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How Wednesdays Became My Favorite Day

One day in August, I was out taking pictures, as I tend to do on a daily basis.  On this particular day, the camera app of choice at the time was acting up, and wouldn't always capture a picture I had snapped.  This ended up being a fortuitous issue.  It meant that a week later, I had to go back to the same location, to attempt to get the missing photos.

I was shooting street art, and signs on Gorilla House Art Gallery.  When I went back, I noticed the door was open, I entered hesitantly, and asked the man seated at a table if it was okay for me to walk around and take pictures.  Rich, as I later discovered was his name, asked me questions about my photography, as I shot pictures of the art on display.  He asked if I have lots of photos; "Are we talking hundreds?"  I handed him one of my newly acquired business cards, and he sat me down to watch a YouTube video on the live art battles that are held every Wednesday night.  He told me he had wanted a photgrapher to compete, and asked me to put a photo book together that he could feature in the gallery.

I left wondering what had just happened.  It was elated, and scared, yet intrigued about participating in the art battle.  A waited a couple weeks before going back.  When I returned, I had already told two friends in particular that I was competing, and I stayed in contact with them via messenger.

The basic rundown of the battles works like this:  Artists arrive at the gallery, at 7:00, the host spins the wheel, and gives us three different themes/inspirations.  We then have 2 - 2.5 hours to create our piece before the auction.  All other artists create on site, and the public can arrive at any time to watch art being created.  I leave so I can shoot, edit, print, and frame my piece.  I was nervous that first night, but I was committed to doing a great job.  I drove out to a random location, and started shooting pictures, it was a neighborhood I hadn't been to in a while, and I got distracted by a variety of things I wanted to take pictures of.  I had to remind myself that I was on a schedule.  When I was driving home, I came up with a completely different idea I wanted to try.  (This is a recurring theme with my during battle.)

I was struck with inspiration, while thinking about one of my two friends on the other end of the phone.  She was busy at the time, and didn't know she had inspired me.  I was happy with my piece, and drove back to the gallery.  I thought I was nervous before, but it was worse when I got back and saw the gallery was full of spectators, people who would be bidding on art.  My friend J reminded me to breathe, as I reported numbers to her.  She knew I was waiting to find out if my piece would advance to auction stage.  It did, but with the two hour time difference, I knew she wouldn't be available for the rest of the night. 

Not only did my piece make it to the auction, but it brought in more money than I had imagined it would.  The lovely man that bought it, said it was the words that I put with the photo that really made him want to buy it.  I spoke to other people as the night went on, and other artists introduced themselves to me, and asked if I'd be back the following week.

That first night was such a great experience.  Rich checked to make sure I had enjoyed myself, that I was happy with how the night went, and the money that was paid for my first piece.

When I got home, J messaged me to ask how it went.  I gave her a full report, including how she had inspired my first piece.  That was also the night she became my muse, she continues to inspire and challenge me on a regular basis. 

Now, I know it would take something really big to make me miss a battle night. Tomorrow will be my sixth battle, and I honestly look forward to it every week.  I love how it challenges me, and sometimes puts me out of my comfort zone.  I now have three friends who I check in with, and bounce ideas off of.  All three are huge supporters of my photography.  Last week, hours before battle, I went to the post office to pick up my book.  Wow.  My book!  Still feels weird to say that, and I took a copy of it to the gallery with me.  Those three friends were all thanked in my book.  Rich loves the book, and bought a copy for himself.

I am so grateful that he opened Gorilla House in June, that he has a space for so many of us to come, and feed our creative hunger, and for him believing in my photography enough to encourage me to do a book.  It is such a great group to be a part of.  The art that is created in such a small allotment of time is amazing.  If you live in Calgary, I encourage you to come to battle nights and support local artists.

Here's the video from last week's event:

https://www.youtube.com/user/gorillahouseliveart?feature=results_main

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P!nk

It's no secret that I love Pink.  I love, love, love her, and may even throat punch anyone who says something derogatory about her:  She's a talented songwriter, fabulous singer, an advocate for marriage equality, a fabulous gymnast, has a rockin' body, and is hot.

Now that I've cleared that up; I've been a fan of hers for years.  She's pushed many limits, and has challenged herself, at the same time.  I eagerly awaited the release of "The Truth About Love".  "Blow Me (One Last Kiss)", the first single, came out at a time when I really needed to hear it.  But then, I didn't want to wait a couple more months for the rest of the album.  Trust me, I've more than made up for the wait, I've been listening to it practically non stop.  According to iTunes, I've listened to most tracks on average 45 times.  That doesn't take into account how many times I've listened to the album on my iPod, in my car.  Or the slew of times I've listened to "Try", her second single on my iPhone.  Try is probably my favorite, second to Blow Me, and is the only track on the album that she didn't write.  Pink is quoted as saying that as soon as she heard Try, she knew it had to be her song.

It was interesting to watch an interview, where she said that she was still going to be singing about her husband, who had a fling while they were separated, but wouldn't be singing about her family.  He asked if she could be done singing about the fling now, and she said; "yes, as soon as this tour is over".  I had wondered if Motherhood would've softened her, or would have been evident in her songwriting.  Pink is still very much Pink, as evidenced by Truth.  There's a variety of tracks, the aforementioned Try is a ballad, but there's the anthemesque "Here Comes The Weekend", featuring Eminem, the ultimate f*ck you song; Blow Me, the second collaboration of the album; "True Love" featuring Lily Rose Cooper, (formerly Lily Allen) that is a beautiful blend of both voices.  It looks at the dichotomy of love, and hate in a relationship. "Just Give Me A Reason" was co written by Nate Ruess (like singer from fun), who also sings with her. "Run", in my mind is Pink's love letter to her daughter Willow, trying to save Willow from future hurts, and heartache by learning from her mom's experiences.

There are many fun songs in the mix too, and why wouldn't you want to acquire the deluxe version?  Honestly, there isn't a single song on the album that I don't like, Beam Me Up is my least favorite, but I still like it.  Pink likes to say she's still the same, but more sober now.  She certainly hasn't lost her edge.

Thanks to the iTunes Festival app, I was able to see her concert.  She was apologetic, in an unflinching way to the audience, explaining she had the lyrics in her phone, should she need them, as she hadn't sung many of the songs in a long time.  Since Willow was already asleep, she took great pleasure in saying f*ck, something that she doesn't do much of at home, for obvious reasons.  She also quipped that everyone looks at her adorable daughter now, instead of her.  Proof came in the form of what fans threw on stage for her, rubber ducks, and teddy bears.  She used to get underwear.

While performing on Good Morning America this week, she was asked about Miley Cyrus stealing her haircut.  Pink very graciously said that she thinks Miley rocks it better (um, no), and that she likes Miley, so no one should bad mouth her.

I'd say Pink is back, but she wasn't exactly gone, just on more of a maternity/parental leave.  The tour starts in 2013, and lasts for two years, with time off for the holidays.  I'm hoping to score some tickets, it's time to enjoy her live, and in person.  Be sure to check out her new album.  Go. Right. Now.  I cannot express to you how much I love it.

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In case you can't tell, Dianne's a graphic artist, in addition to being hilarious - naturally.

My friends want me to have a kid so bad. They think because I’m energetic and creative I’d be a fun mom. But, you see, I’m energetic and creative because I get good sleep AND I like booze. Those don’t pair well with children. Take just ONE of those hours of sleep away from me and, well, you...

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Nikki Glaser

One of my most favorite things about Twitter, is the number of funny women I have the pleasure of following.  I have been introduced to some intelligent, and hilarious people this way.

I started following Nikki Glaser over a year ago, and remember her tweeting that she was in Canada, and we had a little back and forth regarding what part of the country she was in.  Vancouver.  Close, but sadly not close enough. 

Earlier this week, I was driving by the Elbow River Casino when I happened to see her name on their sign.  Trying to not be a completely distracted driver, my brain processed her performance dates, and drove right home to text a couple friends to see if they wanted to attend.  One, became three, and I set off the next day to purchase four tickets for her show.

I talked to the guy running the Yuk Yuk's box office, as though Nikki was my friend.  "She's hilarious," I told him.  "I follow her on Twitter, and on Instagram, she takes great photos (truth, check it out for yourself), and she does a pod cast with her friend Sara, and their show starts on MTV in January."  I can't help it, I like to inform people about all the cool in the world.

I tweeted that I had just purchased four tickets to her early show on Friday, and she replied.  I followed this up by asking if comedians accept amazing doughnuts, in lieu of flowers, for a great show.  Her reply; "YESSSS".  A girl after my own heart.  Excellent.

We got to Yuk Yuk's early, and secured seats close to the stage.  The only other comedy show I had been to was Phylis Diller, when I was maybe eight.  I'm sure it was wildly inappropriate that my father took me, but even then I knew how funny she was.

Nikki owned the stage from the moment she walked out.  I don't think she said a single thing that wasn't funny.  We were in tears from laughing so hard.  My face hurt from laughing so much, and I couldn't have been happier.  Her comedy is relatable, smart, and quotable - but I don't want to give anything away.  If you're in a city where she's performing, I cannot stress enough how much you need to go see her.  If you're not, that sucks, but!  She'll be on Conan next week, so be sure to watch.

After the show, I approached Yuk Yuks staff, and asked if Nikki ever comes out to meet fans.  They went to check, and she came out.  She is lovely, and gracious, and not just because I gave her a gift certificate for the aforementioned doughnuts.  She said she came out, hoping it was me.  She hugged me, and posed for pictures with me.  And honestly?  I couldn't have been a better night.

Now, I want to be able to see all my favorite stand up comedians perform live.

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Each Friday, we pick one Aristocrat we think you should follow. (Even though you should follow all of them.) Meet Robin McCauley. What was your first exposure to Twitter? In 2009 Steve Agee told me I should sign up. He’s really tall so I did. I asked Steve what my Twitter name should...

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I love how so many of the funny people that I follow on Twitter are promoting Rob's 1 hour stand up video.  I hope the comedy community really is as supportive as I think it is!

The Special Thanks from Rob Delaney Live at the Bowery Ballroom

My family Megan Amram Matt Besser Phoebe Bottoms Rocco Castoro Louis CK Lizzy Cooperman Dickie Copeland Bill Cosby Jamie Denbo Christian Duguay Josh Fadem Fugazi Julie Grau Emilio Grijalva Will Halby Dave Holmes ...

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Flashdance!

When I was ten, my dad took me to see Flashdance.  In the theater.  My parents divorced when I was two, and though my mom remarried when I was five, my dad was at this point a single dad that saw his daughters only a few times a year.  He had already seen the movie once, loved it, and wanted to share it with us.  (Thanks, Dad!  I totally got my being a big kid who pretends to be an adult mentality from him.)  My mom, on the other hand wasn't impressed that we had seen it.  I guess she didn't want us learning two important lessons:  1.  As a woman, you can in fact work in a male dominated field, in this case welding (Thanks Jennifer Beals for making welding super hot) and 2. Go after your dream of doing whatever you want, in this case becoming a professional dancer.  And oh, okay fine, maybe there are a few inappropriate things for a ten year old to see.  Oh well.

I was smitten with Jennifer Beals after Flashdance.  She was my second celebri-crush, second only to Olivia Newtown John, (I saw Grease at least three times in the theater when I was five, and followed that up with Xanadu) I thought Jennifer's portrayal of Alex was mesmorising.  A tradition when visiting Dad in Toronto; go to the t-shirt place, select the design I wanted ironed on to the t-shirt of my choosing.  This time, I opted for a heather grey, over sized sweatshirt, with a Flashdance design.  I'm sure leg warmers found their way into my suitcase too. Fast forward to earlier this week.  I'm checking my Twitter Feed when I discover that East Village is hosting not only an outdoor screening of Flashdance, but an 80's costume party as well.  I could barely contain my excitement as I read the details on the event, madly copy and paste the link to my friend S's Facebook.  Then waited for her to get out of training and check her email, and respond with an enthusiastic yes.  We started piecing our outfits together, and made a trip to a dance store, I'm certain I'm now an honorary Bunhead, as well as the proud owner of sparkly legwarmers.

I wore my black and gray Flashdance sweatshirt (thanks to Dick & Jane for stocking them last winter), black leggings, my new legwarmers, side ponytail, and a lot of crunchy hairspray, after S teased the crap out of my hair.  She, was similarly attired, but did an amazing alteration to a basic white t-shirt, it's now a rocker's dream t-shirt.  With snacks packed, and lawn chairs in the trunk of my car, we ventured to East Village.  And had to leave a couple minutes later, to pick up blankets, it was the coolest night it's been in a while, but it didn't stop us.  And really, the night blended so many great things:  1. the movie itself, and trust me, that crush on Jennifer Beals that started when I was ten?  Yeah, it's a lot stronger now.  Let's pause for a moment, and reflect on how stunningly beautiful she is.  I'm back.  2.  The soundtrack, 3. There isn't a thing I don't enjoy about East Village, and the film was screened on the side of the Simmons mattress building, a beautiful old brick building that I love to photograph, 4. The company I was with 5. Alley Burger Food Truck was present.

Honestly, it was the best movie experience I've ever had.  I was super excited about every aspect, but I hadn't stopped to think about all the things that I was able to do, that I'd never do in a movie theater:  1. I sang (out loud) to every song, because who doesn't love that soundtrack?  2.  Chair dancing  3. Cheering, coupled with one or two "Fuck Yeses" especially when she's about to start her audition (and also likely the water dumping on her scene)  4. I took pictures, of the venue, of the opening scenes, and have some amazing pictures of Jennifer's silhouette against a brick backdrop.  5.  It was free!!

Sure, it's not without a few glitches, the wind didn't help, but the blankets sure did.  And there were some girls that we're pretty sure were drunk, and they were annoying, but that didn't take away from our fun too much.  We plotted how we'd handle the situation, without actual follow through. 

I'm so glad we went.  Next Thursday they're screening their final movie of the summer - Best In Show (love that movie), with donations being collected for the SPCA.

The Flashdance soundtrack is stuck in my head, as well as ideas for incorporating my legwarmers into my regular wardrobe.  When a friend texted me this morning, and asked me on a scale of 1 - 10 how it was, I told her it was an 11.  East Village, I salute you!  And I love the colors you selected for your lights, it was the perfect way for me to experience the area at night, for the first time.

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Thought(s) for the day.

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I dare you to attempt to read quinnk's latest blog without laughing.  Good luck, you're going to need it.

What are the men in your life really saying when they send you a text message? Not to deter you from more hours of over-thinking, but I’ve dissected and analyzed enough text messages from men to now know what they’re really saying. Because if we know anything it’s that men are very, very...

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Vasili's

I have three obsessions:

1. Photography

2. Music

3. Food Trucks, and I have been since the pilot project first launched just over a year ago.

It's great that the City wants to hear our feedback, and that the newspaper has a survey where you can vote for your favorite truck.  The problem?  I can't choose.  I haven't had a chance to try all of the trucks yet, and some I've visited more than others.  Even if I had tried them all by now, I'd have a hard time choosing.  Narrow it down?  Sure.

Today, I thought; "self, I'm craving Greek in a bad way, let's do something about it." Perhaps this has something to do with the fact that two friends are heading to Greece this Saturday.  Not only am I super excited for them, but I've asked them to keep a food journal so they can tell me about all the deliciousness they experienced.  And sure, if they want to smuggle bring honey, almonds, and cheese back to share with me, I'm more than up for the task.

I got to Vasili's lunchtime site mere minutes before the street food app (falsely) said they'd be closing.  The good thing, not only was the app off by about half an hour, but the crowd was waiting for food from another truck.  That's what I like about our food trucks, they often travel in pairs, or clusters.  Since I already follow them on Twitter, I saw someone had posted that they served the freshest feta this diner had ever had.  I concur.  I had The Big Bird, (not to worry, no Muppets were harmed in the making of my pita) grilled, marinated, succulent chicken, with tomato, feta, spring greens, topped with tzatziki.  I truly was in Greek heaven, and wasted no time demolishing the pita.  It's like I inhaled it.

Now, as someone who likes Greek food, I've been to a couple restaurants, and I have to say, this was the best Pita I've ever, ever had.  So delightful, so fresh.

Once again, I must brag that:

a) we have the best mayor in the Country, it's true, Google "Mayor Nenshi", and see for yourself.

b) we have the best food truck movement in the country.  Why?  See above.  Since Nenshi is a firm supporter of this project, he has helped facilitate getting trucks on the streets, with proper permits.  Also, the rules of the road are different here, than say in Toronto.  Trucks are allowed to park on high foot traffic streets, as long as they are a certain distance away from restaurants.  I've read that some trucks in Toronto were lucky to get initial permits, but then couldn't acquire subsequent permits, and weren't allowed to park anywhere useful.

So, if you're coming from out of town to see me, I'm going to take you to a food truck.  And, you'll thank me for it.

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Read this, because it's hilarious, and we've all experienced something similar.

I feel like it’s time we cleared the air and put all of our issues out on some imaginary table. Clearly you’re harboring some resentment towards me that’s causing you to act out in a way that sabotages my reputation and perception of myself.

Let’s get something straight - you are first, and most...

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instafabulous

I love, and am obsessed with photography.  I have learned both good, and daring habits from my friend E, who's a professional everything photographer, i.e. events, celebrities, travel, you name it.  When he tells me he really likes one of my photos, it's like the best feeling in the world.

Add to my thirst for creativity, the fact that I love learning, and meeting people, and you will soon understand my relationship with instagram.  At first, I wasn't sure about what I'd want to post, how often, etc.  Obviously, if one wanted, they can have a private account, but to me, that defeats the purpose.  Like anything enjoyable, it's a part of my daily life at this point. 

My friend S admitted to me that she joined instagram for me (bonus), but that she hasn't used it since joining.  Like at all, not even to view any photos, let alone post.  I get it, it's not for everyone, but you know what?  It's actually for someone exactly like her, and possibly you to, if you take any of these things into consideration:

In a day, I can "visit" NYC, LA, Vegas, Tokyo, San Paulo, Brazil, London, Paris, Stockholm, Sweden, Sydney, Australia - live.  All thanks to this site:  http://now.jit.su/  Anyone who is currently in any of the above mentioned cities, adding photos to instagram, that photo is viewable, immediately.  I haven't watched any of the Olympics, but I've seen some cool photos taken by people at the Olympics.  Often, if I really like their photo, I'll find them on instagram to let them know, and some I've started to follow, thanks to this site.

Here's a list of people that I've found either through This Is Now, or because their work trends on instagram that I think not only my friend S should follow, but that you should too:

izkiz: she's kind enough to let us know that her photos were edited with the DeluxeFX app, granted, she helped build the app, but I often wonder what apps people are doing their editing with, so I can learn.  Bonus points for access to the beautiful beaches of Turkey.

quinnmb:  a photographer out of NYC, who produces such stunning work around the state of New York.

turbovenus:  but only if you can handle the assault on your senses of picture, after picture of Hawaii. 

reyesmendoza:  all black and white photography, each image is dramatic, with one word, and at the end, the words from his feed are read together to form a poem.  No surprise to learn that he's a painter.

ari_lasso:  he just seems to have an amazing life, spent capturing amazing beauty all around Asia.

kosh_dp:  she's a cinematographer who's stream is dedicated to self portraits, with a touch of realistic looking magic.

There are so many other talented people that I follow, but I wanted to provide a small sample of photographers with wide appeal.  It is such a great feeling to enjoy other people's work, and have mine enjoyed by others.  I really would encourage you to check it out for yourself.

Should you choose to "tag" your photos by using hashtags, people who are looking for photos of a specific topic of interest can find you.  I fairly recently started tagging, and have had another user give me the name of a couple popular tags to use on some f my work.  While this doesn't automatically net me new followers, I have people that find my feed that way, appreciate and move on.

Now, I'm attempting to sell my work in two different places:

www.instacanv.as/worth_y you can purchase a selection of my work on stretched canvas, as a frame print, or a "prism", which means it's inside acrylic glass, paperweight style.

www.worthy.igskins.com because you can now take my photography to go!  Anything you want wrapped, it's there:  phone, laptop, tablet, ipod, ereader, x box.

To be honest, I just found out about igskins.com the other day, and my shop just opened, I'm so excited, I could pee.

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Boys Minute with Ben Schwartz for Amy Poehler's Smart Girls

Amy Poehler has a wonderful web series for young girls called Smart Girls at the Party and once a week, she gives boys one minute to show the world what they can do. In this boys minute I wow the world with my barbecuing skills. Bon Appetit!

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Tonsil-effing-ectomy.

On Wednesday, I woke at the crack of dawn, showered, and left the house without make up on, and my iPhone on my nightstand.  I'd like to claim temporary insanity for my actions, but I was following hospital rules.  The barbarians.

Friends S & O took me to the hospital, and my insides felt like they were made of jelly.  I, like most people, don't like hospitals, and knowing what laid before me, really didn't want to be there.

I was admitted, wandered down the hall for blood work, and then off to bed #7.  Marian was the first nurse I encountered, and she was very pleasant.  We talked about things, I asked her if she watches Breaking Bad.  Not only has she never seen it, but somehow has never even heard of it.  What?  I know I live in Canada, and not all shows from American cable channels are easy to come by, but come on.  I still told her about Tio Salamanca, and his bell dinging was of communicating, as the way I'd like to communicate until my throat stops hurting.  So, forever.  She laughed, but probably only to be polite.  Or because she thinks I'm crazy.

When the porter arrived to take me to the operating room, I panicked.  Marian came to say goodbye, and reassure me that everything was going to be alright.  The liar.

I said to the porter; "tell the truth, do you race these beds?"  Due to a slight language barrier, the context of my question was lose to him.  Sadly.  He parked me but inside the next holding space, like I was a piece of cargo.  People kept walking through the door and I looked at them expectantly.  The garbage can was right by my bed, as was a shelving unit full of what looked like hazmat suits.  Not super comforting.  I tried instead, to focus on the words of encouragement, and support that I received from friends, including a few that I know through Twitter, and Instagram, I love those connections too.  I took a few deep breaths.

Cindy, my next nurse, came to get me, and parked me just outside of the OR for a few minutes, and then asked if I thought I'd be able to walk into the room.  I did.  And was immediately overwhelmed by everything I saw.  She tried to point out that there wasn't much to see, but Cindy made the mistake of underestimating my fantastical imagination.  She talked to me for a few minutes, and while she had at least heard of Breaking Bad, she hasn't watched it.  Nurses, get on it.

Then panic really set in, and I wished I was full of the wonderful magicness that is Ativan.  I told Cindy I didn't think I could go through with the surgery, that I just wanted to leave.  She came to comfort me, as I was given my IV, and those meds stung like all sorts of nastiness.  I told them I needed some Ativan, I was seriously freaking out.  And then the gas mask felt too constrictive, can you tell I don't like the feeling of being out of control?  Yeah, and then the stuff I breathed in made me all jumpy, as I tried to resist it, before I was finally out of it.

The next memory I have was of the recovery nurse saying my name over, and over.  But I was stuck in an under water type world, miles away.  I think her name may have been Beverly, but what I can tell you is two things that make me proud:  1.  I didn't attempt to flash the other people in the recovery room.  Apparently, when coming out of a previous procedure, the nurse told me I had to stop trying to flash people.  I'm (fairly) confident that I was pulled my gown down from the neck hole.  I remembered, (having mentioned it to Marian), and I kept checking to make sure my gown was in place.  2. Beverly complimented me on my tattoos, and not only did I thank her, but I named not only my tattoo artist, but the name of the shop he owns.  I know he'll be proud if he or his girlfriend read this entry.  Beverly, the crazy lady tried to tell me she thought she was too old for tattoos.  I told her I just booked #8 to coincide with my fortieth birthday, early next year.  She, like Marian, and the nurses after her were surprised to hear how old I am.  (Side note:  I don't look my age, and try, whenever possible to not act it either.)

I don't really remember being wheeled to the next holding space.  But bed #7 became bed #17, which was nice, because I was at the very end of the room.  Leah was one of the next nurses I saw.  I was given Percocet, and Gravol via IV, and got to answer the question, on a scale of 1 - 10, how's your pain?  At this point, I was anxious to see H, my oldest friend, who was coming to pick me up, who I'd be more than relieved to see.  I lost track of time, but knew that H had called to check on me, and I said I would like her to come now.  At this point, I had already told the nurses that I wanted my tonsils back, and that I wanted to cry.  They told me not to cry, as it would congest me, but tears were free flowing shortly after, and hey, this made the second time in one day.  Fun.

I felt a bit better once H got there, and I had her to focus on.  They gave me a popsicle, and let me tell you, a popsicle, and ice cream diet is nowhere near as fun as I had hoped it would be.  And giving me blue raspberry is insulting.  The nurses went over what to expect for the next two weeks, and I'm fairly confident today is the day they said my breath would knock over a bull.  Yeah, charming, right?  The butcher doctor, that took out my tonsils came to talk to me shortly before I was released to go over a few things.  He also contradicted some of the things the nurses told me.  He said I can eat whatever I want, pizza, a steak...I snorted.  Seriously?  It kills to swallow water.  I was given some Percocet, and a prescription for T3s.

H was excited that she was going to be able to push me in a wheelchair all the way to her car.  I popped a Percocet, and we were off.  I'm sure my unsteady, 92 year old woman walk scared the crap out of my cat, but I couldn't help it.  H and I watched some shows, thank you Netflix, and she ran out to fill my prescription, and pick up a few things.

I cannot explain what's happened since then that the thought of watching my favorite shows has absolutely no allure to me right now.  I'm just now listening to music for the first time since Tuesday, which is wrong on so many levels.  A line from one of Pink's songs has been playing on a loop in my head for days, but I have yet to figure out which song.  I've had some amazing dreams, and have been out of Percocet since Friday, and haven't used the T3s because I can barely eat, and I hate nausea.  Twice, I dreamt of hanging out with Jennifer Saunders, and Joanna Lumley, and in great detail. 

S, who's a nurse has been coming over to take care of me, but warned me that Nazi Nurse S may be showing herself the next day.  She slept on my couch, and I didn't even catch a glimpse of Nazi Nurse, but she was stern.  Through all the pain, and discomfort when swallowing (it seriously feels like a swallowed a million razor blades.  Oh, and the nurses told me it's the most painful surgery to have.) I started craving a Big Mac yesterday.  I didn't think it was the best decision, but the craving was persistent.  So when S & O came over today, I asked them to get a Big Mac for me.  And I let them drag me outside to sit in the shade for a bit.  I smushed the burger, but still couldn't manage.  So, I focused on eating a patty, but ripping off tiny pieces.  I know I've already lost some weight, and I've been feeling super weak.  I managed to eat a patty, and then looked to S for validation.

H stopped by yesterday, to make sure I didn't run out of cat foot, and kitty litter.  Honestly, I don't know what I'd do without these two.  They keep telling me to distract myself, to watch shows, which I feel will be manageable today.  I have been reading bits and pieces of Jenny Lawson's book, "Let's Pretend This Never Happened" - great distraction.

Anyway, this is rapidly becoming the longest blog I've written.  I'm so grateful for my iPhone, when I feel it's too much to use my laptop.  Friends from others cities have been checking in.  I just want to fast forward to the end of the two week recovery process.  And before you think I'm completely crazy for agreeing to go through with this (as I've questioned 84 times already), last winter I had five back to back throat infections.  That's insanity, and a truckload of antibiotics.  I don't want a winter like that, ever again.  I've always had big tonsils, even as a kid.  I wish I had gotten them out when I was a kid, and would've loved an ice cream, and popsicle diet.  Nevermind the fact that it hurts way more as an adult.

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Village Ice Cream

Part way through my second summer of food truckin' love, Village Ice Cream opened its doors.

Like any good lactose intolerant girl, I showed up opening day, to treat a good friend to a cone.  The rainy weather didn't keep ice cream lovers away.  We soon discovered that the handmade waffle cones were sold out, but decided to wait for cones to be made.  It didn't matter to us that there were a few people ahead of us, and that the wait would be at least ten minutes.

Casting a glance at the menu of handcrafted, artisan ice cream, I was pleased to see Huckleberry as one of their offerings.  I hadn't had Huckleberry ice cream in years, when I was in Sandpoint Idaho.  The ice cream is probably one of my strongest memories from that trip.  While waiting though, we were told we could sample flavors.  I tried both the Huckeberry, and the Salted Caramel.  I felt bad that I was quickly casting the Huckleberry aside.  But come on, this was the best Salted Caramel I had ever tried.  Like out of all the salted caramel confections that I've had, which is close to a truckload at this point.  I loathe when a product is called salted caramel, only to discover next to no salt hits my palate.  Yes, I'm passionate about this pairing.  Sweet, AND savory, how perfect is that?

Through samples, my friend changed his mind from his original selection of Salted Caramel.  I thought he had lost his mind.  I understand that he likes minty things - in this case Guides mint; meant to mimic the mint chocolate Girl Guide cookies, but still.

When we got our cones, the waffle was still warm, and melted the ice cream a little.  In fact, the cone was a little chewy.  Delightful!

I'm proud to say that in the first two weeks that V.I.C. was open, I had been four times.  The second time I had the Huckleberry, and it's perfect for a hot day, as it's lighter, and refreshing.  Then I had the Maple Pecan, and only had room for a kids scoop - on a cup no less.  Unheard of, but my friends and I had just come from dinner compliments of the food trucks (when I had the amazing, and aforeblogged about Eggplant Parm sandwich).  I was nearly full, but required a little ice cream.  Nothing like back to back dairy.  The last time I went I had an ice cream sandwich.  Honestly though, for me, the waffle cone is the way to go.

Billy and his team use locally sourced, organic ingredients, making this likely the most pure ice cream you've ever had.  While the menu may be a little smaller than you're accustomed to, this gives them the opportunity to perfect seasonal flavors.  All the ice creams, and sorbets are made on site in Victoria Park.

At this point, all I can think of is my trip to visit them tomorrow, to acquire ice cream by the pint.  I'm pretty sure it'll be the best thing to eat after getting my tonsils removed on Wednesday.

If you haven't been out to see them yet, get in their for a scoop, they're open daily from noon - 11 p.m.

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Blaming Betty

Three dresses in three days.  This is unheard of in my world.  Friday was the first time I had worn a dress in about a year and half, and even then it's been a rare occurrence.

I have very good reason for changing that.  One of my good friends is a professional photographer, who I see twice a year, this being a special year meant I saw him three times.  E lives in LA, but whenever he comes to visit, we end up at our favorite mall.  Conversation often flows (pardon the pun) around the topic of dresses; "why don't you wear dresses?"  "you'd look good in a dress, pretty, and feminine."  Let me clarify, this is him speaking to me, not the other way around.  I saw him at the end of June, and we revisited the dress topic, in much the same way as ever.  Knowing I was going to see him this weekend, I decided to surprise him, by wearing a dress.  I bought a dress a week ago, then had the great idea of buying another one - it's not my fault Blame Betty got a new shipment of dresses, one of which just called to me.  I have no idea what's happening to me.  So I went back this week to buy it, and decided to wear the first dress to my friend's bridal shower, and the second one for my photoshoot with E.

Let me explain.

I moved back to Calgary in January of 2008.  I started a new job a month later (which, consequently is how I met the aforementioned friends), this job required me to run the city streets in underwear on the outside of my clothing.  Think superhero bringing awareness to "under there" cancers - not some deranged lunatic.  That month, my coworker and I went into Blame Betty, a local independently owned (mostly) clothing store.  A hub of modern reproductions of vintage fashions, it feels like walking through a 1950's starlet's elaborate wardrobe.  I was in heaven.  I've always been drawn to things with a retro vibe think '40's and '50's not '80's.  I gawked, I drooled.  I knew I'd return soon to shop, I managed to pull myself away from the retro oasis and return to work.

In March, my coworker and I worked a fundraising event that had a silent auction, that amongst other treasures, featured a generous donation of goodies from Blame Betty.  I got mad when people weren't bidding enough, these were people walking around in jeans that average $200.  The fundraiser was for a good cause, the Tres Noir sunglasses alone commanded a much larger bid then the entire basket was receiving.  I told my friend if she was to bid, I'd kick in some money, and we'd split the items.  And that's what we did.  I got the gift certificates, she got the rest.  I headed to Blame Betty, and my first purchase consisted of:  an ivory Hell's Belles handbag that I adore to this day, a wallet with a pinup girl on it, and a black sweater with a red poodle.  Who knew this would be the first of many, many trips to Blame Betty?

I've discovered over the years that owners C & K are very generous, they donate to causes that are important to them, which consequently align with the causes that are important to me.  They hire staff that look the part, i.e. funky, vintage-y, pin-up girlish, and often give girls positions within the hierarchy at ages that wouldn't necessarily be given the same opportunities in other stores, until they were a bit older.  I admire the owners for doing this.

They've since opened Dick and Jane, right next door, and I now live within walking distance that can be at once dangerous, and a good thing.  In my mind, there are no other two stores that I like to support as much as I support them.  When I needed a dress for my sister's wedding two years ago, I went to Dick and Jane.  When I decided it was time to revisit the dress situation last week, I went to Blame Betty, who knew 7 days later I'd be back again?

When I walked into the bridal shower Friday evening, M was super impressed, and needless to say surprised.  She asked where I got my dress, immediately knowing there could be only one place where I'd ever buy a dress.  I scored bonus points for having polka dots on it, as that's her favorite shape.  On Saturday, I went to meet E, in my brand new, black, wrap dress, complete with 4 inch silver heels.  He hopped into my car, not knowing what was in store.  He was stunned.  My Hell's Belles handbag came along for the ride.  He truly is the only guy I'd ever do all that for, and it was so worth it to see his reaction.  I can't wait to see the photos from the photoshoot.  It's a little harder to be sleuthy when we're trespassing and my shoes are killing me, but I solidered on.  All in the name of art.  Meeting him for lunch today was unplanned, but I had decided to wear my Dick and Jane dress regardless of what I was doing.

If you've longed to own your own dress from Blame Betty, but don't live in the city, I've recently discovered that as long as it's on their Facebook page, you can order it.  Their website will be launching later this year.  I also love that their fashions come in a variety of sizes.

C & K, you know I love you guys as much as I love your stores, and I wish you continued success.  I'll be proudly wearing those three dresses far more frequently.

https://www.facebook.com/BlameBetty

https://www.facebook.com/DickandJaneStore

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Classic Car Show

I love vintage cars, they're one of my favorite subjects to photograph.  They are the perfect models, and they make me swoon.  After yesterday's trip to the car show, I feel I may have a little more rockabilly in my being than first thought.

The day was perfect for it, warm, without being uncomfortably so, and most importantly, slightly overcast.  On the heels of a week of sweltering heat, this made me very happy.  There were way more cars than I had anticipated, for I had mistakenly thought since it took place in the not so large field of a community center there would've been about half of what was actually there.  Which is great, because the show and shine later this summer sponsored by a local, evangelically church scares the crap out of me.  You know they'll try to convert anyone who shows up.  Although, it could be fun as I typically rock my God Hates Bags bag when taking photos.  (For those that don't know about http://revelandriot.com/, check them out, Zachary Quinto and Lena Dunham both did.  I'd like to point out I had my bag before them, thanks to https://www.facebook.com/DickandJaneStore.)

As soon as I arrived I was in classic car heaven, and I did a little happy dance on the inside.  Classic rock filled the air - think early Rod Stewart, and Smoke On The Water, it was a special kind of oratory hell.  I took pictures, and made notes on my iPhone, which I soon abandoned, for fear I'd be there all day.  The chrome had been polished to a high shine, and some of the paint looked like liquid, both of which added photographic challenges, mainly not wanting my own reflection in the hood or chrome of a T Bird. 

Three cars were there that looked like they just rolled off the set of Grease, and the yellow hot rod from ZZ Top's Legs video was there.  Complete with autograph, and a little ZZ Top cartoon.  I was so surprised I had to tweet that one, my battery was hemorrhaging at this point, so I didn't post any pictures on the fly.  Typically, the proud car owners were not my demographic of choice, but as they were often seated just behind their cars, and I was trying to not drool all over them, (the cars, not the men) it felt rude to not engage them in some form of small talk.  Soon, they were talking to me, and a couple guys followed me for a bit to talk to me about whichever car I was photographing.  Yeah, middle aged guys love me.  Honestly, if half of them had been hot women I would've scored a phone number by the end of it.

I am a super tactile person, I had such a hard time refraining from touching the cars.  I was reminded of when I went to an art museum in Toronto for a Picasso showing.  One piece in particular had such great, raised textures.  I held out as long as I could before touching it.  Of course I was busted by a security guard, but I was at most 15 at the time.  This would be much harder to explain, and I would've left fingerprint smudges on many cars.  I was thrilled when one guy told me I could actually open the door of his vehicle.  This was the land of hand grenade, and antler gear shift knobs, so one can never be too careful.  I will of course be purchasing similar accroutements for my Nissan. 

I'm still in the process of editing the million photos I took yesterday, but some are already available here:  instacanv.as/worth_y