by Tish MacWebber | Nov 8, 2017 | Treasure Seeker Tuesdays
Hello Treasure Seekers! (Sorry it is Wednesday now, but I needed more time to get something extra special for you!) It is time to write something a little different. Again. 🙂 Stick with me, I have an idea.
I recently went to a movie premiere for Anonymous Zombie. It was filmed here, in New Brunswick, and I know the Special/Visual Makeup Artist for this movie. The title this week gives away my idea, it is to interview my friend, Kadi Oram. I have known her for at least fifteen years, now. We met as vendors at Impossible Realities; a gaming convention, in Saint John, New Brunswick. We have each been travelling on our own individual creative paths to becoming entrepreneurs. I am happy that I was able to see her name on the big screen during the premiere. I think it is really important that we stay in touch, especially as we are both carving our own paths to capture our dreams and rein them in. Here is the interview.
Tish: We first met at Impossible Realities. I find it uncoincidental that we were both there as vendors, wives of Gamer Husbands, trying to make our own craftiness pay off, each one in her own way. What gave you the idea to do that?
Kadi: I have always been crafty. I saw it as an opportunity to get my self out there. Perhaps make a name for myself. I think it was boredom honestly haha.
Tish: What was the first craft that you learned how to do?
Kadi: Ohhh that’s a tough one. I know I used to paint on board and make Holiday crafts around Christmas time. Goodness, that would be back when I was about 8.
Tish: Which craft do you still do from way back?
Kadi: Sadly I don’t actually craft anymore. I used to do perlers, clay work, beadwork. and now I am just far too busy with my new career choice. It doesn’t leave me a lot of free time.
Tish: Is there a creative hobby that you just can’t give up on?
Kadi: I guess my desire to own all the crafty things, even if I may never use em. Haha.
Tish: The desire to own all of the crafty things is something I can totally understand. I think a lot of other creative souls out there will relate to that sentiment, whether or not they are actively working on their crafts. Was there a pivotal moment that made you decide to go to school and pursue your current career path?
Kadi: Yes. three years ago, We went to Crystal Palace as a family and my eldest wanted to get her face painted. We did it, she fell in love with it, and demanded a face painter for her upcoming birthday party. With no avail, I took on the role myself. 3 years later I have achieved quite a reputation for myself and am now on film #3. *winks*
Tish: How did you know it was the right career choice for you?
Kadi: Anything with Beauty, Glam, Gore, Glitter and Colour, pretty much sums up my life so being a Makeup Artist and Face Painter made sense.
Tish: Where does the desire to be a Special/Visual Makeup Artist come from?
Kadi: I suppose it comes from the desire to always be bigger and better. And to go from a children’s party favour to become a critical part of a team for feature films is a pretty solid direction of bigger and better.
Tish: Did you ever think that you would be turning actors into Zombies?
Kadi: Maybe in my head, I did, which is why I think its so easy for me to imagine and put one together. Haha.
Tish: What was the dream that you have been chasing?
Kadi: To make my family and children proud of their Wife, Mom, Daughter.
Tish: Have you achieved it yet?
Kadi: I sure hope so.
Tish: I know you do. As you (may, or may not) know, I am on my own personal journey, taking my beadwork alongside my Author Career Goals. What type of books do you like to read?
Kadi: Ohhh I’m a harrrrrd core nerd. Fantasy is pretty much right up my alley. Hobbit-esque.
Tish: Excellent. After I am finished writing my NaNoWriMo book about cat stories, I am going to work on one of my lifelong dreams of writing a Fantasy Trilogy. Do you have a favourite Author?
Kadi: Well with that I’d have to say, Tolkien. In fact, I have a Tolkien tattoo, it’s elvish, on my thigh *Proud*
Tish: What is next for you in your entrepreneurial goals?
Kadi: Opening a Salon of my own now that I have graduated Aesthetic College with a 99% average, might I add. It made sense for me to open and continue to do my movies and face painting.
Tish: Where does your inspiration come from?
Kadi: My own head, my children, everything and anything around me. I can usually turn my work into something beautiful or something horrifying.
Tish: Other than the wonderful things you have accomplished in your personal life, what are you most proud of yourself for doing?
Kadi: Pushing myself when there were so many days I didn’t feel adequate enough. My children and husband are a huge inspiration of my pride. My friends *smiles*. I’m proud; I refuse to let any of you down.
Tish: What scares you, and how do you overcome the fear?
Kadi: The fear of failing scares me.
I try to look at what I’ve accomplished so far and I remind myself that now, no one can take this away from me. We were surprised with great news today, Anonymous Zombie had won an award in Berlin at the Rising of the Undead Film Festival, for Best Zombie Movie!! Another thing to take with me and hold dear to my heart. and to keep that fear of failing far, far at bay.
Tish: What advice would you give to people who are just starting on their journey, and how are you planning to teach your daughters about this journey?
Kadi: My one piece of advice, would be….
Never think you’re good enough.
Never think you’re the best.
Having that fear of someone else being better will keep you on your toes and keep your game strong and on top. I plan to tell my daughters this. Humility is important in any journey. Always keep yours.
Wow. Am I ever glad I thought of doing this interview. Kadi, thank you for taking the time to answer my questions and lend your wisdom to the Treasure Seekers. I know I certainly have enjoyed being your friend, and watching you take chances and grow as an entrepreneur. You are someone I am going to be proud to call my friend years from now; when we are both having a glass of wine and reminiscing about how we exploded into our own niches and expanded our horizons beyond our wildest imaginations. Congratulations Kadi, for believing in yourself and not settling for anything less than your very best, and Congratulations to the Cast and Crew of Anonymous Zombie for winning that award in Berlin! That is fantastic news. I am so glad you shared it here. I cannot wait to find out when and where I can catch the movie again. I want to share it with my friends!
There you have it! My first interview on my Blog. I know other authors interview authors, and I may try that later on in the blog. Kadi is such an inspiration to me, I love cheering her on, and cannot wait to see what she gets to do next!
Cut! That’s a wrap!
#TreasureSeekerTuesday (on a Wednesday)
Treasure Seeker Tuesday: Photo by Tish MacWebber; Photo Edited by Noa Price
by Tish MacWebber | Nov 7, 2017 | Weekend Warrior
Another late entry. Good news is that I think things are going to slow down for a week or two. I sure hope so. I am trying to write a book this month, and I am falling behind.
Not to fear, tomorrow is a new day, and I will start making up time and words when I have less going on in my social life. Busy, busy, busy. I never had such a busy year as I have this past year. I am not sure of the exact date, but my original blogging journey started in November 2016. I am working on the website, writing a novel this month, writing down thoughts and ideas for my fantasy trilogy. Thinking about all of that makes my head spin.
I had things that needed my attention this past weekend. I was doing a little extra time at work late last week. Then I started my weekend at Houlie’s with a friend. He was helping me out with some rides, and I thought he deserved a thank you meal. We enjoyed the food. It is always good there. There has been a long stretch of road construction in the area, and it had been a while since I had my favourite Mozza sticks. They did not disappoint.
My friend and I ran errands, and then he left me for a viewing of the Silver Wave Film Festival 2017. I needed to be at the Midnight Madness showing of killer ducks and zombie movies. There were two short films and a 78 minute long movie. Short film 1 was called Duck Duck Noose. It was hilarious. I laughed all the way through it, with the rest of the audience. The title was a dead give away. Killer ducks indeed.
The second short film was described as a trailer. It was called Turned. It was a serious fictional documentary zombie movie trailer. It was filmed in Cape Breton (Horray for Cape Breton!) and it started with someone waking up after being bitten by a zombie. It followed her journey home, and her change from being a human to a zombie. It tackled some deep concepts in a few short minutes, and it was enjoyable to see a different perspective on the zombie apocalypse.
The headliner was Anonymous Zombie. It was filmed in New Brunswick, and my friend Kadi Oram was the Special/Visual Makeup Artist for the movie. I wanted to go to the movie premiere to support her and to see the movie. It was great. It was funny, gory, and almost spooky at times. There was a lot of action and clever plot twists from the start to the end. I was glad I made the effort to go and see it. It is the first time I was at the festival or any official movie premiere. I had not been home after work before going, so I was in my casual Friday work clothes. Kadi looked fantastic! I didn’t have a lot of time to chat with her, but I made sure that I told her husband that I enjoyed the movie. I sat right in front of the director. I wondered if he thought that I laughed in a few parts that weren’t supposed to be funny, or not. I have a wacky sense of humour, and I laughed lots while watching the movie. It was meant to be funny, so it wasn’t all serious, but sometimes I felt like I was the only one laughing at certain parts.
Onward to Saturday. I volunteered at the Pet Expo with Boston Terrier Rescue Canada. I was a part of a team, so my presence was only required for 3 hours. A piece of cake. or in this case, a cookie by donation. 🙂 They had the giant chocolate chip and Skor bits cookies again. Fantastic investment of $2.00, and it goes to the rescue.
They were huge and delicious. I went back for more on Sunday, and they were sold out!
I was glad to help, and knowing that it was just a few hours made it easy to pitch in and do my part. Here is the booth. They have a lot of variety!
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BigMac Salad for Lunch
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Cheeseburger Pie
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Cheeseburger Pie
I then went home, after the volunteering shift was over, and I was hungry. So Roy and I went to Houlie’s. (twice for me on the weekend) We got wings and nachos. I didn’t forget the Mozza sticks, I never miss them. It was good, and Roy decided that he likes the breaded wings better. We got 2 flavours, and one breaded, and one not. Now we know. The trick will be to remember.
We met up with the friend from earlier in the story to go and see Thor Ragnarok. If you like this type of movie, it will be a great choice. Stan Lee had a speaking part, and was unexpected character-wise, even though he is expected to appear in all of his movies. There was a new character that was a lot of fun, too. No spoilers here, just go see it. You will be glad that you did.
Sunday had a few errands and an online write in. I did some NaNoWriMo writing in the write-in. It was a way to get back on track. I am falling behind again, but the night is young. I am going to sign off for now. I am sorry it was a little late this week, but that is a wrap. What did you do this weekend?
#WeekendWarrior
by Tish MacWebber | Nov 3, 2017 | Trust Your Gut
The names here may or may not reflect the person’s real name. If someone wants to remain unknown, we will choose a different name for that person’s story. The goal is to help people, and anonymity is a valid personal choice for contributors. I will use a person’s name only if they give permission to do so.
This week I am pleased to share another of my own stories.
Here is Trust Your Gut: Tish’s Story; Part 36
Well, I have good news, and bad news this week. I went to the Doctor. Not because I was sick, but rather because it was time for a checkup. I met my new doctor. Finally. If first impressions are worth anything, I knew in the first minute I found myself a good one. She seemed meticulous and genuinely wanted to get an idea of my plans in relation to my overall health before my checkup. I needed to find a doctor that I could trust, again. My last doctor was good, but I think this one is going to be great.
The bad news is that I got weighed. I am not at the all-time high from before, but I certainly am not in as good a shape as I have been in the past. I am not following the plan, and I am visibly showing that to the world.
What is wrong with me? Why do I eat things that are bad for me? Why can’t I just lose weight and eat whatever I want to eat, like skinny people do?
I have health issues. I have reasons, and I know that realistically, it didn’t add up overnight, so it will not be removed overnight, either. I know in my mind that junk food is bad for me, and healthy food can taste good. But sometimes I pick the lazy way. Other times I self-sabotage. There are times when I just create excuses and choose to believe them, even though I know they are lies. Chocolate and the monster have been prominent in the last few months.
I don’t know how long I am going to be in this slump. I do know that the number on the scale made me take notice. It is a real number, one I can’t pretend isn’t an issue anymore by refusing to weigh myself. Avoidance is not a valid option when it comes to Diabetes. I know that. I am having difficulties in other parts of my life, and something is holding me back from being the best version of myself.
Sometimes, you have to hit rock bottom before you can climb out of a slump and rise up to your next level. Whatever I am going through in my personal life, I can’t eat it away. I have to face it and deal with it. Head on.
That is not an easy thing to do. It is not an easy thing to think about, let alone to write about, to share with people. But it is going to help me break free and move forward.
Change is hard. I have been pushing my limits with my writing and my blog while keeping a day job and running on coffee. I have been out of the multivitamins for a few months, now, and I plan to buy some again asap. They do help.
I got the doctor to change one of my prescriptions. One of the side effects of the other medication was drowsiness, and I was having a hard time with it. I know that I am a night owl, but I used to be OK with keeping up with my current schedule. I am starting to not do as well as before.
Maybe that was me tapping into the mystical energy people talk about having when they lose weight. I have gone in the wrong direction on the scale, again, and that is definitely a factor. Being heavier means it is harder to do everything because you weigh more. It doesn’t mean I am going to stop and give up.
I need to do some soul searching, and find a reason to get things back on track. I know I felt better, had more energy, and was happier. But if things are not Ok on the inside, and I am spending some of the precious energy I do have in keeping up the appearance of being happy for the world to see, then I need to get to the root of the problem, so I can find a solution.
It isn’t easy, but it is necessary to propel me into my next level. The fear of wondering how bad my weight has become is not holding anything over my head anymore. I know what it is, and I know how it happened. Now I have to find out why, so I can take the next step to working on my goals. I have to keep telling myself that I am worth the effort, that I matter, and that it is important to make my health a priority. It won’t be easy, but nothing worth doing ever is. Time to deep dive into my issues and make some changes.
#TrustYourGut
by Tish MacWebber | Nov 1, 2017 | Treasure Seeker Tuesdays
Happy Halloween Treasure Seekers! I am writing at the end of my day. I got up and put on my costume and makeup. I came home and handed out treats. It is so much fun to open the door in costume and see the reactions of the kids, and even some parents. I got a few compliments and was swarmed by a mob of little, costumed people as they didn’t want to miss out on their treats. It was not scary, most of that crowd was under 5 years old. Their parents had a small bit of panic that they were being rude, but I am from a small rural community (this is a hint about my trilogy-the location-not a real place, but a familiar one) and we used to go into people’s homes for our treats when we were kids. It was how things used to be, in a small, rural community.
Halloween is full of fun, adventure and maybe a scare or two. Some costumes are scary. Some are fun! I like the creative ones, and one boy liked my costume. He was wearing all black, and used glow-sticks to decorate himself, had them as glasses and different parts of his outfit. I returned the sentiment. Being dressed as a leopard, I was more tired tonight than I have been in other years. I know this because when the kid in the Scream mask asked, “Whassup?” My reply was a cranky sounding “Me-yow.” I listened to music, asked preferences of chips or cheesies, and ate the bag of microwave popcorn I got at work today so I didn’t get too hungry before supper.
Before I washed my face, I made a short facebook live video to say hello to people and show that my makeup lasted for the whole day. I was glad to be able to wash my face. I never noticed how many times a day I wanted to scratch my nose before. LOL. Then I made some sandwiches, and I am preparing to go to bed. On the Eve of NaNoWriMo.
I am going to be writing a book in November, with a lot of other people. I am going to need to edit after because I don’t think slamming 50,000 words in 30 days will be the kind of writing that is ready for publishing. I do want to write 1,667 or more words every day in November to win and get to the 50,000 word goal for the month. I have tried before, but I have not won. This year, I have the inspiration generated from thinking about the loss of a friend, who regularly participated in NaNoWriMo. She will be featured. I was originally going to write the whole book about her, but it is less pressure and research if I write about what I know. So the concept has its origins but has evolved. That is how I roll.
This week I am writing about writing. I am preparing to embark on a journey to test my skills in a new format with goals and ideas. As I wrote this I had to stop and make a note. The thoughts are percolating. The ideas are coming out in bits and pieces. This year I am going to win!
I have also made an arbitrary decision that November is MY month. It is the month when I get things together, make changes, try new things, and move forward in my life. It happened last year, and although I am not launching my new website yet, I am getting ready to do it. A year ago I started blogging. This year I am writing books, and building a website. ME! By myself, with coaching and guidance from friends I know or have met on this journey.
What are you going to try this November? Let’s make it a winning month together. I told you what I am doing. How can I help you? Let me know below. Have a great week!
#TreasureSeekerTuesday
Treasure Seeker Tuesday: Photo by Tish MacWebber; Photo Edited by Noa Price
by Tish MacWebber | Oct 31, 2017 | Weekend Warrior
I was so busy this past weekend that I am writing this on Monday after work. It was totally another Hulk Smash weekend win for me! Super busy, unable to attend everything I wanted to do and lots of fun!
I had company Friday night. As they are not fans of Halloween, I spent the evening with them instead of attending my friend’s annual Birthday Halloween Bash. I am a fan of Halloween, and I made up for that Saturday. My company was more rarely able to visit with me, so I spent a quiet night at home, entertaining. We made supper and shared a bottle of wine. It was nice.
Saturday. Oh my goodness, Saturday was a little messed up and a lot of fun! My time management skills were a little off. My guests had a 5 AM wake up call, and I went back to bed after they hit the road. I slept in as long as I could and got up to run errands. I needed to buy ingredients for the One-Eyed Deviled Eggs I was making for the parties. I made regular deviled eggs, sprinkled some smoked paprika on top, and then garnished them with a slice of pimento stuffed green olive and red pepper pieces. They were supposed to look like One-Eyed Devil…ed Eggs. I will share a pic, and you can tell me how I did. I thought I did a good job.
One-Eyed Deviled Eggs
There was a NaNoWriMo kick-off event that I just could not swing. I had two other parties on Saturday, so I had to pick the ones I needed to go to. For social obligatory reasons. As I will be mostly an author/hermit for the month of November, writing my NaNo book. I will have NaNoWriMo friend time in November. As it should be.
I went to the first party late. It took more time than expected to make almost 2 dozen One Eyed Deviled Eggs. Then I had to get into costume and do my makeup. I will let the cat out of the bag, now. I am dressing up as a Leopard this year. I have a nice leopard print two-piece outfit, that can be worn anytime, and in fact, I wear it as an outfit or separately off and on. Paired with other clothes, of course. The top goes with jeans or dressier pants, and the skirt can be worn with usually a black solid dressy top. For Haloween, I am wearing the outfit. I did not manage to find or make a tail, so I am just not going to talk about it. That is what I will say if I am asked, “I don’t want to talk about it.” It should make it awkward if someone pushes the issue, and I am planning to make it that way. Like there was a terrible accident, and I don’t want to talk about it. I do, however, have my own cat toy. 😉 Just for fun!
I use a product by Lise Watier called Magnifix that is a makeup fixative spray. It is made with white tea, it is also paraben and alcohol-free. I was told to get it for my wedding, and it is a wonderful spray to have. I spray it on after finishing my makeup and use the cool air low setting of my hair dryer to dry my face after spraying it on. It does a wonderful job of keeping my makeup on, except for my lips, and well, there isn’t a lipstick I have tried that doesn’t wear off over time. I am getting brave enough to look into some lip staining products.
The second party was with colleagues that are friends. By then Roy & I were hungry, so we showed up with One-Eyed Deviled Eggs and pizza to share. Roy didn’t stay long after the pizza was gone, but he came back for me at the end of the party. It was fun to hang out with friends from work outside of work. 🙂 I had a great time. I learned that Tequila doesn’t make my clothes fall off and that I have a stop signal when drinking it. I was drinking it for the first time as the only alcohol for the evening. My last drink didn’t taste good anymore, so I sadly dumped it down the sink before leaving. I switched to water at that point in the evening. I was tired yesterday, but no headache as I had managed enough water to chase. It is important for a Diabetic to snack when drinking, and for everyone to rehydrate when drinking. And check with your doctor first if you are on any medications before having drinks, just to be sure that there are no side effects. Better safe than sorry.
It’s time to let the cat out of the bag. I am facing Halloween 2017 as a Leopard. I went online for makeup ideas and then bought the supplies. The first run was a blast! I will be in the same costume tomorrow. I may change it up a bit, but the foundation of it will be the same. Time to settle in for the night. I am going to have to be up early to recreate the same kind of look for the day tomorrow.
Happy Halloween!
by Tish MacWebber | Oct 26, 2017 | Trust Your Gut
The names here may or may not reflect the person’s real name. If someone wants to remain unknown, we will choose a different name for that person’s story. The goal is to help people, and anonymity is a valid personal choice for contributors. I will use a person’s name only if they give permission to do so.
This week I am pleased to share another of my own stories.
Here is Trust Your Gut: Tish’s Story; Part 35
Another week, another story. Here I sit, planning a million and one things in my life all at once. I have chicken breasts cooking with greek dressing as a marinade. I have 3lb of ground beef to cook. 2lb for spaghetti sauce, and 1lb for Big Mac Salad. I will use my spaghetti squash and zucchini when I eat my spaghetti. Roy will have pasta. He isn’t following the plan with me, but I must get myself back on track. So I am planning meals again.
I am not making it to Zumba as much as I would like to be able to. Transportation is my biggest issue causing me to miss it. And a stomach bug this week did NOT help. I am feeling better tonight and starting to look forward. The weekend is busy, and having food prepped will help me be ready.
Big Mac Salad is something I love to make and eat.
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BigMac Salad for Two
It is really an easy recipe and can be found all over Pinterest. I cook the ground beef, then add onion soup mix. I use iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar, thousand island dressing, dill pickle relish, and to give it the BigMac without the bun garnish, I sprinkle sesame seeds on top. When you want a BigMac, and you are trying to eat healthier, this is a great way to do it.
The idea is not mine, and like I said, there are many versions online, including the THM Trim Mac Salad which is found in the THM cookbook. There are recipes that are completely from scratch for the dressing, but I prefer to just use the Kraft Thousand Island dressing. It does the job. They even have BigMac sauce for sale now in grocery stores now, if you are a hardcore BigMac fan.
The other thing I like to have made for the burger cravings is Cheeseburger pie. That is a THM recipe that I make frequently.
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Cheeseburger Pie
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Cheeseburger Pie, side view.
You can find a recipe for Cheeseburger Pie at this link: Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
I am not the creator of either recipe, but I can recommend them both as delicious. I like to add tomatoes and dill pickles after it is cooked. The recipe link shows it being served over lettuce. I have yet to try it like that. ( I usually eat it straight up.) I also add ketchup and mustard. One time I made my own THM ketchup. I would like to make it again sometime. I am working on finding time to cook again, as I am not happy with the way things are now.
I will make cheeseburger pie another night, as I am going to do what I have to do and compromise. So I am making spaghetti sauce and going to have it on my vegetables. I am going to keep moving forward on my plan because I need to get going in the right direction again.
If you try the recipes, let me know what you think!
#TrustYourGut
by Tish MacWebber | Oct 24, 2017 | Treasure Seeker Tuesdays
Here we are at story number three. Three cheers to you and me for sticking with this new category. Let’s take a little walk down a winding trail together and look a little closer at the significance of the number three.
I am the oldest of three girls in my family. We now live in three different provinces. We chose three different paths for education and careers. But the source of our connection remains the same. Our family is important to all of us, and we come together in times of need, and for reminiscing while making new memories. Time spent together is now a rare thing, and it is something I treasure dearly.
Bling | Blog | Books
Three areas of focus for my new website adventure. I wanted to keep some of my creativity outside of writing as a way to have a link to my other talents. Creativity is my passion, and I am always working on many projects at the same time. This is nothing new for me. I pick things up and put them down. Sometimes I get to a certain threshold and can no longer set the project aside. It could be a deadline, or just knowing that I am on a roll and near completion of my project. At this point, the world outside of my creative bubble does not exist. I become very focused and push myself to finish whatever I am working on. Then I proudly share what I have made. Sometimes it is for sale. Other times it is a gift. Very rarely is it something for myself.
Trilogy
I have a goal as an author to write a fantasy trilogy. My favourite thing to read. There is a beginning, a middle and an end to them. Sometimes they expand into a new trilogy or a series instead of only trilogies. Since I am a devoted reader of the fantasy trilogy genre, it makes perfect sense that I want to write my own. I have started writing book one. There are more than three characters in this trilogy, although the main characters may end up being numbered in a group of three. They will all have a part to add to the stories, and I am happy to be finally making progress in that area.
Nature
Sun, sand and the ocean. Another trilogy of sorts that plays a huge role in my life. My favourite place in the world is on a beach so it would make sense that I am centering my trilogy in a place where the beach is easy to find. I have spent hours upon hours just walking beaches. It is something that I love to do, and can never grow tired of. The ocean is something I will always be drawn back to for inspiration, clearing my mind, and a sense of peacefulness.
Common Thread
All of these things are important to me in following my dreams. My family, my goals, my favourite place to be, they are all a part of what I will use to help me write. You will see them appear in my books, blog, and maybe in my jewellery too. Inspiration can strike at any time, and I am telling my stories and creating treasures in my journey. Thank you for reading, and for walking with me.
#TreasureSeekerTuesday
Treasure Seeker Tuesday: Photo by Tish MacWebber; Photo Edited by Noa Price
by Tish MacWebber | Oct 24, 2017 | Weekend Warrior
I spent a bit of time cat sitting this weekend. That happens sometimes. I like cats, and there may be a time when we need help from our friends, so I make sure I am available.
I watched some movies on Netflix with the cats. Movies my husband has not expressed an interest to see. I watched the Gaga movie Five Foot Two. I enjoyed it. It gave the fan a look from the outside into her creative process, showing her as a person that has issues like everyone else. It also gave insight into the thought process behind her last album, Joanne. Wow. I didn’t know what that song was written about. I had an idea, but the documentary really explained a lot about the title song. There is so much more to her heart than I knew.
I also watched Hidden Figures. That was a really good movie. It made me mad sometimes, about the way things used to be. I am glad that things are different, now, but I don’t think that they are better. People are people, and we need to work on being nicer to each other. Me too.
I watched the documentary Long Time Running too. As a Tragically Hip fan, I was sad to hear the news last week that their frontman, Gord Downie, died after fighting his battle with cancer. It followed the band and a bit of his solo project in the last year. They had a concert that was aired commercial-free last year, and any show they were in since, whether it was on CBC or CTV has been aired the same way. The last concert of their last tour was broadcast across the country in its entirety pretty much everywhere. I watched it on a big screen with several hundred strangers and a few friends. It didn’t matter, we all sang, watched and cried together. I am glad I made a point of doing that, as I never got to see them play live. This was as close as I was ever going to get, and it was such a memorable evening.
I have reflected about the musicians that have died in the last few years. I don’t know of any that took a fatal illness and fought it head on to raise awareness for both the illness and a cause close to their heart. Gord has made Canadians stop and think about many things this past year. He had the support of his medical team, his band, his family, and his fans through it all. What a legacy to leave behind.
Last night another Gord Downie hour took up my attention. It was the concert of his mission, The Secret Path. It is not my story to tell, but it made me sad to watch it last night. It wasn’t that it was being aired after he passed away, but the raw artistry displayed in telling the story along with the animation and song moved me to tears. It was not a story with a happy ending, and it has me wondering what I can do to make things better. I cannot fix the past mistakes made in Canada, but I can try to help and heal. Someone said to just reach out and be a friend. I think it is an excellent place to start.
Around all of this, I had a really busy Saturday. I had 2 separate events.The first one was the annual Boston Terrier Rescue Canada Recycling for Rescue Event. I showed up and helped separate some cigarette packages for recycling. I helped hang a poster and went on a coffee run. I donated to get a BBQ lunch. My husband also enjoyed lunch and had cashed in some bottles a neighbour donated for the rescue. I got someone to tell him about a dog that needs a home through the rescue, but he said no. We have to be in agreeance when we get a dog, it has to work for both of us, and for the dog. So no dog for me yet.
I then jumped in my car after bringing him home and getting my laptop. I went to the first NaNoWriMo Meet & Greet of the season. I had a little too much caffeine in me, and I chatted everyone’s ears off. I hope I didn’t scare anyone off. 😉 I was a little bubbly, and if I am saying I was talking a lot, I was. I think it went well. We all answered questions when asked, and I think it was a success.
I was so busy I am feeling like I am forgetting something. I had to scrub my BTRC t-shirt in between events as it decided to be a magnet for coffee and mustard. Then I found out there were puppy paw prints on it too. LOL. There were dogs a the event, and they were friendly. I really don’t know how I got all that done in a weekend, but I fit it all in. I am feeling rather tired still, so I am hoping to have a chance to rest up around the other project I am working on.
I KNEW I WAS FORGETTING SOMETHING! I am hard at work on the website. I want to launch it on November 1st. The blog has moved, and I will be adding this to the other location and the other stories up until November 1st will be in both locations. Then I will be working on the website for the blogging and other new adventures from then on. Don’t worry, it won’t be hard to find, and I am going to share the links when it is ready for the launch. I am finally pushing forward with this project, and I am getting excited about it. It was a super busy weekend, with ups and downs, full of challenges and progress. Next weekend is busy with Halloween parties, and if we are lucky I will have some pictures for the story next weekend. Until then, sorry it was a little late, but I was definitely a winner this past weekend! How was your weekend?
by Tish MacWebber | Oct 19, 2017 | Trust Your Gut
The names here may or may not reflect the person’s real name. If someone wants to remain unknown, we will choose a different name for that person’s story. The goal is to help people, and anonymity is a valid personal choice for contributors. I will use a person’s name only if they give permission to do so.
This week I am pleased to share another of my own stories.
Here is Trust Your Gut: Tish’s Story; Part 35
They say that the core muscles are where your strength comes from. Mine hurt today. I had an awesome Zumba class yesterday. I didn’t feel like I worked out that hard, but I felt it last night when I was getting ready for bed. I am getting ready to start pushing myself in the writing game. This means I need to be active, or I will be a blob of goo in December.
I am not kidding. I have fallen way off track this fall, and I am working on getting my head back in the game. I need to put together a plan. I have been talking about this for a while. Thinking, not doing. Sometimes it is because I have other things that take priority. It happens to everyone. This or that becomes a priority.
The next thing you know, there are so many things that are a priority, you get left behind. I think that is what I am fighting with myself about right now. The importance of me.
I still have not checked in with the scale. I won’t do it until I am feeling brave. That won’t be until I am making strides in the right direction. I need to start wanting to track my progress. I can’t do that to myself right now. I don’t want to know how badly I have let things slide. I do want to pick myself back up and start wondering again.
I had some lows this week. That is a sign that I am turning a corner. When I am noticing that I need to lower my insulin doses again, it means that things are starting to work in my body. I have found that I am not able to go with a Zero carb diet. That is why I am positive that THM is the best option for me. I am getting there.
Writing about it helps. I am trying to inspire myself with my words. I have accomplished so much two weeks ago and nothing of significance this week. Except for the change in my blood sugars and getting myself to Zumba. That means this weekend I have some work to do. If I am going to be successful next month with my writing goals, I need to get serious about planning EVERYTHING out.
Time to make some lists. Time to make some changes. Time to make progress. Last but not least, time to make ME important enough to be a priority in my own life.
#TrustYourGutThursday
by Tish MacWebber | Oct 17, 2017 | Treasure Seeker Tuesdays
Hi. I am so glad that you took a few minutes out of your busy day to read my blog. I am humbled and honoured every single time I get feedback and new statistics. Every time you take time to read one of my stories, you impact my dreams. You reinforce my beliefs to follow my dreams and make them into a reality. I am discovering my purpose here on this Earth. I am so glad that I am making it happen, and I am just as happy that you are sharing my journey with me.
I have always had a creative spark within. It was not enough. I have worked on cross stitches, embroidery, drawing, painting, beadwork, knitting and crocheting, and now I have rediscovered my love for writing. I didn’t work on my writing very much since high school. When I was in English classes, it turned me off writing as a career. I had to read books I never would have chosen to read, then I was forced to find hidden meanings that were a stretch for me to believe. I like things to be at face value. I also like to be funny, punny and clever. Dissection belongs in science class, not in English class.
After high school, I chose a path to science. I started a pre-vet program. I never made it to vet school. I did finish my Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, with an Animal Science Degree. It was an honours degree. It took me longer than the average four years to complete it, but that makes me all the more proud to hang it on my wall.
I met my husband while studying for that degree. We met through a group of mutual friends. When we decided to start dating, things clicked. We are happily married, and that is something that I can wish for all of you to find. Love. It is an adventure that we all need to grab onto and hold tight when it happens.
If you are not in that kind of relationship at the moment, please do not despair. It is not your time yet. Things happen for a reason, and I truly believe that. Your story is not yet finished, and it is up to you to get up every day and see where it takes you.
I did not find a job with my Bachelor of Science. I went back to school and trained to be a Pharmacy Technician, who currently earns her living by working in a call center. Is this the career path I would have chosen for myself ? No. Would I jump at the chance to go back into the world of pharmacy? Absolutely. I enjoyed using the scientific side of my mind. It was a satisfying career choice. But it was not the reason I ended up taking that course.
I believe that I was sent in that direction for another reason. I learned how to mix IV medications and prepare chemotherapy drugs in a sterile hood. My familiarity with working with needles helped me to adapt to having to learn how to give myself insulin. Sometimes you need to figure out what led you to the path you are on, so you can decide if you want to keep on that journey, or find a new branch and follow another trail.
No matter what path you are on, it is up to you to learn what you can while you are there. When you have finished learning all that you can, if you are not still inspired to continue learning, it is time to try something different. Even if it scares you. When you do this you are pushing boundaries, and that is when the magic happens.
Now I am going to plant some seeds. Something to think about for the week, to help you on your own journey. What choices did you make to lead you to where you are today? If it was difficult, it was to make you stronger. How did it do that? If it was easy, why was that easy for you? What things do you love doing so much that you lose track of time when you are working on them? Those are the things you need to investigate further, to see where they will take you. Maybe when you do, you will find that you surprise yourself like I do when I am writing.
One last thought. When you find yourself going two steps forward, and three or even five steps back, go with it. Dance within the ebbs and flows of life. Join me, and together we will make our own paths in this world. One step at a time.
#TreasureSeekerTuesday
Treasure Seeker Tuesday: Photo by Tish MacWebber; Photo Edited by Noa Price
