Let Us Play

Please Visit

2010-07-06T16:23:00.000-07:00

Although I will not take this blog down I will not be making any more entries. Please visit my new blog - Vancouver Vagabond.

It is Better ...

2010-06-10T18:39:00.000-07:00

Are you aware of the saying 'It is better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool than to open it and remove all doubt'? I love it and it fits so many people especially those who seem to have the intense need to tell others how to live their lives. They think that they are being honest and helpful when they speak their minds. They poke their noses into the business of people all around them and meddle in events that they can make worse.

I may talk a lot but I am soft spoken. I don't like conflict and tend to be an introvert. I am open about things I do and feel. Therefore I seem to attract people who consistently tell me how to live my life as if I can't do it on my own. It is annoying and sometimes I have to snap at the person just to get some peace. Most of the time I just ignore whoever is interfering in my life and there have been times it has been quite amusing. When a person who knows it all, speaks their mind and knows everything tells me something that is totally wrong I just look at them and shake my head.

Because guess what bossy people? I don't want you to tell me how to live my life. I know I make mistakes but that is part of the fun. I know I sometimes drink too much, eat too much and don't exercise enough. I know that I am not perfect - as if I would want to be - and that there are things I can improve on. If I feel like it I will improve those things. I know I spend a lot of time alone but I like being alone.

Bossy person you are not perfect, you don't know everything there is to know and you are not the master of the universe. You open your mouth and remove the doubt much too often. And as for speaking for your mind? Be careful you might not have anything left.

Until the next time.

(PS I decided not to start another blog. I am having difficulty keeping up the ones I have.)

TAGS:Mind, Karen Magill,bossy people,drink,perfect,negative

Updating

2010-05-14T20:36:00.000-07:00

Just to let everyone know that I will not be updating this blog regularly (not that I do now. LOL) since I have a new blog that I am working on creating. Once it is finished I will announce it.

Thanks.

Karen

Sending Out Prayers

2010-04-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

Friday I learned that my idol, my favourite rock musician, a man I do admire – Bret Michaels – had been hospitalized with a brain haemorrhage. I have been upset and concerned over this issue as would be expected. Especially since the man is only 47 years old and has two young daughters. I am praying for him and will wait and see what his website states.

I admit that I have been getting my information from news reports and from TMZ.com. I shake my head at the reports I have been reading. One report states that Donald Trump has spoken with the hospital officials and the prognosis for Bret isn’t good. Trump is not family why would the hospital tell him anything? Another news report states that Bill Goldberg – the actor and wrestler who Bret has been on Celebrity Apprentice with – warned Bret the day before that his rock and roll life style was going to give him health problems. There have been more wrestlers that have died young in the last couple of years than rock musicians. Of course I don’t know if Goldberg actually said this or if Trump actually reported he had spoken with the hospital.

Then the comments from the public take all this to another level entirely. Suddenly everyone is a doctor and knows what is going to happen. Comments such as he will be a vegetable; they are only keeping him alive so his family can say good bye; he drinks too much; his smoking caused this; he’ll never perform again and the list goes on. The ignorant ones that say he should just die, that he is an old, ugly man without talent and anything like it are just a waste of space. Think of his young daughters. What if they read that?

If a celebrity I didn’t admire was going through the same thing I would just think how sad and move on. Why waste the time and energy to post something negative? Especially since it will come back on you eventually. I think that is one of the problems with the Internet. Everyone can state their opinion and speak as if they know what they are talking about. They can spread nastiness and lies if they so choose. That is not the way to live. I sometimes wonder how sad the lives of those
negative people must be.

I am going to leave the medical stuff up to the doctors that are treating Bret. After all they are the ones with the access to his brain and the tests etc. They are the ones that know how to read it. Yes there are those who have died from this and then there are those who have survived and gone on with normal lives. All we can do is hope and pray. And I am praying for Bret and his family and his friends. I hope you will too.

TAGS:Bret Michaels, Karen Magill,Donald Trump,Celebrity Apprentice,TM.com,,negative,Bill Goldberg

Image

2010-03-15T17:23:00.000-07:00

It astounds me how reasonably intelligent people can be so suckered by the image that PR machines create. For an example I'll use how former President George W. Bush is viewed compared to current President Barrack Obama. And this blog isn't to support either man - just point out what so many people are missing.

Bush was marketed as a down home, country boy without the polish that many politicians seem to project. He mispronounced words, took his time making decisions, placed his family and religion above all else. People say he is stupid but I think it is the other way around. PR people, image consultants, speech writers all created the persona we see on TV and in the news. Those mispronounced words were purposely written that way to enhance his country charm. And whatever you think of Bush, it worked. He took the highest office in the country twice.

Then we have Obama. A well polished man of African descent. The time was just so right to bring someone like him into the political arena. With a major economic fall that is worldwide, though some blamed it totally on Bush, the United States was ready for something different. They needed new blood in the White House, someone who could appear like an underdog which an African American man would. He was up against the 'old boys club' and he took the victory. From his catchy slogan to his well rehearsed, teleprompter fed speeches, Obama appeared to be the saviour. In the fashion of the memory of the late President Kennedy's term, once again the White House would be a place of hope, of progress, of fashion, of beautiful people.

Yeah, Obama was the exact opposit of Bush but don't think that he started that way. He has image consultants that groomed him, PR machines that produced him and of course the speechwriters that gave him the words to say.

Like I said this is not a blog condemning either man but an observation. And I wonder how many of you actually get it. The next time you look at a politician or any other public figure and say 'what an idiot', think again. Are you actually the one that isn't so smart?

TAGS:George W. Bush, Karen Magill,Barrack Obama,politician,image consultants,country boy,speechwriters,President Kennedy,beautiful people

Can't Please Everyone

2010-02-22T12:48:00.001-08:00

Rick Nelson had it right in his 'Garden Party'. You can't please everyone.

Take the 2010 Olympics. Some Canadian politicians were griping because the opening ceremonies didn't have enough French yet people here in Vancouver were ready to switch off the broadcast due to the amount of French being spoken.

A politician makes a decision about almost anything and there are going to be happy and unhappy constituents. It just happens that way. Does that mean that the politician is incompetent? No, especially if you ask those he or she pleased.

In addition to that silly little piece of news there are those who were so against the money spent on getting the Olympics together. Never mind that the construction projects helped people get employment in these difficult times so they are paying taxes and not living off the government. Forget that a highway that has taken lives over the years was finally upgraded. And don't worry about the fact that our taxes went to help support young people who sacrifice so much so that they can have a chance to become the best and compete against the world. And they did a mighty fine job of it if I say so myself.

So many people say that the money should have gone to the poor and addicted. We already shell a lot of money out for welfare. There is the needle exchange program, the safe injection site, programs to help those with drug problems conquer their addiction and so much else. I don't have a problem with trying to help those down on their luck but sooner or later we have to realize that throwing money at these problems isn't working.

By bringing the 2010 Olympic Games to Vancouver we have an opportunity to show off our city and province and to entice people to visit. And others to stay and bring more monies into the province. Monies that can then be used to help those who need it as well as improve matters here. But if Vancouver bursts with new business, people and money that will cause different problems and there will be complaints.

So there is no way to make everyone happy. No way that one idea is going to please the masses. Fortunately the politicians cannot heed the next line in the song and please themselves. That is a blog for another day.

TAGS:Vancouver, Karen Magill,Olympics,politician,Safe Injection Site,needle exchange,drug addicts,Ricky+Nelson,Garden Party

Be Happy

2010-02-18T15:04:00.000-08:00

I was watching a show with the Dalai Lama, Richard Branson, Jack Canfield etc. It was a show on gaining success in your life and was basically another way of telling 'The Secret' but this attitude about being happy is really interesting.

It doesn't take much to be happy. In order to be happy a person does not need wealth or an abundance of material possessions. If that is what you think is going to make you happy then you never will be. You will be always be wanting more and never having enough.

As a person who has struggled with weight issues for about thirty years I can tell you that waiting until you are thin and in shape to be happy doesn't work either. You just put unreasonable pressure on yourself because you are waiting for what you feel is the perfect time to enjoy life. Not the way to live.

There are people who say they won't be happy until they have a mate. There is a very good chance you will spend your life alone or with a person who will bring more negativity and unhappiness in your life.

In order to be happy you have to decide to be happy. You have to make a conscious effort to try to look at the bright side of things. It isn't easy especially if you have been a pessimist and are trying to change.

I do my best to be positive and happy day to day but I don't always succeed. This morning I woke up in a foul mood but that could have something to do with the fact that an alarm woke me up three times last night. I tried exercising but couldn't get into it so I had a cup of chamomile tea and lay on the heating pad before going for a long walk. I wear an ipod on these walks and I get into the tunes. That is usually a sure way to lift my mood.

Then I come home. That stupid alarm is going off intermittenly throughout the day and I read how other countries are apparently not happy with the fact that Canada is no longer quietly proud but cheering their players vigorously. And how the province has wasted millions of dollars because a few countries are not pleased with technical difficulties that have happened and what they feel are injustices. I grit my teeth and silently repeat 'be happy, be happy, be happy'. The kettle is boiling for another cup of chamomile tea.

It is an effort to be happy. There are so many things that can disrupt that flow. Like a negative neighbour or friend or relative. I don't watch the news because it is depressing and I refuse to fill my head with the dark emotions.

You see I firmly believe that if I am happy I will attract good things to me. If I smile when I would rather snarl then I have won that battle and it improves my mood faster. My life may not be exactly what I want but I will make things better. Or not. Either way I am going to do my best to 'be happy' most of the time.

TAGS:be happy, Karen Magill,mate,relationship,weight,negative,good,Richard Branson,Dalai Lama,Jack Canfield

The Single Life

2010-02-15T13:30:00.000-08:00

In June I will be 45 years old. I have never been married - I am heterosexual by the way - I do not have any children. And to think about it, I have never been in a long term relationship. Please contain your gasps of horror because there is nothing wrong with me.

I do like men, I like having them around, I like the attention, I enjoy giving attention. But I also like my life right now. I like having the freedom to do whatever I want when I want. I am responsible for all aspects of my life from paying my rent and bills on time to getting the assets I desire. I don't have to worry if my mate leaves what is his and what is mine. I am also willing to bet that I am not alone in this attitude.

Not that there is anything wrong with those who choose a couple life. If that is what you want, great. Some people - men and women - do better when they are in a committed relationship. They manage to handle finances better, handle stress easier, have better health and who knows what else. Some are lost when they are alone and need 'saving'. Which brings up another point.

I look at relationships and realize that there are a lot of men who seem to need to be the 'knight in shining armour'.(Probably some women too) The one who comes to the aid and rescues the beautiful maiden. If that turns you on, go for it. But then I wonder what happens when the saving is done and the maiden is doing fine. Does she move on? Does he lose interest?

I don't need saving. I am not being abused - I have never let anyone do that to me and I hope I never will. If I get into a negative financial situation I have to get myself out. I don't have any deep, dark secrets in my past that will bring harm to me if revealed. There is nothing that anyone can rescue me from.

Being responsible for yourself and your mistakes make you a stronger person. And although you can be in a relationship and still do this, it is even more apparent that you have to be responsible when you are alone.

That isn't saying that I don't want a person in my life because I do. If it is the right man then I am willing to make the necessary adjustments but I haven't seen him yet. For now I am content to spend my days working on my sewing, my writing, exercising and enjoying life. If I end up as a woman that lives the rest of my life alone then so be it. It doesn't make me any less of a person or any better. It just makes me me.

TAGS:single, Karen Magill,mate,relationship,sewing,writing,strength

WE DID IT!!!!!!

2010-02-14T19:34:00.000-08:00

History has been made! For the first time ever, an Olympic gold medal has been won by a Canada on Canadian soil! Freestyle skier Alex Bilodeau of Rosemere, Que gave us the place in history today.

I knew we could do it. That is was possible. To hell with the idiotic rioters and losers that are protesting because the money spent on the Olympics should have gone elsewhere - this what it is all about. If everyone of those people who are against the Olympics do not feel at least a little pride in this day then there is really something wrong with them.

But enough negativity. This is a great accomplishment. May there be much more gold coming our way!

TAGS:2010, Karen Magill,gold,Alex Bilodeau,olympics

GO CANADA GO!!!

2010-02-12T18:12:00.000-08:00

Behind me the television is broadcasting the opening ceremonies to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. And they are doing a great job!

The beginning segments brought tears of pride and hope to my eyes. Right now I am watching a welcome ceremony performed by representatives of the four major aboriginal nations in Canada. It is a spectactular event - I hope that is released on DVD so that I can watch it again. I am so pleased to see that our First Nations people are being so properly represented. They have a rich culture that the world deserves to see.

The athletes are entering BC Place stadium now and it there are countries with less than ten athletes, some with only one, but the pride on those peoples' faces as they carry their country's flags. You can see the hope on all their faces. It is exciting. Some of these countries have never competed in the Winter Olympics before. Can you imagine what they

Sadness has laid a blanket over tonight though. Slider Nodar Kumaritashvili was killed in a practice run. The 21-year-old died doing what he loved but we all share the grief that his country, The Soviet Republic of Georgia, feels. As Georgia walked into the stadium they received a standing ovation.

I was out for a walk today and it was a relief to feel the attitude of the people around me. Everyone seemed excited, Canadian flags were all over the place. One fellow was wrapped in one as he walked down the street. (He was fully dressed under it) People were asking others if they had managed to see the flame when it went by - I hadn't but that's okay. It makes me smile to realize how many people are so uplifted by these games.

Of course there were also the protesters who made such ridiculous claims such as that they were standing up and not allowing the torch to pass through the city or the Games to be held here. Guess what? The torch did make it to BC Place and the Games will be held here. Deal with it.

This is a time for celebration, this is a time to show people what can be accomplished when you work at it. Granted many of the competing athletes have a talent for their sport but that in no way replaces the hours of practice, the heartbreaking defeats they have had and the soaring victories.

Teach our children that this is what they can do if they really want to and really try. They can be the best in the world. Teach our children to get up after they fall, that defeat doesn't make you a loser - teach our children to have pride in themselves. I think I will do another post on this topic later. I have more to say on that.

Bryan Adams and Nelly Furtado sang a song 'Bang Your Drum' for the athletes. As soon as Adams and Furtado walked onto the giant drum I stood. I knew this was going to be great and it was. The First Nations danced along to the song and seemed to give it so much more power.

My greatest wish for the next 17 days is that it goes peacefully without any more deaths and that Canada makes history by winning a gold medal on Canada soil - the first time ever.

For now I am going to sign off (I will put a PS in later when I find out who lights the cauldron in BC Place)

PS: Rick Hansen brought the flame into the stadium and Wayne Gretzky was later escorted down to where the cauldron was lit outside. The lighting of the inside cauldron was done by Steve Nash, Gretzky and Nancy Greene Raine. A fourth column that was supposed to rise to support the indoor cauldron failed to operate, leaving speed-skater Catriona LeMay Doan to stand aside. It was impressive still though.

TAGS:2010, Karen Magill,Nodar Kumaritshvili,gold,olympics

Money, Money, Money

2010-02-10T21:36:00.000-08:00

I know that the saying is that love makes the world go 'round but you gotta admit that money helps. With money we can have shelter, food, clothing, transportation and all those other little extras. Like computers and the Internet and telephone and the list goes on.

Yes money is important but it isn't the most important thing. When this worldwide recession hit people lost investments, savings, jobs, homes and a lot of other things that rely on money. Yet many have found a new hope in realizing how important their families are; how strong they actually can be and how many of the things they had were unnecessary. Many have started over and some have found a new outlook on life. If the industry they were in has suffered then perhaps they have the excitement of learning a new trade. Will we go back to the spoiled people that some of us were? More thank likely some will but hopefully others will have a better sense of what they have.

I watch people who are moaning about the fact that they have no money. However they have all the toys. Gym memberships, constantly using a vehicle instead of local transit, the latest gadgets, every television station you can imagine, drugs, smokes, booze. I watch and inwardly shake my head. When times are tough you cut back on the extras and make do with less.

Money affords us the freedom to do other things, to buy things and to live well with material things. But money is an object and how we choose to use it is what makes it valuable.

TAGS:Freedom, Karen Magill,money,life,gadgets

Victims.

2010-02-08T10:17:00.000-08:00

In the movie 'The Crow' with Brandon Lee there is a scene where one of the bad guys is telling the Crow a sob story of why he did what he did. The Crow - Brandon Lee - says 'Victims, aren't we all?'. I love that line! It is so true.

Many people tend to think of themselves as victims. If a person becomes a drug addict, it is because he or she is a victim. If a person is obese it is due to them being a victim as a child. If a person robs and kills it is because they are victims of society or drugs or the economy. It never seems to end.

Our lives are largely a result of our own decisions. A child is not responsible if they are abused but how they chose to handle that as an adult is their decision. This person will choose whether to get help or not. They will choose whether to make something good come from their abuse like counselling other children or lobbying to change laws. Or they can choose to wallow and forever blame the negative aspects of their lives on that crime.

Many health problems are due to our own poor choices. If you haven't eaten correctly for years - instead spending too much time on alcohol, junk food, high fat foods etc - then your body is going to react negatively. There are also cases though where no matter how well a person takes care of themselves they will still have health problems. In that case we just have to learn to deal with our problems and not let them destroy us.

Bad things happen and it doesn't mean that anyone is being singled out. Do what is necessary to get over it and realize that even if you are the one affected by a horrific crime or any other tragedy you don't have to be a victim. That is your choice.

TAGS:The Crow, Karen Magill,Brandon Lee,Victim,crime

The British are Coming, The British are Coming!

2010-02-04T10:57:00.001-08:00

And the Australians, and the Americans, and the Koreans and the world! In about a week Vancouver welcomes the best athletes the world has to offer and their suppporters. It is a highly exciting time, a time to show off everything we have to offer. The commercials that are being shown bring tears to my eyes. I am so proud to be here and that we are hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics. Let's party.

Unfortunately there is a lot of negativity that I sometimes fear will cast a shadow over what should be a joyous time. Some of the First Nations people feel that the money should have spent on their problems; those on welfare feel that their payments should be increased; watchdog organizations pounce on any activity saying it is because the government wants to clean the streets of the poor so Vancouver looks better.

A good example is when Vancouver had a cold snap and extra shelters were opened. The police were not allowed to force people into the shelters yet when a homeless person burned to death because she had started a fire to keep warm, we were all supposed to moan and cry out because the government didn't do what it was supposed to. Reality check. Shelters were opened but if any official tried to force someone with perhaps mental problems to take advantage of it, the watchdog groups cried foul. Said it was being done because of the Olympics. To be honest? I would rather have the police I pay taxes for out solving and preventing crimes anyway instead of pampering people who won't do what is best for them.

How much money have taxpayers paid for things like the needle exchange program? Or the safe site injection? Or drug rehabilitation? Or on other programs to help those less fortunate? How much do we spend on clean up because many of those homeless leave their garbage all over the place - including used needles that can infect a child if they unwittingly pick it up. We can't always be giving to those who won't help themselves. There comes a time when the government has to spend money on promoting the province, beautifying the city and giving something back to the people are paying for all the programs and help people get.

I lived in Calgary during the 1988 Winter Olympics. We had no snow - a situation that looks like it may occur here - but we put on a party like non other. It was a great Olympics and the city boomed after. The Olympics can do so much for us so put aside your misgivings and give it your all. Be proud of this awesome city, province and country.

TAGS:Vancouver, Karen Magill,Olympics,First Nations,welfare

Me and Bowie

2010-02-03T14:55:00.000-08:00

Ch-ch-changes! Isn't that what life is all about? Rolling with the changes, going with the flow.

On that note I am announcing that this blog is once again changing. I have a lot of opinions and I am going to start expressing them. That doesn't mean that everything I say is correct or that, with new information, I won't change my view. What I write now is how I feel at that moment.

I invite everyone to respond to what I say. My only rules are that your response is profanity free and that you express your opinion with respect to me and others. I promise that I will never treat anyone rudely.

Also my websitewww.karenmagill.com has gone through a major change. Be sure to visit.

So buckle in. This is going to be fun!

TAGS:bowie, Karen Magill,changes,view,opinion,website

That Time of Year

2010-01-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was walking home from my doctor's appointment. It is quite a long walk but I have my mp3 player on and I sing, dance and have a blast. I also smile at most of the people I see. Not that many returned the gesture yesterday.

A week before I would have received beams of greetings from most everyone but not yesterday. A cashier at a store told me it was because January is a rough month - people are broke and the month isn't as exciting as December. So? It is the same every year isn't it? Every December we wind ourselves up for the parties and the gift giving and welcoming in another year then comes January and we have to pay the bills and get back to life. That doesn't mean that you have to be depressed about it.

Just because I walk along smiling and singing doesn't necessarily mean that my life is better than yours. It may be but it may not be too. It may just be different but I firmly believe that if a person can smile and sing and dance through the tough times then he or she can handle it.

I get that life is hard for many but being gloomy isn't going to help. It won't pay off the bills any faster; it won't cure disease nor will it ease tension and stress. You don't have to walk around singing and dancing as I do - I am sort of weird - but you can do things to make life a little easier. Whenever you are walking and you see someone walking towards you, smile. You may not get one in return but it just might make you feel whole lot better.

TAGS:smile, Karen Magill,bills,mp3,singing,christmas

I've Been Absent

2009-11-13T14:57:00.000-08:00

Yeah okay I haven't been posting as much as I should but I discovered something. There is a whole big world outside of this computer and since I am returning to my first love, fiction writing, I need to experience more of it. I have also lost thirty pounds since June - only another thirty to go!

A big problem I am finding with the Internet too is the misinformation that I have been finding. One guy who has a self published book (I think it is self-published) on dieting was looking for misinformation on dieting. So I told him that it is untrue that if a person eats less than 1200 calories a day everything eaten will turn to fat. This is against the law of physics.

Everyone is different and need different calorie intakes. I am also losing weight and watching my calorie intake under a doctor's supervision. He knows how much I am eating and monitors my progress and my health every month. (I do have the added difficulty of having MS so I don't want to do anything to aggravate that)

Well this fellow posted on his blog that I was right about the food not turning into fat but then he makes a comment that anorexics are those who eat less that 1200 calories a day. I didn't bother straightening him out because why bother? But anorexia is more than eating less than 1200 calories a day.

It is thought that if you eat less than that you won't get the nutrients needed and there is probably a lot of truth to that. However people can eat over 2000 calories a day and still not get the nutrients they need.

I am not going to do anything that will harm my health. I cheat occassionally though since I have recently switched to a high protein diet (not Atkins but one that is a bit more lenient on the amounts of carbs allowed) I am allowed to have my white rum and diet coke. No carbs there! But can't overdo it since then I will overeat.

And before I get a bunch of posts saying that the artificial sweetners are so bad for me I will remind you that the Internet has greatly exaggerated and right out misinformed people. Some say that aspartame causes MS but MS has been around a lot longer than aspartame and with all the recent discoveries on the potential causes, artificial sweetners have not made the list. Also I have gained and lost weight using artificial sweetners.

As long as I am feeling fairly fine without any different problems I will continue my eating habits the way I want. Christmas is coming and I have my eye on a Canadian Superstore frozen dessert. Hey! It's Christmas and if there was ever a day to cheat on a diet that is it.

I will try to post more here although not everyone is going to be happy with what I have to say!

More another time.

TAGS:weight, Karen Magill,diet,fiction,doctor,christmas

No More

2009-09-24T12:02:00.000-07:00

For the last two and a half years I have been living in this apartment building. There is no manager on site so I have done things like take care of the recycling, help other tenants, generally clean up and things like that. But I have had it. The final straw came yesterday.

About eight in the morning I heard some activity around the alley. I had put out the recycling bins the night before for the city to pick up the next day. I looked out my window and the owner of the building was putting other things out. Mainly a large bundle of cardboard that had been sitting by the reclycling for close to a week. I let him know that the city won't pick up the big pieces and he commented that I hadn't cut it up. There was no where to put it, our recycling was full so I was leaving it until it was picked up. He moved it and looking over the scene I realized that something wasn't right. So I got dressed and went down to take a look.

I had to reorganize a few things, throw things out that the city won't pick up and just put things in the right bins. This only took about fifteen minutes but I am continually picking up after everyone. Then, as I was walking back into the building I passed the owner. He made a comment that he was going to buy me a big knife to cut down the cardboard. I told him not to bother but that he owed me.

Later the city picked up the bins and I went down to put them back where we keep them and to cut down the big bundle of cardboard. I got really frustrated when I realized that the bundle wasn't even from our building, it was from one of the owner's other money making properties. I don't get anything for all the work I am doing. I am disabled by MS and trying to create a new life for myself through my writing and maybe motivational speaking. I got so angry that during the half hour it took me to cut the cardboard into sizes that the city would take that I was in tears. I came back upstairs and threw my hat across the room I was so angry.

Why is it that when someone takes it upon themselvesto help out that others end up using them?A few months ago I wrote a note that was addressed to the tenants of this building and I outlined the rules for recylcing and asked for their help. Following proper procedure I showed it to the manager first. The manager took it and said she had some details on another matter to add to it then would distribute it. So much for that. I guess she expected me to continue being a slave as well.

I was so upset that going for a walk and listening to music didn't help. I bought some rum and a liquor and returned home to make some important decisions. I am the one that people in this building seem to come to if they need sewing done, need to borrow something or with any little problem. As I said earlier I don't get anything for these actions either. I see the tenants having barbecues and parties outside but I am never invited. I am good for their servant but not to socialize with. And though it started formulating in a alcholic haze I came to the conclusion this morning that I have to say NO MORE!

From this moment on I am not going to take care of the building. I will take the recyling to the curb the night before pick up but that's it. I will no longer cut down boxes. Nor will I clean up after anyone else. And if someone needs sewing or a favor go knock on another tenant's door.

I have a lot to accomplish in my life and I do believe in helping others but there comes a time when a person has to realize that she has to take of herself first. I am doing that now. Wish me luck.

TAGS:independence, Karen Magill,recycling,tenant,apartment,advantage

Social Networks

2009-02-13T15:26:00.000-08:00

Sites like MySpace, Twitter, Facebook and such can be so much fun. You can track down people you haven’t seen or heard from in years, you can post information about your newest ventures, hopefully help advance your business and make new friends. Some have even found the love of their lives on these sites.Yes, there are a lot of positive aspects to social networks.

On the flip side there are many negatives too. We forget that many of the people we are communicating with and that we consider to be friends may not be. We only know what they are telling us and they could be lying. Even those acquaintances from decades past may not be who you think they are. We warn our children not to reveal too much and not to let anyone know the minute details but what about the adults?

How many people will tell their online friends at MySpace or Facebook that they are going to be out of town for a week or two? Those ‘friends’ already know what city you live in and may know your full name. I am sure that there is a way that hackers can get that information though I don’t know how. Or perhaps you talk about the latest purchases you have made. Someone could be sitting there, reading, keeping stock and just waiting for you to let them know when you will be home and when you won’t.

Posting pictures is fun. You want the online community to see how much fun you had at that party over the weekend so you post the picture of you almost flashing the camera. Or pretending to moon everyone. You have also applied for your dream job though and, unknown to you, your prospective employer is also a member of the community. Or someone they know and your scandalous photos are seen as well as your ribald comments. Perhaps the employer does a little more thinking before hiring you. There have been reports of similar situations happening.

So we have to avoid the temptation to share too much or to go wild on the Internet. Everything posted will be there forever and could come back to haunt you.

TAGS:social networks, Karen Magill,Facebook,Twitter,MySpace,employer

Listening

2009-01-27T14:27:00.000-08:00

Many of my posts are now becoming my reflections on life and how I feel about getting through life’s little hurdles. Or big hurdles depending on what happens and how we take it. I am not trying to tell anyone what to do – that isn’t my right – especially since I know that I have some of these faults myself. Maybe if I talk about it and others share their responses we can all get to a better world.

Today I wanted to speak on the lost art of listening. This is an art that I am not proficient in. Many times in a conversation I will react to something someone has said and later I will go over the conversation in my mind and wonder what really happened. There are times that I know I am only partially listening because I am focused on what I am going to say. Considering the negative reactions I have received from others, and that I have experienced, it makes me wonder how many wars have been started due to not hearing the other person or misunderstanding them?

Sometimes people seem to be so quick to react to things that are said, or perceptions of what others mean and those quick actions can cause a lot of trouble. Especially when the original meaning is lost. People misspeak all the time – things they mean to say come out wrong.

More importantly though are you listening to yourself? Sometimes when we lash out at others it isn’t them we are angry with but rather something in our own lives. That person just chose the wrong moment to speak to us.

We spend so much time quelling our inner selves so that we present an appealing front to the public. And there are times when our inner beings have just had enough. They want to be free, they want to be heard but when they emerge in certain situations and cause trouble. Writing our feelings out is one way to let that being be heard at the right time. Venting our frustrations in exercise also provides a release and activities like meditation can calm it.

Do you have any ideas on sharing your life with your inner self? Or do you have story to tell about when that unpredictable being emerged? I want to hear from you.

TAGS:motiviation, Karen Magill,life lessons,motivation,frustration,feelings

Idol Worship

2009-01-26T11:21:00.000-08:00

As a society we like to put our heroes on a pedestal, to raise them above the common folk. Strangely though we also seem to like it when that idol falls off the perch. And the harder they fall, the more we seem to like it. If that was all there was to say it would be tragic but then we realize that once our heroes have fallen we love it even more when they rise again.

This attitude is what has made the ‘Rocky’ movies so popular. From the ultimate underdog to winning the title and in the sequels Rocky had to make a comeback. The fans are cheering for this guy who first had nothing then made it to the top then loses it for whatever reason and has to make a comeback. It is an age-old story that is featured in many books, plays, movies and life.

Like on Sunday. I watched the premiere episode of the reality show ‘Confessions of a Teen Idol’. The participants are Jeremy Jackson and David Chokachi of ‘Baywatch’, Billy Hufsey of ‘Fame’, Jaime Walters of ‘Beverly Hills 90210’,Christopher Atkins from ‘The Blue Lagoon’, Adrian Zmed known for ‘T.J. Hooker’ and ‘Grease 2’ and Eric Nies of MTV’s ‘The Real World’ and ‘The Grind’. The show is hosted and produced by Scott Baio who is best known as Chachi from ’Happy Days’ and fellow former child star Jason Hervey. This is a show that has an aim to not only give the public a glimpse into what fame is like but also to hopefully give these seven celebrities a chance at a new type of fame. Naturally it will contain the drama that makes reality TV so popular but it has something else. Viewers have the opportunity to see if a former teen idol -whose star has dimmed due to the fickle public or the celebrity’s own actions – will be able to make a dramatic comeback and be back on top of that field. ‘Confessions of a Teen Idol’ has the elements of a successful show – the underdog trying to succeed against seemingly impossible odds.

When an underdog succeeds when everything is against him or her it gives people hope that we can achieve what we want. Most of us have been in the position of the underdog and we can relate. When our idols fall from the lofty pedestal, we are reminded that they are human too and we take solace in that. When we watch someone who has fallen rise to the top again it gives us hope and reminds us that we can do it too. After all if someone can screw up their lives so badly in the public eye – as some have - then come back from it all to succeed again, what can’t we make substantial gains in our lives? It is inspiring in so many ways.

So the next time I am reading the headlines of a celebrity scandal sheet at the supermarket checkout line I am going to try to remember the celebrity and the misdeed. Then wait to see how long it takes them to get back in the public and media’s favour.

TAGS:motiviation, Karen Magill,life lessons,Jeremy Jackson,David Chokachi,Confessions of a Teen Idol,comeback

Different Entertainment

2009-01-25T19:41:00.000-08:00

Last night I attended a gala unlike many that I have ever been to. At the W.I.S.E. Hall in East Vancouver the Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society put on the Taboo Revue, a Burlesque Variety Show. It was a night of humor, dance and frivolity that was enjoyed by a packed house.

The evening started with a bawdy parody of one of the famous dance scenes in ‘Dirty Dancing’ that not only set the audience to laughter but also set the tone for the rest of the evening. The crowd started cheering and by the end of the evening I am sure there was more than one sore throat.

Many of the costumes were elaborate and, true to the days of old theatre, some were made by the performers themselves. The hours that must have been spent behind sewing machines and applying the smaller details by hand is remarkable. It shows just how dedicated the performers are.

As many of you know I participate in the burlesque aerobics class on Monday nights and that class has given me an idea as to how difficult those dance moves are. But you would never know it by the dancers on the stage. They made everything look so easy.

There were over twenty participants in the show last night and everything seemed to proceed smoothly, like clockwork. One skit led into the next and it was sad when I realized how fast the night went. All too soon I had to go out into the night cold and start the short journey home. I am looking forward to going to another show.

TAGS:burlesque, Karen Magill,Screaming Chicken,W.I.S.E. Hall,East Vancouver,Dirty Dancing,bawdy parody

Dealing with Others

2009-01-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

One of the most difficult aspects of living a life is dealing with other people. At least I think it is for me.

We have all run into those people who think they know everything. No matter what the topic this person is an expert and has no hesitation about lecturing you on it. And you are supposed to sit there like a child and soak in their opinion with appreciation that they are spreading their knowledge. Never mind that many times the facts being stated are wrong therefore the opinions and advice are based on misinformation and are unreliable. But you can’t tell the person that since their mind is usually closed to information that contradicts what they think they know.

Have you ever dealt with those who profess to live a clean, morally correct life yet you know that he or she is spreading rumours and causing trouble for others? These people will many times blame outside sources for the mishaps in their lives and fail to see how their own actions have rebounded on them.

The whiners and/or complainers are another source of frustration for many of us. These are the souls who find fault with everything. Who cannot see what they do have in life and moan the fact that they don’t have everything they want or are not where they want to be.

If you are like me and are trying to keep a positive outlook on life the above-mentioned characters, as well as others, can wear on your resolve. You find yourself getting angry with those telling you what to do and the others can just bring a dark cloud over your day. It is difficult to remain upbeat and positive about that around you when you are being bombarded with negativity.

Avoiding these people is not always a solution. Most everyone has good qualities as well as bad and annoying ones. It may be difficult to find those qualities and/or to understand the reason for the offensive behaviour. In order to exist and prosper in this society as well as be a rounded individual, we need to associate with other people.

In most cases no one has the right to tell someone else what to do. Just as the know-it-all doesn’t have the right to tell us what we should be doing, thinking or feeling we do not have the right to tell them to adjust their behaviour. Maybe that person is actually suffering from feeling inferior for some reason and this is their way of gaining power. If we can just remember that the other person is trying to help and is probably dealing with their own issues then maybe we can feel a bit more open to the advice.

Those who are constantly telling us that what is wrong with life obviously have been disappointed. Granted many of us have not been overjoyed with some aspects of our life and we get past it but the whiners and such have fallen into the habit of focusing on the negative. They are unable to see what good there is in their lives and if you point out, they will downplay the good. There is nothing really we can do - or nothing I have figured out – besides let them blow off steam and then try to get back to your positive atmosphere. These kind, like the hypocrites I do try to stay away from. It is much easier that way.

I won’t like everyone I meet because everyone is so different. And that’s okay. It would be a pretty boring place if everyone had personalities and habits along the same lines. But just like I don’t like others trying to change me, I have no right to change others. Remember that we cannot control the actions and attitudes of others only how we react and who we are.

Do you have a solution for dealing with those who fall into one of these categories or another annoying one? If so please leave a comment and tell us. Or just leave a comment.

TAGS:motiviation, Karen Magill,life lessons,people,getting along,compassion,positive

When Life Isn't Fair

2009-01-23T12:41:00.000-08:00

As we travel through life there are a few truths that become evident or at least should. One is that life isn’t fair – it never has been and never will be and if someone told you it was then they lied.

There will always be less talented, less qualified individuals that get ahead of those who are better suited. Perhaps the ones getting ahead know someone or the person has something appealing in personality or looks that the more qualified person doesn’t. As well there will always be nepotism and favouritism wherever people are involved.

This does not mean that those without the connections, the outer beauty and/or the special knack for pleasing others should give up. It also doesn’t mean that it is always one of the above-mentioned factors that leads to one person getting ahead instead of the more qualified. Maybe the more qualified person just isn’t right for that upper position.

Yet complaining about how unfair everything is, how your life should have turned out better or how you did everything you should and therefore your life shouldn’t be like this is useless. Especially if you are complaining to someone who has suffered as well and may have taken some harder knocks than you.

We all make decisions about where we want to be in life and how to get there. Some turn out the way we want but many don’t. Ask a lot of adults if their life has turned out the way they had planned and most will say it hasn’t. Occasionally it does but that is rare. However that doesn’t mean that the life turned out bad.

The young woman who wanted to grow up, get married and have a house full of children looks at the calendar and realizes she is almost forty and nothing has happened the way she wanted. However she has fallen in love and she is pregnant. She isn’t legally married but that is fine. She has someone who loves her and a child on the way. Her journey to get to this point isn’t what she imagined yet it is satisfying. She is getting what she wanted in a different way.

It may be difficult at first when you are passed up for a promotion you feel you richly deserve, when you are diagnosed with a chronic illness that will severely change the course of your future, when a marriage that you are putting everything into is falling apart and for a short time it is natural to be depressed and to experience feelings like self pity. But don’t hold onto that negativity for too long or it will have long lasting, harmful effects on your life. Instead reassess where you are in life, where you want to be and how you are going to get there. You may find that what you once considered to be the most damaging occurrence in your life is actually turning out to be a positive and life affirming experience.

TAGS:motiviation, Karen Magill,life lessons,fairness,life affirming,self pity,qualify

Vacationing in Victoria

2009-01-05T13:48:00.000-08:00

On Friday January 2, 2009 my mother and I caught a bus to Victoria, BC. For those of you who aren't aware Victoria is on Vancouver Island and is the capital of British Columbia. It is also the birthplace of both my mother and me though I never lived there and my mother hasn't in about fifty years.

We got to the bus depot early so ducked into Macdonalds and had a McChicken each. Then we lined up to board the bus and we were the first on. I settled into a window seat with Mom beside me and shivered in anticipation. This was going to be fun!

The bus ride to the ferry terminal - Tsawassen - is only about an hour and we had lots to look at and talk about. The ferry was large and majestic looking. Our first stop was the gift store where I bought two Ann Rule books that I don't have. Then we proceeded to a special lounge on the second passenger deck. Here, for ten dollars per person, you can have non alcholic beverages and snacks while relaxing in a quiet area. A bit of serenity before the onslaught of activity when we arrived in Swartz Bay.

Back on the bus and about forty five minutes after docking we are pulling into the Victoria bus depot which is located in the downtown core. Mom and I stood and waited for a taxi to take us to our hotel, the Inn at Laurel Point. We soon realized that the cab may have been a waste of money since the hotel was within in walking distance. But you never know.

After we quickly settled in and unpacked a bit, we headed out onto the town. We strolled along the waterfront and gazed at our surroundings. The Christmas decorations were still up which gave a festive atmosphere to the city. And I love the quaint and historic atmosphere of this area of the city. There is also a sense of power since the legislative buildings are located in this area too.

On Government street my mother took me to an Irish items store. She was looking for something for my father and I just looked at all the items. It is so neat seeing all the articles from a country where my ancestors were born.

Mom took me out for dinner the first night and we went to the Bard & Banker Public House. This English style pub/restaurant is a pleasure to sit in. And the food is excellent. I even tried Sticky Toffee Pudding which I had seen on the television show, Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares. I am so glad I don't live near that place because I fell in love with the pudding.

After a stop at a bookstore where I did get another book, we headed back to the hotel room to watch some tv and relax.

Saturday we walked. And walked. And walked. Mom had so much she had to show me. We stopped at a store with metaphysical items such as crystals and books. I bought three more books and a calendar. (I left my apartment with two books and returned with seven.) I was starting to fade but I wanted to visit some attractions.

We weren't that impressed with the Undersea Gardens since it was dark and we couldn't really see the sea creatures through the glass. We learned a few interesting facts about the life below the water's surface.

But we did enjoy the Royal BC Museum. It was admission by donation week so for a discounted rate we were able to enjoy this attraction. From the exhibit honoring BC's 150th birthday to the First Nations display, the Museum took my breath away. I loved the third floor that has been created to represent going in the past. An artifact of a woolly mammoth greets visitors as the enter the exhibit. Cobblestone streets with exhibits of clothing and such from the turn of the last century, a replica of the captain's quarters of the HMS Discovery, best known as the Royal Navy Ship that was the lead in George Vancouver's exploration of the west coast of North America, and the set up of a mine where people can actually pan for gold - the third floor is a wonder to behold. I was filled with pride while viewing the second floor tribute to those who have made BC what it is.

Later that afternoon, Mom and I took in a Victoria custom that is about one hundred years old. Afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel. We were treated like royalty from the moment we came in to the time we stepped out. The hostess drew out our chairs and lay the napkins on our lap. Our server Paul brought small bowls of fruit to cleanse our palates before eating then left us alone for a few moments to choose from the selection of teas. We chose the Empress blend and it was served in two silver pots. One contained tea and the other hot water to dilute the tea if it were too strong. Paul poured our tea and added cream and sugar to mine. Our meal was served between us on a three tiered serving unit. The first level had a selection of finger sandwiches. The second had scones with jam and Devonshire cream and the top level held the deserts. Everything was bite sized and tasted exquisite. A host even roamed the dining room to greet everyone and discover more about them.

After tea we wandered for a couple of hours then stopped at a restaurant for some seafood appetizers. We ended up taking most of it back to the hotel so we had coconut encrusted prawns and cheese bread for breakfast on Sunday.

Sunday we were up early, walked to the bus depot and made the journey home. On the ferry while Mom and were sitting in seats reading we noticed that a group of people had gathered around us. Through the window we saw the fins of a whale disappearing below the waves. I later heard there were a couple of whales playing by the ferry.

We had a great time and the weather for us was sunny yet cold. I am glad to be home though and it is time for getting back to life.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill,Royal BC Museum,Empress Hotel,Bard&Banker,Afternooon Tea,George Vancouver,HMS Discovery,Inn at Laurel Point

2009 Right Around the Corner

2008-12-18T10:15:00.000-08:00

I have to admit that I have not been the most conscientous poster with my blogs but I am going to try to change that in 2009. But that is not the reason I am writing today.

This time of year always gets me to thinking. Some people make New Year's resolutions and although I make plans, I dislike calling them resolutions because those usually get broken. So I am going to share some of my plans with you.

In January I am going to start taking hypnotherapy not only to help in my never ending struggle with my weight but also so that I can become more committed to the things I have and want to do. I have talent and ideas now I am going to get more focused so watch out! Who knows where I will go with that final nudge.

Some don't believe that hypnotherapy can work but I think if a person approaches something like this with a positive attitude and really dedicates themselves to it then he or she will get something out of it. I am certain it will work for me so it will.

I have ordered two DVDs - one on beginning belly dancing and the other is a burlesque workout - that I want to use regularly to help me with the burlesque aerobics. I have to admit that I am not the most coordinated and it shows in class. With the extra instruction and practice I will get better faster. I also want to continue with my stretch and strength class once a week to help keep me limber. I had better pull out my Pilates DVDs too!

Promoting Karen Magill Writing Services is also on the top of my list of plans. I know that the promo writing for entertainers can be a very profitable business even in these economic times. I will also work a bit harder on getting my fiction books selling even if they have been out for a couple of years. A non fiction ebook I wrote entitled Destress Yourself, A Guide to Stress Management also needs to be promoted.

I have a lot to keep me busy this year what with getting my creative projects successful and losing weight. What about you? What plans do you have for 2009?

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill,Karen Magill Writing Services,resolutions,2009,Stress Management,ebook,hypnotherapy,weight loss,burlesque,bellydancing

Know it Alls

2008-11-17T14:52:00.000-08:00

Why do some people feel they have the right to tell others what to do? I run into that all the time and it is so annoying. Some feel that he or she has a duty I guess you would say to tell me how to live my life. I get told by some how to run my business and it doesn’t seem to matter that the person talking about it doesn’t have any experience with starting a business. Especially one that is as specialized as Karen Magill Writing Services is. After all I am writing promotional material for entertainers, in particular Canadian musicians. It takes a while to get going but it is something I can do with my disability.

Then there are those who inform me how to handle my credit card, how to spend my money, how I should be dressing etc. And even more astounding is that they think I am going to listen to them! I will consider it but if I am ordered to do something I won’t do it. That’s the Irish in me I guess. To be honest sometimes these friends are just lucky that I haven’t told them where to go.

I am forty-three years old and no longer a child. I make mistakes in my life and I have to live with the consequences. I feel that those who are telling me what to do probably do it out of love and think they are helping. But they aren’t. What is happening is that I am getting more stressed and dread calling or visiting the offending person.

Maybe if I didn’t share so much it would be easier. Then again maybe not. Some would intrude on my independence and tell me anyway. I know that I am not the only person in this world with that problem – there are people who think they know everything and what is best for someone else all over.

If everyone took a moment before speaking and thought about whether what they are saying is appropriate life would be a little easier. I think the temptation is that most of us want to help and we think we know the best way to do something. Even if we do know do we really have the right to impose our methods and opinions on someone else? No one has that right. I will think and do what I think is best for me. I may be wrong but then so be it.

Until the next time, I’ll be Dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill,Karen Magill Writing Services,Society,Child,adult,Drive

All this negativity!

2008-11-12T17:02:00.001-08:00

There is so much negativity in the world right now – more so than usual. People are getting laid off from their jobs; the government is spending millions and billions on bailing out companies; the future is so uncertain and it isn’t only happening in the US but also around the world. Here in Canada the government is spending money to help the banks and Canwest Global Communications Corp has announced it will be cutting jobs. A dire time indeed.

It could be good for some though. Those who are able to invest in the stock market, and want to, should. It may be a way to make a fortune later. Retailers may be lowering prices in an attempt to get consumers in. Larger ticket items may be easier to obtain as merchants struggle to survive and therefore offer great deals. For the smart shopper and those who are able to cut back on certain things, this time just may end up being a windfall for them.

Starting a new business right now could be a good idea. Or not depending on what the focus of your business is. I write promo for entertainers so I don’t know what is going to happen. I am just going to keep working at it and see what happens.

Although it may be difficult I think that a good way to get through tough times is to remember what we have to be thankful for. I found a site where people list five things they are happy about every day. Doesn’t that sound like an inspirational place to go? It is difficult to think of five things but I am hoping once I get into the habit of doing it the thoughts will flow. If you are interested go to butterbeehappy and take a look.

That’s all for now. Until next time, I’ll dancing on the drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill,layoff,Canada,Canwest,bailout

One of those Days

2008-11-08T18:20:00.000-08:00

Today was a typical fall day in Vancouver. It rained like crazy for a while. I had to go to a local mall and so I caught two buses to get there. I did my shopping then met up with a friend. On the way home I decided not to transfer buses, instead I got off and walked about three or four miles home. It was so nice to do!

The rain had stopped and the air was clear. Everything smells so clean after two days of rain. I strode with purpose, filling my lungs with the fresh air. I looked around almost as if I was seeing the scenery for the first time even though I have walked that route many times in the last few years. And when it started raining again I just pulled out my umbrella without a thought of catching a bus.

I love to walk and I am so glad that I live in a city as beautiful as Vancouver. This is a city that was made for walkers and cyclists and those who love nature. But along the route I see things that annoy me like garbage being left on the side of the road. Or little bags containing doggy doo-doo. It isn’t that difficult to carry the plastic bags to the garbage. If a person is going to have a dog then they have to be responsible. Picking up the waste is one thing but not if the person is going to leave it under a tree.

To be realistic I think that we are always going to have these problems. There will always be idiots that just throw the garbage anywhere they feel like it. It makes more work for those who live in the area but that is the way it is. I can still complain about it though.

Until the next time, I’ll be Dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Dogs,rain>,Vancouver

Why I am Taking Burlesque

2008-11-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to my burlesque aerobics class. It was a perfect fall evening for the approximately six block walk to class. The air was crisp and the sky clear. The lights of downtown sparkled with an intensity only seen when the atmosphere is just right. Nothing seemed dimmed or foggy last night.

To be honest with everyone I am not that good at the dance movements and I don’t know if I ever will be. I am not a coordinated person. Sometimes the frustration of never seeming to get it right wears on me and brings my mood down. Then the class isn’t as fun as I want it to be. That is when I have to remember why I am going.

I am not going to the class to become a top burlesque dancer. Even if I take the ‘Becoming Burlesque’ course, I am not aiming for that lofty goal. So I go for different reasons.

When I became disabled I also started to isolate myself. Not intentionally but that is the way it goes. I am home alone, I don’t go out much and spend a lot of time on the computer. When I do go out of the apartment I am usually wearing my iPod, which limits my interaction with others. For years I couldn’t go to venues because of sensitive hearing. And, of course, living on a fixed income means I don’t have an excess amount of money. It never bothered me though since I like my own company. I like being alone and I enjoy those I have met online. But eventually a person realizes that they are missing something since we are social creatures.

Burlesque affords me the opportunity to communicate with creative people and some of them may not be considered inside the ‘norm’ by many. That is perfect for me. Going to these classes also gives me some exercise. I socialize a bit, the people in attendance seem to be friendly and accepting. I will have to get more involved with the theatre and its programs in order to be truly part of it. In an effort to become more proficient at the dance moves I am considering taking extra classes on Thursday. Probably stretch and strength for the first little while. Maybe I might even become good at the dance, stranger things have happened.

I’ll let you know how everything goes. Until next time, I’ll be Dancing on the Drive. And at Burlesque class.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Burlesque,Socializing>,Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society

Doom and Gloom Everywhere

2008-10-28T17:26:00.001-07:00

I was reading an article online about how people are going to have to live on less and that wage increases as well as bonuses are not expected to be as high as in previous years. Okay I think that most of us are already aware of that so that didn’t come as a big surprise to me. The part that made me shake my head was the comments from other readers.

Those who answered seemed intent on pointing out how unfair it was that the CEOs and government officials are going to be making so much money while the average person is the one who will be struggling. I hear that every time there are financial problems in the world and it will usually be the middle class that suffers.

The wealthy have financial cushions in place; those on government assistance will be struggling the way they always have but they are assured of receiving income. It is those who are working and paying taxes that will have to pay. Those who are working are vulnerable to lay offs, businesses closing, higher taxes, raised costs to survive. It may not sound fair but it is the way it always has been. And, as always, we get through the tough times.

To live a financially healthy life some of us may have to cut back on the use of credit cards, wait a bit longer to get that new item or buy second hand. (Nothing wrong with buying used. I get some of my best items at a second hand store or things I have found and need a little work) We may consider taking alternative modes of transportation to work such as public transit or a bicycle; we will also look at pruning our entertainment budget. Don’t go out to the pubs as much or to the movies every week and most assuredly consider limiting the number of speciality coffees we buy. There are many ways that we can make little changes to our lives that will give us more money.

The best thing about this is that things will get better and we will survive the downward turn. All the gloom and doom talk may make for great headlines but don’t let it depress you. We have been through it before and we will go through it again. Just keep your wits about you and your spirits high.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, CEO,Government Officials,depress,taxes

Fall, Fall, Falling

2008-10-26T18:50:00.000-07:00

Fall, Fall, Falling

Today is one of those perfect autumn days. The air is crisp but not really cold; the sun is shining and nature is strutting her colours. It is one of those days that I feel happy to be alive, feel like I am part of the whole scheme of things.

Since everything looked so inviting I walked to Trout Lake Park where I could see nature in her finest. As soon as I entered the park, fallen leaves crunching beneath my sneakers, I felt light hearted. I smiled broadly at the older woman clutching a handful of perfect maple leaves and then nodded at the elderly couple sitting on a bench eating their lunch. A young man walked by focused on the book he was reading.

The foliage. I know every year someone says something about the colours of the leaves turning. How gorgeous it is, yada, yada, yada. But the reason it is commented on so often is because every year it is a sign of how wondrous nature is. Artists base the colour wheel on what our environment shows us. And can the earth ever do a fantastic job!

I was walking past an area where the trees were primarily gold and green yet amid those hues a crimson tree waved in the breeze. It was a delightful surprise, just the sort of thing I have come to expect on my walks through parks etc. Little joys like that that brighten my day.

Walking through the park, watching the dogs play in the water and listening to my iPod – I feel the stressors of life get shoved aside. For just a little while I don’t have to think about finances or the family arguments or trying to get my business going. For that short time I am walking I am part of something bigger than I am. And I am at peace.

Until the next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Trout Lake ,exercise,fall,Nature>,Stress

More Shaking Going On

2008-09-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

My second session of Burlesque Aerobics was last night and the hour was quite enjoyable. As long as I didn’t look at myself too closely in the mirror! For example, we were instructed to perform low kicks front and back. To help with maintaining balance our arms were to be extended in the opposite direction of our working leg. Yeah right.

It is difficult to get one part of my body moving as I want it to never mind getting two different parts to move in opposite directions. A person watching could tell the level of difficulty I was experiencing by the contortions of my face. Fortunately the other students seemed to be having a similiar level of difficulty so there was a lot of laughter. I do have a high level of respect for Melody and her ability. The time and dedication she must put into her craft is admirable. Watching her helps me to see what I can, hopefully, achieve.

The classes are small – only three students last night – so it is impossible for me to hide in the crowd. Like I usually do in exercise classes. But that should work to my advantage since I am forced to come out of my shell. Forced to realize that I don’t have to execute each move perfectly because others aren’t either. By forcing myself to observe others and not be so centered on how I can’t get it right, I become aware that the other students in the class are struggling as well. I’m not the only one and that is a relief to know. We are all trying our hardest.

The Burlesque Aerobics is teaching me different ways to move my body and I am using muscles I don’t usually. I am learning dance steps that have been passed down through the ages and I am learning not to be embarrassed about my lack of coordination. I am also coming to the realization that I don’t have to be self conscious about the fact that I am overweight. My body is beautiful and I do realize I have to lose weight but it isn’t going to happen overnight. I’m working on it and learning to love the body I have with all its faults.

Fitness, learning a new skill, laughter, meeting new people and above all, having fun. What more could I ask of an hour on a Monday night?

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Burlesque,exercise,dance,self esteem>,Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society

Shake It Baby!

2008-09-09T12:50:00.001-07:00

On season one of America’s Got Talent, there was a burlesque dancer by the name of Michelle L'Amour. I loved her two acts and found them to be entertaining and not in the least offensive. Then on an episode of VH1’s Rock of Love 2 with Bret Michaels, Bret and three of his prospective love interests visit a burlesque club. My interest was piqued. In May I happened to run into someone from the Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society, a local burlesque group and although my interest was increasing, I didn't do anything about it. Until last night.

Last night I attended a Burlesque aerobics class and what a blast! This session was dedicated to the history of this type of dance and our instructor, Melody Mangler, led her students through numerous movements including some from belly dancing, 20’s flapper moves, bump and grind and can-can just to name a few. Anyone who thinks this is easy, that anyone can do it has got another think coming.

Here’s a test. Stand in front of a mirror and move your torso from side to side. Not your hips and not your shoulders, just the torso. Or ladies, stand straight and, as Rusty Warren used to say ‘knockers up’. Push those breasts out without using your shoulders. In other words don’t throw your shoulders back but project the girls. It isn’t easy. Not even the jutting hip movements are as easy as they look. Believe me.

To be honest I was a bit self conscious. I have never been coordinated and I am about forty pounds overweight. I felt like I was a big mess but talking with the other ladies after, my concerns vanished. We were laughing about how each of us had difficulty getting the movements right – everyone except Melody of course – and I realized that it didn’t matter. No one was judging me and we were all there for the same reason – to get some exercise and have fun.

Initially I was just going to go twice a month but after last night I am rearranging my budget and schedule so that I can go every week. I am also interested in taking the more in depth course, ‘Becoming Burlesque’ but that will have to wait until more funds are available, my weight is down some and I am certain that I am going to stick with this. I’ll tell you if I have as much fun every time as I did last night, I have found a new passion. I'll keep you updated.

Til next time, I'll be Dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Burlesque,exercise,dance,Michelle L'Amour>,Screaming Chicken Theatrical Society

Life is what it is

2008-04-02T16:29:00.001-07:00

This was going to be an entry dealing with another walk around a part of Vancouver. (Dorothy tells me she misses those stories.) I started out on my walk today and took notes and tried to see everything going on around me. But as I was walking along Victoria Drive and looking at the mountains basking in the sunshine another thought occurred to me and I realized I had something else to say today.

Most of us have heard the saying ‘everything happens for a reason’. Or ‘it will all work out in the end’. When a person is going through a diagnosis of a serious disease or dealing with the death of a loved one or any other negative influence in our life, he or she does not want to hear either of those sayings or anything like them. It doesn’t help. But after some time has passed most people will see that those sayings have lasted for so long because they are true.

It is almost eight years since I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Initially I was relieved at hearing that, after so many years of no one knowing why all these weird things are happening to me, there was finally an answer. I felt like tracking down every doctor I had ever had that had told me that there was nothing wrong or that it was all in my head and faxing them a copy of the neurologist’s report. Of course I didn’t. Then the reality of the disease hit and I had some pretty dark days. Especially when I was placed on disability.

I had tried for over a year to get a job with the Canadian government and now, in a little over a year, it was over. I felt desperate. I felt like my life had ended, that there was nothing more I could look forward to. Was I ever wrong!

There is so much more to my life than just my job. Now I write and although my financial situation isn’t as good as it would be if I were still a government employee, I am getting by. I know that I have to use my brains and an entrepreneurial spirit if I want to get more material things in life. MS is a pain and the uncertainty of the disease, of never knowing what could happen tomorrow, is stressful but life is uncertain. Things could always be worse.

A few years ago I was devastated when I was diagnosed with extrinsic allergic alveolitis – a rare and potentially fatal allergy to my pet birds. (I had three cockatiels at the time.) When I was informed of the diagnosis, I burst into tears and swore that I wouldn’t get rid of the birds. I was ready to die first. But sanity intervened and my mother helped me to get the local bird sanctuary to pick up the birds then had my entire apartment cleaned. I had to spend a week in hospital on oxygen and prednisone. I am not allowed to be anywhere near any birds of the parrot family since it could cause permanent lung damage or death.

It hurt to go home and not have my babies there. Yet when the heat in my apartment broke down a winter later and the management was unable to fix it, I was glad that the birds weren’t there since there is a good chance the loss of heat would have killed them. Another positive aspect of this ordeal was that I was able to make the decision to get off of most of my medications.

A woman I used to work with contacted me through Facebook and she seems very happy. Her and her husband now have two children, have done a lot of traveling and have a nice home. I am happy for her but it got me thinking about how my life could have been. Would I trade my life now for what may have been?

HELL NO!

What happens in the future is in my hands. I may not have that security but I have more freedom. I don’t think I would have chosen for my life to take this route but it did. And did it work out for the best? In some ways it has. Did it all work out in the end? I don’t know. The end isn’t here yet.

Until the next time I'll be dancing on the drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, cockatiels, life

ACHIEVE YOUR DREAMS

2007-12-27T17:33:00.000-08:00

"Every step I take brings me closer to the realization of my dreams” until you understand its powerful message. - Judi Moreo You Are More Than Enough Achievement Journal.

At this time of year many of us sit back and take stock of their lives. We may take an inventory on how close we are to the realization of our dreams.

I like to make a list of how my life is better. For example. At this time last year I was living in an apartment without heat. (It had broken down a month previous) I was suffering from a broken rib and wondering where I was going to find the money to move.

A year later I am in an apartment with heat, even if it is electric and I have to pay for it, the place is bigger than where I was before and has a great view. I don't have anything broken! My MS is stable and likely to stay that way.

My two fiction books may not be top sellers but I am working on other areas of my writing career. I am taking a course in direct mail copywriting and learning about desktop marketing and catalog writing. I am also working on an ebook and a non fiction book about my first seven years with MS. I think I'll be busy this next year!

But that's great. I am confident that I will get ahead in this industry, you just watch me.

Happy New Year and may all your dreams come true.

To learn more about accomplishing your dreams, read what writer Judi Moreo has to say. http://www.judimoreo.com/.

Judi will be on a virtual tour with Pump Up Your Book Promotion in January.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, multiple sclerosis, dreams, goals,

Interview with C.J. Maxx

2007-08-30T09:02:00.000-07:00

Today the Let Us Play blog is honored to welcome erotic romance author, C.J. Maxx.

Welcome C.J., thank you for including me on your blog tour.

Thank you, Karen. I'm happy to be here to talk about my book, In the Arms of a Warrior.

What reaction do you get from people when they find out what you write?

The women's eyes light up and the men shrug their shoulders. I was amazed by that early on but now I understand. Not all women, by any means, but many of them are really into the more sensual stories.

Your website is www.cjmaxx.net and is there anywhere else readers can find you?

Yes, I have a blogspot, http://inthearmsofawarrior.blogspot.com for this novel. I'm also at www.myspace.com/cjmaxx-books and www.authorsden.com

What made you decide to go into this genre of writing?

I wrote a short story to help me write romantic scenes. I thought it was good but couldn't interest any publisher in it. I changed it and made it erotic and had three publishers interested. I found that I like writing explicit scenes. It was a challenge too, especially writing from both POVs. If you write it right, it will fire up your readers.

Tell us about your latest book.

In the Arms of a Warrior is about Susan Ambrose, a twenty-something divorcee from a military family. She's watched her father and her brother go off to war. She wants not part of it. She falls in love with the a lead engineer where she works thinking that he's the answer to her prayers. Although both work on a defense project she doesn't realize until it's too late, that this project will put him in danger. The characters are interesting. Susan is a strong-willed Army brat and David Wilson a rather shy, inexperienced man with a domineering anti-war mother. In the beginning he's not your typical romance hero. Their relationship hits a few bumps in the road before love blossums. The twists and turns of the story will keep the reader interested.

How many books do you have published right now?

This is my first book that's available in print. I have a contemporary erotic romance novella, Sex in the Captial, that's available from Mardi Gras Publishing with the second in the series, Sex in the Capital II, being released on September 1. I also have a fantasy erotic novella titled Coming Back a Virgin available from Whiskey Creek Press-Torrid. The novellas are all e-books.

Where is the best place for readers to buy your masterpieces?

In the Arms of a Warrior can be purchased in its print version from http://amazon.com or any online bookseller. It can also be ordered from your local bookstore. My e-books from Mardi Gras can be ordered from http://mardigraspublishing.com. Coming Back a Virgin can be ordered from www.whiskeycreekpresstorrid.com.

Is there any message you want to get across? Now is the time to tell it.

Obviously, I want readers to buy my books. On my websites they can find several excerpts from each, both mild and explicit. They won't be disappointed.

Thank you for visiting Let Us Play. All the best with your literary career and in life.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, C.J.Maxx erotic romance author, Pump Up Your Book Promotion,In The Arms Of A Warrior,,

Interview with P.G. Forte!

2007-08-15T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today I would like to welcome author PG Forte to the Let Us Play blog. It is a treat to have you here.

Thank you Karen. It's a real pleasure visiting with you.

Tell us about your latest work?

Waiting for the Big One was my first foray into writing erotic romance. It's short, it's sweet...er, in a spicy-steamy, fantasy-menage sort of way. Set in Los Angeles--where everyone is waiting for the big one in some fashion or another--it's the story of one woman's quest for true love and ultimate pleasure.

I only hope it's as much fun to read as it was to write--because I had a blast. Gabby (my heroine) is practically a walking-talking blonde joke. She's innocent, a little naive, very sexy and she definitely gets to have waaaay more fun than the poor heroine of the book I wrote immediately prior to this one.

The heroes aren't bad either. Two gorgeous men. Whew!

What inspired you to write it?

So many things, really. It was first written for a Zodiac contest--hence the huge emphasis on Astrology that has so confounded a couple of the reviewers. I'd just finished writing a very long, very dark romantic suspense novel and frankly, I needed a break. Plus I'd only recently moved back to California and I think I wanted to write something that would embody the giddy pleasure I was feeling about being back 'home'.

I know you write erotica but do you write in any other genres?

Yep. A whole bunch, actually. Sometimes all at once--lol! Paranormal Romance, Romantic Comedy, Romantic Suspense, Psychic Fiction, Women's Fiction, Chick Lit.

I really like to mix and match so the lines between the genres can get a little blurry at times. For instance, one of my works in progress is am historical erotic paranormal romance.

Frankly, that's one of the things I like best about e-publishers they mostly let you get away with being as trans-genre as you like.

If you do write in other genres, do you have a favorite?

Ooh, picking favorites, that's always hard. And, honestly, I think it depends a lot on the kind of mood I'm in. But, if I have to choose...I'd say I really enjoy writing erotic contemporary and I really enjoy writing romantic comedy and if I can put the two together, I'm one happy writer.

What got you into writing erotica?

I was pushed. lol! My critique partners ganged up on me and made me do it. Hmm...wonder if I've thanked them for that lately?

Your tagline – PG is a name not a rating – is well thought out. Did you come up with it? Did you decide to use the initials PG for this purpose or have you always been known by that?

Yes, actually I did come up with it--more or less in self defense. I'd been using my initials ever since I started writing a looong time ago. It wasn't until I started posting excerpts of my erotic romance on various lists that it became apparent that I was confusing everybody: "This is a PG excerpt...except it's not really PG. I mean, it is, in a way. It's by PG but it's also...adult."

Well, you get the idea.

What are your future plans?

Well, Waiting for the Big One is actually the first in a series. Liquid Silver has already picked up the second book, Love, From A to Z and I'm hoping they'll want the third, Let Me Count the Ways (which I've just finished writing) as well.

I also have another eight books in various stages of planning. Details and excerpts are available on my website http://www.pgforte.com

Plus, I'm hoping to announce the re-release of my Oberon series later this year.

Thank you for visiting my blog. All the best in the future.

Thank you so much. It's been great.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, P.G. Forte erotic romance author, Pump Up Your Book Promotion,Waiting For The Big One,,

Sandy Lender Doesn't Recommend Quitting Your Day Job Or...the joy and insanity of being a writer

2007-07-20T21:45:00.000-07:00

By Sandy Lender, fantasy author

Northeast Missouri State University, now Truman University, prides itself on offering a liberal arts education to graduates. I got out in four years with a degree in English and a liberal arts education that has garnered me a 15-year career in magazine publishing and public relations/marketing, but my true passion, the "career" I've nurtured since I was about six years old, is writing. And I don't mean journalism. Yes, journalism and editing are what have paid the bills the past 15 years (and will continue to do so), but fiction writing...oh...fiction writing is what has kept me alive.

It's probably going to be the death of me.

Let me explain. If you're visiting this site, you've probably been drawn here by an interest in books or authors or a writer's lifestyle or something along those lines. Let me give it to you straight. All writers have a touch of insanity about us (this is normal). We usually carry a muse around with us, but this is not always by choice. We complain about characters fighting for their rights, refusing to conform to our wishes in a scene. We go on writing binges that keep us up until 3 a.m. before collapsing next to our computers just to get up and start typing again when the sun blazes in to wake us around 7, skipping meals, showers, potty breaks and phone calls until some aspect of reality forces us out of the writing cocoon. We will tear a room to shreds looking for a pen if an idea has just struck us. And woe to the fool who gets between us and a piece of paper when we get hold of that pen...

Because I've experienced the insanity described above, I've been lifted up by hearing stories of people who have enjoyed my first published novel, Choices Meant for Gods. Now I get to read comments on my Amazon.com page of people claiming Nigel Taiman is "by far" their favorite character, or "I want to be just like Chariss when I grow up," and I feel this lump of pride in my darlings rise in my throat.

That's the joy and insanity of being a writer. You pour your heart and soul into the work; and pray that someone out there likes it, too. Now here's the hard part. People have to read it to like it. They have to know it exists to read it. So you have to get it to them.

Enter the marketing and promoting aspect of the new author's job. I attended the ArcheBooks Publishing's Professional Novelist Workshop about two weeks before receiving my contract for Choices Meant for Gods, and had attended the Naples Press Club Writers Workshop the week before that, so I thought I had a pretty good idea of the marketing nightmare new authors faced. I was ready. Lay it on me, I thought.

Now I'm on the last day of a two-month online book tour I organized myself, contemplating repeating a moderately successful instore book signing at the local Barnes & Noble that I organized myself, and managing six blogs (including www.todaythedragonwins.blogspot.com) for the promotion of my fantasy novel that I've organized myself, preparing a spate of press releases I've written myself that I'll spew forth like water from an erupting sprinkler next week, etc. Do you see a trend there?

New authors are on their own. Unless you have the few thousand dollars it takes to hire a publicity firm/PR agency to send out press releases for you, you're on your own. I don't have a few thousand stray dollars and I don't trust people who charge less than professional rates to do a professional job.

I take hope in the fact that even J.K. Rowling was once in the same boat I'm in now. She was down to her last food stamp as the story goes when that fateful call came: Her little story about a boy named Harry Potter had been picked up. I've already had my call. Choices Meant for Gods is published and out there. Now I need my lottery winning event to propel me into J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter status, but, for right now, I'm going to just keep writing deep into the night and reading those fabulous e-mails that praise Nigel and Chariss. Because making a living at this would be nice, but, truly, the writing binges that result in someone singing Chariss's praises are the real joy and insanity of being a writer.

I'd like to thank my host today for posting this guest blog article. And I'd like to thank everyone who made the CMFG Online Book Tour the raging success it's been. You know that paragraph above where I said new authors are on their own? I'd like to correct that. We actually have each other. Without each of you, the name Sandy Lender wouldn't be all over the internet right now, and readers wouldn't be one click away from http://www.amazon.com/Choices-Meant-Gods-Sandy-Lender/dp/1595071652/ref=dp_return_1/104-9089752-5140754?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books&qid=1175821346&sr=8-1 to pick up my epic fantasy novel. And new author Sandy Lender is grateful to every one of you.

"Some days, I just want the dragon to win."

Tags: sandy lender, fantasy author, northeast missouri state university, truman university, liberal arts, journalism, fiction writing, writer's life, muse, choices meant for gods, nigel taiman, marketing and promotion, archebooks publishing, professional novelist workshop, naples press club, online book tour, today the dragon wins, fantasy novel, j.k. rowling, harry potter

MS and Trout

2007-07-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been here lately. I have had my mind on other things.

Saturday was the annual MS family picnic. I wasn't going to go because it is just me. It would be too much of a hassle for my parents to get there and I don't have a family of my own. But a friend was going and suggested I meet her there. So I did.

I left my apartment and began walking along Victoria Drive. Past the old houses, the park that is being torn up and redone - who knows how? - past Broadway until I got to 15th and Victoria. I saw a lake so I asked someone if that was Trout Lake. They affirmed it was so I walked into that area. In the parking lot I could see that the Farmer's Market was going on but that wasn't why I was here.

Not really sure of where the picnic was being held, I just began to walk. The branches of the weeping willows brushed the grass beneath them and I thought 'what a peaceful sight that is!'.

People lounged everywhere it seemed - taking advantage of the summer sun. Dogs romped in the grass. I saw one small dog with long hair that looked like it was sweeping the dusty trail ahead of me. I looked at an apartment in this area but it was too small and was atop a hill. It was nice though and being so close to Trout Lake would have been nice. But I can walk it from where I am now.

I walked around a bend and came upon a beach that was filled with people. I smiled as I watched a mother chase her toddler son who wore nothing but 'crocs' on his feet. She caught him and wrapped him in a towel while he giggled merrily. Then I saw the red and white awnings of the MS Society.

Even though I hadn't registered, I was welcomed by the organizers. They helped me find my friend and I sat with her awhile, watching the kids participate in games. Food galore! Sandwiches, croissants, chips, beverages and watermelon was spread out for the taking. Then, at the end of the picnic, goodie bags with McDonald cookies, granola bars, suckers and coupons for small fries at McDonalds were given out. Because not everyone had shown, I even got a bag.

The great thing about gatherings like this is that it gives people with MS a chance to get together in a social setting. It also helps the newly diagnosed as they can ask people that have been living with the disease for a long time. Perhaps we can help with some of the uncertainty that comes with this disease. Maybe not. But at least they can ask.

I walked around the park on my way home. I saw a man writing furiously in a hardcover notebook. Wonder what he is writing? Is it the next great novel or just his thoughts? That's his business, none of mine.

Someday I will go back and do a blog on nothing but that park. It was peaceful and very well maintained.

Until the next time I'll be dancing on the Drive.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Commercial Drive paranormal romance writer, Trout Lake,MS Society,weeping willows,, exercise,

The Birthday Celebration!

2007-07-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

Today I went back to the racetrack because they were celebrating their birthday. It started yesterday, Canada Day.

A contest to win two tickets to Mountainfest which is a country music festival in Merritt, BC. Hot dogs, french fries, pop, programs - all for a dollar! And the line up to get food was LONG! I stood on a balcony from the second floor and watched the people below me for a while. I love standing there with my little notebook, observing people and the surroundings. I get lost in my own little world.It is quite easy to do when I am standing with the sun beating down on me and a light breeze cooling my overheated skin.

A young clown was sitting on an undersized bicycle near the bandstand where people were setting up for the upcoming entertainment. At least I thought it was a clown - striped socks, big shoes, overalls and a bowler hat. But the person's back was to me and I think I caught glimpses of makeup but who knows?

I wandered inside for a little while and there, in the Diamond Club and the George Royal Room is where the serious business takes place. TV monitors with races from other places - though there was one that showed the greens at Hastings - wickets where a person can place bets and, if you would rather not go there, there were what looked to be like computer monitors and people were doing something there. So few people smiled at me I didn't want to get too close and disturb them.

In the George Royal Room it was quieter though gambling was obviously a matter here too. People walked on carpeted floors, sat eating at tables. Here is where to get alcohol. A door at the opposite end of the room was open, letting the summer sunshine in. And the smokers out for a quick puff.

If a visitor isn't sure on how to place a bet or doesn't really understand the system, there was a wagering information booth set up just inside the open gates. Gates that had large maple leaves on them in recognition of our nation's birthday yesterday.

I was back out on the balcony, watching people come up the stairs when a lady began to speak to me. She told me she was eighty-two and then started to talk about the horses. And the odds and things I had no knowledge off. We could see the horses in the upcoming race being paraded around a paddock. Some appeared more docile than others but I don't think that matters. It is how they run that does.

The music started. The visitors to the track were treated to the sounds of Royalty Records recording artist Amber Nicholson. And what a treat! I only heard two songs, both from her upcoming release 'Places We Go Through', but I really liked what I heard. The beat was good, the lyrics catchy and Nicholson's voice was strong.

Then they were off! The horses started to run. Watching them at the other side of the track they looked like brown streaks with flashes of color in between. (The racing silks of the jockeys and the cloth the number of the horse was on) In no time at all, they came to the finish line. Congratulations to Alpine Lass and jockey Pedro Alvarado for the win. Alpine Lass is owned by Peter Redekop BC and trained by Toni Cloutier with Mark Cloutier assisting.

See what information a person can get from the program? Good buy. At least Alpine Lass was the winner when I left a few moments after the race.

I haven't walked through the park lately and was missing it. So I wandered over to the bridge. I crossed it then walked down the path. I saw my favorite sax player, entertaining the wildlife again. So I stopped to watch him - after turning off my music. Once he finished, we talked a bit then I went on my way so he could finish playing.

It was a beautiful way to spend some time on a gorgeous day like today.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Commercial Drive paranormal romance writer, Amber Nicholson Hastings Racecourse,Mountainfest, Merritt,

Today's the Day

2007-06-26T16:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, nothing special for anyone else but it is my birthday and I am sitting at home taking stock of my life. What I wanted to accomplish and what I have. At the ripe old age of forty-two. Lots to do yet.

I ventured out this morning and went to Safeway. I needed diet pop for mix and I wanted to get a little cake. I picked up a piece of tiramisu and the bottom opened on the package. So I told the man behind the counter then I said I would take the container it fell on, also tiramisu. He gave me a sizable discount on the package and all he had to do was wipe off the other tiramisu. Good thing I like tiramisu.

The day I discovered tiramisu is a day that I will always remember. I had taken a friend of mine out for dinner to celebrate his December 1 birthday. We went to a seafood restaurant in Calgary and he was tickled pink as they say. I even arranged for the waiter to deliver a little bottle of champagne with ballons on it as they delivered his dessert. They sung happy birthday to him and he called me a b. Much to the shock of the biker types sitting at the next table. But he had ordered tiramisu and once I had a taste of it, he was lucky to be able to finish his dessert. I loved it!

After I left Safeway, a man approached me and said that I certainly was perfect. Across the buttocks of my shorts, it reads perfect. He then gave me a business card and asked for my phone number. I didn't give it, I rarely ever do. But that is good for the ego.

I continued to walk along the Drive until I got to the liquor store. Can't have a birthday celebration without alcohol! LOL

Then it was home. I got on the computer and answered a few emails. But my birthday isn't boring. I ordered pizza and I have a fine selection on television tonight - America's Got Talent; 48 Hours Mystery; NCIS; Law & Order SVU; the list goes on. Plus I have my own DVDs and videos.

Yeah, many would not like my birthday celebration but I enjoy it and that's all that counts. I just had a phone call from my older brother who is always good to hear from. Pizza, booze and good viewing. What more can I ask for? Okay lots but I will take the blessings I have! LOL

Until the next time, I'll be Dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Commercial Drive paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,birthday,pizza,1920, Safeway, brother,

Saturday on the Drive

2007-06-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

I had a tough night last night, didn’t sleep well and was in pain, so I decided this morning when I got up that I wasn’t going to go for my daily walk. But then I started to watch a couple of Bon Jovi Videos at www.bonjovi.com and suddenly felt like getting out of this apartment. See? Not only is great music but also it entices me to exercise! What more can a person ask from a band? LOL.

So out I went with Bon Jovi playing on my music player, of course. I started a relaxing stroll down the Drive. It was that kind of day, that kind of attitude there today. A young couple at a sidewalk café, huddled close as they worked on a crossword puzzle; lots of dogs being walked; people ambling along; the fresh fruit and vegetable stands doing a booming business. ‘Spoons’, a man who plays a set of spoons, was outside the liquor store banging out a tune for everyone in the hopes of spare change.

Dolce Amore was quiet at this hour but it would soon get busy. After all they sell some of the best gelato and ice cream around. I stopped to look at the new window display at Banshee women’s clothing. It’s always so interesting to gaze at the clothes – the displays are done so well.

I smile at most everyone I pass and some smile back. Others don’t. But I got a really nice smile from a couple eating Mexican food and looking out the window at Red Burrito. They must have been enjoying the food. A couple of blocks later, a trio outside a coffee shop stopped me to talk about my tshirt. I was wearing a black David Bowie concert shirt. It is old! The man told me that he had a dream where David had spoke to him at length. There could be worse people to connect with.

I fell in love with an embroidered hat that a man was selling on the sidewalk. He had his wares spread out on a blanket at the side. Alas, I didn’t have any money so I would lose out on that hat. Oh well, ‘dem’s the breaks’.

Originally I had planned on walking on the other side of the Drive back home but instead I turned off on one of the other streets. This was my day for plans gone awry. Here were homes with splendid gardens – a multitude of colors and aromas to please the senses. Older homes that are well taken care of are mixed with newer structures.

Near the top of a hill, I stopped. There was a jewel of a home. As I stood there taking notes on what to say about it, two gentlemen who had been standing nearby approached me to see what I was doing. I handed them business cards and explained I was a writer, blogging on Vancouver. Then the lady of the house came out. She was friendly and full of information.

The outside of the block style building had been finished in a procedure called plaster keystone that was quite popular in Italian designed homes. And this house was built by Mr. Alonzo who worked on the seawall in Stanley Park and did some work for Mrs. Rogers of Roger’s Sugar

This dark taupe colored home was built in 1920 and stands on a double lot. The front gate is flanked by two Grecian style urns and an iron fence. Cream colored tiles provide accents and help the home appear too austere. The shrubbery and flowers spilled over the fence, giving the owners privacy and adding to the appeal of the home.

The second floor balcony is rimmed by an intricate wrought iron railing. There is stained glass insets near the door. This four bedroom home is a beauty and will be even more outstanding in about five weeks when the renovations are completed.

But it was almost lost. The owner was telling me that when she and her husband were bidding on it there was someone else interested. Someone who wanted to tear it down and erect two places on that lot. More money and maintaining upkeep on these old homes is expensive. I understand the logic but it still pains me whenever I see a newly open lot. That means a piece of our history is gone.

I said goodbye to the woman and continued on my walk. Perhaps one entry will be just on some of the unique homes in this area. I walked along the concrete, gazing at the houses and lost in my own thoughts. Then I was walking through a garden it seemed.

Flanking me on both sides was an array of foliage and flowers. White, pink and yellow roses mixed with lavender and other blooms. Sorry, I don’t what they were but there was purple and bright pink and darker pink and the green of shrubs and trees. For the length of one lot, I was transported out of the city’s gray jungle and into a wonderland of nature.

I did find out about a great Italian deli though. For those of you in Vancouver, try Ranzullo's Food Market at 1370 Nanaimo.

Until the next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Commercial Drive paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,plaster keystone,Roger's Sugar,1920, Ranzullo Food Market, roses,

Case In Point

2007-06-21T20:47:00.000-07:00

Remember yesterday when I spoke about attitude and how it can help a person in life? Last night I met up with two people that had such a great outlook, were two rays of sunshine. I couldn't help smiling while the young woman was talking to me.

I had gone for another walk - down Commercial Drive and back up along Victoria Drive. Just before I got to my street, I saw this young couple - a fair haired woman and a slight, darker skinned man. She stopped me to ask for change: I had none but I wished her luck. She then engaged me in a conversation that still stands in my memory.

She thanked me for stopping and being so nice about it. She dislikes having to ask because she say they don't need much, just the necessities that at this present time they are unable to obtain. she told me how I had such a mothering spirit and she could tell that by looking at me.

These two don't want to take anything from anyone unless it is given freely.They don't want anyone to feel bad about giving to them or to have to give up something. When I complimented her on her outfit - a form fitting black and white tshirt with a dark red long figure hugging skirt and boots - she proceeded to tell me how she used to be skinny but she had put on about twenty pounds. And she was happy with that. Women are supposed to have curves and bumps.

I think she would have gone all night but her companion whispered in her ear that they had to go. With a wave she informed me that they would get everything they needed because I had wished them luck. I continued on my way thinking that I really had a knack for attracting the weirdoes! But I was smiling affectionately throughout the conversation and this young woman made me feel good.

That is something to be admired. That a person who is down on their luck and has to stop strangers for money can be so happy. Some will say that she isn't working and just being a bum but I don't know that. I know that this woman, with her seemingly simple view of the world, brightened my evening. Some may say she is naive and she probably is. But may the powers that be look out for her because it was so nice to talk to someone with such a sparkling view of the world.

Tomorrow my blog stop will be at the The Boomer Chick. See ya there!

Until the next time I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Victoria Drive paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,attitude,Over The Hill Chick,

What Right Do I Have?

2007-06-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

I was walking down Hastings Street the other day – dancing and singing like I usually do. I smiled at people that passed me because I do that too. One man approached me so I turned off the music and he commented that I was pretty happy. I said ‘of course, why shouldn’t I be?’ Which brings up a valid point.

Looking at my life, I see very little reason to be unhappy. Yes I have multiple sclerosis and walk with a cane but I could be a lot worse. I am able to walk after all. I don’t have a lot of money but I could have a lot less too. I make do with what I have. I have a roof over my head, food in the fridge and am able to afford a few extras.

At almost forty-two I am single. I have never been married nor do I have any children. Some may look at that as a negative but I have full control over the TV remote! I can do what I want, when I want. Eat what I like and keep the hours I want. Of course, I will have to make adjustments if I ever do get romantically involved with someone but life is all about change.

That isn’t to say that I am happy at all times because I am not. When I got the news a short time ago that I may be borderline diabetic, it did upset me. Yet once I calmed down and thought about it I realized that all that meant was that it was time for a lifestyle change. And I was making those changes gradually so no biggie. I wasn’t borderline diabetic; my glucose levels are just a bit high so make those changes!

Life isn’t perfect all the time but we all have the choice on how we deal with it. And by putting on a happy face and trying to be cheerful, I find it easier to deal with the harder things in my life. Of course a little Bon Jovi helps too. (The music I mean!)

Everyone has the right to be happy yet remember that a lot of that is within your own control. Life isn't fair, it never has been. How you react to circumstances and events is what will usually determine your level of happiness.

Tomorrow my blog stop will be at Author Talks.

Until the next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Hastings Street paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,happiness,multiple sclerosis,Bon Jovi,

Off To The Races!

2007-06-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Today when I went for my walk through Hastings Park, I took a little detour and went over to the racetrack. Horse racing that is.

I entered through the east entrance by the paddocks and was immediately struck by how quiet it was. Racing is only held on Saturdays, Sundays and, in July, Friday afternoons. So today it was peaceful. The sun shone on the seemingly immaculate grounds. And it did seem remarkably clean. A fine place for such a noble sport as horse racing.

Just beneath the empty stands, I saw a few workmen taking a break. I inhaled deeply but instead of the scent of freshly turned earth or horse, the sharp sting of tar assailed my nostrils. I later discovered that the roof was being repaired.

I looked beyond this serene setting and watched the vehicles of city life speed over the far off bridges. Yet they seemed so far away. The mountains seemed even larger than usual and were protecting us. I sighed; all this beauty is overwhelming at times.

At the front entrance, a very helpful receptionist gave me some background information. This is actually Hastings Entertainment Inc. and the track was built in 1907. In fact, on July 1 and 2, they are having a party to celebrate their birthday. Looks like fun, I'll have to try to attend and then blog so I can tell you all about it.

There is history at that place, I could feel it as I stood by the paddocks and looked over the oval. What must it have been like in the early nineteen hundreds? Was it like something in the movies with the women in the fancy dresses and the men all in suits? If I closed my eyes, I could see them sitting them in the stands and by the track. I could hear the cheers, the hoofs pounding; smell the dirty and the sweat.Or did my imagination just take me on a fanciful journey? on a day as sunny and warm as today - who cares?

Tomorrow I will be at guest at Mary Emma's Potpourri of Writing. So stop in and see what we talked about. It was fun!

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Hastings Entertainment Inc.,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,1907,

Go Play in the Street

2007-06-17T20:39:00.000-07:00

Today was Car Free on Commercial Drive so from East 1st to Venables, it was blocked off to traffic. Instead there were tents and tables and people strolling along the Drive. The atmosphere was festive even if the sky was dark.

I got there early, about 11:30am. I didn’t realize that everything didn’t actually start until noon so I wandered around and watched the set up. But even that early I smelled the food.

Hot dogs were plentiful and if that was your choice of food, it was available at numerous stops. Stella’s had lamb and salmon dogs for a change. The Portuguese Club showed their old world influence as they barbecued sardines over a barbecue made from a severed metal drum. The chicken turned on a large metal apparatus. Juicy Lucy’s had healthy fair with fruit juice and heart smart sandwiches, Stormin’ Norman’s Spirit Grill tempted the palate with organic beef burgers, buffalo burgers and mixed wild burgers. Then Roma Sports Bar had Veal sandwiches and B.Q. sausage. Tony’s Market advertised grilled Panini. Falafels, samosas, souvlaki – all were available if you just looked. My stomach rumbled, my mouth salivated but, believe it or not, I managed to resist. I don’t know how.

This was the time for political expression as well. A parade of people dressed in black, mourning clothes, beat a drum and marched solemnly down the Drive. They carried placards protesting the port expansion and escorted a casket on a trolley. A large, air filled creature dominated an intersection and it had a sign on it that said ‘Marmot against highway expansion’. Tables are set up for the anti poverty group, aids awareness, environmental groups, political parties – everyone is to have their say. And it all fits in with the day.

I stopped in at Britannia Centre and checked their message board. Britannia Centre is a focal point of Commercial Drive. It consists of an elementary school, a secondary school, an ice skating rink, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a sports field, a senior’s center, a childcare center, racquetball courts, public library and an administration office. An open area with a carved bench – and metal ones – willowy trees leads into the Britannia Centre. Flanked by two health food stores, this area is set up today with a temporary stage and chairs. I walked up to the table where two women stood, curious to see what it was all about. Vocal storytelling, a treasured art.

Back on the Drive I went and sidestepped away from a volunteer in costume carrying a donations bucket. Further on there were more people in costume carrying musical instruments. Kids in Grandview Park had their face painted or paid tribute to their fathers. Deep in the park, the drums of an aboriginal dance pounded. I walked closer and watched the dancers for a while. I hope they weren’t doing a rain dance!

Brightly colored hula-hoops whirled and strange looking bicycles wove through the pedestrians. The front of these contraptions was elongated, much like the motorbikes you see. Ah! They are getting ready for the chopper fest. Then there was this orange thing which was one bicycle attached atop of a lower one. The gentleman riding high wore a helmet and brightly colored jacket. He was having a blast as he streamed along the street.

I passed Abruzzo Cappuccino Bar where men were crowded around the entrance. I peeked around someone's shoulder and saw that they were watching some sort of sports. Remember a few entries back I mentioned that there was cafe featured on DaVinci's Inquest? This was it.

All too soon, I headed towards home and left the festivities behind me. But come July 22, 2007 it will all happen again and who knows what will be on the Drive then?

Until the next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Car Free Days,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,DaVinci's Inquest, Commercial Drive,Abruzzo Cappuccino Bar,Anti Poverty,Aids,Bryan Adams,Environmental,Britannia Centre,

The Journey to the Dentist

2007-06-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today I had to go to my dentist to get my broken filling fixed and, as my readers are finding out with me, anything I do is an adventure. An adventure that I share with whoever will listen.

So at 9:45am I left my apartment and began to walk towards the Broadway Skytrain station. I was listening to Danger Danger on my portable music player and, for some reason, thinking of the past. I was thinking of a singer, songwriter, musician I know named Paul Laine.

I first saw Paul at Canada Olympic Park in the early 1990s when he opened for The Pursuit of Happiness and Bryan Adams. What a show that was! It was a free concert, though it wasn't originally and it looked like it was going to rain all day. During Adams' encore, Summer of '69, the skies opened and the moisture soaked the concert goers. Lightening flashed yet Bryan kept singing until he was pulled off the stage. Until he was pulled off stage.

I wrote Paul a letter and a couple of months later I received a phone call from him. At this time I was writing on music and kept in touch with his management company. They told me at one time that Paul had left the music industry. I was horrified! I knew what part of the country of the country he came from so I began telephoning everyone with the same last name. I finally found someone related to him who gave me his phone number. It took me another week to get in touch with him. When I finally spoke with him, I was greatly relieved to discover he had NOT left the business. Anyone with that much talent should not let it go to waste. We stayed in touch for a while then lost track of each other. I was in touch with him a few months ago but again I don't know how to contact him. I wonder what he is doing and how is. I know I'll find him again.

So I got to the train station, paid for a day pass - it is a dollar cheaper than paying for a ticket both ways. I have to travel three zones. I board the Millenium line train and peer into people's back yards as the train whizzes by. Apartment buildings and business towers. Then we are pulling into Burnaby stops.

On my left I see the mountains, shrouded with the mist of clouds. Soon they are blocked again by buidings and the train pulls into Metrotown. Metropolis at Metrotown formerly known as Metrotown and some other things is a huge mall. It is the largest one in British Columbia and the second largest in Canada. Great if you like shopping - I rarely go there which tells you that shopping is not one of my favorite pasttimes!

Then we are off to New Westminster. One day I will have to go through New Westminster and blog about it. The Quay, Queens Park, the history etc. New Westminster was the first capital of British Columbia and has a lot of history. It also has a lot of hills! Bummer if you live there, which I did, on top of one of the hills.

The train travels by and the passengers can see the turrets of 'The Pen Cafe'. Or 'The Pen'. Named because the turrets are there from the old penitentiary that once stood where the cafe does now. I have to try it out sometime.

I get off at the Braid station and wait for my bus. Fortunately the wait isn't long and soon I see 'The French Quarter Pub', my old stomping grounds. When I first moved back from Alberta in 1996, I lived with my parents up the hill from there.

We travelled along Lougheed Highway and then came the majestic buildings and grounds of Riverview Hospital. That is mental Hospital by the way. It is not what it used to be. The rows of buildings no longer house a multitude of mental patients although my research shows that a few may be there. Now I think research is done there; filming for television and movies and this and that. The grounds were initially planted in 1913 and are as serene as the photos show they were on they day they were planted. It is a grand old place. I hope it stays and remains useful for quite some time to come.

Very soon I come to my final stop and a short walk later I am at my dentist's. It is now 11:30am. But for Dr. Ken Shimizu, I will travel this far and spend the extra bus fare.

I first met Dr.Shimizu when I broke a baby tooth in my early thirties. I didn't have a permanent tooth underneath it. He got a chuckle out of that but he was very considerate. Especially since I was unemployed and low on money. He gave me a deal on price and was gentle with the procedure. I continued to see him and he continued to be fair even when I got insurance. I was seeing him when I was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and he was supportive.I have never regretted having him as my dentist.

Today he xrayed the tooth. I thought I had just broke the filling but that isn't what happened. I fractured the entire tooth and it is a deep fracture. He froze the tooth, proceeded to fill it and put in a pin. He warned me I may have problems with it. He took so much care though, I didn't feel a thing. You know, he is the first dentist I have ever had that actually apologizes when something hurts? Even when it is due to my teeth being sensitive? You can't beat that type of consideration!

So I was fixed up and on my way home. I took a different train route so I could see different things. Didn't much different. New construction. Lots of businesses. The movie studios where I think Chronicles of Riddick with Vin Diesel was filmed. Not sure if that is where was though I do it was was filmed here. But the trained passed Bell, Staples, numerous restaurants, Rona, storage companies - this area is busy!

Today my blog stop is with the lovely and charming Dame Vanessa Charles at The Romantic Fanatic.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, The Pen,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,The Romantic Fanatic, Commercial Drive,New Westminster,Vin Diesel,Paul Laine,Bryan Adams,The Pursuit of Happiness,Broadway,

People

2007-06-14T19:17:00.001-07:00

What I love about the area I live in are the people. Well, most of them. Here I can see a young kid with multi colored hair walking along side a gray haired senior citizen with a cane. And no one seems to think anything of it unless they don't belong here. It isn't strange or odd. It is just the way it is.

There seems to be a large number of people with scooters, wheelchairs, canes and other mobility aids too. I think that is because rents have been affordable though they are rising as the popularity of the Commercial Drive area increases.

The economic array of the people varies. From the welfare recepients to the yuppies, a person can see them all on the Drive. The pan handlers mix with shoppers and all add to the unique flavor. There are special people, those who stand out but these characters are for another post for they deserve their own mention.

On any given day, a person can wile away the hours sitting at a sidewalk cafe and just watching the parade of people strolling by. It will make for a pleasant interlude from the monotony of most days. All we have to do is open our eyes and look.

Usually I walk quickly along the Drive, smiling at those I pass. Not because I don't want to see but because I am interested in getting my exercise or getting to where I am going. But sometimes I will stop and lean against a building, take out my notebook and take notes on something. I will try to see my surroundings as a stranger might. All I can say is Wow!

Tomorrow I have a dentist appointment and Saturday I am celebrating Father's day with my Dad. Sunday they are blocking off part of the Drive to traffic for a festival. I will get the proper name of it and describe it. Should be fun!

Don't forget to check out The Adventures of a Wife, Mother and Writer, my latest blog stop.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, father's day,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,The Adventures of a Wife, Mother and Writer, Commercial Drive,Mobility Aids,Multi colored Hair,

Second Chances & A Memorial

2007-06-12T18:45:00.000-07:00

Friday morning I got a telephone call from the receptionist at my doctor's office. She told me that my doctor needed to see me because recent blood tests showed that I may be borderine diabetic. I made an appointment for Monday, hung up the phone and cried.

You see, it is my fault. I have been having problems with my weight being up and not losing the excess poundage. A familiar story with a lot of people I know but with me I knew that I was at a great risk for diabetes. My father has it, his uncle had it and his grandfather died of complications from diabetes. My maternal grandfather was also diabetic. I know that diabetes is a serious disease that I may have a greater chance of getting due to my family history. But once the tears cleared, I went into action.

A little while ago I ordered a book called 'Magic Foods for better blood sugar' from Reader's Digest. I was making the changes gradually but with this news I was aware that I couldn't continue to fool around. A neighbor took all my rice, my processed meals and anything that contained too much sugar for me. I decided to eat much like a diabetic is supposed to - my father lost a lot of weight this way years ago so I am going to give it a try. I eat small meals every couple of hours at the same time every day.

I even went shopping. I bought barley to replace the rice - I still haven't quite gotten used to that - sugar free peanut butter, which is actually quite good; lots of vegies and some fruit. I am determined to beat this thing.

Monday I met with the doctor. He emphasized that I was not diabetic but my glucose readings were close to the border. I was so relieved! Yet the doctor told me I HAD to lose some of the weight I am carrying on my frame. I do this and my glucose levels will probably return to normal. So that is my mission - to lose forty pounds by next year. I got a second chance that many don't get. Believe me, I know how lucky I am and I am going to take this warning seriously.

After I left the doctor's office, I went to visit my parents. My aunt died a couple of months ago and my mother had some of the things from her home. She gave me two ornaments and some clutch purses. One of those is a salmon colored satin with exquisite beadwork. Something I will always treasure.

I was looking through some photos that were in a large album. My uncle had been with NATO in the 1950s and he was stationed for a while in Paris. My aunt loved her time there as would any artist. It was like stepping into the past when I looked at the pictures. Former world leaders, party pictures - the history in that photo album was amazing. Then I found a special treasure.

Tucked among the back pages was a paper - yellowed and brittle with age. Carefully I unfolded it then showed it to my mother. It was a copy of the Vancouver Sun that was dated August 14, 1945. In big red letters the headline read,

PEACE.

This was the paper that announced the end of World War II. I would have liked to look at further but it was frail. I didn't want to take the chance of it falling apart. I get choked up just thinking of what people must have felt reading that one word. A horrific era was finished.

My auntie Marg was quite the lady and I don't think I ever realized just how special she was. She was strong and determined. crazy. Although my uncle died in the 1970s, she never remarried and continued to live until her death in the house he had built for the two of them. Finding a love like that is something unique.

Unfortunately towards the end, Auntie Marg was in a great deal of pain. She had lost most of her eyesight - a tragedy for an artist that was as talented as she was - she had degenerative arthritis in her spine and she was very hard of hearing. She was also in her eighties.

Now I think she is with my uncle again and living in the Paris she loved so much. If we are to believe what religion teaches us then I am sure she is out of pain. God bless you Auntie Marg.

That's it for now. Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, NATO,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,diabetes, Reader's Digest,>Magic Foods,WWII,

The Ghostest with the Mostest visits my blog!

2007-06-07T22:40:00.000-07:00

Today I am honored to welcome Henri - the Ghostest with The Mostest - who is here representing the book The Search for the Million $$$ Ghost.

So Henri, how long have you been haunting the Internet?

Thank you for having me on your blog, Mademoiselle Karen. After The Search for the Million $$$ Ghost was released, it was advised to me by my so-called co-authors, Dorothy Thompson, Heide AW Kaminski and Pamela Lawniczak, that I make a blog. I had no idea what to do. They just threw me up a blog and I was expected, I presume, to write on it. I learned how to make blog posts by visiting lovely young ladies who have blogs and that’s how I learn. That’s all I know about the Internet except when Ezra told me we were going on a ghost hunt after she had what she called an email from Shiolah about a man looking for proof of the afterlife. I guess she presumed I could help being as that was my area of expertise – aside from having beautiful women chasing Henri and making Juicy jealous. So, the answer to your question, Mademoiselle Karen, is just barely a few weeks, but a lot of beautiful ladies like Henri.

I have heard stories that you are quite a ‘rake’ as they used to say. What are your feelings on that?

Excuse me while I check the 21st century American dictionary for word as I would like to know if being a rake is a good thing. Okay, this confuses Henri. I don’t think I’m an agricultural implement with teeth, so perhaps you are confusing, Mademoiselle Karen. LOL, Henri is making funny with you. Yes, they say I’m quite a character. But, you see, there’s a story behind that. You have time? Here’s a Coors Light and I’ll tell you about it. I was born with a birth defect. I had a hump back throughout my childhood and for the rest of my life. I was scorned and ridiculed. When they chopped off my head in 1632 and I went to the other side, I became the Henri I always knew I was inside – handsome, debonair and quite the ladies’ man – on the outside. But the thing is, I’m afraid it’s been a curse since I arrived in 21st century America because the ladies can’t keep their hands off of me. I’ve learned to adjust, but Juicy, the girl who does not like to give Henri sex, is quite jealous.

Besides raising havoc, what is your purpose here?

That’s a very good question and you make Henri laugh. My mission here on the physical realm would be to help mortals understand that what you see in movies or read in books about ghosts is a lot of Hollywood propaganda. I am here to show you that I am not alone and that there are many of my species if you want to call it that roaming the earth and we are just like mortals, only we look and sound different. Think of us as another being who has just as much right to be on the planet earth as anyone else.

Are you unable to rest at peace or do you just not want to?

Rest at peace? Surely you jest. No spirits rest in peace. That’s just another one of the mortal sayings. When you die, your adventure just begins. You are given tasks to perform so that you can advance to the next levels. It’s a system the higher energies have set up to keep us looking for our higher selves. Some mortals call it incarnation. You may have to go through many lives until you reach higher self. Henri has been through eight incarnations and if I can remember what I read in the Ashtic records, I have three more to go until Henri reaches higher self. I can’t imagine being more perfect than I already am, so I’m quite looking forward to that.

What is your mission?

I think I answered that question, Mademoiselle Karen. You like to hear Henri talk, don’t you?

How long are you here for?

I am not sure, Mademoiselle Karen. I am here to show mortals another side of ghost so until the higher energies have been reassured I have done that, I suppose I’m up for my next learning lesson on the way to finding higher self.

Thank you for visiting me, do you have any recommendations on how I might be as happy as you are for all eternity?

Happy is what you make it, Mademoiselle Karen. What Henri has found being in the 21st century is that a lot of mortals think that money can buy happiness when really happiness can be found right there in your heart. All it takes is discovering it.

Visit Henri's blog to learn more about him and this interesting novel.

Don't forget to visit me today at Pump Up Your Online Book Promotion.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, The Ghostest with the Mostest,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,Pump Up Your Online Book Promotion, Dorothy Thompson,Heide A W Kiminski,Pamela Lawniczak,

Rain, Ducks and Rolf Harris

2007-06-07T18:24:00.001-07:00

Today was water filled – rain most of the day. But if a person is going to live in Vancouver, they had better get used to the dampness because it does rain a lot here. As Rolf Harris once sang: “I hit Vancouver in the blazing sun; On the ninth of February ’61. From the tenth of February through all May; it rained and poured all night and day.” Okay, that may be a bit of exaggeration but you get the idea.

But the rain has advantages since it does help keep the pollution down and keeps everything green. On the other hand it isn’t so great for those who are living too close to the water and are now flooded or on flood alert. But I don’t have to worry about that.

I went walking in Hastings Park and the rain ceased for a while. To breath the air just after the rain is a slice of heaven. All around me it is fresh, clean – somehow the rain washed away the negativity and brings an aura of hope to the world.

The path is ringed with wild lilacs, clover and wild raspberries that are not quite ripe though I see someone has been picking them. Blankets of buttercups cover the grass. This part of the park looks so wild and free.

Carefully, I walked across a wooden bridge, its surface slick with the moisture. I stopped to gaze over the side and there I saw the tiny, bright orange fish that had seemed to have disappeared. I smiled to see them darting along, happy that nothing had happened to them. They had just moved locations.

The water ripples from something beneath the murky surface. I wondered what was there.

In the distance I could see the rides of Playland – all is silent for now. Playland is open on the weekends until the summer when it will open all week. On the weekend a person that walks through the park will hear the laughter and joyous screams of the Playland attendees. But for now, the wildlife is left sort of in peace.

I walked down a series of rocks built into the side of the embankment in order to stand at the side of the larger pond. There were two mother ducks with two babies each. I stood and watched them but naturally they swam away as soon as I got close to the edge. Still it was a welcome sight: comforting in a way.

Soon I was back on pavement and I walked into the Momiji Gardens. At first approach, I thought of the difference from where I had just been. The Gardens are an extravaganza of colors, all seemingly carefully organized. The shrubbery is clipped and shaped, a pool of water exactingly formed with rocks placed in the right order to have the water flowing constantly. It gives off a feeling of serenity that even the hum of nearby traffic can’t disturb. Yet amid all this controlled beauty it warmed my heart to see the lawn dotted with yellow buttercups. Mother Nature is asserting her will.

All too soon I was walking out of the parks and back into civilization. Reality returns with a jolt.

Thanks to Dorothy Thompson and her site Plug Your Book for hosting me today on my blog tour.

Until the next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,Hastings Park, Playland,Plug Your Book,Dorothy Thompson,Rolf Harris,rain,Ducks,

Guest today: Kim Robinson

2007-06-05T22:50:00.000-07:00

KM:Thank you Kim for appearing on the Let Us Play blog today.

KR: You are more than welcome

KM:Tell us, what isThe Roux in The Gumbo about?

KR: The Roux in the Gumbo is my great grandmother and grandmother’s life story. The Roux in the Gumbo is emotional and inspirational. As you read, you will actually feel what the characters felt during that time. In spite of the obstacles and struggles that life brought their way, these characters persevered. This was due to a strong family support even though they were not all blood relatives.

KM: What inspired you to write it?

KR: I was bedridden with my second son and my grand mother flew out to help me and we watching Oprah who was talking about her upcoming book and and my grandmother said I had more stuff happen to me than she did someone needs to write my story so we started writing it. My grandmother would sit telling all them old stories of her life that always start with “I remember” or “let me tell you about the time,” She died November 1997 of spinal cancer.

I went to her home town in Louisiana and all the stories she told me from her childhood came to life. My great grandmother’s name still rings like a church house bell. My family migrated to Los Angeles in the 1940’s.

KM: What is your goal with writing this book?

KR: I don’t think that people realize how hard it was for people during slavery not only blacks but other nationalities survived a lot of adversity. I want to get this across and hope that kids find out how important education is. I speak at a lot of schools to encourage children to write.

KM:The recipe on your blog where did that originate?

KR: My great-grandmother said it was passed down from her mom. Every generation makes it. I hope you try it.

KM:How did you get started writing?

KR: I have been writing about things I saw growing up in a gang filled area since I could pick up a pen, a way of releasing pain.

KM: Who is your biggest influence?

KR: Well it all started with Dr. Seuss Lol, really I have been reading since I could pull my wagon from the library. I have always loved Jackie Collins, Xavier Hollander, Ice Berg Slim, Kyle Onstott, Maya Angelou, Sidney Sheldon. My father used to leave his books in the bathroom and I would go in and lay in the tub and read them.

KM: What is your biggest regret?

KR: Can’t have regrets, that would mean that I am trying to live out God’s plan for me.

KM: Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

KR: Sitting in the front row of my movies premier.

KM: Once again I would like to thank you for stopping by and wish you the best of success in the future.

KR: I really appreciate it

For that recipe we talked about, go to Kim's blog

Don't forget that I am on The Book Pedler today. Thanks to Jamieson for his hard work.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,The Book Pedler, Kim Robinson,The Roux In The Gumbo,Commercial Drive

Going East on Broadway

2007-06-05T19:46:00.000-07:00

Today I had to go for my annual tests. It wasn’t bad – though this year my doctor is checking for diabetes, my cholesterol levels, my thyroid, my liver and who knows what else! The technicians took a fair amount of blood ( or at least it looked that way) but I have lots more.

I got out and took a hard-boiled egg from my backpack. The day was cloudy and cool, perfect for a walk so I that’s how I chose to go home. And it was a long walk. But interesting.

Where I was is classified as the Fairview area, I think, and to the south of me I could see the houses up hills – all shaded by large trees lining the street. To my north, I could see the skyline of downtown. Whenever there weren’t buildings in the way.

West Broadway is busy and a little more congested right now due to construction. But that doesn’t hamper me walking by. Old buildings mix with new and suddenly, in between rows of businesses, I would find a house. They looked like they had been there for years. Not because they were in bad repair but due to the style of them. The surprise of the first one made me smile.

Soon I was walking in the Mount Pleasant area – in the window of one shop were old photographs that showed what it looked like in 1881 then had a current day photo beside it. Interesting to see how much the city has progressed.

Anna’s Cake House has a window filled with ornately decorated cakes that look almost too exquisite to eat. I stopped and looked for a few moments before continuing on my way.

I passed a few stores that had handwritten signs in their window. Signs that announce rules or specials. In many areas this would be considered unprofessional but here it just lent to the whole neighborhood feel of where I was.

The further east I traveled and the closer I got to Commercial Drive, the more apartment buildings and condominiums I started seeing. I also saw one of my favorite features of the city – the parks and green areas that just appear unannounced. Since it wasn’t a really sunny day, there weren’t people lounging around in the grass.

Soon I was back to Commercial and I turned northward to walk along the Drive to get home. In total the walk took me an hour and a half, which is about what I walk normally but I was pretty tired when I got home. I flaked out most of the day.

I know that this blog was supposed to be all about the book Let Us Play but I have found that people are receptive to me talking about Vancouver and my life. Blogging about it is forcing me to view everyday things with new eyes. Now I am seeing the little things I may have missed before. So I will keep blogging in this vein. Gotta please the fans! LOL

Don’t forget that tomorrow the author of The Roux in The Gumbo, Kim Robinson will be here and I will be appearing at The Book Pedler. Show up and enjoy!

Until the next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,Cholesterol, Kim Robinson,The Roux In The Gumbo,thyroid,Mount Pleasant,Fairview,Broadway,

Rain and Fasting

2007-06-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today my beautiful city is misted by rain. It goes from torrents to nothing and I was not able to spend the day inside. I had to go for my annual physical.

Now those things don't bother me, it is a part of life. So I got it over with and got my form to go for further tests. Tomorrow I go for cholesterol, diabetes, liver and who knows what else. Tonight I have to fast.

If you are anything like me, you tend to eat more when you know you have to fast. It is stupid really because most of that time I will be sleeping and wouldn't usually eat anyway but I felt the urge to eat as soon as I got home.

I am also trying to lose weight so I don't want to eat too much - I did do my exercises and depending on how I feel tomorrow, I can maybe increase the intensity. But as for the eating, it is like I have to and I really don't.

But ah well! It could just be me because I am a little different but I am a lot fun.

Now on Wednesday June 6, I will be hosting Kim Robinson on this very blog. Kim is the author of The Roux in The Gumbo. She'll be answering questions on her new book.

On Friday, Henri, the ghostest with the mostest, will be here. Henri comes from the book The Search for the Million $$$ Ghost written by Dorothy Thompson, Heide A W Kaminski and Pamela Lawniczak. Henri is a roque and a character so he should be a real treat. Be sure to check back on those days to see what they have to say.

I don't have anyone to thank for my stop on my Virtual Blog Tour today because there wasn't any. But that's okay by this paranormal romance author, I am happy with the way it's going.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,Henri, the Ghostest with the Mostest, Kim Robinson,fasting,rain,Pamela Lawniczak,Heide A W Kaminski,The Search for the Million $$$ Ghost,

When Beauty Gets Destroyed

2007-06-03T17:00:00.000-07:00

My thanks today goes to The Dark Phantom Review for their professionalism in conducting the interview that appears on that site today as the third stop in my blog tour. I like being interviewed though it gets difficult to discover new ways of describing the same thing.

On my walk through Hastings Park today I was a little miffed. The litter people leave around is atrocious! Once I went down there and found that someone had spray painted one of the bridges then left the spray can in the water a little further on. Talk about not taking care of our environment. I will pick up a few things but it is a full time job and I walk to exercise not to pick up garbage.

It did depress me a bit and I left the park. I walked down Hastings Street and when I arrived at Victoria,I stopped and took a deep breath. From there I can see the buildings of downtown and today the sun had them polished to a high gleam. From a distance the scene looked like something out of a fairy tale - was that the promised land down there? Would all my dreams come true if I could just get to that glittering city? No, it is a just a city that for this moment looked magical.

Behind me is my television and DaVinci's Inquest is on. This episode they were filming in my area when I first moved down here nearly four years ago. Actually I was in the process of moving in - every day for three weeks I moved things from one apartment to the other then unpacked a little.

The episode was filmed a half block away but I never saw anyone. Ian Tracey wasn't in the parts that were filmed on Salsbury but Nicholas Campbell was. It is an interesting episode and I can't walk by the house they showed without remembering it.

Tomorrow is another day. Hopefully the sun will be shining but if not, I will deal with that.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,The Dark Phantom Review, litter,Ian Tracey,Nicholas Campbell,

Day Two!

2007-06-02T17:37:00.000-07:00

It is now day two of my virtual blog tour and I had the honor of being interviewed by Michelle at Nutter's Gang. It is quite an interesting interview so pop over and take a look.

Suffering Sucotash! I broke a filling last night and I can't get it fixed until Thursday late afternoon. I have a great dentist so am willing to wait (and travel two hours to go see) as well as it doesn't hurt. Except when I brush it and it is way at the back. Serves me right for eating Corn Nuts but I haven't had those in so long and they have so many flavors out now! But I have been advised not to eat hard foods. My bad.

Not much going on today - I have been a couch potato. Watching tv and DVDs. I am going to start a new exercise program on Monday that looks a little intense. So I am gearing up for that. That's my story and I am sticking to it. I also find it beneficial to take some time to mentally recharge sometimes.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,Nutter's Gang, exercise,health,
Corn Nuts,

Blogs and Beans

2007-06-01T15:41:00.001-07:00

Today was the first day of my Virtual blog tour, put on by Dorothy Thompson and Jamieson Villeneuve. The premiere stop was on The Wolf Never Sleeps at www.jamiesonwolf.blogspot.com . Now I don’t what I expected – I knew there wasn’t going to be a brass band and a parade but maybe champagne or something? But no, as usual I am relegated to buying my own and it will be the cheap stuff. Oh well, such is life. Of course, you know I am kidding! The excitement is just beginning and I am looking forward to seeing where this tour leads. I’ll talk to you tomorrow about tomorrow’s stop.

Something a little off the wall here. You know how we all try to eat healthy – most of us anyway – and we have been advised to have meatless meals. Yet we still need protein and I found a tasty alternative. I created a bean soup. It was supposed to be stew but never turned out that way so soup it is.

I start off with red kidney beans because those are the ones I like. (I am going to try others in the near future) I soak them in water starting the day before. How much? Take a guesstimate of how much you’ll need.

The next day take a great big pot and put in broth. I use a mixture of beef, chicken and vegetable broth but if you really wanted to be meat free, you would just use vegetable. Put in whatever spices strike your fancy and simmer a while. Today I used – get ready – ground pepper flakes, caraway seeds, a bay leaf, lemon & herbs, mint leaves, chopped garlic and cinnamon.

Naturally the beans are on medium heat simmering while this is happening. They have to do this for anywhere from an hour to two to get fully cooked. I rinse them before putting them onto cook.

Then add whatever vegetables you wish. I am using potatoes and carrots today. At the last moment, I will add frozen peas.

When the beans are ready, rinse them once more then put them in the hodgepodge I created.

Once everything has had a chance to mix and the flavors unite, I serve it in a bowl with a bun as a side.

It is easy, inexpensive and healthy. What more can you ask of a meal? And there is plenty left over to keep reheating in the microwave.

Until the next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,paranormal romance writer, Virtual Blog Tour,Dorothy Thompson, Bean Soup,health,
recipe,

The Quest for Pumpernickel

2007-05-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

It was a hunt today, I was on a mission. If you look at my photo you will notice that, although I am utterly gorgeous (LOL) I am not a skinny Minnie. And considering that diabetes is not a stranger to either side of my family, I have to be careful. I recently got a book called Magic Foods for Better Blood Sugar and it states that a certain type of pumpernickel bread is good for lowering blood sugar. So the search was on!

Last night I called one store in Yaletown and they said they had some that was what I wanted so this morning I went down there. Now Yaletown was originally a commercial area filled with warehouses and such until someone came up with the idea of turning these low profit, often empty business places into an attractive, trendy, highly priced residential area. New York style lofts are mixed with small condos that those who desire to live downtown pay more than I can afford to.

I got to the store and walked around and around the bread area. I couldn’t find the pumpernickel. I politely said excuse me to the young ladies behind the counter who looked annoyed at their conversation being disturbed. One nicely came out and when I told her what I was looking for she helped me but cautioned that she didn’t think they had it. She was right. Annoyed, I left. I had gone all that way just for the bread and it wasn’t there.

But as I crossed the street I saw something that made my annoyance melt away. The sun was glinting on Emery Barnes Park. I slowed my gait and strolled in. At the far end a waterfall sent water cascading down a multi level structure into a pond, which then fed the liquid into a river filled with obstacles that kept the water moving in different patterns. I looked down at the river and there were colored mosaics inlaid at the bottom. So nice.

People and dogs were all around. Some lay on the grass while others milled around. One lady was strolling back and forth with a leash in her hand – her dog ambled over to me and let me pet her for a good ten minutes. It was so relaxing, this little oasis amid the concrete and glass around me. But soon I went on my way.

I walked further down Richards Street and came to the Holy Rosary Cathedral. This church brings back memories. In 1980, at the age of 15, I was taking modeling classes in Vancouver. I would take the bus in from Langley and the Greyhound bus depot was down the street from the cathedral. I loved the old building and would slip in and sit quietly in a pew in the back, just looking at the architecture. I found out today that it was built in 1907 and was the first church in the area. Even though I am not Catholic, it was comforting to be there again.

I stopped and saw my mom then her and I walked to IGA on Burrard. They didn’t have what I need either. So I walked back to Granville. There is construction on Granville and I looked down, waaaay down at the machines below me. I felt the makeshift sidewalk beneath my feet quiver beneath me and I felt apprehensive. Sometimes having an overactive imagination isn’t a good idea.

I looked up and saw a young man with a White Lion ‘Pride’ t-shirt lope by me. They broke up in 1991. That kid doesn’t even look like he was old enough to know what music was in 1991! Then, when I got home, I did some research and discovered that White Lion is doing a tour in the summer of 2007. I thought that tshirt looked pretty new. Boy, am I out of the loop.

So I go to the Hudson’s Bay Company – this is going to be my last stop for today. And wouldn’t you know it. There it is. Pumpernickel bread made without molasses but with dark rye. It doesn’t look like bread but a big lump. So I bought it. Then I start go home but I am hungry so I have to get something to eat and there are hot dog stands.

For $2.50 I got a jumbo hot dog with cheese from a really nice young man. I hadn’t eaten in five and a half hours so I was really hungry. Unfortunately, while walking to the bus, I dropped about a third of it. That’s life and it is probably better for my diet anyway.

So the long and short of it is, that today I got my pumpernickel bread and a story to tell you. And when I got home the manager of my building told me that there is a place about five minutes away I may be able to get it! If I had gotten it there, I wouldn’t have had the story to tell you.

Until next time, I’ll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,Holy Rosary Cathedral, Hudsons Bay Company,IGA Emery Barnes Park,dogs,

Opportunities presented and missed?

2007-05-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

As I approached Frenchies Diner I could see cameras and such outside so I knew that they were actually filming today. Who was there? I turned off my music and did slow my pace. I smiled at the people around and picked my way carefully but, with all the gracefulness I am known for, I stumbled. I was looking in the diner to try to see who they were filming! LOL. I admit I was curious! Once I got past the area I leaned against against a railing and caught my breath (and watched everything for a few moments). One of the technical people started to pass me so I apologized. He chuckled and assured me that I did no harm. Then I continued on my way to do my grocery shopping - my reputation as a klutz firmly in hand.

The thought began though of opportunities presented and perhaps missed. I wonder how many writers would have stayed the entire day and pushed their cards, projects, and promotional material onto the people standing there? Would they have found out who could help them the most there and tried to make friends with them? Am I missing out on a chance here?

Is that the way to succeed? Be a real pest? Get in their way when they are trying to work? I don't think so and I will prove it isn't. I have more respect for people trying to make a living than that.

Oh, and I still don't know if Chris Haddock was there or Ian Tracey or if they were filming Intelligence. I more than likely won't know until the show starts.

Until the next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,Novel, Commercial Drive,Chris Haddock,Ian Tracey,Intelligence,movies,Frenchies Diner,

Filming at Frenchies Diner

2007-05-28T18:17:00.000-07:00

Frenchies Diner on the Drive has a sign up that they will be closed from May 28 - May 31 for filming. So I was wondering who was going to be there. Could it be Chris Haddock with his new show 'Intelligence'? Which I love by the way and not just because Ian Tracey is in it. I may watch a show once because an actor I like is in it but that won't make me watch every episode of the first season. I strolled by but, alas, nothing seemed to really be going on. I think they were getting things just right.

To be honest with you, even if Chris Haddock and Ian Tracey had been standing right there I wouldn't have done anything. Not that I am a coward at heart though I may be. No, I would have smiled nicely and walked on by. Then I would have come home and found an address and wrote to them, mentioning that I had seen them but didn't want to bother them since they appeared to be working.

That's the way I am. I don't know if it is shyness or respect but I don't want to bother the 'film people' when they are working. Recently I saw an actor of a show I like while he was shopping with a child in a local grocer. I smiled at him and made a few comments but didn't approach him. When I came home I found his talent agency's address on the Internet then wrote and told him that I had seen him but didn't want to intrude. I complimented his work and wished him the best.

There are some that want to go everywhere the 'stars' may be. Or go where movies and television shows have been made. Or are being made. They want to stand around and watch the process. No thanks, I would rather be at home writing and trying to get my books to the point where maybe they are made into movies.

So I walked on by Frenchies Diner but tomorrow I will walk by again. It is my usual route when I go grocery shopping.

Until next time, I'll be dancing on the Drive.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,Novel, Commercial Drive,Chris Haddock,Ian Tracey,Intelligence,movies,Frenchies Diner,

What Inspired Me

2007-05-27T19:21:00.000-07:00

The inspiration behind Let Us Play, A Rock 'n Roll Love Story probably started many years ago. I don't like censorship; I believe adults should have the right to monitor their own influences. It is up to the parents to censor what their child is exposed to as much as they are able. It is not a government's duty at any time to censor books, music, television or movies. Placing advisories on entertainment is a form of censorship but we have to have some sort of regulating force. If it were all even it might be better because I know that I have seen movies that were rated R that weren't any worse than shows I have seen on television. However that is for another discussion.

Censorship covers so many topics but for Let Us Play I chose the issue of music censorship because music is dear to me. It is a piece of my soul. I am not musically inclined at all. I don’t really sing, I don’t play any musical instruments but I need my music and would perish I think without it. Music is food to my soul and I like many types but my favorite is rock.

When I hear those strains, I feel the tensions begin to melt away. Even though I may be walking through the less fancier parts of the city, the music I am listening to helps me see the beauty. I smile at the bum sitting on the sidewalk and he smiles back. The music brightens my mood and helps me deal with my life. And one day I thought what if I couldn’t listen to it anymore? What if I couldn’t dance down the street to my songs anymore? I hope someone would bring it back.

So Let Us Play sprung from the recesses of my mind. It is a whirlwind adventure of many unique characters some of whom you have already met if you have been reading this blog. I will continue to blog on Let Us Play, sharing it with the characters, this beautiful city I live in and whatever else strikes my fancy.

Until the next time, I’ll be the one dancing on the Drive!

Karen Magill
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,Novel, Commercial Drive,censorship,paranormal,

The Orange and The Green

2007-05-25T18:38:00.000-07:00

Remember that song by the Irish Rovers? 'It was the biggest mix up that you have ever seen. My father he was orange and my mother she was green.' Well I thought of that song today. I was going for lunch with a friend of mine who is from the south of Ireland. My great grandfather is from the northern part. As you know the south is traditionally Catholic and the north is Protestant; the two factions have been fighting forever it seems. Only in Canada. LOL.

We went for lunch at Havana's on 'The Drive', aka Commercial Drive. Havana's is quite the place. A funky little restaurant across from a park they serve Latin fusion comfort food. The decor is rustic and the back features artists that change regularly. My friend and I chatted and had a great time. But then again, we always do.

If you are ever in Vancouver, Commercial Drive is a must see. If a person starts at the corner of Broadway and Commercial Drive and walks along Commercial to Hastings Venables, I would guess it would be maybe a mile and half. In that journey they would see restaurants featuring food from every corner of the world, consignment clothing stores and stores that sell items from another era as well as little boutiques. It is a wonderful area.

One of the restaurants was on Chris Haddock’s DaVinci’s Inquest. Joe’s Café has been there since 1974. I remember watching the premiere episode of Neon Rider and watching Dr. Michael Terry chase Pin across the street and into a park. I sat up because it was the corner of the street right by Joe’s Café Bar and into the park that is across from Havana’s. It’s funny that even though you know a show is filmed in the city you live in, when you see something you recognize, it makes you feel good. Oh and Joe’s serves great coffee!

While I was walking to meet my friend, I felt the heat beating down on my head. I went to reach in my back pack for a baseball cap then realized that the last time I had worn it, it had rained and after drying it I hadn’t replaced the hat. So I stopped in at one of the stores I have been speaking of, Kali, and purchased a turquoise blue straw cowboy hat. While walking along the Drive today I got four compliments today. Can’t beat that! Two people took the address and phone number of the store, which was written on the back of my business card of course. Now I have to buy some outfits to go with the hat!

When I had to move from my last apartment due to a flood, a break in and – most importantly – loss of heat, I thought I was going to have to leave the Commercial Drive area. I moved around a lot as a child and I am certain there were places I didn’t want to leave. I consider myself to be adaptable but leaving the Drive was a prospect that depressed me. I kept telling myself that I would find other places to wander; other places to shop; other places with ambiance but it just wasn’t right. I was overjoyed when I found this apartment. I had become a denizen of the drive.

So if you see a short dark haired woman with a cane singing and dancing along the Drive or along Hastings Street – it might be me. Give me a wave but remember if you want to talk to me you have to catch my attention because I am probably playing my music too loud to hear you. And get ready because I plan on blogging about the Drive and Vancouver plenty more times!

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, Vancouver,Novel, Chris Haddock,DaVinci's Inquest,Commercial Drive,censorship,paranormal,

We have control

2007-05-24T17:01:00.000-07:00

While Karen is distracted today, we are taking back control of the blog. This is Boyce,Kaya's right here, and we want to talk a little bit about the night that PARR ended rock 'n roll. God, the way they did it must have been horrific!

I agree Boyce. The history books don't say much about it but we know how devious PARR can be now. And now they have control of the people. Can you imagine what they were like before? When they were trying to get control?

And what must they have done to get the control Kaya? I wonder that. They must have just scared the pants off of everyone.

You weren't going to say pants were you Boyce?

No, but when Karen comes back, she'll edit out what I was going to put so I had better keep it clean. Anyway, how else did they manage to get control so easy?

Was it so easy? That's another thing we have to look into Boyce.

So much work to do. It was a lot easier when I wasn't fighting to right the injustices of this world you know.

I hardly call what we are doing 'righting the inujustices of this world'. Just one. We are trying to stop one form of censorship.

Bring back rock 'n roll music. Let Us Play.

Yeah, Let Us Play.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

Why I love This City

2007-05-22T17:02:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I live in Vancouver Canada and I love to go walking. And today it was sunny so I took a break from cleaning my apartment, put on my sandals, sunscreen, a floppy hat and began to stroll. Naturally I remembered my music - today it was Motley Crue Decade of Decadence.

I walked up Hastings and stopped to compliment a woman on her good taste in selecting a hat. I have one that is almost identical. LOL

Then I went to one of my favorite walking areas. I walked by the statue of 'The Miracle Mile'. It is of the two men who first broke the four minute mile on August 7, 1954 in Vancouver. John Landy and Roger Bannister. The ironic thing about this race is that Bannister won it because Landy peered over his left shoulder at the last. I guess that tells us something.

As I passed the statue I wandered down into the Momjii Gardens which were built as a tribute to honor the Japanese Canadians that were imprisoned during World War II. It was beautiful and serene. There I took a sip of water from the fountain since my water bottle had fallen out of the side of my backpack along the way.

I crossed the paved driveway and went onto a gravel path in a bushy area.The rich green foliage waved gently in the slight breeze and I could see the slightly blue hue of the pond in the distance. I reached the peak of the path then rounded the corner and started down to the pond. I stepped on the wooded and plexiglass bridge. Bright orange fish darted deeper under the structure and in the willows the ducks lazily slowly swam away. But the pond now looks brown not blue. I wonder why.

On the bench that was there, I sat down to remove the gravel from my sandals. A guy I had met before was sitting across from me.We talked a little. He offered me a beer. I declined - I don't drink beer and I am trying to lose weight. He told me I didn't need to lose weight because I look great. How nice.

I walked a bit further and there is a teenage couple couple standing very close to each other. Ahh young love.

At another area, down by the water, an older man plays his saxophone for the fish and aquatic life. I told him how great he sounded and he stopped to thank me for listening. On my other side there was a couple laying on the overgrown grass looking at the pond and talking quietly.

I came to another bridge - this one arched gracefully over rushing water. I turned off my music to stand and listed to the saxophone player. If I looked to my left I could see the paddocks where there would livestock and exhibitions during the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) from the middle of August to the first of September. I won't be able to walk through there then because it will all be blocked off.

I kept following the gravel path around and back through the gardens. I didn't go through the Italian Gardens this time even those are splendid as well. I walked down Hastings Street again - this time stopping and talking to an older lady who was wearing a gorgeous patterned sweater - before arriving home.

Now as I gaze out my window at the cranes that unload the crates from the ships in the harbor, the blue tinged mountains beyond on the north shore and the white sea gulls floating over the tops of the buildings I am sure of one thing. I am right where I want to be.
TAGS:Italian+Gardens, Karen Magill, beer,Motley+Crue, adventure,walk,rock 'n roll,mountains,
Vancouver,

Something a little different today...

2007-05-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

Today I, the author Karen Magill, am taking over. I wrestled control of this blog back from the powerful clutches of the characters of Let Us Play and I thought I would let you read a bit of the book. So here is the prologue. Enjoy!

PROLOGUE

People ran from the concert hall, screaming in reaction to the horror they had just witnessed. Their clothes bloodied, assorted limbs broken and their minds numb by the massacre they had just seen, many fought their way to the ambulances that were just pulling up.

Appearing much calmer than the fleeing concert attendees, several identically black clad individuals emerged holding various assortments of weapons. Those waiting for services of the ambulance attendants cowered at the sight of these imposing figures and anyone who would manage to retain their sanity knew that they would never forget this horrific night.

In addition to their confusion, the earth began to shake violently. Buildings shook on their foundations; people struggled to maintain their balance as they attempted to assist those in need. Suddenly, a crevice in the ground began to form around the auditorium. Rapidly, it widened and the concert hall began a slow descent. Before the horrified eyes of the onlookers, the building slowly disappeared from sight and the ground sealed itself around the buried structure.

The earth stilled but was replaced by a forceful wind that seemed to approach tornado proportions. The gusts were so strong that people were thrown from where they stood and deposited a few feet away; trees were uprooted and vehicles were overturned. Sand from the nearby beach was lifted by the winds and created a sandstorm that was blinding.

As quickly as this chaos had started, it stopped with what many later claimed sounded like a great sigh. Two events of importance happened that night: Rock and roll music ended and a legend was born.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

Boyce Mitchell

2007-05-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

Okay, I finally get to speak. I'm Boyce Mitchell. Brent's son, descendent of Bradley Mitchell who was guitarist of the legendary rock band Mystique and I must say the best looking Mitchell man to come along in a long time. Okay, I was kidding there.

I love to surf and play sports and generally have a good time. That's what my life was all about until my dad introduced me to LUPO and then I met Kaya. Actually the way I first became aware of Kaya is really neat but you gotta read the book to find that out!

This journey that LUPO is leading me on is a rush and one I wouldn't have missed for the life of me. Man is this fun. Hell, I am meeting so many neat women. If any of you guys want to meet women the way to do it is not only to join a rock band but also to get involved with an underground movement. Trust me, it works.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

Brent Mitchell

2007-05-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

Boyce, move aside. You’ll get your turn but right now I want to speak. Yeah, yeah I know but you’re my son so do as you’re told. Thank you.

My name is Brent Mitchell. I am another of the founding members of LUPO and that impatient young man is my son Boyce. He is just itching to say something – though what I have no idea.

Back to me. Kansall and I were sitting in our college dorm room one day and we were discussing how unfair it is that the government regulates what we can see and hear. Soon Gleven joined us and he also agreed. The really strange thing was that a lot of other people never appeared to mind; they just didn’t care. Or they weren’t aware.

I must admit that I didn’t know what the music was like but it irked me that I wasn’t allowed to hear it and make my own decisions. Gleven and Kansall felt the same way so we started to do something about it. We never knew that so many people felt the same way.

This has been an interesting journey so far. Lots of stuff always seems to be happening. It has been dangerous and exciting and I don’t think it is going to decrease anytime soon. I, for one, know that I am here for the long haul so I expect the drama to continue. But hey! I’m having fun.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

Gleven Andrews

2007-05-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

Since both Judah and Kaya have been on here, I figure I might as well. My name is Gleven Andrews and I don’t usually like to be vocal. I am happy being behind the scenes and work well there.

I am one of the original founding members of LUPO and today I am the leader of the Eastern Chapter. Or I should say one of the leaders. Kaya assists me. My, her father would be so proud if he could see her now. She is so strong and committed to the cause but I worry about her. Kaya is also headstrong and does things without thinking. Oh, the recklessness of youth. I try to think back to when I was her age and although I would like to say I was wiser than she, I know I wasn’t.

Kaya used to be best friends with my daughter Krista but, unfortunately, circumstances have made my daughter bitter and difficult to deal with. I know that Kaya tries but what can she do? I wish there was a way I could help Krista but her torment is hers alone.

Judah may think that he has the power but he doesn’t. Every day we seem to get closer to discovering PARR’s secrets and destroying what they have built. Built over the bones of innocent people trying to just do what is their right – listen to the music they want. Be warned Judah because we are coming. We will win.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

Judah has his say

2007-05-11T16:49:00.000-07:00

It has come to my attention that Ms. Kaya More has been speaking on this blog. Before you pay too much attention to what she is saying, remember that this woman is a criminal who entices others to break the law. She doesn’t feel that censoring music is just but she forgets how much harm listening to that horrid rock ‘n roll music can do to a person. She doesn’t know; I do. My name is Judah Arnold and I am the head of the People Against Rock 'n Roll.

Many of you may forget that it is the government’s duty to safeguard its people and keep them from harm. We must protect the people when they can’t protect themselves. Just look at the world before this music was outlawed - young people brought guns to school and killed their classmates; people turned to drugs that ruined their minds; crime was rampant. Now look at the society now. The government is obeyed. We decide how our citizens are to live their lives and they do as they are told. The people are obedient.

Yes, I will confess that some of our methods may not have been the most fair but when fighting a war like we have been, it is sometimes necessary to use alternative methods. And some did get hurt but those were the ones who dared to disagree with PARR.

Don’t listen to Kaya More, she doesn’t know what she is talking about. She is a rebel who will be jailed as soon as my incompetent staff can catch her. She will not win this battle and once we silence her then the country can go back to the way it was.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

Introducing Kaya More

2007-05-10T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Kaya More and I am one of the leaders of the rebel organization LUPO. My father was a founding member, along with Brent Mitchell and Gleven Andrews. Sadly PARR murdered my father years ago but I am determined to carry on his cause.

I admit that I am impetuous. I do things that are dangerous and I tend to rely on my instincts a lot of the time. So far they haven’t steered me wrong but I do know that one day they could. But I like to live a life that is exciting and meaningful. If something were to happen to me tomorrow, at least I could say that I lived my life my way.

As you already know, the Let Us Play Organization opposes PARR. It isn’t just the fact that they had rock ‘n roll music banned that bothers me, it is that they are taking away one of my rights. I have the right to choose what music I can listen to. How dare they! And now that they have done that, other things are disappearing. Certain books have vanished from the library and a person can’t even buy them. I have looked through bookstores and on the Internet at antique booksellers. Those books are gone. Just because someone decides that they don’t like it doesn’t mean the entire population has to agree with them.

But the People Against Rock ‘n Roll are a powerful government agency and Judah Arnold rules with a iron fist. He doesn’t scare me though. I will beat him in this struggle and we will have our rights back.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

PARR

2007-05-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

The People Against Rock 'n Roll or PARR is a government agency whose sole mission is to make sure that rock 'n roll music is never played again. Their headquarters are in New York City, also where the original LUPO headquarters are.

The majority of the agents in PARR are good people who are just upholding the law. A law they have been conditioned to believe is right. But there are a few who are sadistic, evil beings. Much like the leader, Judah Arnold.

PARR was all powerful while LUPO was only a minor annoyance. Until Kaya More rose to a leadership positionw within the rebel organization. Then Judah and PARR found their authority severely threatened and Judah doesn't like it. He is fighting back with all the resources available to him.

TWo strong willed leaders, two groups with members totally dedicated to their cause and two organizations with opposite goals. It is the setting for a battle royale and an exciting adventure.

TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

LUPO

2007-04-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

LUPO or the Let Us Play Organization was founded by Kansall More, Gleven Andrews and Brent Mitchell. The idea came to the three men as they sat around their college dorm room moaning about the injustice of not being to listen to the music they wanted to. Or do the things they wanted. Typical of the young, they were rebelling against the rules of society but these three young men actually did something about it. They started an organization that grew in power and became a thorn in the side of the government.

The Let Us Play Organization is an illegal organization and must hold its meetings in private. The leaders are on constant guard for they are never sure when the organization is being infiltrated. Their goal is to bring the outlawed rock and roll music and to do so by non violent means.

It is exciting to be a member of LUPO and to crash a government rally. A member gets to hear some of the banned music. Though the government has tried, they haven't been able to get rid of all of the music. Sometimes rock and roll CDs turn up in the strangest places. They are quickly grabbed by LUPO members and hidden away - just like VHS videos and DVDs of long forgotten concerts.

The movement has begun to bring back the outlawed music and once that has been replaced, other liberties will follow. For too long the government has stifled the creativity of the people. LUPO will change that.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,

Hello!

2007-04-02T10:05:00.000-07:00

My name is Karen Magill and I am the author of Let Us Play, A Rock 'n Roll Love Story. The cover is right over there.

Here's what the story is about:

In an uncertain time in the future, Kaya More uses her gift of second sight to lead LUPO - the Let Us Play Organization - a group of rebels as they fight the unjust laws that ban rock and roll music. In the United States their opponent is Judah Arnold and the People Against Rock and Roll, otherwise known as PARR.

Some of LUPO’s members are descendants of a legendary rock band that were the last to oppose PARR on the fateful night that rock music was wiped out. The band, MYSTIQUE, disappeared, never to be heard from or seen again. Such was the fate of many rock musicians.
As the rebels race from the streets of New York City to the tops of the Canadian Rockies to the beaches of the California they find adventure, music and love. Yet the story doesn’t really explode until the rest of the world takes a stand and joins in the struggle.
I will use this blog to introduce you to all the characters and tell everyone how the story came to be. So check back often and learn more about everyone involved with Let Us Play.
TAGS:Let Us Play, Karen Magill, PARR,Novel, adventure,rebellion,rock 'n roll,censorship,paranormal,