A friend and I have been meaning to get together for some time. We were colleagues at my former workplace and as fate would have it, have discovered post-work-relationship that we have a lot more in common than we had originally imagined. Turns out we have similar styles in parenting (food choices, activities) and even our own personal interests are more aligned than we had realized.
We did a late evening coffee meet at Starbucks a few months back and had such a good time and intended to have more get togethers but you know how the story goes...life gets busy and get togethers get put on hold.
A few days ago, as we were messaging each other over Facebook to make plans for a Sunday night coffee, a thought suddenly occured to me. Why not have coffee at my place? And if she was a Desperate Housewives watcher, then we could watch it at my place. But if not, no worries, I could PVR the episode. Comedically enough, she responded back with yes, she was a Desperate Housewives fan and had thought the same thing...she would be missing Desperate Housewives to meet up with me but was willing to PVR it. I got inspired...a Desperate Housewives meet called for decadence. I suggested chocolate truffle cake and martinis. My friend responded with glee. It was a date.
This morning, I ended up buying a chocolate mousse cake (was at Costco and couldn't resist the good price on it). So here I am waiting for her to arrive within the hour. Should be a good time. I mean, how can you go wrong with trash TV, martinis and chocolate? It's a good time waiting to happen.
ETA: Just found out DHW is not on tonight. But I'll still have my cake and my martinis too!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Veni, Vidi, La Fenice
Good food, good friends, and good times. Such was the recipe of yesterday's delightful dinner.
A good night out may require research, planning, and organization. Our delectable culinary experience at La Fenice yesterday evening, an Italian restaurant in Toronto's theatre district, was proof of such a theory.
Fortunately for Mr. Unfazed and I, the heavy duty tasks of the research and development aspect of the project were handled by a lovely couple who we are proud to call our friends. Since we had all agreed that a night out was in order, Lovely Couple recommended La Fenice, an award winning restaurant laying claim to being "the most authentic Italian restaurant in Toronto." (www.lafenice.com)
While I lack the requisite skills in determining the venue's authenticity, my eyes took in the simple and tasteful decor aglow by candlelight. As for my tastebuds, they can attest to the flavours and freshness in the dishes I devoured yesterday. Of course, there was a little vino to start. Having eyed the Pinot Grigio on the menu, a dry Italian wine yet rich in fruity flavours, my decision was solidified when our waiter recommended the very same wine to my friend.
A little mix-up occurred when a bottle of Birra Moretti* appeared before me, the same beer that Mr. Unfazed ordered for himself, citing that his opportunities to drink Italian beer are usually limited. While I applaud Mr. Unfazed on his "carpe birra", not being a beer drinker myself, I smiled politely as I sent back the pale lager.
As we perused the menu, our waiter, hoping to entice us, brought over a strikingly fresh fish to show us. My eyes admired the fish and the juicy enormous shrimps at its side. Regretfully, I am unable to eat fish, however, I acknowledge that it was a thing of beauty. Shrimps, happily, are fair game for me so I kept them in my thoughts.
For my antipasto, I decided on buffalo mozzarella (mozarella di bufala), and what a fine choice it was. Vibrantly white, soft, creamy and carrying a simple yet delicious flavour, this cheese was the ideal start. Mr. Unfazed ordered carpaccio, thinly sliced raw beef, delicately seasoned and drizzled with La Fenice's very own extra virgin olive oil.
With class and sophistication, our waiters brought our mains. I chose spaghettini with shrimp and rapini (spaghettini con gamberi e rapini). Admittedly, I chose this dish for two key reasons: it was not a tomato based dish and I was wearing a cream coloured sweater and wanted it to stay that way. The other reason was the shrimp. I couldn't get them out of my head after the waiter teased us earlier by parading them before us in all of their fresh glory.
Interestingly enough, what struck me about this dish was how finely chopped the rapini stems were. I took note and will adopt a similar technique the next time I prepare rapini. I devoured the fine pasta with zeal. I didn't sample Mr. Unfazed's meal but he tells me that his spaghettini with seafood (spaghettini tutto mare) was a real treat. His empty plate was picture proof of that statement.
For dessert, Mr. Unfazed and I both ordered the zabaligione (warm whipped custard flavoured with Marsala and fresh strawberies). Mr. Unfazed thought it was very good and enjoyed it. While I was pleased with the fresh strawberries and the distinct Marsala taste, I have to admit that I couldn't finish it all. Perhaps too sweet and not a heavy enough custard for my taste? Nonetheless, my coffee was smooth and I was given a generous portion of cream to complement it.
La Fenice provided a charming setting, mouth-watering cuisine and when you add-on good friends and hearty laughter, the result of that equation is a very powerful one indeed. A result that I cannot wait to duplicate in the near future.
Cent'anni!
*Birra Moretti was acquired by Heineken International in 1996.
http://www.heinekeninternational.com/products_brands_brands.aspx
A good night out may require research, planning, and organization. Our delectable culinary experience at La Fenice yesterday evening, an Italian restaurant in Toronto's theatre district, was proof of such a theory.
Fortunately for Mr. Unfazed and I, the heavy duty tasks of the research and development aspect of the project were handled by a lovely couple who we are proud to call our friends. Since we had all agreed that a night out was in order, Lovely Couple recommended La Fenice, an award winning restaurant laying claim to being "the most authentic Italian restaurant in Toronto." (www.lafenice.com)
While I lack the requisite skills in determining the venue's authenticity, my eyes took in the simple and tasteful decor aglow by candlelight. As for my tastebuds, they can attest to the flavours and freshness in the dishes I devoured yesterday. Of course, there was a little vino to start. Having eyed the Pinot Grigio on the menu, a dry Italian wine yet rich in fruity flavours, my decision was solidified when our waiter recommended the very same wine to my friend.
A little mix-up occurred when a bottle of Birra Moretti* appeared before me, the same beer that Mr. Unfazed ordered for himself, citing that his opportunities to drink Italian beer are usually limited. While I applaud Mr. Unfazed on his "carpe birra", not being a beer drinker myself, I smiled politely as I sent back the pale lager.
As we perused the menu, our waiter, hoping to entice us, brought over a strikingly fresh fish to show us. My eyes admired the fish and the juicy enormous shrimps at its side. Regretfully, I am unable to eat fish, however, I acknowledge that it was a thing of beauty. Shrimps, happily, are fair game for me so I kept them in my thoughts.
For my antipasto, I decided on buffalo mozzarella (mozarella di bufala), and what a fine choice it was. Vibrantly white, soft, creamy and carrying a simple yet delicious flavour, this cheese was the ideal start. Mr. Unfazed ordered carpaccio, thinly sliced raw beef, delicately seasoned and drizzled with La Fenice's very own extra virgin olive oil.
With class and sophistication, our waiters brought our mains. I chose spaghettini with shrimp and rapini (spaghettini con gamberi e rapini). Admittedly, I chose this dish for two key reasons: it was not a tomato based dish and I was wearing a cream coloured sweater and wanted it to stay that way. The other reason was the shrimp. I couldn't get them out of my head after the waiter teased us earlier by parading them before us in all of their fresh glory.
Interestingly enough, what struck me about this dish was how finely chopped the rapini stems were. I took note and will adopt a similar technique the next time I prepare rapini. I devoured the fine pasta with zeal. I didn't sample Mr. Unfazed's meal but he tells me that his spaghettini with seafood (spaghettini tutto mare) was a real treat. His empty plate was picture proof of that statement.
For dessert, Mr. Unfazed and I both ordered the zabaligione (warm whipped custard flavoured with Marsala and fresh strawberies). Mr. Unfazed thought it was very good and enjoyed it. While I was pleased with the fresh strawberries and the distinct Marsala taste, I have to admit that I couldn't finish it all. Perhaps too sweet and not a heavy enough custard for my taste? Nonetheless, my coffee was smooth and I was given a generous portion of cream to complement it.
La Fenice provided a charming setting, mouth-watering cuisine and when you add-on good friends and hearty laughter, the result of that equation is a very powerful one indeed. A result that I cannot wait to duplicate in the near future.
Cent'anni!
*Birra Moretti was acquired by Heineken International in 1996.
http://www.heinekeninternational.com/products_brands_brands.aspx
Friday, March 19, 2010
The Silly Mother and her Pseudo Lost Keys, Bargain Hunting, and Seaweed Detoxifying Bodywrap
It started out as a relatively uneventful day but it soon proved to be at times stressful, at times jubilant and even relaxing.
The Silly Mother and her Pseudo Lost Keys
It all began when my girls and I got started on our morning routine. Today was their last morning at Arts/Music/Dance March Break Camp and I wanted to ensure they were there right on time to enjoy every second.
First comes the teeth brushing. Followed by hair combing. Make that hair screaming. Spitfire despises having her hair combed. She will erupt in violent fits. Yes, she will run away, hit, scream. All in the name of self-defence to keep the Silly Mother (yes, she has called me that all the while pretending to call the police saying, "Hello Police? Can you get this Silly Mother away from me?"), away from her tangled bed of nasty hair knots.
So after I cajoled Spitfire, her hair was brushed and she was on her way. On to LittleLady who claimed her dress was too itchy. Off to find another dress. Done.
Since I'm not yet a licensed driver, I called a cab to get us to bring the fruit of my loins to camp. A CLOSED sign greeted us at the front door of the music school. With my heart in my throat, I peeked through the door and saw the instructors. I opened the door and said, "Uh, your sign says closed." "A mistake!" they cheerily replied. Phew. Drama overted.
Once inside, I helped the girls take off their coats, put on their indoor shoes and kissed them goodbye. Off I went to the bus terminal to hop on a bus and hit the mall.
I decided to peek through my bag to ensure I had everything and noticed my keys were missing. I checked every pocket in the bag, checked the pockets of my sweater. Nada. I then tried calling the music school...voice mail. I then called the cab company and yes, the dispatcher had the cabbie stop his mini-van and check the seats, underneath the seats etc. No keys. Fiddle-dee-dee, I thought. OK. No, that was not my thought but we're keeping it very G audience here.
Sitting on the bus, I called Mr. Unfazed who said for me to call my Mom as he thought she had a spare key. When the bus arrived at the mall, I bounced off and started walking towards the destination of good but cheap breakfast. It was then that I felt a bulge in my jeans pocket. The blessed (again, we're keeping it G here), keys were found. Did I feel silly? Heck, yeah.
Bargain Hunting
A successful bargain hunting trip starts with a proper meal. I think everything should start and end with food so this expedition was no exception. I made my way to the Zellers diner as I knew that if I got there before 10am, I could get 2 eggs, sausage or ham, toast and coffee for $4.49. The Zellers diner is an undervalued gem which is good for me because I had my pick of seating this morning. I settled down into a booth and proceeded to pull out a magazine while I waited for the waiter. A friendly waiter came by and took my order. A text here and a text there to some friends and the next thing I knew, my breakfast was ready. Fast and affordable. Can't beat that.
Fueled by my hearty breakfast, I then set out for my next destination - Bombay. I had been eyeing the Harrington Bombe Chest for a couple of months now. The first time I saw it, it was $499. Hoping the price would drop, I waited. Well, the waiting did not pay off. The chest is now $699. Too pricey for a piece that would go in my upstairs hallway for decor purposes only. I darted out of Bombay for a temporary diversion at H&M where I stocked up on affordable yet adorable ballet outfits for my daughters.
Wandering around the mall, I noticed a sign outside of the Guess store which indicated 40-50% off the lowest ticketed price, select styles. Liking the potential of such a discount, I toddled my way into Guess like a wide-eyed child at a candy store. Full price Guess is off limits for me. Sure enough, deals awaited me. I picked up a pair of jeans for $44 (regular $118)and a sweater top for $43.50 (regular $84).
Feeling confident with my finds and assuring myself that I indeed had the shoes to complete the outfit and that there was no need for a new bag, I headed back to Bombay with new purpose.
Thinking away from my upstairs hallway, I focused on another very important room on the first floor which has been woefully neglected - the dining room. While I'm happy with the table and chairs, I'm less than pleased with the rest of the furniture in that room. It's not a big space. I need to find tasteful yet small scale items to liven the room.
The Bombay Classics collection is on sale until April 7th (50% off). The non-Classics collection is on sale until April 21st. I wasted no time and bought this curio and side board, after rapidly taking pictures and initiating a battlefield consultation with Mr. Unfazed, of course.
Those Bombay bargains were the finale of the mall excursion and off I ran to catch the bus to take me to the spa.
The Seaweed Detoxifying Body Wrap
Having a WaySpa coupon burning a hole in my wallet, I decided yesterday that I would call up a local spa and treat myself to a body exfoliation type service. I wasn't quite sure of what I wanted but I knew that I wanted my skin to feel smooth and rejuvenated to welcome in the spring season and as an ode to the fabulous positive Celsius temperatures we've been having.
My esthetician was friendly, discreet with the disrobing process (a full body treatment involves, well, exposing most of your body) and very helpful with advice for exercises and toning muscle. As my winter hardened skin felt the scrubbing granules of the exfoliation and then the wet paint feeling of the algae laden mineral paste, I settled in for a relaxing treatment. Ritually wrapped in foil and blankets, I lay like a giant worm, waiting for the next part. The Vichy shower. The shower was warm and intense and mildy amusing. Once the sea mixture was rinsed off me, I got ready for the lotion. I always see this part as the polishing step. Just like icing on cake.
As I dressed post-seaweed induction, I felt energetic. A quick stop to Cobs Bread for a country grain bread and apple custard dessert (like I said, it's always about food with me) and I was ready for the 45 minute walk home. The best part? Didn't even notice the walk. Felt amazing afterwards.
Off to prepare tapas for a Friday night evening of fun - ole!
The Silly Mother and her Pseudo Lost Keys
It all began when my girls and I got started on our morning routine. Today was their last morning at Arts/Music/Dance March Break Camp and I wanted to ensure they were there right on time to enjoy every second.
First comes the teeth brushing. Followed by hair combing. Make that hair screaming. Spitfire despises having her hair combed. She will erupt in violent fits. Yes, she will run away, hit, scream. All in the name of self-defence to keep the Silly Mother (yes, she has called me that all the while pretending to call the police saying, "Hello Police? Can you get this Silly Mother away from me?"), away from her tangled bed of nasty hair knots.
So after I cajoled Spitfire, her hair was brushed and she was on her way. On to LittleLady who claimed her dress was too itchy. Off to find another dress. Done.
Since I'm not yet a licensed driver, I called a cab to get us to bring the fruit of my loins to camp. A CLOSED sign greeted us at the front door of the music school. With my heart in my throat, I peeked through the door and saw the instructors. I opened the door and said, "Uh, your sign says closed." "A mistake!" they cheerily replied. Phew. Drama overted.
Once inside, I helped the girls take off their coats, put on their indoor shoes and kissed them goodbye. Off I went to the bus terminal to hop on a bus and hit the mall.
I decided to peek through my bag to ensure I had everything and noticed my keys were missing. I checked every pocket in the bag, checked the pockets of my sweater. Nada. I then tried calling the music school...voice mail. I then called the cab company and yes, the dispatcher had the cabbie stop his mini-van and check the seats, underneath the seats etc. No keys. Fiddle-dee-dee, I thought. OK. No, that was not my thought but we're keeping it very G audience here.
Sitting on the bus, I called Mr. Unfazed who said for me to call my Mom as he thought she had a spare key. When the bus arrived at the mall, I bounced off and started walking towards the destination of good but cheap breakfast. It was then that I felt a bulge in my jeans pocket. The blessed (again, we're keeping it G here), keys were found. Did I feel silly? Heck, yeah.
Bargain Hunting
A successful bargain hunting trip starts with a proper meal. I think everything should start and end with food so this expedition was no exception. I made my way to the Zellers diner as I knew that if I got there before 10am, I could get 2 eggs, sausage or ham, toast and coffee for $4.49. The Zellers diner is an undervalued gem which is good for me because I had my pick of seating this morning. I settled down into a booth and proceeded to pull out a magazine while I waited for the waiter. A friendly waiter came by and took my order. A text here and a text there to some friends and the next thing I knew, my breakfast was ready. Fast and affordable. Can't beat that.
Fueled by my hearty breakfast, I then set out for my next destination - Bombay. I had been eyeing the Harrington Bombe Chest for a couple of months now. The first time I saw it, it was $499. Hoping the price would drop, I waited. Well, the waiting did not pay off. The chest is now $699. Too pricey for a piece that would go in my upstairs hallway for decor purposes only. I darted out of Bombay for a temporary diversion at H&M where I stocked up on affordable yet adorable ballet outfits for my daughters.
Wandering around the mall, I noticed a sign outside of the Guess store which indicated 40-50% off the lowest ticketed price, select styles. Liking the potential of such a discount, I toddled my way into Guess like a wide-eyed child at a candy store. Full price Guess is off limits for me. Sure enough, deals awaited me. I picked up a pair of jeans for $44 (regular $118)and a sweater top for $43.50 (regular $84).
Feeling confident with my finds and assuring myself that I indeed had the shoes to complete the outfit and that there was no need for a new bag, I headed back to Bombay with new purpose.
Thinking away from my upstairs hallway, I focused on another very important room on the first floor which has been woefully neglected - the dining room. While I'm happy with the table and chairs, I'm less than pleased with the rest of the furniture in that room. It's not a big space. I need to find tasteful yet small scale items to liven the room.
The Bombay Classics collection is on sale until April 7th (50% off). The non-Classics collection is on sale until April 21st. I wasted no time and bought this curio and side board, after rapidly taking pictures and initiating a battlefield consultation with Mr. Unfazed, of course.
Those Bombay bargains were the finale of the mall excursion and off I ran to catch the bus to take me to the spa.
The Seaweed Detoxifying Body Wrap
Having a WaySpa coupon burning a hole in my wallet, I decided yesterday that I would call up a local spa and treat myself to a body exfoliation type service. I wasn't quite sure of what I wanted but I knew that I wanted my skin to feel smooth and rejuvenated to welcome in the spring season and as an ode to the fabulous positive Celsius temperatures we've been having.
My esthetician was friendly, discreet with the disrobing process (a full body treatment involves, well, exposing most of your body) and very helpful with advice for exercises and toning muscle. As my winter hardened skin felt the scrubbing granules of the exfoliation and then the wet paint feeling of the algae laden mineral paste, I settled in for a relaxing treatment. Ritually wrapped in foil and blankets, I lay like a giant worm, waiting for the next part. The Vichy shower. The shower was warm and intense and mildy amusing. Once the sea mixture was rinsed off me, I got ready for the lotion. I always see this part as the polishing step. Just like icing on cake.
As I dressed post-seaweed induction, I felt energetic. A quick stop to Cobs Bread for a country grain bread and apple custard dessert (like I said, it's always about food with me) and I was ready for the 45 minute walk home. The best part? Didn't even notice the walk. Felt amazing afterwards.
Off to prepare tapas for a Friday night evening of fun - ole!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Why I like Californication
Showtime series starring David Duchovny.
My tunining into the show didn't even start out with my university days crush on its leading man, David Duchovny. I watched X-Files for a few years, mostly because of him. But yeah, I was really into the whole psychological thriller aspect too. When the writing strayed from that premise, I lost interest, Mulder or no Mulder.
But the point of this blog entry is not to talk about my 20 something crush on Mr. Duchovny. It's about the smile that comes to my face when I think about the show Californication.
The writing is stellar. It's intelligent, witty, and captivating. The actors are very real in the skin of their characters. For that brief moment in time, I don't think I'm watching rehearsed lines and director's cuts, I think I'm watching a flowing story, bottle of Bourbon and vintage typewriter and all. I'm watching the season 3 finale again and it just increases my anticipation for Season 4. Why? The plot twists, the knot in your stomach as you watch the scenes unfold. I can't give away too much, of course, just in case you want to watch. Try it. Watch. You'll love it.
My tunining into the show didn't even start out with my university days crush on its leading man, David Duchovny. I watched X-Files for a few years, mostly because of him. But yeah, I was really into the whole psychological thriller aspect too. When the writing strayed from that premise, I lost interest, Mulder or no Mulder.
But the point of this blog entry is not to talk about my 20 something crush on Mr. Duchovny. It's about the smile that comes to my face when I think about the show Californication.
The writing is stellar. It's intelligent, witty, and captivating. The actors are very real in the skin of their characters. For that brief moment in time, I don't think I'm watching rehearsed lines and director's cuts, I think I'm watching a flowing story, bottle of Bourbon and vintage typewriter and all. I'm watching the season 3 finale again and it just increases my anticipation for Season 4. Why? The plot twists, the knot in your stomach as you watch the scenes unfold. I can't give away too much, of course, just in case you want to watch. Try it. Watch. You'll love it.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Viva La Vida
A shamelessly overt rip off of the Coldplay song of the same title. In fact, it is that very song which resonates vibrantly and gleefully in my mind as I type this. It's Friday evening and after a cool glass of white wine, I am in the mood to relax and unwind.
The past couple of days have been a whirlwind. I can hardly believe it myself and know that I would have risen a skeptical eyebrow if someone were to tell me that working from home was tough.
I started working from home yesterday. It's a lot more intense than I thought it would be. Being mindful of the privilege and not wanting it taken away from me, I stay logged in way past the "regular business hours" mark. It was 10:30pm and there I was, being the proverbial "keener" (a nickname given to me by ex-colleagues), I was still researching ideas and sending emails.
I know that I can't forget the rest of my life which is why it's good that I have this blog to keep me accountable. I can see my propensity for excess and will work on controlling that urge. Which brings me to Viva La Vida. To truly embody the live life motto, I will maintain a balance. If I'm to log in for 8:30am-4:30pm then I'll do so but after that, it's goodbye. After all, I may miss out on a lot of vida if I stay chained to a PC.
The past couple of days have been a whirlwind. I can hardly believe it myself and know that I would have risen a skeptical eyebrow if someone were to tell me that working from home was tough.
I started working from home yesterday. It's a lot more intense than I thought it would be. Being mindful of the privilege and not wanting it taken away from me, I stay logged in way past the "regular business hours" mark. It was 10:30pm and there I was, being the proverbial "keener" (a nickname given to me by ex-colleagues), I was still researching ideas and sending emails.
I know that I can't forget the rest of my life which is why it's good that I have this blog to keep me accountable. I can see my propensity for excess and will work on controlling that urge. Which brings me to Viva La Vida. To truly embody the live life motto, I will maintain a balance. If I'm to log in for 8:30am-4:30pm then I'll do so but after that, it's goodbye. After all, I may miss out on a lot of vida if I stay chained to a PC.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Taking interest is sweet; taking action is even sweeter
The following speech (content varies slightly at time of presentaton) achieved first place in both the City Centre Toastmasters Club and the Toastmasters International Area 42 contest at the Mississauga Civic Centre. It achieved second place on March 24, 2010 at the Toastmasters International Division C contest held at South Common Community Centre.
Don’t Call Me Sugar Baby! (DCMSB)
Don't Call Me Sugar Baby is the title of a book by Dorothy Joan Harris chronicling the journey of a 12-year old girl after being diagnosed with diabetes.
Is there anyone in this room who has never heard of diabetes before?
Well, then as we can probably recite together, diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or none at all.
There are two types of diabetes: Type I – insulin dependent (once referred to as juvenile diabetes as it tends to affect younger people) and type II – adult onset (controlled by diet and exercise and sometimes oral medication).
Which brings to why I'm here today. I am here to share with each and every one of you, a cause that is very dear to my heart, my mind, my very self - diabetes. My aim is to persuade you to become interested in this life-threatening condition and act in hope – join the challenge in finding a cure.
Let's go back to where it all began. The year was 1995 and the song “One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey and Boys 2 Men dominated the airwaves. It was one fateful day in 1995 when my life was dramatically and abruptly altered when after months of extreme fatigue, incessant thirst and unexplained rapid weight loss, I was delivered a heavy diagnosis which rocked my carefree, 20-year old existence to its core. It seemed my not-so-sweet day had come. Feelings of anger, anguish, and confusion overpowered me. "Why me?" I cried out. "I don't want to die!" The brutal truth is that diabetes, if left untreated, can wreak havoc on your body and create complications which result in death. Complications such cardiovascular disease, nerve, kidney, eye and foot damage.
I knew then as I know now that feeling sorry for myself was not the answer. Logistically, I learned to manage the condition and inject those needles *ouch*. You do what you have to do especially when it comes to saving your life just as you would to save the life of someone you love.
I've talked about the medical complicatons. But what about the economic impact? There is a big one. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation indicates that diabetes and its complications cost the Canadian economy more than $15billion dollars per year. The World Health Organization states that 5 to 10 per cent of a nation’s health budget is spent on diabetes.
Should we just cross our arms, shrug our shoulders and sing “que sera, sera.”
We could do that – that is one response.
I propose a more effective response. I challenge us collectively to link arms, join together and act. Let’s beat this sugary sucker.
Which begs the question – how? If you enjoy the smell of fresh air and the joyous effects of endorphins released from physical activity, then you could join a fundraising walk or bicycle ride campaign to cure diabetes.
And here’s a question for you…as Toastmasters, what are we always encouraged to do? Use our voices! Well, guess what? Those confident, influential voices are needed to support diabetes research and funding. Call your local MP, write him/her a letter. You can even use a template such as the one on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation website. The sugar busting letters are www.jdrf.ca.
Sign up for an advocacy group – just click on a link on the JDRF website or send an email to the Canadian Diabetes Association – their sugar fighting powers can be found at www.diabetes.ca. Such simple actions can have a profound life-altering effect for the 2.4 million Canadians living with diabetes.
A 2008 article published in an Ottawa newspaper states that medical researchers predict that number is only going to get higher so let's stop this thing.
Earlier I mentioned that Mariah Carey’s “One Sweet Day” was all the rage in my diagnosis year. Another very well known artist, Michael Jackson, also released a hit song in 1995 “You Are Not Alone.” Let’s take an exceprt from those lyrics, “You are not alone for I am here with you... Though we’re far apart, you’re always in my heart” and send an enthusiastic, hopeful message to diabetics everywhere. Tell them that they are not alone; our support is here to stay. While we may be far away from a cure, let them know we’re not just interested in diabetes but we will not rest until a cure is found.
After all, taking interest is sweet but taking action is even sweeter.
Don’t Call Me Sugar Baby! (DCMSB)
Don't Call Me Sugar Baby is the title of a book by Dorothy Joan Harris chronicling the journey of a 12-year old girl after being diagnosed with diabetes.
Is there anyone in this room who has never heard of diabetes before?
Well, then as we can probably recite together, diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or none at all.
There are two types of diabetes: Type I – insulin dependent (once referred to as juvenile diabetes as it tends to affect younger people) and type II – adult onset (controlled by diet and exercise and sometimes oral medication).
Which brings to why I'm here today. I am here to share with each and every one of you, a cause that is very dear to my heart, my mind, my very self - diabetes. My aim is to persuade you to become interested in this life-threatening condition and act in hope – join the challenge in finding a cure.
Let's go back to where it all began. The year was 1995 and the song “One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey and Boys 2 Men dominated the airwaves. It was one fateful day in 1995 when my life was dramatically and abruptly altered when after months of extreme fatigue, incessant thirst and unexplained rapid weight loss, I was delivered a heavy diagnosis which rocked my carefree, 20-year old existence to its core. It seemed my not-so-sweet day had come. Feelings of anger, anguish, and confusion overpowered me. "Why me?" I cried out. "I don't want to die!" The brutal truth is that diabetes, if left untreated, can wreak havoc on your body and create complications which result in death. Complications such cardiovascular disease, nerve, kidney, eye and foot damage.
I knew then as I know now that feeling sorry for myself was not the answer. Logistically, I learned to manage the condition and inject those needles *ouch*. You do what you have to do especially when it comes to saving your life just as you would to save the life of someone you love.
I've talked about the medical complicatons. But what about the economic impact? There is a big one. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation indicates that diabetes and its complications cost the Canadian economy more than $15billion dollars per year. The World Health Organization states that 5 to 10 per cent of a nation’s health budget is spent on diabetes.
Should we just cross our arms, shrug our shoulders and sing “que sera, sera.”
We could do that – that is one response.
I propose a more effective response. I challenge us collectively to link arms, join together and act. Let’s beat this sugary sucker.
Which begs the question – how? If you enjoy the smell of fresh air and the joyous effects of endorphins released from physical activity, then you could join a fundraising walk or bicycle ride campaign to cure diabetes.
And here’s a question for you…as Toastmasters, what are we always encouraged to do? Use our voices! Well, guess what? Those confident, influential voices are needed to support diabetes research and funding. Call your local MP, write him/her a letter. You can even use a template such as the one on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation website. The sugar busting letters are www.jdrf.ca.
Sign up for an advocacy group – just click on a link on the JDRF website or send an email to the Canadian Diabetes Association – their sugar fighting powers can be found at www.diabetes.ca. Such simple actions can have a profound life-altering effect for the 2.4 million Canadians living with diabetes.
A 2008 article published in an Ottawa newspaper states that medical researchers predict that number is only going to get higher so let's stop this thing.
Earlier I mentioned that Mariah Carey’s “One Sweet Day” was all the rage in my diagnosis year. Another very well known artist, Michael Jackson, also released a hit song in 1995 “You Are Not Alone.” Let’s take an exceprt from those lyrics, “You are not alone for I am here with you... Though we’re far apart, you’re always in my heart” and send an enthusiastic, hopeful message to diabetics everywhere. Tell them that they are not alone; our support is here to stay. While we may be far away from a cure, let them know we’re not just interested in diabetes but we will not rest until a cure is found.
After all, taking interest is sweet but taking action is even sweeter.
Contest Day
Intense feelings of dread, anticipation, and peculiarly excitement, overpower me. Today is Contest Day.
It's the Toastmasters International Speech Contest. What does that even mean? I'm not quite sure myself, let me go look it up. A Google of "Toasmasters International Speech Contest" brings up a number of relevant hits. There are Rulebooks, Speech Contest Manuals, Speech Contest Kits...lots of resourcs and materials.
Which brings me back to the original question: What is the Toastmasters International Speech Contest? As the name suggests, it is a contest whereby contestants compete. The speech types can vary. Last week, our club held an evaluation speech contest (the contestants listen to a speech, write their notes, and later present their evaluations). I am not ashamed to say that I won my club's competition last week. I won't deny that I was filled with great surprise as I seriously thought I had disqualified myself for reasons of timing (I thought my evaluation was too short but apparently it satisfied the time requirements).
For today's speech contest, the winner will move on and compete with other clubs in the district. The winners keep moving on and on and on until...California. The location of the big contest. I'm setting my expectations for today as realistically as possible. I want to get through my speech within 5-7 minutes. Yes, time matters. Less than 5 minutes and I'm disqualified and over 7 minutes and yes, you guessed it, disqualified.
More than just being on time, I also want to speak clearly, audibly and with confidence. The message means a lot to me. A lot more than the contest itself. The competition is secondary. I'm persuading people to not just become interested in a life threatening condition but take action for the fight to cure diabetes. Being an insulin dependent diabetic, I know the risks that I face medically and I want to go beyond raising awareness. I want people to care.
Deep breath in and I'm going to shove those overpowering feelings of dread and nervousness aside. As I say in my speech, it's time for action. For now, it's time to stand up and recite.
It's the Toastmasters International Speech Contest. What does that even mean? I'm not quite sure myself, let me go look it up. A Google of "Toasmasters International Speech Contest" brings up a number of relevant hits. There are Rulebooks, Speech Contest Manuals, Speech Contest Kits...lots of resourcs and materials.
Which brings me back to the original question: What is the Toastmasters International Speech Contest? As the name suggests, it is a contest whereby contestants compete. The speech types can vary. Last week, our club held an evaluation speech contest (the contestants listen to a speech, write their notes, and later present their evaluations). I am not ashamed to say that I won my club's competition last week. I won't deny that I was filled with great surprise as I seriously thought I had disqualified myself for reasons of timing (I thought my evaluation was too short but apparently it satisfied the time requirements).
For today's speech contest, the winner will move on and compete with other clubs in the district. The winners keep moving on and on and on until...California. The location of the big contest. I'm setting my expectations for today as realistically as possible. I want to get through my speech within 5-7 minutes. Yes, time matters. Less than 5 minutes and I'm disqualified and over 7 minutes and yes, you guessed it, disqualified.
More than just being on time, I also want to speak clearly, audibly and with confidence. The message means a lot to me. A lot more than the contest itself. The competition is secondary. I'm persuading people to not just become interested in a life threatening condition but take action for the fight to cure diabetes. Being an insulin dependent diabetic, I know the risks that I face medically and I want to go beyond raising awareness. I want people to care.
Deep breath in and I'm going to shove those overpowering feelings of dread and nervousness aside. As I say in my speech, it's time for action. For now, it's time to stand up and recite.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Working from home for another company
We all work for our home.
Recently and quite unexpectedly, I was offered a very unique business opportunity which would allow me to use my pre-existing skills and work from home. The offer looked good enough. There's a but. You knew that was coming, didn't you? It was the responsibility aspect. The goals and roles. I wasn't sure what was going to be expected from me. Well, I sat down, wrote down a slew of questions and guess what? Today, I had a good chat with my potential boss and was given answers. As of Thursday, I'll be working from home for another company. After all, we all work from home, whether we're doing the dishes, laundry, dusting...you get the idea. I was given a rich opportunity to earn an income while at home. I'm going to give it my best shot and see what happens.
Recently and quite unexpectedly, I was offered a very unique business opportunity which would allow me to use my pre-existing skills and work from home. The offer looked good enough. There's a but. You knew that was coming, didn't you? It was the responsibility aspect. The goals and roles. I wasn't sure what was going to be expected from me. Well, I sat down, wrote down a slew of questions and guess what? Today, I had a good chat with my potential boss and was given answers. As of Thursday, I'll be working from home for another company. After all, we all work from home, whether we're doing the dishes, laundry, dusting...you get the idea. I was given a rich opportunity to earn an income while at home. I'm going to give it my best shot and see what happens.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Practice makes...
for more worrying??
I've written my Toastmasters speech 9 and now I'm left to the editing and most important, practising my delivery. Today, I just don't want to. Stomping my feet saying "no, no, no!" unleashing my inner toddler.
I've considered the barriers that could be impeding my focus and motivation. Nervousness is a definite answer. This speech isn't just any speech but a speech for competition. I haven't competed in a speech contest since elementary school. Oh, I did a one-time stint in the high school debate club but it was one day and one day only. Moreover, I didn't even enjoy it.
As I type and delve further, I realize that my reluctance to practice is deeper than just mere nerves. It appears I'm going through some self-worth issues. As this realization dawns, I see the need for action. Even thinking about how I disliked the debate club experience, I do believe that I would see things differently today.
Somehow the magic of blogging has worked. I've refocused. Off I go to practice my speech.
I've written my Toastmasters speech 9 and now I'm left to the editing and most important, practising my delivery. Today, I just don't want to. Stomping my feet saying "no, no, no!" unleashing my inner toddler.
I've considered the barriers that could be impeding my focus and motivation. Nervousness is a definite answer. This speech isn't just any speech but a speech for competition. I haven't competed in a speech contest since elementary school. Oh, I did a one-time stint in the high school debate club but it was one day and one day only. Moreover, I didn't even enjoy it.
As I type and delve further, I realize that my reluctance to practice is deeper than just mere nerves. It appears I'm going through some self-worth issues. As this realization dawns, I see the need for action. Even thinking about how I disliked the debate club experience, I do believe that I would see things differently today.
Somehow the magic of blogging has worked. I've refocused. Off I go to practice my speech.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
The Bachelor: I was wrong, oh so wrong...
*crooning with the guitar* I was wrong, oh so wrong...throw in a bottle of booze and a few gauchos and I have myself a hit country song.
Seriously, I'm referring to my previous predictions about the season 14 finale of The Bachelor: On The Wings of Love. I thought Ali would get the guy, Tenley and Vienna would be sent packing, and Gia would be the next Bachelorette. Well, holy off the mark, Batman! I only wish that I could pretend to have been smoking something really good but sadly, I was stone cold sober at the time of my unprohetic announcements.
Tenley looked as lost and as confused as ever, Vienna and Jake appeared jubilant at the After the Rose special. I feel this need to call that special "hideous." So there. The hideous special. I'm sure Jason Mesnick's antics have left an indelible scar on the After the Rose. Now, whether I want to always admit it or not, I expect Melnick twists to pop up all over the place.
Speaking of Tenley, I read a rumour somewhere that she was going to be on Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) and I believed it. Wrong. Again. Jake "Vienna's my baby" Pavelka will appear on DWTS.
And Ali, who, I admit I wasn't a fan of during season 14, is the next Bachelorette. Should have suspected her apology to Vienna was a PR stunt. Now I get the motivation. Will I watch the next Bachelorette? Stay tuned.
Seriously, I'm referring to my previous predictions about the season 14 finale of The Bachelor: On The Wings of Love. I thought Ali would get the guy, Tenley and Vienna would be sent packing, and Gia would be the next Bachelorette. Well, holy off the mark, Batman! I only wish that I could pretend to have been smoking something really good but sadly, I was stone cold sober at the time of my unprohetic announcements.
Tenley looked as lost and as confused as ever, Vienna and Jake appeared jubilant at the After the Rose special. I feel this need to call that special "hideous." So there. The hideous special. I'm sure Jason Mesnick's antics have left an indelible scar on the After the Rose. Now, whether I want to always admit it or not, I expect Melnick twists to pop up all over the place.
Speaking of Tenley, I read a rumour somewhere that she was going to be on Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) and I believed it. Wrong. Again. Jake "Vienna's my baby" Pavelka will appear on DWTS.
And Ali, who, I admit I wasn't a fan of during season 14, is the next Bachelorette. Should have suspected her apology to Vienna was a PR stunt. Now I get the motivation. Will I watch the next Bachelorette? Stay tuned.
When the darkness sets...
It doesn't happen very often but when it does, it can be intense, fast and furious.
It is the darkness from within. The shadow that cannot be seen behind a bright smile, sparkling eyes and a melodic voice. That feeling of helplessness and despair that creeps up and overtakes you when something goes wrong or you've experienced a hurtful incident. You feel ashamed to talk about it so you don't. You know you have friends you could count on, yet, you also understand that they have busy lives and challenges of their own so you shy away from the real answer behind the three worded question, "How are you?"
The darkness wins everytime you allow it to. Don't let it be all-consuming, let it out. Don't want to make a public annoucement? Then don't. Write a letter and then burn it. Shout it into an empty space where no one can hear. Go run around the block. Get off the couch and start dancing. Just let it out somehow. You'll feel a lot better for it. You can do it. You can squash darkness and create a brighter day, one vent at a time.
It is the darkness from within. The shadow that cannot be seen behind a bright smile, sparkling eyes and a melodic voice. That feeling of helplessness and despair that creeps up and overtakes you when something goes wrong or you've experienced a hurtful incident. You feel ashamed to talk about it so you don't. You know you have friends you could count on, yet, you also understand that they have busy lives and challenges of their own so you shy away from the real answer behind the three worded question, "How are you?"
The darkness wins everytime you allow it to. Don't let it be all-consuming, let it out. Don't want to make a public annoucement? Then don't. Write a letter and then burn it. Shout it into an empty space where no one can hear. Go run around the block. Get off the couch and start dancing. Just let it out somehow. You'll feel a lot better for it. You can do it. You can squash darkness and create a brighter day, one vent at a time.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Speech...Sugar...Diabetes
When in doubt, blog.
I set out a task for today and that is to write out my 9th Toastmasters speech. The theme is "Persuade With Power" and I need to persuade listeners to adopt my viewpoint and take action on something in 5-7 minutes. Humph. Easier said than done.
A few ideas have come to mind and I seem stuck on a "fundraising" kick. Give more money to Haiti, give more money to the diabetes association, give more money to...stop right there. Let's go back to the diabetes thing. I've been a type I insulin dependent diabetic since July 1995. There are two major organizations that are responsible for diabetes research and fundraising in Canada. One is the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) and the other is Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Most of the money raised by the CDA goes to type II diabetes which is logical because more people have type II (adult onset, no insulin required) than type I. JDRF is exclusively dedicated to type I. My mind thinks that this is where I should keep my focus for my speech and enlighten my audience about what type I diabetes is all about and how it affects those who have it. Also, to stress how important it is for the JDRF to keep up their work. We need a cure. Not another insulin delivery device but an actual cure. Until that happens we need to keep working. Did this blog entry work? Am I feeling sufficiently focused and ready to speech write? Not really. I'll keep on typing. It'll come to me.
Well, what do I want to say in this speech? I know that I want to:
- explain what diabetes is
- mention the difference between type I and type II
- demonstrate with passion how type I takes a serious toll on the body (I recently got life insurance and guess what age I'm assessed at for risk purposes? Any guesses??? 47!!!! I was 34 at the time of getting the insurance.)
- stress the importance of supporting JDRF iniatives
- call my audience to action to learn more about the JDRF
Phone just rang interrupting this blog. I stopped to speak to an employment recruiter. Position was not of interest but it's still nice to get a phone call. Gives me someone to talk to. Ha ha. Back to the speech. I think those points gave me a focus. Off to write.
I set out a task for today and that is to write out my 9th Toastmasters speech. The theme is "Persuade With Power" and I need to persuade listeners to adopt my viewpoint and take action on something in 5-7 minutes. Humph. Easier said than done.
A few ideas have come to mind and I seem stuck on a "fundraising" kick. Give more money to Haiti, give more money to the diabetes association, give more money to...stop right there. Let's go back to the diabetes thing. I've been a type I insulin dependent diabetic since July 1995. There are two major organizations that are responsible for diabetes research and fundraising in Canada. One is the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) and the other is Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Most of the money raised by the CDA goes to type II diabetes which is logical because more people have type II (adult onset, no insulin required) than type I. JDRF is exclusively dedicated to type I. My mind thinks that this is where I should keep my focus for my speech and enlighten my audience about what type I diabetes is all about and how it affects those who have it. Also, to stress how important it is for the JDRF to keep up their work. We need a cure. Not another insulin delivery device but an actual cure. Until that happens we need to keep working. Did this blog entry work? Am I feeling sufficiently focused and ready to speech write? Not really. I'll keep on typing. It'll come to me.
Well, what do I want to say in this speech? I know that I want to:
- explain what diabetes is
- mention the difference between type I and type II
- demonstrate with passion how type I takes a serious toll on the body (I recently got life insurance and guess what age I'm assessed at for risk purposes? Any guesses??? 47!!!! I was 34 at the time of getting the insurance.)
- stress the importance of supporting JDRF iniatives
- call my audience to action to learn more about the JDRF
Phone just rang interrupting this blog. I stopped to speak to an employment recruiter. Position was not of interest but it's still nice to get a phone call. Gives me someone to talk to. Ha ha. Back to the speech. I think those points gave me a focus. Off to write.
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