Rob's wandering mind...

4th year

2007-12-11T03:59:00.000-05:00

I'll admit it. This blog has been forgotten about for quite sometime (but after a summer of 70 hour weeks, and a jump right into the school year I really had no choice but to opt out of posting).

But you found me. I'm back. and of course, I've got stuff to talk about.

I finally took the time this year to sit down and watch some of my favorite musicals (or new favorites) as I have only ever heard about their greatness...My only recommendation is FUNNY GIRL. This musical changed my life, and my impression of Babs herself.

After watching some original movies on Jane Fonda, I noticed that celebs might have been more interesting in "their day" (long before they are offered roles in the most recent J-Lo flick). This led me to hunt down a copy of funny girl and take the time out of my life to enjoy an older musical.

and enjoy I did.

get it. watch it. love it.

for you non musical people, I'm sorry...you are missin' out

ridiculous? just a little bit.

2007-04-18T17:34:00.000-04:00

I will start by admitting bias before continuing on my rant about Rosie O'donnell. I am a Rosie fan. I have been since I first saw her show back in public school, and remember dreaming of the day when I would get the opportunity to go sit in the audience and dodge shooting koosh balls.

Yes, the show has been cancelled, but I knew she would make it back into the television realm...and she has. Her being on the View is old news, however my recent discoveries online are what lead me to write a post addressing my thoughts on such a Liberal viewpoint on that show.

To reiterate briefly, I am biased... She supports gay rights, is against the Bush administration, and is very critical on government and media actions (and the messages being carried out into the public sphere). All of these things incorporate her views into my studies, as well as my personal view points. Regardless, I find it funny that so many people are quick to criticize her (even Canadians sharing similar viewpoints) when they should make sense of her arguments, before joining the 'Rosie's a loudmouth' bandwagon.

For starters, I encourage someone to read her blog posts. Although at times abstract, and written in a non-academic format, the opinions expressed are always filled with examples and relevant to current events. I also love it when people are openly critical with no fears of the negative impacts of their opinion (MIT 4 life), but this is why I support her being on the View (and that she challenges little Elizabeth's conservative, pro-Bush mentality).

I do encourage all to stop by her website just to view her REAL opinion... and shortly after, you must stop by this website and see the great thought process behind American critical opinion. Is this actually a website that has a petition where they 'believe she is a danger to the morale of this country and emboldens those who seek to destroy us'?...and am I the only person who finds the joke in a site opposing a more extreme viewpoint, on the VIEW!!

My anger towards such a website, as well as criticism of someones viewpoint, I find ridiculous. and that is what drove me to write about it today.

I attempted to sign the petition under an insulting alias, but after being removed I felt a blog post would have to suffice.

blink, and you miss it.

2007-04-16T13:38:00.000-04:00

and that's how I choose to conclude a year that has been one of both epic and odd proportions.

Yes, kicking off the year with a flight to Africa was something a little different. Actually, it was the best idea I think I have ever taken advantage of. Luckily for me, I came back to the most theory, work driven semester of my life.

For most students that would cause you to buckle down and settle into school like you were planning on doing September first of last year, but for yours truly, the option of "living life to its fullest" was just too tempting.

Luckily, with some small portion of good luck, I was able to pull myself together in time for final exams. Finally bringing myself back to the student I once was. It's amazing how after three years of university, you come to the realization that while you are paying for this, you might as well enjoy it.

and that is what I intend to do.

So, with the help of others, I made a list of things I want to do before I graduate (in this list, I included courses I wanted to take) and I am posting them on here to hold myself to them. I am going to refrain from my classic 'no more procrastination' promises, and actually break down how my next year will go. I have until August 1st (a one month ahead of the game start time) to finish/touch up this list of promises in hopes of making them all happen.

For my fourth year as an undergraduate student, I would like to:
1) Go away for spring break. London, I love you, but god help me if I am going to suffer through another seven days here knowing how many students are away in some sort of drunken fabulousness.
2) Get involved in two of three of the following organizations:
a) a band of some sort (the tenor sax in my closet is not gaining value there)
b) help out with a charitable group on campus (and/or help out with an event that aids it (charity ball aside...)
c) actually take charge in stepping up to the media plate (get involved in alternative media, magazines, etc. the information that I have fallen in love with but have been to afraid to write/work with)
3) see at least four plays, and audition for 2 (this ex-community theatre guru needs to get back on the theatre bandwagon)
4) 4 concerts, two of which cannot be bands that I know of (or paid more than $25/ticket)
5) Not max out any form of student debt offered to myself in my last year (although tempting, I think I should just rack up the hours at the old part time job)
6) Take Killer Culture
7) Take Genocide
8) Pay off credit card (not overwhelmingly large, but definately something on the 'to do' list)
9) Buy a suit (this one is a long time coming, but necessary)
10) Five weekends of the year are to be (mandatorily) spent in Toronto
11) (overly ambitious) New Years with the roomate at her house in Dublin

That is my list, and yes, subject to change or add (likewise to add criticism from those who suggest other courses, or the 'must have' profs before graduating). The new leaf has been turned, now I am just working on keeping it turned over.

and with a new season, comes new ideas

2007-04-09T14:01:00.000-04:00

I might be a little late on the 'spring has sprung' bandwagon, but I do need to write about how I cannot believe another year has almost passed. Every year the 'March Blues' hit you, and for a split second you forget that around the corner is a month with three large tests, three essays, one project,and only 9 full days of class (not to mention a visit from a large rabbit, and a day devoted to mary jane mid-month)...

I have been keeping on top of my readings and school work, yet found myself content analyzing in a lab until 4 am last night. perhaps my 'not procrastinating' scale needs to be revisited, but that is a point on its own, and a subject discussed in many posts before...

At the end of the month I will be taking up new surroundings closer to the downtown core, as well as switching up my summer job, and possibly taking a summer course (I know, who is this man writing here). But this year has been full of drastic changes, I mean...four months in Africa is something that ought to change a person....no, I haven't been watching video's of a certain secret, thank you alex, but all in all spring brings about an end to the dull,wet, grayness that is winter... and I have never been happier to see the sun.

And think, in just three weeks I will be priveledged to stand back on Barney's patio (London local, yes)... and now I can enjoy all the new facebook groups that involve 'London Summer Crew', isn't that what life is all about?

But, until the end, I shall continue to youtube my life away, and even do my occasional 'makemyplaylist' just to make sure not all 100% of my time is school geared.

a fresh new look

2007-03-05T22:49:00.000-05:00

In an attempt to not procrastinate today, I decided to totally update. Hopefully this will draw me to writing, posting, and describing all of my adventures to the general public.

I have to post some YouTube clips that cannot be missed (I apologize in advance for the randomness of these videos, all tagged as my favorites!).

1) RV Salesman - took me by surprise, but I love it
2) Hairspray - one of my favorites
3) Listen - that's right...it's Beyonce
4) Will and Grace - got to love the blooper real

Sadly, Youtube was my life over reading week...

reel of pics one

2007-03-05T13:15:00.000-05:00

Boats in Zanzibar...a view from the Freddy Mercury Restaurant.

The scariest boat ride ever to the wildlife reserve.

I had a tour of the hospital and this is where they hang dry their laundry. (the hospital is also the place that we got the best views for pictures as it is on top of the city)

Sam's going away party at Tunza (Danny and Jodie on the right)

Paulo, Michael, and I at Fonelisco orphanage hanging out.

Mount Kilimanjaro

it's been a long time.

2007-03-05T12:52:00.000-05:00

Even though that was sadly stolen from Timbaland's voice, it directly applies to this lovely blog o' mine.

For the last two months I have continuously said that I would return here and start writing, posting, and rambling on this blog...as per most of my procrastination tactics, I found a way to put this off.

After two months, I don't even know where to begin. I HAVE to start with the internship (which has disappeared from active conversation and has become two word files and a folder of pictures on my computer that I flip through almost nightly), then onto everything else in my life that has seemed to unravel post-Christmas-returning-to-north-america.

But pictures will come next, perhaps today (as I ignore a professor attempting to teach great research methods), I will begin my catch up on life, love, and popular culture (the key third aspect to my life).

badaye.

Africa!

2006-11-27T08:55:00.000-05:00

Finally enough power to get through my entire inbox and back into the blogging world. Sam and I originally thought it would be a good idea to have our 'academic blog' but it ends up being very exhausting trying to get through all emails and then onto blogs in one hours time.

so today I splurged and bought a second hour...lol.

So, how is Africa?

I can't even begin to describe all of the wonder that is Africa (well, Mwanza specifically). Being here makes me want to explore every other country just to see the cultural differences!

Sam and I are trying to be adventurous as possible by doing just about everything we can... like eating goat meat, trying every hot sauce we find, standing inches away from a caged lion, taking a boat to an island that rocks back and forth so much you almost touch the water, and camping in the middle of the serengeti...without a gun (apparently necessary).

We have gotten used to the cultural norms of the area. Hearing the Muslim 'Call to Prayer' (at about 5:30 am, noon, and in the evening), Sam staying very covered up, and being seperated (once) at dinner where I ate with the men in the living room and Sam ate outside with the women.

Not all of the society is so patriarchal, but we have definately seen some instances of it.

Sam and I are still hollered at in the streets (Pendo told us we should take 'Mzungu' as a compliment but we are still unsure if everyone's intentions are complimentary).

On the weekend while watching the news we found out that homosexuality was actually illegal here which I had never even though to look into before coming. Obviously not here for romantic reasons, but still very interesting news to recieve while watching the news at a local hotel.

I am now very comfortable with my Swahili...and my love for bartering is only growing. I can't wait until I am back trying to barter back in Canada!

Sorry this post is not very exciting, but I forgot my camera so no pics yet!

kwa heri!

and of course, the link...

2006-10-27T05:36:00.000-04:00

So, we do have our other blog going on, and since I have yet to figure out how to put up a links column (I know, how MIT of me?) I figured I would share it with any readers here as it has pictures already up:

http://samandrobheadeast.blogspot.com

I will keep updating this as well with non-academic/'uwo' approved writings.

:)

someone ate half our goat?!

2006-10-26T04:37:00.000-04:00

I felt the need for a full fledged update on our African adventures. Our blog via Western is wonderful, but not really set up for the social/adventurous aspects to our time here in Mwanza.

First of all, I am starting to really fall in love with all aspects of the lifestyle here. One of my previous pet peeves in life was being late, I hated it. But over here everyone who shows up late claims that they are running on 'Africa time' so scheduling rendez vous, and meetings can be hell...but I am starting to love the idea of leaving at 1 for a 1 o'clock meeting half an hour away.

I have always been adventurous in the food department, but this week Sam and I were delivered a raw de-feathered chicken in a bag (sorry vegetarians) and had to hop on the 'butcher' band wagon and give it our best. We ended up with two wonderfully cooked chicken wings, chicken soup (yes, we boiled the bones for 'stock'), and amazing chicken sandwiches.

We feasted on goat on saturday night (but the host of the party did notice the chefs who cooked it also helped themselves to half of the meat). The goat was interestingly tasty...just in case you were curious.

We spent the weekend living up the 'night life' in Mwanza. Some very interesting adventures.
Friday we had a night spent at 'all ends of the spectrum'. We started at a very local restaurant for dinner where a few drinks, and a filling meal came to about $5 Canadian. We moved onto the Talapia, the tourist-y hotel (absolutely stunning) where a dinner and drinks would run about $15 Canadian (drinks alone $2/each). We then ended up at the night club the Rock, which was an interesting adventure of pit pocketers (nothing stolen, just having hands in my pockets all night), and intense dancing.

Saturday was the goat roast and Rumourz, an interesting night of typical North American bars (it felt like I was at Molly Blooms, but with more dancing).

Sunday Sam and I decided to laze around and head out to Tunza, a 'closed' resort that is open to white people in the area, and watch the sunset...

This week has been very busy with getting in touch with all of the organizations in the area, including more visits to the Yogurt Mama's (a group of inspiring, and hilarious women) as well as another trip to the orphanage for a swimming adventure... The children there are hilarious and love trying to learn english, and are so proud to teach you Swahili (pictures to come).

Speaking of pictures, I have posted some on the Western-linked blog (linked through my 'dashboard' until I get the address of Sam) if you would like to see the apartment and our pet 'Toby'.

Tuesday night was our wildest adventure yet, fit for my blog of intersting stories from the night life. Sam and I were out celebrating Eid (a Muslim holiday I believe that is a two day holiday in Tanzania) and we headed out to the Rock.

It was packed. After paying cover and moving through the concert on the patio we made it inside. I had people pulling me aside saying 'watch your pockets, watch all your stuff, people are after the mzungu's' which is always an interesting way to start the night (mzungu= us white people). Sam and I decided to stay on top of our game by avoiding the bar, but we quickly realized that the place might be too busy for us and we should leave.

Jody, another Canadian volunteer, wanted water and to step outside so I told her I would go with her. We got near the doorway (a tunnel like hallway) and everyone started pushing and shoving (apparently the concert had just ended and everyone outside wanted in, and vice versa)...So Jodi and I were stuck in the mix, clinging to eachother while being tossed around and into others/the wall... Finally, after a little break we got our footing and stood off to the side in the main entrance. Not two seconds later someone grabbed my shirt and yelled 'MOVE' so we were back in the chaos.

I was holding onto my pockets as hands were going inside them, but also trying to wave at Sam and our friends to start moving outside as it was getting too wild. Jodi and I were launched out of the doorway and landed safely off to the side. We found some of our local friends who came to see if we were okay as we began contacting the others.

Our German friends came outside and some had their pockets slit inside and money stolen ( and by slit I mean all of their pockets cut open). We decided we should leave.

Apparently they saw the guy who stole the money and went after him, I watched them return after being hit by locals and having sore arms now deciding it was a lost cause (only $20, not worth fighting for).

We rounded up our group and watched the craziness unfold as we headed outside: fights, people arguing, dancing to no music, really intoxicated people, etc.

Outside I was talking to our friend Mbamba and someone kept grabbing my arm, after a quick headbutt from Mbamba the guy was leaving our group (sam and I hopped in our friends car to leave) and left more craziness behind.

We were going to try another venue, but we realized this was our cue to call it a night. Normally not this crazy, but a day full of celebrating had led to a crazy night (probably better described with visuals, and hand gestures...but you can use your imagination).

Anyways, everything here is still going wondefully and we are actually hosting a surprise party for Jodi tonight! We have planned mini-Canadian nights for our time here (Halloween night, Christmas, etc).

Hope everyone is safe and warm at home :)

pinch me... I'm dreaming.

2006-10-18T08:37:00.000-04:00

So, life in Africa?

Can't be described.

So far Sam and I have conquered the first few tasks: getting running water (just got it as we left for this cafe), getting groceries (from the scary, intense market), and getting comfortable enough with our Swahili to venture out alone.

I cannot describe the millions of differences between here and Canada. For starters, everyone's laid back attitude is wonderful. The idea that if something isn't done today, there is always tomorrow. People take long breaks (in exchange for long work days) and also walk at their own rates.

Little tasks (running to the store) often takes you more than half an hour as you stop to talk to everyone and everyone around us is checking up on how we are doing.

Pendo, our amazing house keeper, is phenomenal. Although I cannot understand her, you can follow her by her actions and her warm welcoming smile. She calls us her 'second children' and will watch us when we are away from home.

That AND she helped us survive the market, a crazy adventure on its own. The market is unlike anything I have ever seen. People pulling at your arms, people yelling at you, people looking into your bags, trying to reach into your pockets (mainly the street kids), and finally people just trying to be friendly...it is crazy, but definately an experience.

More to come, but I have to work through my inbox of insanity at present :)

I hear Africa is nice in October

2006-09-25T10:13:00.000-04:00

So I don't really know how to begin telling this story...and it is no where near over, so I will just start from the top.

Last wednesday I woke up (uber tired) whining about my 9AM class. I toughed it out and made it to campus a little bit early to finish up my readings and awaited my two hour lecture to commence.

My prof rushes in to prepare for the lecture and asks to speak to me in the hall. I agree, we head outside, and then my adventure begins;

'I have something to ask you that I am 99.9% sure you are going to say no to.'

*long dramatic pause, like in the movies*

'I bet you are wondering what it is'
*I smile, anxiously awaiting the news*

'Would you be interested in going to Tanzania by October 15th?'
*long pause*
'let me go call my parents'

Twenty four hours later we are sitting in my prof's office awaiting a phone call to make sure all the funding is available for us to climb on board our planes. My fellow traveller/roomate/fiance (while in Africa) sat beside me as we kept looking at eachother with ear to ear smiles.

Then it all became official. Africa by mid-October.

For the next two and a half months I will be working/interning in Mwanza, Tanzania!

Although I doubt my computer access will be a lot, I promise to try my hardest to post while there.

Over the next three weeks (well, 2.5 now) I have a mini to-do list:
1) Learn Swahili
2) Vaccinate myself against everything
3) Pack and say goodbye to everyone

and then let the adventures begin....

gah! an update?!

2006-09-19T01:43:00.000-04:00

I know. too long. but for fear of repeating any other apology ever read on any other blog, I will just some it up.

too busy (that and a hint of laziness).

before I have a chance to take a dent into the rest of my summer, the most intense week (or two weeks if training is included) of my life (aka the best weeks of my life) and the harsh reality that at the end of a summer of organization... I did have to open up my textbooks.

I would use this space to promote all things orientation week, but instead this blog is going to become a mere sample of my favorite pics (mainly the epic ones) to keep you all entertained. that and facebook has taken away all the excitement in waiting for published photos.

Not only all of this, but I haven't even begin to discuss the new media's I have come across, the new books I have started reading, and the new things all on the horizon (of which I keep calling 'the upper years') I crossed the threshold of moving from year two to year three and there is that looming feeling like those feelings you once had in grade 11...that's going to be me next year. the graduate.

okay, too far, too much thought.

I will leave you with this:
the last kiss: undeniably a great movie. be prepared for emotions to run free.
soph formal: I ripped my pants. hi, med syd formal? was this some cruel deja vu?
the song: Beyonce- irreplaceable...that's right, it's beyonce. tiring, yet astonishingly amazing.

and finally, a picture just to cure any anticipations you had about seeing o-week photos!

p.s. kelly green...that's us.

Catch me on the links.

2006-06-09T17:02:00.000-04:00

The times they are a changing. This is my first post as a full time summer employee, and what are we at...june 10th? A little late on the job bandwagon but on it nonetheless. In preparation for my first days of being an employee I had to finish up the majority of my summer goals and wrap up my unemployed lifestyle. so why not go out with a bang?

In preparation for my summer job I have:
-partied profusely (funk music, patios, and dance floor moves are now just a weekend thing)
-shopped (end of season sales = low bank balances)
-eaten everything in sight (I will be walking a short distance to work, so I might as well start a diet then)

I bought a new book today, I have cleaned my room, and even picked up the clubs for a round of golf in the past week (which will be a post on it's own), but let the summer work begin bitches!!!

too ready for this. I watched my last reel of daytime t.v. today...sad, but true.

there is just something about 'old skool'

2006-05-22T15:29:00.000-04:00

Before I went away to school you couldn't have paid me to go to a retro/oldschool music function without rolling my eyes. There used to be that not-cool-esque to retro styles where people would laugh at the thought of disco music.

This has totally changed.

Whether it be funk or disco, or even just old fashioned tunes (Pat Benetar incl) CTO and retro tunes totally make my night. A long weekend wouldn't make sense to be spent anywhere except for a retro dance party, and a retro dance party it was indeed. Although I haunted the floor with my 'Heartbreaker' performance, I feel as though my dates and I redeemed ourselves during 'Vogue' and 'Gimme Gimme Gimme'...

most people wouldn't admit to the key performances from their night out, but I was in a good state of mind and 'grooving' to the tunes. so now my bar nights are sun-wed, spanning all the decades prior to my own.

until a good job comes...

2006-05-20T11:53:00.000-04:00

I have been playing the employment waiting game for the past three weeks now and it is getting a little ridiculous. I am so tired of sending off resumes, doing call backs, and attending pointless interviews (for the jobs you know you will never take). In the mean time I have been watching movies, Ellen, reading again, and enjoying the company of friends.

but as good as that is, there is little profit in hanging out with friends who like to party/head out all the time.

The other day I took the time to sit and watch the movie on the right, and I would be lying if I said I didn't find it amazing... although yes it was slow, and yes Cameron Diaz isn't my favorite person, the movie is your standard 'family forever' storyline. which, in times of a madhunt for employment during your first summer away from home, is a good feeling to have leaving a film. and I promise when the excitement in my life picks up I will fill this blog with summer hilarities, but until then you are stuck with the ramblings of a movie watcher.

And I have to welcome back ms. alex to the city! I knew she wouldn't be able to stay away for long....this means everyone's favorite terrible twosome will be on the prowl in London this summer... so I guess things are lookin' up !

let the movie reviews begin.

2006-05-16T22:56:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I haven't made it too far on the 'cult classics', but I have started catching up on all the 'new releases' that sat on the backburner during the school year.

Derailed kicked it off, followed by Wolf Creek (don't waste your time), and of course Last Holiday! Who doesn't appreciate a good comedy with Queen Latifah?

and with a long weekend around the corner dedicated to parties, patios, and poor judgement (I went for the last one just for the alliteration), who can sit around and hunt for a job seriously.

but if anyone asks, I am...

P.S. it is supposed to be a cool 8 degrees all weekend, go Ontario!...

Up next are: Monster in Law (I'll admit it), King Kong, and Narnia. I hate living this close to a movie store.

Londonia

2006-05-10T23:43:00.000-04:00

it's a totally different city during the summer.

The busses run at their own schedule (or maybe its just the times no longer apply).
The bars aren't lined up. Barney's only uses half of their patio.
The Ceeps is CLOSED monday to thursday!
Jobs are a rare commodity.
Randoms/sketchballs are out in full force, especially since I am not surrounded by my bubble that is school.

But alas, there is a summer crew, and the summer crew loves to party. My new found love for a good glass of wine, a nice book, or a movie are actually things I never thought I would ever come to enjoy...but two weeks as an independent in the city have turned me into a fourty year old wino with a love for sappy movies and interesting books.

ahhh...free time.

2006-05-08T07:50:00.000-04:00

My hunt for summer employment has ran a little dry. I counted up every email in my outbox and every resume I have dropped off, and so far I am 2:24 (as in two callbacks for twenty four resumes), but I will keep you posted as to how the rest of my job searching goes.

But with all this free time I have been able to catch up on my reading, movie watching, and of course... money wasting adventures. The first favorite of the season was 'Family Stone', which I passed up when it was released over Christmas for fear it was a shitty movie and would kill my love for SJP. Needless to say the movie surpassed my expecations, unlike Match Point which proves that I cannot stand the abstract ideas that flow from Woody Allen.

and look, the first wedding of the season. In fairness to myself, this is my only wedding of the season, but as the emcee I can say I did a damn good job. So congrats to my dear friend Carmen on the happiest day of her life.
This was my party crew for the night, and party we did (minus the maid of honour to my right, she had some responsibilities to uphold...)

This was the first wedding out of my group of close friends, and this year I have seen three engagement rings fall onto other peoples fingers, so I am assuming next years wedding season will be action packed with celebrations.

But back to the summer days and nights of patios and partying. (and the countdown is on until the DaVinci Code and, as embarassing as it sounds, X Men III).

I cracked

2006-05-01T08:18:00.000-04:00

I am staying in London for the summer and I am so excited. But of course, calls from home have been filling my voice mail with the lists of students/friends who have returned to Ingersoll and my parents haven't received a visit since Easter.

and I gave in. I started packing my stuff today to head home for a week (roughly) I will be coming into London to avoid my house (like the plague) but after this week I will be coming back into the city full time... I swear.

Although free food and board are tempting, unmonitored summer partying is by far the better option.

a little behind the times.

2006-04-23T00:09:00.000-04:00

In the LFP last week they had a list of the top parody movies of all time, and to my surprise Scream was on the list! After talking to friends, apparently this was an obvious connection to make, considering how 'self referential' it is as a horror movie...but enough academic jargon, I remember these movies being the most suspenseful (and somewhat cheesy) slasher films.

and who doesn't love the addition of Lori Metcalfe (recent G.A.'s guest star) in the second film? but enough about scream.

The movie conversation brought about other 'Greatest Movies of All Times' and I realized that my repetoire of cult classics is actually quite sad...

this leads to my first (of many) summer goals. I want to be a movie (cult classic specific) guru. I am already a good contender in the areas of comedies, romances, and drama's...but I mean the real movies that everybody always references and I am left standing there doing the fake-Ihavenoideawhatyourtalkingabout-laugh.

So, using my trusty brainpower, I researched a list of 'cult hits' and here are the one's I have seen:
1) Rocky Horror Picture Show
2) Fight Club
3) Mulholland Drive
4) Donnie Darko

and films I gotta see:
1) Blade Runner (sci-fi I believe)
2) Full Metal Jacket
3) Freaks and Geeks
4) Reefer Madness
5) Dawn of the Dead

I figure five is a fair start to a summers worth of 'underground' entertainment. but trust me, I will post my findings.

usual crunch down.

2006-04-12T14:47:00.000-04:00

So we're here. The normal Post-April 1st crunch of school time. I have disappeared from the internet world to finish off essays, classes, and student involvement activities for the year.Not done, but this year I have no rush to draw them to a close.

I hate that with the end of another great year comes the rush into the business world for four months of your life. (is it sad that I miss those grade school summers of tree climbing and bike riding?)

I have 'fibbed' to my work and told them that I won't be able to start until May 15th so that I can have some 'downtime' after exams. This weeks will serve as a segway into four months of long hours and money saving schemes.

But with the end of another year, leaves a goodbye and a good luck to all my graduating friends. I have been priviledged to hang out with them since first year and this year I have to do my first round of graduate goodbyes. They are the ones who are making me excited about my post graduation plans in hearing their tales of grad school, travel, and life in the 'real world'. I know, for a fact, that they will be back visiting soon enough...and if they don't, I will hunt them down. over facebook.

But back into the cave of the library I go, my hunt for procrastination tactics has stalled in fear that it might actually lead to bad marks...

and this summer, I'm doin' it in dunnville again. be ready.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=5-cfeyia69A&search=saved%20by%20the%20bell

2006-04-04T12:47:00.000-04:00

While researching my essay I found this video clip.

Okay, not reasearching, but taking a glimpse at a favourite t.v. clip of mine.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=5-cfeyia69A&search=saved%20by%20the%20bell

I need to get off of these video sites.

my good luck floated away.

2006-03-30T00:04:00.000-05:00

on a cup of coffee...

I don't even know where to begin this story because frankly, it fits the tale of an upcoming Lindsay Lohan film...but I shall continue it anyways.

So there I was standing in line awaiting my step up for java (or my java order rather) and my prof (who will remain nameless) came up behind me and started small talk. for this I thank her because we both 'know' eachother, but conversation could have been tremendously awkward. (ie...' so, it's ugh...sunny out' you know, that crap).

I digress through examples and brackets, but I will continue.

The topic of the 'roll up the rim to win' comes up and we began to discuss eachothers odds. They were as follows:
Rob 7 wins 7 losses (six coffees, one muffin)
Prof 0 wins 20attempts (her estimate)

I reluctantly gave her my tips of sticking to a standard size (usually extra large) as those cups sell the least (really, no increased odds, but this is how my non-mathematical mind works), and finally told her that it might just be me being lucky.

Needless to say, that day my coffee was a loser (and her's won)

And I have been losing ever since...

Might this be a lesson for me not to spread my competitive spirit by comparing odds? or really having the 'horseshoe-up-my-ass' finally pass?

I guess I will never know, but the story needed to be shared before it was known as Lindsay Lohan's new movie.

laughter is the best medicine.

2006-03-24T01:48:00.000-05:00

you know when you find everything/anything funny? perhaps it has been because I have been locked in a room in the upper floor of the ucc for the past four days that have made the following things 'pants wetting' material... and enough to make you smile and enjoy the little things along the way.

to destressing!

hilarity

impressive

so predictable...yet still enjoyable

and finally!

here's to yet another round of final's procrastination!

dancing is good for the soul.

2006-03-21T00:51:00.000-05:00

I don't feel the need to comment on the above picture, but I would assume that the colour and the recent date that has passed will do the justice of my level of intoxification and my behaviour.

I have been caught in this warp speed of time over the last two weeks. I mean, just a few seconds ago (or so it feels like) it was reading week...now I am 6 weeks away from the end of my second year, and man I cannot believe how fast everything is going! But I am loving every second of it.

When most would be stressed, I am doing the thing where I am trying not to let it get to me. This is my new tactic in life, to let it all roll of my back, or as Jay-Z would put it 'brush your shoulders off' (mariah carey would just shake it off, you can decide what works best).

I was discussing with a friend about 'truths' and the admittance of facts that you will/will not reveal to others...so as per my blogging style, I composed three things that I never share (but are truths that are on my mind regularly):
1) I think (constantly) about what is going to happen to all my friends (past/present) and how long I will remain close with all of them.
2) I hate having others hate me/dislike me. I say I am okay with it, but deep down it drives me up the wall.
3) I always sing when I am alone. and have been caught many times doing it...how embarassing.

As we dive into essays and final assignments I know that it is the goal of every blog reader to procrastinate a little bit longer, and party just a little bit harder!

check your inhibitions at the door.

2006-03-14T12:58:00.000-05:00

so here I sit in the library studying...correction, I am in the pride library blogging and I just had to write about the hilarity and the love I already have for this library.

for starters, I see the same crowd (of about 20 people) in this library all the time, perhaps we all have the hopes of meeting mr. (or mrs...depending on how you swing) right in an academic setting, rather than drunk at a bar.

secondly, there is a large glass window seperating the library from the back of first floor weldon, and as people flow past it's as if they wish to tap on the window of our fishbowl and say 'man, that's what gay people look like studying' (this I say in complete sarcasm).

thirdly, I have friends who won't come into this library for fear of scrutiny on their heterosexuality... this is the funniest thing I have ever heard. and it is a nice welcome to 2006 lol ( a fear of being straight in a public place).

and lastly, this library is ten times more colourful than any other one on campus...

although I say this all with a sarcastic undertone, I do have a secretly love for studying here. Not only is it quiet and fairly traffic-free, it also serves as a nice setting for discussions when there is the right crowd in here.

but that is enough procrastinating for one 'homework' session, I hope everyone is enjoying the two full day countdown to the best partying day university has to offer!

to be fair.

2006-03-10T09:19:00.000-05:00

To be fair, is it wrong to complain about an education i am getting, if I am paying for it, choosing the courses, and enjoying it (major assignments aside).

I was laughing at myself last night as I was going on about some issue with how many projects/essays I have due in the week of April 1-7 and how they always seem to cake on work all at once...and then I realized that I chose the courses, and paid the tab. So my grounds for complaining = none.

So, I am over it. I will 'turn that frown upside down' and get back on the school train and live it up for the next two months... as third year isn't that far away.

buck and doe's, stag and doe's, jack and jill's.

2006-03-05T14:50:00.000-05:00

I am not sure who invented the stag and doe, but they deserve an award.

Last night I was able to attend a stag and doe for a close friend of mine and as per usual, I was not let down. A mad predrink led to us running into the dance hall ready to party. Now a dance that includes party favours, games, midnight buffets, and cheap drinks could never be thought of as a bad idea. For those who disagree, I am sorry your life is so boring.

The best part about this 'buck and doe' is that it was in our classic small town setting. I knew everyone there, and it was almost a two year reunion from highschool... some people I never thought I would see again showed up, and it was nice not having awkwardness (c/o the intoxicants I had consumed)... even teachers came out for the party!

Just when I think I can take my small town history anymore, they go and throw a night like this!

In sum, it ended up with me and three girlfriends getting dragged out of a local bar because our after party turned into them hitting and punching three hockey players. I moved away in fear, but the three lippy girls continued the trash talk...which got us an escort right into our cab home... which we hopped out of and ran away! and went back into the bar in the other door.

shortly after we were told we were never allowed back...almost embarassing. then we called it a night.

go buck and doe's!

you know I love a good parody.

2006-03-04T16:06:00.000-05:00

Instead of working on the two essays due monday, I have spent my productive saturday surfing the net.

So, here is (in my opinion) the ultimate broadway lovers site... Forbidden Broadway!

Here is the link so that you can check it out, you want the second video clip (for the video's of the songs).

Happy procrastinating!

the wandering mind goes south.

2006-03-04T11:02:00.000-05:00

I never give my family enough credit. Normally while at home we do all act stupid together, make jokes, and constantly pick eachother apart...which over a seven day vacation, most people would terribly annoyed.

But this is where my family is different. This is the first family vacation where we have gone 7 days laughing right until we got off the plane back in Ontario. I have never seen my family as 'friends' but, this trip we acted like a group of friends teasing everyone whenever they slipped up on their words, or whenever they embarassed themselves in front of a group. I would write some of the major slip ups, but I feel as though they were only funny in the moment, or perhaps in a descriptive story told aloud. But overall, probably my best reading week yet. (last years was spent back at school early because I decided to work during the whole break...)

Let me just sum up the trip in total.
First of all, leading up to the trip I had mon/tues/wed midterms, and headed home at 11pm on the wednesday night....For which I had a total of 16 hours of sleep over the two days... and so it begins.
Thurs
- we watch Rent (on video) before heading to the airport at 4a.m.
-board the plane at 7:30 and are enroute for Varedeiro, Cuba
-arrive at 11:00 am, head to hotel...In total, I have been up for 28 hours.
-start drinking/laying on beach
-4:30pm wake up on beach, realizing I have passed out, in the sun, for the last three hours
-party all night with newfoundlanders until 6am.

For the rest of the days, the formula works out as:
Rise-Eat-Beach-Eat-Beach-Nap-Dinner-Cards/Drink-Disco-After Party!
(* 'drink' can accompany any of the above options)

Finally, I did learn three things while in Cuba:
1) Ontarians, as hard as we try, cannot keep up with East Coast drinkers. my hat goes off to them.
2) It is a small, small world...(my second cousins showed up at the same resort half way through the week)
3) I will never be able to spend another reading week in cold S.W.O.
and a 4th bonus: never defer work until after the break...

hola amigo's/amiga's!

Okay, so I do have some midterm thoughts.

2006-02-22T00:16:00.000-05:00

Amidst the chaos of three midterms and two papers I still manage to find time to blog...strange.

Regardless, I have just had millions of non-school related thoughts fill my mind that I now need to express.

For starters, I was in the spoke this afternoon and there was a Canadian Men's hockey game on, circa 2:30 and it was PACKED...like ridiculously packed. And I have already expressed my thoughts on the olympics but it was almost surreal to see 200 (plus) university students taking a break from studying, sitting in almost silence, watching their nation play hockey... just seemed epic to me (perhaps it was the two coffee's and four hours of sleep).

Thought two:
The silence of the libraries upper floors is uncomparible to anything else in life... a sniffle of the nose warrants death by guillotine... and I love studying there.

Thought three:
I have become one of 'those' students that you see trecking around campus, only discusses how crappy his midterm schedule is, and can be seen in any library/computer lab at any given time... I apologize in advance for my new found nerdiness... let's hope I grow out of this.

Thought four:
I have mastered my coffee order at tim hortons so that I can taste the perfection when I drink it. java rules my life...

hoping that everyone else is surviving assignment/midterm hell through indepth thoughts like me. once again, happy spring breaking :)

p.s. thanks for this visit from a dear friend

a week indeed...

2006-02-18T21:19:00.000-05:00

so let's recap...
4 days
3 midterms
2 papers
packing
random collection of stuff
cuba...

if you don't see me this week, this is why :)

happy reading week to all.

as the day of love falls upon us.

2006-02-14T01:24:00.000-05:00

Valentine's day, since childhood, has taken on a whole new meaning. No, I am not going to sit here and rant about my hate (or love) for this holiday...instead I am going to take one second to think about how much fun it was when I was little.

My favorite part of Valentine's day was picking out the valentine's day cards (normally 90's themed (see previous post for examples)) and addressing them to the kids in my classes. I would be lying if I said I didn't miss this 'cheesy' aspect to this day, and I hate that so many people have turned their back on this holiday.

Nicole does a wonderous job of outlining my like for this holiday, because yes...it would be a lie for all of us to say that you don't want someone to shop for you, pamper you, or even surprise you on a snowy day in the middle of february.

On that note, I will leave you to ponder your own thoughts on this day and after really reviewing the fact that it is 24 hours dedicated to love and emotion, and you still hate it....comment away.(unless you got card as crappy as this, then I truly understand your hate for this day. lol)

happy valentines day.

Product of the nineties?

2006-02-12T23:19:00.000-05:00

Don't you just love mass emails? for once, I got one I enjoyed...

so I figured I would share it with the world (and hopefully other 'products of the nineties')

You know you're a 90's kid if...

You can sing the rap to "The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air".
You've worn leggings and felt stylish.
You yearned to be part of the Baby-Sitters club.
You use to love playing with your MY Little Pet Shop.
You remember when it was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head and had scrunchies.
You remember reading "Goosebumps".
You know the profound meaning of "Wax on, wax off".
You have pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.
You took plastic cartoon lunch boxes to school.
You remember the craze and then the banning of yo-yo's.
You still get the urge to say "NOT" after (almost)every sentence...Not.
You knew that Kimberly, the pink ranger, and Tommy, the green Ranger were meant to be together.
You collected pokemon cards.
You wore socks over leggings scrunched down.
You knew what it meant to say "Care Bear Stare".
You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell".
You played and or collected "Pogs".
You used to pretend to be a MIGHTY MORPHIN Power Ranger.
You had at least one GigaPet or Nano and brought it everywhere.
You watched the ORIGINAL Care Bears, My Little Pony, and Ninja Turtles.
Yikes pencils and rubbers were the best.
You remember when the new Beanie Babies were always sold out.
You used to wear those stick on earings, not only on your ears, but at the corners of your eyes. You've gotten creeped out by "Are You Afraid of the Dark?".
You thought it would be so cool to be Alex Mack.
You know the Macarena by heart.
"Talk to the hand" ... enough said.
You thought Brain from 'Pinkey and the Brain' would finally take over the world.
You were made to wear a pair of leggings with the straps on the bottom. Bum Bags, or Fanny Pax whatever you called them.
I'LL BE BACK... 2 words ... SPICE GIRLS...

Some things this email didn't address:
-TGIF? don't act like you weren't at home watching it...every friday.
-New Kids on the Block?
- and although the macarena was mentioned, what about when Much Dance were at their best?

how many did you relate to? for me, it was almost embarassing...

how will I know?

2006-02-12T00:15:00.000-05:00

There is something weird that comes along with the olympics (an addiction of mine, yes). I am the most unathletic person around, but for some reason while the olympics are on I just cannot get enough.

I was a little bitter at the fact that Roots was not in charge of olympic garb this year (and apparently won't be again until 2010!) and we were subject to the horrid olympic ensembles in the bay. I am 'that guy' who goes out and buys that hat, sweatshirt, and track pants (and they all match, of course).

Clothing aside, the olympics have some weird draw for me. For once in my life I feel very patriotic (not saying I am not proud to be canadian, I just rarely express any of that emotion) and I love seeing 'us' win. (grabbed a gold tonight in skiing!).

So yes, I will keep a medal count on this blog as well as pics of the wonderous athletes. and this will also give me a much needed break (lol) from my midterms coming up at the end of these 10 glorious days...

So far, we have one gold (as Norway is kicking some olympic ass), we are in third overall. Go Canada!

hate her or love her.

2006-02-09T01:21:00.000-05:00

I hope if your reading this, you saw the Grammy awards tonight. Otherwise, you might want to go hunt down a clip of the performance and then revert back here.

Yes, I bought her new c.d. and yes, I found tonight's Grammy performance the ultimate proof that Madonna is the ultimate artist. I know: the reinvention queen, standard music, whatever. The new c.d. is proof that she can look back to where she started, in a non-'Jenny-fromtheblock' way and can release another hit c.d. reflecting those roots.

Tonights performance, with the Gorillaz, was enough to convince me that Madonna isn't done yet. As critics tear her to shreds, and non-pop music fans tear up her reputation, I think, will your 'Nickleback' crap ever reach this many records and sales...and on the basis of one person? I think not.

After Evita, I was sold on her superstardom(and real talent)...so come on, get on the bandwagon...or else in fifty years you are going to look like the 'dud' who didn't listen.

my broadway addiction.

2006-02-08T13:36:00.000-05:00

Yes, my undying love for broadway/cabaret shows has been expressed many times before in this blog. and here it comes again.

Last night I took four lovely ladies (and met three more there might I add) to Don't Tell Mama the university's cabaret show. and, after last years Love on the Rocks, I was excited to see the show come together, and came together it did.

They picked the perfect numbers, from the perfect shows. I loved 'cell block tango', 'the wizard and i', and 'a song like this' were all done magnificently. Special props to these songs for coming from my favorite musicals and me loving them just as much on the small stage.

And of course the wonderful Dallas, who I have seen many times (as a CR groupie) and again, wowed me with her talent.

So over the next few weeks, as per usual post-musical syndrom, I will hum the tunes, download different versions of songs, and binge on musical theatre... much love for the big stage!

that time of year...

2006-02-07T00:42:00.000-05:00

I love the leeway time in between Christmas and spring break. It's like anything you could (and probably should start) can wait until after the break, because starting it now with a holiday in the middle is just upsurd.

This year I am taking advantage of my free no-school week in February and am travelling to the wonderful beaches of Cuba to binge drink and laze in the sun... I would be lying if I said that binge drinking will not be present at an all inclusive resort.

I took advantage to a week of free time last week, and realized that this cannot happen again if I wish to remain at school. But, as the true media student that I am, I couldn't help but notice the advertisement on Canadian Television made during yesterday's superbowl...
'If you would like to check out the great American commercials of the superbowl, the (insert name of pointless specialty network) will be airing a one hour special of the top advertisements'

That's right, in case you missed a three hour sports game jam packed with ads of all kinds, you can voluntarily subject yourself to an hour long show of commercials!!

Sorry, it just blew my mind and I had to blog about it.

In other news, on Rent is on video february 20th!

old friends, new acquaintances.

2006-02-03T23:59:00.000-05:00

I am not sure if I have mentioned this before, but I have a very competetive personality. For some reason this includes all aspects of my life... I cannot sit down to a friendly game of cards without feeling the need to drive to win (even if it is against my 8 year old cousin). I have been known to read the rule book before continuing play in hopes that I will find the loophole to make me the winner.... a bad quality, I know.

Regardless...tonight I had the opportunity to dine with an old friend of mine, one who I hadn't seen (or have seen sporadically since) highschool. So we picked our favorite restaurant (mongolian grill) and gourged ourselves into buffet heaven. Of course, for two pop culture junkies like ourselves, the night wouldn't have been complete without a quick round of 'Scene it: Pop Culture II'...

Some questions that threw me:
'From 1998-2003, the most popular name for baby boys in Texas was?'
AND
'This rock group was underfire after pyrotechnic difficulties at a Rhode Island show lead to the deaths of nearly 100'

G'ahead...try...

Regardless, this is what cost me the game, but in my eyes, I am still the winner.
Funny Quotes from the night:
-' I took a summer course in mistification... yes, I now mist female dancers before they hit the stage...'- 'what else do you do there' - ' I tassle nipples, this that and the other...'
- 'don't they understand, you can just become funny overnight...'
-'go mongo, yes, we're catching it on'

busy times...

2006-01-30T23:44:00.000-05:00

My blog, for a brief moment in time, has had to sit on the back burner of life. For some reason I have been racing to keep up with school, work, friends, etc...

that and I was without computer for three weeks (nearly killed me).

Anyways, a more formal post about thoughts, etc will follow but for now I have to get over this cold...

the ultimate sign that I need some R&R.

dance, dance

2006-01-15T23:23:00.000-05:00

I cannot tell you enough about how much fun I had last night, well, actually over the past week since I have returned to educational splendour. I know, enough chat about the school switch, that part of my life is now complete. But the last week has also been spent in the first week back from christmas festivities with friends...

and party we did. listing all of the events would be pointless (a funk night, two movie nights, and one gay bar dance a thon) but, I have to write about the feelings you get out of nights like these. Not only are they normally filled with intoxicants, there is something deeper, some more of a comforting factor in feeling that you are with the right people at the right time.

The last year of my life has helped put into perspective how important friends are, and this has never been more true for me. Last night after stumbling in drunk I headed right towards my roomate's room for 'post bar chat'. I finished the night with my normal drunk dials to ms. tori and messages on msn ran freely from my finger tips.... when most would be annoyed, these people all called back, responded, and let me vent about my massive hangover.

after all, what friends could you drag to a gay bar for a night of dancing and craziness? there isn't one of my friends who wouldn't come along...

I hate to be the optimist but, bad luck will shift, the stars will realign... and after all of this winter 'blah', the summer awaits us with goodtimes.

and if I am right, we have a soph pub on the horizon... deep thoughts for a sunday, the hangover or intellectual side of rob? one will never know.

back.

2006-01-14T14:15:00.000-05:00

I hate describing a situation where it all works out perfectly...but it has. And of course, partying chaos has ensued.

Last year dis-oweek was filled with medicines as I battled a cold (and in the end, dropped the meds to celebrate the 19th birthday). This year, my how the tables have turned.

Coming into the week after my 19th birthday with a cold slowed me down, but only for a brief moment. Wednesday at CTO (a wonderful funk night for none other than ms. paige's birthday), thursday night at Jack's, Pheonix, and Jim Bob's (yes, we went wandering) was equally amazing and my first sampling of abscinthe; and friday was another viewing of Rent with the girls from the box.

I love it when school and social life can balance, instead of conflict constantly (last semester). This semester I finally have the option of picking classes I like, enjoying the work I am doing, and seeing all my friends from school that I missed last semester...

and damn, it feels good...

college invasion

2006-01-10T01:39:00.000-05:00

Tonight, my roomate and close friend did something a little different. Our original plans included a boring trip downtown for cheap martini's and good times. low and behold, the downtown core was ridiculously packed so we returned home.

Once here, we joked about the stories of college invasion coming to Western, and then we all admitted that none of us had viewed the film.

This is now a lie.

Yes, the three of us sat around a labtop as we watched the video online and I have to say...it was a little bit of a let down.

From a porno standpoint it was fine, but from a face recognizing-able-to-laugh-at-people-you-know kind of live film, we were let down.

Now, I will be the first to admit that porn is often joked about at parties, or the subject of many humorous stories from highschool, sex and the city episodes, etc...but rarely have three sober people sat around and watched a porno and attempted a critique of it.

Random, I know. but I was just giving a heads up to others who think they might recognize people in the film. Probably not true, but feel free to experiment.

you can't deny the t.v.

2006-01-08T22:17:00.000-05:00

I think we would all be lying some of us were to say...this isn't the best show on t.v. right now. I know, many shows are mentioned in this blog but come on, we live in a world where television (and all popular culture dominate our lives) so yes, I feel the need to comment on the recent events of desperate housewives.

I might add that normally I see through the charade of a crappy show (like the o.c. for example) but some shows just draw me right in...and I love it.

Desperate housewives has just become a sassy show that I love watching (it's like a soap opera on at night), and the facet that it is followed by grey's anatomy makes sunday night television that much sweeter.

With all this great television, I am amazed that I have time for my studies...who am I kidding, a media student studies with the t.v. on...

am I right?

science kids hate me.

It's resolution time.

2006-01-06T12:43:00.000-05:00

yes, 2006, welcome.

but with a new year comes the time to fill blogs with resolutions that you must try to attain. and so my theory is to list them here that way I will feel guilty in december when I delete this post pretending like I never made it (or edit my resolutions to make it look like I am very driven).

I have reached all of my christmas goals (reading two books, seeing three movies, and seeing all friends with the trip to Toronto). But my goals for the year I have put more thought into.

So here are the resolutions:
1- stop taking so much crap (is there a word for this other than pushover?)- but this year I am going to speak up when I am not having a good time, say 'no' when something bothers me, and not do stuff for the sake of making everyone happy... this has gotten me into trouble in the past
2- after losing 25 pounds (you know it) since I left residence in the spring, this year is devoted to actually toning my body up. I know, this is the most generic resolution in history, but if I am going to sit on a beach for a week I want to look damn good.
3- achieve my 80 average that I so didn't strive for last year. This year I can do this, and I am going to...
4- save more money for school during the summer (and not just throw it away like last summer)
5- go see more concerts (at least 2, and more bands that I would never usually go see)
6- tell my parents...it's time.
7- try and be more forward (relating to number one) but I want my ability to be outspoken to not only occur while I am intoxicated.
8- new job.

it is two thousand and fuckin six. and I am twenty years old now (today actually). so let's see what I can do with these two generations behind me.

adventure of a lifetime.

2006-01-06T01:45:00.000-05:00

'is your dad a dealer? cause your dope to me'

random start to this post, but I am hoping to include everything I can about the last three days of my life (which were amazing, epic, and surreal...yes, big words to describe such a phenomenal time)

On tuesday morning I was lucky enough to scam a free ride (avec mon pere) to Northern Toronto to begin my adventure in the big city. I arrived at the Vaughn GO station at 7:45am and the journey began. I have to brag about how I easily figured out what to do, where to stand, and how the train/subway system worked and I was in the downtown within half an hour (yes, 8:15). The visitee was shocked at the harsh reality of my early morning adventure, but greeted me with open arms when I finally made it on the proper bus down good ol' Pape street (which can be referred to as Pepe, papie, pope or any other variation as my mind could not figure out the simplicity of the name.

The adventure to Jenn's sisters aside, I was settled in by 9am and we were catching up on our christmas breaks thus far (that and beginning to make plans for our three day adventure). After calling ms. spadafo and discussing how we would meet up with her at her new place (p.s. it was gorgeous, but that will follow) I got my first real taste of Toronto life.

I was so blessed to be in the downtown of this major city, and with friends that I love...and this trip helped me to realize all of this. Jenn (and her sister) I owe a huge thank you to for opening up my eyes to a life outside the closet, and that in non-conservative, open cities you can live freely and be who you want to be. this was the most amazing part of my experience.

The village: was eye opening. I had been before but just to one bar for dancing and nothing special, but I was given the chance to parouse the stores in the village, and take in a bit of the life that I dream of in conservative London. For the first time in my life I was able to ask a ton of questions, which most would find annoying, but luckily they answered them with amazing responses helping to clarify any of my fears of fully coming out... and again, I thank them.

Bloor St.: window shopping in Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and FCUK was stunning, as they were all in a one block radius.

Anni's apartment: was phenomenal. She is living the 'university life' that me, being at Western, has never experienced. Being in a big city, with such diversity, and such culture allows her to truly be herself... I would almost dub her ms. Toronto.

Katie: too cute to describe. So nice to see you, you help keep me grounded and real. You and Anni are stern reminders of how JN2 will never disappear from my mind, and your ongoing friendship is amazing.

Jenn: proved as my saviour this trip. I don't give her enough thanks (to her face) for making me be the real me, and not a phoney person. She pushes me to be exactly who I want to be, and although on this trip I felt I might have annoyed her, she constantly helped me develop resolutions and decide on my future. Thanks again, photoshoots and all, I had an amazing time.

I mean, it's two thousand and fucking six.

Finally, to Eano and Paige (and the rest of the Toronto peoples who I got to meet up with during my visit) thank you for letting me experience that wild life for three days. I envy the fact that when you guys head home you head to Toronto, instead of some country bumpkin town where plaid is still fashionable.

and as I return home to turn another year older (it's happened, I am now 20) I think about how the last year of my life has been the wildest year yet. Here's to raising the bar and trying to make this year ten times that.

p.s. the bus ride home was cute, it was nice to see you.
p.p.s. tomorrow I will hopefully post pictures, my resolutions, and exact stories... but I wanted to clarify how thankful I am...

and welcome...2006...

2006-01-02T19:39:00.000-05:00

it seems like so much has passed over the last five days, when really I have been doing the same old thing with a night of mad partying dividing the last week.

New years eve was intense, and yes...we only went to Jim Bob's for the night, but it was the perfect crowd with all my friends from Ingersoll accompanying me along to the bar. Obviously drinks and crazy dancing ensued. but pictures of that shall follow.

The best part of the last week was the quality time with friends and family...and television...and food...

but this all comes to an end as trip countdowns begin (circa 45 days until Cuba) which means I am back to the healthy eating aspect of my life... and an exciting voyage to Toronto commences tomorrow in which I am going to try and see everyone I can!

photo 1 of me and lindsay didn't turn out, but it turned out cool...weird? I think yes
next photo, don't act like pajamas are going out of style!

in other news:
my parents hate the fact that I won't let them watch CNN 24/7 and think that perhaps I might have to change my major if it is going to effect their t.v. watching habits... screw that.

and I am onto book number 3 of the holidays, I am reading 'Tuesday's with Morrie'... i'll keep you posted.

bon voyage!

and the winner is.

2005-12-29T00:37:00.000-05:00

quickest online response ever goes to : Laura

yes, check the times... I already know the answer...

'Iko, Iko'

download it, love it...

thank you laura!

okay, I need some help...

2005-12-29T00:13:00.000-05:00

okay, this is the most random post in history, but it is driving me up the wall.

I heard this song in a restaurant the other day and I love it (a very corny song, but I want to listen to it because it makes me smile).

let me set the stage here for it:
-some describe it as 'campy'
-it is more singing, with some beats in the background
-i believe it is sung by females
-i believe some of the lines are spanish
-it is an older song (probably sixties-eighties...not really sure)

okay, so for the most part I think the lyrics go:

'let me say hey now, HEY NOW, hey now, HEY NOW...(something spanish)'

it might be like 'quando quando man hey' but I was in a restaurant and couldn't hear a damn thing.
thanks for your help

destination is set

2005-12-27T18:06:00.000-05:00

I know, two posts in one day...but hey, it's christmas.

the destination is set for the new year, and let the adventure begin.

Rob does Toronto, jan 3-4th

I will try to visit all, and also slide in a fair dose of fun...

hell, this might be better than new years!

it's all coming together.

2005-12-27T16:39:00.000-05:00

so yes, many changes, sorry for those of you who couldn't find this blog for a second, but the final stages of my 'security' have taken effect...

the blog security world has moved from yellow to orange (in reference to America's terrorism standards)... I consider myself very safe.

Hopefully my title more acurately reflects how this blog really works...randomly...

but I hope you all had a merry christmas, and in the new year I am actually going to try and do some fancy lay out/links/etc...

maybe this will soon look like an original website.

p.s. a goodbye to a fellow blogger, leaving her writings in internet limbo...she'll be back

For some this is christmas, for others...

2005-12-26T12:54:00.000-05:00

I have made it through most of my list of things I wanted to accomplish over my three weeks of leisure at home. I have read one book, have visited most of my friends, and spent time with my family (long awaited, since I have been avoiding them for the last six months of my life...and not really sure why.)

But at the same time, Ingersoll serves as a constant haunting ground around the holidays. I am positive that not one of my readers has ever heard me discuss the downsides of a small town and the 'curse' that has seems to follow all of the highschool students in the area.

Throughout all of my highschool years, we lost a student every year. (I will try to use student as to not draw out any particular person). All very sad instances, and in a highschool where there are only 900 people and everyone in town knows everyone else...it is devastating when a death happens...

and this year I was not surprised to come home and hear of another death that haunts our group of friends, lucky for me this time... I did not know her, but to my best friend who did... I am sorry that this christmas was once again clouded over with sadness.

This christmas was my first chirstmas without my friend A.M. and, christmas was her favorite time of the year. It was odd coming home to Ingersoll and missing that one person who last year we visited in her hospital room... still missing her greatly...

I guess Christmas time really does give you time to be thankful, and happy to be lucky enough to be surrounded by loved ones... I needed this christmas to remind me of that.

so, following this 'down' post on this boxing day, enjoy the relaxation and comforting moments of the next two weeks... merry christmas

eyes closed...

2005-12-22T00:09:00.000-05:00

today I made a wish. nothing special, just saw the clock strike 11:11 and decided that I might take advantage of that corny myth. I saw the time on a large clock on the side of the road, and quickly closed my eyes and wished.

now, wishing itself is already a corny practice, but I still take advantage of those little opportunities to act like a kid again...and wishing is definately one of those...

but the strangest part about the wish today was that I closed my eyes...while driving...as if I thought the chances of it coming true were lower with my eyes open. and I think I have always done this.

for some reason there is comfort in taking that moment to close your eyes and step away from the real world. everyone has done it (even myself) but until now I never really noticed the comfort that closing your eyes gives you.

the first kiss requires you to close your eyes, for you to notice that what is happening is really real and allows you to enjoy the moment.

when your stressed out, taking three seconds to breathe with your eyes closed lets you enjoy the silence of your mind and the comfort of thinking...

take a second, close your eyes, and enjoy...

organized christmas... I am such a nerd.

2005-12-20T10:26:00.000-05:00

If it wasn't obvious already, I do have a lot of nerdy qualities. and one of these qualities is my secret love of organization. (my room is complete devestation, but I am talking more socially organized). I have my weeks organized from the Sunday morning onwards, and am constantly looking to fill in the gaps within the schedule.

So, instead of relaxing over the break I have decided to give myself strict goals to achieve before the end of the holidays (because the end of the holidays also marks my twenty birthday)...

Maybe they are not all goals, but they are 'attainable attributes of life'. This christmas I am going to : conquer two books (already selected : the lovely bones, and the half blood prince), three movies (narnia, the producers, and memoirs of a geisha...and brokeback), see all my friends from home, go to Toronto in the new year for a couple days, new cell phone (check!), and go see one play (Annie, on wednesday night :) ).

All of these are reasonable and therefore can all be attained. Can you tell my parents leave me alone mon-fri 9-5 leaving my only option (since I am without car) is to blog, clean, and go for long walks through the country...

suprisingly relaxing, I mean, isn't that what these three weeks are all about?

holidays...

2005-12-18T23:46:00.000-05:00

I am at home on a Sunday night, so I figured I would blog about my large list of thoughts from today.

I watched Kenny vs. Spenny today and loved it,
is this a new favorite show in the making?
(Grey's anatomy was a repeat and I totally missed Desperate Housewives)

Addicted to facebook.com,
I am not linking up to it out of sheer laziness,
but it lets you check up on people from your highschool...
technology is baffling me.

postsecret.blogspot.com was really good today
some of the saddest ones I have seen in awhile
I feel out of all blogs this one is a must to read...
mixes art and emotion well.

My christmas tree
already set up
sans moi...saddening

The Producers,
uma and will ferell?
I am obviously going to go see it.

Toronto trip this holiday season
a must...
a visit to her and her
as well as one without blog

New person at work!
Finally, someone else...fun...

bought two books to read over the holidays
as well as the last harry potter
and the narnia books...
I should try to be a little bit more realistic with goals.

I am going to read one book over the next two weeks.
I am turning twenty in three weeks.

random as hell, and so stole the format from rosie.
copywritten? let's hope not...

what to call a post with no name.

2005-12-17T23:17:00.000-05:00

I am not sure if someone signed me up for this being an ass, or if this is just a constant, genuine mass email spam that I get at least once a week. No offence to the religious, but I am not christian, nor am I overly interested in joining a network of christian singles for dating purposes...

actually, it seems ironic that a christian network would contact me of all people, I fit zero of the churches criteria for good behaviour (or moral values).

I remember a time when I was haunted by emails about Shakira coming back into the music scene...and low and behold she has appeared.

perhaps these emails are signs of impending christianity?

I need a beer....

where do these keep coming from?

2005-12-15T22:44:00.000-05:00

I love how over the past week, a million video, scandolous pictures, and short clips have appeared online for humorous purposes...

well, I will help make that list grow, found some interesting links while being bored and surfing the net with my roomate...enjoy:

interesting - in response to those guys doing pelvic thrusts in no shirts?! I have no idea where this came from...

a game you must play

and I searched my name in wikipedia, and the closest result was 'god machine' (with a 10% relativity factor...)

I am all done school and look at what my life has become, I promise to post something more interesting once my brain recovers post-exams...

days of studying...

2005-12-11T09:37:00.000-05:00

As all other university students are, I too am currently suffering the wrath of the examination schedule (recap: 5 in 4 days...and 2 out of the way).

Yesterday I took the opportunity to study with friends at the Spoke and I am so glad I didn't pass this up. As Katie and I sat in the spoke, chit chatted, discussed life, and occasionally took breaks from our lengthy study notes to gawk around or grab another beverage (non alcoholic) from anywhere and everywhere.

Regardless, not only was this study day enjoyable, but also very beneficial. I caught up with an old friend, and enjoyed the company of drop ins, all while working away at REAL work...

oh yes, props to Laura who also was there at the beginning for our study session.

changes and constant thought...

2005-12-07T20:43:00.000-05:00

In the wake of many warnings of having too much personal info online, I have decided to revamp the mentionings of last names from this website...random (since it has been up for a year), but I figure it is for the best...

the change in title is partly because of this, and partly because I was bored with my MTV stolen 'the diary of...' as this was definately not a diary, so much as random entries. and for some reason I have been posting a lot, for who I am not exactly sure, but this blog does serve as a nice place to talk about ideas in your mind that sound ridiculous in a normal, sober, conversation.

lastly, I was doing my regular sift through blogs this afternoon and went past Rosie O'donnell's blog only to find out that she has turned off comments because people are constantly plaguing her site with hate comments... all I have to say is : fucking ignorance.

nothing more to add, but the new url will be turning into ongoingthoughtsofrob.blogspot.com

sorry to change, but security (apparently) should be an issue.

day of rest.

2005-12-06T19:48:00.000-05:00

After no sleep all weekend, and three tests in twenty four hours, I received an invite from my grandparents to head to there house for the day and help them around the house (and also partake in a nice home cooked meal and an afternoon of news programs and Law and Order (random, but true)).

I am getting to that age where my grandparents are starting to tell me the 'quality' stories from my parents past, as well as stories from there past and there personal thoughts. Sounds boring, but I actually enjoyed sitting and helping my grandma clean while she chatted away about various events she had been to in the 1950's, styles she thought were 'disgusting' (even the first time around), and funny memories from the past.

As I sat and listened, I couldn't help but think of all the "and one day" stories I already have and how many I am going to have by the time I get to her age. I am thinking about starting a REAL journal, like one I write in regularly (blog, I will not forget about you) but for stories that I will one day be able to open and share with my friends/relatives/...kids...

Another thing that I couldn't help but notice was how MUCH I am like my parents in every way. (actually, a bit like my grandparents to). My grandma would pick up a broom, start sweeping, find a magazine, and kick back and read (what I am notorious for doing (not finishing tasks)).

The day just made me smile, and kind of got me excited to head home and take a breather for the next four weeks and REALLY relax and think on my christmas break.

embarassment scale, it's been invented...

2005-12-05T21:47:00.000-05:00

I know, this is random. But I have come up with a scale for you to guage your own embarassment of how crazy your night(s) of debauchery are... I know, this sounds tough to guage, but considering my saturday (I gave myself a 3/10...someone told me it was more like a 6) regardless, here is how I shall break it down:

1- slightly drunk - freudian slips, telling of secrets, subtle embarassment
2- mildly drunk - talking loud, giggles, or drunken chatter box
3- a little drunk - talking like a mad dog (giggling still common)
4- getting crazy - this is still a fun stage...drinking socially still, party mingler, social smoking, etc..
5- crazy drunk - this is when the dancing begins
6- outrageous drunk - dance moves with a combination of any 3 or more symptoms from 1-4
7- really crazy drunk - borderline incoherent...you are still 'there', but how 'there' are you
8- disgustingly drunk - "you weren't making any sense" and/or passing out, removal from bar
9- grossly drunk - falling over, inablity to hold yourself up
10- puking...enough said...

After drinking doubles, doing shots, and having an incident with the ATM downstairs, I feel my night rated at maximum a 4... but it was a great night none the less...sorry for those I tried to fight, and sorry to Dakota Fanning, apparently I dislike you and felt the need to tell bar attendees that my feelings of hate towards you are present.

oh crazy nights, how you are ending now that I am in exams...

I will return to you on the 17th :) mark my word.

the bus stop...

2005-11-29T00:32:00.000-05:00

Today, as I waited for my 16 Adelaide bus to carry me away to the downtown core, I took a second to examine the 7 other people around me at the bus stop and realized...sometimes people are so stereotypical.

Over the last two years I have waited at many a crowded bus stops (the 2B @ Nat sci, the 13 in front of Delhi) regardless, there are always those certain characters waiting with you that almost make waiting a little more enjoyable...

The impatient: This is the person who checks the schedule every three minutes while pacing, checking the time, and making occasional trips into traffic to look down the street for the next bus...

The cell phoner: This is the person I enjoy the most, what with their awful conversations that are very suitable for an 'overhear at' website...this person normally acts like they are the ruler of the bus stop showing no dip in confidence when conversations turn to talk of significant others, or their whorey friends. ( I especially enjoy when their conversations come along with them onto the bus... they talk louder to overpower the engine, but really fulfill your goal of listening in)

The chatty kathie: you know who they are... 'wow, it sure is cold out', ' this driver is always late', or when they even cross the bridge to start up a 'you go to school?' or 'where are you coming from' where your answer truly does depend on your mood.

The token old person: this is the cute old lady who has her oversized purse, large sunglasses (non-stylish ones), and is smiling all the time and seats herself quietly in the front of the bus... you always notice and love them...

and the optional ones:
-token odd ball (fidgity, oddly dressed, talking about nothing)
-loud laugher
-the make out couple
-the moron (pulls the rope for the wrong stop, doesn't know how to read a schedule, asks the driver a thousand questions)

You know who you are and you know what category you fit into...as who just stands unattentively and waits for the bus?

school/stressfull/fun?

2005-11-28T08:13:00.000-05:00

The last twenty fours of my life have consisted of:
1) work (on a sunday...blah)
2) commencing more work on a nearly completed essay
3) email tag with t/a's and my prof until finally it resulted in a phone call
4) re-working essay (circa midnight)
5) 4am...bedtime...2000/3250 words (that I actually am happy with)
6)5:30am-wake up and venture to Fanshawe to finish my project
7)7:30am- project completed and heading for home
8)Phone call to mom 'bet you never thought I would be up this early on a monday?!'
9) back in front of the computer doing essay, until a brief break to blog...

hate it or love it...this is the best part of school...the stories you can tell from months of procrastination...

procrastinate away my friends (which I hope you are doing while reading this... as I know I am reading yours shortly after this post)

life is complete...

2005-11-24T13:11:00.000-05:00

I don't even know how to begin... I saw RENT last night and it was the best two hours of my life... (well, maybe I am still on my musical high, regardless) I loved the movie, it adapted to the big screen beautifully.

The entire cast did an amazing job, especially Idina Menzel, who plays such a different character in every show she does... and as the lezbian Maureen she was phenomenal.

I am going to see it again Sunday night (on a wonderous group date), but just to give everyone fair warning, pack tissues...the last 45 minutes of the movie was the saddest thing I ever seen...

La Vie Boheme!

Walk the line...

2005-11-19T16:07:00.000-05:00

Last night I headed to the movies with my parents for a 'family night' (fact check: yes, I am 19 years old...they just thought that us getting together now needs a 'title') Regardless, I took advantage of the free dinner/movie combination and we went to see 'Walk the Line', the biography of Johnny Cash (and June Carter Cash)... In brackets because she is obviously not the main character, but a very strong supporting character..

The movie was AMAZING, I totally fell into the trap of loving the country music of both June and Johnny, but I was amazed at the similarities between Ray (Ray Charles biography) and this film. Look at it like this: both were artists, from a family of two boys (less fortunate families), lost a sibling, went out on their own (military...can't remember what Ray did), started recording music, became addicted to drugs, and fell in love (with many trials along the way)...

that aside, the movie does tell a story that really does give you an idea of what the 50's was like (the audience's response to June) and it made Reese Witherspoon finally show some amazing talent...

Joaquin Pheonix (most likely spelt wrong) is creepy, but he did play a great 'man in black'...

Given that three huge movies are coming out over two weeks, this blog is going to be movie filled... (this, harry potter, rent)...

love it...

These are the days of my life...

2005-11-14T14:51:00.000-05:00

First of all, I would like to start by saying we have BASIC cable at our house... yes, as students we came to the responsible decision that we didn't need all the 'flashy' channels and we could get by with just 27 channels.

At first this seemed reasonable, we have the channels for my favorites (desperate housewives, gray's anatomy, etc.) but that was all we needed... but we never really thought of what we could watch mon-fri, 9-5.

Just to put this in perspective, all we get is court shows. Originally I couldn't watch them, but after a couple episodes of Judge Marilyn Milian, I couldn't resist myself... Now I have a daily dose of court shows including some old favorites like Judge Judy, Judge Joe Brown, and even some of the newer ones (but I forget their names...thank god).

Is there a lesson in all this? yes...
just pay the extra $ you cheap bastard and spring for much music... I mean, fandemonium is better than this crap...

funny highlights of the weekend, I hope you enjoy...

2005-11-13T19:30:00.000-05:00

- I am amazing at making street meet customized per person. Ms. alex and I split a sausage (post bar) and I toppinged it differently on both sides as in our drunken states we both were really picky ' no olives' ' i don't like onion', etc...

- coming home on thursday, drunk dialing like a madman, and then waking up my roomate to say
' Melissa, I just wish you would tell me when it's going to be SUNNY, and when it's going to be RAINY!'
'Rob, go to bed, your not making any sense'
'ugh, you always say this, your not making any sense'

-getting drunk randomly on a friday afternoon where, once again ms. alex was involved, when some random came up to our table and asked 'do you have a small dog?'...and later accosted by one of my faithful customers ( after i was very red faced )

-Rob: 'I find myself always asking the question...' (interrupted)
Margaux: 'who shot Kennedy?'
Rob: 'no...where in the world is Carmen Sandiego? I mean, I wake up everyday and I am like 'GAH! where the hell could she be?!''

-'Hey, we are the neighbours and we are having a bondfire, you two should come...'
SILENCE/AWKWARD MOMENTS IN CONVERSATION
'you guys should leave'- jenn

- 'I am so glad that idiot left,' said after a very drunk man left, ' now it can return to the peaceful male bathroom environment' (heard from a man in a stall as I was in Barney's bathroom)

Unproductive, fun weekend...
back to school mode.

gotta love it.

2005-11-10T15:50:00.000-05:00

' Cait, you can't make fun of blogs cause you don't have one...' (Kt)

laugher ensues...

then a couple of Terry Tate movies, JN2 tradition...
'that ain't yo' cake Phillip, that's Simone's cake' and 'you run out of joe, you make some mo'
(followed by the Terry Tate 'Whoo!' (cannot be described on paper).

gotta love a visit to the old residence.

'You don't know Rob Stewart? he was a legend' ...good times.

they could have a million of these sites...

2005-11-07T18:55:00.000-05:00

my new favorite site... I can dream that I live there...

The countdown is on...

2005-11-05T23:16:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I have mentioned it before but I am mentioning it again...

If you are not excited about Rent coming to theatres, than you might want to quit reading...

I have planned the next month very strategically, in sum : work hard up until NOVEMBER 23 where I will begin to binge at the theatres on repeat showings of RENT...

I know, I am a loser and obsessed with musical theatre...get over it...but I am hoping this movie becomes a new 'Rocky Horror' where you go to the theatre and sing along, and dress like the characters... I only dream of this to actually happen.

I am so going to moo at the movie, this will happen during MAUREEN's song when she asks the audience to 'moo with her'...which I am most excited for...

Songs from the show that are in my top four:
1) seasons of love
2) no day but today
3) light my candle
4) goodbye love

This is your preparation, use it to your advantage.
18 days...

2005-11-02T21:15:00.000-05:00

I just want to travel again...back to Brazil?

A life altering conversation...

2005-11-02T14:55:00.000-05:00

I know, I had one conversation with a professor and I am claiming that it changed my life. In reality, it just solidified my decision that I might be doing the wrong thing.

An update: After constant unenjoyment of my joint program I figured I should take steps into deciding what I really want out of my education (instead of just 'I will just do this and get it done')...Over the last two weeks I have been spending time really narrowing on exactly what types of work I want to do, and where I want to be headed upon completion of my undergrad...stressful decision? I think yes.

The joint program I was in, although successful for most, didn't really 'capture' my interest as something I could ever do as a full time career, nor did I think it would lead me towards anything that I might enjoy doing...hence my decision to opt-out of this program at Christmas.

Yes, I will be switching to my honours MPI (Mit first, then onwards) and I will be trying to gear my electives at international based courses...as in: I want to work abroad...

I am going to apply for a university exchange hopefully to a third world country (I know, why not Italy, France, or Austrailia?) I am looking more for the experience and the study of a third world country, begin to analyze and see the big differences in the world. I am hoping that this new found 'path' in education will, in the end, get me to where I truly want to be.

So yes, a 2 hour conversation with an amazing professor led me to believe that I should be doing what I want right now, and I should do my best to get to where I want to be upon graduation right now...

so I'm doing it...

Knock, Knock...

2005-10-28T09:47:00.000-04:00

I have become the unofficial 'uninvited' houseguest, and I love it!

How would one describe my postion? perhaps as this;

unofficial 'uninvited' houseguest: a student, who decides on their own, to stop by friends houses on a weekly (sometimes more than this) basis and enjoy the company of the tenants as well as serve as a constant distraction for the time you are there...

This year, considering my fairly lengthy walk from campus, I often make pit stops at friends houses who live conveniently en route to my house. I am not saying that these visits are pointless, quite often they begin by me stopping by to pick something up that has been left behind or just to stop in a say a quick 'hello'...

I will be the first to admit that it never turns out this way, and I do have a wonderful example of this:
-going to pick up my bag, this turns into a halloween costume check/comment period, then a terrible movie (never watch this film), and eventually an adventure into a parking lot resulting in funny phrases like "we were just performing a skit, hope your cool with that SERT..."

I am just glad I claimed the position before others had the chance, now I feel as though if I were to show up at one of my 'houses' and see another random trying to claim my title we might have to have some kind of challenge to see who conquers as 'unofficial uninvited house guest'...

all I have to say is 'bring it...' as I ain't going no where...

practical work + rob = impossible

2005-10-27T13:23:00.000-04:00

Today I hopped out of my bed at 3:30 a.m. to head to the studio's at Fanshawe... and yes, that is 'am' after the time.

I got to Fanshawe and started to put my heart and soul into getting this, one of the many, assignment down as it will be a killer come test time. I began to feel a little sick after about fifteen minutes of work and eventually got sick and decided it would be best to return home to bed rather than drag myself through this hellious assignment.

I went home, slept for another 6 hours and returned to the same room to continue work on the assignment... could it be that I am allergic to college? or just I am technologically inept when it comes to sitting down and getting my brain and hands to line up? What happened to just bull shitting theories and drawing connections between stories, articles, and beliefs?

I will keep you all posted of how my hands on activites turn out, so far not so bad, but I can feel the impending pressure of the upcoming assignments... and practise doesn't make perfect, fuck the person who made up that phrase...

I am a sell out...

2005-10-24T11:43:00.000-04:00

I know, how tacky is it to casually post about a new product on your blog? (especially one from such a horrid conglomerate like CocaCola) but my summer addiction to diet coke has led to a love for all new forms of diet beverages.... and who knows, perhaps this is a product placement in which CocaCola will be paying for the rest of my post-secondary education (is it bad that I can sell out that easily?)

Anyways, back to the original story of how Ms. Alex and I spent our orientation week addicted to Diet Coke(now, I believe addiction is the perfect word as there wasn't one moment where one of us didn't have a 'd.c.' on us, or weren't in a desperate hunt to find one) and I thought all along that d.c. was full of 'zero's'.... I stand corrected.

Yes, I fell victim to being suckered into Coke's new 'Diet coke Zero' and am ashamed to admit my enjoyment of the new product... and I know, how sad that this is
a) news on an mit students blog
b) I am actually using up a monday afternoon writing about this
c) probably going to go upstairs and have one....

I'm a sell out, but come on, aren't you craving one?
last product promo of the blog, I promise...

constant high....

2005-10-20T00:22:00.000-04:00

well, it has been four days since we first met, so I figured I must blog about it... after that last negative post about school it as though my life has completely turned around.

On Saturday night I went out and partied on the town and I met someone...amazing because we are in the same program, have a ton of stuff in common, and I had a ridiculously amazing time with him on saturday night...

an exchange in phone numbers has led to talking everyday, which I love...A date last night, which a perfect first date, and a phone call tonight that just made me smile...

i just had to blog about it...

stuck...

2005-10-15T08:15:00.000-04:00

I did my first "on air" radio shift this morning... at 7am (hence why this post is occuring at 8am)... and I feel as though I am not "in love" with this program...

But is this just tired/grumpy Rob ranting about his joint program? this is what I cannot decide...

Let me outline the reasons why I am not enjoying this program:
1) It is not a monday to friday, 9-5 program... a radio shift can be anywhere from 7am-midnight, monday-sunday. This is probably the worst part as I have been told NOT to have a part time job (kind of necessary for us students who aren't riding on our parents wallets) and we have been told that we are to work around their schedules, not them working around ours (which means we don't even get to fill out an availability, you take what you get)
EXAMPLE: Shift #1, saturday 6am; shift #2, wednesday 11pm (I have a midterm the next day); shift #3, saturday 11pm...

2) I find I am not interested in the classes like I was last year. Don't get me wrong, I love my 201 course at Western, but radio preparation, production, etc. all lead me to dislike this program as the classes are so straight forward.

3) We don't even get to pick our schedules, it was handed to us. this means I have class all over the board, sometimes with 8 hour breaks (causing even more time that I cannot get a part time job for)

4) I miss all the theory, essays, and lectures from Western last year. most of you are wondering what I could possibly mean by this? but seriously, last year I loved analyzing films, studying novels, and researching essays. This year, my only chance to do that is in 201, the rest of the time is factual tests, and hands on tests (which I am not doing bad in, I am just not entertained with them)

It is a sad story when the representative of this faculty is trying to determine his love for the program, but this feeling that I might be in the wrong program just began today...

oh well, I guess I will have to spend some time thinking...

p.s. this was my hundreth post, and a pretty crappy subject area...damn school stresses

not the same...

2005-10-13T20:13:00.000-04:00

It's not the same being sick when you are away at school. You know when you feel it coming on and those around you really feel no sympathy (or care) towards your oncoming illness. and I hate that. I am being hypocritical as normally when someone says there sick I am quick to think "baby...", but coming out of a cold I will try to never think that again.

The things that suck are:
- you have to pay the ridiculously high prices for medicines (and hi, the "no name brand" only knocks four dollars off of 12.99, and when you need cough syrup, pills, and tylenol it can turn into a $30 adventure)
- you have to prepare your own comfort food ( chicken soup doesn't taste the same when you make it yourself)
- you suffer through the cold with little sympathy from those around you (you empty your own garbage full of kleenex's, wash all your empty tea mugs, and struggle through putting away your mess after you enjoy your chicken noodle soup)
- and finally, there is some genuine comfort in having someone (normally a parent) take some pity on you and allow you just to put your feet up and relax (could you imagine having a prof pull a "Rob, you don't look so good...head home and put your feet up and I will stop by to help you with your assignment and to make you some soup")

Needless to say I am almost over my cold, but felt the need to express my coldness towards them (a pun on illness, the ultimate in wit)...

vitamin c it up, we are in cold season pt. 2... I can hardly wait for the flu season to begin...

Les Miserables...

2005-10-11T10:14:00.000-04:00

On Saturday my mother and I went to Toronto for the afternoon to see Les Miserables at the Princess of Whales... this was by far the best production of Les Mis I have ever seen. Apparently, the lead ( Jean Val Jean) was the same person who we saw last time we went to see Les Mis, which we found somewhat embarassing that we have seen it so many times (myself three, my mom four) but it is her favorite musical...

I, again, am caught in my post-musical viewing blur where everyday I find myself listening to "one day more" or "on my own" my two favorite songs from teh show (especially one day more as it incorporates everyone in the cast). Hopefully this musical fix will hold me over until the Rent movie comes out in December (which I cannot wait for) and Wicked returns to Toronto next fall....

is it sad that musicals are my life? I'm voting no...

a visit to the i.dot

2005-10-10T20:41:00.000-04:00

I am back from my quick weekend stint in Ingersoll, and I have to say, I still appreciate the fact that I don't live there anymore...

Ingersoll, as it just seems to becoming way more clear, is just too small town. small town means people talk, and people talking just gets on my nerves.

That aside, I did have fun seeing friends, family, and just enjoying some free time to sleep in my old room. I think I win the "small town family" award as this morning when I woke up my parents were watching the Blue Collared Comedy Tour and boiling turkey to make stew for dinner... makes me smile just thinking about it!

Oh ingersoll, how small town u are in every way...

purification died...

2005-10-07T10:45:00.000-04:00

I broke from my body purification, and now I am suffering the backlash...

or the hangover, it really depends on your take on the situation...

Needless to say, it's over, and I think I tried to drag others down (poor Laura and my "8am train rides are so much more fun when you are hungover" as I can not even sit in a rocking chair this morning without the nausea filling my body (the nausious feeling)).

But, is it bad when I wake up the morning after I have to go check my msn to make sure that I haven't overly embarassed myself, I use overly because obviously there is going to be those cases where I msn someone and feel no remorse, but then there are the randoms who I sometimes decide "hey, it's been too long" (keeping in mind I am utterly wasted)...

I would try to say the detox begins again, but it is the first weekend at home in a long time and I cannot wait to see everyone, so no, no detox....

happy turkey everyone!

Post homecoming body purification...

2005-10-05T18:23:00.000-04:00

Last weekend proved to be the best (in comparison to only one other) homecoming I have attended. The celebrations began thursday and travelled right on through until last call saturday night...oh wait, and a wee post homecoming session sunday (I might as well be honest about it).

After this weekend of amazing debauchery, and before I head home to party with friends from Ingersoll, I am finding it necessary to allow my body to cleanse itself of the first month of school partying...

attempts were made by others to crack my detox (not to name names so I will call them "al" ), and others tried but quickly fell off the band wagon, let's call this friend "sage". I managed to make it through my stressful week of classes, acknowledging that I still have two days left, and I am proud that I have made it this far...

perhaps a celebration?

Maybe, maybe not...

p.s. did my nicknames accidentally link to the guilty parties? oops :)

Blog touring.

2005-10-03T13:29:00.000-04:00

Over the last couple of online blog tours I found some really amazing sites that I feel I cannot keep to myself anymore, can you believe that I attempted being selfish with good blogs I found?

but here they are:
http://dipcafe.blogspot.com - this website is like being taken away to europe for a brief portion of the day...the photography is gorgeous (I have to admit I just enjoy the photos, so no comment on the writings...lol)

actually, looking at my list of favorites, I apparently only found one...strange, I guess there will be more to come.

p.s. uwo2005=best hoco yet

thank goodness for responsible people

2005-09-30T13:30:00.000-04:00

Thursday's: until university, were just days that often dragged on as they were the second last day before the weekend. University has changed this.

Thursday has become one of the most debaucherous nights of the week and I am not sure when/why this change occured. Perhaps the low drink price (almost half of the price on the weekend), or the fact that their are rarely lines (minus Jack's) on London's beloved Richmond St. Regardless, Thursday's happen and are meant to be taken advantage of...

and last night they were.

I started off with original plans of heading to res for a pre-drink (I was late, missed the people, and ended up going with my double booked plans). So there I was in a house party discussing strategies of this homecoming weekend with my dear friend (perhaps I will leave her anonymous in this blog, but an amazing friend indeed).

The conclusion was that last night was "her night" and I would have saturday night as "my night" and this meant if it was "your night" you misbehaved and the other person watched/aided you when needed... for some reason the division of nights sparked a reason to power drink and subsequentially taking over the other persons night, my apologies.

Luckily though, my friend was there to say "are you ready to leave?" and "of course we are going to Sammy's Souvlaki", which to a drunk man is the sweetest thing you can hear.

After discussing the possibility of heading back to the par, hoovering a poutine, fry and souvlaki (for two people) we called it a night, redivised the weekends "nights", and said farewell.

This morning I was laughing at myself for
a) stealing the night
b) getting ridiculous after planning to stay remotely sober
c) how my friend turned into the responsible one and kept a watchful eye out for myself

And as much as I normally criticize the sober "watcher" in the bar, I rarely give credit to their aid when it is most needed, so I say thank you to her and to any others who have come to the aid of the intoxicated Rob Stewart...

Photos Found!

2005-09-28T20:39:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't know what a keg
stand, allow me to demo through my photos...and reasons why you should never have a bottomless source of alcohol at a party at your own house...

These are my feet in the air...

and a guest appearance from the green funnel!

Yes, I am chugging beer upside down... I miss summer :)
can you tell it is test season?

Lean on me...

2005-09-27T00:07:00.000-04:00

Have you seen the commercial out for the Sick Kids Hospitals?
I will be the first to admit that I don't do well with anything illness/hospital related, so I usually try to avert my attention away from these types of advertisements for fear of tears streaming down my face.

The other day I was caught off guard by these new commercials where kids, doctors, and parents are all doing different activities and singing "lean on me". I want to start by saying that this is the saddest/somewhat powerful commercial I have seen in a while, and yes I did cry when I saw it, the commercial also gives you that feeling of how lucky you are that most of us didn't spend our childhoods in and out of the hospital.

Pretty deep post after ranting about my evil friend the skunk, but I just saw the commercial again and while there were no real tears, the eyes were watery...

I am such a sap.

what is the deal?

2005-09-26T23:41:00.000-04:00

I don't know what it is about North London, mainly UWO area, that has been plagued by skunks lately. I have had four run-ins with these disgusting animals, and am wondering when their population quadrupled in the Western area!
These are my run-ins:
1) O-week: this was my first one so I calmly crossed the road and continued walking (I saw a racoon three blocks later)
2) Stoned out of my tree the following week: I heard a rustle, stopped, looked to my right and five feet away was the ugly animal moseying along...trippy...
3) Walking in our "subdivision" after work: again, walking along like normal and hearing a rustle...realising what it was and dashing across the road
4) Finally, tonight, with Jenn: rooting through her neighbour's garbage and this one was at least the size of a back pack

My ultimate fear is being sprayed by a skunk which would result in my withdrawal from school... yes, I am that vain that I would pull myself from all social aspects in my life until the smell was gone. Vanity, it's a terrible thing.

trying something new...

2005-09-24T11:36:00.000-04:00

Yes, I am a loser, I stayed home last night and passed up the opportunity to go out (a much deserved rest, but I feel so out of the loop after missing one night of Richmond Pub crawling...)

I decided to use the night to make my self feel more independent so I went and rented a movie for myself (the wedding date...rent it, it's really good). I balanced this movie with a bath (I know, how posh) and during my bath I popped in my roomates Josh Groban c.d.
Now, I am not a fan of Josh Groban, but decided that his soothing music would make good for a perfect friday night bath.

Needless to say, I fell asleep in the tub. I woke up in a tub of cold water some 15 minutes later (I can't vouch for temperature or time, but the c.d. hadn't ended and there are like 17 songs, and I was on 12...and I remember hearing song 4). Embarassing? I am going to vote no as this night served as the perfect "segway" into my weekend of relaxation. But I am now a Josh Groban fan, I also heard the new Destiny's Child song "stand up for love" and I am officially in love with this single...

I have come to the conclusion that staying home on a weekend night makes you sappy and emotional (in a good way) but still, relaxing in your home alone is the perfect way to just enjoy the silence...

this is going to be amazing..

2005-09-23T20:26:00.000-04:00

The other day in class my friend was singing "seasons of love" and of course, my little broadway sensor flicked on and I decided to spark a conversation on my obsession that is broadway music.
Low and behold, I was meeting another die-hard Rent fan who discreetly asked,
"Have you seen the preview for the movie?"
"No, I didn't think they had one yet..."
"Oh, they have one..."

Let me tell you, I have watched this preview now three times and I couldn't get to my blog fast enough to let everyone know just how perfect this movie will be... if the movie lets me down you will see real tears...

The preview is on imdb.com (search: rent 2005). I can't wait.
"no day but today..."

etiquette lessons on beer

2005-09-18T18:35:00.000-04:00

I started back at work this weekend and I feel the need to lay out the rules on how to efficiently visit a beer store. and they shall go like this:

1) Empties: every employees biggest hate, so let's lay out the ground rules:
-all bottles should be sorted by colour and shape (browns with browns, clears with clears, and stubbies with stubbies) an example would be that Moosehead should not be in the same case as Molson Canadian bottles (different colours)
-if the case is damaged, pick up some cases from the beer store for your empties. DO NOT make the attempt to carry them into the store as when the box breaks (and it will) the cashier will most likely treat you like crap
-pre-count bags of cans (we just need to know a number as they go into a huge bin)
-do not bring in bags of bottles, well, we don't encourage this as normally the customer has to go into the bag of skunky beer to dig them out
-chipped/broken bottles= blue box (we aren't giving you cash for them)
-and finally, do not stock pile your empties for the year and return them all in April. This is the worst season for returning empties (spring clean up, students, etc...) and we see enough moldy bottles, bug infest boxes, and rotten cases that we want to throw up.. so how about you return cases in bundles of 5 (an even $12)

2) Identification
-yes, we are probably going to ask, and rather than playing the "I wonder if I'll get carded ?game" just have it ready as it will save time on both yours and the cashiers part at the register
-don't screw around about i.d.'s. if you realized you forgot it, go home and get it... we have all night

3) Intoxicants/Minors
-if your drunk, we can't serve you...shitty deal, but it's the law. Yelling, screaming and swearing at us will not give us the urge to rush and get your beer for you. Also, this could lead to you getting banned from the store (just as a cautionary item)
-minors: do not send someone who you don't know to get you beer. it could end up being that they are refused service and/or denied from the store

4) ask
-we know tons of types of beer...whatever you are looking for we probably know it, so go ahead and ask and we can help you out (rather than standing/staring at the wall)

5) try to avoid the peak times
-sometimes inevitable, but if you want fast service, try to avoid the 5 o'clock rush...or the closing rush (the last hour of the day is our busiest)

and as a final note, a beer store uniform on the bus should not be a conversation starter...
"do you get discounts"
"no"

I answer this every day on the way to work...
The anger must be flowing from my lack of sleep...

I guess there is a first for everything...

2005-09-18T18:22:00.000-04:00

Today I was pondering about all of the stuff I have done since being back at school that has happened for the first time ever... my list made me laugh at myself a little bit.

1) I have never flirted with a Mr. Sub attendant in an attempt to get a discount (sad, but true and I was sober...)
2) Ever danced with someone to make someone else jealous
3) had street meet more than twice in one week...
4) talked to a bouncer to skip a line, and having it work! (oh the Frog)
5) gone out partying at night and not coming home until 9 am the next day...
6) sang karaoke in my house to wake up my roomates, at 2 am, after the bar...
7) along with the one above, sang rappers delight (hadn't done it until now)

Quazi-embarrassing (spelling error on quazi?) but I felt this was the place to admit to some of them...

still more to come I hope.

another epic night...

2005-09-14T23:12:00.000-04:00

The other day I got a call from my parents inviting me to the Robert Plant concert... the first thing that crossed my mind was "who the fuck is Robert Plant?". As my mom hummed lyrics to Zepplin songs over the phone I realized that I did know who he was, but it took some convincing before I finally agreed to go with my family to the concert (actually, a free dinner was offered...that is all it took...).

After dinner, and two pints of beer I entered into the JLC for the concert, and I still really had no idea what to expect. The Trews opened the show and I was pretty amazed that I recognized and enjoyed there music (I am sure rock fans everywhere want to spit in my face, but I do speak the truth). After there short stint on stage, loud cheering erupted welcoming the main act...

The band entered and then outcame Plant just rocking out to his fellow bandmates. The first sonf of the show I didn't recognize, but he did stick to a Zepplin playlist (Whole lotta love, etc...) however, he did not play Stairway to Heaven (to which the crowd was shocked leaving the arena in crushed hopes that it would have been the second encore).

I didn't mean to underestimate Plant, but let me tell you, this guy can move. He yelled out that he had been "chemical free for 27 years"...and that all he has is "a good sense of humour". and you could see this through his witty comments here and there.

I am not sure if it was the beers drank, the smell of mary jane in the crowd (sorry about that last post by the way) but man can this man still rock after 30 years being a part of one of the best bands in rock history...

Spoken like a true rock fan, lol...now I consider myself a die hard...p.s. I will post my personal pics later.

I attempted something unattemptable...

2005-09-13T22:39:00.000-04:00

Mindless blabber from an intoxicated mind:

I attempted to write tonights blog about serious topics, and after four attempts I called it quits.

So, I decided just to keep it simple and write about what came to mind...so here goes.
1) I just had wendy's...it was spectacular
2) I hate having to go to different schools, it is tiring and makes you alienated from one and unaccepted at the others
3) point two brings me to the thought that I hate being at one of the "institutions"
4) that for fear of being slandered by an insitution I have ommitted their names
5) in relation to #4, "how responsible am I?"
6) I have S. Smeltzer for 201 and I am pretty sure this girl cracks me up.
7) i am so tired/a little out of it.. .I might need to call it a night
8) night called...
9)good night!

I love the surreal...

2005-09-12T18:33:00.000-04:00

Epic week. O-week this year was two times better than I ever could have imagined. Sophs/frosh/people/places/activities were all amazing. And this is all that will be written about my first experience as a soph...for now...

Yesterday, I was greeted with a surprise visit from none other than Miss Anni Spadafo herself ( I type as though the visit was personalized for myself). I was nervous that our hug and quick chat in the quad would be all I would get to see of my darling Spadafo, but luckily in my state of debauchery we started to hang out at Barney's...
And this is where the surrealness began.
-both of us together after thinking that it would probably be a while until her first visit (or my first toronto visit to her)
-both of us drunk and talking about relationships (and lack there of)
-the table vent (drunken rants essentially)
-Sammy's Souvlaki post-bar... a tradition...
-and finally, the drop off at Med Syd that nearly made me feel like I still lived in residence

I just had to write about this to explain that sometimes people make you proud, and Anni has certainly done this for me. No matter where she goes, or what she does, she is herself 100%...

That visit was the perfect finish to a perfect Oweek.

J..n..2...tight...holla...props to that! (inside jokes never get old)

2005-08-30T15:01:00.000-04:00

Mini putt gone wrong...or gone right? It's amazing the ideas that we came up with between five people 19+, 5 putters, 5 balls, and about a hundred things around us to make into funny jokes...

This that and the other.

2005-08-29T23:18:00.000-04:00

Before heading off to school for good (as in permanently living in London) I realised I had a ton of shit to do before I finalized my plans... This is what I have been doing since this morning.
1) Tracking down a desk for my house- apparently I am the pickiest person alive (corner desk, funky desk, matching colours...etc...) I go to town in every store and then right when I would pay I decide I should look somewhere else... and here I am . deskless...
2) Forgot that I had made plans with about 100 people before I left Ingersoll- friends, family, right down to old high school teachers... I have covered about 50% of my list.
3) packing- groceries, hygenics, and everything in between...residence did way to much planning for me...
4) catching up on small town gossip- a town with a population of 10 000 had a stabbing, robberies and recently had an officer shot at... I had to find out the culprit (someone from highschool...) and the town is eating this up...

My secret love for small towns is the gossip... love/hate relationship. but living it up for the next 48 hours...

stupid bouncers...

2005-08-26T13:46:00.000-04:00

Last night was the first night in my house (as in my new residence) and we decided to kick it off with a bang! It all began with dinner with friends and then a wonderful pre-drink before heading out to Jack's for the night.

So there we were drinking and dancing and having a great time...we then wanted a change of scenery so we decided to go bar hopping! Jim Bob's was empty, so we headed back to Jack's...
DENIED.
Then we went to the Pheonix (because I was not up for walking)
we were greeted by the bouncers at the patio...
" can you walk to that pole and back for me"-bouncer
my friend did a wonderful attempt at a sobre "strut" in the direction of the pole and back.
DENIED.
So g.t.'s it was.
after some more drinks (2.50 beers on thursday) the night ended with a great time and a loss of memories!

loved it... best time ever, a nice welcome to the new neighbourhood.

Red Eye

2005-08-25T12:20:00.000-04:00

After admitting to my love for Rachel McAdams, I decided I should go see her new movie... and I was shocked at how good this movie was. I have come to the conclusion that Rachel McAdams only does good movies (with Wedding Crashers, The Notebook (yes, I liked it), and Mean Girls (made me laugh so hard) under her belt) it is clear that this girl is an amazing actress.
Somehow she manages to play a different character in every movie... I love it... Red Eye is suspenseful and very well done considering 3/4 of the movie takes place on a plane. See it, enjoy it... and admit to your obsession with rachel mcadams...lol

2005-08-22T16:53:00.000-04:00

Some of Brian's wonderfully captured photography...oh soph weekend, such a wonderful thing...