planetshannon

My Apartment - Feb 2012

2012-02-20T11:04:00.005-05:00

A video to share my place with folks, especially my sister Suzie and brother Jason who live far away and haven't seen it yet. It's pretty messy and I'm still not totally unpacked since I moved in last July (not it's February), but I'm hoping to clear things away. I've also been thinking recently a lot about intention; and although I came to this apartment unintentionally I go have some intentions for it.

As I say in the video I want to do something, and I want to share - so this is that beginning.

126. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - The X-Files (Season 1)

2012-02-19T18:18:00.002-05:00

Mega-List Updating: 126. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - The X-Files

Season 1 Check In.

I just BURNED through Season 1 of The X-Files, I honestly am not sure how I managed to watch the 24 episodes in just over 2 weeks especially considering there is a lot of great new programming on. I might have still been sick when I started, but whatever the reason I'm happy I did it because it's a really great show and it will take me a long time to get through all the seasons so I might as well get started.

That being said, I don't want to race through it as unlike others that I re-watch, I don't half watch it/half do something else with The X-Files. I *watch* it. Eyes on screen, all the time. I keep tabs on Mulder and Scully, looking for pieces that may thread into the larger arc, guest stars, if they identified (correctly or at all) the monster/focus of the week, if it was resolved, etc. Okay, occasionally I glance at my knitting..., but in general it's a full-focus-viewing experience. Maybe that's what's drawing me to it, because I want to have focused attention.

I really enjoyed re-watching Season 1 and I wonder if it will end up being my favourite season; it certainly feels like the one I know the best. I vividly remember when the series started and was an avid watcher then as well, taping it as it was on a time I often worked or was out (Fridays if I remember right), and then would watch in the wee hours when I got home or at a friends house. I can't believe that was back in 1993. Almost 20 years ago. Wow.

It's a pretty strong first season and although there are ones that really grossed me out (1.19 Darkness Falls), there are so many episodes I loved. In particular I really loved the pilot episode, even though there are some over dramatic moments, it still shines as a great introduction to the characters of Mulder and Scully, and has some great lines and moments. I also love how quickly they established the strength of Scully's character, and the banter between Scully & Mulder quickly and easily forms within just a few episodes. It's wild because so many of the ideas in terms of the paranormal they go through on this show I now see time and time again on other TV shows, but often this was the first place I'd heard of it. The season has some great guest stars, some really scary concepts (1.08 Space and 1.13 Gender Bender both really freaked me out) and possibly my favourite episode ever of the series: 1.07 Ice; which I now know was an intentional homage to the 1982 John Carpenter film The Thing.

After watching the finale of Season 1 of The X-Files earlier this week, I did really want to dive into Season 2, but I also felt really strongly about taking a moment to think about the season, write to about it here and check in on my thoughts which are mostly that it rocked. I was also slightly avoiding having to dig through the huge MESS of stuff that the season 2 discs where hiding behind (see below). Ah, the reality of small spaces and often lead to 'piling'. Sigh.

But, the happy news is, now that I've taken that moment and dived behind that piles, I can jump on to Season 2! Woohoo!

I track my X-Files viewings over at Get Glue, if you are a Get Glue-r you can see my updates here!

Update on 113. Watch Stargate SG-1

2012-02-19T16:03:00.003-05:00

Mega-List update time! So I knew taking 'watch Stargate SG-1' was an big task, but holy moly I feel like I've been watching it FOR-EV-ER! And I'm not done. Started in July 2011 and I'm getting closer, but still not done. 128 episodes in and currently watching Season 8 (of 10) as it runs Monday - Friday on Space. They shifted the time from 6pm to 7pm earlier this year which totally messed me up, but I've since adjusted and now am back to seeing almost every episode, and I'm really thankful they continue to show it. Although my general natures is being a completist, I'm giving myself some leeway on this one when I've missed chunks of it when I'm covering festivals and such and considering there are 214 episodes I think it's okay to miss a few.

It's kind of strange to have been watching the series for so long now and continuing to stick with it even though I'm not a super fan or even really understand the world, logic, science or everything that happens. There are even some regular characters that I likely couldn't name. It's a lot of time to dedicate without having that energy behind it, especially for me. But again, the times I've considering stop watching it I always get won over by an amazing episode or moment that makes it worth it. Often guest stars win me like S7Ep03Fragile Balance with Michael Welch (who is fantastic in a very unique, and funny role), S7Ep07 Enemy Mine which had Michael Rooker and S6Ep05 Nightwalkers with Michael Eklund. Ha, who knew guest stars name Michael would win me over?

Characters do tend to be what keeps me with any series and I do like the main case and have also been quite taken with one of the reoccuring characters. But, it's odd that I'm a healthy way into Season 8 and there are characters I've heard about that STILL aren't on the show yet! I mean, there is only so much left. I'm actively not doing the time math to find out when I will sum up because if I had realized it would take this long going in I might not have done it (and I'll pretend to forget that when I tackle other 10-ish-seasons shows!).

My last GRR on the show is that I was tracking it pretty religiously on Get Glue (as well as my own spreadsheet of course), but at some point the page I would check into was deleted, likely as there were duplicate Stargate pages so I had to start again from 0 check ins. That did *not* make me happy! I want that super-dooper-elite-fan sticker! Ah well, just one of the many bumps I've had along the way, but I'm not going to let it get in my way! Carrying on I go!

If you too are a Get Glue-er, you can see my updates here.

Coriolanus: #128 Read/Watch all of Shakespeare

2011-12-27T17:40:00.002-05:00

With the reading of all of Shakespeare Mega-ness, I made up a whole system of what order to read and watch everything in, but I decided to include some leeway in case an opportunity presented itself to see something outside my historically-based although somewhat-haphazard viewing order. I bumped up Coriolanus as there is the upcoming film adaptation directed by and starring Ralph Fiennes, although that wasn't the version I watched but rather a 1984 BBC Complete Works of Shakespeare production that I got from the library.

I think I'm willing to give a lot of give with this category, because the stories are so interesting, layered and rich that I know many of them I'll probably see again and again and again. Although I've committed to reading them first I've received a few interesting suggestions including listening to the plays via audio-book, or that the traditional way is to watch first and then read. I wonder if I'll try out those approaches. Only time will tell!

Even though Coriolanus isn't a play I was even aware of before this Mega-task, I can sense the keen pulse of the times to exploring it now as it deals with a man returned from war who is not received well (at least that's my basic interpretation/impression). Watching the BBC version was fascinating, it's very old school and I loved how they captured movement, crowds, and fighting in a theatrical way. I also was floored by the performance of Mike Gwilym as Aufidius, which reminded me that if I primarily watch film/TV then I miss out on a whole wealth of stage actors who are amazing. It's a very male-centric play, although there are some awesome women in it included Coriolanus' mother and the interesting character of Lady Valeria, plus it had great phrases like 'Praise Jupiter'. That was pretty awesome.

I'm looking forward to the Ralph Fiennes version which was at TIFF in 2011, and I keep my eyes open for a regular release date but nothing locked yet so far. I may even read it again before it comes out.

#128 Read/Watch all of Shakespeare

2011-12-27T17:21:00.004-05:00

This is a sub-list for The Mega List to track item #128: Read/Watch all of Shakespeare. I've already read several of the plays and seen many of them performed either live or on film, but often it was by chance over choice. I decided to turn the tables and choose to read and watch them instead.

The order I came up with is as chronological as I could find with as much swapping back and forth between comedies, tragedies and histories while keeping any set of plays together. It's only a guideline though, I'm happy to jump around if films or performances are going to be available to see - although I will endeavour to read the plays first.

I'm primarily interested in doing this as the stories have survived for so long yet they continue to resonate through traditional and non-traditional interpretations. I'm oddly a fan or reinterpretation, and this is somewhere we definitely see. Plus - usually it's a fantastic opportunity to see fabulous acting.

Read: 3/40
Watched: 2/40

1. Two Gentlemen of Verona, The (read)
2. Titus Andronicus
3. Comedy of Errors, The
4. Romeo and Juliet
5. Taming of the Shrew, The
6. Henry VI, Part 1
7. Henry VI, Part 2
8. Henry VI, Part 3
9. Richard III
10. Midsummer Night's Dream, A
11. Merchant of Venice, The
12. Richard II
13. Henry IV, Part 1
14. Henry IV, Part 2
15. Henry V
16. Love's Labour's Lost
17. Much Ado About Nothing
18. Julius Caesar
19. As You Like It
20. Twelfth Night
21. Hamlet
22. All's Well That Ends Well
23. Troilus and Cressida
24. Merry Wives of Windsor, The
25. Macbeth
26. King Lear
27. Measure for Measure
28. Othello
29. Antony and Cleopatra
30. Pericles, Prince of Tyre
31. Cymbeline
32. Tempest, The (read Dec 2010* and watched)
33. Winter's Tale, The
34. Henry VIII - alt title: All is True
35. Two Noble Kinsmen, The
36. Coriolanus (read & watched)
37. King John
38. Timon of Athens
39. Love's Labour's Won
40. History of Cardenio, The

* I'm giving myself 1 out for reading The Tempest as I read in less than a year before this challenge in anticipation of the Julie Taymor film version.

Hands Up How To

2011-12-20T20:58:00.004-05:00

Jamie encouraged us on a recent podcast and online to share something that we learned the hard way, in an effort to others that hard journey. Wouldn't it be nice if someone just told us to place a loaf of bread on top of eggs in a bag on their own and carry by hand? Okay, that was my first thought but I decided to something that might be more helpful for those of use who do a lot of online writing & posting and have to deal with formatting frustrations. You know 'em, formatting frustrations, when all of a sudden your post has oodles of added formatting be it text or odd images or who knows what and you can't get rid of it. Here's how.

You can easily ditch any formatting in one simple way: Use Notepad.

It's a text-based program, you'll likely find it on your computer under 'All Programs, Accessories'

Then...
Copy text
Paste into Notepad.

Voilà! No formatting.

See that accent on Voilà? It's courtesy of pasting into Notepad.

More Notepad de-formatting uses:

You can past any accented letter: é, ǽ, ǿ....
It's also great if you have a list in Excel but don't want all the formatting & columns? Paste into notepad!
Have text within charts? Dump it in Notepad (might require some re-jigging to line things up)
And of course any block of text with formatting attached to it, be it links or styles like bold, italics, etc.

But, ... I want my Formatting!

Okay, we can make that work too. Notepad ditches formatting when you need it, but it can also keep it. For blog folk, you can copy the straight HTML from the 'Edit HTML' tab view of your post paste it into notepad. It will keep all that handy dandy HTML formatting. Remember when you paste it back to use the 'Edit HTML' post window again for the best results :)

More uses for keeping the HTML:

Do you have templates you use for re-occuring posts? Save your template in HTML format in notepad, work on new posts there and then and you have the formatting all ready for your re-occuring posts to post online. You can even work with this template if you find yourself offline. Plus, you'll a back up.
Also, having your work in HTML format is great way to share a post it if you are guest posting because it's more universal than sending a link or linked text in an email or post as it works across more platforms. It's also handy to have your bio, contact details, etc if you write guest posts, are a guest or contribute to a collective site.
You can also copy your HTML post, put it in Word to spell check and then dump it back to Notepad to remove all the extra formatting Word adds.

What's so awesome about Notepad is that it can both retain or remove things you want to keep or want to ditch, once you know your formatting needs. I use it every single day and it's saved me hours of re-jigging, re-formattting and fixing. It works. I hope it saves you time & formatting frustration :)

Mega-List #123 Complete: Re-watch Moonlight

2011-12-20T18:48:00.008-05:00

It's so funny how the easiest to complete are often finite. This one was to watch 16 episodes of Moonlight, a fantastic although short-lived vampire/human romance involving a PI & a crime journalist. It came out just before the Twi-Hype and stars Alex O'Loughlin (Hawaii Five-0) and Sophia Myles (Outlander) and I loved it. Again. I watched it in 2010 when the CW broadcasted it during the summer, but they missed 3 episodes that never aired (I believe due to the writers strike) which left for a confusing conclusion; I am very happy I watched all the way through as it runs much better in full sequential order. And as a bonus I get to cross this off not only my Mega-List but also my 2011 Owned/Unseen DVD list, which is a happy accident and totally unintentional. Another Mega-List task 100% complete!

Mega-List Update - The First of the Completes!

2011-10-09T11:26:00.003-04:00

I am so exited to share that 2 of the items on my lists are completes!

Complete: 109. Watch Fringe Season 2 & 3

How I did this through the packed summer of the unexpected move and that crazy rush turn around on Season 3 which barely had time between DVD release and new episodes - and that was in and around TIFF. Wow. no idea how I did that. But I did! I'm not all caught up on Fringe and Suzie & I can podcast through Season 4 over at Hexed: Sisterhood of the Supernatural. Big thank you to Suzie & My Mom for buying me these seasons on DVD for my birthday this year!

Complete: Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Supernatural

This one has been an attempted-annual-summer tradition for a few years. I started watching Supernatural when it first came out but didn't like the gender stuff (which it's still not great at...), and then gave it another try again in 2009 when it's first four seasons went into syndication on Dusk.tv (then Scream), and almost caught up on Season 4 to watch Season 5 live but just missed it and had a bit of a cross over. Then in 2010 I tried to do this again and I got almost through season 4 but not 5 when a car ran into the house I was living in. So, no luck there. But this year even with the move I made it through all 5 seasons I have DVD and also re-watched Season 6 before it hit DVD. I really love this show, and the fact that it usually has a monster of the week + season arc makes it highly rewatchable. It also refers back to it's own lore over and over which again, merits enjoyable rewatching. But it's the sibling story of Sam & Dean that keeps me coming back for more. This is another one I chat about regularly with my sister Suzie over at Hexed: Sisterhood of the Supernatural, we are talking about Season 7 right now but it was was one of the first shows we ever discussed. And if it goes into and 8th season in 2012 I will try to re-watch them all (again) next summer. It's tradition!

Progress on: Watch Stargate SG-1

Still plugging through and I'm into Season 4 (of 10) now with a few of Season 1 to catch up on . missed a few episodes during TIFF and a one of on the odd occasion. Usually I watch it while I work out, and although it's not super sticking with me. I also realized that the combination of military team + lots of historical-centric story lines is exact reason I didn't watch it in the first place as neither are terribly appealing. Yet, every time I think about giving it a miss an awesome episode comes out. So I'm going to keep at it.

Progress on: 28. See a film in each one of the 24 theatres at AMC Yonge & Dundas 24

TIFF had AMC Yonge & Dundas as one of their venues again this year which led to lots of film watching in oddly the same theatres:

AMC 2: The Raid, 388 Arletta Avenue and Arirang
AMC 7 (ETX): Fable of the Fish / Isda and Livid / Livide

Have to say, it was slightly strange to see the Filipino family drama Fable of the Fish / Isda in the crazy super huge mega pixaled ETX theatre. It was cool, but just not used to seeing non-action films there!

This has me at seeing films in 4/24 theatres. Not bad!

Progress Made On:

127. Read all the novels of Stephen King: 2 down, Many to go!

Read The Gunslinger which is the first of many in The Dark Tower series. Pretty dark, but pretty cool. Still not totally sure on the world, or how it works but it's definitely a western with threads in both supernatural and post apocalyptic woven in. I don't totally love the characters being iconic western vein of distanced and cold, but I'm curious about the story and the world and how it works. Will definitely continue to the next one.

128. Read & see performance/film of all the plays of William Shakespeare: 1 of 38 or 40 plays read

I read The Two Gentlemen of Verona, but honestly I didn't retain much from it. I remember a ring. And a woman. And a confidant. That's about it. I assume there were 2 gentlemen, but I don't remember them. A buddy relayed that the normal tradition is to watch the plays first, and then read which I'm considering but I'm worried that first watch will hold super strong in my head and one of the things I love about Shakespeare (or any play), is the countless possible different interpretations. I'm not sure if I'll switch to watching first then reading, but the good thing is with so many titles to get through I have the opportunity to likely test both methods to see which one I like best. I also was going to try to read them chronologically but I think I'll try Coriolanus next as it has the upcoming film adaptation Ralph Fiennes. I might actually own that one. Although finding it .. that will be the challenge.

Above: index cards that are my regular Sunday to do's. Yes, that is a lot of to do's!

Progress on: 79. Create/use a to do system that works for me

I've gone back to using a tickler system (from the Getting Things Done book by David Allen), which really works for me as I have lots of tasks that repeat, sometimes on regular intervals, sometimes not and this system allows for that flexibility. I also modified it a bit and actually carry my to dos of the day with me while I'm out and about and can re-file them when I get home. I don't always get everything done, but it's an easier way to be able to figure out what to do and what to leave especially since some things can wait a day, and some can't. I feel greatly empowered by knowing what I've done, what is left to get done and the best thing really is a sense of relief that I'm aware and in control of what I do. There is no niggling about the back of my brain wondering if I've forgotten something, and that is a huge relief. I've been using the system for several weeks now and it's a daily practice that is rally working for me. Hmm, because this is a perpetual thing, it's hard to say it's a 'complete' but it might be. I think I'll give it a few more weeks, maybe until the year and it's still sticking I'll says it's complete.

I have realized though that this system doesn't work (for me) as a Create/use an idea capturing system that works for me (#78.), but I'm hoping to find/use/implement one of those very soon.

And I can't help but again end on a cute cat picture. Again.

Mega-List Update: Reading, Watching & Push Ups

2011-08-21T19:33:00.006-04:00

Library Loot recently had lots of Mega-List goodness in it!

Mega-List Update

Been a busy past 2 weeks and I’m made some progress on several of the Mega-List items. Been lax-ing on word collection as I’m still finessing my general idea collection system(s), but I have been following my nose when I find new words and trying to always be clear and use the correct words for things. But let’s look at what I did do, as opposed to what I didn’t.

28. See a film in each one of the 24 theatres at AMC Yonge & Dundas 24
I saw The Help in #3, which brings me to 3/24 theatres with no repeats (yet!). #3 is a mid-sized theatre and I've seen many films in that one especially Cinefranco in 2010 and several showings of The Wild Hunt. I don't know why I remember that.

33. Interview 20 directors / 34. Interview 20 actors
This was so exciting, not long after my original posting of the Mega-List I got and email asking if I would be interested in interviewing director André Øvredal & actor Glenn Tosterud on their film Trollhunter, a Norwegian documentary-style monster movie. I said HELL YA! Well, I said something a little more professional, but when I got the email I did a big happy dance and said "HELL YA!" It was great to chat with the guys, and I'm impressed I managed to pull off a long-distance, recorded call to the UK with 2 awesome guys about their films. I even did my best to speak a little Norwegian, I hope that went over well. You can read or listen to the interview, and I highly recommend checking out the film (see more info over at the film review). I interviewed them together so I guess that makes it feel like this counts as 1 interview. Woot!

109. Watch Fringe Season 2 & 3
I’m well into Season 2 of Fringe and although it’s not as arc-y or as tight as Season 1 I'm still really enjoying it. Love the characters BIG TIME. I can't wait to dive into more and every day I'm think to myself "Do I have time to watch some Fringe?" I've done some predictions and ramblings of the show over at Hexed: Sisterhood of the Supernatural, but I am working really hard to avoid any spoilers. I should finish Season 2 sometime with week and than have to wait until September for Season 3, which is coming my way thanks to my Mom who got it for me for my birthday this summer.

113. Watch Stargate SG-1
I’ve been continuing to work though Season 1 & 2 con-currently. It's still not really grabbing me, although I do know the characters better and there was one mid-season 2 episode that was really entertaining. I’ll stick with it.

125. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD – Supernatural
Still working through Season 4, watching Ep 19 Jump the Shark at this very moment and should be one to Season 5 sometime this week. Trick will be getting Season 6 in before the new season starts in late September.

127. Read all the novels of Stephen King
Actually have a complete – I read Carrie. Man, that's a messed up book. Very dark, very heartbreaking and a unique storytelling style that I enjoyed. And I see why the lots of the books are in order but not noted as a series, because there was a small character whose name I recognized from a totally different work by Stephen King which makes me happy with my decision to read these in chronological order. I’m planning on reading about 54 of his books, mostly novels, some non-fiction and maybe some collections. I’ll do a separate list of the titles at some point but right now I’m counting is as One Down, Lots to Go!

I'm made some progress on...

57. Write think pieces, or let them go
I've been working on several think pieces, although I haven't posted any yet I've worked through and written out some ideas & outlines which is a step up from just longingly thinking about it. Also had a great moment where I experienced, saw, felt and re-created telling something powerful through a story, which although I always 'got' conceptually I didn't really 'feel' before. It felt like a should, that that's the way it 'should' work, and people say you 'should' do it - but no, it's true. Telling through story isn't a should, it's just plain WORKS.

62. Create a habit of always proofreading posts & newsletters before sending them out
I haven't totally stuck to this but I have been more reliable & conscientious about it.

78. Create/use an idea capturing system that works for me
Ugh, not having this in place is driving me bananas. I started using a tickler again (Getting Things Done system), but that's more of the day-to-day and I haven't been keeping up to date. It's more for like 'write an article about this' or 'look into the relationship between this and this' or 'is the trend of X still going strong, or is it time to move on'. I don't know where to put these ideas in a way where I can get them later. Paper is to hard to find the idea, and I like stuff on the computer but I don't like having to transfer it there when I get home. Maybe there is an android app that I can sync on my computer... Hmm.

87. Do 100 push ups in a row
As a starting point I did a cold-try of where I'm at which was 13 a few days ago. Today I managed 15. My personal best ever was 50 and my best regular number was 30. 13 is my regular not-working-out-for-a-while number, so it makes sense that I started there.

Late Addition
I'm also adding to the To Watch list is Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Season 1 & 2 as I own them but have never seen it and somehow I missed them when I saw writing the original list. Their spine looks like Supernatural, I suppose. It's going to be #137 but I'm putting it with the TV stuff.

Lots of learning, reading, watching and saying HELL YA, which works for me. I hope there are more opportunities to say HELL YA to very soon.

Mega-List Update: New Words, Stargate & Lists of Lists

2011-08-07T12:06:00.008-04:00

Ah, Update #1 for the Mega-List. Sometimes I get nervous about the first time updating or writing about things. I'm a stickler for tradition and I can get more wrapped up in formatting feeling that the way I start will be the way I will continue... forever. I like continuity, but sometimes I can take it too far. Let's hope that isn't the case here.

I've been working on several of the items on My Mega-List. From the active act of gathering new words to watching, plus also having some other opportunities begin to manifest (I can hear Anakin yelling "It's working, it's working!!" in my head). Exciting times. Let's take a look at some of the progression so far.

28. See a film in each one of the 24 theatres at AMC Yonge & Dundas 24
I haven't decided if I'm going to include the theatres I've already seen films in (I've seen a lot in #6 "IMAX-ish", #7 ETX, #3 - oddly seen lots in that one). Have to see how that one goes. If starting new, it's 2/24. So far since the Mega-List began I've seen:

1 film in theatre #9: Attack the Block, it's a mid-sized theatre and if memory serves it has 5 1/2 rows plus stadium seating
1 film in theatre #1: The Future, it's a small-sized, 2 1/2 front rows plus stadium seating

Seeing the sign rotate between saying "Now Seating..." and "The Future..." was one of my highlights of the week.

95. Track new words heard, where I heard them & their definition
There has been a lot of new words come my way, most of which are from reading The Three Musketeers (part of the Book to Film Club), but also from listening to podcasts and researching. I find following my nose ends up getting me to find more words, so much so that often I skip over actually learning what some mean or even start thinking about the possible meaning of something and loose the context of where it came from. Will be interesting to see if that becomes less fragmented over time. Here's a look at some of the new ones I've found:

baldric: a belt hung from one shoulder and across the chest to the opposite side of the body, used to suport a sword, horn, etc - from The Three Musketeers
irascibility: quickness of temper; irrritability - from The Three Musketeers
raillery: good-humoured ridicule; joking; teasing / a bantering remark - from The Three Musketeers
henceforth: from this time on, from now on - from The Three Musketeers
irrefragable: impossible to refrute - from Word of the day: Miriam Webster
schadenfreude: enjoyment obtained from the troubles of others - from the TV Eh? Podcast
tetrology: a compound work that is made up of four (numerical prefix tetra-) distinct works, just as a trilogy is made up of three works. - from Researching Shakepeare Plays, of which there are 2 Histories tetrologies
nonce word: a word used to meet the need and is not expected to reoccur - from tetrology definition
palance: combination of 'parlaying' (talking) and dancing, so if you are talking & dancing you are palancing - from Metro Morning Podcast - in discussion to prep for Carnival (Caribana) edition
deliverance: the act of setting free or the state of being set free; a rescue; release / a formal opinion or judgment - heard many times before but when it was used to describe Star Trek: Voyager S5 Ep Bliss, I knew I didn't actually know what it meant.

113. Watch Stargate SG1
Stargate SG1 is my biggest whole of current science fiction TV (that was available on Canadian TV). How could I not have watched a 10 year long, Canadian co-pro science fiction series? After researching into it I realized a few things. First, I really didn't like the film on which it was based; it was way to ye-haw American guns a-blazing for me. Second, I didn't have cable at the time and spent most of my time at the club (see above) when it started, so I wasn't watching much TV. Considering I'm a completist who likes to start things from the beginning, it takes an active effort to go back to the beginning - which is what I'm doing now.

I've this goal, and I'm concurrently watching Season One on DVD from the library & Season Two in re-runs on Space. It's not ideal but I've already missed the boat on it being at the beginning and I think I'll be aligned on seasons in a couple weeks. I watched one episode at my Mom's place and she thankfully explained the setting a little bit, and I'm extremely thankful she told me it was funny. I wouldn't have picked up on this, and it's one of the best things about the show - especially Richard Dean Anderson, he totally cracks me up. I'm not totally digging the military structure thing (although it's pretty light) and the historical themes don't hold a lot of interest to me, like ever. I do like the characters which usually is what keeps me with any show, regardless of genre. I especially like the dry humour between Richard Dean Anderson's character and Teal'c (I always like the dry humour characters from Spock to Data, Tuvok to Castiel). I'm not totally in love with it yet, but I'm going to keep at it.

125. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Supernatural
This one is much easier for me and to be honest I was already in process before I put the Mega-List up, but I figured better to include and be completist than not. I was in Season 3 when I started and now am in Season 4. For the past few years I've always tried to watch all of Supernatural from the beginning in preparation for the next season. I was a late convert to Supernatural, starting to watch when it debuted in 2005 but stopped watching after finding it too brutal and not the best gender-balanced of shows. But I gave it another chance in 2009 when it was in syndication on Dusk (previously called Scream) as I knew my sister Suzie loved it, and I came to love it as well. It's rare to see such a strong sibling relationship as shown here with the Winchester brothers, plus the supernatural aspect is freaking awesome and it has a great combination of story of the week plus long arc. I talk about the show regularly on Hexed: Sisterhood of the Supernatural Podcast which I co-host with my sister Suzie, and look forward to every new episode that comes out.

Book List Busy-ness (127, 128, 132, 130 & 131)
I've spent a lot of time looking through Wikipedia this week. I don't think I quite realized how many books I ended up putting to read on my list, but hopefully will end up being one of those tasks that if you look at it logically it seems insurmountable, but if you just go for it you can make it happen. That's what I'm going with at least! So far I've made lists* of:

127. Read all the novels of Stephen King (50+ books)
I'm likely going to include some non-fiction here, and haven't yet decided if I'm going to re-read any already read novels. I decided to read them in order as much as I can as a whole whack of them are listed in sequence, although not a series. The library has his first novel, Carrie, which makes it easy to jump in and start there.

128. Read & see performance/film of all the plays of William Shakespeare (38 plays + 2 Lost Plays, x 2 - reading & watching)
Oh my I had no idea there were so many! I was very excited to put this list together, looking at all the titles I recognized, and the film adaptations I've already enjoyed and loved. One of the reasons I put this on my list is because of how referential Shakespeare can be, plus the impact and general knowledge of the stories are in the world. I was shocked that there were 9 I had never heard of before (Troilus and Cressida? Cymbeline? Timon of Athens?) plus never hearing of the 2 Lost Plays, or even that some were problem plays. Devising an reading order is the biggest challenge.

I'm currently think mostly-chronological starting with The Gentlemen of Verona and flipping back and forth between comedies, tragedies & histories but ploughing through each of the two histories tetrologies (new word!) without a break, although I'm going to enlist the help of my sister Jamie on the reading order, as she's has a wealth of knowledge in the world of theatre. After reading I'm hoping to watch a film adaptation or see the play live, and I'm sure it's not shock that I'll break the pattern for new film adaptations. I might skip re-reading The Tempest as I just read it in December 2010. I've also found other people are doing this and writing about it like on the Or What You Will blog, so sounds like I'll be able to see & share what the experience is like from different perspectives.

132. Read all the Giller Prize Winners (17 books)
One of the easier lists to compile as this award has only been around since 1994, and for reference "is a literary award given to a Canadian author of a novel or short story collection published in English (including translation) the previous year, after an annual juried competition between publishers who submit entries". The idea here was to read more Canadian fiction, and since I haven't read any of these already I think that's a good goal! I have heard of many of the titles and am familiar with almost all of the authors, so I'm really forward to diving into this one. I may decide to do this one chronologically, but I don't really think it's necessary.

130. Read all the Nebula winning novels & 131. Read all the Hugo winning novels (85 titles as of August 2011)
Hahahaha I had no idea how huge a list this would be and how complicated making the list(s) would get. Complications like:

Several of the novels that grace both lists, which often but not always have winning years.
Several titles are in series for which they are not the first novel, and the first novel isn't a winner on either list (so, I have to read that too - yes?)
Ties for winners happen on occasion, increasing the total.
Numerous titles are in part of non-series that are set in the same world/universe(s), where a clear reading order or even whether or not you have to read everything isn't clear enough to distinguish (without potential spoilers). I may have to enlist some science fiction aficionados for help there.
I'm slightly concerned about the availability of the titles, but I'm sure I'll come up with a plan, solution or alternative to that.
Even though this already feels like a mammoth task I want to add on nominees to the awards as they come out (5 Hugo noms are out), I'm going to resist committing to them although I have requested a few from the library.

But, on the plus side:

I've already read 7 titles, which seems a little measly but it drops it under instead of over 80 books to read
I'll likely re-read most of those seven as some are my favourite books ever (like Ender's Game), although I likely won't re-read Hyperion or Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire as I read them in 2010.
I picked up several of the titles over the years, so those are close at hand.
It's an easy choice to read them chronologically as several series have numerous titles that are winners and since the Hugo's first noted winner is in 1953 (Nebula's in 1965), and the library has their first winner The Demolished Man by Alfred Bester so it will be the first.
I had a bit of an 'oops-ah-ha' moment while researching when I remembered I like to read fantasy and watch science fiction when I came up with this item, and as there is very little fantasy I'm not quite sure how this will turn out but that's all part of the fun.

* When you put all those together its 192 books & plays, and I have 1 more book reading task on the list that I've not yet tackled: #129 - Find a comprehensive list of Canadian Lit Books & read them. I'm going to be a busy reader. When I get some pictures of the books and decide reading order, or at least formatting, I'll post the actual list of titles.

I had tons of fun researching the tasks and coming up with more lists of the lists this week and it was wild to see already one of the things I wanted started to manifest itself. It's clear I'll be busy watching, reading and thinking which makes me happy already.

And on a last note I've revising the wording of the original list for #113, #130 & #131 to reflect the correct usage and more commonly used terms of Stargate SG-1, Hugo Award for Best Novel and Nebula Award for Best Novel.

Although Planet Shannon will be the home base of the Mega-List, I'm all be talking about it elsewhere so feel free to chat with me on Twitter, my film site Movie Moxie and on Good Reads

And I'm still in the midst of unpacking. Believe it or not, this is an 'after' picture.

The Mega-List

2011-07-29T07:53:00.010-04:00

It's time for a new list. A big list. A huge list. Or, as I finally decided to call it, a Mega-List. I'm a huge fan of lists. Lists make things happen. They push you. Sometimes gracefully over time, and other times in awkward ugly duckling steps. Lists are a way of letting the world know what you want, what you are thinking about and what you are open to. Working through lists can bring clarity between what you think you are focused on, as opposed to what you are actually focused on. Lists also can pull energy towards you in a way that nothing else can. I like lists.

I’m no stranger to lists, and just last week I was thinking about my 101 Things in 1001 Days that I did from 2006 to 2008 and how much it helped me hone in on the things I wanted to focus on, and a lot of things I eventually decided to let go. There were a lot of exciting adventures and many accomplishments along the way, and many informed the creation of my film site Movie Moxie. But since I completed that list, I haven't done a big, grand-scale, numerous, all incompassing to do list and ...I miss it. I'm feeling the pull again to take new adventures and challenges, and it just felt right to share the list and journey along the way.

It's a new challenge, a new mission and I'm open to it becoming bigger, better, brighter or bolder than currently imagined. I'm not giving this list an end date, but I do plan on revisiting it as a whole on a yearly basis in July. It's not a Bucket-List or and Before-I-Die list. It's not a must-do or a to-do list. It's a Mega-List. A BIG list of the BIG things I want to do, many involve multi-steps processes and some are entire projects unto themselves. I’m sure it will take many hours, miles, decisions and moments of luck, hope and courage to make it though. But I want to do them. It’s my Mega-List.

1. Go to Cannes
2. Go to Fantasia
3. Go to ActionFest
4. Go to Stiges Film Festival
5. Go to Dark Bridges Film Festival
6. Go to VIFF
7. Go to Sundance
8. Go to at least 1 film festival in New York
9. Go to a Film Festival in Australia
10. Go to a Film Festival in Asia
11. Go to a Film Festival in Africa
12. Go to a Film Festival in Europe
13. Go to a Film Festival in the UK
14. Go to a Festival from its first year
15. Be invited to a film festival
16. Be a juror at a film festival
17. Have a stay-at-home-film-festival
18. Write a film article or review in a print publication
19. See & Review every theatrical release for in 1 calendar year
20. Guest host/appear/be interviewed on 20 podcasts
21. Program something
22. Be on every theatrical distributor list in Toronto
23. Be on every DVD distributor list in Toronto
24. Be in an association, collective, community or group that feels right
25. Publish a book of reviews
26. Respond in the positive to an LA or NY film screening & attend it
27. Attend a red carpet event
28. See a film in each one of the 24 theatres at AMC Yonge & Dundas 24
29. Go to a movie event at my local library
30. Create a 'the walk' film montage
31. Create list/montage of great dance moments in non-dance films
32. Make a short film
33. Interview 20 directors
34. Interview 20 actors
35. Mega-interview film project
36. Interview 20 bloggers
37. Interview 20 podcasters
38. Interview 20 film reviewers
39. Interview TV entertainment writers
40. Interview 20 interviewers
41. Interview a showrunner
42. Meet 20 film bloggers, podcasters, vloggers or writers around the world
43. Go to Hal Con with Suzie
44. Visit my brother Jason
45. Go to World Domination Summit 2012
46. Go on a cruise
47. Go on an all inclusive vacation
48. Write an updated About Me
49. Create an e-course
50. Create a how-to
51. Create a linked in account
52. Create a professional services page
53. Create a pink spoon item
54. Publish a collection of something written about film
55. Host something
56. Be on a live event
57. Write think pieces, or let them go
58. Claim writing or find a different medium to connect ideas to people
59. Do 20 guest pieces on other websites and assess if it's something I want to do
60. Get a gig writing about TV
61. Write personally to 20 people that have inspired me
62. Create a habit of always proofreading posts & newsletters before sending them out
63. Figure out feedburner
64. Figure out which podcast hosting provider option works for me
65. Get a podcasting rig I feel good about
66. Get a BluRay player
67. Figure out the Facebook fanpage energy
68. Get a new camera
69. Get a new recording video device
70. Have a tech budget & schedule for updating, upgrading and infusing
71. Do the Lottery Project
72. Have a postage budget
73. Be debt free
74. Have sustained income from entrepreneurial endeavours
75. Get new glasses
76. Make apartment perfect (home for everything to be away + cleaning regime)
77. List out all my weekly to do's, assess, prioritize/shift/let go
78. Create/use an idea capturing system that works for me
79. Create/use a to do system that works for me
80. Create/use a project management system that works for me
81. Take a martial arts class
82. Find a sport I love to play and play it
83. Find balance with food
84. Find a healthy treat that I enjoy and feels like a treat
85. Buy 7 (or 8) lbs, 10 lbs & 15 lbs weights
86. Create or find a good exercise regime
87. Do 100 push ups in a row
88. Get back to a regular running routine
89. Plot a running route in my new hood
90. Run a marathon
91. Find, read & work through a grammar book that works for me
92. Find, read & work through a writing book that works for me
93. Find, read & work through a marketing book that works for me
94. Find, read & work through a project management book that works for me
95. Track new words heard, where I heard them & their definition
96. Create a knitting how to course
97. Create a knited item with binary code as the inspiration
98. Learn how to do 10 different kinds of knots
99. Take a dance class
100. Be in a dance performance
101. Take part in a collective planned happy positive group event
102. See live theatre
103. Learn about Databases
104. Take a math class
105. Do Karaoke
106. Visit 20 spots in my neighbourhood
107. Watch Carnivale
108. Watch Charlie Jade
109. Watch Fringe Season 2 & 3 (Summer/Fall 2011)
110. Watch Heroes
111. Watch Legend of the Seeker
112. Watch Smallville
113. Watch Stargate SG-1
137. Watch Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Season 1 & 2
114. Watch Twin Peaks
115. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Alien Nation
116. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Angel
117. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Babylon 5
118. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Battlestar Gallactica
119. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Buffy
120. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Farscape
121. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Firefly
122. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Lost
123. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Moonlight (Fall 2011)
124. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Roswell
125. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - Supernatural (Summer 2011)
126. Rewatch all TV I own on DVD - The X-Files
127. Read all the novels of Stephen King
128. Read & see performance/film of all the plays of William Shakespeare
129. Find a comprehensive list of Canadian Lit Books & read them
130. Read all the winners of the Nebula Award for Best Novel
131. Read all the winners of the Hugo Award for Best Novel
132. Read all the Giller Prize Winners
133. Find a comprehensive list of essential films
134. Watch any not seen films from #133, noting the signifigance & my own reaction
135. Redesign/update Movie Moxie
136. Read all the Greek Myths

Full Snow Moon Dreamboard

2010-02-28T19:12:00.002-05:00

Here's my dreamboard! I loved that it's the full snow moon, and that inspired me to snag the snowy pictures - nature pics - what a thought, I never have thoughts.

Not sure what my focus is that month but initial thoughs are focus, intensity and direction. Let's see where the month takes us!

October Full Harvest Moon Dreamboard

2009-10-06T12:05:00.001-04:00

Really loving my dreamboard this month. I have to find a spot to put it up still so I can enjoy it all the time!

Full Moon Dreamboard

2009-09-04T13:00:00.002-04:00

I hope September is as rockin' as this dreamboard!

Want to make your own? You can! Check out all the deets on The Full Corn Moon Dreamboards this month over at Jamie Ridler Studios.

Wreck This Journal - Oh, yeah!

2009-07-31T07:10:00.000-04:00

Wow, I can't believe we are now at the end of the Wreck This Journal journey! It's come a long way season week 1 (I almost said Season 1... I've been watching a lot of TV). and I can certainly say mine has trekked and wrecked and been wrecked a lot! I had a lot of fun wrecking when I was visiting Suzie recently and I brought my journal to a trip out to Peggys cove (Suzie's got pics of that here, plus see below). I rubbed it on a rock, shoved it between rocks and even dunked it in a mini pond of ocean-y water ... but then it was super soaked and salty-smelly! It needed to dry out and after leaving it outside not working, an oven on low heat was what finally made it work. After all that I sealed it up and mailed it home to Toronto. I made it back before the journal!

It's been really fun to wreck and play along. One thing that I've really enjoyed using it for has been to track the progress of So You Think You Can Dance Season 5. Normally I have a hard time remembering everyone but this time I documented all the shows starting from top 20 while watching with Jamie and it helped so much. Even though we close out the collective journey today I think my journal wants to keep with me for at least one more week just for that.

Y'know what is one of the craziest things about the process? I could *never* find the fruit sticker page when I wanted to! Never! hehe.

Here's to wrecking goodness! I can't believe it used to look like this only 2 months ago!

Full Moon Dreamboard

2009-07-07T22:46:00.005-04:00

I did two this month, because that is what felt right :) I only noticed now one is full of colour and the other is almost completely without. Wonder what that means! Extremes, as always....

See more dreamboards for this months full buck moon here.

This week, at Wreck This Journal

2009-07-04T16:50:00.002-04:00

Oh I've not been as diligent about posting the wreckage as I thought I would be. Oopsie! But there has been wreckage and I think I can really go a lot further. We'll see what happens this week but here is the current state of some of the mini adventures the book has had:

Still working on breaking the spine. I've tried - really!

I really like gluing random things

And gluing white things

I always have new grocery lists and bills. I'm not sure which it's suppose to be but I'm going with both!

I almost completely detest this page. I love the all over colour idea but I don't like how it turned out. I guess I could always colour over it again!

Doing the circle page was one of my faves. So much so that I did both open face pages and gave one away! I tried to be sneeky and elf like but she found it rather quickly that smart woman! heheh! Fun!

Wreck This Journal: Week 2!

2009-06-13T18:22:00.002-04:00

One of the surprizing things about the process of going through Wreck This Journal is that some of the instructions (suggestions? recommendations?) are like OH! I can do that. So it is fun and easy and goofy delight. Then I get to the space where I'm like.. oh yea, I can do this no problem! Thena new one will come along and I'm like... yikes.. I ah, dunno, if I can do that! Taking my journal for a walk was one of them. But I did it!

Another great way to stretch is to take a break and let someone else play. If they can do it - I bet you can to!!

Full Moon Dreamboard: June 2009

2009-06-07T21:49:00.003-04:00

Well here it is, my Full Moon Dreamboard created this afternoon at a lovely gathering of wonderful women and hosted by Jamie. Every time I look at it I see something new. This time 'Stride' at the bottom centre stood out. I wonder what will later tonight. Or tomorrow. I guess I will find out then.

It was a great time and I hope to do it again!

Wreck This Journal - Begins!

2009-06-06T17:48:00.000-04:00

The Next Chapter, a book blogging group begins today and out book this time is Wreck this Journal. And what better way to start the journey then by throwing my copy from a rooftop! Talk about starting off with a bang, or a tumble...

There was some great resistance to post this without downloading the before & after pics to go with it and make it all perfect and stuff but I want to share now now now NOW NOW! So I am, because there is something about the project that speaks to a very "Do it!" nature. Thanks to Jamie for taking the video, and of course to leading us through this journey.

Ok, I suck and succumbed to add the pic of where it landed below. But at least I admit it! Enjoy the journey.

Who is that under my deck chair?

2009-06-04T14:14:00.002-04:00

Unexpected visitor on the deck today. I've seen lots of cats recently but certainly wasn't expecting to have a raccoon nestled up sleeping on my deck chair in the middle of the afternoon. When I first tried to go outside it skirted away but then decided to lounge under the chair. I successfully left and returned, but was lil leery about freaking out the furry creature. Hours later and it's still hanging out in the same very spot. Oh my, every day is an adventure

Project 365 Week 15

2009-04-12T12:50:00.003-04:00

Wow, thank goodness for long weekends - it means I have time to get this post up on time. RAWR!

First up is my superglam shot. Ok, maybe not so much. I was on my way to Fanboys (fun times! see my review here. It was a complete coincidence that I was wearing my Star Wars hat. Seriously, it was - I only wear that when it rains.

On Tuesday I trekked out to get yarn. A lot of yarn. Have 2 upcoming projects and this stash is all for a sweater. Too bad the gauge ended up all whack. A new connundrum to figure out. Learning, it's so much fun!

So remember the pic with the hat 2 days ago cuz it rained? Then it snowed. Yep. April weather in Toronto is *so* much fun.

Got out to the movies a few times this week, this one was for Before Tomorrow. Fitting that it was a snowy day. Very touching film.

Participated in the Full Moon Dreamboard for the first time:

And it truly was a beautiful moon out that night. I stared at it for quite some time.

Hanging out with the Jamie!

Quite an interesting lot of lending material this week. Not quite Easter-y though.

And of course, cute cat pic!

Full Moon Dreamboard

2009-04-09T22:09:00.001-04:00

First time participating! I tried to just go with the flow and not over think it. I wonder what will come over the month ahead :)

Project 365 - Weeks 10-14

2009-04-05T18:48:00.003-04:00

Holy Smokes, I've not been keeping up with this! Here is a virtual months worth of pictures.

Seeing this Gucci sign all scraggly make me laugh:

Sunny day!

Some kind of organizational day - wow I don't even remember it was so long ago.

Toronto's 175th Anniversary!

Hanging out with Jamie

Groceries are good!

Cut tree makes me sad, but hopefully it will grow lots this year:

I'm sure I took this for a reason

At some course. I got a turtle sticker. Yay turtles

A rare image. Mom - eating an onion!

Beautiful Sky

Finished Ender in Exile - good read!

Gaming goodness

Hi, please enjoy your stay - but only for the specified time!

Coffee meetings rock

More playing!

Let the Right One in released on DVD - unfortunately people are displeased with the subtitles and I got that copy. Sigh

Walk this way!

Twilight came out on DVD! I've watched it an embarrassing amount of times and watched almost all the extra features.

Really good shop. Always great to get a clothes infusion.

My new favourite jeans.

The challenging but really good Polytechnique

Can you believe these 2 bottles are only 50 grams in difference? But the price is wouldn't give that away.

Working on transitioning to new daytimer/to do list system (still in process)

I was there, apparently

Hanging out with Jamie - her new haircut is so cute!

Wearing my new fuzzy fedora

Recording - more on this later!

Obligatory cute cat pic#1

Someones unattended dog appears from behind a chair at Starbucks.

Us year of the Dragon folk are encouraged to carry around a pic of a rooster. So I am.

More gaming. We won... winterspring? Opens this portal to some dungeon or something.

Lucky day when these escalators are actually *working*

Zamie across the way!

Genie night - go go Canadian film!

Obligatory cute cat pic#2.

Whelp. Hoping not to let that get so behind again next time!

Project 365 - Week 8 & 9 in pictures

2009-03-01T14:10:00.002-05:00

I'm often doing this biweekly, I'm glad my calender by the computer says the week numbers for handy reference!

First day of this two weeks I spend the whole day at the movie theatre catching up on films, mostly academy award nominees but snuck in a horror film too:

Never know what you are going to walk by. I wonder what the difference is between fighting stick 1, 2 and 3?

All the accumulated snow almost disappeared before the next snowfall. Almost. That lump is the evidence it didn't.

Mystified how Standard Grade can be Superior Quality. Harmph.

Hanging out with Jamie catching up with the movies.

Cheating on this day - it's a 2 for 1 before/after organizing the freezer. I know it doesn't look that much better but it made a world of difference.
Before:

After:

Oscar Night!!

Doing so prep for the Star Trek o rama:

At the theatre again to catch up with some Canadian movies like The Stone of Destiny:

Video Chatting with Suzie!

I heart leftover meeting food!

Great spot for a bite to eat: Grapefruit Moon. Make sure you go with someone who you can hold a great convo with (I did - with Jamie!) as it is relaxed pace but also very busy. Great food. Yummy yum - I'll be going back.

Hanging out with my accountability group for brunch.

As always, Mr. Man looking mucho relaxo.

How was your week?

Knitting - Pink Socks Completed

2009-02-18T18:50:00.003-05:00

Finishing a pair of socks is a part of my current knitting challenge, but more than that making socks has always been high on my list of "I wanna be able to do that" with knitting because it's closer and closer to being an actual garment.

I got a great and non intimidating pattern that starts from the cuff down in a rib pattern - something I already knew how to do! The next part was turning the heel which of my goodness I tried to logic it out but the answer I found was just to blindly trust the pattern which worked. I did have one extra stitch the first time but I just did a k2tog somewhere where it wouldn't be noticed. I also learned how to pick up stitches (correctly, heh) and the rest of the pattern was just straight knitting and decreases. All in all I'm thrilled with them! They are big but that makes 'em slipper like goodness. Here are some pics of the process.

After making the heel:

After picking up stitches:

Dont' let the shot fool ya, they are the same size, different angles:

Finished product:

Week 6 and 7 in pictures - Project 365

2009-02-18T01:33:00.002-05:00

Oh I certainly get a tardy slip this time!

The sign of Superbowl Sunday: TV's relieved of their duty.

Headed out to the movies.

It's been one heck of a snowy winter:

Moment of writer's block:

Monitor at work went kablooy. Gave me an opportunity to shift around my goofy decor:

Art?

Research pics for my non traditional Valentines film pics post:

Chatting on skype while cozying with the kitty:

Subway poster reminds me of TV schedule!

My latest knitting adventure - a bumpy swirly hat. So easy to make! Did it in a weekend.

The day of the New TV!

But shortly I was back to my to do lists:

Headed out to hang out with Jamie:

Cleared out the fridge and loaded it up with good food:

Reorganizing always leads to cat adventures:

Project 365 - Week 5 in 2009

2009-02-03T21:48:00.002-05:00

I actually missed a day in the middle of the week - oops.

What, exactly, is open here?

Project 365 - Week 4 in 2009

2009-01-27T18:56:00.002-05:00

Another freaking cold week here in the T-dot, but lots of fun memoirs nonetheless.

I got this tea cup in the mail. I only vaguely remember sending away for it. I actually remember thinking about it but not actually sending for it. I guess I did!

Kinda defies explanation.

Me looking goofy after being asked when buying a ticket for the film Chandhi Chowk to China if I had my student card. Oh boy.. student card? Do I look that young?

Feb 22 was Oscar nomination day! See detailed lists of noms over at Movie Moxie

Hanging out with Jamie after some fun clothes shopping. Our after shopping spot had a new item on the menu which I tried and it was great! Too bad my soy sauce always wants to fall over, good thing I found a creative solution!

My brother was in town for 2 days! So great to see him! I caught him off caught and made him smile instead of doing a goofy face, hehe!

It was a family-full weekend and so I'm featuring lil Jinx as the cat of the week. Don't tell Mr. Man!

Knitting Challenge

2009-01-25T16:59:00.003-05:00

It's been two years (almost to the day) from when I learned how to knit. I had no idea how much of an impact this would be! Jamie & I took a 2 session learn to knit a scarf class and since then I've always had at least one project on the go. I've learned to knit in the round, change colours, read a pattern, make a swatch, do cables and made many many scarves. There always seems to be more to learn, and more projects I want to do. Some are 'just cuz', some are to learn more and some are 'ok, I really have to finish that one'. To keep track of what I want to do I've decided to create a list and work through them there.

Knitting Challenge List:

1. Finish all current projects (multicoloured legwarmers, pink socks, bag to be constructed, burgundy hat)
2. Sort Yarn by weight
3. Pick Pattern for Garment. Bring to Store. Buy yarn, any notions/special items required. Create Garment.
4. Make mitts or gloves
5. Try new scarf pattern
6. Try new sock pattern
7. Try new hat pattern
8. Try something from the 'misc' patterns pile
9. Try a new shrug/poncho pattern
10. Try a new bag pattern
11. Knit a sweater
12. Knit pants, skirt or dress
13. Learn Buttonholes
14. Create a pattern
15. Learn how to read a colour pattern
16. Learn how to read a stitch pattern
17. Find homes for the 4 scarves I've made which are sitting in my inbox
18. Learn how to make buttonholes
19. Learn how to make an i cord
20. Buy a knitting book that I really like

Newly Knitting - Fingerless Mitts 'Dashing'

2009-01-20T19:30:00.003-05:00

I finished these last night (and they already have cat hair on them!). They are fingerless mitts called Dashing from Knitty. You can get the pattern here.

I picked the pattern well over a year ago but had just gotten comfortable at that time with knitting in the round so in hindsight I'm glad I waiting. It takes a few skills I hadn't tried at that time, namely cables and making a thumb. Both were way easier than I had expected.

When I try a new pattern, I always follow the instructions and make no alterations (just like baking). I did a test swatch for the gauge and it looked ok. The pattern is actually a mens pattern, but I find it snug on the lower arm so maybe it is for skinny boys! It's really cook how the cables cinch at the wrist for a nice fitted effect. I did find the length a bit long working after the cables to the thumb opening. If I did it again I might revise that part. But, I loved the K4 P1 rib pattern - I think it's beautiful and it's super easy to remember intuitively.

Overall I'm thrilled. It's my 2nd try at cables and first time doing a thumb - both of which were fine. The pattern is really clear and I realize now I picked up stitches in the wrong way for the thumb but you can't tell.

I went with different colours as that is what I had that matched the pattern. I knew each ball wouldn't have been enough for a full mitt, so I just did one of each.

Here are some more pics:

Project 365 - Week 3 for 2009

2009-01-18T11:38:00.003-05:00

Ok, kinda fibbing on the week three as I've only done one post so far. But... my wall calenders calls Jan 12-18/09 week 3 so that's my back up. How would you properly reference a calender? Perhaps one week I'll include a pic of it!

Live chatting through the Golden Globes with Andrew from GmanReviews and Ethan from ScreenGeeks. Fun times!

Steak & Eggs for dinner. This was literally all I could come up with from what was in the fridge. It's the first time I've had it... not sure what the fuss is all about.

The oldest, oddest and most secure coffee carafe I've ever seen.

Sweetness! Amazon has some sick deals and I completed not only my collection of Angel, but also Buffy. I went way over budget on my DIY club by $167 though, so I'm going to pay that off before ordering again in February. $45 down ad $122 to go!

The effect of the West End Blackout! Thank goodness I didn't go out that night like I planned, I not only would have been chilly but also had one heck of a time getting home.

I was one of the lucky ones that had power restored early Friday morning.

Noticed this on my Saturday trek out in the freezing weather. Don't know what to do with your old chocolate boxes? Home made outdoor ice cubes! Not suggesting you actually use them.

Mr. Man looking cozy as ever.

365 in 2009! - Week 1 Plus Some

2009-01-11T11:51:00.005-05:00

What is a year without picture? After posting a pictures from everyday in 2008 including a video summary of the year, I can't imagine not doing it again. Thanks Jamie for starting the fun trend and the continual inspiration! Feel free to join along and post a picture from every day of the year. I'm hoping to do mine weekly on Sundays but we will see how it goes.

This is one of the very few pics I took that day, most of which were unusable. But, always need a pic of the crazy kitty - he sure is enjoying a relaxing New Year's Day! Now to take more & better pics is resolution for 2009. Actually, it isn't because I love the randomness of odd pictures.

Hanging out with Jamie on a snowy day!

Library pics of the week, made it through all but Unforgiven which I had already seen anyway.

Just cuz it's pretty.

The moon out around 5pm.

Late night coming home after meeting with my film buddies. Was so beautiful and quiet out in th midst of a snowfall.

And then it all melted. I totally got pelted with slush this day - not by that car but some truck like mobile.

Very bright Sun that day. What is with all the 'outdoor' nature-y pics???

Funny name for a corner that doesn't host CityTV anymore.

Current knitting project, fingerless mitts (I think) with cables. I am not sure I did it right as the cables look really odd, but they taper at the wrist which is pretty cool. Oddness as it's a mens pattern and very snug. I guess me have big mitty hands!

A year in pictures

2009-01-02T22:20:00.003-05:00

A year in pictures from the 365 project hosted by Jamie. Here is a picture from every day in 2008.It's been a rather snowy year on both ends it seems. Enjoy!

The Last Week in Pictures for 2008

2009-01-01T17:56:00.001-05:00

The last weekly(ish) post of for Project 365! Thank you Jamie for putting it together! I can't wait to see all the pictures together... I wonder if it is now I remember the year :).

One of the many snowy days of the year!

Kitty snuggles up to the pressies. He doesn't mind that they aren't for him.

Christmas Dinner coming outta the oven!

Kung Fu and Musical movies for Christmas Day delights.

Continuing movie madness to Boxing Day.

Cozy moment with the Jinx.

Yummy cookies, thank you Jamie!

Chatting with Jamie & Suzie - fun!

1st attempt to get a new calendar for 2009 (I got one, but it wasn't the 'right' one)

2nd attempted to get a new calendar for 2009. 4 calendars of the masses had what I needed (week starting on Monday). These were the 4 options: Surfing, Circus, Cheese and Folk-y Nature Art Creations or something. I bought surfing & circus and the circus one is on my wall right now - welcome to 2009!

2009 New Years Mosaic Meme

2008-12-31T00:25:00.005-05:00

, 2. Christina Ricci, 3. DEBT FREE AT AGE 28!!, 4. Pieces of My Life (Surf Films), 5. let the sun shine in...., 6. tschumi, 7. Sant Sipahi, 8. strobist flickrazzi, 9. Yippie-aye-aaa,♫ yippie-aye-ooh...♫ a praying mantis nymph went out on a raining and windy day...♫♫, 10. Mt Sefton, New Zealand, 11. Welcome to the world of full frame, 12. Covers (circa August '06)

Mosaic Fun! I found this Welcome to 2009 Mosaic meme over at Danette's. Want to play along? You sure can! Here is how to create a New Year Mosaic Meme:

Below is a list of questions. Type your answer to each of the questions into Flickr search. Choose an image using only the first page that comes up, then copy and paste each of the URL’s into the mosaic maker (adjust it to 3 by 4 or 4 by 3 to get 12).

Here are your New Year Mosaic Questions:

*It works best if your answers are short and powerful*

1. Looking back on 2008, what might the theme have been?
2. If 2008 was a movie, who would play you?
3. What was your greatest gift of 2008?
4. What is your New Year Resolution, or, what are you committing to this year?
5. If January could be represented by one song, what would it be?
6. What do you wish for your body in 2009?
7. Name one new thing you would love to try in the New Year.
8. What do you long for 2009 to bring?
9. If that happened, how would you feel?
10. Where would you love to vacation in 2009 if money were no object?
11. What would you like the theme of 2009 to be?
12. If 2009 was a book, and the title was 5 words or less, what might the title be?

Some of them had no option that really fit what I was going for visually... If I found one that worked thematically it worked for it but sometimes I had to tweak the search a bit. Zomg, it's not even Jan 1 and I cheated! heheh

Merry Christmas to All!

2008-12-25T10:54:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone is having as much fun as my cat today :)

A Week in Pictures

2008-12-21T12:23:00.002-05:00

Wow, only a week and a bit to go until the end of 2008. It's a little hard to believe. I was about to say "It's been an _________ year" but I don't know what would fill in that blank. Maybe I'll know by next week.

Holiday shopping and storefronts in full force. This place has been playing A Christmas Story all day, every day, all week. Wow.

I love trees in the winter. The last place I lived the sky always looked like this with trees on both sides. I'm glad to see some tall trees here too.

The first of many snowfalls this week.

I can't get enough of clementines.

And they called it 'Snowmeggedon'. Do I think people are a little over the top when they talk about the craziness of the snowfalls in Toronto? Yes. What it a really big snowfall? Yes, yes it was.

Getting the jumpstart on one of my 2009 goals of cooking real for more. I made 'Jamie's favourite chicken' aka Sesame Chicken. It's so easy and sooooo yummy.

Someone had the kitty crazies today (hint: it wasn't me)

A Week in Pictures

2008-12-15T00:43:00.004-05:00

Some of this weeks are out of sequence... I actually forgot to put my camera in my bag one day, something I don't think I've ever done before. But there is still 7 for a weeks worth so that works for me!

Headed off to see Slumdog Millionaire at the AMC, I got a free small popcorn - woohoo!

More film with getting out to see The Reader

Chatting with Jamie

First time trying to do cables - much easier than I thought it would be. It was much harder to do another part of the pattern - RT and LT , right twists and left twists.

And December always mean time for cookie making.

There are still a few days left! Find out more about Project 365? See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

For the love of murlocks

2008-12-10T20:41:00.002-05:00

Nothing is more fun than playing with murlocs. Except saving baby murlocs.

A Week in Pictures and then some

2008-12-08T20:12:00.002-05:00

Oh boy, I'm a few weeks behind! Here's a pic a day for quite a while

Food!

The day of 7 loads of laundry. And I wasn't even done after all of that.

Reflections

Likely the inside of Innis Town Hall.

Prepping for Vlogging during the Reel Asian film fest (see coverage here).

Huge pile of papers and to dos.

Never thought I would see Quantum of Solace and Let the Right One In playing at the same theatre.

The best coffee in Toronto is found here.

Crazy beautiful light sculpture at Yonge & Dundas Sq. that I walked by after seeing JCVD for the second time.

Caving for subpar coffee

The days were getting chilly-ier!

Mom always has something to share for dessert. After dropping off New Moon to her, she had raspberries and chocolate ice cream for me!

Jamie & I at the Opening Night of Twilight.

Installing WoW all the way from scratch to the Wrath of the Lich King expansion. Oh boy that took a while!

Coffee meeting with my accountability group!

Picture of pictures... literally the only pic I took that day!

A friend shared home made marshmellows. She wouldn't tell me what was in them, now that is the sign of a good friend!

Old City Hall at night.

Lunch with Mom!

V-chatting with Suzie!

Winterproofing windows, low tech style.

The continual creating of the house across the street. They are still working on it. In the snow! Oh my.

My last film to see in my 101 list and working on a hat.

Randomness.

Headed to the theatre to see Twilight, again.

Another movie book that looks awesome! But, December policy - no buying anything, just in case!

RvRing in Warhammer! Huzzah!

Cracking the podcasting nut with Jamie.

Celebrating Jamie Birthday!

Mr Man!

There are still a few weeks left! Find out more about Project 365? See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Happy Birthday Jamie!

2008-12-07T12:51:00.002-05:00

Last night we celebrated Jamie's Birthday with Chinese food and homemade chocolate cake! Jamie & her honey made it themselves - I'm so impressed! It was a lovely evening of celebration, fun and good conversation and of course - lots of Jamie time! You can see us singing Happy Birthday to her here.

I hope you have a rockin day today Jamie!!! *hugs*

101 things I learned during 101 things in 1001 days

2008-12-01T00:01:00.006-05:00

I'm thrilled to share that the 101 in 1001 is over and I'm pretty slap happy about it and freaking proud that I stuck through it.

I went through many incarnations on how to wrap up my 101 things in 1001 days experience. Ideas ranged from celebrated the done's to justifying the undone's. Neither felt quite sufficient to capture the spirit of the list, so I've decided to write a new one. Not a new 101 in 1001 but 101 things I learned about myself, the world and lists over these 1001 days.

As it started with a list, it shall end with one.

1. Being a patron at TIFF requires a great deal of time, energy, money and organization. Covering the festival over at Movie Moxie led to being invited to cover the Toronto After Dark Film Festival. Within a year I have covered 7 film festivals in Toronto. Next Goal on this one: Get accredited at TIFF!

2. I'm not doing another 101 in 1001 right after this one. I think it's crazy when people have this one their lists. Do it, then decide if you'd do it again otherwise you are committing to something for 2002 days!

3. I have more than just 'an interest' in film. 1001 days led to seeing 700+ films, writing 369 reviews over 3 blogs but finally settling here.

4. I was very sad to find out the 2005 Film Review Year in Review magazine was out of print. I really wanted this for my archives, I've been collecting them since 2000 but 2005 was a rough year and I didn't buy it.

5. In May 2008 I finished the only item on the list that was completed in 2008, other than ones that were for the duration of the whole 1001 days.

6. Blogger changed to 'the new blogger' somewhere along the 1001 days. Although many things are better and easier, the formatting of my original list is totally messed up.

7. I'm not changing the format of my original list, messed up or not it is what it is.

8. Twice during the 1001 days I was the only person in the theatre to see a film.

9 is the number of things on my list I partially completed

10. When seeing films recommended to me by someone else and just taking their word for it, I loved the ones recommended by my women friends. All but one of the recommendations by guys ended up being films I hated.

11. Trying something I hate to reassess was funny, but my tastes haven't change that much in these 1001 days or all of my days.

12. $12,000 is the amount debt I paid off. This is one of the biggest achievements from this list and in my life.

13. The other biggest achievement was getting divorced.

14. Committing to do something for the entire 1001 days is kind of insane.

15 is the number of not dones that I have no interest in doing. Surprizingly the majority of these were fashion / clothing things. I didn't buy that shirt, but it was cute.

16. Focus and interest can change greatly over 1001 days.

17. Getting something off the list doesn't necessarily mean it's done. Like mailing in forms. They can send them back to you, which they did to me. Boo to forms!

18. Although many things change a lot of things don't. I'm still a gamer who plays WoW and is trying to get the hang of Warhammer.

19. I don't care what the practical applications of trig are. I'm not sure I ever did!

20. I don't play puzzles as much as I used to, even though sudoku's are a lot of fun.

21. Saving a part of every paycheque is an amazing thing. I put away $20-50/week and from doing that was able to do so many things on this list from taking vacation to going to film festivals to having a Christmas budget.

22. Over the 1001 days I've accumulated 22 notebooks worth of notes on films, screenings and Q&A's.

23. Knitting, note taking and typing makes for sore hands at times.

24. Having an amount for 'misc' in a budget is a beautiful thing.

25. I love ordering my monthly DIY book/cd/dvd club. It's almost always DVDs. I also love adding things to my amazon wish list and giggle at some of the recommendations.

26. I love that I rarely have to pick up the delivery at the post office because my landlord is nice and often snags them.

27. I've lived in three different spaces since this started. I do miss my red bedroom, but I love where I am now. Wow, I wonder where those curtains are.

28. Although I've lived in my new space over a year I still have 3 boxes to unpack. Sigh.

29. I had no idea how much I would love knitting. Since that first garter scarf, I'm made many scarves, a few hats, a shawl and am working on a bag. Knitting rules!

30. Things involving other people are a little strange to put on this kind of list. I wouldn't do that one again.

31. I love taking and posting pictures. I liked my day in the life of day. At some point I got a better camera and now my pictures are all clear.

32. I miss the weird fuzzy bizarre pictures my old camera took (above).

33. I still end up with some odd pictures though (below).

34. Items that were not done from the list. Out of these, 10 I am still interested in doing.

35. I looked up lifedrawing classes recently. There is somewhere I could go that is a great price. I still want to do this.

36. I can't believe I didn't get another tattoo! I know exactly what I want.

37. Video chatting rocks.

38. I enjoyed participating in Self Portrait Tuesdays. I never actively meant to stop. It looks like on hiatus.

39. I read way more non fiction that I thought I did. Over the 1001 days I've read tons of books on money, organization, film and a fair amount on self development.

40. I've had many organization systems but now I'm back to the one I used when I started all of this. Carrying a med sized lined notebook to write down to dos. When they are done, highlight them. I write the date in the margin to keep track for some reason.

41. I know where blood pressure machines are in relation to movie theatres in the downtown core.

42. I've held the same job at the same position for the entiretly of these 1001 days. I rarely last this long in a job.

43. When I first set out to do this, I came with 157 things to do. I can come up with ideas outta nowhere I tell ya, outta nowhere!

44. I actually felt like I didn't ever have the time to spare to take the subway end to end.

45. The first day I bookmarked to go to the Zoo, it was too cold. The second day I forgot to budget for it. I will get there! I wanna see the animals.

46. One of the hardest things to do was to be on time for a month. I had no idea how often I was even just a little late.

47. One of the easiest things on this list was telling someone a secret.

48. One of the weirdest completes was perfecting the smoky eye look. I did this in the afternoon with no plans to go out. Um.. why did I do that? I also got some creepy email from it.

49. I truly thought I would get each of the 101 things done.

50. About halfway through the process, I realized I wouldn't get everything done. This was very discouraging and I didn't want to be one of the many that gave up.

51. I have taken a ridiculous amount of pictures with fries in them. I have also eaten all those fries.

52. I got an invitation to ride someones motorcycle but as of yet haven't taken them up on it.

53. I wish I had put 'get my license' on the list.

54. I can still spell necessary, sufficient, eligible and decision but add an a instead of e to inconsistent.

55. Out of all the not dones I wish I got to was to go to a film festival outside Toronto. I am planning on going to Fantasia in Montreal in 2009.

56. You learn every day. You can't not. Even if you sleep all day you'd either learn something in your dreams or what it felt like to sleep all day.

57. Is the number of tasks I completed.

58. is the total (so far) of post I've made on planet shannon in 2008 in comparison to 384 posts in 2006 when I started this blog.

59. It snows more when I live somewhere were I shovel snow. Really, it's true!

60. I had many opportunities to walk into Holt Renfrew during the 1001 days. When a coworker bought her lunch there and brought it back to work, it kinda broke the mystique.

61. I buy way more tech stuff than I realize. Through the 1001 days I got a printer/scanner, iPod, speakers, new computer, new camera. Of course my cordless phone dies after 2hrs off the base and my other phone the ringer doesn't work. But, I can scan stuff!

62. I learned I love podcasts

63. I really want to have my own film podcast.

64. Sometimes I wonder how the hell I carry so much stuff (don't tell Mom!).

65. I am truly thankful that my sisters Suzie and Jamie have blogs!

66. I worked through True Balance during the 1001 days.

67. I worked through The Artist's Way during the 1001 days.

68. I worked through Soul Coaching during the 1001 days.

69. I like working through things. I usually like the process better than the result.

70. I like making my own movie marathons. Even if the films aren't that great. I often do them as a countdown to a new release.

71. Las Iguana's no longer has NTN Trivia - this is one of the two things on my list that weren't possible to do.

72. When revisiting my original list this week I completely forgot that I went swimming.

73. I'm not a spa person. I tried it, but it's not for me.

74. I live twittered through The Oscars in 2008. That is more me.

75. Another one of the easy tasks on my list was Going Vegetarian for 1 month.

76. I didn't even look into giving blood although I walk by places where you can do this regularly.

77. I almost never do meme's anymore.

78. I have no idea what I'll be posting here at Planet Shannon after my 101 is done.

79. I will still post Project 365 pictures until then end of 2008. Then I don't know.

80. One of the things I was very keen on doing, although not part of my 101 was to make a Gryffendor scarf. I was so happy when it was done. It took forever!!!

81. I have read every day of this 1001 days. Even during the week of The Artist's Way when you aren't suppose to. I'm not convinced I could or would want to do not read for a week.

82. I love the library. So many great films and books to borrow - for free! Going to the library regularly is one of the things that inadvertently became part of my regular schedule during the 101 in 1001 and I love it!

83. Trying out 10 new restaurants was a rocking thing to do on the list. I still crave the tempura at Siji on occasion.

84. Although I've said "Oh, I wish I put this on the list" and such, I am totally happy with the ones I picked and wouldn't have done anything different.

85. 85 is the IQ of a character in Alien 3. LV-426 is the name of the planet in Alien. I didn't need to look those up. I knew that before the 1001 days.

86. I have a very weird specific memory for numbers. I don't use speed dial, it's all in my head. However, I have to double check my current postal code. Darn letters mess everything up!

87. That picture has nothing to do with my 101.

88. I still want to take a martial arts class, or tai chi.

89. I hate meditation. With a passion. It literally makes me angry.

90. I don't write letters to my future self anymore. During the 1001 days I wrote, found and read two (I was suppose to read them that is how that worked) and I hadn't achieved what it said and that cheesed me right off.

91. I do, however, believe in the power of listmaking and that somehow it makes things happen.

92. The time I had an opportunity to stand up against someone who was saying something rude, racist or discriminatory, I was too scared (the situation already had escalated to close to violence).

93. Perhaps supporting an organization is more my style.

94. Watershed by Indigo Girls (listen/watch here) came on when I was working on closure today and it made me cry. That vid has a really annoying intro, btw.

95. Out of all the tasks, the one I enjoyed the most as it felt like a great balance of being a huge feat I'm proud of, was actually pretty challenging although enjoyable & built resources and also took a fair amount time to actually do was to make it through my 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen list.

96. I have ninety six minutes to complete this post to stay on schedule.

97. Yes, it's Sunday and I have a schedule.

98. Coming up with this list was harder than the originally 101!

99. After I finish this I am going to make dinner and watch Gone with the Wind which will be the final film on my 101 films to see list.

100. I'm blissfully looking forward to not doing anything 'every day' for December.

101. I often close a post with a picture of my cat. No reason to stop that now!

Return to my 101 list

101 in 1001 - the partials post

2008-11-30T13:18:00.002-05:00

Delving into the realm of not perfection, some of the items on my 101 didn't quite turn out. Some I'm happy with how far it got and some not so much. Here are not quite sidelined partials.

#6 - Make a list of my favourite films, by genre.

Whelp. Didn't really do this. I love reading top ten and favourites lists, and I did write about the scariest, westerns and art house films but I don't like to narrow things down. Also, new films come out all the time... how often do you revisit these lists to update them? Sounds like maintenance to me! BOO to maintenance. I did group my reviews by genre so that is kinda similar. This is truly only a partial 'done'.

#8 - See all the Canadian films released in one calendar year (ie all the films released in 2004, but not necessarily see them in 2004)

I'm surprized I didn't get through one of these, but overall I'm happy with the results:
24/41 of the Canadian Releases in 2006
15/36 of the Canadian Releases in 2007
24/44 of the Canadian Releases in 2008 (as of November 28/08)

That's about half and the ones I haven't seen are on my list to get too. There were some awesome films in there (Bon Cop Bad Cop, The Rocket, Sharkwater, Up the Yangtze, Continental, un film sans fusil / Continental, a Film Without Guns, How She Move). There were also some real stinkers like Slither and Young Triffie. Overall, I'm thrilled I did it and will continue to commit to seeing and covering Canadian film!

#9 - See all the Oscar nominated films before the Oscar’s are presented

I'm actually surprized I put this on there. I usually try to see as many of the nominated films as I can, but there are usually a few I'm not interested in. Also, there are some films I only saw for this sake and wasn't thrilled with the results (Gangs of New York comes to mind). All that being said I think I get to at least 50% of the available films. It's a fun exercise and often leads to outings with my sister Jamie and my Mom so for that alone I'd say it's a success!

#14 - Write something about all the films I see (for the first time) throughout these 1001 days

Oh my this was ridiculously ambitious. When I started this journey I was seeing maybe 1 new film a week. My current average is 5 a week. Over the 1001 days I will have seen over 700 films and reviewed 369 as of today. Again, just over 50%! What is with that? I see so many films and write about film almost every day over at Movie Moxie so I'm considering this one complete. I'm almost amazed at how far my writing has come on this one my first review was In the Heat of the Night and my last was Twilight.

#16 - Attempt all the puzzles in a Variety Crossword puzzle book

Ok, who knew it would be so time consuming to finish a whole book? I probably should have considering how many times I've moved and packed and unpacked the same Variety Crossword Puzzles books. I got close on this one, I certainly attempted every *type* of puzzle instead of zooming to the Fill Ins and Crosstix that I love. Turns out, I still love the ones I love and the one-of's are that interesting. And those logic problems? Holy snap, who can do those? I always get them wrong if I finish them which is funny and sad!

#17 - Figure out how RSP, RRSP and Insurance work and why people use them

I figured out RSPs and Insurance when I read through The Wealthy Barber. The funniest thing was finding out that I wouldn't get insurance which left me laughing and then I never got around to the RRSP bit.

#31 - Read 1 fashion magazine a month (in process). Revisioned: Find a new podcast a month

I revisioned this one half way through but honestly I just didn't track it. I'm liking podcasts more than fashion mags and always looking for new ones - seems good enough to me!

#41 - Own only things that are beautiful or useful, or both

I've lived in three different spaces since this process began and although I didn't work on this one intentionally I've cleared out a lot of stuff I didn't like or didn't use. It's an every-growing, every-reducing perpetual cycle. For right now, I'm feeling ok with what I have. OH... once I get those freaking boxes from the bookcase to the recycling! See? It doesn't end.

#93 - Make a list of 20 books that I want to read

I read 7 1/2 of the 20. I started another 5 of those, one I'm still working on and a few I dropped after a few chapters. Of the 7 1/2 left I'd carry over 4 1/2 of them and therefore still intent to read 1984, Away, Red Mars, Sword-Sword and at least 1 guide / workbook on English. Overall I'm happy with the results here, and I ended up reading tons of books over the course of the 1001 days which was the spirit of this entry.

#38 - Keep a plant alive from ‘The Auction’ from one year to the next

2008-11-30T12:53:00.002-05:00

They are alive!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I kept them alive for a whole year and counting. I got these plants back in October 2007 at the Auction and they all survived! This is so exciting because the first set I got in 2006 all died :(

I picked heartier plants this time and decided not to name them. I went with a spider plant, African violet, one that was already really long, a hearty looking jade-like plant and an aloe - which was the hardest to keep alive!

Here are the before and afters. With so much focus on them being just alive I didn't notice how much they have grown. I feel like such a good plant Mom.

Aloe - before

Aloe - after

African Violet - before

African Violet - after

Long Dangly one - before

Long dangly one - after

Hearty one - before

Hearty jade looking one (there is a jade plant in front of it but I'm talking about the tall one behind it).

Spider Plant - before

Spider plant - after

See my 101 list

Soul Coaching: Wrapping Up, Wrapping In

2008-11-29T13:30:00.002-05:00

While I'm writing this it's still Day 28, but I fell off the schedule a number of days ago. I started off pretty strong posted everyday, then some days I still read, and some I didn't do anything at all. I thought I would love fire week but I didn't and I didn't connect to Earth at all. I was about to get all 'meh I didn't do it right' when I realized I should take a look at my initial intentions for participating in the Soul Coaching journey:

1. Why it appealed: I have felt overly busy.

2. Hesitation: I wasn't sure I would have the time, but with Level 1 being 15-30 minute I say!

3. My intention is to seek clarity of vision

Now, when I think about these things. I do feel less busy and had a few moments where it felt possible to get through my lists. I found it took longer than the time stated at 15-30 because there were things like 'everyday wake up and notice...' plus reading, plus the exercise, plus thinking throughout the day, plus taking & posting pics and writing. I know the last few I should have tacked on that they would be longer as blogging through it would be more time that not.

Now, on to intention. Seeking clarity of vision. I'm getting closer on this one, but not there yet. The cool thing is that I've really decided that December will be my prep month for 2009 and I'm really looking forward to that. It's also Serendipitous timing that my 101 in 1001 comes to a close December 1, 2009. That has been a huge journey and I'm ready for closure on it too. I can feel things are a changing and what Soul Coaching and November really helped me was clear the way for that. This was also a big duh! moment as I'm pretty sure that is the *whole* intent of the book and I didn't realize it until very recently.

So as Denise Linn continually says throughout the book that just doing it is doing it (totally paraphrasing there!)

I thought this was a perfect pic to show the different weeks: Fire, Water, Air and Earth

I wanted to say a big thanks for those who came along for the ride, especially all the support though the bookcase ordeal and the days of confusion. It's been wonderful to see so many people working through a process together, to see where we hit our stride or tumble down. I'm thrilled so many of use did make it all the way through (and I'm counted myself in that, hehe!). A huge thank you to Jamie for bringing us all together.

And cuz I love pics here are some transformations of my space from start to finish.

(before)

(after)

(before)

(after)

(before)

(after - and different set up)

Sure, there is still clutter but it's leaps and bounds better than it was before and that works for me!

Soul Coaching Day 19, Fire Week 5

2008-11-20T22:40:00.002-05:00

I didn't post yesterday. I did read the affirmation and action and carry them around in my pocket but nothing more than that.

And today I read the affirmation (didn't agree with it) then look at all the exercises which were about making a fire or about celebrating death. Not quite fitting my mood today, nor my time so I'm gonna skip it. I didn't even read the whole thing.

I did find this fiery type pic of the Nine of Wands though.

It's odd - I really thought I would connect to Fire Week being a Leo, Year of the Dragon, various numerology things are 3's but I'm not feeling it. Could be that we had our first real snow yesterday and it's still in that cold-but-not-acclimatized stage. We'll see what tomorrow brings!

Check out more of the The Next Chapter folks here.

Soul Coaching Day 17 Fire Week Day 3

2008-11-18T20:05:00.002-05:00

Okies so still Fire week eh? I wish it was warmer, doesn't feel super firey when it's so chilly out.

Today is about facing the shadow. I tried to take a pic of my shadow but it was grey out so I found an old one. Ironic isn't it because our shadow can often be old and archival in it of itself.

Affirmation of the day: "I unconditionally accept all parts of myself"
Right. Next.

Level II exercise today is let the skeletons out of the closet and I noticed I pretty much decided to ignore it. And then I realized, that's it. I often *do* ignore things. Nowhere nears as much as I used to. Currently I'm ignoring the idea of more sleep = less tired (mostly because more sleep = less stuff getting done and my lists are long.. hey my shadow has a voice!). This is nothing new, and I've actually been ignoring this one since July 2006 when I tried a little experiment in sleep and was not happy with the results. So there it is. I ignore stuff. Yep, I admit it.

psst... if I did Level I literally and changed my Should's to Could's, then Shannon would become Cannon.

Check out more of the The Next Chapter folks here.

Soul Coaching Day 16 Fire Week Day 2

2008-11-17T20:35:00.004-05:00

I missed a few days but now I'm back in a non-written capacity. Soul Coaching Vlog entry.
Things referenced: Camera knocked over by cat Vlog entry, Jean-Claude Van Damme fans can check out my review here of JCVD.

Check out more of the The Next Chapter folks here.

Soul Coaching Water Week Day 5

2008-11-14T01:17:00.002-05:00

Today is about, or was about being still / doing nothing. I was still. I sat a lot in the theatre while watching about 8 hours of film. I wasn't doing nothing though. I had a few moments of doing nothing first thing in the morning between smacking the snooze button. And they were lovely moments indeed, until my cat would try to eat my hair or lick my nose - I know he means well though.

Affirmation of the day: "In the centre of my being, there is always stillness and peace".

Um, no. And... no thanks. I usually try to find where in the affirmation I can connect with or what I believe in but this one. Nope. Nada. Not a one. Stillness does not appeal. Peace is a little more challenging to brush off - cuz the world peace hell ya I'm up for that. But like, inner calm peace? Don't think I've experienced that and not sure I will. Also there was a mention in the book to how only people who have inner peace can build for world peace that got me a little steamy.

But, it's already after midnight so ... I'll just keep trekking.

Check out more of the The Next Chapter folks here.

Soul Coaching Day 11. Water Week Day 4

2008-11-13T00:45:00.003-05:00

Dangaroo I was hoping to get this up before midnight! Ah wells, I'll just pretend I'm PST or something.

So, wow, today started so long ago I can't remember much other than I chose to look at my relationship with Opening Nights. Sounds weird eh? Well, considering I've been at a fair few dance recitals, worked at, in and around theatre and now I'm currently covering the film festivals in Toronto I have a pretty lengthly list of Opening Night experiences.

There is always a wild and energetic energy that surrounds an opening night. Within that, it can range from haphazard to exclusive with security. I've gone from being someone *in* the show (many many moons ago), to the person with the list, to someone on the list. I think I like being on the list the best. One thing that rocks about opening night is getting to dress up, getting to people watch and also usually the opportunity to see rockin' works of art.

Speaking of, gotta get back at it. I've got pics, vids and reviews to write over at Movie Moxie. I'll be covering the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival until Sunday. I'll still be Soul Coaching away but it might be a bit all over the place!

Update: here & see me vlog and talk all about the opening experience!

Check out more of the The Next Chapter folks here.

Soul Coaching: Day 10. Water Week Day 3

2008-11-11T18:35:00.003-05:00

I found this Buddha yesterday while cleaning up. Isn't it cute?

Boy, am I living the water of water week. Today, I've been doing laundry for the past 7 hours. And no, I'm not done. So much laundry! Anyhow... what are we up to today?

Energy Zappers and Energy Juicers. I feel like I should be in a Health Centric bar or something. I totally get the premise of the zappa's and the juica's.

Affirmation: "I am moving into harmony with everyone and everything in the universe".

Ok, am I the only one who though that sounded kinda kinky?

Anyhow, I did the level III for today. I found some juicers recently and I am so thrilled about that. But,what was completely ironic is I found very few zappers on the list and I totally knew who/what they were and the are a current 'live with it until things shift' thing. But what I wonder is, I still feel super-zapped but didn't see other zappy things. Could be denial. Could be a non person non thing that is zapping. Ok, that's bringing up scary alien non corporal images.

Here's a before/after of different angles (heh, sorry.. these were the best 2) of the 'bookcase' ordeal. I like the after. My DVD's movies fit 2 shelves *perfectly*. I have more on the way and I actually have room for more! WOOT! Now that is a juicer!

(You can see Danette's rockin artwork in this one)

(Left to Right, Zap to Juice)

And the detail of the films for nosy folk like myself.

It ain't just me. Check out The Next Chapter folks here.

A Week in Pictures

2008-11-11T18:02:00.002-05:00

With all the Soul Coaching posting I almost forgot to post my weekly pics!

From the world of the totally bizarre. It's not a grocery cart, nor a basket but a mixin' of the two. Roll those groceries around, close to the floor at tipping angles. Weird.

Waiting for Quarantine to start.

Read "New Moon" in anticipation of Twilight opening next week. Now I can't wait to get my hands on the third book.

Apparently it wasn't a very interesting day.

More fun day! Hanging out with the Jamie.

The battle of the bookcases.

Putting the finishing touches on my Gryffindor scarf.

What is Project 365? See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Soul Coaching: Day 9. Water Week Day 2

2008-11-10T11:25:00.002-05:00

Focus of the day is examining the meaning you give your life.

Affirmation: "My Life Experiences have positive, powerful meanings"

It's amazing, I got a little miffy reading this one saying "Lookit, tough and hard stuff I've gone through didn't feel positive at all missy!".

Then I re-read the passages. There isn't anything about 'feeling' or 'emotions' in there. I totally made that connection and that isn't what the day or the exercise is about. Now, do I think emotions and meanings are connected? You bet. Can they change? First thought: Of course not you feel what you feel.... oops, going to reign that in.

Of course the connection of event to a reaction can be changed. Skeptical? Here's an example.

Ever see a kid walk into a wall or fall down? Then look around to see peoples reaction? Depending on the reaction of those around them, they may start to cry or just keep walking into the wall. Hey, walking into walls is fun - I do it to this day.

The connection between the event and reaction is learned. So, because we learn to cry cuz someone looks concerned, why can't we learn to react differently if we think of the scenario different?

I haven't done the exercise yet for today, so nothing to share there.

More from Day 8:
I went full out and did the Level III from yesterday and that was totally fascinating. Here are some of the things I noticed (re-reading this I didn't quite to the excerices as it's spelled out, but it was still insightful):
-the majority of the life history/events my experience was reactionary, not proactive
-almost never have I send any kind of end goal, but one did I achieve (yay!)
-the proactive things were very quick decisions, had something I had an intuitive driven to do
-the proactive things ended up in positive experiences, for the most part

It's totally wierd that it was about emotions but I didn't end up focussing on that. Then today we are talking about meaning and I'm fixated on emotions. Weird!

More journeys with The Next Chapter folks here.

Soul Coaching: Week Two, Day 1 or Day 8 overall..hmm

2008-11-09T18:44:00.002-05:00

Ok, I want to say week two day 1 but it's really day 8! Hmm, what to do! And why do I feel so strongly about it?

Funny it's water week day 1 and I'm totally been digging the fluids. In part to a small fever and I'm going with rest & fluids. Plus, I spent 3+hrs enjoying the underwater craziness of Das Boot. I love submarine films, especially when they have to sonar sound. I have no idea why.

So, what do we have for today - affirmation is

"I unconditionally accept my feelings.. and what I feel is not who I am"

Ok, I'm really not connecting to that one. Why bother accepting something that isn't part of who I am. I always feel like the loop-hole-finder with the affirmations. They do make me think though, although my first reaction is a big smart-ass knee jerk kinda thought.

I haven't done the exercise yet, but wanted to post anyway. I have some pics from yesterday. A rocking graffiti that seemed quite timely, as well as moments with the bookcases (1 down, 2 to go).

"Insert screwdriver on an angle to secure screw". Really? Are you kidding me bookcase instructions?

More The Next Chapter folks here.

Soul Coaching: Week One, Day 7

2008-11-08T18:54:00.003-05:00

Quick post as I'm in the middle of something that I know when I'm done I won't be feeling like posting. I know one thing for sure, I am *not* here to put bookcases together!

I have to admit I thought todays affirmation and exercise didn't feel like they matched the same 'stage' of something. The affirmation "I am enough" feels like a completeness. Yes, yes I know it's about acceptance but that wasn't what resonated with me. Also, my first thought was "Enough for what?"

The task is all about why you (well, I really) are here. To me this felt like it was waaaaaaaaaaaaaay outta left field. I mean earlier this week we were decluttering 1 drawer and know we are suppose to define out existence? Seemed like shifting from gear 1 to gear 5 and being launched there out of a cannonball or something. Isnt' there something in between?

I did think about the days task of listening in and it felt ironic that it was a day of chores, and I kept thinking "I don't think I'm here to buy grapes" and such. The day isn't over yet, and neither are the bookcases. No pics on this one, hopefully I'll have some tomorrow.

See the month unfold at The Next Chapter here.

Soul Coaching: Week One, Day 6

2008-11-07T21:30:00.004-05:00

Day 6 - Lightening Up - Letting Go While Doing More Clutter-Clearing

The above is a work in process and hopefully a 'before' of what will later have an awesome 'after' shot. I'm thrilled we are still on decluttering!

Today I did this huge switcharoo deal of 'the bookcases'. Both my sisters (Hi Suzie & Jamie!) know of this. Back at the end of the summer my Mom said she was looking for short depth bookcases to put in her closet. I had some, and for the most part would be happy with taller bookcases in the same place. She suggested buying tall ones, getting them to me and then I could give her my small ones. Sounds simple right? My schedule (and space) have both been jam packed and neither of us has a car. But after some time and help from one of my Mom's friend it actually all happened.

In the process of clearing the bookshelves, I had an opportunity to clear out a bunch of stuff (still a work in process though). I can't tell you how much I was filled with joy as I got rid of a bunch of stuff that I'm moved several times and never really liked in the first place. Actually this was mostly foodstuffs that got green'd and packaging that was recycled. All that and saving the planet too!

But that wasn't actually the task of the day. When I read todays section in the book I looked at the options of Level I, II or III and I actually kinda cheated. The one that popped out the most to me was Level II - make time in your schedule to relax. I didn't pick Level I becuase I didn't really want to do chair & stare strangly. But I didn't actually do Level II either. I did, however, acknowledge something cool. I am a chronic over scheduller. I honestly don't have a free day in November except the day that I wrote in all caps on my daytimer "Do not schedule anything today!" But, earlier this week I hung out with some of my new film buddies, one for coffee and the other for lunch. I was shocked at how the energy of this wasn't a 'another thing to do' kinda thing, but was totally invigorating. I left with new ideas, possibilities, hunches, suggestions and the invitation to do both again - and soon. I actually gained energy spending time in this way. And, I had fun and fabulous company - totally cool!

My cat appears to like decluttering

Affirmation of the Day:

"I am safe and centred no matter where I am"

Initial response: Ok.
YAY! Finally a non grr or huh? reaction to the affirmation!

Every journey is unique. See them all at The Next Chapter here.

Soul Coaching: Week One, Day 5

2008-11-06T22:21:00.003-05:00

With it being air week and all I was mildly looking forward to headed out to my old (suburban - sigh) stomping grounds where the air is always cleaner, clearer and brighter. Low and behold not so much today. First, as I headed out in the morning there was clearly a skunk somewhere in the near vicinity recenty (hey, I noticed - that itself is a good sign, right?). But, the kicker is when I finally got out to this suburban area, it was a complete construction wasteland. It looks like what was once a gas station was being transformed into something. So, not only does it take forever to get there, the one thing I was looking forward to was quashed. Good thing I had a good book with me!

So, the task of the day for use Level I's was to theoritically or literally pick up items and notice if they bring our energy up or down. Of course good intentions and the need to clear more clutter with with me today but here at almost 10:30pm and with other commitments overriding I haven't done this.

To be fair, I've moved many times in the past several years and almost feel like I don't have much more to give up. Sure, there are scattered newspapers and the occasional book or film that I've consumed that I'm ready to pass on. But, overall what I'm left with is a-ok and I rarely buy anything unless I quite like it so it doesn't feel like there is much low energy around. That being said I know tomorrow and the weekend will definitely have some decluttering time.

As for today's affirmation:

"Fresh, invigorating energy files my life"

To which I noted "OK".

YAY! Finally one I don't fuss and mutz about!

How was your Day 5?

A long, dark, concrete tunnel to almost nowhere.

See more travellings through The Next Chapter here.

Soul Coaching: Week One, Day 4

2008-11-05T19:05:00.002-05:00

I gotta say, I'm feeling more than slightly resistant today. I'm miffed I didn't declutter yesterday. Really, I could have found 15 minutes - there isn't really any excuse. Of course I can always declutter later, there will always be more clutter.

Even though I read the Day 4 passage this morning and carted around my affirmation written down in my back pocket ("I love and accept who I am... and who I am is enough"), I really wasn't feeling it today. My normally yakity yak stream of consiousness inner voice was surprizingly quiet today. Even when I consciously said to myself "Ok, what I am I thinking about" I didn't even hear critckets - it's really bizarre.

I could be that we are still in the finding out "who I am" stage. I've never had a problem knowing who I am. I've known since before I could talk, and when I did talk I probably said "I'm Shannon! Who are you?".

I'm gonna keep trucking along. We shall see what unfolds as the days march on.

See more travellings through The Next Chapter here.

My inner voice has nothing to say other than Go Away! :)

Soul Coaching: Week One, Day 3

2008-11-04T20:44:00.003-05:00

I took this on November 1st when I was thinking about air as a concept, and how it could be photographed. I came up with that you needed to show things around it to prove that it was there, or that air wasn't where the things were themselves. All in all it looks like crossed wires, which feels rather fitting.

Woohoo for clearing clutter day. I like a task like this and I do intent to attend to it later today.

Progress on other stuff - I kept with my avoid I committed to yesterday, but I did cave and bought some other crap food. It was one of those days.

Affirmation of the day: "There is clarity within and around me"

Initial thoughts: Even though fog? Is clarity tangible? Does it penetrate through depth perception?

I actually have been thinking about this all day and I do believe it, but it feels like for the wrong reason. I wish I could say I saw happy things and went Yes! Clarity! Me likey! But no, it was the reverse for the most part with things popping up in front of me going "You don't wanna go there girl" or "This isn't a place for you". Are these good things to know? Of course. But, it made for quite the draining day.

Ok - was just about to declutter when realized I had nowhere to put the decluttered stuff, and that there was nothing in that area to recycle/throw out it was all already organized. Then, I thought I would pay my bills cuz that is a similar to decluttering - but nothing was actually due. Harmph. I going to check through and update my to do list to declutter my brain. Then I'm calling it a night for anything that could be considered productive, other than leveling my Bright Wizard or Rune Priest in Warhammer.

See or join us journey through The Next Chapter here.

Soul Coaching - Week One, Day 2

2008-11-03T21:50:00.003-05:00

Ok, I can see this process will be more of a challenge during a daylighting day. My original idea was to wake up early to read the chapter. Haha. That might have worked if I didn't wake up for a few hours in the middle of the night. Also, I'm not a morning person anyway and 'wake up earlier' sounds not like me at all.

So, I read the Week One, Day 2 stuff on the bus. No journalling about it (yet!) and now, 14 hours laters I only really remember the affirmation:

"I honour my commitment to myself and others"

First thoughts - Um, year I do that.
Second thoughts - Well, I do that with others
Third thoughts - not loving the term 'honour', feels too heavy or regulated

I feel more comfortable with "I meet my commitments to others" and I would be lying if I said I do this with myself but today I have so far.

'Air' stuff - not really focused on that, although those hours through the night there was a lot of 'clearing' done so maybe that is the connection there. I'm not one to breathe deeply and such.

I'm going with Level I today and considering its' 10pm and I know what I'm doing for 1 of the 2 hours left in the day any of the time constraint ones is setting me to not-understanding / feeling overwhelmed mode. I'm going to do one of the avoids instead, and I hope I make it through 27 days of not picking up breakfast like noted below. I fell back into this pattern recently and it's really bad! Especially when I actually made something healthy to eat as alternative!

That's the insight for today! How was your day?

Want to know more about Soul Coaching through The Next Chapter? Check out The Next Chapter website here.

Lots of weeks in Pictures - Project 365

2008-11-03T02:33:00.002-05:00

Oh my... a few weeks have gone by so the pics have really added up. Busy busy bee was me!

Clean couch! A cycle is this one clean, messy, clean, cluttered, etc.

Getting all the necessisities for Thanksgiving

Rockin' Hello my Name Is stickers

This elevator was larger than many Toronto bachelor apartments!

Hanging out with Jamie!

Picking up Suzie from the airport!

Hanging out with both of my sisters!

A successful Thanksgiving: Every plate was completely polished off!

Off to vote. Not enough Canadians did (only 55-59% voted)

Finally redeemed my Pizza Nova 'free' voucher from the TIFF swag bag. Value? $2. Not even enough for a slice!

The ladies in the family blog together!

Toronto After Dark begins!

Haning out at the Bizarre Bizzaar with Suzie!

Always need to include a cute cat picture

The ladies hit up Mamma Mia at the Carlton

I'm in there somewhere.

More time with Suzie!

Stopped at Chippy's before seeing Tokyo Gore Police - they had *bottles* (glass) of pop! Talk about oldschool.

Headed out to the last day of the Toronto After Dark Film Festival.

The auction where I won my Lion!

This was odd. Seeing a guy outside and apartment building plugging in a TV to see if it worked. I think he left it there.

Back to daylighting.

Jinx being cute (isn't she always?).

Taking Suzie to the airport. It was such a great visit!

Caged nature.

Halloween at Jamie's!

I love this chair.

Working through Soul Coaching for November.

There is still time... To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Soul Coaching - Week One, Day One

2008-11-02T11:23:00.003-05:00

So, I made a cuppa tea all ready to dive into Soul Coaching for Day One of the process. Oh course, I hadn't journaled yet about the prep so I went back and did that and picked out the daily type tasks and such because I actually had some time today and felt like I really wanted to land on the right foot here.

It was all going so great until I got to the daily affirmation:

"My evaluation of myself is not who I am"

Um. I'm confused. Who am I if not that? Someone else's evaluation (no thanks!)? Does this mean evaluating yourself is a waste of time because it doesn't mean anything? I really don't get it. The only thing I can think of is that it's a 'let go' mechanism if you self critisize too much? Perhaps, I'm in denial? Who knows! Maybe it will makes sense later today. Did I mention I'm not a fan of affirmations? Ah well, I said I would do this and I will! Marching on!

Ok, so now I've done the excercise for the day. In general, I'm going to the Level I but as I had a little more time today I did a combo of Level I and II by looking at the Level I Catagories (Health, Finances, Career, Relationships, Creativity, Spiritual) and writing about the current, my intention of the next 28 days, the goal and described the gap between current & goal (then becuase I'm crazy listmaker I re-wrote all the intentions over next 28 days as a 'to do' list). This process was very interesting! Here are some of the insights I had:

-I've met 2 of my goals! Why? Because I have no creativity or spirtuality goals (currently)
-Some of the catagories had tons of doable actions in them (health, relationships)
-Some catagories I knew the goal but had no idea how to get there (career) *this is one my big goals for the journey.
-I have bucket loads of stuff that isn't under these headers! This is because I went with Level I - and I'm ok with that. If I'm feeling ambitious I can add headers that would be meaningful (home, personal, fun).

That's Day 2 folks! I can wait to read other peoples posts! Thanks so much to all the comments so far - I really appreciate it!

My Altar:
Lion for Fire
Fish for Water
Spiral metal thing for Air
Monster hat for Earth (if I can't laugh and have fun, I know I'm not grounded)

Want to know more about Soul Coaching through The Next Chapter? Check out The Next Chapter website here.

Soul Coaching - prep day!

2008-11-01T17:16:00.002-04:00

I've decided to embark on the journey of going through the 28 day process of Soul Coaching by Denise Linn with fellow bloggers at The Next Chapter (for the 30 days of November), headed by my sister Jamie.

It took me a while to decide whether I would jump in on this as phrase that I've constantly been saying over the past several months have been:
"I don't feel like I have enough time"
"I'm so tired"
"I have so much to do!"
"My to do list is outta control!"

When I was at the bookstore browsing through the book I found a few things quickly and easily such as:

"Who Can I Fit the Program into My Busy Life?" - Level 1 is 15-30 minutes a day p.8
As well as that the first week is about getting organized, on top of things and responding to overdue items.

That hooked me. What a rockin' way to start and to match up overwhelmedness to a new project. With that, I tucked the book under my arm and on the way to the cash register spotted beautiful and reasonably priced journals on the way there. I've read the "What is Soul Coaching" chapter and have decided on my intention which is:

My intention is to seek clarity of vision

I've still got my sacred contract to make and altar to create, to be done today or tomorrow.

Who is Shannon?
A little about me for those whom don't know me or haven't seen me for a while. I started Planet Shannon back in January 2006, with no particular intention however most of the first year was dedicated to my 101 things in 1001 days (which is up in 1 month!). Most of my online time is spent at my film blog Movie Moxie, which means I haven't been posting here much which is something that feels like it about to change. I hope you enjoy the worlds in which I live - feel free to visit!

Only a few weeks ago my place was so clean, neat and tidy (which is unusual but not unwelcome!) It's definitely time to get organized and free of clutter! Bring on week one.

2 Weeks in Pictures

2008-10-05T14:13:00.002-04:00

Wow, I'm finding it a challenge to get these in weekly! Craziness. Whelp, here is 2 weeks for you to enjoy!

This was hilarious, I had a recipe to make 'Chicken Satay' and instead of following it I make Chicken Teriyaki from memory.

After the original release date I finally get around to buying, installing and playing Warhammer - it's quite a fun game. I actually missed the Mythic style of mmo's. Bonus: You can RvR right away!

You won't believe where this is, hehe.

Participating in a fire alarm led to free ice cream. People were there in droves. It was sad how many people left early to take the elevator instead of the stairs. Yep, taking the elevator really is great prep for an actual fire.

Hanging out with Jamie watching High School Musical. Fun times!

Oh the nerve! Neighbourhood cat *lounged* outside where my cat was all 'meh'ing and scratching at the door. Unbelieveable!

Homemade soup is a good thing!

This is the only picture I took that day. I did it to look up the book, which I haven't actually done yet.

Resume and interview workshop on a work day. Kinda odd but good that I get to do that for work?

Saw Hamlet 2, unfortunately it wasn't brillant.

Lunch with Mom!

My cool new hat that I knitted! It's funny I'm all excited that it's colder out because I can knit stuff, lol.

More neighbourhood cats. This one is a little reserved, but was friendly threw the fence.

Ah, Sundays. Leisurely mornings, knitting, drinking tea while someone takes a nap (after running around all night - and nope, I'm not talking about me!)

There is still time... To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

3 Weeks in Pictures!

2008-09-21T11:48:00.003-04:00

Wow, it's been ages since I've posted my pictures. I have been very busy over at Movie Moxie with covering the Toronto Film Festival which was a great 10 days of film goodness. Life is starting to feel a little more 'normal' but no where near as fun. Good thing we have Toronto After Dark to look forward to in October!

pic of the cutie pie!

Is it wrong to say this was me getting organized? I think I've accumulated even more paper since then.

Comfy shoes are a must for festival going, so I invested in a new pair.

Tried Lobster Bisque for the first time... this felt like a pretty 'lite' version as it wasn't very thick, but it was very tasty.

The festival begins!

Seeing a film at the Wintergarden with Jamie.

The AMC has quite the system for line ups.

That's one heck of a crowd for Sunday morning!

Met up with fellow film fans, enthusiasts and bloggers.

Heading to the AMC.

Taking a break between films to connect with family.

Another early morning.

Scotiabank/Paramount where I usually started my day.

I had one lone film over at the Cumberland this year.

Recovering from very little sleep.

Prepping for getting through backlog of coverage.

Checking out the Fall TV line up amongst many papers.

I didn't have any tea at work! But I found this yummy substitute.

Chilling at Aroma, and writing the newsletter as I waited to see [REC].

Got loads of new fun clothes from Value Village - which was lovely as my last shop I felt like I left with so few things that worked.

Sleepy Saturdays.

Getting ready to post this - literally!

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

2 Weeks in Pictures

2008-09-01T16:55:00.002-04:00

Wow, it's been a while since I posted! I predict another 2 week lapse as starting Thursday I will be covering the Toronto International Film Festival over at Movie Moxie - and believe me there will be lots of pictures, reviews, polls, stories and even vlogs (video-blogs).

But, let us see what the last two weeks have been like.

Got together for dindin with Jamie and Gala. News update for Gala - she and Shaun are now engaged! Congratulations!!!

After and extremely difficult day (but not that bad because I don't even remember what was stressing me), where the smoothly part of the day was doing a return at BestBuy. The wait was short, process hassle-free and the staff was lovely.

3-way video chatting with Jamie and Suzie on Oovoo. It wasn't technically seamless, but it was fun!

Another rough day. Co-worker thankfully distracted me with lollies.

Isn't this the cutest?

Me & Jamie at the CNE!

A whole wall of preserves. I know where I'm going if there is a blackout or something. Actually, no I don't - I can't remember what this place was called! 4 something.

More cuteness

TIFF Advance Pass Purchase pick up day. See and hear more about it.

Off the The Clone Wars with Jamie and her honey for his Bday!

Recently I've been totally addicted to this Clam Chowder.

With Jamie after Mamma Mia - omg Jamie you are in so many of the picks! We've been hanging out a lot recently.

Feed me Seymour! And yes that is a lobster you see. The have 'em on sale for $5 for 'canner' lobsters. I'm taking that as small ones. If it means something else I don't really want to know.

Doing test shots for Vlogging.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

2 Weeks in Pictures

2008-08-17T23:25:00.002-04:00

Two weeks of fun in pictures!

I ran across this in a journal I had. Hilarious how some things never change.

Mail! I love getting things in the mail, and this was a rockin' package to receive. Kung Fu movie and X-Files. Lots of fun things to watch!

Last performance show of SYTYCD :( So sad it's over.

This cracked me up. Here is the price,now let us make sure you know that there is no savings! Interesting selling point.

Friday night fun with Jamie!

Cozy kitty.

Killing time between films at the AMC theatre.

One of the many waits for the subway in my life.

Whoa. Greenspace. A visit to the 'burbs. *shiver*

More waiting for transit! This time it was after meeting friends, which makes it much more fun.

Lunch with Jamie! What a great mid week occasion!

Movie time!

New shades. I swear I do not want to post another pic of me wearing the same freaking sunglasses I've had since I started this blog in January 2006!

I love the mix of green, urban and road in this pic.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

A week in pictures

2008-08-03T17:49:00.002-04:00

A rather uneventful week considering I spend the majority of it sick. I'm feeling like I'll be feeling ok soon.

Tried a new recipe out of the Jamie Oliver cookbook I got for Christmas. It was for the beans - cooked with leeks to creamy goodnes. The steak is just cooked how I always cooks steak.

Listened to the /filmcast

The sign up high said something I found funny. This was the only pic I took that day so sometimes you get what you get!

Home sick - fun.

Sick still.. but apparently was nothing specific. But I checked to be sure!

Loaded up some entertainment.

Multitasking! Watching, surfing and cat cuddles.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Two weeks in pictures

2008-07-27T22:35:00.004-04:00

I missed posting last week, oopsies! Lets take a trip back through the past 2 weeks

Herbs are doing well!

Goofy pic of me

Lunch with Mom!

Saw The Dark Knight, and there were decorations!

Fantastic screening of Heroes of the East. Read all about the film and the screening including a vid with Gordon Liu who was in attendance.

This plant / tree/ something has been growing exponentially outside my window, it's quite amazing to see it grow every day.

Spend a lot of time in lines this week, this was the quick one if you can believe it.

Lovely pressies from Danette - thanks Danette!!

Birthday Treats! Thank you Jamie & Justin, Suzie & R, Mom and my coworkers.

Ok... what is with all the plant pics? Here is another...

Hanging out with Jamie!

lol, this was most interesting of the three pics I took this day. Food = good!

The utterly divine Twilight by Stephenie Meyer. Thank you Suzie! What a great book.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

A Week In Pictures

2008-07-13T22:42:00.003-04:00

Yummy R23.

Had a few storms this week, this was the beginning of one of them.

Random picture.

Pretending to be random picture.

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibit with Jamie.

Herb garden is growing!

Play time.

To join in on the 365 Project, see Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

A Week in Pictures

2008-07-06T21:44:00.003-04:00

Was a bit of an odd and truncated week with the Tuesday off but I didn't mind at all!

Out at Vern's reading, it went really well this year! Gratz to all the authors, poets and performers.

Sneaking a peek at the fireworks that were so loud but a little far away.

Although I never adhere to the advice in this sign, this one corner gets me mad every time I cross as it doesn't give you enough time to get through in one go.

Jamie & I got to check out a great dance performance!

I didn't see anything like the description here.

Shadows.

Hilarious WoW quest... you have to get power convertors for a npc in Toshley's Station. Seriously!

To join in on the 365 Project, see Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

2 weeks in pictures

2008-06-29T23:58:00.002-04:00

I missed a week - oops! That means twice the picture fun today!

This pizza was crazy. The crust was one of those 'rising crusts' and it was like 8 times the dough I'm used to. A bagillion calories I'm sure.

Started (and already finished!) a new scarf, I love the pattern it looks really cool and the best thing is it's just knit & purl but looks much more fancy!

This persistent lil snail managed to move about 6 paces in a few days! I saw it right after a big rainfall on my stairs and tried to help it get off the stairs but it did not seem to want to move so I just made sure I stepped out it.

Pretty!

Library finds.

Reconstruction of something, maybe a sidewalk.

My Movie Moxie moocards arrived!

Having lunch with my Mom.

At the movies. Interesting how they truncated that name eh?

Dentist day ... eep!

New menu at on of the place me and Jamie go. So colourful!

This week's library finds.

Furry little cutie pie.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Photo Meme Fun

2008-06-20T20:51:00.004-04:00

1. On the River Shannon, 2. bright lights big city, 3. Stanford, 4. The neon lights, 5. vin_diesel, 6. IMG_9711, 7. Metro Station, 8. Winter had a bad hair day., 9. duck to duck to duck..., 10. Cried Enough, 11. I'm singing in the rain...Just singing in the rain...What a glorious feeling!!!I`m happy again!, 12. Alien Exploration Scene 2

Thank you Jamie for sharing this fun meme idea! You can do it too! Here are the instructions:

Use Flickr search for the answers of each of the questions below, using only the first page, choose an image, copy and paste each of the URL’s into the mosaic maker.

The questions:

What is your first name?
What is your favorite food?
What high school did you attend?
What is your favorite color?
Who is your celebrity crush?
Favorite drink?
Dream vacation?
Favorite dessert?
What do you want to be when you grow up?
What do you love most in life?
One word to describe you.
Your Flickr name.

Week in Pictures

2008-06-16T20:42:00.000-04:00

While I've written about most of my week over at Movie Moxie about the adventures at the Worldwide Short Film Festival, here is the behind the scenes look on Planet Shannon.

A stroke of luck at Biz Depot that they sell fans. I needed a second one it this crazy Toronto weather. Mostly put together sans instructions - go me!

This kinda feels like a Whatzit? eh?

Taking a break between screenings to catch some air.

No clue on this, your guess is as good as mine.

Getting some writing done at the Daily Express.

Star Trek Bus! Well, not really... but kinda!

Just cuz it's pretty.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

365 week in pictures

2008-06-08T15:17:00.003-04:00

Headed out to meet a friend at a local spot.

Started, and quickly finished The Diving Bell and the Butterfly by Jean-Dominque Bauby. I enjoyed the film more, but I did see it first.

Skype chatting with Suzie! FUN!!!!

Waiting for the power to return on the TTC with an early am power out. Lots of transit delays with week for some reason.

Hanging out with Jamie! We saw The Forbidden Kingdom at the Bloor, fun movie but you have to look at it as a kids film. (Sorry it's so dark! the one with the flash turned out .. weird..)

I loved how the letters matched up between the wires here. City scapes ftw.

All the pieces for the bag I'm knitting. It will be the first time for me to join a bunch of pieces together. Wish me luck!

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

A Week in Pictures

2008-06-01T11:50:00.002-04:00

Looks like this only expires ... in the US?

Ah, nothing like a Uwe Boll film to cheer ya up!

That is one long reaching something or other...

Chillin' with the Jinxaroo

Some days are fuzzy.

And a new month begins. Time really does fly.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

How I got from Red to Black

2008-05-27T18:12:00.004-04:00

(mailing a cheque to OSAP circa Feb 08)

#20 on my 101 in 1001 is, or was: Pay off my debt RBCV, VMC, MC2, TDLoC, OSAP-Can/Ont, OSAP-Cdn -DONE

This took 2 years and 2 months, and I went from roughly $12,000.00 in debt to $0.00.

This is a huge accomplishment for me. Not only to be done with the debt, but because of what the debt represented to me. A lot of the debt was tied to wedding expenses (I'm since divorced), student loans for which I ended up dropping out of school due to not being able to handle going, and a line of credit I borrowed against when I was underemployed or unemployed. All of those were my choices. Many of them I could have fought to get someone else to pay it or have some kind of relief on it but I didn't. My choices, good or bad, are mine to live with.

So, the big question is - how did I do it? I'll tell you!

After making many budgets, pouring over bills & bank statements, reading many books and even a tv show, (see list below) there really are only two things to consider when you are working with your money.

1) How much do you make
2) How much do you spend

The magic formula is to make more than you spend. If you aren't doing this already, there are two ways to change that:

1) Earn more money
2) Reduce your spending

THAT'S IT FOLKS.

It's so simple it's scary. It's so simple that you really do have the power to make it happen. The trick is, just because it's simple doesn't mean it's easy. For me, it took time and energy reading and learning on the subject of money, thinking about what money meant to me and overall what was important to me.

Things that helped me along the way:

I got a job that paid really well.
This kinda came outta nowhere, and boy do I thank my lucky stars. I got a temp gig where they ended up needed someone on a more permanent basis. There were just months between being in overdraft to my last five bucks, not being able to afford an apartment and getting calls from creditors to earning the most I had made in my life.

I moved somewhere less expensive.
Yes, moving costs money but over time this really paid off, and I like my new place a lot!

I made an active effort to pay off my debt.
Sounds like another no brainer eh? Well sometimes it was and sometimes it wasn't. Sometimes it felt yucky to say no to invitations to do fun things and go home and give that money to a credit card company.

I tracked my spending habits.
Sometimes we over estimate and sometimes we underestimate. It's worth it to check in and see is the phone bill always that much? Or do I use long distance more than I think? Do I never order a film on PPV? Do I really stick to my weekly food and spending budget? No? If not, why not? Am I allocating too little to these items, or did something special come up?

I faced the music.
I have some expenses that are pretty high and non negotiable. I don't like them but I have them. Better to just be real and budget for them than pretend otherwise.

I saved money as well.
I don't why this helped but it did. It seems illogical when being charged interest every month to save, but I am happy I did. It made it much more enjoyable to get through the holidays, helped me achieve many important goals over the past few years (like going to TIFF) and I couldn't have done that without saving.

I did spend money on things important to me.
If you are in this for the long haul, you can't scrimp all the time. I decided what would make the difference in my day to day life and added that to the mix. For me it was going out with my sister, going to the movies, and then some extra each week. I had to schedule things carefully and made sure I didn't have too much going on in one week so that I could stick to my budget. I actually still keep getting miffed a little about my new hobby of knitting because it's not in my budget to buy yarn! But I still find to get it here and there.

I added a 'Miscellaneous' amount to my monthly budget.
Sometimes unexpected (or expected) things come up. I added this so that I would have money for things like gifts and events, as well as the occasional tech-toy. If I didn't have anything to allocate it to in any given month, I added it to my savings.

I revised my budget and priorities.
Things change over time, so it's worth it to revisit the budget as a whole every once and a while.

Once you pay off one thing, add that monthly payment to the next debt.
Don't go thinking "woohoo, and extra $50 a month!". Nope... just roll it into the next thing.

Support from those around me.
I suck at taking help. But I did, so I want to acknowledge it because they deserve it! To both my sisters: Jamie & Suzie, my Mom and Jamie's husband Justin who have all been really supporting along the way from chatting to commenting to Jamie and her honey actually taking me in to their home, twice when I needed it. Thank you!

Info that rocks:
Suze Orman: The 9 Steps to Financial Freedom, The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous and Broke
The Wealthy Barber by David Chilton
Gail Vaz-Oxlade: Til Debt Do s Part

Books that didn't work for me, but made me think nonetheless:
The Money Book
The Four Hour Work Week

A Week in Pictures

2008-05-25T20:08:00.003-04:00

Gaming fun

Pretty trees outside the ROM

Outside the Bader for Inside Out

Pretty lights!

Bad new habit, getting BLT bagels for breakkie but they are so yummy and the staff are so nice it's hard not to keep going back!

Hanging out with Jamie!

Library finds of the week.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

A week in pictures

2008-05-18T02:08:00.002-04:00

Been a really full week even thought this pics aren't all that interesting. Lots of running around and lots of movie going.

Mother's Day!

One of my oft-time theatre haunts, the Scotiabank theatre at Queen & John.

Random stuff in my bag. And that wasn't a veggie patty but a Double, and boy was it yummy.

My transportation du jour. Du every jour.

That'd be me.

Yummy dinner on a Friday night out with Jamie.

There I am again. It's true that saying... wherever you go there you are...

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

A week or so in pictures

2008-05-11T19:31:00.002-04:00

A week or so in pictures. A window into my world.

Nap time for kitty cat (isn't it always?)

Creative graffiti .. on the ceiling of the bus shelter.

Movie time!

Home sick :(

Updating my film database of films seen

Cutie pie!

A rainy Saturday.

It exists! My own street!

More movie time!

Waiting for the streetcar.

Um, time to tidy up methinks.

Research materials!

Greenery! And... they are my plants!

Groceries.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Where the money goes

2008-04-30T21:25:00.000-04:00

$0.07 1 head of garlic
$0.24 tax
$0.38 tax
$0.47 random item - likely produce
$0.48 3 oranges
$0.49 green onions
$0.80 2 tomatoes
$0.87 romaine lettuce *
$0.97 chocolate bar (hides)
$1.05 tax
$1.27 basil
$1.47 sunflower seeds
$1.47 black olives
$1.47 1lb strawberries *
$1.47 mushrooms
$1.47 1lb strawberries *
$1.80 3 yellow peppers *
$2.08 3 red peppers *
$2.09 Diet Coke
$2.27 toothpaste
$2.37 1L Skim Milk
$3.49 Almonds
$3.67 Feta cheese
$4.44 Cheese *
$4.99 Frozen Fruit
$5.99 Quinoz's
$6.99 Potato & Leek soup
$54.62 Total

I caved and bought some bad stuff like chocolate - oopsies!

On the menu this week: Beef Strogenoff, Dijon Pork, Summery salads and soup. This list doesn't seem to reflect that due to the stuff I already had in the freezer and pantry.

* indicates item was on sale

A week in pictures

2008-04-27T11:29:00.002-04:00

It's been another week of festivalling. After today I have a bit of time before the next one begins.

Hot Doc'ing with Jamie & her honey.

Busy times = hair in French Braids!

The secret underground route from the Bader -> the Rom (Museum subway station)

A healthy crowd at the Bloor for Eleven Minutes.

A lovely Friday night with Jamie at the Pub.

A lone streetcar stop, during the TTC Strike.

Time to do taxes & budgetting goodness.

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Where the Money Goes

2008-04-23T08:19:00.000-04:00

0.66 carrots *
0.77 cucumber *
0.87 3 apples *
0.99 Ravioli - chef boyardi
1.86 5 oranges *
1.99 lunchmeat - kielbasa *
2.47 becel *
2.69 stone ground whole wheat bread
3.17 yogurt
3.25 chocolate cake (bad bad!! I only ate 1/ 2though…)
3.27 bran bars
3.28 salad bar
3.49 pistachios
6.99 homemade soup (3 servings)
35.75 Total

* indicates on sale

Not much on the menu this week. Soup/salad/sandwich combos for lunches & mini dinners, plus stuff in the freezer for dinner. Not very exciting but keeping it simple as I'm busy and put the money saved to new shoes. Or, really bought new shoes therefore kept it simple :)

A week in pictures

2008-04-20T13:30:00.002-04:00

I realize I haven't been writing much over here, and posting through pictures. I decided this week to add a little dialogue to make sense or compliment the pics.

On Monday I headed out to the Hot Docs box office to pick up tickets for the shows Jamie & her boy are coming to see with me.

Tuesday was (thankfully) rather uneventful but that means there was some extra time to cuddle with the kitten. Ok, I know he's not kitten anymore but I don't think I'll ever see him otherwise.

My longest living plant, "the ugly plant" gets repotted by a green thumbed co-worker much to my delight. I was too scared to do anything different with it as it's survived many a move. On

Thursday I got to have lunch with my Mom, as she really wanted to try out the new portabello mushroom subs at Quinzo's. I got the chicken and she got the steak, they were both really good.

Friday I got to hang out with Jamie as we went to Hot Docs Day 2 to see Anvil! The Story of Anvil and hit the pub.

Saturday was more Hot Docs fun, but in between films I decided to pick up some new comfy running shoes in case of TTC Strike I really hope they don't strike but if they do now I'm ready for some long walks.

Not much up today yet, but I did pop out to get groceries (and test out my shoes - which rock, yay!).

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Two weeks in pictures

2008-04-14T19:39:00.000-04:00

I'm surprized I didn't pick any festival pics for the past two weeks considering that is what I've done almost every day. I guess they are all over at Movie Moxie!

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Where the Money Goes

2008-04-13T16:31:00.004-04:00

$0.10 1 jalepeno pepper
$0.10 2 bags
$0.47 2 bananas
$0.79 mini apple pie
$0.87 can of black beans
$0.89 2 rolls paper towels
$0.93 gum
$0.99 bag of mini carrots
$0.99 cabbage
$0.99 lettuce
$1.15 celery
$1.19 3 red peppers *
$1.29 5 oranges
$1.34 2 cucumbers *
$1.47 chef boyardee
$1.67 Soup *
$1.67 Soup *
$1.67 Soup *
$1.67 Soup *
$1.81 green grapes *
$1.87 Chicken sausage
$1.87 FF Sour Cream
$1.90 5 oranges
$1.93 5 gala apples
$1.97 1 lb mushrooms *
$1.99 Beef pies *
$1.99 Beef pies *
$1.99 Chicken pies *
$1.99 potato chips
$2.37 1L skim milk
$2.37 Oats
$2.59 12 lg eggs
$2.79 Ham - lunchmeat
$2.97 8 rolls tp
$2.97 salsa
$3.27 Bran Bars
$3.47 OJ
$3.49 72 bags of tea
$3.49 almonds
$3.57 Fantastic
$3.88 tax
$3.97 Frozen fruit *
$3.97 Frozen fruit *
$4.39 Shepard's Pie (ready made)
$4.99 Spenda (ouch on how much this was)
$5.76 crab salad (ready made)
$8.99 Cat Food
$108.85 Total

This was for 2 weeks and I am surprized I was under budget by $10+. I picked up a lot of convenience stuff as it was quite the busy time. OH! I saved that $10 to pick up home-made style soup from the grocery store by work so I can have that during the week along with salad. I caved a bunch with week and bought some non healthy stuff, which tends to go hand in hand with the busy thing.

On the menu this week: Mushroom/peameal bacon pasta (see pic below), black bean tortillas, sausage/cabbage/barley something - new recipe! I hope it's a good one.

* indicates item was on sale

Where the money goes...

2008-03-31T18:35:00.006-04:00

$0.10 2 bags
$0.33 1 lime
$0.47 tomato paste
$0.63 1 green pepper
$0.87 Crispy Crunch
$0.87 romaine lettuce *
$0.89 Kinder Egg
$0.89 lil white beans
$0.89 red kidney beans
$0.97 kippers
$1.18 2 lemons
$1.19 water
$1.23 Tax
$1.47 mushrooms
$1.47 sunflower seeds
$1.65 1 sausage
$1.77 tuna
$1.79 5 oranges - some kinda mix of tangerines and something else
$2.29 6x applesauce
$2.30 3 red peppers *
$2.37 1L skim milk
$2.47 crispbread
$2.69 stone ground whole wheat bread
$2.77 lg can of peaches
$2.79 6 peppercorn turkey slices
$2.97 almosds
$2.98 green grapes
$2.99 hummus
$3.17 fat free sugar free aspertane free Yogurt
$3.21 2 chicken fingers
$3.47 4x small containers cottage cheese
$3.99 peameal bacon
$59.12 Total

Wow, I thought I did good this week then I found all the little receipts from daily pick ups here and there. I'm still on budget (just under actually) so that is the important part!

Breakfasts are oranges, almonds and bran flakes. Not together of course! And on the weekend I'm gonna try the peameal bacon with eggs whites & toast.

Lunches are turkey/cheese sandwiches and tuna salads

Snacks are veggies, fruit, crispbread and hummus

Dinner menu items include: mushroom/turkey pasta, chicken & bean soup (I had the chicken), baked beans

* indicates item was on sale

Project 365, a week in pictures

2008-03-30T17:28:00.002-04:00

Here is my week in pictures. Thanks to everyone who clapped in glee over my paying off my student loan, it was lovely to get the letter. It was, sadly, one of two student loans but I should get another letter like that in just a few short months.

The last pic here is of Earth Hour. I was on the streetcar at the time and was impressed by how many places (business and residence) partook. I was really surprized that places that were closed had the lights one. Silly people.

Like 365 Project? See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.

Where the money goes...

2008-03-23T15:37:00.001-04:00

$0.05 bag
$0.43 1 serving green beans
$0.77 celery *
$0.77 cucumber *
$0.78 2 green peppers
$1.03 tax
$1.04 1 red pepper
$1.33 5 bananas
$1.35 1/2 L Milk
$1.49 3lb carrots
$1.67 cream cheese *
$1.69 1/2 L Milk for tea at work
$1.79 6 whole wheat pitas
$1.89 frozen peas
$1.92 5 apples
$1.97 5 granola bars *
$2.37 12 taco shells
$2.49 Mocha cake (1 piece)
$2.79 6 slices turkey
$2.97 Nacho chips
$2.97 8 rolls tp
$2.97 bacon
$2.99 hummus
$3.17 ground turkey
$3.49 pistachios
$3.69 72 teabags
$4.44 smoked salmon
$4.47 1lb butter
$5.97 Lg brick of cheese *
$6.97 23ish chicken strips *

$71.72 Total

Expensive week! I went over budget - whoops! I totally forgot that I picked up stuff during the week, and then I spend just under budget there but I already spend $15 or so. I'm also coming clean because there is a bunch of yummy stuff that I soooo didn't need (cake, chips, pistachios...) but oh well. Some weeks are like that.

How was your week?

* = item was on sale.

Project 365, a week in pictures

2008-03-22T15:05:00.002-04:00

To join in on the 365 Project, See Jamie's post on Project 365 for all the details.