(DA) New Year's

New Year's Eve is upon us and I realize I haven't made any resolutions yet.

I didn't really make any last year, except the regular "eat better", "be more active", "write more" blah blah

Off the top of my head, I'd like to;

-play squash at least once a week
-finish my book by the end of February
-beat my times in the Races I ran last year
-read at least 9 books
-finish my second book by the end of 2015
-draw a character rendering once a week

And those are just a few things I thought of quickly.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Patience is a Virtue

When we bring the dog into a space that isn't our own, the rules don't really change but I'm much more strict with them.

My challenge over the Holidays was to re-train boundaries in my grandparents' and Jason's families homes. Washburn is not allowed upstairs (especially at my grandparents'- there are cats up there that he really wants to visit) and he isn't allowed in the basement without supervision.

The first hour and a bit of each visit consisted of me following the dog around and reminding with a gentle "no" when he was about to cross a boundary.

It's a repetitive and tiring chore, but it's worth it in the end. Eventually he learned and I was grateful that I took my time with him.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Pet Pet-Peeves

Or, rather, Pet-Owner Pet-Peeves.

-I cannot stand when people do not pick up after their dog. There is no excuse. If you didn't bring enough bags on your walk, then that's on you. Go back home and get more, go back and pick it up. Rest stops on the highway are not "leave it there 'cause I'll never have to see it again" places. HUNDREDS of pet owners use that same rest stop every day. Be courteous and pick up after your dog. Same thing goes for 'winter time'. Just because it's snowing doesn't mean you can leave your dog's poop on the ground. *rage* It's such a little thing to do. And if you don;t want to pick up after a dog, then don't get a dog.

-Pet-Owners who leave their dogs in the car while they do errands. ESPECIALLY over the summer. UNACCEPTABLE.

-Pet-Owners who use dog breeds as excuses for their dogs' bad behaviour. "Oh, Beagles are hoovers. They love food and love to beg." "Oh, He's a Husky, Husky's are pulling dogs." "He's a little dog, he's just showing who's boss, so he barks." NO. Put in the effort, train your dog.

-Pet-Owners who have no intention to breed their dog and don't spay and neuter their pets.

-Pet-Owners who have so little respect for other Pet Owners and their Pets to bring and UN-ALTERED dog (male or female) to a Dog Park.

(apparently I'm in a 'ranting' mood today)

If you are going to take on the responsibility of owning a pet, take it ALL on. Be conscientious. Be smart. Be responsible.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Big Hero 6 Review

It;s been a while since I posted a review of a movie.

Here ya go!

>>>VISIT ALTSCRN<<<

-Brandolyn

(DA) Too much of a good thing?

At this time of year, I could easily be talking about over indulging in alcohol, sweets or heavily caloric meals, but although I have been indulging in my share of sweets and delicious food, the good thing I'm referring to is actually writing.

Last night I woke up at 11:30 with inspiration to write. I was at my computer for 3 hours, before falling asleep and then going to work. Then, I got home and have been writing since noon.

Being creative, and writing is brilliant, but my hands are starting to cramp and my fingers are stiff. Probably a sign of spending too much time at my computer writing for one day.

But just like with delicious Holiday treats, I just can't stop!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Christmas(es)

I see that many people have been posting to social media about all the items they've received over the Holidays and how Happy they are, and although I'm thrilled with my gifts (I have a long list of reading to get through!) I cannot help but remember the excitement I've felt seeing family and friends!

I've seen cousins that are visiting from across the country, and from the States. I've been able to play Billiards with my Grandfather; where we beat my parents, gone bowling with aunts/uncles/cousins/parents/grandparents, gone to the movies with cousins and aunts and uncle, I've been part of preparing many meals (I love Holiday kitchen chatter), friends from out of town visited with their baby, local friends dropped by for quick hugs, I played my first video game in YEARS (NHL15 and beat my Dad~!), I've played games with cousins, Sports with family, and been so social that my 10:00pm I'm completely exhausted! And been able to share in all the joy of the season with my lovely man. And we have more family stuff to look forward to in the next few days.

Forget the tree, the turkey and the presents, the PEOPLE are what Christmas is all about.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Christmas Traditions

It's challenging as a young couple to establish our own Holiday Traditions, especially when each of our families have their own we're still participating in. I'm sure we'll come up with some good ones of our own eventually, but there's one I'm really happy about.

I love going to Christmas Mass. I love listening to the choir, and singing along- even though I'm completely tone deaf.

I know it's bad, but I sometimes find my mind drifting away from the Priest on Sundays, but Christmas Mass is completely different. I love listening to the sermon. It's always so beautiful, heart warming and moving; all about family, charity and faith. This year I cried several times during the Mass. Eventually my father in law passed me some tissues. Which of course made me cry harder.

It's always so moving and lovely. I'm so glad it's part of our Christmas traditions.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Christmas Eve

It's the night before Christmas and the fire is crackling in the fire place. The dog is passed out in the hall. We've had a lovely dinner, played some games, and now are sitting down the sleepily watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

Tomorrow we wake up for breakfast, gifts and silly family portraits. Then head to church, before going to see my family for more games, presents and family time. SO MUCH FAMILY TIME! I can't wait!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Early Christmas

I just found out I am getting the BEST early Christmas present for one of my girlfriends. 

She (and her husband) are in town visiting family, and they're going to drop by for a visit with their young son; whom I have never met. I am so excited to see my friends and meet their baby that I can't even think about going to sleep!

At a certain point every year I think that Christmas has lost its 'magic'. It;s still fun, but it's mostly stress and work, and then some surprise like this, or cousins from another province come to town, and the magic is overwhelming again.

It really is a beautiful time of year.

-Brandolyn

(DA) No snow

Last year my cousins, sister, husband and I (and the dog) had an incredible time tobogganing in the snow; which of course we've all been looking forward to recreating this year. And of course, mother nature has decided to make the snow elude us.

Unfortunate. But that didn't make the weekend any less enjoyable. Warmer for sure! but no less fun. We found other ways to enjoy our time together. We didn't work off any calories hiking up a hill, but we worked a few off in fits of laughter.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Pool

I have an odd affinity for things I'm not very skilled at.

For example: I love singing. Maybe not in front of people because I'm so horrible at it, but I LOVE to sing in the shower or in the car.

I also love playing pool. And I'm complete rubbish at it.

But I got paired with my grandfather today who is a Billiards wizard and he showed me the ropes! I lost more points than anyone had earned (combined) until he took me under his wing and started showing me all kinds of new tricks! I had a wonderful time! It's great to play a game you love, but even better to learn ways to improve.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Visiting

Jason and I are blessed to have 7 living Grandparents; all the Grandparents we've grown up with. Which means, that on top of visiting our parents for Christmas, we also have many Grandparents to visit. So we've starting the Holiday early!

Today we're at my Grandparents' lovely waterfront property. It's a stunning home where I spent much of my childhood and adolescence. I love this home. It's always beautiful, warm and full of laughter. This is a home full of love. This home is where people gather, where times are shared, memories are made and friendships are forged.

What a perfect place to be for the Holidays.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Writting

It's tough to pull myself away from writing Fiction and fall into writing for the blog. I wish I had started the year publishing pieces from my book because I write Fiction every day, I just can't publish it because it would ruin the continuity of the story (for anyone interested in reading it once it's complete.)

Jumping from Fiction to the blog is very difficult. Once my head is wrapped up in the world I created, it's hard to write about the real world; I'm constantly distracted by ideas for my story.

I guess the good news is that I've been doing a lot of writing and come up with a new 'scene' that develops one of the relationships in the story that has always been a bit superficial- therefore I've always had a problem with it.

-Brandolyn

(DA) The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

I like to dress up. I've always enjoyed playing characters.

I've dressed up with my sister for the Harry Potter movies, Twilight, Doctor Who, Frozen and now The Hobbit.

The excitement for me tonight however, was watching everyone else's excitement at the novelty of dressing up and going to the movies. My sisters and I are used to it, and were very excited, but it was a very special experience for the boys.

After the third person came up to us asking if they could take their picture with us, my brother in law said "This is the best night ever! Literally the best day of my life!" It was incredible to see all these grown people reverting to their inner child with the excitement of the night. It was an absolute pleasure to be apart of.

The costumes looked great. We had wonderful company and the movie was worth the wait.

Here's a peek at our night yesterday.

Our company of Warrior Elves from the forests of Aurora. (Can you tell who the actors are?)

Bad lighting, but this one has our small Hobbit

Yours truly, dressed to impress [the nerds]. The ears were a present from my uncle, and I wear the mas much as is socially acceptable!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Going to the movies!

Tonight The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies premieres!

The costumes are almost ready. Just finishing up some details on the bows and crafting boot covers for the boys; I don't know why they don't have brown leather boots in their closets.

Everything else is ready. My brother in law is already running up and down the stairs in his cape practicing how to be 'graceful'. He's doing a very good job so far.

As the time for everyone to arrive approaches, I'm getting more and more excited to see this movie.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Getting Ready

It's 11:00pm and I'm in the living room wrapping twine around the handles of bows my father designed for the Elf costumes we'll be wearing tomorrow.

I feel so crafty and creative! I'm barely doing anything and it feels amazing.

I miss creating things. I still draw and write, but I haven't built anything (except a desk from Ikea, which doesn't count) in a long time.

I think I'll be doing much more of this in the near future.

Look forward to pictures!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Getting Better

Last night the final straw that broke the metaphoric camel's back was added, and Jason and I have decided not to deal with any more 'straws' when it comes to out current apartment. Last night was enough trouble that unfortunately it's still affecting us the day after.

I'm pretty good at getting over things; I'm not great, but usually I'm pretty good. Jason, is better. So although I may not be over the 'final straw', I have gotten to a place where I feel I can safely write and create again. Last night I wasn't able to focus on anything else, but tonight I'm writing as usual.

I did some doodling, wrapped a few presents, cooked, cleaned and packed some boxes. And of course, more writing.

It's the Holidays, the last thing I want is to be holding a grudge!

*woooosa*

On another note completely, the restaurant is booming! We had 2 more parties today, and 1 of the parties and 5 other tables came in right at the same time. Myself and my co-worker worked our tails off running food and drinks today. We really deserved a high five at the end of that shift.
It's getting easier and better every day.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Not today

I am not in a place for writing tonight. It was a good day, and a bad day, and I just can't write about it.

*Sigh*

Let's just say, Jason and I are glad we've worked so hard on our communication skills. Some people still have a long way to go.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Holidays and Shifts

As the Christmas Holidays draw nearer the restaurant is getting busier and busier. I'm proud to say that I am getting more and more shifts and longer and longer shifts, which is in reality a blessing and a curse; but mostly a blessing. I didn't realize hoe different working at a restaurant would be from all my previous work, but there is absolutely no down time. So by the end of a shift, I've walked 20,000 steps and dealt with dozens of families (tomorrow is a party of 30 and a party of 11, PLUS whoever else comes into the restaurant for lunch) and I'm beat.

I've learned so much and have so much more to learn. I really, REALLY admire outstanding serving staff now, because I know just how much work goes into that job.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Crafting

My sister-in-law is one of the most creative people I know and lately she's making us (5 friends) costumes to wear to the new Hobbit premiere.

We're all going to be Elves! And my sister will be our Hobbit. The costumes are looking amazing. She finished braiding the wigs today and we built sheaths, for our arrows! She's been making tunics, and breast plates and cloaks and I am so excited to wear all this!

I'm a little disappointed that I haven't been able to help more, but I'm glad for the days I can! Next Wednesday is the premiere and I'll be posting lots of pictures!

-Brandolyn

(DA) For December 10th

Yesterday I spent so much mental effort writing to reach a personal goal that I didn't have anything left to write an evening blog post.

After sleeping, waking refreshed and then exhausting myself again I have decided to post a small piece of writing that I cut from my novel. I changed the sequence of events enough that this excerpt no longer had a place in the story. I really like this part, so I'm happy to have an outlet to share it.


A little note for the reader: Bret and Jane are not friends. They've never gotten along, but they are both very close with a mutual friend. In this, their friend is badly injured and the two bond, briefly, for the first time, over their mutual concern.

*** 

Bret couldn’t manage to formulate any words, but Jane knew what he was asking and she didn’t know what to say: It’s hard to imagine she’s alive, I've never seen so much blood, It doesn’t look good, I don’t know how anyone could survive that many broken bones, all raced to the front of her mind, bringing tears to her eyes and making her lip quiver. 

She might lose her best friend today, and after everything else, that was just too much to bear. She opened her mouth to lie, to tell him, She’s fine, just a couple fractures, but instead her voice came out as a squeak. She covered her mouth with one hand, and turned away to blink away more tears. A firm hand reached out for hers, and closed around the hand she had balled up into a fist on the bed. Bret was leaning forward awkwardly, looking to her for answers. Jane turned back and sat on the edge of the bed. She patted his hand with her other hand, and opened her mouth again.

“She’s alive,” was all she could say at first. But Bret deserved more. “She’s unconscious, but that’s good for her right now. Her body’s badly broken, but the healer’s working on her right now. She’ll fix her up.” Jane’s voice hitched again, but when Bret’s grip relaxed she changed the subject quickly.

***

I'm kind of sad to see this go. Bret and Jane need moments like this, but it just doesn't help the story at the moment. 

-Brandolyn

(DA) My work-self

I had never had the chance to see how very different my "work-self" is to my regular self before today.

I knew that I behave a little differently when I'm serving at the restaurant; my voice changes for one thing, and I start to sound like 'Tour Guide Barbie".

This afternoon my sister and Grandmother surprised me at the restaurant- which was a wonderful surprise!- but because they know me so well, I knew that they would be able to tell if I was putting on a show, which apparently I do. Often. Most of my moments as a server are well rehearsed, and unnatural to my character. It was a surprising thing to realize! I had no idea until I did my "welcome talk" and heard how different my voice and cadence was.

Now I'll have to make a conscious decision to be more myself while working at the restaurant. 

-Brandolyn

(DA) Boosting Confidence

Yesterday on a walk with the dog I admitted to feeling badly about my writing. I had lost confidence in it and hated the writing I had done in the previous hours.

Jason told me that I shouldn't dwell on the negative ,and admitting that I didn't feel confidently about it was only feeding the fire. He pushed me to continue writing when we got home- even if I felt it was mediocre and worse. Just keep writing. He said. Your confidence will come back.

I guess it's kind of like drinking fluid to flush out a cold. Keep writing to flush out the bad work.

Well, today I'm not feeling any more confident and have made very little progress writing, but I've looked back into some of my older work and been very proud of what I did.

This particular excerpt is from a story about crew mates on a ship, and this is how I introduced two of the characters, I really like it.

By human standards Seth is considered an attractive man; he’s tall with brown hair that falls into his eyes when he hasn’t combed it to the side. He has round blue eyes and the mind of a scholar, with a strong, slim build ideal for a hand to hand fighter. Seth is often underestimated because of his build, unlike his partner Blayze; even at a first glance it would be hard to underestimate her.  Slim, fit, recklessly impulsive and intense in every way. Blayze is first to a fight and goes by the idea that you should act first and ask questions later. She stands a few inches taller than Seth, with dark curly hair, narrow green eyes under pointed brows, with a body full of curves that draw the eyes of strangers and intense pale features from the Elven half of her bloodline. 

It still needs work. But I like it all the same. 

-Brandolyn  

(DA) Scatter Brained

One of my faults as a writer is that I don't carry the same journal with me everywhere. I have several journals I'm writing in at any given time, with bits and pieces from various stories side by side on the pages.

It makes for some very messy notes, and makes it very hard to find bits of writing when I'm looking for them.

Today I was working on piecing together a chapter that was split between the pages of 4 different journals! And it was only recently that I'd discovered a particular part of the chapter was hiding in earlier pages of one of the journals.

Sometimes I get fed up with how complicated it is to piece everything together. I love writing initially, but I hate taking the journal writings and converting them to a soft copy on my computer. It's so complicated sometimes.

Here's what my work space looked like today.

Eventually I hope to be organized enough to have 1 journal for each story. The trick will be knowing what story I'll be inspired to write that day!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Christmas approaches!

Christmas is the best and most stressful time of year.

It's the time of year when I get to see all my loved ones. We share wonderful meals, play games, exchange gifts and enjoy the time off together. For me, I get to see a lot of family from out of town that Jason and I don't get to see very often.

The tough part is splitting the holidays between all of our lovely families. We want to see everyone, and sometimes there just isn't enough time in the day.

I'm sure we'll get better and better as we get more practise, but until then, it's going to be a little stressful. But worth it in the end, of course.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Contrasts

I worked 2 jobs today- which is not really that odd, but the contrast to them was.

At the restaurant, and Open/ Lunch shift usually has about 6 tables to tend at the same time, and split between two staff is super easy and on the boring side of 'working'.

At the Squash club there are usually between 10-30 members at the club at the same time.

Today however, instead of having 6 tables to tend at the same time, we had 20. And at the squash club I had 4 members for an hour, then they left and I was there alone.

Apparently today is opposite day!

Both changes at work had their own challenges, but I'm glad I rose to the occasion and met them!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Blank Page

I've been on such a lovely writing streak lately, and today, right now, everything I've written in the past several months seems like garbage.

Yesterday I was almost giddy while rereading old chapters. Today I can't finish a paragraph without judgement.

I hate these days. The days where nothing is good enough and I'm not creative enough to fix it. These are the days when I stare at a blank page in awe, feeling like the nothingness on a blank page is better than the months of work I've put in to the full pages.
*sigh*
Maybe tomorrow will be a better day.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Winter Dog Walks

It's hard to motivate yourself to take the dog out for a walk when it's -10, but that's the sacrifice of owning a dog.

Sure the walks are not always as long as in warmer weather, and maybe I bat my eyelashes at Jason to walk the dog instead, but the dog gets out.

Yesterday I stood at the dog park (coffee in hand thanks to my lovely friend Jen!) and we watched our dogs run around, as we froze for 2 hours. But the dogs needed it, and LOVED it. Totally worth it.

I also have a trick I use on super cold days: I take Washburn to Petsmart, or another pet friendly store and do laps of the store and work on obedience training. It's challenging, mentally stimulating and warm!

If you have a pet, even on cold days you have to do your best to meet the needs of your furry friend.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Small World

I had the pleasure of serving two lovely ladies at the restaurant today; a senior mother and her grown daughter.

I greeted them politely, and introduced myself. When I said my name the older woman looked at me and asked, "You're not a (insert last name here), are you?"

I looked at her in shock. She looked somewhat familiar, but not familiar enough that I thought I knew her. "I am!" I said. And then she started to tear up.

"You are the spitting image of your grandmother!" And then I wrapped her in a big hug and we got properly introduced.

Apparently, she and my paternal grandmother had grown up on the same street not too far away from the restaurant.

It was a lot of chit chat. Apparently my grandmother and I share a lot of mannerism!

I feel so blessed to work jobs that help me meet such nice and amazing people.

-Brandolyn

(DA) December 1st!

I bought Jason and I Lego Advent Calendars! It was a surprise for Jason and I was so excited to give it to him (his is Lego StarWars) that I woke up at 6am to get him to unwrap it!

I've been waiting weeks to see this! I had mentioned it a while ago and then never told him whether or not I had bought him one.

So now every morning we'll open one of the little door on the calendar and get to put together a tiny figure!

Silly and very exciting.

DECEMBER'S HERE!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Surprise Tree!

Jason's Oma makes these beautiful wreathes and Christmas decorations that she's sold at craft shows for years! (Turns out that being crafty runs in both our families).

Last year she gave us a lovely poinsettia basket, and this year (I just found out) she's made us a small decorated Christmas tree!

We have a small apartment and I guess she heard me complain that we didn't have a tree last year and has made us one.

I can't wait to see it. What a lovely surprise.

-Brandolyn

(DA) CHRISTMAS PARTY

The first Christmas Party of the season is tonight and I'm so excited!

I've been baking and the house smells incredible.
I've been wrapping presents.
I've been painting ornaments.
I've been feeling the Christmas Spirit! and just wish the holidays were here!

I have a little Christmas nook that I've been decorating. BAM! Tonight after the party it's officially CHRISTMAS TIME!!!!!!!

(Also can't wait to see some of my favourite people tonight!)

-Brandolyn

(DA) Races!

I'm already signed up for 1 of my races coming up in the new year. It's the biggest and baddest, the Spartan Sprint! 5+ KM of track, up and down a ski mountain, with 20+ obstacles to go over, through and under. AMAZING! I did it last year and LOVED  IT. I can't wait to do it again this year, and hopefully complete some of the challenges I couldn't finish last year.

-Brandolyn

Next year my picture will be with other friends, but no less enthusiastic!

(DA) Excerpt

I know I posted my latest work on my FanFiction 'Snipits' several days ago, but I cannot get over the start of the piece. I write these Fictions as the show is written and spoken, ie: with British-isms. It's a wonderful challenge to write British-isms, without having ever lived in the UK. Most of my experience comes from friends or TV. And when I feel like I've actually accomplished coherent and passably authentic British-isms, I can't help but be proud and excited!

Sherlock and Brianna’s personalities are so different it’s easy to believe that compromise is a big part of their relationship- despite the fact that John would say “He doesn’t know how to compromise. It’s one of the many things he’s deleted over the years.”

One of the couple’s many compromises is about ‘going for coffee’.

Brianna loves coffee shops. She likes her coffee full of decadent flavours and topped with whipping cream. She likes chatting in booths or at little café tables under colourful patio umbrellas, but Sherlock doesn’t. Sherlock cannot sit still very long surrounded by people; not to mention surrounded by people gossiping or staring at him awkwardly over his picture in the paper. And when Sherlock is bored or unhappy, he’s miserable to be around.

Since they cannot agree to get coffee at a café, Brianna and Sherlock compromise by going into a café, taking their drinks in take-away cups, and enjoying the warm beverages as they wander the streets and parks of London. 

-Brandolyn

(DA) It's been a long time

Tonight I got to chat with an old best friend. We were as close as sisters in high school and though our schooling and jobs have separated us by distance we've managed to stay close friends. But the last 6 months have been difficult to connect because of a new addition to her family. A lovely baby boy has her all to himself!

She's been so busy as a new mom and our schedules seem to be backwards, so we've barely said more than a quick "Hello" on Facebook, except tonight.

I guess we just caught each other at a good time, and were able to catch up on everything we could think of! We talked for hours, and I smiled a giddy excited smile the whole time.

It was like breathing in fresh air after holding your breath too long. It felt amazing to connect with her again,

-Brandolyn

P.S- For those who are wondering, Opa's surgery was postponed, so he's still alive and kicking!~ XOXO

(DA) Goodbye

I've never had the pleasure of saying "goodbye" to a loved one for the last time before they pass away. Although it wasn't a fun experience, it was a privilege to be able to say a final farewell to Opa tonight.

We do not know that it is his time yet, but he has a procedure scheduled for tomorrow morning that has a lot of risks to it. He called a family meeting tonight so that he could set his affairs in order, and so that everyone could say goodbye. It was a difficult thing to witness, I hate saying goodbye, but it was great to get the opportunity. Often death comes out of nowhere and we are left with all these things we wish we had gotten a chance to say, or say one last time.

Good luck tomorrow Opa. I hope to see you soon.

-Brandolyn

(DA) It's the most ...

productive time of the YEAR! *I sing*

When I'm sick, I have no reason not to write, and I get inspired and can;t stop. When I'm sick, no matter the time of year, I become the most productive writer I can be. I just don't stop- until I pass out asleep. But before exhaustion hits, I just keep writing.

Unfortunately I'm writing a very exciting part of the middle of my book which I can't share out of context. But maybe in the next couple days I'll write something for one of my FanFictions and be able to share some of that.

But now, back to the fun stuff!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Recovery

I've been sick for most of the past week and after the late night last night I woke up today and didn't want to deal with the world.

I think most of my day today has been split between napping, writing and watching TV.

I hate being sick, but at least the dog understands and is willing to take some slow, quiet days snuggling with me while I recuperate.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Charity Night!

Tonight's the night and as I thought, it is a HUGE SUCCESS!

We've got lots of attendees and everyone is having fun. I've been MC all night (with a cold, so I have a lovely, deep, crackly voice) and I've been running and preparing food all night that I've already done 10,000 steps up and down the steps at work! And the night is still young. I bet I'll be here till 2 am!

My feet are sore, my throat is killing me and I'm having a wonderful time!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Planning

I am one of a small committee planning a Charity event at work, and tomorrow we get to see if our efforts are going to pay off.

We've put so much work into planning this event that I can't wait to see how it unfolds. We didn't get the positive response in ticket sales that we expected, but we did get a lot of support from local organizations donating prizes for our Silent Auction.

I had better get a lot of sleep because tomorrow is going to be a LONG day.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Snipits

Today I started writing a new story for my Sherlock FanFiction. If you are interested, you can read it >>>>HERE<<<<

-Brandolyn

(DA) Inspiration has Struck!

I'm sick, and when I'm sick all I can think of is writing. It's when my body shuts off and is sick, my brain jumps into high gear. I can't focus because I have so many ideas I want to throw down onto paper.

I'm in the midst of a quiet day at home with the dog, writing down as much as I possibly can.

Wish me luck!

-Brandolyn

(DA) It's WINTER

And it's freezing!

I thought it was warmer than it felt when I was out for a walk with the dog, and then I realized it was -20 C with the wind chill!

The air is cold, snow is falling, I've been shovelling snow, we've lost power AND I feel a tickle in my throat. It's officially winter!

I'm sure I'll appreciate it as soon as I throw on a pair of snow shoes or skis, but until then, I'll cuddle inside where it's warm and dream of the Holidays.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Lost Confidence

Somewhere along the way I lost confidence in myself. I used to have the ability to tell my superiors when something was wrong immediately. But I've been reprimanded for that so many times that, now I hold it in, stew over it, and EVENTUALLY bring it up.

I want that confidence back. And shame on those who took that away from me.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Santa Claus Parade

Apparently this is my 10th year marching in the Santa Claus Parade. I didn't realize I've been doing that long.

I wonder if I can name all my costumes? In order:

1-Parka Playmates
2-
3-
4-Dogs
5-Winter Playmates
6-Butterflies
7-Starbursts
8-Diva Fish
9-Chickens
10-Greeter Clown

I'm still struggling to remember all the costumes! I'll fill them in as I remember or am reminded.

It's been amazing! Walking with family and friends, meeting new people and seeing friendly faces in the crowd is amazing!

-Brandolyn

When I have pictures, I'll add them in!

(DA) Video Games

I have never really been a fan of video games.

I get bored easily with most, and I have poor hand/ eye co-ordination (probably from a lack of interest in training it with practise) so I'm not very good when I do play them. Recently I had the opportunity to play a Mario Party game on the Wii. (If these names are strange to you, then you and I have practically the same knowledge). My friends encouraged me on, and I tried very hard and in the last round of the game I was comfortably sitting in last place (4th of 4).

And then, after the game players are awarded points, and stars for in-game accomplishments.

Well, I got so many prizes for "bad luck" and "losing the most games" etc, that I ended up with the most points and won the game!

I was thrilled! My win was undeserved, I really had no skill, but it was kind of fun to win that way- and it made poking fun at the other players too easy!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Memory Lane

Washburn and I took a nice long walk down memory lane today. We went to visit Washburn's first home.

Washburn recognized the area immediately. He remembered old walking routes, and where neighbouring dogs live.

We walked for 3.5 hours exploring old routes. By the end Wash was quite tired and my feet were VERY sore.

Wash even stopped on the way home.

The Sun was out, the weather was cool, there were leaves all over the ground and it couldn't have been a better day for a nice long walk.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Puppet Dressing Day 2

Today went smoother than yesterday, and I've already learned all the actor's preferences when it comes to how they like their costumes prepped and layered.

I've also done some minor repairs on one of the heads.

I'm sad to see the show move on to the next theatre, but I'm so glad to have met this group. There are some lovely forever friends in this cast. I'm also thrilled for the experience to work with puppets! My resume is forever expanding!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Another long day

I got a last minute call to dress a show full of puppets from the Jim Hensen shop.

Jim Hensen is the designer and creator of Kermit the Frog.


As I've never worked on a show with puppets, I jumped at the opportunity. And it turns out, I loved it. These were not puppets as I had imagined. They were actors dressed in 'pods' (which is a politically correct way of describing a suit that adds mass to a body), with large heads with mouths that move, controlled by hydraulics.

I did 2 shows today, and have 1 tomorrow. It's been a long day, but I felt right at home.

Dressing the puppets/ puppeteers was too cool. Layers and layers of costumes. The actors were pretty self sufficient until they had the heads on, then they needed a lot of help. They also had to come off stage periodically in the costumes weren't 'behaving' and needed adjustment because they couldn't do it themselves. So I stood just off stage the whole show waiting, in case they needed me.

Then, once the curtain comes down, I would race on stage and get the actors out of their suits as fast as possible. After an hour and a half dancing around in 'pods' and giant heads, the actors were soaked!

And then finally it's time to dry the suits and heads, and throw everything else in the wash.

Also, I realized most puppets of this kind are 'left-handed'. Why? Because the actors inside them are right handed and use their right hands for the palm trigger of the hydraulic mouths. So, obviously they have to use their other hand to grab props on stage.

Cool right?

-Brandolyn

(DA) Remembrance Day

Remembrance day is marked on my calendar, tagged in my phone and even has an alarm set to go off at 11AM because  I am so worried that I'll forget to Remember.

As it was I remembered the 11th of November. I remembered to take a moment at 11:00am, and I said a few prayers for the men and women who gave their lives.

But it wasn't until I got home and read the beautiful bit of writing my husband posted today on his blog that what all those soldiers did, really sank in.

He wrote:


***

Remembrance

Posted on November 11, 2014

My remembrance is all I can give, but it’s not much.

Today is just one day, this moment just one moment. That is the remembrance I give.

But when I walk through a sunny meadow, when I laugh at the joke of a friend, when I fall asleep on a soft mattress I don’t remember. I don’t have to remember.

That is the sacrifice that was made for me. The sacrifice of everything with the reward of nothing, not even a thought. Not even a memory.

As I walk through a sunny meadow today a man, like me in all ways, walked through a sunny meadow in France 100 years ago. I walk and enjoy the sunlight, savour the breeze and complain about forgetting my hat. He walks into fire and blood. The heavy mud caked to his legs and feet makes trudging slow and laborious. Poison fills the craters around him and thunder fills the air. Humanity lays in pieces all around him.

As I walk back to my car to drive home he walks into a meat grinder, the deadliest battlefield in history.

Every moment of our lives today was paid with blood of those that went before us, and those who fight for us now. Each day is a series of moments absent of a memory of this.

Today, for one brief moment, I can give a small gift of remembrance. Not to glorify, but to express my gratitude that during the rest of the moments I can forget. 

***

Thank you Jason for putting that so accurately. 

Check out his blog at: Jason's Thoughts

-Brandolyn

(DA) Incredible Feeling

Last night I had the second best experience in a dream I've ever had.

The best experience I have dreamed was when I learned to fly. Just like in Harry Potter, I got my broomstick, kicked off from the ground and went soaring through the air, wind whistling in my ears, my hair whipping along behind me like a tail. Of course, I hit a tree, bounced off and continued flying.

This one however, on top of feeling my surroundings, I felt the feelings too. I don;t know what happened really, I just know I encountered 'something' and refused to deal with it. I turned and ran from 'whatever it was', and kept running until I saw a beach. I ran at the water, stripping off my clothes ready to dive, desperate to dive, but the water was too shallow. So I kept running. The water weighed down my legs as I kept running, looking for deep enough water to submerge into.

I kept running, not until I got tired, but until I felt like I didn't need to dive anymore.

The overwhelming relief that washed over me when I realized I no longer needed to run was incredible, almost indescribable and extremely relaxing.

It's amazing what you can do and feel in dream. I've been able to realize I am in a dream and manipulate them, I have learned to fly, and now I have let run so far and learned to release my worries.

Incredible.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Duty and Desire

How do you choose between something you 'should do' and 'something you want to do'?

I usually do the thing I should do, out of respect for common courtesy, social convention and fear of disappointing someone else, sometimes;often actually, at the risk of my own happiness, comfort or enjoyment. This is bad- usually.

I'm finally at a point where I'm acknowledging that I am putting others ahead of myself, and that means can now stand up for myself and say no.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Marvel

I never read comic books as a kid but I still idolized their heroes. I prefer Superman over Batman, and the Flash over Green Lantern. I love The Avengers over the Fantastic Four. I like Iron man over Spiderman, and laugh when Aquaman is brought up.

There's always been a rivalry between Marvel and DC, and having never read the comic books I judge them based off of their movie franchises. And I love the Marvel franchise that has been gracing the Big Screen for the past several years. Absolutely love it.

Iron man
Thor
Captain America
Iron man 2
The Avengers
Iron man 3
Thor: the Dark World
Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Guardians of the Galaxy

These were all created by Marvel Studios. There are more movies based in Marvel's Universe such as X-Men, the Fantastic Four and Spiderman, but Marvel studios perfects these movies so much that I cannot help but watch them over and over and over again,

That is, with the exception of the Hulk, and Captain America.

The Hulk is predictable because no one can get through those movies. But Captain America?

I can;t narrow down why I don't enjoy those two movies. I cannot remember anything about the first movie, and barely made it through the second without getting bored and turning it off.

I really like Captain America in the Avengers, but in his own movies, something is seriously lacking, and I wish I knew what it was.

He's attractive, and skilled with his heart in the right place. He's a people's hero, he should be my favourite super hero, but I can't re-watch his films.

The only thing that I did notice was that the musical score in 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' was not high on my list of favourites, actually I barely noticed it at all; except when it was out of place.

Marvel usually has me on the edge of my seat in anticipation and excitement. I was so tense throughout 'Guardians of the Galaxy' that my hand had a hard time straightening from a fist when I left the theatre.

-Brandolyn

(DA) MINE!

There was a package delivered to the house today.

Jason opened it and remembered he had ordered it, before tossing it to me to see. I immediately read the title "The Emotion Thesaurus"- A Writer's Guide to Character Expression and I yelled "MINE!" as I ran into the bed room and stuffed my face into the pages reading it excitedly.

This book is SO COOL! It's eye opening, and confidence building (because there are lots of cliche phrasing I already avoid YAY)

I've only had it a few minutes and it's already one of my favourite books.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Excerpt

Here's a tiny bit of the Sherlock story I've been working on.

***

Sherlock’s head dropped to his chest, blood dripping down the side of his face from a cut in his brow. Slowly his eyes closed and the Detective stopped talking. 

“Sherlock? Sherlock, wake up.” John called. “Stay with me mate. You promised.”

Sherlock’s head didn’t move, showing no sign that he heard John.

“For God’s sake Sherlock! Wake up!” He shouted. “You’ve tried every substance imaginable, this can’t be that bad.” He grumbled under his breath.

“Do you regret me quitting?” Sherlock’s voice drifted over to John as the Detective’s head lulled to the side. His eyes were shut tight, his fists holding tightly to the arms of the chair to which he was bound.

“Not even for one second.” John exhaled relieved. “Thank God you’re alright.”

“I’m conscious John, but alright is a significant over exaggeration of my condition.” He said in his usual 'I'm bored with idiots' tone. 

***

-Brandolyn

(DA) Hanger Ugly

My mother and I have a saying while shopping "Hanger Ugly".

We use it to describe clothing pieces that we find terrible on the hanger, try it on anyway (or as a joke) and realize it fits well and looks lovely.

Today however, I saw a sweater in a store window and loved it immediately. It was nice dark colours, a soft knit, long and baggy, and looked great on the hanger. I walked into the store, tried it on and coined a new term "Hanger Lovely". Unfortunately it was the least flattering thing I've tried on in a long time. It was terrible! It clung to all the wrong places, the knit work was uneven and loose and it just didn't do anything for me.

I'm still sad that it looked so bad on, because it was SO nice on the hanger!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Symbols

I have many different symbols that reappear in the stories I tell. Some are small, like the recurrence of different kinds of leaves, some are bigger like flames and fire and guiding lights. But the most common, or obvious symbol I write about is 'Feathers'.

Feathers are the most common symbol I use, and the closest to my heart. Feathers for me represent purity, freedom, strength, agility and gentleness. It is such a predominant symbol for me that it has escaped my writing and also become a symbol for myself outside of my fantasy worlds.

Feathers cover my journals, scarves, jewelry, shirts, hats and socks. If you look closely, I'm often trailing something adorned with feathers.

I believe the fascination started in High school when I discovered that my Great Grandmother is my Guardian Angel. -I don't care if you believe in Guardian Angels or not. But this happened around the time that I started writing and has inspired me ever since.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Choices

Jason and I have several options for upcoming vacations and we can only afford 1, and I'm struggling to choose.

Narrowing down the options is difficult when everything sounds brilliant and amazing.

1. We have friends with access to timeshares for winter wonderland skiing and adventures, who have invited us with them. So, amazing wintery road trip with the buds. -Most affordable option.

2. Jason's family has an extended reunion this spring in Holland. We could explore Europe and stay with family to keep costs down. This is a trip Jason has done, and I've heard all the stories and really want to see. -Mid range affordability

3. We've been dying to go to Australia and we have friends who live there who are willing to help us plan the most affordable trip possible, while couch surfing, camping and exploring Australia. -Most expensive trip, even just the airfare

I know the trip a financially responsible person would pick, I know the trip an expense weary yet adventure craving person would pick, and I know the once in a life time trip that I should jump at.

I am all of these people! And have no idea how to choose. Jason and I have a lot to talk about so that we can narrow it down.

-Brandolyn

(DA) November 1st

Today was supposed to be a day of celebration, and it was much harder than it was supposed to be.

It's Oma's 91st Birthday and the family was getting together for an early Birthday Dinner. Unfortunately, Opa had been admitted to the hospital with chest pains a few days prior. Opa's a tough guy, but he had the family worried anyway. What made everything worse was that Oma had a fall this morning and hit her head on a cabinet.

She needed a couple staples and was a little shaken, but otherwise fine.

Oma and Opa were both laughing (howling in Opa's case), and were sent home later in the afternoon, but it was tough to see them both in the Hospital.

Seeing loved ones injured or sick is always tough, but I feel old enough to be able to judge the situation, and I knew Oma and Opa were okay. There are some things the family is changing to help them with their situation, but they were going to go home today, and that's a good sign.

Unfortunately it was very tough on one of the younger cousins. She wasn't able to look at her grandparents and grasp onto the concept that although they were in the hospital, they weren't dying. They were a little battered and bruised, but they're okay.

Although it wasn't the celebration she wanted, the grand kids all visited Oma in the hospital. She got to have us all to herself for a while and it was lovely to see her smile light up when we showed up.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Halloween

Today's the day that it is socially acceptable to gorge on excessive amounts of junk food.

(It's not good for you, but everybody understands)

And I am proud to say that I am putting this understanding to good use with my costume this year.

Part of my costume requires me to have mentos, doughnuts AND whipped cream as munchies throughout the night... yum!

If you've ever seen the show "Archer", which I describe as a cartoon for adults, I am going to a party dressed as Pam Poovey. In the latest season she gets addicted to cocaine (in a hilarious way- not the life ending, terrible way it actually affects you) and she sneaks cocaine into her favourite treats.

There are no drugs in my treats, but it made for a very yummy costume!

No,I'm not Barbie or a Politician's wife- but I know why you think that. (Hint: It's the earrings)

Pam Poovey from 'Archer'

The night is young. 

"IT'S COCAINE!"- Pam Poovey (it's not actually cocaine)

 The night is a lot older. 

-Brandolyn

(DA) Halloween is coming!

Last year Jason and I were just getting back from our Honeymoon on Halloween, so costumes, parties and candy weren't on our minds at all.

This year is 'slightly' different. We've been planning our costumes, and anticipating the party we were invited to, but we haven't decorated the house, and haven't bought candy to hand out to trick or treat-ers.

Actually, it's a really nice way to go about it.

We don't have an abundance of junk food stored at home, taunting us to open it and indulge.
We don't have decorations that will have to be stored for another year before we use them again.
We don't have to worry about running out of candy before 'the big kids' come to the door.

It's all very low stress and low maintenance. Just the way I like it!

(I do miss pumpkin carving though)

-Brandolyn

(DA) Absorbed

Last night I tried to use music to soothe myself to sleep. Instead it woke me up and inspired me to write. And now I can't stop, or rather, refuse to.

I have stories to build, tales to spin and adventures to tell and I'm trying desperately to get them down on paper, because the next few days are going to be very crazy and I won't have much time for writing or blogging.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Quiet Day

Work has been quiet lately.

It's a blessing and a curse really. I love opening the restaurant because I get to clean everything and get it all set up so that I know everything is ready, clean and prepped for the rest of the day. It is a great feeling and a wonderful use of my time, focus and fixation on details.

But when people only trickle into the restaurant for lunch I feel like I'm hovering over tables, just trying to pass the time. And because I opened the restaurant, I've already completed my cleaning checklist, and don't have much left to do.

Love/ Hate relationship. It'll pick up soon. Apparently we're in a bit of a lull, but business will pick up during the day in a few weeks (so I'm told).

-Brandolyn

(DA) Be Proud

Every day I beam and dance around happily when I find out a new stranger has favourited my writing.

Then, when I go to tell someone how proud and happy I am that someone likes my work I get very shy when I admit that it is my FanFiction that's getting all the attention. Why do I feel like this writing is less worthy of praise? Why do I feel embarrassed to admit that my FanFictions are well received and have a dedicated following? Why can't I see it as. just more of my writing? It's not special, other than someone else came up with the world and I writing stories in it. 

I have so much confidence when I think of my FanFictions, and yet, when I think of my novels I often fall on self doubt. I think that I'll never get published. Or that people won't like the story, or that it won't be as good as I think it should be. 

But why do I think this? I already know that people love my writing style. Obviously everything I write isn't perfect, or even good, but there are people who like it when I put a lot of effort into my writing. There are people who LOVE my stories. There are strangers reaching out to me, begging me to write more. 

So why can't I be proud of my stories, and believe that there will be people who will love my novels just as much. if not more, than my FanFictions? I spend more time and effort on my novels, so it makes sense that it should be better received. 

Have confidence. Be proud. 

-Brandy

The Literary Qualities of Music

Music is one of those concepts that I have a hard time grasping and recreating, but am very fond of.

My collection of music is not anything intimidating and is far from a Library, but I am proud of it none the less. My collection, which continues to grow, is a purely instrumental based collection, focusing on the music coming from a variety of sources; excluding any lyrics, but including some forms of verbal intonation.  I have recently found a deep rooted admiration for well composed music, specifically in the film industry. I have collected scores of music from a variety of movies and plays and have started to study them on my own.

When I say study, I actually mean I am exploring the music for, what I call their "Literary Qualities". Music's LQs are to me, the picture the music paints or the scene the music writes while it is being listened to.

I started off using musical scores as a meditation tool, using it to help myself relax into a calm focused state but I soon realized that instead of relaxing myself, the music was invigorating me. The music was like a power source I could tap into whenever I needed a creative boost.

I first started using music to kick start my creativity, however, now I have compiled several long playlists that accompany a few of my stories; much like musical scores in movies, which help the audience to feel what is coming. The playlists I have compiled for each story set the tone, mood and pace of the story. My Literary Playlists consist of music that encompass elements of my worlds; from characters, worlds and adventures.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Motivation

How can I be so motivated at work? I don't sit for a second, even if it's quiet I look for something to do. But the moment I get home, small tasks like laundry feel overwhelming and get put off in favour of procrastination.

It's because I've built up the habit.

I don't deny that I like to unwind after work with a bit of TV or computer time, but I let that bit of TV turn into a habit of too much TV.

Instead of getting home, unwinding and then getting back to life, I get home, unwind, and spend the rest of the night in a constant state of 'unwinded'.

I'm going to make an effort to break this habit. Maybe I won't be good every day, but I'd like to break the habit so that when I spend a lot of time in front of the TV it's a conscious choice, instead of habitual action.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Where am I?

I juggle many jobs, but there are 3 I work consistently where I have to answer the phone.

It's difficult to figure out where you are in the seconds between a phone ring, and the moment you say "Hello, thank you for calling...." Recently I've gotten stuck trying to get out the proper place of work and had a few callers chuckle politely with me.

At least I'm aware enough to get myself to the proper jobs on the right days, and at the right times; even if I can forget where I am the moment I hear a phone ring.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Chores

A wise man (my husband) once said that if we build a habit to clean little bits at a time, when it comes time to do chores, they won't seem so overwhelming.

And as true as that statement is, I still hate doing dishes. It doesn't matter if it's 1 dish, or a dozen. I hate touching food, and cleaning dishes is a very up close way of touching food.

But I have discovered that if I distract myself: i.e play my music, doing the dishes doesn't bother me in the slightest.

So I'll keep up doing the little cleaning "pre-chores", and then I'll just have to remember to turn on music before I actually focus on chores.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Helping Others

I can barely focus on writing today.

One of my staff confided in me that she's been harassed at the bus stop after leaving work lately. When she told me this, a big, scary monster inside myself was set free and I started 'mamma bear-ing'.

I listened to her story, supported her, and told her I would do whatever I could to avoid this happening to her again. I've offered her rides home, and informed the other supervisors at work of the situation.

After she had calmed down (and was thrilled for my concern and compassion) I called the police tip line with the information she gave me. Unfortunately they couldn't use 3rd party information and when I told my staff member, she said she'd call them herself.

Today, I was able to help someone find the courage to call the police themselves and write a report.

What she told me was: This could be happening to someone else, and I could help stop it.

So proud!

I feel like a warm and fuzzy mamma bear rage monster (it's a very confusing time for me)

-Brandolyn

(DA) Dust

I'm not very good at writing poetry- which is kind of what Duelling Amateurs is about- and I've always been amazed by the beauty of dust. But today won't be a poem, but a small blurb about how beautiful dust can be. Dust in the air, floating through beams of sunlight seem to dance, while dust that has settled on a surface and started to gather tells a story. Here's what I mean;

In the early morning sun, glowing golden like autumn leaves, an old woman stood on the tips of her toes and reached up to the top of the book shelf.

Her hand skips over old trinkets, discarded nearly a lifetime ago; a doll, a compass and a broken jewelry box, before her knobbly fingers close around the soft leather spine of an old book. Careful not to lose her balance she stepped away from the shelf. She looked at the book amazed. It was old, and like her reflection; worn with age but still beautiful. Through the thick layer of dust that had collected on the jacket she could still make out the engraved word 'Diary'. 

She sauntered nearer the small attic window, sitting on an old trunk without bothering to wipe off her seat. In the golden sunlight she trailed her hand across the cover. A trail of dust clumps fell from her hand and landed at her feet.

She opened the book with anticipation, her hands shaking in her excitement.The cover creaked slightly, revealing the first faded page of the book. Her glasses lightly perched at the end of her nose as she read the first line written in her old, curly script describing the man of her dreams. 

She read, with rapt attention, as her younger self documented all the ways this man made her happy. She read about their fights, and their adventures. She read about their dates; flowers, and drive-ins, surprise plane rides and trips to the farm. She read about surprises and chores, Holidays and birthdays. And through it all, she's happy because this book contained the best of 'him'.

One page bore a scrap of paper that looked like it had been torn from a news paper. The writing on the scrap was brisk and sloppy, the opposite of her beautiful script. It read,

Even in absence, I love you

 Light refracted off the particles dancing around the pages in her hands, filling the tiny room with wonder. She smiled up past the ceiling rafters toward the heavens and remembered him fondly. 

When the moment was over, and the dust had settled around her, she stood up slowly; her joints refusing to behave after sitting on the trunk, and lay the book down, open to the ceiling.

She brushed the note affectionately with a fingertip and left it there, for him to see the next time that he looked down on her from heaven. 

***

Well that turned into a longer story than intended. And not quite as much about the beauty of dust as it was supposed to be, but I liked how it turned out. So I'm keeping it!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Boardgames

I love games.

I love sports. I love games. I love card games and board games. The only games I'm not crazy about are computer games. But board games are GREAT! Jason and I have a linen closet full of different board games and our collection is a small portion of some of our friends' collections. And recently one of our friends got a a job at a board game cafe as a "Game Guru".

Yes. Game Guru is a real job. And for this job he has a HUGE list of games he has to learn and memorize so he can teach the games to customers at the cafe. Fortunately he already owned a LOT of the games on the list; so understood how to play them very well, but there were a few he still needed to try. So we spent the afternoon  at a rival Games Coffee shop and played a wonderful board game called "The Lords of Waterdeep". It's a game with lots of pieces, lots of rules, designed by the makers of Dungeons and Dragons, and WE LOVED IT.

It was a very fun afternoon in a shop that had wall to wall shelves of games. There were 5 different kinds of 'The Game of Life" on one wall!

Overwhelmingly exciting for a fan of board games.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Reunion

Today we were reunited with an old friend; not the friend from Ottawa who's been studying in France, but the TARDIS which my dad sold shortly after our wedding.

There's a traditional English pub downtown that bought the TARDIS to house their ATM. My family has known that this pub bought the TARDIS, but today my parents surprised us with a "belated anniversary dinner" at this pub and we took some great 1 year later photos!

It was a lovely time, followed by a late night birthday party with more old friends and even more catching up with the Ottawa/ France friend that's staying with us for the weekend.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Already exhausted

It's the second night of our friend's visit and I'm already exhausted, and we still have so much planned for the weekend!

I can't even think what to write because all I want to do is sleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep. At least I did a little journal writing this morning.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Visitor!

We have a great friend from University who has been studying abroad in Europe, then completing an internship with NASA in Texas, and we haven't seen him in over a year, and he's coming to town!

Jason and I have offered him our couch for an extended weekend and I'm so exited that he comes into town today!

I've got to work 2 jobs today and a VERY busy weekend ahead of me, so hopefully I can squeeze in as much catching up and partying AND survive the weekend!

Looking forward to it!

-Brandolyn

(DA) Blogger/ Internet Bugs

Been having some computer issues lately, so Jason and I have been having trouble loading our writing. So it's been a lot of journal writing lately. And if we don't post in time, please forgive us.

I've been trying to finish up the "King of Dragons" short story, but I've lost my momentum on it. I'll get there, it'll just take time.

I've also been trying to focus more on my visual art skills, which is definitely cutting in to writing time, but it's tough to prioritize which one to do because they are both very important to me.

-Brandolyn

(DA) If I stay

I haven't written a review in a long time. I'm getting back in to it here.

HERE

-Brandolyn

(DA) Impaired driving

Impaired driving is not only driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol,  but also encompasses distracted driving and falling asleep at the wheel.

I have phoned the police a handful of times on impaired drivers, two of which were in the evening of Thanksgiving Monday. 

It's important to report impaired drivers for the driver's safety and the safety of everyone around.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Thanksgiving

Today I give thanks for my family.

Today Jason and I are going to visit his family for the holidays. We have relatives in from Denmark and we are having a big dinner together. I`m really looking forward to seeing everyone, it`s been a long time.

At the same time, we are missing spending the holiday with my side of the family; some of whom are in town from the states.

Today I am giving thanks for such an amazing family. I am fortunate to have such a wonderful family to miss, and such a great family to visit. My family is a blessing, and I am thankful for everyone in it, even if I don`t see them today.

-Brandolyn

(DA) 1 Year

This time last year Jason and I said "I do" to a life together and celebrated our union with our loved ones. If you were there, you remember laughing all the way through the ceremony and dancing along in the seats with our musicians.

Our stunning wedding party

Life would be boring without these lovely people

We had our best friends at our sides and our families at our backs. It was such a happy celebration that turned into a fantasy forest when the sun went down, filled with the nerdy qualities we are both known for. We loved every minute of it and thank everyone who continues to celebrate with us, wish us well, and have helped us throughout the past year.

My Boys

My Girls

Our wedding, much like our marriage, was a celebration of love and friendship, and the year since has been incredible; full of ups and downs, quiet days and adventures. It has been an incredible (and exhausting) year, and I can't wait for all the years ahead.

The love of my life, my best friend.

-Brandolyn

(DA) A long Day

I knew today's double shift was going to be long, but I didn't anticipate being at the restaurant for over 12.5 hours. I opened the building, arrived before the Kitchen Manager and left after him. I've never done that before.

My legs ache, my brain feels like jelly and all I can think of is: people do this all the time. They work longer hours, harder jobs and people do it frequently.

My heart goes out to them because although this was doable, I'm exhausted and can't wait to snuggle up in bed.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Editing Day

I worked two back to back shifts at 2 jobs today and I'm finding it hard to concentrate.

Work wasn't particularly challenging, but now that I'm home I feel like I'm out of creativity, so in lieu of writing, I'm editing my novel this evening. It;s every bit as important as writing and about 100 times more challenging; staying focused is one of the hardest parts.

So I should get back to it, otherwise I'll have nothing to show for my long day.

Tomorrow will be much the same, except longer hours in my back to back shifts. I hope I have enough energy when I finally get home to write something.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Consistency

When I was little my life had consistency.  Bed time, school, gymnastics on Thursdays,  homework rules, TV rules and visits to my grandparents' every weekend.

It was easy. I imagine it was probably tough on my parents, but I thought it was easy.

Then high school hit and my life was less predictable. Team projects, spare classes, swimming competitions, skiing competitions, plays/rehearsals, work. But some things stayed the same: homework rules, TV rules and visits to the grandparents' on weekends.

Somehow University,  with all its work and complexities got closer to consistent. Same roommates, same neighbours, same teachers, same kind of courses.

Once University finished all semblance of consistency in my life faded. New jobs, new houses, new neighbours, new responsibilities.

Nothing feels consistent, except that this past year I have had the pleasure of falling asleep beside my best friend.

My jobs and hours change daily. My responsibilities change all the time. My expectations for myself change too. The only thing that has stayed consistent is Jason. He grounds me, he empowers me, he drives me, he pushes me and he stays by my side.

I am so blessed to have him in my life.

-Brandolyn

(DA) Last Day of Vacation

Today was much like yesterday, slow start, local hike and a quiet night.

We went out for dinner instead of cooking at home to celebrate the end of our vacation and called it a night early.

We've been so active the last few days that I feel like I could have gone to sleep at 3pm. It's been a pleasure, an adventure, and an absolute blast to have these days just myself and Jason. I have no idea how I'm going to get up for work tomorrow. I have no desire to return to the real world.

Who knew you could miss your partner so much, even when you live together?

-Brandolyn

(DA) Early Return

We're still on Vacation, but we were tired of the rain and sleeping on the ground, so we've returned to the dry of our apartment, and the warmth of our own bed.

Washburn seemed SO HAPPY to be home. He went straight into his bed and curled up and ignored us for most of the day.

We had a slow, relaxing morning before we forced him (and ourselves) out of the house for a hike around forested trails in our neighbourhood. We're still on vacation so we took advantage of the time off and continued our adventures- just a little closer to home. When the rain came back we returned to the shelter of home for some tea and TV.

Couldn't ask for more.

-Brandolyn