Phew... Presents are out and wrapped... Cookies and milk, out for Santa. Kids asleep.
Merry Christmas to all of you out there. May your Christmas be as magical as mine!
B.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Storm Day!
Yahoooooooooooo.... I have a storm day!!!!!!! No work today (but lots to do). I don't think this happened at all last year.
:-)
B.
:-)
B.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
New Battlestar Galactica Content! -- BSG 4.5 Webisode 001
Oh blessed day- this intially missed my attention but NEW Battelstar Galactica content has been released prior to the show's return in Januray.
Battlestar Galactica Season 4.5 Webisode 001 - The Face of the Enemy
Battlestar Galactica Season 4.5 Webisode 001 - The Face of the Enemy
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Decision Made
For the past few weeks, I've been trying to sort out a very difficult decision: whether or not to switch jobs. Yes, its the kind of decision people make every day. We make them and then we live with them.
Basically, I was faced with staying in my present position or moving back to a different job in our system, doing very different work. I had this job from January 2007-March 2008 (but was unable to get it permanently due to a really crappy, half-arsed interview I did- never assume you have a job "in the bag," kids).
The issues for me seemed to come down to the prospects of returning to a more glamorous job with slightly less pay as the bottom guy on the org chart. Or, I could continue where I am (and have been since 2001) given progressively more specialization, responsibility and leadership.
I'm staying put. I feel pretty good about this decision. After thinking about it until my head hurt and getting no where but a continuous set of flip flips back and forth, I had to go with my gut. I'm pushing forty and I need to continue on my path to be an expert in what I'm doing. I have a an utterly unique position in the province. No one else does exactly what I do and I'm doing new things all the time. I'm in a good spot to grow into a position of leadership in my team and my other option was to return to a place that had already rejected me. It was gratifying doing a decent interview this time- makes up for the humiliation I caused myself last time. But, I'm off (for now) to be an expert.
B.
Basically, I was faced with staying in my present position or moving back to a different job in our system, doing very different work. I had this job from January 2007-March 2008 (but was unable to get it permanently due to a really crappy, half-arsed interview I did- never assume you have a job "in the bag," kids).
The issues for me seemed to come down to the prospects of returning to a more glamorous job with slightly less pay as the bottom guy on the org chart. Or, I could continue where I am (and have been since 2001) given progressively more specialization, responsibility and leadership.
I'm staying put. I feel pretty good about this decision. After thinking about it until my head hurt and getting no where but a continuous set of flip flips back and forth, I had to go with my gut. I'm pushing forty and I need to continue on my path to be an expert in what I'm doing. I have a an utterly unique position in the province. No one else does exactly what I do and I'm doing new things all the time. I'm in a good spot to grow into a position of leadership in my team and my other option was to return to a place that had already rejected me. It was gratifying doing a decent interview this time- makes up for the humiliation I caused myself last time. But, I'm off (for now) to be an expert.
B.
Blogger's family confirms his arrest
Here's a broadly similar story from Iran...
Blogger's family confirms his arrest
The Globe and Mail Dec. 9, 2008
B.
Blogger's family confirms his arrest
The Globe and Mail Dec. 9, 2008
B.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Unabahsed Cuba Bashing
At different points in my life I've been close to people who were prepared to excuse away Cuban repression because Cuba:
1) Has reasonably good health care and education systems,
2) Is anti-American,
3) Is an affordable place to have to sun-cation in (if you're from the True North Strong and Free, not the True South Stronger but not so free), or
4) Was co-founded by Comrade Che.
As much as I disagree with 45 years of the American embargo, lets remember that even post-Castro, Cuba is a still in a state of Stalinist repression. If people have no ability to criticize their government, they have no ability to be protected from it. If they have no ability to be protected from it, it can do anything it wants to them. That's wrong.
Here's a story to remind us all that Cuba is far from a free or open society.
Read this article from the Globe and Mail "Cuba says blogger ran afoul of the law".
B.
1) Has reasonably good health care and education systems,
2) Is anti-American,
3) Is an affordable place to have to sun-cation in (if you're from the True North Strong and Free, not the True South Stronger but not so free), or
4) Was co-founded by Comrade Che.
As much as I disagree with 45 years of the American embargo, lets remember that even post-Castro, Cuba is a still in a state of Stalinist repression. If people have no ability to criticize their government, they have no ability to be protected from it. If they have no ability to be protected from it, it can do anything it wants to them. That's wrong.
Here's a story to remind us all that Cuba is far from a free or open society.
Read this article from the Globe and Mail "Cuba says blogger ran afoul of the law".
B.
Friday, December 05, 2008
News stories
Here'a a couple of interesting ones:
"Firm makes one billionth mouse."
"Solar Taxi goes round the world"
"Firm makes one billionth mouse."
"Solar Taxi goes round the world"
Monday, December 01, 2008
What I'm Watching... (Dec. 1, 2008)
Here's what I'm watching lately:
1) How I Met Your Mother: Still one of the funniest things on TV.
2) Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. I know a few of you may think less of me for really liking this show, but this is one of the best dramas of the last few years. Its better than the three Terminator movies. Its a family drama about a family that's trying to stop the world from ending.
3) Season Two of Heroes: Yeah, I know- I'm waaaay behind and season two is not all that great, but I want to get caught up and watch season three.
4) House: It still rocks.
5) Bones: Its our new "watch it together" show. B.
1) How I Met Your Mother: Still one of the funniest things on TV.
2) Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. I know a few of you may think less of me for really liking this show, but this is one of the best dramas of the last few years. Its better than the three Terminator movies. Its a family drama about a family that's trying to stop the world from ending.
3) Season Two of Heroes: Yeah, I know- I'm waaaay behind and season two is not all that great, but I want to get caught up and watch season three.
4) House: It still rocks.
5) Bones: Its our new "watch it together" show. B.
New Car, Eight Months Later
New Car, Eight Months Later
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
So far, our Corolla has over 16,000 kms on it and no problems.
Its averaging 7.5 L/100 km or 37.66 miles to the gallon Imperial or 31.362 miles to the gallon U.S.
About 99.9% of the time I ecstatic that we bought a car and not the Mazda 5 "Microvan" that we also test drove. I'm always happy that we paid just a little bit extra and bought the LE trim with keyless entry, keyless ignition, wood trim, cruise control, and automatic climate control.
I think we'll get a brand new car every ten years, "whether we need it or not" :-)
B.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Busy Week Past
This week has flown by in some kind of confusing flash... It wasn't a bad week just a busy one.
I have a big decision to make (I think) about work. A while back I took a temporary position in a job and held it for about 15 months. I had decided to stay permanently and then under-performed in the job interview because I thought I had it "in the bag." You can guess what happened.
Now, six months later I've interviewed for that job again after six months spent back on the job I've held since 2001. Its been a happy time, but frustrating with respect to some things in the organization with which I disagree strongly. At the same time, I probably have more future opportunity where I am, organizational warts and all. If I'm offered the second job, I'm not sure what I should/will do.
Decisions, decisions...
B.
I have a big decision to make (I think) about work. A while back I took a temporary position in a job and held it for about 15 months. I had decided to stay permanently and then under-performed in the job interview because I thought I had it "in the bag." You can guess what happened.
Now, six months later I've interviewed for that job again after six months spent back on the job I've held since 2001. Its been a happy time, but frustrating with respect to some things in the organization with which I disagree strongly. At the same time, I probably have more future opportunity where I am, organizational warts and all. If I'm offered the second job, I'm not sure what I should/will do.
Decisions, decisions...
B.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Possible Outcomes of Madagascar 2
I recently saw Madagascar 2. I was pleased it was as funny and witty as the first (although some jokes are now fully over). Here's where I think things are going from here:
1) Mellman and Gloria struggle through years of a "physically" uncertain but ultimately happy relationship.
2) Giving in to the real reason for the tension between them, Marty and Alex struggle through years of a "physically" uncertain but ultimately happy relationship.
3) King Jullian thrives in Africa and Lemurs become the dominant species on the continent (through a weird Jullian-Penguin-Chimp Alliance). Stranded New Yorkers thrive and in time become number 2.
4) There will be a Madagascar 3...
B.
1) Mellman and Gloria struggle through years of a "physically" uncertain but ultimately happy relationship.
2) Giving in to the real reason for the tension between them, Marty and Alex struggle through years of a "physically" uncertain but ultimately happy relationship.
3) King Jullian thrives in Africa and Lemurs become the dominant species on the continent (through a weird Jullian-Penguin-Chimp Alliance). Stranded New Yorkers thrive and in time become number 2.
4) There will be a Madagascar 3...
B.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Two Clans of Seven Year-Old Girls
Ordinarily I'm not one for categories with people. Individual differences always trump any groupings inn which we humans attempt to fit ourselves. Aside from gender, they all break down in the end.
That said, there are two categories of seven year-old girls. As a parent I have not come to this conclusion easily or without thought. Enough equivocation. The tow types are 1) Hannah Montana Fans, and 2) Sponge Bob Square Pants Fans.1) Hannah Montana Fans: Much more than being fans of Ms. Cyrus and her work, they are much more likely to have pierced ears, makeup, and large blond wigs. High black boots and matching clothes are common. They assume that everyone likes Hannah Montana just as much as they do, to the point of giving Hannah Montana wigs to other little girls as birthday presents (irrespective of which of the two types the recipient may be).2) Sponge Bob Fans: Much less likely to hold on to a con-temporized little girl look: clothes don't match as much, fewer pierced ears, far, far fewer dresses and skirts. They wear pretty brown and blues.
As you might have guessed, we have a Sponge Bob fan. She is happy and well-adjusted and doesn't like Hannah Montana, whom she thinks is silly. She likes the Beatles, the White Stripes, and once came to breakfast signing Paradise City by Guns 'n Roses.
Culture is a funny thing.
B.
That said, there are two categories of seven year-old girls. As a parent I have not come to this conclusion easily or without thought. Enough equivocation. The tow types are 1) Hannah Montana Fans, and 2) Sponge Bob Square Pants Fans.1) Hannah Montana Fans: Much more than being fans of Ms. Cyrus and her work, they are much more likely to have pierced ears, makeup, and large blond wigs. High black boots and matching clothes are common. They assume that everyone likes Hannah Montana just as much as they do, to the point of giving Hannah Montana wigs to other little girls as birthday presents (irrespective of which of the two types the recipient may be).2) Sponge Bob Fans: Much less likely to hold on to a con-temporized little girl look: clothes don't match as much, fewer pierced ears, far, far fewer dresses and skirts. They wear pretty brown and blues.
As you might have guessed, we have a Sponge Bob fan. She is happy and well-adjusted and doesn't like Hannah Montana, whom she thinks is silly. She likes the Beatles, the White Stripes, and once came to breakfast signing Paradise City by Guns 'n Roses.
Culture is a funny thing.
B.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Another Sign of Obama's Landslide
I think when the Repbulicans who support a Democcratic candidtae are this organized, he just can't lose:
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Shades of Grey: The Beach in Late Sept. 2008
Shades of Grey: The Beach in Late Sepetmber 2008
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
I usually don't think about grey being a beautiful colour until you see
a scene like this. Its hard to count how many different greys there are
in this picture.
B.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
Why Obama (Almost) Can't Lose...
What I have retained from my undergrad and graduate stats courses is this: if you take a big enough look at the numbers, they very seldom lie.
Opinion polls are at best abstratct exercises in answering only the question of what people will answer when a pollster asks them a question. BUT- if you look at an aggrearate of results, time over time greater truth can be apparent.
The presidential polls in the U.S. show that Barack Obama has a near lock on the race. You can't possibly lose if poll, after poll says you have a lead and you are going to win. Barring the greatest of scandals and falls from grace he has this race locked. Look for yourself:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opinion_polling_for_the_2008_United_States_presidential_election#Two-way_contest:_Barack_Obama_vs_John_McCain
Opinion polls are at best abstratct exercises in answering only the question of what people will answer when a pollster asks them a question. BUT- if you look at an aggrearate of results, time over time greater truth can be apparent.
The presidential polls in the U.S. show that Barack Obama has a near lock on the race. You can't possibly lose if poll, after poll says you have a lead and you are going to win. Barring the greatest of scandals and falls from grace he has this race locked. Look for yourself:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opinion_polling_for_the_2008_United_States_presidential_election#Two-way_contest:_Barack_Obama_vs_John_McCain
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Federal Election Results Ruminations
Federal Election Returns
VOTER TURN OUT:
Canada (2008) - 58%
Afghanistan - 83.7%
We're ranked 88th among voter participation. Yay us...
Sunday, October 12, 2008
So... Another Minority Means What?
Here's a very neat article from the Globe and Mail. I don't think I agree with Jefferey Simpson about Quebec, but its good to see someone realizing that we're never going back to the way things were.
The rise of the Greens and the apparent permanence of the Bloc Québécois reflect the splintering of politics on linguistic or single-issue lines, something dreaded by those who saw national parties as indispensable links in a pluralistic, geographically huge, linguistically split country...
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Interesting Article about Sarah Palin
This article on Salon.com provides an interesting perspective on Sarah Palin's Alaska-ness or her role as an an Alaskan-American.
Personally, I think two things:
Personally, I think two things:
- Its obvious that this information brings into question her qualification to run as a VP or at least would be damaging if it was better known, but
- On the other hand, maybe someone who may not see herself as an American first running on the presidential ticket for one of the main two parties is a sign of progress for the U.S. In a country so committed to seeing itself in such monolithic terms. diversity of opinion, background, and identity couldn't hurt.
I shudder at any prospect of a McCain/Palin victory, but maybe there's a positive side to her candidacy other than just gender.
B.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
The Federal Election Sumarized
Okay- I think I have the federal election figured out. Here goes:
The Liberals may want my rifle,
The Tories may want my part of the social safety net,
The NDP may want me to pay more taxes,
The Greens may want my smog, and
The Bloc may not want anything from me.
B.
The Liberals may want my rifle,
The Tories may want my part of the social safety net,
The NDP may want me to pay more taxes,
The Greens may want my smog, and
The Bloc may not want anything from me.
B.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Super Girl's Terry Fox Run 2008
Thanks you all very much for your support of Super Girl. She was able to raise $184.33 for her kindergarten's "Little Fox" run.
Thanks!!
Bruce
Thanks!!
Bruce
Hurricane Kyle - Part 3
Happily, things didn't amount to much.
Super Girl's (age 4.5) sleep over Friday night was more eventful than Kyle. It went very well, though. I don't say this frequently enough but- they are so cute at that age.
B.
Super Girl's (age 4.5) sleep over Friday night was more eventful than Kyle. It went very well, though. I don't say this frequently enough but- they are so cute at that age.
B.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Hurricane Kyle Watch - Part 1
Its 10:12 PM and the heavy rain has just started. To my reckoning, there's nothing else in the yard that will hurt if it blows around.
Here are the things I've done:
1) Bath tub full of water,
2) Candles, oil lamps, flashlight at the ready,
3) work done on down spout drains (involved gratuitous trips to Home Depot),
4) BBQ bungeed to the deck,
5) garbage cans bungeed to the side of the deck, and
6) cat inside.
So far so good.
B.
PS- I fully expect water in the basement, but I'm a little bit of a pessimist on the subject.
Here are the things I've done:
1) Bath tub full of water,
2) Candles, oil lamps, flashlight at the ready,
3) work done on down spout drains (involved gratuitous trips to Home Depot),
4) BBQ bungeed to the deck,
5) garbage cans bungeed to the side of the deck, and
6) cat inside.
So far so good.
B.
PS- I fully expect water in the basement, but I'm a little bit of a pessimist on the subject.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Coolest plane ever...
One of my few life long interests has been aviation (albeit most often as a casual observer). I would like to through off about thirty years of (relatively) refined composure and say simply that I WANT ONE OF THESE NOW! RIGHT NOW. I AM THIS COOL AND I DESERVE ONE. THIS IS THE AWSEOMEST PLANE IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD. I WANT ONE.
If you think I'm making this up, read the story at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7634927.stm
Its are and I want one.
Christmas and my birthday are coming,
B.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
First Pre-K Homework for Super Girl
This is what your homework is like when you're four. She has it for a week and we try to read it a couple of times an evening.
September Falling
This has already been a great month. Action Girl (now 7 3/4) is off to Grade Two and says she loves it. Super Girl (age 4 3/4) is in Pre-Kindergarten and is very much a member of the Kindergarten Class at her daycare.
Skating is three days a week for Action Girl and will start in October for Super Girl (when it also goes down to two days a week for her big sister). Our new addition, Peggy, is a gentle but energetic cat. We're enjoying her a lot.
My work has been especially challenging and frustrating but things are okay. Super Mom is off to a running start with her work and says she has a great class again this year.
The remnants of Hurricane Hannah soaked a little bit of our basement but we are not yet ready to give up on the house yet. (I'm kidding- we still owe on the mortgage....). With two national elections underway, I am concerned I may just just explode.... But I'll do my best to manage. Its my SuperBowl...
The Canadian election should be interesting. Its had to imagine that the Liberals can close the gap with the Tories, but stranger things have have happened. The issue around the Green Party and the leader's debate has been interesting- the pressure is certainly on for Elizabeth May to wow people with her performance in the debate.
I may write more about this later, but I guess I feel like a little bit of a political orphan. No party membership yet and my process seems to be about deciding with whom I agree with the most and disagree with the least, or least seriously.
Hmmmm,
B.
Skating is three days a week for Action Girl and will start in October for Super Girl (when it also goes down to two days a week for her big sister). Our new addition, Peggy, is a gentle but energetic cat. We're enjoying her a lot.
My work has been especially challenging and frustrating but things are okay. Super Mom is off to a running start with her work and says she has a great class again this year.
The remnants of Hurricane Hannah soaked a little bit of our basement but we are not yet ready to give up on the house yet. (I'm kidding- we still owe on the mortgage....). With two national elections underway, I am concerned I may just just explode.... But I'll do my best to manage. Its my SuperBowl...
The Canadian election should be interesting. Its had to imagine that the Liberals can close the gap with the Tories, but stranger things have have happened. The issue around the Green Party and the leader's debate has been interesting- the pressure is certainly on for Elizabeth May to wow people with her performance in the debate.
I may write more about this later, but I guess I feel like a little bit of a political orphan. No party membership yet and my process seems to be about deciding with whom I agree with the most and disagree with the least, or least seriously.
Hmmmm,
B.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Greenwich Beach Pics Aug 29, 2008 1
IMG_0293
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
The entire beach complex is self -sustaining with composted sewage and solar and wind power.
B.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Peggy 1
Peggy 1
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
Our new cat, Peggy. Peggy came to live with us on August 28, 2008. She`s one year old.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Soccer 2008 Warp-Up
Thursday was the last evening for a very long and very great soccer season. As an U-6 coach, I was quite happy with several things:
1) I did not make a fool out of myself,
2) We had a great team which included a fantastic group of 4, 5, and 6 year old boys and girls, and
3) My co-coach knew stuff, and his sporting experiences as a child had obviously been far more positive than mine.
(Slight) Regrets:
I regret that I didn't get a chance to:
1) Transform myself into a masked, caped coaching super hero known as "Senor Footballo,"
2) Have a live mascot for our team,
3) Watch more of my older daughters U-8 games, and
4) Have a better chance to tell each of our players how very proud I was of each of them.
We made trading cards for each of our players as an extra "way to go" item and they each got a team picture and a medal.
It was a whole lot of work but it was some work with which I'm pretty pleased.
B.
1) I did not make a fool out of myself,
2) We had a great team which included a fantastic group of 4, 5, and 6 year old boys and girls, and
3) My co-coach knew stuff, and his sporting experiences as a child had obviously been far more positive than mine.
(Slight) Regrets:
I regret that I didn't get a chance to:
1) Transform myself into a masked, caped coaching super hero known as "Senor Footballo,"
2) Have a live mascot for our team,
3) Watch more of my older daughters U-8 games, and
4) Have a better chance to tell each of our players how very proud I was of each of them.
We made trading cards for each of our players as an extra "way to go" item and they each got a team picture and a medal.
It was a whole lot of work but it was some work with which I'm pretty pleased.
B.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
I'm Still Here!
Just a quick post- I am still living and am quite busy (surprise!). Last night of soccer is tomorrow night (Thursday).
I just completed a stint of two weeks at work serving as the acting team leader, so I'm tired and behind on my own work. That said, I enjoyed the change.
Super Mom and I were able to get away for a couple of days last weekend and got some shopping done while the girls were with my parents.
This week, Action Girl (and 7.5) is having a blast at science camp and Super Girl (age 4.5) is home. She watched the Sound of Music for the first time. She said she liked it a lot and asked here mom why the dad made the kids wear the uniforms.
Did anyone else ever wonder if Rolf survives the war?
More later,
B.
I just completed a stint of two weeks at work serving as the acting team leader, so I'm tired and behind on my own work. That said, I enjoyed the change.
Super Mom and I were able to get away for a couple of days last weekend and got some shopping done while the girls were with my parents.
This week, Action Girl (and 7.5) is having a blast at science camp and Super Girl (age 4.5) is home. She watched the Sound of Music for the first time. She said she liked it a lot and asked here mom why the dad made the kids wear the uniforms.
Did anyone else ever wonder if Rolf survives the war?
More later,
B.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
U-6 Soccer Action Shot
U-6 Soccer Action Shot
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
Our team is orange, playing deep over red's side of the line.
(Taken with my phone.)
B.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
U-6 Soccer Adventure: July 22, 2008
Tonight went well despite a couple of notable players' absence. It was probably Super Girl's strongest game so far. She was in nets for a while and made her strongest kick so far when she had the ball and was kicking it our to her team after a goal. She also kicked the ball on the field a couple of times as well. When she's more confident I think she'll really get "into" this game.
I slipped away for a couple of minutes and watched Action Girl on her Under Eight team. She seemed to be in the middle of things and was playing as part of her team. The idiosyncrasies of soccer team assignment has mean that she is not on the strongest team in her division, but she was happy to report a tie tonight. You may have noticed that I didn't give a score for Action Girl's game. We don't actually keep score in the under six group. That said, it was a blow-out for the other team, which is very unusual for us as we're one of the stronger teams in our division.
A real problem has been the way in which some of our players have been ripping leaves off of and climbing a tree on the edge of the field. No more! I have spoken sharply to several players about this needless arbour abuse.
I wish I had some pictures!
B.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Saturday's Musing: Shrek
So, we didn't go yard camping last night because of the rain. The yard is still really wet, so the girls have graciously accepted a rein (rain?) cheque and are instead camping on an air mattress on the family room floor. We're watching Shrek.
Hmmm... So all of the fairy tale creatures are being sent to re-settlement camps? I never thought how much that was like ethnic cleansing... As anyone who's ever seen it knows very well, Shrek works on so many different levels.
Shrek's swamp = the Warsaw ghetto in World War II? Maybe I'm taking this too seriously. The girls are sure enjoying it, though.
B.
Hmmm... So all of the fairy tale creatures are being sent to re-settlement camps? I never thought how much that was like ethnic cleansing... As anyone who's ever seen it knows very well, Shrek works on so many different levels.
Shrek's swamp = the Warsaw ghetto in World War II? Maybe I'm taking this too seriously. The girls are sure enjoying it, though.
B.
What I'm Watching: "Where the Hell is Matt"
What I'm obsessing over might be a more accurate term. I love this video:
Go to www.wherethehellismatt.com to learn more.
Basically a guy named Matt Harding has made silly (but somehow moving) video clips of him and whatever/whomever is around him dancing in 71 different countries.
The four of us have watched it together and enjoyed it. I think you will too.
B.
Go to www.wherethehellismatt.com to learn more.
Basically a guy named Matt Harding has made silly (but somehow moving) video clips of him and whatever/whomever is around him dancing in 71 different countries.
The four of us have watched it together and enjoyed it. I think you will too.
B.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Back to Work, On and Off the Field...
Today (Friday) is the last work day of my first week back to work. As much as I hate to admit it, this week has gone well. Here are some highlights, though:
- Monday I was so tired I feel asleep right after supper (me, the king of all night owls).
- Things are manageable at work. I'm behind, its hard, and there no shortages of crises, BUT things are under control.
- Last night at soccer my "co-coach" was out sick. Flying solo was a different experience. I'm better at the relationships than the skills. I was better in the game than in the practice/drills. That said, I'm comfortable with my game show. The funniest time was when our team and the other team seemed to all succumb to a case of mass distraction, totally ignoring that the ball was in play waaaay down on the other end of the field. I gently picked up one of our players and transported him down the field towards the ball. You had to be there...
- Tonight, the girls want to sleep outside in the tent. I will be with them, although our air mattress is only big enough for two.
Later,
B.
Friday, July 11, 2008
"Stay-cation" Wind Down
Tomorrow (Friday) is the last weekday of my two weeks and two days long "stay-cation" with Super Mom and the girls.
Highlights so far:
- Really cool bonfire/backyard soccer-fest with the coolest of cool family members (and kind of partying like it was 1995),
- Lots of beach time,
- A minimum of sunburns,
- Two amazing daughters decompressing from a year at school and really enjoying each other's company,
- Time to just hang with Super Mom,
- Seeing Wall-E at the theatres. It was really great. Who knew they still showed movies at the theatre?
- Time to relax...
More to follow,
B.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Post-Canada Day Wrap-Up
Last night we took the girls to see the fireworks for the first time. We watched from across the harbour and this made for a calmer gentler experience.
Earlier in the day, we went to a local Canada Day Fete with horses and kites and fire trucks. It was okay. I think it was our hottest day so far (27 degrees?).
In honour of Canada's 141st birthday, here are three of my favourite songs about Canada.
3.) (Salute to) The Royal Canadian Kilted Yaksmen by Ren and Stimpy. Someone a lot smarter than me will have to explain what it means when your best friend (the U.S.) thinks of you like this.
Listen here.
2.) Rocks and Trees by the Arrogant Worms. Yep, rocks and trees... Even here we have lots of rocks.
Listen here.
1.) Northwest Passage by the late, very great Stan Rogers. We are many things but we will always be a Northern People. This song still sends shivers up and down my spine.
Listen here.
Happy (Belated) Canada Day One and All,
B.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Vacation So Far...
At quitting time on Wednesday I began a couple weeks (+ 2 days) of eagerly anticipated vacation. Wednesday was the girls' last day of school/play-school. Super Mom works until Monday.
Here's the plan: we plan on not going far, not doing anything too expensive. After a couple of fabulous summer flying vacations, we're home bound and happy.
SCHOOL:
Action Girl (age 7.5) just finished an outstanding year of Grade 1. She enjoyed herself, learned a lot, and grew like a weed.
Super Girl finished a great year of pre-school. There's some uncertainty about next year will be her kindergarten or pre-kindergarten year. The government has announced that the school entry date will be changing past her birthday (meaning she would go to school a year earlier), BUT they haven't yet revealed when this change will be implemented. Its pretty frustrating.
SPORTS:
Both girls are head-long in soccer and they both recently completed a level in swimming.
Aside from organized activities, we're just trying to ctach up with friends and take it easy.
B.
Here's the plan: we plan on not going far, not doing anything too expensive. After a couple of fabulous summer flying vacations, we're home bound and happy.
SCHOOL:
Action Girl (age 7.5) just finished an outstanding year of Grade 1. She enjoyed herself, learned a lot, and grew like a weed.
Super Girl finished a great year of pre-school. There's some uncertainty about next year will be her kindergarten or pre-kindergarten year. The government has announced that the school entry date will be changing past her birthday (meaning she would go to school a year earlier), BUT they haven't yet revealed when this change will be implemented. Its pretty frustrating.
SPORTS:
Both girls are head-long in soccer and they both recently completed a level in swimming.
Aside from organized activities, we're just trying to ctach up with friends and take it easy.
B.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Soccer Solstice
This year both of our daughters are playing soccer. In fact, I am coaching Super Girl (age 4.5) in her inaugural season. Action Girl (7.5) has moved on to the Under Eights (who play on the same night and location).
I think I forgot how tentative Action Girl was in her first year (when she too was 4). Basically, our job as under six coaches is to: 1) Try to make sure that everyone has fun, 2) Try to ensure that its a positive experience for the team, and 3) start basic soccer skills.
The first night, Super was shedding a few tears, but she wasn't the only player on our team to do so. I can see her perspective- its loud and new and intimidating. Her second night was much more positive and she got to be goalie for a while (only one ball got past her). Tonight is night #3 and we may have thunder showers- the one force in the universe capable of stopping kids' soccer (actually, many experts are spilt on whether soccer should stop for zombie attacks, with a number of research projects still underway).
Soccer is new for me. My co-coach is really cool and we have some people in common (and it turns out we are practically neighbours). Happily, our next door neighbour (also 4 year old) is also on our team. Even by U-6 standards we have a "young" team, but they are having fun and are all smiling. So am I.
B.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Terry Fox's Van June 17, 2008
Terry Fox's Van June 17, 2008
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
Recently the van that accompanied Terry Fox on the Marathon of Hope in 1980 was restored and is making a cross-country tour. I was able to see it at the local Ford Dealership. Its a piece of living history.
B.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
In Iraq to Stay? (An article by Tom Engelhardt)
One of my favourite reads on the web lately has been Salon.com The latest article that's grabbed my attention is an article about how the U.S. Military has already constructed a number of bases in Iraq that are clearly intended to be "permanent." This has wide reaching implications for the Middle East and America's role in it (and the U.S. economy). It may sound like pretty dry stuff, but it really frightened me in a way that few things have lately. Here's a quote:
"After all, these giant bases, rising from the smashed birthplace of Western civilization, were not only built on (and sometimes out of bits of) the ancient ruins of that land, but are functionally modern ziggurats. They are the cherished monuments of the Bush administration. Even though its spokespeople have regularly refused to use the word "permanent" in relation to them -- in fact, in relation to any U.S. base on the planet -- they have been built to long outlast the Bush administration itself. They were, in fact, clearly meant to be key garrisons of a Pax Americana in the Middle East for generations to come. And, not surprisingly, they reek of permanency. They are the unavoidable essence -- unless, like most Americans, you don't know they're there -- of Bush administration planning in Iraq. Without them, no discussion of Iraq policy in this country really makes sense. "
The rest of the article is here.
B.
"After all, these giant bases, rising from the smashed birthplace of Western civilization, were not only built on (and sometimes out of bits of) the ancient ruins of that land, but are functionally modern ziggurats. They are the cherished monuments of the Bush administration. Even though its spokespeople have regularly refused to use the word "permanent" in relation to them -- in fact, in relation to any U.S. base on the planet -- they have been built to long outlast the Bush administration itself. They were, in fact, clearly meant to be key garrisons of a Pax Americana in the Middle East for generations to come. And, not surprisingly, they reek of permanency. They are the unavoidable essence -- unless, like most Americans, you don't know they're there -- of Bush administration planning in Iraq. Without them, no discussion of Iraq policy in this country really makes sense. "
The rest of the article is here.
B.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
River Phoenix as Indiana Jones
Indiana Jones
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
River Phoenix (one feature film, 1989) (actor now deceased)
Geroge Hall as Indiana Jones
Indiana Jones
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
George Hall (22 episodes, 1992-1993) (actor now deceased)
Monday, June 02, 2008
Indiana Jones and the Five Faces
Indiana wants me, but Lord can I go back there?
Yes... Yes, I can.
I am a big fan of all the previous Indiana Jones films. I was in Grade
7 when I first saw Raiders of the Lost Ark (at school) and very soon
thereafter made my parents rent a VCR so I (we?) could watch the movie
again. My dad took my to the second move and that's always been a
special memory.
I watched some episodes of the Young Indiana Jones Chronicles in
1992-93 on TV. It wasn't as fun as the movies, but I remember the TV
series as fairly entertaining. Basically, the YIJC followed the
childhood and youth of Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones, Jr. Mixed with this
were flash-forwards of an elderly (one eyed) Indy who was actually the
one telling the stories.
With that series in mind, here's the really interesting part: Five
actors have played Indiana Jones. They are:
Corey Carrier (8 episodes, 1992-1993)
River Phoenix (one feature film, 1989) (actor now deceased)
Sean Patrick Flanery (22 episodes, 1992-1993)
Harrison Ford (four feature films, 1981-Present)
George Hall (22 episodes, 1992-1993) (actor now deceased)
I'll post a review when we get to see Indiana Jones and the Crystal
Skull. Does anyone want to babysit for us?
B.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Lost: Pre-Seaon Finalé Thoughts May 27, 2008
The fourth season finalé of Lost airs this Thursday. Here are my thoughts on what we can expect in that two-hour episode and beyond. None of these are all that original or insightful, but here goes...
1) The Orchid station is the teleprotation station. I'm not 100% sure, but I think we might have Ben teleport from that station right into his fast-forward in Tunisia that we've already watched. (Remember, he has to ask the hotel clerk the year.)
2) Claire has me stumped. There's obviously something more than a daddy-daughter reunion going on. Otherwise, its completely inconsistent with all of her previous behavior for her to leave baby Aaron. I'm guessing that she's seeing a level of importance to her role with Jacob and Christian that we can't yet appreciate.
3) So far, Kate and Jack come closest to being the two characters that come closest to having the capacity of living happy lives (but that's not really saying much). That seems to be the true constant "everybody hurts" (with apologies to Michael Stipe and the boys from REM). Hurley- hurtin'. Sayid- happy with Nadia- then hurtin'. Sun- happy with the baby but hurtin' for Jin (who I'm not yet convinced is truly dead). Michael- not really all that happy, as he's suicidal and guilt-ridden. Ben Linus- hurtin' and grieving. I fear for Penny and Desmond...
4) This week, we should finally get to see the temple and maybe start to understand the others and the "hostiles". People have lived on that island for a long, long time. Why? Where? How? What's their connection and importance to the rest of the world? When will I stop aking so many questions?
B.
1) The Orchid station is the teleprotation station. I'm not 100% sure, but I think we might have Ben teleport from that station right into his fast-forward in Tunisia that we've already watched. (Remember, he has to ask the hotel clerk the year.)
2) Claire has me stumped. There's obviously something more than a daddy-daughter reunion going on. Otherwise, its completely inconsistent with all of her previous behavior for her to leave baby Aaron. I'm guessing that she's seeing a level of importance to her role with Jacob and Christian that we can't yet appreciate.
3) So far, Kate and Jack come closest to being the two characters that come closest to having the capacity of living happy lives (but that's not really saying much). That seems to be the true constant "everybody hurts" (with apologies to Michael Stipe and the boys from REM). Hurley- hurtin'. Sayid- happy with Nadia- then hurtin'. Sun- happy with the baby but hurtin' for Jin (who I'm not yet convinced is truly dead). Michael- not really all that happy, as he's suicidal and guilt-ridden. Ben Linus- hurtin' and grieving. I fear for Penny and Desmond...
4) This week, we should finally get to see the temple and maybe start to understand the others and the "hostiles". People have lived on that island for a long, long time. Why? Where? How? What's their connection and importance to the rest of the world? When will I stop aking so many questions?
B.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Refreshingly Honest Admission About Guantanamo Bay
[From the BBC]
The US is "stuck" with the Guantanamo Bay detention centre even though it wants to close it, Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said. Mr Gates said the US wanted to send up to 70 prisoners home but countries would either not take them or could not be trusted to.
Human rights groups have long argued for its closure, saying it does not meet international legal standards. The prison in Cuba currently has about 270 detainees...
Democratic Party Senator Dianne Feinstein told Mr Gates: "Nothing you have said absolves the enormous loss of credibility we have in the eyes of the world...
[The underlining is mine. Read the rest of the article here.]
The US is "stuck" with the Guantanamo Bay detention centre even though it wants to close it, Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said. Mr Gates said the US wanted to send up to 70 prisoners home but countries would either not take them or could not be trusted to.
Human rights groups have long argued for its closure, saying it does not meet international legal standards. The prison in Cuba currently has about 270 detainees...
Democratic Party Senator Dianne Feinstein told Mr Gates: "Nothing you have said absolves the enormous loss of credibility we have in the eyes of the world...
[The underlining is mine. Read the rest of the article here.]
Monday, May 19, 2008
Lost Factions Post-Rescue
Lost Factions Post-Rescue
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
And, this is as much as I can sort out about what happens with Lost factions after their rescue.
B.
Lost Factions Pre-Rescue
Lost Factions Pre-Rescue
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
This is my best try at keeping it all straight. Groups, factions and allegiances on the island, pre-rescue.
B.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Lost: Ep. 4.12 "There's No Place Like Home Part 1"
Because I can be an old-before-my-time crank, I was actually pretty worried about how Lost would fare this year. The idea that Season 4 would be as exciting, "twisty" or thrilling as the second half of Season 3. I never should have worried. Season 4 has been great and last night was no exception.
The reunion scene with the families of the "Oceanic Six" was well done and quite touching. The best part was Kate looking around, knowing that no one would be there, but looking all the same. There's already some buzz on the Internet about the scene where Jack learns the "truth" about Claire being his character's best scene.
The Oceanic Airlines representative was played by Michelle Forbes, one of my favourite actors. She was Ensign Ro on Star Trek: TNG and Admiral Helena Cain in Battlestar Galactica. I'm a fan.
B
The reunion scene with the families of the "Oceanic Six" was well done and quite touching. The best part was Kate looking around, knowing that no one would be there, but looking all the same. There's already some buzz on the Internet about the scene where Jack learns the "truth" about Claire being his character's best scene.
The Oceanic Airlines representative was played by Michelle Forbes, one of my favourite actors. She was Ensign Ro on Star Trek: TNG and Admiral Helena Cain in Battlestar Galactica. I'm a fan.
B
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Lost: Episode 4.11 "Cabin Fever"
1) My brain hurts...To re-cap, the following people are now dead: the ship's doctor, Gault (the ship's captain), Rousseau, Carl, and in a while Jin will die.
2) On the might be dead/might be something else list: Claire, Christian Shepherd, and Charlie (although we really do know that he IS dead).
3) Its Claire that has me really stumped. At first, I thought maybe she was dead. Now I don't think that's the case. But, what could be important enough to make her want to stay away from Aaron?
4) One theory, I'm pondering is whether Ben and Widmore are assuming leadership of two factions that pre-date either of their association with the island. How else could there be "rules" between them (including, until now, not harming each other's families) unless they had inherited or assumed roles established by other people. If we think that there have been people on the island for a very loooong time, why couldn't there have been two factions vying for control for a long time?
5) When will Ben double-cross Locke (again)?
B.
2) On the might be dead/might be something else list: Claire, Christian Shepherd, and Charlie (although we really do know that he IS dead).
3) Its Claire that has me really stumped. At first, I thought maybe she was dead. Now I don't think that's the case. But, what could be important enough to make her want to stay away from Aaron?
4) One theory, I'm pondering is whether Ben and Widmore are assuming leadership of two factions that pre-date either of their association with the island. How else could there be "rules" between them (including, until now, not harming each other's families) unless they had inherited or assumed roles established by other people. If we think that there have been people on the island for a very loooong time, why couldn't there have been two factions vying for control for a long time?
5) When will Ben double-cross Locke (again)?
B.
Quote of the Day
"President Bush has an exit strategy for just one man - himself on 20 January, 2009."
Democratic Senate Majority Leader
The Free-Range Child
(From the Globe and Mail:)
Back to Basics: Raising an 'unhurried child'
The free-range child
"No flash cards. No swimming lessons at three months. No hand-holding. Just a whole lot of unstructured time. A growing number of parents are espousing a radical philosophy: It's time our children got some life skills by actually living ..."
[Read the rest of the article here.]
B.
Back to Basics: Raising an 'unhurried child'
The free-range child
"No flash cards. No swimming lessons at three months. No hand-holding. Just a whole lot of unstructured time. A growing number of parents are espousing a radical philosophy: It's time our children got some life skills by actually living ..."
[Read the rest of the article here.]
B.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Whoa, Hydrogen... Not So Fast
Continuing my general theme of skepticism towards "too good to be true/helpful" environmental themes, here's an article that suggests hydrogen powered vehicles will not be in every driveway for Christmas.
Hydrogen Cars Won't Make a Difference for 40 Years
In some ways, I think we're all attracted to the idea of hydrogen powered vehicles because we can imagine them as actual cars or trucks, albeit with radically different engines burning a different fuel. This stands in contrast to some recognition that an all-electric vehicle will come with compromises in size and weight at least for a few technological generations.
B.
Hydrogen Cars Won't Make a Difference for 40 Years
In some ways, I think we're all attracted to the idea of hydrogen powered vehicles because we can imagine them as actual cars or trucks, albeit with radically different engines burning a different fuel. This stands in contrast to some recognition that an all-electric vehicle will come with compromises in size and weight at least for a few technological generations.
B.
Friday, May 09, 2008
Squirrel on Shed 1 May 5 2008
Squirrel on Shed 1 May 5 2008
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
My nemesis... He goes in and out of our shed at will. He (she?) makes nests in our barbecue. He chatters noisily at me when I clear away the nests in some vain hope of actually getting to use the bbq.
He is, however, quite fun to chase with the hose when in the company of a 4 year old.
Summer must be coming,
B.
Interesting Article on Biodiesel Boat
From Wired.com:
The eco-conscious adventurers trying to circumnavigate the world in a carbon-neutral biodiesel trimaran are approaching Puerto Rico, where they'll take on more fuel, fix the toilet and repair an inspection hatch that flooded their sleeping quarters with biodiesel. Despite the problems, Earthrace has covered 4,200 miles since leaving Sagunto, Spain, on April 27. The team is making its second attempt to circumnavigate the globe in record time and has braved 18-foot seas since leaving the Azores last week.
"Big waves come racing in and crash-tackle us," Earthrace skipper Pete Bethune said, according to the New Zealand Herald. "Earthrace shudders and rocks as the ... cabin goes dark and we submarine through each wave. Controlling Earthrace in head seas is like trying to control an angry bull."
The broken toilet and two inches of biodiesel sloshing around the sleeping quarters probably didn't make things any easier. [To continue reading, click here.]
I have to admit that I'm actually fairly skeptical of bio diesel. Fuel from food waste (especially forestry by-products) is not a bad idea, but my understanding is that biodiesel is a pretty "dirty" fuel. When you burn it, it pollutes like regular diesel, that is more than a comparable gasoline engine. I know cleaner diesel has been "right around the corner" for a number of years now, but until its here and it can come from surplus biological sources, I'm not on-board.
Ahoy,
B.
The eco-conscious adventurers trying to circumnavigate the world in a carbon-neutral biodiesel trimaran are approaching Puerto Rico, where they'll take on more fuel, fix the toilet and repair an inspection hatch that flooded their sleeping quarters with biodiesel. Despite the problems, Earthrace has covered 4,200 miles since leaving Sagunto, Spain, on April 27. The team is making its second attempt to circumnavigate the globe in record time and has braved 18-foot seas since leaving the Azores last week.
"Big waves come racing in and crash-tackle us," Earthrace skipper Pete Bethune said, according to the New Zealand Herald. "Earthrace shudders and rocks as the ... cabin goes dark and we submarine through each wave. Controlling Earthrace in head seas is like trying to control an angry bull."
The broken toilet and two inches of biodiesel sloshing around the sleeping quarters probably didn't make things any easier. [To continue reading, click here.]
I have to admit that I'm actually fairly skeptical of bio diesel. Fuel from food waste (especially forestry by-products) is not a bad idea, but my understanding is that biodiesel is a pretty "dirty" fuel. When you burn it, it pollutes like regular diesel, that is more than a comparable gasoline engine. I know cleaner diesel has been "right around the corner" for a number of years now, but until its here and it can come from surplus biological sources, I'm not on-board.
Ahoy,
B.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Super Girl Looks for Shells and Rocks May 4/08
Super Girl Looks for Shells and Rocks May 4/08
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
One of the reasons I'm glad that we live where we do is the short distance to the beach. Ten minutes and we can have sand under our feet.
B.
Action Girl May 4/08 at Beach
Action Girl May 4/08 at Beach
Originally uploaded by Binky's Photos
We love the beach this time of the year. You have to bundle up for the wind, but there are no crowds... More time to explore.
B.
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