Today is one of those days when the realities of life and death have come out screaming in my face. They are standing so close and shouting so loud that I can barely process it all. I don't know how to feel, so I feel... shock.
Last night, for the first time in my adult life, a friend passed away. He died in his sleep, presumably without warning. I am half comforted and half scared by that fact. He was 31 years old.
My heart goes out to his wife and two daughters, whom he loved with all his heart and who loved him with all of theirs. They were a beautiful family. The type you look up to, hoping to have the same one day.
RIP Keith Shapiro. You gave us all so much.
Showing posts with label personal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label personal. Show all posts
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Into the Woods
Just a quick note to say that I've been safe and sound in Ottawa for the past week, and have been having a lovely time. Tomorrow I'm off to teach musical theatre at camp for two weeks and it's in the middle of the wilderness, so you probably won't be hearing much (or anything) from me until I get back. Be well!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Life goes on
Ok, so it's been a while...
Nathan and I broke up last week. I sort of had over a month's warning, but I'm still having a rough go of it, cycling through the 5 stages of grief on repeat.
We remain good friends, though. Last weekend, we even managed to spend a perfectly delightful day together in Brighton, wherein I dipped my feet in the (much colder than in Hawaii) ocean and we strolled along the pier, sampled sinfully indulgent Thai food, poked through a museum where I found a chair that I will one day own, browsed (ok, shopped) in quirky little shops, played board games in a pub, and generally decided that Brighton is much more than what meets the average tourist's eye (though the touristy stuff was fun as well). There are no pictures, sadly, because my dad managed to drown my camera on our dolphin excursion and Nathan was lazy about using his ;)
Other than that, I'm looking forward to heading back to Canada in 22 days. Spending a few hours with friends during my layover in Ottawa was amazing but also made me really homesick for the first time since I moved here. I'll be spending a week in Ottawa followed by two weeks at the best camp in the universe followed by four more weeks in Ottawa and then topped off by a weekend near Boston (for a dance event). Then home. Yes, London is home.
Once I get back, I have no idea what the next year will have in store for me. But I didn't know what to expect when I first arrived, either. If there's one certainty I can cling to, it's that it won't be boring.
Nathan and I broke up last week. I sort of had over a month's warning, but I'm still having a rough go of it, cycling through the 5 stages of grief on repeat.
We remain good friends, though. Last weekend, we even managed to spend a perfectly delightful day together in Brighton, wherein I dipped my feet in the (much colder than in Hawaii) ocean and we strolled along the pier, sampled sinfully indulgent Thai food, poked through a museum where I found a chair that I will one day own, browsed (ok, shopped) in quirky little shops, played board games in a pub, and generally decided that Brighton is much more than what meets the average tourist's eye (though the touristy stuff was fun as well). There are no pictures, sadly, because my dad managed to drown my camera on our dolphin excursion and Nathan was lazy about using his ;)
Other than that, I'm looking forward to heading back to Canada in 22 days. Spending a few hours with friends during my layover in Ottawa was amazing but also made me really homesick for the first time since I moved here. I'll be spending a week in Ottawa followed by two weeks at the best camp in the universe followed by four more weeks in Ottawa and then topped off by a weekend near Boston (for a dance event). Then home. Yes, London is home.
Once I get back, I have no idea what the next year will have in store for me. But I didn't know what to expect when I first arrived, either. If there's one certainty I can cling to, it's that it won't be boring.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Sunshine and lollipops (no more rainbows for now, please... I'm tired of the rain)
Forgive me, readers, for I have sinned. It has been 3 weeks since my last blog entry.
Last time I wrote, I spoke of my loneliness in London and my plans to do something about it. Do something, I have. My social calendar has been downright packed ever since! The changing weather has helped a lot too. I think the dreary London winters really encourage people to crawl into their holes, but as soon as the sun comes out, they all crawl out again in droves. Literally. Anyway, the combination of sun and socializing have gone far toward improving my mood.
And so has... being in Hawaii! I arrived here on the island of Oahu a couple of evenings ago. It's remarkable how very different it is from London and yet how very at home I feel. We're staying in an incredible beach house in Lanikai/Kailua. And yesterday, in fulfillment of the main purpose for my trip, my dad and his wife had their ring blessing here. It was fun and lighthearted and I met dozens of new people.
Isn't it beautiful? That's the view from our back yard!
Other than that, I haven't been up to much yet. After encountering at least 40-50 Man o' Wars on the beach yesterday, I wasn't brave enough to get in the water.
I have quite a few exciting plans for the rest of this trip, though. Swimming with wild dolphins and turtles, surfing, parasailing... the list goes on! I can't wait. But until then... aloha!
Last time I wrote, I spoke of my loneliness in London and my plans to do something about it. Do something, I have. My social calendar has been downright packed ever since! The changing weather has helped a lot too. I think the dreary London winters really encourage people to crawl into their holes, but as soon as the sun comes out, they all crawl out again in droves. Literally. Anyway, the combination of sun and socializing have gone far toward improving my mood.
And so has... being in Hawaii! I arrived here on the island of Oahu a couple of evenings ago. It's remarkable how very different it is from London and yet how very at home I feel. We're staying in an incredible beach house in Lanikai/Kailua. And yesterday, in fulfillment of the main purpose for my trip, my dad and his wife had their ring blessing here. It was fun and lighthearted and I met dozens of new people.
Isn't it beautiful? That's the view from our back yard!
Other than that, I haven't been up to much yet. After encountering at least 40-50 Man o' Wars on the beach yesterday, I wasn't brave enough to get in the water.
I have quite a few exciting plans for the rest of this trip, though. Swimming with wild dolphins and turtles, surfing, parasailing... the list goes on! I can't wait. But until then... aloha!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Alone... hopefully not for long
I was warned before I came over here that London could be very isolating. I didn't mind that at first; I had my fellow Canadian teachers, my dance friends, and my new boyfriend to keep me company. I actually quite liked being able to disappear into anonymity whenever I wanted to.
But then a series of things happened: I stopped going dancing, I stopped hanging out with my new friends, I switched to a bigger school where the staff barely talk to one other, and my boyfriend moved to India. Now, I am quite thoroughly alone, and London's anonymity is no longer a positive trait.
The past few days have been stressful and I've realized more than ever how much I miss having friends I can hug or even just talk to. I miss my social network in Ottawa and I regret neglecting my social network here.
But it does no good for me to just moan about it. It's time to take action and start rekindling and building new friendships. People of London, I want to spend time with you! This is such a great city, and there's no excuse for me not to be rocking it out.
It starts today with a trip to Portobello Market.
But then a series of things happened: I stopped going dancing, I stopped hanging out with my new friends, I switched to a bigger school where the staff barely talk to one other, and my boyfriend moved to India. Now, I am quite thoroughly alone, and London's anonymity is no longer a positive trait.
The past few days have been stressful and I've realized more than ever how much I miss having friends I can hug or even just talk to. I miss my social network in Ottawa and I regret neglecting my social network here.
But it does no good for me to just moan about it. It's time to take action and start rekindling and building new friendships. People of London, I want to spend time with you! This is such a great city, and there's no excuse for me not to be rocking it out.
It starts today with a trip to Portobello Market.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Just when I was starting to settle in...
I'm flying to Edmonton tomorrow morning and, as much as I'm really looking forward to seeing my dad and being surrounded by Canadian accents again, leaving is going to be hard. I've been deprived of one goodbye and am having a really difficult time with another. Nothing is going to be the same next week when I get back.
I found out after I left work today that I won't be going back to my school. Something to do with funding issues. My agency is lovely and they've already found me a new position for after the break, but... I'm heartbroken. Deeply heartbroken.
I've also recently found out that my boyfriend's being sent to India for work. He leaves Sunday and we don't know yet when he'll be back. It's looking as though he may be there for several months.
So I guess that's it. Everything in my life right now that's important to me... gone. Hopefully I'll get the rest I need over the break so that I can come back ready to start a new life. Again.
I found out after I left work today that I won't be going back to my school. Something to do with funding issues. My agency is lovely and they've already found me a new position for after the break, but... I'm heartbroken. Deeply heartbroken.
I've also recently found out that my boyfriend's being sent to India for work. He leaves Sunday and we don't know yet when he'll be back. It's looking as though he may be there for several months.
So I guess that's it. Everything in my life right now that's important to me... gone. Hopefully I'll get the rest I need over the break so that I can come back ready to start a new life. Again.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Not a slacker
I know, I know... I haven't posted anything here in over two weeks. But I swear it's not (only) because I'm lazy. I just don't really have anything new to report.
The best I can do is to tell you that:
- I have a slew of dance gigs coming up (including one in Sweden!)
- I'm going back to Canada (Edmonton) for half-term break
- I finally signed up for a gym membership on Monday, but have only been once so far (and have already lost my membership card)
- I've decided to put myself through a week-long sugar detox
- I'm crossing my fingers for something that I can't reveal publicly until it's confirmed
Everything else is chugging along as usual.
The best I can do is to tell you that:
- I have a slew of dance gigs coming up (including one in Sweden!)
- I'm going back to Canada (Edmonton) for half-term break
- I finally signed up for a gym membership on Monday, but have only been once so far (and have already lost my membership card)
- I've decided to put myself through a week-long sugar detox
- I'm crossing my fingers for something that I can't reveal publicly until it's confirmed
Everything else is chugging along as usual.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Metamorphosis
The past decade has been one of enormous change and transformation.
2000
Graduated high school, worked my first job(s), and moved away for university.
2001
Made a serious commitment to nutrition and exercise for the first time in my life and began to take pride in my appearance.
2002
My first big love and heartbreak.
2003
Bought a car, started swing dancing, decided I needed a break from university and went to live in Alberta with my dad.
2004
Changed my career path to HR and experienced my second big love and heartbreak.
2005
Moved back to Ottawa.
2006
Started a "real job" (only to get laid off three months later), started another "real job," and helped to found Swing Dynamite.
2007
Lost my second "real job" and decided I didn't want a real job anyway, visited Europe for the first time.
2008
Took some time off to work on myself and eventually moved out of my luxury downtown condo, went back to school part-time, and re-entered the arts and culture sector (through Bluesfest and the Ottawa School of Speech and Drama).
2009
This has been the biggest year of change for me...
- Teaching prospects at OSSD took off, leading to awesome opportunities there and elsewhere
- Finally earned my BA
- Sold my car
- Moved overseas
- Changed careers
- Started a great relationship
- Travelled to 3 new countries
In particular, this year has been about experiencing being a minority. As a Canadian, I am a minority in London. As a caucasian, I am a minority in the communities and schools in which I work. As an English/French speaker, I have been a minority in every country I have visited this year. It has been a good and important experience for me, and I'll probably write more about it later.
I look forward to the next decade bringing more change, more joy, more love, more challenges, and more hope. May it bring the same to you.
2000
Graduated high school, worked my first job(s), and moved away for university.
2001
Made a serious commitment to nutrition and exercise for the first time in my life and began to take pride in my appearance.
2002
My first big love and heartbreak.
2003
Bought a car, started swing dancing, decided I needed a break from university and went to live in Alberta with my dad.
2004
Changed my career path to HR and experienced my second big love and heartbreak.
2005
Moved back to Ottawa.
2006
Started a "real job" (only to get laid off three months later), started another "real job," and helped to found Swing Dynamite.
2007
Lost my second "real job" and decided I didn't want a real job anyway, visited Europe for the first time.
2008
Took some time off to work on myself and eventually moved out of my luxury downtown condo, went back to school part-time, and re-entered the arts and culture sector (through Bluesfest and the Ottawa School of Speech and Drama).
2009
This has been the biggest year of change for me...
- Teaching prospects at OSSD took off, leading to awesome opportunities there and elsewhere
- Finally earned my BA
- Sold my car
- Moved overseas
- Changed careers
- Started a great relationship
- Travelled to 3 new countries
In particular, this year has been about experiencing being a minority. As a Canadian, I am a minority in London. As a caucasian, I am a minority in the communities and schools in which I work. As an English/French speaker, I have been a minority in every country I have visited this year. It has been a good and important experience for me, and I'll probably write more about it later.
I look forward to the next decade bringing more change, more joy, more love, more challenges, and more hope. May it bring the same to you.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Downs and Ups
I have been on one heck of a roller coaster this week.... and not the fun kind you queue up for while chowing down your candy floss. Several big things in my life were threatening to go very, very wrong. I was really trying hard to accept it, and to remember that everything happens for a reason, but I was still deeply depressed about it. Now (hopefully... knock on wood) they seem to be going right again.
Long days at school, too. The kids know that Christmas is coming and they're unwilling to wait. We're supposed to get 20 cm of snow tonight (gah... I came here to get away from snow!), and that may well mean our Christmas break will begin early, after all. Despite being totally wiped, I'm not happy about that at all. I really can't afford not to get paid and I still need to say a proper adieu to everyone.
On the bright side, the British Airways strike has been blocked so we're still on for Barcelona. Now I just have to pray that we don't get snowed in. I had a dream that we would, and I've been eerily psychic about some things lately.
On another bright side, I finally had coffee with Amie yesterday, after many weeks of saying we should. It was great to have a chance to vent with another Canadian TA who's going through a lot of the same stuff I am. And, of course, to hang out with her--she's super fun and awesome. I can't wait for Saturday's potluck at her place!
I apologize for the messy rant; my mind is messy this week, so this is what you get. I'm off to enjoy some spaghetti and mulled wine, and to write my Christmas cards... on the off chance I actually get to deliver them tomorrow.
Long days at school, too. The kids know that Christmas is coming and they're unwilling to wait. We're supposed to get 20 cm of snow tonight (gah... I came here to get away from snow!), and that may well mean our Christmas break will begin early, after all. Despite being totally wiped, I'm not happy about that at all. I really can't afford not to get paid and I still need to say a proper adieu to everyone.
On the bright side, the British Airways strike has been blocked so we're still on for Barcelona. Now I just have to pray that we don't get snowed in. I had a dream that we would, and I've been eerily psychic about some things lately.
On another bright side, I finally had coffee with Amie yesterday, after many weeks of saying we should. It was great to have a chance to vent with another Canadian TA who's going through a lot of the same stuff I am. And, of course, to hang out with her--she's super fun and awesome. I can't wait for Saturday's potluck at her place!
I apologize for the messy rant; my mind is messy this week, so this is what you get. I'm off to enjoy some spaghetti and mulled wine, and to write my Christmas cards... on the off chance I actually get to deliver them tomorrow.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Promises, Old and New
At the start of 2009, I made some promises to myself. They were basically resolutions, but I like promises better. Anyway, I was good about monitoring my progress for a while but then I completely forgot about it, so I think now it's time to take another look at how I've done...
I will recommit to daily exercise
I was pretty good about this for a while, but my activity level is now pathetic. Signing up for a gym membership is now top priority.
I will commit to my distance ed courses this semester and finally graduate, 8 years later, with my BA.
DONE!!!
I will focus on what is most important to me right now: building the foundation for my career.
I've certainly done that. Next steps: finish my website and apply for PGCE programs.
I will actively seek a healthy and gratifying relationship but continue to live happily alone until I find one.
Oh yay, I'd forgotten this was a goal. Accomplished!
I will make it a priority to regularly spend quality time with quality people.
I'm spending as much quality time as possible with my boyfriend but less time with my other friends. Should fix that.
I will make it a priority to regularly spend quality time with myself.
Yes, I think I do that.
I will pay attention to the insight of the children I work with.
Yes!
I will improve at money management.
Uh, sort of. I'm shopping less, anyhow.
I will improve at time management.
This isn't especially relevant to me right now, but I am still awful when it comes to procrastination.
I will attempt to document more of my life, in words and in images.
I write regularly in this blog! I also take more pictures and have done a little bit of drawing. I'd like to do more creative and philosophical work.
I will not turn down invitations just because I'm worried I won't know anyone.
I still do this.
I will allow myself to occasionally fail, so long as I get back up again.
I think so.
I will go to see live theatre whenever I can.
Aaaack, I live in London now... I have no bloody excuse! The only thing I've seen since I moved here is Billy Elliot.
I will be a better friend.
I'm in a weird place right now, on the friendship front. I'm trying desperately to stay in touch with my friends in Ottawa but it's not that easy. And I'm still in the preliminary stages of building new friendships here.
I think that's really good progress, overall. Now, as the year draws to a close, I reckon it's time to set some new promises.
20 PROMISES TO MYSELF FOR 2010 (and the rest of 2009)
1. I will obtain a gym membership and make good use of it.
2. I will finish my website.
3. I will get an action plan rolling for the next stages in my education and professional development.
4. I will be a good friend, girlfriend, and relative.
5. I will go see more live theatre, damnit!
6. I will write at least one substantial fictional piece in the next year.
7. I will post at least one reflective or philosophical blog entry per month.
8. I will challenge my mind with at least 30 minutes of puzzles or problems each week.
9. I will begin promoting myself as a swing and blues teacher to dance scenes around Europe.
10. I will choreograph a solo dance piece. All by myself.
11. I will somehow find a partner and choreograph a couples piece. Maybe even a team routine!
12. I will compete as often as possible.
13. I will continue my voice training.
14. I will work up the guts to sing on stage in front of strangers.
15. I will take one special interest course in something I've never done before.
16. I will become functional in Spanish (preferably before Christmas break ;)).
17. I will clean my living space at least once per week.
18. I will eat fruit, vegetables, and protein every day, despite my lack of a kitchen.
19. I will find a way to stop living paycheque to paycheque.
20. And finally, I will remember update my progress quarterly in this blog.
I will recommit to daily exercise
I was pretty good about this for a while, but my activity level is now pathetic. Signing up for a gym membership is now top priority.
I will commit to my distance ed courses this semester and finally graduate, 8 years later, with my BA.
DONE!!!
I will focus on what is most important to me right now: building the foundation for my career.
I've certainly done that. Next steps: finish my website and apply for PGCE programs.
I will actively seek a healthy and gratifying relationship but continue to live happily alone until I find one.
Oh yay, I'd forgotten this was a goal. Accomplished!
I will make it a priority to regularly spend quality time with quality people.
I'm spending as much quality time as possible with my boyfriend but less time with my other friends. Should fix that.
I will make it a priority to regularly spend quality time with myself.
Yes, I think I do that.
I will pay attention to the insight of the children I work with.
Yes!
I will improve at money management.
Uh, sort of. I'm shopping less, anyhow.
I will improve at time management.
This isn't especially relevant to me right now, but I am still awful when it comes to procrastination.
I will attempt to document more of my life, in words and in images.
I write regularly in this blog! I also take more pictures and have done a little bit of drawing. I'd like to do more creative and philosophical work.
I will not turn down invitations just because I'm worried I won't know anyone.
I still do this.
I will allow myself to occasionally fail, so long as I get back up again.
I think so.
I will go to see live theatre whenever I can.
Aaaack, I live in London now... I have no bloody excuse! The only thing I've seen since I moved here is Billy Elliot.
I will be a better friend.
I'm in a weird place right now, on the friendship front. I'm trying desperately to stay in touch with my friends in Ottawa but it's not that easy. And I'm still in the preliminary stages of building new friendships here.
I think that's really good progress, overall. Now, as the year draws to a close, I reckon it's time to set some new promises.
20 PROMISES TO MYSELF FOR 2010 (and the rest of 2009)
1. I will obtain a gym membership and make good use of it.
2. I will finish my website.
3. I will get an action plan rolling for the next stages in my education and professional development.
4. I will be a good friend, girlfriend, and relative.
5. I will go see more live theatre, damnit!
6. I will write at least one substantial fictional piece in the next year.
7. I will post at least one reflective or philosophical blog entry per month.
8. I will challenge my mind with at least 30 minutes of puzzles or problems each week.
9. I will begin promoting myself as a swing and blues teacher to dance scenes around Europe.
10. I will choreograph a solo dance piece. All by myself.
11. I will somehow find a partner and choreograph a couples piece. Maybe even a team routine!
12. I will compete as often as possible.
13. I will continue my voice training.
14. I will work up the guts to sing on stage in front of strangers.
15. I will take one special interest course in something I've never done before.
16. I will become functional in Spanish (preferably before Christmas break ;)).
17. I will clean my living space at least once per week.
18. I will eat fruit, vegetables, and protein every day, despite my lack of a kitchen.
19. I will find a way to stop living paycheque to paycheque.
20. And finally, I will remember update my progress quarterly in this blog.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Holidays
Travel was one of my primary motivators for moving to London, and working in a school means I get lots of time off to do just that. Since I missed going away during the last break, I'm eagerly plotting out the rest of the year...
Not a vacation, but it is a holiday: today is Thanksgiving for my American family and friends. Hope you all have a happy one! I'll be celebrating it on Saturday. I'm so lucky to get two Thanksgivings this year, despite living in a country that doesn't even celebrate one.
Next up, of course, is Christmas. My guy and I are going to try to go away somewhere. I'm hoping for Spain. Mmmm... Spain. Mmmm... warm sun.
The next school break is in February and I don't know yet what I'm doing. Anyone want to plan something?
After that, there's a two week break in April. I've decided I'm going to Prague for the Prague Spring Swing Festival. I've only registered for the dances, not the classes, so I'll be free to explore during the day and then will likely stay a few extra days. I think I'll take the train home so I can hit up a few more cities on the way back (Berlin, Amsterdam, Bruges, and Brussels?). Let me know if you're interested in coming along. I'd love company!
The May/June break, I'm off to Hawaii for my dad's wedding. I'm super excited about it, but not about the 5000 hour journey there and back.
Then finally, the school year ends at the end of July... at which point I plan on trekking back to Canada to teach at Long Bay Camp (Yay! So happy to be going back!), visit friends in Ottawa, and hopefully also get out to Edmonton to see my dad and sort through my belongings. Then fly back to London (possibly via Copenhagen?) and head up to Edinburgh for the Fringe and other assorted festivals. I can't wait. Everyone keeps telling me Edinburgh is incredible.
Whew, what a year! It'll certainly be a memorable one. Now all I need to do is figure out how I'm going to pay for it all. Details, details, right?
Not a vacation, but it is a holiday: today is Thanksgiving for my American family and friends. Hope you all have a happy one! I'll be celebrating it on Saturday. I'm so lucky to get two Thanksgivings this year, despite living in a country that doesn't even celebrate one.
Next up, of course, is Christmas. My guy and I are going to try to go away somewhere. I'm hoping for Spain. Mmmm... Spain. Mmmm... warm sun.
The next school break is in February and I don't know yet what I'm doing. Anyone want to plan something?
After that, there's a two week break in April. I've decided I'm going to Prague for the Prague Spring Swing Festival. I've only registered for the dances, not the classes, so I'll be free to explore during the day and then will likely stay a few extra days. I think I'll take the train home so I can hit up a few more cities on the way back (Berlin, Amsterdam, Bruges, and Brussels?). Let me know if you're interested in coming along. I'd love company!
The May/June break, I'm off to Hawaii for my dad's wedding. I'm super excited about it, but not about the 5000 hour journey there and back.
Then finally, the school year ends at the end of July... at which point I plan on trekking back to Canada to teach at Long Bay Camp (Yay! So happy to be going back!), visit friends in Ottawa, and hopefully also get out to Edmonton to see my dad and sort through my belongings. Then fly back to London (possibly via Copenhagen?) and head up to Edinburgh for the Fringe and other assorted festivals. I can't wait. Everyone keeps telling me Edinburgh is incredible.
Whew, what a year! It'll certainly be a memorable one. Now all I need to do is figure out how I'm going to pay for it all. Details, details, right?
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Just call me Sleepy
I was supposed to go dancing last night. I really wanted to, too. Instead, I fell asleep at 6 pm.
This has become a trend lately. I can barely count the number of times I've fallen asleep super early and slept for 11-15 hours at a stretch.
I'm starting to wonder what's wrong with me.
PS - My dad's photos and the story behind them are being featured on CTV.ca. It's a nice human interest story. As part of your Remembrance today, it'd be worth taking a look.
This has become a trend lately. I can barely count the number of times I've fallen asleep super early and slept for 11-15 hours at a stretch.
I'm starting to wonder what's wrong with me.
PS - My dad's photos and the story behind them are being featured on CTV.ca. It's a nice human interest story. As part of your Remembrance today, it'd be worth taking a look.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
New things
I started my new full-time job today! I'm in for a couple days of shadowing this week, and then I start officially on the 16th. I love the school and the students, and am totally blown away by how well-behaved they are. The teacher in my class is an absolute goddess of behaviour management. I hope to learn much from her. I also have quite a bit of freedom in terms of what I do with my one-on-one. It's great because it'll really push me as an educator, but it means I'm going to have to do some prep work.
In other news... I recently started seeing someone. Now that I'm quite confident he's not going to be going anywhere any time soon, I might as well broadcast it to cyberspace so I can start writing about stuff involving him. He's absolutely brilliant and wonderful and treats me like gold. I am so very lucky.
I'd best cut it off there for now. It's professional development week for Classroom Canada staff so I'll be off to a workshop pretty soon. More on that later.
In other news... I recently started seeing someone. Now that I'm quite confident he's not going to be going anywhere any time soon, I might as well broadcast it to cyberspace so I can start writing about stuff involving him. He's absolutely brilliant and wonderful and treats me like gold. I am so very lucky.
I'd best cut it off there for now. It's professional development week for Classroom Canada staff so I'll be off to a workshop pretty soon. More on that later.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
I miss my babies!
I can't sleep (thank you, illness), so now's as good a time as any to write in the blog!
I've been thinking a lot lately about my life back in Canada. Specifically, the best part of my life back in Canada: coaching the Rhythm Blasters (one of many awesome Swing Dynamite performance teams).
The Rhythm Blasters started out as a bit of a pet project, undertaken by me and my greatly-missed dance partner Olivier. Originally, it was a team specifically for newer dancers (most of whom had been dancing a few months when they joined)... but over time, the focus shifted to being a team for dancers who wanted to work in a relatively relaxed setting (compared to the ultra-intense TNTeam). It is no exaggeration for me to say that I was (and am) deeply, deeply fond of the Rhythm Blasters. They're my babies. I watched them grow, and I've shed many tears of pride in their name.
Here they are with their first routine at the 2008 Canadian Swing Championships (a few months after their incarnation):
And here they are again, a year later, with a much more difficult choreography (the run at CSC was cleaner, but is sadly not on YouTube):
It is good to know that in my absence, they are still going strong. A large number of new couples are currently going through the "bootcamp" process (an intermediary step before officially joining the team), including a whole bunch of awesome folks I was really hoping would join. Still, I can't help but feel a little (ok, a lot) sad that I can't be there with them. If there had been one thing that could have kept me planted in Ottawa, the Rhythm Blasters would have been it.
I hope I never forget how truly blessed I am to have worked with such a fun, positive, hard-working, and talented group of people. RBs, I miss you! I know you will continue to make me proud.
I've been thinking a lot lately about my life back in Canada. Specifically, the best part of my life back in Canada: coaching the Rhythm Blasters (one of many awesome Swing Dynamite performance teams).
The Rhythm Blasters started out as a bit of a pet project, undertaken by me and my greatly-missed dance partner Olivier. Originally, it was a team specifically for newer dancers (most of whom had been dancing a few months when they joined)... but over time, the focus shifted to being a team for dancers who wanted to work in a relatively relaxed setting (compared to the ultra-intense TNTeam). It is no exaggeration for me to say that I was (and am) deeply, deeply fond of the Rhythm Blasters. They're my babies. I watched them grow, and I've shed many tears of pride in their name.
Here they are with their first routine at the 2008 Canadian Swing Championships (a few months after their incarnation):
And here they are again, a year later, with a much more difficult choreography (the run at CSC was cleaner, but is sadly not on YouTube):
It is good to know that in my absence, they are still going strong. A large number of new couples are currently going through the "bootcamp" process (an intermediary step before officially joining the team), including a whole bunch of awesome folks I was really hoping would join. Still, I can't help but feel a little (ok, a lot) sad that I can't be there with them. If there had been one thing that could have kept me planted in Ottawa, the Rhythm Blasters would have been it.
I hope I never forget how truly blessed I am to have worked with such a fun, positive, hard-working, and talented group of people. RBs, I miss you! I know you will continue to make me proud.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
London in the rain
I *heart* my new French press. It's nigh impossible to find regular coffee in this town... it's all instant or espresso.
I also *heart* my new rice cooker and 2-in-1 electric wok & stove. More and more, I'm turning my tiny little dorm room into a self-sufficient entity. I turned my bed around and now I have room for a table (which I desperately need... anyone know where I can get a cheap little folding table?).
Finally, I *heart* the London rain. I don't know why. It just makes me feel really, really happy.
I also *heart* my new rice cooker and 2-in-1 electric wok & stove. More and more, I'm turning my tiny little dorm room into a self-sufficient entity. I turned my bed around and now I have room for a table (which I desperately need... anyone know where I can get a cheap little folding table?).
Finally, I *heart* the London rain. I don't know why. It just makes me feel really, really happy.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
This little piggy went to market...
Well, it's official... I'm sick. Probably with the flu. THIS IS BAD!!! I need to work as much as possible this week, since next week we're off with half term break.
And even though I've been feeling overconfident since this whole swine flu thing came about, now I can't stop thinking: what if I have swine flu and it kills me? Silly, I know. I'm sure there's nothing to worry about.
Anyway, what do you do when you're desperate for cash but you're sick with the flu? I could probably suck it up and get through the day(s) but... I work with kids. At lots of different schools. I'd feel awful if I infected half the city.
And even though I've been feeling overconfident since this whole swine flu thing came about, now I can't stop thinking: what if I have swine flu and it kills me? Silly, I know. I'm sure there's nothing to worry about.
Anyway, what do you do when you're desperate for cash but you're sick with the flu? I could probably suck it up and get through the day(s) but... I work with kids. At lots of different schools. I'd feel awful if I infected half the city.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Homesick? Nope
Many of the expatriates around me feel homesick. So far, I am immune. There are a few people I miss, and wish it were easier to keep in touch with them... but I actually feel quite at home in London. There are likely a few reasons for this:
1. I am a nomad at heart
Every few years, I get the itch to pick up and move somewhere. It's actually more difficult for me to stay than it is to go. Must be my viking blood.
2. I am lucky enough to have a far-reaching social network
I have connections with many different types of people in London. The two most important groups for me so far have been folks connected to the dance scene and other people from my agency. I have a good mix of locals, Canadians in the same boat as me, and people from elsewhere who are here for their own reasons. It makes a really big difference.
3. I haven't just left my family
My family is spread far and wide, and both my parents were already living thousands of kilometers away from me (in different directions). I'm used to being on my own, and I'm probably going to see them just as often now as I did before. In fact, my dad will be here next week (and I can't wait!).
4. Ottawa really isn't all that different from London
There are some obvious differences: size, population, accents, fashion sense... but ultimately, the two cities are as similar as cities across the ocean from each other can get.
English-speaking (with some French... Parisians are everywhere here), multicultural, Gothic style capital cities with plenty of festivals, changing of the guard ceremonies, green space, mixed architecture, and a long brown river/canal running through their core. London is really just Ottawa on speed.
5. I've been waiting for this most of my life
I've always wanted to live and travel in Europe; most especially these past few years. I'm also a big city girl at heart. I love the crowds, the fast pace, the diversity, the anonymity, and the bottomless well of possibilities. Besides, there are so many big, beautiful parks here, it's easy to step into one and completely forget you're in the middle of a bustling city.
I do miss coaching my dance team, having a car when I need it (though not driving it or the hassle that goes with owning one), and coffee/adventures with my Ottawa friends. I miss Quebecois French and Montreal bagels and poutine and proper sized fridges and Jane's Meal Maker chicken. But this is my home now, and I embrace its inexpensive yet tasty cheeses, snowless winters, funny police hats, winding streets, and hot-as-sin metro system.
I like London. And so far, London seems to like me.
1. I am a nomad at heart
Every few years, I get the itch to pick up and move somewhere. It's actually more difficult for me to stay than it is to go. Must be my viking blood.
2. I am lucky enough to have a far-reaching social network
I have connections with many different types of people in London. The two most important groups for me so far have been folks connected to the dance scene and other people from my agency. I have a good mix of locals, Canadians in the same boat as me, and people from elsewhere who are here for their own reasons. It makes a really big difference.
3. I haven't just left my family
My family is spread far and wide, and both my parents were already living thousands of kilometers away from me (in different directions). I'm used to being on my own, and I'm probably going to see them just as often now as I did before. In fact, my dad will be here next week (and I can't wait!).
4. Ottawa really isn't all that different from London
There are some obvious differences: size, population, accents, fashion sense... but ultimately, the two cities are as similar as cities across the ocean from each other can get.
English-speaking (with some French... Parisians are everywhere here), multicultural, Gothic style capital cities with plenty of festivals, changing of the guard ceremonies, green space, mixed architecture, and a long brown river/canal running through their core. London is really just Ottawa on speed.
5. I've been waiting for this most of my life
I've always wanted to live and travel in Europe; most especially these past few years. I'm also a big city girl at heart. I love the crowds, the fast pace, the diversity, the anonymity, and the bottomless well of possibilities. Besides, there are so many big, beautiful parks here, it's easy to step into one and completely forget you're in the middle of a bustling city.
I do miss coaching my dance team, having a car when I need it (though not driving it or the hassle that goes with owning one), and coffee/adventures with my Ottawa friends. I miss Quebecois French and Montreal bagels and poutine and proper sized fridges and Jane's Meal Maker chicken. But this is my home now, and I embrace its inexpensive yet tasty cheeses, snowless winters, funny police hats, winding streets, and hot-as-sin metro system.
I like London. And so far, London seems to like me.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
One toe short
This post was inspired by my friend Krista, who's dealing with a similar ailment.
A couple of months ago, in the midst of my yoga teacher training, I sprained two of my toes. This sucked, of course, because it meant I had difficulty participating in the remainder of the course. But at least I still had a car to help me get around, and I learned to suck it up and deal with the pain before long.
A few days ago, while getting up out of bed, I managed to break one of my nearly-healed toes. This sucks a lot more because I live in London where I need to walk a lot. And dance a lot. And work a lot with special needs students who have no qualms about crushing my toes.
But I'm still sucking it up and dealing with the pain (which is not limited to my toe, but cramping up my calf as well), because life is not nearly as fulfilling without walking and dancing and working with special needs kids. Capoeira may need to be put on hold for a while longer, though, which is very sad indeed.
A couple of months ago, in the midst of my yoga teacher training, I sprained two of my toes. This sucked, of course, because it meant I had difficulty participating in the remainder of the course. But at least I still had a car to help me get around, and I learned to suck it up and deal with the pain before long.
A few days ago, while getting up out of bed, I managed to break one of my nearly-healed toes. This sucks a lot more because I live in London where I need to walk a lot. And dance a lot. And work a lot with special needs students who have no qualms about crushing my toes.
But I'm still sucking it up and dealing with the pain (which is not limited to my toe, but cramping up my calf as well), because life is not nearly as fulfilling without walking and dancing and working with special needs kids. Capoeira may need to be put on hold for a while longer, though, which is very sad indeed.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Think positive
I have deleted my last entry. Not because I don't think it's a good thing to acknowledge fear, sadness, and vulnerability... I do. That's why I wrote it to begin with. But living here and seeing how various people respond to this city have really brought to light the importance of positive thinking.
I received an early morning phone call yesterday that granted me two more days of work. I was at another special needs school, out on the edge of the Earth (aka Zone 4 - it cost me £10 and at least 3 hours round trip each day). This school was smaller and not as well-off, and the staff, although lovely, was not quite so upbeat. The students were also much more abled.
I could tell you a million stories about them, but I'm afraid I'm much too tired. Suffice it to say that I really love this type of work. It is so rewarding. And no matter how awful these children can sometimes be (because many of them have conditions that cause them to lash out), you can't help but love them.
I received an early morning phone call yesterday that granted me two more days of work. I was at another special needs school, out on the edge of the Earth (aka Zone 4 - it cost me £10 and at least 3 hours round trip each day). This school was smaller and not as well-off, and the staff, although lovely, was not quite so upbeat. The students were also much more abled.
I could tell you a million stories about them, but I'm afraid I'm much too tired. Suffice it to say that I really love this type of work. It is so rewarding. And no matter how awful these children can sometimes be (because many of them have conditions that cause them to lash out), you can't help but love them.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Just dance, gonna be ok...
As the days go on, with still no long term contract in sight, my confidence is beginning to wane. The jury's in, and I apparently don't have the right experience for the jobs I'd been submitted for. I'm a little perplexed by how I'm not qualified to TA for a performing arts class, seeing as I'm a performing arts teacher (and a darned good one at that), but that's what she wrote. And that concerns me, because if I can't do what I'm most qualified to do... I can't do anything. I have a one day stint lined up for next Monday (speech and language department at a secondary school), but the rest of my universe remains uncertain.
In the meantime, though, I have plenty of projects on the go:
- Starting voice lessons again soon
- Hopefully rallying some musicians together to put on a show at Proud Camden, where I canrent out hire a room for free
- Doing lots of great stuff with Blues Revolution, which I'm really excited about because they are awesome
- Rebuilding my website (no link yet 'cause it's far from finished)
- Thinking about my upcoming trip to Wales
- Registering for a doctor! Finally! I haven't had one for at least 10 years.
Plus, my mini fridge arrived today. Happiness.
I originally intended for this entry to be mostly about dance, but at this point that would make it far too long. So keep your eyes pealed for a post about dancing in London, coming soon to a blog near you.
In the meantime, though, I have plenty of projects on the go:
- Starting voice lessons again soon
- Hopefully rallying some musicians together to put on a show at Proud Camden, where I can
- Doing lots of great stuff with Blues Revolution, which I'm really excited about because they are awesome
- Rebuilding my website (no link yet 'cause it's far from finished)
- Thinking about my upcoming trip to Wales
- Registering for a doctor! Finally! I haven't had one for at least 10 years.
Plus, my mini fridge arrived today. Happiness.
I originally intended for this entry to be mostly about dance, but at this point that would make it far too long. So keep your eyes pealed for a post about dancing in London, coming soon to a blog near you.
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