First Book Review! *may contain mini spoilers!*

I've finally finished a book; well, actually, I've read several books in the last little while, but I haven't really been reading anything new lately. However, that has changed! I just finished reading Battle Magic by Tamora Pierce, and I thought I'd share a little bit of what I thought about it with you. Because why not; I like books and reading, I'm trying to encourage myself and others to read, and sometimes sharing a book is the best way to do that.

I have to preface this my saying that I've been waiting for a new book from Tamora Pierce for a long time, and then once I received it I was busy and couldn't read it right away. I was also lost among re-reads, so even though this has been sitting on my shelf since Christmas, I've only just finished it. I don't know how or why, but my moods dictated that I re-read other stories before turning to this, and I'm sort of glad that I did. I re-read some of the earlier Circle of Magic books, and I managed to refamiliarize myself with the characters of Briar, Evvy, and Rosethorn.

I'm a little bit disappointed. As much as I hate to admit it, I just wasn't as gripped by what was happening as I have previously been by Pierce's books. It could, of course, be because I've already read The Will of the Empress and thus already know a little bit of what must have happened; heck, I've read Melting Stones as well, so I even knew Luvo. There just weren't very many large plot devices that, as a T. Pierce fan, I didn't know had to happen before the end of the book. As much as I love Briar (he's my favourite of the Discipline Cottage students), Rosethorn, and Evvy, I didn't see the growth in them that I wanted to see; I feel like because I knew them before the book, and after the book, there couldn't be much of a scope for overall growth throughout the novel, as it had already been established how they would end up. As much as I love the characters, and was thrilled with the way they interacted with each other (something about the relationship between Rosethorn and Briar just makes me grin), I found myself wishing they could grow and evolve.

The new characters were both highlights, and disappointments for me. Parahan and Jimut were interesting, fun new characters to meet, and I feel like they were well written; in fact, I'm a little bit sad that we don't get to know more about them, their lives, and their futures. The Emperor, well... I'm not sure where I sit with regards to him. I understand that he's supposed to be a large political threat, and a vile, vicious man, but I just.. I didn't find myself seeing him as much more than a spoiled child and a plot device; he was the powerful enemy that would invade Gyongxe, so we had to see how vile he was: He'd burn down an entire garden because of a single defective rose, and he'd buy people of great rapport to be treated as pets, therefore he must be awful. As a great and powerful emperor, he just fell a little bit flat to me. I have to say though, so did the God-King; he struck me very much as a boy who was a leader so that Gyongxe was more vulnerable in appearance at some points, and then at others he was a very wise person. I'm sure this is all by design, because of the shared connection with the Gods, but it was a bit bizarre.

The descriptions, and uses, of Ambient Magic were of course interesting and well written, but there were a few things in the plot that were questionable to me: why did Rosethorn have to go on her quest; was it because of the religious implications, or was it just a plot device so that her strength in later novels could be continued? The rescue of Parahan I understood, and applauded, as it helped to greatly drive the novel forward, but the huge emphasis put on Jia being the one to harm Evvy I could have done without; it seemed like a fairly unnecessary detail to me, and though I'm sure it was supposed to showcase a betrayed relationship, it fell flat with me; it would have been more effective for me personally if someone who hadn't shown any care for Evvy had been her prosecutor.

Overall, I have to say that I enjoyed the story as a whole, and it was nice to see exactly why the character behave as they do in later stories. However, my one great regret is that I read this after I'd read Melting Stones and The Will of the Empress. If you've never read any Pierce, or if you're just starting to read about Emelan, I would certainly recommend this book; heck, even if you've read all the other books, I'd recommend this book. However, if you can read them in chronological order, as opposed to the order in which they were written, please do!

I'd give this novel 3 happy shakkans out of 5 because of the order in which I ended up reading it.

So, how're we feeling? Hopefully like grabbing a mug of tea and settling into a new novel. That's what I'm off to do. Well, I'm drinking water right now, and I've got a copy of Anna Dressed in Blood waiting for me, on loan from the local library. Ciao!

Baking Experiment Success Stories

 Well hello there! I don't have any tea today, and I'm not going to talk about coffee - anyone that knows me knows I song drink it. And I know it's been a while since I've posted anything at all, but you know, life. I'm going to do something a little bit different today and talk about food; I know this isn't a food blog, but I've been doing a lot of food related things lately, and I thought I'd share. 

In the 18th of may I had this incredible craving for cheesecake, and I absolutely adore cheesecake, but sometimes it's so heavy it makes me feel a bit ill afterwards. However, while I was in Galway last year I had the most amazing, light and fluffy cheesecake, so I thought I would try to find a recipe like it. The one I had was mint, but the one I ended up making was a lightly flavored lemon cheesecake, and it was sort of amazing. 

 Here's what I looked like while baking - nothing special; just a cheesecake. Well, actually, it's a Japanese Cheesecake. I found the recipe on Pinterest, and oh my gosh it was amazing. Personally there are a few things I'd do a little differently than I did, but that's partially because my pan is larger than prescribed so my filling was rather thin. However, I can't even tell you how satisfying this recipe was. And my cheesecake didn't crack along the top either, so it cooled properly and not too rapidly, which is a first for me! 

 

It looks like a pretty basic, round cheesecake, with nothing strange to offer, right? Right. Well, it was wonderfully light and lemony, and topped off with raspberries it was superb. 

 (Cheesecake recipe can be found at http://www.tofoodwithlove.com/2012/06/light-and-creamy-Japanese-cheesecake.html?m=1 )

This isn't the only Pinterest dessert I've made lately, either. A friend pinned a chia seed pudding recipe a little while ago, and we have an abundance of chia seeds at home lately (we use them in our breakfast), so I decided to try this out. I also had a can of coconut milk sitting in my cupboard begging to be used, and since I'm not a huge fan or curry, I decided this was the best was to go. It was really easy to make, and surprisingly good; I popped some fresh fruit into it when I packaged it up to take it to work, and the flavour melded into the pudding by the time I got around to having my break. It looks weird, and my family kept asking what THAT was 

 In our fridge, but it was worth it! The recipe for that goodie can be found at http://www.simplebites.net/how-to-make-simple-chia-pudding/ and it really is simple to make. I made the maple syrup one and used coconut milk, and it was fantastic and simple. 

I know this has been short, but hey, it's better than nothing, isn't it? So, how've you been; is the summer starting to beckon to you? And what are some of your recent cooking experiments, or recipes you love that sound strange? I've got to run and take some chocolate-quinoa cupcakes out of the oven (another random baking experiment), but I hope you're doing well! Please do tell me about your recipes; I seem to be in a baking/dessert experimentation phase :)

Oh, yes, well then.

Hullo. Wow, so I always knew I'd be terrible at updating a blog regularly, but I never thought I'd be this awful. Seriously, this is terrible; I just found a half-finished post saved on here that's from three months ago (which has since been deleted, as I have no idea where I was going with it)! So, what has happened since I posted my cookie recipe? Well, I started a new job, baked more cookies, and celebrated Christmas and New Years with my family, among other things. It's been quite a while, hasn't it?!

So, how've you been? I'd offer you something to drink, as I have learned it is customary to do with guests, but all I currently have is water, wine, rum, coke, and tea, so your choices are limited. I'm drinking wine; it's late in the evening, and I am savouring the glass I poured to have with dinner - what can I get for you?

Right, well, now that we're all settled with our respective drinks, how are you? I've been quite well, thank you; as I said, I've started a new job, so that's terribly exciting. No, honestly, some days it does feel as if it's going terribly, though I've been assured it's not just me; I'm working as a pharmacy assistant, and being trained on-the-job, so it's a lot to learn and take in, though I haven't messed it up too terribly yet (I just have to get the hang of it; why doesn't 30 grams of ointment always fit in a 30 gram jar?!). Yes, so, that's what's consuming my life currently; that and house-sitting, of course. And yourselves? Has anything terribly exciting happened to the internet since I last wrote? I mean, outside of news articles that have circulated the globe, have I missed anything terribly important?

It sounds like I'm up-to-date? Aw, what a lovely thing for you to say, though I'm certain it's hardly true! Anyways, how were your Holidays? Mine were fantastic, and incredibly busy! I'd show you the photos, but I sort of, accidentally, haven't been taking that many. I know, I know, I said I would be taking more, but.... It would seem that I told you a falsehood; I'm terribly sorry about that. However, yes, Christmas was incredibly busy this year. We hosted dinner, and of course we had to get everything else finished before that, so it's a good thing my sister demanded I be back in the family home by 7:30am so that she could "wake me up!" never mind how busy the day was, it was still absolutely fantastic, and then the next few days before New Years were also insanely busy, so there was certainly no rest in my house until this weekend, actually, and even that hasn't been terribly restful.

You see, I'm house-sitting, so I'm in another person's house at the moment. The homeowners have more people coming in on about the 14th or 15th, which is all well and good, but I'm working the weekend before that, so I've got to make sure I get everything I need to finished before they arrive home. Also, today I had to run into the city and pick up a few things, and the weather was absolutely gorgeous, so of course I dawdled. And then, my sister wanted me to accompany her and Momma to lunch and the grocer, as she's just moved out on her own (like, New Years Day, not even joking), so I didn't get home as early as I'd anticipated. Then, dinner. And of course, the wine. And a movie. And now here it is, 10 o'clock in the evening, and I've not done the housework. Tomorrow, hopefully, I can get some of it done. After Jazzercise, and before dinner and Grandma's? Hopefully!

Hmmm, I think that's really all I have to say this evening. I fear I must depart; there's idiots arsing around in their trucks outside, and I may just be a crotchety old lady and go tell them off. Either that, or I'm off to the other side of the house with my wine to watch some television before bed; I haven't decided yet. Have a pleasant night, my dear, and enjoy your evening. I'm hoping I'll be better at this blogging thing in 2014, but I make no guarantees. Who know though; perhaps I'll even get my travel blog from the summer months finished and updated (yeah, right; who am I trying to kid?!)

Goodnight, sleep well, and keep warm against the winter's chill!

-L.C.

Tastes Like Autumn!

Alright, so lately I made some cookies. Actually, they were really yummy cookies, and I posted a few photos on facebook. I’ve had a few people asking about a recipe, so I thought I would share. If you’re interested in the original, I found it on this fantastic blog, here.

She says the yield it about three dozen, but I think I managed about two. However, if you multiply the recipe by five, as I did the other day, you end up with a plethora of cookies. Possibly too many (yes, I said there was such a thing as too many cookies). But I needed to use my homemade pumpkin puree before it went bad, and these were just too good to resist making more.

Also, these cookies are frosted pumpkin-spice cookies

I’d suggest pre-heating your oven, of course. The recommended temperature is 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ingredients for cookies

• ·         2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (I used whole wheat)
• ·         1 tsp baking powder
• ·         1 tsp baking soda
• ·         2 tsp cinnamon
• ·         ½ tsp nutmeg
• ·         ½ tsp cloves
• ·         ½ tsp salt
• ·         ½ cup of butter, softened
• ·         1 ½ cups of sugar (I didn’t actually use this much and they turned out fine)
• ·         1 cup pumpkin puree
• ·         1 egg
• ·         1 tsp vanilla extract

Ingredients for Icing (Oh yes, these are chai-frosted!)

• ·         2 cups of icing sugar (I’m still trying to work up the courage to halve this and substitute corn starch; the frosting can be quite sweet. This is a good deterrent from eating too many though!)
• ·         3 tbsp milk
• ·         1 tbsp melted butter
• ·         1 tsp vanilla extract
• ·         1 chai tea bag

Combine your dry ingredients in one bowl, and your wet ingredients in another (creaming your butter and sugar, and then adding your egg, vanilla, and pumpkin after). Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well-combined.

My batter turned out sticky, so before I popped my cookies onto my baking sheets, I greased them fully. The blog’s author recommends using parchment paper, which is also an excellent option.  Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, switching racks about halfway through. When you remove your cookies from the cookie sheets, make sure they have an opportunity to fully cool before they are frosted.

To make the frosting melt your butter and milk together in a sauce pan, heating fully (seriously; if you don’t heat them in a sauce pan, the frosting doesn’t thicken properly. Weird, right?). Steep the chai tea bag in the liquid for 5-7 minutes, just as you would if you were making a cuppa, and then… Well, you could reuse it, I guess, but I put mine in the compost. Put your new solution into your icing sugar and vanilla, beat until smooth, and frost your cookies as desired.

Seriously, these cookies were pretty delicious. I mean, they disappeared from my house pretty quickly, and I haven’t had any complaints from anyone yet!

Do any of you have a holiday favourite? What about a favourite sweet to make during the fall; I’d love to try some new recipes!

~*~ Follow Your Dreams ~*~

L.C. 

Well, Shall We?

Our Prime Minister has written a book.

I mean, I shouldn’t really be surprised, a lot of people write books, in a lot of different ways, but my first thought of course was: “when?!” So I did a bit of reading. Apparently he started writing in around 2005, and plugged away at it in sections, 15 minutes a day style. Huh. So of course, that go me thinking as well. What would happen if I sat down to write for fifteen minutes a day? What could I come out with?

Well, honestly, I can’t answer my own question. However, I think this may be a new challenge to try. For fifteen minutes a day, I’ll sit down and write. I already know there will be days when I get nothing done; everyone has a day where they just can’t get the words to the page, eh? But maybe some days will be better than others, and I’ll actually decide to keep writing. Who knows? I certainly don’t.

What will I write about though? Hmm, what do I want to write about; shall I write a fantasy, a thrilling adventure with spells and sorcery; or shall I write a tale of the sea, a swashbuckling fantasy about a pirate and the troubles he faces; again, I could try to write something more based in reality - a trip to Europe, a life in the county; anything is possible, and I think that’s what has been stopping me in the past - not knowing what to write about.

Of course, after you have a topic and a plot with a basic manuscript, there’s the research. You don’t want to stumble into something and then realize you’ve got it all wrong; but to get there, of course, you have to have an idea. So. What do you think I should look at writing about (aside from completing my Europe blog… I’ll get to it, I *promise*. I’ve even got my journal in a special place on my desk, and the photos are going up on Facebook in an order now!)? “Far-off places, daring sword fights, a prince in disguise?” (Beauty and the Beast) Or shall I keep it closer to home, and what I know? Hmm. With Halloween coming up, maybe I’ll write something spooky? Or, of course, I could write a series of short stories.

Actually, that’s not too bad an idea - a series of short stories, each being written in fifteen minutes. It could be like those “Math Minutes” you do in school; except not math, and certainly not only one minute. I wonder…

Well, now I’m wondering many things; will I actually do this; do I have the drive to see it through; when should I start; what will I do on days that I can’t find the time; why is it so hard to find fifteen minutes to myself some days. A multitude of questions are now clamouring for space in my mind, and thus, I must leave you. I’m off to do a spot of cleaning, and then when I get home to fix the drivers on my laptop and eventually print off my booklist so that I can begin organizing my personal library.

~*~Follow your dreams!~*~

xx  L.C.

Well hello there, again!

I feel as though I’ve neglected my blog, but I just couldn’t keep up with two while traveling. Therefore, “Hello, it’s so nice to see you again!”

        (I went to Stonehenge this summer).

    I’m back from Europe, have been for a little over a month, and as such I’m attempting to readjust to life as a somewhat sedentary being. By somewhat sedentary I don’t mean that I don’t get out, but that I’m not moving every 2-4 days like I was in Europe. If you want to hear more about my time in Europe, my blog on that is over at travel-with-leah.blogspot.ca. It’s not quite completed yet as, like I said, I’m trying to readjust. Also because I’ve been busy with the travelling thing.

    Anyways, how are you? I’d pour you a cup of tea, but as you see, that’s quite improbable - I’m here, and you’re over there. What a predicament, isn’t it? But alas, I shall have to keep up a one-sided conversation then, and try to provide some sort of entertainment. Where to begin…. Well, the last month has flown by for me, as I’m certain it has for you. I arrived home, tried to get over jetlag, tried to get used to driving again, and went back to work. I also did some housesitting, and here we are. I’m frazzled; are you frazzled? I can’t believe it’s already part of the way through September! I’ve got more cover letters to write than I know what to do with, am currently looking in on 2 pets at 2 separate homes, and working. Also, the aforementioned cover letters allude quite nicely to the job search that I am currently undergoing, don’t they? I thought it was a nice way to broach a topic, anyways.

           --this is Bailey, our new puppy!

    So yes, today I’d like to talk a little bit about job searching. I don’t know about you, but it doesn’t get any easier the more I do it. In fact, I’m thinking it may get a bit more difficult, because you not only have to update your resume, but every job you apply for requires a well-tailored cover letter; that’s the hardest part for me. Cover letters are my downfall; they just make me uncomfortable. “Here, here’s one page of paper. properly address and date it, and then use the rest of the space to tell me your work history, where you found this opportunity, and why you’re the best candidate for this whole job. Oh, and because we’ve never met, I’m making snap decisions about you based solely on these few pieces of paper you either send me, or hand over. So do it right.” That’s what cover letters say to me. I can’t help but to image this huge, faceless person lurking in the shadows when I set out to write a new cover letter. It’s always a basic humanoid shape, but I always image a deep male voice. And the figure is ALWAYS about a foot and a half taller than me.

   

    Even though I’ve had a basic outline for my cover letters for years, the task doesn’t become any less daunting; I’m just not good at basically bragging about my accomplishments (or lack thereof). What about you, how are you? Are you applying for jobs as well; if so, how’s it going? Do you have any tips for someone like me, who seems to be drowning in paper? Please, let me know!

    I guess that’s all I’ve actually got to say today. Maybe next time I won’t be at work and drinking only water. Then perhaps we can sit down and make a cup of tea together. Cheers until next time!

xx  L. C.

Wow, hey. Apparently I've sucked at keeping my blog up to date since I graduated. Did I even mention that I graduated? Erm... Yes, yes I did. Well that's good, I don't suck at this nearly as much as I thought I do then. I'm not very good at it, still, but that's something I can work on.

I'm house sitting (again) currently, and I'm taking care of two lovely little cats, Spook and Mitzy (Mitsy?), and I have a view of the ocean, and life is good. But that's not my reason for being here today. Nah, today I just have to say 'I'm going to Europe in like 59 days!' This is a thing that's happening, so yay! I'm not sure if I'll have much time to blog while abroad, but I'm hoping I get to write a little bit (maybe on the train/bus/plane?) and because of that, I'd like to direct you to my shiny, new, never been used (yet) travel blog. If you want to follow my adventures (and preparation), I'll try to be better at updating things there than I am at updating things here. Other than that, I don't have much to say tonight. I've been trying to get back into some writing tonight, fueled by brie with crackers and jam, and tea (and Dr Pepper because I'm classy like that?), and it's been... Interesting. Apparently I'm writing a short story about the search for that perfect, elusive white tee shirt. Who knew?

I guess I could give you a sneak peek at that, but you'd possibly die of boredom. *reads back story* Yeah, you'd definitely be bored. So I'll leave you with a few quick photos of... erm... Early December through January and February. Yeah, sorry 'bout that.

Frosted Leaves :)

 

Snowy Hills (and trees) on a New Years Day walk :)

Walks with the Great Aunt by the sea :)

I live in the best place (by Great Aunt's house in... January!)

House sitting view, zoomed in. 

Isn't she a cutie? With the Observatory floor in the Castle

These ladies and I played tourist in our "hometown" in December

Night at the Gardens. 

Always something new.

Cats. When I was little I always wanted a kitten, but we had dogs and they were old enough that they hadn't learned to deal with cats and possibly never would, so I never had a cat. At the moment I've got two because I'm housesitting. They don't always play nice, and they've taught me a few things in our two weeks together.

1). I think I'd have to start with a kitten. The cats here are lovely, but we have opposite ways of doing things. If I had a kitten to start with, at least we could grow accustomed to each other as we grew up.

2). 5:30am is still a disgustingly early time of day to be awoken when you are least expecting it (and when you have nowhere to be until 10).

3). Cats don't observe time changes and thus will wake you at or by 5:30am after you "fall back" because they are so used to getting up at a certain time.

4). Cats are cute, but their claws are sharp. Affection can be expressed through leg-rubbing and ankle-nipping (often one followed by the other), or through kneading.

5). The WORST way to the awoken at 5:30am your first day with a cat is to be licked right across your right eye.

But really, these cats are pretty good. As I type, Lovely-cat is curled up by my feet and Grumpy-cat is curled up in a basket that really shouldn't be as comfortable as it apparently is. I ought tone add to bed though; I start at 7:30am tomorrow and already know that I will be awake before I have to be. Later 😊

Feel Like a Lady of Leisure

You know those days that just seem to lovely and relaxing? My day started out as one of those, which was lovely. Today I finished physio at 9am (yay, knee swelling is disappearing!); treated myself to coffee at the wonderful Drumroaster where I sat and read for about an hour, also where I spend possibly far too much of my free time; took a quick nap as I didn't go to bed early enough last night; and had a luxurious soak in a tub to ease aching bones. All before noon. Doesn't that just sound like a lovely way to start a day? And not a day too soon, either.

I thought that when I finished with school my schedule would calm down because I would no longer be taking 5-6 classes five days a week, commuting to them, working 20-26 hours over the course of 2.5 days, and still trying to eat, sleep, and be social. Turns out I was wrong? I mean, my schedule isn't too super crazy; I'm only working about 30-45 hours a week between my two jobs, trying to stay fit/build my fitness (hence the reduction of the swelling in my knee), do a bit of freelance work when I can, arrange and create Christmas and birthday presents for the next few weeks/months, help my great-aunt out with her house twice a month (or more as necessary), and get ready to house-sit for six weeks. Oh, and of course be social, eat, sleep, etc. That's not that much, now is it? Especially since I'm trying very hard to save my money.

Have I told you yet, internet? I'm hoping to travel! I'm in the midst of forcing myself to save roughly $10,000 so that I can head over to Europe for what I hope will be about three months of adventure. Three months. Adventure. Doesn't that sound alluring? I think it sounds both totally enticing and exciting, and absolutely daunting; especially as I've never been further away from home than Alberta, where I have tons of family, or California, where I was accompanied by either my parents or teachers/classmates/chaperons. It's not the being alone I think is daunting; I enjoy spending time on my own. Travel arrangements, however? Now those are a daunting idea. Mostly because I'm just in the very basic and rough planning stages. 

Anyhow, I'm off to waste about 4 hours before I go off to work, so I'll try to keep you updated? I always say that sort of thing, don't I? Oh dear, I fear I'm not very good with this whole "keep people people informed" thing. Hm. If you are inclined to Tumble, you can follow my adventures (reblogs, basically) on Tumblr if so inclined? Just here then. Otherwise, I guess I'll leave you with a few images of my misadventures since fall started. 

Breakfast for one :)

Sending letters to some lovely ladies

Homemade pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving! First attempt went well :)

I live in a gorgeous area, by the way. 

Old skating props are always a good way to provide light. Careful, this lantern gets HOT! :)

Posted a day after writing. Again.

I think blogging from work may become a regular thing if I keep working these awkward shifts; there's about an hour in the afternoon where there's nothing to do. I've cleaned all I can clean, updated the records, worked out, and have no clients. Therefore I can, without guilt, type myself up a nice little update on life if I wish to. So, shall I?

Like I said before, I just graduated (YES!) and now it's back to working a bunch and having no plan. However, I sort of do have a plan. Like I mentioned before, I'm hoping to travel. I'm looking at April-May of next year, for both months, and I'm hoping to hit areas in England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy. We'll see how this goes; I may have to cut one country, or extend/shorten my trip, depending on income levels. My savings goal for this trip is about $6000, but if I end up with more money that would be excellent. So far my main incomes are my two part-time jobs, and then this fall I'm house-sitting for roughly 2 months, so that should help out. I'm also starting to slowly accumulate supplies. I have been told that I can borrow a pack from a few different people, so there's no worry about that. For my birthday last week I was gifted a lovely omni-heat, water-resistant/proof jacket that is lightweight and easy to carry, and for grad I received a fantastic iPad, so now I will be able to keep in touch. My main goal now is just to save, save, save. And plan.

I know what countries I want to see, and I have some rough ideas of what cities I want to go to, but is there anywhere in particular I should not miss out on? Having never been further East than Alberta and only as far South as California, I'm not well travelled by any means. I anticipate a huge learning experience, some personal growth, and a wonderful experience; now I just need to figure out exactly where I want to go. Any help?

There's that, then

When I was younger I always had a plan for my future. At first, I was going to be a hairdresser and a waitress, then I wanted to teach. I thought about going into law, and then I came back to the idea of teaching. As it turns out, having a plan is all well and good, but sometimes you have to smash the plan to pieces a little bit. 

I've just graduated University (on Thursday, actually), and I'm nowhere near where I thought I would be. I didn't get a degree in Education, and I'm not moving into Law school in September. Actually, I'm not sure of what I want to do; I didn't even graduate with the degree that I went into school to get in the first place (I have a BA now, not a BSc). For now, I'm hanging out here, at home, and working two part-time jobs, just like I was when I was in school. What this has left me with, then, is a lot of free time; time that I'm not used to having. At first I felt lost; what do people do with all this time, and how do I fill it? But now, I'm starting to get used to it. 


Because I'm saving up for a trip (oh yeah, I want to travel next Spring), I'm trying not to spend too much money. Instead of going shopping I've been attending a Jazzercise class (early birthday present from Mama, and I'm hooked!) and volunteering with a local Historical Society, just doing odd jobs. And you know what? This not having a firm plan, and not being super pressured to do too much is really nice. I don't think I can keep it up forever (I'll have to start a career of some sort one day), but for now it's really nice to be able to sit back when I want to, have a cup of tea, and read a book. Or, if I want to, to spend a few hours doing some typing, or volunteering. I'm still keeping my eyes open for more (local) work, but these days who isn't? 
The point is, I'm not sure exactly what I'm doing, but for the first time I don't have any fully fledged ideas of my future, and I'm enjoying it. I'm doing what makes me (mostly) happy, and things are starting to look and feel bright again.


Also, if anyone happens to know where Summer is, could you please usher is over here for us? Our little Island would like to partake in Summer, sunshine, and a little bit of heat one day. 

Well I'm (obviously) not doing BEDA

Actually, even though I'm not doing BEDA I'm still managing to do an April challenge. This time it's a photo everyday in April that I'm doing over on Instagram and my tumblr, and I'm really enjoying it. I'm absolutely no great shakes at photography, and I find myself on occasion having to scramble to complete my challenge (like today: stairs. I used the steps when i got home because I never got to the staircase I wanted to photograph on campus today) sometimes, but it's good fun. Other than that, what's April brought?

Well, exams. I've just finished my final first final as an undergrad (about 5 hours ago, but y'know), and now I'm prepping for my second, which is my Transnational Canadian Literature final. Isn't that a slightly pompous sounding title? Well, the class has actually been pretty much fascinating, and it has certainly been a lot to wrap my head around, which was neat. Actually, all of my classes have been like that.

Today I wrote my Anglo-Irish Lit final, and even though I knew what the questions were going to be when I went in, I was still blown away by the actual exam writing. Normally my in-class essays for exams are about 6-7 pages long, right? Well, I churned out 11 pages per essay, which to me is quite a bit. Then a group of us went for drinks, were joined by the professor, had more drinks, ate some food, and generally hung out. I came home after this, but I believe everyone else went downtown (I know, lame little me. I had to drive the 'hat, alright? And I have an exam tomorrow I needed to study for more. That's a thing I need to do, okay?). Post-exam drinks are a good thing, but I always leave them feeling like post-first-lecture drinks need to be a thing too because then you'd meet all these awesome people at the start of a course, not the end. So, future students, you should make this happen.

Like I said, tomorrow I write Transnational Canadian Lit at 2, which should be alright? It's 2.5 hours long and split into 10 terms to define and discuss and one essay question, equally weighted. If I've studied my terms right I should be able to split my time evenly (75 minutes per section) and still do alright. I hope. Then, I work all weekend (of course, haha), spend Monday studying, and on Tuesday I write my North American Indigenous Literature final exam, which is a multiple choice exam of about 90 minutes. This one I'm a tad nervous about simply because I read quite a bit for this course and even though it's multiple choice, it can still get confusing; there were a lot of different characters in each book, and all the themes were different. Ah well, can't get it all perfect, but I can certainly try! So I've been reviewing the scant notes I have from that class (because a large portion of the class was discussion based I have few notes) and compiling a list of characters. Then, my final final as an undergraduate is next Saturday from 7pm-10 pm (because there always has to be one, right?), and it's for my BC Lit course, which is I believe based upon representations of British Columbia in Canadian Literature. In this class we've talked a lot about sense of place, which has been neat because I'm from BC and I recognize most of the places mentioned in the Literature. This exam is a three part, three hour exam with an essay, some quote identification/discussion, and a terms definition section as well. Looking at the outline I was given, it sounds like a gigantic exam. However, I'm sure it'll work out alright and then afterwards I believe we're going for drinks again (at least that's what was suggested during our last class together).

From this long-winded digression into examination topics and courses, it sounds like I go out a lot what with the post-exam drinks. In fact though, the opposite it true. I don't normally go out, and when I do it's not normally for drinks, and it's not normally with a big group of people; exams just seem to be the time to like, do that. I'm not going out after Indigenous Lit because it's a 9am exam and I have to work in the afternoon (plus drinking at 10:30 is not really a thing I've ever done), but tomorrow I may be going to a friend's place to watch me some Doctor Who with two of the girls? :)

Other than exams, this month just brings a missing (I really DO need to see Reni again, "I has a missing"), more job hunting (oh yeah, I'm graduating this year. Exciting, huh?), and working. Work, work, work. Mmmn, and catching up on some sleep and television. Mostly sleep though; I've found that I miss sleep. Which, coincidentally, is where I'm now headed. Off to sleep. :-)

G'night moon, and stars; sky and internet; and all those out there who wander along with us. May the morrow bring you brightness, joy, and light.

I Wrote Some Words

I wrote some words,
On a page,
And I kind of think you'll like them,
But I'm scared.

It's not your judgement,
Or your praise;
Not your queries,
Nor your raves that I require.

No, it's your truths.
Do you like them,
Do they work?
Are the words what you wanted?

When I put them down, all I could think;
All I could wish, hope, and dream
Was that you would tell me the truth.

Do my words make sense;
Do they sit in the right order;
Are they colourful, bright, and stunning;
Or are the plain, dead, and dull?

Don't lie to me,
It won't hurt me
If you tell me the truth.

These words, they're mine,
They're a story I'm trying to tell,
and even if you don't like it I want to know.

I want you to tell me if my story hurts you,
If it makes you cry,
If it makes you laugh.
I want you to tell me who, what, where, and why
You've read my story.

Why; why do I seek your truths,
Not your kind words or your lies?
Because this story is mine,
It's the truth of my life.

And if you lie about what you think of it,
You lie about what you think of me.
Is my life so far rubbish;
or have I made a difference?
Do you love me, hate me,
Maybe feel indifferent?

Please, just tell me,
I want to know.
I seek you out, I call to you,
To ask.

There, see, now we've met.
You've read my story,
I'll read yours if you like,
But tell me, what do you think?

Am I worth it;
This time you've taken,
This story you've read,
Was it worth it?

The life of this person,
Their time here on Earth,
Was it worth it;
Or was it just another life,
Indiscernible from the rest,
Insignificant and short.

Tell me, and I'll tell you:
Every life has merit,
Every life has drawbacks,
But every life is unique.

We think,
We see,
We move, we do.
We all effect each other,
And we're all significant.

And so here,
Take these words,
I wrote them on this page.
Take them, share them, hold them,
And think.

In your hands you hold a life;
My life.
Please, be nice to it,
But if you don't like it,
Say so.
You won't hurt me,
I'm not made of glass;
I'm paper and ink,
Flesh and Blood,
And I'm living with you.

Even when I'm gone,
I'll be with you.
My story, it goes on,
And so long as you hold on,
So do I.
 - My original composition, I Wrote Some Words, Feb 2012.

Here's a little rough draft of some random poetry that I'm doing. It's something that popped into my head while I was writing part of a story, and I just thought I'd share for now. Any thoughts? 

Someone once told me that it takes a certain type of person to write, but the more I think about this the less I believe it. Yes, it seems to take a literate person to write unless they're copying something and don't understand it, but that's not the point. To me anyone can write, some are just better at it than others. Just like some people have better resumes or better interview skills or are better at sports, some people are better writers. For me, it depends on my mood. Tonight (this morning?) I write in a slightly disappointed, pensive mood. I didn't get accepted into the WDW CRP thing I applied (and interviewed!) for, so I'm trying to figure out my future.

Next year was supposed to be my time to do that - look into some internships, meet new people, have a ton of fun, etc - so now I have to find a new way to do that. Should I travel? Ought I to stay where I am and just research the year away, trying to figure out what to do with my life? Should I go to grad school? And most of all, what do I want to spend the rest of my life doing?

This last question is a question I'm not sure we can ever truly answer, because not only does the world continue to change, but we are forever changing and evolving, so we're forever changing our minds and discerning a new path for ourselves. With this new path comes new options, and new doorways that we may never have thought existed. Example: two years ago I was on track to graduate this year with a BSc and then I was going to go on and get my BEd and teach. Since then, I've completely changed my major; I'm now getting a BA instead of my BSc, and I'm going to have a major in English instead of Biology (can't tell by the way I type, can you?). I'm also not going straight into a BEd program like I originally thought I would. Instead, I'm drifting. I don't know what I want to do, and with this program falling through, I kind of feel like I don't know where I want to go. Should I apply again, or should I just leave it? Oh well.

I'm sure I'll figure something out, but I really started this entry because I just needed to write. Like I said, everyone can write (given exceptions, as above). I write when I need to; sometimes it doesn't make sense, sometimes it's really depressing, sometimes it's overly happy. Tonight, I think I just need to write, to sort things out, and to put words to paper so that I can sort through my emotions. The emotions I'm feeling aren't new, they're just... Complicated. They're not the things I'm used to feeling well up, and they're not the type of thing that just goes away, they're the type of emotions you work through. Sure, I'm disappointed; I really did want to do this program, it sounded like so much fun, everyone at the interview was super nice, and I absolutely adore Disney. However, life moves on. I can't continue to live in the past because the past, present, and future all play into each other and if I get stuck in one the others become stuck as well, and the last thing I want is to be stuck in a negative frame of mind right now.

The question is, which direction should I go? "Is there anybody out there" that can help me? (Also, if I do go to Grad school, what should I do? What do you suggest I do without Grad school when I'm done my degree?)

Sleep tight lovelies, everything will look brighter in the morning :-)

Nerves? Nerves.

So, I'm nervous. I don't know about you, but when I'm nervous I have a series of things I do.
First, I eat. Too much. I guess I over eat.
I also have a tendency to analyze whatever it is that's making me nervous, and every little detail about it. Really, this only serves to make me more nervous. I do it anyways.
After I eat too much, I don't eat. Like, I don't have much of an appetite for anything but junk food, which I therefore try to avoid (knowing it'll make me feel gross later if I eat too much, and also because really the last thing I need is to eat junk food).
I seek constant re-assurance. If you're one of the people I turn to, I'm sorry. I can't seem to help it, I get over stressed and nervous and need to be assured that I'm doing the right thing. I'm sorry.
I apologize. A lot.
I try to wear myself out by piling up work and exercise, which often creates more stress and nerves. You'd think that I would learn my lesson, hey?
I listen to music.
I attempt to doodle, although anyone that knows me knows I can't draw.
I sleep. Sometimes.
I stay up late doing basically nothing on the internet or watching movies from when I was a kid.
I read. Preferably not school material, but because of the time of year in which I usually become nervous or stressed, it's normally school material.
I write.
I type. Which is what I'm doing now...
Nerves and stress for me seem to go hand-in-hand, which I think is sort of normal. That twisting of your stomach, slightly uneasy, twitchy feeling where the tension you're holding in your back makes you want to cry? yeah, that. I get that when I get stressed and nervous. Oh well, c'est la vie, oui?
I'm heading off to be so that I can get up at 8, work for 5 hours, come home and make sure I've packed all I need, and head for a ferry. Ah. Nerves. G'night!

Alright, so it's January. What does January bring with it? Well, for one thing it brings a whole package of new books that need to be read, deciphered, thought over, and further dissected. This is alright. I will get through this (I hope). January also brings with it the promise of a new year, a new chapter in life to hold on to and cherish, even if for a while. This last few months were hard. Deaths and sickness in my family, stress, and a few other things all piled up to put my emotions off the scale and turn me into a bit of a mess. Since it's January though, and a new year, I have the time to (sort of) sort things out and provide myself with closure.


There are many ways I'm providing myself with closure, but that's not the only thing I'm striving for. I'm hoping for a bit of relaxation over this year, hopefully for at least a week when I'm finished with my degree (I know, I've made a funny. Spare time and relaxation? me?), and I'm hoping to find time and a way of seeing more of my friends and keeping the friends that I've made through school. No dropping of the map as we graduate, okay? No promises, but I'll try if you will! My final bit of closure is on its way.

Next month, I'm heading to the mainland for something that I've told some people about. I actually tried to keep it a secret for a few months, but now I think the vast majority of people know why I'm tripping out to the mainland for roughly 24 hours in the week when all my papers seem to be due: I've an interview with Disney. Nothing big, just an interview working in merch/food and beverage/attractions at WDW for a year. However, I'm excited. So, I've been traveling down this road for about 4ish months: I applied in September. Next month it all comes to an end and I get my closure: I either get the job, am put on a waiting list until a position becomes available, or I don't get the job and move onto a year of working my butt off and hopefully traveling. Either way, I'll get closure.

The next few months are going to be a whirlwind of things, but as everything becomes a little bit tidier in some respects, I know messes will develop elsewhere. I'm just trying to sort life out and keep going, like everyone else.

Here's to a new year, new experiences, and maybe a few new messes!

It's Time for the Holidays

I'm not sure what that means to anyone else, but for me the Holidays mean a few things: working (because, really, I have to play for school somehow!), spending time with my family, and seeing friends. This year is a little bit different though, as I have some friends that aren't returning for the holidays and I (once again) have to close at work Christmas Eve and will be unable to go visiting with my family. That doesn't mean that it won't be a great Christmas though - my grandparents and aunt and uncle's family are coming to our house Christmas Day for dinner and I will at some point in time (once everyone's back) be able to make plans to see a bunch of friends while they're home! :-)

The holidays also mean that I have an opportunity to clean my room (which I have to admit I've been avoiding for 3 months because I was busy working and studying and attempting to sleep at some point in time), and today I did just that. However, I ran into a gigantic problem while I was trying to put away all my books: They don't fit well on my shelf. Actually, I've double shelved them, stacked books on top, and still have a book or two lying around my room. Therefore, one of my goals during the break is to find a box and go through my books. I've already decided there are some that I will be donating to my local library or some used book stores, but there are others that will probably be put into boxes, labelled with titles and authors, and put into storage in my parents' crawl-space; I can't throw out books. If I have to get rid of them, I'll donate them, re-sell them, or store them, but books should not be thrown out (in my opinion). There's so much to learn and there are so many memories stored in the pages of a book that I have a hard time parting with most of mine (hence the pile of them I now own)!

What else? Hmmm, I've got wrapping to do and cleaning to finish and I may be making more gingerbread this week (my family already ate my first double batch!), and hopefully I'll be seeing Ren before Christmas for sure, and then after the Holidays it's back to classes (which probably means I'll be AWOL), an interview, and hopefully the next time we chat, internet, I'll have some big news (or I'll just drop in casually to say hello. Y'know, whatever) about a thing that's happening in February and then could (potentially) decide the next chapter of my life and also take months and months of waiting.

Well net, I'm off. My family is downstairs watching The Polar Express and I'm in need of finishing up a card to send to England tomorrow :-)

Pest Controller?!

So as many of you know (or don't, or know and don't care, whatever), I'm graduating from University in the Spring. Because of this, I decided (with the forceful help of my mother - love you!) to see a careers counselor and see what options were available as a career for myself aside from teaching. When I graduate I'll have a BA with an English Major ( no minor, I'm bad, I know). So we talked a bit, and she suggested a careers matchmaker test for me to do and then review with her later (appointment to be made). So, I did the test, and it came up with some good and some horrible careers. I though I'd share the list, with some comments...

1. Library Technician - this wouldn't be so bad for me; I love libraries
2. Writer - maybe... However, as you can maybe tell, I'm not so wonderful with my words. I come across as rather boring quite often, don't I? (let me know what you think, please? :P)
3. Print Journalist - this I could maybe do. I want to take red pens to my local paper and fix it, so maybe I could resolve some issues by taking this on as a career?
4. Critic - Nope, don't feel intelligent enough for that!
5. Casting Director - this sounds really neat, but they seem to have missed the fact that my theater experience is quite limited. I don't act. However, I can fit people to roles?
6. Archivist - Maaaaaybe..
7. Political Aide - Uh, nope. I don't do politics.
8. Personal Trainer - I don't think I'm fit enough for this.
9. Telephone Operator - ..... I don't want to live in a call center and get hung up on repeatedly!
10. Medical Transcriptionish - This would be cool, I think. I'd have to do more school though, pretty sure.
11. Receptionist/ Information Clerk - This I could do. This I would not mind doing. However, I'm not sure I'd love to do it for life?
12. Historian - Give me European History and maybe. Send to to Canadian and no. Nope. Much as I love my country, our History is not as rich and the 'older' countries. Actually, Egypt or Rome or Greece would be cool too. I don't know very much about the Asian world, but I imagine their History would also be alright.
13. Adoption Counsellor - what? Me? 
14. Activist - can you see this tiny body being an activist? I can't. Nope, not happening
15. Researcher - Maybe. What am I researching?
16. Professional Athlete - uncoordinated
17. Dancer - haven't taken a class in years, Do not measure up to anyone I've seen that does well dancing.
18. Curriculum Specialist - This actually sounds cool. Hard, but cool.
19. Anthropologist - ENGLISH MAJOR
20. Mediator - Uhm, I don't know if I want to deal with VIU vs others, or Teachers vs Government. Actually, this doesn't sound fun
21. Adult Education Teacher - This I could do :)
22. Medical Secretary - Again, more school. But it sounds pretty okay :)
23. Administrative Assistant - Maaaaybe? Lol, alright
24. Public Policy Analyst - No?
25. Pest controller - WTF?!
26. Health Records Professional - what is this? Question for Lyn
27. Communications Specialist - Maybe.. How good with technology do I have to be?
28. Sports Official - I'd have to know sports then...
29. Dispatcher - Hmmm, probably not
30. Immigration Officer - no thank you
31. Physical Education Teacher - wouldn't I need to know sports then?
32. Singer - have you HEARD me sing?!
33. Speech - Language Pathologist - Sounds thrilling, but not too much work here right now? Also, no Linguistics experience
34. Corporate Trainer - PR work I could probably deal with?
35. Public Relations Specialist - 'Specialist'? Erm, that sounds intimidating
36. Sport Psychology Consultant - ... there's that Sport word again
37. Concierge - yeah, I don't think that's the career I'm paying thousands for
38. Fundraiser - didn't I spend my Youth doing that?
39. Data Entry Clerk - All day every day?
40. Special Effects Technician - That sounds like it involves technology... Technology and I don't always get  along. 

On another list were also 'Lobbyist' and 'Career Coach'... I don't know about you, but I'm not so sure about [most] of the things on this list. It was fun though, and there are a few I'm going to talk to the Career Counsellor about later. Also, I've got to remember this week to go to a resume workshop again, and also find out more about writing a CV. I need to do these. However, that's all I've got for tonight. Sorry for the degradation in my typing/English/literacy but it's early morning/late night, I've been up for 19 hours, and because I just got off work 2 hours ago I can't seem to sleep. I also have to be up in 6 hours for work again.. Oi vey it's going to be a long term... I'm off to try to sleep/read The Wings of the Dove and/or Wacousta, and do such things a sthe weekend brings me... Tell me what you think of my career assessment test thing?

One week (and a bit)

That's how much of my summer is left: one week and a bit. Specifically, I return to classes on Wednesday September 7th, and although I'm really excited I'm also a little bit sad. I told myself that this summer I would try to see my friends more, hang out, and do all the things I never got much of a chance to do either as a teenager in the summer or last summer. Guess what? I didn't do that. Yes, I saw (some of) my friends. Yes, I went out. But I have also managed to work 57 of the last 70 days, occasionally for 10-11 hours. This sort of subtracts from the whole 'social life' thing - when your day starts at 6:30 am and you don't get home from work until after 8pm you don't really want to get dressed and go out again. Actually, you (or at least I) don't want to do too much. A trip to the local pub with some friends, a good book with a cup of tea, a visit with a friend, or some television/Internet before sleeping like a rock is about it. But you know, aside from not being hugely social (or swimming very much due to a summer that contained very little swimming weather), I feel like my summer has been pretty good. I've met a bunch of really interesting, super nice people (most of which may or may not be my mother's age and older), I've discovered a super nice bookstore (honestly if you have not checked out Russell Books on Fort St in Vic you totally should!), I've become slightly addicted to Zumba, seen my best friend (which WILL continue to happen until such time as she leaves the country), and just generally recuperated from a very busy 2 terms at school. Now however, I'm ready to return.

I'm ready to go back and see people I haven't seen since April (minus Miss Cammi, who unfortunately for me has returned to England - however, I still wouldn't mind seeing/chatting with her; Hi Cammi!!), meet some new people (hopefully - we all know how good I am at that), see the people that I have seen infrequently through the summer more frequently because we'll be on campus, read lots, learn more, and just generally be a student again. Heck, I'm even sort of looking forward to seeing Biblio full of people, haha. All that being said though, it's going to be a tough year.

My mother and I have been talking, and it has been decided that I need to go to a career counselor when I return to campus - 'What can I do with an English Degree' - I still feel like I want to teach, but I also feel like I really should understand more of my options. I apply to graduate this fall, and apply to Grad School. My mother also told me that I should consider taking a year off between undergrad and grad school and doing something. This evening, Bug suggested something that sounds super neat but may or may not be feasible (work my butt off for half a year, travel and visit friends while they're at school/off the island for a bit, see the world a bit), but I'm also considering the Disney International Program. It's something I've wanted to do for a few years, and if I take time off between schooling, it may be the perfect opportunity. We'll see what happens though; I've still got a week to get my head around returning to school and such.

Actually, tomorrow after going to the bank (I need to see about getting a better interest rate on my car loan with MY bank over the GBC) I'm going to head into town and get school supplies and possibly a journal of sorts. Nothing fancy, but something to write thoughts and such in (the other journal I have is full of stuff lol). Then I SHOULD come home and start my homework in earnest. Oh right, yeah, school hasn't started yet but I have homework. Basically. I've got to read something on Shakespeare before the first class (Histories and Tragedies - what have I gotten myself into?!), and by the second class need to have Titus Andronicus completely read. I haven't started yet. I have though started Dracula, and it is fantastic. I want to keep reading, but keep having to stop and absorb things and piece bits out. It's wonderful. And the Vampires in it are real and ghastly, not sparkly (no offence - well maybe a bit - but sparkly vampires? Not my cuppa tea). I gave up on reading The Wings of the Dove and put it down, and now I've lost it in my pile of books. However, I need to pick it up again soon - term is approaching! I thiiiink that's about all I have to say about right now, and so I leave you with this a) super long blog post [ yay, I've done something to my blog!] and b) two photos.

This first one is my bookshelf as it currently is: three shelves, two completely double rowed (so there may be Archie comics back there on one, okay?!), one over half doubled up. Yeah, I'm out of space. I have a box of Science texts in my closet if anyone's in need - let me know what you need, I may have it (years 1-2 only?).

This photo contains all the books that I have to read for class this term. Not year, term. Before December. There are 26 required texts here (well, 24. I currently have Dracula on my nightstand and Titus Andronicus is sitting in the front seat of my car) and I've read two in their entirety. I've also read Treasure Island before but I was about 10, so I have to re-read it. So I've read The Hobbit and Sabriel so far. I'm hooped. Oh well, I'll get through it... Once I stop procrastinating. Dammit Internet, stop being so alluring!

I don't have much to say

Tonight I've just basically come to the realization that I don't write in my blog as often as I could. Actually, I've started using Tumblr lately as a great 'time-suck.' It's highly entertaining, and I get to see lots of wonderful stuff about DW, HP, and Disney. So, that's where I am a lot of the time I could be blogging. If you're interested in what I'm up to, head over to www.corner-truisms.tumblr.com. I spend a bit of time there actually blogging, but a deal of time re-blogging things. Still, it's updated more than this is (sadly). Now that may not remain true as I go back to school, but we'll see shall we?

Until next time though, your faithfully,

Tink xo