tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50325096615727442732024-03-05T15:23:03.605-08:00Six Degrees of SeparationSix Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-32909310996575856652013-04-25T08:51:00.001-07:002013-04-25T08:51:48.248-07:00Dinner with Dr. Hannibal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg74E1lw-N1-EnbOaZjAxOEFLYZ_61Jc6Z4Vwc046lvs7mAJxOi3dZ32j9TsW7ehFOjRmMXgizCx20Xnb_cy5i60UDnTwfJjQYkuSbvoSayncaDGXhNdEW1NDdpgJw5tninP7MGPlFjywE/s1600/mouse+pies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg74E1lw-N1-EnbOaZjAxOEFLYZ_61Jc6Z4Vwc046lvs7mAJxOi3dZ32j9TsW7ehFOjRmMXgizCx20Xnb_cy5i60UDnTwfJjQYkuSbvoSayncaDGXhNdEW1NDdpgJw5tninP7MGPlFjywE/s400/mouse+pies.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Recently, I was invited to a cannibal-themed potluck dinner party. Each person secretly selected a friend to model their meal after. I was assigned a friend who works as a researcher in the field of DNA. I have seen the genetically spliced mice (mouse and jellyfish) he brings out to school programs and came up with these meat pies.<br />
<br />
Here's the fictional back story to go with it:<br />
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Driven by his insatiable appetite for human flesh yet
fearing the ethical and criminal repercussions for indulging in his fantasies,
Dr. C turns to his lab and begins his own series of mad science experiments.
Taking his mice already spliced with the genetic material from jellyfish, he
decides to incorporate his own genetic material by injecting it into the mice.
The result is a growing lump of human flesh, not unlike a tumour, inside the
mouse. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pies are made of beef ribs braised in wine, stock, and mushrooms. They were then put into pie crust with a pinch of real jellyfish (can be bought at most Asian grocery stores) and baked into little mouse shapes. The braising liquid was reduced then strained and heated prior to serving the pies. Each person participating had their own syringe with which to inject their mice with the liquid prior to eating. </div>
Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-70846059194298300652013-01-31T19:10:00.002-08:002013-01-31T19:10:33.067-08:00Roasted cauliflower<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCoObEOsLtM6aYEjbIKSLDLgd87hDhOsEsKZ3F3AX6CvgY49U6YSlzk_sN6fIRDsrnKQ0z_gFvbWGilzO-6JOAwu1eY6w7hzDAEBCBDBUxFZHHBHwpQyoBFDXEHsSMeMBVy-Pgqx3Y5sY/s1600/IMG_3446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCoObEOsLtM6aYEjbIKSLDLgd87hDhOsEsKZ3F3AX6CvgY49U6YSlzk_sN6fIRDsrnKQ0z_gFvbWGilzO-6JOAwu1eY6w7hzDAEBCBDBUxFZHHBHwpQyoBFDXEHsSMeMBVy-Pgqx3Y5sY/s400/IMG_3446.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well roasted cauliflower should have a golden colour. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ingredients:<br />
1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets<br />
1/4 cup olive oil<br />
Salt<br />
Minced garlic or garlic powder (optional)<br />
<br />
This is a favourite recipe of mine that is both simple and can be enjoyed hot or cold. It is also very versatile and can be added to other things such as pasta or salads, but usually I like to eat it as a side dish. There is rarely enough left over for other uses however, because it shrinks!<br />
<br />
Pre-heat oven to 375C.<br />
In a large bowl, toss well drained florets in olive oil until coated. Sprinkle generously with salt (and garlic or garlic powder if using) and toss. Spread evenly on a baking tray and place in the middle rack for 50-60 mins. Turn once halfway through cooking. The florets should caramelize and some browning is desired.<br />
<br />
Alternatives: Use flavoured herb or spiced oils instead of olive oil. I like to use a combination of olive and "Cumin and Coriander" flavoured oil. You could also try a little curry powder when tossing.<br />
<br />
<br />Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-37193474334443846492013-01-21T14:16:00.001-08:002013-01-21T14:16:35.418-08:00Me still ChineseI was walking one of my students down the hall when she turns to me and asks:<br />
<br />
"Are you Chinese?"<br />
<br />
With a smile, I reply: "Yes, I am."<br />
<br />
She asks: "Do you speak English?"Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-1100716222619606532012-12-26T19:48:00.000-08:002012-12-26T19:48:01.884-08:00Me ChineseJust before the holidays, I was faced with some rather amusing assumptions that were part of holiday well wishes and good intentions. I had a good laugh at all of them.<br />
<br />
Parent: Will you be flying back to your home this holiday?<br />
Me: No. I'm going to drive down Keele for 15 mins.<br />
<br />
Teaching partner: I got you a T and T Supermarket gift certificate! I hope you like it!<br />
Me: Thank you. I usually shop at Sobeys but I'll gladly make the trip.<br />
<br />
(Context: Secret Santa must buy a toy to be donated to Sick Kids. The toy should represent something about the recipient, such as their interests or hobbies.)<br />
<br />
Secret Santa: (passes me a blue haired rag doll with button eyes).<br />
I got this for you because it looks Chinese. Like you.<br />
Me: (puzzled look) Blue hair?<br />
Secret Santa: She has black eyes. And she's funky. Like an Asian.<br />
Me: I have brown eyes. But thank you for thinking I'm funky.<br />
<br />Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-39498541723827101542012-10-02T17:26:00.002-07:002012-10-02T17:26:58.445-07:00Seven of Eleven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OeI4242luFGP55F7OEwxONTog5QJlMvAT4uOmhYyjH3zzZ8U24H4WAVxI7QC7nwAb_-x3bufeBRrEkXFJiSIvbWBBYFw9kU4VyRpXwh0z7POp4hJMwKJzsGKqr0Wh_nwpvnvpUurJIY/s1600/courthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OeI4242luFGP55F7OEwxONTog5QJlMvAT4uOmhYyjH3zzZ8U24H4WAVxI7QC7nwAb_-x3bufeBRrEkXFJiSIvbWBBYFw9kU4VyRpXwh0z7POp4hJMwKJzsGKqr0Wh_nwpvnvpUurJIY/s1600/courthouse.jpg" /></a></div>
I recently completed my jury duty and it was quite an experience. I now have a better understanding of the justice system and how it works. Ten other strangers and I were locked into a room for deliberations after two weeks of evidence, witnesses and testimonies. Up until that moment, we only knew each other by our juror numbers despite having spent two weeks together. How fascinating that eleven strangers from different walks of life would be put together to determine the fate of the accused. It was a good mix of people. We each represented different facets of society and therefore different perspectives on the case. Our different experiences, knowledge, and priorities also allowed for greater depth in the exploration of the issues. Fortunately, we all came to the same verdict, though we did so through different avenues. We can leave this courthouse knowing that we tried to be as fair as possible.Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-35156227490488016892012-09-20T19:28:00.001-07:002012-09-20T19:57:32.168-07:00Hot Men: Tom Hiddleston<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGthB0eabHxTMmxOFkQesTPImJ7OGcVCKwRvaqRUtdSqrePSrYscoW6w7bDFyaHqxDf2ii2E2OkFTkNDxs1khDy3vgFZvAs6pCyMAxJFO2I1-ah8Ky_nPWuwDiiLhDFfZ5VxjcINOUjA/s1600/edison-loki-proshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGthB0eabHxTMmxOFkQesTPImJ7OGcVCKwRvaqRUtdSqrePSrYscoW6w7bDFyaHqxDf2ii2E2OkFTkNDxs1khDy3vgFZvAs6pCyMAxJFO2I1-ah8Ky_nPWuwDiiLhDFfZ5VxjcINOUjA/s400/edison-loki-proshot.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How can any girl resist? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm always behind the latest trend. Apparently, being infatuated with Loki (Tom Hiddleston) of The Avengers is pretty 4 months ago but I've only seen this photo recently. I agree with Vicki Essex's Blog: <a href="http://vickiessex.com/?p=1777">The Avengers in Order of Bangability</a>, especially with the gorgeously muscled Thor and Captain America, but I have to say that Tom Hiddleston is very handsome, has a winning smile, and the <a href="http://www.g33kwatch.com/movies/story-of-a-five-year-old-avenger-meeting-the-avengers/">story</a> around this photo is just so endearing. Normally, my Hot Men are fictional characters (and not the actual actor) but this sweet guy is one of my few exceptions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjnxX1cRe2pRv2unZtCI0JsNM1pyTZgub1rQtUJQB72w5d_ltwUp_PahRbEFcmUR42O2zy5mr2xdVDR5BL-oBIZ6Y5tWcl2x_f9YwAzAfJEhklu8DFlE5M9i5UevA-vaktSWgCnufLxM/s1600/thor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjnxX1cRe2pRv2unZtCI0JsNM1pyTZgub1rQtUJQB72w5d_ltwUp_PahRbEFcmUR42O2zy5mr2xdVDR5BL-oBIZ6Y5tWcl2x_f9YwAzAfJEhklu8DFlE5M9i5UevA-vaktSWgCnufLxM/s1600/thor.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love that cleft in his hip.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And how can I resist putting up some Avenger beefcake?<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMMKg4t_FmnK-qTFW-qpnvG2oWOxzyy3UFTdwrMZPb54wgzCmdcrmE0bqX9DgcRCceTe4Gz_ya5zzzo-ECAH03PAuRdEtbWPRZHeMiSLQoaGPhsXmPY740IbTLepPyu0_0wjZLSKSSu8/s1600/the+cap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMMKg4t_FmnK-qTFW-qpnvG2oWOxzyy3UFTdwrMZPb54wgzCmdcrmE0bqX9DgcRCceTe4Gz_ya5zzzo-ECAH03PAuRdEtbWPRZHeMiSLQoaGPhsXmPY740IbTLepPyu0_0wjZLSKSSu8/s200/the+cap.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He feels taller, and sexier! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-19482905018509400332012-08-31T05:03:00.002-07:002012-08-31T05:03:56.512-07:00Newest member of the TDSB!!!!Guess which of my "Hot Men" will be working alongside my brothers and sisters in solidarity?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1248953--susur-lee-recruited-to-spice-up-toronto-s-school-cafeterias">http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1248953--susur-lee-recruited-to-spice-up-toronto-s-school-cafeterias</a>Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-77454190674139299352012-08-28T21:45:00.000-07:002012-08-28T21:45:30.032-07:00Teacher Rally<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_jmvTFVNcMc5-KlpUPzgL90VVFCMajZnW5iaZQaZO1i-oeDBigLt7iJfj2B7_ALlEV7Pnc5BlKIdC2KMUXzh92i3zRSpXP4G63pYvH2lJ16J6AaEnqpoJJKs0dRo8th4k-UrS6vC95I/s1600/rally.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_jmvTFVNcMc5-KlpUPzgL90VVFCMajZnW5iaZQaZO1i-oeDBigLt7iJfj2B7_ALlEV7Pnc5BlKIdC2KMUXzh92i3zRSpXP4G63pYvH2lJ16J6AaEnqpoJJKs0dRo8th4k-UrS6vC95I/s320/rally.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>My five year old daughter's disturbing understanding of government. </b><br />
<br />
Me: You're going to grandma's today because mommy has to go to a rally.<br />
<br />
B: What's a rally?<br />
<br />
Me: Mmm...all the teachers get together and wave signs in the air because we don't agree with the government.<br />
<br />
B: Are they going to shoot you?Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-38659814801672310682012-08-18T20:38:00.001-07:002012-09-01T20:35:06.173-07:00Chicago! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For the hubby's 40th birthday, we went to Chicago for a couple of nights. What a great city! It has a well developed waterfront, wonderful architecture, great night life, and it is super family friendly. People were very nice plus the food was awesome and reasonable. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-stVPaByqU-9FdSAaqVDixxcwZPQY27wu_rBOmpZjIkFAiruoKkex2VuDk0_qXxSfiSZMmqEtqo22Lx1fVX9p5dQPjY80VjXMyX765kKxRsU1CWdzRsTDiWZ8BfDbxmRnOxk6e8grIXg/s1600/heaven+on+seven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-stVPaByqU-9FdSAaqVDixxcwZPQY27wu_rBOmpZjIkFAiruoKkex2VuDk0_qXxSfiSZMmqEtqo22Lx1fVX9p5dQPjY80VjXMyX765kKxRsU1CWdzRsTDiWZ8BfDbxmRnOxk6e8grIXg/s320/heaven+on+seven.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heaven on Seven had a collection of hot sauces on the wall plus more on the table for guests.<br />
Highlights were a tasty orzo-jambalaya and their Long Island iced tea that had a 1 order limit (hubby was smashed on half a glass).</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kLx3LPrzTYepQ6Y_Xgs2DrGyDLfqXcM3_0mEgFsCg8MIr8Ok1EoW6bSmtDTULSGval3QCodcrVNY55C4soDxdKERsUdmutTOIr_UP1MOIGN4DphRe8bRbvHgR9obrhqO-iLJyUq0Enw/s1600/crab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kLx3LPrzTYepQ6Y_Xgs2DrGyDLfqXcM3_0mEgFsCg8MIr8Ok1EoW6bSmtDTULSGval3QCodcrVNY55C4soDxdKERsUdmutTOIr_UP1MOIGN4DphRe8bRbvHgR9obrhqO-iLJyUq0Enw/s1600/crab.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaw's Crab House was amazing! Oyster shooters and lump crab cakes were so fresh. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2yxOuAGr09e19cH5aR503o-xzU9grdSlUOpdMjLyaaVymAYYpLi_7p9Uuvz1T-Wa7IfB6DwcG8_vDpeA6Vc527qUZEObdxCMV2sqcCBtAPls6qZ4aniAWOvdn1pf9y3XygstOnzeO0M/s1600/hotdog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL2yxOuAGr09e19cH5aR503o-xzU9grdSlUOpdMjLyaaVymAYYpLi_7p9Uuvz1T-Wa7IfB6DwcG8_vDpeA6Vc527qUZEObdxCMV2sqcCBtAPls6qZ4aniAWOvdn1pf9y3XygstOnzeO0M/s1600/hotdog.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Portillo's is a casual joint with a crazy hot dog garnished with slices of BEEF!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="text-align: center;">If ever in Chicago, stay at the ACME hotel. We loved the way it was decorated with a funky, modern edge plus their complimentary breakfast was delicious: stuffed croissants, hot waffles, quiche, and selections of breads, juices, fruit and cereals. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfdyewm_24JJXnmW85Lwx-7TaRV10B1l1AqFaZCHyDqrO7bMMaxR2zpai6bP0aNrweM8XjrFPXXvhLM0B3IPRj3CUngWH6FM-xqhKZ-QoqTHms0SDb-P1T-LONbChK4IMTECsC1iVQCE/s1600/acme2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfdyewm_24JJXnmW85Lwx-7TaRV10B1l1AqFaZCHyDqrO7bMMaxR2zpai6bP0aNrweM8XjrFPXXvhLM0B3IPRj3CUngWH6FM-xqhKZ-QoqTHms0SDb-P1T-LONbChK4IMTECsC1iVQCE/s1600/acme2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We got an upgraded suite with a living room!</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLDhnTA_efK0S0F6E9W08vWb16jYfLUaBgfg499OeWxORU1XB5APkPYH1wuCp6OkAlBB9eZhPZpPNa4WEFfNtGoyoVNRKo84iN7mzYqVHUyGMkNm9bAuwOyq9AwowRuvjx9ohe-I_Sdo/s1600/acme1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlLDhnTA_efK0S0F6E9W08vWb16jYfLUaBgfg499OeWxORU1XB5APkPYH1wuCp6OkAlBB9eZhPZpPNa4WEFfNtGoyoVNRKo84iN7mzYqVHUyGMkNm9bAuwOyq9AwowRuvjx9ohe-I_Sdo/s320/acme1.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">When the lights in the bathroom were off, the lips on the mirror would glow. Cool. </td></tr>
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We visited Navy Pier and the Shedd Aquarium (both of which we enjoyed and highly recommend). We left Chicago using High Standards Limo Services (www.MyHSLimo.com) to get to the airport. (A detail more for my future reference than anything.) I hope to visit again with the kids or my mom and hit the museum, planetarium, zoo, children's museum, art gallery, and gardens on a future trip. Fun, fun, fun!Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-79728239257851865822012-07-29T19:49:00.002-07:002012-07-29T19:51:56.923-07:00Ninja New York<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSRge2h4SKkfzFdTrVMjIsNt8-zAiIrLqlN1-u1tZDfiT2ruZ96ON_5eUlWkLF8T2xi-Ah89PRBjqYJmdcs14FxN6mwpjV1FU5X9EVFLC7n88qXpoBdGfquW-sH6NvXGb1xxVCP-zB30A/s1600/ny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSRge2h4SKkfzFdTrVMjIsNt8-zAiIrLqlN1-u1tZDfiT2ruZ96ON_5eUlWkLF8T2xi-Ah89PRBjqYJmdcs14FxN6mwpjV1FU5X9EVFLC7n88qXpoBdGfquW-sH6NvXGb1xxVCP-zB30A/s1600/ny.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Times Square: Toys R Us was amazing!</td></tr>
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I recently returned from a trip to New York with my sisters and mother; hopefully the start of a tradition in order to get my mom out and about to see the world beyond her 5 block radius. We did some of the usual things: The Met, The Museum of Natural History, Central Park, Times Square, and blew through the rest of New York on double decker tour bus. Negative impressions were that it was really busy and crowded and smelled of urine everywhere. Most things were pretty expensive. The good: taxis were abundant and relatively cheap, food was really good, shopping was great, and yes, it was a busy and exciting place (but a little overwhelming). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhId-cRlQuZZaBdH-823scTpQrls2yL_rAQzqqKZVo9U9J7yjKeduNAbo9OBY2m0gRrT4fGxyhOtvAnrjAAzd0zMmpm60aiu3FkHLPBSCVTHZzo513CVG3cKfkQOJgIUYmfNLsmXu9TQ/s1600/donut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhId-cRlQuZZaBdH-823scTpQrls2yL_rAQzqqKZVo9U9J7yjKeduNAbo9OBY2m0gRrT4fGxyhOtvAnrjAAzd0zMmpm60aiu3FkHLPBSCVTHZzo513CVG3cKfkQOJgIUYmfNLsmXu9TQ/s1600/donut.jpg" /></a></div>
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One highlight was Planet Donut, where for $4, I got a stupid big, out of this world, coconut yeast donut. It was square, filled with coconut cream, yet had a hole. Not too sweet and so light and fluffy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3TArM133nEbIMTLEZJ721Ev1zdLlWa1GfuKjq_1WgT4dWvAOVtKR0Z1Gay0tusPSS3zpw95dFHQqWmymwxeQ9SjaZnuNtfDlp3h1_FcbmNybDfKh71ns0QSScu2qnAyv6CZAfMX4xDQ/s1600/chelsea_market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3TArM133nEbIMTLEZJ721Ev1zdLlWa1GfuKjq_1WgT4dWvAOVtKR0Z1Gay0tusPSS3zpw95dFHQqWmymwxeQ9SjaZnuNtfDlp3h1_FcbmNybDfKh71ns0QSScu2qnAyv6CZAfMX4xDQ/s320/chelsea_market.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another is Chelsea Market, full of good things to eat. I particularly enjoyed throwing convention to the wind by having Nutella crepes and raw oysters for breakfast. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZovyLqhcyZwQqb1gTBVPWczv445-AQgf3Zbu1mi2ewDRjeWi3Zog09gr-0cxMpcXxVDXmaI2aWk0lNlltFtnvn3GoyO0aoI8EwoeocrFLe_ofN0sBRtniI9y0VBnfvj61tVhVno_dvqI/s1600/century.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZovyLqhcyZwQqb1gTBVPWczv445-AQgf3Zbu1mi2ewDRjeWi3Zog09gr-0cxMpcXxVDXmaI2aWk0lNlltFtnvn3GoyO0aoI8EwoeocrFLe_ofN0sBRtniI9y0VBnfvj61tVhVno_dvqI/s320/century.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Something non-edible that I enjoyed was Century 21. Kinda like a Winner's on steroids. The deals were great but I had no patience for the crazy line ups for the change rooms. Like I said, too crowded. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3ZjnC9sF6i1-08NnnwKxwgOyEiFxQHYMVnoJb6crR1YSfnu1sOO_FSQ93G7ww4E9MaFVXzwtVVvkwhvHnDYM1LXOwaSmdmKCgQafFHnviwmcs50aO20P7AVgcMw-5CWldV_JedZ7SY8/s1600/ninja.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3ZjnC9sF6i1-08NnnwKxwgOyEiFxQHYMVnoJb6crR1YSfnu1sOO_FSQ93G7ww4E9MaFVXzwtVVvkwhvHnDYM1LXOwaSmdmKCgQafFHnviwmcs50aO20P7AVgcMw-5CWldV_JedZ7SY8/s320/ninja.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally, my favourite moment had to be Ninja New York. A Japanese-American theme restaurant with a subtle entrance that leads to an underground "ninja village."Yes, ninjas would pop out at you and "HI-YAH!" you every 3 seconds. Also amusing was that our ninja servers were white, Columbian, East Indian, and Russian. I expected our "ninja magician" entertainer would do smoke bomb disappearing tricks but instead, he did card tricks and other slight-of-hand tricks. He was adorable. Probably paying for college. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnEus7srIm0djdYy_gVqSuqvucxrYR9lvcTLTXZa77GklkmJGFO_el16tqIpbE6VEnfKtf-DybjF-q-ZetBDDKktVE7VyHZpmSFtQxzJGuiW5QXRZh8gkc5tlo2F8r_ASrjMjjc-zR94/s1600/ninja2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnEus7srIm0djdYy_gVqSuqvucxrYR9lvcTLTXZa77GklkmJGFO_el16tqIpbE6VEnfKtf-DybjF-q-ZetBDDKktVE7VyHZpmSFtQxzJGuiW5QXRZh8gkc5tlo2F8r_ASrjMjjc-zR94/s1600/ninja2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The food was an odd mix of items (cesar salad, sushi, steak, chocolate mousse, etc.) but the portions were enough to keep the Great White Ninja, Chris Farley, pleased.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> Some signature dishes came with a "ninja presentation" which usually meant they were going to set something on fire or use their weapons to serve, or both. All in all, w</span>e had a great time in New York and even my mom had a couple of laughs. </div>
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<br /></div>Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-59199777939589134252012-06-22T14:17:00.001-07:002012-06-22T14:17:38.344-07:00Hot Men: Ser Jorah Mormont<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgno-vJyLzwfkzybP8At0ux_xgycHtqq6wIxVUXT5r2dBLOQXa6l33lW4HQ-zfPNN9M6NR5wtDyLLJe-0ZDLiyMkegtUFHB7I3bj37gZz3xSavCLYQkc6ukNILmv1w8AA4dDErb018ACD8/s1600/tumblr_lmwi3nG6BY1qizenxo1_500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgno-vJyLzwfkzybP8At0ux_xgycHtqq6wIxVUXT5r2dBLOQXa6l33lW4HQ-zfPNN9M6NR5wtDyLLJe-0ZDLiyMkegtUFHB7I3bj37gZz3xSavCLYQkc6ukNILmv1w8AA4dDErb018ACD8/s320/tumblr_lmwi3nG6BY1qizenxo1_500.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've finished watching Game of Thrones, Season Two. I couldn't quite put my finger on it...whenever I saw Jorah, I got little tingles. Not the type I usually find attractive because I don't usually like scruffy fellas. But, HELLO! I realized he was my new Hot Man! </div>
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Steely blue eyes, chiseled features, and a strong, handsome build. This banished knight lovingly protects the "Mother of Dragons." Will they get together? I hope so! </div>Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-21148651905975852872012-06-22T13:53:00.000-07:002012-06-22T13:53:01.667-07:00Noooooo!!!! Diiiiirty!Kids are gross and mine are no different from the average. Here are a few moments that have made me say: <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Noooooo!!!! Diiiiirty!</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">7. Drinking bath water, pool water, dog water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">6. Eating grass, dropped food, dog food.</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">5. Lying down on sidewalks, public washroom floors, the grass/ground around trees, poles, and fire hydrants.</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">4. Licking window screens, window panes, door knobs, subway poles...
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3. Kid messily blowing their nose then absentmindedly using it to wipe their mouth. <br />
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2. My kids exploding their diaper then grabbing at the mess with both hands, then touching their heads.<br />
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1. My son face plowing into an abandoned mattress on the side of the street then rolling in it.
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You've probably heard of worse. Please feel free to share your shiny moments!<br />
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<br />Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-88117965587959707062012-06-21T19:25:00.000-07:002012-06-21T19:25:14.099-07:00CandylandMy kids were goofing around, laughing in the living room. I asked them what they were playing. "We're in CANDYLAND mommy!" they exclaim. "Everything here is made of candy!"<br />
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"Best land ever!" I reply and I pretend to eat part of a chair. My 3 year old reaches up and smacks me in the face. "Mommy, when you eat anything in Candyland, you get punched in the face."<br />
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"What? That's the worst land ever!" I grab another piece of sofa and pretend to eat it and promptly get punched in the face.<br />
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"That's it! No more candy for me! I don't like it here!" I say indignantly.<br />
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"No, mommy. Eat more candy." pleads my son.<br />
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"No way." I reply. <br />
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So ninja-boy grabs up some sofa, leaps into the air and deftly grabs my face as he shoves imaginary candy-furniture into my pursed lips....and then punches me in the face.<br />
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At least they have a good imagination.Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-49542549789769336972012-05-30T13:49:00.000-07:002012-05-30T13:49:05.186-07:00It's a Trap!Recently, I've encountered a number disturbing, yet preventable situations involving men and women. Mostly, they are caused by the incorrect responses made by men and as a result...well, mayhem. Now, I don't envy you men. Women are complex creatures that are difficult to understand. Men have difficulty interpreting us or perhaps lack the common sense to respond to women in an appropriate manner. The following are the opinions of only one complex woman.<br />
<br />
Scenario 1: <br />
<br />
The woman says: If you could change ONE thing about me, what would it be?<br />
(Sensing danger) Man: Uhh...nothing.<br />
Woman: Be honest! I'll be honest with you, I wish you were less hairy.<br />
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Wrong answer: I wish you had bigger boobs.<br />
Right answer: Nothing. You are perfect the way you are.<br />
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Scenario 2: <br />
<br />
The woman says: If you could have a three-some with me and another woman, would you?<br />
(Sensing danger) Man: And you won't get mad?<br />
Woman: Yes.<br />
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Wrong answer: Yes.<br />
Right answer: I would never even dream of this. How could I ever want anyone else but you?<br />
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Scenario 3: <br />
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Woman: Do I look fat?<br />
<br />
Wrong answer: I like women with meat on their bones.<br />
Right answer: No, you look beautiful.<br />
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Woman: What about my hips? I've got some serious muffin top going on here!<br />
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Wrong answer: I love having something to grab onto!<br />
Right answer: Your hips are gorgeous.<br />
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Woman: You're just saying that. Don't lie.<br />
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Wrong answer: Well, you're not 20 anymore.<br />
Right answer: You look like you're still 20.Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-88110914584899773562011-11-12T18:07:00.000-08:002011-11-12T18:17:18.619-08:00Wonder Woman vs. Rainbow Boy<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Dfl_H1bXoxbXbVvuxpkdGS9wMIQ1rv835iF9NI19iaUEUtPjHWYJEZ5GRtM65tCLJGni7Ks9NcyzAvqS2evdFoKCEWI1NHq6djPeeqyI3oJW_eKuMJHpuCZEH0WB8_gnKtYpEqYAG-A/s1600/wonder-woman-1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 258px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Dfl_H1bXoxbXbVvuxpkdGS9wMIQ1rv835iF9NI19iaUEUtPjHWYJEZ5GRtM65tCLJGni7Ks9NcyzAvqS2evdFoKCEWI1NHq6djPeeqyI3oJW_eKuMJHpuCZEH0WB8_gnKtYpEqYAG-A/s320/wonder-woman-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674298320064289010" /></a><br />My son is shooting me with his plastic machine gun as I type away on my computer. I put my wrists up instinctively and wave them about: <br /><br />Me: Hah! You can't hurt me with bullets! I've got Wonder Woman bracelets on! <br /><br />My son: Water-melon, Water-melon! You come and fight with me! <br /><br />Me: Water-melon? My name is Wonder Woman. <br /><br />My son: I...I can't say the words. <br /><br />Me: Won-der-Wo-man. <br /><br />My son: Won-der-Melon. <br /><br />Me: Close enough.Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-50037190251299150982011-11-04T18:23:00.000-07:002011-11-04T18:33:33.012-07:00Ism'sMy son is really into superheroes and his persona will change with his pajamas: <br /><br />Superman pj's: I'm Superman, here to save the day! <br /><br />Batman pj's: Grrrr. I'm Batman. <br /><br />Candy striped pj's: I'm Rainbow Boy! To the rescue! <br /><br />White undershirt: I'm White Man! Da-da-da-DAH! <br /><br /><br />The Hubby upon seeing me catch a falling dish: <br />"You have ninja reflections!" <br /><br />My daughter on money: <br />"Don't worry. You can go to the bank and buy some money."Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-11750861183678589922011-07-29T19:32:00.000-07:002011-07-29T19:38:55.823-07:00Wanted: Surrogate Husband<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVI3wzFZJkUuGj49N_owlBQnq78JNSlldFRViaBz969rdfF6CJHFl-dgbwBVvx3jODf2Y_lQm5KS_HIlq8tjswKGFhDsqnUS75QS6Q7OvCieG1ZOnZ4e0TGsPKoza7lD-5Rf0iWWp6Sk/s1600/husband.htm"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVI3wzFZJkUuGj49N_owlBQnq78JNSlldFRViaBz969rdfF6CJHFl-dgbwBVvx3jODf2Y_lQm5KS_HIlq8tjswKGFhDsqnUS75QS6Q7OvCieG1ZOnZ4e0TGsPKoza7lD-5Rf0iWWp6Sk/s320/husband.htm" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634968971743785618" /></a><br />Wanted: Surrogate husband<br /><br />Description: All the work, none of the perks. Man needed this Saturday for company and childminding at Whittamore's Farm. Pick up provided at 9:30 am and lunch as well. Must be able to watch 4 children while listening attentively to the conversation of 2 sleep deprived mommies. Possible trip to Vaughn Mills' Bass Pro store after wards. Stamina and cheery disposition mandatory. Will be paid in gratitude. Forward resume to this email address.<br /><br />-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br />Dear madam,<br /><br />I am writing in regard to your advertisement for a surrogate husband. I would like to express my interest in such a role and briefly highlight a few of the myriad wonderful qualities within my possession that make me ideally suited to fill this position.<br /><br />Firstly, in the history of my life, I have yet to lose a child. I attribute this success to skill rather than my considerable lack of experience. You see, part of my talent derives from the fact that I can really "hold my liquor", as demonstrated by my unmatched performance in a recent drinking competition. Now, many mothers feel rightfully concerned that those watching their children will have one too many beers and begin tossing their children around the room like footballs. However, I can assure you that 1) I will neither become that drunk, despite my best attempts, and 2) I prefer hockey to football. <br /><br />Secondly, I have considerable experience in pretending to be engaged in conversations that I am paying little to no attention to whatsoever, whether it be concerning one's opinions on local government, the types of flowers one might be planting, or something equally uninteresting. As such, you can feel content to speak to your heart's content, never in fear of speaking into a deaf ear; I will pay just enough attention to make polite conversation, and smile blissfully while my mind wanders to my next vacation and to what that pretty woman across the way is doing later.<br /><br />And, finally, though certainly not the last of my many winning attributes, I relate very well to children, largely due to my enormous lack of maturity. I find that this helps me fit in with my surroundings. By the end of the outing, you will wonder if there are five, rather than four children, running and screaming and howling in your ears, or asking you to show them to the bathroom, not least because I will assuredly be deep "into my cups" within about 2 hours of us setting out.<br /><br />In summary, I feel that I am the ideal surrogate husband. And, let's be honest, who else would take the job? I notice that you state that you pay in "gratitude". What could be more gracious than cash? I agree, and hopefully you do too. Or I will steal your purse.<br /><br />I look forward to working with you.<br /><br />Your sincerely,<br />M. Pseudo-name<br />(The "P" is silent and the "e" is pronounced "eh")Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-44968082015294936152011-07-27T14:56:00.000-07:002011-07-27T19:36:43.495-07:00Back from Boston: Review of PSYI'm back from a trip to Boston with my mom and sister. It was a jam-packed week which included the usual historical sights but also a show by a Montreal based acrobatic group. Though I haven't seen any Cirque du Soliel shows, I imagine it might be in the same spirit. What's really interesting is that each character has a psychological issue such as hearing voices, addiction, or anger and each person expresses their ailment through acrobatics. Hopefully, this link to a video will work: <br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOkWUjHPRqg"><br />http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOkWUjHPRqg</a><br /><br />We also made a short trip to Salem, home of the witch trials of the 1600's. It was quaint and sometimes tacky, and apparently, super-haunted! It is now home to a lively Wiccan community and interesting witch supply stores!Certainly worth the ferry trip over from Boston. <br /><br />Finally, we ended it with the last Harry Potter movie. A fitting end to a Salem trip.Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-4191621082095942212011-07-12T20:39:00.000-07:002011-07-12T20:41:11.712-07:00Poetry by Guest BloggerA little context...<br />My friend had a month-long stint teaching a university course in BC. The location was surrounded by a beautiful, lush forest which also brought with it the possible dangers of things such as cougar attacks. Going to his class each day required him to walk a healthy distance so he was told, "If you ever encounter a cougar, wave a stick and make lots of noise!" These are his thoughts. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ode to Cougar Defense Strategies</span><br /><br /><br />You stare at me from your abode.<br />I see you there. I OWN this road.<br />You think I’ll turn and run from you?<br />As if! I wish. My legs are goo.<br />Now cougar, what are you gonn’ do?<br /> <br />You have your teeth; you have your claws.<br />You have your large and heavy paws.<br />Cougar, cougar on my path,<br />You think I’m scared to face your wrath?<br />I have a stick, don’t make me laugh.<br /> <br />You think you’re big? You think you’re tough?<br />Try teaching kids. Whose life is rough?<br />Now get away. I’ll wave my stick.<br />“Hey look! I’m big!” Ain’t that a trick!<br />Note: ‘crazy’ meat will make you sick.<br /> <br />That’s quite a roar. I know. It’s true. <br />I’ll yell right back, “Don’t EAT me, YOOOOU!”<br />You think you’ll scare me with that hiss?<br />I’ll calmly stop to take a piss.<br />Now cougar, can you mess with this?<br /> <br />Cougar, cougar on my walk:<br />You’ll win for sure to hear them talk.<br />But cougar, cougar, on my path,<br />I’ll act just like a psychopath.<br />“I have a stick, don’t make me laugh.”<br /><br /><br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6fVTiWd4FQ6dWQOWJsc8sSismsE8-KL1IXozNjoPgcJzbD-KCdgT0Xzx_xmGiCrrgrQWDYfTTJ-fxRW3GYuCHI02ZH5TYoHXKeh2tSEPZBX40-PLBMZOUV34bMVD-FhOR2Ut6vg_JKY/s1600/cougar.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6fVTiWd4FQ6dWQOWJsc8sSismsE8-KL1IXozNjoPgcJzbD-KCdgT0Xzx_xmGiCrrgrQWDYfTTJ-fxRW3GYuCHI02ZH5TYoHXKeh2tSEPZBX40-PLBMZOUV34bMVD-FhOR2Ut6vg_JKY/s320/cougar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5628676682621459938" /></a>Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-67358597308262915342011-07-10T12:23:00.000-07:002011-07-10T12:39:16.500-07:00Good grief!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcEk5fuHUrCQJoMT8tvUMJGA0n0pPOHDAct6K5nyvkQ8k-Fcw6XbO85xPDi-gOnx28CkU9kllY2nnrvnfUFhTg9Wof5yMBpRfQgYiEilj2KkRGsNPYQCJQaDtEYiNKxTKkDd9VcGt2Yg/s1600/charliebrown.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 241px; height: 209px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcEk5fuHUrCQJoMT8tvUMJGA0n0pPOHDAct6K5nyvkQ8k-Fcw6XbO85xPDi-gOnx28CkU9kllY2nnrvnfUFhTg9Wof5yMBpRfQgYiEilj2KkRGsNPYQCJQaDtEYiNKxTKkDd9VcGt2Yg/s320/charliebrown.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627807505951184114" /></a> <br /><br /> I haven't blogged since 2010??? Well, quickie update...I got out of hell mouth and hopefully I've landed myself in a better place (or at the very least, a level of hell closer to the surface). That place really sucked me dry. Of time, of energy, of any kind of passion or enthusiasm. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />At the very end, I decided "the heck with everything" and I did a last minute, surprise, solo performance as Lady Gaga in front of the whole school. Take that! <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdflbC00XmlaHL1hmoTMo2dPbSdxIGXSaXXYg-Pw9WDEw3vIeYH-W6YLNn4bE2wB2VUgYGskcnCzlLChyphenhyphenWEcy0SKS7nmZ1VzShJhj3yfssmPCmAVV0vYg-D0TpdNVaoOTocJoZUckYtc/s1600/lady-gaga-3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 215px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWdflbC00XmlaHL1hmoTMo2dPbSdxIGXSaXXYg-Pw9WDEw3vIeYH-W6YLNn4bE2wB2VUgYGskcnCzlLChyphenhyphenWEcy0SKS7nmZ1VzShJhj3yfssmPCmAVV0vYg-D0TpdNVaoOTocJoZUckYtc/s320/lady-gaga-3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627808806086506098" /></a><br /><br /><br />I'm leaving and I'm taking all the fun with me! And just to spit in their eye, I declared the next day "Dress Up Day" in my classroom and spent the rest of the day as Superwoman...even on my lunchtime errands. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cVu7kAr3Sesz5sxWOtokQWx5o2T0JsVKsas3eP9_ioXe4kQs39V-YQscWn0jfVXHej7Z2U9JxmbT8wvlsV6hObsq1E3MBN3H_DxCrVn3eYjZIYAguFAYaAAmkATtfrncpXt2vxwJA0A/s1600/supergirl3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 195px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cVu7kAr3Sesz5sxWOtokQWx5o2T0JsVKsas3eP9_ioXe4kQs39V-YQscWn0jfVXHej7Z2U9JxmbT8wvlsV6hObsq1E3MBN3H_DxCrVn3eYjZIYAguFAYaAAmkATtfrncpXt2vxwJA0A/s320/supergirl3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5627809622368462626" /></a><br /><br /><br />So there. Stuff happened in between which I hope to slowly catch up on, but that's what happened by June. Wish me luck as I start a new adventure!!!!Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-42588447698876435642010-12-11T19:59:00.000-08:002010-12-13T20:08:12.825-08:00Restaurant Review: Kensington Cornerstone<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0u2oOuFj5LaKFk6Kb732azi-kVLSa15eiKhEn68vczDUdJ4pQl57-jUuKg5UjeKSgl3KYjjr3l3a5uAc0cvOqfHLYfUswrUEzy3vxxM6_5VMxQAMMvYXz3-r8incoWhC-2KXOcx68LM/s1600/kc2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0u2oOuFj5LaKFk6Kb732azi-kVLSa15eiKhEn68vczDUdJ4pQl57-jUuKg5UjeKSgl3KYjjr3l3a5uAc0cvOqfHLYfUswrUEzy3vxxM6_5VMxQAMMvYXz3-r8incoWhC-2KXOcx68LM/s320/kc2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550382465684417842" /></a><br /><br /><br />This tucked away location at the corner of Dundas St. West and Kensington Ave. had always been a regular dim sum haunt for me in my childhood. Living only two doors away, above my parent's original hardware store, we would often walk over for weekend dumplings and the occasional scratch ticket from the door to door ticket salesman. Since those days, it has changed hands a couple of times but had always been an Asian style cafe. Now, chef and owner David has changed the small space into a very relaxed haven of comfort food that is (shhhh!!!) completely gluten free. <a href="http://kensingtoncornerstone.com/">The Kensington Cornerstone</a> does not openly advertise this in fear of driving away potential customers who may have preconceived notions of the food. And you could barely tell. The chicken fusilli pasta is creamy and rich. There is no way of telling that it is rice pasta. Even the garlic toast is light and delicious. His secret? Instead of making a dough with rice flour (which makes it heavy and crumbly) he treats it like a cake batter. The results are an airy bread that works well with his pastas and sandwiches. Bonus is the lounging area where my kids enjoy frolicking in. Also a great view of the comings and goings of the Market hub bub. Desserts are ambitious but disappointing. Poached pear pie was cold and the crust odd. The chocolate cake not too bad. All in all, a great spot for lunch or dinner especially with friends who have any kind of dietary restrictions which he is happy to accommodate!Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-16369254834509261902010-10-07T08:34:00.000-07:002010-10-07T10:02:00.546-07:00More pooThough work is heck, at least I'm never bored. Here's a story that happened to one of my colleagues yesterday: <br /><br />Tommy had a really bad accident in his pants. Poop all over. To his credit, he tried to take of it. He stripped down completely and began washing his clothes in the toilet. <br /><br />"What are you doing???" his teacher cried. "I'm going to call your parents to come get you!" At this point, this poor, naked, embarrassed thing was covered in poo, up to his elbows in poo, and had covered the toilet and walls with poo. Realizing he was doing the wrong thing, he immediately came out of the washroom and continued washing his poopy clothes in the sink. <br /><br />"Ahhhh! What are you doing???" she screamed. Now there was poo on the classroom sink and floor as well. "Your parents are coming. Don't move. I'm calling the caretaker."<br /><br />Poor Tommy. Naked, covered in poo, and only trying to fix things. It couldn't get worse. <br /><br />"What do you want?" grumbles the disgruntled caretaker. He looks over. "Whaaaat????!!!!!" <br /><br />I hope Tommy has a better day.Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-24364408277791937292010-10-07T08:19:00.000-07:002010-10-07T08:34:20.713-07:00Kiddy-isms<span style="font-weight:bold;">My two year old son: </span><br /><br />Mommy. Sun. Go down!<br /><br />Me: Yes, the sun is going down. <br /><br />Awwww. Sorry. <br /><br />Me: Why are you sorry? Did YOU make the sun go down? <br /><br />Yesth. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />My daughter while flushing: </span><br /><br />Bye-bye poo! See you later! <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">On the size of poo:</span> <br /><br />Look mommy! Three poos! A daddy poo, a mommy poo, and a baby poo! It's a family! <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">On the shape of poo: </span><br /><br />Mommy! It looks like a toothbrush! <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">On the sequence of poo: </span><br /><br />Me: Did you poo or pee? <br /><br />Poo! And pee! Together!Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-28967288686811388432010-09-21T15:31:00.000-07:002010-10-07T08:18:05.633-07:00Hell: Week 5Extreme "Whack-A-Mole" continues and though the numbers have decreased slightly, the monkeys I have more than make up for few bodies that have yet to show up. I have to sadly admit that it has gotten the best of me. I am HATING my job. I feel I am at the mercy of these monsters who have no concept of cause and effect. Reward or punishment. They are worse than Pavlov's dogs. In fact, if they were a Pavlovian dog, they would say, "How come he gets a treat? I want one! It's not fair. I don't want no bell. Bell? I'm going to go chew on my butt over here. Squirrel!" Pavlov would put them down. <br /><br />Some strategies that are (unfortunately) working is rearranging all my furniture in order to corral them for lessons. With only 2 narrow escape routes, we gatekeepers can at least keep them in one small area. Not that it helps much. While trapped in this oval, they manage to do other damage such as pulling things off my bulletin board or taking all the books off my bookcase. <br /><br />I could deal with all this if I felt the parents or administration were behind me. I gave some constructive feedback on how one kid was doing and the psycho dad, irrate with my "unfounded complaints," went straight to the principal to protest my groundless accusations. I was told to keep quiet from now on and don't say anything negative to him anymore. (???????) <br /><br />If I must, say only good things. Yes, lie. (?????????)<br /><br />Exhausted from dealing with exhausted children, I was also told to "not teach" in the afternoon and that it wouldn't hurt them academically. (??????)<br /><br />All of us were having trouble finding our stride with our ECE partners. They were called in for a meeting and scolded for "touching" them (hugging, picking up, kissing). My partner took it very personally and now, in a really exaggerated manner, won't touch them at all. To the detriment of classroom management. <br /><br />Difficult parents, kids, administration, and ECE. Maybe I'll go back to chef training.Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5032509661572744273.post-49091318741247493842010-09-10T16:13:00.000-07:002010-09-10T16:23:02.916-07:00Full Day Kindergarten...Week oneOh. My. God. 31 three, four, and five year olds. 1 ECE teacher. Too many minutes in a school day for these little guys. Not enough hours in a day to plan, prepare, or rest. I am the living dead right now animated only by adrenaline and bananas. I don't know how I am going to handle Monday because not all students showed up today because of Eid celebrations. Monday will be all of them, plus 3 student teachers from Japan who would like to see how a Canadian classroom is run. It runs like a game of Whack-A-Mole except the moles manage to run out of their holes and all over the C.N.E. <br /><br />I'm going to go and drink now...Six Degreeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04234458035448056195noreply@blogger.com1