A Pilgrim's Progress

5 months!

2008-03-17T23:17:00.002-07:00

PHEW! finally eh?

Well with the popular coming of facebook (i hear some grunts from the crowd already...), we have recently found less of a need to blog, as our photos are published quite regularly there. a picture speaks a thousand words someone said....

anyway, in an effort to revive this blog, I (Darrell) have one question.

If i were to write...who would read?

That must be in blogging 101 syllabus i suspect. who is your audience??

So in order to be considerate of my (potential) readers, I would like to politely request a roll call from all you faithful blog readers out there. frankly i would be shocked to find anyone who is still tuning into this page...but if you are out there. please add a comment and declare your presence on our page.

we would be o so grateful....

O, and not to worry, updates will come....i just need to know who i'm writing to....

Oregon, USA!

2007-10-04T11:18:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was LOADS of fun!

We took a road trip to the Oregon coast with Debbie and Darrell's friend John.

We left Vancouver early Friday morning, and for the rest of the day we drove.. and drove. I think it was approx 11-12 hours before we actually arrived at our hotel. Although this time wasn't straight driving. We, of course, had to make a stop at Krispy Kreme donuts, and had to stop to eat at The Cheesecake Factory, among other places.

We then proceeded to take a lot of twisty back roads to Newport, where our hotel is located, as we didn't see the point in having to take the main roads which would make us back track a lot. Short cuts are always full of adventure though!

On day two, we started off by eating an awesome breakfast at the hotel, and then decided that since it was kind of rainy that we would go shopping and to a cheese factory! So, we drove some more, ate some more, and shopped! Oregon is great for shopping because it has no taxes, and the Canadian dollar is to good right now, so we stocked up on some things that we knew we would need and some things that we do need.
And, unfortunately, due to all our shopping, the cheese factory was closed when we arrived. :( So we proceeded back to the hotel, more driving, and arrived just in time for some complimentary hot spiced wine, yum!

On day three, we left for home, more driving. Again, it wasn't straight driving. We stopped in Portland at Powell's bookstore and bought some interesting/needed books. If you ever need a good bookstore to go to, that is the place. It's HUGE, and it has new and used books on the same shelf! And, seriously, it was every book! Then we met up with some friends for lunch, more eating, stopped at krispy Kreme and duty free, and made it back home late Sunday night.

It was an awesome trip just hanging out in the car getting to know each better and bonding over cool and not so cool music.

Thus, to sum up the whole weekend I'd have to say it was very... American, eat, shop, consume!

Britney

2007-09-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

This made me laugh a lot. I promise to update soon. DL

Organic Store Wars

2007-08-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

Since we've been back in BC, we've slowly been moving away from our local Superstore and extending our patronage to our local organic market. this was first sparked by conversations with friends and family about sustainable and environmentally friendly food. anyway, we've learnt quite a bit about healthier eating to the benefit of our bodies and the planet

i found this video on my friend Dan's website, so i thought i would transfer it over here. I'm pretty sure none of our readers are on his blog!

Enjoy!

DL

Darrell/Cheryl Simpson

2007-07-30T02:34:00.000-07:00

Our Time Home in the Maritimes

2007-07-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

Once again Darrell and I have arrived back safely from New Brunswick. The occasion this time was my sister's wedding, which went very well! Since we had a full week in the Maritimes we also decided this would be a good time to celebrate Darrell's birthday (which is actually July 20th), as then he could experience our family's birthday customs. For his birthday we also decided to take a trip to PEI (to knock another Canadian province off his list, now all that is left for both of us are Nunavut and the North West Territories!).
Thus, being the visual person that I am, here are some photos from our time home in the Maritimes!

One of the places we went to eat on PEI was famous for its lobster suppers, so we decided to check it out. Basically it was a big hall with tables everywhere. You order before you sit down, so Darrell order 1.5 pounds of lobster and I ordered a roast beef dinner, BUT everything except the main course is All You Can Eat! So here is a picture of Darrell enjoying All He Can Eat Mussels! He ate a whole bucket!

We also visited another resturant famous for its oysters. Here is a photo for a guy preparing Darrell's fresh oysters and then of Darrell eating a raw one and some fried ones (and again, I just had a chicken burger and salad).

Darrell continued eating Lobster once we were back in New Brunswick. Here he is enjoying a lobster with my mom.

And, and enjoying a McLobster from McDonalds.

Not to mention all the birthday cakes Darrell received!
This first one was from my family at Darrell's celebration BBQ.

Along with some birthday presents from my family.

Darrell's second birthday celebration was at Jungle Jim's Resturant for All You Can Eat Wing Night!

And, finally here are some photos for PEI!

Below is the Anne of Green Gables Farm in Cavendish, PEI.

The following are photos of the Confederation Building in Charlottetown, PEI, where Canada first became a Nation.

More PEI scenery.

Wild Lupin flowers everywhere!

Darrell REEEAllY wanted to bring a lobster trap back as a carry on, but we eventually decided against it.

Here are some photos of the Confederation bridge from the PEI side.

And from the New Brunswick side.

During the week we also participated in my sister's wedding celebration.

Rehersal Dinner photos.

Our family and Josh's family at the wedding rehearsal dinner, Chateau Pape - another seafood place!

And the wedding day! My sister and I.

As shown our time at home was pretty eventful, which is just the way we like it!

Alaska

2007-06-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my (Darrell) favourite shots of our trip to Alaska:

Ice Bergs in Glacier Bay

2007-05-31T21:34:00.001-07:00

Here are some more photos from our honeymoon. While we were on our cruise to Alaska the ship went through Glacier Bay. Here are some of the different icebergs that we were able to see. All credit for the photos goes to my husband Darrell, he did a great job of capturing them!

Remember, what you are able to see above the water is only 10% of the ice berg!

These ice bergs are so pretty with the nice blue colour! The water is so densely packed that the oxoygen is pushed out of it, which apparently causes it to turn this colour.

These ice bergs were all around the ship as we were cruising along in this specific area.

This is one of the sources of the ice bergs in the water, which was also our destination, but unfortunatley due to being the first trip for the season up Glacier Bay, we weren't able to go closer to the glacier (this then meant turning the big ship around in the Bay surrounded by Ice bergs! They had to send people out in a boat to direct the ship, and we did hit a few of them).

Here is a closer view of the BIG glacier in the mountains.

On the other side of the ship was another source of the ice bergs, another Big glacier.

Here I am on the ship with one of the glaciers in the background.

This photo was taken as the ship was turing around in Glacier Bay. We are now pointed in the direction we came from.

Hope you enjoyed the pics from one of the "coolest" parts of our honeymoon!

Back in BC & Wedding Update

2007-05-22T13:42:00.000-07:00

Wow! We did it! We are married! And, so far things have been going great! We are finally back to our regular schedules of.. well.. mostly working. Although we are still working on finishing up some post-wedding stuff, picking up gifts from the registry, thank you cards, paying the expenses, etc. But, hey, it was totally worth it!

How was the wedding? In one word, perfect! Yes, I actually think it was. It was all that we wanted it to be, short and sweet but not too plain. The reception also went exactly according to plan. Overall, everything was just great! We enjoyed every minute of it!

How was the honeymoon? Awesome! As some of you may already know, we flew back to Vancouver (from Moncton, NB) the night of our wedding - yes our wedding night was spent on a plane BUT we got upgraded to First Class because we just got married! Bonus! - slept a few hours and went to Canada Place to catch our Cruise to Alaska! It was beautiful! The ship attempted to go through Glacier Bay but unfortunately due to this being the first run of the year the ship couldn't make it all the way to the big glacier. But, Darrell had a good zoom on his camera so we got some amazing photos - which will be posted soon.

At our first port we went shopping! This is when Darrell started his fascination with Alaskan ULU's - it's basically a really cool rounded knife for the kitchen. It is pretty cool and is great for cutting anything!

At our second port, we went on an excursion to an old gold mine.

We went on a tour of the inside of the mine and got to see how some of the machinery works.

We also panned for gold and actually got some - although not enough to be worth anything.

At our third port, we went on an 8 hour excursion! First we took a 2.5 hours bus ride through the Coastal Mountains which was cool! During this bus ride we crossed the Canadian boarder into the YUKON TERRITORIES!

In the Yukon, we stoped for lunch at the Caribou Crossing and got to visit a little dog musher camp.

We then took the White Pass Trail train back to the port. This train ride was also amazing - through the mountains again, sometimes on the edge of a cliff!

Speaking of the cruise, there was sooooo much food!! It seriously felt like we ate every 5 minutes! haha! The food was sooooo good too! Our favorite resturant on the ship was Le Bistro, we went here our first night and last night on the ship. Their goat cheese pastry was mouth watering!

On the ship we also went to three art auctions, to a live show every night, ate, were almost on a newly wed game show, ate, found a cool game at the casino (just for fun), watched some movies, oh and did I mention.. ate lots of amazing food!!

Anyway, if you're interested in seeing our wedding photos and videos here is the website: http://www.miramichiphoto.com/clients/lim/. I personally prefer the videos as they bring the photos alive. Caution, they are kinda long, but totally worth it!

If you're like to see more honeymoon photos I have them posted on my facebook account - just look me up if you have an account, Cheryl Murray.

Feel free to leave a comment!

Back in NB!

2007-04-27T20:10:00.000-07:00

So, I've made it home safely! And I'm so glad to be back home! It's been great, although hectic and it's only been just over 24 hours! But, I guess that's expected considering the circumsatnces.

In all honesty, today was not the best "wedding planning" day. First, after stoping at our orginal wedding cake place they informed us that they do not (YES!! WAAHOOO!!! Canucks just got a goal!!!! Ahum.. sorry..) make the sizes that we want. So we went to a few other places and they don't do it either! So when i got home I called all the bakeries in the yellow pages and they do not even make cakes!! Like seriously people!! So mom suggested calling the hobby store we rented the stand from, and they recamended a lady, which is now possibley going to cost us twice as much! I'm meeting with her tomorrow after my wedding shower, bah! Secondly, the reception hall called and said we can't decorate the day before because she decided to book somebody else on that day, even though she knew we had it first (she actually said that to me!). She said we'll have to decorate and arrange everything the morning of the wedding!! Hello!!! We'll be getting ready then!! And, want to make sure the sound system, projector, etc all works! People! So finally, she said we can do it at 8:30 Friday night, which means we'll probabaley be there until midnight - wedding the next morning and had to cancel our plans for then! Not impressed! Then! I wanteed to get a nice body perm so my hair is easier to manage on the cruise, so i called the place i usually go and they quoted $45. Well, once the lady started she told me it was going to be $100!! Again, not too impressed! What is wrong with people's intregrity today!?

In other thoughts, since I've been back all the differences between Moncton, NB and vancouver, BC have become even more obvious. Moncton is a much more slower pace with everything, people are more friendly (ie: mom had to return something today at a store and there were 7 people in front of us and seriously, each person talked to the return guy for like 5-10 minutes, not about the return and he was a total stranger to them, it is normal to be so friendly and socialize. And, my went to pay something for my wedding, which I was thinking involved stoping at the guy's house and just giving him the money - mom's doens't know him or anything. Nope, it involved her getting a tour of his house, and talking for like 10 minutes. Then, whiel shopping we ran into people we knew, and stoped to talk and then they saw people they knew and all started talking, etc.) People in NB (in generalof course) are a lot less aggressive, less time-oriented, more relaxed, and more chilled then people in BC - from my observations anyway. Also, everything is so small and spaced out in NB. When flying in all you see are fields and fields of tress! The cultre of NB sure is great!

Upon reflecting on these differences I have come to relaize that both BC and NB have their pros and cons, it just depends what you are looking for and what stage of life you're in - and how much money you want to make, haha!

Anyway, I guess this entry has really been more of an outlet for some of my thoughts and fustrations at the moment. I'm sure things will get better, my bridal shower is tomorrow, Debbie arrives on Monday, and Darrell arrives on Tuesday - which is when things will start to get even more hectic! But, hey! That's all part of planning a wedding, there's lots of people to please while also pleasing yourselves!
- Cheryl ;)

Go Vancouver Canucks!!

2007-04-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

Whaoooo The Vancouver Canucks won again tonight in game 4 of the 7 game series!! That means 3 wins so far! Canucks just need one more win in this series and the next game is at Home!! Sorry Dallas Stars!! Whaaooo!!

Needless to say Darrell is a big Canucks fan, and I've finally realized the excitement of hockey! I tried to resist watching the games as I thought it was really boring and pointless. It's just a bunch of guys skating after a little puck who fight once in a while. Blah. BUT! It's totally not!! I just had to learn what the games meant! They could win the Stanley Cup if they win 16 (I think it is) games in the play offs!! Imagine: the Stanley Cup in Vancouver!! Watching the games also brings the athlete and sports fan back to the surface in me! Remembering the intensity of playing provincal basketball play-offs, when the score is so close and then winning! Oh! My heart just beats with excitement!

When did I first hear about and watch the Canucks play? It was actually on the other side of Canada, in my second year of University! My Freind Matt, from BC, was a huge Canucks fan and he was always watching the games when I visited their dorm. So I'd watch and learn about the team, but seriously, the Canucks weren't that great back in those days. But now! No more Canucks Sucks!! Luongo (the goalie) is soooo goood!!

Go Vancouver Canucks!!

Last Name Thoughts

2007-04-15T00:23:00.000-07:00

In less than 3 weeks I must decide on my new last name!?!?

Is it going to be Cheryl Lynn Lim, or Cheryl Lynn Murray-Lim??

Why would I want to keep the Murray in part of name?
Well, the reason is two-fold.
One, I am not chinese! If I ever apply for a job, or if somebody hears my last name without knowing me they will probabely assume that I am chinese. Thus, deciding on only Lim changes my identity!
Two, I'd be keeping the Murray in my name as a remebrance of my Dad who passed away in 2003. My Dad was a very important person to me, and my family in general is important to me. Also, when my mom re-married last July her name became Murray-Weir, to remember dad and also to continue to have the same last name as my sister and I.

In a counter argument, why would I not include the Murray in my name?
Again, for two reasons.
One, I am quite traditional in my views on marriage. Traditionally the last name (and religion) of the man becomes the family name. The two are joined together which means they share everything, including their name. They are a family.
Two, I think some of our family members may be offended if I do not fully adopt the man's last name. And, of course, we never want reasons for family to be angry or offended.

So, needless to say it's a tough decision.

Cheryl Lynn Lim, or Cheryl Lynn Murray-Lim??

If you have any views, or opnions on this issue I'd love to hear them!
Or if you'd like to vote for one choice over the other, please leave a comment!

Engagement Shots!

2007-04-12T23:54:00.000-07:00

We received the scanned versions of our engagement shots today in the mail and we are excited to share them with you. Thanks to my sister for arranging this, it turned out to be a lot better than we expected and we realise that we are going to cherish these shots even though we initially didnt think engagement shots could fit our budget. thanks deb!

I must say that I (Darrell), don't really enjoy being in photos much. I think thats why I pursued a career in photography, just so i don't have to be in the limelight. Well this last photo shoot with my friend, Angie Ishak, has boosted my confidence for the big day approaching in 3 weeks. and my...doesn't my bride to be look radiant?! *blush*

My First Post!

2007-04-01T02:30:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, and welcome newcomers!

So this is the first time I've ever had a blog, or anything of the sort, and I seriously have no idea what to write, I've been sitting here staring at the blank screne for like 10 minutes, and was even trying to think of something before this in the shower. Yes, I for once seem to have writters block - for those who know me this is definatley unusual, and for those who don't I can almost asure you that it will never happen again, I usually write novels, haha!

So a quick update on me. I am currently working at White Spot resturant as a waitress, yes working in the same strip mall complex as Darrell, which is actually quite convient for both of us for drives and bus pass sharing. At times this job is quite hectic and crazy, but usually by the end of the night when I count my tip earnings it pays off - my foot massager my mom got me for Christmas is also definatley coming in handy for after work! Besides waitressing, I'm spending most of my time planning for the wedding - which is especially difficult because we're on the opposite side of the country from where it will take place. But, more challenging means more fun! I am also quite excited to go home for the week and a half before the wedding, to see family & freinds, and to experience fimilar sites & sounds! Thus, in closing here are some classic pictures of sites from The East (coast of Canada).

These two pictures were taken last year in Shediac, NB, which is the Lobster Capital of the world, 20 minutes from where I grew up - although where I grew up kinda includes that area also as my freinds and I would go to Shediac all the time for drive-in movies and the awesome beach, so 20 minutes from where our actual house is located. :)

I suspect that this blogging thing is going to be an exciting journey, and I'm glad to have the chance to share it will all of you! So, I'll keep ya posted!
- Cheryl :)

the Return

2007-03-31T23:57:00.000-07:00

No its not a title of a dvd that just came out, its the return of author of this blogger, who has gone MIA for far too long. I'm thinking a lot of you might have tuned out of my blog by now, but if you are still part of the faithful who are checking in. Hello!

well, i've been extremely busy since i returned to vancouver, what with adjusting to a new position working long hours and also planning for my upcoming wedding in New Brunswick.

I'm writing to tell you about two new developments. Firstly. Cheryl and I bought a car! my 1992 honda civic which so faithfully took me across the continent, coast to coast, and back...finally died on me a couple of weeks ago. it basically had a bunch of repairs that had to be done at the same time, and it was going to cost more than it was worth. So i sold it cheap and Cheryl and I searched high and low for the best option. we were actually really close to buying a new car, a Nissan Versa to be exact, but with advice and hard thinking we realised that it would be wiser to buy a newer used vehicle instead. A couple weeks after our decision, we are feeling more and convicted that we made the right choice. we are loving and appreciating our car more each day and are thankful that we owe the banks $10,000 less. woo hoo. here are a couple of shots to show you. its a 2003 Mazda Protege 5 hatchback. its niiice.

Secondly, i would like to introduce to you Cheryl, my future wife. In the days and weeks to come, Cheryl will be a contributor to this blog, and we will likely see a lot of her friends visit and they might even leave a comment or two! it will be a wonderful meeting of East meets West. For all of Cheryl's friends who are tuning in for the first time....Welcome to OUR blog!

by the way, i realised the East meets West thing might mean a couple of things. like East(asian) meets West(caucasian), lol! but i actually mean, the West Coast of Canada where i grew up and the East Coast where Cheryl grew up.

tee hee.

I expect that we will be writing in this blog in likely lesser frequency than I had been writing before while doing my masters. This year, we have a lot going on where I'm hoping to finish off my thesis and adjusting to married life. One of our priorities will be to continue sharing in our passion for travel, so we will for sure keep you guys updated on our travels. But daily work and life in and out, probably won't be that interesting and thus there might be less to talk about. of course, this blog will also be a great avenue for us to vent, or just talk about life and whats been on our minds lately. we hope to make time for that kind of stuff. its always good to have time to reflect and i probably haven't done much of it in the past few months since i've been back in BC.

keep in touch. this blog is still alive.

we've got a date...

2007-01-18T21:18:00.000-08:00

so its taken a SUPER long time to figure out a date. here are some reasons:

we come for opposite coasts of the country with vastly different customs and family backgrounds.

we've had to spend almost every waking hour finding and moving into a new place, and also beginning new jobs.... so while we've had a chance to talk about things...it takes time to sort these kinds of things out.... i'm learning you can't rush these things as much as you'd like to

we also had to find a date that suited both our families and accomodate as many of them as possible.

that being said, we've decided on a date and location.

the wedding, we hope, will be happening on May 5th, 2007 in Cheryl's hometown of Moncton, New Brunswick.

more details to follow as they develop!

Post 116

2007-01-12T13:52:00.000-08:00

Cheryl and I are ENGAGED!!

I proposed over the frozen Lake Louise on Monday as we were heading to BC. she said...yes. yay

things are busy busy. still unpacking and getting settled in, even had began work yesterday for a training class and meeting my boss today for a bit.

back to the grind on monday. will write more soon

Next Week

2007-01-02T17:14:00.000-08:00

this time next week i'll be back in the Vancouver area, ready to begin a new chapter of my life.

while i was back in BC for holidays, i spent most of it looking for a new place and free furniture off this great website called craigslist.org

anyway. i managed to find a place in the Upper Lonsdale area of North Vancouver (my hometown) and its about a 5min drive to work by the highway.

When we get in next week, we'll focus on getting cheryl a place as well. she already has a job interview lined up which we are excited about.

It will be a busy year ahead, and come to think of it, i don't have any new year's resolutions (i usually don't) but if you have any... i'd love to hear about them!

In an homage to Saskatchewan, here are the top five things that i will miss about living here for the past 2 years (minus all the traveling i did)

#1 All the great people that I've met, i hope to keep in touch with all of you

#2 You laugh, but Smitty's breakfast. There's nothing like it.

#3 Holy, Big ... skies!

#4 Farm fresh eggs across from the highway

#5 Caronport Fire Department...its been a great 2 years.

PS Cheryl wants me to add that she thinks it neat that you can see the ENTIRE length of a train when you see them chugging along the track. (that is pretty neat)

I'll be back the last week of May for my last class. See you then saskatchewan!

Latest news

2006-12-07T14:16:00.000-08:00

hey folks

its been almost a month since i last blogged. A LOT has happened that i'd like to fill you in about!

In the midst of waiting for my marks from the summer to come in, I had sorta been in limbo and since i got back from the East Coast, have desperately been looking for work. As there weren't any classes left for me to take, i'd have to take two by distance and my january class was pushed back to June.

I found out though, earlier this month that my marks that came in from the summer bumped my GPA up high enough to qualify to write a thesis. this is a significant opportunity because most of the degrees offered at Briercrest are geared to equip people practically, and not necessarily for a career in research. So the task of a thesis is NOT typically what most students prefer. In the light of possible further education, i know that a thesis is a step the right direction, as it will show my aptitude for research and the suitability of my experiences if i were to apply to do another degree.

As such, that leaves me with virtually nothing to do until i can officially write my thesis next september. I began to consider what the heck i could be doing with my life given the change of circumstances. I figured trying to get by juggling part time jobs hadn't really helped me out so far, so I began applying for full time work around the country. As such...something has come up! and its a bit of dream for me.

I've just been offered officially (today!), a chance to manage the North Vancouver Park n Tilford Blockbuster location, and I enthusiastically accepted the offer. Not only will this job help me out financially (huge pay increase), it will also give me the time i need to be writing this thesis part time. It also offers me the opportunity to act out on my dream of one day working and living in my hometown of North Vancouver .

This position also strategically places me for success within the company. If i do well, I hope to be able to move on to a more executive management role in one or two years. This is exciting for me because I have really grown to love this company that I've worked for the past 3 years, and I'm excited to use my degree in leadership/management to it fullest potential as a manager. the next level prospects are exciting for me. As a district leader, i would have the challenging task of managing other managers. Or if a head office job opens up in human resources, i believe it will also be a great fit because my degree has taken on that unexpected focus during my studies.

This means a couple of things. Firstly, its time to move on from Briercrest. Its been two years, but two very good years where I've learnt so much about the word "work" means to the pilgrim's progress. I've also been put in an incubator environment of sorts, and grown exponentially as a person and citizen.

I will be leaving many wonderful relationhips that i've developed over the past two years, but thankfully, i won't have to plant myself in a completely new community all over again. Going home has never felt so timely.

This is where i need your help! If you live in the Lower Mainland. PLEASE keep your ears peeled for available housing! I am interested in talking to anyone who needs a roomate or even anyone who has a basement suite or apartment to sublet or housesit. i'm open to ANYTHING!

Also, at this point, I am open to staying anywhere that has a reasonable commute to North Vancouver, although I've already heard of very reasonable options that I can easily afford. Those would be solo options though...so like i said, if you hear of anything. Vancouver, Burnaby, New West, West Van (teehee, yeah right) are all viable options for me.

Some of you have also heard about the recent "drama" that Cheryl and I went thru, I'm happy to report to we had to chance to talk things through last week and things are (it seems) even better than before. We are gonna keep working on this relationship thing and try to keep further plans in check. We've kinda realised that there is a whole lot more to learn about each other and get used to before we will be ready to make any strong commitments. As such, it looks (at this point) that she will likely be moving to vancouver as well for two reasons. She wants to find full time work and there are more opportunities in Vancouver. She wants to explore the Counselling program over at Trinity Western, as of now she's feeling like she's in the wrong program and wants a change anyway.

So as you are keeping your ears peeled for me... it would be great if you pass along any information for work and a place to live for Cheryl as well.

thanks for journeying with me, it seems that yet again, the progress will continue towards another exciting chapter back in North Vancouver.

More East Coast Photography

2006-11-10T01:45:00.000-08:00

Film does take more time than digital. but oh! its worth the wait. I was pleased with a few shots that I'd like to share with you folks. Look at how beautiful Canada is!

St Stephen, New Brunswick on the left, Calais, Maine on the right.

Crow in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. (where the Bluenose is from!)

The St. Johns, NF bay where some of the first explorers first reached our great land.

Signal Hill, St. John's, NF.

Inside Signal Hill Tower, St. John's, NF.

A view from Cape Spear, NF. The easternmost point of North America overlooking the Atlantic.

Apologies

2006-11-10T01:34:00.000-08:00

It was pointed out to me earlier in the week, that I have a typical elitist attitude to the province of BC and my hometown of Vancouver. If I offended anyone of you, please accept my humblest apologies. Maybe its true, maybe everyone from BC can't stop raving about how much they love their home. I don't notice it, but that's because thats where I'm from.

I would like to say, as a point of clarification. That while my opinion remains mine, the rest of Canada is just as special and unique in their own way. When i first moved to SK, it was such a change that it was hard to appreciate what I saw outside my window. In time though, I have learnt that there is beauty in all places and in all cultures. From a westcoast, to prairie to southern ontario and maritimes culture. its all different and its all GOOD.

I am proud to be Canadian and I love the diversity we share in this country, from province to province. By having a personal preference, I hope that doesn't communicate that I think everything else sucks. Cos I don't and I feel quite the opposite.

I should say as well, that a lot of my observations made in a previous post was actually out of the talks that Cheryl and I had been having about the differences. Many of the descriptions were actually hers. So I do need to give credit for stealing some of her thoughts.

Post 111

2006-11-03T20:38:00.000-08:00

today is November 4th. and its a great day because my lil sister was born 22 years ago.

it wasn't too long ago that she was a cute lil baby that i could never stop cheek pinching. then she grew up to be the biggest brat and a horror of a lil sis. she turned out alright though, actually she turned out just fine. and not fine in the ok way. fine as in rare and beautiful and awesome and cool.

this is my sister. among some of her amazing accomplishments, i am envious to declare (as I always do!!) that my sister has been on every continent in the world except Antarctica. and seriously I wouldn't be surprised if she finds a way there pretty soon!

she's way more intelligent and mature than i EVER was when i was 22. she is way more intense than i am, and about twice as detailed. some of you are cringing in horror! hey...its GOOD THING. she's a girl of multi-talents. she's quite the avid baker and is one of the most faithful friends a person can find. she plays piano, guitar and percussion(she's really good at this one!) and no this is not a personal ad for her.

she is now in Brazil and i miss her a lot. to check out her adventures go to:
http://www.travbuddy.com/blogs/3107

Evaluations

2006-10-28T21:16:00.001-07:00

before we got into toronto, we actually missed our connection and ended up having a couple hours to kill in Ottawa, so we went to check out the Parliament buildings. which was cool. last time i was in Ottawa, i just drove past them, but because it was pouring rain and i really didn't feel like going in, so i never got a chance to see it up close. but it ended up being a day of drama. we got into the building and was just about to get our free tour on the road after a 20 min security check. when what should happen? FIRE ALARM. geez!!! we were on a tight schedule. even worse, they had confiscated our lil walkie talkies, so we couldn't just bail and leave our radios behind! we ended up waiting forever and got our radios in the last minute and barely made it back to the bus on time. oh well.

i didnt know much of what to expect from Toronto. i hadn't been there in more than ten years but from what i remembered before, i wasn't too impressed. this time around i wanted to go with an open mind. after all, its the largest of all our canadian cities. when we got in, i immediately realised why toronto is the hollywood's budget choice for a New York City substitute. there are certainly many parts that remind me of New York. So that i liked. the BIG malls, and BIG streets and BIG buildings. cheap hotdogs and papaya juice. it was great. but it wasn't new york! =(

Wicked was REALLY REALLY good. wow. its the story of how the wicked witch of the west from the Wizard of Oz came to be who she was. It was inventive, and original. Hilarious yet poignant and made many important statements about how people perceive what evil is. very cool.

After seeing the East Coast. I have made some smallish conclusions. past Montreal...communities are pretty sparse out in the maritimes and Newfoundland & Labrador. for you BCers. a large city is about the size of ABBOTSFORD. so that means that you're not gonna find as much culture or variety. the whole coastal/fishing environment is real, and refreshing. but not really anything new if you have been to small villages in Vancouver Island. I would say its pretty comparable. except in BC we have huge trees (because of warmer weather) and we have mountains. woohoo!

i HAD to try the Atlantic seafood. and its ... good. but nothing special. although, i'm pretty sure the lobsters out there are more plentiful and a bit larger. this makes sense as I personally believe the Atlantic is a lot more polluted than the Pacific and molluscs are primarily scavengers. it would make sense that the Atlantic is dirtier because of the hundreds of years of sea travel between the Americas and European exploration/settlement.

now that i've been to every major city in Canada. I feel like i'm allowed to rate my favourite city....drum roll... and it is. wait hold on. what do i mean exactly? ok. well there are a couple of things. I think there is a difference between a cool, hip, fun city that you would enjoy for awhile but not necessarily live in for a long period of time. NYC is that kind of place for me or even San Francisco. love those two places, but i'm not sure that i want to spend the rest of my life there. so i'm gonna rate it under two criteria. Most livable Canadian city, and Most interesting/fun place to be. the latter for me is definitely Montreal. I've only had two full days in Montreal, but every time i leave i wanna go back again. its....i dunno. addictive. i love that its so different from anything else in Canada. i LOVE the european influences on the architecture, the food and the multicultural heritages. I still think though that Vancouver is the most livable place in all of Canada. its growing increasingly impossible for the average person to be able to own a home there these days. but if money were no object. BC all the way, as long as i'm a couple hours drive within Vancouver i'll be happy. Still, i think i would be interested in living in a place like Montreal for a short time period. we'll see...

Cheryl and Mr. McGill

well i've been back almost week now in SK and wow the week has BLOWN BY. i began my sunday evening hosting an old friend from university who was heading to winnipeg to begin working at the U of Manitoba, helping and challenging students to grow in their walk with Christ. Justin is a good guy, and i thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to connect more closely again. its been a few years since we last had a good heart to heart.

monday night, cheryl told me she had a chat with her mum, and apparently i had received rave reviews from the family! woohoo! i felt super comfortable with her family and really liked the Maritimes. Enough, that I would say that I am open to living in the area. the one area that i liked a lot and felt was pretty charming was the town of St. Stephen which is just on the NB/maine border. neat town. so yea, its not like home, but i could get used to it because there are some nice similarities.

this week. lots of chances for call in shifts (not scheduled) at blockbuster. which has been mildly helpful for cashflow. but not so good with the intended plans. i'm going pretty hard now with my faculty assistantship and theres lots of stuff to keep me busy. this week i also led music in the chapel and will also be doing music tomorrow mornin'. it takes a lot out of you!

i've barely had much time to catch my breath and before i know it, monday will have arrived. here's to another week ahead....

the east coast!

2006-10-17T04:51:00.000-07:00

trip has been crazy busy, we've been going to bed at after midnight and getting up at 830am is sleeping in! the only time we've had to breathe is either waiting for a plane or bus (cos you have to for the bus if you want good seats), and then typically there's hardly any time to blog, let alone catch your breath. so... sorry for the delay. the plan for the rest of the week is this: we leave moncton tomorrow at 540pm, and arrive in toronto just before 5pm the next day. then we find our hostel and book it to the hottest musical on broadway called Wicked!, we to are super excited do that. we are in toronto for the day and then the bus leaves for caronport friday around 5pm.

here are some photos from cheryl's camera. my film shots to follow in a few weeks.

the romantic streets of Montreal! - i love this place

Cape Spear, Newfoundland. the easternmost point of N. America!

Lighhthouse at Cape Spear

Jellybean Row in St. John's NFLD

Similar looking types of homes in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.

whats coming up.

2006-10-03T00:35:00.000-07:00

I'm sooo sorry. it seems like ages since i last blogged. but thats because it has been a long time since i blogged about something substantial anyway. i know some of you get kind of annoyed when i "cheap out" use those quizzes as blog "fillers". haha. i like em though, at least it gives you a chance to get to know me a lil better.

Cheryl and I are heading on a long but free bus trip to the Maritimes as some of you may know, on friday night. we stop over in montreal for a night (two day after we begin), and then are in moncton, new brunswick (cheryl's hometown) on tuesday. we also booked a flight to newfoundland where we have both never been. surprisingly from a west coast perspective most of us don't realise how incredibly far newfoundland is from the maritimes. its FAR. its almost as far as vancouver to regina! but here is our bus route, check it out:

school life is just nuts. i am taking a bit of an academic break and gearing up for a long research project coming up. its a long story but basically i am preparing to write either a 60pg or 120 pg thesis/book. the 60pg one will take the majority of a semester, the bigger one will hold me back here until the end of the summer 2007, with a delayed degree until april 2008 (though i will officially be all done in late 2007).

so we'll see. it all depends on my grades, and if they are high enough by january (cos i gotta wait for my marks from the summer to come in - they take forever!), then i'll probably do it. Compared to other master's degrees in the social sciences my degree is actually pretty comprehensive, encompassing a massive 60 credits. a lot of university master's degrees require anywhere from 39-48 credits, and course based masters, typically don't require a research component. and if they do, its mainly the 60pg research project that is required. This is apparent in psychology, social work and education fields that i know of for sure.

i'm also working at the fire dept, with student households leadership and an internship with one of the profs in the school. none of those are necessarily paid (it sorta is, but its complicated) so i'm running around really busy working without a lot to show for in my wallet. the stress of planning for life in the new year and all the possibilities it holds is sorta weighing down on me, as i'm realising that, yet again, my last semester of student loans will only just barely cover my costs. they simply don't factor in wedding preparations as a viable reason to lend you more money. not that i want to borrow anymore anyway.

so in short, i have no idea what the future holds. only that i leave friday to meet this wonderful girl's family. and i'm gonna be praying and thinking hard over the lil while to see if this whole relationship is right for both of us. i'm excited really, but also quite apprehensive about the uncertainty that the future will hold. Life is certainly much easier when you are single and living life independently. its even like that if you are much younger and aren't ready to settle down. but you know its probably time to at least embrace life the way its laid out for you when your parents are starting to wonder when i'm going to move forward in my next stage of life. parents who aren't typically the kind to talk about these things to begin with.

anyway, enough rambling, i look forward to further adventures to share with you on a pilgrims progress. i hope to blog while i'm there and keep you updated on travels to the east. it'll be exciting to get back to writing back something more exciting than just everyday work and school - which gets boring to write about pretty quick!

the drive

2006-08-28T01:12:00.000-07:00

so we were driving into Moose Jaw today... and Cheryl said. "Everything looks so... like... farm-ey."

LOL. welcome to saskatchewan.

Its doubly funny because she is usually saying something like. "Look at how cool that is, or see that colour in that area, or some sort of amazed comment. today, SK's farminess finally hit her.

good times

back...

2006-08-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

You Are 75% Left Brained, 25% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning.
Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others.
If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic.
Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet.

The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility.
Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way.
If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art.
Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

i haven't blogged for awhile, and i was having problems figuring out what to write about after such a hectic few months in school. i figured another quiz would get my thinking juices going. This quiz is a bit of self reflection, and in a way confirms the areas of interest and gifting for me. its is clear that music and photography, while are artistic interests, and abilities, do not form the dominant mindset that i have, as more of a right brained kind of guy.

so whats going on for me in the fall? it seems to be shaping up nicely, although only a couple plans are certain. other than auditing a course in counselling in September, the fall will mostly be spent on my internship and work terms. I'm already in one that finishes in december, and might get another one working on the student households crew. student households is sorta like the student council for students who don't live in dorms. we make ourselves available to help and serve our fellow students in a myriad of ways, and we are also in charge of planning evens that help people connect with each other, and help make Caronport a lil smaller than it already is

in october, i embark on 2.5 day bus trip out to the Maritimes! i'm excited to be going out to that part of Canada(finally!), and but also really excited to meet Cheryl's family and friends. it will be a significant building block to our developing relationship. i'm looking forward in stopping in montreal along the way and savouring their poutines and montreal smoked beef (separately or together!)

we'll see what other paid work opportunities come up as well, there might be opportunities to help out with the harvest out here in september, but if not i've got blockbuster and my thesis to be thinking about. i've been having a hard time figuring out what i want to write about, so say a lil prayer for me about that when you get a chance

Hooray!

2006-08-01T02:19:00.000-07:00

I have just completed THE most stressful time in school i can ever imagine. man i've been going hard for a few months now, but this week especially. 4 major papers in 7 days. WOW. I can't believe i'm done early, with lots of sleep even for a busy day of errands tomorrow. i'm looking forward to a LONG break for august. and then just one more wee paper for september.

woo hoo !

lying

2006-07-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

Your EQ is 153

50 or less: Thanks for answering honestly. Now get yourself a shrink, quick!
51-70: When it comes to understanding human emotions, you'd have better luck understanding Chinese.
71-90: You've got more emotional intelligence than the average frat boy. Barely.
91-110: You're average. It's easy to predict how you'll react to things. But anyone could have guessed that.
111-130: You usually have it going on emotionally, but roadblocks tend to land you on your butt.
131-150: You are remarkable when it comes to relating with others. Only the biggest losers get under your skin.
150+: Two possibilities - you've either out "Dr. Phil-ed" Dr. Phil... or you're a dirty liar.

What's Your EQ (Emotional Intelligence Quotient)?

anyone else get an unusually high score? cos i sure wasn't lying... hmmm

Personality type

2006-07-20T00:18:00.000-07:00

You Are An ISFJ

The Nurturer

You have a strong need to belong, and you are very loyal.
A good listener, you excel at helping others in practical ways.
In your spare time, you enjoy engaging your senses through art, cooking, and music.
You find it easy to be devoted to one person, who you do special things for.

You would make a good interior designer, chef, or child psychologist.

What's Your Personality Type?

in previous tests, i have also been an INFJ. i think these tests really vary from how you are feeling that day. I like the first four points, because i think it describes me well. the career options were hilarious, i've never thought of being any of those...except maybe a chef when i was 16. then i got a job at the Earl's kitchen as a dishwasher and I realised that I'd rather cook as a hobby.

the package

2006-07-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

So i had been waiting on a package from a friend i went to india with for awhile. he had borrowed some books to finish up assignments for a class we took together, and he had agreed to use them for a couple of weeks and then mail them back to me... 1 month later, and i still did not have them...

so i emailed, and i emailed, and i emailed. I even found him on msn (it might not have been him), but no. nothing. i was starting to get a little worried. thinking maybe he's either had no intention of returning the books or forgot, or just plain disappeared. i finally heard back from him last weekend, and he apologised profusely for not remembering about them. he said he was eternally sorry and would include a peace offering for his forgetfulness.

LOL.

I was so incredibly surprised when i received the package, thinking two little books wouldn't require such a large box.

In it, i found my books of course, and then another book, a one eyed monster mask, a jar of homemade strawberry jam, dole strawberry kiwi juice, ... I think thats soap, popcorn, a cheesy horror flick and a piece of art on cloth (probably from Nepal or India)

I laughed. pretty hard. and then decided i was hungry and had a bit of what was probably his mom's jam. mmm.mmm. good.

i'm just glad that the jar didn't break open in the package, cos that would have made it interesting to use those textbooks for the papers that are due August 1st.

Wow. i'm incredibly busy, i have 3 classes to finish off by August 1 (the ones i took in India) and then another one due in the first week of september. I'm looking forward to a bit of a reprieve in the fall perhaps...but knowing me i'll probably still be working pretty hard to graduate by next year.

noise

2006-06-29T01:10:00.000-07:00

have you ever noticed how you don't know that a fridge fan is going...until it shuts off?

its kinda like life. well not quite. but close. you seldom don't realise things are happening all around you...until one day - it stops. and then you wonder how you ever got along not knowing stuff like that happens.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am very excited. about three nights ago, i became an uncle! no, no, no. debbie didn't get pregnant and have a kid. its actually my cousin evelyn. that still counts right? I mean i'm a distant uncle, but still....i think it works.

This is Taylor Kwan. He is a cutie. But soon... he will be a noisy cutie.

Dancing

2006-06-11T22:54:00.000-07:00

Been thinking about ballroom dancing of late. I've always wanted to take formal lessons in some sort of partner dancing. Not the stupid kind of shake your booty crap you find at clubs. but real dancing, with form, posture and flair. The key is it has to be classy.

Anyway, i chanced upon this video today while looking up salsa dancing.

MY, these people can really move, its gonna take a lot to get my asian butt moving THAT way.

This cartoon kinda encapsulates how i feel about dancing. I guess i'd rather be singing instead. haha. I'm so self conscious that I don't think i'd have the confidence to actually dance until i practiced enough not to look like an idiot. I tried swing dancing a couple of times too before. Loved the practice time, but once the actual dancing happened, i'd be that hippo in the corner, watching everyone have a ball. I gotta really not care what people think, i think thats the key to having fun with dance.

PS i realise this 2nd video has NOTHING to do with salsa dancing. the hippo's reaction was what I was really trying to communicate here.

Film

2006-06-04T23:04:00.000-07:00

Man, the more films i watch, the more i get sucked into the artistic side of it, and i LOVE IT. I was thinking about a way to blog my thoughts, and then i chanced upon this article by Daniel Griffin. He took the words right out of my mouth.

1. Film is art.
Most people go to the movies to be entertained. This is necessary and appropriate. After all, films allow us to put away our own lives for a couple of hours and embrace the life and story of the people who we are watching, which is entertainment in its purest form. I find it sad, however, that the average filmgoer does not think beyond the idea of films as a way to kill a few hours. Rather, cinema is an art form just as significant and just as profound as any painting or song. Art exists to stimulate its audience, to provoke thought and stir them to consider what a person believes and why he believes it. Art exists to create a reaction in a person, and to make its audience into less of a watcher and more of a participant. Certainly, it must be stimulating to the audience, and that is where entertainment comes in as a key player. It is also so much more: Films are pieces of art, and they should be looked at as art. They should provoke and push boundaries; they should make statements and ask questions. Sadly, there has been, I believe, a push away in recent cinema from creating films that challenge the viewer. The entertainment elements have been increased, and artistic expression played down, at least in many major Hollywood releases. As a result, the expectations of the viewers have been dumbed down as well. This site, and my reviews, will serve as a charge to bring the artistic aspects of film back into the limelight—to look at films as no less entertaining, but to also expect them to provoke thought and challenge the viewer with new ideas and images.

2. Film is literature.
In the late eighteenth century, Gothic novels were considered the trailer-trash talk shows and the gossip magazines of their time. Books like Matthew Lewis’ The Monk and Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein were dismissed as foolishness for the weak-minded. Today, they are considered some of the greatest contributions to literature every created. Truly, what Lewis and Shelley and others left behind for those who come after them are a reflection of their times to later generations. Movies are the same, and they will leave messages to the generations after us. Who we were will be reflected in the art left behind, which will be interpreted and re-interpreted by scholars for the rest of humanity’s history. Thus, films are no less literature meant to be analyzed and appreciated than the “trashy” Gothic novels before them. What entertains us today will be considered invaluable later. Thus, it is our responsibility to make sure the messages that we leave reflect who we are, our hopes, our dreams, our flaws, and our history.

OK, i wouldn't go as far as saying that film is literature. its not. but its storytelling. and thats why its such an important medium.

Maybe one day i'll use my photographic intuition and penchant for stories and tell a story using motion capture film. that would be neat. It would have to be good though. I don't wanna settle for crappy movies made on my cell phone.

Low Expectations

2006-05-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

I wonder if the secret to contentment in life is a deeper understanding of yourself and what you expect of the world. What you expect to get back from your job, your studies, your friends and your family. hmmm. i'm not sure about that, but there may be something there.

Related to that topic, I had fairly low expectations of this last job that I applied for, I was excited about it and confident that I'd be able to do it well. Nonetheless, I was still skeptical because I knew one of candidates applying for the job. This individual was a better fit, in my opinion, for what the company was looking for.

Anyway, I didn't have any expectations, and I'm not disappointed that I didn't get the job. I'm not just saying this to console myself, its true. I'm happy to continue with school and appreciate this process as long as I'm in it. So unless something spectacular comes along (while I'm not looking for it), I do want to finish off my commitments to school. It seems almost positive now that I will be able to return home to Vancouver in October where I will complete the rest of my degree by distance. Before that happens, I'm going to find a way to appreciate this place called Saskatchewan for as much as I'm able to - its kind folk and its hidden beauties.

X-Men

2006-05-26T11:07:00.001-07:00

In honour of one of my most anticipated movies of the year, X-men 3 - The last stand, I decided to see which X-man I would be if I could snap my fingers...

You Are Cyclops

Dedicated and responsible, you will always remain loyal to your cause.
You are a commanding leader - after all, you can kill someone just by looking at them.

Power: force beams from your eyes

Which of the X-Men Are You?

I think the only reason why they picked Cyclops is because I think Jean Grey who is now, the Phoenix is hot! actually, if my friend leah was here, I would say hAt!!! but she's speaking like a canadian in her last week with us more than ever. americans. go figure. =)

Travelling

2006-05-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

I was reading up on one of my favourite singer/songwriters recently and I chanced up on Laurell's latest musings.

In one of the last lines, she writes: "Funny how sometimes we need to travel outwardly to travel inwardly."

Thats not only deep, but its sort of been the theme of my life in the past couple of years. Literally travelling from one end of the continent and back, as well as to other continents.

I've learnt so much not only about this journey called life, but about who I am and how the concept of faith fits into all of it. Part of being a more effective leader is always to first understand yourself and how to manage yourself. After that task is done, it becomes possible to help and manage others.

I've learnt what my calling in life is about and where I fit in the cosmos. My journey continues to simply be... the progress of a pilgrim

thanks for coming along for the ride.

Laurell is a gifted singer/songwriter that actually was a part of the first season of Canadian Idol, where she made it to the top 100. Anyway, she is way better than any Canadian Idol or American Idol put together. Mostly because she hails from my hometown of North Vancouver and she writes her own songs. eat your heart out kelly clarkson! (actually, I like kelly, so never mind)

job

2006-05-23T14:39:00.000-07:00

its confirmed! i'm flying out thursday morning and will be back the same day for this interview. i wonder what its going to be about. i suspect its NOT going to be about my qualifications and abilities, because we sorta got all of that over with in the first interview. It might just be a simple get to know you personally kind of a deal. i'm not really sure.

all of this is sorta new to me. I've never been flown in for an interview before, so i'm sure its a pretty big deal.

update

2006-05-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

i actually wasn't planning on writing anything about the Da Vinci Code. so i'll get back to why i was writing in the first place. yes, i'm back in Cport for a week. i'm scheduled to head back to Yorkton AGAIN, next week. i'll drive down monday and be back thursday. That, it seems, will be the end of my tenure there. its been great, but i do have to get back to other priorities.

with the job stuff. i received a call from director of loss prevention on friday. they want to interview me. so my guess on nailing that interview turned out to be a good hunch. i'm likely going to head to calgary sometime this week for a one on one with my regional director and then we'll be doing a conference call with the LP director. i'm not sure if there is another interviewing stage after this, but i'm excited for the opportunity for the chance anyway. we'll see how it goes.

with my da vinci code writeup. please. if you're going to leave a comment, please make sure that you have a basic understanding of respect on my blog. if we all understand that people, INCLUDING Dan Brown is allowed to have an opinion. then i think it will set discussions off on the right foot. then again, i'm not blogging about jello, so maybe i'll get no comments whatsoever.

daVinci Code.

2006-05-22T10:34:00.000-07:00

hey all.

just wanted to let you know that i got back into Caronport late last night. i actually drove home right after work in Yorkton, and then proceeded to catch the Da Vinci Code in Moose Jaw before crawling back home after the late movie. this movie is seriously a great example of how blown up things can get when people go nuts over something like a movie.

apparently this movie is going to gross worldwide in its opening weekend something like the second biggest opening next to star wars episode 3. anyway, i think its pretty hilarious how everyone involved with the film, knows its a work of fiction and is just trying to make an entertaining film and religious fanatics all over the world are protesting it. apparently there is a society for albinos as well that's jumping on the bandwagon as well. lol. They are getting mad, because the killer in the movie is an albino and they say that albinos are always casted as villains in movies. which affects people's view of them.

if you watch the movie, you'll soon realise that this movie is pure fantasy that attempts to loosely connect history and theology in a somewhat believable manner. but there are seriously so many holes that i just decided not to think about it and just enjoy the movie. i was actually suprised that there are characters in the movie that pretty much represent the different opinions on the deity of christ. its not a one sided slug fest on Christianity.

the whole thing about the albino killer. seriously. the fact that he was an albino actually attributed to a bishop calling him an angel (because he was so fair). its not derogatory at all, and the movie's characters are complex, multifaceted and all have motivations and shades to their actions.

anyway, a film critic said that the movie did a better job of representing the books main themes and actually made the story better. which i can totally see. i have a high respect for director Ron Howard, and all the other actors in the film actually.

i'm also glad i didn't read the book. Apparently, its super drawn out in some of the wooden conversations that they have. I have so many other things i need to read than to spend time reading 500 pages of fiction in order to get this convulted storyline fleshed out. one thing i was surprised about? i was actually expecting more stuff on Da Vinci himself. and the actual artwork that inspired this idea of a code. err. no. watch it, you'll see.

4 paperclips out of 5 for the Da Vinci Code.

nails

2006-05-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

it blows my mind how many people will post a comment for something as trivial as jello. its quite interesting the human mind.

on another note, i think i nailed my phone interview for that loss prevention job i was telling you about. i had it this afternoon, and I felt really good about it after. so we'll see if i make the short list for an in person interview with the Director of Loss Prevention.

If anything, this whole process just gets my name out there for the next opening. here's hoping for the best. and if not, i'm pretty ok with finishing up school

is it just me...

2006-05-06T21:57:00.000-07:00

is it just me, or does anyone else find cold jello right from the fridge to be a refreshing spring treat?

is it just me, or does anyone get peeved about the fact that jello powder has too little gelatin, so you undercompensate by adding less water (so it firms up better)but then end up basically eating super sweet jello?

still though. it IS refreshing.

rumor has it

2006-05-06T01:01:00.000-07:00

There's a new dvd that will be coming out on tuesday called Rumor Has It. I watched it over a couple of days and had heard good things about it.

Its a spinoff story about the classic movie The Graduate with Dustin Hoffman. The rumor is that the screenplay was written on a real life scenario, where a younger man (Hoffman) is seduced by an older, more distinguished lady. Consequently, he also proceeds to have a relationship with her daughter later in the story.

In this movie, the Jennifer Aniston character is the third generation of women in the family, with her grandmother and deceased mother already having had a relationship with the character of Beau Burroughs

Its a poignant story of doubt, confusion and the true meaning of love. In the end, the women go back to their husbands or fiancees after they realise what true love is about. There is definite character development, and these women end up learning some really great lessons about love, commitment and being in community.

What bugged me a bit about the story, was the plight of Beau Burroughs, who at the end, seems to sorta just fade into the back of the story, like his life didn't really matter. Like he was somehow significant in helping these women realise some things, but at the end of the day, didn't really deserve any justice. the poor guy had his heart broken at least twice, and everyone else seemed to ride off into the sunset with their new found realisations and triumphs.

what bugs me about this is because I think its a realistic phenomenon that happens all the time. All Beau did was put his heart on the line, and dared to love wholeheartedly and be vulnerable. In the end though, his life did influence these women to realise that they actually loved other people, instead of him. wow. that bites. big time. but its life, and its the risk you take when you start all kinds of relationships

snow

2006-05-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

its May 3rd, 2006. and it snowed in Yorkton, SK this afternoon. 'nuff said

halfway done

2006-04-29T16:54:00.000-07:00

for those of you who are wondering whats been going on. i've been in the town of yorkton, saskatchewan for the past 5 days working, and i'm halfway done. i'm supposed to be working 2 full weeks (10 days straight) to help out the blockbuster store in the area. if you remember, i was actually here last december to help cover some staff shortages as well. anyway. the store manager left the company, and i've been brought on temporarily to clean up the store and train up some new staff including the newly hired assistant manager.

I've had pretty long days, often putting in 1-3 hours of overtime on top of the 8 i just worked, although i'm technically not allowed to as an hourly employee (and i'm certainly not clocking overtime pay). but i do love work, and i guess I realised this week how much i enjoy equipping and helping people do their jobs better. its especially encouraging when people always seem to respond so well. I don't see this time as a burden on my studies (even though it is), but i'm kinda enjoying life working again. i've always preferred working life to student life.

i've been told i'm a dreamer. so this next excerpt is a dreamer alert to all those who care, attached with all the usual spiritual provisos if you happen to subscribe to that kind of lifestyle. there was a job posting a few days ago for a loss prevention investigator at the vancouver blockbuster head office. basically, its what it sounds like and i would be responsible for investigating and implementing processes to reduce theft in 4 districts in the BC region. It would include a lot of reports analysis from each store (close to 50-60 i think), and then personally visiting stores to conducts audits and training sessions with staff. one of the most appealing things for me is that i would get to travel a lot and i would gain the big picture experience that i've been wanting for a long time. i'd also get to connect my much missed policing experience to my management career. which is just fantastic. the job pretty much combines all of my life's experience into one great paying job that situates me in the city my heart calls home.

i've been encouraged by pretty much every big wig i know in the company to apply for it. it first started out with my store manager, who initially was speaking to a discouraged tired student who didn't seem to think that the company would take him seriously, as this is a fairly senior position. its basically (rank and pay wise) somewhere between a store manager and a district manager, and also the EXACT position that i would have liked to have after my degree with much potential for growth. anyway, i figured there would be lots of other managers in the ranks with more experience waiting to get the position, but i was encouraged by Corrie to apply anyway, because i do have my own unique set of experiences and abilities.

after i spoke to her, i decided to read the posting in detail and found that i not only met the job requirements but exceeded it! wow. i then promptly called 4 other higher ranked people in the company, and they all felt that my education coupled with my policing experience would put me in good position for at least as shortlisted interview. the director of loss prevention in toronto is a former police officer, so that might be a good thing!

so i'm getting my resume together this weekend and i'll send it off on monday. its a long shot at best. really it is. but if i get it, I suppose i will be making more adjustments. the story of my life in the past couple of years so far has been unpredictability. and those of you who have met me in that time will agree to that about me. but those of you who have known me for much longer will realise that it seems to be more unpredictable BECAUSE i've backed off on planning my life and am comfortable with lettings things happen and making the best choice when i am presented with it to the best of my faculties.

I probably won't get the job, but thats what i initially said about grad school, new york and india. but somehow. it has worked out. so we'll see. i've got a great year ahead of me in school, and should be finishing in about 8 months. I wasn't even searching for a job, but this one seems to have just fallen in my lap and the least i can do is just send in a resume. couldn't hurt.

anyway, just wanted to update you.

Traffic

2006-04-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

If you have ever heard of how alarming traffic is in third world countries like India but have never seen it for yourself....here is a perfect example.

the cook in me.

2006-04-12T14:51:00.000-07:00

You Are an Excellent Cook

You're a top cook, but you weren't born that way. It's taken a lot of practice, a lot of experimenting, and a lot of learning.
It's likely that you have what it takes to be a top chef, should you have the desire...

Are You A Good Cook?

you gotta love these surveys. apparently i'm a really good cook. Some of you don't know this but when i was in highschool, I actually wanted to be a world famous cook. I thought it would be such a neat job because you get to combine artistry with practicality. I love the idea of viewing cooking as an artform! But anyway, after a summer of washing dishes at Earls restaurant in Vancouver, I figured that I could still enjoy cooking and be a good cook, without working in a restaurant...

Nowadays i mostly cook for myself, and thats not always fun cos its boring to cook for one person. Although, recently i've been enjoying my cooking times. its been relaxing and therapeutic for me when i've needed a break from school. Crank up a little norah jones, or louis armstrong, or alison krauss and cook away. i cook in batches so its lasts a few meals at a time, and i just freeze stuff after.

Once a week a group of close friends here at school get together and hang out. its a wonderful time of relationship. We talk about our lives and pray for each other and other people. this week, its my turn to cook. I've got pasta and meatballs on the agenda - from scratch. woohoo!

Northern Ireland.

2006-04-10T15:46:00.000-07:00

After a whirlwind journey through the Republic of Ireland and Scotland, I arrived early Saturday morning at Belfast International Airport where my friend Dave Shepherd picked me up and played host for the weekend along with his lovely wife Hilda and baby Anna. It was a super weekend to enjoy the idyllic life in Ireland. Dave took me on a tour of the city and explained all the historical signficance of the grafitti, and how it related to the political unrest in the city. We even soaked up a football match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the local pub, where I enjoyed a fresh pint of Guinness. it was wonderful.

Sunday, we headed up north to the Giant's Causeway, one of the more impressive sights of Ireland, and soaked in the great weather and seaside views. Here's a snippet of the afternoon...

The rolling green pastures of northern Ireland

Where the fields end and the cliff begins.

Oh! the view!

Self Portrait in Ireland.

On Monday morning i flew back to Amsterdam for one more night, and then I flew back to Vancouver early Tuesday morning. Phew. Six weeks later, I got home and was just amazed at the things i saw in India and in Europe. Probably could not find two more distinctive places in the world. Places that i would love to go back and visit...in order of preference: Paris, London, and more of Scotland,

places that I missed but need to get to soon: Northern India, and Wales.

So yea.. thats the end of the travelogue. Hopefully more to come but I'm probably not going anywhere significant for a long time. Gotta finish my degree and start working...! woohoo.

fumbling through

2006-04-10T14:42:00.000-07:00

about five years ago, I was in a video store with someone i was dating at that time, and we were picking out a movie for the evening. I asked:"So... what kind of movie do you feel like tonight?", and she replied "Something that will make me cry..." It seemed like an odd goal to have for the night...to cry. and so i logically replied, "Why in world would you want to cry? sounds kinda depressing...". and then she gave me a really short answer which i have never been able to forget since. She said "because if it makes you cry, its gotta be good. don't you think?" I had never thought about it in that way before, so i just sort fumbled through some sort of a "i guess" response.

Its true though isn't it? Wise words for a 19 year old i think. Well, these days she's 24, graduated university and working and living up life. We're not in touch anymore, but those words have still kept its life, even as the friendship has so obviously fizzled. It still is a bit of paradigm shift for me. maybe when something makes us cry, or makes us feel anything at all is always a good thing. Good not because it somehow just speaks into our lives, but good as in it gives us an opportunity to express how we feel. Much like fine arts can do for some people. In today's context, emotion and expression are often considered to be a bit of a taboo activity. Thank God for stories that remind us that we aren't emotionally-bereft robots, but people who were made to feel and express.

Edinburgh

2006-04-07T00:02:00.000-07:00

I got into Edinburgh at about 2:15pm, and then stashed my luggage at a storing facility, packed a day bag and booted it to the castle. It was WELL worth it. Later that night, I snuggled into the dinner table and had my very first plate of haggis. mmm. haggis. if you don't think about whats in it, its not that bad at all. its certainly no worse than a hot dog anyway. Scotland was really charming and I wish I had more time there, but as I keep saying to people: I'd rather have seen it fast, than not to have seen it at all.

Dublin

2006-04-06T23:01:00.000-07:00

After i was done in Paris, i got onto a train that took me 70km south of Paris, into yet another provincial suburb. I didn't take any pictures of Beauvais, but it was still nice to be nosing around the bus station, and then i found out that the airport was 10 minutes away by taxi. good thing i found another couple and we shared the ride. I got to the airport and then flew into Dublin for the morning. I think i got into the airport at like 1045am and then I checked in my bags at 1110am. i had two hours to kill before my flight. so what did i do?!? off to town i go! the number one stop in Dublin is beyond a doubt, the Guinness Storehouse. mmm...guinness!

Guinness and steak stew. AMAZING.

when i look at the photos on this entry, i can't help but think that i don't really have that many scenic or necessarily artsy shots. and then i think of all the other shots of Paris that had to left out because of brevity. anyway. i'm not trying to show off my work, i'm just telling a story. my story. and the images have to serve the story. steak and guiness stew was not to be left out of the travelogue!!

Versailles & Chartres

2006-04-04T22:41:00.000-07:00

I took a day trip out to the Palace of Versailles, and then further out to the little provincial town of Chartres. The palace is just HUGE. its even bigger than the Louvre, which is most definitely the largest building in Paris. Its even more impressive because of the park grounds that surround the former palace of King Louis the fourteenth to sixteenth, goes on further than the eye can see.

out in the courtyard

the Versailles Chapel

view from the Queen's chamber

I headed out to Chartres because I thought the one hour train ride out of Paris would give me a small idea of what rural life may look like, and also to check out one of the most interesting church buildings in existence. I had to write a paper once on stained glass and half the books you find are about this church in Chartres. There are 176 rose windows on the walls of this church, which is considerable considering Notre Dame only has less than 50 (i think). If you look closely there are two different steeples made from when this church started in the 4th century. the one on the right is an 11th century romanesque steeple . The one on the left is a gothic steeple built the 15th century.

Notre Dame

2006-04-04T22:24:00.000-07:00

Paris at night

2006-04-04T21:46:00.000-07:00

The last stop on the tour was beautiful Paris. I stayed for two nights with the tour and then spent another two nights with a friend of a friend. It was awesome to live like the locals do. I stayed in an apartment building that seriously looked like it had been around since the war, or earlier. it had once of those spiral staircases that went all the way to the sixth or seventh floor. walking around in spiral for that many floors is NOT fun. I even got to do my laundry at a local laundromat. had my share of croque-madames, croque monsieurs and almond pastries for breakfast. it was so cool. I'd definitely go back to Paris. in a heartbeat. Here are some of my favourite niteshots.

Opera Garnier (where the famed legend of its infamous phantom originated, apparently there is an underground lake underneath that is not open to the public - COOL)

L'Arc de Triomphe

Gustave's masterpiece

Luzern

2006-04-02T15:54:00.000-07:00

After four spectacular days in Italy, we headed back up north towards Switzerland. the world's most famous neutral country. Switzerland was an interesting place. Because of where it is geographically, it is very common for most Swiss people to speak at least 4 languages, based on the three countries surrounding it. They typically speak French, Italian, German and English. So really if you go to high school in Switzerland, if anything, a job that you would be guaranteed to have around the European Union is translation work! Switzerland, like Singapore, depends heavily on mandatory conscription to maintain a large enough military to protect its neutral alliances. Except I think the Swiss set the standard for everyone else on the planet. For example, the Pope's personal guards and the Vatican's security is handled by the Swiss guards.

Firenze

2006-04-02T15:36:00.000-07:00

After Rome, we headed off to the charming city of Florence. Walking around Florence is like walking around a museum, there are statues and art all over the streets. Its quite cool, plus nice enough size to call it quaint.

Firenze from a viewpoint

This is what a post office looks like in Italy

Rag-tag band

Another quote

2006-03-30T00:07:00.000-08:00

the conductor from the Polar Express:

"Sometimes seeing is believing, but sometimes, the most real things in life are things we can't see"

How true.

Makes you kinda wonder what is the most important sense we have. hmmm... like if you had to pick one sense. feeling, seeing, smelling, hearing and tasting. most people would say they couldn't live without their sight. but maybe it should be feeling. hmm

Rome

2006-03-29T21:56:00.000-08:00

Rome was an amazing place. I spent two nights there and on the second day, visited the Sistine chapel. it was like nothing i have ever seen before in my life. I don't have photos, cos they weren't allowed, but seriously photos wouldn't do it justice anyway. its phenomenal. everywhere you go you see ruins and stuff thats been around for thousands of years. its super cool.

The route into the Sistine Chapel

The Ruins of the Roman Forum

Stone cobble streets that Julius Caesar walked on (no...seriously)

The Famed Colosseum

The Dungeons of the Colosseum

St Peter's Basilica

The View from the top of the Spanish Steps

The Trevi Fountain

view OF the Pantheon

view FROM the Pantheon

An insightful quote

2006-03-29T01:52:00.000-08:00

I interrupt your regular photography viewing with a short but insightful quote. I heard it today while watching the 1963 classic film "Charade" with Cary Grant, and Audrey Hepburn

Audrey: Why do people have to tell lies?

Cary: It usually means they want something, and they are afraid the truth won't get it for them.

'nuff said. wisdom from pop culture more than forty years ago. woohoo!

Venezia

2006-03-29T00:16:00.000-08:00

After Innsbruck, we travelled into the beautiful country of Italy. The first stop was in Venice. what a stunning city!

San Marco Basillica

On the streets where you live...

the mermaids gaze...

Gondola driver sings "Its Amore!"

View from the bridge of sighs

A venetian canal

Narrow streets...

A deserted marketplace

The light on the water

The corner store

innsbruck

2006-03-29T00:04:00.000-08:00

I was just looking thru my photos again, and realised that I have a couple more photos of the beautiful city of Innsbruck, Austria to show you.

Austria

2006-03-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

After Germany, i was off to Austria for one evening. the city of Innsbruck is such a beautiful place, and that night it was snowing romantically as i walked the old streets. It was such a charming city that was rich in Germanic flair and history. Along one of my walks, i came across this bronze plaque on the wall of arch that covered an old street. It looked like it could have come out of an old fable written by the Brothers Grimm...

First sight...

The next morning, we headed off to town Dachau, to the site of one of the most well known concentration camps during the reign of the Nazis. It was disturbing just walking into the museum, and visually absorbing the conditions that these prisoners had to live under. After the tour of the barracks, I had to get some air and walked around the grounds. this was the view of one the entrances to the camp, and would have been what each prisoner had to see each day as they left their barracks to the "work" that they had been conscribed to do.

Chilling...

Munich

2006-03-24T22:33:00.000-08:00

After Amsterdam I spent two night in the wonderful country of Germany. Consistent with my love for urban life, I shot both of these photos in Munich.

Traffic

The view from the bench

Amsterdam...

2006-03-23T20:28:00.000-08:00

More often known for its seedy reputation, Amsterdam is actually a very beautiful city, with a great mix of rich history and modern innovations. The bicycle is central to most people's commute. I suspect this is the reason why the main transportation system exists in trams which are great for long distances (not very efficient in my opinion). the bikes simply work great because there isn't a lot of hills, as most of amsterdam is built on reclaimed land that is surrounded all over by canals. Apparently, its under sea level.

in the day...

at night...

by the way, get ready for lots of night shots. they are one of my favourite types of shots. Mostly because you don't often see a lot of good night shots due to camera limitations, but also because I think there is so much more you can feel when you let lights tell the story.

the gallery continues

2006-03-22T09:48:00.000-08:00

sorry i haven't blogged for awhile, i've been busy preparing for a class that i'm in this week.

but i'm happy to get back to more photo viewing. Again, feel free to interact with the photos the way you might chat with a friend when you're in a gallery somewhere. would love to hear your thoughts...about anything of what you're thinking about as the images wash over your brain.

after my trip to India, i took the money that i would have spent on food and rent for 3 months in Canada and combined that with what was leftover from what i saved from taking classes in india to fund a bit of a backpacking trip to western europe. i've always wanted to visit western europe and it seemed like the best opportunity to kill two birds with a stone. i flew into london via amsterdam and spent 3 days in london. I liked London a lot and it was a great introduction to a bit of a romance that i've had with the UK. its very charming.

The lamp by the bridge

I spent a day exploring the town of Cambridge. It was a such a neat little town, with so much history in it. just loved walking down the old streets and checking out the little shops. its a self sufficient town, so everyone has a bike and thats all you need to get what you want. they even have a GAP on campus!

The Emmanuel church on campus

Good fudge store ahead...

The man and his punt

The man and his guitar

My favourite photograph

2006-03-06T19:04:00.000-08:00

This photograph is a picture of two Indians, at a bus stop, in a remote village outside of Mysore. What I love about this photograph is the colours. There is a sense of balance between the clay colored rooftops in the background and the soil under the barefeet of the people. The photo also has juxtaposition between the brick mortar buildings and the organic, rural shack. The tree itself is a symbol of the Indian social mores because it separates man and woman into their assigned positions in society. The red on its bark suggests an inbred, internal and intense symbol of what runs through the veins of accepted behaviour. The woman is crouching behind the tree in the shadows, showing her modesty. The man is in a relaxed posed, but thinking hard about his responsibilities to his family and community. Both are wondering when the bus is going to arrive...

Cultural Interest:
In certain parts of southern India, women are highly protected. If you were to take a public bus from village to village, you would see a separate section for women to sit on the bus. If she happens to board the bus with her husband, it is understood that she must leave his side and join the other women. You see this more so in rural villages than in major cities, where people are more conservative and have less interaction with the liberalities of western influence.

the local sugarcane juice stall

2006-03-06T19:01:00.000-08:00

the children of India

2006-03-05T15:10:00.000-08:00

everyday life

2006-03-03T19:53:00.000-08:00

the papaya farmer

anticipation...

a kiss goodbye

Sunita?

almost home...

the dishwasher

a construction worker...

mum and daughter

the scooter

This driver evidently...

didn't pay this hindu priest enough money for blessing his rickshaw

the iron

2006-03-02T20:39:00.000-08:00

if you look closely enough, there is a little lever that allows you to lift the handle of this traditional iron. It opens into a cavity, where you can put hot charcoal into it. This is how my clothes were ironed every week. Once in awhile you'll get a speck of charcoal on your dress shirt...and then that little speck will spread into a full blown spot...because of the spready nature of charcoal on fabric i guess... =) I think this summarises a lot of what India about. Where people actually breakout the barbeque to iron your western clothes.

A preamble of sorts

2006-03-01T19:34:00.000-08:00

As I think about telling the story of India, I can't help but realise a stark inadequacy for words. In general, I'm a quiet person. Although, I definitely can get very passionate, I'm not much of a writer. Sure I've written a few songs, but I'm not a writer. The following is a copy of a travelogue written by jon foreman. It not only combines information with creative flair, it has heart and it would pretty much be my exact words...IF i knew how to write...Its a long read...but it will be worth it. Trust me.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm not exactly sure when it first started. Maybe it was my neighbors when I was growing up, or the roommate I had in college, or perhaps just a faded picture in an old National Geographic. Whatever it was, I have been enchanted by India for some time. To me, it represented all things exotic and mysterious. I kept the sub-continent safe in a sacred place in my mind, reserved for only the most alluring ideas. Traveling to India, then, was a delicate prospect, one that held the potential of shattering superlative myths that I had long held in my imagination.

I went nonetheless and I am thankful to say that this was not the case. I returned with an even greater respect for the history, the culture, and above all, the beautiful people of India. It is a country of exotic diversity, full of colors I had never seen, melodies I had never heard - a country with fourteen national languages and nine of the world's major religions. Balancing the history of a three-thousand-year-old culture alongside a technological revolution creates a land of clear dichotomy.

I was overwhelmed by the sights and sounds and tastes of humanity in a country that more that holds fifteen percent of the world's population. I was privileged to spend time with its people - amazing people, many of them unknown and unrecognized by their own countryman. As I recount my experience, I am interested in telling their story, the story of men and women fighting a shrouded battle for social equality and human rights. It's one we should all hear because in America we won't, unless someone tells us.

Oct 9 Tokyo to Delhi
"You evil-eyed people, may girls be born in your homes."
Today, my wife and I are flying to the country where these words were scrawled near the ashes of houses still smoldering from the fires of oppression. Surely, this must be a scene from years gone by, from some feudal war-torn land where the women were viewed as a curse. Surely this is just an isolated event. Surely this cant have happened this year.

"The crime is systemic, societal, and structured," says P. Sainath of the Hindu. "The countless reports on the subject over the years do not show discrimination against Dalits to be dying away ... Yet the number of such cases ending in conviction of the criminals is dismal ... The events in Gohana and Akola are just a part of an ongoing crime against humanity. For that's what caste-based discrimination is." Where does the hostility come from? How can it be tolerated? I suppose these questions are why I'm in the back of a plane headed to India; because I still don't fully understand the situation myself. The stories I hear from my Indian friends are hard to stomach: lynching, slavery, forced child prostitution. Can this be the same developing nation where so many western dollars have been migrating recently? The life of a Dalit is worth less than the life of a cow. Did an Indian government official really say this? (VHP Vice President Giriraj Kishore)

Truly, no culture is above hatred. I've seen racism, sexism and other forms of intolerance in my own country. But I've never heard these stories before. Perhaps the estimated 100 million child laborers will live to see a brighter day. Perhaps their children will hear these stories as a part of Indian history: a story of the triumph of human rights, children's rights, and women's liberation. My Indian friends tell me that a quiet revolution is underway, a new day is dawning. These acts of ignorance and hatred may become a thing of the past; three-thousand years of what has been dubbed "religious fascism" might become history within our lifetime. And it also might not. I want to understand the struggle. Today I will set foot on Indian soil for the first time. I am headed to visit the very person who first informed me of the Dalit struggle for freedom. I am here to listen and learn.

Oct. 10 Delhi to Lucknow
Humans. Rights.
As my first full day on Indian soil comes to a close, I find that I am having a hard time sorting through the traffic in my head: exotic melodies are still ringing in my ears, foreign intervals, strange, entrancing rhythms. And the color! Yes, the colors - the shawls, the saris, the smiles, the kindness: they weave intricate patterns through the dust in my crowded mind. Yes, the crowds. Crowds of mopeds, crowds of bikes, of rickshaws, all challenging death on the amorphous roads with a steady nonchalance. I can still hear them from here, honking from the road.

But above the road I hear singing. I hear the songs of a social revolution. I can still hear the Dalit voices of empowerment, of their bitter struggle against oppression, of the history of their people. I close my eyes and I can see their eager faces, passion, frustration, anger, and joy flashing from their eyes. "They do not value our lives," they sing in Hindi. "They do not value our labor." They plead for an India without caste. The determined tone reminds me of some of the soulful spirituals I've heard, maybe something from the civil rights era or earlier. A young woman sings with fire. She describes how every modern rule in India has used caste to keep her people down. She sounds like an ominous Dylan to me.

I learn that Dr. Ambedkar is the M.L.K., Jr. for his people. I can hear his name mentioned in the songs. Sometimes Jesus and Mary are mentioned. Sometimes Gandhi, though there is a dark shadow over his memory in the minds of the Dalit. I am told that although he was against untouchability, he fought for the caste system to endure. And endure it does, as India's version of apartheid. Today, I have heard more stories of rape, of hatred, of as many as forty-thousand Dalit children forced into child slavery.

Human rights. Humans. Rights. Are these an obvious group of moral or legal entitlements that belong to every person? How wonderful it would be to live in such an egalitarian world where all races and both sexes possess this intrinsic, empowering quality. Elementary school mantras of equality ring inside my head: "We hold these truths to be self evident..." And yet human rights are not available to all humans. Not in the world that I know. Not in America. Not in India. No. Not if you are born with a certain skin color or a certain genitalia. Not if your daddy doesn't have a certain amount of money. Am I cynical? Maybe. Or maybe things just need to change.

As I considered these things, the cynic in my head began to laugh with a deep, dark, smoker's cough: "Ahhaugh! Ha, ha! You cannot change this! You can't. This is the way it has always been." But I was not listening anymore. And he cannot stop me from standing alongside those who are in need. He cannot stop my best intentions, one hand to lend, one day at a time. If that's the closest I can come to aligning myself with justice then that's where I hope to live. Under my breath I curse the cynic.

Oct 11 Lucknow
The man who prays for death.
What glowing wonder beams from these wide eyes! We are greeted by a choir of children in English, "Good morning Sir! Good morning Madam! I'm so glad to welcome you!" These are proud, thankful students. Proud to have a uniform to wear. Proud to be learning. Proud to greet us in English. For in India, and especially in the indigent, rural areas, English is esteemed as the language of upward mobility. This is one of the few schools in the area that accept Dalit children for enrollment. Because of this, when the school first started the teachers received threats from an influential upper caste family. The community, however, fought to save the school deeming the school's education more important than the cultural customs that were broken by including Dalit children.

The soft spoken woman who runs the school tells me that families seldom enroll girls. They believe they are unworthy of the cost of education. The issues that women face here are daunting and complex; few know these intricacies better than Indira Athwale, General Secretary and Maharastra State President of All India Conference of SC/ST Organizations. Recently, she addressed the US House International Relations Committee to speak about the oppression Dalit women endure: "India has just celebrated 59 years of independence and we boast about being the largest democracy in the world. Yet, there is no independence or democracy for a large portion of the population: Dalit women. Women are daily the victims of atrocities, slavery, and exploitation related to the ongoing practice of caste. Her oppression is threefold: as a woman, as a Dalit, and as the poor. The Dalit woman must fight at all three levels every day." Eventually I pull myself away from the smiles of the young boys and girls to catch up with our guides. They were speaking with an older man who was pleading with them, tears in his eyes, begging for something in a local Hindi dialect. He might have been my father's age. His skin was brittle, worn thin by his years on the planet. He was angry with god because his prayers for death had not yet been granted. How do you answer this man? What can you say to ease the pain of living? I don't have any real answers to offer, let alone a framework for what these two were saying. When I walked by the old man he was still crying, tears drifting down his weathered face. He is a man who has seen too much. His eyes were pleading, looking up at us for some consolation. As we passed, his gaunt, haunting face followed us down the road. I wonder if his prayer will ever change.

I am still haunted as we drive on - further away from Lucknow toward another village for evening tea. The men have built a stage in the middle of the village. With a portable microphone and a make-shift P.A system, they begin the evening with song. The melodies begin to wash the evening sky like a dream that has not yet happened: a complete immersion into an ocean that I have never experienced. It is like seeing, feeling, smelling the Pacific for the first time. Melodies, rhythms, wavelike voices - they wash over me in ripples of energy. Intervals and patterns, streams of melody, taking flight then diving. A musical sky with new stars and new dreams, all spinning in a rhythm of dancing color.

The songs span some fifteen minutes. They are the narrative of the people's past, each one telling the story of the Dalit. During many songs, they open a history book on the floor and the singer follows the story directly. The past, present, and future through the eyes of the Dalit: broken, crushed, oppressed. And though I cannot unravel the spoken words, I still understand the sounds, their faces, their hands, the drips of sweat trickling from their furrowed brows into fisted eyes. Yes. I think I understand.

Oct 12 Lucknow
The village where the bracelets will be made.
I have a hard time describing the man I met today. Dressed entirely in white, Mudra Rakshas possessed an air of wisdom that seemed to permeate the room. The patches of white hair framed his wizened face; they betrayed his eyes, sparkling with youth. "I was delighted to find out you are a musician," he said to me as he entered the room. "You see, many of our finest musicians and artists in India have always been Dalit or of the lowest castes. So it is appropriate that you, as a musician, hear firsthand of our oppression." Mudra went on to explain that tradition holds that many of the musicians are unclearn. The instruments they play are made from the skin and bone of animals. He explained that within every caste there are sub-castes directly affiliated with occupation. There are even sub-castes devoted to music. Yet many times, these lower caste or outcast musicians are not accepted by the higher castes no matter how talented they are. He went on to name some of the finest Indian musicians, painters, and sculptors. These artists had changed their names and identities to associate with people of the higher castes. "Every artist has to conceal his identity," he explained, "and show that he is part of the upper caste - only then will he be accepted."

"Sad, isn't it." Our guide, Joseph, was shaking his head. "The names he mentions are phenomenal musicians. But they all have despised their own identity to be part of the upper caste." Mudra continued. "There is a place where we have a signboard; on it is written, 'Here two statues of Buddha were installed by a businessman.' The name of the businessman is displayed. The person who made those images, those Buddha figures, is not mentioned on that board. Nowhere will our sculptor be mentioned, great sculptor of ancient times. Nobody will mention the great painter of old time. Why? We have caves where there are paintings two-thousand-one-hundred years old. Now, why [is it] that the name of the painter is not mentioned. Because the Hindu scriptures state that any person who participates in drama, who is a musician, who is a sculptor or a painter is a shudra and must never be allowed to live in the city, must live outside the city ... this is written in Hindu scriptures ... All artists, all theatre-men, all painters, all musician, they are shudras and they must be thrown out of the city."

"Welcome to the Dalit world," Joseph interjected.
Mudra went on. "It is very clearly stated that they must not be allowed to have any social right. They can't even have their house. They can't have new clothes. They'll have to wear the clothes thrown [away] by the upper caste people. This is the situation. We know the names of western artists like Michelangelo ... other great sculptors' names are also known. In India, the ancient sculptors and painters are not known. It's not that the names are absent - names are available. But they are not mentioned in history."

Oct 13 Lucknow to Delhi
Still beautiful. Still Dalit.
Soon after landing, my wife and I were meandering around Delhi in a rickshaw. Our guide Jose jokingly reminded us that we are, after all, simply tourists in a strange land as we headed for one of the most popular sightseeing spots in the capital city of India: the Red Fort. Constructed primarily out of red sandstone, the Red Fort is an extraordinary structure used during both Mughal and British rule. This place was a visual history lesson where crude, decaying British structures stood alongside of beautifully preserved Indian pavilions - a graphic illustration of the politics of the last several hundred years.

I was especially amazed by the intricate, vibrant pictures inlaid on the marble. The colors lie flush with the stone, withstanding time. Jose tells me that the family who crafted these beautiful pieces of art is still at it today, still using a secret glue to vouchsafe their art for generations, still creating beauty, still Dalit.

On our way out of a nearby store, a man was trying to sell us something. And he was going for the hard sell. As we neared our destination, Jose took him aside with a smile and began to explain that we weren't interested. The vender asked Jose's last name, the name which would reveal his Dalit identity. Jose told him and then asked him if he would eat lunch with us in spite of their difference in caste. The man replied that the stigmas of caste were not as strong in that city and besides, he was so hungry that he wouldn't mind who was eating with him. Then he reconsidered. He explained that he was too busy to eat and made one final attempt to push his wares before my foreign eyes. We declined and he left us and walked up the road.

Oct 14 Delhi to Tokyo to L.A. to San Diego
The first day home.
The curb was warm and dry outside the San Diego commuter terminal. It had to be one of the hottest days of the year. No wind, no clouds, no one but the traffic officer to see me. I had a winter jacket on with both hands in its pockets. My lips were blue, my teeth were chattering, my jaw was frozen stiff. I'm pretty sure they call it Delhi belly. It's not nearly as funny as it sounds. I squint to my left to check for our ride. No one yet. Mr. Policeman does a concerned doubletake. I close my eyes and try to remember the Indian sun on my skin.

My mind drifts back to the men and women I met and the silent war they are fighting over an issue that has no easy answer. During my stay in India, many of the Dalits I met compared their situation with that of apartheid. Mudra Rakhsas called India the biggest South Africa this world had ever seen. Archbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu, has called for the end of a system of discrimination, "as heinous as the former apartheid system he and his generation fought against in South Africa." He is encouraging international solidarity in tackling the "scourge" of untouchability wherever it exists in India and the other countries of South Asia. Kancha Ilaiah, a visionary thinker on the subject, maintains that the oppression the Dalit people endure should be taken as seriously as the racism that we fight within our own borders. "Indian industrialists must realize that the greater presence of Blacks in American industry has not made it any the less productive. They must realize that keeping Dalits out has not made Indian industry any the more productive."

Dr. Udit Raj, the National Chairman of the All India Confederation of SC/ST Organizations & Indian Justice Party, sums the situation up well. "The developed countries, particularly the United States, must uplift the Dalits in a situation where their own countrymen consider them worth less than animals."

I recall all this and, yet, I am stuck wondering what I can possibly do to change anything. I am sitting on a warm curb, thousands of miles away, unable to stand up straight. What can I possibly do to help? The simple answer came back to me. It was something I heard over and over while in India. "Tell our story. Let the world know what is happening. We are people. We are human. Tell our story."

[jon foreman is a musician and songwriter. He is currently the frontman for the San Diego-based band, Switchfoot.]

shortbread and tea

2006-02-28T10:47:00.000-08:00

As i'm typing this blog, i can't help but realise the odd situation i'm in. I'm Caronport, SK, drinking spiced Indian tea made with cardamon and lychee, and eating Scottish shortbread.

and the tea is made like you would have it in india...about 50% milk. and the shortbread is the kind that you can't buy outside of Scotland... its the less ambitious sister of the famous walker's brand, who decided to keep their product local, and thus highly controlled in their production and recipe.

wow...its just weird, and doesn't even make a lot of sense. Its the kind of scenario that you probably wouldn't see in everyday life. I don't imagine the Scots have much of a relationship with the Indians.

well, thats kind of my life i guess. weird and doesn't make sense. but hey...its my life and its what it is for what it is.

I know as interestingly as its shaping out to be, its going to be interesting where this road takes me...I don't see a lot of other people walking the same path, but thankfully there are a bunch walking in the same direction.

On a different note, I've decided to find a way include all of you in my recent trips to India and Europe, and I'm going to post photos and tell you about them. i might post a few a day, or one a day, i'm not really sure but we'll see.

These photographs are my most cherished ones. they combine (in my opinion) a combination of artistic flair and originality, but more importantly they tell a story. a story of life, and death sometimes - and pretty much everything else that falls in between. I hope you enjoy them, feel free to interact with them the way you would interact with a friend if you were at the Musee d'Orsay in Paris or even the Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam. (I actually had other museums in mind, but i forgot that none of them would have a photography section, as most of it is OLD stuff)

Critique, compliment, even add your own interpretation of what you see in them. It'll be fun, and it is a perfect segment for "a pilgrim's progress"

Caronport, SK

2006-02-27T21:17:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to update my readers, if you didn't know, i got back to Caronport and Briercrest over the weekend. i had to work days for the weekend, so i'm just getting caught up in unpacking and settling down for school

i'm not going anywhere for another year. I'm staying put. not because its fashionable, but its because i feel its important to stick and commit to my studies. my district manager at Blockbuster today offered me a store in Regina to run. He figured about 99.9% that I would decline because he knows I have school, but on the odd chance that I might accept, he decided to make the long distance call anyway. its pretty neat to know that I'm well respected and highly touted in my company. its a good feeling to be wanted and respected i guess.

We'll see how this year goes, after which, who knows what might happen. Most probably it will be work, although there is a small chance of further studies(real small). I gotta get ahead of these student loans and get in the black for once in my entire adult life.

the city of love...

2006-02-14T09:02:00.000-08:00

I am spending valentines day 2006 in PARIS; the city of love. that is really special. this city is so beautiful, its crazy - i love it! I get to spend it with 50 other people tonight-the last nite of our tour. but somehow, the more people there are, the more empty it seems to be sometimes... I don't know whats going thru your mind today...but i've been encouraged by a song in my travels that has deepened me, molded me, and just plain helped me deal with solitude.

solitude in many ways really, in as many different ways you can experience solitude, i've probably felt it in the past 5 weeks; but in the good way, the character forming way.

I hope this song helps you think about love today in a new and fresh way. In a way that makes you long and hold out for the real thing.

WALK WITH ME by Sandra McCracken

Walk with me quiet, walk with me slow
With watered down coffee and words of gold
I can feel the edges of these things
When I hear you speak to me, so walk with me

Walk with me empty, walk with me strong
The hush of our voices, when the day seems so long
It is like a balm, it is like a jewel
It unravels all I thought I knew

Will you lead me, beside the still waters
Where the oil, it runs over, and my cup overflows
You restore my soul

Tell me the story, where old is made new
The promise of ages, and all things that are true
When the shadows fall and the wrecking ball
Swings and tears me through the heart

Will you lead me, beside the still waters
Where the oil, it runs over, and my cup overflows
You restore my soul

switzerland

2006-02-12T13:28:00.000-08:00

wow. internet time is expensive in europe. i donàt expect to be get another blog in until mazbe getting to belfast this weekend

if zouère wondering whz i canät spell, its because the european kezboards have their kezs all mixed up. Iäm tzping exactlz like i would on a north american kezboard, but as zou can see some letters are mixed around. ha. i would change it, but that would mean looking onto the kezs and wasting valuable internet time. plus this is more fun.

i dunno what to saz. its been prettz phenomenal. everz new citz i get into i think its wonderful and so completelz unique. the common conversation on the bus is what is zour favourite citz. and i honestlz canät pick... thez are all so unique and wonderful in their own right. rome was amaying. oh mz gosh. the sistine chapel is phenomenal and the colosseum and forum is unreal. there are so manz things reallz. iäve been having a blast....

there are so manz different tzpes of people on our tour. people from all over the world. south africa, australia, new yealand, brayil, mexico...prettz much from everz continent. its odd. no americans... there usuallz is a one or two apparentlz.

oh zea, mz blog page is filled with german words. this menu, is completelz in german. i reallz feel like a foregner. i had next to no problems in india with english, but all over germanz, austria, italz well....i gotta speak the language.

anzwaz. iäm having a great time. and will be home soon. the second leg of journez starts on the 15th, where i will be alone for much of it.

write soon

the shower

2006-02-02T04:39:00.000-08:00

i was in the shower yesterday for a good 15 minutes. for those who know how quick my showers are, this was about 5 times longer than it usually is. it was really nice to have a hot shower.

In india, hot water is available but its only available thru the tap and not the showerhead. so often times, a bucket and little scooper (about the size of a 2 cup measuring cup) is provided. so you end up using one of your arms as a showerhead. the plumbing system in india isn't great either, there were a couple times where i scooped up grains from my bucket and poured it all over my face. i guess once in the while the filtration system doesn't work too good, so brown crap gets into the water.

so yea, it was nice to soak up the heat of a hot shower.

London

2006-02-01T11:15:00.000-08:00

I'm no longer a foreigner. I don't stick out like a sore thumb. people have stopped coming up to me either to ask for me or sell some of their merchandise.

London is a big city.

I have been travelling for many hours.

I am tired.

here is my itinerary for the next couple of weeks.

4th - leave london for amsterdam. spend the night there
5th - amsterdam to the rhine valley, then to st goar. spend the night in germany
6th - rhine valley to munich. another night in germany
7th - munich to innsbruck. spend the night in the austrian alps
8th - innsbruck to venice. a gondola ride is gonna happen for sure.
9th - venice to rome. pizza and the colosseum
10th - rome all day. vatican city and sistine chapel here i come
11th - rome to florence. apparently the real gem of italy
12th - florence to lucerne. swiss chocolates and knives.
13th - lucerne to paris, thru the french countryside
14th - paris all day. i bought a cheap tripod in india. i'm gonna make my own eiffel tower postcards.
15th - more paris. tour ends.

woo hoo. internet is expensive, so i'll be keeping the blogging short most likely form here on end.

I'm tired.

south india

2006-01-30T22:56:00.000-08:00

so here's a map i've found of my 5 day trip around southern india. i got into hyderabad at 6am this morning. and i'm back on the plane in about 21 hours.

day one - overnight train to erode... which is between connoor and trichy

day two - got off the train and took a bus to Ooty (up in the mtns), met up with my classmates liz and terri. and we were at the same hotel for the night. terri was feeling really sick, she ate some bad chicken that day.

day three - explored more of ooty and then headed to mysore. i got in at about 5pm. and explored around the city. its small, so i got to see most of it before i left the next day.

day four - took a 2pm train to bangalore (about 6 million people) and spent the night with my friend samuel. got onto the overnight train at 5pm

day five - arrived at 6pm. back in hyderabad.

one of the most interesting things about my journey was the bus rides. some of them didn't have suspension. so that was fun going over the millions of potholes all over. going up the mountain, the roads were bad too. i think i went thru over 50 hairpin turns. and it was basically going off roading on a bus with 50 people. it was crazy. seriously. like 4 wheeling we would do in BC? imagine that on a bus screaming down the side of a mountain with super dangerous curves. ha. it was great. i'm just glad i survived.

the second leg of my trip starts in a day. where i will be all over western europe. itinerary to come!

travelling

2006-01-28T08:27:00.000-08:00

i left hyderabad on the 26th, and wanted to blog a bit about where i was going...but it was a public holiday and everything was shut down.

i took an overnight train on the 26th, to Coimbatore (south)-it was long almost 24hours...reminiscing from my russia days...lol. and then i got into Ooty last night. it was great weather and at night it gets close to 0 degrees. its in the mountains. tonight after a 5 hr busride, i'm now in mysore. i will be in bangalore tomorrow night. after which, i will spend another overnight trip on a train back to hyderabad.

I'll be back in hyderabad on the 31st. i leave for amsterdam (and then london) at midnite that night. i'll try to write more in on the 31st.

i'm having a blast backpacking around. its pretty lonely, but still, quite the experience. talk again soon.

The Mosquito by W.C. Bryant.

2006-01-23T07:20:00.000-08:00

Fair insect! that with threadlike legs spread out
And blood-extracting bill and filmy wing,
Dost murmur, as thou slowly sail'st about,
In pitiless ears, full many a plaintive thing,
And tell how little our large veins should bleed,
Would we but yield them to thy bitter need?

Unwillingly I own, and, what is worse,
Full angrily men hearken to thy plaint;
Thou gettest many a brush and many a curse,
For saying thou art gaunt and starved and faint.
Even the old beggar, while he asks for food,
Would kill thee, hapless stranger, if he could.

I call thee stranger, for the town, I ween,
Has not the honor of so proud a birth-
Thou com'st from Jersey meadows, fresh and green,
The offspring of the gods, though born on earth;
For Titan was thy sire, and fair was she,
The ocean nymph that nursed thy infancy.

Beneath the rushes was thy cradle swung,
And when at length thy gauzy wings grew strong,
Abroad to gentle airs their folds were flung,
Rose in the sky, and bore thee soft along;
The south wind breathed to waft thee on thy way,
And danced and shone beneath the billowy bay.

Calm rose afar the city spires, and thence
Came the deep murmur of its throng of men,
And as its grateful odors met thy sense,
They seemed the perfumes of thy native fen.
Fair lay its crowded streets, and at the sight
Thy tiny song grew shriller with delight.

At length thy pinion fluttered in Broadway--
Ah, there were fairy steps, and white necks kissed
By wanton airs, and eyes whose killing ray
Shone through the snowy veils like stars through mist;
And fresh as morn, on many a cheek and chin,
Bloomed the bright blood through the transparent skin.

Sure these were sights to tempt an anchorite!
What! do I hear thy slender voice complain?
Thou wailest when I talk of beauty's light,
As if it brought the memory of pain.
Thou art a wayward being--well--come near,
And pour thy tale of sorrow in mine ear.

What say'st thou, slanderer! rouge makes thee sick?
And China Bloom at best is sorry food?
And Rowland's Kalydor, if laid on thick,
Poisons the thirsty wretch that bores for blood.
Go! 'Twas a just reward that met thy crime-
But shun the sacrilege another time.

That bloom was made to look at--not to touch;
To worship--not approach--that radiant white;
And well might sudden vengeance light on such
As dared, like thee, most impiously to bite.
Thou shouldst have gazed at distance and admired-
Murmur'd thy admiration and retired.

Thou'rt welcome to the town--but why come here
To bleed a brother poet, gaunt like thee?
Alas! the little blood I have is dear,
And thin will be the banquet drawn from me.
Look round--the pale-eyed sisters in my cell,
Thy old acquaintance, Song and Famine, dwell.

Try some plump alderman, and suck the blood
Enrich'd by gen'rous wine and costly meat;
On well-filled skins, sleek as thy native mud,
Fix thy light pump, and press thy freckled feet.
Go to the men for whom, in ocean's halls,
The oyster breeds and the green turtle sprawls.

There corks are drawn, and the red vintage flows.
To fill the swelling veins for thee, and now
The ruddy cheek, and now the ruddier nose
Shall tempt thee, as thou flittest round the brow;
And when the hour of sleep its quiet brings,
No angry hand shall rise to brush thy wings.

_________
-THE END-

in other words...i hate mosquitoes. (i was originally gonna say, mosquitoes suck, or bite. but that would be too corny)

Post #51

2006-01-21T01:33:00.000-08:00

I started this blog about half a year ago. if you've been reading along since then...have you noticed how much things change?

i'm taking malaria pills...apparently it makes me sensitive to sunlight....i actually think i've darkened a little bit. I'm not a big fan of the sun, so i'm used to having fairly pale skin. when you see me in a few weeks, look out for a possible tan (if any)

i dunno whats going on with indian food. LOVE IT. but i think its causing me to me WAY more flatulent than i'm used to. if you don't know what that word means...don't look it up.

I don't dream much, but yesterday i had a dream. i woke up in the middle of night, and thought it was so interesting i actually scribbled down some words, so i wouldn't forget. i'm looking at the words now... "breakfast at safeway" ... ... I have no idea what my dream was about.

Indians like to drink their tea and coffee in small cups. These cups are slightly larger than espresso cups and probably hold about 3-4 oz of liquid. which is about half the size of a regular mug. they're cute. but i like my cups big, it just saves me time from pouring another. the cups we have here as well, are aluminium. that makes for a hot cup of tea when it touches your lips. or as my american friends would call it... hAt...The good thing? it actually cools quite a bit faster than a regular mug. the minus? its hAt when you first pour it.

I realised that in a program of about 50 students. i have more friends in this 3 weeks here than i ever did in Caronport. A lot of the students here are closer in age, and most of them seem to be single as well. So there's a lot more commonality. That's pretty cool i guess. Their understanding of community is so different from the individualised consumeristic attitude we have in the West. its refreshing at times. but being somewhat of an introvert, i relish the 1 or 2 hours a day that i get to be alone in my room. (i was fortunate enough to score a room alone, you usually share it with another person)

coolness...

2006-01-18T02:19:00.000-08:00

I've been so blessed by the hospitality in India, so don't take this as a way of griping, but we don't get to eat a lot of fruit out here. you get a piece of fruit probably for one meal, every other day. so a couple of days ago, i decided to go on a bit of an adventure and check out the local stalls outside the school compound. I headed about half km up the road and found a local fruit stand. I asked how much each fruit was and was given a bunch of pretty reasonable prices. 12 rupees for a pineapple - thats about a $0.25. sure beats $3 at superstore. and when i asked about oranges i was told 12 for 60 rupees. straightforward enough....BUT a dozen oranges are bit much for me...so i asked...how much for 4? (expecting it to be more expensive. i was told that it would be 16 rupees for 4 oranges....huh? its cheaper if you buy more?!? so i didn't argue and walked home paying about a dollar for a bagful of oranges, apples and a pineapple. and then it occured to me, that even while i paid next to nothing for a tonne of fruit...they were still probably jacking up the price. and since they were probably uneducated, they probably couldn't do math very well. only in india do you pay less when you buy less, well only if you're a foreigner i guess

incidentally...the fruit was really ripe. and the apples were so old, they tasted like styrofoam or dry cake without an ounce of juice in them. on the outside though, they looked pretty good. seriously, even dried apples you buy in the bulk food section had more moisture. oh yea...each orange has about 20 seeds in them...its kind of annoying...but the rush of vitamin C is always enjoyable.

i was pinched the other day by one of my male indian friends. apparently it happens quite often here, where foreigners get pinched by sneaky, gleeful locals. i guess the fair skin is a novelty or something. although, i must say, i wasn't very comfortable with it. it wasn't even a hard pinch (which i can take better) but it was kind of...limp. um...awkward!?! yea and he did it again yesterday, maybe i should say something. oh yea. guys readily hold hands on the streets, or sidewalks...they are pretty secure in their masculinity...but its odd. its not even manly holding...its kinda girly...like a guy would hold his girlfriend's hand. of course, this is all weird to me cos i'm a westerner, but perfectly normal in india. i'm not in anyway criticising whats going on here, i just thought it would be interesting to report it...thats all.

oh yea, i originally thought that i was going to buy clothes if i needed it for cheap, and then just leave em behind for people who needed it. i realised this the other day. the only thing my shirts would be good for is table cloths. for two reasons. obviously, they would be too big for the average indian male. but their tables are TINY. i don't get it. but hey, thats why travelling is cool.

another quick ten minutes

2006-01-12T06:47:00.000-08:00

hopefully i'll be able to write all i want to write about.

the meals are great...but some of my western counterparts are having a hard time. i guess the look of curry just turns their tummy, too bad...cos its good stuff! what i find gross is the western food that they try to make...some sort of pasta dish or some weird looking casseroles. they don't look appetising to me at all, but my classmates are appreciating it. they've really gone above and beyond over here, the hospitality is fabulous. interesting thing is that during breakfast and break times, they often have tea or coffee. except what it ends up tasting more like is flavoured milk! ha! what a treat.

indian people are pretty small comparably to north american people. i bought a shirt the other day. i was a XXL. 8\ yea. and i'm usually a L in Canada. it was only after then that i realised that the average height of most of the males here is about 5'6" and they are all pretty lean folk.

i got cheated the other day. don't worry it was for a fraction of a cent. apparently the indian economy no longer accepts their 0.25 denominations. the highest they accept is the $0.50 denomination. while getting change back for a rupee, i was given a $0.50 coin and two $0.25. and then when i tried to use the quarters elsewhere, i was told that they no longer use them. ha! well, its harmless mistake. one US dollar is equal to about 45 rupees. so i think i was cheated by exactly half a cent.

i'll try to write a bit more about dalits later on. having fun, thanks for checking in!

hyderabad

2006-01-09T04:34:00.000-08:00

hey everyone

well after about 30 hours straight of travelling and transit time, i finally got into the campus this morning at 530am! i napped for an hour and then got ready for the day. suprisingly, i haven't dozed off once yet. i didn't sleep that much on the planes either. maybe 90 mins on each flight. there was one from vancouver to amsterdam, and then another from amsterdam to hyderabad. some of my other friends made like 4 or 5 connections. i didn't envy them.

i got into amsterdam pretty uneventfully, good flight, good food. wow, dutch women are really tall - or maybe thats just ALL the flight attendants i saw in that characteristic KLM blue uniform. the amsterdam airport basically has a mini mall inside of it, so that helped kill time a bit

i got into hyderabad at 130am india time, and then waited for my two classmates to arrive at 250am. well, the flight was delayed and it didn't arrive until 330am, and then it took them another 90 mins to get out. wow. i was so ready to leave the airport when they arrived.

also, another neat thing? its like an event when an indian family member comes home. seriously, a person's ENTIRE family is at the airport waiting for them, babies and 4 year olds in tow. everyone is there. you even have to pay 30 rupees to get into the airport. its like going to see a show. 30 rupees is about the cost of a good meal out here. so yea, when i left the baggage area, i was surrounded by like hundreds (ok not that many) of indian people just swarming the exits. and then when i finally left the airport 3.5 hours later, there was another swarm of people outside the airport - presumably people who didn't want to pay the entrance fee. according to my friend, its way worse at the Delhi airport

as you can see, i have internet access. they even have highspeed now. but its not dependable, clicks in and out. and there's only one internet computer for the whole school. good times. i guess its all about finding the right time to get on.

i have a feeling i'm going to crash tonight. despite the smell of mosquito coils burning in the room (that give me a headache) and 10 other snoring classmates. we were supposed to be put in rooms that hold two people, but there's this conference going on this week, and all the rooms are taken up. next week, we'll go back to normal.

there are people here from all over the world. people on ship ministries, azerbaijan, tibet, kajikistan and other countries ending in stan. i've only had two meals, but i hope to learn more about their lives in the next 3 weeks. almost all of these people are involved in some sort of relief work or helping out underprivileged people. its good company to have.

i'm having a blast with the food. this morning we had this, i dunno, some kind of fine grain porridge that was like the consistency of soft cake, and this coconut curry to die for. it was great. its SPICY here, but good thing i have training from my singaporean roots, so i'm enjoying it. its seems like its most vegetarian, but i'm ok with vegetarian when the food is THIS flavourful. i could never be a strict vegan, cos i wouldn't know how to cook food as interesting tasting as they make it.

well, i'll try to update again when i can.

the road ahead

2006-01-06T22:15:00.000-08:00

Wow. I’m pretty stressed out. When I came back to Canada in November, I thought I could handle finishing 3 courses and starting another 3 in two months. I was SO wrong. yup, I’m about ready for a vacation. But, I still have another 3 more weeks before that begins. Here’s what’s going on:

Tomorrow, Jan 7th, I leave for Hyderabad, India where I will be taking more courses for my degree. Looking forward to the interaction with the culture, and curry.

I’ll be leaving India on Feb 1st where I will begin my backpacking trip to Europe. THIS is where the vacation begins. From Feb.1-21, I’ll be making my way through England, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France, Scotland, Ireland, and then I’ll fly back to Vancouver from Amsterdam on Feb.21.

Ok, so it may not be that much of a vacation, but it'll be an experience of a lifetime. I expect my SK friends will find me to be a very weary traveller when i'm back on Feb.24.

I’ll try and drop you guys an update at some point while I’m abroad, but please…I ask this of you…please do not send me any emails unless someone got married, engaged or passed away. I love encouraging emails and “hey, how’s it going” but please feel free to do so through this blog. It’s a good way for me to log on quickly to one site, and log off quickly at internet cafes.

Expect not to hear from me for the rest of this month. Technology in India isn’t great, and everything at the school is on dialup. Nothing is really dependable and could go out at anytime.

I hope to have some internet time from feb 1st to 3rd, where I will be in London, soaking up the musicals. And then off and on while I’m backpacking. Its hard to say how much time I will have.

Take care all, be in touch as soon as I can. Who knows, it might be sooner than you think!

last entry of the year

2005-12-31T17:41:00.000-08:00

I've been working pretty hard all day at some of my precourse work for India. the original plan was to get everything done before I came back to Vancouver, so i could actually take a break and hang out with family and friends. Instead, work turned out to be a lot more than i had anticipated, and I'm forced to stay in while people are out on the town, having a grand old time. Nevertheless, I do have an outing tonight that I'm looking forward to. My sister and I have been planning to bring a smile to some of the homeless residents of the Vancouver eastside. A few others will be joining us, including my cousins who recently returned from a year long missions trip.

I've been looking forward to this for some time. I remember being involved in a few blanket drives in the past, where we handed out a bunch of blankets to the homeless during the Christmas season; as well as socks, gloves, warm clothing and hot apple cider! believe it or not, Vancouver does go through some cold snaps once in a while, and it was good to know that you were really making a difference by helping people out. As the years have gone by, i've tried to stay fairly connected to this kind of community service, although I admit that I don't make enough room for it. Ideally, i hope it becomes a monthly or weekly thing for me, and not just once a year. but for now, it'll have to do, at least its a small start.

its always humbling spending time with homeless people. Interestingly, the people who are most affected by the experience are the people giving stuff out- even though we'd like to think that we are doing this amazingly significant service. Important as it is, one of the biggest things we take away from being in service to others, is a realisation of what's important in your life. The poor and destitute very often survive on very few resources, most of which is from charity. Right after the consumer oriented Christmases we have in North America, its sobering to remember what other people go through.

Its one thing that I love about Canada and our socialist roots. that people who have had a rough life still have hope. I know, some people will disagree with me, and insist that its stupid to pay taxes so someone else can "slack off". Usually though? most of these people haven't really spent time with truly poor people. In my experience, many of these people honestly have had a bad run of luck. where they've lost their jobs, or have gotten deathly sick and are unable to work. yes, yes, there will always be a few that are trying to beat the system. on the whole, i don't think most homeless people would choose that lifestyle if they can help it-thats what you'll hear them say. you might disagree with me. i've also met people on the streets that have mental illness, another thing thats not within their control. but often times, its easier to lift the snotty nose, and accuse people of being lazy or weak because they have substance addictions.

The older I get, the more I see how deep the well of depravity that humanity faces. and then I see my face in the reflection at the bottom. that homeless person could be me one day. and while i have the ability (even if its for one night of the year), I'm going to do my best to give a helping hand.

moving away from Canada. what about around the world? the India that i will be visiting in a couple of weeks will also have many of the same poverty issues. people living without hope.

well, as I turn another calendar year, I'm going to do it investing in the lives of people who have no hope. Maybe tonight will be a tide turned and fresh realisation for someone that I serve. perhaps tonight, I will find kinship in the same depravity that all of humanity shares. there are more similarities than we would want to admit, I'm sure of it.

by the way, i'm sorry to say that my first kudo award will have to be postponed till next year, the two people who participated weren't very close at all. maybe the idea of the kudo was a stupid idea to begin with. ha!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

double take

2005-12-23T21:09:00.000-08:00

you know one of those moments where you do a double take and ask yourself if you really did see what you just saw?

the second guy from the left...DOESN'T HE LOOK LIKE ME!?!? from a side profile? look again...i sure think so and it was kinda freaky actually. its not everyday you (think) see your face on anywhere else but in the mirror.

then i decided to blow up the picture

...but then i wasn't so sure anymore....

but that top photo...sent chills up my spine. those of you who know me well, will understand why.

isn't that kind of a picture(pardon the pun) of what life is like sometimes? you're so dead sure about a perspective, and you may even believe it to be passionate about it.

then upon closer observation, its not quite what you thought it was. even though, its not like the previous opinion was dead out wrong, its just changed or evolved.

i'm awarding my very first KUDO to the person who can guess what I could be applying the above in my personal life to. its the first ever here at pilgrims progress, and would probably be best guessed by someone who's actually spoken with me in the last little while. of course, some of you are psychic as well, so go ahead and guess, it'll be fun.

the winner will be awarded their well deserved KUDO on no better day than Christmas Day. first to guess most accurately by Christmas wins. of course, if no one says anything by Christmas, cos they actually have something to do (unlike me), then we might extend it longer.

news from the UK

2005-12-19T10:50:00.000-08:00

I was reading the BBC today and came across an article that sparked my interest. Granted, I was more intrigued at the word Belfast than the terms "gay weddings", but as I read story I experienced two very differing emotions - joy and disgust.

As I read the article, I was just pained at how insensitve some Christians can be. Can you imagine what it would be like if, at your wedding, you had a rowdy crowd of fundamentalists screaming bloody murder about how an abomination it was that you wanted to celebrate your love with your partner? Even if I didn't agree with the crowd, it would probably the worst day in the world to hear about a mob of people protesting my relationship.

this is not a theological discussion. its a discussion about respecting people, and treating people with the same kind of grace that Jesus exemplified in His life. People lead different lives from you, and do many things that you don't like. Some people hand wash their dishes, others sink wash. Some people like their hair curly, others like it straight, still others like the variety in between. Why is there a demarcation that some things are obviously ok to leave people alone, and certain others are suited for abuse. thats just not right. let people be.

if you really want to influence somebody, bashing a bible over their head is hardly the way to go. why don't people see this? its SO frustrating!

top photos of the year

2005-12-18T00:02:00.000-08:00

some of you might know that before i moved to caronport, i was actually a part time wedding photographer. i've been doing photography since my highschool days, but after i got into the police when i was nineteen, i began my first works as a professional. To see some of my work over the years, click on the filmworks link on the right and try to find my portfolio, and interactive e-album, scroll down from that page and you'll find a sneaky link for other works.

as a photographic artist, i'm not alone with the slow adoption of digital photography. I really do prefer the medium of film much better than the digital. but with the times comes adjustment, and this year i bought my first non professional point and shoot digital camera. for your viewing pleasure, i've decided to round up some of my favourite pictures of the year. granted, I'm not going to tell you that any of this is close to my best works, but it'll be a fun time of reminiscing...join me, won't you?

On an evening walk with my dear friend Dell, i got bitten like nobody's business that night, but this shot was worth the pain. I always think twice now when Dell invites me for a walk...we were literally bushwacking thru grass that was taller that most women.

i went back to BC in March to shoot a wedding and spent some time with my friend Irina at this West Vancouver beach. it was good times....

I also got to go to this night bazaar with my buddy Shandalin, i love open air markets!!

Navy Pier in Chicago, IL. one of the nicest and most expensive places i've ever been to. i parked for an hour, it cost me $21 usd.

The High family from Marcellus, MI. An example of what it means to leave behind a truly significant legacy. Don High is one of my truest heroes.

NEW

YORK

CITY!

Influence

2005-12-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot about the topic of leadership a lot these days. Not only because it has obvious connections to my degree, but also because as I'm growing and learning more about myself, i've stumbled across a couple of things.

My friend Obi from New Jersey once told me...you're not a musician. At first, I was thinking that maybe this guys' head is getting a little too big, but then i stepped back from the emotion (of course, i also knew he wasn't trying to put me down). I asked...what exactly is a musician? and maybe i'm not one. Just because you can lead a music team, and help people connect with God in music - doesn't necessarily mean that you are a musician. Of course, I have also met people, who didn't have a single note built into them but they were still wildly successful at leading music teams. was it their musical ability? in those cases - certainly not, because they had none. So while, i do have some skill in music, I'm quite sure that my musicianship(while it helps), has not made me a better leader. my leadership skills is what has carried me.

its appropriate of course to define exactly what a musician is. I have to say that i'm not defining it by the general consensus of what a musician is. typically, the understanding is that if you have some skill with some musical instrument - you are a musician. What i'm referring to though, is "real" musicians. people who eat, breathe and live music. People who love to play music and share their gift with the world. people whose sole purpose in life is music - yes i'm sure you have one in your mind right now. weird? i don't think so...its because, that is how they are made, thats how they are wired. I know thats not how i'm wired. the reason i am involved in music is because of the relationships, and in my context, the spiritual value that comes out of it.

I know if you had asked me this question two years ago, i would have admitted that my gifting is more in leadership than music. its not a new thing for me, but i guess its settled slowly over the last little while. and like snow that packs down slowly, and turns into a giant rock hard glacier....so the seeds of these of thoughts have begun to take root.

so then i naturally ask myself - well what has made your mildly successful at what you do? there is only one thing left - leadership. wow. so as i've been soaking that in, i've come up with some thoughts about leadership. like the above paragraph, its stuff that i knew about before, but its now starting to really firm up.

the ability to influence someone is a gift. Some might say its from God, others might say its a natural ability. People make the mistake too many times of assuming influence over someone just because they happen to be in a position of authority. Authority and influence are two different things. one demands from because it can and another invites and inspires. Conversely, too many people place undue authority on somebody just because they happen to have something you don't possess. i don't care much for authority but maybe its because i've been involved with it my whole life. on both sides of the spectrum. I'd rather influence someone instead of be their boss.

the ability to influence someone is a gift. its not what you do, its who you are. some people in charge like to think that they can limit your influence by limiting your authority. if they don't get a chance to lead, they can't influence anyone. wrong again. the ability to influence someone is not dependent (necessarily) on your words or actions. its in who you are. of course, who you are affects what you do, so don't think its got absolutely nothing to do with it. but its starting point isn't in action, its in your integrity as a human being.

the scary thing is for me? out of five and a half years of full time work, I've been a manager for about four and half years out of those years. was it because i was a marksman and gold star athelete? I don't think so. was it because I made a mean caramel macchiato, and could work the bar like diana krall on the piano? probably not. perhaps it was my vast knowledge of hardware parts to fit your home improvement parts. no way jose. I know I know, its my vast knowledge of movies from directors that spanned the life spans of Cecil B Demille and Andrew Adamson. no, i suck at movie trivia.

Can i tell you what i've done consciously? not really, leadership for me has always just heppened. since i've been in school, i've studied the topic if leadership more in depth, and i'm fascinated by it. but not in a notetaking, database forming type of knowledge. in sort of a weird, settling down of things my soul has always been familiar with.

the ability to influence someone is a gift. I'm sure one day, it can even be taken a away or just lost. I wonder what that day will be like...

American thanksgiving

2005-11-24T22:54:00.000-08:00

You Are The Stuffing

You're complicated and complex, yet all your pieces fit together.
People miss you if you're gone - but they're not sure why.

What Part of Thanksgiving Are You?

mmm...stuffing, thats definitely one of my favourite parts of the meal...but when you think about it...like where you're actually taking the stuffing out of...its not that appealing.

I've been invited to an American Thanksgiving Dinner tonight. I'm excited! Its too bad I never did get the chance to have Thanksgiving in New Jersey, that would have been memorable for sure.

Another interesting questionnaire...

2005-11-22T23:17:00.000-08:00

This Is My Life, Rated
Life:	7.6
Mind:	7.8
Body:	7.1
Spirit:	9.2
Friends/Family:	4.1
Love:	2.1
Finance:	8.1
Take the Rate My Life Quiz

Your Life Analysis:

Life: Your life rating is a score of the sum total of your life, and accounts for how satisfied, successful, balanced, capable, valuable, and happy you are. The quiz attempts to put a number on the summation of all of these things, based on your answers. Your life score is reasonably high. This means that you are on a good path. Continue doing what is working and set about to improve in areas which continue to lag. Do this starting today and you will begin to reap the benefits immediately. (Read more on improving your life)

Mind: Your mind rating is a score of your mind's clarity, ability, and health. Higher scores indicate an advancement in knowledge, clear and capable thinking, high mental health, and pure thought free of interference. Your mind score is within a healthy zone. This means you have achieved a level of mental balance and harmony consistent with living a healthy, happy life. Continue doing what works, and keep your focus. In our fast-paced world, mental clutter is all too common. Be vigilant in maintaining healthy mental function. Read advice from other quiz-takers on improving the mind.

Body: Your body rating measures your body's health, fitness, and general wellness. A healthy body contributes to a happy life, however many of us are lacking in this area. You have a rather good body score, which is an indication that you take care of yourself. There is room for improvement, however. Please keep doing what works. Eat right, exercise, reduce your stress, treat any illness. Doing these things will help ensure your body will be in good working order for a long time to come. Read advice from other quiz-takers on improving the body.

Spirit: Your spirit rating seeks to capture in a number that elusive quality which is found in your faith, your attitude, and your philosophy on life. A higher score indicates a greater sense of inner peace and balance. Your spirit score is dramatic. Continue on your path, do not stray. Continue to reap the rewards which your spirituality brings forth. Read advice from other quiz-takers on improving the spirit.

Friends/Family: Your friends and family rating measures your relationships with those around you, and is based on how large, healthy, and dependable your social network is. Your friends and family score suffers, yet it does not need to be this way. Strengthen your social network by reaffirming old bonds. Seek out new friendships, and they will provide you the reward you need.

Love: Your love rating is a measure of your current romantic situation. Sharing your heart with another person is one of life's most glorious, terrifying, rewarding experiences. Your love score is very low, indicating trouble. There is love out there for you. Seek the advice of wise people on how to go about finding it. Do not lose hope. Read advice from other quiz-takers on finding and maintaining love.

Finance: Your finance rating is a score that rates your current financial health and stability. You have a rather good financial score, which is not all that common these days. Keep doing what works. Avoid common pitfalls and save for the future. You will be glad you did. Read advice from other quiz-takers on improving your finances.

Ha! if they had a question about student loans, they surely would not have rated me that highly under finances....thats a joke!

Relationships

2005-11-20T20:09:00.000-08:00

"The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances; if there is any reaction, both are transformed."

- C.G. Jung

isn't this a neat quote? i don't even remember where i read it but i've been wanting to blog about this for a few months now.

don't you sometimes wonder how different your life would be if you never met a certain person? i think its pretty crazy how each individual has so much potential to leave a good or bad impression

it also makes me wonder how often you meet someone that you have no chemistry or connection with, where as the quote put it, there is no "reaction". does that even exist? and what factors cause this sort of inert reaction to people? is it an insensitivity on our part?

i am probably guilty of being so inert with some people that they will never remember who I am and vice versa.

anyway, most of you are probably thinking that this quote is most apt for people who are actually friends. that in time, all relationships somehow change you for better or for worse. this is certainly very appropriate but i often remind myself that that is what romantic relationships should be like as well. when we put aside our pride and respect the other person, we can't help but BE changed. relationships need to be give and take people say...but maybe not.

too often people enter relationships with a naturally selfish attitudes. an attitude of expectancy. does this person meet my list of "requirements"? does this person fit well with me? does this person really like me? they are all performance based questions suited to meet the needs of me, myself and Darrell.

i've been challenged lately though, to think about what you can do, to serve the other person; instead of what you can get, it should be about what you can give. of course, thats REALLY hard to do. which depresses me even more, cos that will make it even harder to find a person that i'm willing to do that for. of course, theoretically, i'm falling into the trap of seeing if this person is "worthwhile", and again viewing their qualifications.

don't get me wrong, qualifications are important. ah...what do i know? i have no idea how to go about it. but i just thought i'd share some random thoughts... =D

an even better question: WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Finally

2005-11-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

I got my computer back on friday, which was just perfect, because i really needed it for class yesterday. Modular weeks are always crazy weeks and this one will not be any different.

I promised to update my photos, so go ahead and scroll down the bunch of entries. and you'll get to see all the photos that i was going to upload with me when i wrote the blog...

Everything is in place now for the next 4 months. work hard on school. on dec 26th, i fly back to vancouver. on jan 7th, i fly off to india. on feb 1st, i head off to europe to do some travelling, and i should be back in caronport before March 2006.

I managed to find this steal of an apartment. its a one bedroom apartment at half the cost, and its super close to school. Its not very fun walking around in cold windy saskatchewan weather...it really isn't. it was supposed to snow like 5 cm today, and i think it snowed about 20cm. welcome back to Canada

oh for my american readers...20cm is about 6 inches.

sorry this is so disjointed...i'm really tired

delay

2005-11-03T08:36:00.000-08:00

I'm gonna apologise, i promised photos from my last road trip but my computer still hasn't gotten up to speed yet. i had brought my old windows 98 laptop with me this trip to donate to India when i got there, but it looks like i'm making good use of it now, in lieu of my mac. i don't really believe in luck, but i always get shafted, the one rarity that goes wrong with anything happens with me. like a few years ago, when i bought my first car, within the first month, the ignition switch blew out on me. who's ever heard of an ignition switch breaking down? and then when i got my other car, the fuel pump konked out. apparently for hondas, that almost never happens.

so yea, i'm back at things at the 'port. its been pretty stressful. work in new jersey was great, you come to work, things are fairly predictable, you do it. sure days might get kinda long but its good. since i've been back i've encountered one after another of unforeseen issues. here are a couple examples:

the dates of my india classes have changed to jan 5-25th now. as opposed to the original 9-28th. and its too late to change the flights, i've having problem after another finding a place to stay since i've been back. i had a bed and dinner booked for this saturday, and i thought i had sorted out my living with other people. but things keep changing. thankfully a neighbour just moved out, so i'm sleeping in their empty apartment right now. its not that bad, and it was better than trying to squeeze into a small two bedroom apartment in the living room

so yea, thats my week so far. when i get my computer back, i'll post those pictures. actually when i think about the pics, i think half of them are pictures of food. i should be a food critic or food photographer or something. I dunno there's something about food that helps me learn and appreciate a culture and new place better.

Another Top Ten

2005-10-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

This was the amazing view that welcomed me back into Saskatchewan...

So as i ponder about life in the past week that i've been travelling, i feel compelled once again to compile a top ten list of unranked items that will stay close to me as I move forward in life. my experience in new jersey was life changing and will continue to shape my outlook on life and ministry in the years to come. I am so very grateful to Chris High, for welcoming me into his family (both personal and church), and teaching me so much more than just about revolutionary ministry philosophies but also about what it means to be a man of God who loves his family.

TOP TEN UNRANKED THINGS ABOUT THE EAST COAST

-Lori High's cooking. amongst many delicious dishes my top favourites were her roast ham (seriously, this wasn't a packaged boneless ham you find in the supermarket, it was literally a leg of ham, and it was amazing.), lemon meringue and pumpkin pies and roast beef. mmm...

-Sharing pretty much every new experience with Ericka High, like driving into NJ or going into the city, or watching live jazz.

-the musicals...oh the musicals! it was so great...

-Yankees game.

-Times Square...wow

-Canadiens and Islanders at the Bell centre

-Montreal food

-Montreal architecture and culture

-Boston seafood and the life in the city - loved it

-Lyle and guests at the bed and breakfast in Vermont

I'm sorta settled back in Caronport now, so its hard studying for the next couple of months. i have 3 courses to finish up and another 3 to prep for in india. i just found out that i'm staying for Christmas(because of blockbuster), so i'll be back in BC after Christmas.

in the next few days, i'm going to update my boston and montreal blogs below and add photos. so come back and check em out.

oh yea my new number is bracket306bracket681hyphen7817

Toronto

2005-10-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

i've decided that i'm addicted to audio books. being on the road as much as i've been of late, i've realised that my ears just can't handle 10 hours of music a day. it...just...hurts... so i've been getting audio books and listening to them while i drive. they are great! especially if its a good book, and you get into it. so to illustrate how addicted i am:

its currently 130pm toronto time. i was supposed to leave 3 hours ago. but i'm in john's apartment burning cds, so that i have books with me to "read" while i'm on the road. i'm feeling really weird, like i'm really late for something that i need to get to. seriously though, driving alone is a DRAG and i have to find something interesting to do on the way.

madison WI is the destination today. its about 9 hours away. sure i'll get in after 10pm. but at least i'll have the chronicles of narnia to keep me company! oh yea...i'm a nerd.

oh yea, i have a tonne of minutes to use up in my american pay as go cellphone plan. so if you are bored and wanna call me long distance to chat and keep me company. by all means, call me! all of it gets thrown out on wednesday when i cross the canadian border anyway(i'm driving thru the US) 862.368.8927

actually come to think of it. i hope they don't harass me when i try to cross the border today. cos like last time, i do have a bunch of stuff in my car. man, i tell you. i'll be peeved if they reject me...again. cmon...i'm just DRIVING THROUGH

here's hoping for the best.

here's a picture of John, my friend Sharen and her husband Alvin(the taller one). Sharen has recently been accepted into the RCMP and will begin her training in Regina in January...Congratulations!

Montreal

2005-10-23T17:41:00.000-07:00

The Canadiens game was great and managed to get cheap scalped seats. The new york islanders were in town and even for a relatively obscure team - the stadium was sold out.

After the game, i went out on an eating binge, there were so many recommendations of things to try in Montreal, and i just had to! i went to a local Lebanese deli that served up Pierre Trudeau's favourite pita. I'm not much of a vegetarian, but that was a phenomenal pita. Of course, needless to say i had to try Montreal poutine. There are all kinds of versions here, and i chose to go with the Montreal smoked meat version... seriously, not only is montreal smoked meat amazing within two pieces of rye and mustard, it was delicous on this plate of poutine. i kid you not, this plate was the size of pizza, it was huge. well you have the cup for reference anyway.

The next morning i grabbed some fresh bagels at the Fairmount Bakery and headed up to Mount Royal. Here's a shot i took of the park. its a great fall shot.

I really really loved Montreal, and wish i had more time to stay longer, but nonetheless it was a great experience

Boston and more

2005-10-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

I got into Boston late last afternoon last night. what a cool city. unfortunately there was a convention or something going on that weekend, so my hostel overbooked! and everywhere you went, it didn't allow overnight parking or it would have cost like $20 to park or something. so i drove all over the city, and a great seafood dinner at the infamous no name restaurant, visited Cheers pub and then proceded to drive north towards montreal.

Boston Skyline

the best seafood chowdah...ever (notice...NO potatoes!)

mmm...seafood platter

Cheers (the TV set looks WAY BIGGER)

i figured things would open up and be much cheaper as you got out of the city. nope. i was like 150 miles north of boston and everything else was either full or over $100 to stay for the night. yea right, i'll drive forever before i'll pay $100 a night for a place to sleep for 8 hours. if anything, i knew i could always pull into rest areas and be just fine. so i kept pulling into exits and following signs to accomodations. drove thru massachusetts, and new hampshire and by the time i got into vermont, i was gearing up to either drive straight into montreal or just pull over. i ended up finding this obscure bed and breakfast out of nowhere, and it was like less than $40 a night. for one of the coolest heritage buildings i have ever seen, it was built before the turn of the century. anyway, got in, met up with the owner and he was with some guests, just chatting it up. they were musicians from Boston. i asked them if they heard of my friend Obi's band, westbound train...they didnt. sorry bud.

anyway, had my first glass of wine in 2 months and a crazy time talking relgion and faith with these goth looking rock band people. i asked what kind of music they did and they said "heavy but not metal" i just nodded and said "oh yea, cool" i have no idea what that means. do you? lyle the owner, started out of nowhere his personal rendition of "Danny Boy" in the key of B flat. nice, and then Bridge the lead singer of the band, sang some other song she knew when she was a kid. good thing they didn't ask me to sing anything out of memory.

i'm in montreal right now. another VERY COOL city. and planning on catching a canadien's game right now. i hear the hockey fans here are crazy, and i'm hoping they are more raucous than the yankee fans in new york. cos that would do me proud.
the hostel here is NOT overbooked and generally very cool. walked around old montreal and i'm in the latin quarter right now. the notre dame cathedral is just amazing. but interestingly enough, the only place in the city where i felt like i didn't fit in. (i was told many times to take my hat off). i'm in like the gay district of montreal and don't feel ostracised at all. ah the church, its an interesting organism.

Old Montreal

Notre Dame Cathedral (outside)

Notre Dame Cathedral (inside)

i'll be in ottawa and toronto tomorrow, staying with an old roommate, john kim. and then i head off to SK. for all SK people reading...i can't find a place to stay from oct 26th to nov 4th. its not confirmed yet, but i do have a place from Nov 5th onwards. anything affordable seems to be either unavailable or booked up. if you know of anything (even just a 3'x7' space on someone's carpet, email me at darrell_lim(at)yahoo(dot)com. i should be able to check it tomorrow night.

i miss talking french, its cool here.

last night

2005-10-20T23:03:00.000-07:00

things have moved along more quickly than anticipated. they spoke to me wednesday night and offered me the chance to move on quicker than agreed upon, and so i said sure. I leave tomorrow morning, and over the weekend, i hope to hit boston, montreal and toronto. i would say stay tuned for the blogs, but my laptop hard drive is fried, so that might be difficult to post anything. then monday, i head off on the 3 day trek back to SK.

I spent my last day today...in NYC. we had a breakout session with musician/song writer Charlie Hall, and it was really good. amongst some of the things we discussed was how the idea of worship is slowly becoming more like the social justice we see in Isaiah58, talked a lot about the dysfunctions of church plants and established churches, and in reality we really just need each other in order to be healthy. we need to be working together. it was good.

i headed off to find another musical to watch on my last night, and i managed to get tickets to one of the hottest shows on broadway, called "the producers". It's won like 12 tony's. the most for any musical ever, and much deserved i must say. it was cool. very well done.

while waiting for the show to start, i decided to check out the NBC experience tour, where they take you around the studios and tell about the history of NBC. i got to go on the sets of Dateline, and Saturday Night Live. it was pretty cool. actually before that, i followed a swarm of people up the elevator(i thot they were heading for the tour), but then the elevator doors opened, and people were screaming " Welcome to Conan, here's your free t-shirt!!". i was like, cool, this tour is GREAT and i haven't even paid yet! right...and then at the next turn, they asked for my ticket and then proceeded to escort me out of that level (when i obviously DID NOT have tickets to Conan). apparently i somehow squeezed thru security unnoticed and was in a completely wrong side of Rockefeller center. hey, i got a free t-shirt out of it! so yeah, when you see me wear it, i didn't actually go to the show. i snuck in unaware long enough to get the goods before being chased out!

wow, in no time, i'll be back in school. back to the grind. but i'm excited for it, and think i'm coming back with a lot more questions and a lot more passion than i had in the summer. i hope its a good two months before i head back to BC again. i am most excited to spend countless hours in that study carrel, hopefully get my blockbuster job back and get free movies and suiting up in my fireman uniform - i've missed that desperately!