Merry Christmas.
Amanda
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
but a hero never turns around
So guess who finally learned how to use her scanner.
Merry Christmas.
Amanda
Merry Christmas.
Amanda
Monday, December 10, 2007
and on the north pole, i'll ice you son
I will admit to having a soft spot for children’s fantasy.
Perhaps it was because I loved the escapism of different magical worlds growing up; perhaps because it was one of the few genres that didn’t talk down to me. Perhaps it’s because I’ve never really changed from that little kid who thought that a world without magic was really boring, and books about babysitting and suburban mystery solving didn’t always cut the mustard. Regardless, Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series has definitely been a modern darling of the genre. It possesses the greatest qualities of the epic fantasy while operating in a wholly realized and realistic world. On top of this, Pullman’s aim is clear: an unabashed atheist, he uses his fictional world of dæmons and reigning polar bears to challenge the conventions of Western Christianity. Operating in a genre typically modeled by the promotion of these ideas, Pullman is able to indulge in the recognizable fantasy form while subverting the very ideals that helped found it. And that’s just plain sexy.
My hard-on for Pullman aside, The Golden Compass, first of the trilogy, is the introduction into his world. It serves to set the stage for Lyra Belacqua, a charmingly bright girl, her curiosity matched only by her ability to talk her way into and out of any situation. Unsurprisingly, she becomes the keeper and sole reader of the Aletheiometer, the titular golden compass, which allows her to know the truth of any question asked. Of course, there are bad guys, in the form of the Magisterium, an omnipotent sort of government/church that tells people what to do. And of course, they kidnap children and perform horrible experiments on them, as any good evil corporation is prone to doing. There are witches and polar bear kingdom wars and all sorts of good stuff of the fantastical kind.
And to be perfectly honest, the film does a great job of capturing the story. While I didn’t feel as engrossed as I did reading the book, we were definitely in the same neighbourhood. Chris Weitz’s Oxford felt every bit as real as Pullman’s did. I know a lot of fans of the story were upset that the overtly religious tones were removed from the story, thus sterilizing it a bit, but it’s an understandable change; this is a Hollywood film, and ultimately, some folks are hoping to net a bit of cash, and blatantly pissing on a large demographic probably won’t help in that goal. And the themes are still there for those savvy folk (which gives me the sick delight in knowing at least some of those wholly opposed to Pullman’s point will set up movie fanpages in the near future, blissfully unaware). And the film really has enough going on to support having only a subtle nod – that theme is there for those who wish to see it.
The polar bears looked fantastic, and man, did I love hearing Ian McKellen voicing Iorek. Nicole Kidman is at her finest here, her icy demeanor less overt than Tilda Swinton’s Jadis, yet much more chilling; her motivations are far more tender than a mere appetite for power, and this lends her actions a far deeper resonance. Newcomer Dakota Blue Richards is pitch perfect as Lyra, her sauciness balancing her naiveté quite well. Plus, she looks SO MUCH like Lyra. This is like when the Harry Potter people were lucky to find Daniel Radcliffe, but audiences don’t have to sit through 4 films of terrible acting before seeing a decent protagonist onscreen.
And boy, was it pretty. I loved the effect of the Dust, particularly when daemons were snuffed out. It was a lovely addition to the fight scenes, as I do love my fight scenes with sparkly sugar frostings. The use of Dust in the Aletheiometer scenes was also great, as it was able to capture layers of meaning the device is described as possessing. Every now and then, the polar bears reminded me of Coca Cola commercials, but that just shows how effective that campaign was, if anything.
But honestly? It left me cold. And I think it was because it just reminded me of so many movies I’ve seen before. The futuristic cars in Oxford looked straight out of Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, the music sounded like the composer had listened to a bit too much Harry Potter, and the witches were a little too stylistically Arwen. And that was SO distracting. I felt like this film was too busy referencing a bunch of great fantasy epics that came before it that it completely lost its own sense of style.
And hell, I get it Weitz: your biggest hit to date was American Pie. Sure, About a Boy was good, but what if that was a fluke? You WERE responsible for Down to Earth, starring Chris Rock, of all unsavoury characters. If I were Weitz and were pegged to direct a great fantasy epic, you bet your ass I’d be watching the extended Lord of the Rings and jotting down pointers.
This is small criticism compared to the many great feats of workmanship on display here. And I was anticipating this movie with baited breath, so maybe my expectations were a little high. And I’ve seen far too many movies. I was anticipating something truly spectacular, worthy of Pullman’s fantastic writing. So while The Golden Compass is surely no Narnia, it comes pretty close, and deserves at least one theatre viewing (because just WAIT until you see that bear fight).
3.7 jigglypuffs out of 5
Amanda
Perhaps it was because I loved the escapism of different magical worlds growing up; perhaps because it was one of the few genres that didn’t talk down to me. Perhaps it’s because I’ve never really changed from that little kid who thought that a world without magic was really boring, and books about babysitting and suburban mystery solving didn’t always cut the mustard. Regardless, Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series has definitely been a modern darling of the genre. It possesses the greatest qualities of the epic fantasy while operating in a wholly realized and realistic world. On top of this, Pullman’s aim is clear: an unabashed atheist, he uses his fictional world of dæmons and reigning polar bears to challenge the conventions of Western Christianity. Operating in a genre typically modeled by the promotion of these ideas, Pullman is able to indulge in the recognizable fantasy form while subverting the very ideals that helped found it. And that’s just plain sexy.
My hard-on for Pullman aside, The Golden Compass, first of the trilogy, is the introduction into his world. It serves to set the stage for Lyra Belacqua, a charmingly bright girl, her curiosity matched only by her ability to talk her way into and out of any situation. Unsurprisingly, she becomes the keeper and sole reader of the Aletheiometer, the titular golden compass, which allows her to know the truth of any question asked. Of course, there are bad guys, in the form of the Magisterium, an omnipotent sort of government/church that tells people what to do. And of course, they kidnap children and perform horrible experiments on them, as any good evil corporation is prone to doing. There are witches and polar bear kingdom wars and all sorts of good stuff of the fantastical kind.
And to be perfectly honest, the film does a great job of capturing the story. While I didn’t feel as engrossed as I did reading the book, we were definitely in the same neighbourhood. Chris Weitz’s Oxford felt every bit as real as Pullman’s did. I know a lot of fans of the story were upset that the overtly religious tones were removed from the story, thus sterilizing it a bit, but it’s an understandable change; this is a Hollywood film, and ultimately, some folks are hoping to net a bit of cash, and blatantly pissing on a large demographic probably won’t help in that goal. And the themes are still there for those savvy folk (which gives me the sick delight in knowing at least some of those wholly opposed to Pullman’s point will set up movie fanpages in the near future, blissfully unaware). And the film really has enough going on to support having only a subtle nod – that theme is there for those who wish to see it.
The polar bears looked fantastic, and man, did I love hearing Ian McKellen voicing Iorek. Nicole Kidman is at her finest here, her icy demeanor less overt than Tilda Swinton’s Jadis, yet much more chilling; her motivations are far more tender than a mere appetite for power, and this lends her actions a far deeper resonance. Newcomer Dakota Blue Richards is pitch perfect as Lyra, her sauciness balancing her naiveté quite well. Plus, she looks SO MUCH like Lyra. This is like when the Harry Potter people were lucky to find Daniel Radcliffe, but audiences don’t have to sit through 4 films of terrible acting before seeing a decent protagonist onscreen.
And boy, was it pretty. I loved the effect of the Dust, particularly when daemons were snuffed out. It was a lovely addition to the fight scenes, as I do love my fight scenes with sparkly sugar frostings. The use of Dust in the Aletheiometer scenes was also great, as it was able to capture layers of meaning the device is described as possessing. Every now and then, the polar bears reminded me of Coca Cola commercials, but that just shows how effective that campaign was, if anything.
But honestly? It left me cold. And I think it was because it just reminded me of so many movies I’ve seen before. The futuristic cars in Oxford looked straight out of Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, the music sounded like the composer had listened to a bit too much Harry Potter, and the witches were a little too stylistically Arwen. And that was SO distracting. I felt like this film was too busy referencing a bunch of great fantasy epics that came before it that it completely lost its own sense of style.
And hell, I get it Weitz: your biggest hit to date was American Pie. Sure, About a Boy was good, but what if that was a fluke? You WERE responsible for Down to Earth, starring Chris Rock, of all unsavoury characters. If I were Weitz and were pegged to direct a great fantasy epic, you bet your ass I’d be watching the extended Lord of the Rings and jotting down pointers.
This is small criticism compared to the many great feats of workmanship on display here. And I was anticipating this movie with baited breath, so maybe my expectations were a little high. And I’ve seen far too many movies. I was anticipating something truly spectacular, worthy of Pullman’s fantastic writing. So while The Golden Compass is surely no Narnia, it comes pretty close, and deserves at least one theatre viewing (because just WAIT until you see that bear fight).
3.7 jigglypuffs out of 5
Amanda
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
when the sun shines, we'll shine together
Days like this remind me I ought to be living in London.
Working in the mall, you tend to be cut off from the outside world. I have no windows to key me to weather cues, so I guess based on people's hair. Rain is easy. Snow slightly more difficult. Wind is generally pretty entertaining. Sunshine is virtually undetectable. I thrive on bad weather, if only because it adds interest to my very bland consumerism-based day.
Also, customers LOVE to discuss weather. This may be because the majority of my customers are elderly, but regardless. I've had so many people tell me how horrible the weather is, how terrible it's made their mood, how they just want to go home and curl up under some blankets and cry themselves to sleep because mygodwhywon'ttherainjuststop??.
I walked home. And I rather enjoyed it.
I'm one of those freaks who genuinely enjoys the rain, assuming I'm somewhat prepared for it. If I'm armed with an umbrella, walks in the rain are some of my favourite walks. I'm also one of those freaks who genuinely enjoys walks, so just imagine that: rain walks top MY list of favourite walks. Suck on that, weather-complainers.
On a related note, be nice to your umbrella. I hate that old wives' tale about opening umbrellas indoors, because doesn't your umbrella deserve some warmth? Doesn't it try its very hardest to keep you dry after you've dragged it from its slumber indoors? Doesn't it suffer enough abuse from the wind, trying to bend your poor comrade's spokes? And on top of all of this, does it also have to deal with some superstitions about how "unlucky" it is? Your umbrella has been through enough today. So let it fucking lie open while it dries. Have some compassion.
Amanda
Working in the mall, you tend to be cut off from the outside world. I have no windows to key me to weather cues, so I guess based on people's hair. Rain is easy. Snow slightly more difficult. Wind is generally pretty entertaining. Sunshine is virtually undetectable. I thrive on bad weather, if only because it adds interest to my very bland consumerism-based day.
Also, customers LOVE to discuss weather. This may be because the majority of my customers are elderly, but regardless. I've had so many people tell me how horrible the weather is, how terrible it's made their mood, how they just want to go home and curl up under some blankets and cry themselves to sleep because mygodwhywon'ttherainjuststop??.
I walked home. And I rather enjoyed it.
I'm one of those freaks who genuinely enjoys the rain, assuming I'm somewhat prepared for it. If I'm armed with an umbrella, walks in the rain are some of my favourite walks. I'm also one of those freaks who genuinely enjoys walks, so just imagine that: rain walks top MY list of favourite walks. Suck on that, weather-complainers.
On a related note, be nice to your umbrella. I hate that old wives' tale about opening umbrellas indoors, because doesn't your umbrella deserve some warmth? Doesn't it try its very hardest to keep you dry after you've dragged it from its slumber indoors? Doesn't it suffer enough abuse from the wind, trying to bend your poor comrade's spokes? And on top of all of this, does it also have to deal with some superstitions about how "unlucky" it is? Your umbrella has been through enough today. So let it fucking lie open while it dries. Have some compassion.
Amanda
Sunday, November 11, 2007
and I feel my finger on your trigger
I feel like I'm always waiting for something more. When I blog, I feel that it's a substitution for something else. Something more important. Something I'm lacking. And so, I am left with a collection of vague, brief summaries of my life of late. As I'm sure you've noticed, my life as of late has been somewhat less than stellar; certainly not terrible, but lacking anything of substance, which is probably why I lack the motivation to write anything but brief summaries. And those feel done out of obligation, to myself; I still need to convince myself that I'm a writer. Writers write, so I write subpar summaries that lack any sort of depth.
And why? Why am I scared of writing? Well, as for the blog, it's a very public forum. I intend to share my thoughts, but doing so can end up hurting others (as has happened in the past), and ends up hurting me. I'm a private person. I get so, am so caught up in self-preservation that I end up editing myself before the sentence is even typed, before the words leave my mouth. I'm tired of being afraid to be wrong, and I'm tired of swallowing words that should be said, because I know that I have things to say that are important. I have stories that have been told, but never before by me. And the fear of being uncreative has made me stagnant; I'm not doing anything because I'm afraid that if I do something and it's not very good, I'll break that fragile idea I have of myself as a creator, as a writer.
So I'm making a decision not to do that anymore. And it's a hard thing to decide, because I know I'm a lazy person, but I know I also use that as an excuse. I know that this is possibly the most important thing I have decided for myself, which may sound a little of an exaggeration, but if you think that, I suppose you've never felt the frustration of distancing yourself from that thing that really truly turns you on.
Things I know: I know that I miss the feeling of getting so throughly engrossed in what I'm writing that hours go by and I don't even notice. I know I miss the thrill of crafting something that is surprisingly, genuinely good, and the pride I feel in my own work. I know I miss creating. I know I miss words, and the way that I used to feel some of them burrow their way under my skin, and I miss when the burrowing words were my own.
This could mean more posting, but it will probably mean less. I'm also tired of promising to post more and then not doing it, or then doing it, and not writing anything interesting for either anyone reading or myself. But know that even though I'm not writing here, I am writing.
Amanda
And why? Why am I scared of writing? Well, as for the blog, it's a very public forum. I intend to share my thoughts, but doing so can end up hurting others (as has happened in the past), and ends up hurting me. I'm a private person. I get so, am so caught up in self-preservation that I end up editing myself before the sentence is even typed, before the words leave my mouth. I'm tired of being afraid to be wrong, and I'm tired of swallowing words that should be said, because I know that I have things to say that are important. I have stories that have been told, but never before by me. And the fear of being uncreative has made me stagnant; I'm not doing anything because I'm afraid that if I do something and it's not very good, I'll break that fragile idea I have of myself as a creator, as a writer.
So I'm making a decision not to do that anymore. And it's a hard thing to decide, because I know I'm a lazy person, but I know I also use that as an excuse. I know that this is possibly the most important thing I have decided for myself, which may sound a little of an exaggeration, but if you think that, I suppose you've never felt the frustration of distancing yourself from that thing that really truly turns you on.
Things I know: I know that I miss the feeling of getting so throughly engrossed in what I'm writing that hours go by and I don't even notice. I know I miss the thrill of crafting something that is surprisingly, genuinely good, and the pride I feel in my own work. I know I miss creating. I know I miss words, and the way that I used to feel some of them burrow their way under my skin, and I miss when the burrowing words were my own.
This could mean more posting, but it will probably mean less. I'm also tired of promising to post more and then not doing it, or then doing it, and not writing anything interesting for either anyone reading or myself. But know that even though I'm not writing here, I am writing.
Amanda
Sunday, November 4, 2007
darkly dreaming
I'd intended a few times to blog. And then I was all keen on NaBloPoMo, a sister project to NaNoWriMo (a project I would still like to participate in sometime). Clearly, I have not done either.
There are semi-good reasons for this. Those reasons being a)beginning a new job and b) Christmas gifts still to churn out. I'd love to spend evenings writing, but I'm having a hard enough time working on personal journal entries (my goal to write at least once a day) in addition to spinning up some lovely yarn creations for members of my family (and, by extension, catch up on all of that TV I've been missing).
New job (at old job) is fine. The staff who I am working with are great, and I already feel much better working at a place that is devoid of eggshells (there is one ego, but I'm his superior in title. Also, I've made a fine game of being unimpressed every time he attempts to shoot off his cocky mouth). However, I'm totally bored. I'm learning old computer systems that are really terribly designed, and spend most of my time counting money and directing staff to change labels. It seems said company has made it rather difficult to manage its products (which I suppose is one of the problems with carrying so many different vendor products in the same place). It's not a hard job, but it's a dull one.
Also, I was finally given an invite to Ravelry, an online knit and crochet community that is fabulous. You can document all of your projects, including yarn, needle size, pattern, modifications, and post pictures, and because everyone is documenting their knit goods, it makes it SO easy to find patterns based on things like yarn weight (which is the size of the actual strand of yarn). This makes it excellent for stash busting (yarn stash is extra yarn you've got lying around. Every knitter has it). You can even document your stash, tag patterns you'd like to try in the future, get feedback on patterns and yarns from other knitters... it just makes me very happy. I like when handcrafts and technology work so well together.
Also, this means I probably won't be talking about knitting on here much anymore, so yay for you non-interested readers, and also boo, for there goes half of my source material.
I've FINALLY watched all of season one of Dexter. It is such a fantastic show - this is the show CSI wishes it were, except with a lot more blood. I was most impressed by Michael C. Hall's performance: he completely inhabits the skin of a sociopathic serial killer while still remaining wholly likable. After Six Feet Under, I was wary that he would always be David to me, and Dexter has proved that he is a chameleon like no other (unless he actually is Dexter, which wouldn't surprise me). Apparently the execs had a hard time convincing him to accept the role, so am I ever glad he did. Also impressive is Jennifer Carpenter, Dexter's sister. Considering her major role before this was as the titular Emily Rose in that crappy exorcism movie with Donald Sutherland, she brought a believability and originality to a character that could easily have been played as a thoroughly damsel part. All in all, fantastic series, beautifully shot, wonderfully casted (with Darla! From Buffy!).
Amanda
Edited to add: want to know the joy of intarsia?
(Click on the pink ball to start. If you're ending a row on the right, press right once more to start the next row (same for left). Don't forget to set your yarn colour!
There are semi-good reasons for this. Those reasons being a)beginning a new job and b) Christmas gifts still to churn out. I'd love to spend evenings writing, but I'm having a hard enough time working on personal journal entries (my goal to write at least once a day) in addition to spinning up some lovely yarn creations for members of my family (and, by extension, catch up on all of that TV I've been missing).
New job (at old job) is fine. The staff who I am working with are great, and I already feel much better working at a place that is devoid of eggshells (there is one ego, but I'm his superior in title. Also, I've made a fine game of being unimpressed every time he attempts to shoot off his cocky mouth). However, I'm totally bored. I'm learning old computer systems that are really terribly designed, and spend most of my time counting money and directing staff to change labels. It seems said company has made it rather difficult to manage its products (which I suppose is one of the problems with carrying so many different vendor products in the same place). It's not a hard job, but it's a dull one.
Also, I was finally given an invite to Ravelry, an online knit and crochet community that is fabulous. You can document all of your projects, including yarn, needle size, pattern, modifications, and post pictures, and because everyone is documenting their knit goods, it makes it SO easy to find patterns based on things like yarn weight (which is the size of the actual strand of yarn). This makes it excellent for stash busting (yarn stash is extra yarn you've got lying around. Every knitter has it). You can even document your stash, tag patterns you'd like to try in the future, get feedback on patterns and yarns from other knitters... it just makes me very happy. I like when handcrafts and technology work so well together.
Also, this means I probably won't be talking about knitting on here much anymore, so yay for you non-interested readers, and also boo, for there goes half of my source material.
I've FINALLY watched all of season one of Dexter. It is such a fantastic show - this is the show CSI wishes it were, except with a lot more blood. I was most impressed by Michael C. Hall's performance: he completely inhabits the skin of a sociopathic serial killer while still remaining wholly likable. After Six Feet Under, I was wary that he would always be David to me, and Dexter has proved that he is a chameleon like no other (unless he actually is Dexter, which wouldn't surprise me). Apparently the execs had a hard time convincing him to accept the role, so am I ever glad he did. Also impressive is Jennifer Carpenter, Dexter's sister. Considering her major role before this was as the titular Emily Rose in that crappy exorcism movie with Donald Sutherland, she brought a believability and originality to a character that could easily have been played as a thoroughly damsel part. All in all, fantastic series, beautifully shot, wonderfully casted (with Darla! From Buffy!).
Amanda
Edited to add: want to know the joy of intarsia?
(Click on the pink ball to start. If you're ending a row on the right, press right once more to start the next row (same for left). Don't forget to set your yarn colour!
Friday, October 12, 2007
telling strangers personal things
On Friday, I began a post. And then Marta came over, and I worked and worked and worked, and somehow had time to watch Runaway Bride while feeling unusually sympathetic towards Julia Roberts' plight and finding Richard Gere hot in a grandpa sorta way, and seeing an episode of Rich Bride, Poor Bride where the couple registered at WALMART and I actually think it was in Brampton, and somewhere in the melee, the post never got finished. So now, live, from last Friday...
I finally saw Regina Spektor play last night.
It's hard to believe that such spectacular performer resides in such a slight of a girl, yet her stage luminosity is quite the sight to behold. Captivating a sold out audience with merely her effortless voice and her skilled fingertips, Regina is one of those few performers where music radiates from her, and you can't help but be caught up in her earnest, honest world. It doesn't hurt that she is seriously talented, both as a pianist and as a vocal performer - I'm difficult to impress with a vocal performance, and Regina is one of the few people who has a truly flawless voice, with an incredible range and such brilliant control. At one point she played the piano with one hand, a chair as a drum with the other while singing fabulously; who could resist?
Most impressive was her lightness. It was so exciting to see a performer who believes in having FUN with her music, rather than taking herself as seriously as most do. Needless to say at this point (after I have giddily extoled her virtues), I was blown away. Regina is awesome. Case closed.
Although now I am not basking in the glow of my renewed love for Regina, I am still impressed.
Today was the last day at Garden Centre X. While I'm glad to be out of there for a variety of very legitimate reasons, I'm still sad to go. I genuinely enjoyed the work itself, just not all of the other bullshit that was involved in working there. Which leads me to think that maybe if I still feel this inkling down the line, my flower shop dream is not completely dead (but you know it'd have to be my own shop, because I ain't being a bitch no more).
Tomorrow I will heading back to London. I have a feeling it will be weird, a place I know well, but don't really belong in anymore. Except I'm excited to go out with old pals. Not just because I'll be going out with people I get to see too rarely, but also because I will be able to go out. Brampton is pretty devoid of a night life - that is, it has one that I would prefer to stay far, far away from. So yeah.
Oh, also, I was watching Chuck while I was in a more receptive state of mind (also the evening of the Runaway Bride incident), and happened to scribble this little gem:
Is it just me or does the "hottie" of Chuck looks like she should be the "hottie" in a sci fi show? She definitely follows the "look" of such shows, and every scene she's lit in reminds me of the brief snippets of Andromeda and La Femme Nikita that I've seen. This show's just made for nerds of all sorts, and I just love it for that. Random pop culture references? Computer programmers? Stylized action-drama format? Adam Baldwin? Slight homo-erotic tones? Hot chicks fighting in skimpy clothing weekly?
Check.
Amanda
I finally saw Regina Spektor play last night.
It's hard to believe that such spectacular performer resides in such a slight of a girl, yet her stage luminosity is quite the sight to behold. Captivating a sold out audience with merely her effortless voice and her skilled fingertips, Regina is one of those few performers where music radiates from her, and you can't help but be caught up in her earnest, honest world. It doesn't hurt that she is seriously talented, both as a pianist and as a vocal performer - I'm difficult to impress with a vocal performance, and Regina is one of the few people who has a truly flawless voice, with an incredible range and such brilliant control. At one point she played the piano with one hand, a chair as a drum with the other while singing fabulously; who could resist?
Most impressive was her lightness. It was so exciting to see a performer who believes in having FUN with her music, rather than taking herself as seriously as most do. Needless to say at this point (after I have giddily extoled her virtues), I was blown away. Regina is awesome. Case closed.
Although now I am not basking in the glow of my renewed love for Regina, I am still impressed.
Today was the last day at Garden Centre X. While I'm glad to be out of there for a variety of very legitimate reasons, I'm still sad to go. I genuinely enjoyed the work itself, just not all of the other bullshit that was involved in working there. Which leads me to think that maybe if I still feel this inkling down the line, my flower shop dream is not completely dead (but you know it'd have to be my own shop, because I ain't being a bitch no more).
Tomorrow I will heading back to London. I have a feeling it will be weird, a place I know well, but don't really belong in anymore. Except I'm excited to go out with old pals. Not just because I'll be going out with people I get to see too rarely, but also because I will be able to go out. Brampton is pretty devoid of a night life - that is, it has one that I would prefer to stay far, far away from. So yeah.
Oh, also, I was watching Chuck while I was in a more receptive state of mind (also the evening of the Runaway Bride incident), and happened to scribble this little gem:
Is it just me or does the "hottie" of Chuck looks like she should be the "hottie" in a sci fi show? She definitely follows the "look" of such shows, and every scene she's lit in reminds me of the brief snippets of Andromeda and La Femme Nikita that I've seen. This show's just made for nerds of all sorts, and I just love it for that. Random pop culture references? Computer programmers? Stylized action-drama format? Adam Baldwin? Slight homo-erotic tones? Hot chicks fighting in skimpy clothing weekly?
Check.
Amanda
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
and all you see is where else you could be when you're at home
I wish I could post through the sheer power of my brain. This thing would be updated much more frequently, and generally with more interesting things. At work, I'll often brainstorm things to write about (because I'm so devoid of mental stimulation, I'll daydream about blogging - talk about a dead-end job).
At this point, I'm interjecting my own ramblings: there was just a power flicker, my computer turned off, and Blogger is SO AWESOME, it saved what I had written thus far. Keep on keepin' on, friend-website.
Anyway, if I could remember all of the deliciously delightful topics I cover so thoroughly in my head, I'm sure this blog would be filled with a lot more. But by the time I get home, I'm so weary that I rarely sit down at my computer to check my email, let alone write. And half the time I can't remember the topics anyway. Perhaps I should start writing them down.
New hat finished! This is my brother's Christmas gift, so let's hope he doesn't check this blog (although he knows what he's getting). I had planned to make him Jayne Cobb's hat for Christmas since I picked up needles, so this was inevitable - and then he requested I make it! It only took me ONE WEEK, which, I must say, impressed even me. My brother has a fat head (hence the hat... bagginess?), so I ended up casting on 100 stitches instead of the recommended 72. Also, mine looks a little neater than the original, but that's just how I roll. The speed gives me hope that I'll be able to make my parents' gifts AND an awesome boatneck sweater for myself by Christmas. Knit.1 came out with their fall issue and it's got me all excited for some projects for myself (AND they had Kim and Bree from ANTM do most of the modeling! (I know you all didn't forget about that hot lez)). Considering Knit.1 is the ONLY knitting magazine that I feel reflects my tastes, and it only comes out 4 times a year, this is breaking news.
Does anyone else have a love/hate relationship with Chuck yet? Or think the titular character looks like a hybrid of John Krasinski, Adam Brody, and Jimmy Fallon, and also think that is NOT a bad thing? And also love that Adam Baldwin is in it (I KNOW)?
Heroes is better than the finale of season two, but that isn't saying much. This is the sophomore year, and you can tell. I like that Hiro is the hero he idolizes - a predictable yet satisfying scenario. Claire's angel stalker is lame, Mr Bennett employed by Staples delights me, and Peter's story thus far is SUPPOSED to be intriguing. I will now predict what will happen: there's an evil and a good Peter. He's the bad guy who attacked Petrelli mama and Captain Sulu. There'll be an epic showdown where he has to fight himself in a quintessential battle between good and evil, which is deciding which team you're on (because in these kinds of stories, there is rarely grey area for characters). And I'll also predict the outcome of that battle: good Pete will win, but Nathan, his Cane, will succumb to the power of the dark side. Note this date, folks, so when it happens, I can heartily bellow my "I told you so" (I won't really).
I'll try to start writing down my blog ideas. For your sake.
Amanda
At this point, I'm interjecting my own ramblings: there was just a power flicker, my computer turned off, and Blogger is SO AWESOME, it saved what I had written thus far. Keep on keepin' on, friend-website.
Anyway, if I could remember all of the deliciously delightful topics I cover so thoroughly in my head, I'm sure this blog would be filled with a lot more. But by the time I get home, I'm so weary that I rarely sit down at my computer to check my email, let alone write. And half the time I can't remember the topics anyway. Perhaps I should start writing them down.
New hat finished! This is my brother's Christmas gift, so let's hope he doesn't check this blog (although he knows what he's getting). I had planned to make him Jayne Cobb's hat for Christmas since I picked up needles, so this was inevitable - and then he requested I make it! It only took me ONE WEEK, which, I must say, impressed even me. My brother has a fat head (hence the hat... bagginess?), so I ended up casting on 100 stitches instead of the recommended 72. Also, mine looks a little neater than the original, but that's just how I roll. The speed gives me hope that I'll be able to make my parents' gifts AND an awesome boatneck sweater for myself by Christmas. Knit.1 came out with their fall issue and it's got me all excited for some projects for myself (AND they had Kim and Bree from ANTM do most of the modeling! (I know you all didn't forget about that hot lez)). Considering Knit.1 is the ONLY knitting magazine that I feel reflects my tastes, and it only comes out 4 times a year, this is breaking news.
Does anyone else have a love/hate relationship with Chuck yet? Or think the titular character looks like a hybrid of John Krasinski, Adam Brody, and Jimmy Fallon, and also think that is NOT a bad thing? And also love that Adam Baldwin is in it (I KNOW)?
Heroes is better than the finale of season two, but that isn't saying much. This is the sophomore year, and you can tell. I like that Hiro is the hero he idolizes - a predictable yet satisfying scenario. Claire's angel stalker is lame, Mr Bennett employed by Staples delights me, and Peter's story thus far is SUPPOSED to be intriguing. I will now predict what will happen: there's an evil and a good Peter. He's the bad guy who attacked Petrelli mama and Captain Sulu. There'll be an epic showdown where he has to fight himself in a quintessential battle between good and evil, which is deciding which team you're on (because in these kinds of stories, there is rarely grey area for characters). And I'll also predict the outcome of that battle: good Pete will win, but Nathan, his Cane, will succumb to the power of the dark side. Note this date, folks, so when it happens, I can heartily bellow my "I told you so" (I won't really).
I'll try to start writing down my blog ideas. For your sake.
Amanda
Monday, September 24, 2007
sometimes you gotta work hard for it
I waited to post pictures of this finished hat, because I figured the recipient should have been gifted before seeing their new headwear pimped out to the web.
This hat is a result of the exact same pattern as my teal hat I had finished earlier this summer. The weight of the yarn was heavier, and a fluffy cream wool (a brand called Highlander, I believe?) that I found buried on a shelf at Romni (my favourite yarn store), and it resulted in a much larger hat. A beret, more like. The one real change I made was that I decreased more near the top, which resulted in the pretty star pattern. But I think it's pretty fabulous. The amount of time I was able to knit it in was also pretty fabulous (under 2 weeks). I'm getting better folks.
Christmas presents are hitting the needles now. As much as I'd love to make stuff for everyone, I'm not going to be able to. I can't move THAT fast, and also, I'ma selfish bitch. Knitting things for my family is enough time dedicated away from projects for me. I have big things in store for this year.
I've been new resolution making lately. I suppose that's supposed to be a January thing, but I've always hated making resolutions halfway through the year. And it is halfway through the year by my inner clock, because escaping school does not mean escaping your conditioning.
But I'm resolving to take a bigger interest in interesting things. Sounds simple, I know, but living in a place that leaves me relatively disconnected means I must also be more self-directed. It's been too easy for the past few years to simply pacify myself. I think this motivation is what university was supposed to teach me (rather than the best methods for slacking, in which I was eventually a star pupil). However, I'm going to start setting some goals for myself, especially creatively. I've fallen out of the habit of creating. I think for a while I was hung up on being "inspired" but that only happens when you're in practice enough to be thinking creatively in the first place. I'm stuck in a rut, and I don't like it. So for the first time, I'm going to work to get myself out. And luckily, for you readers, this will mean some more interesting reading material.
But all of this will have to take a backseat for an hour while I watch the Heroes season premiere. Yeah, I'm excited. Based on the finale, I shouldn't be, but I have a feeling the massive outcry from the fans will have lit a fire under everyone's collective asses. This is hopeful, but also necessary if this show is going to remain as interesting as season one promised. Up, up, and away!
Amanda
This hat is a result of the exact same pattern as my teal hat I had finished earlier this summer. The weight of the yarn was heavier, and a fluffy cream wool (a brand called Highlander, I believe?) that I found buried on a shelf at Romni (my favourite yarn store), and it resulted in a much larger hat. A beret, more like. The one real change I made was that I decreased more near the top, which resulted in the pretty star pattern. But I think it's pretty fabulous. The amount of time I was able to knit it in was also pretty fabulous (under 2 weeks). I'm getting better folks.
Christmas presents are hitting the needles now. As much as I'd love to make stuff for everyone, I'm not going to be able to. I can't move THAT fast, and also, I'ma selfish bitch. Knitting things for my family is enough time dedicated away from projects for me. I have big things in store for this year.
I've been new resolution making lately. I suppose that's supposed to be a January thing, but I've always hated making resolutions halfway through the year. And it is halfway through the year by my inner clock, because escaping school does not mean escaping your conditioning.
But I'm resolving to take a bigger interest in interesting things. Sounds simple, I know, but living in a place that leaves me relatively disconnected means I must also be more self-directed. It's been too easy for the past few years to simply pacify myself. I think this motivation is what university was supposed to teach me (rather than the best methods for slacking, in which I was eventually a star pupil). However, I'm going to start setting some goals for myself, especially creatively. I've fallen out of the habit of creating. I think for a while I was hung up on being "inspired" but that only happens when you're in practice enough to be thinking creatively in the first place. I'm stuck in a rut, and I don't like it. So for the first time, I'm going to work to get myself out. And luckily, for you readers, this will mean some more interesting reading material.
But all of this will have to take a backseat for an hour while I watch the Heroes season premiere. Yeah, I'm excited. Based on the finale, I shouldn't be, but I have a feeling the massive outcry from the fans will have lit a fire under everyone's collective asses. This is hopeful, but also necessary if this show is going to remain as interesting as season one promised. Up, up, and away!
Amanda
Friday, September 21, 2007
thought 1
Isn't it strange that IMDB has forums specifically for actors and that they appear on their profile pages? Where folks can go and exclaim the virtues/sins of their beloveds/despiseds? (A word? Perhaps not.) How odd would it feel to read a thread dedicated to yourself?
Thursday, September 20, 2007
body break
- Disney World was awesome.
- I was skeptical about Batman Begins, and then I was as impressed as everyone else when it came out. The Dark Knight Returns looks as though it plans to deliver much of the action that fans of Nolan's treatment crave. Additionally, it looks as though the film follows an integral plotline from the graphic novel "The Dark Knight Returns", of the mob ("mutants") following a deranged criminal and taking over Gotham. I suppose Harvey Dent won't show up in this, and, disappointingly, there will be no showdown between Superman and Batman. Batman Begins did similarly in taking its basis in "Batman: Year One" But I doubt they'll doll Bale up in old man gear for this. That was part of Batman's bad-assed-ness in "The Dark Knight".
- I've finished Megan McCafferty's third in the Jessica Darling series, "Charmed Thirds". This is probably her weakest novel yet in structure, as only Jessica's breaks from school are covered by her journal. However, Jessica's blossoming into an adult felt threateningly close to the reality of being in a program you're not sure really suits you, living in a place you feel an odd sense of home-yet-not in, and the fragility yet ultimate strength of the relationships that matter. I didn't like it structurally, but I didn't like how honestly it portrayed that transitional period that I still feel ensnared it. It made me uncomfortable, and that isn't a bad thing.
I'd write more, but I don't feel up to it right now. Work is killing me right now; 7am mornings and 6pm finishes while sick are taking their toll. Luckily, there is a glimmering light in sight, and it looks awfully familiar....
Amanda
- I was skeptical about Batman Begins, and then I was as impressed as everyone else when it came out. The Dark Knight Returns looks as though it plans to deliver much of the action that fans of Nolan's treatment crave. Additionally, it looks as though the film follows an integral plotline from the graphic novel "The Dark Knight Returns", of the mob ("mutants") following a deranged criminal and taking over Gotham. I suppose Harvey Dent won't show up in this, and, disappointingly, there will be no showdown between Superman and Batman. Batman Begins did similarly in taking its basis in "Batman: Year One" But I doubt they'll doll Bale up in old man gear for this. That was part of Batman's bad-assed-ness in "The Dark Knight".
- I've finished Megan McCafferty's third in the Jessica Darling series, "Charmed Thirds". This is probably her weakest novel yet in structure, as only Jessica's breaks from school are covered by her journal. However, Jessica's blossoming into an adult felt threateningly close to the reality of being in a program you're not sure really suits you, living in a place you feel an odd sense of home-yet-not in, and the fragility yet ultimate strength of the relationships that matter. I didn't like it structurally, but I didn't like how honestly it portrayed that transitional period that I still feel ensnared it. It made me uncomfortable, and that isn't a bad thing.
I'd write more, but I don't feel up to it right now. Work is killing me right now; 7am mornings and 6pm finishes while sick are taking their toll. Luckily, there is a glimmering light in sight, and it looks awfully familiar....
Amanda
Friday, August 31, 2007
a neon light that split the night
For the past two and a half days, I have been sick. No, not merely mild sniffle with an achy throat sick, but full blown I-can't-stand-for-too-long-because-I-don't-have-the-energy sick. Not fun sick. As a result, I have watched more TV than I thought humanly possible over the past few days. Things I have realized:
-Friends plays at least once an hour. While this isn't great, as Friends was never a great show, it provides consistent entertainment: you know what you're getting in an episode of Friends. You'll get Ross being geeky, Phoebe being odd, Chandler being sarcastic, Rachel whining, Joey being dumb, and Monica being a neurotic headcase. And while their bit gets old after a while, at least every episode is DIFFERENT, from varying eras in the show's bloated run (which can be measured by the bloat on Matthew Perry's face).
-MTV can always be counted on for cheesy entertainment. I have watched so so much of Next and True Love (which I actually rather enjoy now), and even have started Newport Beach, which is the new Laguna Beach. I have to say, the main character is every bit as whiny as Lauren was, but she also has some serious daddy issues, which makes watching her attempts to win the boy she so desperately covets (the unfortunately named Clay) both pathetic and hilarious. Also, there needs to be more episodes made of My Super Sweet 16 so they don't have to show the same one all fucking week. Just saying.
-I have refallen in love with The O.C. This is not a new revelation, as MuchMusic has been airing the first season for 2 weeks now. However, rewatching just makes you realize how good it was before Seth became the focus of the show (and therefore the most annoying part), how awesome Anna really was, and even, gasp, how likeable Marissa was. Unfortunately, the latter fell to pieces after the T.J. episode, a mere 7 episodes in, so that has not withstood the test of time. Also unfortunate? Their clothes haven't withstood either. The colours seem pretty garish, but that might be Much's characteristic oversaturation or perhaps the cast members it is most noticeable on (Julie Cooper and Summer, most noteably) were intended to be garishly coloured from the start. Or perhaps that is just the warm sunny glow of California transcending the screen. Regardless, I enjoy that it plays every afternoon and evening (at 4pm and 7pm), so you can watch it serialized like Saved by the Bell from back in the day. And if you miss an episode, the 4pm one is a replay of the 7pm one from the night before! Awesome!
-The Rogers digital cable channels do very little for me. In fact, it gives me more shit to sift through, and all the shit is the same shit I've skipped over back in the 10s. I don't care if I can watch the same show on 5 different channels at the same time. I like time shifting, and I like specialty channels, but don't just become lazy fucks and give me the same shit repeated - it means more work for me, and I should be the only lazy fuck in this relationship, TV.
- I finally watched the first episode of Flight of the Conchords, and I have to say, I kind of loved it. So thank you to everyone who has been recommending it to me.
But really, having sick days just reminds me of how awesome tv was back in the good ole' days. Remember Sally Jesse Raphael? And the Price is Right when Bob Barker was still on? And when Jeopardy wasn't shown in the middle of the day because that is just sick?
I've just learned there's a film adaptation of Atonement coming out, which delights me greatly. I'll admit to very much liking both James McAvoy and Keira Knightley, and even that chick from Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (who was terrible at an American accent but danced with both old leatherface Swayze and young hearthrob Diego Luna well). The fact that film adaptations generally do disservices to the books they emulate deters my heart naught, because I've come to the conclusion that anything starring that McAvoy boy is good in my eyes (and his track record is good), but also that the trailer is GREAT. No voiceovers, no plot giveaway, and a bit of naked Keira Knightley. It looks like it will be simply stunning, and I can't wait until December to see it. But you can watch the trailer here, if you'd like to see for yourself.
That's enough from me. I have blue Jello waiting for me upstairs, and with that, I have all.
Amanda
-Friends plays at least once an hour. While this isn't great, as Friends was never a great show, it provides consistent entertainment: you know what you're getting in an episode of Friends. You'll get Ross being geeky, Phoebe being odd, Chandler being sarcastic, Rachel whining, Joey being dumb, and Monica being a neurotic headcase. And while their bit gets old after a while, at least every episode is DIFFERENT, from varying eras in the show's bloated run (which can be measured by the bloat on Matthew Perry's face).
-MTV can always be counted on for cheesy entertainment. I have watched so so much of Next and True Love (which I actually rather enjoy now), and even have started Newport Beach, which is the new Laguna Beach. I have to say, the main character is every bit as whiny as Lauren was, but she also has some serious daddy issues, which makes watching her attempts to win the boy she so desperately covets (the unfortunately named Clay) both pathetic and hilarious. Also, there needs to be more episodes made of My Super Sweet 16 so they don't have to show the same one all fucking week. Just saying.
-I have refallen in love with The O.C. This is not a new revelation, as MuchMusic has been airing the first season for 2 weeks now. However, rewatching just makes you realize how good it was before Seth became the focus of the show (and therefore the most annoying part), how awesome Anna really was, and even, gasp, how likeable Marissa was. Unfortunately, the latter fell to pieces after the T.J. episode, a mere 7 episodes in, so that has not withstood the test of time. Also unfortunate? Their clothes haven't withstood either. The colours seem pretty garish, but that might be Much's characteristic oversaturation or perhaps the cast members it is most noticeable on (Julie Cooper and Summer, most noteably) were intended to be garishly coloured from the start. Or perhaps that is just the warm sunny glow of California transcending the screen. Regardless, I enjoy that it plays every afternoon and evening (at 4pm and 7pm), so you can watch it serialized like Saved by the Bell from back in the day. And if you miss an episode, the 4pm one is a replay of the 7pm one from the night before! Awesome!
-The Rogers digital cable channels do very little for me. In fact, it gives me more shit to sift through, and all the shit is the same shit I've skipped over back in the 10s. I don't care if I can watch the same show on 5 different channels at the same time. I like time shifting, and I like specialty channels, but don't just become lazy fucks and give me the same shit repeated - it means more work for me, and I should be the only lazy fuck in this relationship, TV.
- I finally watched the first episode of Flight of the Conchords, and I have to say, I kind of loved it. So thank you to everyone who has been recommending it to me.
But really, having sick days just reminds me of how awesome tv was back in the good ole' days. Remember Sally Jesse Raphael? And the Price is Right when Bob Barker was still on? And when Jeopardy wasn't shown in the middle of the day because that is just sick?
I've just learned there's a film adaptation of Atonement coming out, which delights me greatly. I'll admit to very much liking both James McAvoy and Keira Knightley, and even that chick from Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights (who was terrible at an American accent but danced with both old leatherface Swayze and young hearthrob Diego Luna well). The fact that film adaptations generally do disservices to the books they emulate deters my heart naught, because I've come to the conclusion that anything starring that McAvoy boy is good in my eyes (and his track record is good), but also that the trailer is GREAT. No voiceovers, no plot giveaway, and a bit of naked Keira Knightley. It looks like it will be simply stunning, and I can't wait until December to see it. But you can watch the trailer here, if you'd like to see for yourself.
That's enough from me. I have blue Jello waiting for me upstairs, and with that, I have all.
Amanda
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
listen up
For the sake of my dear friend Meghan, I'll talk about what I've been listening to lately.
I'm loving Cookies by the 1990s. I believe the founders of this band are the other half of the band that produced Franz Ferdinand, and while Franz certainly has a great sound, it's a little too distinct and I think they've pigeonholed themselves. That is not 1990s issue - this is an all around fabulous rollicking summer album that I'm sure I'll be listening to for a long time.
I've also been talking up Kate Nash's Made of Bricks to anyone who will listen. She's reinvigorated my love for Regina Spektor, which comes not a moment too soon, as I'm going to her show in October. She sounds like Lily Allen and Spektor's hot love baby (and maybe the Pipettes were in on the love making), and sweet jesus, it's good. "Birds" was not at all indicative of the rest of this album, so if you've written her off as a folksy singer songwritery type, try the rest of the album. Also, would that NOT be a really hot... er... five-some?
The Kaiser Chiefs' latest, Yours Truly, Angry Mob, has also given me some happies lately. "Ruby" is simply a fantastic single, although the rest of the album sounds dissimilar. It's a decent album, a maturing sound for these guys, and it works in their favour. "The Angry Mob" and "Love's Not a Competition [But I'm Winning]" are good tracks.
Jakalope's "Feel It" is an incredibly hot song in a Sia sorta way, but it has to be listened to loudly. The rest of the album is eh - too Evanescencey for me
I'm still giving The New Pornographers' Challengers a listen, but I'm not super impressed as it stands. This could change upon a few more listens, but I don't feel they're doing much new. This is an album I need to sit down to listen to though, so we'll see; setting does much to influence perception.
Rooney's Calling the World is crap. I thought I'd include it simply because I feel so goddamn disappointed and I need to fucking rant about it. Rooney was by no means stellar, but it certainly ended up representing a very specific place in musical and teen culture history (remember how huge they got over the OC?), and it was great for what it was - breezy California pop with interesting characters lyrically. I will admit I may feel slightly warmer towards Rooney than most, but I think they were a fun band and I still love Rooney. That said, Calling the World is utter shit. I heard they had recorded this album 3 times before "nailing" it, and it shows. "When Did Your Heart Go Missing?" makes me SO ANGRY. Seriously. Look at this bit of the chorus:
When did your heart go missing?
I treat you like a princess
But your life is just one big mess
When did your heart go missing?
WHAT THE FUCK? THIS from the guys who once so brazenly spouted,
Hey digital
You're nothing but a bitch on strings
You'll be back milking cows before you cash the check
Well I'll just wait around till you fade away like the rest
and sang about fucking girls around callously. What happened, Robert? Why why why? You're Jason Schwartzman's BROTHER, man. You have Sophia Coppola as a cousin. It's surprising and disappointing that you could produce this big of a turd. I am sad. Also, your voice hasn't aged well. The sophomore curse makes me so sad.
Anyway, that's all I have to say for now.
Oh wait! I finished Stevie's present. I used the same pattern as the blue pithy hat and somehow got a completely different looking product. But trust me when I say it's awesome. Pictures to come. I'm getting much faster at this.
amanda
I'm loving Cookies by the 1990s. I believe the founders of this band are the other half of the band that produced Franz Ferdinand, and while Franz certainly has a great sound, it's a little too distinct and I think they've pigeonholed themselves. That is not 1990s issue - this is an all around fabulous rollicking summer album that I'm sure I'll be listening to for a long time.
I've also been talking up Kate Nash's Made of Bricks to anyone who will listen. She's reinvigorated my love for Regina Spektor, which comes not a moment too soon, as I'm going to her show in October. She sounds like Lily Allen and Spektor's hot love baby (and maybe the Pipettes were in on the love making), and sweet jesus, it's good. "Birds" was not at all indicative of the rest of this album, so if you've written her off as a folksy singer songwritery type, try the rest of the album. Also, would that NOT be a really hot... er... five-some?
The Kaiser Chiefs' latest, Yours Truly, Angry Mob, has also given me some happies lately. "Ruby" is simply a fantastic single, although the rest of the album sounds dissimilar. It's a decent album, a maturing sound for these guys, and it works in their favour. "The Angry Mob" and "Love's Not a Competition [But I'm Winning]" are good tracks.
Jakalope's "Feel It" is an incredibly hot song in a Sia sorta way, but it has to be listened to loudly. The rest of the album is eh - too Evanescencey for me
I'm still giving The New Pornographers' Challengers a listen, but I'm not super impressed as it stands. This could change upon a few more listens, but I don't feel they're doing much new. This is an album I need to sit down to listen to though, so we'll see; setting does much to influence perception.
Rooney's Calling the World is crap. I thought I'd include it simply because I feel so goddamn disappointed and I need to fucking rant about it. Rooney was by no means stellar, but it certainly ended up representing a very specific place in musical and teen culture history (remember how huge they got over the OC?), and it was great for what it was - breezy California pop with interesting characters lyrically. I will admit I may feel slightly warmer towards Rooney than most, but I think they were a fun band and I still love Rooney. That said, Calling the World is utter shit. I heard they had recorded this album 3 times before "nailing" it, and it shows. "When Did Your Heart Go Missing?" makes me SO ANGRY. Seriously. Look at this bit of the chorus:
When did your heart go missing?
I treat you like a princess
But your life is just one big mess
When did your heart go missing?
WHAT THE FUCK? THIS from the guys who once so brazenly spouted,
Hey digital
You're nothing but a bitch on strings
You'll be back milking cows before you cash the check
Well I'll just wait around till you fade away like the rest
and sang about fucking girls around callously. What happened, Robert? Why why why? You're Jason Schwartzman's BROTHER, man. You have Sophia Coppola as a cousin. It's surprising and disappointing that you could produce this big of a turd. I am sad. Also, your voice hasn't aged well. The sophomore curse makes me so sad.
Anyway, that's all I have to say for now.
Oh wait! I finished Stevie's present. I used the same pattern as the blue pithy hat and somehow got a completely different looking product. But trust me when I say it's awesome. Pictures to come. I'm getting much faster at this.
amanda
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
more words than I have ever heard
This is officially labeled "My Summer of Reading". And all it took was to finish my degree! Ha!
But seriously.
Saturday by Ian McEwan
The Big Over Easy by Jasper Fforde
Fun Home by Alison Bechdel
Clumsy by Jeffrey Brown
Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs by Chuck Klosterman
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
and I am halfway through both Beloved by Tony Morrison and god is not Great by Christopher Hitchens.
Okay, so I've finished 9 books in 15 weeks. Which doesn't actually seem all that impressive saying it aloud. But it is considering how much I've read comparatively the past 3 years. I used to read myself to bed every night, and all I could manage recently were magazines and the odd graphic novel. Finishing 9 books is probably more than I finished throughout my entire post-secondary academic career (including my Jasper Fforde phase). Thank you, English degree, for majorly trying to kill my love of reading.
But also, I have been reading awesome books. Which helps. Except Beloved. Man, I don't like admitting, but I hate that book. But I need to finish it, I need to defeat it. It doesn't help that it was given to me long ago by someone I don't like very much. But that also motivates me because I want to stick it to him and his awful book too.
And god is not Great is amazing. Just amazing. It's so inspiring to see a cohesively organized argument against religion. I'm tired of feeling like I am judged as being a less moral person because I don't believe in a bearded man up in the clouds. Because I can't accept mythology as fact. It seems as fucked to me as the Greek gods do to modern readers; entertaining, but factual? Less likely. And modern religions aren't even entertaining. I just hope I don't become a tortured Stephan Daedalus in the future for it.
Did I just liken my future plight to one of the Big Names? Why yes, yes I did. And that's why he's a Big Name.
I need to be doing something where I'm required to think for a living. Fuck you, manual labour.
But am I doomed to a cycle of love/hate? I really hope not.
amanda
But seriously.
Saturday by Ian McEwan
The Big Over Easy by Jasper Fforde
Fun Home by Alison Bechdel
Clumsy by Jeffrey Brown
Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
Sex, Drugs and Cocoa Puffs by Chuck Klosterman
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
and I am halfway through both Beloved by Tony Morrison and god is not Great by Christopher Hitchens.
Okay, so I've finished 9 books in 15 weeks. Which doesn't actually seem all that impressive saying it aloud. But it is considering how much I've read comparatively the past 3 years. I used to read myself to bed every night, and all I could manage recently were magazines and the odd graphic novel. Finishing 9 books is probably more than I finished throughout my entire post-secondary academic career (including my Jasper Fforde phase). Thank you, English degree, for majorly trying to kill my love of reading.
But also, I have been reading awesome books. Which helps. Except Beloved. Man, I don't like admitting, but I hate that book. But I need to finish it, I need to defeat it. It doesn't help that it was given to me long ago by someone I don't like very much. But that also motivates me because I want to stick it to him and his awful book too.
And god is not Great is amazing. Just amazing. It's so inspiring to see a cohesively organized argument against religion. I'm tired of feeling like I am judged as being a less moral person because I don't believe in a bearded man up in the clouds. Because I can't accept mythology as fact. It seems as fucked to me as the Greek gods do to modern readers; entertaining, but factual? Less likely. And modern religions aren't even entertaining. I just hope I don't become a tortured Stephan Daedalus in the future for it.
Did I just liken my future plight to one of the Big Names? Why yes, yes I did. And that's why he's a Big Name.
I need to be doing something where I'm required to think for a living. Fuck you, manual labour.
But am I doomed to a cycle of love/hate? I really hope not.
amanda
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
open your eyes
So this is my most recent knitting project. This is that hat I wrestled with for a while (a pattern titled "Mary Jane's Pithy Hat" found here for the brave).
But I am generally pleased with how it turned out. I learned the purse stitch, and the knitting was a little tedious, but not boring.
My beginning of the summer project was a pair of red short shorts.
Yeah, they're that awesome. They also show off a lot more ass than I was expecting, so I'll eventually get around to knitting a band on the leg entrances.
A fun knit that taught me increasing and decreasing methods! Yay!
Also, for my mom's birthday, I made her a hella awesome flower arrangement. And yes, I took pictures. Suck it, naysayers.
On my days off, this is where I hang
My backyard. With Wicket.
so yeah. this is what my life looks like right now.
amanda
Sunday, July 29, 2007
haaaaaaaaaave you met ted?
okay, this seems to always happen. I read my course notes for my EarthSci class the week before the exam, and am utterly delighted by them. Sometimes, this is because of the content, which can be pretty fascinating (or just make you feel infinitesimally small, but not in a bad way), but it is often because of my prof's lecture notes themselves. This is a guy who gets offended (so much so that he makees surre to put it in the course introduction) that people refer to Earth as "the Earth", as it is a proper name. I get it man. I feel your pain. As one who loves this great hodgepodge language of ours (a linguophile? an anglolinguophile? awesome), I am, by extention, one who loves the rules of language. So right on man. I've just experienced someonee getting feisty over people referring to Moon as "the Moon" (Moon is actually a satellite, just so you know).
But yeah. In this evening's readings, I have come across:
Several interviews with satellite hunters and top theorists reveal that the definition of a satellite is not clear and that there has been almost no discussion, professional or casual, about whether there should be any lower size limits set to separate real satellites from miniature imposters. And nobody is in a rush to do anything about it, apparently!
"Imposters"? And his sense of annoyance in the end? Brilliant!
Also:
However, in the next chapter we’ll be looking at Jupiter’s satellites, and their geology is awesome!
So yeah, it all boils down to the fact that I totally think my prof's excitement about this stuff is pretty adorable in an old-prof-who-retired-but-still-wanted-to-teach-this-stuff sorta way.
Luckily, my exams are this week. I'm kinda fucked for them, but when these courses are through, I have a feeling I won't be avoiding the computer nearly so much, so I'll be around more.
Oh, also, I strongly strongly urge you to watch "How I Met Your Mother". I find it endlessly entertaining, and it stars Jason Segel, Alyson Hannigan, Neil Patrick Harris (who is SO good), the stunning but unfortunately named Cobie Smuthers, and the pretty adorably awesome if not kinda pathetically romantic Josh Radnor (well, I'm sure he isn't, but his character, Ted Mosby is, but I still love him). And Bob Saget narrates! Who could ask for more? You just have to get over the fact that there is a laughtrack (boooo hisss), but this show is pretty much a staple of my evenings now.
More to come. I know I keep saying it. I'll be done with this tedious student life soon, and onto freed up time and focused creative efforts. Big things are coming friends, big things.
amanda
But yeah. In this evening's readings, I have come across:
Several interviews with satellite hunters and top theorists reveal that the definition of a satellite is not clear and that there has been almost no discussion, professional or casual, about whether there should be any lower size limits set to separate real satellites from miniature imposters. And nobody is in a rush to do anything about it, apparently!
"Imposters"? And his sense of annoyance in the end? Brilliant!
Also:
However, in the next chapter we’ll be looking at Jupiter’s satellites, and their geology is awesome!
So yeah, it all boils down to the fact that I totally think my prof's excitement about this stuff is pretty adorable in an old-prof-who-retired-but-still-wanted-to-teach-this-stuff sorta way.
Luckily, my exams are this week. I'm kinda fucked for them, but when these courses are through, I have a feeling I won't be avoiding the computer nearly so much, so I'll be around more.
Oh, also, I strongly strongly urge you to watch "How I Met Your Mother". I find it endlessly entertaining, and it stars Jason Segel, Alyson Hannigan, Neil Patrick Harris (who is SO good), the stunning but unfortunately named Cobie Smuthers, and the pretty adorably awesome if not kinda pathetically romantic Josh Radnor (well, I'm sure he isn't, but his character, Ted Mosby is, but I still love him). And Bob Saget narrates! Who could ask for more? You just have to get over the fact that there is a laughtrack (boooo hisss), but this show is pretty much a staple of my evenings now.
More to come. I know I keep saying it. I'll be done with this tedious student life soon, and onto freed up time and focused creative efforts. Big things are coming friends, big things.
amanda
Saturday, July 14, 2007
I'm well aware that it's been a while - practically a month, to be precise. So hey there, howdy if you still check this out.
I just saw Transformers. Anyone who has ever heard me bitch has heard me bitch about Michael Bay, so these kudos taste pretty salty. But they come well-deservedly, so whatever. THAT is what a summer blockbuster should be, rather than shitty sequels. I feel like I just came off the greatest rollercoaster in the world, and I don't even like rollercoasters. Yes, it was typical Michael Bay in that the camera moved too much, the shots were often too close, and half the time you couldn't tell what the fuck was going on, but it's a movie about fucking robots fighting in the street, so that didn't come as a surprise. Surprisingly, there was a lot of humour (which I think was Steven Spielberg's added touch, but I'm not griping). I was thoroughly entertained, and if Harry Potter is half as good as I've been hearing it is (and Ratatoulle as well for that matter), then my summer of blockbusters (well okay, Rat's not a blockbuster, but whateves) is golden.
And I've read Allison Bechdel's Fun Home, which was a great read (and a lovely gift :) ). It was obviously written by and for English majors, as the chapters tend to mimic (or at least excessively relate the text to) certain "biggies" (a chapter on Joyce's Ulysses, one on the myths of Icarus and Daedalus, one on the anti-hero). I didn't find it pretentious, but I think I was also the target audience, so who am I to judge (snobs do love snobbery). I felt the references were written for people familiar with the stories rather than to show off how widely-read the author is (and speaking as someone who adopts storylines, I know it can be unavoidable; I too am guilty of experiencing and interpreting my world through the narratives I read). So anyway, a lovely story about a father and daughter who are running at parallels. I highly recommend.
Also, today I was listening to Icky Thump (the single), and was overcome with how it reminds me of Allen Ginsberg's Howl. I don't want things to remind me of Howl. While I don't think Icky Thump is as disturbing, it expresses a similar sentiment, or perhaps I am just crazy for trying to read a guitar solo. Anyway, there is something profoundly sad about Icky Thump, but angry too - there is frustration, there is irritation, there is a squealing guitar and a rough, constant drumbeat. There is foreboding and threatening, but there is loneliness. And then I realized a different sadness: it's going to be impossible for me to find someone who can read the profound sadness inherent in a rock song guitar solo. Perhaps this is my descent into madness, but things seem to be becoming more clear.
Life becomes very isolating when you are within a certain intelligence bracket. I am generally modest, but fuck it: I know that I'm smart, or at least that I'm not stupid. I'm also well informed on a variety of subjects, and as such, like to philosophize on combinations perhaps unexpected (for example, finding similarities in Ginsberg's Howl and the recent White Stripes single). The difficulty in this is that I don't really have people around here to discuss these things with. I'm used to living in a university setting, where even though I was still surrounded by idiots, they were idiots with a certain amount of intelligence. Your average Western gal or guy still had to manage an 80% entrance average. That isn't to say I am completely surrounded by fools here - there are people who I work and live with who I can bounce some crazy ideas off of, and I'm appreciative of that. I've just realized this creeping sense of dread: this is it, guys. For the rest of our lives. There are more idiots than smart people out there, and this is where we operate.
But before I sound like a complete snob, which I know is a hole I've already dug, this is really just incited by worry. I know that I am of "the floating gender", as The Art of Seduction would put it. But beyond that, I like graphic novels AND knitting. I like country AND rap. I like Transformers AND The Bicycle Thief (actually, I don't really. But I have seen it, and I do think there are merits, but I'm not in the habit of saying I like things I don't just because it would make me seem more hipster cool, even though I just did, but I feel this parentheses remedies that). Anyway, I just can't help feeling like I'm too diverse. My interests seem varied and opposing. I think I'm a bit of an anomaly, and I rather like myself, but yeah, isolating. So while living here is clarifying in that I knowing who I am, and I like who I am, I don't like that I am who I am living where I am, which is in the big world, and not in the little university swimming pool where quirky girls are considered cute and not weird.
So this wasn't intended to be a tell-all about how I feel about me in the world, but fuck it. What's a blog for if not airing out insecurities.
Oh, also, photos WILL be coming soon, and I WILL get around to scanning in that comic. Eventually. I think I may try doing more of them, because I rather enjoyed it. Current knitting project is a hat, and it is causing me some mighty problems (I'm learning a new stitch called the purse stitch, which is damn near impossible to do because I have no idea which stitches I'm supposed to be stitching into what, or even what the finished stitch is supposed to look like, so if you can imagine that confusion, you can see why my knitting project is taking me forever (which is also because it's knit on these tiny needles, UGH)). I've also purchased a Boye Needle Master, which I know no one has ever heard of, but it's basically an interchangeable needle kit, and it makes me SO HAPPY. seriously. Knitting needles should not make a girl this happy, but my god, do they ever.
I have photos from Pride, but they're on a camera that has 8 photos left to be taken on it, and I'm not one to waste film. So something exciting will come along eventually, and I'll bring my glam cam, and when that happens, I'll develop the photos and post them - scout's honour.
I should probably go, now that you have a tidbit about what's going on. I am generally happy, which is good. I'll be happier once my summer courses are over, which isn't soon enough. I have one essay left to write of my university career - crazy amazing stuff. I can see finding the motivation to do it will be challenging. Later dudes, keep it chillin'.
amanda
PS. I am currently reading Toni Morrisson's Beloved, and it's not as creepy as I thought it'd be. Her prose reminds me of Atwood in that it's very poetic and non-linear, so it's been a rather enjoyable read, although disturbing. More after I finish.
PPS. oh, also I forgot to add that in my absence, I became an extra in a Tim Burton film! Not actually, i just got stitches. I sliced open my arm on the inside part of my elbow. While I was at the hospital, a nurse had the kindness to point out that the big gross mucus-yellow jelly thing was my exposed arm fat. YEAH I saw my own arm fat. I didn't even know elbows were fatty. Anyway, they're out now - my dad and I took them out on my kitchen table, which seems very homespun and sorta badass in a weird way ("Yeah, I cut out my own stitches"). My scar is killer; I'm using it as street cred. Or I've been telling people that it's where the government implanted a chip with super secret confidential information for safekeeping. You know how it is.
PPPS. http://ethanhaaswasright.com/
Just sayin'.
I just saw Transformers. Anyone who has ever heard me bitch has heard me bitch about Michael Bay, so these kudos taste pretty salty. But they come well-deservedly, so whatever. THAT is what a summer blockbuster should be, rather than shitty sequels. I feel like I just came off the greatest rollercoaster in the world, and I don't even like rollercoasters. Yes, it was typical Michael Bay in that the camera moved too much, the shots were often too close, and half the time you couldn't tell what the fuck was going on, but it's a movie about fucking robots fighting in the street, so that didn't come as a surprise. Surprisingly, there was a lot of humour (which I think was Steven Spielberg's added touch, but I'm not griping). I was thoroughly entertained, and if Harry Potter is half as good as I've been hearing it is (and Ratatoulle as well for that matter), then my summer of blockbusters (well okay, Rat's not a blockbuster, but whateves) is golden.
And I've read Allison Bechdel's Fun Home, which was a great read (and a lovely gift :) ). It was obviously written by and for English majors, as the chapters tend to mimic (or at least excessively relate the text to) certain "biggies" (a chapter on Joyce's Ulysses, one on the myths of Icarus and Daedalus, one on the anti-hero). I didn't find it pretentious, but I think I was also the target audience, so who am I to judge (snobs do love snobbery). I felt the references were written for people familiar with the stories rather than to show off how widely-read the author is (and speaking as someone who adopts storylines, I know it can be unavoidable; I too am guilty of experiencing and interpreting my world through the narratives I read). So anyway, a lovely story about a father and daughter who are running at parallels. I highly recommend.
Also, today I was listening to Icky Thump (the single), and was overcome with how it reminds me of Allen Ginsberg's Howl. I don't want things to remind me of Howl. While I don't think Icky Thump is as disturbing, it expresses a similar sentiment, or perhaps I am just crazy for trying to read a guitar solo. Anyway, there is something profoundly sad about Icky Thump, but angry too - there is frustration, there is irritation, there is a squealing guitar and a rough, constant drumbeat. There is foreboding and threatening, but there is loneliness. And then I realized a different sadness: it's going to be impossible for me to find someone who can read the profound sadness inherent in a rock song guitar solo. Perhaps this is my descent into madness, but things seem to be becoming more clear.
Life becomes very isolating when you are within a certain intelligence bracket. I am generally modest, but fuck it: I know that I'm smart, or at least that I'm not stupid. I'm also well informed on a variety of subjects, and as such, like to philosophize on combinations perhaps unexpected (for example, finding similarities in Ginsberg's Howl and the recent White Stripes single). The difficulty in this is that I don't really have people around here to discuss these things with. I'm used to living in a university setting, where even though I was still surrounded by idiots, they were idiots with a certain amount of intelligence. Your average Western gal or guy still had to manage an 80% entrance average. That isn't to say I am completely surrounded by fools here - there are people who I work and live with who I can bounce some crazy ideas off of, and I'm appreciative of that. I've just realized this creeping sense of dread: this is it, guys. For the rest of our lives. There are more idiots than smart people out there, and this is where we operate.
But before I sound like a complete snob, which I know is a hole I've already dug, this is really just incited by worry. I know that I am of "the floating gender", as The Art of Seduction would put it. But beyond that, I like graphic novels AND knitting. I like country AND rap. I like Transformers AND The Bicycle Thief (actually, I don't really. But I have seen it, and I do think there are merits, but I'm not in the habit of saying I like things I don't just because it would make me seem more hipster cool, even though I just did, but I feel this parentheses remedies that). Anyway, I just can't help feeling like I'm too diverse. My interests seem varied and opposing. I think I'm a bit of an anomaly, and I rather like myself, but yeah, isolating. So while living here is clarifying in that I knowing who I am, and I like who I am, I don't like that I am who I am living where I am, which is in the big world, and not in the little university swimming pool where quirky girls are considered cute and not weird.
So this wasn't intended to be a tell-all about how I feel about me in the world, but fuck it. What's a blog for if not airing out insecurities.
Oh, also, photos WILL be coming soon, and I WILL get around to scanning in that comic. Eventually. I think I may try doing more of them, because I rather enjoyed it. Current knitting project is a hat, and it is causing me some mighty problems (I'm learning a new stitch called the purse stitch, which is damn near impossible to do because I have no idea which stitches I'm supposed to be stitching into what, or even what the finished stitch is supposed to look like, so if you can imagine that confusion, you can see why my knitting project is taking me forever (which is also because it's knit on these tiny needles, UGH)). I've also purchased a Boye Needle Master, which I know no one has ever heard of, but it's basically an interchangeable needle kit, and it makes me SO HAPPY. seriously. Knitting needles should not make a girl this happy, but my god, do they ever.
I have photos from Pride, but they're on a camera that has 8 photos left to be taken on it, and I'm not one to waste film. So something exciting will come along eventually, and I'll bring my glam cam, and when that happens, I'll develop the photos and post them - scout's honour.
I should probably go, now that you have a tidbit about what's going on. I am generally happy, which is good. I'll be happier once my summer courses are over, which isn't soon enough. I have one essay left to write of my university career - crazy amazing stuff. I can see finding the motivation to do it will be challenging. Later dudes, keep it chillin'.
amanda
PS. I am currently reading Toni Morrisson's Beloved, and it's not as creepy as I thought it'd be. Her prose reminds me of Atwood in that it's very poetic and non-linear, so it's been a rather enjoyable read, although disturbing. More after I finish.
PPS. oh, also I forgot to add that in my absence, I became an extra in a Tim Burton film! Not actually, i just got stitches. I sliced open my arm on the inside part of my elbow. While I was at the hospital, a nurse had the kindness to point out that the big gross mucus-yellow jelly thing was my exposed arm fat. YEAH I saw my own arm fat. I didn't even know elbows were fatty. Anyway, they're out now - my dad and I took them out on my kitchen table, which seems very homespun and sorta badass in a weird way ("Yeah, I cut out my own stitches"). My scar is killer; I'm using it as street cred. Or I've been telling people that it's where the government implanted a chip with super secret confidential information for safekeeping. You know how it is.
PPPS. http://ethanhaaswasright.com/
Just sayin'.
Friday, June 15, 2007
our particles are in motion
OKAY, still studying. Going a bit mad, to be quite honest. BUT this is cool.
If Sun lasts another 5 billion years, the hydrogen in the core will run out. Hydrogen fuses together into helium, which is what powers Sun, so if that runs out, Sun will become a "red giant" and expand to 100 times its size, which means probably out to where Earth is. Note that Sun is already 109 times the size of Earth. And if that happens, Earth will pretty much vapourize. Isn't it weird to think that even if you're dead, your dust will vapourize? It's actually kind of reassuring in a way.
But we have bigger things to deal with. Like the fact that the Milky Way and the Andromeda galaxies are hurtling at each other at something like 500,000km per hour. And that's going to happen in like 3 billion years. I'm kinda glad I'm not going to be around for that.
So yeah. Some of this stuff is interesting. This is much better than "Earth, Art and Culture",at least partially because it's taught by a competent prof. Also, because the Universe is crazy cool. Seriously.
amanda
If Sun lasts another 5 billion years, the hydrogen in the core will run out. Hydrogen fuses together into helium, which is what powers Sun, so if that runs out, Sun will become a "red giant" and expand to 100 times its size, which means probably out to where Earth is. Note that Sun is already 109 times the size of Earth. And if that happens, Earth will pretty much vapourize. Isn't it weird to think that even if you're dead, your dust will vapourize? It's actually kind of reassuring in a way.
But we have bigger things to deal with. Like the fact that the Milky Way and the Andromeda galaxies are hurtling at each other at something like 500,000km per hour. And that's going to happen in like 3 billion years. I'm kinda glad I'm not going to be around for that.
So yeah. Some of this stuff is interesting. This is much better than "Earth, Art and Culture",at least partially because it's taught by a competent prof. Also, because the Universe is crazy cool. Seriously.
amanda
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
I had really been hoping for more from you, Fran.
I have been a Travis fan for a long time. I can remember the first time I saw the 'Sing' music video, and I remember going to the Sunrise in my local mall and not being able to remember the name of the song I had heard, but I picked up a copy of 'The Man Who' and hoped for the best. Most clearly, I remember being in Hannah's van on the ride home and realizing we had, independently, stumbled upon the same band. That isn't to say Travis were relatively new; this was at the time of 'The Invisible Band''s release. However, I was in grade 10, and it was my first introduction to the world of music beyond the singles on KISS92.5.
So Travis have always and will always hold a special place in my heart.
I know they get flak (most painfully from Chuck Klosterman, who was all "Coldplay are a knockoff of Travis who are a knockoff of Radiohead" or something similar) for being light rock, but fuck it. I rather enjoy light rock, and sometimes, you just need something enjoyably pretty without the density indie bands too often like to shroud themselves in (I also couldn't say whether or not I agree with Klosterman's statement, as I've never been much of a fan of Radiohead; however, the first part I can say surely I do not agree with. Travis self-proclaimedly sing about miserable things in an upbeat way, and I think (early) Chris Martin was a little too heavy-handedly introspective for that. That is not the case anymore. But that's for another day).
'12 Memories', their last effort, really grew on me. At first it was off-putting, but I liked the concept and the execution - including 'Paperclips', which I still can't listen to too often because it creeps the fucking shit out of me. It wasn't stagnant; it was a band confident in their style and willing to make a few leaps of faith - including having a rowdy group of football fans chant "Peace the Fuck Out" for the song of the same name (the irony!). Admittedly, both of the aforementioned tracks are the weakest on the album, but Travis were always best at catchy pop songs. 'Somewhere Else' and 'Love Will Come Through' fit that bill nicely, and are among my faves of theirs (as is the brooding 'Happy Hang Around', which has the most delightfully throbbing opening). '12 Memories' was an effort that had some balls, and a logical progression for their sound.
Which is why 'The Boy With No Name' fucking kills me.
First off, the title. It's so self-indulgently achy. I get it, you guys like melancholic, whimsical titles. But seriously.
It opens with '3 Times and You Lose', a song with the dreamy sadness 'The Man Who' based itself on. At first listen, I was intrigued - "perhaps this is their swan song, this is a fitting opening track if it's their last effort". It's nice enough, just feels like a finished style. Number 2, "Selfish Jean" is a great track, and reaffirmed my original thoughts of this being a final album - there are pretty guitars at a rollicking pace, and Fran is having fun vocally in a way we haven't seen since the band's first album, 'Good Feeling' (okay, I'll admit, this album was released independently, so not a lot of people have heard it, but they SHOULD). He growls, and I just love Fran's growl. Delightful. 'Selfish Jean' is Travis in a very loveable place, and is probably the best track on the album. But from then on, it's pitsville.
'Closer' is a terrible lead single, and a mediocre song at best. 'Big Chair' is (I suppose?) their attempt at a new sound, but it sounds like a shitty version of a U2 song, which is saying something. 'Eyes Wide Open' is an interesting little ditty, and refreshingly placed in the sixth track spot, but it isn't redeeming enough to save this album. Every other song on the album is indistinguishable. I couldn't even review them if I'd wanted to, because they all sound the fucking same to me. Which is really very sad, because listening to the new album of a band you've followed for a long time should never be that way. Even if no one else understands the subtle nuances in sound, a well-tuned ear to that band's style should always find something interesting about even a terrible song. This was a dismal effort, and it's clear they've got their heads stuck back in 1999.
That really pained me to write. So get back to the drawing boards, boys, and give me a send-off album I can feel really good about.
If you want to love Travis like I love Travis:
"Midsummer Night's Dreamin'" off 'Good Feeling'
"As You Are" off 'The Man Who'
"Sing" off 'The Invisible Band'
"Happy Hang Around" off '12 Memories'
"Love Will Come Through" off '12 Memories'
So Travis have always and will always hold a special place in my heart.
I know they get flak (most painfully from Chuck Klosterman, who was all "Coldplay are a knockoff of Travis who are a knockoff of Radiohead" or something similar) for being light rock, but fuck it. I rather enjoy light rock, and sometimes, you just need something enjoyably pretty without the density indie bands too often like to shroud themselves in (I also couldn't say whether or not I agree with Klosterman's statement, as I've never been much of a fan of Radiohead; however, the first part I can say surely I do not agree with. Travis self-proclaimedly sing about miserable things in an upbeat way, and I think (early) Chris Martin was a little too heavy-handedly introspective for that. That is not the case anymore. But that's for another day).
'12 Memories', their last effort, really grew on me. At first it was off-putting, but I liked the concept and the execution - including 'Paperclips', which I still can't listen to too often because it creeps the fucking shit out of me. It wasn't stagnant; it was a band confident in their style and willing to make a few leaps of faith - including having a rowdy group of football fans chant "Peace the Fuck Out" for the song of the same name (the irony!). Admittedly, both of the aforementioned tracks are the weakest on the album, but Travis were always best at catchy pop songs. 'Somewhere Else' and 'Love Will Come Through' fit that bill nicely, and are among my faves of theirs (as is the brooding 'Happy Hang Around', which has the most delightfully throbbing opening). '12 Memories' was an effort that had some balls, and a logical progression for their sound.
Which is why 'The Boy With No Name' fucking kills me.
First off, the title. It's so self-indulgently achy. I get it, you guys like melancholic, whimsical titles. But seriously.
It opens with '3 Times and You Lose', a song with the dreamy sadness 'The Man Who' based itself on. At first listen, I was intrigued - "perhaps this is their swan song, this is a fitting opening track if it's their last effort". It's nice enough, just feels like a finished style. Number 2, "Selfish Jean" is a great track, and reaffirmed my original thoughts of this being a final album - there are pretty guitars at a rollicking pace, and Fran is having fun vocally in a way we haven't seen since the band's first album, 'Good Feeling' (okay, I'll admit, this album was released independently, so not a lot of people have heard it, but they SHOULD). He growls, and I just love Fran's growl. Delightful. 'Selfish Jean' is Travis in a very loveable place, and is probably the best track on the album. But from then on, it's pitsville.
'Closer' is a terrible lead single, and a mediocre song at best. 'Big Chair' is (I suppose?) their attempt at a new sound, but it sounds like a shitty version of a U2 song, which is saying something. 'Eyes Wide Open' is an interesting little ditty, and refreshingly placed in the sixth track spot, but it isn't redeeming enough to save this album. Every other song on the album is indistinguishable. I couldn't even review them if I'd wanted to, because they all sound the fucking same to me. Which is really very sad, because listening to the new album of a band you've followed for a long time should never be that way. Even if no one else understands the subtle nuances in sound, a well-tuned ear to that band's style should always find something interesting about even a terrible song. This was a dismal effort, and it's clear they've got their heads stuck back in 1999.
That really pained me to write. So get back to the drawing boards, boys, and give me a send-off album I can feel really good about.
If you want to love Travis like I love Travis:
"Midsummer Night's Dreamin'" off 'Good Feeling'
"As You Are" off 'The Man Who'
"Sing" off 'The Invisible Band'
"Happy Hang Around" off '12 Memories'
"Love Will Come Through" off '12 Memories'
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
thanks joni
Okay, so I'm taking this Earth Sci class right now that's all about stars and planets and crap. It really sucks HAVING to learn about it, but I thought this was cool in a very romanticized everything-is-related-to-everything sort of way.
The first elements that were created after Big Bang were hydrogen, helium, and lithium (although technically not hydrogen, the isotope deutrium, but close enough). Everything heavier than that was made from stars going supernovae and exploding, or just really big, hot super-giant stars. So because all of the heavier elements were created in stars, and we and everything that is around us is composed of those heavy elements, we are made of stardust. Literally. We are all made of stars, as Moby once put it.
I have to get my pearly whites checked out tomorrow. Wish me a pain-free visit and good karma will come your way.
Shine on, folks.
The first elements that were created after Big Bang were hydrogen, helium, and lithium (although technically not hydrogen, the isotope deutrium, but close enough). Everything heavier than that was made from stars going supernovae and exploding, or just really big, hot super-giant stars. So because all of the heavier elements were created in stars, and we and everything that is around us is composed of those heavy elements, we are made of stardust. Literally. We are all made of stars, as Moby once put it.
I have to get my pearly whites checked out tomorrow. Wish me a pain-free visit and good karma will come your way.
Shine on, folks.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox
My free time is being monopolized by a lame-o assignment on the Hubble telescope, so this isn't a long post. This is just to say
- I've finally listened to the Rihanna album, and damn, I like this girl. She's making some of the best music for the clubs out there now, and she isn't afraid to make some musical leaps of faith. She tries out a few styles on "Good Girl Gone Bad", and it's refreshing to see an artist who isn't hung up on making an album of songs that sound indistinguishable. I like my variation. Try "Breakin' Dishes," "Sell Me Candy," and "Lemme Get That" (the latter of which really just reminds me of high school). Sweetness.
- I really like the new White Stripes single, "Icky Thump". I find it interesting how they seem to be finding melody in cacophony and in using unconventional pacing and instrumentation. I'm looking forward to the new album - the Raconteurs was a nice homey change of pace, but I need some more Jack White being his crazy ol' self (and I'm hoping for some more Meg)
- The Bird and the Bee album is kinda cool in a Imogen Heep/Mr. Rogers lovechild sort of way. It's short, but thats kind of preferable, since it all kinda sounds the same anyway. And "Fucking Boyfriend" gets stuck in my head like crazy, but is also not work-appropriate singing material. An unfortunate dilemma.
- Hubble is boring, but has taken some really awesome pictures. It is also almost retired. We should throw a Hubble retirement party when that happens.
- Knitting project will be finished within the next few days, wha what. I know I got bored of it for a while, but I changed what I was working on for a while and now have returned filled with determination. Perhaps not the most practical of knitting project choices, but that's kind of the amazing part.
- My dad has gotten a new scanner. I was going to scan in my comic, but I'm considering adding colour, so it might be a while before that happens. We'll see.
Okay, I'm out folks. Stay rad.
amanda
- I've finally listened to the Rihanna album, and damn, I like this girl. She's making some of the best music for the clubs out there now, and she isn't afraid to make some musical leaps of faith. She tries out a few styles on "Good Girl Gone Bad", and it's refreshing to see an artist who isn't hung up on making an album of songs that sound indistinguishable. I like my variation. Try "Breakin' Dishes," "Sell Me Candy," and "Lemme Get That" (the latter of which really just reminds me of high school). Sweetness.
- I really like the new White Stripes single, "Icky Thump". I find it interesting how they seem to be finding melody in cacophony and in using unconventional pacing and instrumentation. I'm looking forward to the new album - the Raconteurs was a nice homey change of pace, but I need some more Jack White being his crazy ol' self (and I'm hoping for some more Meg)
- The Bird and the Bee album is kinda cool in a Imogen Heep/Mr. Rogers lovechild sort of way. It's short, but thats kind of preferable, since it all kinda sounds the same anyway. And "Fucking Boyfriend" gets stuck in my head like crazy, but is also not work-appropriate singing material. An unfortunate dilemma.
- Hubble is boring, but has taken some really awesome pictures. It is also almost retired. We should throw a Hubble retirement party when that happens.
- Knitting project will be finished within the next few days, wha what. I know I got bored of it for a while, but I changed what I was working on for a while and now have returned filled with determination. Perhaps not the most practical of knitting project choices, but that's kind of the amazing part.
- My dad has gotten a new scanner. I was going to scan in my comic, but I'm considering adding colour, so it might be a while before that happens. We'll see.
Okay, I'm out folks. Stay rad.
amanda
Monday, June 4, 2007
mouseketeer
okay, seriously. I am going to Disneyworld.
Last summer, when the livin' was shitty, Jill and I would go on the Disney website or watch the vacation planning dvd that we ORDERED (okay, it was a slow summer and we were in need of entertainment) and dream of the time when we would be able to bask in the warm Floridian sun and frolic like the children we once were (and some would argue, still are).
That dream became a reality tonight.
And I am really excited.
Because I am going to get to go on safari and the yeti ride (but, sadly, am missing star wars month (which is this month!)) and party on pleasure island and see some awesome fireworks and wear mouse ears. And I get to do it all with my best friend. And it will be AWESOME.
Happy almost graduation, me :)
amanda
Thursday, May 31, 2007
this is what i have to say.
Hey all! And hello especially to my new readers!
So today my mom informed me that one of my dad's friends rang him up, telling him that his wife happened to "stumble" across my blog (also known as googling my name to see what dirty info came up) and thought that there were some tidbits that they simply HAD to know about. I am SUCH a deviant child, I know, so it's a good thing that I have some watchdogs looking out for me in the big bad world of cyberspace.
It's also a good thing I chose not to include that incident when I ate a baby, or ran an elaborate drug cartel overseas last summer. Wouldn't want mom and pop knowing about THAT. Instead, they heard that I had some problems with moving home (which they knew about), have some problems with their religion (which my mom knew about at least, and I assume my dad had inferred or heard about), the fact that I associate with lesbians (gadzooks!), and that I use the word "fuck" a lot. whoopsie!
I stand by my stance that my blog is open. I put it out there; anyone is free to read it. I assumed noone would particularly want to, simply because most of what I do is bitch and talk about knitting projects and flowers, and most people don't want to read about that (so thank you, dear friends, for staying tuned even though I am boring).
But I was obviously naive in that assumption - apparently the anecdotes about my life were of worth to someone, and that someone only wanted to inflict pain with that information. To be perfectly honest, I think it was one of the most small and petty things I have ever heard an adult to have done. To seek information about someone's twenty year old daughter in order to shame them or make them angry at her seems a really manipulative move to make, straight outta the schoolyard. This is unfortunate, as I greatly respected both of the perpetrators, and considered them to be close family friends (you know, the friends of your parents you'd still want at your wedding one day). I was hurt that people I respected felt this was a reasonable move to make, and felt no regard for what their actions might do. If indeed any evidence of dangerous behaviour were found, am I not at the age where it would be more reasonable to discuss it with me, an adult in my own right? Was there really so little a regard for my parents' friendship? What were the intentions of such actions, and how could there possibly be well-intentioned motives? I can only see the intention to cause trouble, especially when it is clear there has been an effort to rebalance my home life - these are NOT the actions of a friend. On the bright side, I'm glad they've shown their true colours over so small a matter, and that my parents' greatest concern was that I had been sharing too much of myself online. I am disappointed and, if you hadn't guessed, pretty angry that someone would try to use me to hurt my parents.
So please, stay tuned if you so feel inclined. I'll be sure to include some naughty details about my latest tryst with the hot gardener from two doors down, since it's clear some out there have so little of a life that they'd rather concern themselves with mine.
amanda
So today my mom informed me that one of my dad's friends rang him up, telling him that his wife happened to "stumble" across my blog (also known as googling my name to see what dirty info came up) and thought that there were some tidbits that they simply HAD to know about. I am SUCH a deviant child, I know, so it's a good thing that I have some watchdogs looking out for me in the big bad world of cyberspace.
It's also a good thing I chose not to include that incident when I ate a baby, or ran an elaborate drug cartel overseas last summer. Wouldn't want mom and pop knowing about THAT. Instead, they heard that I had some problems with moving home (which they knew about), have some problems with their religion (which my mom knew about at least, and I assume my dad had inferred or heard about), the fact that I associate with lesbians (gadzooks!), and that I use the word "fuck" a lot. whoopsie!
I stand by my stance that my blog is open. I put it out there; anyone is free to read it. I assumed noone would particularly want to, simply because most of what I do is bitch and talk about knitting projects and flowers, and most people don't want to read about that (so thank you, dear friends, for staying tuned even though I am boring).
But I was obviously naive in that assumption - apparently the anecdotes about my life were of worth to someone, and that someone only wanted to inflict pain with that information. To be perfectly honest, I think it was one of the most small and petty things I have ever heard an adult to have done. To seek information about someone's twenty year old daughter in order to shame them or make them angry at her seems a really manipulative move to make, straight outta the schoolyard. This is unfortunate, as I greatly respected both of the perpetrators, and considered them to be close family friends (you know, the friends of your parents you'd still want at your wedding one day). I was hurt that people I respected felt this was a reasonable move to make, and felt no regard for what their actions might do. If indeed any evidence of dangerous behaviour were found, am I not at the age where it would be more reasonable to discuss it with me, an adult in my own right? Was there really so little a regard for my parents' friendship? What were the intentions of such actions, and how could there possibly be well-intentioned motives? I can only see the intention to cause trouble, especially when it is clear there has been an effort to rebalance my home life - these are NOT the actions of a friend. On the bright side, I'm glad they've shown their true colours over so small a matter, and that my parents' greatest concern was that I had been sharing too much of myself online. I am disappointed and, if you hadn't guessed, pretty angry that someone would try to use me to hurt my parents.
So please, stay tuned if you so feel inclined. I'll be sure to include some naughty details about my latest tryst with the hot gardener from two doors down, since it's clear some out there have so little of a life that they'd rather concern themselves with mine.
amanda
Monday, May 28, 2007
welcome to bracket city (these would be asides in Shakespeareville(aka. Stratford?))
Yeah, so I haven't really been avoiding the internet so much just not having an interest in it. I haven't even opened MSN messenger in weeks. Funny, because you'd think I'd be on all the time because Brampton's so boring, but I'm okay with being boring for a bit. I watch my episodes of House and Jeopardy (when possible) and knit and watch movies and read. Not Shakespeare, of course, because I forgot just how ASS-BORING that lout is. I'm just consuming culture and not really giving much back, but that's okay. I feel like I'm regrouping.
I saw 'Little Children' finally, after I had been wanting to for so long. And it was FANTASTIC. It was precisely the movie closest aligned with my personal tastes. I loved every little second of it, and it came at precisely the right time - ennui in suburbia? Right on.
I've finally read 'Clumsy', and while at first blush it seemed to be mainly about sex, it really ended up being a sweet story. Although I identified more with Theresa, which I don't think you were supposed to, because she was always complaining about her stomach hurting and being kinda bitchy. But Jeffrey Bron wasn't really what I had expected (I had been expecting a bit of a wiseass, based on what I had heard of him prior to my reading this). He was actually kind of pathetic, very clingy and mopey. I mean, it was sweet in that it captured a lot of the nuances of quirky relationships (with all of those awkward and blissful moments that are minute), rather than the huge and overarching ones so overly glamourized by most romances. I think Brown's telling of their story through vignettes with a dismantled timeline really worked here - no one ever remembers their relationship in a series of sequential events. And Brown's artwork, although generally sloppy, has a few panels that really capture some transcendence beyond the broken lines. Overall, I'd recommend to a friend.
I finished 'Sex, Drugs, and Cocoapuffs' too, which I had been intending on reading for a while. And really, what is there to be said? It was one of the funnest reads I've had in a long time (although there were a few grammatical errors, which always kills a little part inside of me (that being said, I know my blog is riddled with them, but this ain't going to a publishing house and isn't going to be read over by editors (I assume. For all I know, no one proofread SD&C. What do I know.))).
I've been getting bored with knit project although it's almost finsihed, so I'm mixing it up with working on the backpack again. It's easy knitting, but that's what I need (because I knit while I watch stuff).
I've been working like a motherfucker (who I can only assume get a lot of business?) at the garden centre/flower shop. I worked on centrepieces for a wedding and even helped set up the wedding, which was pretty awesome (and also a far cry from anything they let me do at Remark, which was nothing). I think they had very little faith in me at Remark, but I'm okay with it - I learned there and got all the shitty boring tasks down pat before I started somewhere that actually wants to teach me things. Admittedly, I'm mostly working cash these days because the garden centre is so busy, but at least once a day I get to do up a big bouquet or learn how to do something for an arrangement. I get a lot more freedom because the customers are spending a lot more money, and my managers seem to think the work I do is beautiful. The place is run by an Italian family who seem to really like me (I was even made lunch by my manager's sister! Just because she thought I looked tired and needed a good sandwich!) There are coffee runs for everyone done at least twice a day and there are always muffins or cookies or something going on. There is just a real sense of community, which is really refreshing.
Now I've lost track of time and have to go to bed for work, which I should have done like an hour ago. Whoops. I hope everyone out there's doing well this summer, and I'll try to get better about this staying in touch thing. I'm working on it.
amanda
I saw 'Little Children' finally, after I had been wanting to for so long. And it was FANTASTIC. It was precisely the movie closest aligned with my personal tastes. I loved every little second of it, and it came at precisely the right time - ennui in suburbia? Right on.
I've finally read 'Clumsy', and while at first blush it seemed to be mainly about sex, it really ended up being a sweet story. Although I identified more with Theresa, which I don't think you were supposed to, because she was always complaining about her stomach hurting and being kinda bitchy. But Jeffrey Bron wasn't really what I had expected (I had been expecting a bit of a wiseass, based on what I had heard of him prior to my reading this). He was actually kind of pathetic, very clingy and mopey. I mean, it was sweet in that it captured a lot of the nuances of quirky relationships (with all of those awkward and blissful moments that are minute), rather than the huge and overarching ones so overly glamourized by most romances. I think Brown's telling of their story through vignettes with a dismantled timeline really worked here - no one ever remembers their relationship in a series of sequential events. And Brown's artwork, although generally sloppy, has a few panels that really capture some transcendence beyond the broken lines. Overall, I'd recommend to a friend.
I finished 'Sex, Drugs, and Cocoapuffs' too, which I had been intending on reading for a while. And really, what is there to be said? It was one of the funnest reads I've had in a long time (although there were a few grammatical errors, which always kills a little part inside of me (that being said, I know my blog is riddled with them, but this ain't going to a publishing house and isn't going to be read over by editors (I assume. For all I know, no one proofread SD&C. What do I know.))).
I've been getting bored with knit project although it's almost finsihed, so I'm mixing it up with working on the backpack again. It's easy knitting, but that's what I need (because I knit while I watch stuff).
I've been working like a motherfucker (who I can only assume get a lot of business?) at the garden centre/flower shop. I worked on centrepieces for a wedding and even helped set up the wedding, which was pretty awesome (and also a far cry from anything they let me do at Remark, which was nothing). I think they had very little faith in me at Remark, but I'm okay with it - I learned there and got all the shitty boring tasks down pat before I started somewhere that actually wants to teach me things. Admittedly, I'm mostly working cash these days because the garden centre is so busy, but at least once a day I get to do up a big bouquet or learn how to do something for an arrangement. I get a lot more freedom because the customers are spending a lot more money, and my managers seem to think the work I do is beautiful. The place is run by an Italian family who seem to really like me (I was even made lunch by my manager's sister! Just because she thought I looked tired and needed a good sandwich!) There are coffee runs for everyone done at least twice a day and there are always muffins or cookies or something going on. There is just a real sense of community, which is really refreshing.
Now I've lost track of time and have to go to bed for work, which I should have done like an hour ago. Whoops. I hope everyone out there's doing well this summer, and I'll try to get better about this staying in touch thing. I'm working on it.
amanda
Friday, May 18, 2007
when you were young
Jill recently went through her old report cards, and it inspired me to do the same. Luckily, my mom had saved a big box of old things. And what I learned was surprising, and yet also not. I've learned
- that the most consistent comments on my report cards were that I was distracted easily in class, I had difficulties handing in homework on time, and that I did not like participating in gym class. I suppose some things never change.
- that my best subjects were my language skills, music, art, and french. Surprisingly, comments on my artistic abilities far outweighed the amount of comments on my writing skills, which I had always assumed were my strength. Indeed, the big box was FILLED with old drawings of mine, often with highly entertaining parent/teacher deceifers at the top. There were plenty of stories too, usually with highly decorated cover pages.
- I was a good writer, but I always had to be urged to write.
- my favourite topics in my journal entries were the Power Rangers, dinosaurs, Barbies, my family, cats and various other animals, and my future careers, which included movie star, singer, ballerina, princess, and ice skater. Apparently I was as indecisive about my future then as I am now, and my tastes just as varied.
Looking at the papers of my past is strange, because I can recognize that kid, but as a younger cousin or something. I can't ever imagine myself being that young, but I can see the glaring similarities.
In other news, I am working at a flower shop/garden centre that has kept me hoppin' for the past week. I've only had one day off so far, but it's a good thing. It's keeping my mind occupied, and I'm doing things I enjoy. I'm learning more here than I ever could at Remark, because the designers are teaching me how to design. I've been doing centrepiece arrangements for a huge wedding order the past few days; I am doing ARRANGEMENTS. It's exciting, even though it's awkward working at a place where every day, at least one person recognizes me from high school. Le sigh.
Anyway, I'm off. Just wanted to let you know I'm still kickin'. More later, I promise. When I'm feeling much more wordy.
amanda
- that the most consistent comments on my report cards were that I was distracted easily in class, I had difficulties handing in homework on time, and that I did not like participating in gym class. I suppose some things never change.
- that my best subjects were my language skills, music, art, and french. Surprisingly, comments on my artistic abilities far outweighed the amount of comments on my writing skills, which I had always assumed were my strength. Indeed, the big box was FILLED with old drawings of mine, often with highly entertaining parent/teacher deceifers at the top. There were plenty of stories too, usually with highly decorated cover pages.
- I was a good writer, but I always had to be urged to write.
- my favourite topics in my journal entries were the Power Rangers, dinosaurs, Barbies, my family, cats and various other animals, and my future careers, which included movie star, singer, ballerina, princess, and ice skater. Apparently I was as indecisive about my future then as I am now, and my tastes just as varied.
Looking at the papers of my past is strange, because I can recognize that kid, but as a younger cousin or something. I can't ever imagine myself being that young, but I can see the glaring similarities.
In other news, I am working at a flower shop/garden centre that has kept me hoppin' for the past week. I've only had one day off so far, but it's a good thing. It's keeping my mind occupied, and I'm doing things I enjoy. I'm learning more here than I ever could at Remark, because the designers are teaching me how to design. I've been doing centrepiece arrangements for a huge wedding order the past few days; I am doing ARRANGEMENTS. It's exciting, even though it's awkward working at a place where every day, at least one person recognizes me from high school. Le sigh.
Anyway, I'm off. Just wanted to let you know I'm still kickin'. More later, I promise. When I'm feeling much more wordy.
amanda
Thursday, May 10, 2007
baby if you strip you can get a tip
I haven't been posting much, but that's mainly because living at home gives me a)nothing to do and b)nowhere to do it but my basement. I've been job hunting mainly, and trying to find a great job in Brampton is a pretty shitty task. Luckily, I have an interview tomorrow at a floral shop, so hopefully that goes well and I can continue my dorky passion for playing with flowers (shut up, it's awesome).
Knitting project is definitely nearing completion, but I got lazy and went to Lezzy's for the weekend (sounds like some hot girlbar, doesn't it?) No, we went to Tango's, which would have been a bore had we not gotten completely pissed. Is it really SO difficult to make a hot lez bar? Oh, and I saw the famed Heavenly Heights, and let me tell you, she is worth the hype.
So yeah. I'd pin my project at about 65% completed. I am mucho excited for its eventual completion.
And I've started reading Richard III for my Shakespeare class. Richard (the third, not one of the billion others, because there really are in this one) is totally my new idol in a "damne, I don't want to be that guy, but it's awesome that guy exists" kinda way. Because in Act 1 Scene 2, he comes across this chick mourning her husband, and she gets angry at him and damns him to hell since Richard was the one who killed him. But then he's all "But I killed him because your face is so fair" and "We'll end up sleeping together, don't you worry" and by the end of the scene, he's offered her the opportunity to kill him (which she declines because she wants him dead, but she doesn't want to be the one to do it), and then he offers her a ring, which she TAKES, because denying a gift makes you unworthy of offering one or whatever bullshit she justifies it with. I was more impressed with the 180 he was able to inspire, and the cajones it takes to tell the women whom you have just widowed that you're going to have sex and she's going to love it. WHAT A STUD.
I had my math skillz confidence blown today when I had difficulty with the Rona application. Seriously. But I haven't had to do decimal/fraction conversion since the 8th grade! WTF!
And I needed to share. This is such a guilty pleasure, but it makes me so delighted. Enjoy.
amanda
Knitting project is definitely nearing completion, but I got lazy and went to Lezzy's for the weekend (sounds like some hot girlbar, doesn't it?) No, we went to Tango's, which would have been a bore had we not gotten completely pissed. Is it really SO difficult to make a hot lez bar? Oh, and I saw the famed Heavenly Heights, and let me tell you, she is worth the hype.
So yeah. I'd pin my project at about 65% completed. I am mucho excited for its eventual completion.
And I've started reading Richard III for my Shakespeare class. Richard (the third, not one of the billion others, because there really are in this one) is totally my new idol in a "damne, I don't want to be that guy, but it's awesome that guy exists" kinda way. Because in Act 1 Scene 2, he comes across this chick mourning her husband, and she gets angry at him and damns him to hell since Richard was the one who killed him. But then he's all "But I killed him because your face is so fair" and "We'll end up sleeping together, don't you worry" and by the end of the scene, he's offered her the opportunity to kill him (which she declines because she wants him dead, but she doesn't want to be the one to do it), and then he offers her a ring, which she TAKES, because denying a gift makes you unworthy of offering one or whatever bullshit she justifies it with. I was more impressed with the 180 he was able to inspire, and the cajones it takes to tell the women whom you have just widowed that you're going to have sex and she's going to love it. WHAT A STUD.
I had my math skillz confidence blown today when I had difficulty with the Rona application. Seriously. But I haven't had to do decimal/fraction conversion since the 8th grade! WTF!
And I needed to share. This is such a guilty pleasure, but it makes me so delighted. Enjoy.
amanda
Friday, May 4, 2007
may the fourth be with you
I saw Spiderman 3 today. Sam Raimi just gets better at these movies. I love his sense of humour about the whole thing; he lays on the cheese, but very consciously so. And I love James Franco. So yes, I smiled and giggled like a little girl the whole time. I just wish Tobey Maguire weren't such an uggo (omg, and just WAIT until you see his Jared Leto phase). But the cinematography was beautiful, the effects were fantastic, and the plot surprisingly engaging. I thought that 3 villains were going to be a bit much, but it was well paced (as much as I would have liked to see more Venom, although his face was a bit icky around the eyes). Ugh, and as much as I love Kirsten Dunst (so sue me), she is so frickin' annoying as MJ.
I don't have much else to say right now as I have eaten far too much when out for Indian food with my parents, and all I want to do is go upstairs and watch tv and knit a while. And that is precisely what I will do.
And for fun,
You scored as The Sprightly Elfin Femme. Cute and irresistible, you inspire and foster the little kid in everyone. Also, you make the best cookies and cutest knit hats.
What Type of Lesbian Are You? (Inspired by Curve Mag.)
created with QuizFarm.com
amanda
PS: I cannot wait for Heroes. Arrrrgh, I wish it were Monday.
PPS: If last night's crapfest was supposed to make me want to watch Addison's new spinoff, FUCK YOU ABC. I'm reconsidering my relationship with Grey's now, thanks to that (although, admittedly, it was on shaky ground anyway. Everyone needs their soap opera stuff from somewhere).
I don't have much else to say right now as I have eaten far too much when out for Indian food with my parents, and all I want to do is go upstairs and watch tv and knit a while. And that is precisely what I will do.
And for fun,
You scored as The Sprightly Elfin Femme. Cute and irresistible, you inspire and foster the little kid in everyone. Also, you make the best cookies and cutest knit hats.
The Vaginal-Reference-Making Dyke | 60% | ||
The Sprightly Elfin Femme | 60% | ||
The Student Dyke | 55% | ||
The Quasi-Gothic Femme | 50% | ||
The Pretty-Boi Dyke | 45% | ||
The Surprise! Dyke | 45% | ||
The Granola Dyke | 40% | ||
The Femme Fatale | 35% | ||
The Bohemian Dyke | 35% | ||
The Stud | 30% | ||
The Little-Boy Dyke | 25% | ||
The Magic Earring Ken Dyke | 15% | ||
The Hipster Dyke | 15% |
What Type of Lesbian Are You? (Inspired by Curve Mag.)
created with QuizFarm.com
amanda
PS: I cannot wait for Heroes. Arrrrgh, I wish it were Monday.
PPS: If last night's crapfest was supposed to make me want to watch Addison's new spinoff, FUCK YOU ABC. I'm reconsidering my relationship with Grey's now, thanks to that (although, admittedly, it was on shaky ground anyway. Everyone needs their soap opera stuff from somewhere).
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
turd-town express
Officially out of London. Mixed feeelings about the whole thing. I'd like to say that I'm all shiny and happy to be out of there, because for the most part I am. I'm glad that I don't have any stupid classes to attend anymore, and I don't live in a centipede Club Med, and that I don't really have to worry about money very much at present moment, or worry about groceery shopping. But all of those benefits come with the downsides of living in Assville Northish, which include my father, having to find a REAL job, lack of close-by pals, and general boredom. There is nothing to DO here (although, admittedly, Toronto is a mere 40 minute bus ride away).
On the bright side, I feeel more creative here. There is less insistance on creating, therefore I feel free to get more stuff done. Perhaps this is just my strangeness, but whatever; in this case, it works for me.
So, as of now, the guest room (which I guess is Amanda's Room again?) is a disaster zone, seeing as I haave to clean out all of the crap my family has decided didn't have anywhere else in the house it could go. My parents were all "Ugh, you have too much stuff" when they were moving me, but I come by it honestly, and both of them are far worse than I am (Exhibit A: My father and his rooms of books; Exhibit B: my mother's desk). So the next few days are filled with the fun of job searching and getting settled.
I was inspired by a recent issue of Jane, so my backpack project is paused. Now, I won't spoil the surprise, but this will be my first wearable pieece ('cause scarves don't really count) so I am very excited. I'll be done in two weeks, I estimate (altthough don't hold me to it). But it's tricky, as I'm not working from a pattern. This is all out of my head, babes, so roll with me and we'll see where we end up.
And I've recently been finding the Internet kind of lacking. Not that there isn't anything out there, but I feel the problem is there is too much, aand none of it that I really care about. When zefrank ended, I feel like a little daily jolt of a cyber community died in me, so I'm left communityless. FUCK THAT, I'm joining craftster.org as a jump off spot.
And I'm hoping to be motivated to start involving more photos in this blog, so expect to see a lot more of my stellar mug. Just thought I'd warn you before you started orgasming in your computer chairs (oh, that's right, you newfaangled kids use laptops, so be extra careful).
amanda
On the bright side, I feeel more creative here. There is less insistance on creating, therefore I feel free to get more stuff done. Perhaps this is just my strangeness, but whatever; in this case, it works for me.
So, as of now, the guest room (which I guess is Amanda's Room again?) is a disaster zone, seeing as I haave to clean out all of the crap my family has decided didn't have anywhere else in the house it could go. My parents were all "Ugh, you have too much stuff" when they were moving me, but I come by it honestly, and both of them are far worse than I am (Exhibit A: My father and his rooms of books; Exhibit B: my mother's desk). So the next few days are filled with the fun of job searching and getting settled.
I was inspired by a recent issue of Jane, so my backpack project is paused. Now, I won't spoil the surprise, but this will be my first wearable pieece ('cause scarves don't really count) so I am very excited. I'll be done in two weeks, I estimate (altthough don't hold me to it). But it's tricky, as I'm not working from a pattern. This is all out of my head, babes, so roll with me and we'll see where we end up.
And I've recently been finding the Internet kind of lacking. Not that there isn't anything out there, but I feel the problem is there is too much, aand none of it that I really care about. When zefrank ended, I feel like a little daily jolt of a cyber community died in me, so I'm left communityless. FUCK THAT, I'm joining craftster.org as a jump off spot.
And I'm hoping to be motivated to start involving more photos in this blog, so expect to see a lot more of my stellar mug. Just thought I'd warn you before you started orgasming in your computer chairs (oh, that's right, you newfaangled kids use laptops, so be extra careful).
amanda
Thursday, April 26, 2007
you're going to see the reason why when they're spittin' in your eye
This exam season has been fairly low-key for me. It's pretty anti-climatic when you have a week between exams. I'm already out of the exam mode, and when it comes to those final two (Friday and Saturday, respectively), I really couldn't care less. And multiplying that by knowing this is the final exam season I'll be forced to painstakingly experience has made me even less motivated than I normally am at this time of the year.
So I've been filling my time with watching old episodes of Sugar Rush which, if you have not seen, is quite lovely. I watched them all this summer, but when I think back on that time, it seems like a mere week filled with getting drunk in Jill's basement and yelling at the TV for England to step up their game, and far more trips to CTO than necessary (but hell, it was the summer, and CTO became a second second home (a sad admission in and of itself), and those sunny walks home from Costco that seemed like heaven because I had been trapped in a shitty warehouse all day doing something I hated, and walking home from Blockbuster at 2 or 6am, depending on the shittiness of my shift. So yeah. Not much room in their for a short lived (2 seasons only!) British comedy about a lesbian who falls for her best friend, a total skank named Sugar. It's delightful. The protagonist, Kim, has to deal with her fucked up family while navigating her own awkward feelings toward Sugar, and it's totally endearing. So yes, I am glad to be revisting the show, especially as it hasn't been renewed for another season (sigh).
I've also started knitting again, which pairs itself nicely with watching televison shows. My project now is a backpack, which I figure will come in handy for things like concerts and such, where a backpack is far more practical than a purse, but store backpacks tend to be too large and protrude-y in a crowd setting. I'm debating how to decorate the front of it. Should I jump into the world of intarsia (the fine and advanced art of 'picture knitting') or should I wimp out (or be more practical) and go for a stripe or plain front? I'd like to argyle it, but I don't know how to; perhaps that would be a nice change? I know that no one reading this cares nor understands what the hell I'm talking about, but man, I'm putting a lot of effort into this, and I don't like doing things unless I know they're going to turn out as I want them to. Don't worry guys, you'll see my sexy finished product.
Speaking of sexy finished products, I got an 86 on my comic book final project! It really does feel good when you put the effort into a project and are rewarded handsomely for it, but for the most part, I don't care about the projects I have to do. That's one thing I like about this no school thing: I'll be investing my time into projects that I actually like and want to be doing (such as my grandma habit of knitting). When I get home, I'll scan the pages onto my computer and post a link to them so you can check it out if you so feel inclined. The reception I've gotten from friends has been really positive, so who knows, I may go somewhere with this.
And I finally saw Grindhouse, and it was just as delightful as I had expected it to be. Of course, I got squeamish during Planet Terror, but that was to be expected. The camp factor was right where I wanted it to be, and Rose McGowan and Freddy Rodriguez were perfectly cast (with a special mention to Marley Shelton). I just love seeing Rico (as he will always be known to me) get great roles, and this was a nice follow up to his tiny role in Lady in the Water (which everyone but me seemed to vehemently hate). Death Proof was really the crowning glory for me (although I've heard differently from others who say Death Proof was "boring". Boring?? Craziness.). I mean, you have Kurt Russell doing what he does best, and a large of cast of very hot ladies in short shorts (so what if I have a soft spot for Rosario Dawson, okay?). The soundtrack was really the cherry on top. So download the soundtrack for Death Proof even if you have no desire to see the movie, because it's hot like fire.
Anyhow, I should really get to finishing/starting writing/studying for tomorrow. As a parting shot, my puddle flower of the week (a Fuji mum in a sunny yellow, so delightful)
and France Gall being a total fox, as is her style
amanda
So I've been filling my time with watching old episodes of Sugar Rush which, if you have not seen, is quite lovely. I watched them all this summer, but when I think back on that time, it seems like a mere week filled with getting drunk in Jill's basement and yelling at the TV for England to step up their game, and far more trips to CTO than necessary (but hell, it was the summer, and CTO became a second second home (a sad admission in and of itself), and those sunny walks home from Costco that seemed like heaven because I had been trapped in a shitty warehouse all day doing something I hated, and walking home from Blockbuster at 2 or 6am, depending on the shittiness of my shift. So yeah. Not much room in their for a short lived (2 seasons only!) British comedy about a lesbian who falls for her best friend, a total skank named Sugar. It's delightful. The protagonist, Kim, has to deal with her fucked up family while navigating her own awkward feelings toward Sugar, and it's totally endearing. So yes, I am glad to be revisting the show, especially as it hasn't been renewed for another season (sigh).
I've also started knitting again, which pairs itself nicely with watching televison shows. My project now is a backpack, which I figure will come in handy for things like concerts and such, where a backpack is far more practical than a purse, but store backpacks tend to be too large and protrude-y in a crowd setting. I'm debating how to decorate the front of it. Should I jump into the world of intarsia (the fine and advanced art of 'picture knitting') or should I wimp out (or be more practical) and go for a stripe or plain front? I'd like to argyle it, but I don't know how to; perhaps that would be a nice change? I know that no one reading this cares nor understands what the hell I'm talking about, but man, I'm putting a lot of effort into this, and I don't like doing things unless I know they're going to turn out as I want them to. Don't worry guys, you'll see my sexy finished product.
Speaking of sexy finished products, I got an 86 on my comic book final project! It really does feel good when you put the effort into a project and are rewarded handsomely for it, but for the most part, I don't care about the projects I have to do. That's one thing I like about this no school thing: I'll be investing my time into projects that I actually like and want to be doing (such as my grandma habit of knitting). When I get home, I'll scan the pages onto my computer and post a link to them so you can check it out if you so feel inclined. The reception I've gotten from friends has been really positive, so who knows, I may go somewhere with this.
And I finally saw Grindhouse, and it was just as delightful as I had expected it to be. Of course, I got squeamish during Planet Terror, but that was to be expected. The camp factor was right where I wanted it to be, and Rose McGowan and Freddy Rodriguez were perfectly cast (with a special mention to Marley Shelton). I just love seeing Rico (as he will always be known to me) get great roles, and this was a nice follow up to his tiny role in Lady in the Water (which everyone but me seemed to vehemently hate). Death Proof was really the crowning glory for me (although I've heard differently from others who say Death Proof was "boring". Boring?? Craziness.). I mean, you have Kurt Russell doing what he does best, and a large of cast of very hot ladies in short shorts (so what if I have a soft spot for Rosario Dawson, okay?). The soundtrack was really the cherry on top. So download the soundtrack for Death Proof even if you have no desire to see the movie, because it's hot like fire.
Anyhow, I should really get to finishing/starting writing/studying for tomorrow. As a parting shot, my puddle flower of the week (a Fuji mum in a sunny yellow, so delightful)
and France Gall being a total fox, as is her style
amanda
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
the flora, the fauna, the crazy banana
So today turned out to be a lovely day. At first, it was all cold and gross, but it got warm and happy (-ish)! Yay! And just in general, I love spending days downtown, even if London's downtown is kinda sketchy, what with all the crazies and druggies. Fuck that noise, I got a hot new vase.
Yes, that's right, a vase.
Ain't it cute? It looks like a puddle! I swear, going into Bloomer's just delights me so. They're not particularly interesting with their arrangements (and blergh, overpriced!), but they have the loveliest assortment of interesting flower vessels that I ever did see. So puddle vase and I are pals now, and I may even grab some more before I leave (because imagine how cute they'd look in a grouping! Ah!)
I have totally become one of those lame premature grandmas. I know that I've always been a little lame, but I really revel in it now. But seriously, being lame is so so much better than acting "cool" (which I recognize is a now outdated term, but do we have an accurate replacement yet? Please someone notify me if they have this information). And I say acting cool, because no one really ever just IS cool. There are standards to be upheld if one is to remain cool. And boy am I glad I stopped trying there. Because my lameness is more awesome than all of the cool kids have ever had it, so ha!
Also, leaving London offers me those odd sense of nostalgia for something that is present. "This is the last time I'll ever eat at Ben Thanh" and stuff like that. It's sad, because it's the end of an era, but it's also not sad, because I won't have to live in a dump, attend class, or pay for necessities anymore (at least until I move out again, in which case I'd embrace all three with open arms). But seriously, when your house has been taken over by bugs, has caving in ceilings, and electrical that will probably cause a house fire at any second, you begin to appreciate the little things, like the ability to shower without having to worry if the mold has become sentient. YUCK, this house blows.
amanda
Yes, that's right, a vase.
Ain't it cute? It looks like a puddle! I swear, going into Bloomer's just delights me so. They're not particularly interesting with their arrangements (and blergh, overpriced!), but they have the loveliest assortment of interesting flower vessels that I ever did see. So puddle vase and I are pals now, and I may even grab some more before I leave (because imagine how cute they'd look in a grouping! Ah!)
I have totally become one of those lame premature grandmas. I know that I've always been a little lame, but I really revel in it now. But seriously, being lame is so so much better than acting "cool" (which I recognize is a now outdated term, but do we have an accurate replacement yet? Please someone notify me if they have this information). And I say acting cool, because no one really ever just IS cool. There are standards to be upheld if one is to remain cool. And boy am I glad I stopped trying there. Because my lameness is more awesome than all of the cool kids have ever had it, so ha!
Also, leaving London offers me those odd sense of nostalgia for something that is present. "This is the last time I'll ever eat at Ben Thanh" and stuff like that. It's sad, because it's the end of an era, but it's also not sad, because I won't have to live in a dump, attend class, or pay for necessities anymore (at least until I move out again, in which case I'd embrace all three with open arms). But seriously, when your house has been taken over by bugs, has caving in ceilings, and electrical that will probably cause a house fire at any second, you begin to appreciate the little things, like the ability to shower without having to worry if the mold has become sentient. YUCK, this house blows.
amanda
Friday, April 13, 2007
i'm the type of girl who'll look you dead in the eye
I've been distracted by a series of little handdrawn images that I am responsible for! My sexy comic book is coming soon to an MIT drop box near you. And I'm thinking I'll scan it and post it onto here when I'm done, because while it is cheesy and somewhat nostalgic, it is also hella sexy in a big way.
Also hella sexy? Timbaland's new album. The standout being "Bounce". It takes a lot for me to like hip hop or whatever the designation Timbaland falls under; I can't keep track of all of these subgenres anymore (nor is this a genre I care to learn any of the subgenres of). Timbaland finds the art in a genre I usually find has a lot of limits, but admittedly, those are mostly in the subject matter. I just don't like songs about likening girls' bodies to cars, THANKS. But I don't even care about the subject here, because he makes it uncomfortably comfortable. He draws you in with his, um, mad beatz, but you never feel very comfortable in the position you're in - he's always on the verge of movement. But dayum, boy has some anger issues (and he ain't the only one - I'm looking at you Timberlake).
BUT I should get back to "studying". There is no actual studying being done. You see this blog entry? The product of me "studying". You know what else is the result of me "studying"? Books with no spines cracked. They have virginal spines. I am depriving books of their chief pleasure in this world. That's what. "Studying", pfft.
amanda
Also hella sexy? Timbaland's new album. The standout being "Bounce". It takes a lot for me to like hip hop or whatever the designation Timbaland falls under; I can't keep track of all of these subgenres anymore (nor is this a genre I care to learn any of the subgenres of). Timbaland finds the art in a genre I usually find has a lot of limits, but admittedly, those are mostly in the subject matter. I just don't like songs about likening girls' bodies to cars, THANKS. But I don't even care about the subject here, because he makes it uncomfortably comfortable. He draws you in with his, um, mad beatz, but you never feel very comfortable in the position you're in - he's always on the verge of movement. But dayum, boy has some anger issues (and he ain't the only one - I'm looking at you Timberlake).
BUT I should get back to "studying". There is no actual studying being done. You see this blog entry? The product of me "studying". You know what else is the result of me "studying"? Books with no spines cracked. They have virginal spines. I am depriving books of their chief pleasure in this world. That's what. "Studying", pfft.
amanda
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Tonight I ripped off my friend's style, but I acknowledge him with some props
Tonight I googled "inspiration". I found none.
Tonight I changed my typing voice, with merely the addition of some caps.
Tonight I listened to John Mayer, which I haven't done in a while. I still believe the guy has some serious guitar chops, but the sentiments, which I once believed were so poignant, are really trite for the most part. Note that I never believed that any of his singles have been poignant, so don't fear that I ever once thought "Your Body is a Wonderland" was the height of expressing true love. Blergh.
Tonight I considered writing a comic book about my guinea pig. Yes, I know he is awfully cute, but I am better than Once Upon a Hamster.
Tonight I wished that I didn't need to believe something was a good idea to put the effort in, but I retract said wish. I'm glad I only want to be part of things I believe in.
amanda
Props Luke
Tonight I changed my typing voice, with merely the addition of some caps.
Tonight I listened to John Mayer, which I haven't done in a while. I still believe the guy has some serious guitar chops, but the sentiments, which I once believed were so poignant, are really trite for the most part. Note that I never believed that any of his singles have been poignant, so don't fear that I ever once thought "Your Body is a Wonderland" was the height of expressing true love. Blergh.
Tonight I considered writing a comic book about my guinea pig. Yes, I know he is awfully cute, but I am better than Once Upon a Hamster.
Tonight I wished that I didn't need to believe something was a good idea to put the effort in, but I retract said wish. I'm glad I only want to be part of things I believe in.
amanda
Props Luke
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About Me
- Amanda
- I like writing almost as much as I like eating.
Read what I'm writing at burgundy girls.
Tweet me @a_caswell.
Tumble with me at press the pause.
See what I find inspiring on Pinterest.
And if you're interested in working with me, you can check out my writing portfolio at amandacaswell.com.