Saturday, October 30, 2010

The benefits of Bikrams

Today was my 4th class of Bikrams this week! I am aiming for 4-5 per week until we leave on holidays mid December. I am loving it...I missed the way I felt after class...totally worked over, but thoroughly satisfied and proud of myself. Body feels amazing, mind feels strong and your skin just glows.

I already feel different just from these 4 classes and as they say in class...if you go 3 times per week, you will just maintain what you have, but 5 times per week and it will change your life. I am certainly living proof of that. For those who knew me when I was younger, I had severe back pain and couldn't stand or sit in a backless chair for more than 20 mins without my spine burning. And whether you know it or not...when you are in pain it can affect your entire being.

So after a few months on the mat, sweating like crazy, I completely cured my back pain, and fixed my spine. That was over 6 years ago, and I have not had any pain return!!!! It's not a miracle cure, because, like anything in life, it takes hard work, consistency and determination. I had also lost quite a bit of weight due to Bikrams as well. I have put some of it back on since I stopped going 1.5 yrs ago, and because we have been travelling and living a very indulgent life....but that was one of the greatest things about Bikrams...I could eat whatever I wanted and it really didn't affect me! That's the best part for sure!

So I will continue on my journey back to Bikrams and encourage you to try a few classes....go early in the morning if you don't like it too hot, and enjoy!

Friday, October 29, 2010

Conondrum

Definition of CONUNDRUM
1: a riddle whose answer is or involves a pun
2a : a question or problem having only a conjectural answer b : an intricate and difficult problem

A pretty good definition for a damn great wine! This is one of my most favorite blended whites. I had a little after work today and its always lovely when nice and cold.

It unfortunately costs around $30 bones at the liquor store, so for us, its not an every day table wine...but more of occasional treat. When you order it at a restaurant, its usually a whopping 80 bucks. That fricken restaurant mark up is disgusting for booze. When we were in the states we picked up a bottle from their "specialty" section for $17...uggggg why is booze so expensive in Canada....you would think we would give it up!

If you haven't tried this wine, and you like a good white, pick up a bottle and Enjoy!

Thursday, October 28, 2010

After work drinks

So when I lived in Calgary, I used to meet up at one of the really cool "after work drinks" type places....it was a legendary place during its time- called Ceilis (not the same place it is today)...filled with hot men in suits and hot women in skirts, all making shit loads of money and having a fun time on a Thursday evening after work. I loved it. People were excited to let some steam off...chat lots and mix and mingle...it was such an open and friendly place you always ended up chatting up a new (or old) friend.

I don't think I have gone for "after work drinks" since that time..which was over 8 years ago. So today, Ivan and I met a few friends at Johnnie Fox's Irish Snug. The only thing vaguely similar about the venue is that the "snug" and Ceilis are Irish....but the place in Calgary was huge and you would meander all over the place, up and downstairs. Often times a few gals would pair up to do a "walk around" to check out the talent...who's in the crowd...what drama can we stir up tonight. Well the "Snug" is totally opposite...but still a cute little place for an after work bevie. It is true to its name...a snug little place you will miss if not looking for its little red door. But it was cozy, and had a nice big booth to fit the 5 of us, and it was an excellent way to end the work day.

See, working from home and not in a typical office environment leads you to not really "meeting up with the crew for a drink after work". Doesn't exist in my world...so I am doing my best to try and invade other peoples worlds...and I had a great time. Nice to get to know some new friends and catch up with oldies (in every sense of the term...hahahaha ...just kidding Carm...well sorda)

Any way you slice it...find a place to meet up with some buds after your work day is through..share a bevie and a laugh and enjoy!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Morning Bikrams

What a fab day...the sun was shining all day and it was gorgeous. I woke up at 5:30am to do my first morning bikram class in 1.5 years, and it was BLISS! I used to get up at that time every morning for 5 years in a row in order to hit the 6am class. Because I live so close, I can just roll out of bed and head down to the studio...how awesome.

I saw some of the old familiar faces of my early bird yogies....we remembered one another instantly and I felt like I had returned home after a long vacation....I loved it.

I prefer awaking this way...especially in the winter when its cold out, because the room is so warm...and you are done your exercise by 7:30am and set for the day!!! I was glowing when I left and have felt awesome all day.

So early to bed...sleep tight and enjoy!!!

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Softie Convertible Wrap

So Ivan won this silly item at a conference the other day. And of course he didn't want it, so gave it to me. Funnily enough I saw a similar item at Cost-Co on the weekend and almost bought it!!!

It's like a huge comfy blanket with a big hole in the middle so you can poke your head out...and you can walk around, sit and stand with a nice warm blankey around you without having to hold it there!!! AMAZING...yes you see these things advertized on T.V and it looks super cheese.. but I LOVE it. I wore it all day...I think Ivan thought I was a total loser...but I was cozy and warm as I worked away in my freezing cold home office. It even has pockets in it for god sakes!

I don't think I should wear it out to client meetings...people may stare. But if you are one of those folks who loves to be wrapped in a blankie and is constantly cold like moi...get one of these suckers and enjoy!!!

Monday, October 25, 2010

mel·an·chol·y

Today I felt Melancholy. I never really knew what that word meant, but I knew I felt it...so I just looked at the definition and it wasn't pretty:

1. a gloomy state of mind, esp. when habitual or prolonged; depression.
2. sober thoughtfulness; pensiveness.

Well, fit the bill for today (but thank God not every day). And I spoke to a few others who were kinda feeling similar. The rain was insane this morning, beating down with a dark sky all day. I know many people can really suffer from S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder) especially in Vancouver during the Winter when you don't see much sun. I have lived here 8 years now, and have learned to deal with the darkness by getting up early to attend regular yoga classes, and eating good healthful foods.

Helps that we have a bunch of nice friends who enjoy doing dinner parties, as its always fun to get together, have a laugh and enjoy good food. The rain did kinda bug me today...and I didn't do yoga today...could be a correlation there. So I did make us a very healthy Thai Veggie Soup and Ivan bought lots of green veggies for the week.

The other thing I really love doing when feeling the effects of the rain is to get a massage, and one of my best buddies Irena is treating me to one at my fave place Acalanatha this week...woo hoo!!!

On these days, I also wish I could call my mom up and go for a martini, or over to her house for a home made mommy comfort meal. Mom's just always make everything better...don't they!

Blogging is also a wonderful way for me to relax and gear down....so now I feel sufficiently relaxed, and very lazy so shall go read a book, call my grandma (a second best, since mom and dad are on a date night) and hit the bed early for a nice long sleep which I will enjoy!

Dinner with Friends

What a wonderful weekend. We were totally spoiled with dinners out. Saturday we went to our dear friends Ken and Janine's for a lovely "English fish and chip dinner". It was delicious! Chef Ken had made such a delicate and light batter, which really added a nice texture to the moist Cod. And he didn't deep fry it, but instead fried in a pan with a little oil. With yummy potato and yam fries..this was true comfort food at its best!

Then Sunday night we were invited out to an old friend of Ivan's who lives in Port Moody. I had only met the wife Katherine a few brief times, but enjoyed their company immensely. And the food was awesome as well. BBQ Wild Salmon with purple "smashed" potatoes and a Quinoa salad...yum! We started with a spicy yam and coconut soup which was also delish.

I would like to really commend these two families, because both have small children running amuck, trying to occupy every minute of mom and dads attention. I really don't know how they do it...prepare a wonderful meal and enjoy company with a little one bouncing about. Very admirable indeed...patience...that seems like a big one...but we sure did Enjoy!

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Bikram Yogi

OMG, I just finished an extremely HOT Bikram class. I used to practice 4-5 times per week for 5 years and I loved it. However, because its the exact same postures, in the same sequence every day, after 5 years I decided to take a break and try out Semperviva. So I have been doing a variety of classes and watching my weight creep up and up.

So today I decided to go back and try out a Bikram class, and holy shit, it kicked my ass. I couldn't even do all of the postures. But I did better than I thought...and I bet after a few more classes, my body will remember everything.

I am going to attempt to go 4-5 times per week for the next month and see how things go. But now, I must drink some water and lie down.

If you are up for an amazing challenge like no-other, try a class and enjoy!

Friday, October 22, 2010

Woohoo its FRIDAY!

Love my weekends these days!!!! So nice to be able to just chill on a Friday night. Ivan is heading out with the boys, so my buddy Aryn is coming over, and we are going to cook up some food together, sip bubbles, paint our nails and gossip. I couldn't possibly think of anything more fun and relaxing tonight...YAY. Girl's nights are really wonderful-Enjoy.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Cost-Co Salmon Patties

What can I say...extremely busy day. Learned lots, did lots, which means no time to think of dinner!

So what we do on these Chaotic nights is cook up some salmon patties. You can buy some excellent one's with Wild salmon in the frozen section at Cost-co. You don't even have to thaw out...just pop into a hot pan with a drizzle of oil on medium, 4mins per side and done! They are pretty good for a quick, thoughtless and healthful meal.

We did up some wild rice in the rice cooker (also from Cost-co- they have the BEST Ancient grains wild rice blend) and a little salad....yummy and healthy. If you must, you can pop the fish patties into a bun and enjoy a salmon burger...but really, you won't miss the bun!

Hopefully tomorrow will be a little more sane and I can actually prepare something with care. This is what happens when you don't have a meal plan for the week!

Go to Cost-Co, stock up and Enjoy!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Joeys on Broadway

After such an amazing high and wonderful trip we arrived home quite late on Sunday so there were 0 groceries in the fridge last night. So a dinner out was in order. I really don't like going out for dinner unless it is a spectacular restaurant...but we were desperate and went to Joeys on Broadway, and were pleasantly surprised.

It was nice and quiet on a Monday, so we got a big comfy booth in the lounge. We started with the Gyoza, which was amazing...delicate and tender and full of flavour. I had the half rack of ribs for din which were surprisingly good. Very tender, fall off the bone, with a nice bbq sauce. I asked for mushrooms and asparagus instead of fries and coleslaw, which they accommodated with no charge and were delicious.

Ivan had the Basa, which was perfectly baked with a very tasty spice rub, a nice little fresh fruit salsa on the side and a pile of yummy rice.

We topped off the meal with their famous apple pie which could really feed 4...its huge and delicious and we couldn't even finish it all.

Monday's at Joey's showcase bellinis for only 3.99, we each had two and loved every last drop!

For an easy weeknight meal when you just don't feel like cooking (or have no groceries) hit this place up, as I would say the quality and selection of the food beats most other chains out there. Enjoy.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Yay Disney!

I am still such a child at heart. What other 33 year old do you know who wants to spend their birthday in Disneyland. Probably not many. But I celebrated the best birthday ever! My whole family, including mom and dad, my bro and his girlfriend and of course my hubby...it seems like a dream!

Ivan and I met Shayne and Scarlet in L.A. for a night on the town before heading to Anaheim. We arrived starving so went to a place that Ivan knows well called the Urth Caffe, which had a gorgeous courtyard out back and had a nice selection of healthful foods and drinks. Smoked salmon platter, grilled portobello pannini, salads, beef dip all on beautiful breads and bagels.

Scarlet was able to get us hooked up with a fantastic rate at the swanky W hotel which was awesome. The rooms were gorgeous, with the exception of the glass in between the bathroom and the bedroom. It's worse at the W in Montreal because the entire wall is glass...in LA there is just a strip of glass with some frosting in the middle. So basically if you are taking a dump, the person in the bedroom can see you...SICK! And if you are having a shower, the person in the bedroom can watch....sexy maybe one time, but really, I am not a porn star when I have a shower at all...I may fart if I choose, and bending down to wash my feet is not sexy when my boobs are waggling about....I simply want some privacy when I am showering....god forbid...what if you were staying with a friend, parent or sibling....those peeps in Montreal...real comfortable with their nudity I guess.

Anyway, as I mentioned the LA hotel was a bit more discrete with wide strip of glass and frosting in the middle....but unfortunately, as Ivan, Scarlet and I were enjoying our sparkling vino, we could see Shayne's feet and gitch as he worked over the can. Don't stay here if you have issues with privacy. Otherwise it's a total pimpin hotel.

Ivan and I went to Trader Joes, which is a chain of specialty grocery stores across the U.S. I would say it was kind of like a Choices market...lots of unique items, fresh foods and cheap booze! So we stocked up on snacks, vodka and wine, then barged into Shayne and Scarlets room to start the party.

We all went out to Geisha House for dinner, which was really fun. Fabulous ambiance, but average food, in fact the whole trip consisted of average food. This is the place to go if you are young and hot....no star spottings, but lots of wannabees. The sushi rolls are the way to go, but the lamb chops were certainly worth mentioning. The dynamite shrimp was more batter and spicy sauce than shrimp. Go for the cocktails, music and people watching!

We went back to the W lounge for a drink afterwards which was also hopping, and had a really sexy atmosphere outside. The next day we stopped at some random cafe for brunch, which I don't even remember the name of, and really isn't worth mentioning...there are lots of places to eat, and don't forget you are in the states so the portions are huge!

We met up with mom and dad at the Anaheim Marriott which is a perfect place to stay if going to Disney. It's only about 10mins away and there is a shuttle that costs only $4 per person to go back and fourth all day. Mom and dad had been chilling a few bottles of bubbles to celebrate my birthday so we cracked those, talked and then headed over to P.F. Changs for my bday dinner. I had been hearing about this place for many years from various people that it is such a good place for Chinese...well clearly those folks have not had good Chinese food!!! To be honest, there really wasn't one thing that stood out to me, out of all the dishes we ordered. It was really just Americanized, deep fried, salty chow....not recommended at all unless you think sweet and sour pork is authentic. But the Sake was good and the company was great, and that's all that mattered to me that night!

The next day was DISNEY! I wanted to go on my actual birthday, but each Friday in October they close early and have trick or treating for the kiddies and a special parade, so instead we opted to go for the full day on Saturday. I made everyone get up early to grab a quick bite and head to the park. I was thinking, since America is in the middle of a recession, the weather is chilly, and its in October, the park should be ours for the taking... but NO WAY...it was more packed then we have ever seen it! Due to Scarlet's amazing hook ups we were able bypass the line onto Space Mountain and ride it twice...such a great ride!!! We spent the day enjoying the rides..getting soaked on Splash Mountain, singing along in the tiki tiki room, floating down the river in Pirates, escaping bad guys on Indie, flying through the stars with Peter and enjoying every second.... I felt like I was on cloud 9. Mom and dad tuckered out around dinner time and the four of us continued on to do as many rides as we could before closing down the park. For the first time, we watched Fantasmic from start to end with front row seats, then snuck onto Indie for one last adventure to end a perfect day.

I don't care what anyone else says...Disney IS the happiest place on earth...you can just feel the magic in the air and everyone has a smile filled with joy and excitement once you walk through those gates...I can feel the tingle in my heart just thinking about it, and I look forward to taking my kiddies there one day. But today, I feel very grateful to have been with my whole family in the Kingdom of Magic which is a memory that I will forever Enjoy!

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Off to Disney!

My 33rd birthday is approaching in a few days...and I will be spending it in the best way I could ever hope to.

With my whole family in Disneyland!!! Shayne and I grew up going there with mom and dad almost every year so it near and dear to our hearts.

Unfortunately we no longer get to spend my actual birthday day at the park, because I just found out it closes at 7pm on Fridays during this time of year...uggggg. So we have rearranged the plans and will be going for the entire day on Saturday. Up early and stay late for the fireworks and all.

My bro is bringing his girlfriend, which will be wonderful, since Ivan and I travel with mom and dad all of the time...we were really hoping Shayne would get serious with someone so we could all travel together...and yay...here it is!!!!! A first for all of us.

I will NOT be taking my computer...I need a break from it for a few days...but I'll be sure to report in upon my return!!!

Yo-ho-yo- ho a Pirates life for me!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

A shot of Thanksgiving

What a fully packed weekend! Sunday we went to a wedding, which was fantastic. It was a Hindu wedding at the Temple in Burnaby...what a neat experience! Very colorful and bright to say the least...I love that...always bright colors..you have to smile.

The ladies got to wear a bindi, which was so fabulous and all of us gals looked wonderful with them. The reception was to follow at Bridges on Grandville Island in the private upstairs dining room. It was decorated beautifully and overlooked the water and glowing city lights. This is a great place for warm sunny afternoon patio drinks...but don't go for the food. It's one of those overpriced, touristy places with mediocre food. They did offer the choice of a full turkey dinner, which was great because it was thanksgiving afterall...but it certainly wasn't like mom used to make.

At some point during the night I thought it would be a great idea to do some shots. OMG..WTF was I thinking?! Guess I wasn't thinking....so lemon drop after lemon drop went down too easily....such a tasty shot! We got a whole crowd of folks into it...but needless to say, I felt horrible the next day...slept in till 10am and had to take a nap during the day, as we were having company over for dinner.

I felt better by the afternoon, and made a beautiful roast chicken dinner...best that I have made yet. I muddled fresh lemon juice, garlic, kosher salt, pepper and herbs de provance together and rubbed it under the skin, directly on the chicken flesh and roasted at 400 for 1.5hrs and it was gorgeous! Made a tasty sauce (not a thick gravy) with the drippings, white wine and a bit of broth...it was delish. Home made pierogies, veggies and rice with a fantastic chocolate torte made by one of our good friends. It was a wonderful evening, filled with great food and conversation, and I did feel very thankful to have such lovely people sitting at our table to enjoy!

Monday, October 11, 2010

Molasses-Glazed Wings

One of my avid "food with a side of life" readers asked me if I have made Chicken wings before...and the answer is no..I have not! And they were a huge success! However, my "good wife" attempt to watch hockey fizzled fast. As soon as we were finished eating, I stared at the wall beside the T.V. for 5 minutes (because I found that more interesting), then apologized for my lack of interest and excused myself.

There are not too many places one can hang out when you live in a condo, and one of you is watching something the other doesn't want to...so off to bed it was...I read for an hour then crashed.

So let me tell you about those wings...here is the recipe (from Canadian Living Magazine)

2 Garlic Cloves-Minced
1Shallot diced
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/4 cup fancy molasses
2tbsp soy
1/2 tsp chili flakes
3lbs chicken wings
1tbsp veg oil
1/2 tsp each salt/pep

Stir first 6 ingredients together over med-high heat, stir often, reduce and simmer till syrupy (about 20mins).

Toss the wings with oil, s & p and bake at 400 for 45 mins toss with sauce and voila!!

Now who the hell said it was a good idea to do shots at a wedding???? I feel like ass today....but that's a story for tomorrow...now, I must go and have a nap.

Happy Thanksgiving...eat, drink, love and Enjoy!

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Hockey and Wings

I wish I could say I was having a nice cheerful and happy day today...but this grey sky and rain is not making it so easy! I shouldn't complain as we have had such a beautiful summer!!! I went to yoga this morning, got my ass kicked. The Vinyasa Flow Yoga at Semperviva is such an amazing work out. I have been going to their 6:30 am classes, but they are pretty wimpy..but the 9:30am on Saturdays with Clara-crazy good! She was away today, but the lady that filled in for her rocked it out.

I then got my hair cut and added a few new highlights, and off to the grocery store. I only just started getting highlights to my hair...for years I have just been Au natural...but I got bored, so put in some streaks. I like them because they add texture to my otherwise, very fine hair. But I hate them, because its so FRICKEN expensive to color your hair...$200 bucks with your hair cut...this drives me nuts because you constantly have to keep getting it done every few months. But I do feel pretty none the less.

Ivan will be home from work soon and we are going to have a "game night" date. I really can't stand watching hockey...but I know its the first game of the season for his beloved Canucks...or Cafucks as my brother likes to call them. I personally like wearing my Calgary Flames jersey, just to piss people off here...but either way....unless I am eating and drinking and/or watching the game live...I could think of 100 things I would rather do. So to make it fun for myself, I am going to make "pub food" but not the deep fried crap you would actually get at a pub... gourmet chicken wings with garlic french fries and a few other goodies. So off I go to create something fun and watch hockey while doing my best to enjoy!

Friday, October 8, 2010

Ahhhhh Friday!

Ahhhh Friday....beloved Friday. I never used to differentiate the weekends from the week..but as I get older and "work" becomes more "work like" I can fully appreciate the weekends. Tonight Ivan is working late, so I am just going to relax and perhaps take a nice long bath and find a suitable book for my current state of being.

Usually when I am in an "unsettled" state of being, I turn to books to help guide my way. I haven't read A New Earth by Echart Tolle yet, and I LOVED The Power of Now...so I think I may dive into that tonight....(anyone out there read it yet??? like/dislike???) and then again, maybe not. its just one of those lazy, grey evenings, and I am certainly not feeling the motivation to clean the house! I really just want to snuggle up in my fuzzy sweats and enjoy.

The Next Best Thing

Hidden meaning...deception, a sideways glance....what does it all mean? Today was a shit day in many ways....but also an opportunity to learn. I was presented with an ultimatum today...an ultimatum from someone who believes they hold some sort of power over me, based on deceptive, sideways, twisted facts. I dislike being put in this sort of position in life...but I also think it provides an opportunity to learn...to grow.

So I went to a function tonight and for the first time in many years I was looking around...over the shoulder of the person I was engaging in conversation..scanning the room to see "who" was there....leaving one conversation to start another. I normally am not so "flighty" but instead, remain very engaged with the person I am talking with...empathetic and attentive...but not tonight, tonight was about seeking out opportunity, and speaking my truth.

It may sound weird/funny...but after this function, I attended a second event...we went to another Vancouver Film Fest show called Guido Superstar, an absolutely ridiculous local "gangster" flick, which got lots of chuckles if nothing else. A cast of nice looking dudes with a silly story. I simply could not believe Silvio Pollio in this role (not that I have seen him in anything else) because he is pretty hot, with a studly bod, playing a dumb innocent, cow milking, sweet man from Italy...no matter what the guy did...he is just too good looking in real life to pull this off...but he did do a damn good job trying.

So anyway...after the show, all of the actors are milling around, chatting with one another, and we are saying our hellos and congrats as they all look over my shoulder for the next person to chat with...they look over Ivan's shoulder...they look over each others shoulders. This used to bug me immensely in the acting community...trying to chat with someone as they look over your shoulder...searching for "someone else" ....this bugged me, until tonight, when earlier on, I was doing that very same thing.

I guess it purely depends on your motivation....looking for "the next best thing."

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Vancouver International Film Fest

So I took a bit of the left over dim sum from yesterday's lunch home for Ivan. I asked him if he liked it, and he said..yeh..but that one rice thing was really tough. I paused to think about it for a moment, and asked "you didn't eat the leaf did you"....yup he did....he ate the whole fricken lotus leaf...HILARIOUS. I don't think Ivan has been for dim sum since he was young, so had no idea he was meant to unwrap it and just eat the rice!!!!! It will be interesting to see how his digestion works over the next few days.

So the Vancouver International Film Fest is on currently and we have been trying to see a few flicks here and there. I loved the movie Fathers and Sons, which is a local flick, with lots of local Van talent. It was awesome! Funny, truthful, sad and clever. The cast was amazing...and apparently there was no script! The whole movie was improv...the director Carl Bessai had a basic story he wanted to tell and they would rehearse a few times and then just go for it...and WOW...it all came together perfectly!

After the movies are over, the cast and director will stand in the front for a Q and A.....and we listened intently to the questions, and then went up to the front after everything ended to shake hands and congratulate them. Ivan knew most of the cast....but I had not met any of them before, and I am always trying to schmoose...so finally Ivan introduced me to Ben Ratner...he did a GREAT job in the film...very funny...but not so chatty or vibrant in real life... I was my usual bubbly self and tried to think of something clever to ask him about the movie...but because he has such and unreceptive air about him, my brain froze and instead I said "So...Ben, I don't know much about this movie biz, so I am wondering, when you and Jay Brazeau were in that knife scene, did you really stab each other?" Ivan was mortified, and laughed loud and uncomfortably saying "Heather...as if you thought that was real" I knew it was a dumb question...but there was no backing out., I had gone too far...so then I said "well what about that part where Jay was bleeding with the stitches.....then quickly attempted to cover by saying...I guess that was makeup." By now Ivan is trying to hide his wedding ring....but Ben was gracious enough to not say..."wow, Ivan, your wife is sure dumb" and instead said...well that's good, because obviously we made it look real. Thanks Ben....you really saved me there.

We saw him again last night at the screening of Amazon Falls, and Ivan wanted me to go up to him and tell him I didn't really think it was real....WHATEVER...who cares what little Ben thinks of me...I am sure he doesn't even remember (uhhh...hopefully).

The cast of Amazon Falls was awesome as well...although the movie was too slow for my liking and didn't really reach its full potential. The director is lucky she had the cast she did, because they really made the movie. April Telek was a pure sex pot and did a phenomenal job....really exposing herself in such a brave way. But the ending was weak and the story was typical, but just not strong enough for moi.

If you are looking for something to do over the next few weeks, check some of the movies out, support our local community and enjoy!

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Victoria Chinese Restaurant - Downtown Van

Today I met my client and good friend Michelle for a work lunch..although it never feels like work with her...we get much accomplished and always have a lovely time together.

She is Asian so always knows the best dim sum places to take me. Last time we tried Kirin which was awesome (reviewed previously) but Victoria was really fantastic. It is a little on the pricey side...that said we ordered too much and even had left overs this time.

My favorites were the pork dumplings...light and almost fluffy, filled with very flavourful pork and spices. We also had the Har Gow (steamed shrimp dumplings) which were fantastic...delicate and tasty. The sticky rice was pretty typical...but lots of chunks of meat inside which was nice, and the steamed gai lan was perfectly crisp, laying in a light soy.

The Shark Fin soup was delicious as well, but the most interesting...and purely indulgent, was the pork pie....pork in a rich sauce done in a flaky pastry...wow...one or two pieces is a lot though as it is sooo rich.

This restaurant is packed all of the time...lots of turnover, which means the food is very fresh (and you can taste it!) I was also one of the few whities in the resto...which is always a good sign...means they are serving authentic dishes with high standards (I mean come on...if it were by Caucasian standards....it would taste like McDonalds or come out of a can...hahaha).

Take a client or two for a fantastic lunch and Enjoy!

Monday, October 4, 2010

Kaffir Lime Leaves

I just made a most wonderful Thai Curry dish! It's from my favorite veggie book (and restaurant) Rebar in Victoria BC. Tonight I made the Monk's Curry (pg 184) and it was delicious!!! My friend Aryn had made this dish for me while camping and I just LOVED it. I have been wanting to make it for a while now, but have had the darnedest time finding kaffir lime leaves. I have looked in every organic, specialty store around and no one had them...not Capers, not Choices, not Greens, not Meinhardts...the only store I finally found them at is the Wholefoods on Cambie....I actually called and reserved some under Ivan's name so he could pick them up for me (what a nice guy). Who knew that you could call and "reserve" food. Well I guess with the prices you pay at these specialty stores, you should be able to reserve!

We served this over brown basmati rice, and made the full recipe so we will have some for tomorrow's dinner too! I am really trying to get in the habit of cooking for 4 people, so we can have some for left overs. It's a hard habit to get myself into, but when I do, its great because it makes life so much easier to have dinner ready, without a thought a few times per week.

Last night we went over to friends house for a lovely dinner and they served home made Veggie pate! How fabulous for a snack...the main ingredient was lentils, along with a bunch of spices, and onion. I will have to get the recipe for that one too, because I really did enjoy!

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Browns Social House

Yesterday was a perfect Vancouver day. I joined my good friends Jason and Irena for a walk around the seawall. The sun was shining at it was gorgeous out. I don't think I have ever walked the entire seawall, and it took about an hour and a half, and I enjoyed it immensely.

We then met up with Ivan after his bike ride at Global for a late brunch (I have reviewed this restaurant before). They do have a wonderful weekend brunch menu...they all had the wild mushroom fritata which looked amazing!!!! Unfortunately because I recently found out I am allergic to eggs and dairy, I opted for a few of their satays instead. Their patio is a great place for a weekend bite...but a tip for you (from the waitress) at 3pm it changes over to the dinner menu and all of the prices jump up considerably. So it was 2:55 and she told us to get our orders in ASAP. So if you don't want to break the bank....get there before 3pm and enjoy their excellent brunch menu!

We zipped home after that, and changed quickly to head out to Port Moody to celebrate our friend Chris's birthday. We met them at Browns Social House in Newport Village. I have been to Brown's before, and the only thing that really impresses me about this place is the atmosphere. There is now a Brown's on every corner...they are popping up everywhere....but they are smart, because they are opening up in the burbs..where sometimes there just aren't as many options. The food is pretty typical of a chain restaurant...uninventive and boring...so I would categorize it amongst the usual suspects of Earls, Milestones, Joeys, Cactus etc etc. That said, I was pleased to see that they had some healthier options on the menu.

I had the Tahitian Tuna "Healthy Social Bowl" it was good. Seared ahi tuna with a nice light sauce on the side...a salad and some plain white rice. They call their rice "Almond rice" which sounds really nice...but I am allergic, so I asked if they had any other type of rice...thinking it must be infused with Almond milk..or perhaps Almond extract or was some type of nice aromatic roasted almond risotto....but nope....as the server said "oh its just rice sprinkled with almonds on top, so no problem..we can leave them out. Easy enough....but not very inventive.

The meal was clean and healthy however, and was priced fair at $15...you don't get much fish...but it was a perfect amount for me and if you want to add more you can for a few extra bucks. Ivan had the Wonton soup, which he said was not bad...it looked delicious...but he said the broth tasted like a bouillon cube, the wontons themselves were okay...but there were only 3 or 4 and a bit of chicken, which he said was good...and lots of bean sprouts...so he felt was kind of lacking in substance.

The cocktail menu was also priced very fairly and had a few fun martinis on it. I tried the rasberry lemon drop...which was fresh and tasty...although a few too many rasberries for my liking. And Chris had the chocolate pecan pie for his birthday, which Ivan ate most of I think...and they both said it was delicious.

The crowd and the buzz in this restaurant was great....young, and vibrant and a great place to get together with friends....not the best food in town by far...but for a decent price, you can sit back, have a bevie and enjoy.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Breakfast of Champions

So this morning we got up pretty early, but lazed around till about 7:30. Ivan is doing a little reunion bike ride to celebrate the successes they had this summer in the Ride to Conquer Cancer. Ivan was able to raise a tonne of money and rode his bike for two days to Seattle. He constantly amazes me, that man! So I wanted to make him a hearty breakfast that would fuel him throughout the morning.

I decided to re-create that wonderful Oatmeal I had at the Blue Fox in Victoria a week or so ago. So I made the steel cut oats as per the directions on the tin...they take a while, but its worth it.

I threw a frozen banana in the oven at 350 for about 15-12mins (till nice and baked....you can smell it). Sliced the banana peal open and scooped out the gooey insides and folded it, along with some cinnamon into the creamy hot oatmeal (after it was done cooking). I topped this with toasted pecans (just heat a dry pan on medium and toast until they are fragrant). I drizzled a bit of Organic maple syrup on top and voila! It was perfect. Ivan added a little Vanilla Rice milk (what we are drinking now since I have discovered I am allergic to Soy, Almond and Cow's milk).

there are most certainly a million different ways you can jazz up your oatmeal....just skip those pre-packaged ones as they are filled with sugars and salt and a bunch of other crap. Take the time to do it right and Enjoy!

Friday, October 1, 2010

Success Magazine

I subscribe to this wonderful magazine called Success. I love reading it. It is so inspiring...filled with story's of all types of people who have found their passion and are living a successful life. Success, not just in the monetary sense, but in the holistic sense...family, health, work, self-esteem etc etc. That is what I strive for...what keeps my fire burning...what forces me to get out of bed before dawn each morning to greet a new day.

This magazine also has a motivational CD in each issue, which I really enjoy, because every time Ivan and I go on road trips, we listen to inspirational CD's and then brainstorm together...talk about our life...what are our goals...how can we reach them. They spark wonderful conversation, and I am so happy that my hubby enjoys doing this together.

I try to not fill up my mind and my time doing useless things like surfing the web, facebook, TV etc. Just like my mom, I get antsy and feel like I could be getting something accomplished vs. wasting precious moments of life. I would rather write, read, walk or do anything than watch TV (unless its a really good cooking show and I can learn some new techniques).

I just finished reading a short and sweet article in this issue of Success, by a woman named Mel Robbins about how we get in the way of our own success. We want greater things in life...but what are we doing to actually achieve them???

I think the first trick is defining what we really do want in life/love/work etc.... I think this is the difficult part in today's world. Too much choice...it gets overwhelming. Ivan is reading a book right now called the Paradox of Choice, and he discusses bits and pieces with me and it sounds like it has nailed our generation right on the nose (I am excited to read it when he is done). I know when I have too many options...I can get very overwhelmed, brain shuts down and I often end up making no choice at all.

As I get older I learn what I love to do and slowly but surely, I become more focused in my passions.....writing is one of them. I want to commit to myself to write everyday....no matter how tired or busy or whatever other excuse I can muster up. If for some reason I cannot be near a computer, then I aim to write in my journal! Writing to me is so freeing...so purifying....getting your thoughts and emotions out and into the world.

I know if I continue to move in the direction of a path that makes my heart sing...then Success (in every sense of the term) will surely find me too! Pick up an issue sometime and Enjoy.