At Twenty SIX

Your Higher Power.

2011-05-01T16:16:00.003-05:00

I have been spending a lot of time reading from my Dialectical Behaviour Therapy work book, as I prepare to be away from my home and some of my support system for a week, and I read a passage from it today that really spoke to me regarding focusing on a Higher Power.

Remember that your higher power can also be something other than God. Your higher power can be a person who makes you feel stronger and more confident to deal with the challenges that you face. Think of someone you admire who can be your higher power. Describe that person. What makes that person special? Then, the next time you’re in a difficult or distressing situation, act as if you ate that person, and notice how you handle the situation differently.

So I thought about it, and this is actually a technique I often use when I find myself in stressful situations. I default to my "spirit animal" in a way, and try and mimic how I think she would act in a situation like this.

I'm so excited that I get to meet her this year. It's going to be so special for me, a moment for life for sure.

Tiga Talk- Something for kids (and adults!) to talk about.

2011-04-15T09:51:00.003-05:00

As first week of second work placement winds down, I thought I would let you guys in on something super cool that the guys here at Tactica developed.
Tiga Talk is an application for iPhone/iPad/iPod touch that was developed with speech and language pathologists to create games that center around the 23 core phonetic sounds that you learn when you start to talk. Pretty cool huh? That's not even the best part. The game is completely voice activated, so in order to play the games, like popping balloons, and launching rockets, you have to actually make the noises. I love this game so much! But here's what I think is really cool... The game is currently being translated into a Canadian Cree version, the first app of it's kind!

So if you have an iProduct, and a little one who loves to play games (shhh, don't tell them it's teaching them!), check out the Tiga Talk app.

There's more about Tiga Talk coming, so stay tuned for a really awesome contest announcement too.

Watch this video to learn more about Tiga Talk, and how it works!

So cool! So check you Tiga Talk, only $1.99 in the App Store.

Hey! Hire me!

2011-04-07T10:33:00.004-05:00

When Kenton asked us to create copy for an advertisement for our favourite product- ourselves- my mind started racing. What about me makes me special? How am I even unique!?! I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHO I AM!!! EXISTENTIAL CRISIS!! But after I calmed down and stopped shouting, I started to realize what makes me Aggie.

I AM LOUD!!!

So take a look at the ad I created for myself and tell me if you think it suits me!

The final stretch!

2011-03-27T19:02:00.002-05:00

I can't believe we're so close to finishing. That whole "taking thing one day at a time thing" really works, I suppose.

2011-03-18T13:48:00.000-05:00

I suffer from a really awful disease called Borderline Personality Disorder. Basically, in less than 100 words:

BPD causes the synapses of emotional and impulse control to misfire. The most common symptoms include abandonment issues, harmful behaviours, and mood swings that can be triggered by almost anything or for no reason at all, and range from extreme elation, to violent rage, to deep depression. High functioning sufferers can be triggered by extreme emotional, mental, and physical stress, which can make someone seemingly normal, lash out in ways that are beyond their control or even their knowledge.

It's really difficult for me to explain what I'm feeling from one moment to the next, but I came up with this description that I think fits at least some of what i've been going through.

i’m at a weird precipice right now. looking down, i don’t want to live anymore. i weigh the options and what i’ve accomplished and what i can accomplish and it just seems like it’s never enough. but looking up i see a life, a future, everything just slightly out of reach, being tethered by this awful disease. and i cant just grab a hold of the strings and control it, but it’s pulling me this way and that, like a puppet. bringing me swaying precariously close to the edge, then pulling me back, taunting me. i know eventually, through the right combination of drugs, therapy, exercise, and more drugs, i will have the strength to pull my own strings. but until then i will continue to be a nuisance to anyone i encounter who doesn’t understand what i am going through.

All of this being said, I have decided to write a book about BPD. I know I am not a qualified Dr. but I feel that my experience with the disease will be able to help others in dealing with their own feelings of self doubt and anger. I want to be able to help people like me to better understand that it is not their fault that they feel this way, and that things can and will get better, but it wont happen overnight (and if it does, you best be ready for it to crash again in a day or two).

It was really hard for me to share this with people that I will see on a day-to-day basis, and who may look at me differently now, or treat me in a different way, fearing they may trigger something. I have to let you know, that the people I surround myself with, especially the CreComm mafia, are some of the best friends i could ever imagine having. Every one of you have been so supportive and kind, I can't even imagine my life without you guys in it.

This week has been an awful mix of ups, downs, and inbetweens, but I feel like I'm finally getting a hold of something, even if it's only on string at a time. Trust that I don't want to be treated any differently because of any of this. That is the absolute last thing I need. I'm glad to finally have this off my chest, and no longer fear the repercussions of showing emotion.

I hope that by writing, I will begin to better understand my own disorder and my own downfalls, triggers, and stresses. But not only that, I'm hoping that it will help reduce the social stigma of emotional disorders, and help other people who suffer better understand why.

Waka Flocka Flame poses for PETA.

2011-03-08T16:43:00.002-06:00

I am not a huge fan of PETA, I am, however, a HUGE fan of Flocka... When I saw that he posed for PETA as part of their anti-fur campaign, I was super excited!

Probably one of their better headlines.. Plus Flocka.

I hate to say it, but I might actually like this ad..... WHAT HAVE I DONE WITH THE REAL AGGIE???

Grippin' Grain Face Tattoo Edition!!!!

2011-02-27T17:44:00.004-06:00

Can't wait for this party. Love these guys!

Legend of Zelda.... TOTALLY RADICAL

2011-02-12T21:28:00.004-06:00

Music gets me through.

2011-01-29T21:28:00.003-06:00

While in Toronto, I found myself feeling homesick some days. I turned to music to inspire me to power through the roughest of my days. Here are a few of the albums I found myself listening to on repeat while on my trip (and now that I'm back home, as well!):
Kanye West- My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. Choice Tracks: Monster (Nicki's verse kills it), Hell of a Life, Blame Game. It took me a while to actually sit down and listen to this whole album, but I'm so glad I finally went past the singles and discovered the entire album.

Nicki Minaj- Pink Friday. Choice Tracks: Did It On Em, Moment For Life, Roman's Revenge. As I've said before on this blog, I used to be the biggest Nicki Hater, until I actually stopped and listened to her lyrics and found them to be so easy to relate to and inspirational.

Big Boi- Sir Lucious Left-Foot (The Son Of Chico Dusty). Choice tracks: Shine Blockers, You Ain't No DJ, Hustle Blood. My love for the south only grew every time I listened to this amazing album from one half of Outkast. I heard there's a new Outkast album on the way this year, too, and I can't WAIT!

Last night in Toronto.

2011-01-22T17:56:00.002-06:00

The experience was worth coming out here. I made new friends, learned a lot about digital marketing, and learned more about myself than I could imagine. My family was the most gracious of hosts and were kind enough to guide me through a lot of new experiences (Niagara Falls was beautiful and ice covered, some excellent dinners and lunches shared, and a new found appreciation for Prosecco sparkling wine were some things they offered me).

I found myself by losing myself in the city. I found things I never expected to find out. I'm happy I came, and sad to leave, but even more excited to come back.

Working for Fil and Julian at Bash! taught me a lot about how the industry works, taught me about pitching to clients, and working as a team. I really enjoyed working with them and can't wait to come back to see what they've done this spring!

All in all, such a great experience. Thanks to Kenton and the Bash! team for setting this up for me!

Little girl in the big city: episode two: I miss home.

2011-01-17T14:22:00.002-06:00

The last couple nights have been really rough on me emotionally. I can't even explain why, but I've been trying to work things out on my own.

Really, I think I'm just ready to come home for a while.

It was nice to be out here, working, and doing what I expect will happen after school. But staying an hour away from the city has been hard on me, and I haven't really made that many friends out here, so most of my nights and weekends have been spent hanging out in Milton not doing much unless the fam has something to do.

To their credit, I love my family so much. They have been the most gracious hosts I could have ever asked for. Auntie J is an amazing cook, making the meals every night and making me try new things I would have never expected to like. They've taken me out to see cool things like Niagara Falls, and the Bata Shoe Museum. They have engaged me with games of Scrabble and Trivial Pursuit, and made me feel so welcome here.

But I'm looking forward to going home. I miss my family. I miss my friends. I miss my stuff. It sounds superficial to say that, but sometimes, you just want to be able to go to your closet and wear anything you own, you know?

Anyways, I will be going back home on Saturday, and I'm looking forward to starting classes again, and telling everyone about the things I learned at my internship, and all the things I got to do in Toronto. And I can't wait to see my friends again.

Little girl in the big city: episode one.

2010-12-18T17:39:00.003-06:00

So here I am in one of the great cities of the world. I spent most of my first day here discovering how to use the subway and the Go-Train. Taking pictures of things I found amusing, and having people ask me for directions, and having to explain how I'm from Winnipeg. But I've learned how to get around, met my bosses Fil and Julian (both very cool guys, can't wait to work with them!), found the cool places to shop (my love for H&M knows no bounds) and discovered that Toronto has Popeye's chicken (probably the best discovery yet... unless there is a Chic-Fil-A here).

So yeah. Mostly I've just been chillin' in Milton, learning about the cool things to do in the city, and trying to figure out if Rick Ross is actually playing here in January.

Hopefully as the next 5 weeks play out I will be able to report back some exciting things as I begin to discover more about the city. The photo posted above is a snap I took from the turret of Casa Loma, the castle featured in Scott Pilgrim Vs The World.

My friend sent me this handy link of all the spots featured throughout the Scott Pilgrim series and where to find them. Guess who's going on a tour! Lol.

Toronto Bound...

2010-12-11T20:12:00.003-06:00

For the past 3 hours, I have packed, unpacked, and repacked my suitcase about 6 times, trying to fit in everything I may need or want for the next 6 weeks. Tomorrow I will finish cleaning up my room, and find time to study for my Can Lit exam.

I'm nervous, but this is my first big step into the "real world". Big girl pants and all. Working at a real job, taking the train to work and everything!

I'm only gone for 6 weeks, but I know I'll miss the friends I've made in CreComm while I'm gone.

See you all when I get back!c

Geek Chic Cosmetics- Safe for you, safe for the environment!

2010-12-03T16:34:00.004-06:00

I found out about Geek Chic through a friend's Facebook page.

Geek Chic makes preservative, paraben, and metal glitter free makeup made from minerals. They offer eye shadows, lip glosses, and powder foundations.

Here's the catch: they name their colours after video games! Cute, geeky, and safe for you. They also offer cosplay makeup, so if you ever had the urge to transform yourself into a Na'Vi, they can help you with that, too!

They hand blend each batch of their colours, and will not repackage other cheap products. They also can make custom colours so if you're looking for something more specific, they can help you come up with a custom shade that fits your needs!

My favourites are the Hyrule collection (named after the Legend of Zelda series)

The Health Potion Lip Gloss

The Nerdgasm Blush

Order your Geek Chic Cosmetics online at GeekChic.com

Aggie hearts Nicki Minaj.

2010-11-26T19:37:00.002-06:00

I feel like I need to talk about this for a moment. Can I just say how much I love this woman? She inspires me to do great things, and keeps me motivated to get further in my life. Her music and attitude keep me positive when things aren't going right in my life. She takes time for all of her fans in person, on UStream, and by tweeting back when people send her messages via Twitter.

Nicki Minaj is my Spirit Animal.

Aggie's favourite mixtapes for 2010, part 1.

2010-11-19T17:15:00.002-06:00

It's seriously almost the end of the year. People are starting to come up with lists of their favourite everything of the year.

This year, I would like to share some of my favourite mixtapes for 2010.

I'm going to start out with one that will warm you from the inside out on this icey cold wintery day in Winnipeg.

DJ Benzi Get Right Radio Summer 2010 grinds up some summer bangers and awesome remixes that will surely get your body moving.

TRACKLISTING:

01. LMFAO “Introduction”
02. Drake “Find Yuh Love”
03. Gyptian “Hold Yuh (Major Lazer Remix)”
04. Donnis & Benzi “Shawwty”
05. T-Pain “Kiss Her (Discotech Remix)”
06. Mike Posner “Cooler Than Me”
07. Ian Carey “Get Shakey”
08. Empire Of The Sun “Walking On A Sweet Dream”
09. Hyper Crush & Diplo “Ayo”
10. Wynter Gordon “Dirty Talk”
11. Far East Movement & Dev “Like A G6”
12. La Roux “Bulletproof (Danny Diggz Remix)”
13. Taio Cruz “Dynamite”
14. Kid Cudi “Pursuit Of Happiness (Aoki Remix)”
15. 3Oh!3 & Kesha “First Kiss (Skeet Skeet Remix)”
16. Swedish House Mafia & Pharrell “One”
17. Ciara & The-Dream “Ride (DStar Remix)”
18. Vampire Weekend “Ottoman (Slink Remix)”
19. The Fugees “Ready Or Not (Punish Remix)”
20. Outkast “Rosa Parks (Prince Klassen Remix)”
21. Lucy Pearl “Dance Tonight (Top Billin Remix)”
22. Aloe Blacc “I Need A Dollar Remix”
23. Buraka Som Sistema “Buffalo Stance”
24. Rusko “Hold On (Tom Stephan Remix)”
25. La Roux “I’m Not Your Toy”
26. Medina “You & I (D-Star Funky Edit)”
27. Telephoned “Took The Night”
28. Dennis Ferrer “Hey Hey”
29. Duck Sauce “Barbra Streisand”
30. Cypress Hill & Pitbull “Armada Latina”
31. Travie McCoy & LMFAO “Billionaire (Party Rock Remix)”
32. Drake & Swizz Beatz “Fancy”
33. Chiddy Bang “Opposite Of Adults”
34. Big Boi “Shutterbug”
35. Ellie Goulding “Under The Sheets (Chiddy Bang Remix)”
36. Mike Posner “Drug Dealer Girl (Rock-It Scientists Remix)”
37. Drake & Alicia Keys “Fireworks (Tom Wrecks Remix)”
38. M.I.A. & Jay-Z “XXXO Remix”
39. Mike Posner & Big Sean “Speed Of Sound (Xaphoon Jones Remix)”
40. Olive “You're Not Alone (TLGB Remix)”
41. R-Kelly “Ignition (Hood Internet Remix)”
42. Katy B “On A Mission”
43. Magnetic Man “I Need Air”
44. Daniel Bedingfield “Gotta Get Thru This”
45. Kingdom “You”
46. Sonique “Feels So Good”
47. Kid Cudi “Cudi Zone (Benzi & Diggz Edit)”
48. Big Sean “Bullshittin (Benzi x DStar x Xaphoon Jones Remix)”
49. Chris Brown & Tyga “Dueces”
50. LMFAO “Outroduction”

Click here to download as 1 party rock mix.

Click here to download as seperate tracks.

DJ's Co-Op and Hunnicut put a Winnipeg twist on a club banger.

2010-11-10T17:27:00.002-06:00

Barbara Streisand (Co-op & Hunnicutt Winnipeg Edit) by DJ Hunnicutt

Seriously. Just listen to this. Dance and laugh. It's great.

Reasons why I can't stand the Canadian health care system.

2010-11-05T17:55:00.002-05:00

Normally, I'm not even one to complain about what would technically be a "free service". But I have been so frustrated with the way I've been treated by medical professionals, I feel like I need to vent a little bit about it.

I went to the hospital for what is now the 4th time for kidney stones. Not only is this painful, embarrassing, and irritating, it's also a huge waste of my time, as 2/4 times I have went to the hospital, they have sent me home with nothing but an x-ray that shows "nothing", and a prescription for Tylenol 3. Meanwhile, I'm laying on the floor, writhing in pain.

Almost every time I have been discharged from the hospital, they give me absolutely no information. No clue as to what they are made of, or what I have to do to avoid getting them again (which I have, 5 times now), other than I need to "drink more water" (2 litres a day isn't enough?).

This is incredibly frustrating, as I would like to life my life without taking 2-3 days off to dope myself up on painkillers and cry whenever I need to pass one.

And OH the conflicting advice! Some doctors tell me coffee and tea is fine, but some tell me that anything with caffeine is a no-no (how can I get through school without caffeine?????), I have even been told that eating fruit is a huge contributing factor as well.

Sorry this is so ranty, but after spending a combined 200+ hours in hospital for the same problem over and over again, you can begin to see some of my frustration come through.

In more Halloween Spirit:

2010-10-28T21:12:00.003-05:00

Can we discuss how amazing The Rocky Horror Glee Show was?

Maybe I'm a bit biased, because I love Glee, but YEESH. I was in love.

Also in love with this Mrs. Dr. The Monarch (aka Dr. Girlfriend) from the Venture Brothers cosplay- anyone out there can make me a costume like this?

(picture courtesy of VentureCosplay.com)

In the spirit of Halloween this weekend, I present to you...

2010-10-26T17:05:00.003-05:00

CRACKED Magazines "26 Sexy Halloween costumes that shouldn't exist". I like that they added a few men's costumes in here too.

CreCommedy, how I love thee.

2010-10-22T18:55:00.002-05:00

I had an opportunity to perform stand-up comedy this past Monday night. Needless to say it was nerve wracking, terrifying, and may have induced some light vomiting.

But now, I can proudly say that I went up in front of 100 paying customers (and anxious classmates) and threw down my own brand of comedy, and actually made people LAUGH.

Thanks to Kenton for uploading the videos to YouTube.

Make sure you swing by the King's Head Pub for the second night of CreCommedy, this Monday, October 25th.

More Muppet Madness

2010-10-11T15:38:00.001-05:00

Kermit joins the ad game- thanks @rhcomics :)

Sesame Street gets the Old Spice Treatment-

2010-10-08T17:50:00.001-05:00

Just... I'm dying laughing over here. I was having the worst day ever and this made it 10 MILLION times better.

Enjoy.

Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Dracula

2010-10-01T22:46:00.002-05:00

(Image courtesy of www.rwb.org)

So I had the pleasure of seeing the Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Dracula tonight. Wow. What a beautiful production. Everything from the sets to the period costumes to the lighting effects, the entire presentation was absolutely beautiful.

Dracula is not your typical ballet- it's gritty, humourous, and even, dare I say it, sexy. First produced in 1998, they have been touring this show around the world ever since.

My first exposure to the RWB's version of Dracula actually took place in the same theatre (the Concert Hall) 10 years ago. I was invited to attend the premiere of Guy Maddin's Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary, which was a silent film interpretation of the RWB's production.

The really cool part, and what brings it all together for me, is that acclaimed dancer Tara Birtwhistle played the role of Lucy in both the film, and the version that I saw tonight.

It's Tara's last season with the company, so if you can get a chance to see Dracula, I would highly recommend going. But hurry! It's only on until October 3rd. You can order tickets here.

My new theme song.

2010-09-23T20:38:00.002-05:00

Yes, theme song. Everyone has theirs, the power anthem that makes them feel so good that if you hear it in public you'll dance shamelessly. I think I found mine.

(image courtesy of USA Today)

Meet young Willow Smith- yes, THAT Willow Smith, who's father you may know as the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Will Smith. I truly believe that Willow is my spirit animal. At only 9 years old, she has created a masterpiece of music that will have ladies everywhere flipping their Indian Remy and losing their lace fronts.

Willow's track "Whip My Hair" debut at number 60 on the Billboard charts, and has been noticed by music mogul Jay Z, who has signed young Smith to his Roc Nation label.

Jay Z had said he had heard the song, and was calling it a "smash", even before knowing it was 9-year-old Willow Smith.

With a flare for high fashion and a voice that slays a certain other Roc Nation female artist, how long before Willow Smith is the new number one diva to watch out for?

My week with the iPad.

2010-09-17T11:12:00.003-05:00

I'm not going to lie to you. When the iPad was first launched, I was the biggest hater alive. You could have given me the hater of the year award. I even remember having heated debates with classmates about how useless the iPad was going to be.

And then I got an iPad for school.

At first I hemmed and hawed about how I would use it.

Then I started taking notes on it. Cool- smaller and less annoying than my laptop.

THEN I used it as an excuse to talk to the cute boy in line at Tim Hortons... well, kinda. The other way around. He asked me all about the iPad, and we debated on if it was worth purchasing one or if we liked our iPhones more.

AND THEN, I found my favourite app. I'm not very good at keeping shot lists or drawing story boards- Story Pages HD makes it easy to create, draw, and write storyboards- for $2.99 you get an amazing stoyboarding app that allows you to make storyboards, and even email them to multiple people as a PDF. So cool.

So looks like I found a use for it after all.

New York City.

2010-09-09T16:56:00.005-05:00

I recently took a trip to NYC. I was so very excited about going.

But once I got there...

The feeling I got from the city made me feel horrible. Don't get me wrong, NYC is a beautiful city. The buildings, the skyline, the bridges, the people... there's just so much to see and do..

But NYC is not for me. Not in the way I thought it was.

I did however get to see some amazing/hilarious/awesome things while I was there.

1) The view from my hotel:

I stayed at the beautiful Hotel on Rivington, in Manhattan. This is what I woke up to in the morning.

2) Getting tattooed by Simone at Rising Dragon Tattoo-

Simone was patient and amazing, and designed my beautiful tattoo for me.

3) Times Square-

Home of the biggest Forever 21 in the world? And Juniors Cheesecake.. not the original location, but just as amazingly delicious. Sidenote: I have an awful fear of mascots, and Times Square was a haven for them... not a good look!

4) Only in Queens-

We get on the bus, the bus driver looks like the love child of rappers Freeway and Rick Ross, and tries to jack my friend for his chain... what???? Also, 13 year old girls who look like they are my age... eeek.

5) The MTA-

North Americas best mass public transit system. And the rats that go along with it (seriously.. they're as big as my cat).

I wish I had more to write about it. It was a good experience to have, but I honestly didn't love the city like everyone said I would. Maybe I'm not as high strung as I thought?

You never thought it would happen: Kanye West + Raekwon + ... Justin Bieber?

2010-08-31T19:10:00.003-05:00

Despite the cries of my little sister that "Justin Bieber ISN'T REAL!!!", this track.. well, it wasn't at all what I expected. When 'Ye first tweeted about a collaboration between himself, J Biebz, and The Chef, no one really took it seriously...

Then last week, Kanye dropped this gem on his blog, which sampled Bon Iver, and featured everyone's favorite "Barbie" Nicki Minaj, as well as Jay Z, and Officer Ricky Ross.

As part of a publicity stunt (Kanye? Publicity? REALLY????), Yeezy has said he will be dropping a new track every week until Christmas as part of his G.O.O.D. Friday movement.

The J.Biebz track is a remix of his "soulful" track Runaway Love (in which Bieber sounds like a young MJ... blasphemous for me to say, I'm sure, but have a listen), remixed with a Raekwon verse, and 'Ye throws his own verse on top of all that. Seriously, give it a listen... it may surprise you!

And keep an eye on Kanye's blog for new tracks every Friday.

And download the new Big Sean mixtape, too, while you're at it.

Word.

Wow, summer flies by.

2010-08-27T14:13:00.002-05:00

I have avoided this blog like the plague all summer, mostly because I have been busy working demeaning and horrible jobs (hello, I took a job in a CALL CENTER??? What is wrong with me), making new friends, planning the next year or so of my life, and discovering just who I am and what I want to do.

Of course, the last weekend before we start back at school, I manage to catch a horrible summer cold, leaving me bed-ridden and unable to enjoy my last few days of freedom. Sigh. That's the breaks though.

Speaking of The Breaks- I managed to maintain my radio show all summer long, only missing one show do to hospitalization.

Let's talk about that for a moment- hospitals are not very fun. Thank you, though, to everyone who sent me positive vibes and well wishes while I was ill, and special thanks to Danielle who came to see me and brought me homemade cookies and took long walks down the hospital hallways with me so I would not have to take Heparin shots every day, and Allen L who brought me peanut-butter m&ms and gummi bears, because candy cures everything.

So that was basically my entire summer. How was yours?

Help my friend go to Africa!

2010-05-08T13:15:00.002-05:00

Shannon is a wonderful, amazing human being, and she is part of the Awaken Worldwide GO tour, but she needs your help!

for more information about Awaken Worldwide click here.

Awaken Worldwide, exists to see exploited children around the world rescued
and restored to the innocence they were innately given. We exist to see justice
restored to the hidden, the orphan, the forgotten, and the captive around the
globe. Our aim is to see the global exploitation, slavery, and trafficking of
children ended in our day.

Awaken Worldwide, works toward the freedom of enslaved, trafficked, and
exploited children to the ends of the earth, through direct involvement in child
rescue efforts, and after care for the healing and restoration of each child.

Awaken Worldwide, specifically focuses on the establishment of children’s
villages, houses of refuge, and children’s centers.

The last week is upon us

2010-04-18T21:03:00.001-05:00

The stress is finally starting to dissipate and life is slowly returning to normal.
I almost can't believe this is happening! I can remember the day that I got my acceptance letter...
In fact, it caused a fight between me and somebody.
What was supposed to be a highpoint in my life ended up being a disappointment.

However, school, not a disappointment.

I'm so happy to have been able to have this opportunity.

Yay CreComm fam!

Don't forget to tune in..

2010-04-09T15:16:00.002-05:00

to the Breaks on 92.9 Kick FM.

I swear that this show is my stress relief!

If you can't tune in tonight, check the USTREAM channel.

And if you want to see a good show tonight, come down to Republic Night Club for the finals of Winnipeg's Got Talent.

Aggie VS The White Panda:

2010-04-04T18:16:00.001-05:00

Hi. I'd like to tell you about my new favorite mashup artists, The White Panda. No, I don't just like them because they have PANDA in their name. They make some of the greatest party rockin' tracks I have ever heard.

I fully encourage you to check them out at www.TheWhitePanda.com, and be prepared to dance your ass off.

Love, Aggie.

ZOMG SCOTT PILGRIM TRAILER DROPPED!

2010-03-25T16:51:00.002-05:00

I don't know what else to say without swearing. Seriously, this is the most exciting movie launch I think I've ever experienced.

And after last weeks busy blog post...

2010-03-19T14:47:00.002-05:00

This week I don't have too much to blog about!

Let's see...

I saw Lil Jon play last night. He wasn't as hyped up as I was hoping he would be! But still a fun night getting crunk off the 4 Red Bulls (yes, JUST Red Bull for me, please), and not getting any sleep.

Speaking of not getting any sleep, the magazine project is wrapping up! I want to thank Kevin, Kristel, and Meg for all their hard work this past week in the final push. I may have been a bit grumpy, but they were all super understanding and we all supported each other and got that thing in the BAG. (Well, okay, aside from the one typo I found, in my own contributor bio nonetheless, whoops.)

Tonight, I'll be on 92.9 Kick FM for my show The Breaks. Don't forget to become a fan on Facebook, if you aren't already, and send the page to all your friends. Please. :)

And that's all for this week. I'm sure next week I'll be far more exciting, but for now, a well deserved nap.

SO SO SO MUCH to blog about this week!

2010-03-11T21:28:00.004-06:00

First off, I've had the pleasure of being a live-tweeter at this years IPP presentations. When I'm not being overwhelmed with tears by the touching speech of Matt Preprost, or dancing my ass off to the sounds of Disco! Disco! my thumbs are firmly planted on my iPhone and I'm tweeting a little bit about everyone's amazing projects.

I want to shout from the rooftops about how amazing and talented all the second year students are this year, and how many of them have helped and guided me through my own first year in the program. Thank you for listening to me talk your ears off about whatever stupid project was stressing me out, when you guys were under ten million times more pressure.

Feel free to follow/peruse my Twitter stream for the final day of live-tweeting, Friday, March 12th.

* * *

This past weekend I got the opportunity to see two amazing live shows. First up was The Clipse, a rap duo from Virginia who put on an amazing live show.

Here's a song of theirs, Grindin' (feat Pharrell)

And here's a couple of my best pictures that I shot at the show:

* * *

And then of course there was the aforementioned Kid Sister show which was a high energy dance party once she hit the stage.She's so incredibly talented and amazing, I'm so glad I got the opportunity to see her live, thanks to the guys at Ernie Booms Productions. Those two guys are going to do big things in this city! Be on the lookout for more show announcements from them.

* * *

Last but not least, I have a couple announcements of my own to make.. #1, tomorrow I start my LIVE TO AIR radio show on 92.9 Kick FM. My show, called The Breaks, will concentrate on Hip-Hop, Rap, R&B, sometimes maybe even a little Reggae and Soca, depending on my mood. I also plan on making the show a part of my own IPP, using new media to promote old media! I will be podcasting, vlogging, and blogging, and eventually I want to put on a rap show with the proceeds going to a local charity. Sounds cool huh? I have one week to pull together a proposal that makes sense and will impress the panel, but I have a pretty good feeling about this one.

My second announcement is another show that's coming up next week.. Atlanta's own LIL JON is going to be performing in Winnipeg at the Republic Night Club, next Thursday, March 18th. Lil Jon is known for his production on many famous rapper's tracks, inserting his own catchphrases, "WHAT!", "YEAH!", and "OKAY!" into the songs. Advance tickets are $20, and will be available at The Urban Bakery, 398 Portage Ave, on Friday.

With that announcement, I leave you with my favorite Lil Jon song, and probably one of my all time favorite songs, Snap Yo Fingers

Hey, #CreComm, you like to dance, don't you?

2010-03-03T19:21:00.002-06:00

We're all really stressed. I feel it in the air, this thick tension, people on the verge of breakdowns as we chug towards the final few weeks of school.

Why not unwind this weekend at a fantastic dance party?

Ernie Booms Productions presents Chicago electro-rap artist Kid Sister, at the Pantages Playhouse Theatre, Saturday, March 6.

Kid Sister broke onto the scene in 2007 with her single "Pro Nails" which features highly controversial rap star Kanye West (the man we love to hate). Her recently released debut album, Ultraviolet, features the infectious dance anthem "Right Hand High".

This will be Young’s first time bringing her unique electro-dance-rap style to Winnipeg. She has proven her worth on the scene, collaborating with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, electro, and dance. Her debut album includes appearances by Cee-Lo, Estelle, and DJ Gant-Man.

Also performing at the show are Winnipeg's own The Lytics, and Night Life Types DJ DLO.

I know, we're all burried under homework, but maybe a little break to shake off your stress at a dance party might prove worth while!

Hope to see you there!

His name's Wale and he came to get it.

2010-02-26T14:37:00.003-06:00

Last night I fulfilled one of my "artists I need to see before I die" list. I can now check off Wale, an incredibly talented emcee from D.C. The set was stacked with older tracks off of his mixtapes (including the song that catapulted his popularity in the blogosphere, W.A.L.E.D.A.N.C.E., a track which he raps over Justice's D.A.N.C.E.), as well as songs off of his 2009 debut album Attention Deficit.

Though a lot of people who don't really listen to rap don't know him, you may recognize his first single from Attention Deficit, Chillin' featuring Lady Gaga.

(apparently YouTube does not allow embedding of their music videos anymore, boo! you can click this link to check out the song though)

There were also a few great local opening acts; Ndu, Finalie, Swig Fu, the ever energetic John Smith, and DJ Lonnie Ce pumping out bangers before the sets and getting everyone hyped up.

All in all it was a fantastic night. Thanks again to Ryan Reyes, who allowed me to assist in promoting the show (getting my feet wet, as they say, in doing exactly what I want to be doing).

(Ps. I got to meet Wale, and he was really chill. Ignore the fact that I look like a hot mess, it was at the end of the night after dancing the whole time haha. Totally worth only getting 3 hours of sleep before the streeter!)

Reading Week

2010-02-19T21:01:00.005-06:00

I didn't do anything this week. 'Cept hang out with these lovely ladies in an almost empty club (seriously, it was probably more fun than hanging out in a packed club). I haven't accomplished anything but catching up on my sleep and consulting with my doctor.

It's been a good week.

Beyond 140, Twitter against Facebook in a battle for my attention.

2010-02-11T19:34:00.002-06:00

I'm a self-admitted internet junkie. I have had a blog since I had the internet, been on user groups, used IRC, chatted on fan pages before the advent of Facebook, I was even an ICQ early adopter (7 digit number, what!). So when we were asked to write a blog about the differences between Facebook and Twitter, I was super stoked.

Here's how I use each:

With Facebook, I normally use it for the chat functionality (when it works). I post status updates, normally pertaining to what I'm listening to or watching at any given moment. I use it to communitcate with my friends, not only in Winnipeg but around the world as well. I'm not one to play games on Facebook, but I notice a lot of my friends are. I become a "fan" of products, mucisians, and shows that I like. I end up getting a lot of good sale information from Facebook from shops and manufacturers that I'm a fan of, which is great (love a good deal). Obviously from a PR point of view, this makes me an ideal user, because the content I get is chosen by me, so I respond and interact with it all the time. I also find myself using Facebook to make events and make plans with my friends, or plan my weekend by events I've been invited to.

On Twitter, I find myself mostly using it to tweet about my rage towards Winnipeg Transit, trying to make a trending topic of Dr. Petty, and talking to characters from Glee (what a great tool that was for them). I end up following more people on Twitter, but never reading their tweets. I'll search for topics that interest me, such as the #CreComm and #ChrisPetty hashtags, but other than that unless a tweet jumps out at me, or is directed to me with an @reply I probably wont pay attention to it. As much as I love Twitter, I just don't think I could effectivly use it as a marketing tool. I have seen other people use it, and use it well! I will often tell the story about how on my birthday, I tweeted about having birthday dinner at Earls, and within minutes was @replied by them wishing me a happy birthday and asking me to tweet about my experience, which was awesome, including the Twitter birthday wishes. And earlier, I spoke of taling to characters from the TV show Glee, which is probably the most creative use of Twitter I have seen yet.

One thing that I do use Twitter for more than Facebook is getting my breaking news. I follow a lot of local news writers on Twitter, and enjoy reading their updates and will often click through for further details of a story, where as on Facebook, I mostly read my friends' updates and very few of them talk about breaking news.

So, the tl;dr version of this: I, personally, use Facebook to talk to my friends, and Twitter to gather news and talk about Dr. Petty.

(I think Facebook is winning this war, but it could change.)

Experiences with theatre.

2010-02-09T17:33:00.001-06:00

I wish my memory wasn’t so fuzzy. I can’t for the life of me, remember when it was that I saw Of Mice and Men… or even if it was at MTC Mainstage or Warehouse. All I can remember is that I a) was not quite old enough to see the meaning behind the play, and b) I loved watching it. I have never been one for movies in theatres, but plays, I love. I love seeing the emotion and reaction of live people acting something out in front of me.

And I wish my memory wasn’t so fuzzy to remember the name of the wonderful one-woman play that I saw around this time last year at the MTC Warehouse, but I remember the power of the characters, and how well everything fit together. I remember relating fairly well to the story as well, as I had just broken up with someone, and the play was about a jilted lover.

Needless to say, I can’t remember a time I ever had a BAD time at the theatre, even the time when I was 6 years old and had to perform on stage at the Pantages Playhouse and almost threw up. Imagine that, me getting stage fright (though it was more the prospect of being stage kissed by the icky boy who played the prince… I mean, I was 6, he DID have cooties, right?). I just love the theatre.

I must make a point to check out one of the plays upcoming at the MTC. Perhaps over Reading Week.

Nothing to write about.. except for school!

2010-02-03T19:34:00.003-06:00

School has been busy, and I of course, in true Aggie fashion, have been battling with some health issues that have had me miss class. Boo.

But that doesn't mean I am any farther behind than anyone else.

Currently, on my scope, I have the following assignments due:

Radio presentation (ad lib 5 minutes)
Final draft of magazine article
Job letter with revised resume
Radio drama pitch
Advertising co-operative project
Newsletter assignment
Target audience analysis

all due within the next 6 days, in addition to maintaining this blog, and trying to feel better. Phew. Thankfully I don't have much to do this weekend by way of anything else (except getting my first tattoo on Saturday *gulp!*), so most of my time will be (well) spent immersed in work. Most of these things already have a good start on them, it's just a matter of putting the finishing touches on everything and proofreading the living daylights out of them. Providing I can really push myself, I may even have everything done long before it needs to be turned in.

Just taking everything one day at a time right now. That's the easiest way to handle it all.

Scott Pilgrim VS the World set to release August 13

2010-01-28T19:33:00.002-06:00

Ohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgod
ohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgod
ohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgodohgod

(I'm a little excited, can you tell?)

(photo via scott pilgrim the movie dot com, info from collider dot com)

I know Kenton will appreciate this one:

2010-01-25T15:26:00.004-06:00

Cliff Chiang: “Enlist Today”

Part of a series of three Imperial Propaganda posters created for the upcoming Star Wars Galaxy 5 trading card set from Topps.

The above was inspired by this WWII poster.

Via: The Daily What
By way of: superpunch.

Are you in a band? Are you going on tour? Would you like you like to hire a Tour Photographer?

2010-01-25T12:12:00.004-06:00

Photographer Jay OByrne, previously mentioned in the post about pandas, is looking to go on tour. He's a talented young photographer who has recently had a 2 page photo featured in Alternative Press. From Jay:

My name is Jay OByrne, and I am looking for an opportunity to photograph for your band(s) on tour.

My enthusiasm for photography goes back to 2006 when I started taking photos with a point-and-shoot camera. Once I started I knew that taking pictures is what I wanted to do with my life. I bought my first professional SLR camera later that year and took pictures of everything I could.

Music photography is my main interest. I enjoy shooting portraits, live concerts and festival settings. I started with local Manitoba shows in 2007 and got my first large-scale show in 2008, when I shot City and Colour for Dine Alone Records. More recently I have photographed Blink 182, traveled to shoot the Vans Warped Tour, and went on a 3-week tour from Saskatchewan, Canada, to Montreal, Canada. Along with this I have done assigned photo work for publications such as Alternative Press and We Go To Shows Magazine.

I shoot with a Canon Rebel XTi and have an wide range of lenses at my disposal. I am familiar with all makes of Canon cameras and have some experience with Nikon cameras as well. I also have knowledge of personal photographic lighting techniques as well as stage and concert lighting and how to use preset lighting to my advantage while shooting.

I am able to process all of my photos through Adobe Photoshop CS4 and have experience using the entire Adobe Creative suite to create layout and edit photos.

Traveling is a huge attraction to me so traveling across Canada, North America, or even overseas would not be a problem. I am enthralled by the prospect of being able to tour and take photographs.

I’ve always considered photography more than a hobby, because it’s my passion. Costs aren’t a concern to me and I’m willing to take any compensation for my travel expenses that’s available.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact via the details listed below.

Thank you for your time and consideration, please find attached my live photography shooting resume, and a sample portfolio of my work in the link below.

Jay OByrne.

http://portfolio.jayobyrne.com/

Jay OByrne
jayobyrne@gmail.com
jayobyrne.com

If you or someone you know might be interested in hiring him, drop him a line! He would love to hear from you.

Well, it's about time I explained this...

2010-01-21T16:38:00.006-06:00

Ever since I was 5 years old, just a wee lass of an Aggie, I've had a little obsession.

My mom had taken me to the Assinaboine Park Zoo to see the Pandas In Person exhibit. From then on, I was obsessed.

From that age on, I had everything and anything with a panda on it. Toothbrushes, cups, plates, toys, t-shirts, socks, EVERYTHING. Even the first cross stitch I ever produced was a pink panda on a field of green. I know, right? I was adorable.

My first stuffed toy I can remember that far back, was a panda. I took him everywhere with me. He had a blinking heart in his chest that lit up when you pressed his hand. Then, one day, the heart stopped blinking. I decided to take him to the annual Teddy Bears Picnic for diagnoses and testing (remember, I was 5, maybe 6 by this time). The doctors did everything they could, but to my dismay, they pronounced him dead of a broken heart. From that day forward, I vowed to mend every panda with a broken heart.

So far I've kept that promise, and still have a mighty collection of pandas in my house. I've even designed my own character, a panda ghost, which I have made several paintings of.

I don't know how else to end this entry, other than showing you a picture of me, in my panda hat, sent to me by my friend James in Chicago. (photo taken by the wonderful Mr. Jay OByrne, please visit his website)

It Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time: In The Chamber 2010.

2010-01-19T10:39:00.003-06:00

On Friday, January 14th, the students of first year Creative Communications filed into the Rachel Browne Theater to watch what would end up being a performance that we would all be talking about.

After a bizarre prologue which involved a couples struggle for the covers in bed, and an inappropriate hand-job scene, the first act opens to Gordon Tanner pacing a "hotel room" nervously, as he prepares to film himself speaking to his "sort-of, by proxy boss". He is a corporate suit, working for an agriculture company as a Human Factors Analyst, a central theme throughout both acts. He is uncovering the cause of a hog-barn fire, which killed 15,000 nursing pigs. For most people, that wouldn't seem to be a problem, but for Tanner, he is coming to the realization that everything about what his company does is wrong. His monologue covers how the fire happened, what could have been done to prevent it, and how the farmer reacted (and, in turn, how he reacted to the farmers' reaction). As Tanner discovers himself and his morals come into question, he essentially tells his boss to go eff himself, before going to check on the farmer he beat up.

After a short interlude, and a long conversation about Jersey Shore with Jessica Chapman (and how I would be Snookie's best friend, if I could), we get on to the second act. Set in a restaurant, Steven Ratzlaff gives a touching monologue describing the death of his son, born with a malformed heart. He touches on an inquest that closed the pediatric surgery ward at Health Sciences Center, and details painfully the series of testimonials given by physicians and parents at the trials. Keeping with the theme of Human Factors Analysis, Ratzlaff explains how the "new view" blames an entire staff and system for killing his son, instead of an individual surgeon, and how statistically speaking, there is no way for anyone do get the best care available. At the end, Ratzlaff casts off the healthcare system as a whole, and it is only then that we are told that his wife is planning on leaving him because she believes he wants to die. He tries explaining that it is not that he wants to die, but rather that he does not wish to risk his life in the hands of so-called health care professionals.

All in all I found the play intriguing, if not a little long, and somewhat difficult to digest at times.

An Open Letter to Pat Robertson from "The Devil"

2010-01-16T12:57:00.002-06:00

This was printed in the Minneapolis Star Tribune

Dear Pat Robertson,

I know that you know that all press is good press, so I appreciate the shout-out. And you make God look like a big mean bully who kicks people when they are down, so I’m all over that action.

But when you say that Haiti has made a pact with me, it is totally humiliating. I may be evil incarnate, but I’m no welcher. The way you put it, making a deal with me leaves folks desperate and impoverished.

Sure, in the afterlife, but when I strike bargains with people, they first get something here on earth — glamour, beauty, talent, wealth, fame, glory, a golden fiddle. Those Haitians have nothing, and I mean nothing. And that was before the earthquake. Haven’t you seen “Crossroads”? Or “Damn Yankees”?

If I had a thing going with Haiti, there’d be lots of banks, skyscrapers, SUVs, exclusive night clubs, Botox — that kind of thing. An 80 percent poverty rate is so not my style. Nothing against it — I’m just saying: Not how I roll.

You’re doing great work, Pat, and I don’t want to clip your wings — just, come on, you’re making me look bad. And not the good kind of bad. Keep blaming God. That’s working. But leave me out of it, please. Or we may need to renegotiate your own contract.

Best, Satan.

And all I can say is wow. Way to stick it to him, resident Lilly Coyle (author of this letter).

(via NPR.ORG)

RAGE! Why are student being allowed to pass without learning anything at all!?

2010-01-15T14:55:00.003-06:00

I was perusing the online Winnipeg Free Press today and came across a very interesting article.

In summation: NDP is saying that it's wrong to reduce a students grade for turning in an assignment late, as it is not a reflection of what they learned.

......

.........

REALLY??

Okay, so I kind of get it, but by that logic, shouldn't teachers stop giving us quizzes and tests based solely on material that we can memorize? Because, in theory, we haven't really learned anything but how to memorize, right?

I feel like people are being pushed through the high school system without learning anything about, well, anything really. In fact, about the only thing I can recall learning in high school was.. well.. erm... I think I learned how to plan a wedding? (Thanks, Mr Sirrel!)

Maybe it's because of this that I was in such "culture" shock when I came to Red River. We run on a system of deadlines and professional standards. So being late to class loses you marks, acting in an unprofessional manner loses you marks, turning in any assignment late loses you marks. Luckily we are being groomed for these kinds of situations. But what of the students out of high school who were never taught these professional standards?

However, this isn't really knowledge you can be tested on, so how do you measure that? It's not like we aren't learning things just because we lost marks for being late, so how do ANY grades reflect what you have learned, honestly? The only way we know that we have progressed is that we now have fewer notes in the margins of our papers (hopefully).

What you're supposed to get out of school is not only the knowledge of what you're being taught, but also how to conduct yourself in an appropriate manner once you have left the school, and allowing students to slide by without being punished for being late kind of destroys that whole idea.

I understand that the timeliness of an assignment is no indication of how well you have learned the material, but allowing a student to be late wont normally produce a better paper in the end, it just allows them to procrastinate even more.

Steven Putz said to me, via twitter that "(the no fail system) just sets kids up for failure in the future since they have no incentive now to learn these valuable skills in life." I think he hit the nail on the head.

Need a reason to dress up? Here's 25 of them from CollegeFashion.net

2010-01-14T17:33:00.002-06:00

Because life’s too short to blend in. Don’t settle for average.
Because you’re only young once. You’re way more gorgeous than you know & have a fabulous body you’ll one day look back on and wish you had! Take advantage now and show off how fabulous you can be.
Because fashion is a method of self expression. What are you trying to say?
Because you never know who you’ll run into. Brad Pitt at the grocery store? Hey, stranger things have happened.
Because it obviously annoys some people (like the guy who asks why YOU are so dressed up). The fact that it annoys them so much is all the more reason to keep doing it.
Because you never know, there’s always a chance you could get snapped by The Sartorialist (or maybe the girls over at Street Spotted)!
Because you deserve to look your best at all times.
Because you’ll never improve your sense of style if your default look is “I give up”. Yes, that was a Seinfeld reference. But it’s true!
Because dressing up helps you weed out friends who don’t love you for you. If they have a problem with the way you dress, they’re not the kind of friends you want around.
Because cute clothes and accessories are a great conversation starter. Wear something fabulous and people will ask you where you got it.
Because parties aren’t the only time to celebrate.
Because that fabulous party dress in your closet cost too much to only be worn once. Remember cost per wear?
Because it’s fun!
Because even if you live in an “unstylish” city & are scared to dress up, cities don’t become stylish without someone going first. I know it sounds cheesy, but be the change you want to see in the world. Everyone else can follow your fabulous lead.
Because dressing up helps you make fashion mistakes and get past them. Mistakes happen to everyone and that’s how you learn what not to do – get them out of the way now!
Because it’s a test of your confidence. Dressing unconventionally forces you to develop the self-assurance necessary to stand out from everyone else.
Because fashion is one of the rare instances where art comes alive. What artistic statement do you want to make?
Because if you’ve got it (great style, killer confidence, amazing legs), it’s just wrong not to flaunt it.
Because someday when you have a 9-5 corporate job and are required to wear business suits, you’re going to miss the freedom of dress you had in college. Experiment now! There’s no better time.
Because glamour isn’t only reserved for the rich and famous, even though maybe they’d like you to believe it is.
Because if conspiracy theorists are to be believed, the world might end on 12/31/2012 – that’s only 1211 days from now! Even though we all worried about Y2K too, why not be on the safe side? Don’t spend the theoretical 1211 days you have left in sweats.
Because Carrie Bradshaw would not approve of your sweatpants and UGG boots. You can do better than that. And deep down, you know I’m right.
Because dressing well means you don’t have to do your hair at all – you’ll have that ultra fabulous, slightly disheveled Kate Moss look.
Because nothing beats the rush you feel when you look in the mirror and LOVE what you see.
Because you want to. That’s the only reason that matters.

source

5 things a tech startup can learn from Lady Gaga

2010-01-13T01:14:00.001-06:00

A very interesting little article from thisisgoingtobebig.com

Michael Cera and the pseudo-event.

2010-01-08T13:32:00.003-06:00

Recently, there's been some buzz about our favourite typecast, Michael Cera visiting some familiar locals of the MTV show, Jersey Shore.

(Photo via newteevee.com)

Cera, seen here with two of the show's stars, was sent to visit the cast to help promote his new movie, Youth in Revolt, opening Friday January 8th.

I can't quite figure out who set this up, it was either MTV, who created the hit TV show Jersey Shore, or Dimension films, the company who released Ceras' new film, Youth in Revolt. Either way, the event brought media attention and riled the blogosphere for both the movie and the show.

For the past week, every entertainment news site and blog I read has had something about Michael Cera's guido makeover. So this little "drop-in" garnered some attention, and why wouldn't it? Pairing the hottest youth star today with the most talked about show on TV right now, neither of which really have anything to do with each other, and setting it up to give Cera and the cast some photo ops and even video (which aired during Thursdays episode of Jersey Shore), the day before Cera's new movie is released... Hmm. This does smell a little like good ole' P.R. to me.

For more articles about Jersey Shore, visit the Wikipedia page, which has a fairly comprehensive list of articles compiled.

Back in the swing of things.

2010-01-08T11:05:00.002-06:00

A quick update because I'm falling behind in blogs already (oh noes!):

THIS SEMESTER IS OVERWHELMING. We are one week in and I'm already starting to panic a little bit.
Erratic sleep patterns are back! Sleeping from 7-10 then working from 10-3 then sleeping for 3-5. Hurray!
I can't wait to go for a drink. After class of course. And eagerly anticipate the email regarding the magazine project.

I hope everyone is having a good first week back at school and or work. I will have better blogs coming next week, I swear!

Christmas break, I am DONE with you!

2010-01-02T23:17:00.003-06:00

Honestly, I'm not very good at "vacationing". Holidays are not my "forté". So I'm happy to be going back to school on Monday. However, there are a few things I will miss about being on holidays.

Sleeping till noon. Such an amazing feeling.
Watching an entire series in a day. I went through Glee twice, 2 seasons of the O.C., 3 seasons of Gilmore Girls, and a few others this holiday. Nice change 'cause I never get to watch TV.
A quiet house. The first week of vacation the kids were still in school, so the house was completely silent most of the day.
Playing N64. Wait, that won't change! Hah.
Partying on weeknights. Fun times had by all.

All in all, I had a pretty relaxing vacation, but I am READY to get back into it and go hard. I need to ace this semester! I'm ready to get to it!

BRING IT ON!!!!

Dear Mr Christie (Or Nabisco, to my US counterparts);

2009-12-18T18:53:00.000-06:00

(photo via.)

I am sorely disappointed in the lack of Fudge Mint Oreos on my local grocery-store shelves this holiday season. It is one of about 5 things I look forward to about Christmas (the other 4 being Toblerone, an excuse to wear my Christmas panda socks, crying over holiday specials and kids’ Christmas Concerts, and baking).

Surely you can find it in your heart to send some of the 230 calorie-per-cookie love in the direction of Winterpeg before the season is through.

Please don’t let me down.

Aggie

Looking for a last minute gift?

2009-12-16T01:23:00.002-06:00

These awesome little plushy guns with mustaches are only $7.50USD and are ridiculously adorable. There's also full sized guns and the seller makes custom guns as well!

Check out Faren Makes Art on Etsy to take a look at what she has to offer!

More Gaga fandom

2009-12-09T23:59:00.002-06:00

I think I fell a little bit more in love with Lady Gaga after seeing this interview with Barbara Walters. Worth watching to the end.

I Love Twitter

2009-12-03T14:22:00.004-06:00

It gives me the chance to see what my favorite rapper, @Wale is doing.

Also, I love the witty @ replies I get from @ShelleyACook.

And, to lighten up the CreComm mood, I follow @FakeAPStylebook, which pokes fun at all those silly little rules we as journalism students have to learn before we can break them.

If you read this, and feel so inclined, you can follow me, @aggiesems, on Twitter.

I know, I am a new media nerd, but I can't help my love for the Internet :)

Okay, so I'm more than a LITTLE obsessed...

2009-12-02T21:54:00.001-06:00

I found this amongst my blogger travels today. It's so creepy, it's gone beyond creepy, and back to kind of normal again. Either way, enjoy.

Something so sexy about men with beards talking typographic to me.

2009-12-02T18:06:00.005-06:00

The great things about this video:

Men with beards. From what I gather, and can vouch for, men with beards are HOT.
They're parodying Lady Gaga. My current girl-crush.
IT'S A SONG ABOUT TYPEFACES!!! I am a GIANT font nerd. I love fonts. I COLLECT fonts even.

Talk nerdy to me. ;P

The Five Stages of Lady Gaga (written by saafz.tumblr.com)

2009-11-30T12:46:00.001-06:00

Read it here. It's very good.

4. Acceptance - Lady Gaga is alright. Not a fan or a hater, just an observer- an observer that’s very doubtful of whether she’ll ever produce anything better, or as good as her debut.

Only because we were talking about ridiculous baby videos today

2009-11-23T18:09:00.002-06:00

Here is a video of a baby doing the Stanky Leg.

Enjoy

Where I get my courage from (alt. Defeating your dragons)

2009-11-21T20:04:00.002-06:00

(image via Andrew Todd Photography)

The Paper Bag Princess is the story of a princess who’s fiance, Ronald, gets taken by a dragon. Her castle is burned up and so are her clothes so all she has to wear is a paper bag. So she goes to rescue her prince in nothing but the paper bag. She defeats the dragon all by herself, but then Ronald says to her “You're dirty, your hair is a mess, and you're wearing a paper bag, come back when you look like a real princess”
so she says to him (and I quote):

“Ronald,” said Elizabeth, “your clothes are really pretty and your hair is all neat. You look like a real prince, but you are a bum.”

They didn’t get married after all.

"The CreComm spread; it's a little more ample when you end than when you start."

2009-11-20T11:27:00.002-06:00

This was said to me by Kenton, after I remarked that this semester has seen me gain back a few of the previously aforementioned lost pounds.

What about post-secondary school that makes people gain weight? I mean, we've all heard of the "Freshman 15", so we know that it's not exclusive to CreComm students. But what is it that makes this happen?

Is it the proximity and availability of so much unhealthy food? Well, there's healthy options just about everywhere, and lots of near-by places that offer non-fried, non-fatty options. And I know I ate just as much junk before I started school as I do now.

Is it the fact that we sit on our butts in class for close to 8 hours a day, plus doing homework? That could be a major contributing factor, especially for someone like me who spent most of my time before I started school working on my feet in a physically demanding job.

Could it be that the course is so demanding of our time that we find less time for physical activity? But, how could that be, there's a gym on campus that's open early in the morning and late at night, catering to our every student-ly need!

Maybe, just maybe, since starting school for creative communications, we've all just gotten better at excuses for not exercising.

Hmmmmm......

I thought this was cute

2009-11-13T09:56:00.003-06:00

(image via http://www.thedonutproject.com/)

We're on TV!

2009-11-11T23:55:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Kenton for posting this. Hurray!

Personality Profile: Allan Lorde

2009-11-03T18:08:00.002-06:00

I thought I would share this with everyone. This is the paper I wrote for Journalism class on Allan Lorde, Winnipeg Illustrator. Enjoy!

You see them and you may take no notice at all, but sometimes one may catch your eye. Stapled to a light post in downtown Winnipeg, a hand sketch of one of your favorite rappers, a scribbled font to tell you where and when. Some say poster making is a dying art form, but not illustrator Allan Lorde.
Lorde has been designing iconic posters, album covers and logos for nine years. He’s done works for the likes of famed DJs Co-Op and Hunnicut, rappers John Smith, Pip Skid and Grand Analog, and even international acts the Murder City Devils, Neil Hamburger, and the Dirtbombs. He has been featured in both editions of the Gigposters.com colouring book, as well as the invite only third edition playing cards. You may have even seen his work on the cover of Stylus magazine.
And this is just in his spare time.
Lorde, 34, stands over six feet tall, and could only be described as “teddy-bear”-esque. He’s one of very few illustrators in Winnipeg, and of a dying breed of illustrator that still uses his own two hands to make everything. His newest project, a logo for the University of Winnipeg Students’ Association “Freestyle Three” event, graced posters and literature throughout the city.
Lordes’ start in the industry was not an easy one. After failing twice, he finally graduated from the graphic arts program at Red River College in 2005.
“I wouldn’t change a thing though, I met so many great people and learned so much,” Lorde says of his days at Red River College.
From there he began designing posters and logos, doing mostly freelance work for friends. His distinctive style began to show through, attracting more and more clients.
“I've known Al for almost 10 years,” Says friend and colleague, Tim “DJ Co-Op” Hoover, “I met him as the big, friendly guy at shows. I then learned he was an artist and started to hire him to make posters. He’s made about 15 posters for me, personally, and countless other posters, logos, and t-shirt designs for friends.”
Employed doing layout at Naylor as a full time gig, Lorde aspires to become a full time illustrator, but finds that his own tendencies stop him from achieving his goals. “I tend to have crippling bouts of self-doubt, and I also read and talk about illustration more than I actually do any. I have this insane thirst for knowledge that often clouds my ambition.”
His wife, Sarah, agrees. “I think that Al has put up enough road blocks now that he finds it hard to dig himself out of that.” She speaks highly of her husband, but with concern. “He has this fear of failing, so he wont try something because he’s afraid he wont be successful, but where is the success in that?”
They have been together for almost 12 years now, and have supported each other through thick and thin. They recently returned from their honeymoon, a trip to Japan “I was hoping that the trip would inspire him to draw more, but I think it actually regressed him,” says Sarah, “he gets it in his head that if he can’t be as good as someone else, why should he bother trying?”
But still, Lorde chugs towards his goal of doing this full time. He says that a lot of his inspiration comes from the online forum Gigposters.com, a community of other illustrators and designers. “I was on there and I was amazed at how much these people could teach me,” says Lorde, “there’s only so far that book learning can take you, and to me, these guys were actually doing it.”
He finds inspiration for his work comes in waves, from his colleagues at the site, his love of wrestling, and his lovely wife, among other things. “It’s funny,” Lorde says “sometimes, you just have to know when to use good design, and when all it needs is bacon and a pair of boobs.”

(p.s. I got a 15.5/20 on this. My best mark I've received on a paper thus far in CreComm. It made me feel GREAT. Thanks Steve!)

Me and My Family

2009-10-31T19:03:00.000-05:00

And because Kenton wanted to see my "Misty" Halloween costume...

Yeah, we all look alike. :P

Halloween and Ladies.

2009-10-29T14:48:00.004-05:00

(photo via http://aowins.tumblr.com)

I'm a mouse, duh!

Halloween... a time where young ladies thoughts turn to "how slutty can I actually be?"... No joke, some of the "slutty" costumes I have seen this year:

(via http://theshield.cambrianc.on.ca)

Timmy's Ho??? REALLY?!?!

This costume infuriates me on the worst kind of level. Mostly because when you think of a Tim Horton's employee, you definitely do not think SEXY. Have you seen the ladies of the campus Tim's?..... Yeah, that's what I thought.

(via http://www.halloween31.com)
I thought that Nightmare on Elm Street was supposed to be scary? Enough said.

Anyways, I thought I had more to say, but I don't. There may be a continuation of this, when I have observed more than my share of skanky costumes. Oh and I'll try and get some good ones of my costume, 'cause no way am I wearing it to school. No one would ever appreciate it! Not enough nerds in CreComm I guess.

I just wanted to point out....

2009-10-29T14:04:00.002-05:00

This awesome blog post by my classmate Kristel about poster design. I figured someone *coughAlcough* might appreciate it.

The Age Of Music Posters Is Dead

renegotiating the deal

2009-10-26T18:29:00.003-05:00

So. Student Loans sent me a nice little letter. It says, basically: "Because you are receiving some money to live so you can go to school without working, we're reneging, and not only are we not giving you any more money for next term, you have to pay us back $1,800."

I don't know what to do at this point, as I don't think I'll be able to pay for next term out of my pocket.

I hope that I can get this worked out, because this is absolutely ridiculous, and I don't even know where to go from here.

I feel like things just keep going wrong for me, and it's such a lost cause at this point. Ugh.

Bert and Ernie- ANTE UP

2009-10-22T22:42:00.001-05:00

LANGUAGE WARNING:
This song contains lyrics that may offend.
However, I think you should watch it anyways, cause it makes me die laughing every time I see it.
That is all.

For the love of Blogging

2009-10-22T13:09:00.004-05:00

What can I say about blogging that hasn't been said a million times before?

Well, I can only give from my own point of view, I suppose.

I have had my own blog in various incarnations since I first had the Internet. I used it to complain... a lot. I complained about my parents, about school, about the weather, about my friends. I complained about books I had to read and ones I wanted to. I complained about life.

You'd think, at 25, that I could stop complaining and start sounding like I knew what I was talking about, in at least one aspect of my life.

Yet, here I am, reading my blogs from this year so far, and I still complain... a lot.

But it's funny, the only thing I have never complained about is Blogging itself, a medium I have grown to love as a public forum or a way to get my thoughts down. The opinions I have get heard, whether you agree with them or not!

But let's not leave this topic without talking about the other thing I love about Blogging, reading other peoples' blogs!

Some of my classmates' have amazing blogs, I love every time they update.

Melyssa's Chalk - Her updates always have some humour in them, and always have something interesting and relevant to talk about.
From A to Z with Shelley C. - The other life-blogger in the class, woo! Shelley writes very well, and is a chronic commenter too, which is nice. Good alphabet themed posts, too!
Snik In The Thick Of It - Snik has a great sense of humour as well, and it comes across in everything he posts. He has an eye for writing stories that people will care about, and that will also make you interested in what he's talking about.
Talking Point - Jessica's posts are witty and intelligently written, and always a great eye for topics.
The Alternative Star - Deb, though quiet in class, has one of the most well written blogs I've ever read... EVER. She mostly writes about music, and has really great taste. I always love reading about her concert experiences.
That's What I'm Talking About - Caitlin's true to self style of writing, and sharing of life experience makes her blog a great read.

There are many more of my classmates blogs, and I read them all whenever they update (hooray for the RSS Feed, am I right?), if you would like to check out any others, they are linked to the right of my blog posts.

But aside from school blogs, there are a few other great blog sites I frequent. (click the picture to check out the blog!)

AccessWinnipeg writes about this great city. Deal, spills, what's going on, the Top 5 lists always make me laugh.

Allan Lorde is one of my all-time favorite illustrators, and the topic of my Personality Profile! He mostly writes about his struggles in illustration and work, finding balance in his life, and more about Winnipeg. He is cool beans!

The Javis Johnson Project is the blog of a music producer from Atlanta named (duh) Javis Johnson. He's really talented and writes about interesting things. I really love his beats.

and of course....

My professor and PR mentor (ha ha!) KentOn LarsEn's blog. When he's not posting about what he's making us do for school, or how he takes OTHER CLASSES on fun field trips (so jealous), he posts his opinion on books, movies, ads, music, whatever pops into his brain. It's interesting to read what my teacher likes doing OUTSIDE of the classroom, and makes me feel like I'm a little more on his level, especially when he posts about bands that I have been liking recently, or, you know... Star Wars...

So there you have it. My great blogger round up. There are so many more that I read as well, but I don't want you to waste your time with blogs the way that I do (or do I? Muahaha).

Interesting link re: Flu season!

2009-10-20T13:52:00.002-05:00

As I lay in my bed, recovering from my second illness during this cold and flu season, and with the threat of H1N1 lingering, I did what every good hypochondriac does, and Googled my symptoms!

Fortunately, I don't think this is H1N1 (lucky for us all, right?) but I did find this very useful site, released by McGill University, on what to do if you do come down with an illness.

Click here and read about what to do if you get sick

Congrats!

2009-10-17T14:23:00.002-05:00

Maeghan and Kimberlee were both in today's editorial section of the Free Press. Good job guys!

Apartment rentals: How much do you know?

2009-10-16T16:29:00.002-05:00

Well, aside from the presentation portion, my group has wrapped up our Buyer Beware project.

I must admit I was a little skeptical on making the topic work, but once we really got into the swing of things, I found out a lot of things I really didn't know. Since I was a renter for 7 years, this kind of shocked me!

Things I learned doing this project:

A rental agencey only has 14 days to return a deposit check once a tennant has moved out, provding there is no claim against it. (Side note: I'm still waiting on a cheque from August 1st. Hmm.)
To check the cell phone reception in your suite before you move in. (Funny thing about that is that for as long as I have been a renter, I have been a cell phone user as well, and I would have NEVER thought to check this until I found a very thorough "before you move in" check list.)
That despite the horror stories you hear every day, most people, when asked, are generally happy with their rental agencies.

As a note on that last one, we surveyed 70 people, no discrimination of age, gender, race, or income, and ended up only finding a few people who were dissatisfied with their company. We did find out, however, that very few people actually knew where to go if they had a problem that could not be resolved through their landlord or rental company.

Most of the renters we surveyed pay between $500 and $700 per month, at 43 percent. Twenty-nine percent of people pay between $700 and $1000, and 24 percent pay between $100 and $500. The fewest amount of people pay over $1000, just 4 percent.

The most common agencies throughout the survey were Sussex Realty (14%), Winpark Dorchester (10%), Smith Agency (5%), A.S.H. Management Group (5%), Towers Realty Group (5%), and private suite rentals through landlords(18%).

The company slowest to fix issues in apartments was Sussex Realty, where 50 percent of people who used the agency that had issues responded that they did not respond very quickly to their repair needs.

The company with the least amount of repairs needed was A.S.H. Management group, where 75 percent of those surveyed had no issues in their apartments in the last 12 months.

Of all 70 people surveyed, 76 percent said they would be at least somewhat comfortable approaching a higher authority in trying to resolve irresolvable issues.

We found out that 58 percent people surveyed claimed to know what agency to approach in the event of an irreconcilable difference, but only 34 percent could actually name the agency. The remaining 42 percent admitted to not knowing at all.

Also, we found that generally, the more you pay does not necessarily mean you get more utilities included in your rent. In fact, 28 percent of the low to mid range priced apartments included more utilities than just heat and water, comparable to the39 percent of people paying over $700 that had additional utilities included. Of all rent ranges, 86 percent included, at bare minimum, heat and water.

I also found it very interesting that oral agreements can be used for a period of 21 days before getting a signed copy of your lease agreement. So if you have been told verbally that you have obtained an apartment, but then had it withdrawn for whatever reason, it would actually be considered a breach of contract!

All in all, this whole project showed me a lot of useful information.

For more information on the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Guidebook: click here.

For useful checklists for apartment hunting: click here and here

I'm sure glad she never took this route with me.

2009-10-15T13:38:00.005-05:00

Reading the Winnipeg Free Press today, I came across a story about a young woman who has been the subject of three recent public alerts. She is considered one of Winnipeg's most "at-risk youths".

However, delving deeper, this article is based on a letter written by her mother, pleading for her safe return from the care of Child and Family Services Manitoba.

The way that the mother described her daughter before admitting her to the care of CFS sounded a little too familiar...

"She had been a really, really good kid. But all of a sudden she started doing things I'd have never imagined. She went all goth, dying her hair black, and I'd come home to work to find she was throwing parties in the house where they'd all be drinking," (Taken from Winnipeg Free Press online edition)

I couldn't help but think to myself, "Gosh, this sounds like me at 13."

Her mother called CFS and had her voluntarily committed, which she now admits was a mistake.

"My daughter is in major danger in the hands of CFS. This has to stop," the single mother wrote in a recent letter to her daughter's case worker and supervisor. "I reached out and asked for help when my daughter was not listening and getting into some trouble. Now her life is in danger. This was by far the biggest mistake I have made for her." (Taken from Winnipeg Free Press online edition)

I can think back to all the times my own mother lost it on me, threatening to call CFS and do this exact same thing. After discovering and reading this story, I'm more thankful than ever she didn't.

This young lady needed nothing more than the guidance of someone who could help her in the right direction. Instead she was condemned as a problem child, and thrust into a system which has failed her.

It's disappointing that things really have not changed since I was younger. It's actually gotten harder for youth (and the parents of) to seek help for behavior that could potentially be caused by depression, anxiety, or a myriad of other problems that can be addressed and helped. It took my own family forcing me into treatment with a mental health practitioner to make me realize I even had a problem (though, the treatment was terrible at best, but we will save that for another blog, another day).

I wish that I could meet this family, show them that there is another side and another option. Show them how far I've come personally, to make this young woman realize that it's entirely possible to make it through and become successful. Maybe even to mentor her and encourage her to seek the appropriate channels of help, through whatever means she feels comfortable in, even if it's just to talk with someone like me.

By and large, I'm less disappointed in the mother of this girl than I am in CFS, for not realizing and recognizing the signs, and helping her to get the help she appropriately needed. This situation could have been completely prevented, in my opinion, by better recognizing the signs of so-called "troubled youth" as perhaps the beginning of an actual deep seeded issue that can be helped.

For those of you out there who feel affected or have been affected by similar situations, what is your opinion? Would you know where to go for help? Would it be helpful to have some sort of youth resource out there that is more front and center and focusing on depression and anxiety in adolescents? (I think I feel an IPP coming on...)

In closing, I leave you with one of the first mainstream songs to ever confront the issue of run-away youth, Soul Asylum's Runaway Train. Be sure to click through and check out some of the comments on the video, still going strong 17 years after the song was released. Who knew this song could still have such an affect on people?

(I would have inserted the video directly on my blog, but YouTube has foiled me yet again! Blast you, embedding disabled by request! Why don't you want people to watch your videos?! Sorry Kenton.)

30 Day Jet Setter.

2009-10-06T23:07:00.003-05:00

It's been a while, hasn't it? Sorry about that. Well, I'm back, and I'd like to tell you a little bit about a project that my friend is working on. He has purchased a 30 day "All You Can Jet" pass from JetBlue Airlines, and is using the 30 days to fly to 42 cities. You can check out photos and stories from his adventure at his blog, http://www.30dayjetset.com.

This one goes out to all of my ATL friends...

2009-09-22T20:57:00.005-05:00

(image via Tumblr)

Sorry guys, it had to be done....

My ovaries just cried a little

2009-09-22T19:25:00.002-05:00

When can I have babies that do this?!? (I bet you can't watch this all the way through without giggling or making an AWWWWWH face)

I just slept for something like 20 hours

2009-09-19T15:58:00.002-05:00

So I don't have too much to say. Missed the Apple Store opening, and I'm spending my sick time in bed watching cheezy teenage dance movies.

(photos via allposters.com)

(photo via illmovies.com)

Yeah, my guilty pleasure.

It's hoop mania!

2009-09-17T13:02:00.002-05:00

I want to tell you guys a little bit about how I stayed in shape this summer. It's this new-fangled technology called the Hula Hoop.

(image from blog.modernmechanix.com)

This summer, I taught myself how to build my own Hula Hoops for fun and fitness. Some basic instructions were found here, but I changed my formula a little bit, so here's some information on how to build your own!

Gather your supplies! I used 1/4" white PVC pipe that comes in a 10' length from the Home Depot. 10' might seem like a lot, but trust me, once you make it into a hoop, it will make it seem smaller. It costs under $10, and you will require a coupling for it, which costs about $0.49 (If I recall). I chose this white pipe vs. the black 50' pipe because a) I don't need to make 4 hoops, and b) I found the black pipe a little more flexible, which I personally didn't like. You will also require some sort of semi-water-proof tape (I use black electrical tape), but only if you want to weight your hoop. Also, whatever colour of decorative tape you would like to make your hoop.
Take your pipe and unravel it, loosely forming a circle. Heat one end of the pipe with a hair dryer until its hot to the touch (makes the pipe flexible). Insert the coupling into the heated end. If you would like to weight your hoop, this is when you would do that. Measure out some water (the most one of these will hold is about 3 cups, trust me, I've tried, which makes the hoop about 5 lbs after all is said and done). Heat the other end of your pipe, and connect using the coupling. Allow to cool.
If you weighted your hoop, use a good amount of the waterproof tape to seal the connection. Wrap it evenly, back and forth, using a diagonal pattern.
Here's the fun part! Take your decorative tape, and wrap your hoop in a diagonal pattern, covering all of the plastic. Don't worry if you miss a spot, you can always go back over it. Do anything you like, make a striped pattern or a plaid pattern, or leave it solid coloured! I've even seen some interesting L.E.D. hoops, but I have yet to make one myself!

My new favorite blog

2009-09-16T23:41:00.000-05:00

I'ma let you finish.....

see also: Kanygate

I was going to write a really long meaningful blog about Kanye West...

2009-09-15T21:31:00.000-05:00

... but I spent all night moving into my new house and trying to unpack. PHEW.

Instead, please enjoy this article I found about how Taco Bell is ripping off independent artists who have done work for KidRobot.

TACO BELL ripped off my DUNNY!

This will be removed by morning, and i hope it isnt.. but enjoy

2009-09-13T23:06:00.000-05:00

Lady Gaga at the VMA's

her voice is AMAZING live.

...and three hours later, prescription in hand....

2009-09-13T18:27:00.000-05:00

I would like to talk a little bit about the Canadian Health Care System.

I'm not opposed, nor am I for socialized health care. Of course, everyone knows of the debate in the US right now of if its a good idea to put a new plan in place, blah blah blah, media over-saturation...

But I would like to talk a little bit about the flaws of our very own health care system, before anyone goes and looks at ours as a model.

When I was 18, I was involved in a very serious car accident. We're talking 13 interior stitches, 13 exterior stitches, and a scar that will be on my eye for the rest of my life. However, the only memory I really have of the actual accident is the 5 excruciatingly painful hours I spent strapped to a head and neck stabilizer, bleeding from my head, because there was only one emergency doctor on duty that night.

Now, I'm thankful to this doctor, and the fact that he stitched me up and gave me copious amounts of pain medication. I'm thankful for the fact that Autopac Insurance covered the cost of my 10 minute ambulance ride to the nearest hospital. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to shit on our health care.

But the fact remains that there is a horrible shortage of doctors here, meaning many of us go without family physician for years on end, relying on walk in clinics when we need something. Which usually means less time spent diagnosing what might actually be wrong, and more time spent pushing antibiotics on every ailment, which in turn increases resistance to antibiotics, etc etc, the list goes on, right? Not to mention the lack of walk in clinics open on a Sunday or holiday (I'm sure everyone who lives in Winnipeg has been to St James Medical Walk-In at least once in their lives).

I'm not saying I'm an expert on what needs to be done, but something really does have to change. For Americans, maybe all that needs to happen is the affordable insurance plans need to be more affordable, and the low income assistance plans need to be set in place. For Canada, perhaps a two-tiered system which allows you to pay for faster service if you can afford it would work. But who knows, right? I'm no expert on the topic, I only see the faults where they affect myself and my friends.

All I know is that affordable and reliable health care should be in the grasp of all... Hey here's an idea, lets all move to Trinidad! Ha ha ha.

How I spent my summer vacation....

2009-09-12T11:06:00.001-05:00

Everyone, I'd like you to meet my ex boss and one of my many influences from the past two years, Frieso.

I recently attended the art exhibit that he put on in memory of his father, Jan Boning, a progressive Winnipeg screen print artist. But you'll read more about that later, for now I'd like to talk a little bit about my time at Omniscreen.

I spent two years there, sweating, toiling, getting cut, fingers slammed, and learning a lot. Not just about screen printing, but about life as well. I was the only girl there, other than Frieso's wife and daughter, who worked on sporadic occasion when there was an election or a long run of book covers. I did a little of everything; press work, hand table, back slitting, flat cutting, filing, secretarial, when there was a roll that needed to be filled, I filled it. In return, I learned the sense of pride that could come with a job well done, and seeing things that you had a hand in making.

I also got some of the best advice about love and life I could have ever expected from my work family. My boss and his wife have one of the best relationships I've ever seen, and 3 beautiful children. My foreman just recently got engaged to a wonderful woman, and found out he is about to be a grandfather. My co-worker has been with his wife for 3 decades, and has 2 grown sons who just left his home.

Together these three men taught me everything I know about respecting myself, and not letting anyone bring me down. They saw me through the end of my 4 year relationship, and all my dating foibles thereafter. As my foreman always said, "you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find a prince."

Most of all, they helped me grow up, and realize my dreams. They encouraged me, and backed me up in everything I did, even when it meant leaving them. They were my family, when my family couldn't be there. They were my friends when everyone else fell back. I miss work dearly, but knew school was something I needed to do for myself.

I want to thank them for everything they have done for me for the past 2 years. They made me realize my goals and my dreams, and helped me to achieve them. For that I will be eternally grateful.

Radio Production, or, why I hate the sound of my own voice.

2009-09-11T16:12:00.000-05:00

Don't get me wrong, I LOVE to hear myself talk. It's why I do it so much. Give me a topic and a few minutes to look it up and I will talk for hours about anything. Especially if it's a topic I enjoy.

HOWEVER. I hate the sound of my recorded voice. Today in Radio-P, we had to record a news report, and do I ever need some speech therapy.

Anyways, so some of you can hear my oh-so-awesome singing voice, here is a little video I recorded of myself and my five yer old sister, Gabrielle, singing her favorite song. Some of you may recognize this one :)

Who Am I?

2009-09-10T13:30:00.001-05:00

I don't even know where to start this off. My name is Aggie S., and I am currently suffering a quarter-life crisis. ("Hi, Aggie!"). I turned 25 this year, and my entire life made a 180* turn.

I was in an almost 4 year relationship that ended, I quit my career of 3 years, and I started school (Creative Communications program at Red River). I moved out of the apartment I had made my home for 4 years, and back in with my parents.

I conquered my fear of traveling alone, and took a trip to the city I would like to call my future home, Atlanta, GA.

I lost close to 100 lbs by exercise and lifestyle change, which drastically changed how I felt about myself, and how others viewed me.

So this is me, and this blog will be some musings on dealing with the progression of my life from working class to young professional.