trouble on the tram

Coming back from yet another exhaustingly slow dinner at Haagsche Lounge we were met with some moderately disconcerting events on the tram line home. As it were, two "influenced" individivuals, by either substance or spirit or both, got into some nasty chit-chat which resulted in one trying to hit the other whilst leaning out of the half open tram door while a rather robust girl attempted to come between the two and break it all off. Eventually the tram door closed to free us from this debacle, but now one was inside and one was outside, and much colourful language was exchanged from either side of the tram door. Interesting.

V. short report today as am more tired right now than can remember being in quite some time...stupid time change..This is cutting into my Night Owl time!

all costumed eve

I really don't know why I am Blogging as I am almost falling asleep at the keyboard...probably because if not now, then tomorrow morning, and I then must be prepared to focus all attention on the important tasks specifically aimed at work productivity...or emailing that hot Icelandic rockstar who was here last night hehehehe.

There were some fabulous costumes tonight, laugh-out-loud funny and I think everyone had a snicker at themselves and everyone else. Much food, many glasses of the champers, widespread laughter and general merriment. A humble success I would say, almost entirely...

OK so I got the basics down: Party good, costumes good, company good....and now bed is good and I can retire in the comfort of knowing I have reported in good time the good Halloween times here at HVD 26, leaving the morning open for business.

the 5th wheel

I sit here now Blogging away, concurrently watching my absolute favourite episode of Sex and the City (surprising it is considering Mr. Big fails to make an appearance, although may have something to do with a personally poignant inclusion of a Sade song that was often playing in the background in Tango in days gone by). I love this episode...not only for its truthfulness and humour but it reminds of rooming with Siyao, dinners at Tango and a whole little time frame of special pharmacy times.
But I digress.
The day was bizarre. It was my first Saturday at home in four weeks and I honestly didn't know what to do with myself at first. But between Bo-ing and making my own personalized version of Bob L'Eponge, the day seemed to fly.
As eluded, the evening was spent somewhat on the observatory side of two engaged couples, who are pleasant enough, yet their constant chatter of foreseen perpetual happiness beginning with the standard social convention deemed The Wedding got to be somewhat tiresome (despite this forum of well-wishers being the epicentre of my social engagements as of late). It really isn't them...it's me. I mean, I don't even want to get married, at the moment anyway, so I am quite certain my annoyance does not stem from the Green Eyed Monster, but I was ready to dismiss myself quite early on.
Come to think of it, at dinner I suppose a more apt name would have been 7th wheel, or the 7th of 8 disconnected wheels as another set of cloud-nine surfers joined myself and another singleton to partake in the breaking of bread (or munching of salad, as it were). Dinner was ok. The rides to and fro were the highlight.

Have decided must start sorting out some thoughts regarding a number of issues, if for nothing but the sake of self-preservation. Frighteningly enough the list keeps growing.

Well, it's 2am, and my favourite part of my favourite episode is about to come on, ergo must bid the Blog farewell. Wonder if I can rise before the wunder-couples awake to get in a bout of 'Bo...may need the early morning endorphin surge.

PostBlog: Scotteee comes tomorrow! Or rather later today. Whoo hoo! Mini reunion should prove to be fab, although must admit potential disappointment if certain other guests fail to arrive...

BY THE WAY

If anyone knows how to get ahold of one of those life size cut outs of Robbie Williams that are in the Bijenkorf windows promoting his new album could you please for the love of GOD let me know?

PUSH through the weekend

Somehow this week I reverted to ways which have found me getting less than 4 hours sleep a night. In fact the last time I did get more than 4 hours was the "night" (read: when I fell asleep at 5am in a champagne and strawberry induced semi-coma) of that fabulous Portuguese wedding. I'm not however in nearly as bad shape as BH90210 was last night as he was looking on the coarse side of sandpaper; we continued our ongoing joke about how his liver is soon to stage a revolt. In the meantime he thinks it has expanded in size to occupy the majority of the thoracic cavity and a portion of the right arm.

Anyhoo as previously reported made my way to Amsterdam last night to catch up with the EPSA kids. After suffering though KFC Muncher on the train was soon joined by friend Boyan who was also crashing the EPSA party as a former "Involved Student". In typical Dutch fashion, however, the service was infinitely less than "snel", and this combined with the fact 70 people had to eat we did not get served food until 23:30. And it was NIET lekker (OOOH AS an aside the new Dutch radio station I have tuned into is playing Keane! supaa hahht ). Can someone please tell me WHO would think of putting pineapple in a vegetarian tortilla?? EW! ICK! I do not enjoy The Pineapple in anything but desserts, or alone (all those who are a fan of Hawaiian pizza, or "Pine and Swine" as it is often known in my circles, are now certainly questioning my gastronomic credibility, but trust me, the combination of the two has accomplished nothing but discredit all that is reputable about a Luau...hehehhe).

I was about to launch into a whole request for "tortilla met KIP ZONDER ANANAS" but decided it had taken long enough to get this and settled for nibbling on the lettuce and ordering more caipirinhas, later once again enjoying a 2am Hak Snack of carrots and peas.

I DID accomplish the goal of the evening which was to see Cool French Friend, although very very briefly as his infatuation with his lovely GF has now superseded almost all other aspects of daily living! OK not entirely fair, and I could have well joined the group at the club to visit with them more but made the responsible choice to get on the train sooner (if you can call 00:30 sooner) rather than later to ensure 3 hours sleep. They are very very cute and hope to see them soon, or be invited to their wedding which seems to be the method through which my social life will advance over the next year (two more on the slate for 2006...and the year hasn't even begun yet...).

And yes, as always a smashing laugh-out-loud time with BH90210, who seemed genuinely happy to see me show up (I was greeted with an enthusiastic "MYRIAH!" upon arrival, which is always nice to hear) and kept sending caustically funny SMSs from across the table about the wardrobe selection of those in our company. (OMG now this Dutch sation is playing old school Bon Jovi...break out the pink snake skin pants and rockstar hair and take me back to 1986! SHOT THROUGH THE HEART....) Very much looking forward to sharing more good times on Sunday at the Halloween party but have this nagging feeling (fear?) that Drag Queen Barbie will come forth with a cancellation rather than costume. It's funny that when you have come to appreciate and wholeheartedly value time with someone in any whatever capacity the threat of losing that time or having less of it causes much discontent. OH that reminds me, must make the cd of Porto Pics...

After 3.5 hours hauled self out of bed for Tae Bo this morning and it was the best thing I could have done. The morning has already been heaps more productive that all of yesterday and I think I am heading into the weekend free of work worry. Still staring at a massive stack of journals however.

The main task of the weekend will be to somehow figure out how on Earth to construct a Bob L'Eponge costume out of a cardboard box and some kitchen sponges....I hope I can at least live up to Tana's expectations of being useful if a spill should occur...BOB L'EPONGE!

considering i am on the train...

...I suppose I have made the decision. So yes, off to Amsterdam I go for the second day in a row in hopes of good times and merriment. :D
There is a guy in the seat beside me who just ate a whole bucket of KFC...ew x 1000.

lingering question: should I go back to Amsterdam?

Day of distraction it has been since I woke up late and skipped the 'Bo, although did manage to finally finish the FIP news whose early deadline this month has been haunting me since I finished the last one just over two weeks ago. So now I sit with mounds of journals to file looking at a wall I have newly decorated and wondering what I should scrounge up for lunch considering I completely forgot the usual carrot balls and whole wheat crackers.

Last night I found myself cajoled into joining Future Roommate in a trip to Amsterdam to catch up with IPSF's European counterpart for a reminiscent night out with the pharm kids. I made the decision to go based on the hope/assumption that I would be seeing BH90210 and Cool French Friend both of whom, however, remained elusive as we cut back to The Hague after the boat cruise but before the club, where they showed up. But I had never taken a boat cruise in Amsterdam - impressively pretty but rather long and I was ready to vacate said boat to dry land sooner rather than the later docking hour.

So the question is whether to go back tonight to join in the festivities. I don't know when I'll see Cool French Friend again if I don't go tonight and I'm not one to pass up fun with BH90210, although I'm running on low energy (have not done Tae Bo all week and have been sustaining life on cereal and late night Hak snacks) and I have Dutch Class until 20:00 (BOB L'EPONGE forgot to do the homework...), although that hardly makes a dent in the evening.

*yawn* hmmm feeling a little hypoglycemic.....yay more cereal! *eye roll eye roll*

decisive indecisiveness leads to retraction

A mere 24 hours ago I had almost convinced myself that in the span of two weeks I would be packing up my meager accumulation of "stuff" and making my way to a fantastic, hot, new flat miles in distance and style from the current dwelling in which I reside. Now, however, after a close evaluation of financial resources and potential loss of opportunity that would become essential upon moving I have come full circle, and it is likely that I will not be moving anywhere any time soon.

Known facts:

- Fantastic Hot New Flat is slightly out of price range IF wanting to keep myself in the lifestyle to which I have become accustomed

- Will not get much more than I am living in now for the price originally thought of as acceptable

- Current Dwelling is improving and feels increasingly more "gezellig"

- Current Dwelling is going to be completely empty in December and January, leaving me the entire space to do as wished

-Was actually asked by future roommate of Current Dwelling if I would like to stay on in the new year as she would appreciate having some company

So, in the immortal words of the Dad on My Big Fat Greek Wedding...THERE you go. I figure I will not get more than a shoebox studio for the rent I would like to spend, so why not stay in my Current shoebox studio for free and have access to more space when needed. Plus, was rather flattered that Future Roommate wanted me to stay...a little nervous at what may come about but Future Roommate will be traveling quite often and if I can juggle maintaining Current Dwelling in state that I have become accustomed to, then all should be well.

In all honesty it is kind of a relief. I was feeling quite pressured to find the downpayment and furniture and pack and squelch all feelings of doubt within the next two weeks. Some reading this however may just consider me a sissy!

Am I making the right decision? Decisively indecisively I have no idea.

once upon a time in Porto...

It is a truth universally acknowledged that all great fairy tales begin as above, location aside, and I am hoping it rings true for the weekend that was as I found myself once again enjoying the palpable glow of two newlyweds who seemed wholly happy. But I am getting quite ahead of myself here.

I sit on my couch, almost completely broken by the weekend that was and the fun that was had. Since oversleeping between Thurs-Fri I believe I have chalked up less than 10 hours sleep but more than just a weekend of memories; once again the whole of the time so much more than the mere sum of the parts.

I'm just going to say it: WE HAD SO MUCH FUN! Granted, one small tiny element of potential slipped away quite early on but from the first link up and Schiphol to the last three Dutch kisses as we took different trains back home the weekend was incredible!! It was rated by all as one of the MOST fun weekends EVER and I was so, so, SO happy to have been able to show new people a new place with such enjoyment on both parts.

And why was this yet another incredible journey? Speculation on my part considers the ease of the company mixed with the eagerness to see new things in the spirit of fun and enjoyment, topped off by being welcomed by some of the most hospitable people on the planet! The wedding couple and their family and friends immediately and continually emanated the feeling we had known them for years, and that our presence at the wedding was so very much appreciated despite having only known the couple for mere months. We are in debt to Rodri for the BEST tour around Porto that we could have hoped for on Saturday morning and I was so thankful to have the time with him that day.

Last week I was around the world celebrating the wedding of a very good long-time friend with a very good long-time friend, and here I was one week later having the time of my life celebrating the wedding of a very good new friend with a very good new friend. The same, but different, and absolutely CRAZY that I crammed them in within one week! I am SO thankful I had taken the time and decision to make it happen with the company I kept.

And what of the wedding itself? I think I can safely say that I have not enjoyed a wedding as much, EVER!! It was a NON-STOP PARTY from three in the afternoon until the uber abundant buffet that brought us in from the dance floor at four in the morning. In all honesty the whole WEEKEND was a non-stop funfare of decadence and indulgence, from the Glorias ordered mere moments after disembarking from the plane to the final sips of port as we returned to our lives via Schiphol. I don't think I ate one vegetable all weekend!! OMG! Getting lost, getting found, FABulously trendy restaurants, cheap cabs, early clubs, late clubs, after hours, no hours, tosta mista, francesinha, champagne, single malt, dancing all night, new friends, hot hotels, dinner at midnight, and the creme de la creme, deciding to see a movie in the middle of the night mere hours before we needed to board the plane home. Say it all together with me now...GOOD TIMES!

I appreciated having travel companionship in all forms this time around and was most nervous that the commitment to come along would be regretted; but as we parted with hugs and thank yous and rave reviews to the extent of "Myr this was the BEST weekend I had SO much fun! I LOVE Porto! (a phrase I heard every half an hour hehehe) TOTALLY as good as London, Paris, anywhere!" I was so very happy to have been the catalyst to such reactions. SO happy. The sharing of time, the exchange of presents, the conversations, the city invasions, laughing and joking, drinking and smoking, and out and out CRAZY fun softened the tiny splinter of disappointment of other matters, which I will choose not to say more about now.

So, here I am, having yet another fantastic span of time permanently held safe in the memory bank. Which means of course the bittersweet sting of having it all end and wondering if and when we will ever share time together like that again...as much as I hope I also quite sadly doubt.

Ending on a happy note: CONGRATS P&R! May you celebrate most lavishly in the 5-star care of the Copacabana Palace! You wedding ROCKED the casbah!

HURRY! HURRY! SNEL! SNEL!

As if this wasn't going to happen, as in I totally overslept and had to rush around like a madwoman to ensure all was packed adequately AND that I looked presentable enough to leave the house. WHAT happened to my alarm?!? Slept right through I think...so much for the internal warning system.
But all is goede and am now en ruote. Was also reminded what an immense pain it is to take the tram with luggage. Jamais encore je dit!
Adopted weekend motto: Que sera, sera...

jet log

Well, thanks to the switch back to GMT+1 I have been up for the last 21 hours, after having slept just three prior to that, and am just now putting the finishing touches on the Packing for Porto project in somewhat of a daze. I don't believe I will log much more than the previous night's slumber hours if I hope to get up and get accomplished all on the agenda for tomorrow morning, pre-trip.

I think I have everything (READ: Myr is once again living with the constant dread her luggage is over the weight limit). I tried to cut down on the packing, I really did, but having to attend a wedding necessitates several wardrobe additions that would otherwise be left behind on a fun weekend away, ie the dress coat, the pair (and one back-up pair) of FM shoes, the wedding attire of course, the evening bag to go with said wedding attire, the wedding gift, and assorted gifts from Canada for the accompanying party, which have come under certain criticism by some (unnamed housemate!) but that I think I will go ahead with anyway.

Looking ahead it is going to be a very busy few weeks, and after several very positive meetings at work over the last two days I believe this will extend to my professional life as well. I am excited about the up and comings at the office. Over the past week I have fielded many questions as to what I will do next, what my next move will be, where I will go from here. It is inevitable that these decisions are taken eventually, but I must say I am very much enjoying the here and now of it all.

Started Dutch lessons today! Heel lekker! Heel gezellig! I think I will like them very much, and the people in our small group of 8 seem for the most part a fun bunch (save for the over achieving pill-esque Finnish girl who of COURSE worked ahead by two chapters. Having been that person myself at one point in my life it is clear she spends way too much time working in an ass-groove on the couch and not enough time mixin' it up amongst The People. Hmm Evil Myr has surfaced....). Precis.

Must go to bed. Must not have black circles and bags under eyes. Must look cute and lovable. Must have fun above all else. Must pack extra bottle of wine to ensure points 1-4 above....

and then i was home

I really don't know how I am still awake after what was far less than an incredible journey coming from the Black Hole of Toronto Pearson to Londontown (BABIES! SCREAMING BABIES! Seriously, all individuals under the age of three should be sedated in order to be allowed on board an aircraft containing people who are not related to said small persons. I almost went insane despite my ability to sprawl across two seats) but here I sit, back on my couch, dedicated over the last hour to putting the recent wedding photos online! See how great the couple looked at www.myrz-pics.smugmug.com! Under "weddings" of course.

I am forever in gratitude to the hero of the day that that rescued me from the crusade of carting my over-abundant (150 pounds...sweet ONION chutney...) luggage from the depths of Schiphol to 26 Hendrik van Deventerstraat. H, in the shape I was in I think I just would have given up and curled up on one of the red and white checkered benches leaving my bags to be pillaged by the masses. Muitos, muitos MUITOS obrigados times like a BAJILLION. It is by no means a reflection of the company at hand but I barely remember the ride home.

There were a few casualties lost along the way; a funky beer glass in orange and green stripes, and my beloved black wooden "M" (literally, just the letter "M"!) that used to adorn my wall back in my swingin' Winnipeg flat was crushed by the sheer force of les objets d'art piled on top. I loved that "M". Maybe some fancy glue-work will mend my broken "M". But how can you mend a broken "M"? OH GOD I'm either suffering the ill effects of jet-lagged dementia or I'm channeling the Bee Gees. Maybe it's just jive talkin'...or night fever... okay ENOUGH Myr. At least my clock and some photos made it.

I have full hope in myself that that I will be up and at 'em for Tae Bo then a full day of work tomorrow...am I a dreamer? Probably. All I know is that only 3 mornings this week lend themselves well to the partaking of the Tae Bo and GOD KNOWS I need to be as svelte as possible this week-end; a Portuguese wedding awaits my presence and this is a perfect opportunity to take fate on a roadtest.

I really gotta go to bed...I think I'm going blind...and one not need bags under the eyes either.

the second leg

Ok, so no first class this time, but what is the next best thing?? An empty seat beside me in the emergency exit row!!! Allll two seats, just for me, meaning of course I can crack open the pharmaceuticals, curl up, and catch some zzz's. Thank YOU seat 25K!
Going to be a great flight...did I mention the entire Irish men's world champion boxing team is on board? They already have the whole plane in stitches.
Oooh time to power down...until London!

farewells

(ProBlog: One reason why I DO love Canada?I just charged $1.67 to my Visa)
Sitting here at Winnipeg Int'l waiting for the first of three transits to begin. A blur of a week it was, although it feels like months ago that I arrived. Farewells were said today, many tearful. I won't miss the 'where' but I always miss the 'who'.
The last time I left I had no idea of the crazy ride I would take over the 5 months ahead, and it is exhilerating to wonder what and where and mostly who will come my way next.

the wedding night, take 1: the Canadian Report

Well, I once again find myself on the eve of departure and thinking back to the week that was, namely last night which played host to the raison de voyager: Siyao's wedding.
Much could be said about the night that was, but over and above all else I saw my friend possibly happier than I have ever seen her, and that by far made the evening a success. They were relaxed, mingled, talked with people, danced, and most importantly laughed the whole entire day, and that's exactly how it's supposed to be.

the INCREDIBLE "Journey"

Those keeping up with the Blog may remember that during my visit here I was slotted in for some time at the Spa, and today, glorious of days, was the day. Ok, so I had to do a little unpleasant maintenance work whilst there, but, Ladies and Gentlement, today I experienced what can only be considered the paramount bodily indulgence, Christened by Giselle's City Spa with the monniker "The Water Journey".

The magnificence of The Journey, as I have come to call it, was so less than appropriately described in the brochure, and I have emerged feeling like I have new shiny soft glowing skin. Ahhhh..... It all started with a sea salt scrub and progressed through various soaks and Vichy showers (knowing my adoration of all things bubbly and shower-y one can estimate my happiness with this!) and finished with a session in the "Steam and Mist" room, where mini waterfalls flowed from the ceiling onto black slate tiles, Chinese zen was the mode de la chambre, and you escaped to that place in your head where nothing but clamness exists. It was like being bathed like a baby, and I absolutely did not care in the least I was in a room with someone else wearing nothing but a strategically placed steamed towel, and even then only intermittently. I have travelled The Journey, and I will return to do it again.

Other than that life here in The 'Peg is status quo. It is Canadian Wedding Eve and I am off to an engagement party of the happy couple who is not so happily trying to manage both sets of (pretty much completely intolerable and demanding, and I am being kind trust me) families. I gave the Bride-to-Be her gift today; I was happy to see that the meaning behind it was captured. I so wanted her to have a moment of appreciation just of her this weekend. Tomorrow is the big day and it will be flush with busy-ness even for me as I am doing the table displays; I hope I can manage a moment or two with her.

In one week exactly I will be enjoying yet another Wedding Eve this time on the other side of the world. Perhaps tonight next week will be the Port Wine Cellar tours...perhaps a club...an amazing dinner is of little question. Both interested parties are seemingly quite excited, although I speak certainly for myself and optimistically for the other only. *butterflies butterflies* I know, whatever that Journey may bring, that it will be very personally important.

The rest of the weekend will be more than challenging juggling demands of travel preparation and seeing those who I have yet to see and the parental units of course. In effect I have only Sunday left. It feels, however, like have been here for weeks.

S'pose that's enough for the Blog today, but once again decided to capitalize on having a real keyboard available. Must make checklist for wedding...camera...gift...IKEA candle holders...

a tourist in my home town

I have come to believe that there are very few other than tourists who make use of the pinnacle of 21st-century business ventures - the cyber cafe - and my presence in one this evening in the alternative Osborne Village of Winnipeg proves further that I have come to be a stranger in a strange land. Necessity breeds compromise, if not innovation, and thanks to no internet at my more than hospitable hostess' abode, here I am.

Ahhh it is good to blog on a real keyboard and not be limited to the paragraphs of the BlackBerry that so often curses me with the phrase "field is full" . What my real purpose was however was to log onto the work email, but alas I am denied access which is causing considerable-hair-losing concern. I'm grumbling under my breath like Marge Simpson...

We are already at Wednesday but it has been a very long week. Not to mention quite the expenditure considering gift giving and (RUSH) passport renewing and and supply stocking-up and the eating of the dinners and the drinking of the drinks. But all is well, I think...it is very hard to really think about being here as the visit is so short. This was the longest I was away but the shortest I have ever spent here. It's numbing; you see people and pick up exactly where you left off and yet I will launch into a story and half way through and remember I haven't actually spoken to this person in months, and they have no idea who "A" is or "B" is or when I was here, there, or anywhere.

Tomorrow will be a great day. I am getting a manicure with the Bride to Be, then lunch with DC, my dean in Pharmacy school, and then my hostess and I have decided to provide the venue for yet another evening of "the drinking of the drinks", which will be punctuated with guava martinis thanks to a promo at the Liquor Mart. Guava reminds me of Cairo which reminds me of the "grab" juice that they used to serve at breakfast at the hotel and I try to tell people how much we laughed about that and they look at me like I have two heads; and there we have it, now the situation is reversed, people at "home" have no idea what I'm talking about!

In two days one of my most important friends will be married. She is the first close person to me that will make the leap to lawful couplehood. I want for her all the best of everything, but I also want the best of her stay as is. Some people seem to lose themselves in the so called "sanctity" of marriage, and not that I am in the least doubting her ability to be both separate and together at once, but I soon foresee other life choices shuffling the priority list. Which is of course the whole point, from what I hear ; ) I went today and found her what I hope is a very special gift to remind her of all of OUR good times and how important they were/are. She was the very first person to know about my very first trip to Europe, by coincidence, before we were even friends. And there it began.

Off for sushi tonight - LEKKER! I haven't had good sushi, well, since Paris now that I think of it which is just bizarre in concept from start to finish. Supahh hahhht sushi bar called Wasabi is right across the street and calling my name, so I must go.

Have no idea when I will be on a real computer again, and not to mention the next days are the busiest. Thoughts are turned to the Exec meeting and the party they are hosting tomorrow night, at which BH90210 is supposed to be present. Haven't heard much in a couple days...my friends amongst friends think I am crazy to be concerned about anything being less than positive about that whole situation, yet, I worry. I worry because I feel more than a vested interested on my part evolving. DANGER! ARMS FLAIL!

Alright now that I have completely posted beyond an acceptable limit (I was in WITHDRAWAL!) it is time for SUSHI! Spider roll and prairie fire here I come! OH not to mention the UBER trendy martinis on the menu...

just chill

Not only is this title particularly apropos considering the 3 degrees outside (up to 15 today though!) It might bode well as an overriding philosophy of which to susbscribe.
Case in point: had fabulous hair app. yesterday and beloved stylist says: 'wow you have a bald patch here that seems to be growing...have you been stressing out lately?'
Although I have been widely accessing the heartburb meds I hardly thought I'd be reaching for the Rogaine any time soon.Take home message:medicate more (I JEST ;)

just chill

new hair!! new hair!!

Right at this second waiting at my favourite salon to see my favourite stylist to finally remedy the tragedy that as of late has befallen the follicles. New cut! New colour! I think I will go blond again, however am tempted to add something a little bit edgier this time around ; )
And after the shoe discovery have been formulating a mental list of all the UBER COOL stuff I have in storage to bring back, and there's heaps! Can't wait to get into those boxes with a renewed excitement for a new MyrSpace!

how quickly i have forgotten those that i have loved

And here's you thinking that I am about to launch into a hugely cathartic prose about loved ones and absence and heartfelt sentimentality over those removed from daily life, and I am in a way, but not in the manner one might expect.
Here, amidst the stored treasures of a life left behind, I have found a HUGE cache of SUMMER FOOTWEAR I had completely forgotten about!!!Ohhh the strappy sandals from Singapore...the wedges from Barcelona...I had forgotten your existence and mourn the lost season between us...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Well, as it is already over in many parts of the world, my unconventional Thanksgiving is winding to a close as well. Am rounding off the day with David Letterman and a bubble bath, for which I am most thankful.
No turkey today, in fact not much munching at all with all the running around, which suited all parties fine, as it were. Did get a sliver of yummy pumpkin pie a la Candy-lekker!
Tomorrow is the Return to U of M presentation,but biggest dilemma will be lack of personal automated transport...

it is the same...I am different: Part Deux

Upon reading last night's installment I am quite realizing what little sense it made AND the amount of horrific spelling and grammar errors I have been Posting from the BlackBerry. Ah well, I suppose that's what you get for trying to Blog after being up for 20 hours and typing on a keyboard the size of a postage stamp.

So, here I am, back in The 'Peg, and I definitely stand by my title, which is the reason I chose to extend it to a second installment today. The city seemed at first...very different than I remember, or perhaps felt different than I remember, but I think the fact of the matter is I am just seeing it differently. I am here and I am seeing everyone that is important to me but I do not feel like I belong here. In the least.

I am, however, definitely enjoying the perks that have come my way! The journey in first class, of course, staying in Jackie's guest room with a huge comfy puffy bed about 10 feet from a flat screen tv with North American cable networks situated across the hall from a room with a ginormous BATHTUB, a Starbucks on every corner, washing and DRYING CLOTHES IN A DRYER (!!), driving my UBER cute car even for a couple days only, and of course my mom who is bound and determined I will not leave this city without a new pair of boots and a handbag to match.

But it is very bizarre to look at the houses and streets and neighbourhoods here and find it out of the norm, or at least out of what has become my norm. I am very much missing the cobbles and narrowness of Holland. Eveything here is new in a not-so-cosmopolitan or interesting way ie typically Winnipeg, and nothing has really changed at all.

Heard some news today that has pushed the edge over the plans for Christmas...so now am free to move forward with a smashing little holiday adventure I am formulating in my mind. I'm thinking a little tour through the 'Med, stopping here and there...although I only have a week and a limited budget so we'll have to see what I can come up with.

My shopping today was rather unfruitful and have come home with nothing save some new jammies (NOT with sushi...booo hisss) and a re-stock of haircare and eyeware products; necessities that do not exactly stir the cauldrons of excitement. However tomorrow IS another day, and despite the advent of Canadian Thanksgiving all commercial establishments will be open for business. Ah yes, that's the North America I have forgotten to love...

Hmm, well, I hear my mom inquiring about our dinner plans, better formulate some PDQ. I am actually dying for some sushi but the Maternal Unit is not one for the naught-cooked "vis". Oooh...think something is coming to mind...

Got a lovely email from BH90210 today...over analysed it as usual. *sigh* Armour up, armour down...no armour needed? Requires further investigation.

ARGH The Mom is calling...

it's the same...i am different

(ProBlog: Sorry about the email that went to some a million times..mobile device issues...)
Well, am back currently in a big bed watching Sat Night Live after a v happy reunion with Siyao, Candy, and a quick hi to Colleen! Afterwhich Earl's where they have brought back my fave salad. Whoo hoo! V sleeeeeppppyyy, must avoid jet lag...going to snoooze...back later with more.

delay delay delay DELAYYYY

Not only are we. delauyed an hour....They oversold MY seat and there is someone right now sitting in it as we are ON the plane. SWEET ONION CHUTNEY. Aaarrrrrrggghhh!!!!!!! I better get an upgrade to at least bus class out of all of this I mean REALLY FOR THE LOVE OF GOD. This shouldn't be this difficult...
OMG THEY ACTAULLY CAME THROUGH, I'm In FIRST CLASS!!!! SEAT 3D BABY, ALLLLL THE WAY TO TORONTO!! And the seat next to e is freeeee!!!!! Must not waste this on sleep...bring on the champagne!!!!

the first delay

Now coming to you live from Schiphol where in true air canada form the flight shoukd have departed by now and we are still in the terminal. I can see them loading my bag on actually...at least it's getting on there.
This of course is putting my connection in Toronto in slight peril...BOB L'EPONGE!!! *sigh* not much to do about it I s'pose.
Delightful purchase of the airport delay? My winter fragrance, Armani Elle. A revisit to a favourite for the 2005-2006 winter season. Very nostalgic...

oh canada, canada ho

Well, in approximately 45 minutes my taxi will arrive and I will make yet another trek to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, vector of all Myr-Launches world wide (I suppose I better get out of the jammies then...)

I have finished packing, snuck in an hour of the 'Bo, ventured to C1000 for some in-fight snacks and am just about to put the finishing touches on the prep-work.

10 minutes later: There, all done, dressed, packed, quardruple checked for passport, tickets, and credit cards, and am now patiently awaiting the taxi.

I am wearing socks and boots for the first time in 5 months, and I can't say I am enjoying it. It's itchy and hot and so much less podiatrical-free, if you will allow me yet another made-up word. But I have learned that it is much more pleasant to be overdressed and peel off the layers on planes than be freezing on a 9 hour flight.

At this point I have no idea what to think about arriving back. Siyao will be waiting for me and there is really no better person; I have missed her immensely, and both of our lives have been occupied with so many different things over the last few months that it will be exceptionally comforting to share it all in person. Plus my summer stories are hardly done justice over email!

I have gone on and on about my BH90210 Porto Wedding Date but haven't said much about, oh, let's call him American Eagle Outfitters Poster Boy Winnipeg Wedding Date. (AE for short). AE is a person who made Pharmacy School 4 of the most fun years of my life; all of my memories that involve crazy laughing and good times and FUN involve him, and I am SO excited that we will be attending the big day of our mutual friend together. He is one that kind of disappears beneath work and stress and the "busy"ness of life (a la Jelte, one might say) but when you get together it's like no time has passed at all. We share a penchant for catchphrases, and I can't wait to see which ones I come back with this time!

Alright - it is TIME for me to GO! Perhaps it's silly but I will miss my life here, even if it is just for a short time, but I have no doubt I will be well reminded of what I am missing on The Other Side very shortly.

right on schedule

Visit to Rental Agency: check (can't view Banstraat place until I get back but VERY optimistic, Rental Agency Guy said it was small but very well laid out and v. nice!)

Hour of Tae Bo: Check

Cleansing Shower: Check

Piece of Toast: MMMM CHECK!

Seperation of Summer Shoes from Winter for Storage: Check

Dinner from Hang Yee: En Route

Packing: UPWARDS AND ONWARDS!!

i need to start packing...NOW!

And not just throw clothes in a pile on a chair as has been the protocol of the week. Thus will be the task of this evening, AFTER I make my appointment to see some flats (yay!) and AFTER I sneak in Tae Bo (awoke this morning to find I had left the DVD in the work computer, GRRR! BOB L'EPONGE!)but before I launch into finishing my PP presentations for my "Back for ONE Night Only" return to the U of M Fac of Pharm. Yes, open suitcase, put things in it. INCLUDING the fabulous new socks I purchased yesterday (pink and orange striped!).

Commentary on the evening that was will be brief at this juncture, but I will say that it was perhaps one of the nicest, most enjoyable evenings I have ever had the pleasure to be a part of. Interested parties can contact me directly for further details (not to say there are too many), and in fact your thoughts and comments are welcome on the course of events and speculated outcomes. I am in no position to decline advice.

I really cannot believe that I will be in Canada tomorrow. At all. Now the question remains, do I use the 9 hour Amsterdam-Toronto flight to get on schedule with my Portuguese lessons, read the latest Vogue and enjoy the in-flight movies, or heavily medicate and catch up on some sleep? Hmmm I think this largely depends on who is sitting next to me. They say when flying West on a day-time flight you should never sleep if you want to avoid jet-lag. Seeing as how my "normal" sleeping pattern resembles that of a Red Eye pilot I will take that with a grain of salt.

OK time to start the day. Am contently comfortable this morning...All is good...much, much, much to look forward to (perhaps more, perhaps less, who's to say, hard to say, a fool to say?) but yet slightly melancholy for the end of something that has yet to even begin.

the day just got sweeter!

LITERALLY!

There I was mentally twiddling my thumbs through the meeting when in walked one of the ladies from the office with a package for me, straight from my cousin and associated family wayyyyy back in a remote corner of The Middle of Nowhere, Fort Frances.

I was SO GIBBLED! Not only did it contain multitides of hair and shower products (I was TOTALLY trying to figure out how I was going to haul back all the shampoo and conditioner I needed, these Dutch excuses for hair maintenance leave MUCH to be desired) BUT...also the BEST Canadian candy!! This of course 2 days before I leave to retrieve such items of my own in the mecca of North American supermarket aisles, but what a nice treat. I mean NIBS! There are NIBS! And Tootsie Rolls! (How many licks does it take to get to the tootsie roll centre of a tootsie pop, Mr. Owl?) If candy and commercial references escape the reader, I issue a challenge! Google is friend to all.

Mmmmmsugarrrrrrrrrrrrrrzinnnnnnnnnggggggggggggggg

As for the meeting, I came to some realisations that I basically was well aware of before hand, but that became quite clear and apparent during this short session. How this, if at all, affects the general environment remains to be seen, but have decided to stake professional well-being on working towards the absolute best possible personal effort and productivity; the rest shall remain to be seen.

OOH fun, BH90210 just texted, dinner-a-go-go. But WHERE?? Think Myr, think, this is your forte.

Am not impressed with the foggieness of the day...NOT good for the pointy hair...hmm might have to put some of these in-office hair care products to good use....

SCHIPHOL TRAVEL TAXI CAN CRAM IT DOWN THE PIE-HOLE

AAARRGH! Irritation at utmost max. And given my previous experience with the afore mentioned institution I should really know better than to expect anything less than extreme angst with the whole thing.

Have just spent an hour trying to a) get onto the Schiphol website, which is down, then b) trying to find the Schiphol phone number, which is very elusive and c) almost being brought to a level of argumentative shouting with the seemingly 12-year-old at the Travel Taxi Desk who will INVARIABLY screw up my booking some how. NOT only that, but THEN they tell me that if I want to bring an extra bag in the taxi on the way back they are going to charge me 30 euros extra!! THIRTY! Which is almost 2/3 of the total price!! This completely negates the advantage of being able to carry 70kg and 2 carry on bags back on the plane.

I basically DID tell them to cram it down the pie-hole and said forget it about the extra bag, with which I will show up anyway, as on MORE than one occasion I have been brought home in a huge van with no one else in it. However I have also been picked up in some Euro economy sized soda can with a driver expecting to smush everyone and their luggage in there. It's a risk I'm willing to take, as the organisational system within that company being what it is I am at little risk of them actually being aware if I have told them about the extra bag or not. See related previous posts.

Wow that felt good to vent...a retrospective reading has me further of the opinion I must cut down on the caffeine, however.

Meeting in 15 on a document I have yet to read on a topic I know nothing about about a group I have never heard of...be back later with more pleasant post re: gezellig dinner last night and projected thoughts on tonight's...still have not decided upon an eatery...

caffeine crash

After 10 hours in front of the computer and a continuous infusion of caffeine throughout I am FRIED. FRIIIIEYYYYED. Finally at this moment have completed all that came up today but pretty much felt like that hamster on the pepetual wheel all day.

Off to dinner with THREE VSI's tonight; am gibbled. And am looking forward to some solids as the day was not peppered with too many substantial nibbles. Woman can not live on carrot balls and crackers alone, yet I seem to make a good go of it. No wonder the caffiene worked wonders on concentration and reeked havoc on the stomach.

Have made lots of contact with the troops back at home and plans are allll falling into place for the social arrnangements of the week, starting immediately after I disembark from the plane and contiuing until I re-embark 10 days later. Canadian Thanksgiving is also nicely nestled in there on the Monday which means projected opportunities for pumpkin pie (PIE!) and further social gatherings. My father will be out in the Canadian wilderness hunting large beasts for I have no idea what purpose, while my mother and I will be out in the jungle of Polo Park Shopping Mall hunting down the latest fall wardrobe necessities. It's a win-win.

My eyes just went all blurry...FOCUS...

OK time to shut it down for the night; not even taking the laptop home this eve.

MMMMdinnnerrrrrrrrr.....lekkerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

SWEET ONION CHUTNEY i need socks

In preparation for the trek back to Winnipeg I took a glance at the local weather and discovered that the city was once again falling victim to one of those Colorado Lows that is oft responsible for snow in May and -40 temps in January. They have actually issued a Winter Storm Watch for tomorrow, with a warning for 5-10cm of snow. So, looks like I will be arriving to at the very least rain and cold, if not a blizzard; ARRGH!! I suppose I have become soft in this temperate European climate but MY GOD that's miserable for October, even for us. I cannot go around sockless any longer, and seeing as how my spring clothing inventory had me dispelling many pairs of said items to the bin, it's time to put them on the shopping list too. However, in true Winnipeg form I did notice the temp is speculated to reach 22 by Sunday. CRAZY.

Have just confirmed Thursday dinner with BH90210; quite content with that. Must find very cool (but not TOO cool) place to go with lekker food and gezellig (but not TOO gezellig) atmosphere. Have solicited advice...anyone reading who may have an idea suggest at will.

Was back on an even earlier schedule today to make up for yesterday and am mostly healthy save for a constant tickle in the throat/ear that still may progress to a full blown head ailment. Must nip that one in the bud before blowing a sinus on the plane. Sudafed work thy magic.

Chatted briefly today with v. good friend from France whose visit to The Hague I will miss next week for being in Canada. Sadness abounds, but you can't have it all I suppose. Actually I have decided you can have it all if you work hard enough, but you can't be in two places at once. Unfortunately the laws of metaphysics still prevail in the MyrWorld I have created for myself.

MMMM I am so looking forward to dinner tonight because you know what that means? MORE TOAST! The plight of limiting carb intake is in extreme peril with the presence of my new toasting apparatus (editors note: the omelette of yesterday was far from being on par with Crunch, however in all honesty was I really expecting it to be comparable without all manner of fat and therefore taste?) OOOH I just realized what the BEST POSSIBLE THING to toast would be in that toaster: POPTARTS!! My European friends may not be familiar with said product, but it is the pinnacle of super junk food breakfasts in North America. Marketed as "toaster pastry", the strawberry Poptart is an icon of PWT breakfast solutions. MMMMM MUST bring a box back!! And they have this reallllly fake icing with colourful sprinkles all over...a perfect match for the toaster!

a treat to come home to!

Okay, so it's not a fire and a pie, but I came home today, jumped into the jammies, and what was on tv? One of my most favourite movies of all time, and the one that made me fall in love with Paris: Sabrina. I have yet to see the original, with Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart, but I adore the remake with Harrison Ford and Julia Ormond. On my first visit to Paris I seeked out the street where she was supposed to live in the movie - Rue des Beaux Arts - and it was even better than I had imagined it to be. As was the Eiffel Tower, lit up and shining just as it gets dark, as you approach from Trocadero. I really must replace my VHS copy with a DVD. The fact that it is now on tv in German (and I don't speak German) does little to detract from my enjoyment.

In light of a road not travelled on the Crunch Brunch scene yesterday I have decided to attempt the making of an omelette this evening; a suped-up healthier version of the massive (yet exceptionally delicious) brie delight that was enjoyed by many on last visit to our new favourite cafe. I do love it there, very reminiscent of Stella's in almost all manner of food and atmosphere, and I so enjoy sharing it with enjoyable people, just like Stella's back in The 'Peg. So, as my low-fat-low-cholesterol-egg-whites-only-light-on-the-brie-hold-the-butter-and-oil attempt will no doubt leave the palate yearning for the Crunch kitchen, I am optimistic I will arrive at a more than acceptable substitute.

It is also time to start considering the chore of packing for an overseas flight. I can't imagine the weather will be favourable enough in the geographical centre of North America to comfortably sport summer footware, so that leaves little to decide upon in that department. And not to mention the fact I fully intend to stock up on Fall essentials where I can purchase them at reasonable Canadian prices, necessitating ample room in the suitcase. AND of course the transfer of kitchen and barware from the storage boxes in Colleen's basement to my yet-found but soon-to-acquire new home in The Hague (appointment on Friday to look at places!)

Overall point: pack light, Myr.

a blurry picture of health

I'm not sure if it's the lack of rest or an impending flu or the generic caffeine tablet I took this morning but I am far from feeling my best today. After another fitful night I woke up for the last time feeling too drained to sit up let alone jump around the living room for an hour with Billy Blanks (hence the caffeine pill, but retrospectively not a good decision). Why is your bed always warmest and comfiest when you have to get out of it? So here I sit woozy and dizzy and wishing I could spend half an hour under a hot shower and jump right back under the covers.

During some early hour of the morning I was online chatting to a friend from Winnipeg who I will see in less than a week. She was telling me about the weekend and what everyone had been up to and I realized how far removed from that life I am now, and how little I wanted to be a part of it (besides seeing them, of couse), and told her as such. She retorted with a well-meaning comment about how I would still be there working for *insert name of former employer here* and I literally became nauseated. Right then and there I was solidified in the (current)knowledge that if it never got any better than flying solo in an office at FIP and the IPSF Welfare Flat, it would be better than going back.

Wow what a downer this is today, n'est pas? Sorry. It's the meningitis talking (or maybe it's excipients in that cheap-o Wake-Ups knock-offs, or lack of food. I didn't really eat dinner last night and didn't feel like breakfast, Stella's or otherwise).

I spoke to the Bride-to-Be on the phone this weekend and realized how much I miss her. I am so happy to share and help in her wedding and, well, happiness! She is again one of those people I am so thankful to know and have shared time with. She is a fabulous person although relishingly indulgent in all things of vanity and in just the right amount of sarcasm. We get on well, hehehehe.

But this Saturday will thus begin the Autumn Travel Schedule. Let the in-flight movies be entertaining, the re-heated meals palatable, and the luggage belts be always flush with my bags...

"things" of value

I will not delay in the news: thanks to two very special individuals (VSI's), I am now the privileged possessor of the toaster I have so oft pined after; the most perfect toaster in the history of toasting electronic appliances. Not only was I bestowed this most wonderful gift, I also acquired a new "wall" for my space in the flat, thanks to some borrowed home furnishings from one of the before mentioned VSI's. My life as I know it is effectively changed forever, for the better : )

I love the toaster, and it now ties for the best gift anyone has been thoughtful enough to give me (Cookie Monster sharing the coveted place), and The Wall is more than a small step forward to sparing all of society the show of me kicking and punching my way through 6am Tae-Bo. But these - along with and perhaps most importantly the time spent together - were not just gifts, but a recognition of fillable voids whose presence add comfort and happiness, compounded with the knowledge they were given in the absolute purest of spirit and intentions: to bring joy. I feel most undeserved and humbled by their efforts.

I have often philosophized that for the true of heart it is not the mere acquisition of "things" that is the reason for want, but it is how these "things" - whether they be clothes or cars or toasters - make you feel. A life can be changed with the confidence that comes from looking on the outside how you feel on the inside; with the serenity of filling a home with creature comforts and coveted friends; with the realisation that because of how an accessory makes you shine, an entire room is focused on you, and you are worth it. Perhaps slightly over-philosophical for a toaster, but I stand by it.

I could write on and on about the day and how the whole of events are much more than the sum of their parts, but it is 215, and I have another full day tomorrow. I hope that the VSI's truly realise the impact of their actions: the right people were saying (and doing) the right things at EXACTLY the right time...and we all know how rare of occasions those can be.