I've been away for a while. I needed to get some stuff figured out. To be honest, I never planned on this being a travel blog, but that seems to be what it has morphed into, and I'm not happy with that. I'm going to be changing it all, and giving it a complete overhaul-but travel will remain part of the content.
I have started a subscription box that supplies everything for a good night of reading, and I am really excited about it. First boxes go out in a few weeks, and I've put in a lot of work to make sure it will be smooth.
You can subscribe here https://noveltea.cratejoy.com/
I have decided to stop going to school until further notice-but I did get my degree, so its only a post-grad that is being postponed. I started a new job as a personal assistant, and its interesting. I need more hours for it to be a good job though-hopefully in the coming weeks, I'll see that happen.
This is the year when I finally get my shit together, I think. The year of me, I suppose. I want to do all the things that I really enjoy-being fit, love, laughter, travel, and business. Or something.
What have you guys got planned for the coming year?
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label books. Show all posts
Friday, 1 January 2016
Monday, 13 April 2015
Fan expo Vancouver 2015
For the second year in a row, I managed to hit up some of Fan Expo Vancouver! Only a week after Emerald city made for a busy as hell comic con run, but it was a lot of fun. The nice thing about the one here in Vancouver is that it is still pretty small, so its much less chaotic. The downside is that, sometimes, the guests are less than super impressive. And more likely to cancel (*cough* Karen Gillian*cough*)
Anyways, the big draw for me was seeing Jennifer Morrison, who plays Emma Swan on Once upon a Time. She was funny as hell, and I recorded a smidge of her talk. They SAID no recordings but a little one doesn't hurt right?
Did you go to Fan Expo? Are you going to the one in Toronto-which is the big one? Let me know in the comments!
Hair was on point. So was my Loot Crate shirt.
The Delorean, from Back to the Future. I think it was here last year too.
I wish I had this much time on my hands. Like, for real.
I think this was for charity?
Jennifer Morrison. She moves around a lot.
So, i assume you don't know these guys by sight, but the fellow is Brad Swaile, better known as Light in Death Note, and Gohan in Dragonball Z. The lady in the middle is Veronica Taylor, best known as Ash (and his mother) from Pokemon, Sailor Pluto from Sailor Moon Crystal, and April O'Neil on TMNT
Have you watched the cycling anime? WAY better than I was expecting! Little cards are great for all the travelling I do too!
One of my fave, top 10 animes for sure. If you haven't watched it, drop everything, and start. Its amazing. Seriously. Go.
Also drop everything and run to get the Rat Queens comics. As long as you are into badass babes, who put the sexy back into wholesale slaughter. Hannah is my spirit animal.
New deadlifting socks! Now I just need to deadlift more often
And, obviously, I needed the Boba Fett dress. I mean, who doesn't?
Friday, 6 June 2014
Seattle and Laurell k Hamilton
I know don't talk about it all that often, but I love reading. Seriously. I'm not that cliche 'girl who isn't like other girls because she reads and drinks tea' kind of girl, but I do like to read. And drink tea.
But I digress.
But I digress.
One of my favourite authors is Laurell K Hamilton. She writes two awesome urban fantasy series, and has some 30 novels published as well as several short stories. This past week, one of her series-Merry Gentry fae princess-got its newest release, A Shiver of Light. To support the release, she went on tour and I finally got to meet her in Seattle.
This is my second time meeting an author and my first time going alone. I was pretty nervous what with crossing the U.S. Canadian border but it all went fine. I love taking the bolt bus across the border because its cheaper, the seats are more comfortable than greyhound, and they have WiFi and outlets for all your charging needs. Seriously, how awesome is free WiFi in a bus?
That is not all my luggage, don't worry! I brought a tiny backpack and a bag for food, that my husband made for me.
That's right, New York Time best seller-multiple times over!
This is Laurell K Hamilton, looking amazing, rocking a super sexy dress at University Bookstore, Seattle.
The guy taking the picture did a crappy job, but I'm happy that we even got a picture. She liked my chest tattoo <3
I was only in Seattle for about 15 hours before I came back to Vancouver. I had a class to attend, and couldn't be late. I stayed in the Green Tortoise hostel, which is at 1st and Pike, and is such a great, central location for any traveler, and was perfect for what I needed, location wise. I admit, I didn't sleep at all, mostly because the other people in my room were noisy as fuck, and I didn't expect there to be both genders in my 8 person room. Kinda threw me off. I also was paranoid as hell about waking up in time for my 6:30am bus back to Canada. But, the hostel provided breakfast, which I left too early for, and WiFi, that didn't work on my phone. So, it has the potential to be a great, cheap hostel.
But, anyways, meeting Laurell K Hamilton was just awesome.I found out a week before the event that she was coming this close to my side of the country, and I had to go. I miss a lot of cool events because they aren't close enough to me, or they are on days where I have class or work, but I think its important to do things that you WANT to do, you know?
But, seriously though, meeting her was just awesome. She as a person and through her characters inspires me daily to be comfortable with a lot of aspects of myself that are not pretty, or socially acceptable. Through her words, I learned that being me, and just me, was okay.
So, if you guys want a new cool urban fantasy series to read, I highly suggest anything by Ms. Hamilton. If you're into vampire hunters and zombies, go with the Anita Blake series, starting with Guilty Pleasures, and if you are into fae, fairies and a little bit of torture, go with the Merry Gentry series, starting with A Kiss of Shadows.
Friday, 5 April 2013
La Carmina Interview-Goth Fashionista and World traveller
Due to some interesting circumstances, I had the absolute honor of giving La Carmina a small interview about the goth travel lifestyle.
But, before I get into the interview, there's a few things you should know about this lovely lady!
La Carmina is a fashion, alt culture and travel TV host (Taboo, Bizarre Foods, oddities and World's weirdest restaurants), author of several books, journalist (including The New Yorker, Cosmopolitan, Vogue and LA Times) and a professional blogger over at lacarmina.com
In short, she is a jack of all trades, and looks amazing as she does it. Seriously, how awesome is that outfit?
Other really cool things about her? She's from Vancouver; she's done work all over the world for a TONNE of different corporations; she has several books published; she runs a coolhunting company (La Carmina and the Pirates); regularly contributes work to CNN and Huffington Post on fashion and travel; AND, if that wasn't enough, she is the single most nicest, most amazing celebrity that I have had the experience of chatting with.
La Carmina: I’ve discovered that there is fascinating alt culture in the most
unexpected of places. Cities like LA, Berlin and Tokyo are known for
their vibrant Goth scenes. But I had an equally wonderful time
drinking absinthe in an intimate Phoenix, Arizona Gothic party. I also
loved trying squeaky curds and swinging on a bondage bed in Wisconsin.
It’s impossible to name a favorite place since they all have unique
qualities; I’ve simply become more eager than ever to keep exploring
the world.
Of all of history's past goth fashion trends, which would you like
to see make a comeback?
I’d like to live in a world where people wear giant sailboats on their
heads, as they did in the Rococo court of Marie Antoinette.
In your opinion, what is the best place for goth culture/scene in
North America? Europe?
It’s hard to name a favorite, since I enjoy smaller, more relaxed
scenes as much as the crazy, explosive ones. However, as a Goth travel
destination, I recommend Los Angeles; many big bands come here and the
club scene is electrifying. Here are my LA Gothic recommendations:
http://www.lacarmina.com/blog/
For Europe, Berlin is a must: it’s gritty, deathrock heaven. I also
adore Prague’s absinthe and Art Nouveau. I hope you find my Europe
Goth travel guides useful:
http://www.lacarmina.com/blog/
Favourite music (bands or genre) to travel to?
My blog readers know I have a weakness for cheesy Italo Disco. What
can I say? It perks me up and puts me in a good mood.
Favourite underground trend you want to see come into the mainstream?
How about bagelhead forehead inflation in Japan? Just kidding. (Info
on bagelheads: http://www.lacarmina.com/blog/
It’s an extreme form of body morphing and expression that not everyone
will understand, and for this reason, I hope it stays in the hands (or
foreheads) of those who are truly passionate about it.
Fashion trend you most want to see die a fiery death?
I don’t hate on any styles, as I think fashion is an individual
expression. Something like khakis might be too conservative or
predictable for one person, but fit another person perfectly. However
I think it’s beneficial for everyone to dress in colors and cuts that
flatter them.
City, country, event you have yet to see that's at/near the top of your list?
So many! Dubai, Egypt, Transylvania, New Orleans, South America,
Africa… and I can never get tired of traveling in Asia.
Were there any countries that didn't approve of your pro-alt
culture fashion of ideas?
I sometimes get funny stares, but generally, people are more curious
than disapproving. I think reactions can depend on how you carry
yourself. If you smile and are open, chances are that you will have a
positive interaction.
Favourite piece that you just cannot part with?
I still wear some investment pieces that I picked up over 10 years
ago, during my travels. My long, fuzzy white coat from London is
timeless to me.
Favourite hair and makeup product you discovered during your travels?
I always stock up on decadent false eyelashes and lash glue while in
Hong Kong and Japan. They're much cheaper and better than the ones in
the West.
When you travel for extended periods of time, how do you decide
what comes with, and what stays at home?
I don’t stress too much about packing, since I can pick up essentials
along the way. If I’m doing on-camera TV work, I always bring my basic
makeup products (especially Make Up Forever HD foundation and powder),
and prepare my outfits ahead of time. You can see my TV hosting reels
at http://www.lacarmina.com/bio.
Have you considered getting Basil Farrow a friend? If so, would
he/she also be a Scottish Fold, or another variety?
It’s Fold or nothing! They’re an incredible breed; so gentle and
intelligent and fuzzy-faced. However Basil Farrow is the Pharoah --
I’m sure he wants to keep my full attention, and not share any
portions of food! Tons of his cute photos are at:
http://www.lacarmina.com/
But, before I get into the interview, there's a few things you should know about this lovely lady!
La Carmina is a fashion, alt culture and travel TV host (Taboo, Bizarre Foods, oddities and World's weirdest restaurants), author of several books, journalist (including The New Yorker, Cosmopolitan, Vogue and LA Times) and a professional blogger over at lacarmina.com
In short, she is a jack of all trades, and looks amazing as she does it. Seriously, how awesome is that outfit?
 |
| La Carmina.com |
See? Single most awesome lady that does proves that those in the alt scene can be seriously successful without giving up their individuality and sense of self.
Where can you find this lovely lady? Why, various places, including
Facebook
Twitter
Tumblr
Google Plus
And now, for the interview!
 |
| La Carmina.com |
Where can you find this lovely lady? Why, various places, including
Tumblr
Google Plus
And now, for the interview!
Anteela: You have had the opportunity to travel all over the world,
exploring and discovering new trends, not just in the goth scene, but
in many things. What was your favourite, and what/where was it?
exploring and discovering new trends, not just in the goth scene, but
in many things. What was your favourite, and what/where was it?
La Carmina: I’ve discovered that there is fascinating alt culture in the most
unexpected of places. Cities like LA, Berlin and Tokyo are known for
their vibrant Goth scenes. But I had an equally wonderful time
drinking absinthe in an intimate Phoenix, Arizona Gothic party. I also
loved trying squeaky curds and swinging on a bondage bed in Wisconsin.
It’s impossible to name a favorite place since they all have unique
qualities; I’ve simply become more eager than ever to keep exploring
the world.
Of all of history's past goth fashion trends, which would you like
to see make a comeback?
I’d like to live in a world where people wear giant sailboats on their
heads, as they did in the Rococo court of Marie Antoinette.
In your opinion, what is the best place for goth culture/scene in
North America? Europe?
It’s hard to name a favorite, since I enjoy smaller, more relaxed
scenes as much as the crazy, explosive ones. However, as a Goth travel
destination, I recommend Los Angeles; many big bands come here and the
club scene is electrifying. Here are my LA Gothic recommendations:
http://www.lacarmina.com/blog/
For Europe, Berlin is a must: it’s gritty, deathrock heaven. I also
adore Prague’s absinthe and Art Nouveau. I hope you find my Europe
Goth travel guides useful:
http://www.lacarmina.com/blog/
Favourite music (bands or genre) to travel to?
My blog readers know I have a weakness for cheesy Italo Disco. What
can I say? It perks me up and puts me in a good mood.
Favourite underground trend you want to see come into the mainstream?
How about bagelhead forehead inflation in Japan? Just kidding. (Info
on bagelheads: http://www.lacarmina.com/blog/
It’s an extreme form of body morphing and expression that not everyone
will understand, and for this reason, I hope it stays in the hands (or
foreheads) of those who are truly passionate about it.
Fashion trend you most want to see die a fiery death?
I don’t hate on any styles, as I think fashion is an individual
expression. Something like khakis might be too conservative or
predictable for one person, but fit another person perfectly. However
I think it’s beneficial for everyone to dress in colors and cuts that
flatter them.
City, country, event you have yet to see that's at/near the top of your list?
So many! Dubai, Egypt, Transylvania, New Orleans, South America,
Africa… and I can never get tired of traveling in Asia.
Were there any countries that didn't approve of your pro-alt
culture fashion of ideas?
I sometimes get funny stares, but generally, people are more curious
than disapproving. I think reactions can depend on how you carry
yourself. If you smile and are open, chances are that you will have a
positive interaction.
Favourite piece that you just cannot part with?
I still wear some investment pieces that I picked up over 10 years
ago, during my travels. My long, fuzzy white coat from London is
timeless to me.
Favourite hair and makeup product you discovered during your travels?
I always stock up on decadent false eyelashes and lash glue while in
Hong Kong and Japan. They're much cheaper and better than the ones in
the West.
When you travel for extended periods of time, how do you decide
what comes with, and what stays at home?
I don’t stress too much about packing, since I can pick up essentials
along the way. If I’m doing on-camera TV work, I always bring my basic
makeup products (especially Make Up Forever HD foundation and powder),
and prepare my outfits ahead of time. You can see my TV hosting reels
at http://www.lacarmina.com/bio.
Have you considered getting Basil Farrow a friend? If so, would
he/she also be a Scottish Fold, or another variety?
It’s Fold or nothing! They’re an incredible breed; so gentle and
intelligent and fuzzy-faced. However Basil Farrow is the Pharoah --
I’m sure he wants to keep my full attention, and not share any
portions of food! Tons of his cute photos are at:
http://www.lacarmina.com/
 |
| La Carmina.com |
 |
| La Carmina.com |
Saturday, 16 February 2013
My new Project
I know I mentioned that I had a project on the go before, and now, here is its official (?) announcement. Or something. That project is put on hold. Here is a new project instead!
It's still in its very early stages, and there is still a lot of planning to go, but I feel that it's time to let the world know what I got going on. I guess.
I am writing a book. Well, in a way. I am collecting stories and photos and, along with my own stories and photos and commentary and compiling them into a book.
What kind of book, you ask?
A book about cutting.
Not bodybuilding cutting, but, blade to skin, blood welling kind of cutting.
This is something that is very personal to me, and I think that its important that the truth gets out there, so that the people who suffer can get proper help. The media has demonized cutters, and those who suffer from self hate, and most of it simply isn't true. Instead of helping, most people end up hurting us even more, driving us to hate ourselves more for not being perfect.
This needs to stop.
That said, I am looking for submissions from current and former self-harmers. Short stories, thoughts, feeling, blurbs, photos, poetry ANYTHING. So, please, spread the word to anyone you know that can help out. Those who submit have the option of being credited for their input, or remaining anonymous. I will never give out the identity of someone who wishes to remain unknown.
Once this book gets made, majority of the proceeds will go to various mental help clinics, and help groups.
So, please help me with this project if you can! Spread the word, submit, and do whatever you can!
<3
Submissions can be sent to
http://thecuttingtruth.tumblr.com/
maliceochid@gmail.com
It's still in its very early stages, and there is still a lot of planning to go, but I feel that it's time to let the world know what I got going on. I guess.
I am writing a book. Well, in a way. I am collecting stories and photos and, along with my own stories and photos and commentary and compiling them into a book.
What kind of book, you ask?
A book about cutting.
Not bodybuilding cutting, but, blade to skin, blood welling kind of cutting.
This is something that is very personal to me, and I think that its important that the truth gets out there, so that the people who suffer can get proper help. The media has demonized cutters, and those who suffer from self hate, and most of it simply isn't true. Instead of helping, most people end up hurting us even more, driving us to hate ourselves more for not being perfect.
This needs to stop.
That said, I am looking for submissions from current and former self-harmers. Short stories, thoughts, feeling, blurbs, photos, poetry ANYTHING. So, please, spread the word to anyone you know that can help out. Those who submit have the option of being credited for their input, or remaining anonymous. I will never give out the identity of someone who wishes to remain unknown.
Once this book gets made, majority of the proceeds will go to various mental help clinics, and help groups.
So, please help me with this project if you can! Spread the word, submit, and do whatever you can!
<3
Submissions can be sent to
http://thecuttingtruth.tumblr.com/
maliceochid@gmail.com
Monday, 21 January 2013
New school!
I can't believe it's already been 2 weeks since I started at my new school! I have to say, it's pretty exciting to be at a new school, in new classes, with new things to learn.
And, sadly, new books to buy. Which I haven't yet, but I will. But, honestly, everyone always goes on about how poor students are, but they STILL think its alright to charge me 200$ for a damn ecology textbook? Not cool man. Not cool at all.
Classes are going fine, for the most part. Math is still my arch nemesis but, I think that it will be for as long as I live. But, it's totally necessary for my degree, so I have to power through it and HOPE that something clicks.
The campus is beautiful-did I mention that? Just amazing. It's on top of a small mountain, and there is just this AWESOME view of the Coast mountains and the Pacific ocean from the campus, and, wow. I posted a few pics of it on my Instagram (@setsuna). I'll try to remember to get some on my actual camera to post here.
So-other than my inability to preform even the most basic math equations-huzzah to a new semester!
And, sadly, new books to buy. Which I haven't yet, but I will. But, honestly, everyone always goes on about how poor students are, but they STILL think its alright to charge me 200$ for a damn ecology textbook? Not cool man. Not cool at all.
Classes are going fine, for the most part. Math is still my arch nemesis but, I think that it will be for as long as I live. But, it's totally necessary for my degree, so I have to power through it and HOPE that something clicks.
The campus is beautiful-did I mention that? Just amazing. It's on top of a small mountain, and there is just this AWESOME view of the Coast mountains and the Pacific ocean from the campus, and, wow. I posted a few pics of it on my Instagram (@setsuna). I'll try to remember to get some on my actual camera to post here.
So-other than my inability to preform even the most basic math equations-huzzah to a new semester!
Monday, 3 September 2012
10 things you likely didn't know about me!
For those who want to know more about me! Friends, or otherwise, will likely find something here that they didn't know. And it you don't want to read it all (TLDR-I get it) just read the points in BOLD.
1. I am extremely introverted
I mean, like woah. I can spend time with my friends, but, even with my best friends, when I spend too much time around people, I need an alone break. Sometimes, it gets bad, and I need to spend days alone. I've got enough of a handle on it that I can do a few days, but, it takes its tole on me.
People exhaust me.
The inside of my head is my favourite place to be.
2. I am a militant vegetarian
While I AM allergic to meat (seriously, actually tested), I wouldn't eat it anyways. I think its gross; bad for the environment; inhumane; and just unnecessary. And people who eat meat, but refuse to be told-or reminded-of what they are eating make me sick. If you can't accept the fact that you are eating a dead animals carcass, then you don't deserve that life that has been given to you for food.
3. I am an environmentalist
I am huge on the environment. I'm pretty sure that since humanity fucked everything up, its our responsibility to fix it. Global warming? Fact. Wide spread pollution? Fact. Lower air quality on a global scale? Fact. Sushi eating dickbags eating the entire ocean dry of life? Fact. People are doing this, and its about goddamn time people took responsibility.
4. I am currently in college-but I already have a diploma
I am in school for both English, as my Associates, and Earth and Ocean science (or Physical earth science). But this is not my first stint in post secondary education. Nor is it my second. Way back when I finished high school-a complete failure, barely passed, not even college worthy-I tried to sneak into university be doing Distance classed at the University of Guelph. Now, that didn't work out, for a lot of reasons (but not my grades, surprisingly) and I jumped ship. I worked for a while, and then went to the Ottawa Academy of Beauty for advanced aesthetics and cosmetology. I graduated with honors, and did that for a while. Which didn't work out because of 1.
5. I kinda want to save the world-an by world, I mean just that. The planet. Not the people.
This related back to 3. People are dicks. There is only 1 earth, and things are finite. If I could, I'd wipe out over half the population-preferably the stupid half-and then live in a global, sustainable manner, with no over population, no useless killing/poaching/etc, and all that. I want to sorta save the oceans, and all those animals that humans have caused to be endangered.
6. I have an almost psychotic hatred of kids and people who sing in public
Kids? I fucking hate kids. No, I will NOT change my mind. I'm 28 years old, so fuck you and your fucking biological clock bullshit. Not gonna happen. Singing in public? You can actually thank Korea for that one. There was this one annoying little shit that would sing EVERYWHERE, and i sorta wanted to murder the little shit.
7. I am exercise-aholic.
Does this need explanation? When I was younger, I hated working out. I was lazy, and liked drugs, I was an outcast, and sorta hated all the jocks in the world. Now? I work out with the best of them. I lift weights, I run, I do yoga, I like martial arts-all of it. I am at the gym usually 4-6 days a week. I don't generally talk about it since I believe that I can be, and do whatever I want without having to tell the whole world.
8. I almost married a woman once. But she said no. And that's all you need to know about that.
9. I have this thing where I have low self esteem, but I still think I'm better than everyone else.
And this has been proven. Both parts. I've won awards for my writing, and my art. I've participated in some awesome community projects, I don't litter, and I'm pretty honest. So I'm awesome. But I have this crippling low self esteem thing where I feel like I could be more awesome.
Or something.
10. I collect books and teddy bears.
I used to read like it was going out of style-which it was. I don't AS much, which I would like to change, but I have been busy. And all my reading lately has been for school. Teddy bears? Man, I love them. I have so many, its almost embarrassing.
BONUS!
11. I came into my 'geekdom' late in life. Not because I didn;t enjoy geeky things, but because I thought it was shameful to be into video games, books, anime, and comics when I was a teenager. I blame my friends, and the crowd that I ran with ie. the drug kids
But, now that that is over! I love comics, and anime, and geek stuff, and movies, and fantasy, and sci fi, and cute things, and video games, and, chances are, I can beat your ass at Mario kart.
1. I am extremely introverted
I mean, like woah. I can spend time with my friends, but, even with my best friends, when I spend too much time around people, I need an alone break. Sometimes, it gets bad, and I need to spend days alone. I've got enough of a handle on it that I can do a few days, but, it takes its tole on me.
People exhaust me.
The inside of my head is my favourite place to be.
2. I am a militant vegetarian
While I AM allergic to meat (seriously, actually tested), I wouldn't eat it anyways. I think its gross; bad for the environment; inhumane; and just unnecessary. And people who eat meat, but refuse to be told-or reminded-of what they are eating make me sick. If you can't accept the fact that you are eating a dead animals carcass, then you don't deserve that life that has been given to you for food.
3. I am an environmentalist
I am huge on the environment. I'm pretty sure that since humanity fucked everything up, its our responsibility to fix it. Global warming? Fact. Wide spread pollution? Fact. Lower air quality on a global scale? Fact. Sushi eating dickbags eating the entire ocean dry of life? Fact. People are doing this, and its about goddamn time people took responsibility.
4. I am currently in college-but I already have a diploma
I am in school for both English, as my Associates, and Earth and Ocean science (or Physical earth science). But this is not my first stint in post secondary education. Nor is it my second. Way back when I finished high school-a complete failure, barely passed, not even college worthy-I tried to sneak into university be doing Distance classed at the University of Guelph. Now, that didn't work out, for a lot of reasons (but not my grades, surprisingly) and I jumped ship. I worked for a while, and then went to the Ottawa Academy of Beauty for advanced aesthetics and cosmetology. I graduated with honors, and did that for a while. Which didn't work out because of 1.
5. I kinda want to save the world-an by world, I mean just that. The planet. Not the people.
This related back to 3. People are dicks. There is only 1 earth, and things are finite. If I could, I'd wipe out over half the population-preferably the stupid half-and then live in a global, sustainable manner, with no over population, no useless killing/poaching/etc, and all that. I want to sorta save the oceans, and all those animals that humans have caused to be endangered.
6. I have an almost psychotic hatred of kids and people who sing in public
Kids? I fucking hate kids. No, I will NOT change my mind. I'm 28 years old, so fuck you and your fucking biological clock bullshit. Not gonna happen. Singing in public? You can actually thank Korea for that one. There was this one annoying little shit that would sing EVERYWHERE, and i sorta wanted to murder the little shit.
7. I am exercise-aholic.
Does this need explanation? When I was younger, I hated working out. I was lazy, and liked drugs, I was an outcast, and sorta hated all the jocks in the world. Now? I work out with the best of them. I lift weights, I run, I do yoga, I like martial arts-all of it. I am at the gym usually 4-6 days a week. I don't generally talk about it since I believe that I can be, and do whatever I want without having to tell the whole world.
8. I almost married a woman once. But she said no. And that's all you need to know about that.
9. I have this thing where I have low self esteem, but I still think I'm better than everyone else.
And this has been proven. Both parts. I've won awards for my writing, and my art. I've participated in some awesome community projects, I don't litter, and I'm pretty honest. So I'm awesome. But I have this crippling low self esteem thing where I feel like I could be more awesome.
Or something.
10. I collect books and teddy bears.
I used to read like it was going out of style-which it was. I don't AS much, which I would like to change, but I have been busy. And all my reading lately has been for school. Teddy bears? Man, I love them. I have so many, its almost embarrassing.
BONUS!
11. I came into my 'geekdom' late in life. Not because I didn;t enjoy geeky things, but because I thought it was shameful to be into video games, books, anime, and comics when I was a teenager. I blame my friends, and the crowd that I ran with ie. the drug kids
But, now that that is over! I love comics, and anime, and geek stuff, and movies, and fantasy, and sci fi, and cute things, and video games, and, chances are, I can beat your ass at Mario kart.
Monday, 4 June 2012
The Smallest Narrowest Places
This post requires a little bit of an introduction, I believe, before getting into the good stuff.
I believe I mentioned at one point that I was helping a friend with his book. Helping, as in doing some editing and writing the book jacket thing. If I didn't mention that...well, I did. And it was a lot of fun, and one hell of an experience-one that I would do again in a heartbeat.
My friend, whose name is Derek McPhee (website right here), wrote a book that is now, officially published! As I am, as of this moment, one of a very few, who have read the book, I would like to offer my (somewhat) biased thought on the book, The Smallest, Narrowest Places.
**Side note** I would give you all the book jacket synopsis...but I wrote it, and it seems a little self serving to do that. But it's available in the links above, so please feel free to peruse that as you will <3
The good stuff.
Everyday, history unfolds around us-but how do we know what will matter in the future? What makes history memorable....what makes history?
It is the stories.
The stories of the events that will be remembered, the stories of the things that touched people, and it will be their stories-the participants-the survivors-that will matter.
The Smallest, Narrowest Places is a collection of those stories that history will remember. This debut fictional novel by Derek McPhee explores the events and the stories that sprung from 3/11-the Japanese earthquake and tsunami as viewed by a foreigner in the Land of the Rising Sun.
The stories contained within the novel touch on family, love, loss and suffering in the events that came before, during and after the Japanese disaster. There is a myriad of feelings throughout the novel-but the pervading feeling is one of hope. Hope for understanding, love and-most importantly-hope for the future.
The stories explore the lives of foreigners living in Japan , in a realistic, no holds barred, blunt, honest sans sugar coating way that can only be described by someone living that life. And yet, there is a deep understanding and respect of the Japanese people and their culture in a way that escapes many foreigners, and yet creates a bond between the different cultures in a global society. The author, a Canadian who moved to Japan upwards of 5 years ago, has assimilated into Japanese life as best a foreigner can in Japan, and has a deep understanding of Japan, its culture, and how it views the foreigners who call the island nation home.
The stories are connected in a way that creates a whole picture, without seeming to. And yet, there is also a fragmented feeling that comes from a disaster of the magnitude that was 3/11. The stories stay with the reader in a way that only a good book can do, and, even long after reading the novel, those stories are remembered.
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