I have just broken up with EJ. I am extremely upset about it. Why is it that people always assume that the only good reason for a break-up is because the other person cheated or did something equally deplorable? The truth is that EJ is a great guy. And he did not do anything wrong. Call it what you will: mistaken identity, bad timing... I am myself a little uncertain as to the precise reasons. I know relationships are not easy, and that you have to work at them... but I don't believe they should be an everyday struggle. I had to ask myself if I was settling... and I realized that if you have to ask yourself that question, then you've probably already answered it.
I would also like to defend all of the dumpers out there. Why is it that people assume that when the dumpee has not done anything wrong, that the dumper must be some sort of sadistic, horrible person? (Okay, there are some sadistic, horrible dumpers out there, I do not defend them). However, I do not get my kicks from causing other people pain. And truthfully, I find that dumping someone is harder than getting dumped. I know that the relationship where I got dumped was short-lived (and the guy never really did stop dating his former girlfriend, so can we really call that a relationship?), but it still stung when he ditched me. But it's nowhere near how horrible I felt, feel, and will feel for a long time about telling my best friend that I didn't love him the way he needed to be loved. Being a dumper is about taking responsibility for your life and your relationship and saying, "This isn't working, and as painful as it will be, it will be better to be apart than it will be to stay together." Being a dumper is making a decision, a horrible painful decision that you know you may regret, and you know will certainly cause you and someone you care about pain...
But enough about possibly the worst New Year's Eve in history. I would now like to direct all of you to a site where you can download the latest installment in the Star Wars Saga:
Revelations, Episode 3.5(?) (It takes place after Revenge of the Sith, and before A New Hope)
This may be old news to some as it's been out since spring of this year, but for those of you who haven't yet indulged, I suggest you have a taste. What do I think of it? Well, it's hard to say. It was a very low budget production, all of the people involved were volunteers and no one got paid, so you obviously can't compare it to the original six. Still, I'd say the visuals are impressive for an amateur crew and the plot line definitely has potential, although I'd say that they didn't (or more accurately couldn't) explore either the characters or the plot to their fullest depth in the approximately 40-minute film. I don't want to give it away, but they find out that there was a secret sect of jedi within the jedi that hunted down failed paduans. Hello! Big news! But they don't really get to dwell on the magnitude of their discovery. The action scenes (after seeing the amazing antics of the Jedi in Episodes 2 and 3) are, how shall I say it... lacking, but I imagine they couldn't afford stunt doubles. :o)
In conclusion, see it and tell me what you all think.
Saturday, December 31, 2005
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Désastre!
So I had to work yesterday (Saturday). I had to go to a Craft Fair in a very tiny town. The Library there was having a table display, so they had me out to do a display with my laptop and digital projector, to be able to show people how to use our OPAC and Online databases. I had done this once before, about a month ago in another small town that is only about 20 km away from this small town. The difference being that a month ago, M. went with me to provide technical support, that being the first time I was out. This time, I was on my own.
I was late. I thought I had left myself plenty of time to get there, but first of all, I realized I'd forgotten our screen. Can't have a digital display without a screen. So back I went. I was only a block away when I realized, but it still takes time to unlock the doors and disarm the security system and then do it all over again. But, I still thought I had plenty of time. Then I got on to some of those secondary highways, which never get plowed, and they were covered with snow and ice. Plus I had to drive through a provincial park, which is always infested with deer. So, by the time I get there, it is after 10 am. I was supposed to be there at 9:30 to set up, and then the fair started at 10. Ooops.
Then, I start getting everything set up. I get the projector, laptop and screen all set up. Turn it on, and ... nothing. The computer is not displaying with the digital projector. No problem. M. and I ran into this problem before, and we figured it out. I do all of the things that I think I'm supposed to do. Still nothing. I fiddle for half and hour and it still DOES NOT WORK. I am looking more incompetent by the minute. The librarian who has come with her fancy computer stuff and is supposed to be promoting E-Library Services cannot make the computer screen display with the digital projector. I finally give up. I take down the screen and projector and just have the laptop there.
Honestly, all is not lost. I still brought lots of display items, I have several people come up and say that they didn't know the library had DVDs. I have two door prize books, and that goes over well. I even have a couple of people come up and ask me to look for books online for them. I give away lots of bookmarks and fridge magnets. So not horrible, but I still can't help thinking that I have made a mess of the day. Then, a woman comes up who looks vaguely familiar. She starts asking me about Gateway. "Can I check the status of a loan through Gateway?" she asks. "No," I reply, "that's not an option right now. You'd have to do it through the InterLibrary Loan system. You should ask your librarian." As soon as the words are out of my mouth, I realize that her questions have been very knowledgeable. Much more knowledgeable than a member of the public. Could she be a librarian? I quickly try to cover my faux pas: "You know, you'd have to talk to M. at Headquarters". She nods, understanding. Oh God, if she knows what I mean by "M. at Headquarters", then she must be a librarian. I have just told a librarian to go ask a librarian. Brilliant. I feel terrible, although I only met all of the branch librarians at a workshop day two months ago and have not seen most of them since, but still I feel bad. When I leave I still do not remember who she is or which branch she works at. "Bye Violette [well, not Violette, but my real name]", she says. I smile and wave feeling like an idiot.
So that was my day. Can we say incompetence!?
Does anyone else have days like that?
I was late. I thought I had left myself plenty of time to get there, but first of all, I realized I'd forgotten our screen. Can't have a digital display without a screen. So back I went. I was only a block away when I realized, but it still takes time to unlock the doors and disarm the security system and then do it all over again. But, I still thought I had plenty of time. Then I got on to some of those secondary highways, which never get plowed, and they were covered with snow and ice. Plus I had to drive through a provincial park, which is always infested with deer. So, by the time I get there, it is after 10 am. I was supposed to be there at 9:30 to set up, and then the fair started at 10. Ooops.
Then, I start getting everything set up. I get the projector, laptop and screen all set up. Turn it on, and ... nothing. The computer is not displaying with the digital projector. No problem. M. and I ran into this problem before, and we figured it out. I do all of the things that I think I'm supposed to do. Still nothing. I fiddle for half and hour and it still DOES NOT WORK. I am looking more incompetent by the minute. The librarian who has come with her fancy computer stuff and is supposed to be promoting E-Library Services cannot make the computer screen display with the digital projector. I finally give up. I take down the screen and projector and just have the laptop there.
Honestly, all is not lost. I still brought lots of display items, I have several people come up and say that they didn't know the library had DVDs. I have two door prize books, and that goes over well. I even have a couple of people come up and ask me to look for books online for them. I give away lots of bookmarks and fridge magnets. So not horrible, but I still can't help thinking that I have made a mess of the day. Then, a woman comes up who looks vaguely familiar. She starts asking me about Gateway. "Can I check the status of a loan through Gateway?" she asks. "No," I reply, "that's not an option right now. You'd have to do it through the InterLibrary Loan system. You should ask your librarian." As soon as the words are out of my mouth, I realize that her questions have been very knowledgeable. Much more knowledgeable than a member of the public. Could she be a librarian? I quickly try to cover my faux pas: "You know, you'd have to talk to M. at Headquarters". She nods, understanding. Oh God, if she knows what I mean by "M. at Headquarters", then she must be a librarian. I have just told a librarian to go ask a librarian. Brilliant. I feel terrible, although I only met all of the branch librarians at a workshop day two months ago and have not seen most of them since, but still I feel bad. When I leave I still do not remember who she is or which branch she works at. "Bye Violette [well, not Violette, but my real name]", she says. I smile and wave feeling like an idiot.
So that was my day. Can we say incompetence!?
Does anyone else have days like that?
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
Eldest
I have just finished reading the second book in the Inheritance Series, Eldest by Christopher Paolini. I had read the first book, Eragon, over the summer. I did actually enjoy it, though I found it a bit hard to get into at first for some reason.
The book is definitely worth reading, but it still has some rough edges. This is understandable since Christopher Paolini is only 22 years old, and started writing the trilogy when he was 15. He has definitely accomplished an amazing feat considering his age and the fact that this trilogy was his first major undertaking. I am actually quite jealous, since I am also a huge fantasy fan and have considered writing my own epic. Alas, due to laziness, or maybe because I've just been too busy with other things, I have only ever written about 3 chapters of my novel.
In any case, although I enjoyed Eldest, I could definitely tell that the writer was a little inexperienced. The story didn't flow as well as it should sometimes. Also, I think he tends to overexplain himself a little bit, like going into exhaustive detail about how the magic works. He needs to understand that, unless a technical point is important to the story, most readers will simply accept the magic. Unless there are glaring inconsistancies, it won't matter to them, because it's the story that matters. In addition, the way he goes about explaining technical details slows the story down a bit. He tends to have characters explain, rather than having the characters do something which will make the explanation obvious to the reader. I don't know how much sense I'm making here, but you're supposed to show them, not tell them, right?
This also brings me to the point that, in writing, less is more (usually). Basically, you need to create an atmosphere, and do some character development, but unless a point becomes critical to the plot later on, there's no sense including it just for the sake of including it. I think J.K. Rowling is a master at this. She tends to have incidents happen, or characters do things which appear incidental and unimportant in one book, and then become huge deals in another book. For example, in the first book, Harry talks to a snake at the zoo and lets it out of its cage. Just an example of his natural abilities as a wizard coming through you think. Then in the second book, it becomes a HUGE deal that he can talk to snakes. In fact the whole plot hinges on it. Another example: It is suddenly discovered that Ron's stupid rat Scabbers, who has been around since book one, is actually the wizard responsible for Harry's parents' deaths. Like, I really wonder how much J.K. Rowling had things all planned in advance, because it seems that nothing that happens in the earlier books is insignificant, no character is introduced simply for the sake of it. It seems to me that the best plots are like this: they do not meander (although they may appear to meander, these are the sneakiest plots) but every step, every action, every comment, is planned out to perfection. Now I know this definition of a good plot practically eliminates all 19th century literature, but I guess it depends on what kind of story you want to read. Fantasy, for the most part, relies upon magic, exciting adventure, discoveries, etc. and I think it needs to have fast-paced plot.
But, back to my review. Really, beyond my few criticisms, I was impressed. Yes, it's a traditional fantasy epic, fairly formulaic as we all know, and yet the book managed to surprise me a few times. So keep writing Mr. Paolini, and I'll look forward to the third book. 3.5 purple horsies out of five.
In other news, and speaking of J.K. Rowling, I will finally get to see the movie this weekend. To prepare for this momentous occasion, EJ and I have planned a little Harry Potter movie marathon. We're going to watch all three earlier movies before we see number four. That way we can compare directors, etc. and see if Daniel Radcliffe has learned to act yet. Although, I actually rewatched part of the first one, and he wasn't as bad as I remembered. Maybe it was only the second one... In any case, I am making some traditional British recipes in honour of the occasion: Treacle Tart and Toad in the Hole. I considered Spotted Dick, but it sounded icky. (What in God's name is shredded suet??)
The book is definitely worth reading, but it still has some rough edges. This is understandable since Christopher Paolini is only 22 years old, and started writing the trilogy when he was 15. He has definitely accomplished an amazing feat considering his age and the fact that this trilogy was his first major undertaking. I am actually quite jealous, since I am also a huge fantasy fan and have considered writing my own epic. Alas, due to laziness, or maybe because I've just been too busy with other things, I have only ever written about 3 chapters of my novel.
In any case, although I enjoyed Eldest, I could definitely tell that the writer was a little inexperienced. The story didn't flow as well as it should sometimes. Also, I think he tends to overexplain himself a little bit, like going into exhaustive detail about how the magic works. He needs to understand that, unless a technical point is important to the story, most readers will simply accept the magic. Unless there are glaring inconsistancies, it won't matter to them, because it's the story that matters. In addition, the way he goes about explaining technical details slows the story down a bit. He tends to have characters explain, rather than having the characters do something which will make the explanation obvious to the reader. I don't know how much sense I'm making here, but you're supposed to show them, not tell them, right?
This also brings me to the point that, in writing, less is more (usually). Basically, you need to create an atmosphere, and do some character development, but unless a point becomes critical to the plot later on, there's no sense including it just for the sake of including it. I think J.K. Rowling is a master at this. She tends to have incidents happen, or characters do things which appear incidental and unimportant in one book, and then become huge deals in another book. For example, in the first book, Harry talks to a snake at the zoo and lets it out of its cage. Just an example of his natural abilities as a wizard coming through you think. Then in the second book, it becomes a HUGE deal that he can talk to snakes. In fact the whole plot hinges on it. Another example: It is suddenly discovered that Ron's stupid rat Scabbers, who has been around since book one, is actually the wizard responsible for Harry's parents' deaths. Like, I really wonder how much J.K. Rowling had things all planned in advance, because it seems that nothing that happens in the earlier books is insignificant, no character is introduced simply for the sake of it. It seems to me that the best plots are like this: they do not meander (although they may appear to meander, these are the sneakiest plots) but every step, every action, every comment, is planned out to perfection. Now I know this definition of a good plot practically eliminates all 19th century literature, but I guess it depends on what kind of story you want to read. Fantasy, for the most part, relies upon magic, exciting adventure, discoveries, etc. and I think it needs to have fast-paced plot.
But, back to my review. Really, beyond my few criticisms, I was impressed. Yes, it's a traditional fantasy epic, fairly formulaic as we all know, and yet the book managed to surprise me a few times. So keep writing Mr. Paolini, and I'll look forward to the third book. 3.5 purple horsies out of five.
In other news, and speaking of J.K. Rowling, I will finally get to see the movie this weekend. To prepare for this momentous occasion, EJ and I have planned a little Harry Potter movie marathon. We're going to watch all three earlier movies before we see number four. That way we can compare directors, etc. and see if Daniel Radcliffe has learned to act yet. Although, I actually rewatched part of the first one, and he wasn't as bad as I remembered. Maybe it was only the second one... In any case, I am making some traditional British recipes in honour of the occasion: Treacle Tart and Toad in the Hole. I considered Spotted Dick, but it sounded icky. (What in God's name is shredded suet??)
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Potter Mania
That's right folks. Tomorrow night it happens: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is finally here. Rejoice!
Okay, I've always been a big fan of the books, but not so much the movies. I thought the first couple of movies were only pale imitations of the books. The third one, however, was a big improvement in my mind, and I have been looking forward to seeing the fourth one for a while. Especially after my summer read of Book #6 got me into it all over again. Despite my growing excitement, I thought I was past all of that pre-adolescent swooning that goes on over Daniel Radcliffe. I mean really, the kid (and kid he is by my reckoning) is 9 years younger than me! And to be quite honest, he's not my favorite actor. Personally, I've found him to be a little stiff and awkward, especially in the first two movies, although he is improving. It only makes it worse when he plays so often opposite Rupert Grint, who is a really fluid actor with great comic timing. However, that's not to say Dan won't get better and someday become a great actor. Besides the Harry Potter films, he isn't that experienced.
Ahh yes, but on to the point of my post. I had a Harry Potter dream last night. I was in the movie, and I was playing the part of Ron and Ginny's older sister. It was really funny, because for the life of me I couldn't remember my character's name (I of course didn't remember that it's because there is no such character). So there we were, me, Dan, Emma, Rupert, and whoever it is that plays Ginny, dashing around the set. And I couldn't remember the script. I was never where I was supposed to be, and I got all of my lines wrong. I remember thinking that I had better re-read the book since I couldn't seem to remember anything of what was supposed to happen! This made such a strong impression on my mind that when I woke up, I was all set to phone my sister and tell her to lend me her copy of the Goblet of Fire so I could re-read it. I then recalled that I had just re-read the entire thing this summer, and I could recall most of the details just fine.
But here's where it gets weird. We were all taking a break between takes, or whatever, (despite my dream I honestly have no clue what goes on during the filming of a movie). Emma was sympathetic and trying to explain to me where I was supposed to be. Then Dan came and sat down very close beside me, and then we started kissing!!!
Okay, this guy is only a year older than my cousin whose diapers I used to change. I have no excuse, except that Potter Mania has finally really gotten to me. The only cure I guess is to go and see the movie.
Despite my rather embarrassing dream, I'm still really excited. Yay Harry Potter!!!
Okay, I've always been a big fan of the books, but not so much the movies. I thought the first couple of movies were only pale imitations of the books. The third one, however, was a big improvement in my mind, and I have been looking forward to seeing the fourth one for a while. Especially after my summer read of Book #6 got me into it all over again. Despite my growing excitement, I thought I was past all of that pre-adolescent swooning that goes on over Daniel Radcliffe. I mean really, the kid (and kid he is by my reckoning) is 9 years younger than me! And to be quite honest, he's not my favorite actor. Personally, I've found him to be a little stiff and awkward, especially in the first two movies, although he is improving. It only makes it worse when he plays so often opposite Rupert Grint, who is a really fluid actor with great comic timing. However, that's not to say Dan won't get better and someday become a great actor. Besides the Harry Potter films, he isn't that experienced.
Ahh yes, but on to the point of my post. I had a Harry Potter dream last night. I was in the movie, and I was playing the part of Ron and Ginny's older sister. It was really funny, because for the life of me I couldn't remember my character's name (I of course didn't remember that it's because there is no such character). So there we were, me, Dan, Emma, Rupert, and whoever it is that plays Ginny, dashing around the set. And I couldn't remember the script. I was never where I was supposed to be, and I got all of my lines wrong. I remember thinking that I had better re-read the book since I couldn't seem to remember anything of what was supposed to happen! This made such a strong impression on my mind that when I woke up, I was all set to phone my sister and tell her to lend me her copy of the Goblet of Fire so I could re-read it. I then recalled that I had just re-read the entire thing this summer, and I could recall most of the details just fine.
But here's where it gets weird. We were all taking a break between takes, or whatever, (despite my dream I honestly have no clue what goes on during the filming of a movie). Emma was sympathetic and trying to explain to me where I was supposed to be. Then Dan came and sat down very close beside me, and then we started kissing!!!
Okay, this guy is only a year older than my cousin whose diapers I used to change. I have no excuse, except that Potter Mania has finally really gotten to me. The only cure I guess is to go and see the movie.
Despite my rather embarrassing dream, I'm still really excited. Yay Harry Potter!!!
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Sick as a Dog
Hmmm. I wonder where that expression came from? Are dogs really sick that often?
Anyway, I am quite ill. Some sort of flu I think. I took yesterday off work, but I was supposed to give a 5-minute presentation to the Regional Board today, so I hauled myself in to work at noon. I endured the 3-hour meeting where such lively subjects were discussed as whether the board should meet five times a year instead of four. Believe it or not, this was a fairly contentious issue. The good news is I got to take home the fruit plate leftovers. The bad news is that I now feel like I've been run over by a truck. I haven't thrown up since yesterday, but my chest hurts when I breathe in deeply. That's not a good sign, is it?
Well, enough of my misery. If you are looking for something to do at work (besides actual work I mean) and you are sick of solitaire, try one of these puzzles:
http://www.websudoku.com
It's like a crossword puzzle with numbers.
Anyway, I am quite ill. Some sort of flu I think. I took yesterday off work, but I was supposed to give a 5-minute presentation to the Regional Board today, so I hauled myself in to work at noon. I endured the 3-hour meeting where such lively subjects were discussed as whether the board should meet five times a year instead of four. Believe it or not, this was a fairly contentious issue. The good news is I got to take home the fruit plate leftovers. The bad news is that I now feel like I've been run over by a truck. I haven't thrown up since yesterday, but my chest hurts when I breathe in deeply. That's not a good sign, is it?
Well, enough of my misery. If you are looking for something to do at work (besides actual work I mean) and you are sick of solitaire, try one of these puzzles:
http://www.websudoku.com
It's like a crossword puzzle with numbers.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Evil Thought for the Day
Some people are like slinkies:
They don't really have a use,
But they can still make you smile
When you push them down the stairs.
They don't really have a use,
But they can still make you smile
When you push them down the stairs.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Good Enough
I just got back from another wedding. I have been to four weddings this summer and fall. I guess I am just at that age. But, it's made me think a lot about commitment and the nature of relationships.
This latest wedding was really beautiful. The bride was gorgeous, the food was great, the decorations divine. And all the same, there were people, including the groomsmen, who were making bets on how long it would last. Why? Well, perhaps a short history of the (happy?) couple is in order.
The best man introduced S to L. They started dating, then got pretty serious. S wanted to have sex, even though L is catholic and had never even had a boyfriend before. But L said okay, as long as S was sure he loved her and was going to marry her someday. So then they moved in together. But, then it seemed like S got sick of L. He was annoyed with her, and was thinking of breaking up with her. In fact, S even told L he wanted to break up. But, L had nowhere to go, and so they continued to live together. Then, like two months later, they're engaged.
So, did S suddenly have a change of heart and realize that he loved L? Or are other factors at work? When a friend asked S if he loved L, S replied to the effect that she was a good cook and housekeeper (which she is, she takes care of everything). Now, was S just joking, or was there a little kernel of truth to that statement? Instead of suddenly realizing how much he loved L, it seems to me more likely that S: 1) Felt bad that he was about to dump a nice, good catholic girl that he'd pressured into having sex, and going to break his promise to her that he'd marry her someday. 2) Realized that L is basically a nice person, and a great cook and housekeeper. What's not to like?
Basically, I'm wondering if S really loves L, or if he just settled for "good enough"?
And really, what's the difference? I'm not one of those people who believes in soulmates. I think there's more than one person out there that we could end up with. You basically gotta find someone that you're mostly compatible with, and then work hard at the relationship. None of this "meet your soulmate and live happily ever after just cuz you're meant for eachother" stuff. But now I'm wondering, if you're like me, and believe that no relationship is ever perfect, then how do you know that you've found someone to share your life with, or if you're just settling for "good enough"?
This latest wedding was really beautiful. The bride was gorgeous, the food was great, the decorations divine. And all the same, there were people, including the groomsmen, who were making bets on how long it would last. Why? Well, perhaps a short history of the (happy?) couple is in order.
The best man introduced S to L. They started dating, then got pretty serious. S wanted to have sex, even though L is catholic and had never even had a boyfriend before. But L said okay, as long as S was sure he loved her and was going to marry her someday. So then they moved in together. But, then it seemed like S got sick of L. He was annoyed with her, and was thinking of breaking up with her. In fact, S even told L he wanted to break up. But, L had nowhere to go, and so they continued to live together. Then, like two months later, they're engaged.
So, did S suddenly have a change of heart and realize that he loved L? Or are other factors at work? When a friend asked S if he loved L, S replied to the effect that she was a good cook and housekeeper (which she is, she takes care of everything). Now, was S just joking, or was there a little kernel of truth to that statement? Instead of suddenly realizing how much he loved L, it seems to me more likely that S: 1) Felt bad that he was about to dump a nice, good catholic girl that he'd pressured into having sex, and going to break his promise to her that he'd marry her someday. 2) Realized that L is basically a nice person, and a great cook and housekeeper. What's not to like?
Basically, I'm wondering if S really loves L, or if he just settled for "good enough"?
And really, what's the difference? I'm not one of those people who believes in soulmates. I think there's more than one person out there that we could end up with. You basically gotta find someone that you're mostly compatible with, and then work hard at the relationship. None of this "meet your soulmate and live happily ever after just cuz you're meant for eachother" stuff. But now I'm wondering, if you're like me, and believe that no relationship is ever perfect, then how do you know that you've found someone to share your life with, or if you're just settling for "good enough"?
Monday, October 17, 2005
The Great Escape
I am feeling somewhat murderous toward my kitty tonight. She managed to open the screen door and leap off of my balcony to the ground below, all while I wasn't looking. And my other kitty, George, was surprisingly oblivious to it all and missed his chance to escape with her. I then spent the next half hour tramping through the trees, bushes and parking lot looking for my cat. How embarrassing. I must have looked like an idiot tramping around, looking under cars, and calling "Kitty, Kitty, Food Time". The worst thing is that I caught sight of her a few times and she ran away. Now Avery is my kitty and she loves me as much as I love her, but something happens when she goes outside: she becomes a feral thing that won't even come at the promise of food. I finally snagged her, puffy tail and all, as she dashed around a corner and brought her back to the apartment where I'm sure she told George all about it. George is now in a very crummy mood, and I suspect that he is cursing his own inattention to the screen door. Escape was within his grasp, and he let it slip away.
Ah well, Georgie, better luck next time. Although there won't be a next time if I can help it. As of now, all balcony privileges have been suspended.
As a side note, isn't it interesting about librarians and cats? Almost all of my co-workers have cats. JS has two kitties (she had three, but one died last year at the age of 22), and CG has five cats and one dog. It would be interesting to do a survey and see just what percentage of librarians actually have cats.
Ah well, Georgie, better luck next time. Although there won't be a next time if I can help it. As of now, all balcony privileges have been suspended.
As a side note, isn't it interesting about librarians and cats? Almost all of my co-workers have cats. JS has two kitties (she had three, but one died last year at the age of 22), and CG has five cats and one dog. It would be interesting to do a survey and see just what percentage of librarians actually have cats.
Friday, October 14, 2005
What have I been up to?
Well. I've been at my new job all of 2 weeks. So what do I think? Actually, I think I might be enjoying myself. All of the people are really nice, and I'm enjoying what I'm doing. And yes, it's a fairly small town, quite a change from Edmonton, but really, still very nice. I could probably stay here and be quite happy.
On the home front, my cats are perhaps not quite so happy. I should not have let them out of the house while they were staying at the farm, but I couldn't resist their longing looks at the door. And now that they are back in a city apartment, they are not happy that am not letting them out. So, I thought I would try George with a leash. I know, I know. A cat on a leash? But Georgie has so many other doggie traits that I thought perhaps he would walk on a leash as well. And? Nope. Definitely not. Hates the leash. Tries to eat the leash, rolls on the floor until he's all wrapped up in the leash, and basically makes a general disply of displeasure. I have also realized that I'm probably in the worst apartment for owning two cats. I'm the middle apartment on the second floor, so I have people above, below, and to either side. My cats sometimes get up to a game of tag in the middle of the night. When I was in the basement suite and my only neightbour was the utility room, this was not a big deal, except for when it made me lose sleep. But now I have to worry about the people below me. I don't know how loud two cats running around on your ceiling sounds like, but I'm terrified of getting kicked out like the piano-playing freak who lives above me.
Oh yes, did I mention him? First night I'm here, he starts banging on the piano at one in the morning. And when I say banging, I'm speaking literally. He was not playing a song. It sounded like a 2 year old was on the piano. And I'm thinking, "I better not go up there and tell him to shut up, because anybody who plays nonsense on a piano at one in the morning in an apartment building is either very drunk or very crazy or perhaps both." I talked to the landlords in the morning, and they indicated to me that they'd had problems with this guy before. He's apparently going to be kicked out. Hasn't happened yet, although there have been no more late night serenades.
And now, a word from Avery:
,de\\\n
She thinks my laptop makes a great butt warmer.
On the home front, my cats are perhaps not quite so happy. I should not have let them out of the house while they were staying at the farm, but I couldn't resist their longing looks at the door. And now that they are back in a city apartment, they are not happy that am not letting them out. So, I thought I would try George with a leash. I know, I know. A cat on a leash? But Georgie has so many other doggie traits that I thought perhaps he would walk on a leash as well. And? Nope. Definitely not. Hates the leash. Tries to eat the leash, rolls on the floor until he's all wrapped up in the leash, and basically makes a general disply of displeasure. I have also realized that I'm probably in the worst apartment for owning two cats. I'm the middle apartment on the second floor, so I have people above, below, and to either side. My cats sometimes get up to a game of tag in the middle of the night. When I was in the basement suite and my only neightbour was the utility room, this was not a big deal, except for when it made me lose sleep. But now I have to worry about the people below me. I don't know how loud two cats running around on your ceiling sounds like, but I'm terrified of getting kicked out like the piano-playing freak who lives above me.
Oh yes, did I mention him? First night I'm here, he starts banging on the piano at one in the morning. And when I say banging, I'm speaking literally. He was not playing a song. It sounded like a 2 year old was on the piano. And I'm thinking, "I better not go up there and tell him to shut up, because anybody who plays nonsense on a piano at one in the morning in an apartment building is either very drunk or very crazy or perhaps both." I talked to the landlords in the morning, and they indicated to me that they'd had problems with this guy before. He's apparently going to be kicked out. Hasn't happened yet, although there have been no more late night serenades.
And now, a word from Avery:
,de\\\n
She thinks my laptop makes a great butt warmer.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
She's Baaaa-aaaaack
Heh, heh. I know I've been a bad little blogger, but I'm hoping to resurrect my blog again in the coming months. I am starting my new job tomorrow, and I just finished unloading the moving truck at 9pm last night. Nothing's unpacked, nothing's put away, and I can't believe I have to be at work tomorrow morning at 9am. I am currently TV-less, Internet-less (I'm at my parents using their computer right now), and I don't even have a good book to read. Stress levels are high. I will probably end up ordering pizza every night this week to make up for it.
Anyway, my job is an internship at a regional library. I am supposed to be in charge to marketing their online services. I have never been in charge of anything, or marketed anything, so this should prove interesting. I'll probably have a bunch of "violette-stuffed-up-again-at-work" stories to tell.
Anyway, my job is an internship at a regional library. I am supposed to be in charge to marketing their online services. I have never been in charge of anything, or marketed anything, so this should prove interesting. I'll probably have a bunch of "violette-stuffed-up-again-at-work" stories to tell.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Spoiler Alert!
Warning: If you have not yet read the 6th Harry Potter book, go no further!
So, I've finally finished it. Wow. What a shocker! And I'm not necessarily talking about Dumbledore's death, although that was pretty sad. What was most shocking to me was Snape's betrayal. Yes, I know he is a really nasty man, and he was a former death eater...J.K. Rowling has set it up so that we really hate him, and we want him to be bad so that we can feel justified in hating him. I'm sure that Harry finally feels justified in his intense dislike. Yet it almost feels like a cop-out on Rowling's part. I thought Snape was an interesting character simply because it says a couple of things about people: First of all, no matter what somebody has done in the past, they can change. It's difficult, but it can be done. And secondly, sometimes someone you dislike and don't get along with can be on your side, and you have to learn to work with them. Just because Snape was nasty doesn't mean he would for sure turn out to be evil.
I thought it was simply too easy for Snape to just turn out to be evil, so therefore I didn't believe it. Even in the beginning when he made the unbreakable vow, I thought "Hmmm. How's he going to get out of this one?". It never occurred to me that he wouldn't. Even now I find myself doubting Snape's true allegiance. Maybe he had to kill Dumbledore because of the unbreakable vow...maybe he knew Dumbledore was dying anyway...maybe he thinks he can do a better job than Dumbledore in taking down Voldemort...
And yet, he killed Dumbledore. Dumbledore who was his champion all along. And, as we've heard before, you cannot use one of the unforgivable curses if you don't mean it. Therefore he must have meant it. And also the expression of hatred as he did it...
Yes, I believe I must accept that Snape is evil. He is lost to us forever.
As for the rest of the book, I called Harry and Ginny and Ron and Hermione a long time ago. I wonder if Harry will get back together with Ginny at the end of next book? I also thought it was a bit shocking and scary that they are not going back to school next year. And I thought it was a bit silly that Harry's going to allow Ron and Hermione to come with him, but not Ginny. I think Ginny's as competent as those two, and Harry loves Ron and Hermione just as much. And really, as ma soeur so thoughtfully pointed out, Dumbledore's always said that the only thing Harry has that Voldemort doesn't is love. By running away from his love with Ginny and trying to separate and protect himself from it, I think he's throwing away his only weapon.
Finally, I thought the ending was pretty cool with the mystery about R.A.B. and the horcruxes. Who is R.A.B.? Did he or she destroy the horcrux? Do they know where and what the others are? Will R.A.B. help Harry? Pretty good cliffhanger. Why oh why must I wait another two years to read about it??
Warning: If you have not yet read the 6th Harry Potter book, go no further!
So, I've finally finished it. Wow. What a shocker! And I'm not necessarily talking about Dumbledore's death, although that was pretty sad. What was most shocking to me was Snape's betrayal. Yes, I know he is a really nasty man, and he was a former death eater...J.K. Rowling has set it up so that we really hate him, and we want him to be bad so that we can feel justified in hating him. I'm sure that Harry finally feels justified in his intense dislike. Yet it almost feels like a cop-out on Rowling's part. I thought Snape was an interesting character simply because it says a couple of things about people: First of all, no matter what somebody has done in the past, they can change. It's difficult, but it can be done. And secondly, sometimes someone you dislike and don't get along with can be on your side, and you have to learn to work with them. Just because Snape was nasty doesn't mean he would for sure turn out to be evil.
I thought it was simply too easy for Snape to just turn out to be evil, so therefore I didn't believe it. Even in the beginning when he made the unbreakable vow, I thought "Hmmm. How's he going to get out of this one?". It never occurred to me that he wouldn't. Even now I find myself doubting Snape's true allegiance. Maybe he had to kill Dumbledore because of the unbreakable vow...maybe he knew Dumbledore was dying anyway...maybe he thinks he can do a better job than Dumbledore in taking down Voldemort...
And yet, he killed Dumbledore. Dumbledore who was his champion all along. And, as we've heard before, you cannot use one of the unforgivable curses if you don't mean it. Therefore he must have meant it. And also the expression of hatred as he did it...
Yes, I believe I must accept that Snape is evil. He is lost to us forever.
As for the rest of the book, I called Harry and Ginny and Ron and Hermione a long time ago. I wonder if Harry will get back together with Ginny at the end of next book? I also thought it was a bit shocking and scary that they are not going back to school next year. And I thought it was a bit silly that Harry's going to allow Ron and Hermione to come with him, but not Ginny. I think Ginny's as competent as those two, and Harry loves Ron and Hermione just as much. And really, as ma soeur so thoughtfully pointed out, Dumbledore's always said that the only thing Harry has that Voldemort doesn't is love. By running away from his love with Ginny and trying to separate and protect himself from it, I think he's throwing away his only weapon.
Finally, I thought the ending was pretty cool with the mystery about R.A.B. and the horcruxes. Who is R.A.B.? Did he or she destroy the horcrux? Do they know where and what the others are? Will R.A.B. help Harry? Pretty good cliffhanger. Why oh why must I wait another two years to read about it??
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Summer Reading and Movie Watching
Ha ha! I'm back (sort of). I'm in NB with EJ right now. Next Sunday we'll be back in Edmonton for Miss SB's B-day party. Then I'm off again.
So what have I been doing you ask? Well, camping a little, but mostly EJ and I ended up hanging out at my parents (PA had mosquitoes the size of sparrows, and the Cypress Hills, while relatively bug free, was uncooperative in the weather department).
Mostly though, I've been reading, and watching a few movies. So here's what I thought.
First of all, I picked up The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (I'm really into teen lit right now). I was curious to read the book before I saw the movie. And I wasn't expecting much, I'm more of a fantasy fan, but I actually got hooked on the series and went out and got the next two. I thought the girls were really realistic, and their personalities were complex. And then I saw the movie, and it was pretty good too (althought they totally changed the story with Lena and Kostos, but you have to expect these kinds of things). Four purple horsies out of five.
I also read the first book in the Bartimaeus Trilogy, The Amulet of Samarkand. According to the teens in my Teen Fantasy program at the library in February, it is the best book in the whole world. It was quite good and told in an interesting way. The story is told from the alternating points of view of a djinni named Bartimaeus and his master Nathaniel. The setting is sort of an alternate-universe modern day London. They have cars and electricity, but there are also djinn and other spirits flying about all over the place making magic happen. Once again, I think I'll have to give this Four purple horsies. The next book in the series, The Golem's Eye, is out in hardcover.
I am currently reading Eragon which is a story about dragonriders (kind of like Anne McCaffrey, but different in a lot of ways). It's pretty good, but I'm afraid I got distracted by The Travelling Pants and Harry Potter. I'll let you know my final rating when I finish.
Next on my list of things to read is the latest Harry Potter installment. Yes, I bit the bullet and paid (or rather had EJ pay) the fourty dollars for the damn thing. And I tried to read it, and then discovered to my chagrin, that I couldn't remember what had happened in the previous book. Not wanting to miss any nuance, I have made the painful decision to re-read books 4 and 5 before I start on this one. So I borrowed them from EJ's cousin and have already gotten halfway through number 4. I keep forgetting how funny J.K. Rowling can be. Her description of the Quidditch World Cup was a riot! Please, please don't disappoint me for book six... Ooooh, yeah. During one of our trips to the theatre, EJ and I saw the preview for the upcoming movie, and it sent shivers down my spine. Can't wait!
Okay. I think that's all of my reading. Now to the movies (minus The Travelling Pants which I already mentioned).
First of all, we saw The Fantastic Four. EJ loves all these comic book movies, so he was really looking forward to it. The movie was decent. It was watchable, and I was not bored, and the special effects were good. And yet... and yet... I think there was something lacking some sort of je ne sais quoi that would have made this movie really good instead of just okay. Still, three purple horsies out of five. Good for a night's entertainment.
Next we saw The Wedding Crashers. I really like Owen Wilson anyway, and the movie didn't disappoint. It was actually a bit raunchier than I was expecting with quite a few 'boob shots', but I don't think it was in bad taste. Good for a few laughs. Three and a half purple horsies out of five.
Then EJ and I saw Batman Begins and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in one day. Don't say it, I know, we're obviously movie geeks with nothing better to do with our time. Anyway, Batman Begins: Good movie! I enjoyed it much more than I have the last couple of installments in the Batman Series. Goes back to the beginning where you see how he learns how to fight and where he gets his fancy gadgets, etc. The only thing that bothered me was that Katie Holmes (Batman's love interest) is supposed to be a DA, and to me she still looks sixteen years old. Has anyone else noticed this? Or am I just getting old? Four and a half purple horsies out of five.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: I am a little torn on this one. The beginning is great, with the description of Charlie's family, and showing all the children that win the golden tickets. The visuals are actually quite wonderfully done. But the thing I take issue with is Willie Wonka. Now I know Willie Wonka is eccentric, maybe even a little weird, but here he is portrayed as downright nutters. Now, coming from Tim Burton, I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. And I usually love Johnny Depp. But for some reason this portrayal of Willie Wonka did not sit quite right with me. He was always weird in the book, but he totally knew what was going on and was not crazy. They also invented a little background story about Willie Wonka's dad (played by Christopher Lee) to explain his craziness, but I thought the whole thing was rather unnecessary. Anyway, besides that, the movie was good. I loved the Oompa Loompas, especially their song about Augustus Gloop. I give it three out of five purple horsies with a caution to go expecting weirdness.
Oh my goodness. What a monster post!
So what have I been doing you ask? Well, camping a little, but mostly EJ and I ended up hanging out at my parents (PA had mosquitoes the size of sparrows, and the Cypress Hills, while relatively bug free, was uncooperative in the weather department).
Mostly though, I've been reading, and watching a few movies. So here's what I thought.
First of all, I picked up The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (I'm really into teen lit right now). I was curious to read the book before I saw the movie. And I wasn't expecting much, I'm more of a fantasy fan, but I actually got hooked on the series and went out and got the next two. I thought the girls were really realistic, and their personalities were complex. And then I saw the movie, and it was pretty good too (althought they totally changed the story with Lena and Kostos, but you have to expect these kinds of things). Four purple horsies out of five.
I also read the first book in the Bartimaeus Trilogy, The Amulet of Samarkand. According to the teens in my Teen Fantasy program at the library in February, it is the best book in the whole world. It was quite good and told in an interesting way. The story is told from the alternating points of view of a djinni named Bartimaeus and his master Nathaniel. The setting is sort of an alternate-universe modern day London. They have cars and electricity, but there are also djinn and other spirits flying about all over the place making magic happen. Once again, I think I'll have to give this Four purple horsies. The next book in the series, The Golem's Eye, is out in hardcover.
I am currently reading Eragon which is a story about dragonriders (kind of like Anne McCaffrey, but different in a lot of ways). It's pretty good, but I'm afraid I got distracted by The Travelling Pants and Harry Potter. I'll let you know my final rating when I finish.
Next on my list of things to read is the latest Harry Potter installment. Yes, I bit the bullet and paid (or rather had EJ pay) the fourty dollars for the damn thing. And I tried to read it, and then discovered to my chagrin, that I couldn't remember what had happened in the previous book. Not wanting to miss any nuance, I have made the painful decision to re-read books 4 and 5 before I start on this one. So I borrowed them from EJ's cousin and have already gotten halfway through number 4. I keep forgetting how funny J.K. Rowling can be. Her description of the Quidditch World Cup was a riot! Please, please don't disappoint me for book six... Ooooh, yeah. During one of our trips to the theatre, EJ and I saw the preview for the upcoming movie, and it sent shivers down my spine. Can't wait!
Okay. I think that's all of my reading. Now to the movies (minus The Travelling Pants which I already mentioned).
First of all, we saw The Fantastic Four. EJ loves all these comic book movies, so he was really looking forward to it. The movie was decent. It was watchable, and I was not bored, and the special effects were good. And yet... and yet... I think there was something lacking some sort of je ne sais quoi that would have made this movie really good instead of just okay. Still, three purple horsies out of five. Good for a night's entertainment.
Next we saw The Wedding Crashers. I really like Owen Wilson anyway, and the movie didn't disappoint. It was actually a bit raunchier than I was expecting with quite a few 'boob shots', but I don't think it was in bad taste. Good for a few laughs. Three and a half purple horsies out of five.
Then EJ and I saw Batman Begins and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in one day. Don't say it, I know, we're obviously movie geeks with nothing better to do with our time. Anyway, Batman Begins: Good movie! I enjoyed it much more than I have the last couple of installments in the Batman Series. Goes back to the beginning where you see how he learns how to fight and where he gets his fancy gadgets, etc. The only thing that bothered me was that Katie Holmes (Batman's love interest) is supposed to be a DA, and to me she still looks sixteen years old. Has anyone else noticed this? Or am I just getting old? Four and a half purple horsies out of five.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: I am a little torn on this one. The beginning is great, with the description of Charlie's family, and showing all the children that win the golden tickets. The visuals are actually quite wonderfully done. But the thing I take issue with is Willie Wonka. Now I know Willie Wonka is eccentric, maybe even a little weird, but here he is portrayed as downright nutters. Now, coming from Tim Burton, I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. And I usually love Johnny Depp. But for some reason this portrayal of Willie Wonka did not sit quite right with me. He was always weird in the book, but he totally knew what was going on and was not crazy. They also invented a little background story about Willie Wonka's dad (played by Christopher Lee) to explain his craziness, but I thought the whole thing was rather unnecessary. Anyway, besides that, the movie was good. I loved the Oompa Loompas, especially their song about Augustus Gloop. I give it three out of five purple horsies with a caution to go expecting weirdness.
Oh my goodness. What a monster post!
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
What's a bunnyhug?
Okay. One last post before EJ and I head off into the great unknown wilderness (otherwise known as 'the lake').
What makes a culture develop differently? What makes us 'Canadian' as opposed to 'American'? Or, what makes an Albertan different from a Saskatchewanian?
These two provinces, side by side on the map, often lumped together with Manitoba under the category "the prairies"...There's so much traffic between the two provinces. For every two born-Albertans, I'll bet there's at least one transplanted Saskatchewanian residing in that province.
Yet there is one defining difference between Alberta and Saskatchewan: Hoodies vs. Bunnyhugs. For those of you not from either Saskatchewan or Alberta, a 'hoodie' or 'bunnyhug' are those sweaters that come with an attached hood, and often (but not always) have a pouch pocket on the front. How these two provinces came to know this one article of clothing by a different name, I cannot begin to speculate. Not only do we call the article by a different name, but most of us are completely unware that the other name exists. Go into an Edmonton shop and ask for a bunnyhug and see what kind of response you get. Most likely it will be a blank stare. I mean, even when a Brit asks for chips, we are aware that what he's really asking for is fries.
We think, "Oh, of course we're a little different from those Newfies, and we're a lot different than the Québecois," but there never seems to be much difference between us Western provinces. Yet here it is, proof that however small, there does exist a cultural difference between us.
Personally, I think there is the potential for a great sociological study here. Is it a pure border thing? Those on the east side call it a bunnyhug and those on the west call it a hoodie? Or is a gradual fading, with those close to the border knowing both words?
Yesiree, I believe I've just found a perfect thesis for some graduate student.
What makes a culture develop differently? What makes us 'Canadian' as opposed to 'American'? Or, what makes an Albertan different from a Saskatchewanian?
These two provinces, side by side on the map, often lumped together with Manitoba under the category "the prairies"...There's so much traffic between the two provinces. For every two born-Albertans, I'll bet there's at least one transplanted Saskatchewanian residing in that province.
Yet there is one defining difference between Alberta and Saskatchewan: Hoodies vs. Bunnyhugs. For those of you not from either Saskatchewan or Alberta, a 'hoodie' or 'bunnyhug' are those sweaters that come with an attached hood, and often (but not always) have a pouch pocket on the front. How these two provinces came to know this one article of clothing by a different name, I cannot begin to speculate. Not only do we call the article by a different name, but most of us are completely unware that the other name exists. Go into an Edmonton shop and ask for a bunnyhug and see what kind of response you get. Most likely it will be a blank stare. I mean, even when a Brit asks for chips, we are aware that what he's really asking for is fries.
We think, "Oh, of course we're a little different from those Newfies, and we're a lot different than the Québecois," but there never seems to be much difference between us Western provinces. Yet here it is, proof that however small, there does exist a cultural difference between us.
Personally, I think there is the potential for a great sociological study here. Is it a pure border thing? Those on the east side call it a bunnyhug and those on the west call it a hoodie? Or is a gradual fading, with those close to the border knowing both words?
Yesiree, I believe I've just found a perfect thesis for some graduate student.
Friday, July 01, 2005
Don't be jealous...
But I'm going on vacation. For three weeks. I am going camping with my bf and I won't be back until July 24th. So I'll be able to fill everybody in on how it went. I may even have pictures.
My kitties are going on a little vacation of their own. They will be staying with their Auntie K while I'm gone. So I hope they don't freak out and eat her plants.
Ciao for now!
My kitties are going on a little vacation of their own. They will be staying with their Auntie K while I'm gone. So I hope they don't freak out and eat her plants.
Ciao for now!
Monday, June 27, 2005
How to Love an INTP
Ahhhh yes. The Myers-Briggs personality type. I always enjoy these self-assessment tools. I am an INTP. So what does that mean?
"People of this type tend to be: quiet, independent, and private; logical and unemotional; creative, ingenious, and innovative, global thinkers; curious and driven to increase their competence; casual, and adaptive; nonconforming and unpredictable.
The most important thing to INTPs is their privacy and the opportunity to solve complex problems in unique ways." --From PersonalityType.com
How to love me:
"People of this type tend to be: quiet, independent, and private; logical and unemotional; creative, ingenious, and innovative, global thinkers; curious and driven to increase their competence; casual, and adaptive; nonconforming and unpredictable.
The most important thing to INTPs is their privacy and the opportunity to solve complex problems in unique ways." --From PersonalityType.com
How to love me:
- Respect my privacy and independence.
- Appreciate my competencies and wealth of creative ideas.
- Encourage me to spend time alone.
- Don't talk too much or force an emotional conversation before I'm ready.
- Try not to nag me about being messy or meeting deadlines.
- Above all - give me plenty of space to pursue my interests in depth and time to think things through.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
The Difference Between Cats & Dogs
I have recently been reminded of why I like cats better than dogs, and I thought I'd explain my thoughts.
Don't get me wrong, I don't hate dogs. They have their moments. But, for several reasons, I find cats suit me better. It is true that if I asked one of my cats to go for a walk or a bike ride, they'd probably open one green eye slowly to glare at me and say, "You want me to do what, now?" Cats are far from obedient: they will not perform on demand. And while this can be somewhat inconvenient, it also lends a certain dignity to the feline creature. After all, most people only wish they could remain as aloof as a cat when a bribe was offered. But besides that, lets discuss all of the practical reasons that cats are better than dogs.
First of all, dogs are smelly. They really are. And they prefer it that way. What smells like moldy socks to you smells like heaven to them. And therefore you must give them baths. Which can be a pain if they hate taking baths. Cats on the other hand are always cleaning themselves, and while it might seem gross that they lick their own fur, it really works. My cats don't smell like anything.
Secondly, dogs need to be taken out for walks and to go to the bathroom. Now, this does not have to be done if you are on a farm, but it does if you're in a city. Cats on the other hand never need to go out, they just need their litter box scooped. Yes, it's a dirty job, but it's highly preferable to going outside on -40 C day with a little scoop and a plastic bag so that doggy can do his/her business.
And finally, cats are cool and reserved. Unlike dogs, they will not go insane barking, jumping up on people, slobbering all over everything and widdling on the floor when they get excited. How undignified. I think the only visible sign of a cat's excitement is that rather charming bum wiggle they do before they pounce on something.
In fact, as I am also rather reserved, this could be why I like cats best of all. They respect my personal space (most of the time) and I respect theirs (most of the time). I also like the fact that you can go away and leave cats at home for a day and not have to feel guilty. They're solitary creatures, and like me, probably crave some isolation once in awhile. Compare this to the separation anxiety often suffered by dogs.
Yes indeed. Give me a cat any day.
Don't get me wrong, I don't hate dogs. They have their moments. But, for several reasons, I find cats suit me better. It is true that if I asked one of my cats to go for a walk or a bike ride, they'd probably open one green eye slowly to glare at me and say, "You want me to do what, now?" Cats are far from obedient: they will not perform on demand. And while this can be somewhat inconvenient, it also lends a certain dignity to the feline creature. After all, most people only wish they could remain as aloof as a cat when a bribe was offered. But besides that, lets discuss all of the practical reasons that cats are better than dogs.
First of all, dogs are smelly. They really are. And they prefer it that way. What smells like moldy socks to you smells like heaven to them. And therefore you must give them baths. Which can be a pain if they hate taking baths. Cats on the other hand are always cleaning themselves, and while it might seem gross that they lick their own fur, it really works. My cats don't smell like anything.
Secondly, dogs need to be taken out for walks and to go to the bathroom. Now, this does not have to be done if you are on a farm, but it does if you're in a city. Cats on the other hand never need to go out, they just need their litter box scooped. Yes, it's a dirty job, but it's highly preferable to going outside on -40 C day with a little scoop and a plastic bag so that doggy can do his/her business.
And finally, cats are cool and reserved. Unlike dogs, they will not go insane barking, jumping up on people, slobbering all over everything and widdling on the floor when they get excited. How undignified. I think the only visible sign of a cat's excitement is that rather charming bum wiggle they do before they pounce on something.
In fact, as I am also rather reserved, this could be why I like cats best of all. They respect my personal space (most of the time) and I respect theirs (most of the time). I also like the fact that you can go away and leave cats at home for a day and not have to feel guilty. They're solitary creatures, and like me, probably crave some isolation once in awhile. Compare this to the separation anxiety often suffered by dogs.
Yes indeed. Give me a cat any day.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Welcome to my blog
Well, since everyone else seems to have gotten on the blog bandwagon, I thought I may as well follow. Besides, even though I may be a shrinking violet, I do sometimes have something to say! Stay tuned for future tirades on Star Trek, Star Wars, books, and movies, as well as epic prose devoted to my adorable cats.
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