Tuesday, July 15, 2003

It's hard to know where to begin...

I suppose I should start with an explanation of my absence. I spent two weeks in Ontario. The first week was spent visiting family and friends; the second working in various soup kichens and missions in TO. The first week was wonderful; the second hard, exhausting, and ultimately humbling.

Upon my return (last week) I was greeted with piles of work that required attention. I spent last week trying to get caught up on all the work I missed the two weeks previous.

Rather than bore you (assuming that there is SOMEONE there) with tales of my Ontario "adventures", I'll just fill out a Monday mission.

1. When was the last time you were in the hospital as a patient? As a visitor?
As a patient? When I was four and had the whooping cough. As a visitor, about a month ago when I went to Edmonton to be with my father after his heart attack.

2. Have you ever been put under anesthesia or sedation? For what reason? Did it mess with your mind?
Yes, for dental surgery. It was wonderful, until the stupid dentist woke me up!

3. Have you (or someone close to you) ever had any major surgery? How did it go?
Not me personally, but I've had various family members "go under the knife," as it were. Most times everything went swimmingly.

4. How about the emergency room? Have you ever had to be taken there, or had to accompany someone else? What happened?
Once, on Christmas Eve. My sister had put grape seeds in her ears. The doctor had to remove them with tweezers. Everyone (well, me) hated her for ruining Christmas.

5. Have you ever donated blood (or other fluids)?
Blood, once. I'm not keen on it. Needles freak me out. Nobody wants panic-blood.

6. Are you an Organ Donor? How do you feel about having your organs being donated to those in need once you die? Have you or someone you know ever been the recipient of donated organs?

I know one guy who's had/or having kidneys donated. I am an organ donar, though a leery one. George Carlin once said, "You think that if paramedics see that card, they're gonna save your life? Bull*^%, they're looking for parts!"

7. Do you know any men who refuse, or are too afraid, to go to see a Doctor? Why are so many men like that?
I hate seeing the doctor, but I go because I'm more afraid of my wife than the doctor. I think men feel vunerable in the doctor's office. Think about, "turn and cough?" Don't tell me that not vunerable.


BONUS: Do you remember when we used to sing?
Sha la la, la la?

Friday, May 30, 2003

A Friday Five for the weekend...

1. What do you most want to be remembered for?

World class writer and fun, down-to-earth guy.

2. What quotation best fits your outlook on life?

"You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you might find, you get what you need."

3. What single achievement are you most proud of in the past year?

Performance of my first play.

4. What about the past ten years?

Graduating with a BA and an MA; getting into the PhD program at the UM

5. If you were asked to give a child a single piece of advice to guide them through life, what would you say?

Never give a sucker an even break.

Wednesday, May 28, 2003

1. What's the worst thing about Mondays? School shooting (Boomtown Rats anyone?)

2. Do you believe in soul mates? Have you met yours yet?

Not sure. I think I bumped into her on the bus once. She has shoes made out of milk cartons.

3. What do you recall wanting to "be" when you were a child, dreams of what you'd do when you were an adult for work - who you'd live with... where you'd live... how many kids you'd have. How does the dreams you once had compare to your reality, same, much different? You have surpassed those dreams?

I wanted to be the regular things, cowboy, doctor, dictator. I teach Freshman English at a middle of the road univeristy in the Cdn Praries. Oh, I'm where I wanted to be!

4. What do you think of education in your town/city? In your country? How would you improve it?

It's there.... I'd improve it by getting smarter students. Put the idiots in a room somewhere and let them fight each other for money.

5. If you had to pick three songs to sum up your life what would they be and why?

"Hey, I love (Won't you tell me your Name)" by the Doors; "Something to Look Forward To", Spoon; "High and Dry" Radio head.
Why? Just because.

6. Do you believe in love at first sight? Can it really happen?

What am I, ten? No, there's no such thing. There's lust at first sight, sure, but that's it.

7. What's your greatest fear?

The voices in my head...

BONUS: Have you forgotten?

Of course not! Forgotten what?

Today's comment question: Did you do anything fun this holiday weekend?
This wasn't a holiday weekend in Canada, jerkface! But, yes, I did do a couple of fun things. I'm just not going to tell you what they were!

Monday, May 26, 2003

Well, here I sit, in my cubby-hole of an office, pretending to work. Actually I just dragged five boxes of catalogues half way across campus, so I'm not really pretending; I'm taking a breather.
I turned 28 on Friday and to be honest, I feel different. I can't remember a brithday when I felt signicantly older. Not 16, not 21, not 25. For some reason, though I FEEL like I'm getting older and that my life is, I don't know, slipping away from me. Maybe it's the gettting close to 30 thing. You know, don't trust anyone over 30. Well, what happens when I'm over 30? Of course the people who originated that expression are in their 50s and 60s. Does knowing that make turning less traumatic? Not really.

To be honest, birthdays don't usually do much for me. I don't enjoy celebrating them or making a big fuss about it, but this year I wanted something special. I wanted people to remember. And some people did, which was cool. Some people didn't, which is to be expected. I mean, I don't really know why I think people should remember or even know. How many of my friends and acquiantences' birthdays do I remember? A staggeringly lower number, I can tell you. Oh well. Perhaps I'll try to make an effort. You know, the ol' "Do onto others" thing. Maybe if I remember theirs, they'll remember mine. Maybe...

Saturday, May 24, 2003

Friday Five....

1. What drinking water do you prefer -- tap, bottle, purifier, etc.?
Brita-filtered water, I guess. I really don't dig the H20

2. What are your favorite flavor of chips?
Sour Cream and Onion, Cheddar

3. Of all the things you can cook, what dish do you like the most?
North African Chicken.. MmmMMM Good.

4. How do you have your eggs?
Don't really LOVE eggs, but I'll eat them poached, hard boiled, or scrambled

5. Who was the last person who cooked you a meal? How did it turn out?
Cooked for me, well the little old El Salvadorian ladies at the restraunt we ate at. The cooked burrito poderoso, and some potato-like root vegetable that came served with Coleslaw and salsa. Everything was delicious!!!

Tuesday, May 20, 2003

Mike's amazing mid-May movie review:

Okay, so I went to see the Matrix Reloaded on Sunday. And no, I'll refrain from making the lame "They mean Matrix Overloaded" joke that every critic on the PLANET seems to have made. Let me start with a confession: unlike most people, I was not that struck with the first film. Its smorgasbord offering of pseudo-intelligent, profundity and theology was like listening to that guy in high school who'd read one philosophy book (either Kierkegaard or Nietzsche) and sat in the lunchroom dispensing wisdom like Pez - tiny tablets without any real substance. But with guns, lots of guns.

Visually, the second film, like the first, was quite impressive; in fact, it was a little over-impressive. The opening sequence was so utterly CG'd, and so utterly logic defying, that I really didn't know what to expect from the much-hyped fights. Thankfully, with the painful exception of the Neo vs. 100 Smiths, most of the fights were cool. The 100 Smiths battle, which I have heard many people praise as the future of film fighting, was like watching a video game that some else was playing. It's like I didn't even have to be there. With all the other fights relying on intricate wirework and the actors doing their own marital arts, why do I want to see a computer generated Keanu Reeves beat up a bunch of computer generated Hugo Weavings? Why do I care?

But perhaps the most confusing scenes in a picture wrought with Keymasters, Ghost Twins, omnipotent beings were the church meeting/orgy in Zion and Neo's meeting with the Architect.

The overlong church meeting, with "prayers" to no one in particular and a lot of hot, sweaty semi-naked people gyrating around, seemed grossly out of place. When they started dancing, I thought to myself, "Oh, they're Pentecostal." Then I thought, "Are all Pentecostals this SEXY?"

Where were the old and sick looking people who offered Neo and Trinity gifts? Are only the young and pretty allowed to go to church in Zion? Do they worship St. Nelly and sing his familiar hymn, "It's getting hot in here, Lord. So take off all your clothes, Lord." This was just some teenage masturbatory fantasy, not something that added to the plot of the film I was watching. Pointless and stupid!

Also pointless and stupid was Neo's conversation with the Architect. This is where the film should have ended. But, no, the Wachowski Brothers needed to drag this story out into another film. So instead of answers, we get more questions. Personally, I was hoping to find George Lucas at the heart of the Matrix.

Worse than needlessly dragging this film out, was the ridiculousness of the Architect's language. It was like a first-year University student who has discovered the "Thesaurus" function in his word-processing program. Was his speech supposed to be the most convoluted piece of nonsense? Or was this a clever ploy to get all the geeks back to watch this film one more time in a futile attempt to understand this gibber-ish? This was the point in the film where I largely tuned out: multiple Matrixes (what's the plural?), multiple Neos, multiple crap. I can't wait to find out in the next film that Zion and its inhabitants are all part of a much larger Matrix. Boy, won't that be fun!

Monday, May 19, 2003

Finally, a Monday Mission that speaks to me...

1. This seems to be the year for movie sequels (Terminator 3, Matrix Reloaded, 2 Fast 2 Furious, LOTR: The Return of the King, etc.). Is there a movie you would like to see Hollywood make a sequel to?

No. Well, maybe Lethal Weapon... what are we up to? 7? 8? That movie NEVER gets old.


2. What movie sequel do you think should never have been made?

Exorcist 2, any of the Jaws films and the new batch of Star Wars films. BOO!!!!


3. Are there any books (comic, novel, etc.) that you would like to see made into a movie? Who should star in it?

Oh, of course. A new Lone Wolf and Cub series would be great. I always want to see Toshiro Mifune play the lead, but, alas, he's gone. Can't think of another Japenese actor, currently working, with the fericiousness and compassion needed for the role. Also, I have been a huge fan of films made from lesser known comic over the past few years - Ghost World, Road to Perdition, even From Hell. Any serious underground comics would be great.

4. When was the last time the you got a shot at the Doctor's office? Do you prefer them in the arm or your backside? Or would you rather just take a prescription?

What does this have to do with movies? I haven't had a needle in a while. I prefer my arm though.

5. Do you make friends easier in "Real Life" or online or is it about the same? Do you have closer friendships in "Real Life" or online? Why do you think that is? Are you ok with that or would you like to make a change?

Real Life, and I like that you put it in quotation marks.

6. When you first got your drivers license how did you feel ? Did you get it on the first try, second, third, more than that ? Do you have a license ? If no, do you plan to get one ? Why or why not ?

I don't remember feelings overly excited. I'm not a huge fan of driving, but I got my license on the first try, without much drama.

-byRebecca



7. Have you ever had your tonsils removed? Did you ever come close? Tell me about that.

No, no. ... NO!

BONUS: Who's that girl?

Where?

Today's comment question: How do you prefer to have your Ice Cream served? Cone (sugar, cake, waffle), cup, or something else?

In my hand.

Friday, May 16, 2003

Another Friday Five... and actually on Friday!

1. Name one song you hate to admit you like.
The Humpety Dance by Digital Underground.

2. Name two songs that always make you cry.
I can't think of any song that makes me cry, so I'll go with the two songs that make me feel the saddest: All I Want is You by U2; and She by Elvis Costello

3. Name three songs that turn you on.
Let's Get it On, Marvin Gaye (like everyone else); Red Red Wine, UB40;... can't think of another one.Maybe Lay, Lady, Lay by Dylan.

4. Name four songs that always make you feel good.
White Light, White Heat by Velvet Underground; My and Julio Down by the Schoolyard, Paul Simon; I Fought the Law, The Clash; Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars, David Bowie.

5. Name five songs you couldn't ever do without.
Using only songs from previous questions...
Let's Get it On, I Fought the Law, She, Me and Julio, and White Light, or at least something by the VU.

Thursday, May 15, 2003

So I'm a little apprehnsive about my upcoming birthday. I don't like to think about getting "older". See, I'm coming really close to that magic age, 30; the age young people are supposed to stop trusting you. It seems like such a milestone birthday. I am 30!, sounds more like a statement of being than an indication of age.
A Friday Five...

1. What was the first band you saw in concert?
Actually, it was Philosopher Kings/Great Big Sea/Spirit of the West in my first year of University. I wasn't a big concert guy. Though one time, in high school, a friend of mine tried to get me to go and see Henry Rollins... I was scared.

2. Who is your favorite artist/band now?
Miles Davis

3. What's your favorite song?
I don't think I have just one; I like a lot of different songs for different reasons. Some of my current favourites are "I Don't Like Mondays" Boomtown Rats; Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get it On; and "Cold Blooded Old Times" by Smog.

4. If you could play any instrument, what would it be?
Guitar.

5. If you could meet any musical icon (past or present), who would it be and why?
Miles... why wouldn't you want to meet Miles. The man was a musical genius!
Thought I'd add a little bit of colour to The Not Very Exciting World of Mike. Perhaps my readers (both of them?) will dig the new look. Must keep the peeps happy.

Over the summer I hope to write more entries here. I won't go so far as to "vow" to write more, 'cause more likely than not, it's not gonna happen. Why lie? I intend to write more though. So take comfort in that.

I saw Adaptation over the weekend and I must say, this was one of the most interesting, inventive films out there. As someone deeply connected to both literature and film, I'm often stuck by the problem of adapting novels or short stories into film. Most people give the obligatory "The book was better" response, but fail to take into consideration the very real problem of transferring something from one genre to another. Charlie Kaufman's script about his own inability to turn _The Orchid Thief_ into a film deals with this problem in an interesting and, not to be too sentimental about it, endearing way.
A lot of the older people in the audience I saw the film with were understandably confused by the caper-ish ending of the movie, but the statement is poignant nonetheless: people enter the movie theatre with expectations.
1. Who are your favorite cartoon characters?

Space Ghost and associates, and Nitz.

2. Have you yet reached the point where you feel like you are from a different generation than today's youth?

Oh yes. I feel old and out of touch. I reference television programs they've never even heard of.

3. What was the first Music Video that really impressed you? What made it so amazing?

I remember the first time I saw "Take on Me" by A-Ha. Brilliant piece of work; stands up with things made 10-15 years later.

4. Name a song and an era that comes to mind when you hear the word "Retro."

Boy in the Box, Corey Hart

5. How has your life been affected by HIV or AIDS?

Other than the usual list of dead celebs, it really hasn't, I'm happy to say.

6. Yesterday in the USA, we celebrated "Mothers Day," a day where we honor the mothers in our lives. If you were on a "special day" nominating committee, who or what would you recommend that we create a day in honor of?

Multi-national card and flower companies - wait a second...

7. Last week, we have several Tornadoes tore through many neighborhoods, destroying homes and devastating the lives of the residents. How would you feel if you lost every possession you owned? Or would it matter? How would you go on with your life?

I suppose I'd get on (I seem to have a remarkable ability to go on despite changes), but I don't like to think about losing my stuff.

BONUS: Do you remember the 21st night of September?

Oh, what a night... No.

Today's Comment Question: What part of your body would you like to have permanent hair removal performed on?

Fingers... I don't know.

Monday, May 12, 2003

001. What's your first name?: Michael
002. Whats your middle name?: William
003. Last Name?: Boyce
004. Nicknames: "Mike"; ocassionally "Boycie"
005. City: currently the Peg, but I've lived in Toronto, Oshawa and Waterloo
006. Birthdate: May 23, 1975
007. Chick or dude: totally dude
008. Zodiac Sign: Gemini - i haven't decided which twin I am though 
009. Siblings: sister, Allison
010. Pet(s): none
011. Eye Color: brown
012. Hair Color: brown 
013. Height: 5'11
014. What hand do you write with? right
015. Hair Length: pretty short
016. Do you bite your nails?: no
017. Do you think you are cute?: Oh heck no.
018. Do you think others think you're cute? doubtful, but I suppose anything's possible in this wacky world
020. Shoe Size: 91/2 - 10
021. Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend: Nope
022. If so what is their name?: n.a.
023. Are you Happy?: No, I'm Mike. Seriously though, I guess I'm not unhappy.  
024. Did you send this to your crush?:  maybe
026. Where do you shop the most?: HMV; Chapters maybe
027. Do you think your fashion is cool?: i don't think anything about me is "cool"
028. Do you have any piercings? nope
029. What do you want pierced?: nothing
030. Do you do drugs?: no
031. Do you drink?: hardly ever
032. Who are your friends?: they know who they are (and who they are NOT)
033. Who is your best friend(s): i don't know if I have one
034: Who is your longest friend: I've never measured them
035: What kind of Shampoo and Conditioner do you use?: The kind in the shower
036. What are you most scared of?: being neglected
037. If you could go anywhere where would you go?: Key west  
038. How often do you cut your toenails?: Whenever they need it
039. What are you listening to right now?:  Ruby Tuesday by the Stones
040. Who are you talking to right now? myself
041. What time is it?: 10:27 am
042. Do you have your own phone line?:  Yes
043. What's your phone number: I'm not telling
044. What's your favorite shoe brand?: Docs  
046. What clothes do you sleep in: tshirt & pj pants
048. Who is the last person who called you? my boss
049. Where do you want to get married?: if I got married again, Vegas baby
050. If you could have one wish what would it be?: i don't think I'll share that
051. Who is the hottest guy/girl in your school: i don't know, there's lots of people here. I can't possibly have seen them all.
052. If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?:  I'd stop being so darn charming
053. How many people live in your house?: three, soon to be two
054. Who do you really hate?: I try not to hate people, but I do hate stupidity
056. Favorite Color(s): black
057. Favorite number(s):  2
058. Favorite Candy: Chocolate 
059. Favorite Band: Miles Davis Quintet  
060. Favorite Food: Spagetti
061. Food restaurant: Are there other types of resaurants? China Garden in Waterloo
062. Favorite Girl Names: Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy, Doc... wait, that's not right.
063. Favorite Boy Names: don't have one
064. Favorite animal: the wiley mongoose
065. Favorite Radio Stations: there's an internet Jazz Radio station I like
066. Favorite book: don't have one favourite: i love a lot of books
067. What perfume/cologne do you wear?: a playah's never reveal their stylin' secretz
068. Favorite summer activity?: sweating
072. Bungee Jumped?: nope
073. Sky dived?: nope
074. Went movie hopping?: Yes but they were bad movies
075. Ran from the cops?: Should have  
077. Tried to kill yourself?: Mmm... Actually yes, but that was a long time ago  
079. Skinny dipping?: are you offering?
080. Been In Love?: Sure, who hasn't?
081. Made yourself cry to get out of trouble?: All the time

***What do you think of when you hear these words:

082. Brown: poo 
083: Cow : Moo
084. Pig: bacon
085. Rubber:  boots
086. Science: voodoo 
087. Chair: table

***Which is worse:

088. Barfing on your date or date barfing on you: both are pretty bad, but I'd say it would be worse if I barfed on my date. If a girl barfed on a guy, and the guy handles it right, he is awesome.

089. Have your tonsils or your appendix removed?: tonsils, i guess

**Out of your friends, who is the:

090. Coolest: Dave
091. Weirdest:  Broomhead
092. Smartest: George
093. Happiest: Kim
094. Most Ditzy: There a few girls I know who might fit this. You know who you are.
095. Funniest: that's hard, cause people are different types of funny - Mel and Nikki together are a riot. Adam's funny (but he doesn't know it), Dave has an ability to make me laugh
096. Loudest: Shelley, Heather and Rachel
097 Quietest: Cheryl
098. Prettiest:: Ummmm, I won't say, but she really is the prettiest person I know, though she probably doesn't know that.
099. Who do you go to for advice?: No one, have you met my friends?
100. Who knows all your secrets?: ah, me?

***Do you know any:
101. Steve: Sent me this, bless him.
102: Mike: That's me... and about forty other people I know
103. Lindsay: a girl a year behind me at WLU, cute and sweet.
104. James: yes, a couple
105. Missy:  no... does anyone really know a Missy?
106. David:  Lots... and most of them are EVIL I TELLS YA! EEEEVVVIILLLLL.
107. Pat: Yep, a coworker who nods in sympathy
108. Roxette: Come on, Join the Joyride.

***Have you ever:
109. Eaten an entire gallon of ice cream?: sure
110. Caused a car accident?: does running into a fence count?  
111. Seen the ocean?: which one?

***This or that:
112. Night or Day?: Night
113. Chocolate Chip or Mint Chip?: chocolate
114. Ocean or lake?  ocean, in my experience, lake's smell
115. Chocolate or vanilla?: I'm starting to enjoy vanilla
116. Lion or Tiger?: tiger
117. Love or lust?: depends  but lust is easier
118. Silver or gold?: gold
119. Pencil or pen?: pen
120. Skirt or jeans?:  to wear? jeans.
121. Rose or tulip? : I don't care about flowers  

***Have you (in the last 48 hours)

122. Cried?:  no 
123. Blah Blah Blah: no  
124. Worn a skirt?: still no
125. Gone for a walk?: yes (Woohoo!!!)
126. Gone for a drive?: yes 
127. Been taken out for dinner?:  nope
128. Taken a test?: nope
129. Talked to an ex?: actually yes, well I got an email from her
131. Watched your favorite movie?: no, but I saw X2 and it was pretty cool
132. Gotten a present?: no
133. Missed someone?: sure
134. Hugged someone?:  no
135. Kissed someone?: no
136. Danced with someone?: nope
137. Had a nightmare?: nope
138. Fought with your parents?: no
139. What do you feel about the Ouiji board?:they're ouiji-tastic (actually they're crap)
140. Do you believe in yourself?: meh
141. Worst feeling in the world?:  when she doesn't talk to me
142. Best feeling in the world?:  hot bath
143. Are you for world peace?: meh  
144. Are you a health freak?:  nope
145. Do you have a crush on anyone?:  of course

***Final Questions:

147. Do you like filling these out?: oh yeah!!!
148: Who will respond to this?: Everyone, or else

Friday, May 09, 2003

Over the past few days, I have started writing here five or six times; sometimes quite a bit too. But something always makes me erase what I've written and start again. To get me into the writing mood, I think I'll start with a Friday five to see how it all works.

1. Would you consider yourself an organized person? Why or why not?

In certain things, I'm very organized. Unfortunately, I'm also chronicly lazy. So often, when things get "unorganized" I can't be bothered trying to fix them.

2. Do you keep some type of planner, organizer, calendar, etc. with you, and do you use it regularly?

I have one, yes; using it has been a continious struggle.

3. Would you say that your desk is organized right now?

Yes, yes I would.

4. Do you alphabetize CDs, books, and DVDs, or does it not matter?

I have, but my wife always wrecks it. DVDs are currently alphabetized within certain categories, but Criterion DVDs
are by issue number on the spine.

5. What's the hardest thing you've ever had to organize?
When I got married I alphabetized the combined CD collection and book collection. It was a nightmare (but so comforting).

Tuesday, April 22, 2003

A Friday Five on a Tuesday? This wildman doesn't care whose toes he steps on...

1. How many houses/apartments have you lived in throughout your life?
5, 6 if you count my dorm in first year university... i tend not to.

2. Which was your favorite and why?
My current place... it has all my stuff.

3. Do you find moving house more exciting or stressful? Why?
stressful No one has yet been able to prove to me that change is good.

4. What's more important, location or price?
Location

5. What features does your dream house have (pool, spa bath, big yard, etc.)?
Big tv, and the whole home theatre set up.

Wednesday, March 26, 2003

More films to catalogue. Talk to Her A+ - another masterpiece by one of the best filmmakers in the world. Autofocus C - disappointing bio-pic of Bob Crane. Imitation of Life B+/A- enjoyable Sirk film. Life of Brian A - Python's best. Va Savoir A - enthralling French drama. To Have and Have Not B+ - could have done witout the singing, but Bogart and Bacall are HOT!

Wednesday, March 05, 2003

Watched a few good fims this weekend. First, 24 Hour Party People. It's the story of Tony Wilson, a Brit TV personality who figures promiently into the history (or perhaps myth) of punk, post-punk, and rave music in Manchester. The film wonderfully blurs the line between fact and fiction by featuring (and mentioning) cameos by real figures (including Wilson himself) and blending documentary footage into the narrative. While I thought it ran a little long, the films functions as interesting a commentary on art and style as the post-modern, genre-defining music of the era.

Next, I finally brought home (or rather Rachel brought home for me) 8 Femmes, a film I've been anxious to see since I heard about it almost a year ago. Visually this film reminded me of the best films of Jacques Demy (Umbrellas and Young Girls in particular). There's a richness and fullness to the colours that seems almost hyper-real - an effect which adds to, and perhaps allows, the strange mixing of mystery and musical genres. The film has been compared to Altman's Gosford Park; like that film, 8 Femmes appears to be a murder mystery though the solving the murder is not nearly as exciting as discovering the secrets of the household. 8 Femmes adds the further layer of musical numbers which, although fun, speak to various themes and subplots. I personally found that 8 Femmes is more subtle in its use of the mystery genre than Gosford Park. In Altman's film the police inspector never comes close to figuring out the crime, indeed the characters remain largely in the dark. For the 8 Femmes, figuring out who killed Marcel is never far from their minds.

Friday, February 28, 2003

Feb 28 2003: Big Sleep (again)

Started The Way We Were but couldd't get more than twenty minutes in. Apparently the way they were was boring!

Have been reading a lot of Hemingway since returning from Florida. Seeing the man's house really got me thinking about how much I loved his writing. Finished The Son Also Rises in a day, read a handful of short stories; am currently a few chapters into To Have and Have Not.

Monday, February 24, 2003

In recent months I've had trouble remebering the plot points of movies I've seen in the past year or two. This is particularly upsetting as I've alwasy prided myself on a near-photographic memory when it comes to film. I can usually remeber whole sections of dialogue on a single viewing, but lately I find myself remembering slight, vague details but can't recall which film they occur in. It's annoying. One possible way to battle this problem is to keep better track of the films I've seen. Then I at least have a list from which to work with.

So here we go:

Feb 13 2003: 8 1/2
Feb 23 2003: Shanghai Knights
1. Has anyone ever told you that you needed to lose weight or change something about yourself physically? Who told you and what impact did it have on your life? Your perception of yourself?

Ocassionally I get comments about my weight, which I'm very senstive about. Whenever people use the word "fat" in regards to me I get all flustered. I'm not fat; I know that. It just bothers me.

2. Do enjoy the snow and cold weather?

No! I was in Florida last week and if it wasn't for my wife, I'd be there still!

3. Visualize the perfect winter evening. Are you alone or with someone? How does the evening start? How does it end, and everything in-between.
With someone. Starts with dinner, wine, a movie and then whatever.

4. I've noticed that people I work with, even no more than 6 feet away, would rather e-mail me a message than turn around and speak to me. Same goes for voice mail, I find I get more calls when I am away than when I am available to speak to someone. So many things that could be said face-to-face are now accomplished electronically. Do you think that technology has had allowed relationships and human interaction to become less personal? Is this a good thing?

In some ways technology has made communication easier - for example, it's much easier to write things than to say them face to face. I write people I might never talk to, and find it easier to talk about more person things. At the same time, because technology makes that easier, talking face to face has become harder. It's easier NOT to talk, but to write.

5. One thing I've always wanted to learn is how to juggle. I'm pretty good with my hands, so I am
sure I could do it. Yet, I've never made the commitment to sit down and learn how. Is there anything you've been meaning to learn, that you can learn, but haven't? (or maybe you have?)

Be a better person... (haven't had time)

6. On the other side of the coin, there is photography. As much as I'd like to, I will never be as great at it as others. And I am OK with that, still I wish I had the gifts that others have. What skills or talents have you wished that you possessed that you most likely never will? Are you content with that?

I don't know.

7. "AudioBlogs" are a twist on text blogs, where the blogger posts audio files instead of writing their entries. Not far behind the curve are VideoBlogs. While I've tinkered with Audio posts before, I think it excludes too many people and personally, I feel the written word has a deeper impact. What do you think of the concept of "AudioBlogs?" Would you like to hear the voice of your favorite bloggers occasionally? Would you rather listen to or read your favorite Blogs?

I don't know. It might be fun to listen/watch a blog, but there's something about reading a well written entry.

BONUS: How deep is your love?

Why? Do you want to go swimming in it?

Today's Comment Question: How many hours of sleep do you usually get each night?

As many as I can!

Monday, February 10, 2003

Why post original commentaries when the fan DEMAND the Monday Mission? Hang on, what fans?

1. In the states, every citizen is expected to perform their civic duty and serve on a jury at some point. This week, I am on jury duty. Have you ever had to serve on a jury?
No.

2. If you were to ever serve on a jury, would you be able to give someone the death penalty?
Maybe - it would depend on the circumstances

3. One thing that concerns me about jury duty is what my life would be like if I had to convict someone. I'd always be worried about some sort of retaliation from the convict, or their family. Has fear of negative consequences ever kept you from reporting a crime or voicing your opinion?
I think you watch too many movies. I don't think so... well, there was that Gambino double murder thing a few years back.

4. When it comes to convictions, I've never even been convicted of speeding (accued yes, but heh, never convicted). Have you ever been accused of or convicted for breaking any laws? What's the real story there?
No...

5. It looks like I will have a lot of time on my hands this week in the jury pool. I may get called, I may not. If not, I go back tomorrow. Rinse, wash, repeat. How would you pass the time if you had to sit and wait around from 8am-5pm for 5 days?
You get to hang out in a POOL? That rocks. I'd spend my time going off the diving board.

6. One thing I do like about this "civic duty" is that it will be at the downtown courthouse. I LOVE downtown. There is just so much life there. What part of your town is your favorite to visit? Why? What makes it so special?
I like the Exchange. It's old (the city passed a by-law a little while ago that prevents "newer" looking building or signs from going up). It's cool - except for all the bums begging for change.

7. I'm not that outgoing around strangers, so I doubt I will be meeting many new people this week. Do you have any problems striking up a conversation with someone you don't know? Have chance encounters with strangers ever led to interesting new relationships or opportunities?
I have trouble striking up conversations with people I do know. Every once and awhile I'll go outside my comfort zone and talk to strangers, but only on very special occasions.

BONUS: So if I tell you that you're really something baby, will you stay or will you go away ?
I will go... far, far away.

Today's Comment Question: What toppings do you like on your pizza?
ground beef, green peppers, extra cheese.

Wednesday, February 05, 2003

Alright, kiddies, Monday Mission Time!!!

1. Do you remember the first LP, 45, CD or CD single that you bought? Recreate the scene for me.
As a matter of fact, I do. The first LP I bought (as opposed to the ones my parents purchased FOR me) was Fat Boys Crushin'. I was about 12 or so and rap was just starting to become really popular. My friend Shawn and I hit the local mall - taking the bus by ourselves, another first for me - and each bought the record at Sam the Record Man.
The first CD I bought was probably Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince - not nearly as cool as the Fat Boys.

2. What was the last CD or song that you actually paid money for?
Tenecious D. I have since sold it.

3. It is my personal opinion that "Munchos" and "Funions" are the most perfect snack food ever. What do you think is the best snack food ever?
Nachos. Lots and lots of nachos.

4. Comedian George Carlin once pointed we consider the things we like to keep around us to be our "stuff," whereas other people's stuff is just junk to us (ok, he used more colorful language, but you get the idea). What "stuff" do you have that someone else might just throw away if they were cleaning out your house?
Old Star wars toys, comics and sports cards. If it wasn't for my watchful eye, my wife would have thrown the whole lot out years ago.

5. Do you think it is wrong for people to rush to e-Bay and start selling Space Shuttle Columbia collectibles?
What do you mean by collectibles? Do you mean little pendants or key chains? Or a steamin' chunk of hull? Pendants and keychains, while tacky, aren't "wrong", but pieces of the wrechage would be questionable.

6. Does it bother you when President Bush speaks about God and invokes scripture quotations from the Bible during his speeches?
Yes, but the Bible says that even the Devil himself will quote Scripture to try to dup people.

7. I have a friend who think's she's being photographed in public restrooms. What paranoid delusion do you have?*
I think people are laughing at me.

Bonus: Can't you feel the weight of my stare?
Yes, and I've been meaning to speak to you about it.

Monday, February 03, 2003

Super-Fun Survey Time - a big thanks to my ever-loving sister who gave me this one which allowed me to wile away the hours at work!!!

1)Full name: Michael William Boyce, Esq. Well, okay. Not esq.

2) Single or taken: taken

3] sex : Yes please. Oh my, that joke NEVER gets old.

4) Birthday: May 23

5) Star Sign: Gemini, I believe.

7)Siblings: one sister (who stole question #6), on brother in law

8)Hair color: Brown

9)Eye color: Brown

10)Shoe size: 9

11) height: 5'11

R e l a t i o n s h i p s

1) Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?: No

2) Did you send this to your crush?: I'm not sending it to ANYONE!

F a s h i o n S t u f f

1) Where is your favorite place to shop?: HMV, Chapters, Gap

2) Any tattoos or piercings: Nope

T h e E x t r a S t u f f

1) Do you do drugs?: No, I won't even take aspirin.

2) What kind of shampoo do you use?: The kind in the bathtub when I'm showering. I don't know.

3) What are you most scared of?: The number of questions missing from this survey

5) What car do you wish to have: the kind with a cd player

6) Who is the last person that called you?: called me? I don't remember.

7) Where do you want to get married?: Am married.

8) If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?: I'm too damn nice.

9) What was your first car?: 1986 Chevette - Clearisol Brown. Oh Seymore!

F a v o r i t e s

2) Number: The missing ones.

3) Food: Nachos, Spagetti

4) Boys name: Cedric

5) Girls name: Don't have one.

6) Subjects in school?: english and history

7) Animal?: dogs, I guess

8) Drink: diet pepsi

9) Movie: Casablanca

10)Celebrity: Don't really have one.

11)Sport: Tackle football

12) Sport to watch?: Football

H a v e Y o u E v e r

1) Given anyone a bath?: Just me.

2) Smoked?: Yup

3) Bungee jumped?: No but I want to

4) Broken the law?: Of course, the law of the jungle.

5) Made yourself throw-up?: I think so.

6) Gone skinny-dipping?: No

7) Been in love?: Mmmm, I guess

8) Done the Deed: What deed? Is that a euphemism?

F i r s t T h i n g T h a t C o m e s T o M i n d

1) Red: blood

2) cow: moo

3) Greenland: big

F i n a l Q u e s t i o n s

1) Do you like filling these out?: So much it's scary

2) Gold or Silver?: Gold, it'd worth more

3) favortie weapon of choice in a fight: I prefer a mid-sized pool cue wrapped in barbed wire and set on fire, or a steel folding chair.

Wednesday, January 29, 2003

In pathetic world news, some couple in the states got married in the Walmart store they both met and work in. Sadest part of all is they didn't even close the store. It took place at 11 o'clock in the morning, and customers/co-workers made up most of the congregation. Gee, think maybe these two loverbirds don't have many friends? Maybe it's strangely fitting. Perhaps the marriage relationship will be every bit as crappy and second rate as the stuff Walmart sells. Annulments, aisle 6.
1. Do you care for poetry? Do you have a favorite poem? Care to share some of it?
Yes, I like poetry. Don't have a particular favourite, but am currently reading (and greatly enjoying) the poetry of Paublo Neruda.

2. What does it take to "rock your world?"
I dunno. Don't know many people who would want to "rock" my "world".

3. Have you ever done anything that landed you in financial trouble? Has somebody else's action ever caused you financial ruin? What happened?
Other than the massive student loans I've acquired over the years, not really.

4. Take a stroll down memory lane. There is a song, that every time you hear it, you think of this one person. What's the song, who is the person, and what memories does it conjure up?

"End of the Road" Boyz to Men; Sandy; high school dances and infatuations.

5. I've never cared for football, it was never on in the house growing up and I never developed a "taste" for it. But I've always felt like I "should" enjoy it, that I was deficient in some way because I never get excited about things like the Super Bowl (except for the commercials). Are there any occasions when you feel like you are missing out on something that everyone else seems to enjoy?

Most sports and reality television shows. I mean what's the freakin' deal with American Idol and Survivor? These shows are nothing more than clear illustrations that society is corupt, deceitful and downright selfish.

6. A few of the phrases that get under my skin are "take it to the next level" (which was used when I was told why I was being replaced at Fox by someone who could do that) and "you just don't get it" (always popular in relationship fights). What phrases "push your buttons" and why?
"Is that all today?' or any variation of that phrase used by store employees to upsell things I don't want. "And would you like some popcorn/ a t-shirt/ a sharpie?" Like I'm such an idoit that I go that the check out counter forgetting what it is I really need. If I wanted popcorn/ a t-shirt/ a sharpie I would have brought it WITH ME to the counter.

7. Do you believe in life after death? What do you believe happens when our time is up?*
Yes. Good stuff.

BONUS: Everybody's talking all this stuff about me why don't they just let me live?
Everybody's talkin' at me.They can't hear a word I'm saying.

Wednesday, January 22, 2003

Okay, so here I sit, alone in my new office at St John's College. Everything's in boxes and my co-workers are all out buying new things for their offices. Apparently the plan is that THEY get new stuff and I'm expected to cull what I can use from the stuff they no longer want. Wonderful. I'm supposed to be working but I think I have a good excuse for not. Someone's hanging pictures in the hall and because this old building is likely full of asbestos, they have to use this special vacuum whenever they drill into the wall. It's loud and makes concentrating difficult.
What else is new in my wacky little life? Well I got an email from an old high school friend. He was on his way to Winnipeg to teach a seminar and wanted to hook up. Though I was a little nervous about it, I went and had a great time. We're going to try to hang out later today, after he's done teaching and I'm done teaching. He's teaching managers about the importance of customer service; I'm teaching uninterested first years about Frankenstein. I'm sure we'll have plenty to talk about.
I think my intial fear was that I'm quite different then I was in highschool and my interests were so different from my friends to begin with, now I'm afraid it would be like talking in different languages. Amazingly it was really fun to see Mike and talk, and not just about old times. Of course a lot of conversation was "whatever happened to..." stuff, but we did manage to relate on a more personal level, and I think, were we living within a reasonable distance, Mike and I would still hang out.
In other news, there is still one person in my life I simply don't know what to do with. Half the time (well, less now) she's open with me, sharing things about her life, but lately even getting a "hello" is an accomplishment. What brought about this change? Search me. It's stuff liek this that causes my anti-social tendencies to flare up.
I've been trying to write as well. And that seems to be going as well as everything else in my life. I have the ideas, I know where I want the story to go, but when I sit down nothing comes out. I suppose I just have to keep at it. I think this is a publishable book, if I can ever get it finished. I just have to believe in myself and all that malarkey.

Tuesday, January 21, 2003

1. Friday I wrote about "People I Can Do Without." How about adding to the list with a few people you can live without?
People who, for whatever reason, act superior or like they can do without you. And Howie Mandel.

2. Have you ever felt like someone truly respected you? What does being respected mean to you personally?
Truly respected me? No, I usually feel as if people are just barely tolerating me. Being respected, at its simplest level, is being treated the way others would like you to treat them.

3. In (past or current) relationships, what is the "one thing" your partner would change about you if they could?
My "not knowing".

4. Have you ever tried to change who you are to please someone? How did that turn out?
Always. Results have varied.

5. Do you believe in love at first sight? Can it really happen?*
No and no.

BONUS: What will I do if you say we're through?
A Jig.

Today's Comment Question: Where is your "tickle spot?"
Like I'm gonna tell you that. Come on!

Tuesday, January 14, 2003

I can'r really bring myself to write anything on this site but the answers to silly Monday Missions. Perhaps, once I'm done moving my office at the end of he week, I'll be in more of a writing mood. Til then, here's a MM:

1. Have you ever bought something you were so excited about and found out later that it didn't work? Were you able to return it? How did it go?
I can't recall a specific instance of this, but I'm sure it's happened. I guess I returned it without hassle or else I would have a clearer memory of it.

2. I have a Palm (Pilot) for my date book and such, but have been thinking of jumping to the PocketPC world at some point. Do you have a PDA (personal digital assistant)? What kind, and how did you decide? What do you like about it? If you don't own one, do you want one or do you do better without such gadgets?
No. As I have enough trouble remembering to write things down in my $15 dayplanner, I can't really justify spending a few hundred dollars for something that will gather dusk.

3. What illness do you wind up catching more than any other?
Rabies.

4. Do you like going to see the Doctor (any type)?
A guy with cold hands who wants to drop your pants - does anyone LIKE this?

5. How about the Dentist? Do you like going? Do you go in every 6 months for a check-up?
I've had more needles for the dentist than the doctor - that effects the psyche. I don't like the dentist very much at all. I go every six months though.

6. Are you a "Dog Person" or a "Cat Person?" Do you think a person's choice tells you something about
their personality?
I' m a whatever animal doesn't bite/scratch/pee on me. If this does say something about your personality, I'd suggest getting a new personality.

7. I've mentioned before how me and a buddy of mine have just let our friendship lapse. There was no disagreement, but we've hit that point where we have nothing in common anymore. My life has progressed and he is still living in 1992. Have you ever had a friendship that just seems to have run its course? Where there is just nothing there anymore? What finally happened?
Your friend still lives in 1992? Tell him not to put money on the Bills!!! And can he pick me up a leather tie?

BONUS: Do you want to see me beggin' baby? Can't you give me just one more day?
Who the %*^ are you talkin' to, Promoguy? 

Today's Comment Question: Wanna get together after work and run around? Any ideas on what to do?
After walk you want to run? I can think of a million better things to do.

Friday, January 10, 2003

More Monday Mission fun... Yeah, so it's a couple of days late; sue me!!!

1. What is one of your favorite things to wear?
Pants. I could sing the praises of pants.

2. Did you get any "dud" gifts for the holidays? Will you return them?
Nope and nope.

3. Let's do a few "Best of 2002" thoughts. What was the best movie of 2002? Why did you pick that one?
I don't know. If we're talking about films MADE in 2002: Punch Drunk Love or Far From Heaven were excellent. I really enjoyed The Two Towers as well. For films I saw for the first time in 2002, easily The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp - it did the impossible; lived up to my great expectations.

4. What world event of 2002 made an impact on you?
I'm sorry, there were world events?

5. What personal event of 2002 was the most memorable?
Teaching my own class. Seeing my first real play staged.

6. Is there anything in 2002 (decisions, relationships, purchases, etc.) that, looking back, you would have done differently?
I would do EVERYTHING different.

7. Shine up your magic crystal ball and look into the future. What do you think will happen in your life in 2003? Or, what would you like to happen in 2003?
Will happen: misery
Would like to happen: not so much misery

BONUS: Was it somethin' I said or somethin' I did, did my words not come out right?
 Oh no. It's my fault. It's me.

Today's Comment Question: What are some of your favorite song lyrics at the moment?
"You may laugh, but pretty girls look right through me" - simple yet so profound

Thursday, January 02, 2003

1. Which Blog post of yours was one of your favorites of 2002?
I'm not that thrilled with anything I do.

2. Were there any "old acquaintances" that should be forgot this year?
Yes, apparently me. I continue to be ignored one minute, talke up to the next.

3. Did you finish what you started last week?
I don't know. What was I working on last week?

4. Will you be doing anything to celebrate "New Year's Eve?" Any traditional food or drinks you associate with "New Year's?"
Going to a "party" - well, more a gathering. No.

5. What was the coolest present you got this year?
The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp - a film I've been trying to see for EVER!!!!

6. The day after Christmas, around 3pm, I drove by a car where the driver and his passenger were each drinking a beer; there was no mistake about it. I was shocked, because I'd never seen anyone actually do this. And wasn't sure what I should do about it. What would you do in the same situation?

Run into them. No matter what, they'll be charged.

7. Have you ever driven a car while drinking alcohol? Ever driven drunk or known anyone who has? How'd that turn out?
I haven't driven while drinking, nor have I driven under the influence. I've driven a little too soon after being under the influence, which wasn't smart. I have been in the car with drivers who I know have had a little too much to drink. Agai, not proud of this.

Bonus: Why'd you have to go and make things so complicated?
What are things unless they're complicated, sk8ter boi?

Today's Comment Question: How ya like me now?

Did I even like you before?