Picture Quiz

Age you will be on your next birthday.

First teachers last name.

A bad habit of yours.

Your favorite flower

Your favorite holiday

Where you live.

Name of past pet

Your favorite colour: coral

Your favorite animal

Your favorite food: Lately it is baked macaroni and lots of cheese

One of your favorite places: Stowe, Vermont

Place you would like to visit

Jesus Light Switch

This is just so wrong in many ways.

Smurf Video - Where The Smurfs Came From

Check out this video. Who knew that Smurfs were 50 years old? I thought they were born in the 80's.

Song Of The Day: Rockferry by Duffy

I am loving the voice of this Welsh singer. She has a retro kinda sound.



As an added bonus, here is another catchy tune......Mercy.

Weekend Recap

We kept the girls home from school on Friday and headed into Brantford to spend the weekend with family. Mom and I and the girls spent some time shopping during the afternoon while Garth and his brother got together to see the highly anticipated Rambo. Upon his return back from the movie I asked him if he enjoyed the flick to which he stated......"It was awesome, incredibly violent and graphic but it was great. My only disappointment was that I didn't get to see Stallone without a shirt." He was serious........should I be worried?"

We watched a cute little gem of a movie with Kerri Russell called "Waitress." I really enjoyed it.

Saturday, we headed out towards the rural roads of Kitchener for a family get together with my husbands Aunt Shirley and Co. She has the most lovely farm home and it was a great day watching Garth, his brothers,nephews and his cousin Kevin all regress to a grade 5 sense of humour while a whole lot of male bonding took place.

Sunday was spent trying to rest and refuel from the previous day with my parents before our drive home.

We were able to be witness to the return home of Corporal Entienne Gonthier who was killed last Wednesday(Jan 23rd), when his light armoured vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb southwest of Kandahar City. He arrived at CFB Trenton at 2p.m on Sunday afternoon and we watched while the bridge overpasses along the 401 were filled with people wanting to pay their repect by saluting him and his family as they drove down "Highway of Heroes." There were vehicles stopped all along the highway and groups of war vetrans at the exit and entrance ramps waving flags. It was quite emotional.

Monopoly World Edition

Monopoly is choosing which cities to include in its upcoming Monopoly World Edition.

You can vote here for Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver (you can vote for all 3 cities). I would like to see all 3 wonderful cities on the Monopoly World Edition!

Would You Eat Your Buddies In A Blizzard?

A true reflection that I like my friends. I think I'd rather like to know which of my friends has a higher percentage likelihood to eat their friends.

28%

My Thoughts On The Recently Announced Oscar Nominations

Best Picture:
Atonement
Juno
Michael Clayton
No Country For Old Men
There Will Be Blood




Best Supporting Actress:
Cate Blanchett, I’m Not There
Ruby Dee, American Ganster
Saorise Ronan, Atonement
Amy Ryan, Gone Baby Gone
Tilda Swinton, Michael Clayton

Best Supporting Actor:
Casey Affleck, The Assassination Of Jesse James
Javier Bardem, No Country For Old Men
Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Charlie Wilson’s War
Hal Holbrook, Into the Wild
Tom Wilkinson, Michael Clayton

Best Actress:
Cate Blanchett, Elizabeth-The Golden Age
Julie Christie, Away From Her
Marion Cotillard, La Vie En Rose
Laura Linney, The Savages
Ellen Page, Juno

Best Actor:
George Clooney, Michael Clayton
Daniel Day Lewis, There Will Be Blood
Johnny Depp, Sweeney Todd
Tommy Lee Jones, In The Valley of Elah
Viggo Mortensen, Eastern Promises

There were snubs a-plenty in the song category, some noted by Variety, but especially Eddie Vedder and Radiohead's Jonny Greenood, whose score for There Will Be Blood was disqualified.

I haven’t seen a lot of the movies this year (yet), but I was happy to see Diablo Cody and Michael Moore among the names. I don’t know what’s going to happen with the Oscars. This may suck for my annual Oscar party.

On Feb. 23, AMC will present another "Best Picture Showcase." For $30, moviegoers can catch Juno, No Country for Old Men, Atonement, There Will Be Blood and Michael Clayton. You'll also get unlimited popcorn!

Laugh Of The Day

Baby News

In Touch Magazine is reporting that Tori Spelling and her husband Dean McDermott are expecting their second child together.

Their first child, Liam, turns 1 on March 13.

Pizza Pizza Is Offering Some Great Deals

Check out more exciting deals at Pizza Pizza food.

A Tribute To Heath Ledger

I liked this simple tribute to Heath Ledger by Ellen DeGeneres.

Brian Bonsall.........Where Are You Now?

Brian played the youngest son, Andy Keaton, on Family Ties in the final season (1989).

Brian quit acting in 1994 when his family moved to Colorado. There, he fell into music by joining a band.
"Music is my passion and it's how I want to spend the rest of my days. I have no interest in returning to acting." Interview, 2005.
In 2006, he was a member of Colorado band "Thruster" which broke up last year.




On September 3, 2007, this article was published about him:"Former child star Brian Bonsall, who played Andy Keaton in the TV comedy Family Ties, was given two years probation under an agreement reached with prosecutors. Bonsall, 25, pleaded guilty to third-degree assault but three other charges against him were dismissed. He was arrested in March after his girlfriend told police he poured an alcoholic drink on her face while she slept, put her in a choke hold and threw her onto a bed when she tried to leave. Bonsall told investigators he pushed her down in self-defence after she cut his arm and face with a steak knife. She denied the claim and was not charged. Bonsall's lawyer, Paul McCormick, said Bonsall went through a 30-day rehab program and has been sober for over five months. Prosecutor Peter Maguire said Bonsall has been compliant with sobriety monitoring and has gotten back together with his girlfriend and the pair are in counselling. Bonsall appeared in three seasons of Family Ties, the NBC comedy that helped launch Michael J. Fox's career." (source: How they look now)

RIP: Heath Ledger

Austrailian born actor Heath Ledger was a young man who leaves behind a fantastic film career (including a buzz-worthy performance as the Joker in the upcoming new Batman movie, The Dark Knight.) He was too young and I am saddened by this news.

Weekend Recap

Sometimes it is nice to have a lazy weekend.This weekend I took some time off from the gym and decided to spend it with some of my favorite men. I ventured to the Cineplex to catch the predictable but charming flick "27 dresses. " The cast is very likeable and James Marsden is my new guy crush. Saturday night, we watched "Shoot em up" on Blu-Ray with my old guy crush. I love action flicks and this one was over the top and I loved it. Fresh and highly entertaining. This afternoon was spent doing crafts with my daughters and trying out another new recipe. I have also spent time watching my long time crush while watching episodes of NCIS via boxset through the weekend.

RIP : Allan Melvin

Allan Melvin, a character actor known for appearances in such TV staples as "All in the Family" and "The Brady Bunch," has died.

Test Your Power Of Observation

A cool quiz that tests your power of observation on things you see everyday. I will confess that I sucked and only got 10 correct and some of those were crapshoot guesses.

People In Order Video

People in Order’s Age is part of a series of short films that assembles the people of Britain in a given order. In just 3 minutes, we meet 100 different people who are arranged according to their age, starting from age 1. I am going to look for their other videos now that I have seen this interesting one.

Music To Brighten Your Day

MuchMusic is streaming Cat Powers yet to be released album, Jukebox in its entirety here.

The album is comprised almost entirely of cover songs, including tunes by Bob Dylan, Billie Holiday, Janis Joplin and Joni Mitchell.

They are also featuring Natasha Bedingfields new album Pocketful Of Sunshine here.

Party Of The Year

He reminds me of a modern day Spicolli.

RIP:Brad Renfro

People magazine has confirmed that actor Brad Renfro has died at the age of 25. I remember first seeing him as the young boy in the John Grishom film, "The Client." Cause of death is still unknown.

Weekend Recap

The weekend has come and gone and like I had mentioned on Friday alot of it was spent doing some some R&R. Friday night was a blast. Garth and I, with some friends headed into Toronto to be a part of the taping of the Rick Mercer Report. It was the first show of 2008 and it will air this Tuesday at 8:00. Rick is the ultimate professional and spot on with his wit. Following the show we headed over to The Loose Moose for some munchies and cocktails. I branched out from my usual bevarage of water and enjoyed one of these. Saturday, was spent lounging. The highlight of the day was helping Garth hang new our medicine cabinet (Check out the cobwebs in the corner.......nice touch.) Saturday night we watched Rob Zombies "Halloween." It was entertaining and focused on the prequel of Mike Myers. We took the time to watch the alternate ending and I must say I did prefer it. Too bad Rob didn't consult me. Sunday was spent finishing my latest novel and being domesticated in the kitchen making an Apricot Glazed Chicken dinner.

Deal Of The Day

Print this page for $2.00 off any Lubriderm lotion (300ml or larger). Expires Feb 29/08.

I Can't Wait

I just got chills watching this promo trailer for the return of Lost. I'm so excited for the return of this amazing series.

Steve Carlson

Music has always been an important part of my life.
It affects people in a way that words can't.
It creates memories.
It lowers inhibitions.
It brings people together.
I have always loved discovering new artists and turning them on to other people who I think will like them also. The Internet has made discovering new music a lot more accessible via sites like this. The past few months I have felt out of touch with the music industry and its current sounds. I have spun my tried and true favorites, my past discoveries to help me mend and heal during my recovery. Just this week, I have stepped back and gone treasure hunting and what a treasure I have found. I forwarded this fellows MySpace page to my younger brother who I knew would appreciate his talented storytelling and great sound.

Amy Winehouse Goes Platinum

This is not a good look for Amy Winehouse who recently went Platinum.

This Week Has Been A Blur

Tonight I am heading into TO for my 3rd time this week.
Tuesday, I had an appointment at the eye clinic at Princess Margret Hospital to do a 6 month follow up since receiving treatment. My left eye continues to give me grief and has been more bothersome lately. My eyes were dilated and my eyes were tested with all sorts of gizmo and gadgets. The doctor did not feel there was anything to be to concerned about and like me believes "time heals all wounds." He sent me on my way with some bottles of eye drops to use and instructions to return in July and hopefully my eye problem will have resolved itself and it will no longer water intermittently.
On Wednesday, I had an appointment with my ENT at Mount Sinai. I harbour some ambivalent feelings about these appointments. I dread them because I know there will be some sort of discomfort and pain involved as my nasal passages up to my sinuses will be poked and prodded with various tools, scopes and cameras. A part of me looks forward to these appointments as I am always meeting new residents and young doctors early in their career beginning their fellowship. I enjoy sharing my history of symptoms with these students of medicine and engaging in dialogue with them. Garth absolutely loves being a part of the learning process with these young medical students as Dr. W spends time teaching anatomy & physiology and disease pathology while pointing out interesting tidbits on the TV monitors. I have been impressed by all the students I have interacted with and have such respect and gratitude for this next generation of doctors.
Tonight Garth and I are heading into Toronto for a bit of fun. We will be at the CBC building for the taping of the Rick Mercer Show and then some cocktails with friends.
I'm going to need the weekend to relax........whew!!

The Return Of The Mole

I always liked the reality show The Mole and was disappointed at the end of its run. I look forward to its return.

Eddie Vedder Has A Sweet Folksy Sound

"Guaranteed" is the second single from his soundtrack for Into The Wild. Beautiful!!

The Hidden Truth Behind Hotel Drinking Glasses

How disturbing. Ugh!!!!

Meditation

"Whenever there is a little time between duties, retire to the cave of silence within....Seek time to be alone; and in the cave of inner silence, you shall find the wellspring of wisdom." ~ Paramahansa Yogananda

I have been taking some time each day to meditate.

This is a new process to me and I am learning as I go.

Some days I struggle with mediation and it is difficult as my mind is filled with thoughts that flow at lightening speed and with each thought there is some internal dialogue happening within my head. It becomes difficult for me to ignore or tune out those conversations going on inside my head. I think this is pretty normal and I think it is exactly why we all need to meditate. All those voices and images can distract me from getting in touch with my body and my mind. I cherish this new opportunity to gather and refocus all these parts of me into one area where we can breathe together in unison and check in with one another. I've noticed a shift the last few days. I feel more of a calm in my heart. My mind feels a bit more clarity.

Who Did Let Celine Out?

This is the Celine Dion clip that reeked havoc on my computer the other night. No fear it is safe for viewing. Supporting point number three is my personal favorite.

Deal Of The Day

Sign up for a free sample of For Goodness Shakes.

Christmas Celebration With Sheila And Isabella

Yesterday afternoon Alley and I ventured out to celebrate some Christmas fun with Sheila and my beautiful God daughter Isabella. Brooke stayed at home with Dad as she is suffering from some type of bug. Alley and I, had a fun and cozy time with these two special ladies. Thanks for a great aftenoon.

Celine Dion And My Computer Are Not Compatible

Last evening I spent some time surfing the net and I linked on to a humorous Youtube video featuring my favorite gal pal Celine Dion (Please note the sarcarsm.)

What happened next was total chaos. My evening shifted from a nice relaxing one..... to one filled with frustration. I blame it all on Celine.

I was unable to hear sound from my laptop speakers so I went into the control panel to see if an adjustments needed to be made. (I think I know a thing or two about computers, when in all actuality I really don't.)

I must have hit some setting as the next thing I know, is that every webpage had extra large font size and all the background color was missing. My heartbeat quickened and my stomach did flip flops. OH NO!!!!! What had Celine done?

I called my friend Mark and he tried to help to no avail. Panic was setting in.

I called my computer savvy brother Gregg who thought maybe my version of Internet Explorer 6.0 might be corrupt and that I should uninstall and install IE 7.0. I completed the mission successfully and was happy to see the font size problem was now resolved. I was still missing background colour and this was very perplexing as we had spent a large amount of time doing some troubleshooting (Is that the proper term......ha,ha,ha?)

Gregg was just as perplexed and we had exhausted all options. He suggested I search the net and find if anybody else had ever experienced any thing like this and how it was resolved.

I did just that and I found the solution.........."I believe the problem you are describing is related to the Display Tab-->Use High Contrast setting in the Accessibility Options Control Panel Applet. Uncheck this setting, apply and then try again.This was the problem on a machine I recently 'fixed.'
I did as was suggested and actually watched all of the open pages add color right before my eyes!!!

I still hold Celine Dion responsible.

Girls Night In

Library Girl and Miss Caitlin graced us with their prescence yesterday afternoon. The have both proven to be fantastic friends and great support to our family and myself during the last few months. My youngest daughter Alley adores Library girl and ranks her as one of her best friends. An afternoon of tea and chitchat and an invitation to stay and watch a movie with us in our home theater led to an impromptu invitation to stay and join us on our staycation and have a sleepover. The plan was set in motion and what ensued was an afternoon and evening filled with movies and more movies, manicures, munchies, making friendship bracelets, fancy drinks of lemonade with raspberries and an umbrella to garnish, fun and more fun. Thanks for a great time ladies.

Deal Of The Day

Enlarge and print this coupon and receive $1.00 off your next purchase of any Hungry-Man product. Coupon valid until January 31, 2008.

This & That

The holidays have come and gone and my goal today is to go grocery shopping. I need to take inventory of all the leftover holiday treats and chocolate and restock our shelves and pantry with healthy foods. Unlike many women, I actually enjoy going to the grocery store. I love sauntering up and down each aisle to see what's new and what's on sale. I love purchasing items I've never tried before.

Yesterday I went to the Ciniplex to catch a flick.....P.S. I love you. It was a charming little movie but I did think that Hilary Swank was totally miscast. She is such a strong actor and is ill suited to portray a loveable grieving widow. Another reason I wanted to see this movie is that there is rumour that one of my most favortite novel series may be set to film and that Gerard Butler is being considered to play my favorite character. I saw him in 300 and was intrigued but wanted to get a taste of him again. I think he is a strong contender but my pick to play Mr. Jaimie Fraser would be Clive Owen. I of course would play Claire Fraser.

2007 In Review

When I reflect on 2007 these are the things that either affected me the most or that I can call to mind the most.

The end of the Harry Potter Series as the 7th installment made its novel debut on July 21st.

The year of the Chinese made toy recalls.

The Virginia Tech tragedy.

The unveiling of the iphone.

The death of Anna Nicole Smith and the custody battle of her daughter Dannielynn.

California fires.

The ongoing and sad decline of Brittney Spears.

Paris Hilton spends 3 weeks in jail.

The Hollywood writers strike.

Rosie leaves "The View"

The death of Jerry Falwell.

The Jena 6 trial.

The death of Luciano Pavorotti

O.J. faces more charges once again.

Watching the documentary Planet Earth and wanting to buy a copy for everyone I know.

Watching the third season of Lost and loving every minute of it.

Falling in love with the smoky, sultry voice of Amy Winehouse as she sings......"they tried to make me go to rehab.....I said no, no, no" and hoping someone will stage an intervention.


Former Pakistani Prime Minister Bhuttos assination reflects unrest of Pakistan.

The 30th anniversary of Star Wars.

Enjoying the film "Knocked Up."

Discovering the films of Rob Zombie and becoming a huge fan.

Realizing how great Canadas healthcare system is. I was able to focus on healing and recovery and not worry about the financial cost of radiation and chemo.

New Years Resolutions

I am happy to bid farewell to 2007. Have you set any goals for 2008? I have always been one to set goals for myself, although not always at the beginning of the New Year. I think it is good to give thought to personal growth, change, and challenge. I feel I have grown so much lately but I think my focus this year will be to focus on becoming a fuller version of myself.

25 Best Celebrity Quotes of the Year

You can read them here. My personal favorite is David Letterman to Paris Hilton during her guest appearance following her stint in jail.....too funny.