Friday, July 22, 2005
at
2:26 p.m.
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They claim there is a silver lining in almost any situation, but in my case my perk of the day makes me quite unhappy.
I was hoping, praying, and even going to bribe the people at Kaboose (with an object other than the one I DID offer them) for the chance to leave the hell that is First Media and come into the light of a new job that was everything I could have wanted. It was close to home, well paying, and the work was in a subject I adored.
Like most things in my life the past year, it was not to be.
I'm not really surprised. It had been more than two weeks since the interview and I hadn't heard a thing. I wrote to my HR contact, who I really hit it off with, and got a response back from a stranger cooly informing me that the job I wanted had been taken by someone else.
Partly, I blame my dreams. You see, last night I dreamt I got one of the positions they were offering, despite the lack of communication beforehand. I felt so sure today that it was mine. I had a lot of energy, finished my work early, and was prepared to have a good night.
I suppose I still could, but it depends on what Catherine is in the mood for.
My silver lining, as mentioned previously, is that I'm supposed to get promoted here today. It should be more money along with the extra responsibilities I've already been enjoying (not) for the past three weeks, but it's still First Media and it's still a lot of hassle given the attitudes of some of my co-workers.
I'll keep applying. I'll keep trying to get out of here. I still plan to apply to teacher's college this year and find, somehow, the thing it is that is going to make me happy.
Because right now, I'm surely not.
EDIT!
Great news! Instead of getting promoted, I'm likely getting fired at the end of my contract period (August 30) so they can move my whole job to India!
Wow!
(please adjust the above to include a sarcastic tone)
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
at
10:48 p.m.
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Nathan Fillion's Captain Malcolm Reynolds... by Astonishing X-Men artist John Cassaday. 
Just because the majority of you have to wait until September doesn't mean you can't get some Serentiy lovin' sooner.
Dark Horse has released the first issue of a planned three-issue prequel to the film. Each issue has a number of variant covers, but the true gold is that it's a Whedon-penned issue filled with a garden of 'verse delights.
It's worth picking up, or if you're poor, borrowing mine.
My apologies to Jer for inadvertently minorly spoiling him earlier. I was too enthusiastic. My bad.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
at
9:19 a.m.
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Done Haiku style. Apparently, these are actual error messages that can come up on Japanese computers. Not living there, I can't verify the truth of that statement, but either way it seems kind of funny.
The Web site you seek cannot be located, but countless more exist.
--------------------------------------------
Chaos reigns within. Reflect, repent, and reboot. Order shall return.
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Program aborting: Close all that you have worked on. You ask far too much.
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Windows NT crashed. I am the Blue Screen of Death. No one hears your screams.
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Yesterday it worked. Today it is not working. Windows is like that.
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Your file was so big. It might be very useful. But now it is gone.
-------------------------------------------
Stay the patient course. Of little worth is your ire. The network is down.
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A crash reduces your expensive computer to a simple stone.
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Three things are certain: Death, taxes and lost data. Guess which has
occurred.
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You step in the stream, but the water has moved on. This page is not here.
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Out of memory. We wish to hold the whole sky, but we never will.
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Having been erased, The document you're seeking must now be retyped.
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Serious error. All shortcuts have disappeared. Screen. Mind. Both are blank.
Chaos and disorder are currently reigning at work, and the outcome is uncertain. Either I'm going to become Mr. Universe and in control of things, or I'll be at home watching Oprah by the end of the week.
I just want to get that Kaboose job. I still haven't heard anything and I'm starting to panic that my life may be controlled byt the evil entities here at this place.
CYA never had a truer meaning.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
at
8:08 p.m.
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Lots of 7's in the date today, so let's take a look at a few...
• 7 Deadly Sins: Pride, envy, wrath, sloth, avarice, gluttony, lust
• 7 Seas: Red, Adriatic, Black, Caspian, Mediterranean, Persian Gulf, Indian Ocean
• 7 Virtues: faith, hope, charity, fortitude, prudence, justice, temperance
• 7 Metals of Alchemy: gold, silver, lead, quicksilver, copper, iron, tin
• 7 Dwarfs: Dopey, Sneezy, Bashful, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, Doc
• 7 Ritz Cracker holes: Six in a hexagon shape and one in the center.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
at
11:44 a.m.
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You know you're in trouble when the computer tech here is highly illiterate. This is an email he sent to Nathan, the computer programmer from our web team:
"It did worked before I look at me send emails and saw a long time send this info to you."
Classy.
As for Kaboose, the interview went for a little more than an hour and I have a warm, fuzzy feeling. I hesitate to give it a thumbs-up for fear of a jinx, but at least it's a step in the right direction towards freedom from this place.
I hate personal ads. Laying them out sucks. Everyone I tell laughs at me.
I don't blame them.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
at
11:29 a.m.
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Jeff Gaulin's journalism website is both a blessing and a curse. It's great because it's an awesome resource for journalists to find new jobs, start careers, and see what kinds of companies are out there.
It's also evil because it's a bit of tease.
I must admit that the majority of my journalism related jobs have come from postings on Jeff Gaulin, but it is by no means at all a guarantee. Experience, skill, and ability are not valuable currency in my field so much as networking.
Still, every now and then you manage to slip through the cracks. Last Thursday before Catherine and I headed out on a wonderfully romantic weekend to Niagara Falls (she slaughtered me at mini-golf), I sent out 7 resumes in the hopes of finding something better than this awful job I have now.
One of them was Kaboose.com, an internet portal designed for kids ages 4-15. It has a massive amount of content, and my role there would be to write new articles every day to post on the site. It's a lot to do, but according to the woman I had a forty-minute phone interview with last night, I can throw a stone and write about what it hits.
That's some nice flexibility.
Kaboose is growing and already gets about 6.5 million hits a month with no advertising. It's one of the top ten internet destinations for kids. All of this ads up to me wanting to be a part of that, if only because it pays 17k more a year than this place.
And why am I so eager to leave? Well, they've given me my ex-coworkers workload and often talk openly about moving my entire job to their India office and having me "oversee" what's left. Very much not my job description, and very much not what I want to do with my life.
The interview proper is today at 3:30, so I arrived here early to meet my deadlines for the day. I've almost got all of my work for the day done (it's 11:34am) and I plan to leave at 2.
In short, I'm tired, I'm excited, I'm nervous, and I'm getting the hell out of here no matter what. If it isn't Kaboose, it's something else VERY soon.
I prefer to leave on my own terms.
Monday, June 27, 2005
at
11:48 a.m.
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1. Your boss is always yelling, “I wanna see your butt in here by 8:00!”
2. “I’d love to chip in, but I left my wallet in my pants.”
3. You want to see if it’s like the dream.
4. People stop stealing your pens after they’ve seen where you keep them.
5. Diverts attention from the fact that you also came to work drunk.
6. Gives “bad hair day” a whole new meaning.
7. No one steals your chair.
Friday, June 24, 2005
at
1:23 a.m.
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Me and Sean Maher (Simon Tam) from Serenity. He was kind enough to join the screening tonight, and sat in front of me. His hair looked very soft, but I resisted the urge to touch it. Oh, and for all of you who didn't see it... September can't come soon enough. 
You have to wait another three months to see Serenity? I don't envy you guys at ALL.
No worries, this blog shall stay completely spoiler-free, though it's killing me to not be able to talk about it.
A good thing about seeing it early (and as far as I could tell the film was finished or damn near), is that there was free stuff. Buttons, tatoos, posters, keychains, programs, and oh, Sean Maher (Simon Tam) was there.
That didn't suck. Not at all.
Shiny!
Thursday, June 23, 2005
at
12:24 p.m.
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• Warfare in the Enemy’s Rear, by O. Heilbrunn (1963)
• Selected Themes and Icons from Spanish Literature: Of Beards, Shoes, Cucumbers, and Leprosy, by John R. Burt (1982)
• What Do Bunnies Do All Day?, by Judy Mastrangelo (1988)
• The Romance of Proctology, by Charles Elton Blanchard (1938)
• Cancer: Is the Dog the Cause?, by Walter Cort (1933)
On an unrelated note, tonight is the Serenity screening that Paul, Victoria, Catherine and I will be attending along with several rabid fans.
I'm a little perturbed as my eye Weekly story didn't make it in this week, but the fall-out from tonight should appear in the next issue.
We're apparently going to be honoured with a celebrity guest, a mini-poster (that will be signed), and a keychain. A small Q&A may follow the film. All in all, it should be fun.
Best of all, I'm leaving work early today because of it. The screening starts at 10pm, the line begins at 8pm, and the dinner with the... fans... starts at 5:30pm. I must be presentable. Or hungry.
One of the two.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
at
11:12 a.m.
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This isn't a rant about stupid people in general, but will be a short list of people I've encountered lately that are, in some way or another, completely fucking bonkers.
1. List mom Heather: This is a woman who runs a fan website of rabid Firefly enthusiasts and she has nothing better to do than feel superior. I've repeatedly been trying to get information out of her about certain aspects of the Serenity screening this week for my eye Weekly story. She said there was going to be a "celebrity guest" but would not say who. This is just stupid.
She said I should call and ask Universal directly, and I asked her for the name/phone number of the person she got the information from so I could call and independently confirm. This would have a direct bearing on the nature of my story, and as such, I felt I should know. She wouldn't even give me that. She said "call and ask for someone."
This is a woman who wants to "get the word out" about her beloved franchise, yet refuses to aid someone who can speak to more than 5 family members and instead talk with the 300,000 weekly readers that eye claims to net.
She wouldn't budge. I'd like to smack her.
2. The woman at Universal: Another dirtbag. After going through my editor to find out who I was, she didn't even call me back. I finally called her up, and she said no interviews would be granted prior to the screening for a guest that she would neither confirm nor deny. I can only assume a lighting tech is showing up. Again, slightly baffled, but not shocked. She is a flack after all.
The only thing I don't get is why would you tell the geek in charge of a fan site, but not inform someone in the press? Nervous about getting some bad remarks, or just being difficult because you can be?
My editor at eye claims we should be grateful they even responded. He said most studios wouldn't even bother. Isn't that encouraging?
3. Aspects of First Media: Shib, the girl who got hired a week after I did for the same position, was unceremoniously shit-canned yesterday. Granted, I'm sure she brought it on herself (I tried to talk to her about it), but that doesn't excuse our co-workers on the other side from giggling and laughing a full hour after it happened. It wasn't necessarily about her, but you could feel that it was part of it.
4. Mimes. Those guys are just asking for it.
So maybe this post WAS a rant after all, but it wasn't really intended to be. I'm getting paid for my eye Weekly writing, though I didn't expect to be at all. It's not a huge sum of money, but it makes up for the bits of frustration I've been having. The first part of my writing, a whopping 150 words, should be in this week with a larger chunk the week after.
I have a lot of pudding with me at work right now, and a copy of season 1 of the BBC version of The Office. I'm sure it will help to soothe my pain.
Now I have gas.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
at
10:42 p.m.
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Hound, from Transformers Alternators...
That was the clever name Hasbro came up with for their recently released Transformer from their Alternators line. The entire thing is based on the G1 characters we all grew up with, and today I used a gift certificate I had (which you could only use for four days this month and then it was worthless) towards getting my favorite Jeep (now based on a Wrangler) to get Hound.
Hound was a great character with a gun that could create holograms. He also had a shoulder mounted missle, but at this exact moment I can't seem to recall him using it. During the first season or two, Hound was a regular on the show, though he barely even made it into the comics.
That's what happens when merchandising hits the fan. Too many ideas, too many characters, and not enough space to feature them all, and feature them you must in order to make money.
This figure is actually quite impressive, and in the same scale as my Dodge Viper Sideswipe and my 20th Anniversary Optimus Prime. If any of you are wondering where this post is going, it's in the direction of "too much disposable income."
Which is funny, because I should save like mad.
Instead, Catherine and I used our "summer fun" money to buy a used copy of Super Smash Bros. Melee for the Gamecube. We've been playing it a bit, and could use a couple of more people to join in the mayhem.
Other than that, next week at work will reveal if I get fired or if we get three times as much work dumped on us. Nothing stays the same, just gets crappier. I think that should be my slogan in life.
On the "that doesn't stink" side, I DID get a couple of articles approved for eye Weekly regarding the Serenity screening, so at least I'll get published again soon. I was beginning to think that I dreamt the whole thing up. I've also asked to do movie reviews again (even volunteering for the stinkers) so that I can feel good about myself when I have nothing better to do at work.
That's all. Go on about your business.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
at
5:58 p.m.
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The first gambling machine to catch on was a vending machine for chewing gum introduced by the Mills Novelty Company in 1910. It dispensed three flavors of gum—cherry, orange, and plum—depending on which fruits appeared on three randomly spinning wheels. If three bars reading “1910 Fruit Gum” appeared in a row, the machine gave extra gum; if a lemon appeared, it gave no gum at all (which is why “lemon” came to mean something unsatisfactory or defective). You can’t get gum in a slot machine anymore—the 1910 Fruit Gum machines were so popular that the company converted them to cash payouts.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
at
11:20 a.m.
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For those of you who know him, you can understand the kind of bizarre happenings that occur when Dave Gerow is around. For the next year, he'll be making life interesting for the Chinese as he helps teach them English.
Here is a sample of his bi-weekly emails:
"Hey, here's a sort of funny story. I teach an adult beginner class with this Chinese girl and the other day she was teaching them "dislike", so she said to me, "What's something I can use for an example?" And I said (because the students don't use any English, so I can say anything), "Nobody here seems to like the Japanese." And she just went up to the board and wrote the following:
I dislike Japanese.
He dislikes Japanese.
We dislike Japanese.
And next to "We dislike Japanese", she drew a Japanese flag (a box with a circle in it) and put an "X" through it. I swear this on the safety of my return flight to Canada. Anyway, nobody minded. Afer all, We dislike Japanese."
God bless you, David.
Monday, June 13, 2005
at
4:34 p.m.
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This blog is quickly becoming a post for all of my geek interests and loves from a television landscape that offers little in terms of the kind of quality programming we've been exposed to in the past.
Hence, the return of Quantum Leap. Long has this been one of my favorite shows and it is my own personal white whale. When the final episode originally aired, my father forgot to tape it despite he and I sitting down to watch it together every week for years. I was quite devastated.
When it subsequently aired on SPACE a couple of years ago, I was once again diligent in trying to track down that episode. The night it aired, the VCR screwed up and once again I missed out. After that, SPACE aired the show randomly which killed any chance I had at seeing that episode.
I've still never seen it.
I'm getting closer, though. I picked up season 2 used a couple of months ago, and Catherine bought me the first season just last week. Yesterday I lucked out and found season 3 used. They have yet to release the final two seasons, but barring an act of God, I think I may eventually get to see that episode.
It may not seem like a big deal to any of you, but this was a huge thing for me.
Other than that, I had a good weekend away at Guelph with my stunning girlfriend. We went to J.P.'s (Bern's son) wedding, enjoyed some pool time with my brother, Graydon, and a short visit to Brantford. I love getting away for the weekend as it just lets you recharge a little. We borrowed my mom's car, and she got the use of our apartment.
A nice trade, all in all.
Tonight, I'll go to karate and watch more Quantum Leap. I've decided to go to teacher's college as well, so I should do some research. Catherine freaked me out earlier today in regards to teachables, and while I still qualify, I'm now paranoid.
But I wouldn't be me without a little daily fear about the future.
Friday, June 10, 2005
at
3:07 p.m.
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By the time Friday arrives, everyone in my office (including myself) are so sapped of any desire to do work that it descends into a farcical tribute to the great office comedies of our generation like Office Space and the BBC's brilliant work, The Office.
I'm aware that I used the word "office" entirely too many times in that sentence.
So far today, I've managed to do most of my work. I have no idea how this happened. It's kind of like when you're driving and all of a sudden you arrive at your destination, but have no idea how you got there. In my opinion, that's when you're driving your best. You're not overly aware of your actions, and yet your responses are smooth and even. And hey, maybe you figured out some new way to make french fries while you weren't paying attention to the road.
That's what this job is like, but all the time. If you pay attention to what you're doing (in my case, personal ads, which elicits grins and laughter from anyone who finds out what I do), you'll go insane. Who cares about the 200 lb. woman who's favorite activity is going to a carnival? Or the ad by a woman named Victoria Secretion? (That one got edited out, by the way).
Long story short, this job will kill you if you don't have fun.
So, today I have done the following:
1. Checked message boards from other Serenity movie-goers to try and get extra tickets.
2. Played balloon volleyball with Bill who works on the other side of my desk wall.
3. Made fun of Colleen for wanting to bring cupcakes for another co-worker, Li, who's birthday is on Monday.
4. Made fun of Li for buying pants to go with her new bicycle.
5. Misinterpreted a t-shirt. Nathan did the same thing. That made it okay.
6. Planned a work birthday party.
7. Listened to the Coldplay album.
8. Watched some C.S.I.
9. Visited my websites, which include Action-figure.com, Whedonesque, Coming Soon, Penny Arcade, and more.
10. Had lunch.
11. Went to Harvey's to get out for a little.
12. Read the newspaper.
13. Talked quite a bit.
14. Have done some work. Almost all of it, in fact.
Interesting, don't you think?
I think jobs are best served by those who either truly love what they're doing, are addicted to money, or have the ability to turn their brains off. I only wish mine could get cable in this near vegetative state.
My chair is uncomfortable and it gives me daily back pains. Last night, my neck bothered me. I mentioned this several times, and not once did Catherine offer to massage it. I've dumped her for it.
I took her back when she bought me dinner. Life has a way of working things out.
Back to work (*snicker*).
Thursday, June 09, 2005
at
12:35 p.m.
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That's right, I managed to snag four tickets to the upcoming screening of Serenity on June 23rd at the Paramount here in downtown Toronto. For many of you, I expect many angry letters and threats about spoilers. I shall do my best to remain silent while many of you wait another THREE MONTHS.
I took a little pleasure in that.
(I originally had a section in here about having two extra tickets, but Paul and Victoria snatched them up fairly quickly. I'm working on getting TWO more (been added to a list of Browncoats online), and will likely be successful for those interested in seeing the film. Put your names in the hat NOW).
Being the smart cookie I am, I also sent in a pitch to eye about the whole thing. If they don't resond by say... Friday... heh. I'll probably go with my contacts at the Sun and try to fish a story to them that way. I just want to make some money and get my name in th' paper.
I'm selfish that way.
Ah, Serenity.. I'm coming to see you soon...
Two weeks and counting.
www.cantstopthesignal.com
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
at
2:46 p.m.
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The new Coldplay album landed. Some sources claim it's the best thing since sliced bread, others are slightly more immune to the hype machine and merely label it 'good.' Rolling Stone seems to be balanced in the middle, and after my first pass through the album I'm inclined to agree.
There are no breakaway hits for me other than "Fix Me." With other Coldplay albums, songs like "Don't Panic," "Yellow," "Clocks," and an assortment of other tunes seemed to break through whatever exterior I had going on at the time and have a ripple effect in my emotional center.
It's hard to place "X&Y" yet as the best they've done, and right now it's still behind "Parachutes."
My biggest frustration with the group is they want the label of the best rock & roll band in the world. Sorry, but that belongs to U2 and you need more than three albums to top it. Also, some guitars and, you know, ROCK songs, probably would help.
Still, it's a good album and worth listening to. You can borrow or burn it from me.
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
at
10:22 p.m.
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Anyone else played the PopCap game? It's highly addictive, as are most of their offerings. The full version is much more fun, but you only get an hour trial. If only I knew how to beat it into submission without forking over an unrealistic $30 US.
That, and I'm cheap.
Then again, I did just spend more than $120 on clothes last weekend. Those of you who know me (and I'm assuming that the three of you who read this do, in fact, know me), should have passed out with shock. None of the labels had the letters "D," "V," or "D" in them.
I'm trying to pull together a Wonderland trip for the June 25-26 weekend. Much like a comic convention organizer, I consider my prime "catch" to be Jamie and Nicole. I've yet to hear a yay or nay from them, but they're the backbone of this whole operation. After all, Paul and Victoria are nice, Josh is nicely dysfunctional, and Jer... lives nearby.
Sorry, Jer. You're a friend by proximity only. And you're sexy.
So, if you're in, that makes for a great weekend of gaming, geekery, and rollercoasters. Seeing as how Jer's cottage weekend may bust, this could be the next best thing.
I swear it won't suck.
AND... I'll plug in my air conditioner. That's as good as money.
Back to Heavy Weapon...
Thursday, June 02, 2005
at
1:07 p.m.
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Actual answers from Family Feud.
And yes, I'm bored at work. I could be fired by the end of the month if they downsize my department. I friggin' hate life some days.
OOHH!! Candy!!
Q: Name a fruit that is yellow.
A: Orange.
Q: Name something that floats in the bath.
A: Water.
Q: Name a part of the body beginning with “N.”
A: Knee.
Q: A job around the house that has to be done every fall.
A: Spring cleaning.
Saturday, May 28, 2005
at
1:39 p.m.
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Revenge of the Sith... brutally violent cartoon...
“When a cat is dropped, it always lands on its feet, and when toast is dropped, it always lands with the buttered side facing down. I propose to strap buttered toast to the back of a cat; the two will hover, spinning inches above the ground. With a giant buttered cat array, a high-speed monorail could easily link major metropolitan areas.”
Once again, I'd like to thank my brilliant page-a-day calendar. Mysteries of the universe are nothing compared to geeks with too much time on their hands.
Speaking of geeks, Jamie wishes to discuss Star Wars and so I shall. Like all the films I've seen, I liked it much better the first time I saw it. The second time I saw it, the things that annoyed me the first time really grated. Such as the terrible "I love you," "no, I love YOU" talk between Anakin and Padme, and Darth Vader's ridiculous "NOOOO!!!" at the end of the film.
That said, I went out and bought the original trilogy shortly after viewing this film. A few minutes into A New Hope and I remembered why I love Star Wars and it's not because George Lucas has figured out that animation is cheaper and less effort, it's because real Stormtroopers are just that much cooler. ENHANCING a film through it's backgrounds, or the number of troops, or things along that side are fine. I'm all about that. But that scene in Episode III when all the wookies stand up and cheer is just painful when a making-of documentary I saw shows that there were only four guys there.
Lucas, stop being a lazy prick. Then again, I suppose it's all moot now. Still, my complaint is that 90 minutes of Episode III is a cartoon, and therefore not the movie I wanted. Take notes from Peter Jackson, who although has a great deal of computer effects in his film as well, at least did his best to make as much of it as real as possible. To the point where it becomes very hard to tell what is and what isn't real. Gollum vs. Yoda.
Enough said.
Still, the final battle and epilogue to the movie were more than satisfying and a treat after the first two films. I left the theatre satisfied, which was all I could have hoped for. General Grievous is a personal favorite. I bought the action figure.
Monday, May 23, 2005
at
4:21 p.m.
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After being gone a little over a week, my sweet Catherine will arrive home tonight. I'll be leaving shortly to go to the airport to pick her up.
It's amazing what a little time apart can do. I've missed her so much, and it's reminded me why I love her so much. Though the times apart kind of suck, they make the reunion that much sweeter.
Hopefully she brought me home a present!!
Thursday, May 12, 2005
at
2:57 p.m.
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My co-workers insist I've gone mad, but I think it's because they're blind to the horrible truth that there are, in fact, gnomes at work in the building.
Each night I go home leaving my desk area unmolested. It's in prime condition with a row of assembled Kinder Surpise toys lining one end of my shelf, a small Kubrick Spider-Man figure hanging from my inbox tray, and a few pictures scattered around my area.
And then I come back the next morning and things are... different.
It started with Spider-Man. He was fine and dandy most of the time, but then one day I came in and he was facing the wrong way. Nathan, one of my co-workers was my first suspect. He's had it in for me since I started chucking paper clips at him. He denies it, but I'm still not sure.
It happened again the next day and the day after. Then things seemed fine.
Until I looked at my Kinder toys. Someone clearly moved my metal X-Men figurines around. They were all together, then suddenly apart.
Today it got worse. Two toys that were previously "chasing" each other now faced each other. The X-Men were moved out of order. My martian Kinder had flown away to the other end of the table.
This is the work of an evil genius. One who must be stopped.
I still suspect Nathan, as he's here long after the rest of us go home. I wish there was some way to set up a trap to catch the culprit. They all tell me I'm paranoid, or that the cleaner's are having a go at me.
I'll get them. I'll make them ALL pay.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
at
11:41 p.m.
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Arthur and Marvin... or Jer, Victoria, Paul, Catherine and myself tomorrow on the way to Big Turk's for the weekend. It shall be glorious. Hopefully we'll get out to see this flick along the way.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
at
5:20 p.m.
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September can't come quickly enough in my opinion. Not only will it mean the end of my exile here at this job, but it also brings Joss Whedon's feature film version of the incredible show, Firefly, to the big screen.
All of the original cast are back in a trailer that is fun, fast, furious, and stylish. For those of you who, like me, couldn't get enough, at least this juicy offering will help overcome the pangs of its cancellation.
Oh yeah, I mentioned the trailer. It's online NOW at www.apple.com/trailers.
Go see it. Then post your comments in the chatterbox. It's really good looking. The only person I didn't spot was Ron Glass as Shepherd Book, though I know he's in the film. Nathan Fillion, aka Malcolm Reynolds, gets the juiciest parts.
"Define bad situation." - Mal
"Oh god, oh god, we're all going to die?" - Wash
Brilliant.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
at
12:02 p.m.
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Shortly after he was elected to the Holy office, Catherine sent me a brief message about her first impression of the Pope.
"Have you seen the new Pope, yet? He looks shifty."
Every time I see a picture of him I DO think he looks shifty, and feel the need to make me eyes dart left and right quickly like a certain dog on The Simpsons.
Any thoughts?
Friday, April 15, 2005
at
1:39 p.m.
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You will come back from within yourself
you can be art when we melt
and I will know what you were for
I say we're leaving
There ain't nothing here at all
Another day, a week, the mall
and baby, if I was in demand
You would be mine
Some day, this place is gonna burn
Is your whole life in there waiting?
Some day, your head is gonna turn
And you'll realize I'm missing
Do you realize?
You will come back, convince yourself
You can stay alive and wait for me
And I will know what this was for
And I'll say we're leaving
There ain't nothing here at all
Another month, a year, that's all
So we can tell them I'm coming out
Who's coming with me?
Some day, this place is gonna burn
Is your whole life in there waiting?
Some day, their heads are gonna turn
And they'll realize you're missing.
You're missing
We are there
- MGB
Thursday, April 14, 2005
at
9:18 a.m.
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The Juggernaut is in the house.
According to a scoop on Coming Soon (you'll have to cut and paste this link as my Mac at work doesn't have all the options) http://www.superherohype.com/news/x-mennews.php?id=2845, Vinnie Jones is currently in talks to play Professor X's half-brother, Cain Marko... aka The Juggernaut, in the upcoming X-Men 3.
This would be very cool if done right. A waste of time if it isn't. Still, one of the biggest things missing from X-Men 2 was a REALLY good brawl between super-powered characters. They were mutants, but didn't use their powers in battle as much as I would have liked.
I'll be there for this one.
So far Hugh Jackman, Famke Jansen, and Alan Cumming are set to return. Everyone else is in talks.
It comes out in 2006.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
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11:25 a.m.
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Just because it was a lyric in a song I was just listening to doesn't make it any less relevant a question.
"Can money pay for all the days I've lived awake but half asleep?"
What am I doing here?
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
at
10:50 p.m.
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For my dear, sweet, Catherine who today turns 26. I love you more with each passing day and can't imagine what my life would be like without coming home to hold you in my arms.
I love you today, tomorrow, and forever.
You look so cute asleep in bed right now.
I'm glad you had a nice day.
Monday, April 11, 2005
at
12:49 p.m.
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This was an article in today's Metro and I wanted to post it for a couple of reasons.
1. I think it's kind of ridiculous. Society is becoming way too picky for its own good.
2. I figured Catherine would find it funny. My job is to amuse her.
"Cookie Monster, the blue furry muppet known for his penchant for cookies, will be eating less of his favourite food in the coming season, CBC.ca reports.
The change in Cookie Monster's diet is part of a new focus on television's Sesame Street, one that will stress healty eating habits for children."
It's official, the world has gone nuts.
Thursday, April 07, 2005
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7:56 p.m.
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“A Subway sandwich shop employee in Edmonton, Alberta, somehow managed to activate the burglar alarm and disarm two men who were attempting to rob him at knifepoint. Scared by the sandwich maker’s heroics, the felons fled the scene. The Subway employee pursued the would-be thieves, shouting that there was no harm done and that he’d gladly make them free sandwiches if they came back. Amazingly, they did! Police arrived minutes later and arrested the hungry thieves, who were patiently waiting in line for a Cold Cut Trio.”
—Stuff magazine
Monday, April 04, 2005
at
1:55 p.m.
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Jer, Aaron and I ventured forth to see this comic book-turned-film on the big screen. While it has a lot of value in terms of cinematography, I found the execution to be a bit overwhelming. As a comic book fan, I appreciate the literalness of the translation, but I can imagine the uniniated arriving to the show and finding it a bit wanting.
Some found the endless narration jarring, and others will be blown away by the brutality of the film.
The biggest impression that the movie will leave with me, however, had nothing to do with what was on screen.
It was the audience. The crazy fucking audience.
There were people smoking hash somewhere in the theatre. I can't confirm it, but my suspicions fall on the guy in the back who laughed REALLY loudly at anything and everything. Apparently others noticed it as well as during the third act theatre employees stood on both sides of the theatre and were scanning the crowd. It was a bit disconcerting.
Add to the fact that the guys behind us were drunk. You could smell it clearly, especially on the breath of the guy who leaned forward in his seat. He kept knocking over glass bottles the whole time.
The woman beside Aaron kept falling asleep. This wouldn't have been bad if she hadn't cried out when Aaron got up to go to the bathroom. I thought it was quite funny.
The guys in front of us wouldn't take off their hats.
All of this was crazy and could be explained any number of ways. They were prepping for the bar or a party, maybe they had already been out for a good time. Then again, seeing as how it was a matinee and showed at 4 in the afternoon, maybe they were just idiots.
Oh, and they showed the movie and the Star Wars trailer. That was good.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
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4:26 p.m.
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This is from the Globe and Mail's Social Studies: "Of all the terrifying
circumstances to which one's home is vulnerable, nothing equals
that of a guest who stares straight at one's bookshelves," wrote Roger
Rosenblatt in Time magazine more than a decade ago. "It is when
those eyes stop moving that your heart, too, stops. The guest's body
twitches; his hand floats up to where his eyes have led it. There is
nothing to be done. You freeze. You hear the question even as it
forms: 'Would you mind if I borrowed this book? . . .'One has books;
one has friends; they are bound to meet."
I realize it's been more than a little while since I last posted but I have a REALLY good excuse: I'm lazy.
That's about it. Sometimes there's nothing one can do to become motivated to write endless pieces of drivel about their day, life, job or other circumstance.
For those of you who care, the new Fantastic Four trailer is out and I'm still uncertain what I think about it. Paul is falling on the cautious side while I'm sure that Jer already hates it even though I don't think he's seen it.
Aaron would just shrug. It's his way. Don't judge.
Monday, March 21, 2005
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11:11 p.m.
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Anything that, in happening, causes something else to happen, causes something else to happen.
Sunday, March 20, 2005
at
11:23 p.m.
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Anything that happens, happens.
Friday, March 18, 2005
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6:38 p.m.
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... or encouraged. Honestly, at this point I'm not sure which side of the fence I fall on.
For those of you in the dark, Lucas made an announcement today that for the 30th Anniversary of Star Wars, the films would be released, one a year starting in 2007, in 3-D. This is a true story.
What's more interesting is that Peter Jackson has made comments about doing something similar with Lord of the Rings. What's more, apparently he's already done it with some of the footage.
Don't get me wrong, I'll be there front and center for all of this because I'm a consumer whore. It's just that Lucas and his madness of forty different versions must be stopped sooner or later. I'm told that in 2017, for the 40th Anniversary, there will be smell-o-vision and actual garbage will get dumped on us during the trash compactor scene.
Again, I'll likely be there.
It's too bad that these films need the size of the theatre to really work, though, as watching them on a TV at home will likely lose the effect. Unless you're Paul who owns a projector, and I'm assuming by the time the movies actually come out will have bought his own theatre.
Star Wars. In 3-D. Wild.
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
at
8:14 p.m.
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I am not rich. I must stop acting as though I am.
I admit I've hit a bit of a spending streak lately that really must stop. I've managed to stop shy of getting carried away, though.
Part of it is due to finally getting a job. I bought a nice present for Catherine and picked up something for myself as well. Seemed only right. Then of course I had to pay for my karate grading, and I didn't realize I had to pay off that much on my credit card...
Then came a couple of games (board and video) that didn't cost that much individually, but they add up.
Not to stop there, I went and picked up the latest series of Marvel Legends figures today which included War Machine, Dr. Strange, Professor X, and Nightcrawler. I had no choice. Each figure comes with a piece of a giant figure, in this case Galactus, and I only need to secure one more to have the whole figure. The thing is a giant at 16".
Still, the cash ride is over for the moment. Everything is taken care of that needed it. Well, I suppose I didn't HAVE to buy season 4 of Buffy, but it was used (or sold as used... it was still in the original packaging)... and I guess I don't NEED to buy U2 tickets this Saturday... but I will. It's too bad I couldn't buy them closer to the actual concert date which is in September. Can I count them as a September purchase?
No worries as I do have the money for all this. I haven't gone nuts.
Yet.
Sunday, March 13, 2005
at
8:26 p.m.
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• Chou Remains Cremated
• New housing for elderly not yet dead
• SILENT TEAMSTER GETS CRUEL PUNISHMENT: LAWYER
• GREEKS FINE HOOKERS
• Federal Agents Raid Gun Shop, Find Weapons
• SHOUTING MATCH ENDS TEACHER’S HEARING
• YELLOW SNOW STUDIED TO TEST NUTRITION
• County Wants Money for Taking Dump
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
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8:21 p.m.
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Ah, that graceful Campbell style of eating... Rory Marie... 8 months old.
As per his chatterbox instructions, I gave Brody a call. He's up north at the moment (and has been for a year... or at least that's how long since he was last in Guelph), and doing just fine. He and Lisa are having a great time raising little 8-month old Rory Marie.
We've vowed to email each other much more often than the never it's been so far. I find it funny that we don't talk much as I still consider Brody to be one of my best friends. That's all fixed now, however, as he's sent the opening email to me and I've already applied.
As per my request, Brody has already fired off a group of pictures of his lovely daughter. The first thought I had was "she looks just like him" followed quickly by "that poor, hairy, baby."
I hope to see my friend again soon as it's been too long. Whenever I see Brody, things just seem to make sense again. It's probably just his open and honest nature and great sense of humor. He's just one of those guys that makes day-to-day life a bit more enjoyable.
It might be the beer.
Ah, if Brody was around, the video games we'd play would be endless. Poor Rory would be fatherless as her Dad would stumble home late at night with bloodshot eyes from staring at screens.
Not a bad life, if you ask me. And perhaps better than the day-to-day operations up at Pickle Lake. Brody, I salute you.
Saturday, March 05, 2005
at
11:44 a.m.
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This, one and all, has to be my personal record for the longest time in between blog entries. In fact, it would be longer, but I'm avoiding doing work on a Saturday at the moment.
It's been a while, so I'll bring you all up to speed: I have a job now at a company called First Media Group. This is not the glorious job I feel I was promised in the early days of my youth and in fact the job itself can be boring and repetitive. On the bright side, however, this is my first real annual salary kind of job and I'm not about to mess it up.
I'm a production artist there and I lay out ads for many major and minor papers around Canada. We'll be expanding our efforts to the States eventually, and I'm sure my head will explode. It's only been one week, but already I've stayed late on three of the four days I've worked.
Hopefully this extra effort will cease.
In other news, Marvel is celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Age of Apocalypse. One of the best X-Men stories to have ever been produced, all the original books are going to be collected in four massive trade paperbacks. Like a good little boy, I'll likely buy all of them when they come out.
In addition, Marvel is producing a six-issue limited series and a one-shot. I have the first issues of both, and I must say I'm rather impressed. 10 years is a lot of time to lose the magic, but so far so good.
Also, this week saw the release of Ultimate Iron Man. Normally I wouldn't announce such a project, but this one happens to be written by my favorite author, Orson Scott Card (Ender's Game). It's being drawn by Andy Kubert (Origin), another favorite, and worth taking a look at. By taking a look I'm sure most of you will take this to mean it's okay to read my issue.
Catherine and I are shuffling along and doing well. She's just completed her Felicity collection on DVD and is busy trying to get me to cheer up about getting a job. You'd think I'd be celebrating, but somehow it feels like the end of all there is...
Hrm.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
at
12:55 p.m.
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Just when you think my blogging will approach anything sort of regular, I end up in a near-coma state passing the hours and days as I will in my own strange ways.
This week involved more work, but not the kind I'm continuously hoping for. At the very least it all keeps my head above water, but it could be more fun.
The point of this post is to enquire about this weekend. Everything looked primed for last weekend, and things were postponed, allegedly, to this weekend. I have no idea if Josh or Paul or Jamie or Nic or if anyone is coming down.
The last time I saw Jer was on the weekend when we spent money to go see Constantine. While I was primed to dislike this movie, I have to admit it wasn't that bad. Jer is firmly in the camp that Keanu Reeves should have been recast with a more grungy looking actor like Bruce Willis, but I didn't mind Reeves at all.
And for reasons I can't begin to fathom (well, I can, I suppose... I wanted a special kind of gun), I've almost completely played through Resident Evil 4 again. This time, however, it's at less than half the time it took me the first play through. It's still a whack of change.
Next week sees the release of my newest and likely last game (though the next Zelda game looks great) for the Gamecube, Mortal Kombat: Deception (MK6).
Friday, February 18, 2005
at
12:02 p.m.
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If the world gives you lemons...A struggling playwright named Greg Kotis was homeless in Paris, surviving on $4 a day. He slept on park benches and often had to choose between eating and using the city’s pay urinals.
...Make lemonade: One rainy afternoon while making such a choice (he chose food), a thought occurred to him: What if a single evil corporation controlled all of the pay urinals in a city? Inspired, Kotis wrote a play called Urinetown: The Musical. After a sold-out off-Broadway run, it opened on Broadway in 2001. Highlight: a song called “It’s a Privilege to Pee.”
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
at
1:34 p.m.
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Angel: Season 5
"You have to initial here concerning your immortal soul." - W & H employee
You have to admire the guts it took to move the final season of Angel into the offices of the series' major villains. What could easily have blown up in the faces of the cast and creators was embraced by fans and the result is an incredible season. And how on Earth can you top turning Angel into a puppet?
My copy came in the mail today thanks to a pre-order off of Amazon.ca nearly two weeks ago. I had a coupon for $5 off, so the whole thing only cost me $50. Now, as it happens, my Angel collection is complete. I even have an extra sleeve for season 5 as it came in a bilingual wrapper. Heh, if anyone wants a copy of the season I can burn one and even give you a proper sleeve.
My madness doesn't stop there, however. I picked up season 3 of Buffy last week used for a song, and then last night as a Valentine's Day present, the ever-wonderful Catherine picked up a used copy of season 5 for me.
That just leaves 4, 6, and 7 left to go.
I'm probably insane, but that's okay by me. I'm enjoying myself and getting every drop of pleasure of out these DVDs that I can. Now I just have to wait for Firefly to find it's way back to me after being on what seems like permanent loan to friends and family and I can have a Joss Whedon party.
PS. Firefly is selling used across the street for $35.
I'm sure I've gone nuts now.
There's also been no comment from Paul or Jamie about this weekend. I'll have to begin bugging in earnest.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
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7:49 p.m.
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I love these calendars, I really do. Though I think I may be one of the few out there who do. Today, I bought one (featuring dogs) for Catherine purely so I could have my year-long online access back to the Uncle John's Bathroom Reader version. It was such a pleasant way to begin a day of being anchored to a computer, so I didn't want to pass it up again.
Here are a few highlights I've discovered so far:
"In 1946 the following ad appeared in several southern California newspapers: “Wanted: Congressman candidate with no previous political experience to defeat a man who has represented the district in the House for 10 years. Any young man, resident of district, preferably a veteran, fair education, may apply for the job.”
The ad had been placed by the Republican party. The young man who answered the ad was awarded the job and did in fact defeat incumbent Jerry Voorhis after a dirty campaign. So who kicked off his political career by replying to a want ad? Richard M. Nixon (born on this date in 1913)."
And another good one:
• In 2003 televangelist Jim Bakker paid a $3.7 million settlement for defrauding his followers. Lawyers got $2.5 million of it—and each victim got $6.54.
• In a 2003 settlement between Sears and customers with improperly done wheel balancing, lawyers got $2.45 million—and customers got $2.50 per tire.
• When a bank settled a lawsuit over improper interest charges, the lawyers got $8.5 million. Each bank customer got less that $10...and then had to pay the bank $91 to reimburse its court fees.
And finally (for today at least):
"In 1990, 14-year-old Lisa Reid went blind as the result of a brain tumor. The doctors told her it was permanent. Then one night about 10 years later, she bent down to kiss her guide dog goodnight and accidentally smacked her head on a coffee table. Amazingly, when she woke up the next morning, 80 percent of the vision in her left eye had been restored. The first thing she did: telephoned her mother and read her the health warning on a packet of cigarettes."
Other than that, I had a job interview last week that either went really well or I botched completely. I've decided there's no such thing as in between seeing as how you either get the job or you don't.
Catherine and I are enjoying an extended 'Valentine's Day Weekend' with trips for breakfast, gonig to a movie (Million Dollar Baby), a proper dinner on Tuesday night followed by a performance of Mamma Mia.
Personally, I think it's fantastic that after 5 1/2 years of being together that she and I still go out on dates. She's gotta be the most romantic person I know (after myself of course).
PS. This weekend Josh is coming to Toronto to hang out. I'm putting out the call now for Paul, Jamie, Nic, and whomever else is interested to take a little trip into this damn city for a good time.
Friday, February 04, 2005
at
11:12 a.m.
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As most of you know, I met with the Toronto Tonight host about a week and a half back (jeez, nearly two now) about a possible career in television. The intention at the time was to get advice for my SPACE pitch, but Ben wound up suggesting something else entirely.
"We have an associate producer job that's come open," he told me. "It entails watching the wires, gathering press releases, and then presenting them, along with any original ideas, to story meeetings each day. The rest of the day is meant to gather guests for the show, and maybe do a bit of tagline and editing with a video editor."
Needless to say, I kind of liked that idea. What' s more, Ben said that he thought I'd be really good at it.
This is the kind of encouragement a 'starving artist' such as myself needs when first trying to get something going. There's nothing definitive here, but it doesn't hurt.
Then Ben told me to retool my resume and send it to him. Now, Ben's name isn't the person on the contact information, but I took it to mean that he'd give me his stamp of approval and you can't do much better than that.
He asked me to have to him within two or three weeks.
So I sent it in on Wednesday, adding about 6 or 7 story ideas, nailing the concept of who the station was (thanks to Catherine for her help with everything), and waited patiently. While NOTHING is set in stone, this email reply I just got gives me a lot of hope for the future...
Hey Brian,
Zev and I looked at your resume. Ronke is the one doing the hiring for
this position...but it doesn't hurt that Zev and I are both impressed.
He'll tell her that. As I said, there's somebody already doing the job
on a temporary basis -- nothing's guaranteed for him, but
he is doing a very good job. But it definitely bodes well for the
future for you, even if things don't work out this second.
I'm not sure what I can add to your presentation. As Zev said, "This
is very smart." We get a lot of resumes. We rarely say that (if ever).
Great first page, great 'branded' look, and excellent last page. The
story ideas are great, but beyond that, you really nailed who we are
and why you'd fit.
I wish I could offer you a job right now. Can't. But keep in touch.
Ronke will be calling you soon to get you in for an interview.
All the best,
Ben Chin
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
at
3:34 p.m.
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Ah, how I do love chocolate milk... and how I love that it became headline news yesterday that Sealtest put out a bad batch of it. How is it that protests, murders, and all the other events in this city was spoiled by some fun loving chocolate milk gone bad?
Have we all gone nuts?
Well, whatever. All it did was make me want chocolate milk. So I went out, bought three bags and a bottle of Quik (TM). No worries, it wasn't THAT big of a craving as Catherine and I bought the rest of our groceries then as well.
How is it that between the two of us we managed to rack up $70 worth of food? It certainly doesn't seem like that much when you spread it out.
It beats eating out, though. That was costing us HUGE amounts of money but it appealed to our lazy side. It also means I need to start getting back into karate as my bulge is beginning to obscure my belt. I wish I had more local overweight friends. We could band together and fight. Who am I stuck with? My girlfriend is in amazing shape, and the two closest best friends are freakin' rails.
Ah, the irony.
Friday, January 28, 2005
at
9:38 a.m.
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The Washington Post's Style Invitational once again asked readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting, or changing one letter, and supply a new definition.
I'd like to begin OUR version of this incredibly simple, yet bizarre game. I invite you all to participate in the chatterbox, and I may even come up with a no-prize for the lucky winner. You just never know. To give some examples, here were this year's winners at the Post:
1. Bozone (n.): The substance surrounding stupid people that stops bright ideas from penetrating. The bozone layer, unfortunately, shows little sign of breaking down in the near future.
2. Foreploy (v): Any misrepresentation about yourself for the purpose of getting laid.
3. Cashtration (n.): The act of buying a house, which renders the subject financially impotent for an indefinite period.
4. Giraffiti (n): Vandalism spray-painted very, very high.
5. Sarchasm (n): The gulf between the author of sarcastic wit and the person who doesn't get it.
6. Inoculatte (v): To take coffee intravenously when you are running late.
7. Hipatitis (n): Terminal coolness.
8. Osteopornosis (n): A degenerate disease. (This one got extra credit.)
9. Karmageddon (n): It's like, when everybody is sending off all these really bad vibes, right? And
then, like, the Earth explodes and it's like, a serious bummer.
10. Decafalon (n.): The grueling event of getting through the day consuming only things that are good
for you.
11. Glibido (v): All talk and no action.
12. Dopeler effect (n): The tendency of stupid ideas to seem smarter when they come at you rapidly.
13. Arachnoleptic fit (n.): The frantic dance performed just after you've accidentally walked through a spider web.
14. Beelzebug (n.): Satan in the form of a mosquito that gets into your bedroom at three in the morning
and cannot be cast out.
15. Caterpallor (n.): The color you turn after finding half a grub in the fruit you're eating.
And the pick of the literature:
16. Ignoranus (n): A person who's both stupid and an asshole.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
at
2:22 p.m.
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The last and final page of the brochure. Dan posted what he thinks, but I'd love to hear more feedback...
I may not have revealed all there was to know about that meeting the other night with the two journalists.
They gave me advice, and in one case, a bit of work. That much is true. What I didn't reveal is that one of them may be slightly off his rocker.
He politely informed me that he would be giving up his job later this year to pursue his true life dream: racing. Seriously. He then went on to tell me how he once sped by a cop doing 170 in an 80, and then opened his bike up to 200 so he could get away. He DID get away, and spent two hours hiding in the forest to make sure the coast was clear.
He would also ask questions like: do you still feel like a man in this world? as well as "does it make you feel less honorable to buy your meat wrapped up at the supermarket than by going out and killing it yourself."
I blinked twice at this.
What do you say to that? Keep in mind, this was after great advice, encouraging comments, and three pints of beer.
Still, I can't complain. At least it was an interesting night.
On an unrelated note, Resident Evil 4 is just about one of the best games I think I have EVER played. That's pretty high praise. It feels as though I'm close to the end, though knowing that I can take a while to explore an area to make sure I've gotten everything, I think I'm only about half way through. 10 hours of intense and amazing gunfights, and I'm only half done.
So I think, anyway. I could be closer. Not having finished the game before, however, means that I could be really, really off. Still, there's a character I spotted in the game's trailer that I haven't even come into contact with, as well as another character whom I've only had two quick chance meetings with.
And I now have a mine-thrower and a rocket launcher.
I'm primed for more carnage. I only wish I didn't have this job so I could go back and play.
This is the game that consumed Aaron for more than four hours last Saturday. He started playing just before midnight, and stopped playing around 4am. He's hooked. I wonder how long until he shows up at my apartment with bloodshot eyes looking for a fix?
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
at
9:51 a.m.
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Here is page #2 of the brochure...
Sometimes that's what life feels like. One large, unending trial. The kind that you face every time you get changed for gym in high school.
Last night I met with a couple of journalists currently working in the industry to get some perspective on my job search, perhaps a couple of contacts, and potentially even some leads towards new jobs. I left with, at the very least, the promise of some minor freelance work.
It's not much, but it's something in the right direction. They kept going on about how freelance is really the key to getting your start in this business. It gets you contacts, clippings, and familiarity. The only problem is that I can't live off the haphazard way that freelance pays a newbie journalist. If I sold three stories in a month, I'd make maybe $500 or $600 dollars. It's just not realistic.
That, and I refuse to believe that I, unlike many of my college peers who got full-time jobs here in Toronto since graduating, have to go through the freelance process in order to break in. It seems like madness. It's an option, and certainly one worth exploring as a part time option, but dammit, I just want my job.
I hate jumping through hoops. To be honest, I'd probably have left the city by now if it weren't for how much I love Catherine. She has an amazing job here, and as such, we can afford to stay here whether I have a job or not. Right now the only discomfort in my life is the lack of a satisfying day job. That's it.
So, the search continues. I'll keep plugging at it and sooner or later something will happen.
I just hope it isn't me going crazy.
Monday, January 24, 2005
at
1:39 p.m.
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Here is page #1...
It's been a while since I updated this blog with anything extremely relevant, and for the three of you out there who read it I'm sure you're curious about how my project turned out.
Quite well, I must say.
There were a few bumps in the road, but the final product was worth every effort. The video is fun and interesting, and the brochure looks amazing. One page will be put up on this blog a day for the next three days so you can see the finished product.
I dropped off the final results at City last Thursday, and the ache in my stomach and in my head seemed to go away the second it was out of my hands. I had lunch with Toronto 1 anchor Ben Chin today, who suggested I call them later this week to make sure they had received the package and then bug them incessantly after the deadline.
The most surprising after-effect of my work has been the reaction to the brochure/resume. My mother is convinced that I've stumpled across a revolutionary way to self-promote and has even suggested it as a potential business. Given the reaction that it's gotten from a lot of people I can't say that she's wrong. I'm certainly going to start emailing THAT out as my new resume to companies as Quark will allow you to convert your documents to jpgs.
Let me know what you think about the resume. It will be easy to update text and graphics, and really could be the edge that I've been looking for.
Other than that, things are fine and dandy. I'm afloat financially, Catherine's doing great, Truffle is chewing away, and I'm knee deep in Resident Evil 4 and Supreme Power.
Now I just need a job.
It's been a day and a half. Why hasn't SPACE called yet? Then again, I haven't checked my phone messages yet...
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
at
11:12 a.m.
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Option #2...
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
at
3:44 p.m.
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This is one of the headshots I'm including. I'll post another one later tonight, and for those of you viewing the blog, keep checking back and then vote on your favorite in the chatterbox. The one with the most votes will grace the front page of my pitch.
That's what Bono tends to sign about, anyway. My ambition this week has been to do something unheard of in my circle of friends, and that is to break into the on-air television journalism field.
Sure, Jer and Aaron are doing the Humber thing as we speak, and Catherine is a fellow alumnus, but at the moment I'm the only one not doing anything of particular interest or value. I happen to think I stand a decent chance of getting this job (or else I wouldn't be going to all the effort) so I'm putting my best foot forward.
The brochure/resume is nearly done. A few small edits and a couple more pics and I'll be there. I'm taking the final version to Humber tomorrow to get thumbs up or down from the teachers.
Today I shot video of Erik Ko (Street Fighter), and Chris, who is the comic book manager at the Beguiling. Tomorrow morning it's off to Humber to shoot the stand up and edit the video. As long as all goes well, I'll probably be dropping off the entire package at CityTV tomorrow afternoon.
That's kind of crazy, if you think about it.
Still, I'm thrilled to be doing something with myself and my time that isn't related to depression or watching TV. Creating, writing, and editing again has fuelled a flame that I thought was long extinguished. Hopefully I can get this enthusiasm across on tape, as this literally has to be the best thing I've ever done.
You see how I'm not pressuring myself at all?
Friday, January 14, 2005
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3:17 p.m.
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For those of you who don't know, I'm attempting to land an on-air gig at SPACE here in Toronto. It's a sci-fi specialty channel that has been airing the precious seasons of Buffy and Angel that I've been going on about here since, well, forever.
To this end, I have to put together a video demo of myself. I have a couple of field reports from Humber that I did and I'm trying to put together another brief video spot in the early days of next week (help for which I've been begging people, but only Jer seems able or interested in helping me with). I need assistance to shoot something in Humber's basement and some advice on the script and delivery. The whole video will be no more than a minute in length.
I've also been pumping my sources for reviews about my reviews. I'm a fairly well respected reviewer in the comic book field and I know just about everyone as a result, so I hit up big names for some quotes and so far I've heard back from Mark Millar (The Ultimates, Wanted) who was generous enough to say this:
"Brian Wilkinson has one of the best reps in the online community. He's one of a handful of journalists respected by the pros and the fans alike. So much so, in fact, that when I sold my last property to Universal Pictures I had Brian's quote about the comic-book at the top of the intro-sheet.
He's a very personable guy and liked by all the people who read his site. The entertainment industry is full of crazy people, but Brian is thankfully one of the sane ones.
PS I don't mean any of this ;)"
That really made my day. Now I just need to wait for Bendis, Chris Claremont and Frank Tieri to respond. My intention is to put together a flashy brochure-style resume featuring a story sample, cover letter, resume, and quotes/pics from enough people in the biz to get me noticed. I may not look like a Much Music VJ, but I can rock them with a great presentation.
I'm going to include an article I wrote dealing with Buffy and Angel stars I met this summer, as well as quotes from comic pros and a few pics of myself and other facets. This isn't what they asked for, but presentation and creativity are two core aspects required for this job.
I'm also dumping in a normal resume and a copy of Convergence. I figure I likely don't have a shot at getting this job, but wouldn't it be great if I did? At the very least I hope to have fun trying.
The whole video (shooting and editing) should only take a day. Preparation of the other materials should take me another. I hope to have everything done and handed in by next Wednesday.
If you can help with script advice or by being a sounding board (or filming at Humber next week) that'd be great.
If not, well, you're terrible people.
On a completely unrelated note: I bought Resident Evil 4. It rocks so damn hardcore it's almost indecent.
Another unrelated note: Catherine is still amazing. She just had a performance review that she rocked... so much so they gave her a raise. I'm hoping this means I'll finally be getting an allowance from her.
Not likely, though.
Monday, January 10, 2005
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1:29 p.m.
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I'm done. I just can't take this anymore. What more do I have to do to prove myself before I finally get a chance to start my career?
It's been five and a half months and still nothing of worth.
The only thing I can figure is that it must be as my uncle said: "There must be something wrong with you."
It's times like this I wish I was an alcoholic.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
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10:39 a.m.
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Want to know what your name looks like in chinese? Copy and paste the link... http://www.easternheritage.com/freechinesenames/protect/mainpage.htm#
I toyed quite a bit with putting up a letter of reference that my friend, the psychiatrist, accidently left in an envelope of work I have to do today. I'm fairly sure this letter was intended to be mailed or faxed over to an organization which enables me to work for the psychiatrist legally but it wound up in my hands and I, well, read it.
What would you have done?
There's nothing negative in it at all. In many ways, it's quite flattering to have, in print, a list of your virtues (though thankfully none of my many faults). By the end of the letter, I wound up feeling better about myself and my ongoing search than I have in quite some time.
It's amazing what a few kind words can do. It wasn't about "getting the job I was meant for" or even "finding the good in what I have" it was just about the fact that he thinks I'm a good person.
I won't quote the whole thing, but I will include one small part:
"Brian is kind and caring and has a great capacity for emapthy. He relates very well to adults and children and is compassionate to those in distress. He can set limits when needed. He is advanced in his years in terms of maturity but youthful in enthusiasm."
That quote makes me feel like a better person. I hope all of it is true, but the only way I can prove it is to try every day to be the man that he's talking about.
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
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11:07 p.m.
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Why is it that every time I blink, several days have gone by? I come to this blog daily to search (fruitlessly) for comments from visitors and yet it never seems to strike me that it's been a long time since I last posted.
I remember when I first started this thing I had the rather lofty goal of writing at least an entry a day. I think I told Catherine it would "keep my writing sharp" or some other such nonsense.
It is a good outlet, but not quite good enough. To that end, I've decided to add a half hour "workout" every day where I do nothing but creative writing. Today I'm three pages into a potential novel, and tomorrow I'll continue working on a back-up story for X-Men Unlimited featuring the Beast. Whether any of these projects are worth a damn is up in the air, but Catherine seems to like them.
Just because she's dating me, doesn't mean she's going to be too nice, does it?
To ensure full feedback potential, I'll offer to head up a pseudo-reading/writing group. All you have to do is contribute five pages minimum a month to be able to read any and all pieces of writing that are created. We'll bounce them back and forth... whether they're ideas, concepts, or full stories. And I figure we'll come up with a list of publishers and contacts to try and get the ball rolling.
So far I've only vaguely discussed this as a possibility with Aaron, but I have a feeling that others like Jer and Josh will get on board this idea quickly. If you're interested, drop me a line either through email or as a comment at the end of this post or in the chatterbox.
On an unrelated note, I watched the first episode of Medium tonight. I had my doubts about a show starring Patricia Arquette, but I have to say that the first episode has enough meat on the bone to keep me interested. I'll come back next week to see how it progresses.
Otherwise, I'll have to content myself with Lost, which starts up again with a new episode tomorrow night.
Saturday, January 01, 2005
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1:09 a.m.
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It's just a few minutes after twelve... and Catherine, Truffle and I have had another brilliant year together. Well, there may have been a few pitfalls along the way, but we're happy, healthy, and together. And that has to count for something.
A few people I have to thank for last year being so great:
Catherine, the love of my life. Without her, all struggles are meaningless.
My mom... who puts up with me, loves me, and is always proud of me.
My dad... for being a lovable grump. Without his support, I'd be in a world of hurt.
My brother... for being a dork. Seriously. Well, maybe I love him, too.
And all my friends and family. Aaron, Jer, Paul, Brody (and his lovely new daughter, Rory Marie), Chris, Pushee, Nick, Ron, Eric, Victoria, Jamie, Julian, Al, Eric, Patti, David, Peter, Rhonda, Jake, Frank, Lindsey, Dzuiba, Josh, Jamie and Nic...
The list goes on and on, doesn't it?
Most of all, this past year will always remind me the most of Rooter, the little degu that was taken from us far too soon. Those of you who have had pets know how attached you can get and the line that separates pet and familiy member becomes non-existent. That was one of the hardest times I've had yto go through in recent memory, but I do my best each and every day to honour her memory... sometimes by talking to her, but mostly through doing everything I can to make sure her sister, Truffle, enjoys her life to the absolute fullest.
Nobody ever said life was easy and there's a reason: it is the hardest thing any of us have to survive. It is also one of the most rewarding. Every day there are checks and balances to what is good and what is bad, but it all adds up. It all has meaning.
This was the year of the Buffy and Angel (which I now own all four seasons of), of Firefly, Astonishing X-Men, the final Lord of the Rings dvd, of school ending, of Catherine getting her job, of my endless frustrations in finding work. Of my publishing Convergence, a magazine I helped to create from scratch, and of Aaron and Jer, moving to Toronto to follow a similar path that I firmly believe will lead to greater heights. Of the trip to New York City which Catherine and I absolutely loved.
It was the year of Survivor: All Stars, 24, Felicity, Shaun of the Dead, Spider-Man 2, nearly a dozen trips to the zoo, of new friends Victoria and Jamie, and the beginning of the loan payments. It was also the year of change for Catherine's family... for my mom to have little Jake come into her life. For my 16-year-old niece to finally get a chance to live with my brother, for my dad to keep on being one of the best people I know.
This was a year of change, and while much more, and arguably greater, changes are to come, I know I'll never forget what I learned this year. This year, more than any other, I think I grew up.
For most of that, I have Catherine, Rooter, and Truffle to thank. They are my world, and have been for years. Though it's not always easy, we work hard to make things work well, to love each other more each day, and to do our best to make our future always brighter than our past.
I'm so grateful to have them in my life.
I wish all of you the same kind of success.
Before I get too sentimental, and before I head to bed to snuggle with my lovely girlfriend, I'll part as I'm likely to do... with a few lyrics from U2.
"I've conquered my past...
The future is here at last...
I stand at the entrance
To a new world I can see."
Hugs and kisses, 2004. Let's see if 2005 can raise the bar.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
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11:52 p.m.
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Catherine (whom I'm sure is loving that her picture is on my blog), my mom's dog, Jake, and me after decorating my mom's tree a few weeks ago. Happy Holidays!
To one and all. I hope everyone has the Christmas holidays that they deserve.
I got to spend some time with Aaron tonight, which was sorely needed after my weak of bachelorhood. Let me tell you, Catherine is in for lots of hugs when I see her on Saturday. The little one, too.
I'm off first thing tomorrow to my mom's in Bolton, and then Saturday I'll be in Brantford with Catherine and her family. Sunday, I'm off to my Dad's to see him, my brother, the nieces and nephew, as well as my Uncle Brian. Monday I'll be back in Brantford, and likely heading back to Toronto.
I do this every year.
At least my mom helps out with the use of her car. That in itself is a great gift, otherwise I'd have to pick and choose which family to spend time with, and I don't want to do that.
I'm looking forward to the break. Despite the fact that I don't have a job, I could really use some down time.
At any rate, I hope to see Chris and perhaps Brody on my return to Guelph... as for the rest of you, I hope you have a brilliant Christmas.
Does anyone have any plans at all for New Year's? Somehow, I always seem to forget this occurs a week afterwards.
Must be all the eggnog.
Mmmmmm.... eggnog. Send some if you can.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
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11:10 a.m.
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Above: Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire comes out in 2005... right in time for the release of book six on July 16: Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince (see below).
Gets its official release date: July 16, 2005! For those of you who have never bothered to read this series, you're really missing out. Despite being labelled as a children's book, it's some of the most clever and imaginative work I've ever read.
Other that that, there isn't much news to report. I picked up series 8 of those Marvel Legend figures I'm obsessed with collecting. I've now added Doc Ock, modern armour Iron Man, Iceman and Storm to my figure collection. I've got to get ahold of myself.
Catherine left me. And she took Truffle. That's new.
Before you panic and start in surprise, she's just gone home for the holidays. She'll be back soon enough. In fact, when I see her on Saturday for Christmas, I may just scoop her up and carry her back home. Her and the little one.
It's a terrible thing, to live alone. Coming back to the apartment without the love of my life and my little degu was horrible. Not that I can't be alone for a little while, but I keep trying to talk to Truffle, only she isn't there. I keep waiting for Catherine to come home from some imagined trip to the store, but she isn't coming back.
Keep that bed warm without her isn't the same. It's funny when you realize how much simple joy you take out of another persons love and company, and how hard it is to go without it for even a day.
It may not sound like it, but I love it when she goes away for a short time. Nothing gets my heart going more than missing her and nothing feels so good as holding her in my arms again after a long time apart.
Of course, five minutes later I'll ignore her and play video games.
Well, maybe not.
Monday, December 20, 2004
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1:34 p.m.
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Maybe it's just me, but I happen to love the idiotic double-meanings that some signs can take. What I love even more is that someone approved the signs in the first place. Maybe it's sort of an evil pride that I take in loving the dumb things people do and say.
• No children allowed
—Florida maternity ward
• Our motto is to give our customers the lowest possible prices and workmanship
—Maine shop
• Persons are prohibited from picking flowers from any but their own graves
—Pennsylvania cemetery
• Ask about our plans for owning your home
—loan company office
• Best place to take a leak
—radiator-repair garage
Thursday, December 16, 2004
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1:30 p.m.
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Though my job has its interesting points, it is by and large a study of the bizarre, unusual, and the people that come to identifiy with these two words.
Most of my work involves answering the phone and doing summaries for my friend who has kindly provided me with work during the holiday season, but I must admit that it can be quite boring as well. Some of the jargon I encounter is simply stunning:
"Psychiatric and Neuropsychological Findings After Stereotactic Hypothalamotomy, in Cases of Extreme Sexual Aggressivity" is the title of just one of the articles I'm researching. If you can understand half of it, you're on the same page as I am and it reads like this: HUH?
It's all good, though.
Jeromy has requested that I speak my mind on the Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King extended edition DVD which I picked up on Tuesday. This I will say: it looks brilliant next to the first two parts on the shelf.
As for the film, I haven't managed to get through the four and a half hours and change that the movie is made up of. I'm just shy of the 2 hour mark and I must say, that like the first two parts, it's brilliant.
I will mention, however, that while I'm thrilled for any and all extra parts thrown into the package, so far I haven't encountered many new scenes that completely redefined the viewing experience the way it worked with the first two films. Perhaps it's because this movie was already incredibly long. The Voice of Saruman scene at the beginning, however, is priceless and I can't understand why this was left out. It's creepy and shocking and just darn cool.
In a short time, Catherine is heading out to pick up a portable DVD player for me. She's not buying it herself, per se, but rather my Dad has given me a lovley cash Christmas gift and this is the item I've chosen to pick up. Some would pick a PS2 or Xbox, but I don't play enough games to justify that. What I do in spades, however, is watch movies, and I would love something to enjoy during commutes and other long trips. Heck, I have a couple of hour long train rides coming up this weekend as well as a boatload of travelling next week. I'm looking forward to this little item, to be sure.
Now I actually want a decent commute so I can watch movies and tv episodes. How sad.
I'm almost done my shopping for this year and it's cost me, on average, about what it normally does. In the $350 range. Thank god I had enough work from various sources to offset this cost, not to mention allow me to pay rent, so I can't complain. I may even head out to buy some new Marvel Legends figures this afternoon.
And then... nothing for a good long time. Between my birthday, Christmas, and my own pocket change I think I've been more than spoiled enough this month. Shockingly so, I think. This kind of makes up for the past four months where I had to scrimp, save, and count pennies before buying a donut. Crazy.
I really should be working.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
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9:19 p.m.
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The Myth: A penny is made of copper.
The Fact: Pennies minted after 1982 are 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper.
The Myth: Dogs sweat through their panting tongues.
The Fact: Panting may help them cool off, but they sweat through their feet.
The Myth: Your nails continue to grow after you die.
The Fact: They don’t. Your tissue recedes from your nails, making them appear longer.
MORE DINOSAUR BONES HAVE BEEN FOUND IN CANADA THAN IN ANY OTHER COUNTRY ON EARTH.
I just have to say that useless trivia is quite entertaining when you get right now to it but it is a pleasant diversion. That, and neither Jer nor Aaron post this sort of thing. They seem to be on the same page much of the time, so just going to one blog usually catches me up on the kinds of rants they're experiencing at home.
Just kidding. I might go over to see Aaron shortly. Apparently he's recovering from last night and awaiting Jer's return from a Christmas party.
I smell fun!
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
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2:07 p.m.
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Here are some real (no kidding) albums:
• Music to Light Your Pilot By, from the Heil-Quaker Corporation (a heater and air-conditioner manufacturer)
• Where Are the Dead?
• The Addicts Sing
• Music to Be Murdered By (from Alfred Hitchcock)
• Songs for Gay Dogs
• Christmas with Colonel Sanders
It's times like this that it occurs to me that I was lied to by the admissions packages that Humber College sent out on a regular basis. They didn't straight out lie by claiming that each and every one of us would be safe and secure with a job before we even graduated, but it was strongly implied.
I can't deny that many people did "job out" and more have since found their jobs. It doesn't keep me from becoming increasingly frustrated that with my skill, experience and desire to get going that it doesn't seem to amount to much of anything at the moment.
That said, at least I have three jobs to keep me afloat. It ticks me off to do it, but I could be in much worse straights given that I know several people with nothing at all. Right now I have contract work with my friend Julian in his office until the 23rd. That means lots of money that I need. More importantly, it means I can pay rent.
And that's a good thing. I'm sure Catherine would agree.
But she's just happy with Mario Party 6 right now. We picked it up last night and have been having a blast. Too bad I have to split it between Metroid Prime 2 right now, which I still haven't finished.
Not enough hours in the day.
So things are okay. Not brilliant, but okay. At least Christmas is going to go smoothly and really, what more do you need at this time of year?
Maybe a trip to Spain or something.
Friday, December 03, 2004
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4:29 p.m.
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My brother, Graydon, is celebrating his 37th (in a row?) birthday today. He's got three kids, a live-in girlfriend and a mortgage. I'd snicker but I'm sure my time is just around the corner. Then again, he does have a 16-year-old daughter and that DOES make me laugh.
In other related news, I was just rejected for job #6 or #7. I'm consistent at least.
All that stuff I wrote about last week about being happy no matter what gets just a little bit tougher on days like today, and it doesn't help that we have an unwanted guest in our apartment.
Last night for more than 2 hours, a psychotic evil mouse was heard chewing and scampering around the apartment. You wouldn't think it'd make much noise much less arouse any suspicion, but damn if it didn't keep Catherine and I awake all night. Then I got a call at 6:53am asking me to come in to teach. I've been a zombie all day.
I'll still go to karate tonight (though I won't enjoy it being so tired) and then hopefully Catherine and I will find something interesting to do. Season 5 of Angel just started on Space last night and we haven't seen it, so we eagerly await the next days' taped episode. I'd watch it when it came on, but Space, in their infinite wisdom, has decided to air the show at 1am every night.
Oh yeah, and I've bought 1 out of about 6 or 7 presents for people last night. Catherine's parents and her brother's present are out of the way. I have no clue what to get Catherine, an inkling for my mom, and clear ideas for my brother and a young man named Chris Vettoretto.
My brain is oozing out my ear.
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