River City Yarns
3438 - 99th Street (Southside)
#107, 10106 - 111 Avenue (Kingsway)
Ewe Asked For It (university area)
6523 111 Street
Knit N' Purl (downtown)
10412 124 Street NW
Urban Knitters (near Whyte Ave)
8124 Gateway Boulevard NW
Wool Revival (Kingsway ish)
6513 112 Avenue
Pam's Wooly Shoppe
103 - 4812 50 Avenue
Stony Plain
10 December 2009
28 May 2007
22 May 2007
16 March 2006
- Hawaii -
I went to Hawaii in February with Henry and his family to celebrate his parents' 25th anniversary. It was the best vacation of my life.
Beautiful lush green trees and mountains, red, pink, purple and yellow hibiscus and orchids, ocean, beaches, sand, sunsets, rock, caved-in volcanoes . . .
We spent quite a bit of time on the beaches, swimming, boogie boarding, kayaking, soaking up the sun, and snorkeling. One day we went to see the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour. Another day we spent at the Polynesian Cultural Centre. We also checked out the shopping centres at Waikiki. On Sunday we attended an Independant Reformed Church in Honolulu, and then later drove to the northshore and watched the waves pounding on the beaches and sea turtles venturing close to shore. Henry and I had a pencil drawing done of us by an artist on a campstool on the sidewalk the last day we were there.But for Henry and me, the best day was February 22. That morning we all piled in the car and headed out with our swimming gear on to find Lanikai Beach, which is one of the best beaches on Oahu. On the way, we stopped to let Henry out with his wonderful camera, as there was a view he wanted to get.
When he came back, we went down to the beach. The beach was beautiful - fantastic - awe-inspiring - I can't think of a word to comprehend it. I stood in the ocean for the first time in my life, felt the waves tugging at my feet and the warm breeze through my hair, breathed the salt air. We swam. The water wasn't as warm as I thought it might be, but it was nice. It's different swimming through such big waves. Later, we took out the boogie boards. A boogie board is like half a surf board with a lead that velcros to your wrist. We took the boards out past the breakers, watched for a big rolling wave, and then threw ourselves onto the boards, riding the wave in to the beach. Once I got the hang of it, it was great fun, very exhilerating.
We basked in the sun for a while, not too long, but long enough for Henry's chest and back to burn quite hard. Then Henry decided it would be funny to throw me in the water. He picked me up and started toward the water, but lost his balance and started to run. Eventually, he fell, landing beside me in the water. I was ok, but his knees and one ankle were skinned rather badly.Later that evening, Henry and I had to drive to town to pick up stamps for my post cards I wanted t
o mail out. He was quite definite that no one else could come along. On the way, he asked if I would mind if we stopped at Alala Point in Lanikai, where he had taken those photos earlier in the day. Once there, we took lots of beautiful photos. The sun was going down on the other side of the island, reflecting on the clouds in a rosy glow. The breeze was a little cooler after the sticky day, and the waves were crashing over the rocks on the point. Henry took a number of photos of me against the ocean, trying to capture the spray with his camera. A fisherman nearby took one of the two of us.The sky was nearly all dark, and we were the only ones around the point
, so we headed back up the bluff to the car. On the way up, Henry casually mentioned that he wanted to take a few more photos from the ledge overlooking the ocean. So we found seats on the ledge and I opened up his camera bag for him. He wanted his telephoto lens, he said, so I took it out of the lens pouch and gave it to him. He took some more, then asked for the wide angle. I took the other lens pouch out and opened it. Inside there was not a lens - there was a small blue velvet box. I was kind of in shock for a second, I think, until Henry took the box. He turned to me and apologized that he couldn't get down on his knees (because of his fall earlier). And then Henry Bosch asked me to marry him. I believe I said, "Yes! Yes!" even before he was quite done.Henry and I are both so incredibly joyful and blessed to have each other. We thank God for His guidance.
23 January 2006
Six months . . .
On Friday, Henry and I celebrated six months of courting. Since we both have birthdays coming up soon, we decide to make this a big thing and not worry about the birthdays.
So Friday afternoon, I was sitting at my desk, working away. I looked up and saw a bunch of balloons over my cube wall, coming my way. They were red and white, some of them said "Happy Anniversary" on them, there was one with "Love" and a rose on it, and the best of the bunch was a big transparent balloon with about fifteen smaller balloons blown up inside of it. The balloon delivery guy stopped at my desk and said, "Congratulations! The card says, 'Happy Anniversary. Love Henry.' " Then he set the balloons down in my cube, explaining how long they would last and how to transport them.
By this time, all of the legal assistants from my department were gathered around watching. My face felt like it was on fire, and I didn't know what to say. Then the balloon man asked me, "What's your favourite colour?" When I told him blue, he took out a few long balloons from his pocket. He blew up three balloons and proceeded to make a balloon sculpture, a pink heart with a blue and a green swan inside, with their beaks touching.
Four of the lawyers had joined the crowd now, and everyone was watching and oohing and ahhing. I heard one lady say, "I'm giving my husband an earful when I get home tonight." My lawyer, Helen, told me, "I didn't even get balloons when I had my baby." The balloon guy left, and the crowd dissipated, but not before several of them told me I had to hang on to my man, and another had said, "I hope you're still around when you have your one-year. I want to see what he does then."
One of the funnest (!) things, though, was getting on the subway after work with my armload of balloons, my backpack, and my bag. Uhhuh.
When I got to Henry's station, he was waiting for me with a huge grin on his face. I think he enjoyed the balloon surprise as much as I did. Once at the car, we loaded the balloons in the back, and as I stepped into the passenger side, I found another present. There were six red roses on the seat for me.
Then Henry told me that we were going for dinner somewhere. We were both dressed up, as he had asked me to take good clothes along for after work. The place we went to was Ric's Grill. Ric's is in a re-furbished old warehouse downtown Edmonton. The decor is neat, the service fantastic, and the food delicious.
Later Henry and I drove to West Edmonton Mall and wandered around for a while, visiting a few stores there. All in all, a very nice anniversary.
So Friday afternoon, I was sitting at my desk, working away. I looked up and saw a bunch of balloons over my cube wall, coming my way. They were red and white, some of them said "Happy Anniversary" on them, there was one with "Love" and a rose on it, and the best of the bunch was a big transparent balloon with about fifteen smaller balloons blown up inside of it. The balloon delivery guy stopped at my desk and said, "Congratulations! The card says, 'Happy Anniversary. Love Henry.' " Then he set the balloons down in my cube, explaining how long they would last and how to transport them.
By this time, all of the legal assistants from my department were gathered around watching. My face felt like it was on fire, and I didn't know what to say. Then the balloon man asked me, "What's your favourite colour?" When I told him blue, he took out a few long balloons from his pocket. He blew up three balloons and proceeded to make a balloon sculpture, a pink heart with a blue and a green swan inside, with their beaks touching.
Four of the lawyers had joined the crowd now, and everyone was watching and oohing and ahhing. I heard one lady say, "I'm giving my husband an earful when I get home tonight." My lawyer, Helen, told me, "I didn't even get balloons when I had my baby." The balloon guy left, and the crowd dissipated, but not before several of them told me I had to hang on to my man, and another had said, "I hope you're still around when you have your one-year. I want to see what he does then."
One of the funnest (!) things, though, was getting on the subway after work with my armload of balloons, my backpack, and my bag. Uhhuh.
When I got to Henry's station, he was waiting for me with a huge grin on his face. I think he enjoyed the balloon surprise as much as I did. Once at the car, we loaded the balloons in the back, and as I stepped into the passenger side, I found another present. There were six red roses on the seat for me.
Then Henry told me that we were going for dinner somewhere. We were both dressed up, as he had asked me to take good clothes along for after work. The place we went to was Ric's Grill. Ric's is in a re-furbished old warehouse downtown Edmonton. The decor is neat, the service fantastic, and the food delicious.
Later Henry and I drove to West Edmonton Mall and wandered around for a while, visiting a few stores there. All in all, a very nice anniversary.
02 January 2006
Happy New Year!
Hi everyone! Hope you all had a great Christmas and New Year!
I spent Christmas with Henry's family. The day before Christmas, we had the Smeding family over. There were 17 of us for dinner. We had turkey and ham and lots of other stuff. Henry rotissiered the ham. We first studded it with cloves, then while it was baking, he basted it with a mixture of apple cider, dijon mustard, apricot jam and brown sugar. It was the best ham I've ever had. After dinner, we had our gift exchange. To decide who got to pick first as well as last, we had a shuffleboard tournament. I almost won. :-/ It was the kind of gift exchange where you can steal items from other people, up to three times. Lots of fun.
Christmas Day I didn't feel that well, but we had a quiet day anyway. Boxing Day was the Bosch Christmas dinner/Bosches' 25th anniversary dinner. There were 52 people there altogether. After dinner, we had a chocolate fountain fondue with pineapple, grapes, banana and apple. That was fabulous! Later we also had a gift exchange. It's funny how you can get a pretty accurate glimpse of someone's character through a gift exchange like that. I enjoyed getting to know some of Henry's family. Some of them are real characters. Mrs. Bosch's brother Brian and his family from Winnepeg came later too.
On Tuesday, which was actually Mr. and Mrs. Bosch 25th anniversary, Henry and Alyson and I gave our gift to them. It was a small scrapbook summing up their life together. In the afternoon, the three of us went to Ikea for a little window shopping. Then we rented The Importance of Being Earnest. Great movie. To celebrate their anniversary, Mr. and Mrs. Bosch went out for dinner to the La Ronde in downtown Edmonton. Henry and Alyson and I and some others joined them for dessert. The La Ronde is at the top of the Chateau Lacombe above the river valley. The entire restaraunt revolves once every hour and twenty minutes. That was a pretty special way to celebrate 25 years.
Wednesday, I went shopping with my mom and Julie and Jessica. There were lots of Boxing Day sales on, and we picked up some deals. Henry met us for lunch at Tim Horton's. One thing that bothered me that day, it was December 28, and they still had Christmas music playing. I felt like singing very loudly "...Santa Claus has come and gone."
Thursday and Friday I worked. Henry went to Jasper skiing with a few friends on Thursday. Friday we were let off work early, so we got to my parents early. Alison and Steve came for the weekend too. We had our family gift exchange Friday evening. I was given a mug tree and six triangularish mugs to hang on it, as well as a Twisted Whiskers notebook and notepad.
On Saturday, the men worked most of the day on building a huge pile of scrap wood and other stuff for a bonfire. Mr. and Mrs. Doige and Fiona came in the evening and we went to church for our Old Year's Eve service. After church, we had the biggest bonfire I've ever seen. Dad called our friend who is a volunteer fire fighter and lives close by to let him know it wasn't a house fire or anything. That was lots of fun. We started off the New Year with singing and prayer altogether. None of us stayed up late this year. We were all pretty tired.
Overnight I developed a fever and sore throat, and I had to stay home from church on Sunday. I spent the whole day in bed. This morning Henry took me to the doctor to get checked out. I have tonsilitis. Not the greatest way to spend a holiday and the beginning of a new year, if you ask me. Ah well, I guess it's partly my own fault for letting myself get run down. Henry went home this afternoon. Today Emily and Julie and Jessica went skiing to Rabbit Hill in Edmonton with a group of young people. They haven't come back yet.
This is post is a little rambling and quite random, which I can chalk up to Advil and penicilin.
Anyway, I wish you all God's blessing in the coming year.
I spent Christmas with Henry's family. The day before Christmas, we had the Smeding family over. There were 17 of us for dinner. We had turkey and ham and lots of other stuff. Henry rotissiered the ham. We first studded it with cloves, then while it was baking, he basted it with a mixture of apple cider, dijon mustard, apricot jam and brown sugar. It was the best ham I've ever had. After dinner, we had our gift exchange. To decide who got to pick first as well as last, we had a shuffleboard tournament. I almost won. :-/ It was the kind of gift exchange where you can steal items from other people, up to three times. Lots of fun.
Christmas Day I didn't feel that well, but we had a quiet day anyway. Boxing Day was the Bosch Christmas dinner/Bosches' 25th anniversary dinner. There were 52 people there altogether. After dinner, we had a chocolate fountain fondue with pineapple, grapes, banana and apple. That was fabulous! Later we also had a gift exchange. It's funny how you can get a pretty accurate glimpse of someone's character through a gift exchange like that. I enjoyed getting to know some of Henry's family. Some of them are real characters. Mrs. Bosch's brother Brian and his family from Winnepeg came later too.
On Tuesday, which was actually Mr. and Mrs. Bosch 25th anniversary, Henry and Alyson and I gave our gift to them. It was a small scrapbook summing up their life together. In the afternoon, the three of us went to Ikea for a little window shopping. Then we rented The Importance of Being Earnest. Great movie. To celebrate their anniversary, Mr. and Mrs. Bosch went out for dinner to the La Ronde in downtown Edmonton. Henry and Alyson and I and some others joined them for dessert. The La Ronde is at the top of the Chateau Lacombe above the river valley. The entire restaraunt revolves once every hour and twenty minutes. That was a pretty special way to celebrate 25 years.
Wednesday, I went shopping with my mom and Julie and Jessica. There were lots of Boxing Day sales on, and we picked up some deals. Henry met us for lunch at Tim Horton's. One thing that bothered me that day, it was December 28, and they still had Christmas music playing. I felt like singing very loudly "...Santa Claus has come and gone."
Thursday and Friday I worked. Henry went to Jasper skiing with a few friends on Thursday. Friday we were let off work early, so we got to my parents early. Alison and Steve came for the weekend too. We had our family gift exchange Friday evening. I was given a mug tree and six triangularish mugs to hang on it, as well as a Twisted Whiskers notebook and notepad.
On Saturday, the men worked most of the day on building a huge pile of scrap wood and other stuff for a bonfire. Mr. and Mrs. Doige and Fiona came in the evening and we went to church for our Old Year's Eve service. After church, we had the biggest bonfire I've ever seen. Dad called our friend who is a volunteer fire fighter and lives close by to let him know it wasn't a house fire or anything. That was lots of fun. We started off the New Year with singing and prayer altogether. None of us stayed up late this year. We were all pretty tired.
Overnight I developed a fever and sore throat, and I had to stay home from church on Sunday. I spent the whole day in bed. This morning Henry took me to the doctor to get checked out. I have tonsilitis. Not the greatest way to spend a holiday and the beginning of a new year, if you ask me. Ah well, I guess it's partly my own fault for letting myself get run down. Henry went home this afternoon. Today Emily and Julie and Jessica went skiing to Rabbit Hill in Edmonton with a group of young people. They haven't come back yet.
This is post is a little rambling and quite random, which I can chalk up to Advil and penicilin.
Anyway, I wish you all God's blessing in the coming year.
27 December 2005
Blessed Christmas to you all!
At the centre of the ages
The Lord talks with a girl;
And by the words He speaks
He gives the Saviour to the world.
When time grows to its fullness
And Mary's son is born
The promise's fulfillment
Lies asleep now in her arms.
He didn't come to terrify,
To judge or condescend;
To call us all His servants,
But to lift us as His friends;
To save us all from Satan's power
To reign at His right hand,
From the little town of Bethlehem
Where God became a man.
- Don Fransisco
The Lord talks with a girl;
And by the words He speaks
He gives the Saviour to the world.
When time grows to its fullness
And Mary's son is born
The promise's fulfillment
Lies asleep now in her arms.
He didn't come to terrify,
To judge or condescend;
To call us all His servants,
But to lift us as His friends;
To save us all from Satan's power
To reign at His right hand,
From the little town of Bethlehem
Where God became a man.
- Don Fransisco
14 October 2005
Ontari-ari-ario
So. Emily and I are in Ontario for my cousin Marian's wedding, which is this afternoon. We had a good flight, and are having a great time so far. Hopefully we can post some pics when we get home. Right now it's time to help get ready for the wedding.
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. I sure did! :-D
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. I sure did! :-D
30 August 2005
How great Thou art
O Lord my God,
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made,
I see the stars,
I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed;
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
This hymn is one that always comes to mind when I am in awe of God’s hand working in my life. Sometimes I think that we aren’t aware enough of His guidance and protection. We just take it for granted so many times. Lately I’ve begun to realize more than ever how He leads us, how even seemingly insignificant and "small" things are directed to bring us to where He wants us.
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made,
I see the stars,
I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed;
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
This hymn is one that always comes to mind when I am in awe of God’s hand working in my life. Sometimes I think that we aren’t aware enough of His guidance and protection. We just take it for granted so many times. Lately I’ve begun to realize more than ever how He leads us, how even seemingly insignificant and "small" things are directed to bring us to where He wants us.
11 August 2005
…the time has come to talk of many things: of shoes and ships and sealing wax, of cabbages and kings…
Last week I didn’t work at all, so Henry’s dad asked me to help fix up the house they bought. Mrs. Bosch and I went through and cleaned everything in preparation for painting, and decided on colours. Then on Thursday and Friday, Jess DeHaas and I painted all the cabinets in the kitchen. It’s incredible what white melamine does to instantly make a kitchen look fresh. We also prepped some walls for painting. The guys did a good deal of yard work, and it looks so much better already. On Saturday I went there in the afternoon and hung around to help out a bit too. We had a watermelon-eating contest of sorts on the front lawn later. Won’t say who won.
Sunday was a good day, spending time with Henry and his family and friends. I’ve often thought how wonderful it is that as Christians God has given us such an advantage over non-Christians in a day of rest. So many of my co-workers work anywhere from eight to twelve days before they have a day off. Some of that is personal choice, of course, but still. God has provided us with one day out of seven in which we can relax and not worry about work. We have the time to concentrate on worshipping God and fellowshipping with our fellow man. Then we can return refreshed in mind and body to work for another week. I can see the strain that so many people put themselves under when they work ridiculous amounts of days in a row. And the "great" thing about Canada is that I can say, "It’s against my religious convictions to work on Sunday." All right, I know that’s a lame one, but still, Canada’s super-political correctness is in a way a blessing to us.
I am still working at Ricki’s and Bootlegger in Westland Market Mall in Spruce Grove. Today was my third shift this week. I worked on the Bootlegger side of the store today and yesterday. It was interesting just to be thrust into the middle of that. I found it really hard at first to locate things. It’s a very good thing most of the jeans have a name, like the girls’ jeans Gwyneth, Aiko, Renee, and Jewel, and the guys’ jeans Ben, Mike, Smith, and Mark. Otherwise I would have been absolutely lost. Today was not without interest, especially as this afternoon we had a shoplifter. Two girls asked for a fitting room, and I opened one for each. They left without buying anything, and a few minutes later my manager came to me and asked if I would recognize them again. She had two empty earring cards in her hand that she found under the bench in the one room. I spotted them walking past soon after, and pointed them out. My manager shadowed them for a little while. She later told me that she was walking behind them, and the one girl dropped one of the earrings by mistake. She bent down and picked it up, and said, "Oh, did I drop this? Is it mine?" The other girl was too scared to say anything, as she noticed my manager behind her. She came back soon after, and said she’d lost the two girls. She asked me to remember them if I could, so we can keep an eye on them later. We have a "code word" for people we are iffy about or who have been suspected of shoplifting before. When one of us spots a person like that, or if they glimpse someone doing something worthy of suspicion, we can say "Elvis" into our radios. The only problem is that I didn’t get a good look at their faces. Hmmmm. Well, we’ll see how good my memory is. I am working tomorrow again.
Tomorrow night is Mike and Trish’s reception to celebrate their wedding. Looking forward to that. In other words, this is as much as I am writing at the moment, as I will be having another busy day and probably weekend as well. I really will do better to keep anyone interested up to date on my goings on, I will. :-)
Sunday was a good day, spending time with Henry and his family and friends. I’ve often thought how wonderful it is that as Christians God has given us such an advantage over non-Christians in a day of rest. So many of my co-workers work anywhere from eight to twelve days before they have a day off. Some of that is personal choice, of course, but still. God has provided us with one day out of seven in which we can relax and not worry about work. We have the time to concentrate on worshipping God and fellowshipping with our fellow man. Then we can return refreshed in mind and body to work for another week. I can see the strain that so many people put themselves under when they work ridiculous amounts of days in a row. And the "great" thing about Canada is that I can say, "It’s against my religious convictions to work on Sunday." All right, I know that’s a lame one, but still, Canada’s super-political correctness is in a way a blessing to us.
I am still working at Ricki’s and Bootlegger in Westland Market Mall in Spruce Grove. Today was my third shift this week. I worked on the Bootlegger side of the store today and yesterday. It was interesting just to be thrust into the middle of that. I found it really hard at first to locate things. It’s a very good thing most of the jeans have a name, like the girls’ jeans Gwyneth, Aiko, Renee, and Jewel, and the guys’ jeans Ben, Mike, Smith, and Mark. Otherwise I would have been absolutely lost. Today was not without interest, especially as this afternoon we had a shoplifter. Two girls asked for a fitting room, and I opened one for each. They left without buying anything, and a few minutes later my manager came to me and asked if I would recognize them again. She had two empty earring cards in her hand that she found under the bench in the one room. I spotted them walking past soon after, and pointed them out. My manager shadowed them for a little while. She later told me that she was walking behind them, and the one girl dropped one of the earrings by mistake. She bent down and picked it up, and said, "Oh, did I drop this? Is it mine?" The other girl was too scared to say anything, as she noticed my manager behind her. She came back soon after, and said she’d lost the two girls. She asked me to remember them if I could, so we can keep an eye on them later. We have a "code word" for people we are iffy about or who have been suspected of shoplifting before. When one of us spots a person like that, or if they glimpse someone doing something worthy of suspicion, we can say "Elvis" into our radios. The only problem is that I didn’t get a good look at their faces. Hmmmm. Well, we’ll see how good my memory is. I am working tomorrow again.
Tomorrow night is Mike and Trish’s reception to celebrate their wedding. Looking forward to that. In other words, this is as much as I am writing at the moment, as I will be having another busy day and probably weekend as well. I really will do better to keep anyone interested up to date on my goings on, I will. :-)
28 July 2005
~My New Job~
Today was my first shift at Ricki’s/Bootlegger here in Spruce Grove. When I came in, the first thing my manager did was give me a run through of both stores. We started in Bootlegger. The target customer base for Bootlegger is guys and girls from age 16 to 25. It’s more casual, lets-go-party style stuff. She gave me a rundown on jeans styles and brand names and how to fit people. (I derived much amusement from her constant "Over here is our new line of wicked, wicked [Silver/Brody/Guess] jeans. I just love them – they are so awesome wicked!" What is with the word wicked anyway? I don’t think it used to mean that. Oh well, my manager is a very enthusiastic and convincing sell.)
Then she took me through the Ricki’s side, which is where she wants me to be based, as she thinks it’s more my style. Could be, I dunno. Hey, I haven’t even figured out what my style is. So I will be helping people mostly in the Ricki’s side, with some cross-over to Bootlegger. My manager went through the different styles in Ricki’s with me then. Ricki’s is geared towards the "working woman", age 22 to 30. They have three lines: Her Time – clothing for women when they are at home, playing with the kids or walking the dog (though I wouldn’t do either of those activities in some of the outfits); Every Day – what a woman could wear to the office every day, more like business casuals; and Professional – things like suits that are necessary for special professional occasions. (YAY – Now I know how to shop Ricki’s!)
Next my manager gave me a headset and a lanyard with a name tag. She explained how to use the radio and earpiece, which either falls off constantly or makes your ear ache. The idea is that then we don’t have to always be yelling across the store. I’m actually kind of glad to have it while I’m in training, as I can just press the button and say, "I’m lost – what do I do??!!"
She walked me through all the stuff in the back room, all the storage areas, alteration containers, manuals and bulletin boards, etc., and then we started on the associates handbook. I say started, because there was a sudden rush. So I got plunged into the middle of things right about then. It’s a good things I have frequented clothing stores before, or I would have been lost.
Altogether, it was a good first shift. My manager and the other girl on were both good to me and not too terribly strange. I think I’ll be ok there.
(Reading this post over, I realize it doesn’t have much appeal for my male readers (if any). Too bad then. *thumbs nose* :-D )
Then she took me through the Ricki’s side, which is where she wants me to be based, as she thinks it’s more my style. Could be, I dunno. Hey, I haven’t even figured out what my style is. So I will be helping people mostly in the Ricki’s side, with some cross-over to Bootlegger. My manager went through the different styles in Ricki’s with me then. Ricki’s is geared towards the "working woman", age 22 to 30. They have three lines: Her Time – clothing for women when they are at home, playing with the kids or walking the dog (though I wouldn’t do either of those activities in some of the outfits); Every Day – what a woman could wear to the office every day, more like business casuals; and Professional – things like suits that are necessary for special professional occasions. (YAY – Now I know how to shop Ricki’s!)
Next my manager gave me a headset and a lanyard with a name tag. She explained how to use the radio and earpiece, which either falls off constantly or makes your ear ache. The idea is that then we don’t have to always be yelling across the store. I’m actually kind of glad to have it while I’m in training, as I can just press the button and say, "I’m lost – what do I do??!!"
She walked me through all the stuff in the back room, all the storage areas, alteration containers, manuals and bulletin boards, etc., and then we started on the associates handbook. I say started, because there was a sudden rush. So I got plunged into the middle of things right about then. It’s a good things I have frequented clothing stores before, or I would have been lost.
Altogether, it was a good first shift. My manager and the other girl on were both good to me and not too terribly strange. I think I’ll be ok there.
(Reading this post over, I realize it doesn’t have much appeal for my male readers (if any). Too bad then. *thumbs nose* :-D )
21 July 2005
20 July 2005
short history
What was I doing 10 years ago: Wow! Ten yesrs ago I was 12. Living in Smithers, homeschooling, playing War with my brother and sisters, 4H, feeding baby goats, trying to grow my hair out
5 years ago: Working for Inheritance Publications, finishing school
1 year ago: Working still, deciding whether to go to school or take another job opportunity
Yesterday: Cleaning my room and listening to Michael Card, going to a meeting, and talking on the phone till all hours
5 Snacks I enjoy: anything chocolate, Miss Vickie’s Lime & Black Pepper chips, any kind of Dutch dropjes, liquorice allsorts, fudgesicles
5 songs I know all the words to: In Christ Alone – Newsboys; Arise My Love (Song of Solomon) – Michael Card; All I Ask of You – Phantom of the Opera; God Will Provide a Lamb – Michael Card; I Could Never Promise You – Don Fransisco
5 Things I would do with a $100 million: Pay my parents back for my expensive upbringing ( :-) ), go on a one-year tour of Europe, take my family on an extended vacation, buy a better vehicle, do some more travelling
5 Locations I would like to run away to: The Netherlands, Smithers, Ontario, the Rockies, Paris
5 Bad habits I have: Being lazy, saying "I dunno" too much, not being confident enough, letting my room look like the after-effects of a tsunami, a slightly heavy foot
5 Things I like doing: Talking with friends and family, reading, calligraphy, using the computer, scrapbooking
5 TV shows I like: Sesame Street? (I never watch TV – how about favourite movies?): Phantom of the Opera, Pride & Prejudice, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Inspector General, Sound of Music...
5 Biggest joys of the moment: I’m done with school!, developing relationships with special friends, having time to read more (esp the Bible), the wonderful family I was blessed to grow up in, the smell of flowers from friends
5 Favorite toys: Computer, books, iTunes, the Internet, CDs
5 next victims: good question. I think most of you have had this one. :-/ Well, in case they ever read this: Rita, Jake, Alex, Bethany, anyone else want it?
5 years ago: Working for Inheritance Publications, finishing school
1 year ago: Working still, deciding whether to go to school or take another job opportunity
Yesterday: Cleaning my room and listening to Michael Card, going to a meeting, and talking on the phone till all hours
5 Snacks I enjoy: anything chocolate, Miss Vickie’s Lime & Black Pepper chips, any kind of Dutch dropjes, liquorice allsorts, fudgesicles
5 songs I know all the words to: In Christ Alone – Newsboys; Arise My Love (Song of Solomon) – Michael Card; All I Ask of You – Phantom of the Opera; God Will Provide a Lamb – Michael Card; I Could Never Promise You – Don Fransisco
5 Things I would do with a $100 million: Pay my parents back for my expensive upbringing ( :-) ), go on a one-year tour of Europe, take my family on an extended vacation, buy a better vehicle, do some more travelling
5 Locations I would like to run away to: The Netherlands, Smithers, Ontario, the Rockies, Paris
5 Bad habits I have: Being lazy, saying "I dunno" too much, not being confident enough, letting my room look like the after-effects of a tsunami, a slightly heavy foot
5 Things I like doing: Talking with friends and family, reading, calligraphy, using the computer, scrapbooking
5 TV shows I like: Sesame Street? (I never watch TV – how about favourite movies?): Phantom of the Opera, Pride & Prejudice, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Inspector General, Sound of Music...
5 Biggest joys of the moment: I’m done with school!, developing relationships with special friends, having time to read more (esp the Bible), the wonderful family I was blessed to grow up in, the smell of flowers from friends
5 Favorite toys: Computer, books, iTunes, the Internet, CDs
5 next victims: good question. I think most of you have had this one. :-/ Well, in case they ever read this: Rita, Jake, Alex, Bethany, anyone else want it?
18 July 2005
Well, I have time for my blog now, so here goes. This weekend was totally busy for me. And it was definitely a hodgepodge of emotions. I’ll try to outline it for those of you I haven’t already told about it. (I hope to have an album up soon for most of the stuff.)
Thursday our class went to the courthouse in Edmonton. A tour guide took us all around the whole place. She showed us where each department was, which court handled what, and where all the documents are filed. It was actually really neat to have this trip now, so we could sort of apply all of the stuff we learned in class and see how it actually happens. The guide even took us downstairs to see where all the documents and files are stored, which is not part of the usual tour. There are miles and miles of shelving from floor to ceiling in the basement, running the length of the courthouse, full of files. A file is stored there for ten years, and then it is taken to outside storage somewhere in Edmonton, and then after another fifty years (I think) it is brought to the public archives, where it can be seen by anyone. We also got to see the special underground courtroom, B201, which was built to try that gang in Edmonton a few years ago. It is equipped with all cutting-edge technology. The judge and clerks have special desks with computers and there are about 35 stations for the counsel, all with room and plugins for computers. Then there is the bench for the accused. They were trying 32 gang members, so there is quite a large spot for them. It is on the right side of the courtroom, with bulletproof glass between it and the courtroom. At the back there is an entrance for them. They had to dig a separate elevator shaft for this entrance by hand (like with shovels), as it was not possible to get the usual equipment down there. Each bench is equipped with shackles. The guide said that before the courtroom could be approved, they had to do a trial emergency run to see if they could get the prisoners out in time. Some of the supervisors and managers and a few judges were shackled down in the seats, and I think she said it took them under a minute to get them all out. The opposite end of the courtroom has four little soundproof rooms with windows, where the interpreters sit, as some of the gang members did not speak English. They have headphones to hear the speakers, and then a microphone to translate to the prisoners. The prisoners also have access to their counsel the same way. According to the guide, sometimes the counsel get worked up and talk too fast. Then the translators can press a button, which flashes a huge red light on each of the four speaker’s podiums, one after another. They also have a thing (can’t remember the name of it) to enter exhibits digitally. It’s basically a sort of scanner, on which you lay the exhibit. Then the image is broadcast to the huge screens at the front of the courtroom, so everyone can see it. Another system in place is for far away witnesses to testify. That way, they can have a witness in China without inconvenience or expense, or even just a doctor’s statement, so he doesn’t have to waste a day hanging around court. The original gang case they designed the entire courtroom for was split into two smaller ones, and then eventually dropped altogether. Since then they haven’t used it for any other large cases since. Really the only thing it is used for is that far away witness testify thingy (I know it has a name, but I can’t recall it). Anyway, that was really fascinating to see. Afterwards we went up to the fourth floor and visited the law library. It has many books that are hundreds of years old in it, even a good many from Britain. Most lawyers now use the Internet for a lot of the research, but I think it’s neat to still have all the actual books there still.
Friday was graduation. My parents and Julie and Rosemary were able to come, as well as Alison. It went well, although in my opinion the speaker was a little long-winded. She ended with Dr. Seuss’ Oh the Places You’ll Go (I think that would have made a satisfactory speech on its own :-P ). After that I had to speak on behalf of my class, which I think was ok too. Then they had more speeches – the teachers, the college owner, some other staff, and then certificates were given. I don’t actually get my transcript until I am finished my practicum and it has been evaluated. Most of us went out for lunch after that, but my family had to go home agan. Then Alison and I went to Columbus Park and later to Dog Rump Creek in Stony Plain and took some photos. My parents gave me a dozen pink and yellow roses, which you will see on the photos later hopefully.
On Saturday I worked a seven-hour shift and then went out for coffee with my parents before dinner. Later we went to the Swiss Chalet with some family and friends to celebrate my graduating. Spending time with loved ones and looking at photos is always enjoyable. My family was able to meet some of my friends in St. Albert before they went back. It was a wonderful evening.
Sunday was wonderful, time spent worshipping and talking with friends.
This morning I woke up at about 9:30, a first for a very long time. It was a little strange not having to get up and rush off to school or work. I actually did go to school today because I am finishing the advanced Word course still. Tonight we are going to pick up Mike and Trish, whom I haven’t seen now for a couple of weeks, from the airport. So I have to go and get ready.
(I just realized the longest part of this post is not necessarily about the most important stuff. :-/ )
Thursday our class went to the courthouse in Edmonton. A tour guide took us all around the whole place. She showed us where each department was, which court handled what, and where all the documents are filed. It was actually really neat to have this trip now, so we could sort of apply all of the stuff we learned in class and see how it actually happens. The guide even took us downstairs to see where all the documents and files are stored, which is not part of the usual tour. There are miles and miles of shelving from floor to ceiling in the basement, running the length of the courthouse, full of files. A file is stored there for ten years, and then it is taken to outside storage somewhere in Edmonton, and then after another fifty years (I think) it is brought to the public archives, where it can be seen by anyone. We also got to see the special underground courtroom, B201, which was built to try that gang in Edmonton a few years ago. It is equipped with all cutting-edge technology. The judge and clerks have special desks with computers and there are about 35 stations for the counsel, all with room and plugins for computers. Then there is the bench for the accused. They were trying 32 gang members, so there is quite a large spot for them. It is on the right side of the courtroom, with bulletproof glass between it and the courtroom. At the back there is an entrance for them. They had to dig a separate elevator shaft for this entrance by hand (like with shovels), as it was not possible to get the usual equipment down there. Each bench is equipped with shackles. The guide said that before the courtroom could be approved, they had to do a trial emergency run to see if they could get the prisoners out in time. Some of the supervisors and managers and a few judges were shackled down in the seats, and I think she said it took them under a minute to get them all out. The opposite end of the courtroom has four little soundproof rooms with windows, where the interpreters sit, as some of the gang members did not speak English. They have headphones to hear the speakers, and then a microphone to translate to the prisoners. The prisoners also have access to their counsel the same way. According to the guide, sometimes the counsel get worked up and talk too fast. Then the translators can press a button, which flashes a huge red light on each of the four speaker’s podiums, one after another. They also have a thing (can’t remember the name of it) to enter exhibits digitally. It’s basically a sort of scanner, on which you lay the exhibit. Then the image is broadcast to the huge screens at the front of the courtroom, so everyone can see it. Another system in place is for far away witnesses to testify. That way, they can have a witness in China without inconvenience or expense, or even just a doctor’s statement, so he doesn’t have to waste a day hanging around court. The original gang case they designed the entire courtroom for was split into two smaller ones, and then eventually dropped altogether. Since then they haven’t used it for any other large cases since. Really the only thing it is used for is that far away witness testify thingy (I know it has a name, but I can’t recall it). Anyway, that was really fascinating to see. Afterwards we went up to the fourth floor and visited the law library. It has many books that are hundreds of years old in it, even a good many from Britain. Most lawyers now use the Internet for a lot of the research, but I think it’s neat to still have all the actual books there still.
Friday was graduation. My parents and Julie and Rosemary were able to come, as well as Alison. It went well, although in my opinion the speaker was a little long-winded. She ended with Dr. Seuss’ Oh the Places You’ll Go (I think that would have made a satisfactory speech on its own :-P ). After that I had to speak on behalf of my class, which I think was ok too. Then they had more speeches – the teachers, the college owner, some other staff, and then certificates were given. I don’t actually get my transcript until I am finished my practicum and it has been evaluated. Most of us went out for lunch after that, but my family had to go home agan. Then Alison and I went to Columbus Park and later to Dog Rump Creek in Stony Plain and took some photos. My parents gave me a dozen pink and yellow roses, which you will see on the photos later hopefully.
On Saturday I worked a seven-hour shift and then went out for coffee with my parents before dinner. Later we went to the Swiss Chalet with some family and friends to celebrate my graduating. Spending time with loved ones and looking at photos is always enjoyable. My family was able to meet some of my friends in St. Albert before they went back. It was a wonderful evening.
Sunday was wonderful, time spent worshipping and talking with friends.
This morning I woke up at about 9:30, a first for a very long time. It was a little strange not having to get up and rush off to school or work. I actually did go to school today because I am finishing the advanced Word course still. Tonight we are going to pick up Mike and Trish, whom I haven’t seen now for a couple of weeks, from the airport. So I have to go and get ready.
(I just realized the longest part of this post is not necessarily about the most important stuff. :-/ )
13 July 2005
Last Final!
Yippe-i-yay! I just finished my last final exam!
It was totally not hard, except that I had a mind-block one one question.
This afternoon we will just be finishing our last file, and then packing up our things.
Today is Tacky Toursit/Hawaiian Day, as well as our potluck lunch. Alison and I scared up an outfit for me the other day - I'm wearing a scratchy grass skirt, sandals, a flower in my hair, a very loud shirt, and a lei. All the girls have dressed up. One girl from the Medical class looks absolutely hilarious. I just caught a glimpse of her, so I didn't get the total effect, but even that was funny. She is a hillbilly: blackened teeth, ratty hair, etc. She flashed me a smile and made me do a double take. My teacher Lola is wearing a bright pink straw hat with ties, an even brighter vest, and shorts. Tammy has a grass skirt too, and enormous sunglasses. I think we make a rather interesting crowd. I made sure to take proper office clothes along in case I get a call to come to an interview today. Wouldn't that make a perfect impression now! "Hello... uh, no, this really isn't the way I dress everyday for the office..."
Sometime today we have to finish the oversized card we're supposed to be making for Lola. We got her a plaque thingy with her name engraved on it as a parting gift. To my classmates, I'm just going to give a pen that is an ostrich with a grad cap. It's enough that I have to speak at grad for them.
Tomorrow we are going to the courthouse and the law library in Edmonton, and then we will round off things here.
And Friday is grad! I'm really excited because we will finally be free of homework in the evenings, and I will be able to get a good job (hopefully). Now I'm even more glad than I was when we began that the course is only half a year. The two-year program at Grant MacEwan would have been a bit much. It's going to be a more casual grad, not prom dresses and all. My class voted me to speak for them, so I'm glad I'm not going to have a formal dress, or I'd probably suffocate. Some of my family and Alison are coming, so I'm sure I'll have photos sometime soon.
I probably won't be able to post again till after the weekend. Hope to see more of all of you then, my friends!
It was totally not hard, except that I had a mind-block one one question.
This afternoon we will just be finishing our last file, and then packing up our things.
Today is Tacky Toursit/Hawaiian Day, as well as our potluck lunch. Alison and I scared up an outfit for me the other day - I'm wearing a scratchy grass skirt, sandals, a flower in my hair, a very loud shirt, and a lei. All the girls have dressed up. One girl from the Medical class looks absolutely hilarious. I just caught a glimpse of her, so I didn't get the total effect, but even that was funny. She is a hillbilly: blackened teeth, ratty hair, etc. She flashed me a smile and made me do a double take. My teacher Lola is wearing a bright pink straw hat with ties, an even brighter vest, and shorts. Tammy has a grass skirt too, and enormous sunglasses. I think we make a rather interesting crowd. I made sure to take proper office clothes along in case I get a call to come to an interview today. Wouldn't that make a perfect impression now! "Hello... uh, no, this really isn't the way I dress everyday for the office..."
Sometime today we have to finish the oversized card we're supposed to be making for Lola. We got her a plaque thingy with her name engraved on it as a parting gift. To my classmates, I'm just going to give a pen that is an ostrich with a grad cap. It's enough that I have to speak at grad for them.
Tomorrow we are going to the courthouse and the law library in Edmonton, and then we will round off things here.
And Friday is grad! I'm really excited because we will finally be free of homework in the evenings, and I will be able to get a good job (hopefully). Now I'm even more glad than I was when we began that the course is only half a year. The two-year program at Grant MacEwan would have been a bit much. It's going to be a more casual grad, not prom dresses and all. My class voted me to speak for them, so I'm glad I'm not going to have a formal dress, or I'd probably suffocate. Some of my family and Alison are coming, so I'm sure I'll have photos sometime soon.
I probably won't be able to post again till after the weekend. Hope to see more of all of you then, my friends!
05 July 2005
This bog is getting boring - a record of how busy I am. :-/
Take this past weekend.
On Friday my aunt and uncle who are moving to Ontario came to see us at Doiges before going on. It was really wonderful to see them again. In the afternoon, Alison and Steve and Henry and I went to Ikea in Edmonton, so Steve and Alison could start a registry there. I love going to Ikea and just wandering through, looking at all the displays and the different combinations of styles, and testing out the couches and beds and chairs and everything. We had pasta for lunch at the in-store restaurant. After Ikea we picked up Alyson and went to the Legislature grounds, where we met some more friends, and then had a sort of picnic on the hillside over the river. There were thousands of people there for the Canada Day fireworks. At 11:00 the fireworks started. I have never seen such an enormous and colourful display of fireworks before. As it is Alberta's Centennial this year, they went all out and got a prodigious amount of them (I tried to describe them here, but failed miserably, so whoever didn't see them is outta luck :-) ).
Saturday I had to work until 4:00, and then I went home with a few friends for the weekend. That evening we went to the Pembina River near the Freedom bridge where we often swim in the summer. Usually there is a fairly wide sandy beach. Most of the river is about a foot deep, and then there's a sudden drop off. We hoped to sit on the beach and maybe wade a bit, but the river was so high there wasn't even a beach. Instead we went bushwacking, also lots of fun.
On Sunday we celebrated Steve's birthday, which is today (Happy 24th, Steve!). Being able to spend the day with and worship with my family and friends again was wonderful. After the evening service we drove home again, as Henry and Alyson had to fly or drive to Ontario the next day.
Now it is already Tuesday. We have to finish our current segment of law, Wills and Estates, and have our final exam on Thursday. Then we will start the final part, Dependant Adult Law, with the exam for that next Wednesday. Thursday we are going to the courthouse and law library in Edmonton for a field trip, and Friday is graduation. I can hardly believe 6 months is almost over. The time has gone way too fast. :-/
Take this past weekend.
On Friday my aunt and uncle who are moving to Ontario came to see us at Doiges before going on. It was really wonderful to see them again. In the afternoon, Alison and Steve and Henry and I went to Ikea in Edmonton, so Steve and Alison could start a registry there. I love going to Ikea and just wandering through, looking at all the displays and the different combinations of styles, and testing out the couches and beds and chairs and everything. We had pasta for lunch at the in-store restaurant. After Ikea we picked up Alyson and went to the Legislature grounds, where we met some more friends, and then had a sort of picnic on the hillside over the river. There were thousands of people there for the Canada Day fireworks. At 11:00 the fireworks started. I have never seen such an enormous and colourful display of fireworks before. As it is Alberta's Centennial this year, they went all out and got a prodigious amount of them (I tried to describe them here, but failed miserably, so whoever didn't see them is outta luck :-) ).
Saturday I had to work until 4:00, and then I went home with a few friends for the weekend. That evening we went to the Pembina River near the Freedom bridge where we often swim in the summer. Usually there is a fairly wide sandy beach. Most of the river is about a foot deep, and then there's a sudden drop off. We hoped to sit on the beach and maybe wade a bit, but the river was so high there wasn't even a beach. Instead we went bushwacking, also lots of fun.
On Sunday we celebrated Steve's birthday, which is today (Happy 24th, Steve!). Being able to spend the day with and worship with my family and friends again was wonderful. After the evening service we drove home again, as Henry and Alyson had to fly or drive to Ontario the next day.
Now it is already Tuesday. We have to finish our current segment of law, Wills and Estates, and have our final exam on Thursday. Then we will start the final part, Dependant Adult Law, with the exam for that next Wednesday. Thursday we are going to the courthouse and law library in Edmonton for a field trip, and Friday is graduation. I can hardly believe 6 months is almost over. The time has gone way too fast. :-/
28 June 2005
This week is really shaping up to be fun.
Tonight my uncle and aunt from BC are swinging through Spruce Grove on their way to Neerlandia. I haven't seen them in a few years, so I'm looking forward to that. They are our only close family in Canada.
Tomorrow evening Alison and I are working at Jacks.
Then Thursday we have a test on Wills and Estates, which we just began last Friday. That should prove interesting.
Friday is Canada Day! I'm so looking forward to celebrating (especially a day off school. yay!). A group of us is going to spend the day together, and then go watch the fireworks in the River Valley.
I have to work the whole day Saturday, but after that, I'm going to Neerlandia with some friends. Steve is supposed to be coming on Thursday, and he and Alison are driving down for Sunday too.
I really should get back to the Enduring Power of Attorney that I'm typing out. Just had to rest the noggin for a sec.
Tonight my uncle and aunt from BC are swinging through Spruce Grove on their way to Neerlandia. I haven't seen them in a few years, so I'm looking forward to that. They are our only close family in Canada.
Tomorrow evening Alison and I are working at Jacks.
Then Thursday we have a test on Wills and Estates, which we just began last Friday. That should prove interesting.
Friday is Canada Day! I'm so looking forward to celebrating (especially a day off school. yay!). A group of us is going to spend the day together, and then go watch the fireworks in the River Valley.
I have to work the whole day Saturday, but after that, I'm going to Neerlandia with some friends. Steve is supposed to be coming on Thursday, and he and Alison are driving down for Sunday too.
I really should get back to the Enduring Power of Attorney that I'm typing out. Just had to rest the noggin for a sec.
24 June 2005
Shakespeare in the Park
Wow! Some experience.
Last night a bunch of us went to see the Free Will Players in Romeo and Juliet at Hawrelak Park in Edmonton with some of my family and some St. Alberta friends. I really enjoyed it, especially as I have not seen much live theatre. I guess that is a plus of living near a large city. They sure did a wonderful job, although I sure caught a lot more of Shakespeare's crudities than when I read it last. :-
The Free Will Players did something more modern than the usual period costuming and sets. The set was a series of gray metal steps, ladders, and levels, with the requisite balcony. The only colour on the set was in the large red stained-glass window type banners. And the costumes were rather startling. All the Montagues dressed in white, and the Capulets in black, except for the heads of the families, and the ladies. I don't know exactly how to describe them, but I guess the closest would something like Chicago gangsters of the prohibition era. Anyway, Mr. Capulet and Mr. Montague each had very loud and glitzy suits, Mrs. Capulet wore a slinky green dress and turban, and Juliet looked like a very young girl in a short green and striped dress and long stockings. I think my favourite character was Juliet's nurse.
Now we have to go see Love's Labours Lost (I'll let someone else arrange that :-/ ).
Last night a bunch of us went to see the Free Will Players in Romeo and Juliet at Hawrelak Park in Edmonton with some of my family and some St. Alberta friends. I really enjoyed it, especially as I have not seen much live theatre. I guess that is a plus of living near a large city. They sure did a wonderful job, although I sure caught a lot more of Shakespeare's crudities than when I read it last. :-
The Free Will Players did something more modern than the usual period costuming and sets. The set was a series of gray metal steps, ladders, and levels, with the requisite balcony. The only colour on the set was in the large red stained-glass window type banners. And the costumes were rather startling. All the Montagues dressed in white, and the Capulets in black, except for the heads of the families, and the ladies. I don't know exactly how to describe them, but I guess the closest would something like Chicago gangsters of the prohibition era. Anyway, Mr. Capulet and Mr. Montague each had very loud and glitzy suits, Mrs. Capulet wore a slinky green dress and turban, and Juliet looked like a very young girl in a short green and striped dress and long stockings. I think my favourite character was Juliet's nurse.
Now we have to go see Love's Labours Lost (I'll let someone else arrange that :-/ ).
23 June 2005
Men are happier people…
Men are happier people, and here is a part of the reason why:
Your last name stays put.
The garage is all yours.
Wedding plans take care of themselves.
Chocolate is just another snack.
Car mechanics tell you the truth.
You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky.
You don’t have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt.
Same work, more pay.
Wrinkles add character.
Wedding dress – $5000. Tux rental – $100.
The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected.
New shoes don’t cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
One mood all the time.
Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat.
You know stuff about tanks.
A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase.
You can open all your own jars.
You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.
If someone forgets to invite, he or she can still be your friend.
Three pairs of shoes are more than enough.
You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes.
Everything on your face stays its original colour.
The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.
You can play with toys all your life.
One wallet and one pair of shoes one colour for all seasons.
You can “do” your nails with a pocketknife.
You have freedom of choice concerning growing a moustache.
You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.
Your last name stays put.
The garage is all yours.
Wedding plans take care of themselves.
Chocolate is just another snack.
Car mechanics tell you the truth.
You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky.
You don’t have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt.
Same work, more pay.
Wrinkles add character.
Wedding dress – $5000. Tux rental – $100.
The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected.
New shoes don’t cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
One mood all the time.
Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat.
You know stuff about tanks.
A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase.
You can open all your own jars.
You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.
If someone forgets to invite, he or she can still be your friend.
Three pairs of shoes are more than enough.
You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes.
Everything on your face stays its original colour.
The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.
You can play with toys all your life.
One wallet and one pair of shoes one colour for all seasons.
You can “do” your nails with a pocketknife.
You have freedom of choice concerning growing a moustache.
You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.
18 June 2005
"How am I supposed to obey God’s commands and follow His principles when my circumstances are so different from those of other people?"
Imagine that you’re a student in an art class. You and dozens of classmates are learning from a master painter. One day your teacher displays a painting of his own. It’s an incredible work of art, and he wants each of you to copy it.
You’re about to begin working when you turn to look at the person next to you. You’re surprised to note that he has a larger brush than your and a differently shaped canvas. You look around at the rest of the class. Some students have acrylic paint, others watercolor, still others oil – and everyone has different colors. Though you all have the same assignment, you each have completely different materials.
This frustrates you. Some students have materials you would prefer for yourself. Why should they get them? You’re not the only student to notice the disparity. A hand goes up. A girl to your left with only a ragged brush and three pale shades of blue on her palette is noticeably agitated. "This isn’t fair," she tells the teacher. "How do you expect me to duplicate your painting when the people around me have so many more colors to choose from?"
The teacher smiles. "Don’t worry about the other students," he says. "I’ve carefully chosen the brushes and paints that each of you has. Trust me. You have what you need to complete the assignment. Remember, your goal is not to create a painting that mirrors the person next to you, but to do your best with the materials I’ve given you to create a picture faithful to my painting."
– Joshua Harris, Boy Meets Girl
Imagine that you’re a student in an art class. You and dozens of classmates are learning from a master painter. One day your teacher displays a painting of his own. It’s an incredible work of art, and he wants each of you to copy it.
You’re about to begin working when you turn to look at the person next to you. You’re surprised to note that he has a larger brush than your and a differently shaped canvas. You look around at the rest of the class. Some students have acrylic paint, others watercolor, still others oil – and everyone has different colors. Though you all have the same assignment, you each have completely different materials.
This frustrates you. Some students have materials you would prefer for yourself. Why should they get them? You’re not the only student to notice the disparity. A hand goes up. A girl to your left with only a ragged brush and three pale shades of blue on her palette is noticeably agitated. "This isn’t fair," she tells the teacher. "How do you expect me to duplicate your painting when the people around me have so many more colors to choose from?"
The teacher smiles. "Don’t worry about the other students," he says. "I’ve carefully chosen the brushes and paints that each of you has. Trust me. You have what you need to complete the assignment. Remember, your goal is not to create a painting that mirrors the person next to you, but to do your best with the materials I’ve given you to create a picture faithful to my painting."
– Joshua Harris, Boy Meets Girl
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