Rejuvenated

Wow - can you believe that tomorrow marks the beginning of the year 2008? That said, isn't it just hilarious that people didn't think we'd make it past the year 2000?

You know, this year's Christmas was just fantastic. And actually, the same can be said for the last several months. I can't say that I've had this much fun, nor this much happiness in a long while. Though I have my "down-times" periodically, I generally feel rejuvenated as an individual. And can you blame me? I'm 40lbs lighter now than when I arrived in Vancouver in late February. I look like an entirely different person.

But not one that I don't want to be. Funny though it sounds, I now feel as if I am the person I always wanted to be. Especially concerning how I look - I'm now confident - for the first time in a long time - about the way I present myself to others. I'm comfortable with my body, my face and even my hair. I've never quite been with my hair, but now after 2+ decades, I can say that finally I have a hair style that I am pleased with.

I like the way I look. I like the fact that my personality combined with my looks attracts a certain specific type of girl; girls that I not only find attractive physically, but have the brains to keep my intellectually stimulated. Sure, I'm not in a relationship at the moment, but I've since gotten more "Meet Me" requests on HotOrNot.com. They could all turn out to be nothing...but I'm always hoping for the best. I want a love to spend time with.

That all being said, I truly feel as I'm a different person. It's hard to explain if you haven't undergone a drastic transformation yourself, but the feeling is almost indescribable. It changes your perception of everything around you.

And yet despite my improved appearance, I felt as if I've managed to retain my beliefs and opinions on what-not. In fact, my improved confidence has do nothing but strengthen my enthusiasm and expressive character. I'm greatly proud of who I am, and will not change that for some one's benefit.

Additionally, I'm now at a point in my life where I'm starting to reassemble the shattered pieces. I'm going to get education back on track come the New Year, and that alone, is going to change my life.

I'm in a happy place both physically and mentally. Never in my life have I not only gotten more joy out of listening to music, but being in the public and talking to others. There's something to be said about that.

Weekend Video's (#41)

Rush - "One Little Victory" (live in '03)



Loreena McKennitt - "Dante's Prayer" (live in '07)



Porcupine Tree - "Halo (live in 2007)

Guitar Legends - All Rush

For any Rush fan, this magazine is pure pornography. True, there isn't a whole lot in the magazine that I didn't already know (although even this Rush loony learned a few new things!), but it's the pictures and classic interviews make it a necessary item.

Christmas Reminder

Just a reminder of what any good Christmas should consist of...


-- Jennifer Lamiraqui

Christmas Morning

It's Christmas morning ya'll, and "Far Cry" by Rush is a playin'.

Merry Christmas folks.

Christmas Eve

Wow. It truly is unbelievable that as I write this message, it is Christmas Eve. Seems like it kind of snuck up out of no where, if you know what I mean.

And you know what? This is the first Christmas Eve in the last seven years that I've actually enjoyed. And ironically, it also happens to be the first one that doesn't feel like Christmas Eve.

As I mentioned some time ago, I have had a string of awful Christmas' over the last several years. And when I say "awful", I truly mean it.

This year is a little different though. I'm feeling fantastic because the today has played out in a manor in which I wanted it to play out, for a change. And I must mention that even despite the horrible cold (throat, nose and head) which I've been fending off for the last three days, my Christmas hasn't been ruined even the least bit.

Woke up at 4:30am, ate and then surfed the net for a few hours. And after I saw that I had a new double-match on HotorNot.com, felt totally confident and happy. Really look forwarding to talk with her.

After that, I spent the entire day with my father around various locations in Vancouver; a few of which included Granville Island, exotic car dealers and Jericho Beach. So, suffice to say, I got lots of exercise today and am feeling completely refreshed.

And for the last couple of hours, I've not only been surfing the net, but rocking out to as much music as I bloody want. And because my house-neighbours went away for Christmas this past Saturday, I get to listen to it at any volume I desire. I've been listening to Rush and Porcupine Tree non-effing-stop. In fact, I'm listening to Rush's 1989 album, "Presto" at the moment...

Essentially what I'm trying to say is that I think what most people fail to recognize, is that Christmas is something different for everyone. While some people's idea of great Christmas consists of a big party, a thousand family members, turkey and a ton of presents, my idea of a great Christmas is a great deal simpler. Hell, I didn't even set up a tree. In fact, my house looks identical to how it did 6 months ago. No decorations, no nothing. And I wouldn't have it any other way. For me, Christmas is best enjoyed with few family members (my dad specifically), food (other than Turkey - perhaps Pizza), loud music and next to nothing when it comes presents. Truth be told, I hardly got any presents for Christmas this year, but couldn't care. I've got my dad, and I've got my music.

And you know what I'm going to do first thing tomorrow morning? I'm going to listen to Rush's "Snakes & Arrows"... And I'm going to enjoy every minute of it. Now this is what I call a great Christmas.

Oh, and here's something that makes me that little bit happier.

My New Watch

Yippe!!! I got myself a new watch today.

Hmm, let's see...The last time that I actually owned (and wore a watch for that matter) was about 4 1/2 years ago. That's no joke either.

The last watch that I owned was an aqua blue-faced FOSSIL with a fantastic polished silver face and metal linkage. I loved it, but very unforuntately had to pawn it off to get some extra cash. After that happened, I promised to myself that I'd never ever buy one ever again at the risk of once again losing it. As I needn't tell anyone, giving something away that you love can be absolutely terrible.

Anyways, as I had recently recieved an Eddie Bauer gift card from my aunt in Calgary (who will probably read this soon enough - thank's auntie!!), I decided that I'd go to EB and pick out something that I really wanted. Thought about getting a wallet, but most of their wallets were rubbish. And then it hit me - "what about a watch"?

Shortly thereafter, I quickly glanced through their selection and noticed the beautiful piece you see at the top of this post. After eyeing it to death, I eventually asked an employee how much the watch was, and he checked the price tag and came back with a figure of $128.00. Though it was more than half the limit of my gift card limit, I just could not resist the opportunity to have this watch. And then and there, I decided that I'd get the watch with the gift card and offset any remaining balance with my own money.

When I went to the cash register, the cashier said the watch was not $128.00, but was on a bargain blowout sale for just $45.00. Yes, just $45.00 and as that was below my gift card limit, I could get the watch without spending any of my own money.

They had a selection of great watches, but most of which were not only too shiny and polished, but ultimately a bit too garish for my taste. In fact, when I look back at my FOSSIL, I can't help but think that it was a bit garish; a bit too flashy and showy.

One of the things that greatly attracted me to this watch was in fact it's old fashioned allure. The watchi t's self a very classy theme to it; most definitely an old fashion look and style - all of which is accentuated by the conventional brown coloured leather strap.

And don't think for one second that because it was "merely" $45.00 that it's cheap in anyway. It's not only well crafted, but has a ton of features - those which include: a digital time readout (in addition to the conventional hands) with the option to use a 24 hour clock; a lap timer and countdown; a date, month and year readout; an alarm clock and last, but certainly not least, a button which activates a green-faced illumantion so that the watch can be read in the dark. It's all top notch, and I couldn't be happier.

Thanks auntie!

Confused

Ahh, alright... I'm starting to get fed up with this whole thing with Jocelyn.

As I've already explained, our plan to meet this at the Vancouver Aquarium this this past Wednesday was foiled when her son became ill with a stomach flu. Now, I hadn't any reason to doubt what she was saying and naturally, was understanding of her position. Her child is the most important thing in her life; I wouldn't expect any less from a good mother.

But soon after that incident, things started to get dicey. With each and every email exchange not only has it taken her longer and longer to respond, but her responses are often short and sure to avoid questions that I've asked.

My original assumption was she was perhaps shy, or just extremely casual... That being said, I decided I'd take the leap of death and give her a call (she previously gave me her cell number) on Friday. Do you know how hard it was to get the nerve to call? I'm an extremely shy individual and absolutely dred talking to people I don't know. Yet despite that, I decided to overcome my fear and just give her a call.

I called her four times - twice in the morning (a few minutes apart) and twice (yet again minutes apart) some four hours later. On the my last phone call, I decided that I'd leave a message... My aim - casual & collected, and that's exactly what I did. I asked her that if Brandon was feeling better if she'd like to try to meet at the aquarium some time over the weekend. I wasn't pushy, nor intimidating on the subject, just casual.

From thereon, I waited to hear back from her and at 6:00pm, she responded (via Facebook, not a phone call mind you). But when she responded back on Facebook, she said that Brandon (her son) had been at her Grandma's house all day as she had managed to catch the little guy's stomach flu. But yet again, she never really answered my question. Then again, she never really seems to... ^_^
Nor does she seem all that interested in what interests me...

It really would appear that she's trying to avoid me - which begs the question, why the hell did she click "yes" to meet on HotOrNot.com? Is she not interested in me? Is she afraid to meet me? Is she afraid of having her heart broken?

Suffice to say, I'm entirely confused about the whole thing. That being said, I decided to message her back last night and simply ask her if she's even interested in me because I was starting to gather the impression that she wasn't. Risky gamble? Well,there's nothing to lose... I did however, write the message in a very civilzed and understanding manor. I asked if her if that which I believed was indeed true, then she should tell me the truth. If she doesn't want to meet me, then fine. I'll undoubtedly be disappointed, but I'll definitely be better of because this whole cat and mouse game has been driving me through the roof.

Haven't heard back from her yet, and hell, she might not even respond... But at this point, I cannot sit here wondering what hell she's thinking. At this point, the ball is in her park. I did (nor said) nothing wrong. I shall pursue her no more.

Or am I overreacting? Could I be entirely wrong? Did I blow it? Is this because Christmas is a week away? Who the fuck knows.

Quite frankly, I'm more mad at myself than anything; mad at myself for getting emotionally attached with little to go on to begin with. I spent more than a week thinking about this girl. Firstly asking the nerve to ask her out - then worrying what the actual meeting would be like - then wondering how the date it's self would both begin and end - then hoping her son was ok - and all of which followed. Why do I do this? Because I like to punish myself? In a way, yes. As I've mentioned several times before, I am a hopeless romantic. I never seem to learn, but then I suppose I cannot change the way I am.

If she responds back and proves me wrong, well then, hell yeah. I'll go out with her in a second. Until that time, I've done my best.

Weekend Video's (#40)

Rush - The Big Money (1985)
Uploaded by -J-rom-

Katie melua - spider's web - Sopot-4
Uploaded by kiligolo

Porcupine Tree - Way Out Of Here
Uploaded by Northia777

Songs & Albums of the Moment

My ten most listened to songs over the week (alphabetically ordered by band name):

* Porcupine Tree - "The Start of Something Beautiful"
* Porcupine Tree - "Open Car"
* Porcupine Tree - "Mellotron Scratch"
* Rush - "Distant Early Warning"
* Rush - "Mission"
* Rush - "Prime Mover"
* Rush - "Double Agent"
* Rush - "Nobody's Hero"
* Tom Cochrane - "Paper Tigers"
* Tom Cochrane - "Will of the Gun"

My five most listened albums over the week (alphabetically ordered by band name):

* Porcupine Tree - "Deadwing" (2005)
* Rush - "Counterparts" (1993)
* Rush - "A Show of Hands" (1988)
* Rush - "Hold Your Fire" (1987)
* Tom Cochrane - "Ragged Ass Road" (1995)

9:45AM

That's the time as I start this entry. I've now been up for a total of nine and a half hours. Yep, that's right - I didn't go back to sleep. I have since stayed up, and thus far isn't hasn't been too hard. Sure, I feel tired, but not so tired that I cannot concentrate.

Seems my throat flu is passing by rather quickly... Just came back from Safeway where I purchased not only some tasty orange-flavoured Vicks cough drops, but some Benadryl. Feeling better already.

12:08AM...

...is what the clock reads as I start to write this entry. Need I remind anyone that on normal circumstances I'd never been up at such an hour, but tonight is different. Tonight is different because I seem to have come ill with the flu myself. In light of what has happened with Jocelyn and etc, I cannot think of a worse time either.

Thankfully, I don't think it's one of those "two week" flu's, but as is obvious, it's still bad enough to interrupt my sleep.

I had noticed that my throat was getting sore and dry by about 4:00pm yesterday, and by the time 8:00pm had arrived, I knew what was going on. I don't think - or at least I hope - it's not a full-out stomach flu... at the moment it's merely a bad throat and a nose that feels a tad runny.

This is just terrible. What if Friday rolls around and Jocelyn and her son are ready to meet me, but I'm a terrible mess? Worst timing ever. I cannot let her down.

P.S - Last I spoke with her (last night - some several hours ago), Brandon (her son) was doing much better. Still suffering from a cough and a bad throat, but overall, much better.

Thanks, Dad

In talking with Kirstin (the cousin I had breakfast with just yesterday and who is truly one of the most wonderful people I've ever met - no joke) about the possibility of spending Christmas with my mother's side of the family, I've been reminded how great my father actually is.

You know, there are many people who have a relationship with their father which is strictly "father and son", but our relationship is so much stronger than that. Thanks to our many adventures - both good and bad - through out the last decade we've grown a bond which is best described as "best friends" first, "father and son" secondly.

It's a bond which I'm undoubtedly proud of. I can not only confide in him, but I can talk to him about anything. Anything means anything - sex (way beyond the "birds and bee's"); girls; racism; my daily thoughts as well my hatred for this and that. They're always discussions which are completely open with little nervousness. Not only can I trust in his knowledge and his advice, but I can always trust that he'll be there for me. If I need him to do something for me I know he'll do it. And that's definitely a two way street - we feed off each other's character

And It doesn't take too long before we're joking, laughing and throwing sarcastic comments around about most everything.

And because our interests are nearly identical, we haven't a problem with spending time with each other. For instance, we like the exact same music. In fact, most of my music taste was inherited from him. And on my side, I was the one who got him onto Rush and just recently, Porcupine Tree. We like the same TV shows too 0 X-Files, Heroes, Curb Your Enthusiasm and naturally, Trailer Park Boys. And there isn't a time when I don't watch Top Gear with him.

And as he is also an automotive enthusiast, It's clearly that I inherited his automotive obsession too. And yes... we like the same vehicles too... We like the same art, the same activities and even have the same taste in women.

And what I have also failed to mention in the past, is that he is essentially my hero. The both of us have been through some really tough times together and even when it looked like all hope was lost, he pulled us through. His determination is second to none.

Thanks pops.

A No-Go

I'm afraid my plan for Jocelyn and I to meet at the Vancouver Aquarium this morning did not go as planned. Actually, it didn't happen at all. Late night she dropped me a message telling me that her son had come ill with a fierce stomach flu. She said that he didn't make it to the DayCare Christmas party on Tuesday and has become sicker as the time has passed.

And yes, I believe she's telling the truth and not just brushing me off. And I'm not mad at her as I fully realize her child is probably the most important thing in her life.

Poor kid. Though having the flu during this season isn't unexpected... With Christmas around the corner one can only hope that he's better soon.

Though I am disappointed we didn't meet up, I'm definitely not giving up on her.

Meeting Up

So, I'll be meeting Jocelyn (see previous post) at the Vancouver Aquarium tomorrow morning at approx 10:30am. She'll be bringing her son (yeh, I forgot to mention that she has a three year old son) along for the fun. Bringing her son along was my idea... Thought he'd like it.

Naturally, my nerves are jangling right now. I'm so incredibly nervous...But I suppose that's normal. All I have do to is be myself - how hard can that be?
*biting finger nails*

And because I know you're wondering what she looks like, I'll attach a photo of her.


She's gorgeous...I know...

Yesterday = Brilliant

Yesterday was undoubtedly the best day I've had in several months.

Ok, so, allow me to revisit:

It started just like any other day. Woke up at 4:30am, turned the computer on and surfed the net for some three hours. Responded to a number of threads, sat back and just generally chilled out. And by the time 7:00am arrived, I was out and about with my father taking a look at some of the high-end (expensive, in other words) houses around Vancouver.

And take my word for it, some of the houses in this city are just amazing. Not because of their price or lot size, but because of their artistic architecture. Again, these houses are not cheap, but let me tell you, I'd much rather live in a big house with a ton of lot than a tiny house on the beach with little lot space.

After that, I went for a walk around Granville Island and then went home to not only do my regular walking activities, but some good 'ol stomach crunches.

Here's the thing though - remember Sarah (that seemingly amazing girl or HotorNot.com)? Yeah, well, she never responded back to me after my last email message. Things were going great and then it all came to a sudden stop. Why you ask? Well, I know that I never said anything "wrong"... so the most obvious reason is that because - like me - she knew it was hopeless situation. Had we lived closer to each other, there's little doubt in my mind that we would have gone out on a date.

It truly saddened me, but I have long since decide to move on. Since then, I decided to go back on HotorNot.com and start my search for another girl. And two days ago, I clicked "yes" to this amazing looking girl named "Jocelyn". Actually, using the words "amazing" to describe how she looks is probably an understatement.

Anyhow, I clicked yes to her and she clicked yes to me... So, viola! When we first started talking to each other, I had immediately noticed that she hadn't lots to say. Not because she wasn't interesting, or wasn't interested in me, but most probably because that was her character. Nothing wrong obviously - everyone is different in this regard. Anyhoo - on Saturday, I had fired an email off to her to asking her a few more questions about herself, and had been planning to essentially ask her out after she responded back.

And honestly, I took her a little while to respond back to me (this is before I had asked her out, mind you), so I started to naturally wonder If I had said something wrong. And need I remind any heterosexual male, waiting for a girl to respond to you is awful. Few things will drive you as insane...

Nevertheless, I did realize that she is human being and has a life too... So, I just waited it out and she eventually responded. Naturally, I responded back as quickly as possible, and gave her the ever-daunting question.

And then I waited some more... In the meantime, our Landlord had dropped by our house and being the good chap he is, decide dropped off some rather expensive "Jackson-Triggs" Red wine as a Christmas present. I was surprised too, but then I guess it's deserved considering how expensive the rent is... Lol!

And suddenly, a previous blog post that I made about trying alcohol for the first time popped into my mind. And If you recall, I had said that If I was going to try it out, I'd most certainly do it alone. At that point, it was my decision. Having never been drunk ever before, it was now or never. And I did it... The first time ever. I poured a small glass of wine (12.5% alcohol) and drank it. Mind you, the fact that it was undeniably bitter (and in my mind, disgusting) meant that it took some 30 minutes to drink half a glass of wine. Though, within 10 minutes, I could certainly feel the effects. I had this strange headache behind what was best described as my eyes. At first, I felt real lazy and sleepy, but as my body adjusted I started to feel awfully loose. And though I drank very little, it was not only enough to make me dizzy, but dampen my reactions, distort my sense of balance (was tripping around for a while) and latch a seemingly endless smile on my face. I had also noticed that I was slurring my words and hanging onto things like a monkey. The scariest thing about this was the fact that I truly hadn't that much wine. And when I woke up this morning, I noticed that I had (and still have) a very strange headache.

Was it fun? For a little while perhaps, but it's definitely not something that I'd like to do often.

I had my camera on hand so that I'd remember the occasion. Here's one of the many photos I took:

Yeh...


After that, I went surfing on the net and stumbled upon a ton of fantastic Rush bootleg video's that I hadn't seen. And then logged into Facebook to read a private message from Jocelyn saying that she'd like to meet me too. Yep, that's right. We're currently working out the meeting time via Facebook, and have already exchanged phone numbers. Honestly, I think she had been waiting for me to ask her the question since day one.

I couldn't/cannot stop smiling. I'm cannot wait to meet her. Yesterday was just great.

Weekend Video's (#39)

Rose Rossi - "Fade" (2007)



Heart - "Barracuda" (1977)



Porcupine Tree - "Lazarus" (2005)

Favourite Quotes Pt.2

"Quick to judge, quick to anger, slow to understand. Ignorance and prejudice and fear walk hand in hand." - Neil Peart

"I'm just sitting here watching the wheels go round and round." - John Lennon

"A classic is something that everybody wants to have read and nobody wants to read." - Mark Twain

"You need great passion, because everything you do with great pleasure, you do well." - Juan Manuel Fangio

It struck me that in the 21st Century what's replaced race relations as the number 1 concern for young people is a kind of terminal boredom, a generation X thing, it's the blank generation. It's exacerbated and accelerated by living vicariously through gadgets.Since I was a kid in the 80's the amount of technology that's around now is unbelievable. The worst thing my parents were probably worried about was TV, and we only had 4 channels in the UK back then! But now we live in the information technology age – with the Internet,Ipods, cellphones, Playstations, and Xbox's. You have the proliferation of TV channels, digital TV and MTV and it's various imitators. You have lowest common denominator stuff like American Idol, Big Brother, Cribs, and all the other similar shows" - Steve Wilson (of Porcupine Tree)

"The Speed Of Love"

Lyric excerpts from this superb song from Rush's 1993 "Counterparts" album. I bring these lyrics to life as tribute to a special girl:

"We don't have to talk
We don't even have to touch
I can feel your presence
In the silence that we share
Got to keep moving
At the speed of love
Nothing changes faster
Than the speed of love
Got to keep on shining
At the speed of love
Nothing changes faster
Than the speed of love"

Yeh... Don't worry, I won't make too many more of these "sappy" posts.

Reality Sets In

Suffice to say, Sarah and I have had numerous more correspondences since my last blog post pertaining to the subject, and they're always amazing. Her messages never fail to bring a smile to my face. I feel so happy. I find myself clicking my email open 5,000 times a day, eagerly awaiting her response of course. And in that moment, I can truly see the strength of love (or what is seemingly so). Everything else in your mind just fades; things that were once bothering (or bothered) you fade away like dust in a storm.

We've gotten personal as we're now revealing secrets and telling our various life experiences.

I told her that I wished that I like in Kamloops or Calgary (or that she lived in Vancouver) so that we could meet. And her response to that was:

Sarah:
I wish i lived in Vancouver or somewhere closer to you id really love to meet you one day you seem like an amazing guy.

Of course, after she said that, I said the exact same thing about her; essentially, I more or less told her how much I liked her. She's just a fantastic person.

As her email went to a close, I had the slight feeling that - as it had for me before - reality had set in. We live so far away from each other. We'll never get the chance to really get to know each other despite our great connection.

Naturally, I do realize that this isn't the end of the world. I haven't any doubts that I'll meet another girl who I connect with. But until that time, the great distance between us (and the personality connection) is surely leaving me with a degree of heart-ache.

"Have You Lost Weight?"

I posted a picture of myself on a forum the another day and a friend remarked, "you've lost weight, right?" To which I replied, "yeah - 30lbs to be exact". And then after I wrote the response, it got me thinking, "wait a minute, it's closer to 40lbs". The exact figure is 37lbs. I'm 37lbs lighter than when I arrived in Vancouver, March of this year.

When you've lost that amount of weight over such a time, it honestly doesn't sink in until someone else notices. You think to yourself: "wow, yeah, I had almost forgot".

Mind you, I do have a few photo's of myself back from March and I can't even bear to look at them. Looks like a different (but better) person

I suppose I hadn't thought about how much of an accomplishment it really is. Yahoo for me?

Head Over Heels (Pt.2)

Sarah (see here if you haven't a clue as to what I'm talking about) not only think it's "adorable" that I shower in the pitch dark (yeh, it's a long story), but has started to call me "hunny". Ahhh!

Moreover, our conversations have undoubtedly gotten deeper. More personal, and even a little more flirty. And the similarities between us continue - like me, she doesn't drink or smoke.

It's starting to kill me.... I'M starting to get far too hyped about this whole thing.

In the meantime, here's new photo of her.


Now tell me: does she not looking amazing? Love is in the air.

Weekend Video's (#38)

Rush - "Malignant Narcissism" (2007)



Jethro Tull - "Songs From The Wood" (live in '77)



Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers - "I Won't Back Down" (1989)

Head Over Heels

Oh no, It's happened. I think I've fallen head over heels for a girl on HotorNot.com. I kid you not.

But before I breach on the subject, allow me to say that within a little over a week and and two days of joining for the website's "Meet Me" application, I have already managed to achieve no less than 6 doubles matches. Of the six, only two of them I accepted to meet first; the other four accepted to meet me before I even clicked them...

Mind you, that's only the double matches. They were a couple of others that I clicked no to. But by and large, the girls are coming my way - not the other way around. And I'm greatly surprised by that, especially as some of these girls are just gorgeous. One of the girls by the way, is the girl in the second picture with pink hair and glasses in this particular post.

Though, thus far I've only had the chance to speak with two of them. The first of which lived in Abbotsford and had 3 month old daughter. Yeah, I know what you're thinking... Because I was thinking it too. Worse yet, she just got out of that relationship that left her with the baby a week prior to talking with me.

The problem however, was not the fact that she had a baby (although, I'm not aiming for a relationship as such), but more the fact that she was about as interesting as a stone. No personality whatsoever!

But anyways, I had clicked "yes" to this beautiful girl named "Sarah" who was apparently living somewhere in British Columbia, and suffice to say, she clicked "yes" to me. And ever since that, we've been emailing each other back and forth(totaling several times now).

Obviously we haven't met each other in the flesh, but her personality is amazing. When we first started talking, she said that she had been looking for a boyfriend and clicked "yes" to me as she notably saw that we shared a great deal of the same interests.

After our emails, I have come to the conclusion she is not only the type of girl that I'd want to date, but marry... *shocking*. All-around, she's just incredible. Sassy, interesting, fun and undoubtedly intelligent. Our view points/interests are sookly similar: she admits to being insecure; she's a hopeless romantic; she likes the same television shows as I do; she likes the same movies as I do; she doesn't like new age music; she's an agnostic and she doesn't like big cities as she admits to being a small town kind of girl. The similarities between us are seemingly endless.

And she loves to help people, has been to poverty stricken nations such as Iraq, Africa and Pakistan and is currently going to college to become a Psychiatrist.

There is however, one problem and it's a big one. She currently lives in Calgary, and is moving back to Kamloops... When she told me that, I felt as if I had been gutted like a fish and as our discussions get deeper and deeper, I feel that every bit more gutted. Needless to say, Kamloops is not in Vancouver... It's more than an hours drive away!

And yes... Maybe I'm jumping the gun, but had you the same conversation that I've had with her, you'd be thinking the same. Ehh, I dunno what to say other than the fact I really like her. The sooner I realize that she'll be living in Kamloops and out of reach, the better I'll be. :(

And yes, before you ask, I do have a few pictures of her. Though I'll only post two...



Yes, the pictures are webcam quality (in other words, rubbish), but I've seen enough. I'm convinced.

Classic Comedy

This is one of, if not my absolute favourite stand-up comedy pieces ever filmed. Absolutely hiliarious. George Carlin is the man.

Celebrity View

Oh you have an interest in Celebrities? Hmm...cool, I guess

*as their eyes roll*

You know, I think there is a huge misconception towards those who have interest in celebrities. Far too many stereotypes, far too many people judging you without even asking why you might have an interest in them. If you're a male, you'll most likely be stereotyped as gay, a tosser, or perhaps even both. If you're a female, then the stereotypes most likely follow as such: you're a 40 year old house wife with nothing to do; you're a phony; you're 16 year old girl with blond hair and little knowledge of anything outside of your benevolent universe - (thank Neil Peart for those last two words)

People even assume that because you have an interest in celebrities that you not only want to become, but live the supposedly flash life-style which they live.

Well, I'm here to not only debunk the classic stereotypes which for those of us who have interest in celebrities, but take an in-depth look into what fuels my passion for interest in celebrities.

So then, why do I personally have an interest in celebrities?

Well, it's not because I think they're superior human beings with no faults, beautiful looks and brains beyond reproach. Oh, of course not, and thus is one major problem with liking celebrities in any day and age. Those who are celebrities are obviously regular people: some have talent, some don't; some are good looking, some aren't; some are flash, some aren't; some had connections, some didn't. They are just regular people who have much time under the spotlight. They are just regular human beings, and actually, that's one of the things which greatly interests me about them.

Suffice to say, having celebrity status - whether that be a musician, or a television/movie star - is a very stressful gig. I'm one whose interested by human behaviour, and how our minds as the race we are, operate. To me, there is a great deal interest in seeing how one reacts to such stratospheric fame. Money, followers, power, acknowledgement - it all adds to some explosive combination. All of this can undoubtedly change an individual; they can become greedy, irresponsible and even careless. Some can deal with it, while others fall onto a pad of rusty nails.

And of course, the media certainly helps fuel things along. If you slip up, they're going to exploit the situation and take full advantage. No doubt, celebrities world wide have to watch their step. The problem with that being that they're are some celebrities who aren't smart enough to cover their tracks. They're so idiotic and easy to manipulate that they are essentially a form of bait. Take Britney Spears for example. Now, it is my opinion that she is far from the brightest egg in the drawer. She's a very, very easy target. And the same goes for Anna Nicole Smith who most always acted like a complete ditz. Mind you, those are just two examples, but probably the finest I can summon.

And by God, look at Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton. This pair of adolescent children are just beyond belief. Both are young, both are ditzy and both are party animals with the drugs/drinking convictions, and the jail time to prove it. And thus lies within the next problem of the stereotype. When you have these main stream names causing such great controversy in the media, it happens to cast a bad a shadow among celebrities of all types. Had you yet to notice, comments such as "God, I hate celebrities", or "Celebrities are idiots" are overtly common amongst the Internet. What I'm essentially trying to say is that just because their are a few bad apples in the pale, it does not mean every other celebrity should have to suffer for it. So for Christ's sake, stop the bullshit stereotypes. Let me put it this way: just because Nazi's once existed in Germany, doesn't mean all Germans where Nazi's. Simple logic, yet seemingly never understood.

Paris Hilton off to jail

Though, I do wish to address the concern that celebrities are often the worst example of the justice system being abused. I'm afraid there isn't much here that I can refute. There's so much truth in this it's not even funny, and thus can even understand why some individuals have no interest in celebrities whatsoever. Yet despite this, my interest in celebrities is not dampened.

And for the love of common sense, just because Russel Crowe - or any celebrity for that matter - knocks down a member of paparazzi, doesn't mean they need to go to "anger management". Yet again, these are regular human beings who are followed most everywhere. They can't get anyway from the paparazzi... So once push comes to shove, there's little wonder why these things happen. Frustration is a key human component - we all have it.

Nevertheless, I applaud those celebrities which have managed to constantly duck the paparazzi radar. Truth is, I do believe that some of these individuals love the attention, thus explaining the stupid behaviour, but then they are some who don't want to be thought of as Gods amongst mortals. These are individuals who don't flaunt their wealth and don't change themselves for the benefit of others.

Musicians

Let me start by taking about a few of the musicians who I admire for their sense of integrity and lack of glitz. Though I'm often blabbering on about how much I love Rush's music, I most always fail to express my appreciation for the band members themselves. The guys - Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson & Neil Peart - really do appear to be a down to earth bunch of guys. These are guys who have stated on a number occasions that they wish not to be seen as celebrities, but true musicians. They are the same guys who do things their own way and have yet to perform on any such late-night talk show. Why you ask? Neil Peart said something along the lines: "a band like Rush doesn't work in such a setting, but ultimately, it's quite cheesy to do such". This is also a band that despite their huge success has turned down numerous movie score scripts and manage to shield themselves from the paparazzi. And aside from Alex's run-in with the law back in 2004 at the Ritz Carlton, this band has a flawless reputation. They're are a very respectable bunch of guys. I deeply admire such an attitude.

Rush

Another musician's whose attitude I think is particularly impressive is Joanna Levesque (Jojo). Shamelessly being attracted to her, I decided to go onto YouTube a while back and watch a interview with her; all for the sake of seeing what he public persona was like. And much to my surprise, JoJo was not anything like I had imagined - a posh, glitzy pop princess with the IQ of a squirrel and the manners of a 5 year old. Oh no, she has proved countless times that she is an intelligent, mature and polite character. Actually, I reckon she's more intelligent, mature and polite than the average person her age. And do remember that this is a girl who in early 2007, was ranked as one of Forbes young Hollywood top-earning stars.

Jojo

But of course, the music business has many characters which are the worst example of posh, ignorant assholes. Quite frankly and I'm not being racist, but the rappers are the absolute worst. They're most always a bunch of blitzy assholes that like to wear gold jewerly, cause a big fuckin' ruckess for the sake of it and lastly, drive around in their Lamborghini's and Rolls Royce's with 22" chrome alloys and manic paint jobs. They are the worst example of celebrity status.

Movie/Television Stars

On the silver screen front, celebrities that I admire for that exact integrity as artists and individuals are:

Kate Beckinsale:

Kate Beckinsale

No surprise, eh? Though, as I've said countless times before, I really admire Mrs. Beckinsale for more than the way she looks. I admire her for her personality, I admire her for her "I do my things my own way" attitude. She doesn't live in a big mansion, nor does she own a collection of high-end sports car. She's an individual with much intelligence and one who could evidently do whatever job she wishes.

She's herself, and she's not going to change that. She's careful as to what she says, yet not without alienating her true sense of character.

Sophia Bush:

Sophia Bush is pretty much the same story as Beckinsale. She's bold, interesting, unique and herself.

As for some male screen stars (copied from a previous post I wrote):

Brad Pitt:

Mr. Pitt happens to be another actor who truthfully comes off like a natural. He doesn't take shitty roles either - well ok, Mr & Mrs. Smith.. but other than that plonker, he has consistently stars in fantastic films where he's always gives a superb acting performance. He seems like a good guy with a good judge of character.

Anthony Hopkins

Mr. Hopkins is an actor which I have great respect for. Not only because he's very talented, but because he refuses to star in shitty films. In an interview conducted in mid 2006 (for the release of 'The World's Fastest Indian'), Hopkins stated that he refused to star in pointless (aka - rubbish) films.

David Duchovny

Completely down to earth, and undoubtedly a respectable character.

What does the future hold for our celebrity obsessions?

With the world of information technology stretching further day in and day out, I seriously doubt the it'll ever slow down. As the years pass, we will continue to ponder in the life's of others - not only because we're nosey, but because we wish to escape the realm of our own life.

As I mentioned at the beginning of this absurdly long post, those of who do admire celebrities are often stereotyped. Though to be honest, I can't blame 'em the name callers. The problem being that some of the stereotypes hold true to form. They are children who - scary though it is - idolize people such as Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. And that said, it is important for parents - of now, of the future - to make sure their children don't hold too much faith in celebrity obsession. And notably, it is important for parents to make sure that they children know that these celebrities aren't perfect individuals - even the best looking of ones can look awful. Mind you, that's assuming the parents themselves know better...

These people are humans, and most of them don't live the seemingly excellent life as people would have you believe. It's a tough gig.

But when you think of me, one who has a large celebrity picture collection and operates a celebrity-based blog, do remember that I am not some crazed follower with no knowledge of the world outside my home.

Common Characteristics

Rather than going through the entire process of explaining my affection for girls with dyed hair yet again, I'll leave you with this link >> I Love Dyed Hair

Anyways, in looking through HotorNot.com over the last couple of days, I have noticed there is a specific set of characteristics for girls who like do dye their hair. The first and foremost being that nearly all of them have piercings; particularly face piercings. Not that I'm complaining... Oh no, I haven't a problem with a few piercings as long as the face doesn't look like a jewelry rack. The second most common characteristic and the one that doesn't fit my personality, is that most of them are hardcore emo chicks who are into hardcore punk and metal music. Additionally, most of them aren't into "regular" looking guys such as myself, but more the emo type rocker guy who - naturally - plays in a band. And lastly, they like to party and drink like a hound. Therefore, most aren't anywhere close to my personality type.

They're not all like this, but truth be told, close to 85% of them are. I feel disappointed, but I guess I should have known better.

In any event, here are some of my favourite "dyed hair girls" that I've found on HotorNot.com over the last couple of days:



My comments:

Picture 1: Very interesting application of dye. Cute girl too.

Picture 2: Hair looks fantastic. She's cute as well!

Picture 3: This girl is one of the best I've ever seen on HON. And yes, I'm being serious. I like her a whole lot! Love the application of dye too; the colours (green & red) are applied in a streaking style.

Snow in Vancouver?!

No joke there my fellow readers.

As had been expected, it started snowing this weekend and below is the scene some 2 hours ago:


I love it! Honestly, I'll take snow over rain any day of the week. The reason wjy snow is so great is because you, a) don't get wet as you do with rain, b) don't get depressed because it's bright, and C) it's looks beautiful!

The people of Vancouver however, would probably disagree. Aside from a few kids, most everyone else absolutely hates it; complaining that it's too cold. Cold? Nigga, please. For a Vancouver native, sure, but for a Calgary native such as my myself? No way. It's not even -10 out there.

Did I go for my daily walk(s)? You damn right I did - three times in fact. Loved every moment of it. I love snow!

Weekend Video's (#37)

Avril Lavigne - "Nobody's Home" (live in '04)



Tragically Hip - "Ahead By A Century" (1996)



Porcupine Tree - "Piano Lessons" (1999)