BELLA!....ella...ella...eh...eh

So, it’s been months since I’ve written a blog and after some reminders to write from some kind people I’m giving it a go again.

First off, David and I got a puppy! It was complete surprise to me! It all happened on September 9^th and I was late coming home from work. David was texting me a bit more than usual about when I’d be home. Which I didn’t think was odd at the time but now I do. Anyway I walked up the front steps to our house and there was David standing at the doorway. I smiled and said Hi, but he just stood there smiling until I was closer. Then his smile grew larger and he said “Now I got you something today, but you can’t scream” Sarcastically I replied “What did you get me a puppy?” and with that David opened the door, and there she was! I’m not sure how he walked over to the other side of the room but for me the world just kind of stopped. David grabbed his cell phone and started filming me. To sum up the video it is just me saying “Is she mine?!" over and over and David "Yes she is" At one point I said “I think I’m going to throw up" (mind you, I’ve wanted a puppy for 6 years and David’s always said no)

That was 3 weeks ago and Bella (her name) is now 4 months old. She’s a golden retriever, and she’s potty trained, can fetch, sit and lay down. I’m one happy momma.

So that’s been a huge change on my life, the first 12 days it was just Bella and me. David went away two weekends in a row and worked nights all week. Of course he’d finally get me a puppy and then just leave us to fend for ourselves. FYI: The first day of having a puppy will be the best day of your life, and the first night will be the worst night of your life. She cried and cried in her crate and it just broke my heart, not to mention we didn’t sleep at all. Now she loves her crate so much, when I annoy her by trying to snuggle too much, she’ll get up and go in there to get away from me.  

Anyway I gotta go cause it's dinner time for Ms. Bella and Me.

- D

Quebec Trip 2011

Alrighty, so it’s been a busy last couple of days. This past weekend my friend and I travelled to Quebec and Montreal to see one of my favourite musicians (Chuck Ragan) play a show. So here is Quebec trip 2011 with Krystles.

Thursday I was awake at 3:45am...I was not the happiest camper to be awake that early but I was excited! (Did you know the sun rises at 5am? I do now) I was at Krystle’s by 5:30am and away we went. I really can’t remember any of the first 400klm of the trip, I think I fully woke up somewhere in the middle of New Brunswick. Once we hit Quebec (is there no welcome to Quebec sign?) I wish I had paid better attention in French class as the signs were a little confusing.

First night in Quebec was a write off. Krystle and I took turns driving and it took us 11 and a half hours to get there (pee breaks included). Thanks to Stella (the name for my GPS, because everyone should name their GPS) we arrived safely. The first night we went out to dinner at a pub around the corner and we had terrible service and food but we were so tired we didn’t care. (Editors note: the people we met in Quebec were amazing, so nice and always helping us out this was the only terrible experience) After dinner we walked down the street and picked up a bottle of wine, then went back to the hotel had one glass and passed out.

Day 2: We were out the door by 9am and thanks to our hotel’s concierge who was the sweetest girl ever! She gave us a map and drew out our route. So we hopped on a bus (which for those of you who know me, I’ve been on a bus now 7 times my entire life) and up to old Quebec we went. It is sooo beautiful! LOVE that place! We walked around, shopped, ate at a cute little pub and had an amazing time. I learned if you look at a sales clerk shocked and confused they'll switch from French to English.

After shopping all morning we made our way back to the hotel to get ready for the show then headed to the venue to eat dinner. We were early, and after dinner we went into the bar but no one was there. The bartender came over and talked to us for a good half hour (super nice guy) then we decided to find beer and go back to the hotel to wait. Lucky Quebecers sell their beer at convenience stores which was right beside the bar.

Anyway by the time we went back to the venue the crowds showed up and we were lucky enough to get a table. I went to to the merch table to buy a t-shirt and the fiddle player (John) was selling them. I chatted with him for about 20mins about everything, from us travelling to Quebec to see them, to music and whatnot. He was awesome. Throughout this whole time Chuck was walking around so I finally mustered up the balls and asked him and Dave Hause for a picture, they were super nice and said yes.

Since this post is getting far to long I’ll cut to my favourite part of the entire trip. Chuck was just starting his set and we managed to get the front row. I’m standing there when two guys push their way beside me and start yelling. Mad I crossed my arms and made a angry face. Then one of the drunken guys looks at me and speaks broke French in a Scottish accent. This is where I pulled out my “jes napa pau france”...a little stunned the drunk Scottish/French guy asked me where I was from, I replied Nova Scotia, then he asked if I came all that way just to see Chuck and I said yes. Then he’s like “do a shot!” I nicely declined the offer as I was already a couple of beers in and I wanted to remember Chuck.

The next thing I know the guy leaves comes back with two shots and leans and asks me my favourite song is, I replied "Bleeder". The next thing I know he’s yelling at Chuck to come over to us, Chuck looks and then does walk over. The drunk guy hands Chuck a shot then one to me and replies “Sing Bleeder to her! She came a long way just to see you!” Chuck looks at me, we cheers, take the shot (which burned like hell because I don’t drink Whiskey) and then he walks back to the mic and starts playing Bleeder! the front row of people (who watched all of this) moved me to the center of the crowd and Chuck sangs Bleeder to me. That was the best moment ever. I was one happy camper. The whole trip was worth it in that 4minutes. Also after the show, Chuck gave and signed the setlist for me.  

I’m too lazy to write about Montreal right now, day 3 and 4 will be the next blog post.

- D

I'm Still Here!

I haven’t blogged in a long time and until now I just re-read my last one and it was terrible.  So let’s try this again…

The other week I had a meeting at RIM, which is the coolest building ever! It wasn’t a job interview, it was just a meeting.  So, as I waited for someone to come and meet me (you can’t just walk in that place)  I instinctively pulled out my Blackberry and filled the time with browsing the interweb and BBMing. Then it dawned on me and I realized….they’re probably reading everything I’m writing….Paranoid I turned my phone off immediately, and sat there the rest of the time fidgeting uncomfortably, so badly the security guard probably thought I had ADHD.  I’m pretty sure if someone had tin foil, I would have made a tin foil hat so that they couldn’t read my thoughts. God knows what those tech guys are inventing now an days (in the end the meeting went great)



Me hugging the sign on the way back to the car

 Another event that happened was last weekend I asked my friend if she wanted to go on a hike in Musquodoboit. She said yes, and excited about my second hike ever, I packed a small lunch, camera, and put on my new hiking shoes (“new” because I don’t exercise and until now never had an excuse to wear them) So! we started out on our hike on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. Well, I was under the impression we were going to be going on a nice leisurely hike, and 10 minutes into the hike I realized my drill sergeant friend had a different idea of what a hike should be. Every time I paused for a break she would turn around and say “DO YOU WANT TO FIT IN A WEDDING DRESS OR NOT? LET’s GO!” Alarmed at this idea that I wouldn’t want to be plump on my wedding day I would start moving double step…..Sweating and gasping un controllably, I soon realized, I’m not even engaged! And no plans on it!


So, of course I would slow down again, she would turn and give me a glare, and the thought of being a bride and overweight on my wedding day came back into my head, freaking me out once again and I’d pick up the pace.  (after re reading that last line I just realized how sad my life is, but I’m not going to change it) I believe at one point I even said “I HATE THIS HIKE, and I know I’m complaining a lot but we are not friends right now!” The moral of this story is we’re still friends but I will never hike with her again.

I’m getting tired just writing about that whole experience, and so I’m going to go eat an ice cream sandwich to make myself feel better.

- D

Hump Day!

Again I have nothing else to write about so we’re going to Danielle on the spot thinking.
Well it’s been raining for about 2 weeks now and I’m pretty sure everyone in Nova Scotia is slowly going insane by this and I am no exception. Usually the saying goes, if you don’t like the weather here wait ten minutes and it’ll change. While that is a correct assumption, the weather changes usually within fifteen minutes and the chances are that the sun will come out but wait another fifteen and then it’ll be down pouring rain once more.  Today especially is just one of those days where you feel like punching the rain in the face and stealing it's lunch money.

Anywho enough of that depressing subject, on a lighter note, my best friend came home Monday from 15 months spent in Korea teaching. Krystle has been a good friend of mine for quite a few years and David will be the first one to tell you that when we hang out all rules are out the window. We always have a good time and if we both make it home in one piece then it was a good night. So last night we had a wine night just so we could talk and catch up. We ate and talked and talked, that girl has travelled and had some amazing stories to tell.

So, David came home from work with his house a mess and two girls sitting at the dinner table pouring more glasses of wine, eating and talking loudly between the giggles. He offered to drive Kryslte home after we were finished, and so afterwards, on the way to drive Krystle home she decided to go to her friend Jays house. David turned down Jay’s driveway and Krsytle got out and ran to the door. We sat in the car as she ran and I said “David just wait until Krystle goes inside before we leave”... “Just wait a second until we make sure Jays home and she’s inside”... “Just wait a second” the next thing I know we’re backing out of the driveway, halfway down the street. We never saw if Krsylte made it inside, because David ignored me and just reversed out of the driveway. THEN halfway down the street David finally speaks “Should we have waited till she was inside?” *Pissed*

Anyway no worries, Jay was home and Kryslte is alive and made it inside.

So to end this post I decided to post the video I made for Krystle for Christmas

- D

The Royal Wedding

Alrighty so William and Kate finally wed today and I like many others woke up a little earlier to watch. My alarm usually goes off at 6:30am and instead I set it for 6:00am. I rushed into the spare bedroom (which is also my walk in closet, I am a little spoiled) and flicked on the tv. I saw that I still had time to hop in the shower and get out before the ceremony began. So I hurried my little behind in and out of the shower and came out just in time to see everyone start arriving. Now if you’re one of those many people who is against watching the royal wedding and all that then fine, to each their own. For me *sigh* I felt like I just got married on tv as well (if u don't understand, ask any female and she was living vicariously through Kate Middleton too). I admit I like hockey, playing baseball, throwing a Frisbee for hours and attending punk concerts but I am also still a girl.

This brings me to a warning note to the men reading this who have girlfriends. The warning is: when we attend weddings with you, expect a fight after. Here is why:

1.)  There is obviously free liquor, which we will all take advantage of, so our emotions will be in over drive

2.)  We just witnessed our friend/family member/ complete stranger just have their princess day (remember we dream about this day the day we start dreaming) Emotions in over drive

3.)  We’re wearing a pretty dress that we spent to much money on for the ceremony, but as soon as we see the beautiful bride we realize we are wearing the most ugly outfit in the entire world (this is the booze fault)

4.)  We are talking with our girlfriends about the special day (and we usually have been for the previous week as the bacherlotte party is usually in this time frame) and we plan every detail only to realize it’s useless because the day isn’t happening for awhile for us.

5.)  By the first dance the first two points are in full over drive and we start thinking that we may never get that day, and or we want that day right now (more sadness)

The only solution to this situation is to allow us to run our course, we may yell, give you the silent treatment or just give you dirty looks and say we don’t want to be around you. But just know this, we love you regardless and the next morning we may or may not apologize (or remember) and after a few days everything will go back to normal and you’ll be a happy couple again.

My parents on their wedding day

Back to the Royal Wedding, when Kate finally stepped out of the car and her wedding dress was revelled I was shocked to see that she was wearing the  same dress my mom wore to her wedding. I knew my mom would be elated over this (and when I saw her latter she was). This is awesome because obviously the new trend will be Kate’s dress and thankfully I now have one at my disposal (if my mom can get it restored).  

Ironically I had a conversation with my mom a few days ago, and I asked her when would I get married? She replied “You will someday Danielle, when the time is right” (the typical reassuring speech a mother is suppose to give her daughter) after a sigh I said “I know, but I don’t want to be an old bride” She replied “Now don’t worry I was 25 when I got married and......oh wait you’re going to be 25 next year, Nevermind” (ouch to the ego). David and I are just fine, fully in love and fully established as a couple, we’ve been together for a long time (not saying the years) and we are not rushing into anything because our lives are already perfect together.

So congratulations to Will and Kate and may they live a happy life together. I am already so lucky for the happy life I have with David and not a day goes by that I don’t love him just a little more.

-         D

The Job Hunt Continues...

Well I've been super busy lately, which is both a good and bad thing.

One of my best friend Jamie (who I haven't seen in two years) was down for her father's surprise birthday party (HAPPY 50TH DAVE!) and so on Saturday I went to that at the Oakland Pub which was fun (especially when the karaoke started) . Then I had a girls night on Sunday with my EVO girls (Shelley and Jamie). So as you can imagine I was too dead yesterday after work to think of anything witty to say. Today I still feel the same way, so I thought I'd make this blog post about my hunt for the perfect job which fits perfectly  with this hilarious video my aunt Janet had sent me.....enjoy

PS: If anyone knows of a Human Resource Assistant job opening, I'm open to suggestions!

- D

It's Monday!

So it’s been awhile since I’ve wrote and I cannot think of one thing to write about so I’m going to write about nothing except for what pops in my head as I type. This is going to go well....

First: I learned what a busy body is, contrary to popular belief, it does not mean that you are a busy person. Nope it does not, a Busy Body is defined: As a person who meddles or pries into the affairs of others, in other words a nosey person who gossips about your business and is not very liked within a community. I highly suggest not calling your uncles mother this until you know what the word means first. Thankfully, She was great about it, and after the moment of dead silence where everyone stared at me in disbelief I was soon informed of it’s meaning. Seriously I did a survey, ask anyone 30years or younger (who doesn’t watch mad men) what it means and they’ll say what I thought. Anyone who is older knows it’s the real meaning.

Second: I’m loving cooking new things. Thanks Oprah Network we now get! (for a limited time before they take it away from me) All of these cooking shows, cooking books as gifts and a little bit of raiding my parents cupboards I know make more interesting meals. Goat Cheese Bruchetta, homemade chicken fingers, Teriyaki Beef/spinach/ rice meals, and herbed potatoe paddies with cheese are just a few I have attempted and love! And not one of these things will David eat. If it isn’t meat and potatoes he’s not going to eat it and so although I now have a new love for cooking, every night I cook two meals because I can’t have a starving David.

Third: Friday we went to see Hey Rosetta at the Palace. Which was hilarious because anyone who knows the Palace, knows that it is a club and anyone who knows Hey Rosetta fans know they’re a little bit (how should I say this) Hippiesh. At least you could always find a waitress because they were dressed as they normally would (for a club) and well lets just say the hippies had the same about of material on their upper bodies then the waitress’ did on their entire bodies. So if there were boobs around you, chances are you could ask this lady for a drink and they would bring it to you.
The show went great, good job on Hey Rosetta as per usual. We had a blast and after we went back to our car, and I won’t name names but let me just say this. Halifax may have had 5 shootings in 9 days but attempted murder aside, if you leave your window down, on a Friday night, ON pizza corner until 1am in our instance not one thing was stolen or touched. We may have a bunch of murders here in Halifax but no one will touch your Sh*t. No one even reached in and stole my awesome travel mug, or IPOD!
After we went to watch the hockey games at a bar until god knows what time. I’m not going to say much about this other than, this is my first year of finally doing a hockey pool and the whole double guessing your picks is wayyyy to stressful. I liked it back in the day when the leafs didn’t make it and I would just root for the team that I hated less than the other, and who had the hotties. Sigh, only two more months.

Anyway I’m going to go make two meals for dinner because David’s off work soon

-       D

Danie`s World of Music

Hello


Alrighty I've started a second blog that is dedicated only to Music (Danie's World of Music) As many of you know I am a huge "Music Enthusiast" and will probably chat your ear off about some musician you have never heard of and could care less about. So for those of you who are actually interested in some of my thoughts of music you can go here.

PS: This doesn't mean I won't still talk your ear off about music


- D

Hello Canada, and Hockey Fans in United States and Newfoundland! NHL Playoffs Are Coming Soon

Alrighty Hockey post. As many of you already know the Leafs are out of the playoffs. Which to some comes as a surprise and to others well if you say 67 I’ll punch you in the gut. Now I'm not a Hockey guru by any means whatsoever, I’m just a fan who likes to voice her opinion and so it’s that time of year when those whose teams were eliminated (such as Senators who were eliminated in February and the Leafs who were eliminated in April) to move over to another team to watch and cheer for.  Below are some of the pointers I take into consideration for how I chose which playoff team to root for (and for you non-hockey fans this should dumb it down for you).

First step is simple: Go Canadian. I mean come on who are you going to root for...the Hawks?? Pffff...My uncle is the biggest Hawks fan in Atlantic Canada, and maybe the only as far as I know? He once told me he went to a Habs game wearing his Blackhawks jersey and no one there bothered or booed him (that’s probably because the Habs fans were in shock that there was actually a Hawks fan in Canada). Whenever I try to make a jab at him and his favourite team he simply raises his arms above his head in a firm and steady Stanley Cup stance, a large smile on his face and you can’t not but feel for the guy. He’s been waiting 49 years to do that. I will admit though that much of my Hockey knowledge growing up came from him. Uncle Kelly has a Hockey room in which everything (floor to ceiling) is Blackhawk. I knew the Blackhawk symbol before I even knew what Hockey was. (don't tell him because I need to keep my Hockey (leaf) pride strong but obviously during the playoffs last year I was rooting for the Blackhawks because of him) Then growing up as a figure skater the rivalry was deep and everything Hockey related disgusted me (this was also during my boys are gross phase, and Sidney Crosby was blossoming in Nova Scotia at this time so I directed a lot of my despise at him during the late 90’s and early 2000’s). Fast forward to now and figure skating is still good, but I love a good old fashion hockey game.

Now to breakdown the playoff selection:

-          Montreal Canadians/Habs: As a Leafs fan, saying that you are rooting for the Habs is like saying “I just ate dog poop”. Once you pass the ridicule, Habs fans will try and take a jab at you and say “you’re only jumping on the bandwagon because you’re team is out of the playoffs”. That’s exactly why I’m doing it and I still don’t understand how stating the fact is trying to rub salt in the wound? Yes I hate you ten months out of the year but for these two months can’t we all just be friends? And if we’re going to get all serious and matter of fact, Carey Price is a very good goalie, but I’m more interested in seeing his face because that guy is extremely good looking and the chance that he lifts his mask and I can see him is *girl sigh* (this is the point where all males reading this blog move to the next point). Also let’s face it whenever they say anything about Gil, who doesn’t say “aww Gil” from the Simpson’s in their head? Two favs: Cammie and Gomezs

-          Vancouver Canucks: Who has anything bad to say about this team? They’re good, solid goaltending, the same guy keeps passing the puck to himself and scoring, they’re so far ahead in the standings that it doesn’t matter anymore if they win or not.  This is an easy choice to root for, because there is also a chance that the team you want to win actually will. Downfall: Before it was extra easy to hate the Habs, just look at Lapierre’s face on tv in a Habs jersey. That guys face is more annoying than listening to a Habs fan bash the Leafs. At least for the past couple of months while he was on the Ducks he wasn’t getting any tv face time but now that he plays for the Cunucks I’m contemplating just listening to these games with no visuals.

-          Pittsburgh Penguins: Now I know you’re thinking of Course the girl from Nova Scotia would say Pens. Alright, It’s true I have forgiven Crosby for stealing my thunder growing up, and I admit it's cool every time I pass him on the highway when he’s back in town for the summer, but it is annoying how much attention he gets on TV. The guy hasn't skated in the past 2 months, then does for 15min and they take 4 hours out of each day to talk about it. BUT Rant aside it is apparent in the past 3 months the pens are fine without their super star. With the likes of Fleury, Letang, Kunitz and my all time favourite Tal-bits (or Talbot as he is usually known in the media and/or Superstar! As he is known by from the female lovers such as myself - who doesn’t love this commercial and commercial) They play good games, hard and fast pace and for the girlfriends of guys watching the playoffs, this is the team with the most cuties (habs are close second).

-          Washinton Capitals:  Come on, who didn’t like them a little more after 24/7 Winterclassic? With the likes of Brucy Boudreau as coach and being a complete "F**king butt head" no wait a "F**king shit bum" No wait he actually has his "F**king ass out of his head". Whatever he is, Green, Backstom, Semin and Knuble are my favorite. Like many Canadians I won’t lie I had my hate on for the superstar Ovie, but until March when he started using twitter again, between the laughs of these gems #1  #2 But not as awesome as this One (viewer descretion is advised for Leafs fans). You have to feel bad for the guy I mean come-on Olympics (fail), Stanley Cup (fail every year) Faceplant during the AllStar Shooting skills (fail) 89% of Canadians hating him (remember when he dug out the loonie from center ice after Russia won and cut it in two?) (Fail) But it was his nonsensical tweets that won me over (Ovechkin twitter)

-          Boston Bruins:  For the reason that I have so many Habs friends that I just want to sit there saying “ZDENO CHARA IS THE BEST HOCKEY PLAYER EVER! ISN’T HE AWESOME? HE’S SO HUGE!” (remember you can’t punch  me because I’m a girl) Also remember to get to game 4 and then jump ship.

-           Detroit Red Wings: There's a Newfie on the team  and they're good (so newfies generally lean towards this team)

-          Philadelphia Flyers - they're a bunch of bullies so never mind them

 

-          Blackhawks: For the reason that my uncle shouldn’t be the only fan

-          Atlanta Thrashers: For the reason that my uncle shouldn’t be the only fan (but Toronto’s better than them, Danielle for the win)


So there it is, come playoff time when I jump ship (because my ship has sunk for the past 14 years) I’ll base my assumptions on whoever I like best, like Jarome Iginla I mean who doesn’t like that guy?!?! But seriously who likes the Flames? (Remember I’m on the east coast and I know no one). Or Corey Perry?! Who goes out of their way to watch a Ducks game? Don't get me wrong I like the movie. And seriously it looks like all Columbus Blue Jacket games were filmed on a cell phone camera from 2006, the NHL can’t spare them a few dollars?

Best of luck choosing and GO LEAFS (next year) 

When I Was Just a Little Girl, I Asked My Mother What Will I Be?...

David's Favourite Photo from my Birthday

Well Friday was my birthday and I am now 24 years old. This makes me want to reflect on the 24 years that I have been on this earth. Many things have happened; some good and some bad.

I graduated high school by the seat of my pants, only to go to University, spend a ridiculous amount of money to find out I actually really enjoy learning. Receiving A’s and B’s and graduating with one degree and so many majors and certificates that I get out of breath explaining them all.

I’ve said goodbye to my Sunflower (Pontiac Sunfire to those who have no idea what I’m talking about) after many years of fun, laughter and a few tears. Such as that one time I called my father because my car wouldn’t start. I blamed him for it not working (because I was told to ignore the check engine light) he drove all the way to Halifax, asked me if there was any gas, I replied YES there’s almost a ¼ tank! He rolled his eyes, poured a can of gas in it anyway and magically my car started (In my defence I was parked on a slight slant). Or the time the Sunflower drove me and three of my favourite lady friends on a 72 hour road trip to Boston/New Hampshire to see a punk show. A trip that none of us will never soon forget, and even if I wanted to tell the story I have no idea where to begin, the key point is we all made it home alive, extremely over tired, with slight liver damage and maybe 5 years of our lives taken off.
I now own a brand spanking new Yaris, which is my pirate ship “Yarrrrr......is”

I’ve lived for the past 4 years with my wonderful, kind, caring boyfriend David. In the 6 years we’ve dated I’ve been asking for a puppy almost every day for the past 5 ½ years and guess what? David always wins in the decision making and I’m still puppyless. (Just saying) But he’s still wonderful and I love him a bunch.  

I’ve spent over 10-12 years of my life Figure Skating competitively and now am an old has-been that when the opportunity arises and there is free ice time, I still try to attempt what 14 year old me did so effortlessly. The next day I’m always unable to walk but for those few moments that other people see me do something they cannot do, the ego boost is always worth the enormous pain I feel the next day.

Today I work as an office assitant, and am still slowly looking for the big career job you're suppose to get after university. I do love my current job and like I always remind my boss "Can't spell the word Assistant without the word "ass" and I take my job of being an Ass. very seriously"

So anyway this list is starting to make me feel kind of crappy, and I’m going to go eat a piece of Apple Pie

Que sera, sera, Whatever will be, will be, The future's not ours to see, Que sera, sera.

-          D

Vancouver Trip (part 2)

Day 3: Momma Bear and I woke up early and decided to take a ferry to Victoria, British Columbia. We had a rental car which was P-i-m-ping Nissan something or other, but it was fancy. Once on the boat I made a B-line to the deck and watched as we set sail. I kept saying “I’M ON A BOAT!” in which my mother replied “Yes you are, now what do you keep saying that?!?!” (If you don't understand click here)

The boat ride was about an hour long and once on land again I was amazed at the beautiful scenery. Victoria and Vancouver are just like Halifax  except on steroids and with mountains. Victoria was awesome, the people were friendly and the food is great! This was also where I bought one of David’s many presents. I bought him some of those Buckyballs, he loves them  and plays with his balls for hours on end (not going there)

Day 4: Momma bear and me drove up to Whistler, which is now my favourite place on earth right now. So beautiful minus the hernia you get driving back on the edge of cliffs. We made a stop on the way to see some of the Olympic parks and then finally arrived in Whistler. After a half hour trying to find a parking space we walked around the Village for 4 hours shopping and eating some Irish pub food (which is where we always seemed to eat, gotta keep the Nova Scotia Irish/Celtic love). It was also a beautiful sunny day so you could actually see all of the mountains. The average age there is about 16-24 and the retail prices were about $20 more than anywhere else in Canada. Still loads of fun and I can’t wait to go back!

We were only in Vancouver for 4 days and I can’t wait to go back. I told David over and over that we were moving there, and that I was going to “miss” my plane and stay there forever. Just to humour me David did look up the cost of living there and immediately informed me that if we sold our house and everything we owned we would only be able to afford a 10foot by 10foot shack there. He’s such a dream crusher.... or a realist whichever. 

Monday Momma bear and I flew home. She was in first class on the plane but was able to bring a “guest” with her into the Air Canada lounges which are awesome! They give you free food, magazines and booze...which I took full advantage of.

Speaking of which I'm hungry now
- D

Vancouver Trip

There has been a delay in writing my blog because I was in British Columbia with my momma bear for a vacation.  Which was oodles and oodles of fun.

Day One: We were only in BC for 4 days, and I was determined to walk as far as my little legs could take me while I was there. Momma Bear was working, so I woke up early (the first time I woke up at 6am and didn’t want to murder someone, love 4 hour time change) and set out on my day by 9am. I walked out the doors of our nice hotel and instantly started walking in the wrong direction towards the bad part of Vancouver. Where the homeless and drug addicts are by the hundreds. About two blocks up I realized this and turned around. After a few “which way is the water front?” I finally found the harbour. The first place I stumbled across was Canada Place and was in awe at the Olympics flash back. Then after a few more wrong turns I found the Olympic Torch (which was my goal of the day) Here’s my picture: 

After walking around Vancouver all day, mom called and asked me to meet her for dinner. As I made my way to the restaurant, I started seeing weird debris on the ground. I looked up one of the side streets that was closed and it looked like world war three. There was exploded, burned up cars, a tanks, and fake concrete debris everywhere. I kept walking and met mom and her work colleagues for a green beer (it was St Patrick’s day) and told them about what I had just seen. On the way back to our hotel I pointed out the exploded street to my mother. As we looked at the movie set, I turned to look beside me at a man, talking to another man laying on the ground. After a few moments I realized it was PACEY! Or Joshua Jackson as some others may know him. He was acting out the next scene with his director 5-10 feet from us. I starred in awe at his perfect sexy body as he flung himself into buildings. After about ten minutes security noticed us and shooed us aside. My teenage dream was finally fulfilled (minus the whole marrying Pacey part)

Day Two: Momma bear was still working and so I decided I would go to the Vancouver Aquarium to see fishies. I awoke again around 6am and went down to the concierges for directions. Turns out his name was Donny and he was from Newfoundland (no matter where I am I will always find a maritimer) Anywho he directed me to take a bus to Stanley Park. For those of you who know me know that I can count on one hand the amount of times I’ve been on a bus. So I walked out onto Vancouver streets with the exact change in my pocket  and waited about ten minutes before I saw the #19 bus. I walked up the stairs and shaking nervously jamped my change into the meter slot. Which of course clogged it and the bus driver had to shoo my hand away so he could fix it. Embarrassed, I made my way to a seat as he drove on, or I should say I nose dived into an empty chair because I was not prepared for the bus to lurch forward. Once seated the panic set in that I had no idea where I was going other than Stanely Park. So I starred out the window every so often reading street names and franticly trying to find them on the mini map Donny had given me. I should also state Donny drew a mountain goat to remind me if I see mountains I’ll always find my way, but if I find a mountain goat I’ve gone too far.
  
Sure enough Donny was true to his word and the bus stopped at Stanley Park. I made my way and found the Aquarium only to be alone starring at large locked doors. I of course forgot to change the time on my phone clock and therefore arrived at the aquarium half an hour early. After some walking around and annoying some nearby ducks, the half an hour passed I made my way inside. I walked in and soon realized that of course they take your picture at the door. Everyone with their families our significant other was being photographed. As soon as I was next in line I politely said with a smile “It’s just me”. The lady smiled back and turned to scream to the photographer “SHE’S ALONE, IT’S JUST HER!” for everyone to hear. Thanks jerkbag.

The aquarium was so much fun! Like all the other kids, I pushed my face against glass windows to see all the creatures on the other side.  I giggled when the beluga whale splashed it’s trainer and watch in awe as the dolphins swam around without their eyesight (they covered their eyes for echo location stuff). I made frog faces at the ginormous froggies and tapped the glass to make the snakes look at me. I was there for 3 hours by myself and enjoyed every minute of it!

Okay I’m going to end it there because I’m still jet lagged and tired! I’ll finish my last two days in B.C some other time. Keep checking back for updates.

I Maybe Crazy but I Have A Heart

Alright this past week has been hell and since I can’t think of anything remotely funny to write I’m going to talk about something that makes me smile.

Two years ago this month I quit smoking. Not many people knew I smoked but I did so for a good 10 years. I was over half a pack a day and it was my kryptonite. Anyone who smokes will tell you it’s not as easy as “Just quit” like the non smokers say. I can remember the exact moment that I chose to quit, I was driving in to get my hair done, and for some reason I had that “what the hell am I doing” moment that everyone talks about. So on my way home from the hair dressers I stopped in and bought the patch, went home slapped that puppy on and waited for the moment of self gratification to kick in. Well it didn’t, instead I became an insane emotional wreck that was looking at anyone to pick a fight with. David was always there and I believe we both agree now I almost killed him 3 times in an angry emotional rage (don’t drive and quit smoking is my only advice). After a week of bitter sweet hell I realized I had chosen the wrong patch and was on Step 2 which I thought was if you smoke more than ten cigarettes a day, but it was less than ten a day. So I was half withdrawing and half receiving nicotine. Fast forward, David is still alive and kicking, extremely afraid of me (which is an understatement) but he fought through it with me. David never smoked ever, and dated me, a smoker for 4 years. God knows how he did it because smoke smells like butt if you don’t smoke yourself.

So that’s not where the story makes me smile, it was that summer. That summer of rage, emotional outburst and endless tears I had one of my melt downs and the only thing that calmed me down was driving the Old Waverly Road by myself, music loud. So it was on one of my drives, tears pouring down my face for some god awful insignificant reason that I passed this (I assume 12 year old) girl on the side of the road with a sign in her hand “bracelets for sale”. I kept driving on and wound up at Mic Mac mall,  I went shopping and then two hours latter headed back home the same way. It was a thirty degree day and even the A/C wasn’t enough to keep you comfortable. As I rounded the corner the same girl was still on the side of the road with the sign, waving as cars passed. I drove past her once more and then turned around at the gas station up the street. I drove back and pulled in the street she was  on. She saw me coming back and threw her sign on the ground and ran back to a little wooden table she had set up with her friend. I walked over to where she stood. She was smiling ear to ear, and I smiled back. She presented the little string bracelets she and her friend had spent the day making. I pretend to look through each one admiring it as best as I could but the purple one was the one that caught my eye. I picked it up and said “I like this one the most, how much?” “That’s one of my favourites too, it’s a friendship bracelet. Two dollars please” she replied (which was a small rip off but after the day she spent outside well worth it) I handed over the two dollars as she smiled widely over her new cash. I looked at her and said “I’m going to give it to my best friend then” she smiled and I finished “She’s over in Korea so this bracelet is going to fly half way around the world” Her eyes grew so big and she replied “Really?!” I told her “yep my best friend is over there and I’m going to give it to her”

Now the bracelet is wrapped my best friend, Kryslte M’s ankle as she travels around Korea and Bali (as far as I know, she’s probably on her way to some other Asian country)

So that’s my story, a little girl working hard for something she loves to do, and a travelling free spirited friend wearing something that made me smile. 

Skies of Blue, Clouds of White

I haven’t written in a while, mainly because the past 6 days have been hell. First I was sick, which was extra terrible because David was sick as well. So my whining didn’t go very far and the sympathy from him and his running nose didn’t get me the attention I wanted. The only thing worse than a sick Danielle is a sick David and Danielle.

 Next was I pulled a muscle in my neck and was unable to move for 3 days until I went into the doctor and he gave me happy pills. Which make me 5 seconds slower and so if you throw anything at me I will not flinch until after the impact (David has already tested this theory).

So that's my small update, if you want to read a better version of the past 5-6 days go to David's Blog
PS: I know this title has nothing to do with this post, but I don't care, I liked the way it sounded. Which might have something to do with my happy pills, okay I'm going to take a nap.

- D

A Story About Love....Or Something Like That

Well some of you know the story of how David and I met and it is one about passion and love....or something like that. It all started in the summer of 2004. My father had just bought a motorcycle and after some talk he said he would take me out on it. Excited I suited up and was about to get on when I asked him about how motorcycle drivers always wave at each other. He smiled and replied "Yes they do. The passenger’s wave as well if you want to you should do it too". Excited now that I was going to be a part of a small club of waving motorcycle drivers I couldn't wait.

 As we drove down the street we came to a set of lights in which we were turning right. As we leaned around the corner to turn, another motorcycle caught my eye. Excited I let go of the back handlebar/back rest and stuck my hand out in a wave. It was a strong, firm and decisive wave. As I did so the guy on the bike looked over at me, and within a moment saw my gesture and then looked away. That was it! My first motorcycle wave and the guy didn't wave back. I was so upset that I told my dad I wasn't waving to anyone ever again.

 A week may have passed when I was out with my friend at Tim Horton's. We were hanging out in the parking lot when he saw his friend pull in. He got out of the car and walked over to these two guys standing on the curb. I followed suit and soon saw the bike. As my friend was saying hello to the guys this is when I looked up and said "who owns this bike?!" A guy wearing a motorcycle jacket replied "I do" I looked at him square in the eye and said "YOU'RE AN ASS HOLE!" Shocked at my reply, his mouth dropped open and something along the lines of "I'm sorry?" came out of his mouth. The guy was David (he should have known then that if my first words to him were "you're an ass hole" he should have turned and run) I finished my rant explaining the story of how my first wave was at him but he didn't wave back. Of course he gave me some poor excuse of not remembering and he was probably holding in his clutch because he was stopped at the intersection. (Whatever he still ruined my life in that moment) After a few moments of explanation I accepted his apology and we both went on with our day.

 Well the next morning at the same Tim Horton's I was getting my friends and my morning coffee before school. As I walked out I heard a honk and quickly looked up to see David sitting in a truck waving frantically (this was for the full effect of making sure I saw him waving so that he avoided more verbal assault from me) With a smile and a blush I waved back only to be suddenly interrupted by squealing tires and more horn honking. I forgot to stop walking when he waved and walked straight out into traffic. (kids always pay attention when crossing the road). After that he always waved and I waved back.

Maybe the second or third time we actually hung out he told me he was a Newfie and I'm pretty sure I told him Newfie jokes for almost half an hour. He pretended to laugh (or so he says, I think the jokes were HIL-AR-IOUS) and I fell head over heels for him. Fast forward to now, and the name calling still happens every so often but David in his true David fashion will roll his eyes, never fight me back, and wait until I'm done being a jerk before he continues on being the nice guy he is.

My Little Secret....

Dallas Green 2011

Alrighty I’m a big music buff which is clear as day, but after today’s little slip up on the radio I feel the need to clear the air. The first step is always admitting you have a problem, and I have a problem. I won NOFX tickets on the radio and was asked to sing a song and I blanked. Which to some, isn’t surprising. You see my problem is that for the life of me I cannot memorize the lyrics to ANY song! At all....none.....nothing... not even Wonderwall, Everlong or Wheightly Ghost. Itsy Bitsy Spider is even a challenge.
So that's the truth, I always mess up words and make up new ones (this includes all of Tim’s & Dallas’ songs too) It’s physically impossible for me to sing a song front to back without making one mistake. This is the reason I cannot become a singer someday, that and I have absolutely no musical talent. It is to the point now where David tells me to sing only in private, or gives me the silent head shake because of my issue. Here are some examples:
(Me)“...But that was a conversation, you’ve done nothing wrong”
(Paperwings, Rise Against) “...But that was a conversation you took nothing from”

(Me) “Well I have no time for you”
(Write it all down for you, Elliot Brood) “Well I write it all down for you” (name of the song)

Now I know you’re thinking “well gee Danielle, those don’t sound so bad, those are just common mistakes”. There’s more...

(Me) – “On a January night when the cold winds breeze, I got an Irish name and an injured Wreath” (Red At Night, Gaslight Anthem) – “On a January night when the cold winds freeze, I got an Irish name and an injury”

(Me) Me “Then he had a pig and felt like a man again”
(Flannagan’s Ball, Dropkick Murphys) “Then he hit a big one and felt like a man again”

(Me) – “Your hands I can’t seem to find, Ba-lou-sha burns my tough”
(Give it All, Rise Against) – “your hands I can't seem to find, Pollution burns my tongue,”
(David and I have yet to figure out what Balousha is)

And of course, the forever infamous "CLEVE'S CLEVE'S CLEVES" which is suppose to be the Cleve's sporting goods slogan. Which isn't even close because the solgan is actually "Source for Sports"

It doesn’t stop at song lyrics, it’s also song names; such as Neil Young’s “A horse with no name"
My version is “A horse with no head” and as David points out, that would make it a dead horse.
So if you see me singing either tell me to stop or please don’t pay attention. I apologize now for any inconveniences I may cause you in the future.

Canada Games are in Nova Scotia

Well I’ve been receiving mixed reviews on my blogging. I’ve been told I”m getting all mushy because of my last two post and contrary to popular belief I do actually have a heart. For those who think I’m very heartfelt and loving, contrary to popular belief I am usually an ass hole. I'm multi dimensional like that. As David says I'm crazy but crazy and intelligent are basically the same thing to me. You say potato I say potato (bet you read potato the same way twice in your head)

The past two weeks have been very busy because of the Canada Games and all of the free concerts. The two things I love most in life: Concerts and Free stuff.

Monday (February 14) we saw Joel Plaskett and I attempted a flash mob (key word is attempted) you can view it here:

If you’re thinking “Gee that doesn’t look like a flash mob” you’re probably right but I had no idea because I was luckily stuck between two gigantors and couldn’t see a damn thing. I still did my dance though, which lucky me we chose to stand in a spot covered in ice so my flailing dance arms and jumping dance moves were hampered by slippage and almost face plants. It was still oodles and oodles of fun because Joely P knows how to put on a show.

Tuesday was Sloan but there was no way in hell I was standing outside in -25. Sorry guys. So Wednesday was Hey Rosetta with David, so much fun and had Mayor Peter Kelly give me candy. So it was fun, tasty and a tad weird. Thursday was Matt Mays and anyone who was there will tell you it was fun cakes! Good Gracious! Dartmouth came out to play and it was a blast. I should also apologize to the poor girl standing beside me who had to hear my rendition of City of Lakes sung not in D major but in suck major at the top of my lungs (I know that sounds insanely lame but I don't care).

Fast forward to Wednesday (Feb 23) The Stanfields! If you haven’t seen these guys yet, do it. Always a fun time, and I now know that even sober they sound awesome. Don’t judge me they sing “The Dirtiest Drunk in the History of Liquor” it’s basically a mandatory entrance fee to their show, and I always pay admission so (this is where my point is validated). David has a hall pass because he doesn’t drink and is always the designated driver (DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE KIDS)

So, the non music things I did during the Canada Game was seeing the men’s gold medal hockey game. Which I won tickets too! And was the only event I went too...because it was free (hey I’m poor don’t judge me) . Anyway besides the fact that David and I sat in the wrong seats (which were wayyyyyyy better, center ice and lower bowl) my team won! David (in true David fashion he picked the team I didn’t) I went for B.C and David went for Quebec. So...if I may...OLEEE OLE OLE OLEEEE muhahahahaha
- D

Parents are Awesome

I loved the responses I received on my last post. It’s amazing how far a smile or compliment can go.

I guess you could say that another big part of who I am is based on good parenting, but don’t tell my parents that I can’t have it going to their heads. I do love my parents and they always seem to make me laugh everyday. Once my facebook status was “Went to the Casino & won $200 playing the ATM Machine!"  Then my mom called me asking me if I have a gambling problem. They may not understand my humour but they always give me good material when I want to make a joke. 

As a child you see your parents as super heroes that can solve any problem with a kiss or a hug. Then you grow up to the teenage years where everything they do is incredibly annoying and you have no idea how you’ve made it this long living in the same house as them. I once pulled the “I’m going to call child services on you” card, and my mom replied “Go head and do it, I’ll show them you’re room and all the things you’ve done and own” (I never used that threat again, she was always so good at calling me on my bull sh*t) Then comes adulthood, where you realize that you’re parents might actually be super heroes, after all they do manage to still love you even after everything you put them through as a teenager (Sorry about that mom & dad).

I still love yanking their chains, such as telling my mom that I decided to get a blog and I know she checks this almost everyday to make sure that I don’t write anything bad about her (HI MOM! sorry). Parents are funny and people just like us, and they can do amazing things for you. Such as cooking you amazing meals (Janet (David's mother) I’ll pay you to make that bread pudding again) or free trips (I can’t wait to go to BC with you  mom!)  or keeping you grounded (such as mom calling and asked which seat I’d prefer on the plane to BC. I replied “window, but aren’t you sitting next to me?”, Mom “Ah No, I’m flying first class") In her defence this is a work trip for her, so I'll pleasantly sit in my seat in the back of the plane crying and screaming that I want my mommy because after all you're never to old to keep your parents grounded either.

In conclusion this post is dedicated to awesome parents out there and on behalf of us kids we’re sorry about all the stress, sleepless nights, and line pushing we’ve put you through. But hey, we make your life...colourful. I mean sure if you didn’t have kids you’d have way more money, less grey hair, more time for yourself, could probably travel the world, but what fun would that be?

Loves!

-       D