A: I am utterly disgusted with myself! The McNuggets alone are 310 calories and 21 grams of fat. However, a combo meal includes fries, sauce and a drink. Just as an aside, I may have a fondness for fast food, but I am not a big soda drinker; so I will get the drink that is included, but I usually pour it down the sink. The total calories in an entire 6 piece McNugget meal (including a soft drink) is 930 calories! That is more than half my allotted daily calories! No more nuggies for me!
Monday
Nuggies
I tend to have a late night ritual -- one that I am not proud of. I have a tendency, particularly when out late with friends, to take the subway home and stop off at McDonald's. My poison of choice is always a 6 piece McNugget meal with sweet and sour sauce. Lately, I have noticed that I will wake up in the morning feeling bloated and sluggish and have vowed to stop my consumption of this deep fried, high fat, questionable food choice. To do so, today's question is: How many calories in McDonald's Chicken Nuggets?
Thursday
Getting Inked
March 20, 2010
This morning, my roommate got up early to have a portion of her tattoo filled in. She is working on her third tattoo, which is situated on her entire thigh and works its way up onto her hip and portrays the decay of love, agony of hope and emptiness of faith – so it’s a cheerful piece of art. Today’s question is: how deep does tattoo ink penetrate?
A:
There are three layers to the skin. The epidermis, which is the outer layer of skin, that is wonderful and soft to touch, and protects us from eternal elements. This is the layer that is easily shed and is constantly renewed. The second layer of skin is called the dermis. This layer contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles and sweat glands. The deepest layer is called the hypodermis, which is responsible for the body’s temperature control.
When someone gets tattooed, the ink is injected into the dermis, which is between 1 mm and 3 mm below the epidermis dependant on which area of the body is being tattooed. The ink is deposited in the dermis because skin cells shed at a much slower rate than the epidermis layers closer to the surface thus explaining why tattoos can remain in the skin a lifetime. Most tattoo artists know how deep to drive the needle into your skin, but not going deep enough will produce a ragged tattoo, and going too deep can cause bleeding and intense pain.
Sources:
Kids Health
Zimbo Magazine
This morning, my roommate got up early to have a portion of her tattoo filled in. She is working on her third tattoo, which is situated on her entire thigh and works its way up onto her hip and portrays the decay of love, agony of hope and emptiness of faith – so it’s a cheerful piece of art. Today’s question is: how deep does tattoo ink penetrate?
A:
There are three layers to the skin. The epidermis, which is the outer layer of skin, that is wonderful and soft to touch, and protects us from eternal elements. This is the layer that is easily shed and is constantly renewed. The second layer of skin is called the dermis. This layer contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles and sweat glands. The deepest layer is called the hypodermis, which is responsible for the body’s temperature control.
When someone gets tattooed, the ink is injected into the dermis, which is between 1 mm and 3 mm below the epidermis dependant on which area of the body is being tattooed. The ink is deposited in the dermis because skin cells shed at a much slower rate than the epidermis layers closer to the surface thus explaining why tattoos can remain in the skin a lifetime. Most tattoo artists know how deep to drive the needle into your skin, but not going deep enough will produce a ragged tattoo, and going too deep can cause bleeding and intense pain.
Sources:
Kids Health
Zimbo Magazine
Rockin' Robin
March 19, 2010
The temperature has slowly been creeping up and I have seen the first sign of spring – the red breasted robin. I can remember when I was younger, I saved a Christmas card that had a picture of a robin in the snow and it got me thinking. Today’s question is: Do robins migrate during the winter months?
The temperature has slowly been creeping up and I have seen the first sign of spring – the red breasted robin. I can remember when I was younger, I saved a Christmas card that had a picture of a robin in the snow and it got me thinking. Today’s question is: Do robins migrate during the winter months?
A:
Robins can survive winter temperatures however their diets consist mainly of worms, berries and nuts, which are not abundant when the ground is frozen. Therefore, the majority of robins migrate to the southern costal provinces of Canada and the south-central United States. They are known to go as far as Texas, Florida and Mexico.
Robins generally begin to fly north in March to begin breeding, yet have been known to linger in the United States if the food supply is plentiful. Robins tend to return to the same breeding location year after year. So, it looks like Frank and Franca in our yard this year are the same couple as the year before – they are like neighbours who take an extended winter holiday.
Sources:
Hinterland Who’s Who
Journey North- Winter: Where are our Robins?
Get me a coffee, quick!
March 18, 2010
After my many Guinness’s and a very late night, I was in desperate need of a coffee. Well, actually, I would have like to throw a sicky, as I was in desperate need of some more sleep and perhaps a big breakfast fry-up. In any case, I complained to someone and they grabbed the nearest person, ordering “Get this woman a coffee, stat.” This got me wondering, I hear medical doctors on telly saying this all the time, and I have deduced what it means, but in any case, today’s question is: what does the word ‘stat’ mean?
A:
The word 'stat' is from the Latin word 'statim', which means immediately. It is more than likely used because modern medication got a good deal of its terminology from Latin, although most modern doctors just use 'now'.
Source:
The Straight Dope
After my many Guinness’s and a very late night, I was in desperate need of a coffee. Well, actually, I would have like to throw a sicky, as I was in desperate need of some more sleep and perhaps a big breakfast fry-up. In any case, I complained to someone and they grabbed the nearest person, ordering “Get this woman a coffee, stat.” This got me wondering, I hear medical doctors on telly saying this all the time, and I have deduced what it means, but in any case, today’s question is: what does the word ‘stat’ mean?
A:
The word 'stat' is from the Latin word 'statim', which means immediately. It is more than likely used because modern medication got a good deal of its terminology from Latin, although most modern doctors just use 'now'.
Source:
The Straight Dope
Sacred Symbol of the Irish
March 17, 2010
Today is the day that everyone is Irish! Saint Patrick’s Day is a large celebration here in Toronto, which usually includes a parade and the most profitable day for every pub in town. The day is filled with good laughs, friendly people wearing green and rivers of alcohol. I, not being Irish, still fully participated in the event and made friends with a gaggle of girls decked out in green and had painted shamrocks all over their faces. Today’s question is: why is the shamrock associated with Ireland?
A:
According to what the Oxford English Dictionary, the shamrock was used by Saint Patrick to illustrate the doctrine of the Trinity – each leaf was a representation of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
In the seventeenth century, the shamrock had become a symbol of emerging Irish nationalism. As the English began to seize Irish land and make laws against the use of the Gaelic and the practice of Catholicism, many Irish began to wear the shamrock as a symbol of their pride in their heritage and their displeasure with English rule.
Sources:
History - St. Patrick's Day Symbols and Traditions
Wikipedia: Shamrock
Today is the day that everyone is Irish! Saint Patrick’s Day is a large celebration here in Toronto, which usually includes a parade and the most profitable day for every pub in town. The day is filled with good laughs, friendly people wearing green and rivers of alcohol. I, not being Irish, still fully participated in the event and made friends with a gaggle of girls decked out in green and had painted shamrocks all over their faces. Today’s question is: why is the shamrock associated with Ireland?
A:
According to what the Oxford English Dictionary, the shamrock was used by Saint Patrick to illustrate the doctrine of the Trinity – each leaf was a representation of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
In the seventeenth century, the shamrock had become a symbol of emerging Irish nationalism. As the English began to seize Irish land and make laws against the use of the Gaelic and the practice of Catholicism, many Irish began to wear the shamrock as a symbol of their pride in their heritage and their displeasure with English rule.
Sources:
History - St. Patrick's Day Symbols and Traditions
Wikipedia: Shamrock
Rickety bones
March 16, 2010
Today, I read an article on the Beeb about the return of rickets in the UK. I was unfamiliar with what rickets was, yet I had always assumed that it was some ancient disease that had been eradicated years ago. So, today’s question is: what is rickets?
A:
Rickets is a softening and weakening of the bones usually due to a lack of vitamin D, which is essential in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms of rickets can include skeletal deformities including bowed legs, abnormal curvature of the spine, pelvic deformities and breastbone projection in the chest. Additionally, fragile bones, impaired growth, dental problems such as deformed tooth structure, increased chance of cavities, poor enamel and delayed formation of teeth, aching pain or tenderness in the bones, and muscle weakness as a result of rickets.
Children between the ages of 3 and 36 months are most prone to getting rickets because they grow rapidly and may not get the necessary dosage of vitamin D from breast milk. It is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to supplement their own diets with fortified food or to vitamin D tablets. Additionally, the body converts sunlight into vitamin D, therefore children are being encouraged to go outside to play – not just to combat childhood obesity, but also to receive a healthy dose of vitamin D.
Sources:
BBC News: Concern over increase in rickets among ethnic groups
Mayo Clinic: Rickets
As-pear-oo-gahhh
March 15, 2010
Hm, I suppose I didn’t keep detailed enough notes on what I did – or perhaps it was an uneventful day. So, I suppose I will have to just write about something random that does not relate to my day. So, today’s question is: why does asparagus make your pee smell?
A:
Asparagus contains a sulphur compound called mercaptan. It is also found in onions, garlic, rotten eggs, and in the secretions of skunks. The signature smell occurs when this substance is broken down in the digestive system. It is still disputed that not all people have the gene for the enzyme that breaks down mercaptan, so some can eat asparagus without stinking up the place. One study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that only 46 percent of British people tested produced the odour while 100 percent of French people tested did. Insert your favourite French joke here: _______________. However, in the 1980s three separate studies concluded that most people do produce the odorous compounds after eating asparagus, but only 22% of the population has the autosomal genes required to smell them.
Sources
MSNBC
Wikipedia: Asparagus
Hm, I suppose I didn’t keep detailed enough notes on what I did – or perhaps it was an uneventful day. So, I suppose I will have to just write about something random that does not relate to my day. So, today’s question is: why does asparagus make your pee smell?
A:
Asparagus contains a sulphur compound called mercaptan. It is also found in onions, garlic, rotten eggs, and in the secretions of skunks. The signature smell occurs when this substance is broken down in the digestive system. It is still disputed that not all people have the gene for the enzyme that breaks down mercaptan, so some can eat asparagus without stinking up the place. One study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that only 46 percent of British people tested produced the odour while 100 percent of French people tested did. Insert your favourite French joke here: _______________. However, in the 1980s three separate studies concluded that most people do produce the odorous compounds after eating asparagus, but only 22% of the population has the autosomal genes required to smell them.
Sources
MSNBC
Wikipedia: Asparagus
Monday
Heartbreakers
March 14, 2010
While hanging out with Diana Catherine at her CMW gig, we learnt that they would have an extended set because one of the other bands in the showcase didn’t show. I made a request that they sing Mary Jane’s Last Dance by Tom Petty – because I just love the way she and her band make it sound! She agreed! So, I got to listen to it at the Cadillac Lounge after drinking many gin and tonics – which is my idea of a night in heaven. Today’s question is: Is Mary Jane’s Last Dance about drugs?
A:
Tom Petty has never confirmed what the song is about, but there are 2 common interpretations. It could be about Petty's divorce from his wife Jane, which happened a year before this was recorded in 1993. Another possibility is that it is about marijuana, as "Mary Jane" is slang for pot and the lyrics refer to killing the pain, which the drug is known for. Mike Campbell, The Heartbreaker’s guitarist, offered this explanation: "My take on it is it can be whatever you want it to be. A lot of people think it's a drug reference, and if that's what you want to think, it very well could be, but it could also just be a goodbye love song."
The break-up theory can be justified by the music video in which Tom played a mortician who takes home a corpse played by Kim Basinger. When he gets her home, he puts her in a wedding dress and dances with her. Petty is then shown carrying her to a rocky shore and gently releasing her into the sea. At the end of the video, Basinger is seen floating in the water with her eyes open. It won Best Male Video at the 1994 MTV Video Music Awards. It was later revealed that Basinger was not the first choice for the video, and Petty wanted Sharon Stone, but she didn't answer his request.
In any case, whether about breaking-up, smoking a joint or being a necrophiliac, I still really love the song!
Sources:
Song Facts
Wikipedia: Mary Jane’s Last Dance
While hanging out with Diana Catherine at her CMW gig, we learnt that they would have an extended set because one of the other bands in the showcase didn’t show. I made a request that they sing Mary Jane’s Last Dance by Tom Petty – because I just love the way she and her band make it sound! She agreed! So, I got to listen to it at the Cadillac Lounge after drinking many gin and tonics – which is my idea of a night in heaven. Today’s question is: Is Mary Jane’s Last Dance about drugs?
A:
Tom Petty has never confirmed what the song is about, but there are 2 common interpretations. It could be about Petty's divorce from his wife Jane, which happened a year before this was recorded in 1993. Another possibility is that it is about marijuana, as "Mary Jane" is slang for pot and the lyrics refer to killing the pain, which the drug is known for. Mike Campbell, The Heartbreaker’s guitarist, offered this explanation: "My take on it is it can be whatever you want it to be. A lot of people think it's a drug reference, and if that's what you want to think, it very well could be, but it could also just be a goodbye love song."
The break-up theory can be justified by the music video in which Tom played a mortician who takes home a corpse played by Kim Basinger. When he gets her home, he puts her in a wedding dress and dances with her. Petty is then shown carrying her to a rocky shore and gently releasing her into the sea. At the end of the video, Basinger is seen floating in the water with her eyes open. It won Best Male Video at the 1994 MTV Video Music Awards. It was later revealed that Basinger was not the first choice for the video, and Petty wanted Sharon Stone, but she didn't answer his request.
In any case, whether about breaking-up, smoking a joint or being a necrophiliac, I still really love the song!
Sources:
Song Facts
Wikipedia: Mary Jane’s Last Dance
CMW
March 13, 2010
My sincerist apologies to my regular readers, I have fallen far behind on my regular blogging, but I can assure you that I will be picking it up again! Thankfully, I have kept track of most of my past exploits and can still ask a relevant question to the events of the day!
Back in March, a couple of friends of mine were participating in Canadian Music Week. Both Andrea Ramolo and Diana Catherine and the Thrusty Tweeters played on consecutive nights to eager audiences. I have attended some CMW in previous years and enjoy hearing local talent. So, today’s question is: when did Canadian Music Week Begin?
A:
Canadian Music Week is not just a showcase of Canadian music, it also is a conference for musicians and musical professionals held in various venues throughout Toronto.
Canadian Music Week began in 1981, and has grown to become one of Canada’s largest and most influential media and music conferences. It draws top industry professionals to participate in a four-day program of activities. Designed to stimulate the exchange of market intelligence, increase dialogue and provide networking opportunities, Canadian Music Week continues to present the ideal platform for more than 2,000 national and international delegates.
Source:
Canadian Music Week
My sincerist apologies to my regular readers, I have fallen far behind on my regular blogging, but I can assure you that I will be picking it up again! Thankfully, I have kept track of most of my past exploits and can still ask a relevant question to the events of the day!
Back in March, a couple of friends of mine were participating in Canadian Music Week. Both Andrea Ramolo and Diana Catherine and the Thrusty Tweeters played on consecutive nights to eager audiences. I have attended some CMW in previous years and enjoy hearing local talent. So, today’s question is: when did Canadian Music Week Begin?
A:
Canadian Music Week is not just a showcase of Canadian music, it also is a conference for musicians and musical professionals held in various venues throughout Toronto.
Canadian Music Week began in 1981, and has grown to become one of Canada’s largest and most influential media and music conferences. It draws top industry professionals to participate in a four-day program of activities. Designed to stimulate the exchange of market intelligence, increase dialogue and provide networking opportunities, Canadian Music Week continues to present the ideal platform for more than 2,000 national and international delegates.
Source:
Canadian Music Week
Friday
Beatings and measurements
March 12, 2010
In conversation at work today there was a discussion that included the saying “the rule of thumb”. Then the story of where the expression originated, which apparently most people believe that in olden time there was a rule that a man could not beat his wife with any implement thicker than his thumb. This is not the first time I have heard this – but I am sceptical. So, today’s question is: what is the origin of the expression “rule of thumb”?
A:
The exact origin of the phrase is uncertain, yet was coined in the second half of the 1600s. The expression is either it is derived from the use of the thumb as a measurement device or it is derived from use of the thumb in a number of apocryphal "rules".
For example, His work with the youth group is largely by rule of thumb. This expression alludes to making rough estimates of measurements by using one's thumb.
Sources:
http://www.answers.com/topic/rule-of-thumb
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/rule+of+thumb
In conversation at work today there was a discussion that included the saying “the rule of thumb”. Then the story of where the expression originated, which apparently most people believe that in olden time there was a rule that a man could not beat his wife with any implement thicker than his thumb. This is not the first time I have heard this – but I am sceptical. So, today’s question is: what is the origin of the expression “rule of thumb”?
A:
The exact origin of the phrase is uncertain, yet was coined in the second half of the 1600s. The expression is either it is derived from the use of the thumb as a measurement device or it is derived from use of the thumb in a number of apocryphal "rules".
For example, His work with the youth group is largely by rule of thumb. This expression alludes to making rough estimates of measurements by using one's thumb.
Sources:
http://www.answers.com/topic/rule-of-thumb
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/rule+of+thumb
Rusty
March 11, 2010
This evening, I had to go to my former home - the little townhouse. I had moved a bunch of stuff out over the weekend, including a number of things from the rooftop patio. These things have been subjected to the elements and have developed rust spots. Moving these things through the house, cause some rust to fall on the carpet. As the house will be handed over to the new owners shortly, I had to go back to clean the stain off the carpet. Today's question is: how would one remove rust stains from carpet using natural products?
A:
The citric acid in lemons is a key ingredient in the removal of rust and tends to be an effective product in cleaning rust from fabric and carpet. Applying the lemon liberally onto the rust, agitate the lemon into the carpet fibres, taking care not to spread the stain. Let the lemon sit for one hour. Then rinse and blot dry.
If the rust stain remains, try cream of tarter. Mix the cream of tarter with a little bit of water to create a paste. Apply, agitate and let sit for one hour. Rinse and dry.
If neither of these techniques removes the stain, try vinegar, using the same method as the lemon. Once it is dry, sprinkle with baking soda to neutralize the acidity of the vinegar. Allow the baking soda to dry, once the baking soda has caked, it can be vacuumed up. This will eliminate the odour of the vinegar and hopefully remove the rust stain.
As I didn’t have the hour(s) required for the natural products, I used oxyclean. Not quite as environmentally friendly as I would have liked, but just as effective. The stain is now gone… and actually looks a little cleaner than the rest of the carpet!
Sources:
http://www.ehow.com/how_18749_remove-rust-carpet.html
http://ezinearticles.com/?Remove-Rust-Stains-From-Carpet-and-Upholstery&id=2767776
This evening, I had to go to my former home - the little townhouse. I had moved a bunch of stuff out over the weekend, including a number of things from the rooftop patio. These things have been subjected to the elements and have developed rust spots. Moving these things through the house, cause some rust to fall on the carpet. As the house will be handed over to the new owners shortly, I had to go back to clean the stain off the carpet. Today's question is: how would one remove rust stains from carpet using natural products?
A:
The citric acid in lemons is a key ingredient in the removal of rust and tends to be an effective product in cleaning rust from fabric and carpet. Applying the lemon liberally onto the rust, agitate the lemon into the carpet fibres, taking care not to spread the stain. Let the lemon sit for one hour. Then rinse and blot dry.
If the rust stain remains, try cream of tarter. Mix the cream of tarter with a little bit of water to create a paste. Apply, agitate and let sit for one hour. Rinse and dry.
If neither of these techniques removes the stain, try vinegar, using the same method as the lemon. Once it is dry, sprinkle with baking soda to neutralize the acidity of the vinegar. Allow the baking soda to dry, once the baking soda has caked, it can be vacuumed up. This will eliminate the odour of the vinegar and hopefully remove the rust stain.
As I didn’t have the hour(s) required for the natural products, I used oxyclean. Not quite as environmentally friendly as I would have liked, but just as effective. The stain is now gone… and actually looks a little cleaner than the rest of the carpet!
Sources:
http://www.ehow.com/how_18749_remove-rust-carpet.html
http://ezinearticles.com/?Remove-Rust-Stains-From-Carpet-and-Upholstery&id=2767776
More Genuis
March 10, 2010
This writing Wednesday, I got to show off more genius! There were a number of lines of poetry on the board when the class came in. The instructor asked us if we knew who had wrote them. I recognized "not even the rain has such small hands." as e.e. cummings - so my hand shot up to provide the answer. She then went on to ask, which film used this line. Again, my hand went up... Hannah and Her Sisters. I looked like a freakin' genius! Today's question is: when was the movie Hannah and Her Sisters released and how much money did it make in the box office?
A: The film was released in 1986, with a box office gross of over $40 million, this film represented Woody Allen's most financially successful film until Match Point in 2005.
The film was also nominated for over 20 awards, taking home 17 of them including Oscars for Best Supporting Actor (Michael Caine) Best Supporting Actress (Dianne Wiest) Best Writing for a Screenplay (Woody Allen).
Source:
Internet Movie Database
This writing Wednesday, I got to show off more genius! There were a number of lines of poetry on the board when the class came in. The instructor asked us if we knew who had wrote them. I recognized "not even the rain has such small hands." as e.e. cummings - so my hand shot up to provide the answer. She then went on to ask, which film used this line. Again, my hand went up... Hannah and Her Sisters. I looked like a freakin' genius! Today's question is: when was the movie Hannah and Her Sisters released and how much money did it make in the box office?
A: The film was released in 1986, with a box office gross of over $40 million, this film represented Woody Allen's most financially successful film until Match Point in 2005.
The film was also nominated for over 20 awards, taking home 17 of them including Oscars for Best Supporting Actor (Michael Caine) Best Supporting Actress (Dianne Wiest) Best Writing for a Screenplay (Woody Allen).
Source:
Internet Movie Database
Thursday
Cullumination
March 9, 2010
Jamie Cullum has just played Massey Hall. I have always maintained that his music is capable of melting my cold-cold heart, but not only has he melted it, he has captivated it and held it for ransom. He is a god! His performance was full of energy and enthusiasm, rooted in jazz but combining R ‘n’ B, gospel and pop. He broke into Julie London’s Cry Me a River and inserted lyrics from Justin Timberlake’s song of the same name. He beat boxed to classics and belted out his rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s Wind Cries Mary. Leaving the concert, I felt like everything was oversaturated with colour and alive with sound, almost as if I was living in a dream. I am not over dramatizing my experience. I urge you to see him live if you get the chance. Today’s question is: who is Jamie Cullum?
A:
Jamie Cullum is an English pop and jazz-pop singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Though he is a primarily a vocalist, he also accompanies himself on instruments including piano, guitar, and drums.
Born on August 20, 1979 to Yvonne, a secretary of Anglo-Burmese origin, whose family settled in Wales after Burma’s independence and father, John Cullum, who worked in finance.
Cullum released his first album, Heard it All, in 1999, of which only 500 copies were made. With the success of Heard It All, Cullum was invited to appear on Geoff Gascoyne’s album Songs of the Summer.
After graduating from Reading University, Cullum released a best-selling album, Pointless Nostalgic, which stirred interest from Michael Parkinson. Just after Cullum made his first television appearance, on Parkinson in April 2003, he signed a £1m contract for three albums with Universal, who beat Sony in a bidding war.
Cullum’s third album, Twentysomething, released in October 2003, went platinum and became the #1 selling studio album by a jazz artist in the United Kingdom. Cullum ended 2003 as the UK’s biggest selling jazz artist of all time. Cullum's third major label album, entitled Catching Tales, was released on September 26, 2005 and he was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song for his composition on "Gran Torino".
On the 4th of June 2009, Cullum announced the title of his fourth studio album, The Pursuit. The album, was released on November 10, 2009 (my birthday, none the less).on January 9, 2010 he married British model Sophie Dahl at a country hotel in the New Forest National Park in England.
In future, he will discover that she is an Amazon and will separate only to find love with a Canadian named Mirelle Blassnig.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamie_Cullum
http://www.last.fm/music/Jamie+Cullum/+wiki
Jamie Cullum has just played Massey Hall. I have always maintained that his music is capable of melting my cold-cold heart, but not only has he melted it, he has captivated it and held it for ransom. He is a god! His performance was full of energy and enthusiasm, rooted in jazz but combining R ‘n’ B, gospel and pop. He broke into Julie London’s Cry Me a River and inserted lyrics from Justin Timberlake’s song of the same name. He beat boxed to classics and belted out his rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s Wind Cries Mary. Leaving the concert, I felt like everything was oversaturated with colour and alive with sound, almost as if I was living in a dream. I am not over dramatizing my experience. I urge you to see him live if you get the chance. Today’s question is: who is Jamie Cullum?
A:
Jamie Cullum is an English pop and jazz-pop singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Though he is a primarily a vocalist, he also accompanies himself on instruments including piano, guitar, and drums.
Born on August 20, 1979 to Yvonne, a secretary of Anglo-Burmese origin, whose family settled in Wales after Burma’s independence and father, John Cullum, who worked in finance.
Cullum released his first album, Heard it All, in 1999, of which only 500 copies were made. With the success of Heard It All, Cullum was invited to appear on Geoff Gascoyne’s album Songs of the Summer.
After graduating from Reading University, Cullum released a best-selling album, Pointless Nostalgic, which stirred interest from Michael Parkinson. Just after Cullum made his first television appearance, on Parkinson in April 2003, he signed a £1m contract for three albums with Universal, who beat Sony in a bidding war.
Cullum’s third album, Twentysomething, released in October 2003, went platinum and became the #1 selling studio album by a jazz artist in the United Kingdom. Cullum ended 2003 as the UK’s biggest selling jazz artist of all time. Cullum's third major label album, entitled Catching Tales, was released on September 26, 2005 and he was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song for his composition on "Gran Torino".
On the 4th of June 2009, Cullum announced the title of his fourth studio album, The Pursuit. The album, was released on November 10, 2009 (my birthday, none the less).on January 9, 2010 he married British model Sophie Dahl at a country hotel in the New Forest National Park in England.
In future, he will discover that she is an Amazon and will separate only to find love with a Canadian named Mirelle Blassnig.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamie_Cullum
http://www.last.fm/music/Jamie+Cullum/+wiki
Wood Street
March 8, 2010
What a beautiful sunny day! This is most definitely an unofficial start to spring, the temperature is hovering around 11 degrees, the birds are chirping and smell of melting snow and mud is in the air! It was so wonderful that the girls from work and I decided that we would take a lunch time walk. We walked down Church Street, the main road running through Toronto’s gay village, and turned around at Carlton. On a number of occasions, I have walked this route and always notice a statue, which seems to be randomly placed, at the corner of Church and Alexander. Upon closer inspection, a plaque is posted underneath that states it is a statue of Alexander Wood – which would explain Alexander Street and Wood Street – which I thought was just an urban planner’s awful sense of humour. Today’s question is: who was Alexander Wood?
A:
Alexander Wood was a Scottish merchant who came to Upper Canada in 1793 settling in York (now Toronto) and opening an import/export business. Alexander quickly established himself as one of the city's leading merchants, was chosen as lieutenant in the York militia in 1798, and was appointed a city magistrate in 1800.
In 1810, Alexander found himself in the middle of a scandal, while investigating a rape case. The victim was “Miss Bailey” who had claimed that she did not see the face of her attacker, but had scratched his genitals during the assault. Wood called in a series of men to inform them of the rape claim and in order to identify the assailant, Wood would conduct a personal inspection of each of the suspects for injury. Rumours began to surface that the alleged rape was fabricated so that Wood as an opportunity to fondle and seduce young men. Wood became the subject of ridicule and was tagged with the nickname "Molly Wood", "Molly" then being a derisive slang expression for a homosexual man. Wood’s close friend, Judge William Dummer Powell, confronted him with the accusations, and Wood confessed: “I have laid myself open to ridicule and malevolence, which I know not how to meet; that the thing will be made the subject of mirth and a handle to my enemies for a sneer I have every reason to expect.” In order to avoid a public scandal, Judge Powell had the evidence buried, on the promise that Wood leave Upper Canada. So, in October 1810, Wood set sail back to Scotland.
Wood returned to York in 1812, resuming his prior appointment as a magistrate. He fought in the War of 1812 and was on the boards of several organizations. His life in York continued without incident until 1823, when Rev. John Strachan, a long-time friend of Wood's, recommended him for a position on the 1812 War Claims Commission. Judge Powell was the appointing authority and refused Wood on moral grounds due to the 1810 scandal. Wood sued Powell for defamation and won, but Powell refused to pay and subsequently published a pamphlet attacking Wood even further.
Wood remained in York, continuing his service in civic duties for the next seventeen years. In 1827 he purchased 50 acres of land at Yonge and Carlton Streets, which was referred to as "Molly Wood's Bush”.
Alexander Wood finally returned to Scotland in 1842 and he died there two years later at the age of 72. The British Colonist paid tribute to Wood as one of Toronto's most distinguished founding citizens.
Wood’s legacy lives on, as “Molly Wood’s Bush” went undeveloped until the 1850s. Its association with homosexuality had never gone away. It is unclear whether Wood’s reputation had drawn homosexuals to the area, or the homosexuals already there caused the reputation, no one will know for sure. But a gay neighbourhood gradually sprang up around Wood’s old property. Today it has become the Church and Wellesley area, Canada’s largest and oldest gay village.
Sources:
The Drummer’s Revenge: Alexander Wood
Toronto’s Historical Plaques
Wikipedia: Alexander Wood (merchant)
Monday
Fear and Loathing in Elmhurst Burst
March 7, 2010
I am recovering from laughter. This evening my roommate was cleaning the bathroom and she thought that I had gone to bed, but I called out to her and she nearly jumped three feet into the air. Her fear made me laugh so hard that I nearly wet myself! Although I did think to myself, instead of laughing I could have been nursing a fat lip – what if her response to fear was to punch me in the face? So, today’s question is: what are the common responses to fear?
A:
The purpose of fear is to promote survival and fear response is almost entirely automatic. Fear is created as a chain reaction in the brain. It begins with a stressful stimulus and ends with the release of chemicals that cause the physiological changes in the body triggering the fight-or-flight response.
There are two paths involved in the fear response: The low road is quick and messy, while the high road takes more time and delivers a more precise interpretation of events. Both processes are happening simultaneously. The high road is much more thoughtful. While the low road is initiating the fear response just in case, the high road is considering all of the options.
The physiological responses can be:
- heart rate and blood pressure increase
- pupils dilate to take in as much light as possible
- veins in skin constrict to send more blood to major muscle groups (responsible for the "chill" sometimes associated with fear -- less blood in the skin to keep it warm)
- blood-glucose level increases
- muscles tense up, energized by adrenaline and glucose (responsible for goose bumps -- when tiny muscles attached to each hair on surface of skin tense up, the hairs are forced upright, pulling skin with them)
- smooth muscle relaxes in order to allow more oxygen into the lungs
- nonessential systems (like digestion and immune system) shut down to allow more energy for emergency functions
- trouble focusing on small tasks (brain is directed to focus only on big picture in order to determine where threat is coming from)
All of these physical responses are intended to help you survive a dangerous situation by preparing you to either run for your life or fight for your life - thus the term "fight or flight".
Sources:
Strop and a Half
March 6, 2010
This morning I woke up early to remove the last of my half of the furniture from my former home. I was tired, irritable and sad from having to sort through the detritus of my former life; the best way to describe my disposition was stroppy. In fact, for years I have rated my “strop factor” out of ten – I know that people think that I’m all rainbows and butterflies, but I too have bad days. Today’s question is: what is the origin of the word stroppy?
A: Stroppy is an informal British term for someone who is easily offended or annoyed and bad-tempered. The word is thought to be first used in the 1950s, originating from the word obstreperous; meaning to be unruly or resisting control or restraint in a difficult manner.
Today's strop factor: 3.67 (above average mood, a little tired)
Source:
American Psychological Association (APA):
stroppy. (n.d.). The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Retrieved March 15, 2010, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/stroppy
This morning I woke up early to remove the last of my half of the furniture from my former home. I was tired, irritable and sad from having to sort through the detritus of my former life; the best way to describe my disposition was stroppy. In fact, for years I have rated my “strop factor” out of ten – I know that people think that I’m all rainbows and butterflies, but I too have bad days. Today’s question is: what is the origin of the word stroppy?
A: Stroppy is an informal British term for someone who is easily offended or annoyed and bad-tempered. The word is thought to be first used in the 1950s, originating from the word obstreperous; meaning to be unruly or resisting control or restraint in a difficult manner.
Today's strop factor: 3.67 (above average mood, a little tired)
Source:
American Psychological Association (APA):
stroppy. (n.d.). The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Retrieved March 15, 2010, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/stroppy
These Shoes are Made for Money
March 5, 2010
Today is budget day. A 5-year budget plan has been tabled that plans to bring the federal deficit down from $53.8-billion to $1.8-billion by 2015 through targeting cuts in the public service, freezing foreign aid, limiting growth in military spending and instituting higher Employment Insurance premiums.
I find the budget extremely interesting, however today’s question is is only loosely based on the budget. You see, a few days ago, Jim Flaherty, The Finance Minister, bought himself a new pair of shoes. Now, you may say to yourself “yeah, so what?” but apparently this is a tradition – Finance Ministers buy themselves new shoes to deliver the budget. So, today’s question is: where and when did the tradition of new budget day shoes start?
A: There is a common misconception that this tradition was started in the British parliament, however Westminster tradition allows the Chancellor of the Exchequer to carry into the House a despatch box (or Red Box) and to take any liquid refreshment of his own choosing while delivering his budget speech.
The new budget shoes is strictly a Canadian tradition, which likely began as a prank played on Mitchell Sharp, the Liberal Finance Minister of 1966. In 1991, Sharp explained to the Toronto Star that someone told him that Finance Ministers traditionally wear new shoes when presenting the budget. So he accepted the statement and bought a good pair of shoes that he wore on budget day in 1966 and donned another new pair in 1967. "Later, I learned there was no tradition behind it at all," he said.
The practice was not continued again until 1978 when Jean Chrétien wore new shoes to deliver the new budget. John Crosbie, the Conservative Finance Minister, pulled on a pair of mukluks in 1979. Marc Lalonde continued the tradition for two years, beginning in 1982 and Conservative Michael Wilson followed, opting for a new pair for four of the six budgets he brought down.
In 1994, Paul Martin's inaugural year as Finance Minister, he wore a pair of work boots, a gift from Mr. Chrétien, however to show frugality Mr. Martin did not buy new shoes for the following six budgets that he tabled as Finance Minister. Ralph Goodale laced up two pairs of new shoes and in subsequent years Mr. Flaherty has been inconsistent with the tradition. Yet in 2007, he bought his son skates as a variation on the theme. Perhaps that reflects the notion that minority governments are always skating on thin ice when they bring down a budget.
More on the the 2010 Budget: CBC News - Money - Federal budget 2010
Sources:
The Minister of Finance’s New Shoes
The National Post. Budget 2010: A Second Year of Stimulus Spending. Paul Vieira. March 4, 2010
The Ottawa Citizen. Why do finance ministers wear new shoes to deliver a budget? March 25, 2007.
Today is budget day. A 5-year budget plan has been tabled that plans to bring the federal deficit down from $53.8-billion to $1.8-billion by 2015 through targeting cuts in the public service, freezing foreign aid, limiting growth in military spending and instituting higher Employment Insurance premiums.
I find the budget extremely interesting, however today’s question is is only loosely based on the budget. You see, a few days ago, Jim Flaherty, The Finance Minister, bought himself a new pair of shoes. Now, you may say to yourself “yeah, so what?” but apparently this is a tradition – Finance Ministers buy themselves new shoes to deliver the budget. So, today’s question is: where and when did the tradition of new budget day shoes start?A: There is a common misconception that this tradition was started in the British parliament, however Westminster tradition allows the Chancellor of the Exchequer to carry into the House a despatch box (or Red Box) and to take any liquid refreshment of his own choosing while delivering his budget speech.
The new budget shoes is strictly a Canadian tradition, which likely began as a prank played on Mitchell Sharp, the Liberal Finance Minister of 1966. In 1991, Sharp explained to the Toronto Star that someone told him that Finance Ministers traditionally wear new shoes when presenting the budget. So he accepted the statement and bought a good pair of shoes that he wore on budget day in 1966 and donned another new pair in 1967. "Later, I learned there was no tradition behind it at all," he said.
The practice was not continued again until 1978 when Jean Chrétien wore new shoes to deliver the new budget. John Crosbie, the Conservative Finance Minister, pulled on a pair of mukluks in 1979. Marc Lalonde continued the tradition for two years, beginning in 1982 and Conservative Michael Wilson followed, opting for a new pair for four of the six budgets he brought down.
In 1994, Paul Martin's inaugural year as Finance Minister, he wore a pair of work boots, a gift from Mr. Chrétien, however to show frugality Mr. Martin did not buy new shoes for the following six budgets that he tabled as Finance Minister. Ralph Goodale laced up two pairs of new shoes and in subsequent years Mr. Flaherty has been inconsistent with the tradition. Yet in 2007, he bought his son skates as a variation on the theme. Perhaps that reflects the notion that minority governments are always skating on thin ice when they bring down a budget.
More on the the 2010 Budget: CBC News - Money - Federal budget 2010
Sources:
The Minister of Finance’s New Shoes
The National Post. Budget 2010: A Second Year of Stimulus Spending. Paul Vieira. March 4, 2010
The Ottawa Citizen. Why do finance ministers wear new shoes to deliver a budget? March 25, 2007.
Micro-soft
March 4, 2010
Today is the end of my work week. Well, not technically, but I’m on an offsite training course for advanced Microsoft PowerPoint, which makes it feel like I’m not actually working. The course is quite interesting and I’m learning about all kinds of features that I never knew that existed – did you know that you can recolour clip art? I didn’t! Today’s question is: what year was Microsoft started?
A: Microsoft began in 1975, when it was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen.
In January 1975 The MITS (Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems) Altair 8800 microcomputer appeared on the cover of Popular Electronics. The article inspired Paul Allen and Bill Gates to develop a BASIC language for the Altair. By February, the two completed Altair BASIC and sold it to MITS, making it the first computer language program for a personal computer.
The name Microsoft (a portmanteau word of microcomputer and software), hyphenated in its early incarnations, was first used in a letter from Gates to Allen on November 29, 1975, and the company was registered on November 26, 1976.
Sources:
The History of Microsoft
Wikipedia: History of Microsoft
Today is the end of my work week. Well, not technically, but I’m on an offsite training course for advanced Microsoft PowerPoint, which makes it feel like I’m not actually working. The course is quite interesting and I’m learning about all kinds of features that I never knew that existed – did you know that you can recolour clip art? I didn’t! Today’s question is: what year was Microsoft started?
A: Microsoft began in 1975, when it was founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen.
In January 1975 The MITS (Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems) Altair 8800 microcomputer appeared on the cover of Popular Electronics. The article inspired Paul Allen and Bill Gates to develop a BASIC language for the Altair. By February, the two completed Altair BASIC and sold it to MITS, making it the first computer language program for a personal computer.
The name Microsoft (a portmanteau word of microcomputer and software), hyphenated in its early incarnations, was first used in a letter from Gates to Allen on November 29, 1975, and the company was registered on November 26, 1976.
Sources:
The History of Microsoft
Wikipedia: History of Microsoft
Wednesday
Liquid Cocaine
March 3, 2010
On Writing Wednesdays we have been workshopping our short stories. There is one story about a marriage that is broken by the husband who becomes addicted to cocaine. The story takes place in a treatment centre, where the character is undergoing methadone treatment. As someone who has worked in social services, sometime having to deal with substance abuse issues, I have always known methadone as an opiate substitute to treat heroin. I made this comment during the workshop and the author defended that her story was based on reality and the addict was treated with liquid meth. So, today’s question is: can methadone be used as a cocaine addiction treatment?
A: Well shut my mouth!
A number of studies have confirmed that methadone can effectively be used to treat cocaine addiction, although it is primarily an opiate treatment. According to one study conducted at the University of Guelph, methadone can “reset” the brain back to a pattern before cocaine use and diminishes the urge to use. Additional studies have been conducted in Britain and Australia; both reports have shown a decrease in cocaine use with trail participants.. In a small study in the behavioural science department of the University of Kentucky, seven cocaine-dependent patients were treated with dexamphetamine maintenance, and then given cocaine in the lab. The results showed that the effects of cocaine were blunted.
None of the research believes that methadone treatment is a panacea or that it will be one hundred percent effective, however it remains a good option for those suffering with cocaine addiction. Additionally, individuals would need to combine methadone treatment with social supports and cognitive therapy, to curb their desire for cocaine.
Sources:
Ottawa Citizen. Heroin Treatment Also Works on Cocaine: Study. November 24, 2008
Time Magazine. Can Amphetamines Help Cure Cocaine Addiction? Maia Szalavitz. December 8, 2008
On Writing Wednesdays we have been workshopping our short stories. There is one story about a marriage that is broken by the husband who becomes addicted to cocaine. The story takes place in a treatment centre, where the character is undergoing methadone treatment. As someone who has worked in social services, sometime having to deal with substance abuse issues, I have always known methadone as an opiate substitute to treat heroin. I made this comment during the workshop and the author defended that her story was based on reality and the addict was treated with liquid meth. So, today’s question is: can methadone be used as a cocaine addiction treatment?
A: Well shut my mouth!
A number of studies have confirmed that methadone can effectively be used to treat cocaine addiction, although it is primarily an opiate treatment. According to one study conducted at the University of Guelph, methadone can “reset” the brain back to a pattern before cocaine use and diminishes the urge to use. Additional studies have been conducted in Britain and Australia; both reports have shown a decrease in cocaine use with trail participants.. In a small study in the behavioural science department of the University of Kentucky, seven cocaine-dependent patients were treated with dexamphetamine maintenance, and then given cocaine in the lab. The results showed that the effects of cocaine were blunted.
None of the research believes that methadone treatment is a panacea or that it will be one hundred percent effective, however it remains a good option for those suffering with cocaine addiction. Additionally, individuals would need to combine methadone treatment with social supports and cognitive therapy, to curb their desire for cocaine.
Sources:
Ottawa Citizen. Heroin Treatment Also Works on Cocaine: Study. November 24, 2008
Time Magazine. Can Amphetamines Help Cure Cocaine Addiction? Maia Szalavitz. December 8, 2008
DeLiver
March 2, 2010
Over the last couple of weeks, I have been experiencing some symptoms that I was slightly concerned over – things like major fatigue, some urinary problems amongst other things. I went to the doctor yesterday and had a blood and urine test, as the doctor mentioned that he suspected there may be something wrong with my liver. So there is some speculation on what it is that I actually have, one of the potentials is Gilbert’s syndrome – my roommate’s brother has it and suffers from similar symptoms. Today’s question is: what is Gilbert’s Syndrome?
A: Gilbert’s syndrome is a mild liver disorder in which the liver doesn't properly process a substance called bilirubin. Bilirubin is produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Gilbert’s syndrome does not normally have serious consequences.
Some frequently reported symptoms include: fatigue, tiredness, brain fog, headaches, poor memory, dizziness, depression, irritability, anxiety, nausea, loss of appetite, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stomach pain & cramping, liver/gallbladder pain, abdominal pain, tremors, itchiness and jaundice.
Because Gilbert’s syndrome is essentially a mild, harmless condition, it does not require treatment or pose serious complications. The level of jaundice associated with Gilbert’s syndrome is typically harmless as well, and goes away on its own. Gilbert’s syndrome typically does not need long-term monitoring, however a doctor should be consulted if jaundice or other symptoms worsen.
Note: my test results have come back negative for anything, yet I am still experiencing severe fatigue. I have been getting between 7 – 8 hours of sleep, so I should not feel as tired as I do. My doctor has recommended another blood test in month. I will be sure to keep you updated.
Sources:
Gilbert’s Syndrome
Mayo Clinic: Gilbert Syndrome
Over the last couple of weeks, I have been experiencing some symptoms that I was slightly concerned over – things like major fatigue, some urinary problems amongst other things. I went to the doctor yesterday and had a blood and urine test, as the doctor mentioned that he suspected there may be something wrong with my liver. So there is some speculation on what it is that I actually have, one of the potentials is Gilbert’s syndrome – my roommate’s brother has it and suffers from similar symptoms. Today’s question is: what is Gilbert’s Syndrome?
A: Gilbert’s syndrome is a mild liver disorder in which the liver doesn't properly process a substance called bilirubin. Bilirubin is produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Gilbert’s syndrome does not normally have serious consequences.
Some frequently reported symptoms include: fatigue, tiredness, brain fog, headaches, poor memory, dizziness, depression, irritability, anxiety, nausea, loss of appetite, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stomach pain & cramping, liver/gallbladder pain, abdominal pain, tremors, itchiness and jaundice.
Because Gilbert’s syndrome is essentially a mild, harmless condition, it does not require treatment or pose serious complications. The level of jaundice associated with Gilbert’s syndrome is typically harmless as well, and goes away on its own. Gilbert’s syndrome typically does not need long-term monitoring, however a doctor should be consulted if jaundice or other symptoms worsen.
Note: my test results have come back negative for anything, yet I am still experiencing severe fatigue. I have been getting between 7 – 8 hours of sleep, so I should not feel as tired as I do. My doctor has recommended another blood test in month. I will be sure to keep you updated.
Sources:
Gilbert’s Syndrome
Mayo Clinic: Gilbert Syndrome
Tuesday
SIAD
March 1, 2010
March 1st is Self Injury Awareness Day. Self injury has been described to me by a friend who harm as a physical expression of internal pain; it is a way to release emotional hurt or overwhelming feelings. In 1996 Princess Diana disclosed that she had dealt with bouts of self injury, which brought awareness to this hidden affliction. Although more people are talking about self harm, many misconceptions and myths exist about this practice. The American Self-Harm Information Clearinghouse began Self Injury Awareness Day as an effort to engage people whose lives have been affected by self-harm by encouraging them to distribute flyers, fact sheets, and brochures or to wear an orange ribbon to draw attention to the facts of self injury. Despite this posting going up after March 1st, I am doing my part. Today’s question is: what is self injury?
A: Self injury is a deliberate behaviour that inflicts physical injury to a person’s own body. It is a coping mechanism that enables the person to cope with intense, emotional distress allowing them to either create a sense of calm, or awakening for those who feel numb and disassociated. The injuries can validate the person’s feelings, creating ‘real’ pain that is easier to deal with than the hidden emotional pain. Self injury has an immediate effect, creating an instant relief, yet the underlying emotional issues remain. In time, self injury can become a person’s automatic response to the ordinary strains of life and both frequency and severity of self injury may increase.
The most common forms of self-injury are cutting, burning, hair pulling, biting and non-suicidal overdosing; however each individual finds their own unique way of harming themselves.
As self injury is a coping mechanism, it is difficult for people who engage in it to stop. The best way to for someone to discontinue the practice is to seek assistance from a counsellor who specializes in working with self injury cases. With proper treatment, new ways of coping will be learned and slowly the cycle of hurting will end.
Sources:
American Self-Harm Information Clearinghouse
Dr. Deb: March 1st is Self-Injury Awareness Day
First Signs
Self-Injury: The Secret Language of Teenagers
March 1st is Self Injury Awareness Day. Self injury has been described to me by a friend who harm as a physical expression of internal pain; it is a way to release emotional hurt or overwhelming feelings. In 1996 Princess Diana disclosed that she had dealt with bouts of self injury, which brought awareness to this hidden affliction. Although more people are talking about self harm, many misconceptions and myths exist about this practice. The American Self-Harm Information Clearinghouse began Self Injury Awareness Day as an effort to engage people whose lives have been affected by self-harm by encouraging them to distribute flyers, fact sheets, and brochures or to wear an orange ribbon to draw attention to the facts of self injury. Despite this posting going up after March 1st, I am doing my part. Today’s question is: what is self injury?
A: Self injury is a deliberate behaviour that inflicts physical injury to a person’s own body. It is a coping mechanism that enables the person to cope with intense, emotional distress allowing them to either create a sense of calm, or awakening for those who feel numb and disassociated. The injuries can validate the person’s feelings, creating ‘real’ pain that is easier to deal with than the hidden emotional pain. Self injury has an immediate effect, creating an instant relief, yet the underlying emotional issues remain. In time, self injury can become a person’s automatic response to the ordinary strains of life and both frequency and severity of self injury may increase.
The most common forms of self-injury are cutting, burning, hair pulling, biting and non-suicidal overdosing; however each individual finds their own unique way of harming themselves.
As self injury is a coping mechanism, it is difficult for people who engage in it to stop. The best way to for someone to discontinue the practice is to seek assistance from a counsellor who specializes in working with self injury cases. With proper treatment, new ways of coping will be learned and slowly the cycle of hurting will end.
Sources:
American Self-Harm Information Clearinghouse
Dr. Deb: March 1st is Self-Injury Awareness Day
First Signs
Self-Injury: The Secret Language of Teenagers
Striking Gold
February 28, 2010
Today was the last day of the Olympics and the Men’s Gold Medal Ice Hockey Game. Our Canadian boys did us proud and beat the US 3 to 2. The game took a disappointing turn with only 24 seconds left on the clock, when the United States scored their second goal, tying the game. But the Canadian fans were not disenchanted, as our young phenom, Sidney Crosby, won the game for us in overtime. What proceeded was pure magic; Canadians everywhere rejoiced in the streets and in pubs, singing and dancing and hugging their neighbours. Evidently, I got very carried away with the celebrations and ended up meeting up with someone that I haven’t seen in a long time, only to later regret my actions – no, it wasn’t my ex, but for inquiring minds, his name rhymes with today's question. But enough about that; back to the brilliant hockey game, although Crosby did not score all three goals, I started to wonder about the game terminology. So, today’s question is: where does the term ‘hat trick’ come from?
A:
The first use of this phrase was in cricket for the feat of a bowler who took three wickets with three successive balls, for which he would be presented with a new hat by the cricket club. Hat trick later came to be used for threefold feat in other sports such as horse racing, soccer, baseball, and hockey.
Sources:
http://dictionary.reference.com/help/faq/language/
http://users.tinyonline.co.uk/gswithenbank/sayingsh.htm
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/2539
Today was the last day of the Olympics and the Men’s Gold Medal Ice Hockey Game. Our Canadian boys did us proud and beat the US 3 to 2. The game took a disappointing turn with only 24 seconds left on the clock, when the United States scored their second goal, tying the game. But the Canadian fans were not disenchanted, as our young phenom, Sidney Crosby, won the game for us in overtime. What proceeded was pure magic; Canadians everywhere rejoiced in the streets and in pubs, singing and dancing and hugging their neighbours. Evidently, I got very carried away with the celebrations and ended up meeting up with someone that I haven’t seen in a long time, only to later regret my actions – no, it wasn’t my ex, but for inquiring minds, his name rhymes with today's question. But enough about that; back to the brilliant hockey game, although Crosby did not score all three goals, I started to wonder about the game terminology. So, today’s question is: where does the term ‘hat trick’ come from?
A:
The first use of this phrase was in cricket for the feat of a bowler who took three wickets with three successive balls, for which he would be presented with a new hat by the cricket club. Hat trick later came to be used for threefold feat in other sports such as horse racing, soccer, baseball, and hockey.
Sources:
http://dictionary.reference.com/help/faq/language/
http://users.tinyonline.co.uk/gswithenbank/sayingsh.htm
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/2539
The Body Electric
February 27, 2010
After a number of attempts at writing a play, I am still unsuccessful. I’m still clinging to the hope that next year will be the year that I can write something that I’m happy with and that will get the approval from the artistic director for production. Yet, for this year, I will stick to what I’m good at – bossing people around. For the third year, I will be directing a one act play for the InspiraTO festival. I think that for my hat trick directing gig, I am familiar with the process. However having taken a year long break, at the Director’s Meeting this morning, I felt a little intimidated. Today’s question is: what are five tips to directing a play?
A:
1) Know the play
Read through and understand the tonality and meaning of the play. Develop a vision for the play, especially how and where the actors will move (blocking), within the limitations of the production.
2) Cast the play well
Audition a number of actors to get a sense of their styles and their understanding of the play. It is useful, if casting more than one character, to have actors audition together to see how they interact onstage. The key point to remember is, the actors must fit into the directorial vision of the play.
3) Set up a rehearsal schedule
Set up a rehearsal schedule outlining the dates, times and goals for each session.
4) Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse
Work with actors with their delivery, to develop characterization and memorization. Directors should coach the actors on vocal development, volume and inflection. Once actors have come “off book” they are able to gesture and move in character. These are the key elements in rehearsing, working toward consistency to the finished production.
5) Technical aspects
Once the actors have a firm grasp of the play, the director can focus on fine tuning the blocking by plotting how the actors move scene by scene. Also this is the time to finalize the lighting and sound to enhance the final product.
Throughout these stages, it is important to remember that the director should be assertive yet inspire creativity and fun from the actors.
I think I’m ready! Bring on The Body Electric!
Sources:
eHow: How to direct a short play
Hellium: Arts and Humanities
Yahoo!Answers
After a number of attempts at writing a play, I am still unsuccessful. I’m still clinging to the hope that next year will be the year that I can write something that I’m happy with and that will get the approval from the artistic director for production. Yet, for this year, I will stick to what I’m good at – bossing people around. For the third year, I will be directing a one act play for the InspiraTO festival. I think that for my hat trick directing gig, I am familiar with the process. However having taken a year long break, at the Director’s Meeting this morning, I felt a little intimidated. Today’s question is: what are five tips to directing a play?
A:
1) Know the play
Read through and understand the tonality and meaning of the play. Develop a vision for the play, especially how and where the actors will move (blocking), within the limitations of the production.
2) Cast the play well
Audition a number of actors to get a sense of their styles and their understanding of the play. It is useful, if casting more than one character, to have actors audition together to see how they interact onstage. The key point to remember is, the actors must fit into the directorial vision of the play.
3) Set up a rehearsal schedule
Set up a rehearsal schedule outlining the dates, times and goals for each session.
4) Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse
Work with actors with their delivery, to develop characterization and memorization. Directors should coach the actors on vocal development, volume and inflection. Once actors have come “off book” they are able to gesture and move in character. These are the key elements in rehearsing, working toward consistency to the finished production.
5) Technical aspects
Once the actors have a firm grasp of the play, the director can focus on fine tuning the blocking by plotting how the actors move scene by scene. Also this is the time to finalize the lighting and sound to enhance the final product.
Throughout these stages, it is important to remember that the director should be assertive yet inspire creativity and fun from the actors.
I think I’m ready! Bring on The Body Electric!
Sources:
eHow: How to direct a short play
Hellium: Arts and Humanities
Yahoo!Answers
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