Wanderlust

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T14:49:00.001-08:00

The year is ending and I don't know about you but I've been mentally over 2010 for a few months now. As the year is ending so is my posting on this site. I will continue over at word press. I've been changing formats here on Blogger multiples times (sometimes daily) to find something more streamlined but nothing fit for me. So I've been looking to other sites to find themes more to my liking.

I'm going to give word press a chance and see how it works out. To those who have read and commented you can find me here. To the newbies come join! I hope to be more diligent with my posting this coming year and responding to comments.

Tis' the season

2010-12-13T16:25:00.001-08:00

Rose coloured glasses

2010-10-18T04:07:00.000-07:00

When I first moved to London I couldn't help comparing almost every aspect of living here to home. It's natural of course. Over time I really started to love it here and the tone of the comparisons changed. I no longer was thinking or saying well x is cool but at home it's wayyy better.

Well things have changed even more. I was home for over a month recently. I was happy to be home and enjoying myself - then my boyfriend came to visit. Suddenly I was seeing everything through his eyes, he didn't criticise anything but it was interesting seeing everything for the first time again. Public transportation isn't as good, there is a lot going on in Toronto but it can't compare to London. Traveling here is much cheaper and London is a good base to head out to many destinations. I love being at home but when I started to think of our lifestyle (walking/using public transport and having no car) and how it would change if we did move to Canada I started to appreciate my set up here a bit more.

En-Ga-Land!

2010-06-16T11:21:00.000-07:00

En-ga-land is how the football fans pronounce it, yes really.

World Cup 2010 is upon us and my intention was to go through this period and not think about football. Not that easy when everyone and their mother has put up a flag on their house, their car and themselves. Also not easy when your boyfriend cares to watch all the games.

However I may be slightly converted after watching the England v USA game on Saturday at the HMV Apollo. It was definitely an experience. England football fans are known to be rowdy bordering on belligerent so I didn't know what to expect. I got there with 2 friends and they were handing out flags and hats. The theatre filled with excited fans an hour before the game. One fan was so excited that he got up on stage and dropped his trousers and had on England pants (underwear). He started jumping up and down and the crowd loved it until security put an end to it. It was pretty tame there after. I forgot my camera so I was only able to take a few pictures on my mobile. I'll make sure to bring it next game!

Are you watching the World Cup and who are you rooting for?

Fool me once...

2010-05-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

I've been duped, apparently. A few weeks ago while at the hairdressers these 2 women came in selling makeup. Usually I wouldn't pay anyone selling anything at the hair dressers any mind, but I did this time as it sounded like a good deal - £20 for a bunch of product that was apparently worth over £100. When I got home and was telling friend about it I went to the Internet to find the site, it didn't exist. However, in my search I discovered a post on a blog talking about the same products. Although I've been 'scammed' it doesn't feel like it. The woman on the blog said that the products were of poor quality and the real scam is in how they market it. Saying that the line is made by this famous make up artist in the US who will be launching a UK line. So that isn't happening (UK line launch) but I don't feel particularly scammed since I have a decent product in my hands. The brushes are shit but the make up itself is fairly good quality (drug store brand at least).

Moving on to scam number two. Thankfully I wasn't scammed in this instance (well it was very obvious) but I'll share it with you since it happens a lot in London. It concerns the private renting market, more specifically my search to find decent priced housing as I'd like to find a place on my own. I was on gumtree a week or so ago and came across an ad that I knew had to be too good to be true, and it was. However I sent a reply to get back information. I did this for another ad as well, also kinda too good to be true. This is the email I was sent:

Thanks for your email and it is my gladness to hear from you.I am Nicholas Thomas,the owner of the Flat you are making inquiry of.Actually I resided in the Flat with my family,presently we moved away due to my transfer from my working place,my Flat is Located at 24, Rosary Gardens, South Kensington London, SW7 4NT and presently my Flat is still available for rent for 350 GBP per month including the utilities like hydro,washer,gas,internet, cou ncil tax and one secured parking Space,it is fully furnished but we can get it unfurnished for you if you prefer that..Now, I went for a Crusade in the West Africa and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in the United states for more details & pictures of our flat as She is with the keys and the documents to the Flat.Please, i want you to note that i am a kind and honest person, also i spent a lot of money on my property that i want to give you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintenance of this Flat and want you to treat it as your own,I hope you understand that.I want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i eventually come to London to see how clean it is and will try to do that some day...Where are you located? let us know how soon you are willing to move in as we are deciding very soon on who to take our flat.Email my wife Tracey, on (traceythomas90@gmail.com) she will attend to you better. Thanks for your interest. Best Regards, Nicholas Thomas
Then I got a similar email for the second place:

Thanks for your email and it is glad to Read from you.I am Richard Callaghan,the owner of the flat you are making inquiry in 24 Rosary Gardens South Kensington,London SW7 4NT . Actually I resided in the flat with my Wife before and presently we had Moved out due to my transfer from my working place and now situated in West Africa,Nigeria and presently my flat is still available for rent for 350GBP per month including the utilities like Hydro included,Hardwood Floor , Air Conditioning , Utilities included , Dishwasher,Fridge , Stove , Assigned /Secured parking , microwave , Washer , Dryer , Cable /Satellite , Internet connectivity , Storage locker,Fireplace,security is fully furnished,More so Now, i went for a Job transfer and i will like you to get in touch with my wife in New Jersey,USA because she has an accident two months ago,she's using a wheel chair,it also affect her ear drum but we thank God for still keeping her alive for more discussion and Pictures as She is with the keys and the document to the flat.Please i want you to note that I am a kind and honest man and also I spent a lot on my property that i want to give to you for rent,so i will solicit for your absolute maintained of this flat and want you to treat it as your own,is that taken ? it is not the money that is the main problem but i want you to keep it tidy all the time so that i will be glad to see it neat when i come for check up which i do once in a while and give 1month notice before i come for check up.I also want you to let me have trust in you as i always stand on my word. Pets Allowed Special Notice : Pls note that there's none of us to show you the flat,as we would have to send you the keys through DHL COURIER SERVICE ON A NEXT DELIVERY TO YOUR HOME and move in asap.. A refundable deposit is require ( 1st month and security deposit which is 350GBP is refundable when you are ready to move out of our flat and if you pay two months you will get a month free ).if you are OK with this pls Email my wife Mary on ( marycllghn@gmail.com ) and she will attends to you better.

I've reported it and got a response back from someone at Gumtree. Thinking back on other times when I've come across shady posts I've just passed them on but now I will definitely report them but at least it appearls others do as the ads for these places were down the next day. I've recently been asked about finding accommodation here so I will do an updated post on that shortly!

More intensity!

2010-04-27T15:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I tried Bikram Yoga (aka Hot Yoga) for the first time. As I've done yoga for years now it was nice that all the poses we did were familiar. But of course while it's basic yoga it is in a sauna type setting.

INTENSE is all I have to say. But then I adjusted pretty quickly to the temperature and it was quite enjoyable. I wanted to detox a bit for spring and this is perfect. I can't recommend it more if you've yet to try it.

Living in London 2.0 - (1) Transportation

2010-04-27T00:36:00.001-07:00

I've decided to compare notes from my previous Living in London Series. Here is my original post on Transportation from 2009. I am mainly revisiting this as I have friends who have just moved here, so helping them settle has brought me back to when I was figuring everything out for myself.

The only comment now is that after living here for nearly two years I have to say that while I still appreciate how connected public transportation here is, I often gripe about it, so I think that means I am becoming more like a Londoner? When I first got here I marvelled at how fast the trains were, how there was a tube stop basically at the footstep of most destinations, and how clean they were (albeit the papers left behind). Now any time a line is down, or late I curse London transport, curses!

This is because I commute to south London to work from north. In the morning I miss the peak time so it's pretty relaxing going into work but on the way home it is peak time. Time to be assertive - dodge people and rush onto trains, and slip into a seat (if there is one available) quickly before others even realize there was one.

So to wrap this up, for those moving to London. If you can avoid the tube then do so, not because it is the bain of my existence (and it is) but if you are not in a rush then it is cheaper to take the bus and you get to see more of the city. You are also able to navigate yourself much better. And speaking of navigation, I suggest investing in an A-Z. You don't have to get that one specifically as there are others available, but it is the best selling London atlas for a reason.

Analyze this

2010-04-26T11:51:00.001-07:00

I've said before in previous posts that I work in the social work (or social care as they say in London) field. I won't ever post specifics but I work in Addictions. My co workers are lovely. But sometimes people in this field over analyze things way to much and it gets really ANNOYING.

Now I've been guilty of this but the things I usually over analyze are aspects of my own life or myself, so others rarely are affected by this. I've cooled off in the past years as well because I realize sometimes you CAN take something at face value. I digress. Anyways, at work today a co worker asked me what was wrong. The thing is nothing was, at all. I may not have been as positive as I am some mornings when I walk in but nothing really was wrong.

He continued later to say 'no something is wrong, I can tell you had a fight this weekend'. That was the furthest thing from the truth. I actually had a really relaxing weekend with friends and my bf. I tend to be pretty happy in my disposition but some days it just isn't there, I wasn't unhappy just neutral.

Today was one of those neutral days but there was no underlying factor lurking around the corner. In addictions there is always an underlying factor, I get it. But what my co worker just refused to accept was that if I say nothing is wrong it does not mean something is and I just want you to dig deeper to find what I really mean. It means NOTHING is wrong, geez!

The best things in life are free

2010-04-24T02:10:00.000-07:00

Tuesday this past week I met up with Tim to do a free walking tour of London, it was so free no guides showed up! I highly doubt the volcano had anything to do with it as on their website they acknowledge that tourist may be stranded and offered them a free tour to help pass their time.

I met Tim last month when Jen and I were in Berlin. Since he's British and I'm an honorary Londoner we waited all of 5 minutes before we set off to walk the tour. It was unfortunate for the few tourists who did show up and were waiting for guides but they had maps.

Below are a few pictures taken along the way. I had seen everything already except for 10 Downing Street. Can I tell that the one HUGE bonus of a volcano erupting and grounding all flights to Heathrow and Gatwick? NO TOURISTS! We walked, then got to Buckingham Palace and I was able to get pictures of it with almost no one in them. The first time I did that walk I struggled to get close to the gate. It was great walking around as the sun was shining and I didn't have to share London with so many tourists, a rare thing indeed.

10 Downing Street

That was fast

2010-04-24T01:24:00.000-07:00

April is almost over so let me do a quick run down of what I've been up to:

- Studying

- Battled 2 colds ( still getting over the second now)

- Helped 2 friends from Canada begin to settle in London

- Booked my flight home to Canada for a month

- Reserved 2 campsites at Algonquin for an annual get together with University friends

- Saw Kick-Ass, Avatar 3D, Whip it, and Alice in Wonderland 3D

- Said bye to my parents who are in Jamaica as we speak for 2 weeks (slightly jealous)

The weather has been great!

Ian and Roxanne flew in 13 April, their bags made it in 15 April in the morning before the volcano erupted, lucky!

Thou Shall Not Covet?!

2010-04-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

Look at this street:

Then look at this street:

Guess which one I live on and guess which one is just one block over from me.

Music makes me lose control

2010-04-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

Last week I finished Nina Simone's Autobiography I Put a Spell on You. I loved her before and I love her even more now. There is a lot in there about her classical piano training, the fact that she defines herself as a folk artist not jazz, and her personal relationships. It details the origins of some of her songs that I love which was great. Since I have most of her albums on my ipod it was nice to be able to go to the song she was referencing and listen in tandem.

Nina was open and honest about the music industry, the ways in which she was misused to make a profit and her contempt of them (mostly the American industry). I won't get into it more in case you'd like to read it yourself, but I definitely recommend it. Since she detailed life on the road and how it affected her greatly and her child it really gives someone who knows nothing about actual life on the road promoting yourself a clue on the not so glamorous parts of the business.

So I'd like to share with you 3 bands/artists I know that are doing the leg work to get out there and become known. I'm doing my bit to help, it's music I like so not a hard thing for me to do. It was funny that one of the questions in the interview I just did asked if I listened to Uk artists, since Tupac was posted. Funny to me at least because I barely listen to rap. I just happen to really like that song and it fit for what I was talking about. So, not all the following artists are from the Uk only one actually.

First up is my little brother's band The Paint Movement, you can check out their myspace here. They have been together for a number of years and are from Mississauga (Toronto suburbs). I have not yet had the chance to see them in concert, bad sister I know, but having a huge pond between you doesn't make it that easy. Below is an interview my brother Jason did with a band mate. Then below that is an impromtu session in the woods? He plays Sax, Keyboard, and sings. The guy interviewing is a bit of a tool at the beginning but it's a good interview, note how Canadians say 'aboot'.

Next is The Neutronics.

They have been a band since late last year but are all seasoned musicians. Again not an act I've seen live but I've been privy to hearing one of their songs as they were in the creative process and it's been nice to see it all come together. I know Milt the Keyboard player, check out their myspace here. This is the UK band I was refering to.

Last but not least is Rugged N Raw. I met him and his friend, music partner, bandmate, all of thee above? Ok, can't completely remember but we were in line at UK customs for an hour and we (Jen and I) got to talking with them and then I got facebook details. I was listening to some stuff today and I really like it, and again I don't really listen to rap but I really enjoy his stuff, my favourite is Broke and Proud. He is American, check out his myspace here.

Enjoy!

Read all about it!

2010-04-08T23:54:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago someone stumbled upon my blog, well I assume that was how it happened, and asked me to participate in an interview. His name is Paul and he is an E-Marketing Specialist connected with the company 1st Contact. They are Tax, Financial, & Migration experts, yeah would have been a great resource before coming here. Anyways, the company has been established since 1995.

I was asked to participate in an interview as an expat and detail how it has been for me adjusting in London. So please take a look at the interview here. I thought it would be up in about two weeks but it has gone live as of yesterday. The home page for the site can be found here. It's kinda weird to be on another site but fun at the same time.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T14:09:00.001-07:00

It's Official

2010-03-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday at 1:00 am the time went forward an hour. I knew but stupidly thought wrong that the time would go forward Sunday evening (actually being Monday early morning) and because I was working at 8 in the morning I ended up being late. So that's the shit part about it, but the good thing is that it is officially British summer time, yay! Yes I realize it is actually spring, but it is officially summer according to the calendar.

So, right now, it is (what you say?) that's right raining! At least the temperature is mild, and really I ditched my winter coat at least a week or two ago. It has been predicted that this summer could possibly be very warm. I am not getting my hopes up but it would be nice since I will be spending my summer here (with a month trip home near the end of August). Can't wait for exam period to be over and then I can live! I like being in school because of the flexibility of schedule but sometimes that nagging feeling of you should be studying right now instead of updating your blog or ___________ insert fun thing here sucks loads.

Now that it's getting warmer I am anticipating all the fun outdoor things I want to do and of course the pictures to go along with them. I really want to check out Crystal Palace Park as they have imitation dinosaurs to scale that are incorrectly made. Something to do with their hands or feet, it's in my 1000 things to do in London book and I've been wanting to go now for some time now.

In Canada they just had a really mild winter, hardly any snow (southern Canada to be specific) and now they are having really good weather. To say I am jealous would be putting it mildly, ha. Don't you just love when you can make yourself laugh?

This version is pretty upbeat for singing about something you can't stand

That's just the way it is

2010-03-27T13:48:00.001-07:00

I was told my an old friend last year (over msn) that I had changed during first year undergrad and this was why she started distancing herself from me. I made a desperate attempt to reconnect with her last year at a random moment. I was trying to make things right with a couple people in my life as travel often makes me reflective. She was my best friend at the tail end of middle school and all of high school. She was the sister my mom wouldn't have for me -I told my mom to send my baby brother back and bring back a girl.

Things fell apart (well in my eyes) pretty much after my first year of university. We talked less, didn't hang out, didn't call, we just weren't friends anymore.

She was the only person who knew everything about me, everything. We said that we'd marry brothers and get houses beside each other, and then our kids could play with each other, so corny! We probably knew that wasn't going to actually happen but saying that was like our way of saying we'll be friends forever. I didn't keep in touch with a lot of people from high school but she was for sure the one person I thought I would keep in touch with. Others from high school who have found out that we are no longer friends are surprised as well.

This post isn't meant to be about her really, but about change. The other day I thought about how long I've been in London (if you don't count the few months here and there I've gone home it is coming up to 2 years in September) and how much it is becoming more of a home than a transition place for me. I was meant to be finishing my degree and heading home for good in the summer. That was the original plan. When I touched down in London September 2008 I wanted to leave immediately. I've posted about why previously but mainly because that first day was very trying, I disliked greatly the women I was renting from, and I had a horrible case of home sickness that I hugely under planned for.

Now I feel like I've really embraced London life, maybe a little too much. I am already an impatient person and I have grown to be more so. Jen visiting me showed me that. I think part of my draw to Buddhism was to work on that, and letting go of things as that was a major problem for me. Mostly affecting me of course. I'm the type of person who constantly has a short term and a long term plan and it gets updated regularly. It can be good and bad. When I didn't get into Law school at home 2 times I thought my dreams were ending. Cut to now and I'm very happy I came to London, though I am unimpressed with my school (another post). I have changed a lot. I am not the same person I was even 5 months ago. I have this idea in my head of the woman I'd like to be and I get closer to her every day and I think that's a good thing. Just a note to self to work on being more patient!

My old friend said I had changed and she distanced herself from me so I wanted to know specifics of course. She avoided that question but I know she knows exactly what it was that I did to make her stop wanting to be my friend. I don't know what I did (I have a couple ideas), and I desperately wanted to. But I guess it is not for me to know and I can say truthfully that I'm okay with it. What did annoy me though was she said she didn't change and I find that hard to believe. I will always change and improve on myself.

That's the end?

2010-03-20T03:09:00.000-07:00

To continue off from the last post with Jen....

Sunday (March 7):

Lunch on Southbank was really nice. We met up with a friend from school who reminds me of Jen personality wise so it was fun for me to have lunch with the two of them. They liked each other but thought I was a bit mad for thinking they resemble each other at all. Anyways, later we saw Lily and Dizzee Rascal. It was an interesting concert to say the least but we had a good time. Check out this short article and video here. During this we had no clue what was going on and some woman behind me said that Lily's boyfriend had gotten punched, she was wrong. He was just near the chaos.

Monday (March 8):

I had to work so Jen had 6 hours to herself. I should really get her to write this part but she told me about it so I'll relay. Anyways, she slept in (much needed) and then she hit up Warwick ave (for all you Duffy fans), Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge. In the evening we went to Thai Square to have dinner with my boyfriend (I dislike that word, I don't know why but I do, I know I'm weird....guess it sounds juvenile to use at age 27?). Anyways this was the first he's met any friends and it was good.

Tuesday (March 9): We did a little shopping in the morning in my neighbourhood and then we went to Tower of London. Which was really good, our tour leader was witty, funny, and borderline inappropriate at times especially when badly making fun of the French. All in all, he was great. In the evening we went to a pub in my area which was nice inside but on a Tuesday night not that busy. We had a semi early evening as we had to pack for Berlin.

Wednesday (March 10): There is a story here but too long to recount, basically we almost missed our flight because of London Transport. But, fortunately we made it and we had an amazing time in Berlin

Berlin lasted from 10-13 and I'm just now catching up. I feel very settled in this country now, it's a nice feeling. Settled but, we'll see how things go in the next year or so. I was going to do more of a write up about Berlin but I don't really feel like it, I will just update my Photog Blog and you will get the picture, literally.

Now that I've gotten a taste for travelling again I can't wait for the next destination. I think I'll do Amsterdam alone in June. This will be the first that I travel alone and I'm really looking forward to it.

It's no SLR but it will do

2010-03-07T02:32:00.001-08:00

Better enjoy this, I got scolded for taking it, oddly enough he didn't ask for me to delete it though

Sun is in the sky....

2010-03-07T02:15:00.000-08:00

oh why oh why would I want to be anywhere else? Loving London right now. Jen is here! She got in Friday night and we've been going non stop since then. I know, only one full day but we've crammed in a lot already. Here it goes:

Friday:

Jen touched down at: 9:26 pm, I was late to get her around 10:26, she panicked a bit but all was fine. So we devised our plan of attack for the week when we got back to my place. She was tired from flying and I had done 2 overnight shifts 2 days in a row so very sleep deprived.

Bed: 3:00 ish?

Saturday:

Up at 8:00 am to get ready for the chiro (just me, not Jen but she tagged along).

Quick breakfast on the run then British Museum, Trafalgar Square, National Gallery (for a few mins to warm up), then Camden Market (how I missed you so) and then home. Dinner and then we headed to Leicester Square for 12:00 am to Ruby Blue. It was packed and very fun. We danced like no one was watching.

Bed: 4:30 ish?

Sunday:

So brings me to right now, about 10:21 am. Jen is still sleeping, I've been up for at least an hour cleaning. She's still on Toronto time (5 hours behind) so we're having a lazy morning. I tried to sleep in but I can't, I've got to get ready and head to the store soon. Today, we have late lunch on the Southbank and then Lily Allen concert tonight, so excited! Ok, Shawn you requested, I'll put up some pictures in the following post. They are good, I got a new camera and I love it and you will too.

Japanese Art Festival

2010-03-01T00:19:00.000-08:00

Last week was busy, and this week will be even busier but I wanted to get a quick post in. Yesterday I went to a Japanese Art Festival. It was fun, I mean after going to Japan anything else fails in comparison. I still managed to spend money of course, I bought a sushi making set, and nice place mats with matching chop sticks. I also got stickers so that when I finally get around to making my scrapbook of my Japan trip (from 2007, I'm kind of a slacker) I'll have fun stickers to put in it.

The festival was held at this college

People were encouraged to draw

Cosplay Catwalk/Competition

There is video of Taiko drumming but it's taking too long to upload on Youtube...so I'll include that later.

It's Not ME, it's YOU

2010-02-24T00:55:00.001-08:00

That's the name of Lily Allen's latest album. I am going to be seeing her in concert shortly thanks to a friend who was able to find tickets for Jen and I. My first concert here finally! Check out her video for It's Not Fair here, as embedding isn't enabled for it.

Moment of Zen

2010-02-22T17:45:00.001-08:00

Spotted while shopping in Woodgreen. Salvation knows no bounds.

Swearing IS for winners!

2010-02-20T04:05:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Mail, even when I know it's coming

2010-02-20T03:40:00.000-08:00

We get post here on Saturdays! I ordered 6 books from Amazon Thursday evening and 3 of them came today!

1) I put a spell on you the autobiography of Nina Simone

2) The Geography of Bliss - the grumpiest man on the planet goes in search of the happiest place in the world

3) Great speeches by African Americans

Don't mind the lack of sheets, they are in the wash. Don't want to be another statistic, read this.

Black History, My History

2010-02-18T02:06:00.000-08:00

I feel that my rant on John Mayer's stupidity should not be the only post I make about Black History Month for this year. The loser happens to be doing shows in the UK, I almost threw up in my mouth a little bit when I saw that while looking for another show.

One of the blogs I read frequently is American Black Chick in Europe. She has made some fantastic points in a recent post on why Black History shouldn't be celebrated differently from History, because it is one in the same. I agree, for the most part. But when I hear the ignorance that is spewed daily I think, well, maybe we should continue to highlight the achievements of black people in the world. Or, maybe if it was more incorporated in schools and we learned ALL history that would assist in lessening prejudice and hate?

Well this post is about MY history specifically and the people in my life who inspire me every day to work as hard as I can to go out there and take my dream meet:

My parents: circa 70s, like you couldn't tell!

My older brother: thanks for walking in front of me on the way to elementary school in the winter time making tracks for me to walk in and shielding me from the cold.

My younger brother: thanks for showing me that even though I am older I'm not ALWAYS wiser on every topic know to woman, but mostly. He is also in a band called the Paint Movement check out their myspace page!

Missing in picture only: my maternal grandmother, she is not in the best of health right now which is worrying because it seems as though I am being prepared for her to not be around when I go home in the summer. I'm thinking of her right now.

Me! Circa 2008, I had recently come back from Senegal, took my braids out and chopped off all my hair. The shortest I ever cut it, I'm proud of myself (will do a post on black hair another time) even if my mom HATED it.

Olympic Update, sorta...

2010-02-18T01:52:00.000-08:00

On a funnier and lighter note than previously posted about the Olympics, Stephen Colbert made an appearance in Vancouver. Read all about it here. I love this man, and he can take the piss out of Canada ANY day!

Now for some Classic BBC Programming

2010-02-16T08:03:00.000-08:00

How DARE you!

2010-02-16T05:52:00.000-08:00

Still listening to music and it is still raining.

This article has come across my eyes and to the insensitive ass who would even suggest that the Canadian drive to 'Own the Podium' has caused the death of 21 year old Georgian Luger Nodar Kumaritashvili is beyond disgusting. I searched out the original source which can be found here. First of all it is well known that host country has home advantage, this is standard, this is also not cheating if home athletes have more access to the runs. You called us cheaters and now it's on. Martin states that the Own the Podium Program has perversed the drive to do well causing the death. How is a program that is meant to encourage Canadian athletes and their coaches to do well at the games, translate to causing this death? You would need to ensure the safely of your athletes in the least thus ensuring the safely of ALL athletes. Another Brit columnist comments here. While the title of the article is scathing the actual article is balanced, asks fair questions, and is less blaming.

With respect to the Martin article, I don't know what his agenda is here. Safety of the track needs to addressed which it has been. He however does not seem to be satisfied with the response given and the changes made to make it even more safe is apparently a confession of guilt in this man's eyes. He also seems to think that the monetary support and wanting to do well is a bad thing and that Canada is not coming across as 'nice'. We are way more than our stereotype of being nice, regardless of that being a good stereotype. If this was the United States this would not be included in the article, or it would but he would probably chalk it up as being a stereotypical thing for Americans to be heavily competitive. To me he cheapens this young man's death. One last article about it is here. The author does not lay blame of the death on Canada but still criticizes the Own the Podium program. Why the demonetization of a program that wants it's athletes to do well? I just don't get it. I don't care if countries are bitter that we have the most access and use that to our advantage, AND I'm still a nice person. There is a tab on the home page for the Own the Podium program for the 2012 games in London. This program doesn't just pertain to these games.

Bottom line is readership, in my opinion. I had never read any of those columns until now so it has worked? I likely won't do so in the future though, don't diss my country unless you have the full knowledge to back it up. This just in, you can be nice AND competitive, they are not mutually exclusive, and one does not negate the other!

Rest in peace Nodar Kumaritashvili.

'Bugger the law'

2010-02-16T04:43:00.000-08:00

It is raining. I know, I live in England but it's been raining since I've been up (about 4 hours now) and looks as though it will continue, sigh. Glad I have so much time on my hands I can, um, stay in and listen to music. Yay me. This post is a bit heavier than usual.

I read this article a few minutes ago. The theme is Assisted Suicide but the case is a bit different as the broadcaster smothered his lover, killing him. Details of this story aside let's just look at the topic itself. In the UK it is illegal to assist someone in ending their life. I studied in criminal law last year a few cases concerning euthanasia. There have also been cases where people have travelled from the UK to European countries where it is legal to end their lives.

It is an emotive topic for sure and multi-layered but I don't know if I could see someone I love in intense pain and not want to follow their wishes as to what they would want to do. Of course the law wants to protect people who are in a delicate state and not have family members/partners killing off their loved ones. I can't say I have one strong stance on the issue but when I was recently watching a lot of Richard Dawkins I came across a video where he was speaking on the end of life and religion (of course). Can't find it but I'll detail, so the person asked him if he feared death. He said he did not, but what he fears is the pain of dying. Dawkins said we put down every animal that is suffering so to lessen the pain they feel but we cannot make that choice for ourselves. I quite agree with that statement.

To throw something else into the mix read this article. Horrifying to say the least for that man. I of course have no idea what it feels like to be in a comatose state, however, I know a little of what it is like for your mind to be conscious but your body to not respond:

Have you ever heard of Sleep Paralysis? I have experienced this, and way more than once in my life. I used to experience it on a regular basis when I was younger. I never talked to my mom about it because I didn't know what was happening and I appeared to be fine once I came to. I didn't feel as though a demon was on my chest (as per the picture) but my mind would be fully awake and I would say (well my inner voice) to my body move, some times I would get panicky because I didn't know how long it would last (my body not responding to me shouting move!) so thus panic. It would feel like a nightmare in the sense that someone was in the room about to hurt me and I would desperately try to wake myself, yes very scary. How long it has lasted each time I honestly don't know, probably less than 30 seconds most times but it feels like a long time until my body becomes responsive. It hasn't happened at any time being in England, but the most recent time was this past summer when I was back home. I have a friend who has experienced it so as I write this we're on msn recalling our terrifying tales.

If I had to be in a sleep paralysis state for 23 years, even though my body would be fully functional when I woke up I'm not sure I would not want to continue living.

In the end it's a very personal decision, well you'd like it to be. This is similar to the abortion debate to me as people will be very polarized and have a hard stance on one side of the issue. I don't know what the law should be, but I think we need to be rational (as much as possible) about the issue and look to science to give us some direction in terms of getting to a better place with the law. Or like the man in the first article people will just 'bugger the law' and do what they want anyways.

All you need is LOVE

2010-02-14T19:03:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Black History Month:

2010-02-12T10:04:00.001-08:00

The Douchebag of the week award goes to John Mayer! I first heard of his comments in his playboy article earlier this week as I was watching the View (streamed online). This article gives you details of his attempt to be 'clever'.

I will preface the rest of the post with this: I understand that no one is perfect, people make mistakes, and forgiveness is a good thing. With that said since so many people (who they are I do not know) feel that we are getting to a point where we are overly PC, here is my opnion and maybe you people will appreciate my following comments.

Fuck you John Mayer. Don't cry on stage in front of your mostly (or all, hard to see) black band and tell me you are sorry for saying things like '...if I had a hood pass, you could call it a nigger pass' and then compare your genitals to a white supremacist to explain why you don't date black women. He has stated that he won't use the N-word again, well I'm sure you won't in public that's for sure.

Is Mayer racist? Only he knows, but he has shown his blatant ignorance. I understand clever quite well and none of his comments come close to being in that category. I live in a country right now that is very clever with comedy and music, you John Mayer do not know what those words mean. Besides the racial sentiments he puts on blast his past relationships, tacky. John, own your fucking words and don't cop out by saying you won't play the media game anymore. Click here for his apology on video. You decide if you think he was genuine. All this from a guy who sings 'Waiting on the world to change', start with youself.

In general I'm sick and tired of people saying racist, stupid, ignorant, sexist etc etc comments and us saying it was a 'misspeak', or they worded it incorrectly or well they didn't really mean it. Really, that many people just say things but don't really mean them? I don't do that ever, nor do the people I know. I don't ask for perfection from others and I will never claim to give it but I know what I think about certain things and the words I use clearly reflect this.

It's a GREAT day for Canada

2010-02-12T05:12:00.000-08:00

Today is the day that the Olympics kick off in Vancouver, BC. No Canadian has ever won a Gold Metal on home soil. The CBC has a good article here. I have to agree with this commenter on the article:

'Don't know about other Canadians, but I have never been satisfied with "have fun" and " try your best" and 24th place finishes, etc. We are a 1st world winter nation, we should be kicking ass and taking names.' Well said fellow Canuck, if anything, the outside world knows us primarily for cold + snow. So Dear Canadian athletes: kick some ASS! Go Team Canada!!

What the HELL?!

2010-02-11T07:39:00.000-08:00

This morning God rang my doorbell. Ok, not so much God as a Jehovah Witness (JW). If I had stopped at that first sentence you would have thought I was crazy right? It just so happens that lately I've been stuck in a Youtube Vortex* and have obsessively been watching Christopher Hitchens, Richards Dawkins, and Sam Harris debate or appear on talk shows discussing religion, atheism, and politics. Thus making me quite happy to carry a conversation on this topic.

I read Sam Harris's The End of Faith ages ago, I attempted The God Delusion by Dawkins a few years ago but put it down (I'll revisit later) and most recently I have purchased The Portable Atheist by Hitchens. Turns out not so portable.

In the past I have dodged the steadfast JW when ever possible. On the street with my Ipod, crouching behind my couch or hiding behind a wall at Forbes (the street I lived on in university at home), which didn't work because they could see right into our house so I was sent to the door by my housemates to deal with them anyways. If only everyone hit the floor when we saw them across the street, sigh.

I was raised Christian (i.e dragged to church until about the age of 7 or 8) but I can't say I ever really believed it, the last time I went to church as a 'believer' was when I was about 17 or 18. I digress, anyways, I am sharing this because for the first time I actually had a bit of a conversation with the JW. Here is a summarized version:

JW: Hello, many people have been thinking of the future and what it means and how God fits into that.

Me: Is that so

JW: Yes, have you? [thinking about the future and God] What do you think about that?

Me: Yes I've been thinking of the future, but not with religion in mind

JW: What is it you believe?

Me: That keeps evolving

JW: You don't know what you believe?

Me: Yes I do, however, as I learn and grow my beliefs get updated

JW: Oh, ok that is fair. So do you believe in God?

Me: I don't know, there is no proof of his existence but I can't say there isn't one for sure.

He's says a lot about scripture etc etc, then the interesting part is what I learned about JW's. They believe 'heaven is on earth'. I thought that there was a fixed number of people who could ever make it into heaven ,but this is not the case. The number (144,000) pertains to people who will be chosen to rule heaven on earth. Finally he said something I had never heard, well ever, about religion.

Me: So if you are a good person all your life but you don't believe in what you're saying you go to hell?

JW: Well, we don't believe in hell as how it's been taught by say the Catholic church. There is no fire, and suffering.

Me: Really?!

JW: Yes, no where in the scripture does it say this happens in 'hell'. He said the people who do not believe just cease to exist, they just die and everything is over. There is no ever lasting suffering.

Me: Interesting.

So there you have it, apparently there is no hell. This is according to the JW anyways. Well not the way it is usually described to us to fear it so much that you must believe. In fact when I looked up this picture of hell I retrieved it from a site that had screaming noses (which startled me) and other more harsher depictions of hell. I never cared to learn about being a JW. I still don't but I took his booklet so I can know more about what I'm not believing in :)

* Youtube Vortex - a term I have stolen from my friend Shawn. 1) to obsessively watch Youtube videos for hours on end. 2) Usually focusing on one topic specifically for a period of time. For example: looking up how many people have uploaded videos of themselves copying Lady Gaga's Bad Romance dance, there are a lot.

Which one are you?

2010-02-11T06:22:00.001-08:00

Let me start by stating I HATE slow computers. My laptop is dying a slow death. It is shy of it's 4th birthday (this May) and is no longer the efficient machine I purchased. While I understand this has to do with the amount of memory and the fact that I am running out of it, and that some problems will be remedied by wiping it clean, it still annoys me to no end. So much maintenance needed for it to run smoothly.

I thought I would be done school this year and was going to purchase a new computer to start off my new professional life but here I am with my last year still ahead of me. The fact still remains that my computer is dying a painfully sloooooow death. I currently own a Toshiba Satellite, it has served me well and despite a few cosmetic blemishes it looks in fairly good condition. However, if I have more than a few web pages open at one time she has a fit, sure my computer is feminine (hadn't really given it a sex until this moment). I'm tired of the tantrums, I don't have kids so why should I put up with this?!

My best friend Ron has a MAC and he's all about it of course. He converted over 3 years ago and will never look back. I know a few people who have MACs and love them. The only problem is (and my friend Ryan will concur) many people who own them are twats and no I'm not calling my best friend a twat. I mean you are paying for the brand. No doubt it is a good computer, Ron's had his for 3 plus years and it has not slowed down in the least, but I can get a PC for much cheaper with similar specs. All I want is a computer that is good quality, whatever brand or form it may come in.

So this summer I hope to (depending on my work situation) make that purchase but I keep going back and forth, MAC or PC. I am a budding travel photographer (even if only in my mind) and I know that I'd appreciate the creative element the MAC has, but I don't want to spend a ridiculous amount either. Nor do I want to be lumped in with the pretentious MAC Notebook/Ipod/Ipad/insert product here owners. You bought a computer ok, you didn't cure cancer.

Annoying commercials aside I am trying to do actual research to find the computer for me. So, what would you recommend?

And if you haven't seen it yet:

Hope you don't have any viruses on your computer!

Today I feel like....

2010-02-11T06:10:00.000-08:00

this song:

I discovered this remix last year (now on my ipod):

I bought this bag yesterday. Music and shopping, I'm really quite easy to please.

I Heart London

2010-02-11T04:42:00.000-08:00

...depending on the month, week, day, possibly even hour you ask me the question "How do you like London?" the answer varies greatly. Last week I cursed this country and wanted to jump on the earliest flight back to Canada and to MY bed. Needless to say last week in it's entirety was probably the worse of the year thus far.

I am not currently in class but still technically a student. I have to redo a part of my degree and that will take exam form some time in May. So while I have no classes I still have to study, lame. It's my fault completely, so I am dealing with the consequences of an extended stay in London (oh woe is me). I've chosen to stay in London and not go home, I made the decision on the premise that I'd find work and it wouldn't cut into my funding. That has been easier said than done. Basically last week started off with me organizing my references with an agency so that they could place me for work as I had an interview with them the week before. However, once they checked with the Home Office to see if I could work more hours than a student visa allows, that was quickly shut down. Home Office said this is term time and I cannot work full time during term time. The agency could no longer register me because I am not allowed to work more than 20 hours per week and for them it isn't worth their time since I am not available enough, bullshit! I have all this free time on my hands (which you think I would spend blogging but I some how manage to pass the time many other ways).

Here enters the part where I cursed this country and wanted to go home, bollocks! K that doesn't sound good in anything other than a British accent, good thing you can't hear me saying it. Alright, to be fair I didn't, F word served me just fine.

I am looking for full time temp work, currently I have a relief position at a hostel (residential place for at risk youth, not a backpacker hostel) ranging from zero to varied hours. My manager called me this week Monday to fill in shifts and asked if I would be looking for more hours and possibly full time work. I explained my situation, and told her I was going to speak with an International Advisor at my uni to see what my options were. So the conversation with the International Advisor went a little like this (summarizing with a little flare of course):

Advisor: How can I help you?

Me: I'm screwed because of my visa, what are my options?

Advisor: Your work can apply for a permit or (can't remember this other option but I know it wasn't good). Hold on, what type of student visa do you have? Is it the new Student Tier 4 one?

Me: Well I assume so, I only received it less than 2 years ago, in August 2008.

Advisor: No, you have the old student visa. Home Office updated the requirements in April 2009. So, there is a bit of a grey area. Under the new visa you would have had to go home, it explicitly states get out of our country if you fall into the exact position you are in now. But since you have the old visa 'term time' is not defined by the Home Office. And if they don't define it then who but your school must be able to.

Me: So legally I can work full time???!!!!

Advisor: I wouldn't say that, but you aren't breaking any rules. If you are confident that your school says you don't have classes to attend then you ARE on vacation time. During vacation time you can work as many hours as your little heart desires. Now, home office doesn't like this situation but again, you aren't breaking any rules by doing so. I can write you a letter explaining this that you can give to potential employers.

Me: Yes please!

I called my manager after that and now she is checking with HR to make sure that everything is alright for me to take on more hours. Much better start to this week! So if everything is cool with my job I can probably just find a full time position with them as they are currently hiring, yessss.

So if you were to ask me at this moment " How do you like London" I would reply, "I love it!"

If you're happy and you know it clap your hands!

2010-02-11T03:52:00.001-08:00

Ahhh! Alright here we go, I have neglected to keep up with my blog, I have a TON to say and so multiple posts are swirling around in my head soon to be here (hopefully).

I have to say I feel happy. No one particular thing has sparked this, but many little things finally feel like they are coming together and I feel like myself again. I felt like this last year, roughly around this time. Probably the thaw of winter and realizing the sun DOES sometimes shine in London. First and most important update, my first friend from home (not an official title, I said this to a friend here and they thought it was a Canadian way of saying best friend) is visiting and I am soooo excited! As I said in a prior post I'm going to be in London for another year for school. Currently I don't have classes and I'm working instead so this is perfect timing! We plan to head to Berlin, and since the only other European city I've been to is Milan I'm excited to escape London and explore. My camera has been way under used.

<----This is Jen and I this past Halloween in Toronto (she was meant to be a Greek Goddess but the outfit turned out to be a mix of She-Ra and gypsy woman, I was a Geisha as you can't see what we're wearing). She will be here in 22 days! We met first year university and 9 years later she's still one of my good friends.

This trip means I can update my Photog Blog, FINALLY! YES!

Another reason things are going swimmingly has to do with my gym attendance. I enjoy the gym and going alone, friends are fun but I find them too distracting. I'm at a point where my cardio has gotten to a level where I feel challenged but not like I'm going to pass out. A friend of mine at home is also training to run 10k, so we are motivating each other to complete our weekly runs. I still hate running, mainly because I find it incredibly boring, but I do like the feeling of accomplishment it gives me.

Lastly, I'm dating someone new. He's great.

Where does the time go?

2010-01-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Ok, yes, I'm very late. The month is nearly over but I'm pretty sure you can say it until the end of January?

So new year, what are your resolutions? I don't make them per se but I still like to set goals for myself. I try to have a list of 8-10 but so far I only have two, with one main one to run 10k. I've never run before. I'm doing this mainly because I'd like to attempt a triathalon before the big 3-0 so it's more an age goal than anything.

I started training in December and I've confirmed what I thought, I don't particularly like running. Which is ok, because I'm still going to do it which is really all that matters.

Last year I also realized that I'd be set back another year for school so I'll be in London for at least one more year. So the second goal, finish school which can't be done any sooner. I feel like I've been studying forever. It's a setback I didn't anticipate but it does mean I'll be in London for another year, can't complain.

Don't call it a comeback

2009-12-08T19:20:00.001-08:00

There are a couple reasons for my 3 month hiatus but the main one winning out was boredom. After recently discovering more travel blogs I'm slowly but surely getting my motivation and interest back.

I found a post that addresses this very issue and offers tips to step back into the world of blogging - " 7 days to Rediscovering your Blogging Groove". I know, it sounds like the title of a self-help book!

I probably won't do the project and post daily, but I'll use the suggestions to get back into my blogging groove. Ideally posting once a week is good for me, unless more comes up of course. Finally, looking back on my postings I think I've included too many pictures. SO while I will probably break this rule at some point in the future, I'm going to limit pictures on this blog to one per post at the most. The rest can go up on my Photog Blog

Goodbye summer

2009-08-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

I get a BIG fail for not updating my blog this summer. It flew by incredibly fast and I didn't do much that would be "blog worthy". See, I live in the suburbs of Toronto...not a whole lot going on here. Though I must say I'm quite content that I came home because I needed some down time from London.

The highlight of the summer were the 3 nights I spend at a cottage with friends from University. Managing a big group can be stress and the coordination before the trip had it's annoyances but it went perfectly. We don't often get together so it was nice to have an extended weekend away.

...we had already been drinking for hours, so things got a little messy after a couple rounds of shots

I am heading back to London shortly, next Friday to be exact and I'm getting excited about it. When I left I got someone to take over my contract for my room. So now I'm going back without a place...that's right I'm homeless at this point. I'm not too worried about it - yet, I am attempting to get a short let for a month. Then hopefully find a place for me and a friend to move into after that.

The End of an Era

2009-07-09T17:26:00.000-07:00

I've been home now for 3 weeks today. Things couldn't have worked out better as I've been able to go back to my old job. When I left summer last year I was at a point in my life where I wasn't being challenged by the position anymore as well as really wanting to return to school. For some background, I worked (and have resumed for this summer) in the social work field with homeless youth. This was my first professional job out of school and I was there for nearly 3 years. As much as I was ready to leave it was hard because I changed so much there, personally and professionally. While I basically sidetracked into social work because I didn't get into law school when I first applied, it was meant to be. I know that I will be a better lawyer because of my experiences there.

So of course the death heard 'round the world was that of Michael Jackson. I didn't believe it when I first heard it, then I couldn't stop hearing about it. I'm a fan and it's weird to know that there won't be any more music coming from him.

Next week I've got a cottage trip planned, the quintissential Canadian summer weekend thing to do. It's been planned since February this year and we'll be doing an MJ tribute....only 1 of the 13 people going know about it, but oh, it'll happen!

RIP MJ

Eye Spy

2009-06-16T15:12:00.001-07:00

Tonight is my last night in London and I must say I'm feeling a bit sad. Of course I'll be back shortly but two really great friends I've met here are also taking off for Canada shortly and they aren't coming back. I know same country but we live very far apart!

The past week and a bit I've been up and down London Town seeing more sites before I take off. Yesterday I did the London Eye with one of the aforementioned friends, he's leaving me for Winnipeg, tear. It was really great, but we got stuck at the top! Yes touristy but I do recommend it.

A Stroll in the Park

2009-06-04T12:03:00.000-07:00

Finally I am done exams! It was long and drawn out and now I can relax and have fun. I have decided to go home to Canada for the summer, I job searched for a bit here then decided that I missed everyone too much to not go home. So I'll probably update my blog with Toronto fun over the summer. I should be back in London the end of August or early September.

The gorgeous weather here has been optimal to visit some of the really nice parks London has to offer and I've recently visited Regent's Park and today Holland's Park which was really nice. In Holland's Park we were in the Kyoto Garden, enjoy:

Holland Park: Kyoto Garden

Regent's Park:

The British Museum

2009-05-17T01:26:00.000-07:00

For a study break I went to the British Museum. This is the second time I've visited but I didn't have my camera the first time. It is gorgeous and I like that the majority of the pieces are not behind glass.

Of course you still can't touch anything, and the most precious things like the Rosetta Stone (I know!) are in protective casing. Below is just a small taste of what I saw. Many of the exhibits were closed as it was a Friday evening but I plan to make another trip soon.

Great Court Ceiling

Great Court

Greece/Rome

Egypt

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2009-05-07T07:13:00.000-07:00

It didn't rain that much last month but I must say everything is now lovely and green. The flowers in our front and crazy overgrown backyard are a nice change instead of the garbage that blows around. Well the garbage still blows in but at least I'm distracted first by the flowers, then the garbage. The sun is out most days so that's great too. I still think it's too cold to go out without a coat as it hovers mainly around 16 but I'm not complaining!

I haven't posted for a month, mostly because I've been studying. I've been mostly hold up in my room or the library rarely doing much of anything besides studying. My exams finally start next week and the last one is June 2. The exciting life of a law student!

I do have a recommendation though, I escaped from my study lair and make it to daylight and saw In the Loop. It's a political satire and hilarious! Not sure if it's playing in North America but there are American actors in it, check it out!

Viva la Revolution

2009-04-08T05:31:00.000-07:00

I have impeccable timing. I have about one month to revise for exams. So I have decided to start Che's biography. At 739 pages, then up to 775 with the epilogue the timing is not good.

However, that has never stopped me before and I find that multitasking helps keeps me on top of my work. Though I really have to step it in gear so I will post less as it is distracting. This period of time is going to be really boring anyways, I'm sure you don't want updates on the law.

Back to Che, I was in Cuba for New Years 2008 and my camera was broken so I didn't have it for the trip. We went into Havana and I took that picture you see in this post as I borrowed my friend's cam. This is the one trip that I didn't have my camera for and it sucks because I have to rely on the other girls who were with me to get those memories. It is 2009 and still haven't gotten pictures so that should tell you something. Either way, I have only read a couple pages and I am hooked. I want to go back to Cuba and explore off the beaten path. I did the resort thing and being black I can only sit at the beach and tan for so long (approx half a day is all I need). If you look at the lonely planet website and the details on Cuba it looks gorgeous, I can't believe I was there and failed to see that. I said to myself when I was leaving that I wouldn't return but now I want to.

Culinary Queen

2009-04-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

I have posted before about the lack of flavour in the foods I have when I eat out so I rarely do. Cheaper and tastier to buy and cook. I invited a friend over for dinner yesterday evening. We meant to cook this: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Spicy-Indian-Chicken-and-Mango-Curry/Detail.aspx

However, we modified the recipe with some of the suggestions below and it was very tasty. If I find the recipe I can give the exact break down of the costs. Yesterday after going to Columbia Road Market, and Brick Lane, AND the Science museum again for IMAX I came home to prepare that meal. I flippantly said to the friend I was with at the science museum that we should have a cook off as she was going to cook for a friend that night too. She resigned from the beginning, should have known but I am competitive. So below are pictures of the process.

I don't cook often at home in Canada but I have been quite a bit here obviously out of necessity. I knew I had skills but this turned out so well I give myself the title of Culinary Queen.

To Market To Market

2009-04-06T03:39:00.000-07:00

My picture taking yesterday has been called prolific. I took 190 in total and 2 videos. That is a lot, even for me, in one day. So that means this is a picture intensive post which I like.

The plan - go to Columbia Road Market in a quest to beautify my home, I mean room, with flowers. Mission accomplished but oh so much more exploration happened along the way, typical London Town.

The madness begins......

...delicately pretty

...almost bought this one

...looks like coral underwater when taken up close

...the orange and blue: birds of paradise

...can you spot the beer glass behind the hedge hog plants I believed they started serving beer at 8:00 am - something I read in a review for this market

...almost bought these too, at this point I have chosen a plant and am trying to add

...must do the Jack the Ripper walk, he apparently had a drink at this bar, and so did Johnny Depp (for research purposes of course) *sigh*

WARNING: these may be offensive says their sign, but I find them delightful

Happy Birthday Lindsay

Happy Birthday Justin

Happy Birthday ____________

Happy Birthday Jen

Happy Birthday Shawn

Happy Birthday Vanessa

Happy Birthday Ron

...apparently I am bringing the belt back, a fashion student stopped me at the flower market to take my picture in this outfit. These are all clothes from home but I guess the belt is chic

... we stopped at Science Museum again to see Dinosaurs IMAX

Purchase Number One

Purchase Number Two

Purchase Number Three - not a flower I realize but still pretty and a good addition to my room

The Big Green Bookshop

2009-04-02T16:57:00.000-07:00

Law is just one of the many careers that I would like to have in my life. Since it is the one that requires the most training I suppose I get it out of the way now. When I do finally settle in a country, down the line I would like to set up a bookstore. Purely selfish reasons. I absolutely love to read. I've been hooked since I was a kid.

I was such a bookworm I used to sneak reading books during class in grade 6. How I never got teased (that I know of) for that is beyond me. If I wasn't getting chastised for talking to friends in class I was getting caught reading, what a rebel. Earlier this year I found a local bookstore - the Big Green Bookshop. I resisted going in for about a month because I knew the temptation to purchase a book would be too high. I ventured in eventually and was able to resist temptation. Though I have been back to buy b-day cards and gifts. I much rather support a local store than a chain and this one is great and green, my favourite colour.

Tonight I attended a book speak at the store, not sure if that is the correct term. The book is Cleaning Up: How I Gave Up Drinking and Lived by Tania Clyde. I got there right on time and I was the first one there. People slowly trickled in. I had been debating earlier if I should go and really door to door it is a 3-4 minute walk. I just wasn't sure if I wanted to go as I would have felt like I had to purchase the book and what if it sucked? I'm so glad I went. The exerpts read were funny, witty, shocking, and familiar. Drinking culture in England is so ingrained and has a long history. It is everywhere and everyone drinks. It surprises me that more people aren't alcoholics here. Alcohol is cheap, and Tania even commented that prices have gone down in recent years. So overall it was good, glad I went and I bought the book because I had to read it and of course get it signed.

Everything is Political

2009-04-01T17:51:00.001-07:00

G20 - the meeting heard around the world. It takes place on Thursday but there have been protests that started this past Saturday to lead up to it.

Today, not thinking of these protests, (only to make sure I stayed away from where they were taking place) I decided it was beautiful out so I would go check out Canada House Gallery. It is in Trafalgar Square, and then after I was going to hang out in the square for a bit to read. Both plans were thwarted as the gallery was closed and Trafalgar Square was full, of protesters, activists, and so on.

This gathering was quite peaceful, although the media would have you believe that violence and aggression would/did mark the protests. Well, there was violence at some, mainly the protests in the financial district. The one in Trafalgar Sq wasn't one of them. I stayed for a bit but then it looked like it was ending so I headed out to catch a bus before the rush of people.

It was kinda cool and inspiring to be there. Cool because I know the world is talking about it and I was in the midst of it all. Inspiring because people aren't being complacent, they were there standing up for many different issues. One of my pet peeves is people who don't vote. In the western world we are way too comfortable, so comfortable we can complain that our politicians don't do anything but we don't vote. I have only ever missed voting twice since I turned age of majority. Both times due to school. Even if you hate politics it is apart of our lives and you can't escape it...I couldn't today.

From the Guardian

Summa Summa Summa Time!

2009-03-31T05:18:00.000-07:00

School is unofficially done this week! Sunday night I toasted with a friend that we have gotten through our first year of law school. Technically we haven't yet as exams don't start until May, but we're at the home stretch and since you can re-do exams in law school there really is no way to fail out. So it is safe to say that I've completed my first year.

This school year felt like a maze. Once I started it was difficult, confusing at times, I felt completely lost at other times, but then I figured out what I needed to do and now that I am nearing the end I look back and see that it was a challenge but I had fun. I'm not ready to leave London yet so I have made to decision to not apply for the transfer home. Partly because I refuse to give Canadian law schools my money (for the 3rd time) and have nothing come of it. To apply to 3 schools and the application fee is $500. That could buy me out of my stupid cellphone contract in Canada.

I have a job, sorta. I applied for a part time position and they didn't offer it to me but they are offering me a relief position instead. I'm liking this because then I can have more flexibility, especially when I want to go home in July for a couple weeks. So this can't sustain me here for the summer but it is a start. So now I am on a massive job search to secure something for June. Hopefully everyone else waits until after exams to search. I'm finding really interesting positions so we'll see what happens.

The Science Museum

2009-03-29T02:40:00.001-07:00

Finally, I was able to go to the Science Museum! The Japanese cars were cool, but the one I really wanted to see had been taken away months ago. This is it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZG4EkaTYUkg&feature=related I want to test drive that.

The rest of the museum was great, so much to see we just barely scratched the surface. We ended it off with seeing Sea Monsters in IMAX which was great. Whoever comes to visit, we are going to take out a day to go here.

Museum of Childhood

2009-03-19T08:04:00.000-07:00

I have a paper due next week and I just could not concentrate on it yesterday. So I decided to clear my mind and get out of the house because the sun here is fleeting. So I decided to go to the Museum of Childhood. I love it! I got there ar 5:00 and it closed at 5:45 so I have to go back but what I saw was great. Something about toys, pressing buttons, and doing stuff can really help you to get lost in childhood again.

Stop the Traffick

2009-03-18T04:47:00.001-07:00

On Thursday 12 March my Amnesty International Society at school had a charity event titled 'Band Night' where we had various bands (so inventive) perform. We choose to donate 200 pounds to Eaves - POPPY Project: http://eaves4women.co.uk/POPPY_Project/POPPY_Project.php

This event was held on campus at our bar, pretty sweet looking eh? Had to throw that in to declare my Canadian-ness. Much better than the bar we had on campus at my uni in Canada, that place while fun is a hole compared to this place.

Eaves works with women who have been trafficked into the UK and sold into sexual slavery, among other projects. The event was to raise awareness in a fun way. It went really well, the only thing that I would say for improvement would be to get the word out more and we really could have packed the place a little more. However, it was great and the smaller numbers made it more intimate. I was happy and proud to be apart of the entire thing. They have an opening at Eaves, so I'm applying...I decide why wait on this one job, I want to stay here this summer I've decided so I'm starting a proper job search. I still have until June to secure something as my exams aren't done until 5 June.

Living in London Series - (6) Social Life

2009-03-18T02:19:00.000-07:00

'...when a man is tired of London he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.'

- Samuel Jackson September 20, 1777

I heard this quote last semester and I first thought, ok what is wrong with me. Then I thought, nothing, this man is boasting London too much. Now, I think he is spot on, there is so much on offer here. I am mostly aware of these things because I think I have all the travel books on England/London/Great Britain out there, thanks friends!

Particularly useful is the Time Out series - 1000 things to do in London. I was on a mission this semester after getting back from my time at home to enjoy London. That dissolved into pure enjoyment of this city and it became less of a mission and more second nature. I think one would have to live in London for years before even scratching the surface of what you can do, as in most countries. For the most part I have gone to various Museums and Clubs. I'm shocked that so many good clubs are free or super cheap. Eating out is probably the most expensive but I don't enjoy the food here anyways so it works out for me.

The two main things that I LOVE here are the Music and Fashion. I've died and gone to heaven in respect to these two things. I am discovering new uk artists almost on a daily basis. The radio here isn't as annoying as home for some reason. They seem to support local artists much more. Fashion here is amazing, I love the style - except for tight pants on men. I will never like that. It is refreshing to not see baggy jeans because I HATE that look as well but tight pants aren't a good alternative. The shoes are amazing, everything LOVE IT LOVE IT! My favourite area of London is Camden. Its just a fun place with the market and just so much going on there. Amy Winehouse used to live in that area, but she has moved to Barnet since coming back from St. Lucia. I haven't run into her, but its best she'd probably try to hit me. If I do settle here for some time I am definitely going to live in or near Camden.

Finally, I think it important to talk about making friends. Since I came for school I was in a situation where I would be meeting people. I am only 'friends' with one person in my class. Meaning we hang out outside of class. Its been interesting for me because when I first was coming it felt like I was going to be completely alone, but I have family here. I did meet them for the first time but it was still nice to have someone. As well, I met Erin through Trisha, who I worked with in Canada. So I had it pretty easy I guess in terms of settling in that department. The more I go out and the more activities I get involved in I meet more people so its great.

I went to a law fair for future Barristers this past weekend and besides leaving with 2 bags of free stuff I met a woman here who is in her final year and about to do the BVC (Bar Vocational Course). This is required before getting a Pupilliage (learning under a Barrister) and getting called to the bar. If I stay this is the route that I am going, I want to be in court as much as possible. I have to wear a wig in court, does that sound rediculous? It should because it is, I've seen pictures and people don't even hide their hair fully under it...not looking forward to that but when in Rome. I was able to speak to current barristers and get a taste of life for them, there is one particular set that I would like to join and I was glad that beyond their website they were really enthusiastic genuine people. Exciting! Can't wait to be done school and start lawyering!

Now tell me who wouldn't want to work in these surroundings?!

Attempting to organize all my new stuff

These babies belong to me, and no painful birthing period!

Aha

2009-03-13T18:47:00.000-07:00

I had a moment today, I was on the bus on my way home. On a Double Decker upstairs all the way at the back so I had a really nice view of everyone and the street. It for some reason hit me that I'm in England. I had thought about coming here for a couple years, actually since about 2005 but after the bombings I have to admit it did put me off a little.

Now I'm here and I've gotten past the dreadful adjustment period and I'm on to the fun. At risk of sounding cheesy or overly sentimental as I reflect back on so many things (traveling for some reason makes we very introspective) I have to say that I am the happiest I've ever been in life. I have to say that life just consistently gets better every year. I would have to say since age 19 onward every single year is better than the last. There aren't substantial differences (well this year yes being in London) for the most part. It's really just learning and growing and being more confident and secure with who I am.

Since I could probably relate my life to lyrics from various songs I think K-OS put it best where he says 'its easy not to care what people say, its harder to pretend to try' . Simple but so true, in high school I had convinced myself that I didn't care what other's thought about me but I really did. In uni (first degree) I completely had that revelation that it doesn't matter what anyone thinks of you except the people you care about.

School is almost done and at this moment I don't know if I will be home in Canada for the summer or stay here. I interviewed for a permanent part time position on Wednesday so if I get it I will be staying. That's very exciting because then I will get to travel tons. I would have a sweet schedule working Monday - Thursday...I could also do my hours in 3 days and have 4 days off, so fingers crossed that I get it! If not I will head home and have an equally fun time seeing my family and friends. Actually I had kinda planned to be home for the summer, but if this works out then I am more than happy to stay! I'll keep you posted.

Moment of Zen 2.0

2009-03-08T06:42:00.001-07:00

I have not been as committed to going to Temple as I was when I started. I want to go but some things came up and after attending the initial class I missed the next two.

I made it this week to class #4 and it was a different Monk who spoke only Chinese so there was an interpreter. I recognized 2 people from the first class, guess I'm not the only one slacking off. We did stretching and then walking meditation and then sitting meditation. My practise sucks. I can't turn my mind off ever. I can slow it down slightly and sometimes concentrate on my breathing but then 'wander mind' as my old Seefu (teacher) at my temple in Toronto would say always happens.

It starts with one thought and then I've planned my entire week. Then I say 'oh shit' I should not be thinking. The good thing about meditation is there are so many ways in which to do it. Luckily for me the other ways involve concentrating on something. I really like walking meditation, we did it at a pace this class but the first class we did slow walking, and I mean slooww. Basically slower than Tai Chi. Its quite relaxing. When you first ever start walking meditation trust me, its not slow enough but then you get to a place where you have truly slowed down and concentrate on your entire body, its cool you feel more connected.

I digress...

I've also been doing yoga consistently since January. I've subscribed to a podcast and it's awesome. If you have never done yoga before just try it and stick with it. You will feel stiff at first but flexibility comes really fast. I used to do yoga really consistently for the past 2-3 years at my old gym. I was craving something physical to do as the last time I went to the gym was summer 08. Gyms here are too expensive. I walk all the time but now the addition of yoga is great. I've also incorporated Hip Hop Abs. I'm a sucker for infomercials, I don't know why but they always draw me in. I remember seeing one for this years ago and it looked fun but never got around to trying it. My old gym was Good Life and there I really got into the classes they held, especially Body Jam which is basically a hip hop dance class. So this one is super fun, and I've noticed changes in my body after less than 2 months, highly recommended!

...back to it.

As I was leaving temple they had a display of brochures and I picked up one that was titled ' 100 Tasks for Life'. It looks good, a self-discovery type exercise I suppose. So even though I am not done with my current journal, the one sent to me by friends last semester was calling my name because its so pretty. So I'm committing myself for the next 100 days to do those tasks and write about then in my journal. If there is anything terribly exciting then I'll post it.

Namaste

Objection!

2009-03-08T04:38:00.000-07:00

Doesn't anyone who watches law shows want to say that at some point? I do recognize that my life as a lawyer won't be as dramatic as tv tells me but I hope that it is more exciting than school is proving to be.

From my posts someone might wonder if I actually go to school. Well I do, granted only 2-3 days a week but I'm there. This semester has been much better than last. I'm in a routine of school work (ie. doing it every day). The classes I am taking are year long courses and so I am getting a bit restless but I would say that I am enjoying it overall.

I talked in a previous post about the different streams of law school here. There are many ways to complete your law degree which was interesting to discover because in Canada there is one way and less than 20 schools for the entire country - oui c'est trés competitive. In England there are roughly 86 law schools, mine is in the top 12-15. Below are the comparisons:

Canada:

(1) 3 year LLB - an applicant must have a 4 year degree before applying - exception, you can apply to law school after 2 years of university however the standards are much higher.

England:

(1) 3 year LLB you do not require a previous university degree, meaning that yes high school students go straight from high school to law school. However, the system here again is slightly different, so I believe A levels are a year where you prep for university

(2) 2 year Graduate Entry LLB aka GELLB this is what I am doing. The applicant is required to have a 4 year university undergraduate degree. Is it two years because they give you recognition for your previous degree.

(3) Graduate Diploma of Law aka GDL. This is a one year conversion course and is the faster route into the law field. You take all the core courses that a student in stream 1 and 2 take but crammed into a year. That means 7 courses over one year, I would never do that. However, if you want to fast track then that is the way to go.

Originally coming here I intended to stay for a few years to see what job opportunities were available after my degree. I hated it here last semester, the whole adjusting period thing. Now I love it so I am keeping my options completely open. The main thing that I dislike about practising here though is that the law profession is broken into two. Barrister and Solicitor, I won`t go through the exact details of the division but essentially Barristers are in court and Solicitors are not and they do more paper work. Cosmetic division but again not going into the finer points.

I`ve wanted to become a lawyer since I was about 11. Actually I think that I picked it after doing career tests because they said that I was suited for this profession. As well a friend`s older sister was becoming a lawyer so it seemed good. Over the years I saw that it was a good fit for me and I feel as though I am doing something that I really love. I will be in school for what it feels like is forever as I will get my Master then my Phd. It seems so far away from this point but I do enjoy school. I've decided to build in travel breaks in between so I don't get bored, I've pretty much decided that I'm going to head to Japan after I'm done if I don't have anything worth wild in terms of a job.

Oh Snap!

2009-03-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

All the Single Ladies - uh oh oh

2009-03-04T05:29:00.000-08:00

Compared to last semester I've gone out quite a bit during this one. Now, you might ask; on an international student budget how do you do it? Well, surprisingly a lot of clubs are free certain nights or some are cheaper for students.

Friday 27 Feb I met up with Erin a friend who I met originally through a work friend (in Canada), Trisha, who visited London in October last year. We had been planning to get together for some time and our schedules kept clashing. So finally we got together. We met in Leicester Square and decided we would get a drink at a pub while waiting to meet up with more of her friends. Since I wanted to keep costs down, as well as her, we went to Sainsbury's (a chain grocery store here) and she got wine. I drank the beer I brought in my bag, economic and convenient! We stood on the street among the crowd of people in Soho in front of G-A-Y drinking, well not literally in the street, the side walk as we waited deciding to skip the pub.

I had to use the toilet so we ventured into G-A-Y because it was free. When we left the washroom (on the lower floor) they were playing Single ladies in the next room, so we tried to get into that room. We didn't notice the queue of waiting people, but the lady at the door kindly told us to join them at the back. So we went upstairs to leave and what, they were playing Single Ladies upstairs so we decided that since her friends weren't there yet we might as well stay and dance for a bit.

Then we left and met up with a friend of Erin's and went to a pub where they were playing electronic music. Interesting mix. The final group of friends called and we went to go meet them. We got a little mixed up with the streets but Erin's friend had a wallet with a map on it. Side bar - there is tons of merchandise with the tube map and various areas of London on them. We met up with the final group and went to an indie club, can't remember the name but it was alright alright.

I find that clubbing here and at home is quite different. Most places play indie music or house or regularly host bands. You will get the standard top 40 places but I rather try something different. I have to say I have not been disappointed thus far. I had met Erin at 8 pm that evening and it was almost 2 am, I was tired so I started my journey home. Gotta love the night buses, well when drunken people aren't bothering you on them. I left at the perfect time, as most places start winding down around 3-4, leaving at 2 meant that my N29 night bus was virtually empty. Here are some pictures and video of the night:

...evidence

...missing in this picture - the gay men off to my left who are trying to grab our breasts, classy.

...I was ready to abandon the crowd to play, then decided against it, boo.

...slow dancing to a fast song, too cool for school.

...inside the indie club, which probably doubles for a strip joint

Living in London Series - (5) Food

2009-03-02T11:49:00.000-08:00

The rumours are true, the food here is bland with a capitol B. I may have offended this British girl yesterday when talking about just how bland I think it is.

We met before our general Amnesty International meeting to discuss a social event for the members to take place mid March. We deviated from the conversation and she was asking me about which specific law program I'm in as there are different streams - I'll post on that later. Since we were looking up restaurants/pubs/bars to have an event I said I don't look forward to eating out here anyways. Then she questioned why and I said because the food is completely tasteless. She looked surprised, and said really?! I always thought of London as a foodie place.

I said, I haven't been to top of the line places but for example the Thai place I have been to in Islington is decent. However it cannot compare to Thai food I've had in Canada. Besides spice, the flavour cannot be compared. When I was home for the holidays my stomach was irritated the entire time because of my bland diet last semester. I have made sure to spice my food really well to gear up for summer in Canada. Nonetheless we got back on topic after that, oh well!

What I really like here are the markets. Not just the big ones, or the one that Jamie Oliver likes to go to (I haven't been there yet but plan on a trip). I mean the ones that spring up on the side streets and offer fresh fruit and vegetables. Healthy food is more expensive but its like that at home and supplementing your shopping at these markets is great. Fridges are typically much smaller than what we have in North America so you can't fit that much in it anyways.

In my new house, I think because of the layout of the kitchen, I have really enjoyed cooking. I just search a recipe and then try it out. Sometimes depending on what I plan to make I can't find the ingredients. That probably just falls to my lack of knowing where to get it.

Finally, I think that there is a food conspiracy going on. Sher (classmate and London partner in crime) and I have noticed that no matter what restaurant you eat from it generally tastes the same. Not similar, but exactly the same. Of course not every restaurant, however, we ate at Thai Square in Islington. Then got Thai food at another restaurant in Newington Green - the same. As well they have a bunch of chicken and chips food shops. They can be called something wildly different, and even have a different logo but the food is exactly the same as well as the container they come in. So it's almost as if its one huge chain but operating under the guise of different shops.

Verdict = more affordable and tastier to purchase and cook for yourself

International Women's Day - March 8 2009

2009-02-24T01:57:00.000-08:00

I belong to my university's Amnesty International Society. We are gearing up for International Woman's Day. I have a meeting later today to solidify the campaigning we will be doing to kick off the week of March 8th to let it be known to the student population about our events.

The real reason for this post is about a website that I recently discovered. The night that I went to Cargo as we were leaving the club the regular promoters were outside handing out fliers for other events. I didn't take any except for one that was an envelope of stuff. The next day as I was going through the contents I came across a brochure/booklet called Ctrl+Alt+Shift. The website is http://www.ctrlaltshift.co.uk/ and it is a community for people who are passionate about speaking out on poverty and injustice. I have signed up, its pretty informative.

I took time to actually read the booklet yesterday. Filled with alarming facts on the status of women around the world (they have dedicated this edition to women and poverty) it also contains joke ads reminiscent of Adbusters. One ad is about Acid. It shows a Southeast Asian woman who has clearly been maimed by acid but it is set up like an ad for L'Oreal or any other huge cosmetic company. It is clever and highly shocking all at once. Upon further reading of the booklet I came across something that said 'Google the Pink Sari Gang'. So I do what I'm told (rarely) and look it up:

http://www.bittenandbound.com/2008/11/24/pink-sari-gang-gulabi-gang-photos-and-video/

How bad ass! Make sure you watch the video. Best quote ever - 'we go and talk to them, and if they don't listen then we beat them up!' I know violence is not the answer but even Mandela's organization (the ANC) which subscribed to Ghandi's non-violence principles acknowledged that these strategies after some time were no longer an effect means by which to resist the corrupt government. These women are mobilizing themselves and all I can say is I want a Pink Sari.

I will be involved in International Women's Day events at school but I want to do something unrelated to school. This site: http://www.internationalwomensday.com/ allows you to search your country and see if there are any events happening. I must say that I am impressed that the UK leads the world in the number of events taking place. There is a march on March 7th 2009 and I will be there, wearing pink.

Black History Month 2.0

2009-02-24T01:39:00.000-08:00

I have been reading Nelson Mandela's bio for roughly all of February. It is 750 pages so give me a break. I am on page 522 and I am trying to complete it before the month is done. Partly to finish it within the time that is still Black History Month, and partly because I want to read another book!

Everything happens for a reason, I do subscribe to this sentiment. However for me it does not have religious connotations. I have owned Mandela's bio for over a year. It is only now that I am bogged down with school work that I have decided to take on the task that is getting through his book. It makes total sense that now as I am becoming a lawyer and living in London there are things in the book that really speak to me. Mandela started law school roughly around the same age as me, 25/26 ish. The colonization of a people is always mirrored quite easily in their society by the ill effects that are left, but it is the little things in the book that I am noticing. For example the British write their dates like this - 24 February 2009. This is how Mandela writes his dates in the book.

Mandela is one of the many people who has lived a life of struggle for human rights. I knew his story before but not really. The perspective I am getting now of what it was like in South Africa Apartheid is sobering. You know that racial inequality is bad, but the things that the government did legally before and during that time is horrendous. I highly recommend this book. It is a mission to get through but so were all of the things that Mandela went through.

Living in London Series - (4) Housing

2009-02-22T10:12:00.000-08:00

I have lived in 2 places since being here. Both are identical in layout except the one I currently reside in is bigger. The common room (living room) has been converted into a bedroom so that our landlord can get optimal renting dollars of course. This is typical here.

The house itself is decent. However at our first (and only so far) house meeting I was warned about a few things:

(1) there were mice in the house before so make sure we keep the kitchen clean. However I was assured that part of the problem was holes, which have been closed up and there is no such mice problem anymore. Great, but I was paranoid the first couple weeks.

(2) there is a leak from the bathroom, which is on top of the kitchen. You can see it looks like it may cave in when looking at the ceiling, but it should be fine. All we have to do to not make it worse is not put the shower nozzle at the top hook. Well, I do it all the time. Doing that does not cause a leak, spilling water on the floor causes a leak, I know because I've done that inadvertently as well.

(3) we have a gas meter that needs to be topped up (this is a widely used termed for almost any and everything). So to ensure you don't take a cold shower in the morning when it runs out (which happened to me yesterday) we must keep on top of it. That meter however is in the common room which is a bedroom. So unless he keeps on top of it, it will run out and he doesn't.

(4) we share household items but one person is responsible for making sure we always have what we need. The problem that keeps occurring is that we have cheap bin bags (garbage) and they rip at the bottom when you rip it off the roll. However people continue to do it and rubbish ends up in the bottom of the bin.

(5) this is a special treat not talked about the house meeting because the people who have been living in the house apparently have not come across them? I went to the toilet at about 2 in the morning and saw a big dirty cockroach. Ok it wasn't that big, but it was dirty and big enough to do the inside scream (closed mouth scream). So I killed it hoping it was an isolated event. It was not. I saw more, not tons but at least 3-4 more, and killed those too. There is a gap between the floor and the wall and that is where I figured they are getting through. I sprayed cleaning products between the gap and I think it has worked (I hope is has). I haven't seen any since, its been a few weeks so I say mission accomplished.

Despite these 'quirks' I really enjoy living here. My roommates are quiet and keep the house tidy, I can't really ask for more. Well I can, but I am practising patience. The only other thing different than renting at home is you can move in at any time of the month. Typically at home you move in on the first of the month. As well here they post weekly rental prices. Often you still pay one lump sum at a consistent time for the month but they still advertise how much places are weekly.

In terms of areas that are good to live I can't really recommend any except I really like mine (Turnpike Lane) in the North. As I said I am in zone 3 but it doesn't take long to reach central London. I lived in Wood green last semester and while my street and house was clean the area around the tube station was gritty and ghetto. I walked up there the other day which is only a 5-6 minute walk until you reach Wood green and you can tell the difference, it is dirty. Almost like if you could walk from Mississauga to Brampton, LOL. Ok, had to do the B-town jab for you Southern Ontarians. You must admit, there is a difference.

I found my first place through my cousin, I found my second place through: http://www.gumtree.com/. I would suggest that as a good starting point to see what rental prices are for different areas.

Tibetan Peace Garden & The Imperial War Museum

2009-02-19T01:46:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to get actual school work done yesterday I decided to venture out of the house. I can usually get work done at home but I just wanted to get out and explore a bit. I needed a quiet environment that was not a library.

I went to the Tibetan Peace Garden near Elephant and Castle tube station. It was very underwhelming. I think mostly because it is not summer yet and the greenery, is uh, not that green. So I sat there for a bit, got minimal reading done and then felt it start to rain so I retreated to the War Museum. I didn't intend to go in but I felt I was there already so I might as well. I'm glad I did, it was really nice, I would say near the top of where I have been so far.

I don't know what it is about guns and machines that draw people in but this is a huge tourist draw. Especially families with kids. I was impressed not only with the set up but the building itself.

Living in London Series - (3) Transport

2009-02-19T01:18:00.001-08:00

By far this is the one thing that I absolutely love about London. London Underground (mind the gap) and the buses are what I typically use if I can't walk to my destination.

Actually, I dislike using the tube, I much prefer to use a bus it just feels grimy down there. However, when I am in a hurry I travel down to (what feels like) the depths of hell! Its not bad at all, much cleaner than NY subway. I never used Toronto subway that much but it was clean the few times I have.

The system is very easy to navigate. It looks complicated but is far from. London is divided in 6 Travel Zones. I live in 3 and I go to school in 1 (central).
http://www.bbraun-eurofoot.co.uk/docs/2007/london-underground-map.gif

Queue - to wait in line. People love to queue here. We do it in Canada all the time. I found actually a disproportionate amount of the time in Guelph as well, people queued for buses which is fine I suppose. I follow the rules for it generally but this is NOT a rule to be followed for the tube here. During high traffic times you rush through the crowd, and if you hit someone keep moving, I repeat do not look back, do not apologize. When you get to the platform move down damn it! Then get ready to hurl yourself into the train and pack in like sardines. I HATE this but if you want to get on a train during peak times, you just do it.

Best resource is the London Transport website. They talk about Travel cards which is a necessity here and you can also plan your route. It is most helpful:
http://www.tfl.gov.uk/

Moment of Zen

2009-02-17T13:22:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to make London more like home, when I returned after the holidays I looked up Buddhist temples. The one I attend at home - Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto (though it is in Mississauga) http://www.fgs.ca/english/index.html is founded by Venerable Master Hsing Yun.

I was happy to find a temple of this division has been founded in London as well: http://www.londonfgs.org.uk/. I have been actively studying Buddhism for roughly 2-3 years now. Sometimes I identify as being Buddhist sometimes not. I don't feel the need to self identify. I specifically follow Humanistic Buddhism. However inconsistent my vocalizing being Buddhist or not is, it is an important element in my life and is represented in my tattoo:

It is a Mandala: http://www.mandalaproject.org/What/Index.html and I changed the original picture slightly by adding the Ying and the Yang in the middle, as well as the green.

I have registered for Meditation class and English Buddhist Classes, the same ones I was attending at home. Meditation is an 8 week series and started this past Thursday. I took the tube to Oxford Street which is a tourist haven, the temple is apparently a 5 minute walk from the station.

Often times I have find that maps of places are too big in scale. What I had copied down from their website and what I found were different. It should have been much easier to find than the map had lead on. I got off the tube and looked for a certain street name to get my navigation down. I couldn't find the street so I went into about 3 different shops asking people. They were no help, and one guy said he doesn't know street names just buildings, apparently this is common.

I left and doubled back the way I came, at this point it was about 7:30, when class starts. I hate being late, and not just to smite the stereotype (which is very true) that Black people are always late, its because I honestly hate being late. It had also started flurrying/raining, annoying. So I walked into one last store and one guy knew the name of the street I was looking for. I went down the wrong way at first, then doubled back determined to find this place.

I finally found it, it was closed, gates and all blocking the main door. I had even called earlier to make sure that it was in fact occurring that evening and I was told that it was. I went around back to see if there was another entrance or sign, nothing. Right beside the temple (which looks like a church and I'm sure it was at one point as this was founded in the 90's) was the Jesus Centre, looking just as abandoned as the temple.

I went back to the front thinking they must be in there. An older Black woman came walking up to the front. She rang a doorbell. I asked her if she was here for meditation, she said "what, no, I work here". So someone was in fact inside and came to open the door. I was late but I made it there. I hurried up to join the class and luckily I wasn't that late. It is a beginners meditation course, which is good for me because my mediation practice needs improvement. The monk led us in stretches, and gave us tips. I thoroughly enjoyed it though I wasn't used to so much instruction. What I did like was her telling us that if you begin to feel like falling asleep then open your eyes. At my Toronto temple I have often been distracted by people snoring during meditation.

I have homework, to meditate every day at least 10-15 minutes and I must say I haven't done it every day. Though I do yoga almost everyday so for me its similar enough. I'll try though for the remaining time until next class.

Living in London Series - (2) The Weather

2009-02-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

What can I say. It rains a lot however I find that it usually does not last for long and it is not that heavy. I don't think I've even experienced a thunderstorm. I'm sure one has occurred in the time that I've been here but I have either not been awake to hear it - which is odd as I am a night owl - or it is just not that loud.

The lack of sun is what affects me most. Waking up every day to clouds and a grey sky is disconcerting. For the most part I have coped with it quite well I think. I know in the recent past Canadian winters I have noticed the lack of sun has affected my mood. Now I wouldn't say so far as SAD but it did have a noticeable affect on me. I've considered tanning, for like 5 minutes but I just can't bring myself to pay for a tan, and yes Black people do tan.

When the sun comes out I just make sure I am out enjoying it even if I don't have school, errands, or anything planned for the day. Tomorrow I am going to the Tibetan Peace Garden: http://www.tibet-foundation.org/ac/tpg.php. I looked at the forecast to see if possibly there would be sun, no luck, well according to the BBC. We shall see.

Apparently, because I am Canadian, I should be immune to the current cold weather. No, it is not as cold as Canadian weather, but it is still cold! Everyone I talk to when it comes around to weather, which let's face it the conversation will touch on weather as everyone thinks it snows year round in Canada if they have never been or have friends/family live or visit there, they 'joke' that it must feel like summer time to me here. No, it doesn't, I feel the cold like you, I bleed red blood too! Ok that was overboard but you get me. Its not annoying, it's mostly funny as these images of an ever lasting winter in Canada are so pervasive.

I could have fun with this, I could say I live in an igloo or something. Or I could say my family are Mounties, that I come from a long line of proud Mounties and I am breaking the mould by becoming a lawyer, rebel! I'll remember that for next time.

It is warming up, the last couple weeks its been around 2-4 degrees and going into the minus over night. This week it is up around 9-10 degrees celcius. Summer starts officially at the end of March. I'm ready for it.

Just Dance

2009-02-15T05:20:00.000-08:00

I decided for Valentine's Day I would celebrate with friends. In the end I went out with one friend (other flaked) and we went to this Bar/Club called Cargo. It is in East London - Shoreditch. It was recommended to me.

So we got there at approximately 11:45 and waited in line for about 35 minutes. Finally inside and then we had to wait in another line to check our coats. Then I had to go to the bathroom so we waited in line for that. I don't know why but women were just chilling in there, I didn't get it. So after that we joined the main room and saw a line for the bar, ugh. At this point I wanted to go home. So I suggested we check out the other room with the dance floor. I beelined for the bar and there was no line, yes! So we got drinks and stationed ourselves on the outskirts of the crowd. It was packed in there so our location was ideal, by the bar, not far from an exit, and in a place where we had room to breathe.

Verdict: I would definitely go back, the dj was playing house which I don't usually dance to but this was very danceable. We did go on a night where it is free to get in so with all things considered (all the waiting) it was an ok trade-off for the atmosphere - chill, unpretentious people, and good music.

Snapped while waiting in line

...while waiting to check our coats

...in the club

... at the bar with no line!

http://www.freezulu.co.uk/index.php

...on the walk to the tube station home

...waiting for the tube station to open we thought at 4 - we were wrong

Living in London Series - (1) Health Care

2009-02-15T02:57:00.000-08:00

When doing research about moving to London in Summer 2008 I think I was mainly looking for the perspective of someone (bonus if they were Canadian) who had made the transition. I wanted anecdotal information about how they had found living here and I was able to find one person on Youtube who vlogged (video blogged) about her time here. She wasn't Canadian (Aussie to be exact) but it was nice to hear that she had similar feelings as I had being an outsider.

So since I am connected to an expat blog website: http://www.expat-blog.com/ I am going to do a series of posts about different aspects of Living in London. Of course, like my entire blog, this is my experience and my opinion. I do not think that it necessarily represents London as a whole, I never speak in absolutes, that's just ridiculous! This post is about the health care system....and my strong hatred for it *warning* this is going to be long.

The National Health System (NHS) provides health care for all UK residents and it is funded by taxes. As a full time student I am able to 'benefit' and I use that term very loosely from these services. The system is similar to Canada, however, in Canada it is divided by provinces and this system covers the entire UK: http://www.nhs.uk/Pages/homepage.aspx for more info.

So you can imagine that when dealing with this system (1) it is going to be slow and (2) you should have patience. Especially in London when you take into consideration the population is roughly 8 million, this includes not only central but surrounding areas. Now patience is not my strongest characteristic but I do have some on reserve. I would also like to believe that I am pretty level-headed as I don't get easily upset and even when I do it just affects me because I deal with it internally. The patience I do have however does not accommodate for people who are incompetent, it dissipates rather quickly.

To register for a Doctor you go to your local Chemist (almost like a Shoppers Drug Mart but very small in size - for you Canadians) to get a list of Doctors who are accepting new patients in the area. I settled on a clinic which is about a 5-7 minute walk from my house. I brought my passport, a letter from my school with my updated address and went to register. When I got there I was informed that a letter from school was not sufficient, there was no explanation as to why it wasn't except for "we have procedures and we must take the necessary documents". So a sufficient document includes a utility bill. I told the Receptionist 1 that it was not possible to get as everyone in my house already has their name on a bill. So I asked her what else I could get in order to verify my residence. She said get your landlord to write a letter stating that you are a tenant. You might be thinking that is pretty similar to my school writing a letter verifying where I live and that is because YES it is almost the exact same thing.

So I got a letter from my landlord, which by the way I could have done myself as it did not come on letterhead and looked like it could have been written by the man who sometimes lives outside the bar on the strret adjacent to mine. So I decided that I would bring my contract at the next attempt to register, just in case. I got there and gave my documents to Receptionist 2 (not the one I dealt with last time) I didn't hand her the contract but said I had it available. She looked at the letter from my landlord and asked for my contract. So you can imagine my mild irritation especially since I could have gone back to the clinic much sooner as my contract was readily available. So I filled out some paper work and she booked me to have an appointment with the Nurse the following week.

I arrived at that appointment about 8 minutes early and the clinic was semi full. I waited probably 15 minutes before being called in to see the Nurse. Nurse ended up being Receptionist 1, who had told me to get a letter from my landlord my previous attempt to register. I brought paper work from Canada to give them as I need to have follow up for something specific. I recognize that I procrastinated on getting it done in Canada so I know that my urgency of the issue is intertwined in how I feel about this entire experience. So we did the routine check height, weight, blood pressure. The room that I was in looked messy, not dirty but very untidy. No one was wearing scrubs or a uniform of any sort. She had to take my blood pressure twice because the machine, which looked older than I am, didn't register it the first time. So we discussed the follow up that I needed and I asked if I could book an appointment for it. She first said that I would have to repeat procedure one before going onto the follow up I needed. We further discussed and she said that procedure one shouldn't be necessary to repeat and that my results from Canada should be sufficient.

Last step was to meet with Doctor, I found this odd because all I needed to do was book an appointment for the follow up procedure. Nurse advised that I would have to speak to Doctor first to discuss and she would decide what I needed to do. So I booked an appointment to see Doctor Saturday morning (yesterday). As an aside I went out Friday night and did not get home until after 5:00 am (I will discuss Transportation in its own post so I won't get into it further) and my appointment was at 10:00 am. I arrived at that appointment about 3-4 minutes late. There were 2 people ahead of me but I ended up waiting about 40 minutes before seeing Doctor. I went to the office to see a woman who was not the picture of health at all. I'm not perfect but I do my best to eat fairly well and exercise. She was probably 400lbs and I am not exaggerating.

Long extremely irritating story short I in fact would have to repeat procedure one before doing follow up. Nurse strikes again with misinformation. So I complained to Doctor about the entire process and how it has now taken me roughly a month to register, complete their intake, and see her. So I protested to just do the follow up and she said no, so I conceded. I have not experienced that level of rage about anything or anyone in a long time. When I get that angry the only natural reaction I have is to cry, and naturally I hate that reaction. She called front desk to book an appointment for procedure one and I can tell she was negotiating dates for me to come in earlier and even said 'she's quite distressed' as she asked for an earlier date. At one point 23 Feb was one date and then some how an opening on 17 Feb came up, I'm sure my crying and anger had nothing to do with that.

Another aside - the office looked like part storage and I did not see Doctor's credentials displayed. I have no faith in this clinic and their knowledge. I have deemed them to be unprofessional and highly incompetent. It is not that I don't want to follow the rules and that I assume Canada's health care system and Doctors are better - I mean they are and but it is this experience that has made me think that. It is the misinformation and run around that I have gotten.

Anyways, I am booked for procedure one on Tuesday. I have looked at a private clinic and I intend to go there instead. I will cancel my Tuesday appointment when they text my mobile to remind me on Monday - the only service they do well, remind you to come in. Private practice, I am opposed to paying for health care but I need peace of mind that I will get a Doctor who knows what they are doing and I want the process to be a lot quicker than it has been thus far.

To weight in on what Brits feel about the NHS can be summed up in a saying I have heard time and time again - Just don't get sick here.

Warning

2009-02-12T04:03:00.001-08:00

This isn't really meant to warn anyone though I guess it can. So here is my PSA for the day. This past Monday in the mail I received the above flyer. Now this is the second time since being in this house that I received said flyer.

The first time I thought that's great, what a good cause, but I ended up using the last one to write a grocery list on the back and it ended up getting battered after being present in the kitchen during the cooking. This time when I saw it again I thought at the end of my stay (which will be June as I am hoping to be home for the summer) I can get rid of any clothes I don't want to bring with me and help out a good cause. So upon further inspection I decided I would find out more about the organization; firstly to complain about their usage of the term 'Third World' and secondly, to get more information about the cause.

I went to the website at the bottom and it didn't work. I looked up the company and came across an article in the Guardian that said beware of fake charities. So, the moral of my story? Complaining can lead to finding out about scams. Okay, not as tidy a moral. How about never take something at face value? Also do your own research. That fits for lots of things, the media, gossip, etc etc.

Tate Modern

2009-02-10T10:19:00.001-08:00

There is symbolism for the whole exhibit, I don't know what it is. I was just happy that I could take pictures.

Black History Month

2009-02-06T00:48:00.000-08:00

If Bob Marley had lived, today he would be turning 64. The staying power and reach of his music across all cultures is amazing. The BBC radio station I listen to has been paying respect to him all week by playing 2 tunes of his every evening.

I wasn't really going to post anything specific to Black History month because well, being Black I guess by default (and choice) I celebrate it everyday of my life. Actually since travelling to Senegal last year my main focus has been to learn and know my own history and that of the African diaspora.

However, Black people, and all people can't deny that this year is different. The election (last year) of a Black president in the US - yes everyone realizes he's mixed race - is historic. I wished I could have been in Washington for his inauguration.

Last year, for Black History month I was in Senegal. That was the first time in my entire life that I had ever been in a country where the majority of people had the same colour skin as me (ok you can count the 2 months I was born and lived in Jamaica before coming to Canada but I don't remember it so I don't) and the feeling was incredible. Before going I didn't think of how that would have an effect on me. I was told by many that the trip would probably be life changing and it was but I'm not sure it was in the way others expected it to be. Anyways, in Senegal (I think all of Africa too but I'm unsure) they do not have Black History month, makes sense to me.

Finally I want to talk about what prompted me to write this post. Well the whole purpose of Black History is to highlight contributions that we have made to society hopefully to break down stereotypes etc. Well I had heard about this story but didn't really pay attention to it until now. Carol Thatcher was sacked by the BBC for calling a Black tennis player a Golliwog. I had heard of this term once before actually from the Picture a Day blog I follow. Here is the article with the background:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2009/feb/06/race-thatcher-golliwog

So Thatcher said the term in private but the BBC states that she had ample opportunity to apologize and she did not so they sacked her. I hadn't formed an opinion of it but then read another article of a Black Briton and her experience as a child growing up here she remembers when that term was used against her. My experience in life has not been met with blatant racism, there have been some subtle times but again with subtle racism it aways leaves you ambiguous, did they really not acknowledge me because of my race?

The Golliwog doll is most definitely racist, there is no discounting that. I've taken American Black History and the caricature of Black people is ever present in this doll. This world has come a long way, but it will be interesting to see where we are in even more 20 years.

To end this post on a happy note, this year Motown turns 50! I've been listening to a ton of Motown recently and so I leave you with a play list of Motown songs, enjoy. I added one of my favourites of Bob's - Redemption Song - I hope to learn this on the guitar.

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Christian Counter Ads

2009-02-05T01:35:00.000-08:00

There is a follow up article concerning the Atheist Bus Campaign:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/feb/05/atheist-bus-christian-response?commentpage=1

I have nothing to say besides I'm not surprised. I tried to embed a clip about the Atheist campaign which shows the creator and her motivation. It has been taken off of Youtube so here is a link to The Guardian and you can watch it there. Dawkins has crazy hair!

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/video/2009/jan/06/atheist-bus

Here is a fun video that touches on religion by the group of Montreal. Thanks Justin for introducing me to their music!

Oh the London Snow

2009-02-04T08:03:00.000-08:00

I did not end up going to Chinese New Year festivities because they shut down the area for pedestrians but unfortunately that meant buses weren't going close enough and trains from my area had huge delays with the influx of people taking the tube. I had attempted for almost an hour to make it down and I was cold so I went home and had soup instead.

Flurries started Sunday throughout the day and then approx 10 cms dropped. Monday another 10 cms plus came. It didn't land by me, but it landed somewhere. I got an email from school saying that due to the extreme weather conditions they were shutting down, yes! Not extreme by Canadian standards, but before you Canadians look your noses down, or is it up, at Londoners that is a lot of snow for London even for Canada. They also do not have an adequate amount of snow plows to deal with it, so says the news. Oh well, all is back to normal now.

Sunday - evening

Sunday - later that evening

Monday - morning

Monday - evening - failed snowman attempt?

Here are pictures of my school from last week:

Main building

Northampton Square

Found this written on the side of the building below. I googled it and came up with an American indie band.

The campus is very bike friendly

Northampton Square

08 Update

2009-02-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

This post includes pictures from 2008 to tie together my entire experience here. Most of these pictures were on Facebook with the exception of the house where I was living last semester, those are at the end.

Kensington Grounds

Sunken Garden - Kensington Grounds

Buckingham Palace

Beefeater

Big Ben (is not that big in person)

London Eye (is definetely big in person)

My last residence:

I have told some the story of where I last lived and why I hated it there so much. As you will see in the pictures it was clean and a very nice house. However, the woman I lived with was not (nice I mean, she regularly bathed). She is the other woman in an interesting story that I won't go into detail here. That is how she acquired the house. Anyways, she never turned the heat on unless she was home and even then a very limited time in the evening. She was passive aggressive often moving my stuff if she didn't like where it was placed (example my own cleaning products in the bathroom). She also would leave me notes stuffed under my door to communicate with me. This woman was in her 40's. Needless to say I'm glad that I am no longer there. Oh yeah and I'm pretty sure she entered my room (which had a lock on it) at some point. Nothing was taken because I kept anything valuable on me when I left the house (my passport, laptop and ipod).

Living room - after a short while she hid the tv remote to deter me from watching tv. I'm not a fan of Brit tv anyways so the joke was on her!

Switches control the electricity on an outlet - that is how I tested if my landlord came in my room. I always left the switches turned on but would come home and find them magically turned off. I started wedging my smallest luggage in front of the door when I left so that if you opened the door you would hit it. After that the switches were never turned off again, hmm.

My old room - no personality - just like my landlord

Halloween - Trisha!! I don't think Trisha realized how nice it was for me to see a familiar face from home. She told me that she didn't adjust to London until about a year after being here. So Trisha, if you ever read this, thanks.

Music Makes the People Come Together

2009-02-03T04:48:00.001-08:00

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

O Canada

2009-02-03T02:22:00.000-08:00

Alright,

this is my last rant topic in this recent series of sound off time. As an aside, I enjoy blogging but it takes energy! I know at least a couple people might read this so I try to edit extensively. As well when I include photos those are the ones that take the longest.

I was sent an article from a friend who I always have quite intelligent conversations with. He sent me an article about a school in New Brunswick that has stopped singing the national anthem because of complaints from a parent:

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/print/CTVNews/20090129/o_canada_090129/20090129/?hub=TopStories&subhub=PrintStory

I don't know if I have much of a stance on this. I guess I'm blogging about it to get a sense if anyone really even cares? I read there many schools there have not been singing the anthem in the morning for a while and it is not a big deal for them. I suppose they are teaching us to be patriotic? I am proud to be Canadian and while I would never discount that I am Jamaican born, Canada has and will always be my home. I don't know if the anthem had anything to do with instilling my Canadian 'ness'. Maybe its surviving 26 years of horrible (and fun) winters, drinking Tim Hortons, taking French in school, I don't like Hockey but I do like Basketball which was invented by a Canadian...what are some other stereotypical Canadian things? I should have an extensive list by now as they get recited to me weekly.

I've actually always said that Canada is void of culture and really just has borrowed (or stolen) from other cultures and we have come out to be what we are today. That's slightly harsh I think on my part. Yes we are a country of many immigrants just like me and my family. However there are things that bind us all together. My family came to Canada for better opportunities for us all. I'm not saying my life would have been doomed had we stayed in Jamaica but I know that I would not have the same opportunities, meet the same people, and dare I say be as open minded as I think I am. Canada is quite progressive and I'm really proud of that fact. There are many things that make us a progressive country and I won't go through them all but as a woman of colour I am happy that Canada is my home (more so than the US and England).

Its pretty racist in England. London is very multicultural but people are ignorant outside of London. I would place the racism meter (from what I've seen, heard, and thankfully not really experienced) in the middle of Canada and the US. They are not blatant like the US but they are more so than us at home in Canada. We Canadians are more subtle with their dislike of other races. As soon as you move out of London especially north England (Leeds etc) it is really racist there - I've been told. I've also been told I shouldn't experience any problems because I'm female but still doesn't make me want to venture to those places. There are places in Canada and the US I wouldn't want to venture to as well. Other parts of Europe are racist as well, France being one of those places. When I was coming over here a lot of people asked me if I was going to travel, and many said that Paris would be my first destination. I actually don't care to go there, I probably will but its not top on the list. Since hearing that its dirty and racist I'm not super excited to go there and experience that but it won't stop me. Its odd as well because I have seen many many interracial couples here, much more than at home.

Back to Canada, being away from home puts into perspective what you have - cue cheesy cliche you don't know what you have until its gone. That is cliche but it is true. Canada is not without its huge faults. The treatment of First Nations in Canada is so deplorable that it has been cited by the UN for many years. An apology was issued last year from our government. To me if we were to claim one main culture in Canada it would have to be Indigenous, that is our history.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/jun/12/canada.usa

Many people have come to Canada (or were brought over) and their histories are weaved into the Canadian web of history and we all deserve to be there as much as the next person. I guess getting rid of the anthem was a way to say we want to include you too. That can't be that bad. I don't think it makes us weak or makes us lose our identity. We do not have one singular Canadian identity.

Of course the main issue with the anthem is the line - God keep our land. I found a petition that wanted to amend the anthem, but their issue with it was the line - in all our sons command.

http://www.petitiononline.com/OCANADA/petition.html

I think if we are to PC up the anthem I vote for this change because half of the population cannot be ignored.

Jamaicans have a saying - out of many one people. I think that fits for Canada as well

http://www.jamaicans.com/articles/primearticles/Jamaicanrace.shtml

Atheists Unite...Maybe

2009-02-02T14:05:00.000-08:00

There is a campaign that has been running on London's buses since October last year with the slogan "There's Probably No God. Now Stop Worrying and Enjoy Your Life. I finally saw one of these buses the other day, so I know they do exist.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2008/oct/21/religion-advertising

I find it quite funny actually. It has been in the news but hasn't made a stir until a bus driver refused to operate a bus because of his personal beliefs. When I read that article his employers were trying to make a bus available which did not have the campaign slogan on it. I do not know what eventually happened in that case.

Attached to that link that I provided is a Christian's take on the whole thing. I read it and found his review to be decent except for one main point. He says that the statement of the campaign is not Atheism at all because they say 'probably' which nods more to Agnosticism. Well I disagree, an Atheist asserting that there is definitely no God is like a Theist saying there definitely is a God, both are equally unfounded statements. Atheists do not believe in God, however when looking at it scientifically on the balance of probabilities they assert that there is probably no God (Dawkins goes over 7 levels of Atheism in his book and number 7 are Atheists who would say there is definitely no God). God has not been proven nor disproved. The slogan statement I'm sure was well thought out and was not placed there to be pc but to truly illustrate a view, a moderate one at that. The Christian author also says this "probably" backs off from Dawkins usual "almost certainly" no God statements. Ok, but almost certainly still pretty much equals probably. It is still not a definite answer, no matter the degree of conviction of the words.

Atheists organizing themselves I'm sure would be difficult as the degree and conviction of them all are probably quite different (just like church, mosque, temple folk and so on) and Atheists are against organized belief so I don't think it is a call to unite in that way per se. I think the whole point of the campaign is to say that you are not alone out there to other Atheists, or to those people who are trying to figure it out for themselves.

Back to bus driver, he refused to complete the job he was being paid for because he did not agree with driving a bus with the campaign slogan on it. I think what is the big deal? I have been subjected to many a religious person trying to thump...er educate me on God's love etc. Never mind the countless religious adverts I've seen everywhere. I believe in standing up for what you believe in but I'm not so sure that he is really doing that, his choice right? Well, he also chose to work for a secular company that allows advertising space to anyone. Is it ok then for an Atheist bus driver to refuse driving a bus with any particular religious adverts on it? It appears to be so legally but socially people would be more sympathetic to the Christian I'm guessing.

There is at least one known counter campaign in the works for when this campaign moves to Toronto I have heard. I find it interesting that some religious see this as warranting a response. Aren't we allowed to have open dialogue about our beliefs? I mean as long as it is non-violent and not trying to convert someone then what is the problem? I am currently reading the God Delusion by Richard Dawkins and its interesting. One thing he talks about is the amount of respect given to religion, like a huge amount of respect that we don't give to anything else. I'm not saying (and neither does he) that people should just outwardly be disrespectful to religion, or religious people, however, why is it wrong to question it? Why is this one topic immune to scrutiny when everything else in this world is not? There are many things he says in this book that I do not agree with but that I think that point is pretty spot on. Yes people make jokes about, and speak out about religion, typically though they are the fanatic, homophobic, racist, backward minded people. Religious people I'm sure would say well of course, they are fanatics, they are we aren't. Well if they weren't then would there be a reason to speak out about them? If those people had no influence on others in this world to believe as they do then I think our world would be in a better place right now.

I am neither Theist or Atheist, for the past little while Buddhism as a philosophy for living my life has worked for me. I will always be open to intelligent rational discussion around this topic and I would hope that people no matter their beliefs would be as well.

Check out:

Zeitgeist
Religulous
Jesus Camp

Zeitgeist is a movie that is available only online from what I know. The others can be rented.

Lesson Learned

2009-02-02T13:03:00.000-08:00

I recently ended a relationship. I barely talk about my relationships in non electronic formats and I'm not going to start here but I am going to talk about this one aspect of it because I learned something, well it was obvious but it is there now and won't be forgotten. I mainly wanted to highlight a new UK artist I discovered that completely sums it up for me with a song.

I admire writers and artists (who actually write their lyrics) because I feel like they are able to express themselves in smart, witty, and funny ways.

So I learned that if you are dating someone and your friends warn you against continuing that relationship (with reason) and you say 'Ok, I'll be cautious' and continue the relationship it is like walking slowly towards a huge truck with your eyes wide open. Stupid, and when it finally hits you, its your own damn fault.

The Death of Facebook

2009-02-02T10:11:00.001-08:00

My writing juices are in overdrive as I have a couple of things I want to sound off on. So, I start with deleting my facebook account. I did it in the early morning hours as I knew it would most likely be a snow day Monday. I ended up being right. Anyways, I stayed up and took all my information off of facebook then messaged a small amount of my 151 'friends' (probably less than 50) to let them know I was leaving and to contact me via email if they wanted to keep in touch.

I have deleted my account once before and when I signed up again all my information was still there so that is why I deleted it all this time. Although I realize no one can see it after I leave. Now what bothers me is I will still technically be on facebook because of the joy of being in photos with other people who remain. That's ok for the most part, I'm just glad I'm not apart of it anymore.

So not even 24 hours later and I am happy I have severed the tie. Though when I went to delete, facebook showed me pictures of me with friends and said as if they were saying - WE WILL MISS YOU, to try to convince me that deleting my account would obviously mean that I would never again contact those people unless the must needed Facebook holds us together! I figure anyone I lose touch with because I don't have facebook wasn't really a friend in the first place.

I was speaking to an actual friend via msn about it who deleted his account the day before and he brought up that facebook is not as social and connecting as we believe it to be. We can peer into other's lives and never say a word. I did it, I admit, but have grown tired of creeping. I will also admit that for a short time when I first ever joined I was happy to break the 100 mark on friends but got over that quickly as well. Over the time I was constantly deleting people I added because I was like did not like the fact that someone I just potentially met could see all my pictures and know quite a bit about me though I never ever put work info on it. Finally, I will admit to when I first got Facebook I kinda wanted to see who peaked in high school. Meaning those were their glories days and they weren't doing much of anything after. I know very horrible of me, but I'm not perfect.

So why am I on here then? Blogging and sharing what I'm up to on a site somewhat similar to Facebook. Well for me its different, I'm connected to people in a different way and this feels more purposeful. Anyone I know can easily access this site. Its more inclusive, you don't have to have to be signed up to anything to see my page. Though I can restrict it but for the time being I don't feel that I need to. I love photography and for the most part that is what I want to share with everyone that I have told to check this out. This is me experiencing something new so you aren't here but I want you to check it out as well. What I didn't expect was for this to become somewhat of a live journal (with filter of course) that I can use to rant or praise London or just simply ramble on about different issues as I am right now. So goodbye Facebook.

Finally, I want you to comment on my posts, I just changed a setting I didn't realize it was on. Now anyone can comment if you want to on any of my posts or pictures if you feel you need to (i.e. as in correct me, which I'm fine with) or want to.

Museum of London

2009-02-02T05:04:00.000-08:00

I must say that I have enjoyed this museum the most of the 4 that I have visited - National Portrait Gallery, National Gallery, Museum of London, and most recent Tate Modern. I will have a few pictures up from Tate Modern soon, as I forgot my camera and had to use a friend's. I say few because camera's were not allowed except for one exhibit. Too bad because some of that stuff was very interesting, and odd, and oddly smelling, though I know that wouldn't translate on my blog. I like history and I got a lot when I checked this museum out, enjoy.

Ugly

That ugly outer dome serves a pretty inside purpose

London Before it was London:

Shepperton woman reconstructed 3640 - 3100 BC - yes she looks like a man, the blurb in the box acknowledged that too, you can now go ahead as well

Replica - Left - Club or beater - Right - Dagenham Idol - explained below

The real thing

London Burning 1666

If my current London residence was burning I would grab this box that I keep all of my relevant documentation in (passport, letters that say I'm here for school) and then if I had time my laptop and ipod

300 yr old water pump

This museum encouraged interaction. That is my poem on the right most clearly displayed very originally titled - London Fire. Hey, they had limited words to choose from.

To stop the London fire they had to blow up houses to create pockets so that it would stop spreading. When they rebuilt the city there were many plans put forth but they basically built it on the old plan but expanded and made the roads bigger and slightly better planned. There are many buildings that survived the burning.

There were also many theories of how the fire started. Experts now think that it started by a lone baker who forgot to put out the fire in his oven. He swore of course that he did not start this fire. Well, if I did that much damage and there was no evidence to prove it would I admit it, would you?

Other theories - Some believed God was punishing Londoners for their sins (I'm guessing the fact that it happened in 1666 probably helped that theory at the time). England was at war at this time with France and the Netherlands. During the fire people panicked thinking the French were invading. Most people in London were Protestants. Many thought the Catholics were plotting to destroy the Protestants. Robert Hubert - Hubert was a 'poor distracted' Frenchman who confessed to starting the fire in the bakery. He was hung on 27 October 1666 for the crime, even though the judges thought that he was probably innocent. Later they discovered that he had arrived to London AFTER the fire began. This is why I guess the real culprit lied his ass off.

London under Rome:

LONDINIUM

Horse bones - similar to modern day horse bones, just the hips were wider back then (don't quote me)

Model home - this is a replica, they would have used bright colours because the light from oil lamps were not very luminous. I like it.

There were plans to put up a city wall around London but that didn't work this is just a taste of what it would look like

Medieval London:

Not as many interesting things to take pictures of, I like this sign though

Before the Burning:

I really like this wall paper

Traditional bed for the era

Homeless in the Capital:

London has pledged to end street poverty by 2015, as if street poverty is the only problem. In the entire exhibit the people who are or have been homeless expressed that they aren't always sleeping on the streets, some were never on the streets. Many couch surf, utilize shelters or take buses or tubes to pass the night. Some work but cannot afford rent consistently.

London you're a tough one

2009-01-31T01:03:00.000-08:00

I think that I have reached the point where I feel, dare I say it, at home in London. In September experiencing the most extreme case of homesickness I ever thought I could, greatly disliking my living situation, and adjusting to being a full time student was almost overwhelming.

I think when speaking with friends I had spoken mostly about what I disliked about this city and country. Others, I just glazed over an answer so that I would appear to be loving it as of course I should be, its London! September and October were especially difficult, November a little better. In a city with so many people, too many it feels at times, it is incredibly easy to feel isolated. That is how I felt, very isolated and alone. I'm a very independent person and prefer doing many things alone but this time it was different. I know that I fed into that mindset as well, almost insulating myself from other people because I wanted out quickly and the less emotional attachments the easier it would be when the time came. I wanted to like it here, I mean its not starkly different from Toronto which is one of the main reasons I chose to come England (well from what I had heard). Although almost completely void of skyscrapers the same big city culture is here as it is at home. I assumed the adjustment time would be low to zero and that was a complete mistake on my part, maybe wishful thinking?

The subtle differences here are things that a tourist staying for a couple days, even a month wouldn't notice or really care about. Feeling more plugged in to my surroundings (in a Neo in the Matrix type way) I am observing many more things. Calculating my month home over the holidays and getting here late in September I've really only been here for just under 4 months. London culture is tough in a sense to understand and analyze. Besides the iconic red double decker buses, tourist attractions (London Eye, Buckingham Palace), drinking copious amounts of tea and alcohol, and the fashion, which by the way is impressive, those are all the superficial things about this city. Just as snow, Mounties, bears, and my ability to speak French (c'est mauvais!) are to Canada.

Most people in London have come from other European countries in search of opportunities to study or work. There are many Nigerians here as well. London has a huge problem with heroin, and so does Scotland. Apparently there is nothing to do in Scotland but drugs (says my roommate) haven't been up that way yet so I cannot personally comment. I was walking and I saw the quickest drug deal ever. Two men were walking towards each other high five/ shook hands and exchanged something in that but never slowed down or even really acknowledged each other, no words said. The people are for the most part not as open as people at home. People smash into you in a rush and barely glance your way to survey the damage. On the other hand people's ears perk up and they look my way on the bus or chat me up when they hear my 'accent' of course assuming I'm American. A couple have realized that I am Canadian which was refreshing. The people aren't mean they are just less warm, I'm not searching for a pc term I'm just finding it hard to fully describe with one word. I was home for the holidays and while waiting for the Go Train, which as an aside I must say my hiatus at home made me realize how much I appreciate public transport here, I found myself conversing with all of the other people waiting in the same shelter as me. Would that happen here? It is possible if the exact same situation (Snowmegeddon on its way) was to happen but I'm going to say unlikely just like snow in London.

About 1 week ago to the day while speaking to my cousin (in Birmingham) I said I don't notice many homeless people here. She was like how can you miss them! As her boyfriend yelled out in the background spare me a pound! I guess I wasn't paying attention before, but since that conversation it is all I can see. Even after working in the social work field for nearly 3 years I had a picture of homelessness in my mind and what it would/should look like, I'm a little disappointed in myself actually. I have noticed people asking for spare change, though unlike in Toronto, I have not seen anyone sleeping on the streets and those people are kinda dressed nicely not suit or high fashion nice but no holes or dirt in sight. Let's say more put together than someone you would think is struggling would be. I know looks are deceiving, I get canvassed to donate to charities, though my student loan debt from my first degree looms. Parks are gated and close at a certain time I'm sure to keep homeless out at night. I am not aware of the social system here in depth, yet. I visited the Museum of London Thursday and the exhibit in the front corridor was about homelessness in the Capital. It was very interesting and I will have pictures soon (thought I would try a picture less post, I hope people read it). I explored it before going into the museum and then again when leaving. I caught a picture of an unsuspecting girl in a kimono who was standing in front of art work done by various people who are or once were homeless. I sneakily took the picture and on the screen of my camera what I saw spoke volumes I feel. I caught her texting. She was standing in front of art, a vulnerable medium of expression I would say, and she was texting completely disengaged from the emotion in front of her.

Lastly on my way out I caught a memorial book for the people who died in the 7 July, 2005 terrorist attacks on the London Underground. I read the details of the events of that day and went through the entire book which was dedicated to the 52 victims of the attack. One of the tube stations affected was Kings Cross and St. Pancreas. When I take the tube to school I have to transfer at this station. I've noticed the charred inside ceiling on the way up the escalator but again never really noticed it and actually never knew why it was like that. The attacks were not that long ago but I do not feel unsafe in London. I am aware of security measures, I'm sure more aware because I'm still relatively new. There are no rubbish (hate that word but trying to be true to England) bins in tube stations. They do not exist, if there are bins outside of the stations they have clear bags. There are usually a couple security guards chilling around at any given time. As well temporary metal detectors set up from time to time to check to see if people are carrying knives. Gun crime here is very low, its difficult to get them. Knife crime here is on the level of gun crime in Toronto.

I've been given the rough guide to understanding England by one of my new roommates. I take it with a grain of salt but its interesting. I'm learning a lot of slang as well though I unapologetically am not picking up the accent - thus far - I hear it sneaks up on you though. I am seeing London in a new way, as a place where I could in fact stay for a while though I still prefer to live and practice in Canada. I've been exploring and learning more about the city every day.

Now one might ask about school and how that is going as it is the purpose for being here. Law school can be completely boring and tedious at times depending on the subject. However I feel much more engaged in school. I feel confident and competent that I can and will do well I mean let's face it if I had gotten into a Canadian school I wouldn't be here. But, I must also say what I appreciate about law here is that its way more accessible and people for the most part are not as pretentious as Canada. I've been tossing around what I want to practice and I guess in the beginning I was letting what people say influence me too much, which is very unlike me. I'm back to what I know and love, criminal law. I will figure out the details later i.e. prosecution or defence, how can you deal with defending someone who is guilty, god how will you sleep at night! Probably defence, I will take it as it comes, and I hope well as I plan to splurge on a wicked mattress where ever I end up settling for a while as my current one kinda sucks. Next week I have an interview with a firm for an unpaid internship and they specialize in immigration. A field I've considered getting into as well. So wish me luck. No job yet, though I am trying to churn out applications. Being a broke student in London Town not that great, there are tons of free places, galleries being one of them which is partly why they are represented so well here. Oh and shout out to Julia and Di who got me the book 1000 things to do in London - Time Out thanks again, its awesome!

Vacation Over

2009-01-25T02:08:00.000-08:00

Hello,

so school starts back tomorrow, this have been a pretty lengthy vacation (Dec 11-Jan 25). With the hiccup of one exam during it. I was supposed to go to Chinese New Year festivities today but my roommate (who is Chinese) got it wrong. Nothing starts until tomorrow and then the main celebrations are on Saturday and Sunday. So next weekend I will be heading down to China town and Trafalgar Square.

This past week the 44th President Barack Obama was inaugurated, here are pictures of our Presidential party. I definetely thought there would be more people in attendance but it was good regardless.

Standing while Obama took his oath

Waiting for Godot...kidding I don't know at this point

My failed attempt at hiding the NY but I suppose nothing wrong with loving Obama and NY :)

I also checked out some galleries this past week. The National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery. Portrait Gallery was kinda creepy and old smelling, not a fan but the building it self was beautiful. National Gallery, was able to check out work from Van Gogh and Monet. Below are pictures of Trafalgar Square.

The National Gallery

Trafalgar Square

Design flaws

2009-01-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

So I was going to title this post tidbits because I had some pictures that didn't really go together and have one cohesive theme but I still wanted to share them with you. I was going to talk about my bathroom sink. I didn't post pictures of the bathroom in 'Moving on Up' because I thought nothing that different about it besides the fact that the toilet is in a separate room and the tub and sink are in another. Potentially genius, when no one is in the other bathroom, you can seamlessly use the toilet then go wash your hands in the other room. But if it is occupied I suppose you go down to the kitchen, not convenient at this point.

What I wanted to comment on was the fact that the bathroom sink has two faucets, one hot one cold. Yes standard, but the thing is the water doesn't mix together to create a temperature that is suitable for washing your face. Either you burn your face because the hot is too hot or freeze it because the cold is too cold. Some sinks here do have this simple integrated design but alas my sink does not, and it sucks.

I'm sure there is a reason for it I just don't know what it is

I saw this church on the way to the bank and if you look closely its angled and an entrance is at the side (now front). The front of the church was (I'm assuming) originally where that World Class Treatment store is. Space is precious in London so they built really closely together I guess, but so close you had to build a new entrance?

Moving on up

2009-01-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

I've moved into my new house and I love it. I apparently live in a rough neighbourhood but it looks fine to me. I haven't moved far from where I was living last semester but now I'm closer to the main road and one tube stop closer to central London on the Picadilly Line. My tube station is less than a 2 minute walk away, there is a pub right around the corner, tons of stores and make shift markets.

There are 6 of us in the house including me. One Brit, one from China, one from Viatnam, 1 from Nepal and 1 from Sri Lanka. Four of us are current students, 2 just finished their degrees. It is cold in this house all the time, ah student living. There is no common room as its been converted into a bedroom. There is no basement as well, actually I have not seen a basement in any house since I've been here. I'm not sure they exist.

We are going to have a house warming because 2 of us are brand new to the house. That is next weekend, which is going to correspond with Chinese New Year, can't wait.

Terrace Houses - built this way for conservation purposes http://www.helm.org.uk/server/show/nav.00h013001001

Ghetto? I think not!

Not exactly modern but it'll do

For space purposes kitchens contain washers and/or dryers

if people have them

G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S - Fergie helped me with that

People say 'innit' a lot, I found this in the kitchen thought

it was funny

I know what you're thinking, is that a cool ikea designed

mirror? No, its broken.

Need to decorate

Samurai Pony has made it to London! Likes - dancing to

Genuiwine's song 'Pony', go figure.

My desired form of transportation

A New Year

2009-01-05T18:11:00.000-08:00

I know I'm 5 days late, but New Years is one of the few holidays you can still celebrate after the date, reasonably of course . My time at home is coming to a rapid end, I fly out Thursday. I'm not sure yet if my time home will bring a resurgence of home sickness, I'll have to wait and see.

I am supposed to move into my new house Friday but have not yet been in touch with my future roommate who is supposed to give me a key. I have contacted her but I haven't heard anything back. I assume it will work out by the time I arrive back to London or I will be homeless. I can only squat so long in my friend's residence room as my luggage is already there taking up space. Also, with my first exam on the 13th this is not an ideal time for house searching.

Top five things I enjoyed while being home/will miss:

5) Not paying double for everything
4) Not being asked "Are you American?"
3) Good tasting, decently priced cuisine
2) Sleeping in my own bed
1) Seeing friends and family

So...how is it?

2008-12-24T07:30:00.000-08:00

Alright,

I originally had plans to blog about my 'adventure' in England but then got there and felt uninspired. I didn't feel like documenting what was going on mainly because I am there studying and law school my friends is NOT that interesting.

At the moment (of writing this) I am home in Canada and after seeing many friends THE question has been (and usually after all my travels) how was it? First can I tell you all, that is a very broad question and I find myself grasping for a way to succinctly relay exactly how it is. How can I cram 3 months into a few sentences?

So, in an attempt to provide a comprehensive and fair answer to that question, and since I am just at the beginning of my time abroad, I have decided to try to document it all. I do not return to the UK until January 9th so unless something fun and blog worthy happens while I am at home (besides more snow) then I will not be posting until the new year.

However some things to look out for in the new year:

I have moved! I am still living in north London and not far from where I was for the past 3 months but I am finally going to be living with other students and not renting a room in someone's house (thank god).
I am going to find a job - a friend suggested a bar/pub
I want to start travelling - one of the biggest reasons for coming here. I believe Italy is first on the list

I have posted pictures on facebook thus far but if I am able to stay consistent with this then the pictures will be posted here.

Wish me luck!