Blogging while watching Vampire Diaries Pt. 2

So I'm quite late getting into Vampire Diaries - I missed a half hour already!

I turned on the channel and some 500 year old vamp was using persuasion on Elena already...and then Damon and Stefan swooped in and saved her. So basically I missed a half hour of Elena freaking out and waiting for her 2 prince charmings to come save her :(

(commercial)

I read in the news today that a 10 year old girl. A 10 year old girl has given birth to a baby...

OH.MY.GOD.

I'll just give you a few minutes while you process that...

That reminds me of this prophecy I heard a long time back about the end of the world. I'll have to look it up.

(back from commercial)

I miss Katherine's character - she had attitude. I'm sure they'll bring her back next week. Wait, what are Jeremy and Bonnie doing? :o They are so going to start dating. And I'm still waiting for Elena to dump Stefan.

Wait..."Klous?" - one of the vamps just mentioned something about the "originals" -- oh noo...I think we're going to meet Dracula this season!

Okay let's get to more pressing matters...

• DC Comics have given Wonder Woman a make over! They've replaced the 50 year old scantily clad comic hero with - are you ready for this - black shiny pants :D

• B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell has given up and resigned. His popularity came down to a terrifying 9% as he failed to implement the HST in the right manner. Now opposition leaders and critics in Ontario are using this example as a way to attack the McGuinty Government. Before we get ahead of ourselves, I just need to point out -- that the two cases are very different. Stop comparing and educate yourself

• Justin Bieber claims he's going to cut his hair! Why is that pressing news? It's not, but apparently the rest of the world thinks it is :s

• Volcano in Indonesia is nearing eruption - this is yet another volcano this year and it's really another wake up call for us to examine our climate and the condition it's in. Then again I don't know how or why a volcano chooses when to erupt. But, while on the topic we've got to understand that our climate is not what it once was. I think we all know that, but these matters are important. We can take great interest in watching disaster movies such as "The Day After Tomorrow" - which happens to be one of my favourites. The fact is that our climate is getting more confused as the days, months, years pass on. Random temperatures, tornadoes, increase in over-active weather, hurricanes, tsunami's, it's hot when it should be cold, it's cold when it should be hot -- it's confused! That can't be good for the world. That can't be good for Mother Nature.

• Which reminds me I was watching "Batman & Robin" the other day. It was the one with Uma Thurman as Poison Ivy. Well she threatened Gotham City that Mother Nature would take her revenge...hmm...maybe the psycho Poison Ivy had a point, regardless of how bad Thurman's acting was. Something to think about...

• Carrie Underwood was in Toronto this past week and sadly I missed her concert :( It's going to take me a while to get over that one. She's still one of my favourites. I can't believe I missed her concert. So sad. So very very sad.
  

• That reminds me - WHERE IN THE WORLD IS BRITNEY SPEARS????

• Obama is in a tough position and who ever thought it would hit this point so quickly into his term...I DID! BUT NO ONE WOULD LISTEN TO ME! Barack Obama won a presidency based on hope & change. These are two great ideals -- but they come with great responsibility and risk. Government policy does not produce results overnight nor do the citizens feel the results in a few years. It takes a while, a few years for the impact to be felt. President Obama may be in the midst of implementing the policies he feels America needs to move forward - but the citizens aren't going to feel it that quick and the average voter doesn't understand that. So what do you get?

• Well you get the Republicans stealing back the House of Representatives and a Senate where the Democrats barely have a majority. We're going to see a lot of gridlock in the coming years. So what should the President do now? There's nothing he can do. Now...Hillary on the other hand told it like it is. The manner in which she conducts business and government...well no one would have been disillusioned and I strongly believe under her Presidency the Democrats would have held onto their strong majorities in both the House and the Senate. Something to think about...

I don't know why I was writing with bullet points - I'm bored I guess. I'm going to actually move my blog into my website one of these days. Just haven't had the time to set that up. So look out for that. I have sooooooo much updating to do. I promise I'll get to it soon.

It's looking like I'll be hitting the road again in the coming months - so I'll give details once I get any details. I'm fully into my next book, but in the research phase. This idea is incredible. I'm not bragging. It really just is incredible. If I pull it off - I tell you it's going to be epic. EPIC!

Okay my hand hurts. I got the flu shot yesterday and then fell asleep on my arm last night - so basically I'm in pain today.

Time to go watch some cartoons. Take care everyone! Happy Diwali! I'm so excited about Diwali - it marks the occassion when I completed my first draft of Under the Moonlit Sky!!!!!! Don't worry another blog to follow soon; one which will be more concentrated on a particular subject. You know I can't concentrate on one thing while I'm watching Vampire Diaries!

-N

November 1st...

There's still about an hour before it turns to November 1st - but I thought I'd start writing now.

I know I haven't blogged in a bit and it's not because I've forgotten or don't have anything to write about. The problem is that I have too much to write about. I have way to many thoughts in my head right now. There is so much going on in this world that it's become overwhelming. The worst part is that there are still so many tragedies taking place around us and so many "unresolved" conflicts. Tragic world events are piling up and I just don't know how to write about them right now. What I can do is write a little about one such event; an event that reached it's climax on November 1, 1984.

I'm not going to get into details. For a full report you can visit: www.ensaaf.org. They have several publications. My favourite is: "Twenty Years of Impunity" a report by Jaskaran Kaur. It's absolutely incredible the way in which they have put forward witness affidavits, statements from commissions, and laid out the trail of events. I highly recommend you start there in your quest for knowledge regarding 1984.

I've met many people over the years and one thing I've realized is that everyone has their own pesonal feelings when it comes to the events of 1984 in both Punjab and Delhi (of course we cannot ignore the fact that several anti-Sikh events took place around India). There's also this "backlash" against 1984 that I've picked up on. Many people still appear to be "afraid" or "hesitant" in speaking about 1984 or simply even asking questions about it, or discussing it.

Some are afraid of inciting hatred. Some are afraid of sounding like "whining victims". Some seem afraid of opening old wounds.

These fears are understandable. But then why do we even bother speaking about any historical event or world conflict?

We should not be afraid to listen to or show love and support for someone who has undergone grave human rights abuses, personal loss, and tragedy.

At the end of the day - we are all human. Look past the politics and see the person and the soul that resides in that body, in that group. Start from there.

What surprises me most is that many people living in Delhi are not even aware of the Widow Colonies. I met a girl here in Toronto, who said she grew up in Delhi and it was only when she married in Canada, that she found out from her husband what happened in Delhi in 1984. She said she was absolutely shocked to learn that something like that had happened while she was there and she had no clue all these years.

On one side, it can be said that the stories, the decision to talk rests with the victims who suffered. On the other hand, it cannot be forgotten that these were strategically planned attacks on a group. If we stand any chance of making our world safer and better, then we have to educate ourselves.

If knowledge and sound analysis was not the underlying purpose then why would we discuss wars and conflicts in our world's history? Why would there be courses and programs dedicated to it?

Every event has characteristics to it. They involved people, authority, policy, a nation, ideals, and prejudices. When something as large-scale, calculated and strategic as 1984 happens, we need to learn from it. We need to know why it happened and how, so that we can work together to find ways to prevent such things.

Some people say "it's been 26 years, time to move on." My question to them is: "Move on from what?"

- Are we to tell the mother that still weeps for her children to move on?

- Are we to tell the kids who watched in horror as their parents were humiliated, butchered, and lit on fire, to move on?

- Or are we to tell the father that saw his daughter, wife, mother raped before his eyes, that his nightmares will eventually move on?

There is no need to say "move on" - because 1984 is a fact. There is no need to start drawing boundaries, or spew hatred - no. No need for that. All that is needed is a little compassion; a little understanding; and a whole lot of education.

This is part of history. This is still part of our reality. Twenty-six years is not a long time. Those victims, those families are still here amongst us.

Let's stop ignoring a factual event. Instead let us learn from it.

Never again. Never again to any group. Never again to any individual. Never again to any child.

Be informed. Be smart. Be proactive so that together we can make a brighter future. That may sound corny, but it's crucial.

In my book I've acknowledged the victims of '84. But I also wrote something, a thought, that came to me when I first finished reading my manuscript. I'll end with that thought now:

There is wisdom in every story told,
every experience shared;
a wisdom that can become a beacon
for hope and change for the future.
But first, we must listen.

-N

Blogging while watching Vampire Diaries =)

Hey Everyone! Long time I know!

Since life is so busy I thought I'd multi-task...hence blogging while watching Vampire Diaries!

Oh..the show just started...darn it, Katherine turned what's her name..and she's drinking blood!! What's going on in this show?!

Okay sorry, just got a little distracted. So some of you are saying "I'm too busy to blog nowadays." So am I too busy? Short answer: Yes :p But I love blogging and I'll keep it up don't worry. So thanks for being so patient with me. Man..why is Jeremy being such an idiot to poor Elena...she so belongs with Damon too. I don't know why she's with Stefan...Oh shoot! Okay, I'm back.

I think you'll all agree there's been a heck of a lot going on these days no matter where you are in the globe. From psycho pastors threatening to burn the Quran; to Clinton facilitating what she has dubbed the "last chance for peace" between Palestine and Israel; to the Pope visiting the UK amidst further sexual abuse reveals in Belgium; to the Municipal Elections; to the Toronto Film Festival; to...the earth having a mere miss with an asteroid; to...Brenda being back on General Hospital! Insane!

You see there are sooo many things going on! Omg...Caroline just attacked her first human victim...now it's commercial. I think Caroline's going to be a very annoying vamp. Man she's turning into Katerine's groupie, no way...what the heck...darn show

Anyway - I've only had time to catch 2 movies in the past couple of months, The Last Exorcism and Resident Evil: Afterlife in 3D. I actually enjoyed both movies quite well. Exorcism wasn't what I expected it to be. The last thing I was expecting when I walked into the movie theatre was a mockumentary; however it was funny and had a select few frightening moments. I do recommend it though. The ending was a disappointment and I really think they could have done a better job. The actors were a great choice but weak in the end. It was a blend of Blair Witch and Exorcism.

Resident Evil on the other hand was a great way to pass the night. Alice is always a pleasure to watch - not the way guys see it - but because she kicks ass and looks good while she does it and she's got the most ridiculous lines but she's Alice and she can say and do whatever. I've always enjoyed the entire Resident Evil series.

oh boy...Caroline is feeding again...what is up with this episode? Where's Katherine? she's the only worthwhile character to watch this season. And I thought vamps were supposed to look all cool and fashionable once they're "made" - she looks like a...well...she doesn't look the part...hmmm

anyhow, have you guys heard about Oprah inviting her entire studio audience (that's 300 people) to join her in Australia as she tapes a couple of shows there? yeah great right? Way to go Oprah. Pat on the back...Only it's going to cost Australian taxpayers $3 million!!! Good luck footing Oprah's bill and by the way she's a billionaire...A BILLIONAIRE and she's making YOU pay for a trip that's only going to make HER look good in the end! lol...man and people wanted her to be President, hahaha..can you imagine? She'd put the rest of the world into more debt if that were the case, but I'm sure we'd see a lot of stone statues made of her that's for sure.

...I hope Damon stakes Caroline...

The municipal elections are gaining steam. I'm going to talk about Brampton, since that's my hometown.

Quickly though, Toronto...Rob Ford? Come on, be serious.

So Brampton! Ready? Are you ready to vote? Ready to choose a new Mayor?! lol. No you probably aren't because you're all so stuck on this Fennell character that continues to disillusion our City. You want to debate that - email me.

...I love Bonnie's character in VD - she makes it real interesting...

Regional Council - we've got some great contenders, but the only one I'm concerned about is Dal Singh Puar. Yes Dal is the right candidate for Wards 2 & 6 and I say it loud and I say it proud. I'm sure if you live in Brampton, you've already heard his name. This guy is born and raised in Canada, he's worked hard for several years as a Constituency Assistant. He knows the issues, he knows the Region, most important, he actually knows what a Regional Councillor does, isn't that amazing? Isn't that unique? Do me a favour, when a candidate knocks on your door this month ask them on the outset: "Do you know what the job requires you to do?" If they say they do and can back it up, then ask them this: "Now how are you going to use that job to help improve my quality of life in this City?" That's it -- that's all you need to ask in order to get an idea of whether or not that person knocking on your door is either a) qualified to win and represent you; or (b) qualified to continue as your rep.

Honestly and most shockingly a lot of these City representatives are well into their second decade of service and they always win with as little as 4000 or 5000 votes in areas where the electorate is well over 50,000 people. That's insane.

Get out and vote! Stop the dictatorships that exists in our municipal governments.

...awww he loves Caroline...he loves Caroline? yuck...I sooo do not like this episode.

Speaking about vampires -- I've started a whole new book series, which I will definitely blog about soon. But not now, don't worry.

I've written too much, or well I've blabbed on and on and I'm sure you're all wondering "what's gotten into Nav?"

This is what happens when I try to multi-task.

Okay Vampire Diaries has just ended. I need to go make an important phone call. So I promise this weekend I will blog again and I won't do it while watching TV!

Until then -- do have a look around you. See what's taking place and try to be a part of change or effective development. The world is changing. There's a shift that's happening. It's happening to our environment, to our climate, to our political, social, economic realities. Always stay informed, and stay active. This is your world. You make it go round.

:)

N.

A Special Note on a Special Occassion

Hi Everyone!

Yes I'm back from Calgary!!! It was an incredible trip, albeit far too short, but an incredible trip nonetheless. I'm going to sum up the Calgary events and how it all went in my next blog. This post I want to dedicate to a very good friend of mine who is celebrating her birthday today. Her name is REET.

Now those of you who have already read "Under the Moonlit Sky" will note that one of Esha's best friends is named, Reet. You've guessed right, that character was modeled on my friend Reet, who happens to be one of my dearest friends and an individual that I admire and always get a good laugh out of :p sorry Reet! lol

There was no particular reason why I chose to name a character after Reet. It just appealed to me and I really didn't realize it until I found her name written in my story. I wanted a fun-loving character, but also someone that we can adore and Reet was it for me. I know I've only given her a short appearance in the novel; however, whatever bit she is in it, she has a powerful role in providing some perspective to our main protagonist, Esha.

And that's really how my friends are. I've had the privilege of being surrounded by some incredible people and my friends are everything to me. Although, we're always very busy - we lead hectic career and family lives, whenever we do get to see one another and spend some time together, it's the best place to be in the world. There's nothing more I could ask for than to be around them. I draw great inspiration by their strength, intelligence, and the way they live their lives.

So all of the friends that are used in the book for Esha are modeled on my own friends and I would want it no other way. Of course in a fictional story, we have the liberty to slightly exaggerate, so don't hold anything against them!

Now since it's Reet's birthday - let me say a few words about her -

In the book, I thoroughly enjoyed having Reet share the page with Esha, especially in the beginning when she provides some situational comedy. However, she really gives Esha that reality check when it's needed and to me that is Reet. This girl can make you laugh, cry, and realize something incredible about yourself in one simple conversation.

I remember while I was writing my novel and anytime I've been doing something major - we'd take breaks - her from studying, me from writing - and we'd chat...on facebook...lol.

Reet is a friend that everyone should strive to have and that anyone should be so lucky to have. HAPPY BIRTHDAY REET!!

My friends really have written the course of history for me and they represent my life. They are a great comfort and source of inspiration and I thank all of them - they all know who they are - thanks for being who you are and....well for not getting upset that I've used you as foundations for some of my characters!

Okay stay tuned...blog, vlog, etc...on Calgary coming sooon!

-N

Random Thoughts Before CALGARY!

Soooo....Lindsay Lohan is out of jail! Do we care? No.

Chelsea Clinton got married! Do we care? Of course! It's Chelsea Clinton! Sorry Lindsay.

Also for you military-nerds...China is "flexing its muscles". They just started some demonstrations to show their military strength. A move that the U.S. isn't liking too much.

I'm still struggling to read a book. This problem started after I finished my novel. It's so hard to get back to being just a reader! I'm always paying more attention to "how" the author wrote the novel, rather than jumping into the story. This is not good; not good at all for someone who loves to read :(

I almost got trampled by Bambi this past week. It came out of nowhere and just stared me down after it stopped a mere 5 feet away from me. I stood and gawked for a minute, then I whipped out my camera and took a picture of it, which probably wasn't a good idea, but dude it was Bambi!


I know I hardly, well I never add photos on my blog - but you can see all the photos you want to on my Facebook Fan Page, so join that if you haven't already. Here's the link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nav-K-Gill/255143638512?ref=ts

Things have going quite well lately, but it's just been a very hectic time. Balancing two careers, plus family, and an upcoming wedding....yes yes - lots to do this year. However, a big thanks to my wonderful family and friends that give me a reality check when I need it :p


So this Saturday, AKakaAmazing and I are headed to Calgary for the next leg of the book tours. SYC is hosting a book signing at Chapters by Sunridge Mall @2pm in N.E. Calgary. Check out the flyer. The event is posted on Facebook as well.

AK and I did a video over the weekend and it hit the channel this week. The response has been quite interesting and positive. You guys are great. We had a lot of fun. It's always interesting to be around AK. The dude is the most random character you will ever meet, but he's a great cousin to have and we're really enjoying meeting fans wherever we go. JUST TO CLARIFY: I am good in Call of Duty on xbox.

Also, I'll definitely have a camera with me in Calgary so I'll try to keep you updated on what's happening and how our trip went. I wish I could've done that in B.C. but that trip was just waaaay too busy. I'm thinking Calgary will be the same, but I'll try harder to capture as much as I can this time around.

Right now I'm listening to a crazy track by Saint Soldier called "Sister" - if you haven't checked it out yet, here's the link: http://saintsoldier.bandcamp.com/track/sister. You can catch the video on my page as well. There's a chapter in "Under the Moonlit Sky" that discusses infanticide. This issue remains important and I feel we should continue to educate ourselves on it. It hasn't disappeared. Although society continues to evolve and develop that does not automatically mean that certain practices and issues simply disappears; rather the veil becomes darker and the practice runs underground and that's when it's most dangerous.

Okay I've written too much. I need to do some movie reviews. So I'll try to get some in soon!

N.

Writing on '84

I've been back for about a week now from BC - the most recent book signing for "Under the Moonlit Sky". The trip was absolutely incredible. It was a success due to the efforts of some great colleagues, friends and of course family. I will remain forever grateful for your help.

It's been a while since I've blogged properly and there's something important that I want to touch upon tonight. Under the Moonlit Sky is my debut novel, yes. Under the Moonlit Sky employs several themes, yes. Under the Moonlit Sky can't be swept into one category, yes. However, at the end of the day we must realize that the horrid events of 1984 which saw pogroms against Sikhs carried out in a most systematic way - are mentioned in this novel. Not only are they mentioned, but key descriptions of these events are included so that the reader can gain a first hand look at that period.

How it felt to write in a first person narrative, through the eyes of a character that experiences those events, is something that I may never fully be able to explain in proper detail. All I can really say is that it affected me greatly and left me with a long-lasting impression that 1984 truly was a nightmare. It gave me sleepless nights where I would lay awake tormented by what innocent people experienced. And days where I didn't want to eat because I was so engrossed in the reports, and the stories of victims.

Now as I do PR - it's a weird experience I find at times. On the one hand Under the Moonlit Sky is many things. It's a coming of age story for the youth, it's a unique story for people that are not familiar with the events of 1984 in Punjab and Delhi. It explores the themes of identity, morality, ethics, friendships and loyalty among others.

On the other hand, it touches upon a sensitive subject: the 1984 pogroms against Sikhs. That year is probably one of the most eventful years in Indian history. So much happened that year from tensions reaching the climax between Punjab and the Central Government, to Operation Bluestar, to emergency states being claimed in the state of Punjab, International media blackouts, forced arrests, disappearances of countless people, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination to of course the violent aftermath where attacks against Sikhs were carried out in a span of a couple of days.

I went from spending a week talking non-stop about this year to coming back to Toronto and jumping back into my "usual routine" which is work and family. At first I was just very tired from my trip, because I hardly got any sleep. However, as the days progressed I began realizing that I felt some sort of withdrawal and sorrow. I began to feel the toll of those discussions which centered around discussing the horrific eye witness accounts of people in Delhi in November 1984.

Writing Under the Moonlit Sky was an effort built upon passion, dedication, and a real sense of need to write and share this story. I absolutely love writing and exploring the creative spirit. However, I must emphasize that 1984 is no easy period to write about.

I carry a heavy weight around with me, knowing each day that this story is inspired by the experiences of the victims of that year. I feel the sorrow inside of me, the pain of knowing that the violence I have described in Under the Moonlit Sky isn't entirely fiction...these things actually happened to innocent people; men, women, grandparents, children...

Some people say we must "forget '84' -- The discussion does not have to be about whether or not to forget. The discussion can be intelligent. There is nothing wrong with acknowledging someone's pain; acknowledging someone's loss, acknowledging someone's horrid nightmare. The discussion does not have to be heated or violent -- it can be compassionate towards the victims. A mother raped in front of her kids, a father burned alive before his family, a grandmother left to raise the babies and children hiding under dead bodies for a chance for survival. Acknowledging their pain, understanding this piece of history, isn't about drawing boundaries, it's about studying our history to try to prevent it from ever happening again. Isn't that what we are supposed to do as intelligent human beings?

I'm not entirely sure why I chose now to share this with all of you. I guess as Under the Moonlit Sky takes off, I just want you all to know that it does impact me very much. That yes there is this excitement about having my debut novel out there doing well. Yes it is a dream come true to be a published author, but it was no easy feat to write about, and it is no easy feat to discuss 1984. I have the utmost respect and admiration for the victims and families that were affected by the events of 1984 -- leading up to it, during it, and following it.

Although, I have spent much effort giving Under the Moonlit Sky a global appeal, ensuring that it touches upon various themes and issues that affect people, it is built upon a year that we must accept as a bitter truth -- it is a year when the very essence of humanity came into question. When the lines between sanity and insanity were blurred; when the balance between life and death depended on a simple thing called "identity".

-N

On the Road...and so it begins!

Okay, so the past few weeks have been quite interesting. There's a lot going on. Namely, my debut novel, "Under the Moonlit Sky" is out and it's doing well. It's picking up speed, but gotta keep the momentum going.

The signing and launch at Chapters in Brampton was fantastic. We had some excellent show of support. A huge shout out and love to my family, friends, and the media support, and to the Sikh Activist Network. Speaking of which, this Friday, June 25th at Mirage Banquet Hall, the second "When Lions Roar" event is taking place. It's an incredible event that brings music, poetry and the spoken word together to remember 1984. I'll be on hand as we sell copies of "Under the Moonlit Sky" where some proceeds will go to help the Network. I'll be available to sign copies and chat with people. So come out and enjoy!

Saturday I'm headed out to B.C. with my cousin, AKakaAmazing. AK has been great with this support thus far. We'll be in BC in various locations doing PR for the book and really just taking it as it comes.

Look out for us and come join us if your in BC, on Saturday, July 3rd at Black Bond Books in Guildford Mall in Surrey as we officially launch the book there and I'll be doing a signing.

I'll make sure I blog during my travels!

A Father's Worth...

I received several messages asking why I let 'Father's Day' pass by so quietly yesterday. For a person who has been so open about her father in the past, I admit I was very quiet yesterday.

I know many of you have lost loved ones. I've received emails from quite a few discussing their loss and speaking about the impact of some of my writing with relation to their loss. I want to take this opportunity to say that your courage in speaking up and reaching out is a great inspiration to keep doing it myself. I see how many of you have moved forward and are making the most out of your life and that brings a smile to my face. It's incredibly inspiring to see people "rise above" - as it's said most often.

Truth be told -- I didn't know how to handle Father's Day.

Father's Day, like most other occasions in my household, was always a very big deal. Even though we should spend each and every moment remembering and appreciating the people in our lives - it's still quite comforting to have one special day when we devote it to that one person.

I know I should have given a proper dedication to a man who has been a great inspiration in my life; a man who helped me reach my goals and encouraged me every step of the way; a man who's dream of holding my first novel sadly could not be realized in his presence.

But sometimes, the strongest and most heartfelt dedication is... well...it's silent.

Sometimes there are no words to describe the sorrow that one still feels. Instead you hope your loved ones understand your silence.

--N

Scientists forecast decades of ash clouds - Times Online

A MUST READ!
Scientists forecast decades of ash clouds - Times Online

3:30am...

It's precisely 3:30am when I'm starting this blog post. I can't sleep. It is April 11th, 2010. Three years ago, on this day the doctors told my father as he lay in a hospital bed, that they could do no more for him. The chemo did not work.

The events of those days; the hours, the minutes, the seconds, are as crisp as a winter breeze. How can they be forgotten?

How does one learn to live with those moments?

Review: Up in the Air

This already Oscar nominated film (Best picture and acting nods) is a unique story that honestly I think everyone should watch.

Yup...I'm recommending a movie after a very long time!

Here's the deal -- I haven't been sleeping well, so I'm a bit on the cranky side. I just really hoped to find a good movie that would put me at ease. I took a chance on this film and I'm glad I did.

The film stars George Clooney as the employee that spends at least 270 days out of the year in the air. He travels around firing people. That's his job. He also gives motivational speeches...about how not to be attached to things in life.

Reitman has done a terrific job with this story. The characters that we meet through Clooney's character, such as the enigmatic character portrayed by Vera Farmiga, and how can we forget the quirky yet highly tensed up character portrayed by Anna Kendrick. Together these characters impact one another and they impact the audience.

I felt like I was learning a lesson...a life lesson. I felt like everything they talked about made me want to look at my life. However, it did not depress me, instead it was uplifting.

It is such a simple story, yet so profound. No wonder this movie has been nominated for Best Picture and both Vera and Anna have received acting nods from the Oscars as well. Dude, Anna Kendrick's last role was in Twilight/New Moon. She plays Bella's friend Jessica!! Now is that weird or what? Is that a huge step up or what?

If you've been searching for a good film, that carries the Clooney charm this is the movie to watch. There's nothing too major in this film that makes you go "whoa!" nor is there anything that makes you cry. You don't hate anyone, nor do you really love anyone...it's just a good film.

Watch it!

Daybreakers...the worst movie ever made?

The movie stars Ethan Hawke as the main lead and honestly no one else is even worth mentioning. I'm not sure if Ethan Hawke is even worth mentioning after this performance.

What a waste of time!

Okay, storyline...fine I'll admit it: They had me interested with the whole humans living in a world of vampires concept. And the whole idea of vampires trying to hold onto some sort of civil manner of living. They get hit with a virus, they turn into vampires, they go on living their lives. There's order. No more lurking in the shadows, so to speak. That is until there's a blood shortage...oooohh and now the story begins...or so we think!

This is basically where we should all abandon the movie, because after this idea is pitched, the movie just goes downhill.

There's no real climax, or whatever they use as one is really just ridiculous. There's no concrete development in the story. And the cure, the magic cure that Hawke's character comes across...oh my gosh! I sat there looking at the screen and thinking: "Are you for real?"

And the ending...let's just say they give a big hint for a sequel. If these guys had any sense, they wouldn't make a sequel to this film.

The only good thing: Ethan Hawke still has that incredible boyish charm...and...that's really it.

So save yourself some time and skip this movie.

It's been a while...

Hi Everyone,

I know it's been a long time since I last blogged. The reasons are many but bottom line, damn I missed blogging. Actually I've been hoping to start blogging again when the new blog site is up but it's taking longer than I anticipated, and I can't wait any longer!

In the past couple of weeks, much has happened. We embarked on 2010, a new year where we all are hoping for better prosperity, especially after the recession, the lay offs, the credit crunch, the wars, the insane weather and the crumbling environment...man what a year last year was. However, 2010 started on an "off" note.

More lay offs, company closures -- and this happened to people that are close to my heart, so I know the stress it's putting on people.

Tiger Woods did what????

Climate isn't getting any better, instead it's scaring the hell out of me...I think we should all watch "Day After Tomorrow Again" and get some pointers from Jake Gyllenhall on how to survive what may come :s By the way, what a disappointment the movie "2012" was. Omg, you'd think they would have used this huge blockbuster opportunity to provide some explanation of what this myth is all about! But nooo...it was the same sort of disaster depicted over and over again, all throughout the movie. The audience just had to sit there and accept the fact that some planets lined up (no explanation of why, how, and the prediction) and now the earth is just breaking apart and swallowing us whole....yup....great movie....gosh...

Tiger Woods did what, you say????

Okay, let's get a bit serious now -- Haiti.

I woke up one morning and all anyone was talking about was Haiti, so I went online, turned on the television and what I learned and saw broke my heart. What a massive earthquake, followed by devastating aftershocks, and the sheer number of casualties and victims, it truly saddens me and my love and support are with the survivors, the families and basically just everyone. I really wish I could do something more to help out.

Now some anger -- what in the world is CNN and the US doing? They show a helicopter loaded with supplies hovering over the makeshift survivor camps, and instead of touching down, or setting up some sort of organized relief effort, the US copter dudes begin to THROW the supplies down from up above and just let the people below clammer and fight for them. And there's CNN showcasing it and the anchor is saying: "yup look at them, so sad". I mean WHAT THE HECK?!

Thankfully I changed the channel to CBC News -- where they were focusing on the UN's relief efforts and yes as I expected they had an orderly set up. Everyone was in a line, food and supplies were being calmly handed out, people looked relieved and more importantly it looked HUMANE.

Alright, I gotta end this now - I will write back very soon. Got some other things to chat about... it really has been a very long time. For now let's pray for the people in Haiti and hope that the relief effort goes well and people get the help that they need and deserve.

Peace Out!