the Nurse is In

death cab for cutie, transatlanticism

2007-04-26T17:14:00.000-07:00

The Atlantic was born today, and I'll tell you how:
The clouds above opened up and let it out.

I was standing on the surface of a perforated sphere
When the water filled every hole.
And thousands upon thousands made an ocean,
Making islands where no island should go.
Oh no.

Most people were overjoyed; they took to their boats.
I thought it less like a lake and more like a moat.
The rhythm of my footsteps crossing floodlands to your door
Have been silenced forever more.
The distance is quite simply much too far for me to row
It seems farther than ever before
Oh no.

I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer

I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer
I need you so much closer

So come on, come on
So come on, come on
So come on, come on
So come on, come on

green car.

2007-03-14T05:38:00.000-07:00

Remember the feeling of possibility? When life felt ripe and the world was your playground? The rush of adrenaline knowing that you were a mound of clay waiting to take shape. Career-less, Love-less, Personna-less. What an exciting stage in life-to sit at the wheel of your car and just drive, not knowing where you were heading but knowing something truly remarkable was in store for you. Friendships seemed unbreakable, dreams vivid and you, the writer of the script of your life.

I remember that feeling on more than one occasion. First when I began my years at UBC, again when I moved to Winnipeg and finally when I moved back home with a nursing degree in tow. Nervous excitement that the possibilities for me were countless and endless, that I could explore every option and keep doing so until something just fit. A new home, new friends, money in the bank account and a young, fresh outlook -all the ingredients to endless possibilities.

What an exciting stage in life... youth, tonight I salute you.

Calling All Angels, Jane Siberry

2007-03-14T05:27:00.000-07:00

a man is placed upon the steps, a baby cries
and high above the church bells start to ring
and as the heaviness the body
oh the heaviness settles in
somewhere you can hear a mother sing

then it`s one foot then the other
as you step out onto the road
how much weight? how much weight?
then it`s how long? and how far?
and how many times before it`s too late?

calling all angels
calling all angels
walk me through this one
don`t leave me alone
calling all angels
calling all angels
we`re cryin` and we`re hurtin`
and we`re not sure why...

and every day you gaze upon the sunset
with such love and intensity
why it`s...it`s almost as if
if you could only crack the code
then you`d finally understand what this all means

but if you could...do you think you would
trade it in
all the pain and suffering?
ah, but then you`d miss
the beauty of the light upon this earth
and the sweetness of the leaving

calling all angels
calling all angels
walk me through this one
don`t leave me alone
callin` all angels
callin` all angels
we`re tryin`
we`re hopin`
we`re hurtin`
we`re lovin`
we`re cryin`
we`re callin`
`cause we`re not sure how this goes

Sia, Breathe Me

2007-03-14T04:14:00.000-07:00

This is the song that plays in the final scene of Six Feet Under. Truly one of the most moving songs and scenes I have ever seen. Brilliance.

4:30am

2007-02-06T04:19:00.000-08:00

A friend once told me, "Have faith in life." Seemingly simple words, but the strength behind them, insurmountable. These words ring in my ears tonight as I contemplate how good life is when you just be, believe, when instinct becomes your faith.

sex in the city

2007-02-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

I just finished all 6 seasons of Sex in the City - one of the greatest series on television to date. For the past 3 months this show has been my only-me-alone time - something I don't get much of. I would put on my comfy clothes, curl up in a blankie with a plate of baked goodies and sit down to watch what the girls were up to. I was honestly surprised at how I took to the show. I found myself talking to them out loud as if I were a part of their weekly brunch conversations, laughing with them as they diagnosed the latest sexual antic and crying real tears when one of them was hurt or angry.

The characters of this show are truly amazing. Each woman represents a part of every girlfriend in my life. What I liked most about the show was the reality of their relationships. Mr. Big, Steve, Harry - none of the men were knights in shining armour who showered the women with gifts, always said the right thing and never had fears or doubts - they were real men and that made them loveable. The ending of the show was perfect, each woman ended up with a reality they had rebelled against and ended up realizing what they had rebelled against was what they needed most. This show is more than just a shocking sitcom about sex, its about love, relationships and friendship. If you're needing a way to spend some quality "me-time", this is the series for you.

Lost

2006-12-22T23:23:00.000-08:00

Chris and I have a new love - Lost. We are addicted. A friend of mine lent us the first 2 seasons and for the past month, it has been Lost marathons night after night. It is one of the best shows on television well, ever. We are 1 episode away from cold turkey. We're scared people, the withdrawal will be too much. If anyone can hook us up with Lost, Season 3 Episodes 301-306 - we will forever be in your debt. It will catch us up and we'll be in synch with the show.

My favorite character is John Locke. His story fascinates me. His character has changed dramatically from the first season to the second and not for the better, but I still like him. I think he's the strongest character on the show and has plenty more tricks up his sleeve. I also quite like Claire and Charlie. I am curious to see who Claire's baby grows up to be and what the mysteries are surrounding his 'specialness".

I am also curious about "The Others". I hope they do not turn out to be a bunch of scientists running a psychological experiment in the form of the Dharma Iniative. That solution would be too obvious and a bit boring. I hope the show breaks away from the scientific/technological operations going on on the island and goes back to the concept of "the island as a being" explored more on Season 1. The mystical healing powers of the island that have cured Rose and Locke intrigue me and I hope Season 3 sheds more light on this.

Any Lost fans out there- lets talk.

27 red balloons

2006-12-22T23:10:00.000-08:00

I hate aging. There I said it. I'm embarrassed to admit that aging really, truly bothers me. I know it defies all logic, age is just a number and the natural progression of life but all in all, I hate it. I don't really know why it bothers me considering I'm truly happy for where I am at 27. I have a wonderful family, fabulous friends, a loving boyfriend, a kick-ass condo and a job that challenges me each day. I have my health, I've done a considerable amount of traveling, I have hobbies that I have time to pursue, I have money to spend... And yet the age factor still makes me cringe. I think the thought of running out of time to pursue my goals and spend time with my friends and family scares me. That said, 27 doesn't feel so bad right now.

I had the perfect 27th birthday. All my friends and I went up to Mount Seymour and spent the day snowtubing. It was a day of wipe-outs, hot chocolate and icicle toes! Afterwards we went back to my place and had tea and cake courtesy of Meens. She made the tastiest vanilla raspberry cake - mmm! Later in the night, the remaining few went out to Honey for dancing. It was a birthday I will not forget! Pictures are posted in my Photo Albums, feel free to peek!

I look back at the last ten years and so much has changed. The last few years have solidified my persona. I feel confident in my identity as me, daughter, friend, sister, girlfriend, neonatal nurse. I suppose if 27 feels this good, it can only get better! That said, 28 - take your time!

do u wanna be on top?

2006-12-08T04:09:00.000-08:00

Last night marked my semi-yearly "America's Next Top Model" season finale night. We had a showing of about 8 girls and 1 boy - our token male viewer! We ate a stupid amount of baked goodies and spent a great deal of the show doing more yelling than viewing. Its comical how a group of well educated, somewhat intelligent young women can take something comparable to a glorified beauty contest so seriously!

Needless to say, Caridee won. That was a given, she was the most commercial of the three. I still feel Michelle should have won, she would have given something to the modelling world that was dark, unique and beautiful. Caridee will deliver more of the "beautiful blonde swimsuit" thing, which she will do very well.

I am still of the belief that the judges know who the winner will be from the very get go. They have a particular "look" they are seeking that particular cycle and the girl who has that look wins. Talent somewhat plays a role, but a small role.

The show is trash but trash at its best. Its entertaining and a great excuse to get your girls together and be girls. To the next season - may the brown girl not be a freak and win!

hey little girl

2006-11-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

I miss my mama and papa:(

movin' on over

2006-10-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

I'm moving in a week and am feeling a bit nostalgic about the whole ordeal. A great deal has taken place in my current apartment. Its sad saying good-bye to a place where both happy and not-so happy memories were created.

I remember when I first moved in. I was so excited that my dream of living in Vancouver on my own was finally becoming a reality. Meens and Fatima helped me lug boxes up to my 3rd floor suite of my elevator-less building. They put my dishes in cupboards, my linens in the closet and we all sat down in the living room and watched the Vancouver skyline light up. I had no furniture at the time so we sat on a foam mattress and ate homemade pizza and zucchini salad courtesy of Meens. It was an exciting night- a night of new beginnings, a rite of passage into adulthood.

Since then, my apartment has been home to 2 Halloween parties, 2 birthday parties, countless models nights and the meeting place for most events ( most likely due to the fact that I don't own a car!). It has been a playground for my bunnies, the "Mayo clinic" for some and my own personal sanctuary after long 12-hr shifts.

I'm looking forward to creating new memories in my next home. It will be the 27th move of my life and hopefully the last for at least a couple of years! I am excited to finally have a place that I can decorate completely as I see fit. I plan to paint the walls, put up my art and have the most kick-ass guest room in the west side!

some fav pics

2006-10-24T18:09:00.000-07:00

wall of starfishes

dad by the sea

Vacuum-massage for Coops

Folks getting their groove!

Alexandra- next Maybelline mascara model

balays & giddha

2006-10-24T17:48:00.000-07:00

Meen's engagement party pics:

red walls.

2006-09-13T00:46:00.000-07:00

See the curtains hangin' in the window
In the evening on a Friday night
A little light-a-shinin' through the window
Lets me know everything's all right

Summer breeze makes me feel fine
Blowin' through the jasmine in my mind
Summer breeze makes me feel fine
Blowin' though the jasmine in my mind

See the paper layin' on the sidewalk
A little music from the house next door
So I walk on up to the doorstep
Through the screen and across the floor

Summer breeze makes me feel fine
Blowin' through the jasmine in my mind
Summer breeze makes me feel fine
Blowin' through the jasmine in my mind

Sweet days of summer -- the jasmine's in bloom
July is dressed up and playing her tune
And I come home from a hard day’s work
And you're waitin' there
Not a care in the world

See the smile awaitin' in the kitchen
Through cookin' and the plates for two
Feel the arms that reach out to hold me
In the evening when the day is through

Summer breeze makes me feel fine
Blowing through the jasmine in my mind
Summer breeze makes me feel fine
Blowing through the jasmine in my mind

This song reminds me of my dad who sings it to me on occasion. It is a Seals & Crofts tune but I think my dad's cover is better.

This song is running through my mind tonight as I reflect on this summer. I can say with confidence it was one of the most memorable summers I have had yet. Old friends got married, older friends got engaged and even older friends became mothers-to-be.

This summer brought me my first tangible vision of my future. It feels like all the components of my life have finally collided and the end result is something exhilirating, something peaceful, something permanent.

I look forward to the next season. Fall marks many milestones including one I would never have imagined reaching 2-years ago. I am fortunate in life and this summer has reminded me of that.

last night

2006-08-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

"When someone says that they love you, and you know that they mean it to their very core, that there is no doubt in any cell in your entire body that they are unconditionally sincere then you are wealthy. There is no question that, for a time, financial wealth can secure the placebo of love, but it cannot create it. It cannot manufacture true love, just as it cannot ensure or secure happiness. To give ourselves to others openly and honestly, and to conduct ourselves with integrity and concern for the feelings of others, even if complete strangers, represents the sum total of our riches. "

-Matthew Good, 'Wealth', August 4, 2006.

This entry brought tears to my eyes. I urge everyone to read it in its entirety.

Harpers.

2006-08-01T20:47:00.000-07:00

A marine sniper who has killed as many as 60 insurgents in Iraq said of his work, "It's like hearing classical music playing in my head." It was reported that Private Steven D. Green, who is charged with raping a 14-year-old Iraqi girl, then killing her and members of her family, had said that, in Iraq, "killing people is like squashing an ant, I mean, you kill somebody and it's like, 'All right, let's go get some pizza.'"

Silken Threads

2006-06-28T00:12:00.000-07:00

Soar above me with gossamer wings
Stars, like bullets shine through the silken web
Bleed your sorrow upon me
Unconventional ally, somewhat unaware;
You've become my only solace here.
Silken thread that binds me to this place.
Like Taj.
Immortality reminds me,
Sorrow is the steed of beauty
I am forever entombed in silence;
my legacy but a flicker in place of the flame.
Ablaze is my heart ready to consume.
Beneath kohled lashes;
Knots of saffron, earth and vermillion
Tug at silken threads.
Stars like bullets, gossamer wings;
witness to pleasure, to pain.
Let them know, beneath these lashes,
a woman bleeds.

-Moninder Dhiman & Deepshikha Garga, 2002

1:45am.

2006-06-08T01:33:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine made a major change in her life a few years back. She had a job that paid her more than decently but unfortunately also bored her to tears. She took the plunge, moved across the country, took a pay-cut but now has a job that she loves and is growing to be quite adept in. She travels and each day, learns something new and does tasks that challenge her . I admire this quality. If you don't like something in your life, stop bitching and change it.

More so, I admire this friend and many other girlfriends in my social circle who set goals for themselves. Goals that go above and beyond finding a good man and getting married. I'm not saying thats not an important stage in life. I think everyone should seek a partner in life and be stable in that relationship whether that involves a formal marital status or not. However, girls who feel the be and end all of their existence is to find a man and be married, I don't get and frankly, I don't want to get.

Life should be about accumulating stories. I look back on my short 26-years of life and am proud of my file folder full of good, juicy stories. I travelled, I almost failed a couple of classes in university, I had nights I can't really remember, I did stupid, foolish things with my friends just because they were stupid and foolish. I'm thankful that I did these things before I grew up and got a real job and a real relationship. I'm thankful that I have stories to tell and that I did things on my own and not on the arm of a man.

Should I ever be blessed with a little girl of my own, I will teach her to stand her own. To set goals, have adventures, travel, see the world, make mistakes and learn from them and then one day, find someone to do all those things with all over again.

a wandering we shall go...

2006-06-03T01:45:00.001-07:00

This is my travel map:

create your own visited country map

How depressing compared to my not-yet-travel map...
Thanks for the link Kels.

a poem

2006-06-02T22:57:00.000-07:00

This poem was nominated for the best poem of 2006 , written by an African kid.

When I born, I Black,
When I grow up, I Black,
When I go in Sun, I Black,
When I scared, I Black,
When I sick, I Black,
And when I die, I still black..
And you White fella,
When you born, you Pink,
When you grow up, you White,
When you go in Sun, you Red,
When you cold, you Blue,
When you scared, you Yellow,
When you sick, you Green,
And when you die, you Gray..
And you calling me Colored ??

is your housekeeper your best friend?

2006-04-10T00:37:00.000-07:00

Last night Chris and I rented "Crash". I'm sure most of you know this film was this year's Oscar pick for Best Picture. What a great film. Having not seen most of the other Oscar nominated films, I can't say whether it deserved to win the Oscar but I was really enjoyed this film. At first I felt the plotline was too "in your face" a film about racial-profiling but as the story progressed, the message became more subtle and therefore, more powerful. As always, I especially enjoyed Don Cheadle's performance. A very talented actor who in my opinion, can take on any role.

My favorite character in the movie was that of Matt Dhillons. In the beginning of the film, I despised him being that he was a racist white cop. As the story continued, his reasons for his beliefs became more clear and I actually sympathized with his plight (I didn't agree with them but I could understand why he felt the way he did). Towards the end of the film, his character performed an act that was completely out of character, which changed my feelings for him. I suppose people can change although usually a very dramatic event is needed to fuel such a step.

I literally was at the edge of my seat while watching because you watch it assuming the worst will happen and surprisingly, most of the time you're wrong.

If you're feeling angry or sad, rent this film - it will probably make you feel worse but sometimes isn't that the point?

http://www.crashfilm.com/

your country is my backyard.

2006-03-06T14:29:00.000-08:00

Back from South America. What a trip, had its ups and its downs. A lot of people have asked me which of the countries I liked best. Toughie. I loved each country for different reasons. Peru and Bolivia were amazing because of their unique culture. Their culture was still intact and not heavily influenced by Western culture. Peruvians and Bolivians wore their traditional dress, ate their traditional food, spoke Spanish and practiced the rituals of their culture. Chile was a laid back country that attracted extreme sporters. We paraglided in Iquique and spent a lot of time just chilling on the beach. It was a good place to just relax and converse with people who always had a great story to tell. Argentina was like being in Europe, very sophisticated and everyone looked impeccable at all times. Good wine, good food, good art, good shopping!

Brazil was beach culture to its core. Locals boarded the bus in their swimwear and it seemed like the most important thing on everyone's agenda was working on their tans. Rio de Janeiro had a frantic, festive pace to it that I really liked. Carnival was amazing but probably not something I would ever attend again. If I was someone who enjoyed wild parties when I traveled, I would have liked it more. That said, watching the famous Samba parade was something I will never forget. The costumes and floats were breathtaking!

This all said, South America kicked my butt. Two weeks later and I am still sick. I now feel like I never left! Even my precious tan is fading.

I now have 2 continents left and I have stepped foot on them all. I am eager to begin my next adventure to either Africa or Southeast Asia. Any takers?

december

2006-01-14T08:54:00.000-08:00

In my line of work, I see things that I never thought I would ever see or would ever want to see. Everyday I see the impossible become possible. We are capable of so much these days, it makes me question whether anything is actually impossible anymore. We all go through life thinking that the worst has happened to us and that our tragedies are somehow unique and untouchable. Meanwhile people experience loss and grief so insurmountable it makes me wonder how they're still standing. I feel privileged to share in my patient's grief, I can't fully understand it yet somehow it's still mine.

I see families who put their lives on hold for months for the tiniest shred of hope that their little one will make it one more day. I see mothers who can't hold their newborn because of peripheral lines, arterial lines, morphine infusions, ventilators... I see dads who can't protect their newborn son or daughter because they don't really know what a desaturation is. I see the frustration, the disappointment and primarily, I see the guilt in their faces as they watch their baby. It awes me to witness something so natural, so instinctive.

The greatest lesson I've learned thus far in my short career as a neonatal nurse is that anyone can be touched. Plan, but with caution and remember that life is funny. It can throw you in directions you never even fathomed. My patients share with me their most vulnerable moments and their most wondrous moments. It is this thought that reminds me why I chose to be a nurse.

don't cry for me Argentina....

2005-11-23T01:09:00.000-08:00

This song has been the soundtrack to my life for the last couple of weeks. Why? You ask. Because, Pam and I are going to Argentina in February. More specifically, we are going to Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil. Okay we're actually only FLYING into Peru and FLYING out of Brazil. Our time will be mostly spent in the other countries mentioned. We are going to be attending Carnivale though in Rio, Brazil. I am very excited and a bit nervous. Anyone been to these countries? Any info would be great.

Its been foggy in Vancouver the last couple of days. So foggy when I look outside my window I see nothing but well, fog. Makes me feel like I'm living in outer space. Spooky.

Awhile back I got my first new pet. Her name at the time was Stella, a white and grey baby Holland Lop rabbit. Very cute. I loved her so much that I got another rabbit. Chloe is an even younger black and white Holland lop. She was brought home and very very soon enough we discovered that Stella was in fact, a boy with very much boy-rabbit needs. He was neutered and renamed Cooper. The two get along very well. Cooper is now about 4 months and is a docile buck. Chloe is about 3.5 months and is a spitfire. They both love to chase each other around my apartment and rarely get into trouble. I love them both.

W.E.B.C -White evangelists of Brook County?

2005-10-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

The social season is upon us. Why are we the most social when its mucky, gucky outside?

My Halloween party is in a week. I'm excited about it and its theme. Fatima came up with it, she is clever like that. I am still unsure as to what I will dress up as. I have a few ideas I am toying with, but nothing concrete yet. It a toughie this year! Yesterday I finalized my menu, I think everyone will be pleasantly surprised and pleased.

Tonight is Balderdash. Yes, I am in a Balderdash club. The West Coast Balderdash Club. (W.E.B.C). Its great fun. I have to mention this because Nav said I would. You cannot play Balderdash with less than 4 people. That is what I learned last week. Sylvia, Nav and I attempted after the rather unfortunate turn-out. It cannot be done. Instead we gave up the game and ate butterscotch-nut clusters and watched "Jem and the Holograms".

I never watched Jem as a child. People find this very surprising. I was only allowed 30 minutes of television a day, which was increased to 60 minutes a day when I got a bit older. My brother and I had to watch together and therefore, had to compromise on what to watch. We watched "Inspector Gadget" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" religiously. Such great shows.... Kids watch too much television these days. Its unfortunate. Other great shows included, "The Smurfs", "Fraggle Rock" and "Three's Company". Strange how my parents allowed us to watch "Three's Company".

I went and saw Thornley a couple of days ago at The City Central Brew Pub in Surrey. What a horrible venue for a concert. The establishment was trying to merge 2 events (Thornley and the hockey game) into 1 event. It was not good. Hockey fans and music fans all waiting for different events in a very crowded place. Then when the concert did finally start, people decided to be rude and annoying.

Concert-going etiquette: Don't talk loudly while the band is playing: I came to hear them not you, so kindly shut-up. This goes for singing as well. Yes, we know you know the words, sing, but sing at a level where we hear the band, not you. Beer: do you really need another beer when it means you have to push your way from the front of the crowd to get to the bar at the back? Once, fine, repeatedly - you're here for the beer not the show, so sit at the bar and watch the show, you drunken lout. Height consideration: If you're tall or large in any proportion, do not force yourself to the very front of the crowd. I'm little so I cannot see over you, you giant. Yes, it sucks and its not your fault that god made you tall and giant-like, but suck it up and kindly, let us shorties through.

if I wasn't me, I would be...

2005-10-04T04:28:00.000-07:00

complete the thought.
turn that thought into a costume.
show up to party.
party.

sexy Gryffindor seeks sexy idea

2005-09-12T02:36:00.000-07:00

Returned from Calgary a couple of days ago. Ashu and I painted up a storm. We painted the living room an olive green color, the dining room a terracotta color, the master storm grey and the guest a buttercup yellow/orange shade (well we didn't get to the guest room, he'll be flying solo on that one). The place looks pretty fab. All earthy and homey, now its just in need of furniture.

I'm all done my cake course - boo hoo. Much to my surprise, my little cake making venture is taking off. I have a couple of cake orders on the horizon. I hope I don't screw them up!

I have started brainstorming ideas about my upcoming annual Halloween party. Being an advocate for organized fun, "Halloween" is much too broad a theme for me. I need a theme for my Halloween party. Last year's "come as your favorite fictional character and then add an adjective in front of it" was a hit. My 'sexy Gryffindor' was quite the costume. I have a couple of great ideas thanks for Nav, Sandra and Barb but need a few more before I decide. Ideas?

The Vancouver Fringe Festival has begun. I've only checked out one show so far. It was called, "Patti Fetti, The Lover". It was pretty hilarious. A one-woman show about a should-be Saturday Night Live character. Go check out the Fringe, its good fun.
http://www.vancouverfringe.com/

oh be joyful

2005-08-26T15:02:00.000-07:00

in a coma
20.09.05

http://www.chartattack.com/damn/2005/08/0410.cfm

last chance for summer romance

2005-08-16T23:52:00.000-07:00

Its my second night of a string of three. A slow set. I've decided to primary one of the chronic babies here - well he's been here so long, he's not really a baby anymore. I love him and only wish I could have started primarying him earlier in his life.

I'm off to Calgary again in a couple of weeks to help Ashu decorate his condo. He's been instructed to touch nothing as he will only ruin it. I think he should paint the walls a nice wine red, a soothing color to help him relax after those long, hard engineering work days (please note the sarcasm as I write those last words).

I'm having a "Last Chance for Summer Romance" party on Saturday. Unfortunately most of my party regulars have plans that weekend. I guess that's the reality of the situation when you give people late notice. Oh well, hopefully it will still be fun. I think the icecream bar and sangria will keep everyone cool and happy.

I attended a book reading with Nav the other day. John Irving read from his latest novel. I have never attended such an event. I found it quite enjoyable and thus inspired to read one of his earlier novels. A talented author, but a bit too fond of strange, sexual situations for my liking.

Went out last weekend with the gals. Haven't done that in some time. We went from The Morrissey to Glowbal to Bluewater to Yaletown Brewery to The Royale to finally The Fritz for vegetarian poutine. A fun-filled night, which in my younger days would have been just the beginning of my night.

I hope to see many of you on Saturday, bring extras.

do not read if you have not finished Harry Potter & The Half Blood Prince

2005-07-29T00:43:00.000-07:00

I finished the 6th installment of the Harry Potter books last night. What a book. I must say I was surprised with some of it and some of it, not so much. I enjoyed it though (big shock).

I thought I would post an email I wrote Pam with my theories on the final book. For all those Harry Potter fans (and I know some of you just pretend like you're not), please enlighten me.

My Harry Potter Book 7 Theories & Book 6 Questions:

Snape is actually part of the Order of the Phoenix, he had to kill Dumbledore because he could not risk blowing his cover. He had to make the Unbreakable Vow to Narcissa because again, he could not blow his cover. Killing Dumbledore was for the greater good, which of course is defeating Voldemort.
Snape had a hand in ensuring that Harry got his old Potions book. By doing so, he inadvertently secured Harry and his friends victory over the Death Eaters by making sure Harry won the Felix Felicis potion. He also knew the potion would come in handy for other conquests such as getting the memory out of Slughorn.
There is more than meets the eye to Tonks. Her appearance outside the Room of Requirement is suspicous. I don't think she is evil, but she was doing something there.
Bill being a werewolf will also come in handy, I think he will help kill Greyback, who is not dead.
Aragog's death - what was the significance of that?
I think Dumbledore is indeed dead.
When Harry graduates, he will get a position as the Defence of the Dark Arts teacher. If not right away, eventually.
Draco. He is not evil, just mislead and scared. I think maybe he may even do something to help Harry in the end. His hesitation in killing Dumbledore and his admittance that he was doing this because he was scared Voldemort would kill him and his family begs the question, is Draco really evil or is he just being used? Maybe in the end, he will help Harry defeat Voldemort.
Ron and Herimone will definently get together the next book and Ginny and Harry will too after he defeats Voldemort.
R.A.P. who is this? I have no theories, any ideas?
What is the significance of the locket that Harry and Dumbledore got? I don't think that it is nothing because Dumbledore's death could not have been in vain. He is too great a wizard for that. I think the locket Harry holds now is a Horcrux but perhaps it is been disguised or cursed.
The next book will not take place in Hogwarts. Harry needs the freedom to move around to find the other Horcruxes. Him, Ron and Hermione will search the magic world looking for them. Classes will not take place next year at Hogwarts due to the danger.
In the end, Snape and Harry will become friends or Snape will save Harry's life.
Who will die in the next book? Maybe Snape saving Harry's life and a Weasley.... the Weasley I would place my money on is either Bill or Arthur. Percy and his family will come to terms in the next book. Percy will realize the error of his ways maybe after the death of a family member.
Neville and Luna will get together the next book. In the next book, we will finally witness Neville's true wizarding abilities, which will prove to be amazing.
The 6 Horcruxes:
1. Tom Riddle's Diary
2. Salzar Slytherin's Ring
3. Slytherin's Locket
4. Hufflepuff's goblet
5. Something from Gryffindor
6. Something from Ravenclaw

Is that right? I can't remember right now (I don't presently have the book in front of me). What do you think the somethings fron Gryffindor and Ravenclaw are? Ravenclaw I have no idea. Gryffindor? It is something Harry already has. What, I don't know.

There you have it folks, my lameness in all its shining glory.

"cowgirling", an acceptable Calgarian verb

2005-07-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

Just returned from Calgary where I visited my brother, cousins and friends. I had a good trip, lots of relaxing, reading and cowgirling. I went to the Stampede twice and especially enjoyed the Grand Stand Show. I was impressed with how much money, time and effort had gone into the show, which celebrated Alberta's centennial year. B.C. I must say does not do this. This province, which has so much to brag about and celebrate does not put money into provincial identity or pride like other provinces do. Its a shame. Calgary during Stampede week is nuts. Everyone gets into it with pancake breakfasts at every block to CEOs of major companies donning jeans and cowboy hats to work everyday for a week. I was trying to picture Vancouver in the same situation. I think unless there was a 'gluten-free' or 'Atkins' option at pancake breakfasts and Miss Sixty jeans considered acceptable 'cowgirl wear', Stampede week in Vancouver would just not fly.

The new Harry Potter book is out!!! Let the good times roll. I bought it a day after release and still have not touched it. I plan to start reading it on Thursday as Pam and I plan on reading it simultaneously and then discussing it via email. Yes, the two of us are definently the coolest of the crew...

My cake decorating course is so much fun. Last class, I mastered the coveted rose.

Well, mine doesn't look as lovely as this one, but practice will perfect.

grievances

2005-07-02T01:41:00.000-07:00

Its the day after Canada Day (well its 1:45 in the morning July 2nd).
Why does the weather in this city STILL suck????

veggie-licious!

2005-06-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

I had a dream that the world came to an end. It was mighty disturbing. By the end, all that was left was rocky cliffs and smoke - not particularly unique I know. The world ended when two very large clouds made of black tar engulfed everything including myself from either side. It sucked. I hope the world does not end in such a manner.

Last night I went out with the girls and ate the best veggie burger of my life. I had it at The famed Roxy Burger. As a vegetarian, I have eaten a great deal of veggie burgers. Here is my list of top veggie burger establishments.

Deepshikha's Top Veggie Burger Establishment List:
1) The Roxy Burger
2) Sophie's Cosmic Cafe
3) Milestones
4) Hell's Kitchen
5) Red Robin's (not the actual Veggie Burger on the menu, but the Bonzai Burger with a veggie patty instead of a beef patty)

Hmmmm, I seem to be drawing a blank on veggie burger establishments.... Help please.

Like Science Fairs?...Contact me.

movin' on up

2005-06-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Excerpts from Harper's:

Mecca Cola was on sale in fifty-six countries, and was the second most popular soft drink in France.

In Syracuse, New York, President Bush gave a speech so boring that it reduced a little girl named Brittany Fish to tears, and in Greece, New York, Bush discussed his plan for Social Security. "You got to keep repeating things over and over and over again for the truth to sink in," he explained, "to kind of catapult the propaganda."

in Waxahachie, Texas, the high school student yearbook neglected to include a girl's name in a photo caption, referring to her instead as "Black Girl."

May has come and gone. What a busy month. My brother came and went, my friend Nina got married and many shift trades at work kept me quite occupied. I'm looking forward to June as I don't have much planned aside from my dance recital at the end of the month and Nav and Sandra's "movin' on up" party this weekend - debauchery at its best.

I plan to spend June basking in the sunshine on the beach. I'm hoping to get away once with the gals to Seattle and then again to the island for a weekend of nothingness. I also need to prepare for my cake decorating course starting July. Finally I can fulfill my dream of preparing and eating a multi-tiered cake! I will share, of course....ahem.

little kittens for all

2005-04-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

From Harper's:
"Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who belonged to the Hitler Youth before he became a priest, won the papacy by a landslide and styled himself Benedict XVI. The new pope dislikes homosexuality (he moved quickly to condemn a Spanish bill that would permit gays to marry), abortion, and the death penalty, but he loves little kittens. In 2001, he ordered Catholic bishops to hide allegations against pedophile priests from the public."

"The Mesa, Arizona, police department applied for funding to buy and train a tiny monkey that they can dress in a kevlar vest and send into dangerous situations."

"A woman in Burma was breastfeeding three tiger cubs, Zimbabweans barbecued nine elephants, and German toads were exploding for unknown reasons."

I'm done my preceptorship now! I'm officially a staff nurse - hurrah! It was a great experience though, I lucked out with an outstanding preceptor. The last 4 shifts I have cared for two ventilated babies on my own. Aside from one of them turning blue on me, it was okay - nothing I couldn't handle. The baby did recover after we bagged him, but it was a bit of a heart-pounding situation!

The weather is GORGEOUS. I ask myself in these pre-summer days, why would anyone choose to live elsewhere?

Tomorrow is my dance recital! I'm so nervous! We got our outfits back from the tailor yesterday, they're very pretty.

Learn more about Kathak, a form of classical East Indian dance:
http://www.pathcom.com/~ericp/kathak.html

the way fruit was meant to be eaten

2005-04-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

I'm still young! Went to Arts County Fair on Friday, have not been since I left UBC almost 3 years ago. Madness at its best. There were so many people there, cellphones were not working. We only made it for Matt, which was the highlight of the day (yes, I can say this with confidence even without seeing the other sets). I re-lived my moshpit days, I'm surprised I got in there and actually enjoyed it. It did get stupidly violent though and stupid people thought they would advertise their stupidity by throwing things at the stage. I applaud Matt's words, they were needed.

Currently, I'm working a night at VGH. I do this about once a month for extra cash and to remind myself how wonderful the nursery is. God bless the newborn infant who does not have the ability to push a call bell...

I'm adding another link. My secret love, which I'm ashamed of...America's Top Model. I cannot resist, so I'm coming clean...Its a damn great show. Tomorrow is Models & Fondue night. We pay tribute to skinny, pretty girls by eating fruit dipped in layers and layers of chocolate. I still have not decided which model I like best. Have you?

http://www.upn.com/shows/top_model4/models/index.shtml

From Harper's:

where in the hell is Fort McMurray?

2005-03-28T03:59:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I went and saw the second installment of "The Ring". Admittedly, I was very nervous about doing so as that 'well' girl scares the bananas out of me. Much to my dismay, I did actually scream out loud during one particular scary scene in the movie. However, all in all, this movie is a huge disappointment when compared to the first one, (I still hate that damn girl though!).

Currently, I working a night shift at VGH, something I have not done since December. I had forgotten how nice night shifts are here when its quiet as it is tonight (blessedly!). I have done nothing since midnight and will hopefully continue this pattern until 6am. Being that it is a statutory holiday, I am especially basking in my state of 'nothingness'.

Last night I went to DV8, a very funky-ghetto lounge on Granville. The walls of the place were decorated with t-shirts that one could place bids for. One t-shirt read, "Where in hell is Fort McMurray?" and had a giant picture of Satan on it. I wished I had bid on it for my brother.

Planning your next vacation?, visit:
http://www.fortmcmurraytourism.com/index.php?area_id=2

From Harper's:
"Washington state legislature was trying to decide whether to classify goat-napping as a misdemeanor or a felony".

"Police in York, Pennsylvania, arrested a fifty-three-year-old serial sheep molester in a barn. The man said he was just petting the sheep, even though it was 3 A.M., it was not his barn, and he had baler's twine in his back pocket, which can be used to bind sheep".

"A Wisconsin woman rammed her car into a Catholic church after deciding that God does not exist; her car was destroyed, but the church was unharmed".

crazies...

Wicked?...wicked!

2005-03-11T12:18:00.000-08:00

Had a great time Wednesday night in Toronto. My good friend Erin (who is a fellow neonatal nurse) and I went and saw "Wicked, the Musical". Even despite the fact that we were seated at the very back of the theatre, the show was amazing. Go see it if it is playing in your city.

http://www.wickedthemusical.com/

Its my last night here. I will not miss the weather. I talked to my mom yesterday and was told it was +18C in Vancouver... Why would anyone want to live elsewhere?

Pam and I went for Thai food the other night. Being the Thai-food snob that I am, I can say it was probably the third best Thai food I have every consumed. The first of course being that of "Sukhothai's" in Winnipeg. The second being, well mine! Meens has challenged me to a "curry off". The fool thinks she can out-Thai curry me. I will keep you all posted, we will need judges.

Finally and most importantly, what does one say when disgusting things happen?

Pam, the newest vegetarian on the block

2005-03-08T20:31:00.000-08:00

Am currently enjoying my stay in Toronto. Tonight Pam and I just got back from beautiful Montreal. Aside from the freezing cold weather, it was a good stay. I felt like I was back in Winnipeg, so chilly it was! We stayed on Rue St. Catherines, which is the heart of the shopping district in the Quarter Latin. The first night we got there, we found a cheap Thai place (all veggie, much to Pam's dismay) and ate. The next day we ventured the icy weather and trekked around historic Old Montreal. We had poutine for lunch and then went shopping down Rue St. Catherines. We then went and saw "Million Dollar Baby" as an escape to the outside.

I am so happy this film won the Oscar, it was fabulous. I highly recommend it and to anyone who does not bawl like a baby, you are made of stone and should be put in a box.

That night, we went to a lounge for appies and bevies and then back to the hotel. This morning, we went out for Crepes and then to the Montreal Science Centre where Pam and I faced off our Science skills ( I kicked her ass). The Science Centre had this really neat exhibit called, "An Autopsy for Murder" where you had to solve a murder mystery like a real investigator, it was quite enjoyable.

The highlight of our trip was Pam's voluntary and rather short-lived conversion to vegetarianism. During the entire trip, the only meat the girl ate was sausages for breakfast and then a Whopper on the way home to Toronto. She whined the entire time about not getting enough meat yet, she had apt (yes I said APT) opportunity to have it but chose not to. My diagnosis: the girl is a closet vegetarian! I think I like her a little bit more after this discovery:)

Anyone interested in this?:

Matt Good and Adrienne Maree Brown talk about how to get our democracy back
Sat. March 19 @7:00 PM Chinese Cultural Centre 50 E. Pender St.
Matthew Good, outspoken Vancouver musician and political commentator, and Adrienne Maree Brown, co-author of "How to Get Stupid White Men Out of Office," speak out about re-invigorating democracy, citizenship, and activism. Come participate in the discussion on March 19th from 7-9pm at the Chinese Cultural Centre 50 E. Pender St. $5 at the door. info@getyourvoteon.ca

nipple fetish?

2005-02-25T12:33:00.000-08:00

Saw "Saw" last night. Holy crap, what a creepy film. My brother has been going on and on about it and after watching it, I can see why. Its probably the best psychological thriller I have seen in awhile. If you don't have a strong stomach, abort mission, this film is gory. The acting was a bit lacking, but all in all, a great little scary see.

From Harper's:
"...two former caretakers of Koko, the gorilla that can speak in sign language, sued for harassment. The caretakers claim they were pressured into exposing their breasts to satisfy Koko's nipple fetish. An eighty-year-old Australian doctor had "DO NOT RESUSCITATE" tattooed across his chest, and in Hong Kong, the bough of a lucky "wishing tree" broke off, scratching a four-year-old boy's head and breaking a man's leg".

Only 1 more week left of clinical fun before I get 10 whole days off - yipee! I'm going to Toronto and Montreal to see Pam, Erin and my cousin - should be fun. Perhaps I will come back completely fluent in French...j'mappelle Deepshikha, je parle English et Francais.... whatever, stupid language...

After I come back I start my senior practicum before finally finishing this portion of the program. Yesterday, I got to follow the resuscitation nurse around. Got to see a C-section, which was actually not as exciting as I thought it would be...gooey little baby...

look to the rat

2005-02-11T19:22:00.002-08:00

From Harper's

"Scientists determined that sunlight helps fight cancer, that barbecue causes it, that overweight people have a stronger biological need to sit than others do, and that rats are responsible beer drinkers".

This week was spent in the intensive care unit of the special care nursery. Gone are the fancy-free days of bottle feeds, cuddles and recovering babies. Hello to the days of very sick and very little little ones...eek! A great deal to learn especially in terms of dealing with emotional and inquisitive parents and working closely with neonatologists and respiratory therapists. Its refreshing to work somewhere where the nurse's opinion actually matters. I am learning though that ventilators and other breathing machines are not as scary as they look. I think I will do okay here!

Went and saw Boogeyman the other night. Not my pick. It sucked, well it had one scary scene in it of Lucy Lawless in "elderly woman" make-up...ahh Xena, warrior princess look where your career has taken you...

From today's Vancouver Sun:
"For heroin addicts, coming up with the cash to free their addiction can be a daily grind. Now addicts are hoping a new project, which will supply free heroin, will make the streets of the Downtown Eastside a lot safer. 'Girls, even the guys...have to prostitute themselves, ' says addict Chuck Paker, pictured above with flyer seeking 156 addicts for the new project. Half will get heroin, half methadone. The project, also set for Montreal and Toronto, is part of the North American Opiate Medication Initiative, which hopes to prove that free heroin programs will cut crime here as they have in Europe".

As a RN who has contemplated working for the safe injection clinic in the Eastside, I have mixed feelings about this program as I'm sure most people do. I agree that drug addiction is a volatile and serious disease that needs to be acknowledged and funded in terms of prevention. Prevention being the key word here. Funding and waitressing to a drug addiction has nothing to do with prevention. In my opinion, this study says, 'there is no solution to drug addiction, once an addict, always an addict, so do drugs, we will give it to you as long as you don't kill people or steal cars in the process'. Why is it that North America, especially Canada is so hypersensitive to 'addiction' as a mental disorder while other mental disorders such as bipolarism, schizophrenia and depression go virtually ignored? This initiative solves nothing, it further spearheads the problem

For further information on NAOMI, visit:
http://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/fourpillars/newsletter/Mar04/NAOMI.htm

is there anything science can't do?

2005-02-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

From today's Vancouver Sun:

Scientists isolate gene responsible for puberty
"A gene called KiSS-1 is responsible for triggering puberty, scientists have discovered. It produces a protein called kisspeptin in the brain that turns on the urge to reproduce... researchers found that by giving animals kisspeptin they could wake up the reproductive hormones from their childhood hibernation, triggering the events that mark the onset of puberty."

Monkeys pay to see racy photos
"Monkeys will pay to watch monkey pornography, giving up their favorite drinks to ogle the rear ends of female strangers on computer screens... They also paid extra to see the faces of dominant monkeys - in effect, paparazzi shots of monkey celebs."

Went and saw Hotel Rwanda a couple nights ago. What an experience. I strongly urge everyone to see this film. If DiCaprio beats Don Cheadle on this one, I officially quit...

The book club starts today! Looking forward to postings and the discussion.

spongebob spotted at celebrities dancing along side bert & ernie

2005-01-26T10:33:00.000-08:00

Excerpts from Harper's:

"Christian groups warned that SpongeBob SquarePants was aninsidious weapon being used to promote acceptance of homosexuality in a music video made for elementary schools. The video teaches children cooperation and tolerance and also features Barney, Winnie the Pooh, and Bob the Builder."

"George W. Bush was sworn in again as president, and threatened to bring "the untamed fire of freedom" to the world. In his 20-minute speech the president used the words "free," "freedom," and "liberty" 49 times, but never said"war" or "Iraq." Protesters threw snowballs."

"Hours after an Italian man killed himself because his wife had been in a coma for four months, she woke up."

Had a rip-roaring party on Saturday in honor of Sandras turning um, 22... Nothing fancy, just intelligent conversation, a glass of sherry/port or two and Etta Jones in the background. Everyone was home and in bed by eleven.

The Oscar picks are out. "The Aviator" has received 11 Oscar nods in various categories. Although the film was enjoyable and entertaining, that's really the extent of the film and 11 Oscar nods is a bit much. Mind you, I can't think of which film this year would be Oscar-worthy. Then again, if Julia Roberts has one, how much can it be worth?

Have noticed not much response on the book club front. Rather unfortunate. I guess its just Pam, Meens and me next month!

cadet "Team Zissou" reporting...

2005-01-22T13:04:00.000-08:00

Went and saw "The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou" last night. What a great film. That Wes Anderson is a brilliant, brilliant man. Only he could make Oceanography hip. His style is so unique, I love it. I especially liked team Zissou's track suits and simple "Z" insignia. Being the self-admitted science geek that I am, I definitely would have been a team Zissou cadet as a child...Okay and as an adult...

.

Survived my first week of clinical in the special care nursery. Had the same little snapper that went all wacky when I held him last week, this week. I can now proudly say I know the basics of baby care. The most impressive skill I learned was the "slow dance" one does when trying to console a little one. I found myself doing it even when I wasn't holding a kid. I'm hoping that's the first sign of a good neonatal nurse and not crazy.

Excerpts from Harper's:

"In India, men were calling tsunami relief help lines, offering to marry women who lost their husbands in the recent disaster. "I have no caste barriers, and my parents are very supportive of my decision," said one caller".

"In Hempstead, New York, two legal-reform activists were detained for telling old lawyer jokes outside a courthouse, including: "Why do they bury lawyers 100 feet into the ground? Because down deep, they're good people." An offended lawyer had the men arrested".

"...a police officer in the Philippines was accused of stealing a fellow officer's bomb-sniffing dog, then eating it."

see spot run

2005-01-15T11:52:00.000-08:00

See Dick. See Jane. See Spot.
See Spot Run. Run Spot. Run, run, run.
Look, look, look. See, see, see.
See Spot run. Run, run, run.
.

The online book club is set up. Being that I am not particulary computer saavy, I just used a yahoo-groups link. Feel free to provide suggestions on how to make the book club link more user friendly and in general, cooler. The link is See Spot Run, please visit and more so, please join:)

baby-1, nurse-0

2005-01-14T18:18:00.000-08:00

Today was my first day where I actually got to interact and care for the babies in the special care nursery. As expected, one of the little guys decided to desaturate, fight for breaths and go bradycardic on me the minute he was put in my arms....I think he planned it! Luckily, it was a minor incident and he was fine 30 minutes later. So far, I am loving the special care nursery. It's a completely different form of nursing than my previous job - I think I have found my niche!...now if only I was allowed to take patients home...

My cousin is going to Brazil and Peru this summer. I was supposed to go with him but am now not going as I will be forced to start my 1-year contract soon after my certification is complete. My cousin is a lucky bastard and I hate him. Clearly, I chose the wrong health profession. Instead, I should have been an Occupational Therapist so I too, could gallivant freely around the globe. For anyone wishing to also become at OT, visit 'gmak's random thoughts'.

Saw 'The Aviator' last night. What a long movie. All in all, it was decent. I fear Leonardo DiCaprio will continue to look like a 23-year old even when he is eighty. The best part of the movie was Cate Blanchett as Katherine Hepburn. Admittedly, I know very little about actors and actresses of the earlier cinema days (black and white pictures put me to sleep) but she was impressive.

Tomorrow I am going curling for the first time in my life. I feel like I'm back in Winnipeg going to a social. Ice, brooms, big heavy rocks- what's not to like?

Calgarians - we are not happy with you...

2005-01-07T15:55:00.000-08:00

Today in the news: "Toilet-brush caution wins award for dumbest warning; lawyers not amused". The sign on the toilet brush says it best: "Do not use for personal hygiene". Good god, they have awards for this sort of thing! Although, I do find the entire thing pretty amusing.

I am officially a student again!!! Life is good once more. No more night shifts until mid-March. It will be odd to once again have a normal sleep/wake schedule. Hopefully my new 'student-ness' will put an end to me handing out antibiotics in my sleep... My last shift was on New Years Day and man did it suck! We had 2 deaths and 1 code blue - all before 1400, it was ridiculous. Not that things are going to get any better in the NICU! I had my neonate resuscitation course yesterday...what am I getting myself into!! 2 finger chest compressions - eek!

Its nice to return back to normalcy after the holidays. I was lucky enough to have many visitors from out of town, mainly Calgary. I blame them all collectively for bringing the hideous weather with them. Vancouver and snow do not go hand in hand unless it is on some form of ski mountain. As a result of this dreadful weather, we've had to cancel our plans to go to Victoria for Meen's birthday. Calgarians, we are not happy with you...

The book club link should be added by the end of the month. The club starts in February with the Life of Pi. If you're interested, pick up a copy and make some comments! Has anyone read the latest hype, "The DaVinci Code"? I was browsing through a copy the other day and I'm intrigued. For some reason, I thought it was a detective thriller. I based this assumption on the fact that most hypes in the literary world seem to be trash mysteries.

Wondering if anyone is a Andy Warhol fan and would know the name of a painting I have unsuccesfully tried to find the name of. The painting depicts a woman wrapped in a shawl-type thing. Its done in very deep purples and its gorgeous!!! Alas, I cannot find its name. Please assist.

mission 'take back the Oscar' - members needed.

2004-12-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

Its my last night shift for awhile....hurrah! Only 1 more scheduled shift before I go casual here and start my new position as a full-time student - again! I'm looking forward to having a somewhat normal schedule that allows for extra-curricular activities that do not include sleep.

Its a busy night on the ward. Emergency has been bombarding us with admits - whatever happened to people being too busy shopping on boxing day to be sick? The post-holiday illness frenzy begins now...

Went and saw Oceans 12 a couple of days ago. Any movie that involves Julia Roberts having to act as herself is an immediate write-off. God, I detest that woman. Anyone who is interested in a "Tell Julia Roberts how much she sucks club" let me know. So far we have 3 members. I feel honestly she does not think that there are people out there who do not like her and question her so-called acting talent. I cannot believe she has an Oscar! I want to write her a stern letter...

All in all, Oceans 12 was a tremendous disappointment. Even all the 'Brad Pitt eating' scenes could not save it! Tons of good stuff coming out though. Phantom of the Opera, Hotel Rwanda, The Life Aquatic, The Aviator and of course, A Series of Unfortunate Events!... must spend all of January in the movie theatres...

I'm hoping to have a "book club" link added to my blog in the next while. The book for January is "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel. So far there are 4 people interested in book clubbing this novel. If anyone else is interested, let me know.

a poem

2004-12-21T01:36:00.000-08:00

America, America

I too love jeans and jazz and Treasure Island
and John Silver's parrot and the balconies of New Orleans,
I love Mark Twain and the Mississippi steamboats and
Abraham Lincoln's dogs.
I love the fields of wheat and corn and the smell of
Virginia tobacco
But I am not American.

Is that enough for the Phantom pilot to turn me back to
the stone age?

America:
let's exchange gifts. Take your smuggled cigarettes
and give us potatoes.
Take James Bond's golden pistol
and give us Marilyn Monroe's giggle.
Take the heroin syringe under the tree
and give us vaccines.
Take your blueprints for model penitentiaries
and give us village homes.
Take the book of your missionaries
and give us paper for poems to defame you.
Take what you do not have
and give us what we have.
Take the strips of your flag
and give us the stars.
Take the Afghani Mujahideen beard
and give us Walt Whitman's beard filled with
butterflies.
Take Saddam Hussein
and give us Abraham Lincoln
or give us no one.
...
We are not hostages, America
and your soldiers are not God's soldiers...
We are the poor ones, ours is the earth of the drowned
gods,

the gods of bulls
the gods of fires
the gods of sorrows that intertwine day and
blood in a song...
We are the poor, ours is the god of the poor
who emerge out of farmer's ribs
hungry
and bright,
and raises heads up high...

America, we are the dead.
Let your soldiers come.
Whoever kills a man, let him resurrect him.
We are the drowned ones, dear lady.
We are the drowned.
Let the water come.

-Saadi Youssef

choose your holiday bird very wisely....

2004-12-10T05:21:00.000-08:00

What I knew all along is now officially true...we're related to chickens, the stupidest and lamest of all the bird world. A new study is out which proves that 60% of a chickens DNA is similar to that of ours....yet another reason supporting my belief that humans should not be eating any animal unless it is made entirely out of tofu:)

A couple in the States has gone on strike and is picketing outside their home to protest against their lazy children. A psychologist claims that there is no problem with this parenting tactic and it won't lead to psychological damage as long as there is no abuse... right, having "Deepshikha is a rotten, no-good, inappreciative little brat and I wish I had a better child" published in every major newspaper in N. America wouldn't lead to any long-term psychological problems....

Tonight has been exceptionally busy. I blame the large number of off-service patients we currently have on the ward. I have a hematology/bone marrow transplant service patient who asks one too many questions. I know very little about this area of medicine - er, blood goes in, blood goes out? He is on a bunch of fancy meds I have never heard of and apparently the nursing drug guide has never heard of either - that's always a fun scenario. Luckily, Pharmacy was able to decipher my pronunciation of the drugs and help me out.

Tomorrow I start my set of 4 off - it has been a very, very long time since I've had more than 2 days off in a row. Part of my plans include a visit to the dentist, which I have not done for almost 3 years. I'm actually pretty excited, I LOVE going to the dentist. You get to sit back in a comfy chair, watch Days and get your teeth shined - its like the spa!

the 22-day "a better me" plan!

2004-12-09T05:15:00.000-08:00

Being that there are only 22 days left until the end of 2004, I took it upon myself to contemplate what my 2005 new years resolution(s) should be. I don't usually make new years resolutions, well I do but I don't really take them all that seriously. But I realized that the resolutions I have set for myself for the upcoming year are exactly the same to those I set last year...crap. I guess this case and points (can one use this phrase as a verb?) my second sentence. That said, I have 22 days to put my 2004 resolutions into motion and complete them....anyone think I can learn to play an entire Matthew Good tune on my guitar and read, write and speak fluent Hindi in this time frame?

Another night shift. Its actually quiet for a change. The fact that I told my patients that they were allowed to use their call bell only once tonight and to be very very wise in their one-time call as eventually they would need to pee, could have something to do with it...if only. My days on this ward are soon coming to a close. I'm excited to start with the little guys and even more so, to be a full-fledged student (well to a certain extent) again. I can hear Sandra groaning and throwing things at me in the distance....

I really have this craving to go the movies right now. Among all the seasonal promotional flicks, there are some good ones coming. Oceans 12 for all the wrong reasons, The Aviator and A Series of Unfortunate Events!!!!!! Has anyone actually read the series? I've been meaning to.

Just finished reading the newspaper. Read a rather engrossing story about an octopus in an Alaskan aquarium who is pregnant - don't really know why this is news, but interesting nonetheless. Never knew that the female octopus stops eating when she is pregnant so that by the time the babies are born, they are either dead or dying....now thats effective parenting. Amused by Canada's new "no special-permit strippers" legislation.... at least Romania will be a happier, more naked country as a result of this law.

Oh, a patient has just cashed in their "one-time" call privilege, must run.

Maknoty??

2004-12-05T03:53:00.000-08:00

Tonight has been an especially crappy shift at work. Only now at 3:10am have I finally gotten the chance to sit down - it has been BUSY. I came on shift to have a fresh new post-op and a guy who had had a chest tube put in the wrong spot in his lung (not a good thing). I got to assist with my first chest tube insertion, which basically involves the MD shoving a giant tube in the patients chest...lots and lots of Xylocaine.... Thankfully, the charge got the workload nurse to help us. Without her, I'd probably still being doing my 20:00 vitals.

Life right now has been nothing but work, work and more work. I am delerious over the fact that I am off until Tuesday - wow a whole 2 days off...I dont know how all you normals do it. I NEED MY 5! Going home to Sry tomorrow to eat and watch television....I am super excited.

Attempting to catch up on my crosswords....anyone know a 7-letter word for "Knot" craft...I really feel if it was any other time than 03:20, I would know this...It starts with an "M"...

Sorry for the rather crap entry. Its a reflection of the night thus far

mystery solved!

2004-12-02T04:59:00.000-08:00

Today was another day where the nursing students left us boxes and boxes of really good chocolate. While the gesture is nice, it makes me want to kick the nervous little peons in the seat of the pants as it sheds light on the time-ending question of why all nurses are or will eventually be stupidly fat.... Its only 5am and Ive eaten more than my fair share of treats. We also did a Tim Hortons run and from that I learned that a large sandwich, really is a large sandwich. What makes matters worse is I will more than likely go home and eat more. One consumes the strangest things at 07:23 after a night shift, I think my oddest being Karee (Indian corn flour yogourt soup thing) with rice and a side of nachos.

Its my fourth night shift and fifth shift. Im really really tired. I look like a drunk, Im surprised my patients are letting me inject them with stuff. Its also my first shift being in charge. I would have thought I would have gone mad with the power, but so far all Ive done is reject a bunch of patients from emerg....really, not all that glamerous...

Tomorrow I have a day off, well I get off of nights in the am but still. My plans include starting and finishing a paper. This course Im taking is by far, the most useless course on the planet. Its really quite embarassing actually. I mean in between having to make a collage for my first course and now having to write a 4-page paper on why I think I would make a really good nursing teacher, this NICU certificate is really starting to hold very little weight! Are all BCIT courses like this? I only ask considering how many of my friends are currently enrolled at the school.

New Years eve is fast approaching. My little cousin Gaurav is coming to town. Anyone have any suggestions for what we can do? We were contemplating the aquarium party, anyone ever been?

great now I have a blog...Im officially a nerd.

2004-12-01T03:29:00.000-08:00

To my many friends who will no doubt laugh and jeer at me because I have a blog now, here is my disclaimer: I work a lot of very very loooong nights, I need something to do in between dysrhythmias, projectile vomit and the hallucinating elderly.... Besides, this way I can share my fun nursing stories and indulge in medical rheotric. Besides, you all know how much I love the sound of my own voice....

Today has been a slow night. Well, I think one of my patients may have a full-fledged myocardial infarction (heart attack) before the shift is over (his telemetry is not looking promising) but aside from that, all is well. Mind you, I may bring on this heart attack as I keep walking in there every half hour or so asking him if he is having a heart attack....hey, Im just being thorough... This is the same patient I had a few nights ago who was hallucinating so bad he though I was a pious virginal church maidservant.... he tried to save my soul many times that night until finally I had to call security and get him restrained. Im glad he's calmer tonight.

Only a month or so of shifts left before I say adieu to the elderly and well, anyone over 1 month of age - hurrah!!! Baby poop is actually adorable - only a fellow nurse will understand this.

I can't believe its Dec. 1st....only 18 more days until the end is near....25 years old.... Im hoping I'll be in the same shoes as my hallucinating patient that day....that'll soothe the pain.....