Past in present

I wanted to update my facebook photo- and by update I really meant - show a picture from nearly 25 years ago. And while I was looking for pictures circa early 80s I came across some photos that I scanned of me at a very young age... The first one shows that I got started on my sweet tooth early. That's a picture of me and my twin David with my Mom- that would've been the late 70s.


Then we have me, Stefan and David during our 7th?? birthday. I remember that shoe cake- and one of us (I think it was me- because I was the witty one) made a joke about "why don't you put the shoe on?!" even though it was really cake- and me and my brothers laughed and laughed about that... sooo funny.


And finally the last one must have been someone else's birthday- but I look like I've overdone it a bit on the cake/sugar or dancing or something. And I need to take a rest!

Reunions

When I was a child I spent my summers in Moncton, NB (well the first summer was in Riverview across the river- at the farmhouse). My Mom would ship us out to stay with my Grandparents for July/August, we did this from the age of 4 to 12(ish). During my summers I would hang out with a variety of kids in the neighbourhood- but Jen Mullane was my best summer friend (and her brother John would hang out with my brothers- this is the same John of "In-Flight Safety" a couple of posts ago).
Through the miracles of facebook, Jen and I have recently re-connected with one another - after nearly TWENTY years!!! She was living in Halifax- but is moving to Toronto in September for a job. Her boyfriend is already here- so she came out for a visit, and she and I got together for dinner last week.
I was nervous about getting together, I mean- what would we talk about? Would we still get along? What if we had nothing in common?? I mean, one can only keep talking about the "good old days" of being a child/pre-teen for so long...
However, as my oldest friend Josephine reassured me "you will never run out of things to talk about Sarah"- we did not run out of things to talk about. Literally- we just picked up where we left off- and it was awesome!
We had a such a great visit and I'm so glad she's moving to Toronto in September... this is a person I had the fondest memories of, and thought I would never see again- and we've already (re)formed a lasting friendship.


Tonight we went with my friend Hayley and Jen's bf Mike to Czehoskis for a drink, and then to Johnny Banana (super yum) for dinner. If you live in Toronto and want good Mexican with wicked Mojitos and spiced hot chocolate- it's the best place to go! (Lola- if you ever get back to Toronto we're totally going there!)

The other totally crazy thing? I asked Jen if she knew anyone else in the city and she said that Mike knew a guy from his high school back in RIVERVIEW (can you see where this is going?!) who had opened a bar in the city- "Czehoskis" (partly why we were there tonight) and his name was "Dave Mitton". He happens to be my second cousin but I haven't seen him since i was 5. (and yes I realize only a girl would know that!)
I knew that he lived in Toronto but we hadn't reconnected... I did meet up with his sister Karen three years ago (only because she happened to be roommates with a colleague of mine), but hadn't met Dave.
So I've been going to Czeshoskis quite a bit in the last week hoping to introduce myself to the long lost relative - but no luck yet- and the people that work there are convinced I'm a stalker and give me funny looks now when I go in... but I'll meet him eventually.
It's like a mini maritimes festival. We all know each other- that's just how it is!! and I just LOVE how I could see my cousin Karen after 25 years- and it was fantastic- and I could see Jen after 20 years- and it was like no time had passed at all.
There is something to be said for friendships where you share memories linking back to the truly simple and pleasureable times of our youth. And if you can build on those friendships and create new memories as you get older- then you are just all the more blessed...

The Real GB

Finally I went out to a cottage for the long weekend. My first summer in TO it seemed I was up at a cottage, or in cottage country, every other weekend during the summer... and then last summer- nothing!
This Canada Day weekend my friend Kathleen was renting a cottage and I went up with her, Jaime, Mandi, Emily and Ashley for a girl's weekend in Grand Bend, dubbed "the real GB". Even though it was slightly chilly on Saturday (like freezing cold actually) we managed to get some sun, spend time in town and have a relaxing mini-vac-ay.
Our cottage was in a gated community (that sometimes we'd have to crawl in and out of- don't ask) and right beside the golf course, about 2 minutes away from the beach. it was fab. This picture is the secret pathway to the beach, with the sunsetpeeking through. We went out for dinner and would watch the sunset over the water- so beautiful. (Except for the cold!)


We didn't cook at all, preferring instead to go out for dinner, or order in. We did however make fabulous mojitos with fresh mint leaves, and the most amazing margueritas! (which Emily and I polished off). The first pic is me and Mandi, Emily and Ashley crushing mint leaves. (I know- so hard core!)


We went out to the bar Saturday night- looking for drama, Jaime snuck us past the line by saying we were with the ad agency for some beer that was doing some promotions that night. She flashed her business card and we were in. So hilar. I mean -we were 6 girls, unsteady on our feet but yah we were totally there to do "work"!! But better than standing in line. (Unfortunately, or maybe thankfully, I didn't take my camera to the bar to capture the moments!)
The rest of the weekend was super chill, just eating and reading and resting. Perfect.
This is our walk along the beach to 'town' (the strip) to get ice cream. Such a taxing day, as part of a taxing weekend!

Rounded out the weekend with another blockbuster movie "Transformers" and it made for a great long weekend. (though if you are going to see a movie I would recommend "A Mighty Heart". It's much more thought provoking and Transformers degenerated into a special effects fest of fighting robots that I couldn't follow).

'In Flight Safety'- AMAZING

So I went to see my friend's brother's band yesterday, In Flight Safety... They were AMAZING!!! They were playing at the Horseshoe Tavern at midnight and I have to say I wasn't sure what to expect. I'm not the biggest fan of indie bands or live music and I've heard many live bands playing in local pubs/bars that are not good... but these guys were soooo good. It reminded me of how I saw Matchbox 20 play at the "Republic" in Calgary a million years ago (good old days) and two years after that they were playing in the Saddledome.

You can buy their songs on itunes or check out their website: http://www.inflightsafety.ca/


The surreal part of the whole experience was that this is someone who I knew 20 years ago- and we just reconnected on facebook. He is actually the younger brother of a good friend of mine- from my summers in Moncton, NB. Jen and I lost touch after I stopped going out East for the summers (as would be expected from young kids before the age of internet)... and then I found her again on facebook- 20 years later. so crazy.
John (the younger brother) was friends with my brothers- so last night I had to be the biggest nerd and get a picture taken with John to post... and then get him to sign my CD. It'll be worth something some day!!! Sigh- Who knew I could be such a groupie?? :)

Evolution keeps winning

It's a bittersweet victory when you are part of a team that has now won a top award for an ad- but are no longer WITH the team that won said award!!! The Dove team at Ogilvy won the Cyber Grand Prix award at Cannes- the top award in the WORLD for advertising... which is exciting, amazing and happens usually once in a lifetime! I'm so proud of everyone who worked on the project and am so proud of being part of such a project. To anyone in advertising- they know this is huge. And for me - While I am missing out on the immediacy of basking in glory and accolades I know that eventually it will be like for everyone else- a cherished and amazing memory. : )
Again no pics. maybe when Janet comes back from Cannes I can steal one of her pictures and upload the moment...

Spa Nails

There have been many many times in the past two weeks where I have thought "That would make a good post" and then I don't write anything- because I don't have a picture to support it. But I also can't carry my camera around everywhere I go! Paul and I went to the clothing optional beach at Hanlon's point a few weeks ago- and I thought that while it might be nice to have a picture of us frolicking on the beach and enjoying the sun (a very enjoyable afternoon), the background scenery might have been a bit much!! (I asked Paul before we left "just exactly how many people go the clothing optional route?" he said "about 10%" but it was opposite day and he meant that pretty much everyone on the beach was naked. Except for me and Paul.
Then that night we went to an amazing fundraiser for Second Harvest (thanks for the tix Edlynne!). It was a night of food and wine stations- with the best food the city had to offer. So delish.
But the reason for my post is a little free advertising for the place "Spa Nails". I went there on Saturday with my friend Robyn and we both had mani-pedis for $35. (plus tip). so amazing!!! It's at Summerhill and Yonge and I only called the day before for resos. We sat in these lovely massage chairs and had an incredibly restful 45 minutes. I'd recommend it to anyone. Spa Nails: 416-928-6565. (of course the pedicure was NOT as good as the one I get in Calgary when I go to Angles Spa in Brentwood with Sue-Ann...but the commute is a bit easier to bear in Toronto!)

baby steps

Having not started a new job for a loooong time... I forgot how overwhelming it can be. It's not just "learning the ropes" at a new place, but learning about new brands (or in my case 4 new brands) and new projects, and new people and processes... aaahhhh...it's a tad overwhelming.
Luckily though the people here at Leo are great- I'm slowly slowly starting to get to know them. I have to remember when I first started working on Dove I was "the quiet one". HAH! I'm finding my patience again and trying to remember that "no Sarah you can't just hug someone randomly..." and people might give me strange looks when I hyber-olate or say "meow meow meow", all the while confusing different projects and brands and research...
But with all of this newness comes a new found source of pride and the simplest things now brings me joy. I feel as if I've accomplish so much just by briefing in a creative team: standard fare in the old days! Things that used to be simple no brainers are now big deals. At least for the time being...

Friends

I had such a great week for friendships! I wanted to share how great it was. It started on the weekend when I spent the day with a friend of mine- helping her to buy a new bike, and riding around town and eating greasy fish and chips in the park before heading off to a noisy dancey bar for some random fun. Monday night I talked to one of my best friends (my twin) for over an hour- just catching up and having a freakin' great conversation. Then afterwards I went over to a friends house for a "wii" night. (Ever played?! SO MUCH FUN). We ate trashy food and played Monkey Ball. Tuesday night I met a new friend for coffee- and a potential 20 min convo turned into an hour and a half of great conversations (yes I'm totally going to overuse the word "great" in this post). Wednesday I met some friends for dinner- it had been a ridiculously long time since we'd last seen each other and we made vows not to let it happen again. Last night I went out for dinner with some friends- a good-bye/hello dinner, and afterwards some other work peeps joined us on the patio. It was amazing: gorgeous outside, everyone was in great spirits and laughing and talking... and I was so content to be there. Then this morning i received a card from a good friend who lives far far away (in the distant land called "Calgary") just saying hi and congrats on the new job. In this era of internet and email I know how much effort that takes- and was all the more appreciative of the thought.
Now will I have a week like this every week? I don't think I could afford it either in money or sleep. But this week was wick and serves to make me appreciate the amazing people that populate my life. And now I have to run and meet some buddies to watched "Knocked Up'- unfortunately I have high expectations for this movie- and anyone who knows me knows that this is not a good thing... maybe I'll post a review of it...
I wish wish wish I had taken my camera with me all week- to capture it all but instead -here is a mini photo of me. Just what everyone wanted. I was having some fun with the iphoto. Dont I look scary and washed out?


Update: I went to the movie- everyone really loved it. I thought it was only ok.

These are a few of my favourite things...

I have two new favourite things- both that I discovered in one day. How fun. First of all I took a pilates class at my office. Yes my office offers Pilates on Tuesdays… which is kind of great. So I thought I’d give it a try - and it nearly killed me. But it was a good kind of near death experience- where I was pushing myself really hard. It’s easy when you have a regular work out routine- to not really break a sweat. Today I’m not sore- which makes me nervous… I’m scared for tomorrow’s muscle pain!!!

The other thing I discovered was the TV show “Entourage” which is kind of like “Sex in the City” for men. I know I know- I’m not a guy, and I’m also about 3 years late on this one. I always “discover” shows when they are nearing the end of their run (“24”, “The West Wing” are two examples). But regardless – I’ve been watching it on the TV Links site (which hosts all kinds of TV shows- LOVE that site!), and am loving it. Sooooo funny. So wrong, and really sad that it’s probably based in reality. But, still funny.

Piggly Wiggly

Yes it exists. I've seen it. I've driven by it. I remember they mentioned the "Piggly Wiggly" in the movie "Sweet Home Alabama" and little ignorant Sarah thought it was something clever that has been written for the movie. But it wasn't. Although to be fair- it's no more off of a grocery chain name than "Overwaitie" which is popular in Western Canada. Anyhow... Here are some pictures - first off- us on the airplane heading down to Birmingham. Then me and my cousin Elisa in front of the Cullman Flea Market, whiling away the hours rocking.




I have to be careful what I write here - it would be sooo easy to make fun of the South and the accents, and the stereotypes which are mostly true (like the 15 yr old who has been driving a truck since he was 6 yrs old)- but that would be too easy- and wouldn't acknowledge what I have discovered: the kindness of the people, and beauty of the countryside. Yesterday I went for a run around the subdivision where my cousin Ross lives- it's so green and spread out and the complete opposite of the housing divisions that sprout up like cancer in the suburbs of Calgary- (which looking exactly the same - like a rash over the city). And the killer thing was- EVERYONE who drove by me, waved at me. Everyone I ran by, nodded, waved and said hello- way nicer than anyone you encounter in the supposedly "nice" city of Toronto (or even Calgary for that matter).


The only thing is I've kind of adopted the southern accent- yikes! If you catch me saying "y'all" then give me some grace to come back down... it's really addictive!! Oh and the last picture is the family outside of the Cheesecake Factory- where you order a small salad and its' about the size of a double XXL. Piggly wiggly indeed...

Time well wasted

So I have a week off between jobs (heading out to Alabama for the long weekend) and find myself at odds for what to do. It's seldom that I have so much unscripted time! What does one do with a week off that doesn't include getting on a plane? I was going to paint my new room- since it's a sickly pale yellow, but the idea exhausts me. Aside from the gym and shopping... and riding my bike... and shopping... any suggestions?! I've actually taken to watching reruns of Beverly Hills 90210. Today Brandon and Steve taught a valuable about standing up for what you believe in, while coaching little league baseball. Counter balancing it with reading Barack Obama's autobiography so that I don't feel like I'm losing too many brain cells. I'll post a review of it.

The End of an Era (well an era for me anyway)

So tomorrow is my last day at Ogilvy- which is definitely bittersweet. I am excited about my new job, and the change and the new opportunities- (I think I need a little shaking up...) BUT I'm also going to MISS everyone at this place soooo much. I've been part of the "Ogilvy Family" for 6.5 years and Team Unilever for 3.5... a long time to be part of such an amazing group of people. I don't think I realized how sad I would be until this week and I started to dismantle my office, and say my good-byes and it became really real. I have never felt such an outpouring of appreciation and love (esp. for my hugs!) than before this week- from colleagues, partners and clients. If anyone ever wants to give their ego a boost they should give notice as it's nothing but compliments from then on out!!

I will say that I'm kind of glad to be leaving with sadness in my heart. At least it shows me that my time here was wisely spent- and that the relationships I've formed here were real and meaningful, and that they will endure.

So now... on to the next terrifying thing... I've been told that the people at Leo (the aegncy I'm going to) aren't "huggers". That's my key point of difference! What am I going to do?! : ) I'll keep you posted on the next stop in the journey...

Moving

So I moved this weekend- to Queens Quay. Area isn't stupendous, though I am close to my fave loblaws and running along the lake (which I will finally start doing again!). I'm sharing accom with my friend Paul- should be fun. I just wanted to tell everyone that if you EVER have to move in the GTA you should call my movers: They were AMAZING!!!! Seriously the BEST movers ever- and I've moved ALOT.
They are the "Polanski Brothers" and their number is: 416-766-0382.

WIlby Wilbs

Two weekends ago I was in Calgary for Cliff's 50th birthday. We had a GREAT family weekend- going out for dinner, getting family photos and watching bad movies. It was just good QT. We haven't had that much time together in a long time.
I also managed to squeeze in a bit of time with some friends- though there are a few I didn't get to see. I was only there for a few days- so what can you do? Here are some pics of Meghan and Brendan tho-v. cute!

Oh and just advice for everyone out there renting a car: DO NOT go with "Dollar Rent a Car" OR "Thriftys" because they are neither a dollar, nor are they thrifty. I would recommend "National" - because they were fantastic... (and cheap believe it or not).
One other hightlight of the weekened, we also got to spend time with David & Tanya's puppy WILBUR. Simply the cutest dog EVER! Here are some pics.

Reverse Anorexia

I'd like to put a question out there- is there such a thing as reverse anorexia? Is there such a disease of the mind that you think you're hot stuff, even though the waistband of your pants is telling you otherwise?! IF so then I think I'm suffering from it...
The last couple of months I've been not as "lean" as I have been in recent years- and yet instead of beating myself up, or chanting the tiresome and oh so familiar "I'm so fat" mantra, I'm actually feeling pretty freakin' good about myself. I'm looking in the mirror and thinking "not bad Sarah- you're looking good" (imagine me saying that in a Herb Tarlek kind of way)
Maybe this is because I'm finally becoming indoctrinated by the Dove campaign for real beauty campaign!

It's a great feeling to look in the mirror and be happy with what you see- for the first(ish) time in 19 years... (since I was a wee child of 12 and declared "If I ever weigh more than 120lbs I'm going to stop eating!"). Yes my friends- if I have reverse anorexia then I am going to embrace it, relish it, and enjoy the occassional bag of mega m&ms guilt free. : )

My cousin- Elisa Mitton

I love my cousin Elisa!!! She's super down to earth and fun- and tells it like it is. We both share a compulsion to clear away clutter, and a high high standard for men. One thing we also share- is our PASSION for Canada. And our desire to sing the Canadian national anthem at local sporting events. And by "local" I mean, in the living room local. I neglected to mention that she was part of the family singalong a few weeks ago in Windsor. And I would NOT be a good cousin if I didn't drag her ... er I mean lift her up with me. She did sing. She was loud. And it was fab!

Hammalicious

I had such a great weekend! I think because it was filled with old friends, new friends, interesting conversation, and new experiences (cooking being one of them!).

Friday night I went out (FINALLY!) with my friend Janet, her husband (who is amazing!!!) and my dear friend Robyn. We went for dinner at Cucina on College (pizza there is sooo good- if you like thin crust) where we had a great convo on religion and then to the Savanah room to listen to some college kids play jazz. It was almost interpretive Jazz and it was very cool.
Saturday I went for brunch with a friend at the greasy spoon by my house. How sad that I am discovering all of these great places near me- when I move in 2 weeks!
I also met someone for coffee, who used the word 'plebicite' in our conversation. Er... how bad is it that I don't know what that word means?! Turns out: not so bad. I've informally polled 5 friends since then - who also don't know what it means. whew. But still a v. interesting guy (I think my "blond" moments might have scared him a bit tho!).
Saturday night I went to a FAB dinner party, filled with fabulous gorgeous people, and lots of wine. and dancing. so much dancing. and a late night walk at home from the Docks until I could find a stupid cab who would actually drive me across the highway. Seriously- they all want these amazing fares driving people up to North York or something, and are willing to let me walk alone at 3am in the dodgiest neighbourhood ever!! (well I was by the Docks and not really alone, but still!)
Finally Sunday morning I went for brunch where I made my hammalicious n' egg muffins! My friend Terry (who lives upstairs from me) threw the brunch- it was so amazing, and I met the most interesting people. As well as connected with some old friends.
And the recipe for the muffins?? Well since you asked...


Hammalicious Ham n' egg muffins

Ingredients: thinly sliced black forest ham (or you could use pancetta if you were feeling fancy), eggs, swiss cheese, peppers and onions.
What you do: sautee the onions and peppers. set aside. Put the ham into the muffin tray- creating a cup out of the ham. Put the peppers in the bottom. whisk 8 eggs (for 10 muffins)and pour eggs into the cup. bake for 12 min at 350C. Put shredded cheese on top of muffin and bake for another 10-15 minutes. (or until done).
They come out like little muffins and taste sooo good. (the host of my brunch ate 3 of them before anyone else even showed up!) I'm such a little chef.

enjoy! oh and that's not a picture of the muffins, but I suppose it could be, if I were a professional and art directed a shot of them... stranger things have happened. (my facebook photo was from a photoshoot afterall!)

How to be Canadian

I went to Windsor this weekend to visit family (Easter and all). As per usual I had a great time connecting with the family who were fairly absent from my life for the first 27 years (not completely absent mind you- but not around for every Christmas, birthday etc). Since I moved to Toronto they have welcomed me with open arms and I've gone down on many occassion to see how the black sheep of the family lives. (and while i'm on the topic- my Dad's family in Waterloo has also done an amazing job of making me feel like family since I moved out here. It's really a testament to the power of family). Anyhoo... This time we were nearing the event of my cousin Samantha's graduation from Grade 8 so we had to go shopping for a dress for her. I'm not going to lie to you- it was a tribulation, BUT we emerged from the Detroit MASSIVE mall victorious, with a dress and shoes in tow. We then went to my FAVE store, Target, for a quick jaunt, and were off again for homeland.
So wait- this doesnt' sound Canadian at all- does it? All we did was spend our hard earned dollars in the horrid city of Detroit! But wait- I'm getting there... The next day the fam had to attend to some family duties, and I spent some QT with my Grandma.
What did we do? We watched the World Cup for Curling! It doesn't get more Canadian than that! The finals were between Canada and Germany, and Canada kicked Germany's butt. I have played curling before (in school, and in one unfortunate instance- with my work colleagues for our Christmas party), but have never watched it. I've realized it's like any sport that is in a playoff scenario- it can get pretty interesting. I also found out a few interesting facts: 1. My Grandpa played in the Brier Cup in the 50s (that's the Canada Cup thingie), and 2. There are 1 million curlers in Canada, compared to 300,000 in the whole rest of the world combined.
After Canada won the tournament, they had the ceremony to hand out the trophy and medals. Of course to mark this occassion they played the National Anthem, at which point my uncle Ross (they were home by this time) instructed the family to all stand and sing. yes you read right. It was one of the most peculiar, yet proud moments. Ross, Samantha, Syndey and I sang with our hearts out, while my Grandmother looked on. And we celebrated being Canadian.
I told this story to someone yesterday and he was suitably embarrassed for me and instructed me to "never speak of it again", but instead- I'm posting it on my blog.
The pics are of Samantha and Sydney in their Grad and Easter dresses respectively.

Sheep & the Urban Family

Last night me and my friends finally got together to play a game of "Sheep" (aka "Settlers of Catan")- for the first time in nearly a year. It's a strategy game where one has to take over settlements and build cities, pirates are involved... it gets quite complicated and I realize I sound like a giant nerd describing it- but it's SO MUCH FUN! I LOVE it. But I am a self professed geek so its ok. Just a hint to anyone looking for a fun game with their friends- but be warned that it's about two steps away from dungeons & dragons (shudder).
The best part was getting together with my urban family again. We used to convene once a week for Texas Hold 'Em, but as it happens, life got in the way, we all got busy, and that fell by the wayside. I forgot how much fun we can have together sitting around a table, drinking some wine and flinging cheap shots at one another. (The game can get pretty personal).
We were at Jeff & Josh's new place, just a stone's throw from Jen & Kirsti's new digs and a few blocks from Bobby & Ian (can you tell the pattern here?) and we were lucky Jen L happened to be in the city long enough to join us! (jetting off to Amsterdam next I believe?) And although Jeff, Jen, Jen, Bobby, Patricia and Sarah (those are the characters in the South Park picture!) have now grown to include Josh, Kirsti and Ian, I think its still important to find opportunities for more sheep. I did buy Bobby that expansion pack after all...

Best in Show

The 2007 Marketing awards were last night- and our team won the top prize "Beat in Show" for "Evolution". If you haven't seen this video yet- check it out at www.campaignforrealbeauty.ca. It's amazing!! Since I managed the project I went up on stage with the whole team to accept the award- which was kind of cool. And my picture might make it into marketing magazine- which would be very cool. I'll see next week.

To celebrate - our team went to the Gladstone to do some karaokee! (Well just Hayley- she rocked out). We found this completely random karaokee van to take us there- a van with a screen, mikes and a disco ball. Funny how easy it is to sing after a couple of glasses of wine!!

We then went on to the Drake for the after party, and then home by 2:30am. Not too bad considering I had to get up this morning at 6:30am for a Hellmann's photoshoot. It's not all glamorous! It's been a long day...

Sweet Home Alabama

I heard the craziest thing the other day. My cousin Ross has moved to Alabama and fallen in love. He is getting married (he's 24). No- that's not the crazy part... His fiancee went to the doctor the other day for a pre-natal exam. (still not the crazy part). and the doctor had a series of questions he needed to ask her as part of her family history. One of these questions was... (drumroll and get ready for the crazy)... "Is the Father kin?"

Spring is sprung

I was finally in the city this weekend- although part of it was spent in Hamilton. I went to Hamilton Friday night to see my cousin Samantha play basketball (they WON both games!! woohoo!!!). It was great to see my uncle Ross and Sam again- I haven't seen them since Christmas. I can't believe how tall Sam is... I just wish I'd remembered to take my camera.

Then Saturday night I went to Kirsti's belated 30th birthday and finally saw Jen and her's apartment. I love it. I'm so sad i'm going to be moving away from it. The party was a 70s theme- which I forgot, but Jen lent me her pucci scarf for the soiree. I rocked it.

Then on Sunday, Robyn and I left the "city" and went to High Park. Seriously- Toronto is so huge, and i get caught up in my little quadrant... don't head north of Bloor, East of Parliament or West of Bathurst- and I'm missing out on an entire CITY! We went for a walk in High Park, then to Bloor West Village to walk around. We couldn't even SEE the city from where we were- imagine! It was great. wicked cold out- if it weren't so cold I would have insisted we go check out the animals- Robyn doesn't believe me when I tell her that there is a whole zoo in the park. At least I think there is...

Surprises to brighten my day

Wow. I have been having a pretty stressful time at work lately and I think I may have been complaining too loudly and too often! Way out in Calgary, my second Dad Cliff heard me- and sent me a surprise. (well it was supposed to arrive Monday- but DHL is not known for their superior domestic shipping.)

What was this surprise? It arrived in a little blue box. From Birks. YAY!!! My ears are now adorned with beautiful diamond earrings. I was going to take a picture and post it- but that seemed a bit OTT.
Thanks Cliff- I love them! : )

When its good to be bad at math

I completely forgot that I contribute money to a different RSP fund- $50/month. It's not much- but it all adds up and it means that I added up my RSP contributions incorrectly. Turns out I don't owe money to "the man", but actually get a refund. Not much but it's better than owing. Yay for RSPs!!!!

The tax man cometh

Every year I hear all of these stories about people who get back huge sums of money in their tax return. "I get $2800". "I only got $3400 this year." (sob sob) "My girlfriend is getting back $8500." Well this year I OWE $275. WTF?! How is it that I NEVER get great tax returns, and end up OWING money?! Seriously?! What's the trick?! I give to RSPs (a decent amount, though I know I could give more), I claim my rent (which is huge and exhorbinant)... I have a professional doing my taxes (my uncle)... I just don't get it. Why does the government hate me? big sad sigh.

I'm adding a picture of Theo (my Goddaughter) and Kaleb, her brother, from Christmas. They have nothing to do with taxes but they are cute!!!

Deep Deep Breaths

words of wisdom: I must remember to take deep breaths. I think have to start running again too because my stress levels are getting out of control. Run and breath. Two keys to happiness. Or to at the very least, not pulling out all of your hair.

oh and I have to share a fun little answering machine message I heard today. It was a colleague of mine's daughter who is on the cusp of being a teenager, but still young enough to be fun and sweet. (read not "too cool" for everything). The message was just a song about cheese. Just cheese. and asking one to leave their message. It made me smile. : )

Babies Babies Babies

One of the best things about visiting home is that I get to reconnect with old friends. (Although this time I didn't get a chance to see everyone- the hazards of running in and out in two days!). I've very glad to have spent even a little bit of time with the friends I did see. Everyone is doing so great- with nearly finishing school (yay yay yay!), changing jobs (so happy about that one), raising their families- and going on blind dates (which I totally relate to!). sigh- I miss my friends.


Also very fun are the babies- who I got to see on Saturday night. (Sorry again Char for being late). The first picture is Brendan and Meghan- who are destined to be together. Brendan is older (by 5 weeks) but already you can see Meghan is pretty much running the show in their relationship. She's got to keep a tight rein on that boy. I can't wait til they start talking... what will they be like then?!

Best Damn Burgers in Calgary

Last night I went to "Tommy Burger" for dinner with my parents. My brother Stefan is the GM there (that's him working behind the bar). They just opened the joint 4 weeks ago- to critical aclaim and wonder. John Gilchrist- noted food critic (is he just in Calgary or Canada?) said "it's about time". They were on a segment on the Breakfast Television show - Stefan was telling everyone about their Ceasar drink. You were great Stefan! Fun fact: The Caesar was created in Calgary. It's known as "Canada's cocktail". If Calgary is known for anything... ginger beef and clamato & vodka.

As expected the burgers were delish. Tommy Burger is located on Macleod Tr S- right next to Shanks. If you have a chance - go go go !! And I recommend : sharing the milkshake- it's huge, and getting the California burger- with sprouts and guac.

Also in my adventures in Calgary yesterday: I got my hair done (I still don't have a hairstylist in Toronto) and its way too dark underneath (a look that is "played out", as my youthful colleague would say) and a pedicure. While the dark hair is not so great (though I still rock it!!), the pedi was fab- it took two hours but I didn't even notice the time go by. And now I have a new friend on facebook!

Serendipitous encounter

So I'm sitting in the Denver airport, doing some work, when a woman sits down next to me and starts to chat. She surmises that I'm Canadian because I'm reading perezhilton.com (taking a mini break from email) and no American she knows outside of LA and NY would be interested in something so 'vulgar' or entertaining. This led to a discussion on the 'limits' of American thinking, the Dove campaign for real beauty- and our current "pro-age" campaign. I told her about a group in the US who is boycotting Dove products because they believe the pro-age campaign is inappropriate (it features naked older women in discreet tasteful poses). She turned out to be a journalist who LOVES the campaign, and was outraged that there would be any kind of negative response. Long story short, we exchanged cards, and there could be a good PR story there.

Check out the new campaign at www.dove.ca/home/

Tales of the yaya beachhood pt 3

I went for a walk along the beach this morning- the shore was littered with dead jellyfish- bloated out and blue. the sand was full of broken shells beneath my feet- so it hurt but it was a pleasant kind of pain. And the water was so blue blue blue. Two different shades. Light blue at the start, deepening to a dark blue further out. All of it crystal like- with the sun winking off the waves.
Another full day on set- we had to wait a few hours for the sun to set- it took so long. Funny enough- yesterday we were racing to finish a scene before we lost the sun. Today has been more relaxed- we jumped on the trampoline and I did a status update from a hammock. This has been a good week.

South Beach pt 2

On Monday I sat by the pool at the Shore Club and did work. I wanted to show visual proof of me actually working while I'm here!! Of course the view is nicer than my office.

Today was day 1 of the shoot- busy... but a beautiful day. A mother duck and her ducklings joined us for breakfast (that's Wendy reading the paper), and we spent the afternoon sitting out by the pool in the ginormous backyard. Sigh- what do these people do that they live in these types of houses?! And how can i meet one?

Tomorrow is another full day of shooting, though we start later and go later. I'm hoping to get to the beach in the morning- and at least dip my toes into the ocean. I haven't done nearly as much (or any) running as I wanted to- but c'est la vie.

I'm too portly, poor and pale for this town. pt 1

I have to admit that I didn't know what to expect when I came to Miami- I never watched Miami Vice- and my exposure has been limited to pictures of Lindsay & Paris partying in South Beach. We are staying at the Shore Club, which is super pretentious and glitzy and flashy- kind of like the pictures of Lindsay & Paris partying in South Beach (it IS SB afterall). But great people watching. The first night we went walking along Lincoln Ave where they have great shopping and tons of restaurants. We went for Tapas- which should have been great, but unfortunately was mostly deep fried. Yesterday we did some work and then went to the beach to work some more. Then Wendy (my client) and Jane (my copywriter) went back to Lincoln to do some buying. We were pretty good until we got to Anthropologie and then we all went a little crazy- Jane and I bought some matching shoes. I love that store- but it's sooo expensive!

Last night went to the restaurant "Nobu"- very very good sushi. We saw Hulk Hogan. That's the sales guy Scott, from Radke, and my copywriter Jane, who are posing with him. I didn't want to get into the picture because he's so cheesy. I now think I should've embraced the cheesiness- he's likely to be only my brush with celebrity. Then we went to the Delano for drinks- it's exactly like the C Lounge in toronto- with cabanas and a pool in the middle of it. very beautiful setting but the people were ugly.

Today we went to the Everglades and I held an alligator. (first picture) Funny enough- this is the second time I've done that (the first time being on a tour I took in a bayou in New Orleans). This one was a little bit bigger and squishier. Yesterday we also went to the beach and did some 'work' on our chaise lounges. Sigh...its tough. : ). Will update more tomorrow.

I heart Air Canada

I arrive at the airport this morning at 8am- for a 9:35 flight. I think I have enough time. There is a line-up 500 people long for the 'express' check in (USE WEB CHECK IN - it's sooo much faster- for right now), and then another 400 people line up for customs. Security wasn't so bad. However I wasn't anxious about missing my flight- because it was THREE HOURS delayed!!!!! I have a meeting at 4 which I will now miss. In fact- they've just now said that they don't know when my flight will be ready... sigh. Gotta go mail my colleagues before my computer dies (Dell batteries last for about 20 minutes FYI).

White out

I was in a meeting yesterday on the 12th floor with wall to wall windows. In the middle of the meeting we were interrupted by thunder and lightening- in the middle of the SNOW STORM. It was a complete white out- so crazy!!!! I'm so happy to be going to Miami tomorrow!!

Christmas 2006- so late I know

Finally I'm also uploading pictures from Christmas 2006. This year was really great as BOTH of my brothers stayed at my parents house for the holiday- as well as Tanya (David's girlfriend) and Wilbur (the dog) - so it was a full house. We hadn't all been together like that for years! I was also home for a longer time and feel like I got to catch up with friends for more than just one quick visit. There are pictures of Theo & Kaleb, David & Tanya at the zoo on boxing day (I didnt' go shopping for a change!), Stefan, David & Tanya in our living room, my Grandma celebrating her 82 birthday, Meghan and her parents (sort of old friends!), me Abs & Lori, and finally me and Scott- who I hadn't seen in years.