhe. It's unfortunate that the actor passed away the year after this film because I would have loved to see him in something else after this performance. Another stand-out for me was Gedeck. (Side note: I later found out that the actress was 45 years old when she played that role. Can you believe it? She was absolutely gorgeous and youthful. I don't know how European women do it. All they ever seem to do is drink and smoke. Although, the lack of stressful lifestyle and the copious amounts of sex might help.)

Mostly, I would have to say that the writing in this script was fantastic. I don't too often give credit to writers, or do quotes in my reviews, but this is an exception. This screenplay was so well written with symbolism (red ink in the typewriter), to simple nuances that make characters and settings believable (Sieland hanging decorations for Dreyman's birthday party). The writer wants you to love them and believe in their love. I can't say enough. A few lines stuck out to me, however, that can basically sum up the entire film.

Wiesler finds Sieland where he knew she'd be and pretends to know her as a fan of her acting;

Sieland: "So you know who I am?"

Weisler: "I am your audience."

Wiesler's supervisor suspects he knows more than he lets on;

Supervisor: "Are you still on the right side?"

Wiesler: "Yes."

BEST PART: After Wiesler's (as a "fan") words in the bar with Sieland, we see her run back home to Dreyman, the man she loves, instead of carrying on with the Minister to save her career.

WORST PART: When the Minister is taking off his pants and all you can see is a full-moon, of what just might be, the largest pair of tighty-whities possible. Barf.

RATING:
Acting: 10/10
Storyline: 9/10
Dialogue: 10/10
Wow Factor: 9/10
OVERALL RATING: 9.5/10.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-17T00:00:00.001-04:00

"Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow Airport."

- Love Actually

A Day in the Life: October 16, 2009

2009-10-16T14:18:00.006-04:00

So I have decided to log the happenings in my life on my blog. Not sure if this is a good idea or bad, but I've decided that I need a forum to vent.

For the last few weeks I've been waiting anxiously to hear back as to whether or not I've been accepted into this graphic design program that I wanted to take. I have a post-secondary background in Business Management and have worked in marketing almost exclusively for the last few years, so thought that this program would get me into a different area within that realm. Well, this program is highly competitive (only 35 places out of about 1800 applicants) and I've been on-edge waiting to hear back. I think the portfolio review and interview went well, but you never know how others did. However, in the time that I've been waiting anxiously, I've also had time to re-think my decision to go back to school. Currently, I'm finishing an online certificate, so I've been a student since September, and I hate it! I'm afraid I'll hate this program if I get accepted. I'm contemplating going back to work instead. Only, I know I'd just be in another mid-management position, which I'd hate also. What to do?

Other than that, I really don't have much going on. Newly single, (since August) I've been enjoying living alone but it can get lonely. I don't really have any urge to start dating though. It's just not there. I don't know if it's because I detest the "singles scene" so much, or I'm just not ready yet (I was in a four year relationship), or if I'm just simply enjoying being single right now! Although, not every one else agrees with that. Some of my friends/family think I'm nuts for living alone and think I should start dating a.s.a.p. Maybe one day. *sigh*

As far as my friends go, there are no new dramas. Besides a small (and probably necessary) facebook drama about two weeks ago, all is consistent. I have a few friends that similar to myself, have also broken up with significant others and have become newly single. A couple have already hooked up with someone else (serial monogamists) and the rest are just either having fun or being miserable still. Or both - such is the life of the singleton. Nothing really new in October, and probably won't be in November either. I recall one friend planning a Halloween party, but I haven't heard anything of it since. If she does, I guess it's time to bust out the 'ole cat ears and tail. Creative, I know.

Oh, good news actually too. I finally got my car back! After my car got hit on my road trip to North Carolina, I took my car to the body shop to get it repaired - courtesy of the "other guy's" insurance company. Well, it was really only a little bit of front-end damage, pretty much the bumper and a small dent/scratches. WELL, I went to pick up my baby (my car) today and the final estimate was in the range of $5000! YIKES! I tell ya, it felt nice to drive away from that bill without paying it! Yeesh, cars are expensive. I'm so happy to have my Mazda back. I was driving this rental - Chevrolet Cobolt. Ugh. The thing wasn't the WORST car on earth, but it had some perks - good on gas, and it had some good "pick-up" that was possibly better than my Mazda. I have to say I did take a bit of a shine to it after the time we spent together. It is a lot cheaper than my current car, so I guess it's an affordable option, if it didn't have just one HUGE downside. For whatever reason, GM's are TERRIBLE winter cars! Every GM I've had has lost tonnes of mojo after each winter. I have to idle the thing, and the noises it makes during the freeze periods! When I got my Mazda, I was a little afraid for her first winter, but she drove like a BREEZE. Having a built-in car starter helped too. But still, I'd get right in, and just drive. No waiting, no taking hours to de-ice etc. Just drove, and how smooth she drove. No crying noises, no chuckling in the engine, just drove. I'll probably never buy domestic again - unless I have no money to afford import.

In other news, it's gotten very cold here in Toronto as of late, and it has caused me to begin hibernation. Thanks to hibernation I've had a lot more time to myself! I've been catching up on films, and even writing a bit more. I think I'm actually onto writing something really good. Something really long too. We shall see. I might just write about 200 pages, put it down, then pick it back up again, hate it, and start a bonfire with it! lol. I'm fickle, what can I say?

Well, that's it for now. I'll update later!

xoxo
Yoork

Surrogates

2009-10-16T00:52:00.003-04:00

Okay, so I saw this movie last weekend and I wanted to do a review on it but I wasn't in much of a hurry. Alas, here it is. A friend and I decided that we wanted to watch a movie, and instead of picking one and going at the time it was playing, we just decided to go to the theatre and just see the first movie that was available. Well, we did, and I'm kinda wishing I'd planned ahead after wards. My friend and I walked into the theatre talking about this movie, and then walked out after it was over talking about - anything but this movie.

"Surrogates" is a 2009 science fiction film based on the 2005-2006 comic book series of the same name. It was directed by Jonathan Mostow and stars Bruce Willis, Radha Mitchell, Rosamund Pike, Boris Kodjoe, James Cromwell and Ving Rhames.

This film is about a world when people sit at home in their lazy-boys and are "virtually" connected to their surrogate selves (robots) who live their lives for them. The surrogates are basically how the people imagine their ideal self being. In some cases it's an overweight man who imagines himself being an attractive blond hooker, but in most cases it's just a better looking version of one's self. For example, Willis's surrogate has a full head of hair. It's an age-old story of robots taking over the world. It's the surrogate world vs. the human world, and the fight between right and wrong. Guess who wins out in the end? Heaven forbid I give away the tidy, predictable ending.

I was actually quite excited to see this movie when I first saw the trailers because I thought that the concept, albeit not new, interested me. I thought it'd be fun, futuristic and entertaining. Especially with what seemed like a good cast. Instead I got a hollow, predictable storyline with a few fancy "Fifth Element" type visuals. But make no comparison, Willis may have been in this film and played a similar character (doesn't he always?) - but this was NO Fifth Element. Let's hope the comic was better, and that the movie just "ruined it."

The movie was a yawn pretty much all the way through. Nothing was new or exciting about it. The characters weren't very well developed. You could tell you were supposed to have empathy for some of them at some point, but you just couldn't bring yourself to. It just wasn't there.

As for the acting, it was pretty mediocre. I mean, Willis was good - doing what he does best - saving the world. Other than that, it was just O.K. The stand-out performance for me in this film was probably Radha Mitchell. But even then, I don't have a lot to say about it.

BEST MOMENT: When the surrogates were having a party and "injecting" themselves with electroshock, as if it had a drug-like effect. This was a funny scene, although it probably wasn't intended to be.

WORST MOMENT: Only one? Probably when Willis's surrogate's face melts away all terminator-esque after getting blown to smithereens! Cheese-y!

RATING:
Acting: 5/10
Storyline: 4/10
Dialogue: 3/10
Wow Factor: 2/10

OVERALL RATING: 3.5/10

Shoes Are Forever: Thu Oct 15, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-16T00:45:00.003-04:00

Written by Lucy Gannon, directed by Stuart Davids.

Umed helps Theresa out, Lloyd lets Theresa stay the night, Helen surprises Maria with a family heirloom, Tony moves out temporarily, Luke uses Rosie again for her money, and Kevin and Molly continue their torrid affair.

Check out the full review here.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

"I shall pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again!"

- Jerry Lee Lewis

Quote of the Day

2009-10-14T00:00:00.001-04:00

"After a while, you just want to be with the one who makes you laugh."

- Mr. Big, Sex and the City

Quote of the Day

2009-10-13T00:00:00.000-04:00

"Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart."

- Washington Irving

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-10-12T14:56:00.004-04:00

At least to us Canadians here! Today we sit around with family, enjoy a nice harvest spread, and remind ourselves of the things in life we are thankful for. But more importantly, we enjoy a holiday monday off work. It is the last one until Christmas, and we still have to get through "Month Dread" (November).

So, cheers, and enjoy your holiday while it lasts!

Hairy Tomatos: Fri Oct 9 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-12T14:20:00.004-04:00

Written by Peter Whalley (7:30) and Joe Turner (8:30), directed by Pip Short.

Molly and Kevin return from "Glasgow," Peter wants to open a bar for Leanne to run, Ken turns 70, Emily turns 80, Lloyd spends a regrettable night with Theresa and a bottle of tequila, Norris sacks Sheila Wheeler, and Tony and Maria make plans for baby Liam's christening.

Get it here, folks.

Get Stuffed: Thu Oct 8, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-08T23:58:00.003-04:00

Darryl kicks Theresa out of the flat, Molly and Kevin extend their romantic holiday, Chesney says he'll live with John and Fiz as long as they remain on Coronation Street, Norris gets comfortable with Sheila Wheeler, Theresa picks a fight with Liz and Leanne finally quits her job.

Get the full review here, folks.

Dead as a Doorbell: Mon Oct 5, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-06T20:43:00.002-04:00

Molly and Kev spend a romantic weekend in Chester, Peter misses Leanne at Simon's recorder recital, Ashley's decides to get the vasectomy after living like a monk, Graeme destroy's Umed's dinger (not how it sounds), and the street seems ready to welcome John Stape back on the cobbles, much to Sally Webster's chagrin.

Click here to read more.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-04T00:00:00.001-04:00

"Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory."

- Albert Schweitzer

Shut In

2009-10-03T14:21:00.006-04:00

I wake up in the morning, and I feel heavy already. I didn't sleep much last night, and I never do. I can't stop my legs from moving, and I can't make them move either. I turn my neck and look out my window to see what the weather will be like today. Not that it matters, because chances are, I won't be going outside anyway. In fact, I haven't been outside for approximately twenty days this time round. I can hear rain patter angrily against the window and think to myself that it's going to be a miserable day - both outside and inside. I can feel the rain in my joints, and that's about all I can feel. I lie in bed for a few seconds to prolong having to get up and face my reality. Also, I don't know yet if I'm going to be able to get out of bed. So I just lie down, enjoy the silence and pretend that everything's as it used to be. I feel comfortable, yet uncomfortable. I feel happy, yet sad. I feel safe, yet stuck. I wish I could feel the rain on my feet.

Eventually, I decide to get out of bed. I roll over and try to wretch my body upwards, but to no avail. I try a few more times until finally, I'm sat upright. Now what? I pull my body into my chair. My body seems to weigh more and more as each day goes by. I think to myself each day, "just how long will it take before I become too heavy to lift myself?" Then what will I do? I try to shove those negative thoughts out of my mind and pay attention to the next task at hand. Sometimes thinking about things you cannot control only leaves you with less control. And control is the issue here, make no mistake about it. Everything is an effort. Even simple tasks such as going to the washroom. I long for the days when I used to just "get up and go." If only I were free, I'd leave everyone in my dust. At least that's what I tell myself.

I make myself tea in the morning, with my good arm. What's going to happen when my good arm is no longer that? I try not to think about these things, but sometimes I cannot help myself. I go to my home office, and I start to work. My body might not be in full working order, but thankfully, my mind (and my tongue) is as sharp as a tack. Well, at least for the time being. I know that eventually the ship takes everything down with it, so I hold onto whatever I have left and make the most of it. I pick up the telephone and call some folks. I like the way I feel when talking on the phone. I feel alive, I feel equal, and I feel how I used to feel. For those few moments in conversation I feel like somebody. I feel like someone who gets things done, is able, and has a purpose. The person on the other line cannot see me, they cannot feel me, and mostly they cannot pity me. When I get off the phone and back to reality, it's sobering.

In a few hours, I'll attempt my physical exercises. I don't really know if these exercises will help me or not. Can you really retrain your cells? I hope so because hope is all I have. I don't care how far-fetched anything sounds. Hope is all I've got and it's my only way out of this place. If someone told me that ringing a bell with my toes would help me get the sensation back in my legs, no one would ever pay for a drink in the local pub again! I exercise to the point where I hurt myself and make myself sick. But it's okay because at least the pain makes me feel alive. I suddenly realize that I need to get some items from the store. Then I quickly realize that I cannot just go out and get them. I'll have to ask someone for a favour. Who can I burden this time? I hate asking for help.

My day of work is over and I sit here at home. The home in which I am a prisoner in. Well, more to the point, I sit in the body that I am a prisoner in. Sometimes I feel as though I've been buried alive and each day brings another shovel full of dirt. Everyone who crosses paths with me gives me that same patronizing look of concern laced with pity and talks to me as though I'm a child. It just makes me want to reach out and hit them. The only reason I don't is because I physically cannot. I would, if I could. I am so angry. Sometimes I just want to scream - "Can't you see me? Do you know that I'm in here? Why won't you help me? Why won't anyone do something? How can you just look at me then turn the other way? Doesn't anyone care? Why did this happen to me?" I listen to people complain about their lives - their shortcomings, their apathy, their own personal depressions. I humour them by listening. They have no idea what depression is like. They have no idea what it's like to need salvation. They will never know either, unless they are in my shoes. Only, I don't wear shoes, do I? Isn't it ironic? Putting shoes on my feet is like putting a t-shirt on a dog - a redundant joke. Yet I do wear them, and I also wear a smile. Even though I feel this way on the inside, I cannot let anyone know. I've learned that you can think what you like in your head, but until those thoughts materialize into words coming out of your mouth and making their way into someone's ears, they're not wholly real yet. Plus, if this is how I feel now, the future's not looking good.

The day is over before I know it. I take my medication, because it's the only thing that helps. I ease myself into bed. Easing isn't easy. I try not to complain, because I don't have much choice. It's living like this - or the alternative. I don't think about that though. Just another negative thought I throw out of my head and onto the floor. My floor is just littered with negative thoughts come the end of some days. Instead, I choose to be positive. Being happy is not a natural state of mind, but a conscious choice you make for yourself. I think about my life and even though I'm not the most fortunate person I am still more fortunate than some. I think about my children, and those that I love. I think about not only how much I love them, but how much they love and need me. I think about the hope I have been clinging to all this while and how I must keep a good grip on it. I remind myself that life goes forwards, no backwards.

I lie in bed and I can still hear the same rain from this morning pattering angrily on the roof again. Despite everything, I feel fortunate listening to the rain beating against my roof. I know that rain is trying to get in, and trying to get me wet. I feel comforted, even smug, knowing that that rain cannot get me. It cannot get me because I won't let it. I start to doze off to that place between awake and asleep and in this moment I don't feel trapped anymore. I feel peace.

Note: I wrote this piece for my mother who has been suffering from multiple sclerosis for 27 years this month. Keep on trucking! Whatever that means. ;)

Camera Loves You: Fri Oct 2, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-03T13:08:00.003-04:00

Written by David Lane, directed by David Kester.

Fiz tries to move away from Coronation Street, Chesney moves in with the Windasses, Molly and Kevin profess their love for one another, Tyrone finishes his home makeover, Uncle Umed is still annoying, Amber leaves the street and her men, Julie and Jesse lie to Eileen, and Norris looks forward to the future.

Click here to get it all.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-02T21:02:00.000-04:00

"When I want to read a novel, I write one."

- Benjamin Disraeli

Mrs. Fiona Stape: Thu Oct 1, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-10-02T12:50:00.003-04:00

Written by Julie Jones, directed by David Kester.

Fiz and John get married, Rosie gets fired, then re-hired, Darryl chooses money over Amber and Tyrone does some stripping for Molly.

Want more? Click here.

I'm baaaack.

2009-10-02T08:52:00.005-04:00

Okay, so isn't the above photo gorgeous? I'm not talking about me, but rather, the beach?

Well, I thought so. I'm back from my little vacation (read: foray from reality), and I'm back to cyber-reality as we speak.

I had an awesome time on my trip, but all good things must come to an end. Now I just have to find a new "good thing." Wish me luck!

Quote of the Day

2009-10-01T00:00:00.001-04:00

"Most stress is caused by three things: money, family and family with no money."

- Maxine

Quote of the Day

2009-09-30T17:21:00.003-04:00

"I'm very open-minded. I think everyone should be treated equal, no matter what filth they get up to in their spare time."

- Blanche Hunt

Quote of the Day

2009-09-29T00:00:00.001-04:00

"I believe that everything happens for a reason. Usually, the reason is that somebody screwed up."

- Maxine

Light at the End of the Tunnel

2009-09-21T21:30:00.007-04:00

When the going gets tough, the tough get going, right?

Picture this:

You've got a whole lot of work ahead of you. But it's weeks away, and you're prepared. You're one of those boy/girl-scout types, prepared for anything. Well, those weeks turn into days and even though you believe you've prepared properly and made all the right arrangements, things don't go exactly as planned, not enough work gets done, and all the sudden you're a little in over your head.

But it's still manageable at this point, right? Probably seems that way. So you figure, "just a few extra hours, bit more elbow grease, and it's all good." Pffft. The problem is, you may have prepared, but you underestimated how much you need to prepare for. This is often the problem, when problems arise. Never underestimate a task! And never, never overestimate the competency of others!

So, weeks turn into days, days turn into hours. We're down to the final hours of the project, and in those final hours you realize that there is, somehow, an insurmountable amount of work in front of you, yet to be done. You stare at this unfinished amount of work and get completely overwhelmed to the point where your eyes have gone all buggy! You just sit and stare at your mess for a while thinking VERY hard (these wheels in your head are turning so fast you're in desperate need of some WD40 in about 5 minutes), but for the life of you, you can't think of an "easy" way to get through it.

So what do you do? When there's nothing else to do? When you've got no other option to solve a problem? You just do it. Remember those extra beads of sweat and bits of elbow grease you were willing to part with earlier in this project? Well, time to call them in, because baby you have a lot of work ahead of you. Roll up your sleeves, roll on some extra strength Speed Stick, and get to work! It's your lazy ass that got you to this point to begin with!

I promise, once you work until you drop (or sob), things will feel lighter all of a sudden. Actually, they will get much brighter. For that, is the brightness is in fact, the light at the end of the tunnel.

Oh, and remember folks: procrastination is like masturbation. In the end, you're only screwing yourself.

Send Off: Fri Sept 18, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-09-21T21:17:00.003-04:00

I apologize for my tardiness on this double episode review. Get it here!

Compulsive Scumbag: Thu Sept 17, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-09-18T23:59:00.001-04:00

Get it here, folks.

Sicko

2009-09-18T12:07:00.005-04:00

So, it's September 18. And I'm sick. I'm ALWAYS sick around this time of year. I don't get colds in the winter. I get colds two times of year: spring, & fall.

Yes, granted I might not be sick had it not been for a friend of mine (bless her soul) getting me sick when she was helping me move! (Argh) But I was thinking about it and I'm often always sick around this time of year.

Blame it on the seasons changing? If you can't find something to blame, the weather's always a good one. That or alcohol.

So, now that I have about a gazillion things to do, I'm struck with this cold! The worst part of it all is this chronic cough. You know, that really annoying throaty cough that NEVER stops, and annoys everyone around you? Even my dog is giving me cut-eye!

I just hope it doesn't stick around for my holiday next week! That would so so unfair. I have so many big worries in life, don't I? Yeah, it's hard being me.

*cough* *cough*,
Yoork.

Quote of the Day

2009-09-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

"Sure, marriage can be fun some of the time. Trouble is, you're married all of the time."

- Maxine

Plugged In

2009-09-17T08:37:00.006-04:00

I'm finally plugged in again! Silly me didn't think to call ahead to the lovely people at the cable company before my move to transfer my services. So, I was in queue.

I've gone exactly 4 days, and 3 nights without an internet connection! How did I survive?

How has it come to a point where I cannot survive, or do not feel "whole" without any internet connection? It's like losing a piece of your heart. Okay, that's a bit much, but it did give me an empty feeling. How will I ever go on holiday?

Well, crisis averted, I've finally been hooked up. Hooked up, plugged in, in-tune, I'm back!

Expect the same shotty quality posts as before, folks because this bitch is back online.

xoxo
Yoork

Bounce Back: Mon Sept 14, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-09-17T01:08:00.003-04:00

Better late than never! Get it here.

Quote of the Day

2009-09-13T00:00:00.001-04:00

"A man without a woman is a bachelor. A woman without a man is a genius."

- Maxine

Good Morning!

2009-09-12T09:17:00.003-04:00

Good Morning is something I haven't really been able to say lately. I'm probably one of the world's worst (okay, that's a bit much) insomniacs, and I pretty much wake when all are asleep, and sleep when all are awake. So, it's not every morning that I, well, see a morning!

But, I was up today. Indeed. After a stressful night (I was robbed!) I watched the sun come up and it really gave me a new burst of energy. Maybe I should subscribe to this whole "morning" thing from now on. Maybe there's more to it than I thought. Plus, the morning comes from breakfast. And I DO love breakfast. And if I wake up in the morning, I can pretty much eat it anywhere, not only the 24/7 breakfast joints. I think I'm onto something here.

Anyhow, I hope this surge of energy keeps me going through the weekend, as I'm on the final leg of the longest and worst home-move of my short life!

Wish me luck! Oh, and "good morning."

Quote of the Day

2009-09-12T00:00:00.001-04:00

"I hate to break it to you, but there is no big lie. There is no system. The universe is indifferent."

- Don Draper

Overextended.

2009-09-11T22:27:00.005-04:00

Sometimes I feel like this guy. Sometimes I'm completely in-tact and then, some people come by and over-extend my limbs. And when that happens, it takes a while for me to get back into my previous form.

That's life, though. It would seem. Life is a very all-or-nothing place, isn't it? You're either in a state of complete, utter boredom and complacency or you're verging on a nervous breakdown!

Right now, I'm in "nervous breakdown" state. It probably has something to do with the fact that I'm moving. Moving is one of the most stressful things ever. Next to selling your home. Oh, did that too. And just when I think that's enough, there's even more drama and tasks to be completed. Even more obstacles to overcome. Oh, then I go do something stupid and over-extend myself (and my time) by signing myself up for even MORE things to do! All these highs and lows are making me a very uneven woman! And I'm not just talking about my current complexion either!

Can't wait to get back on easy-street. You know, until that gets boring, and I throw my life up in the air again! Just never satisfied, I tell ya!

Judgment Day: Thu Sept 10, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-09-11T02:13:00.003-04:00

Get it here, folks.

Quote of the Day

2009-09-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

"It's strange to have a creation out there, a deeply mutated version of yourself, running loose and screwing everything up. I wonder if this is how parents feel."

- Dexter Morgan

Inflagranti: Mon Sept 7, 2009 Corrie Episode Review

2009-09-09T20:47:00.001-04:00

Get it here, folks.

The Kinds of People

2009-09-09T02:44:00.004-04:00

Three Kinds of People

Way I see it, there are three kinds of people in this world:

1) Stupid People-who-don't-know-they're-Stupid

2) Stupid People-who-KNOW-they're-Stupid

3) Smart People who have to live with the Stupid People.

Do the math. That means only one third of us are fortunate.

Finally!

2009-09-08T20:54:00.006-04:00

Finally, it has happened to me, I have found a new place, and I'm just so excited!

Yes, today I found a new place. My very own place indeed. I've never lived alone. Scary, or exciting? Maybe a little of each?

Not sure, but I found this place my first day out. Viewed a good share of, let's say, "questionable" places. When out and about in the city, I'm always reminded of the fact that there are so many colourful people in the world. At least in contrast to the homogeneous personalities that can be found in the burbs. Not, that that's necessarily a good thing. Trust me, after some of today's interactions, I'm craving a little homogeneity.

Moving on, at the final leg of my flat hunt, I have one more place on the list. I even consider canceling, having been so discouraged by all the "questionable" places I'd visited earlier. But, I decide to give it a go. And boy, am I glad I did!

My new place (unofficially until tomorrow) is uber-fantastic! Hell, it's down-right perfect! Yeah, I used the p-word.

Anyway, super excited now! Going to celebrate!

Happy Birthday Marcus!

2009-09-08T00:00:00.003-04:00

It's my little brother's birthday today! The above is an old (10 years old?) picture of the two of us.

Quote of the Day

2009-09-07T00:00:00.002-04:00

"Skirt no bigger than a belt, too much eyeliner and roots as dark as her soul."

- Blanche Hunt

Pearls of Wisdom

2009-09-06T19:22:00.003-04:00

Are you in a rut? Does everyday start to feel like a "bad" day? Do you feel trapped? Chained down by your family and/or your job? Overwhelmed with your life and your increasing inability to make decisions? Do you feel as though there's no way out? Are you completely, utterly hopeless?

Fear no more, delicate reader.

I have noticed that lately there is a lot of hopelessness going round, and frankly, it's depressing me. And, we can't have that! So I've decided to dole some sage advice that I've collected over the few (heh) years I've been on this planet in hopes that it might help someone out. Or at least give someone a good laugh (or two).

Et, voila:

Don't just believe in faith, take it. Grab it by the jugular and take it, because it's yours goddamit!

You don't need to find yourself. You need to create yourself.

DO NOT. I repeat, DO NOT try to change people. You're never going to change anyone, not even yourself. So quit torturing yourself. Realize that the person that exists inside your head, is not in fact the person that exists in your reality.

Don't be so controlling. To trust and accept someone else is a very underrated pleasure.

Breath from your diaphragm, not your chest.

Savour your nourishment. Any meal could be your last.

Avoid fighting losing battles at all costs. You simply don't have forever.

You can't argue with an idiot. If you do, it will start to become unclear as to which side of the argument you are on.

Don't stare at the sun, stare at what the sun is staring at.

Don't blame others for your shortfalls. Don't play the victim.

Whatever got you into a mess, will get you out of it. I hope you remember what that was, and if you don't, try to remember next time. Yes, there WILL be a next time.

Always expect the unexpected. And expect that no matter what you do, you'll never be prepared for it anyhow.

Just let it go. You know what I'm talking about.

Don't try to "find" happiness, just choose to be happy. A happy disposition is the result of a conscious decision you make for yourself, not a seemingly unattainable goal based on "if I only had A, B, and C."

Quote of the Day

2009-09-05T00:00:00.000-04:00

Pete Campbell: "A man like you, I'd follow into combat blindfolded, and I wouldn't be the first. Am I right, buddy?

Don Draper: "Let's take it a little slower. I don't want to wake up pregnant."

Taken for Granted

2009-09-04T00:37:00.010-04:00

It's the final days of summer, and no matter what's going, life truly can't be better than it is right now.

Sometimes I worry that I take my happiness for granted. Happiness is a lot of things, but mostly it's made up of the small things. Many of which, we take for granted.

Separating the significant few from the insignificant many:

The hot shower you take that gently soothes and caresses your body in the morning. Ah...

The way your pet looks at you. An assuring look that tells you that you are OK. You. Are. Okay.

Even though you can't handle them, the love from your family you can always trust. You know you love them.

The way the sun shines on your forehead when you rush from your car to your office, signaling a brand new day. You never even acknowledge it, do you?

Falling asleep in someone's arms. Especially someone who makes you feel safe.

Red wine in a beer stein. To that, I ask you, why NOT?

Dollar Stores. They practically give the stuff away!

Laughing so hard you can't breathe. Even at yourself.

Spending time with those people who make you do the above. Appreciate them.

Listening to stories told by those from an older generation. They're not completely useless, after all.

Writing with a brand new pen. Ecstasy!

Driving with no particular destination. Just you, the open road, the open air, and a few (okay a lot of) open diners.

Passion. Passion. Passion. Come again? Passion.

Pie for breakfast. Hey, it's got fruit in it! Sorta.

Lying in bed at night, listening to rain against the roof, knowing that you are sheltered and dry, unlike so many.

The first sentence in a book. Pop that cherry!

Touch. Any. Where.

Receiving a long distance phone call. You were thinking about me? Really? Awe.

Waking up to the alarm, then realizing it's Saturday and you can go back to sleep.

Finding a $50 bill in your coat from last winter. Free-money-drinks, anyone?

Falling in love. Especially with yourself.

Old seasons ending, new seasons beginning.