Here I am again!

I have returned to Geneva. My time in Vancouver went by in a flash! It was like a friend and family filled hurricane blasting through my life far too quickly.

I have a lot to write about, but I just haven't had time. Now that I'm nearly settled I can take some time to select some pictures and stories to share, but you will have to wait a few more days. In the meantime, I thought I would share some things that I have enjoyed recently.

Leanne Shapton's book: Important Artifacts and Personal Property from the Collection of Lenore Doolan and Harold Morris.

image from Amazon.ca

I can't remember where I read a review of this book, but I'm pretty sure that I put a "request for purchase" in for it at the public library soon after. I really enjoyed reading this story. Basically, the book is organized as an auction catalogue and the items up for auction present a chronological view of a couple's relationship from the beginning through to its break-up. Apparently they're turning it into a movie, which seems weird to me. I don't quite see how the charm of this story could be captured on film as the format (auction catalogue) is so integral to how its told. Basically, you get to glimpse the relationship of Lenore and Harold via their possessions. It's an interesting way to tell two people's story. I had never heard of Leanne Shapton prior to this, but I think I'm becoming a fan. One of the reviews on the jacket comes from Amy Sedaris and Shapton's illustrations were featured in the February issue of Glamour!

Portland!

image from Portland Ground

Sean's birthday was at the end of January and because I was pretty sure the only way we would be able to spend some actual one-on-one time together was if we went away, I took him to Portland. We both agree that if we were to move somewhere in North America it would probably be Portland. Dudes, this city has charm and delicious restaurants coming out the ying-yang. We had a lot of fun just hanging out together and doing stuff like meeting friends for meals, looking at books at Powell's and catching a movie at the Living Room Theater. Plus, I got a super deal through Hotwire and we stayed at the only five-star hotel in Portland, The Nines. It was tops!

Aziz Ansari's live comedy album "Intimate Moments for a Sensual Evening"

image from Amazon.ca

I really enjoy Aziz Ansari on "Parks and Recreation" and thought he seemed pretty funny in various other things, so I bought the CD of his Comedy Central special while we were in Portland. I listened to two tracks while we were at Jackpot Records and was instantly sold. Also, the cover of the album is really hilarious and sort of adorable. Sean and I laughed our asses off while listening to it on the drive back. There are some great moments, but my favourites have to be the jokes about gay rights, R. Kelly and his cousin's online class. Also, because I totally have a crush on him, I was looking at his blog and came across this playlist he put together. The instructions for things to do while listening to his top ten songs are pretty funny. Awww, sheeeet, just noticed it's going to be released on vinyl. I'll have to trade in the CD and pick that up.

My engagement ring

Whoops, how did I slip that in there? Yup. You read it correctly: engagement ring. After over eleven years together, Sean popped the question at the beginning of January and surprised me with a beautiful ring. Unfortunately, it had to be shipped back to the jewelry designer for a minor repair so I couldn't wear it on my return to Geneva. But I will have it back soon. I love it. And I love Sean so, so much. I don't have a photograph, so you'll just have to trust me that it is beautiful and perfect.

Adrian Mole: The Prostrate Years by Sue Townsend.

image from Amazon.ca

When I got back to Vancouver one of the first things that I did was leave. I went to Vancouver Island to visit my parents, my cousin Becca and Erin and Michael. While in Victoria, I made an obligatory stop in at Munro's Books where I discovered a new Adrian Mole book! I have been reading this series since I was probably about 11 or 12 years old and I adore these books despite how annoying and frustrating their protagonist can be. In this book, Adrian is nearly 40 and diagnosed with prostate cancer. While the book retains much of the same humor as the previous titles, this one is far more emotionally jarring as Adrian's cancer treatment progresses and his life seemingly falls apart. The cliffhanger ending leaves hope for the future as his cancer is in remission and Pandora Braithwaite appears in his driveway! I can't wait for the next installment.

Finally, My Sister.

Just like with Sean, I knew that the only way I would get some quality time with my sis was if we left Vancouver together. So, I booked us a room via Hotwire and we ended up on the 38th floor of the Westin in downtown Seattle...during the official Twilight Convention! Just to be clear, we weren't actually there for the convention though we did share the elevator with many of the conventioneers. We just spent time together hanging out, bra shopping, eating fancy hot dogs and seeing "Precious". I'm so glad that we went away because I was so overwhelmed with visiting and preparing and working while I was actually in Vancouver that I barely had time to do much of anything else. I did see her a few more times (thank goodness), but I don't think I could ever get enough of hanging out with her! I love my sister! Also, she picked me up from the airport and was holding a sign that said "SISTER" surrounded by hearts. Give it up for Janna, the best sister a sister could have.

And with that, I must retire to bed. My first day back at work is tomorrow and I don't want to be groggy.