Reality Bites

Another season has come and gone with a few of my favourite reality shows. Okay, not necessarily my favourites as I think some of them have run their course and should be put up on the shelf with "Who Wants to Marry My Dad" and "Apprentice", left to get dusty and yellow around the edges. But, I'm a sucker for most of them and I watch them because I enjoy the drama and the terribleness of most of them.

Apprentice ended quite a while ago (thank god). I've heard rumours Trump is not getting another deal...that's too bad, I thought maybe the next season could be everyone living in a trailer park no matter if you win or lose. Boise, Idaho would also be a great location. I didn't really care for any of the three finalists but it was interesting to see they were all from the original team that lost week after week. I think he made the right choice (I can't even remember her name because she played in the shadows) but James was just super annoying and so was Nicole, especially with her love of Tim.

The Amazing Race: All-Stars also ended some time ago. While I was hoping the blondes would be standing first on the podium, again I was disappointed. The ladies did definitely represent as 5 of the 6 finalists were women. I'm glad Mirna and Shmirna were the last to waddle in and while I thought Eric and Danielle were annoying beyond belief, they played an okay game. The last leg seemed a little easy and I didn't like that it was one that came down to time and the run wasn't much to Phil but what can you do? I wouldn't consider the game All-Stars but it was decent and I enjoyed it. Now let Canadians play so I can have my shot!

Survivor ended a few weeks ago and I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed the final episode. Yau-Man was the man and I really wanted him to go all the way but we had to know his deal with Dreamz was going to come back to haunt him. At least the haunting of the car still looms and neither winner of the car won the game. Final tribal council shed images of the first Survivor with Susan...it was great and I loved some of the questions. Alex, filling his lawyer boots and Lise sticking to her white trash routes...it was classic! Cassanda and Dreamz had no chance so I was glad to see the black man win...wait, they were all black - that must have been a first. Go Earl Go!!! He played a strong game and deserved to be in the end, let alone the winner!

America's Next Top Model - now this finale was a little disappointing. With only being an hour they had a lot of stuff to cover but on the other hand it was nice not to see everything dragged on and a bunch of bullshit fills involved. I was hoping for Renee but in the end ANTM got their first ever latina-winner, not to mention someone who was part-deaf (okay, so it took me a few weeks to figure out that's just the way she talked and wasn't doing a Marlee Matlin) and part-drag queen. It's too bad that Renee had solid pictures throughout, won a ton of rewards and yet she is too-old looking, what a criticism for a 20yr. old. I'm sure it will help all those teens out there that are dying to make it in the modelling world to go out and get new noses and eye lifts to help keep them young way into their 20's.

American Idol ended on Wednesday. While this is one of those shows that I don't enjoy all that much, I watch it because it's on. However, from the start Jordin and Blake (best performance of the season by anyone) were my two favourites and I think they both have potential so I was happy to see them in the finale. I am very happy for Jordin and hope she doesn't get swept up in the drama and actually makes a name for herself. While Blake was my favourite hands-down and was actually incredibly happy he didn't win. Just like Chris Daughtry, he now has the chance to do his own thing, and I think it's going to be beat-boxing great.

The Bachelor ended on Monday. I don't know why I watch these shows, I never feel the love anymore...Trista and Ryan was the last one where you knew the connection and knew that it was legitimate and real, despite the fantasy world they were living in. Again, I was hoping for Bevin, eventhough she looks like a troll/chihuahua mix. I don't really understand why Danielle made it anyway near the final three and it was a little shocking considering they hardly had any intimate or one-on-one moments. Tessa is the big winner - she plans on moving to Hawaii in the next few months but no plans for marriage...baby steps. I hope it works out but the odds are against them. Bring on The Bachelorette - let's get some more men in on the action.

Just a quick recap for the books... I'm hoping for a summer of Big Brother and Rock Star but I'm thinking I'll only be batting .500. At least Big Brother gives us three nights of pure enjoyment a week. What more can I really ask for?

Big Brother
July 5, 2007
8:00pm on CBS

Friday Funny

Okay...so I definitely think this is funny and the whole site is actually pretty good. If you're looking to waste a few hours this is the place! There's quite a few skits with famous people and the site was actually created along side Gary Sanchez Productions (Will Ferrell's company).

The Landlord

Enjoy!
J.

Vacay in Florida!

I always look forward to long weekends but by the time the following short week comes along I know it's going to be long and busy because you are cramming five days of work into four. It never fails and that's always the way it's been - at least where I have worked. Ah well, tomorrow is Friday and now I will take a short break to reflect on my past May 2-4 weekend.

Florida was fantastic - the weatherman was right (for maybe the 3rd time in his life)! The weather was beautiful, 30+ everyday.

Our flight was at 6:35am from Buffalo so we managed to get on the road at 3:40am...of course there are some stops along the way - for gas and for Timmy's. Not to mention going 25 minutes the wrong way, having to circle back the 25 minutes to find out we couldn't get onto the ramp from that side and having to circle around once again. It was pouring rain, we had to wait at customs, traffic was good but when we parked the car we knew we had to make a dash for it. Luckily, a shuttle bus came out of nowhere right to our car, we got to the check-in and the lady said "Going to Cincinnatti?" and we said "Yes" and she said "No - it's closed." duh, duh, duh. That sucks - she said we need to be here a 1/2 hour before and we were two minutes late. We said we would carry-on and she managed to check us in after some complaining. The security guard took us outside and around the building to another shady security check-in. Since we we're all checking we emptied all of the large bottles of liquid we had including sunscreen, perfume, shampoos etc... and razors. We arrived at Gate 1 with about 10 minuts to spare and realized our gate was all the way to the end...Gate 26. We started running and by running I mean full out sprint... At about Gate 7, we turned around and couldn't see two girls but then lo and behold they had been picked up by one of the handicap trolleys! They picked us up on the way and we made it with minutes to spare... I have never had an experience like that again...and I don't want to have another one but it did make me realize that I am sooo ready for the Amazing Race to let Canadians play!!



Anyways, we arrived in Florida Thursday afternoon, went for a great lunch at Bahama Breeze (so delicious) and saw dolphins swimming in a little inlet. We made our way to the condo which was great and spent the rest of the afternoon by the pool. Friday was our shopping day (of course) and that evening went to Cody's (a local bar) for some drinks and bar burgers...(the most mouth-watering burgers you can imagine for only $1.50 at the bar).

Saturday we spent the day at the beach, swimming in the ocean and working on our tans. That evening we headed to Bonefish...probably not the best part of the trip as one of us had the ahi tuna, raw style, and it wasn't very pretty...(not me since I can't do fish - thank goodness!). Sunday we lazed around and headed to Tarpon Springs for dinner - a cute little greek town by the water - very "kitchy" but nice!


And then it was Monday...more time by the pool and then back home... The trip started out a little shaky but all-in-all it was fabulous!! We all got along amazingly well and we didn't even have any boys or much alcohol to keep us entertained. True sisterhood - that's hot!

Friday Funny...on Wednesday

I won't be here on Friday - re: the previous post. This isn't funny but amazing...I'm sure you've seen Julian Beever's work before but if you haven't he is fantastic. Below is just a small sample of his chalk drawings.

T.G.I...the L.W.

The forecast is sunny, slight cloudy periods with highs of 30. There's a 30% chance of thunderstorms but that's only for Thursday and well...I'm sure we can keep ourselves entertained and busy...maybe check out a few outlets and stuff.

The ladies are headed to Florida tonight for the long weekend, staying at our friend's condo and I am soooo looking forward to it. This will only be the 2nd and 3rd days I have taken off this year...not bad considering we are at the end of May already.

We don't have too much on the agenda - do some shopping (of course!), hit some nice restaurants, check out a local bar - 2 for $5.00 cocktails, and lie by the pool basking in the sun. My plan for this trip is to spend as much time as possible getting some quality R&R - after all, we're only there for four and change days. Main goal = get rid of the winter paste...I don't need everyone to still be blinded by the white when I get back.

Thank god it's the long weekend! Have a good one everybody!

Waterloo-Hoo

This past weekend D and I went to my parents new place in Waterloo. Technically it isn't new since it's me grandparents old house but it was different and nice not having to drive the extra hour to get to London. The house looks really nice - they still have quite a bit of unpacking to do but it felt like home...and it felt just like it did when I lived there for three years except more modern! D spent the weekend putting together the main bathroom while I helped my mom organize the rooms and decorate!!

My grandparents, who now live 5 minutes down the road, came over on Saturday and we celebrated our April birthdays. A little past due but I don't think that really matters. My grandma, grandpa, dad, D and I are all April babies...the only one left out is my mom. She always makes jokes about how everyone gets to celebrate but her but then we have to remind her that she gets a month and party all to herself...hardly fair I think.

All in all it was a great weekend - we're a little tired this morning but then again...it is Monday. And, the Survivor finale was a good one. I was disappointed that Yau-Man couldn't make it all the way, but our number two pick to win was Earl so all ends well.

Friday Funny

An old man and a young man work together in an office. The old man always has a jar of peanuts on his desk, and the young man really loves peanuts.

One day, while the old man is away from his desk, the young man yields to temptation and scarfs down over half of the contents of the jar. When the old man returns, the young man feels guilty and confesses to his crime.

"Don't worry, son. I never eat the peanuts anyway," the old man replies. "Since I lost my teeth, all I can do is gum chocolate off the M&M's."

Blow Jays

If you recall I did a very nice and supportive post at the beginning of the season highlighting my #1 team the Blue Jays. I have reverted back to my family nickname for them the "Blow Jays" which seems to be the trend recently.

Yes, it is early in the season, and yes, we have Reed Johnson, BJ Ryan and Gregg Zaun on the disabled list, and yes, we will hopefully snap out of our 8-game losing streak but the question is..."what the f*@!??" I mean, why would anyone want to take advantage and kick the Yankees while their down? That's a crazy notion.

Last week it was surprising to see a stat that showed the Blow Jays had the second best bullpen in the American league...suprising because current stats now show they have blown 6 save opportunities and given up 46 (league-leading) homeruns in the first 33 games of the season.

We need BJ back as soon as possible... I mean, Frasor is a piece of shit, and well, Marcum, Zambrano and Towers also in our bullpen are shitting the bed too. Janssen and Downs are holding their own and Accardo is our secret-weapon but when will these guys be able to turn it around? It doesn't help that majority of our starters can't seem to get past 5 innings and their inconsistency is very consistent. We all need BJ in a big way - if you know what I mean.

Reed Johnson is being missed as well - now don't get me wrong, Adam Lind is holding his own and doing a great job...but he has hit a standstill at the plate only being something like 3 for his last 32. We need Reed's energy and spark at lead-off - we need someone to light the fire under these guys.

And don't get me started on Thomas or Clayton - I gave them props at the beginning of the season and thought they would be welcomed additions to the team but so far...I don't think that $20 million or so is being spent too wisely. Hey Frank - why don't you try swinging when the balls down the pipe - you might actually be able to get it out of the infield.

Ah well, I could go on forever but I won't waste anymore of anyone's time. They have the potential and there is a lot of season left...I just hope we can snap out of this whirlwind while we still have a shot.

We're heading to the game tonight - hopefully Doc will be back with avengeance after his last dismal showing. Fingers-crossed that we take a least one from the damn Red Sox.

P.S. - Manny get a haircut and Captain - well, how's that "C" feeling?

TV Links and More...

A co-worker passed this on to me yesterday and after searching for several of my favourite TV shows and movies I have decided this is a great site - I know there are many like it but whatever!

http://www.tv-links.co.uk/

Have fun!

Happy Anniversary to...

...us!!! Today is our 2nd anniversary! It's hard to believe just two years ago at this time we were sailing the caribbean waters getting ready to pledge our love and our lives to each other...forever.

The day couldn't have been more perfect and it was great to have the most important people in our lives there to share and celebrate with us. Everything about the cruise was amazing and we made many great memories to take home with us. We talked about doing it again in 5 years and trying to get everyone together but I might be pushing up that deadline as I am dying to go on another cruise. It's my favourite way to vacation hands-down.

Thanks to D for two phenomenal years - I couldn't have asked for more and wouldn't change anything. I look forward to growing with you and for new experiences and memories for many years to come!

Cheers to us!

Friday Funny

Two blondes were in a parking lot trying to unlock the door of their car with a coat hanger. They tried and tried to get the door open, but they couldn't.

The girl with the coat hanger stopped for a moment to catch her breath, and her friend said anxiously...

"Hurry up! It's starting to rain and the top is down."

Time to Reflect...

Last night D and I went to dinner at one of his work friend's homes. It was only the second time I had met "Mar" and the first time we had both met his wife, "Nad". It was a great evening -Mar is a great cook and whipped up some delicious bruschetta, garlic bread, salad (with homemade dressing) and homemade lasagna. We watched a few slideshows from their wedding and recent trip to Belize and had great conversation. They are a very easy going and talkative couple - ones that you meet for the first time but feel you have known forever.

While the boys were talking shop, Nad and I were discussing a little bit about where we came from and our family background. She was surprised that I was an only child since she didn't actually know that many. She also asked if I missed not having siblings and my response to that is always the same - how can I miss something I didn't have? My parents always made sure I had friends around and always allowed me to bring friends on trips etc. Talking about life and the past got me thinking...

Everyone has their ups and downs, some much more significant than others. I've been lucky enough to have a lot of ups and not too many downs...actually, I can't really think of anything significant to complain about at all. I'm lucky and I know it. My family is wonderful, my friends are great and I was lucky enough to find the most perfect person for me ever (with big thanks to my good friend Edward). Love you D!

Ahem...Anyways...I had a quick reflection on the past and how I got to where I am now. It's crazy to think about how things might have ended up if you did this or said that or went there instead of here. Right now I am fully satisfied with the life I am living:

1. We have all of our close friends in the city and manage to see them on a somewhat regular basis. Family is close and even those that aren't we still have great communication with.
2. I enjoy my job. I actually never dread getting up in the morning or staying late at night - it's all in a day's work. And, yes, the perks are nice!
3. D is finally going to be on a full-time schedule and in the meantime has had the opportunity to do some great jobs and have some unique experiences and really hone in on his skills (he's a very handy man to have around!).
4. I love our apartment, sure we may not be "homeowners" but that will come and for now, we are living within our means and enjoying ourselves. Everything we need is at home...for us, there isn't that much of a need to really leave the apartment except for a breath of fresh air and some sunlight.

What would have happened if I went away for school? What if I had stayed in Visual Art and not withdrawn from Uni? What if I didn't work in retail full-time for four years? What if I didn't live with my grandparents for College? What if I was never introduced to Edward when we were 11? There are so many variables in life...and I am 100% glad I was on the right track, my track.

What's left? What more could I want or ask for? Well, the only thing ever on my list besides happiness, love and money (it does make the world go round) is a kitten...and I don't think in the whole scheme of things, that's asking too much ;)

J...B...J!

Finally, American Idol had a great "theme" for the evening - my main man JBJ!!! Sure, most of you think Bon Jovi is lame but he is tried, tested and true and I can't believe if you didn't hear "Livin' On A Prayer" at a bar on a Saturday night you wouldn't find at least your foot tapping along or strumming your air guitar to the beat.

My fave idol this season, Blake, did not disappoint. He has gone weeks without beat boxing and what a week to pull it out. If you missed tonight's episode - log online and I'm sure there will be clips. He was fantastic. It's hard to believe that they only get a week to practice and he has time to re-arrange one of their most popular songs, teach the band, change the rhythm five times throughout, throw in several lines of beat boxing and still do the song justice! Second fave this season didn't bring her best but I can't believe that she won't make it through another round. Final two: Blake and Jordin! Bring it on!

PS - Sanjaya was finally not allowed to collect $200 or pass GO last week. Thank you America for putting me out of my misery.