MAY 2-4 IN 2010

I am either full of vigour and action or brimming over with crazy.

It is the May 2-4 Weekend and the personal schedule is stacked.

I have four volunteer shifts with two festivals in addition to one Moffatt-wide celebration featuring one 25th wedding anniversary and three May birthdays.

And this will all take place over three tight days.

I am thrilled at the prospect even while I know how wiped out I am certain to be. Oh, and I've got to get some writing homework finished for Ladies in Writing. I need to get started on that one, I was shameful and neglected the challenge from last month. Tsk, Moffatt girl. Ah, but I am set to change it this time around.

Amidst all of this action, I will make sure to bring you along with the updates and insights as I am wont to do on weekends.

For all the Canadians out there, I bid you clear skies, open patios, and cold beers for this extended weekend. And for international readers, I grant you Canadian citizenship for the next three days so you can come and celebrate with us in the Great White North.

Get 'er done.

Mother's Day and the Weekend-At-Large

Intense. I managed to schedule a stacked weekend filled with comics, theatre, and a whole lotta queer. Based on the experience, I would advise readers do the same. May is filling out with adventure and transforming itself into quite the social trip for this lil' Moffatt here.

I best get started with the rundown.

Saturday, May 8, 2010

TCAF. Mother-effin'-TCAF, people. If fortune finds you in Toronto at the start of May, you best be at The Toronto Comic Arts Festival. For one solid weekend, the Toronto Reference Library becomes the central hub of the graphic arts scene. Whether you nerd out over classic comics, pursue the latest indie manga, or bookmark webcomics on a regular basis, you will find new artists and established creators to dedicate those dollars to.

2010 marked this blogette's first visit to the festival and I was floored with the talent and the vibrant stories housed in that building. I walked in with two niche markets in mind (queer manga and machinist science fiction) and found compelling titles to suit both tastes. From handmade zines and self-published collections to anthologies and large-scale publisher titles, readers are privy to a wide range of content and original artwork. Oh, the crush of creative energies all brought together...

***

Miz Moffatt's Haul:

Kate Beaton's Never Learn Anything From History

I am a massive fan girl for the wonder that is Kate Beaton and her addictive webcomic, Hark! A Vagrant. She takes great delight in rendering Canadian historical figures and international literary figures into tasty morsels of pure hilarity. Oh, and did I mention I got to meet her as well? She signed my book with a picture of the pompous, overwhelming glory of General Brock. Oooh, the War of 1812 -- no one loves it more than Pierre Berton, my Dad, and my grade seven teacher. Kate Beaton will be getting her own post on this blog soon. Trust me. It is long overdue.

Megan Rose Gedris' Yu+Me: dream Vol. 1

Self-described as a "surreal lesbian webcomic," Yu+Me: dream offers a fresh, colourful angle on the girl-meets-girl genre. While the first part of the series adheres to the conventions of manga, the second part finds Gedris experimenting with multi-media layouts ranging from photoshopped images to classic drawn elements. Her artwork gets sharper with each new edition, all of which is available at her personal site for the series. Other fans might recognize Gedris from her other popular, pulp title, I Was Kidnapped By Lesbian Pirates From Outer Space!!! Serious, you need to check that out.

Autobrig's Honeydew Syndrome

The Automata Brigade (or "Autobrig" for short) encompasses the efforts of a group of Vancouver-based artists and appreciators to create the gorgeous Honeydew Syndrome. The project was headed by creators Nuu and Schumie, but I appreciate their nods to close friends and colleagues helping them develop their craft. Readers will find pure shounen-ai/yaoi with this title as a not-so-emo kid (Metis) finds a romantic spark with a not-so-jock jock (Josh) in between high school lectures and a few suckerpunches in the halls. Captivating, queer, and Canadian to boot! Sheer perfection in manga form.

Cloudscape Comics' Exploded View Vol. 4

I found Exploded View at the same table as Honeydew Syndrome, so, it's safe to argue I will be tracking Cloudscape Comics from now on. The group's fourth collective project includes the unique visions of 25 artists exploring the world of science fiction. Camilla d'Errico's exquisite cover caught my eye first and the content and calibre of the work inside held me. It seems I have more reasons to relocate to Vancouver as soon as I can....

***

I stumbled out into the streets in the afternoon, overwhelmed with art and on a mission to reach the next destination. I headed over to the infamous 519 Church Street Community Centre to catch the latest details on volunteering for Canada's largest queer film festival, Inside Out.

Now, the gigantic Pride flag is not a regular fixture at The 519, but queers across the city can find a safe, accepting space here in addition to a whole host of community-based programs and resources. In usual Moffatt form, I was there at least twenty minutes before the meeting commenced. I sat and poured over comics until the time came. I was pleased to find the permanent staff of the Inside Out Festival so dominated with women, butch and femme alike. I managed to snag three shifts and am excited to mingle with the other volunteers. All I can say is the May long weekend will be as hectic as it is thrilling. More to follow in the near future.

***

After the Toronto trek, I was off to catch Ship Sharp in her one millionth theatre role of 2010 with The Advocate and The Bruce. (Well, alright -- it might not be one million, but she is one busy woman, let me tell you). The absolute highlight of A Year in the Death of Eddie Jester: Ship Sharp wheeled across the stage, pregnant and screaming. Hilarious and aptly-timed, indeed.

***

Sunday, May 9, 2010

As for this Mother's Day, it's been a rather low-key affair. We had plans to visit my Nanny and Grampy, however their neck of the woods suffered from severe snowfall overnight. I know, it was sudden and un-May-like. Our cars were de-winterized weeks ago and are not fit for snow-choked back roads. Nope. A phone call would have to suffice. I surprised Mom with her favourite treat, chocolate-covered cherries (or, as I like to call 'em, "creepy cherries").

After that, I spent the day talking finances with the Sister and chatting with the 'rents over tea. It was all proper and civilized fare, perfect for Sundays.

So there -- the weekend-at-large. It's refreshing to find the hustle and bustle of life once again, even if the GTA was plagued with cold weather and rain (and hail at one point!) Here's a tip of the hat to all the lovely mothers out there and I hope all you kids had a blissful, lovely weekend.

I Snub Thee, Weekend Forecast

So, the forecast for the weekend appears abysmal -- rain, thunderstorms, temperatures below 14C. It seems the clouds are conspiring against us what with the gorgeous, bright weather occurring while most of us are locked away at the office.

But, I am poised to brave the elements and threaten a perfect head of hair for an intense weekend full of excitement.

Check it:

• Saturday morning: TCAF. One weekend, one public library, hundreds of comics and their artists. I am aiming to uncover A) Canadian sci fi titles or B) Canadian queer comics. If I can find one blending the best of both worlds, I AM THERE. Fingers crossed, ladies.
• Saturday afternoon: Volunteer meeting for The Inside Out Film Festival. Canada's leading all-queer film festival celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year, and guess who just might be a ticket taker/greeter? I hope I can limit the amount of ecstatic giggling that will surely emanate from me as a help out....
• Saturday evening: Hit up the theatre to watch Ship Sharp dominate the stage. The Advocate, The Bruce, and I will be dazzled and enthralled, no doubt. (It was never in question)
• Sunday: Heading two and a half hours North with Mom and the Sister to celebrate Mother's Day with my Nanny and Grampy. Despite the gloomy weather awaiting us, it'll be great to chat with the grandparents and take in the fresh, smogless air around their cottage.

Quite the full schedule. The hustle and bustle is alluring and a welcome change from my general homebody tendencies. I expect to have a few great stories to share with readers this weekend. Perhaps I might need to sneak a camera around with me to document the adventure. Hmm...

Well, cheers to the start of another blissful, albeit rain-drenched, two-day holiday. Get your kicks, kids.

The Toronto Green Living Show: Round Four

Speaking of anniversaries and such, this weekend marks the FOURTH Green Living Show held at Toronto's Direct Energy Centre on the CNE grounds. And what, pray tell, could be more intense than four years of this consumer-driven, eco-assuming showcase?

Oh, perhaps the fact I have attended ALL FOUR SHOWS.

I think I've reached the point where I need to attend for the sake of my strange ego. Who out there can boast their attendance at all four Green Living Shows? (Well, aside from my Mom who's attended with me, of course). At this rate, I could reach a decade of Green Livin' madness. Who knows, the Earth might stop revolving if ever I miss one. You know that volcano in Iceland? Perhaps it's a warning sign of worse to come should I ever not attend Toronto's Green Living Show.

Right.

Readers might be interested to re-read last year's post in which I examine the 2009 Show in reference to the earlier shows. (I also attended the Fly By Night theatre company's fundraiser that evening which involved a bachelorette/bachelor auction, so, um, click on over to that.)

So, conclusions for the 2010 Green Living Show:

• FOOD STALLS. OH SWEET GOODNESS. People shoved food samples at me from all angles. And drink samples. I had fresh-squeezed orange juice, white tea, protein smooties, and boxed apple juice in a one-minute span. Dizzying, indeed. 2009 was nothing but yogurt samples. In 2010, visitors needn't even purchase lunch due to the sheer volume of free snack samples available.
• CORPORATE SPONSORS. Seems the big hitters are coming around to the show's increasing revenue/success. From major magazines to auto dealers, from major grocery chains to home renovation locales -- it was big business all around. Granted, there are tons of small business there as well. But, it seemed the major players bought up the best real estate in the building.
• FREE(ish) TICKETS. Mom read somewhere about the One Electronic Waste Product = FREE Admission to the Show. Lo, the Moffatt clan has stock-piled a collection of ancient cell phones so we got in free(ish) of charge. We've had those cell phones since, oh... 2001? I know. They're relics, now. All you could do with them was make phone calls. Weird.
• HIGHER EDUCATION APPEALS. I do believe this is the first time I saw Toronto-based universities and colleges with booths at the show. All were natured-focused, earth science-y, or arbour-related. Power to them if it aids enrollment.

And, most vital for the readers of said blog:

• QUEER PEOPLE WITH THE CASH TO SPEND ON ECO-CONSCIOUS PRODUCTS WERE IN ATTENDANCE ONCE AGAIN.

Serious. I referenced this phenomenon on a past blog and I stand by it now: if you want to meet successful queer people outside of the clubbing circuit, visit trade shows focused on green living or healthy lifestyles. It's staggering the number of gay, lesbian, and bi individuals you will stumble across at these places.

And, if these demographic stats are correct, then it's an impressive bunch to socialize with:

84% between the ages of 20-49

66% are female [...]

59% hold professional or managerial positions

69% have university or post-graduate degrees

SIGN ME UP. Oh, and on another note, the organizers managed to lure the likes of Colin Firth and Amy Smart to the Saturday main event. Perhaps the increased numbers of corporate sponsors is related to this.

Oh, and on a random tangent, I also found the gorgeous tea shop I purchased some goods from at the first Green Living Show. I was thrilled as I hadn't seen them at the last two events. I descended on Tea2Gather and picked up some white tea, pure green tea, and a delightful lavender tea blended with mint and rosemary. I'm still in the middle of a soothing, tea-induced reflective state and will likely remain here for the rest of the week.

So there -- 2010 = Success. I sampled, I steeped, and I partook in a fair bit of eye candy. Who knew a green lifestyle could coincide with increased visibility for the queer community-at-large?

I guess we're just savvy like that.

***

And while we're on the topic of savvy kids, I know of one stellar individual who could use some of your support right this minute. The Advocate's in the running for The Best Travel Job Ever and she's closing in on the elusive top 25 position. Click on over and give her a vote or twelve -- let's send The Advocate packin'!

Housewarming with an Accent of Drama

Remember a few months ago how I had that awkward Facebook run-in with a friend of a friend? Where she thought I was hitting on her when I was just looking to meet other ladies to hit the lady-lovin' scene with? Remember how I learned clarification = being an adult?

Well. Said friend had a housewarming get-together last night.

I met this girl.

... And the awkwardness of the moment was so stunning it almost circled back to being refreshing.

But the kicker? ...... I was the non-awkward one. Yeah. Despite her initial misinterpretation of me and my intentions, I was calm. I mean, I didn't waltz up to her and introduce myself -- Kyle C. was clever and lured her into the kitchen with the promise of a fresh drink while Ship Sharp and I happened to be chatting there. When I shook hands with her, I was almost tempted to say I was "that creeper from Facebook," but the look pulsing in her eyes let me know she knew exactly who I was.

It's unfortunate to see a potential friendship fizzle out before it even has the chance to grow, though. Under different circumstances, I bet we would have hit it off and impressed quite a few foxy femmes across Toronto's queer scene. Alas, such is the fickleness of online introductions.

And Ship Sharp can vouch for me that I handled the situation in a cool, adult sort of way. A+, Moffatt girl.

As for the housewarming, it was delightful. The Kyles have a gorgeous new condo just on the fringes of the downtown core. Pure posh, those lads are. The gents were flooded with a whole new wine collection from their guests, Ship Sharp and I included. I have to note: it's such a welcome change to talk queer with Kyle S. We went to high school together and he was one of the first people I hung out with in grade nine. We were both so heavily closeted as young'uns, though he came out years before I did. But yeah, just getting the chance to make the jokes about our younger selves and to understand where each other is now coming from is a great place to be with someone.

Ship Sharp and I left at around 10 PM and carried on our own after-party chez Ship (RE: Tea-infused discussions about writing/writers we admire, books-to-film, and other intellectual endeavors). I realized this morning how much I miss talking shop like that. I mean, I know I'm a member of Ladies in Writing, but we don't discuss professional writers with the kind of detail Ship Sharp and I did last night. I tell you, tea brings out the absolute best in people and inspires the greatest conversation. I would argue it's a better social lubricant than alcohol, even. Yes, you just read that. And yes, I am a nerd.

On that note, I'm off for another evening with Ship Sharp and The Advocate before a work-intensive week starts anew.

Last Week of Relaxation

Here it is -- the last week to relax before I head back to work. Almost four months of unemployment has landed me back at the same pool manufacturer I worked at from April to December of 2009.

I would have preferred a different job, no doubt. I was aiming for a job geared toward writing or a job located in the realm of publishing, but alas -- about fifty resumes + zero job interviews later = Reclamation by the former employer desperate for experienced summer help.

*Sigh*

***

Sunday updates: I neglected to post. I am aware and now, I make amends. It was a quiet affair. I ended up nixing the poetry reading last minute. I weighed the option, but there's some aura with the group that's unsettled me. I've been to their meetings three times before over the last few years and I tend to leave deflated. Not about my own work, but about the calibre of writers living in this suburban area.

I opted for a quick shopping trip with my Mom and lil' brother. The Brother was in need of a green shirt for a school band (yeah, I don't know what the significance of the green shirt is, but I will find out tomorrow) and he needed to pick up some other items. I picked up work-related shoes. They're nothing fancy -- just a pair of flats designed for comfort vs. style. I tend to not care how I look at this office, so I might as well be comfortable. *Is cheeky*

The evening rounded out with the ladies -- I headed out to The Advocate's to check out a travel vlog she's made for quite possibly the sweetest travel-related job on this planet. Hmm, I might just have to provide a link to her entry once it's posted. She's a spunky sweetheart who deserves this and, if I can make the request to readers out there, I know she'd appreciate the support (as would I!)

Also caught up with Ship Sharp who has landed an internship with Canada's top casting director. Yeah. It's a staggering amount of success Ship Sharp is finding for herself at the moment. This translates to me needing to kick myself into gear. Serious, I hang out with some stunnin' kids and I need to return the general awesomeness with some success of my own, now. That, or I can distract them with more Torchwood zines before I am disowned for my general laziness and rampant anime consumption....

Both are valid options.

***

So there -- the weekend in a nutshell. Hmm, one upside to this summer contract is the fact I'll be reading the paper each lunch again. It's always good fodder for blog posts, I find. Oh, and money. Having cash will be nice.

Can't forget about that one, now, can I?

WEEKENDGOGOGO!

*Downs a bottle of water, doubles over in an out-of-breath fashion*

Need to... slow.... down.... for a moment....

It's been one of those weekends a gal needs a break from. It's been hectic, but a whole lot of fun. And it's not even Sunday yet.

That's how I roll.

I imagine the exhaustion stems from what can only be described as "The Worst Night's Sleep in Existence." Picture it: One night-owl of a brother decides to pump up the bass to his music around midnight and then lets the shower run for forty minutes at around 3 AM. Did I mention the head of my bed is a thin wall away from the shower? Did I also mention I am a wretchedly light sleeper? I might have logged 3 hours of sleep last night. 4 would be generous.

And then I had to roll into Toronto for a volunteer meeting at the Harbourfront Centre.

I shouldn't berate the morning too much, though. After all, I am a morning person. I'm most with it between the hours of 9 AM and 11 AM. The GO train rolled me into Union Station about 45 minutes before the appointed gathering, so I took the time to loll about at the harbour and watch the planes land on a strip close by. It was still and crisp and all filled with affirmations. I highly recommend the experience.

The meeting itself was a decent one. Most of the events coming up for May are kid-oriented which, I admit, I am not so comfortable with. Yeah. Kids and I don't tend to mix well. Granted, there are some literary events targeted for children approaching and I am decidedly good with books. So, perhaps not all is lost. I've got my eyes set on the summer/autumn months where the Heavyweights of the Can. Lit. Scene will descend on the harbourfront and OWN IT. *Excitement abounds!*

I'm also checking out other Toronto-based literary events and comic cons to volunteer for. I'm embracing my inner cheap bastard and am trying to weasel ways to get into events for free. And, volunteering benefits everyone, so I redeem myself in the same stroke. Impressive.

Anyhow, the meeting let out late and I missed the 12:43 PM train and had to wait an additional hour for the next one. I staked out a corner, bought myself a Smarties Blizzard from DQ, and flipped through this week's edition of NOW Magazine. Discovered Evelyn Evelyn (a recent profile for Tunes for Tuesdays) is coming to town in June. Yes, that is correct. I might have the chance to see Amanda Fucking Palmer on stage. Wicked excited about this one, no doubt.

As I waited, The Sister texted me in reference to taking a hike (in the literal sense). I confirmed, despite my later arrival time from Toronto. We headed out to a nice creek-ish area with her basset hound, Ruby, and walked the trails for almost two hours. I know, we are just mental like that. Poor Ruby, she was so tuckered out. Bassets have short legs, it takes a lot out of them to leap through puddles and dash across hills. Ruby was also terrified of a sow that snorted at her from the farm area at the creek. It was hilarious.

And now, I have come off another well-deserved anime binge. Tonight, it was the later episodes of Shugo Chara (which, I can't believe I admit to watching), and I've started in on re-watching the Nana series because IT IS THE BEST MANGA/ANIME/LIVE-ACTION FILM EVER. People are crying over everything and there's inter- and intra-band tensions and everyone has such freakin' awesome clothing -- I love it. I love it to unhealthy levels. More on that with a later post, perhaps.

So yes, a lively day. I am all tuckered out, myself. And Sunday sounds like a rush, too. Since it's April, it's National Poetry Month and I'm headed out to a local cafe for a reading (and to also rub elbows with a prominent poet in the GTA, FYI). Then, if plans are still in place, I will be sippin' tea with The Advocate and Ship Sharp for the evening. I need lady time, for serious.

Hope you kids are having fun thus far and I will check in again before the weekend closes.

Retro Shindig for The Advocate

All the cats and chicks got their kicks this weekend with The Advocate -- we travelled back through the 20th-century and crashed into the 50s to celebrate her birthday in style. Costumes were donned, drinks were free flowing, and the juke box kept close company with us for the night.

As a fan of Doctor Who and the potential for time travel, I would argue the experience was an express success.

So yes, The Advocate turned 24 on April 1st and we took to Toronto to celebrate on April 3rd. 50s dress code was in effect and I was impressed to see how folks interpreted their signature style. The Advocate and The Bruce bested all of us, natch -- the kids mastered a cool bit of spunk with matching rockabilly outfits. I admit, I felt underdressed in their presence. I opted for the backyard casual/tomboy look with a sporty pair of shoes, jeans, a white t-shirt, and a blue/white checked button-up. We took in a stellar dinner at the posh, yet quirk-filled, joint, 7 West Cafe. Gorgeous interior and delicious fare was welcomed by all. I mean, honey-glazed vegetables in sandwich form? Yes, please. E & I met up with us there for drinks and E was dazzling in a Mad Men inspired look. See? Diverse fashion for such a theme party.

We headed over to The Boat (158 Augusta Ave.) for 10 PM to meet up with the rest of the gang. Now, as The Advocate explained, The Boat has no website of its own. Its existence is almost secretive in a sense as it's located on a pocket of a street, hidden from the main roads of Toronto. And why "The Boat," you ask? Oh, maybe because the interior resembles the inner workings of a boat, portholes and all. It was kitch and classic all at once.

One night a month, the venue hosts a 50s-themed dance night and Saturday just happened to coincide with The Advocate's birthday. It was a small spot with an excellent, friendly staff and -- did I mention the kickin' soundtrack? The night started with big band standards and steadily progressed through juke box collections, disco hits, and even on to 80s tracks. There were other diehards out in full force with their slick costumes, too. The crowd was a fun one, full of nerds and liberal kids and artistic types -- definitely my kind of folk.

Hats off to The Advocate for such a fantastic idea for a night out. Ship Sharp arrived later (on account of work) and the two of us stunned the dance floor with our inventive new moves. I still think the machine-gun-pelvic-thrust is the single greatest creation I've been involved with. It was one of those nights where a gal could only take two pulls on a beer before she was called out to the floor for someone's favourite song. Ah, pure bliss in retro form.

I have another insight to share from the evening, but that's best saved for another post. It's more a call for advice from you, dear readers. As for this post, I'll leave you with a sock hop favourite. Pull on that poodle skirt or rock out in a James Dean jacket and have a pleasant Monday afternoon, all.

(I had to include this second clip once I found it. Such a character change from the way she speaks to the way she sings. Too awesome for words.)

Buddies in Bad Times: What A "Drag"

OH, TORONTO -- I love that cities tend to have such an air of potential to them. It's so simple to stumble across scenes or situations you were not expecting and it always seems to turn out for the best.

Last night was most certainly one of those occasions.

Hmm, point form, perhaps?:

• Headed to Ship Sharp's pad for 8:30 pm. Updated one another on our lives as dictated by the last two weeks. Ship Sharp's current working schedule makes me flinch. I mean, I need to kick myself into gear to match her energy levels and personal drive -- but I am still recovering on behalf of her and her intense workload.
• Rocked the jasmine tea (with bubbles!) and some popcorn. Narrated the thoughts of Buddy the Cat and his attempts to obtain popcorn.
• Introduced Ship Sharp to the sheer awesomeness of Lady Gaga's current single, "Telephone." Decided that music musts for the evening included: Plenty of Gaga, Beyonce, Rihanna, and Britney.
• Highlight: Ship Sharp and I waiting at the door, scratching the glass, and compelling Lady Gaga to dictate our evening.
• Rob and Ryan rolled into the townhouse complex at around.... 10:30 pm or 11 pm? Can't quite recall. Cruised into Toronto with the tracks at full volume. Whoever designed the lights for the CN Tower must have known about our plan -- we took it as a good omen that the CN Tower was washed in purple lights. Decided we could transform the car into a mobile club should our end destination prove to be a bust. Sang along to numerous Gaga tracks and some other fantastic gems.
• Arrived at Buddies in Bad Times to discover -- A PREMIUM DRAG SHOW! Yes, a collection of drag queens ruled the roost for most of our excursion. And, oh goodness, it was most excellent. The Hytes Sisters (Farenheit and Heavenly Heights) were the main performers for the evening, both bringing rather different styles with them. Heavenly was more focused when it came to the performance aspect, occasionally interacting with the crowd for a coy moment or two. Farenheit made it very clear that the stage was hers and we all best watch her every move. She was fantastic, though -- she stopped an obnoxious guy from dancing, she was sharp and full of sass if someone tried to heckle, and I was impressed with her ability to knock back drinks. She picked me out and got me to down the rest of my drink and she even managed to sass me when I was saucy enough to offer the empty bottle back.
• Note: I am one of those people who gets picked out at drag events, without fail. I am an approachable character, I suppose.
• Dancing started rather late, well after midnight. We were treated to Beyonce and a remixed Lady Gaga track, so we did quite well on the music. Highlights include: Ship Sharp's shoppin' cart dance, Ryan's fixation on buttons, and Rob's expert circle blocking abilities (gotta close ranks against the creepers, you know)

All in all, it was a fantastic evening. Now, ladies be warned -- the Buddies in Bad Times Cabaret tends to favour the gents. There are a handful of queer girls who attend, of course. But, the demographic is skewed toward the gay gents and their straight gal pals. Honestly, though, the atmosphere is a welcoming one. I tend to feel at home in theatre settings given that drama-related background of mine, so spending the night in an arts-intensive spot felt great.

The one drawback: Not a great beer selection. Hmm. Though, again, the bar shied toward mixed drinks as opposed to the bottle selection. I shake my head at all beers with a citrus flavour brewed into it. Serious, that's what lemon/lime slices are for.

I'm charged to start exploring more locations and checking out the Toronto nightlife further. Once The Advocate returns from Vancouver and once Ship Sharp's schedule mellows a touch, I vote we get back out there for a second round of shenanigans.

Ah, how I missed it.

***

OLYMPIC UPDATE:

Congrats to another gold medal athlete on Team Canada:

• Jon Montgomery, Men's Skeleton (Gold, Feb. 19)

I wish I could find a photo from his victory walk -- I saw footage of it on the news and a woman in the crowd handed him a pitcher of beer for his efforts. Serious. The man was still in his Spandex uniform and there he was strolling through the Olympic Village downing a pitcher of beer. So awesome and so freakin' Canadian all in one go.

I [heart] the Olympics.

The Birthday Blitz

It was quite the glamorous stretch this past weekend. It's an energetic scene in the city and, when paired with a cool crew of arts kids, well -- it's impossible to not feel charged. I spent two late evenings in Toronto celebrating the birth of two close friends and I am raring to go for the next round.

I'm sensing a point-form rundown, folks:

Friday, January 15/2010: Mr. Shirreff's 24th

• 5 pm: Met with The Advocate at Bathurst/Bloor for our own mini adventure prior to the shindig. Made the first visit to The Beguiling, the hub of Toronto's comic book scene. I was floored by this place. I mean, the rumours are true -- the second floor was wall-to-wall manga, people. The Advocate and I were prepared to set up camp and live there between the stacks of graphic novels and other goodies. Managed to resist buying... well, everything. Trust me, it was tough.
• Approx. 6:30 pm: Headed over to Future's for a dinner of cheesecake. SO GOOD. As we sat down, The Advocate realized she was taking me on one her patented First Date Excursions® (includes cheesecake, fine conversation, and a trek to the BMV). Scared The Advocate with that pesky adult logic I've developed in the past few years. I know, where the heck did THAT come from? Serious, though, it was a great location and I had a difficult time deciding which cake to try. Darn, guess I'll just have to go back.
• Approx. 7:30 pm: Arrived at the BMV to browse books, film, and music. Also encountered more manga (very appreciated). All those endless stretches of new and used books wore down my resolve -- I picked up two. Very Bad Poetry (collection) and Once Upon A Time In The North by Philip Pullman. The Advocate was a rock and avoided the allure of all those titles. I was impressed. Cashier laughed at the Very Bad Poetry title -- boasts the WORST poem ever written in the English language. Need an ego boost for your own writing? Well, there it is.
• Approx. 9:00 pm: Arrived at Molly Bloom's, decidedly late. I think books are a justifiable distraction, though. Our birthday boy was in fine form once we arrived -- the kid was already starting in on shots and beer to ring in that 24th year. Folks were trying to force disgusting shots on him, but Mr. Shirreff persevered. Worst Shot of All: Beer and relish. *Shudder* NO GOOD.
• Met The Advocate's gentleman friend. He is every bit as fabulous as the lady's let on. We recited/sang scenes from Labyrinth, so, um, my approval is complete. Those kids are too cute, I tell you. All I need now is a nickname which I will consult The Advocate over.
• Impromptu Coming Out: C1 showed up later in the evening. We were chatting about the dreaded Plenty of Fish site and I thought, "Well, I'd like to share those horror stories, too -- might as well tell her." She seemed chill with it, as did The Advocate's boy. Again, we're an arts crowd, so it's a liberal group. I love that I'm relaxed enough with myself now to treat it as a lack lustre bit of information about me.
• Parted ways with The Advocate and her boy after a street car ride, sang "Magic Dance" in hoarse voices. Definitely a magical evening, was quite serene on the subway ride home.

Saturday, January 16/2010: Ship Sharp's 24th

• EXCITEMENT ABOUNDS! She is the first of our tight collective to turn the big 2-4, so we had to celebrate in style. Alas, though -- the lady suffered a migraine earlier in the day and was still on the mend as we headed out the front door. She's a trooper, I tell you. (But that's why she's Ship Sharp)
• Surprised Ship Sharp with ALL of our MSN scripts from back in high school. That's about 340 pages worth of writing, in case you were curious.
• Tori arrived whom most of us kids haven't seen since high school. She was gracious and drove us into Toronto. Definitely amused by her firm, though panicked, GPS narrator. I feel I need to find more topics to gossip about, I don't have the gossip. Perhaps that's a New Year's resolution all on its own.
• End Destination: Super Market. Encountered Napoleon as we pulled up out front -- the gentleman has quite the distinguished goatee now. Lord, quite the blur after that. We were in a haze of delicious Thai dishes, smooth beers, and great company. I totally ordered a beer called Amsterdam Blonde because I'm a lech, apparently.
• Discovered that we were ALL channelling a Captain Jack Harkness vibe that evening. Hypothesis: Proximity to funk beats and a dance floor --> The 2010 Captain Jack Off. Oh yes. I kid you not.
• MUCH LOVE for the Kyles -- Kyle C. has decided I'm a cool lesbian and wants me to befriend one of his closest friends (who is just working through her own coming out, really). I'm still quite new to the scene and would love to make friends with queer girls. Ah, it was so great to catch up with those boys. I haven't gotten the chance to talk queer issues with a crowd for SUCH a long time, it was a refreshing scene. And yes, "Mo Money Mo Problems" came on and the Kyles told me the "I'm coming out!" lines were all for me. It's ridiculous how sweet those two are and I get the impression I'll be hitting the queer scene with those two and the crew in the near future.
• I think it's been decided by us ladies, too, that more outings to Toronto are DEFINITELY called for. We need to pull Ship Sharp onto the dance floor when she's feeling 100% healthy.

***

I think I'm finally at the point where I'm investing in myself and the happiness of others more. I'm conscious of the fact that I'm becoming more honest with those closest to me and it's a liberating sensation. I'm definitely in an optimistic head space at the moment and I'm looking forward to 2010 even more so.

Toronto -- you best prepare thyself.

Weekend Watch: Toronto Alert

So, it's a tall order for this weekend -- there are TWO birthday bashes lined up and both are located in the heart of Toronto. This is the year where most of the kids I hang out with (including myself) are turning 24 which is quite a nerve-wracking revelation.

Regardless, these next two evenings are poised to be perfection:

• Friday, Jan. 15/2010: Set out on a mini book tour of The Annex area w/ The Advocate, partake in some cheesecake also; Drink a round or two in honour of Mr. Shirreff's 24th; Meet The Advocate's gentleman friend (who I will have to create a nickname for... at the moment, I only know him as "that awesome guy who owns a Thundercats t-shirt.")
• Saturday, Jan. 16/2010: Break out the Big Guns to celebrate Ship Sharp's 24th. It will no doubt be amazing. And I violated her "No Gift" policy, but I know it's something she will dig. She's been dared to spend the evening channeling the 51st-century, omnisexual vibe of Captain Jack Harkness which should be interesting. I have the feeling The Advocate will receive most of the advances as she was the one to challenge Ship Sharp to this brazen flirtation.

***

I've spent this week as an extended vacation. Sent out a couple resumes, launched back into the ol' gym routine, dedicated myself to eating healthier on the home front.

I spent an hour yesterday walking through the suburban trails around the house and it was gorgeous. The temperature was up to 2C and there was a steady sunlight that made the last remnants of snow sparkle. I felt compelled to walk to my old elementary school which I did -- I'm not sure what it was tugging me in that direction, but I ceded free will to it. Despite the winter muck and the stark trees, it felt very much like The Wind in the Willows, which I appreciated.

On the way back, I came across this bizarre scene -- on one of the trails, huge swathes of the forested area have been gated off and are now private access...? I was surprised and confused all at once. Had someone else been there with me, I know I would have hopped the fence to explore some more. Hmm, I'm sensing a reckless adventure coming on....

Poppin' In

Right -- I've not got much time here. Alas, lovelies. I admit, I'm a tad startled -- I mean, the official last post on this blog was Friday and I have missed writing here ever since.

I'm in the middle of compiling Christmas gifts and wading through the unbelievable amount of "GREAT IDEAS!" I had while planning out said presents. What I didn't take into consideration was the time frame to complete said ideas. I tend to underestimate work and it always surprises me last minute.

But, OH GOODNESS -- I've got some pretty wicked ideas this year, not gonna lie. I can't even go into detail about it all because three of the kids who read this blog regularly are receiving one of these brilliant packages. Muahaha....

Anyhow, weekend recap:

• Saw Ship Sharp in another Fly By Night Theatre production; She represented for queer girls everywhere and took on the role of a somewhat cynical porn shop cashier who just so happens to like the ladies. Brilliant performance, as always (though, that was never in question)
• Laughed like mad at the company's take on This is a Play by Daniel MacIvor. If you want to check out Canadian theatre at its finest (come on, I know you do!) then check out MacIvor. He commands language with such sharp humour and has such an off-beat, strange view of the world. Love it!
• Was caught out for maybe, sorta, kinda crushing just a little on Ship Sharp's co-star and "Gay-for-Play" theatre friend.... *Blush* I know, I can't help it -- I always take a shine to the straight ones. In my defense, Ship Sharp informed me that even she has a "girl crush" on her co-star, so, I am absolved as far as I'm concerned. *Wink*
• Tucked into a huge plate of nachos with a great crowd of kids and relaxed with an excellent pint of beer. Oh yeah, indulgence at its finest.
• On Saturday, went for the second fitting for my bride's maid dress. Need it cinched in a tad at the chest, otherwise it is flawless. Operated on little sleep -- got to bed at 3 am and was up and active at 9 am. Ha, I am a trooper. Or, I have an illness...
• In the evening, had the Moffatt clan over to celebrate my Dad's birthday. I assembled a Caesar salad (complete with homemade croutons) and we ordered some pizza. Had an awesome time joking with the crowd and then hanging out with the Brother, the future Brother-in-Law, and the Youngest Cousin. Yeah, Miz Moffatt hangs out with the lads at family gatherings.
• On Sunday, I tackled Round Two of Christmas shopping. Oi. I am spending so much cash. I haven't updated my Excel spreadsheet all month because I am pretty sure it will induce vomiting and weakness in the wallet. Oh, and occasional fainting spells as well. Mmm hmm.

So yes! Lots going on. And I've got a Ladies in Writing meeting on Wednesday. And also, Chantal returns from Scotland this week.

I seriously will not have a moment to breathe until January 2nd, more than likely.

I will channel all the holiday cheer I can and submission wrestle the season.

Mark my words.

BRB: Theatre Run!

Ah, Ani-Manga Week -- I will have to draw you out one day further.

I have one last series to profile before this Ani-Manga Extravaganza is retired (for the time being...)

I am headed out to Toronto this evening for a spot of theatre, courtesy of Ship Sharp. Should be most excellent -- there's even going to be queer content, so, woot.

Should be excellent times.

Check back tomorrow for the last post in the Ani-Manga series. Trust me, you will not be disappointed. I have saved my absolute favourite for last.

Happy Friday, all!

OD'ed on the Ladies

*Pauses to gain her bearings* Whoa. I return. It has been an intense, brilliant, and fantastic stretch since Thursday evening and I am here to share a snapshot of all that with you.

The Advocate, Ship Sharp, and I vowed to OD on one another this week and I fear we did not come close. I mean, it would take an awful lot to OD on those ladies -- the addiction still rages as I'm sure it does for them. (I mean, heck -- we all know how suave I am, right? Right? Oh, no, serious, no need to close the Internet window to this blog. Or to delete me from your bookmarks, I promise.)

Let the epic account begin:

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Mission: Deck the halls of the Ship residence.

ETA: 7 pm.

Crew: Ship Sharp, The Advocate, Miz Moffatt.

Right, so.... we did not reach our target goal of injecting the Ship home with holiday cheer. But there was a festive platter of desserts courtesy of Metro. OH YEAH. And there was a rockin' hors d'oeuvres dinner orchestrated by Ship Sharp herself. Now, to give us the benefit of the doubt, we DID attempt to set up a Christmas tree. However, a vital piece of the base was missing. Without a strong foundation, you've promised yourself a disaster filled with silent, sharp slivers of decorations under foot. Mmm hmm. So, we ate brie instead. And watched hilarious commercials and clips of Billy Bragg on YouTube as any good person should. And gossiped until 12:30 AM despite the fact I had another full day of work ahead of me. I'm a badass, I know.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Mission: Own the world at bowling and Torchwood jokes.

ETA: 7 PM (Given the horrible traffic congestion)

Crew: The Advocate, Ship Sharp, Nuova Amica, The Advocate's Sister and Her Boy Toy, The Silent Dudes, Miz Moffatt.

It was a nice cross-cultural evening on numerous levels. Our initial goal was to introduce our Nuova Amica to Canadian slang and the world of bowling. (P.S. -- I got the name "Nouva Amica" from an online translation program, so I apologize to Italian-speakers if that term is entirely wrong/awkward.) N.A. is visiting the Great White North on a bid to refine her English skills. I mean, what better way to solidify your comfort level with a foreign language than visiting a place where you MUST rely on said language? She's fluent in English, but there's always slang to learn and verbal ticks that classes cannot teach.

It was an epic hour of bowling insanity. I learned that I am quite decent at the sport despite the fact I haven't been to a bowling alley in years. I could even get the pro-star spin on it. Granted, there were numerous gutter balls for the entire Crew, but overall, we did fairly well. And nachos with beer always manages to improve an unfamiliar game.

Other highlights include:

• Interrogating the Boy Toy and determining his intentions with The Advocate's sister
• Attempting to build conversations that would include The Silent Dudes (who remained silent, as their names would suggest)
• Subjecting ourselves to the WORST episode of Torchwood ever written. Oh, evil carnivals and carnies who want to dehydrate people. Fifty points to Ianto for the memorable, "I'VE GOT IT" scene. I love an episode with plot holes to spare.
• Navigating a conversation with Napoleon, a late arrival to the evening. Hmm.... quite.

Saturday, Saturday 5, 2009

Mission: Acquire sushi and subject selves to The Infected of 28 Days Later.

ETA: 7 PM

Crew: The Advocate, Ship Sharp, Miz Moffatt.

AT LAST -- the ladies have chilled chez Moffatt. In the entire decade I have known these girls, I have never had them over to the house. That's what you get when you live in a completely different town from ALL your high school friends. But, the world is now balanced and stable.

Started the night off with a beautiful meal of sushi, bento boxes, and other Japanese delicacies. Serious, I need to get myself back to Japan for the food alone. Also made my first ever purchase on my first ever credit card -- I covered the dinner bill. *Beams* I know, I'm a late bloomer in all aspects, including financial. And heck, I like to turn everything into a memorable moment so I will honour this credit with a treat for close friends.

Oh! And also got the rundown of a successful first date that The Advocate went on. Thunder Cats t-shirts and Torchwood references among other admirable traits? Ship Sharp and I approve. Am definitely looking forward to more gossip on that front in the near future. *Giggles like a thirteen-year-old all over again*

Arrived chez Moffatt later, was attacked by the Sister's dog upon arrival. Oh, Ruby -- she's a basset hound and full of spunk. She was quieter than usual which was impressive and confusing all at once. Brewed some tea, stole some cookies, and holed up in the basement for an evening of 28 Days Later. SO GOOD. I love that film. I usually can't tolerate thrillers/horror films/startling movies, yet I am on good terms with The Infected. Had an excellent discussion about mind-fuck movies and novels once the end credits rolled. Also did a touch of Facebook stalking and Plenty of Fish swimming for a good chunk of time. Turned in at... 2 AM? Possibly later? We are intense, I know.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Mission: Drown in breakfast delicacies and British treats, laze about on a Sunday afternoon.

ETA: ALL DAY.

Crew: The Advocate, Ship Sharp, Miz Moffatt.

We woke up at around 11:30 AM and didn't greet the world until 12:30 PM. I am impressed since I am usually up and about at 9 AM on weekends. Perhaps sleepovers in the basement induce a higher quality of sleep? Ah, nothing is sweeter than a slow-paced, relaxing Sunday spent with friends.

Headed out to a local breakfast joint and arrived just as the first meal rush was leaving. OH breakfast. Not only was it delicious, it was also productive. The Advocate and I swapped two different kinds of Eggs Benedict (she had brie and mushrooms, I had asparagus and Swiss cheese) -- we both managed to dump one of them on the table, eggs side down. *Shakes head* At least we were equal in our destructiveness. Ship Sharp settled on a lovely platter of poached eggs and fresh fruit with cottage cheese. Mmm..... breakfast heaven.

As for the productive aspect of breakfast, we managed to plot out the structure of a group blog that should be launched in the near future. Our creative energies have aligned and our plans/plots/goals are eerily similar in scope. More to follow once we're up and running...

Finished the epic weekend with a surprise trip to a British store I know of. I figured it could be the symbolic first step toward our trek to the British Isles themselves. Bought Scottish tea and a ton of treats, poured over their expensive collections of British television classics and films. Ah, to be in London -- the craving is expanding on a daily basis. The store only helped to whet the appetite....

***

So yes -- it has been a tremendous stretch. I am all tuckered out and in a state of calm reflection. I have a head all filled with ideas and energetic potential. And heck, the support of like-minded individuals is only fueling the fire to explore and create an even better version of myself. I know I gush endlessly, but I can't conceal the truth -- I know some amazing kids and it's only fair of me to voice that admiration.

Here's to another gorgeous Sunday and another week of plotting while on the clock at work... *Devil horns*

Traumatized and Such

Hangover: Check.

Sore stomach: Check.

Traumatized?: Double check.

Stories to tell: Oh, you best believe I do.

***

It's all a whirlwind of memory. Picture it: Five girls, two suites at the Sheraton in Niagara Falls, more alcohol packed in the car than luggage. A handful of sparkly leis, a series of Bachelorette stickers pasted all over the car, a "Bride To Be" sash for the Sister. Drinking by 4 pm, late dinner, more drinking.

Headed to Peppermints, the male strip club.

OH. DEAR. GOD.

Arrived at around 8:45 pm -- door cost was $5 before 9 am. We were the FIRST PEOPLE THERE. Show didn't start until 9:30 pm...? Started drinking more to kill time. Befriended the wait staff, the manager of the club, and some of the dancers. One waiter was brilliant and so kind to my painfully nervous/panic attacked Sister. He did his best to calm her down, ease her nerves -- even brought her bottled water that he paid for. I gave him a MASSIVE tip later on because I was so thankful for his efforts.

The manager tried to convince us to buy the "Party Package" -- one girl, twenty strippers, one memorable photo. We declined.

Saw WAY TOO MANY NAKED MEN. OH GOD. Like.... I am still traumatized. Granted, I wasn't too shocked -- been to a burlesque show before, so I know what the striptease is all about. However, the major difference: Burlesque is more about an empowered performer, leaves more to the imagination. Strip clubs: Total opposite.

Drank to cope. Got epically drunk. Am still nursing the hangover. Stomach hates me. Still, had a hilarious time. Highlight of the evening: Watching the Sister's friends react to the men.

Direct quote from Friend 1: "I never even screamed this much at a Backstreet Boys' concert!!"

Direct quote from Friend 2: "I am SO not mature enough to be here. I don't know where I'm supposed to look! Do I look at his face?! But, he's thrusting at me! THRUSTING!"

Direct quote from Friend 3: "Where did these guys COME FROM? I mean, was their audition just to drop their pants? 'Uh, yeah, I've got brains.' 'Oh, but you're package is a bit too small, sorry.'"

... All I could think was how I'd have to put "strip club cover charge" on the Excel sheet I use to track my expenses. It'll definitely be the most interesting bit of change I spent during 2009.

Still, it was an entertaining evening, no doubt. I wish I hadn't gotten so drunk -- I would have liked to check out Clifton Hill at night, especially some of the haunted houses. For now, I must make amends to my liver and ease off the alcohol for a bit. I've been rough on my body this past week and I need a detox.

It's a damn good thing my Mom bought that juicer yesterday....

The Gay Gal and the Bachelorette Party: OH MY.

Oh, my word -- please help me. PLEASE, please help a gay gal out.

It is the Sister's Bachelorette Party tonight. We are going on a road trip of sorts and I am scared. Like, actually scared. There is talk of a male strip club and I am hoping that is just a joke to get her fiance in a tizzy.

Though, knowing her friends and their streak of crazy....

I get the distinct impression that bachelorette parties were not meant for queer women. I mean, all the penis paraphernalia is enough of a raunchy, glowing sign that clearly states, "IF YOU LIKE WOMEN, YOU BEST BE LOOKING ELSEWHERE, LADY."

... Not that I'd be lookin' on a night like this. No, I'll be the one in the corner with her hands over her eyes counting down the hours until I can go to bed. Or, if we pre-drink, then I will be the drunk one in the corner with her hands over her eyes....

Serious, though, even though I am the Maid of Honour, I know my role tonight is to rope in the others and to advocate on my Sister's behalf (e.g. "No, she will not have a stranger do shots off of her" or "No, you will not force her to put on a silly crown and announce to the room that it's her Last Fling Before the Ring" or "No, dirty bingo involving real interaction with strangers is not on our list of priorities," etc.)

So, essentially, I will be the bitch. And I do mean "bitch" in the sense of "female guard dog." All snarl, willing to bite.

Huh.... so perhaps a queer girl is an excellent ally for the straight-gal bride-to-be. I think I may have created a whole new market here, ladies.

Anyhow, I imagine it'll be a late post tomorrow. So, if you can pass along any of your positive vibes to help me through, I will VERY MUCH APPRECIATE IT.

VERY MUCH.

Ladies, Gentlemen.... and Temporary Gentlemen: Hallowe'en 2009

Good EVE-en-ing, children -- I do hope you all had a frightful, sugar-spiked Hallowe'en this past Saturday. It was a blustery day in the GTA, complete with imposing storm clouds and the cold threat of rain in the distance. Lucky for us, the rain held off and the wind died down in time for Prime Candy-Collecting Hours.

And yes, we suited up and took our adult selves out for some trick-or-treating.

I am dead serious. As in, buried six feet underground in a nailed coffin kind of dead serious.

Did I mention I was 23? 

Did I also mention that I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT??

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I decided to submit to my butch-curious side and cross a bit of dress for the evening. Yes, I shed my usual femme exterior and allowed my drag alter-ego to take a whirl through the crisp, autumn air. I definitely think I raised a few eyebrows -- it was insane to see how many unsuspecting suburban residents had to do a double-take when I approached their door. You could almost see their thought process at work:

Hey, how come he's not wearing a costume? I guess I still have to give him some candy since I gave his friends some, but what's he supposed to be-- OH! Oh my gosh, I think that's a girl!

I love it.

The Crew was representing with quite a range of costumes this year -- The Advocate dressed as Rose Tyler from Doctor Who (more specifically, she dressed as Rose from "The Idiot's Lantern"); Ship Sharp celebrated the world of JUSTICE! with a detailed Batgirl costume; and we made The Aussie play dress-up for a bit since he came by without a costume on. Once we were finished with him, we couldn't decide if he looked more like Johnny Depp from Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas or like your average pimp. Most people thought he was a pimp which he more than gladly agreed with -- since The Aussie wasn't collecting his own candy, he pronounced that us ladies were there "to do the work for [him]". *Shakes head* Hilarious. People were either in stitches or giving him severe cut-eye. Gotta love when a costume inspires strong reactions -- you know you've done your job then.

Highlight of the evening: The FABULOUS woman who had a trick or treat wheel to spin as a part of the process. Ship Sharp and I both landed on "Treat" and got to pick out a chocolate bar for the road. The Advocate and The Aussie landed on"Trick" and were given a President's Choice package of white cheddar mac and cheese and a pack of Cream of Wheat, respectively. Ah, she was so into it, too -- we reverted back to our five-year-old selves in that short space of time.

Other highlights include:

• Baby Batman! Complete with soother!
• A bikini-clad gorilla with a comic horn!
• The pirate captain that greeted us at one door! And the fact that, after being dared by Ship Sharp, The Advocate actually greeted him with the phrase, "Trick YAR Treat!"
• An Exorcist moving statue complete with light-up eyes and repulsive face!
• Regressing to a grade-school mentality in the presence of SO MUCH CANDY!

Man, it was a fantastic hour and a half on the streets of the suburbs. The Aussie had to part ways with us since he had a co-worker's Hallowe'en party to attend. Us ladies (and temporary gent) hung out at The Advocate's place and watched a gothic version of Snow White and the final episode of the Dead Like Me series (since it's set on Hallowe'en and seemed fitting).

Yesterday, all I ate was sugar and I have absolutely ruined my stomach. And now, I need to hit up the gym and swear off solid foods until I can loose the extra pounds I put on since Saturday.

I made the mistake of weighing myself about an hour ago and -- WHOA. Hallowe'en has cursed me beyond the usual demonic-oriented stuff. I've got quite a bit of work ahead of me to shed this extra baggage o' mine before my sister's wedding. And, according to the calendar, that is all of two months away. 

IT'S ON.

Thanksgivin'

And a Happy Thanksgivin' to all the Canadian kids out there. Mmm, long weekend -- sadly, mine was disrupted by a rather nasty cold. In fact, I had to miss the official Thanksgiving dinner due to intense sinus pain. 

*Sob* 

I guess I can't be too upset, though -- as a vegetarian, dinners like these are lost on me. Especially since I also don't like pie. I'm just an anti-Thanksgiving dinner kind of gal, I suppose. 

Regardless, covering yourself in Vicks vapo-rub and sitting down to fried eggs and hours of Torchwood all alone is not the best way to spend the long weekend. Alas.

On a lighter note, I spent Friday evening in the company of my closest companions for our pre-Oktoberfest celebration. 

OH LORD. 

Note to all readers: Never allow me, The Advocate, and The Aussie into the LCBO when we are on a mission for beer. I have the feeling that, between the three of us, we spent about $50 on individual cans of that sweet, golden brew. Our goal was to cover as many nations as possible with a particular emphasis on Germanic labels. I picked up some Carlsberg (Denmark), Sapporo (Japan), Newcastle (Scotland), and a German beer whose name eludes me at the moment. The Aussie more or less cleaned out the rest of the cans in the LCBO. (Alright, maybe that's an exaggeration -- The Advocate and I got our silly selves in there, too).

Ship Sharp had to leave us for a clubbin' night she had agreed to earlier in the week. It was raining all day on Friday and the thought of heading to the T.dot for dancing was definitely not high on her list. But, she bought some Yellow Tail sparkling wine, so I think the pre-drink helped her out a bit.

Napoleon dropped by later for some drunken amusement combined with some excellent film choices on our part. I tell you, I love Labyrinth and David Bowie's role as the Goblin King, Jareth, but drunkness seems to enhance the overall awesomeness of said film. My Advocate and I sang/shouted a number of the songs throughout the viewing and I managed to quote large sections of the script despite my inebriation. AND, I finally got to see Shaun of the Dead which I thoroughly loved (even if the beer was causing me to nod off during the last twenty minutes).

The cold started settling in on Saturday afternoon. By Sunday, I felt as though someone had been punching me in the face all weekend. At the moment, I'm improving somewhat and am breathing a little easier. It's been a quiet day overall which is always good for the soul.

Hope you Canadian kids had a great long weekend, and I hope all the American kids are still enjoying the afterglow of the National Equality March this weekend. I LOVE the fact that an ACTUAL rainbow appeared over the Washington, D.C. skies on the day of the march -- I mean, if that's not a sign from the Universe, then I obviously don't get out nearly enough.

Nuit Blanche

So, I've got yet another Toronto-centric event to scratch from my list: Nuit Blanche. All the kids in town have attended, save this one right here. Luckily, I made amends and launched an epic adventure through altered, urban spaces with The Crew in tow....

• Silly Moffatt could not find the Kipling subway station. *Shakes head at herself* Sent The Crew off ahead of me and drove around some more, mostly in a tizzy. Managed to arrive at Union about half an hour later than the rest.
• Explored a scent/auditory version of Alice in Wonderland.... staged in Port-o-Potties, if you can imagine it. One smelt like chocolate which was both delightful and disturbing....
• Powered a fountain with my legs! (And a stationary bike)
• Witnessed the Witches' Cradles.... wanted to be hoisted up in one, but the line was KILLER. I guess sensory deprivation is all the rage now.
• Tossed some spare change into a pool of vodka.
• Ate roasted corn and watched an excited crowd rush a massive slide at a street carnival in the financial district.
• Watched a game of Monopoly played with REAL cash. Supposed to have "Canadian celebrities" there.... the only one I recognised was the rapper, K-OS.
• Saw a massive, silver rabbit-shaped balloon in the Eaton's Centre.
• Rush of occurrences: Light graffiti on a building, seventeen caged wrestlers fighting with blindfolds on, giant NO sculpture, bright lights to buzz the eyes.
• Timmies' run: Scored an excellent table and partook in hot chocolate, tea, scones, and doughnuts for a stellar hour of reflection.
• Ship Sharp and The Aussie parted ways with us at 1:10 am -- My Advocate, Napoleon, and I headed to Younge-Dundas Square for cheap popcorn. Marveled over how un-Canadian the square looks. Serious, it looks too cool for Toronto.
• Headed to the Toronto Reference Library to witness this odd dance/martial arts dance course. More distorted lights followed....
• Walked through darkened streets to Napoleon's house. Passed through mist, connected over the desire to kick Canada from our heels and travel the world/Universe (a la Doctor Who, naturally).
• Headed to Liberty Village to witness the apocalypse -- or, rather, an unnamed disaster where us wanderers were the victims. It was 4-5 am, we were cold and tired, and there were free blankets and mugs with the word "MERCY" written across them. Managed to connect with perfect strangers while we huddled around garbage can fires and rearranged tin cans. 
• Passed through the narrow, passive-aggressive, apology lane.... very eerie having people in large, paper bags apologizing to you after you bumped into them.
• Napoleon drove My Advocate and I back to the Kipling Station where I then drove her back to her place.

AND -- BIG NEWS! I came out to My Advocate at 5 am on Sunday morning. It was entirely unplanned on my part -- I point to my sleep deprivation as the driving force behind my sudden sense of confidence. And, as I predicted, The Advocate was supportive, excited, and proud of me. (Hey, she was made My Advocate for a reason here, people). 

She invited me in and we gossiped over some fresh-brewed tea. I got to tell her about all these undergrad moments and experiences that I had never shared with her before which felt marvelous. I love that I'm at this point where I'm so excited to let people know this vital part of me -- and heck, it's getting easier each time I come out, so far. None too shabby, I should say!

Turns out My Advocate knows more queer ladies than I had anticipated -- though she still argues that no one is good enough for me (her words, not mine), she is all for helping a gay gal out. I had to admit how lame I am with the ladies, and she's now on a mission to get me mingling with the queer community. Lord, I won the lottery when it comes to friends and straight allies, I tell you. Suppose it comes with the art school territory.

Crawled into bed as the sun rose at 7 am and still managed to get myself up somewhere between 11 am - 12 pm. I'm disciplined, what can I say? Adjusting to regular hours has been a cinch, though I think I'm coming down with the wicked cold that's been claiming my family members one at a time. I was the last hold out. 

Ah well, it's a minor concession for another stellar weekend. I'm thinking I need to invest in some more late night, modern-art-induced conversations. Definitely inspires a night full of revelations...

The Word on the Street: 2009 Edition

[(Toronto + Massive literary festival) x Hours spent with your closest friends] = ONE EPIC SUNDAY ADVENTURE.

For future reference, this equation will be known as "Moffatt's Law of Excitement" or The Word on the Street: 2009 Edition.

After all my years spent on the fringes of 'The Centre of the Universe,' I find it shameful that this was only my FIRST time at Toronto's Word on the Street. How could I let this happen? I am SUCH a book nerd. And I am SUCH a literary criticism nerd. Heck, I was even an ENGLISH MAJOR for goodness sakes. I choose to go to lectures ON WEEKENDS. *Shakes head at herself for her past negligence* 

Regardless of my inexplicable absence from previous Word on the Street festivals, I gotta say that this one fulfilled all of my expectations. I was there at 11 am when the stalls first opened and I stayed until the last lecture wrapped up at 6 pm. And, I swear, I would have stayed longer had the festival continued onward.

SO! POINT FORM!:

• Managed to catch a magical Express Go train that whisked me into the city a whole lot faster than I had anticipated. Gave me time to stock up on water and gum for the hours ahead.
• Messed up with the subway -- I realized I was heading in the exact OPPOSITE direction from Queen's Park once I reached Wellesley. I've been programmed to go to the Gaybourhood at all costs it would appear. Seems my Gaydar has evolved to a Gay Positioning System (GPS) now.
• Arrived with ample time to wander through the park and assess the layout of the festival. Had difficulty locating the main tents I wanted to hit up -- serious, the map and the actual geography of the stalls were QUITE different. Still, though, I found what I needed to get me through the morning.
• 12 pm: Poetry Slam the First @ The Proud Voices tent. I believe the first LGBT series of lectures at Word on the Street started in 2007 and I was excited to see the crowd was still representing for us queer kids. Second Equation of the Day: Powerful, passionate words + fiery, compelling queer girls = ONE. THRILLED. MOFFATT. Serious. In fact, I'll break with my point form to introduce you to the lovely ladies of the noon Slam Event:

Beth Anne Fischer

Ms. Fischer coordinates a Slam/dance crossover event in Guelph each month. In addition, she's a member of PLUG Poetry, a crew that performs throughout Southern Ontario

Her poetry focuses on the beauty and potential that lives inside each of us, a brave position to take in this world of cynics. Gotta say, she definitely put a smile on this girl's face.

Truth Is

Truth Is holds the 2009 Toronto Poetry Slam Grand Slam Championship title and she shows no sign of slowing down. She's been a Toronto International Poetry Slam finalist; she's been a repeat participant in the Women of the World International poetry slam; AND she was part of the When Sisters Speak spoken word contest.

She's a master when it comes to articulating raw emotion to the point where even her pauses are filled with meaning. I even heard she's prone to perform on street corners and in streetcars throughout Toronto, so keep an eye out for this rising poet, ladies.

• Spoke with both poets after their performances -- I feel as though I'm on the cusp of discovering an electric, exciting world of writers I had never even known about before The Word on the Street. Not to mention, I could even find my first footing with the city's queer community at long last!
• Met up with My Advocate and her sister -- or, rather, I harassed them as they handed out samples of Cheerios at a 2010 Olympics booth at the festival. I even posed as a postcard enthusiast so I could talk to them both. My Advocate was finished at 2 pm, so I had an hour to walk through the stalls and struggle to resist the Siren song of manga and literary journals...
• 2 pm: Headed to the Vic College Book Sale. OH, Mecca of literature -- what a world. I spent just shy of $50 dollars on books in the span of, oh.... 2 hours? Actually, that's fairly decent, considering I was bombarded by alluring titles all day. Found an archaic book about a man who travels the world (aka Europe) in a hot air balloon. My Advocate and I vowed to film segments and post them on YouTube.
• 3:45 pm: Roasted corn/ice cream break.
• 3:55 pm: Found Margaret Atwood's autograph table and GAVE HER MIGHTY CUT-EYE. *Feels fulfilled* I like the whole -- Miz Moffatt: Your presence angers me which makes me stronger. You best watch out, Atwood. Margaret Atwood: Ah, but your ANGER gives ME strength! HAHA! Miz Moffatt:... Damn you, Atwood. 
• 4 pm: Dragged My Advocate over to the Scotiabank Bestsellers Tent to see "The View From Out Here" panel discussion with DIONNE BRAND!..... and Jane Urquhart, Nino Ricci, and Camilla Gibb. Jane Urquhart told me and My Advocate to write about lampposts. I believe we must, now. Marveled at the tendency writers/scholars have to invent words to articulate apparently 'complex' ideas. (e.g. "Belongingness") Our invented Word of the Day: "Poetricity" (po-et-TRISS-it-ee). I.e. "Look at that balloon in the tree there. How poetic -- the autumn sun is setting and a small, yellow balloon is trapped there in the branches -- Ah, yes, the poetricity of the moment is breathtaking."
• 5 pm: Paused at the Comics & Graphic Novels Tent and saw a panel discussion on Canadian webcomics. This was probably the most lively and hilarious discussion of the event. I love writers and all that, but there can be this air of pretension that creeps in when a large group of 'em are all together. But, OH, artists -- they're the life of the party, even if they seem quiet at first. We met up with Napoleon and hung out there until the end of the panel's discussion.
• My Advocate offered to have us kids return to her house for some pizza and Torchwood festivities -- the catch was my car. I was parked at the Go Train station WAY back in the suburbs and needed that to get home after mass chillin'. Napoleon offered to drive me there and then take My Advocate back to her home. AWESOME TIMES. I picked up juice and pop and met up with them later.
• Ship Sharp arrived for the festivities -- she even bought rings for the Advocate and me at The Clothing Show at the Better Living Centre. Mass jokes about Captain Planet ensued. Ship Sharp = TART! The Advocate = DANCING QUEEN! Miz Moffatt = SO GOOD! Apparently, our powers, when combined --> Napoleon dancing for our amusement. 

All in all, it was an outstanding Sunday. I didn't get home until about 11:30 pm -- VERY past my current bedtime, since I am an old woman trapped in the body of a 23-year-old woman. Speaking of which, it is 10:46 pm as I write this, so I ought to drop off for the evening. 

Expect more updates and randomosities to come! (Oooh, that's Invented Word No. 2. I'm on a roll here, people. I must be brilliant!)