2011

Well, I'm sure I'll be sleeping in a few minutes (not a great feeling day), but I feel like I should commemorate the end of year. Why? I don't know. I've never been a huge fan of NYE (probably because my parents aren't)... sometimes I'll go to friends' houses, but never anything big. Tonight, in pj's, ready to crash.
I started this blog in 2011 - as a photo challenge, but it has evolved. I don't mind that at all - we all evolve as people, so why not what I use to 'vent?' And really, blogs don't need to have rules :)
Here's what I remember from 2011 (my warped view, of course - the only one that counts here lol)

Lest we forget

It's the day of the year, where we remember the sacrifices made by people in the past, and now, in the present. While I remember people from other wars, this day always makes me focus on WWII.
Both of my grandfathers were involved in the war, but very differently. One was in the military, the other a conscientious objector.

This is a pity, working through it post, FYI

Most of the people who've seen me (or see me regularly) know that I haven't been feeling well lately. I'm getting nervous about it, but know that it will be fine.

Random advice

Never see your guests out the door!! Mom and Dad and Meg were at the cabin for supper... Dad and Mom left, and I went out behind them. Dad locked the doorknob.
Of course, they pull away and I try to go back in. Tried to sprint down the road to meet catch their attention  (all the way to the Guide camp), and apparently Dad doesn't like using review mirrors. Thankfully a person who lives down the road saw me and let me use their phone... right by the gate. Did I mention I was barefoot, walking down a paved road (or a gravel driveway of the neighbours)?

Thankfully my parents came back to let me in :) There was a chance I would have to climb into a window (there's still one that's older)... thankfully my b/e career didn't start tonight.

Now I'm completely exhausted. Not from the sprint - my breathing returned to normal quickly *thank you jogging! I've been exhausted for a few weeks, and it's just kicking in. Hopefully I hear from my doctor soon... had a few tests done. I want to feel normal again - okay, "MY" normal :)

Randomness done for now. Sleep time zzzzzzzzzzzz

Yes, this is a 9/11 post...

I haven't posted in awhile... there's been a bunch of stuff (some crap, some good, all busy). But, in any case, I feel I have to comment on today.

I have a few different posts that I'm thinking about, but this one I need to do today now that I'm back with full internet. Like so many Canadians, I was quite sad to hear about Jack Layton's death.
While I didn't grow up with overly political parents, we did discuss it a lot as I entered high school and university. I've had a healthy understanding of the events and party policies, but would not be the one to really start the political conversation with others. I know I don't share the same view as some of my overly opinionated relatives and have learned to not even mention it.
Jack Layton did get more people interested (or remotely engaged) in politics. His personality and passion were huge parts of that engagement. But he really appeared to be interested in fairness and equality. What I've been most impressed with is his push for advocacy. As someone who pushes younger people to make opinions and take a stand through Girl Guides, it was interesting to see him accomplish it, especially during the election.
He celebrated with the Girl Guides in 2010 when we had a huge celebration on Parliament Hill. Our PM couldn't show - didn't even have many Conservatives there - but Jack Layton showed up. Judging from the people I know that attended, he spoke with all the younger girls there and was patient and genuinely happy to be there. Support a cause I would say I'm passionate about, and you've piqued my interest more.
As a musician (even an artist in general), his absence concerns me. As a teacher with the talks about "mirroring" the states, his absence frightens me. I hope there will be a presence soon in Parliament that can encourage discussion rather than yelling and pushing through everything.

Thank you Jack, for all the influence and inspiration you've shown me, not even solely in a political sense. As a supporter, I will mourn your absence in national politics. Rest in peace, and may your family and friends find the strength and support to continue.

Other posts will come another time. Here's to the orange.

Weird combinations of events...

First off, went to a huge wedding on the weekend. My cousin married a great woman (who happened to go to WM too - woohoo) and she really has been family since she started dating him. It's funny that she still calls Dad "Mr. Peters" instinctively - even in the receiving line! ;) My grandmother said after the first time she met her that my cousin better marry her, or she would disown him... so I'm sure Grandma was watching over the nuptials! It was a gorgeous day, and everything went beautifully.
But it was a very traditional Ukranian wedding. Very Ukranian - and huge! 400+ people at the reception. Her parents help Ukranian immigrants when they arrive, and it showed in the wedding. They were married in a Ukranian Catholic wedding, and tons of traditions (and dancers) at the reception. Even what we thought was a gift opening on Sunday was a continuation of reception - you had to shoot some vodka to get in.