One night.
One audition tape.
One crew.
Two Locations.
One over extending Karmacake.
I rocked on into the Ping Pong Puma event at Revival last night. Heavily attended by many fun and sassy folks. Including the Trailer Park Boys.
What did I do? Walk in, eat the perogies, udon noodles and grilled cheese sammiches. Steal Puma branded water bottles and water. Play ping pong (unsuccessfully) and ham it up for the camera. Including, interviewing a poster of Natasha Beddingfield.
You would be surprised to know that she sounds like a small Mexican child. She likes Flips, Famous Lovers and her history is Unwritten. You learn something new everyday. 
The Trailer Park Boys refused to interview on camera, however, we got stills with them. All except for Ricky. Nope, no Ricky. Ricky was really drunk, and I felt uncomfortable around him. Bubbles tried to be empathetic, however, he weasled his way out of being on camera by offering me a bottle cap opener with Leahy on it.
A bottle cap opener.
His groupies looked at me like this was a real score.
Do I look like I fucking care for your cheap assed tchochkas?
I didn't even touch it. I just stared at it and them in disgust.
I turned to the girl that was holding it high above her head and in my face, "Look it's so cool"
"Yeah, maybe You want it then. I have a nicer bottle opening at home."
Then some guy chimes in after they left. Also a guy instrumental for major ass sucking on Bubble's behalf contributing to my failed on camera interview.
"Persistance is good, but, he didn't want to be on camera"
"Who are you?"
"I'm a guy that-"
"Do you have anything to do with the Trailer Park Boys?"
"No, but, I work with-"
"Are you a legal rep?"
"No, but, I-"
"Fuck You."
I walked away, grabbed my crew, followed the boys to the green room and got still shots. But, not before I chilled with Devon Soltendieck, Much Music VJ, and sweetheart extraordinaire. I got a still with him as well for my tape. He wished me luck, we hugged, exchanged European kisses and parted ways.
I went to the Green Room.
I want my photos.
I want my audition tape to rock.
I spare you the details, but, the night was long and there were adventures.
I was sober.
Babygirl, you hold the power.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
I have admit, although juvenile, I really enjoy Kenny vs. Spenny.
There's going to be nothing poignant in this post except for a 9 minute clip from the first half of my favorite episode.
Why? Kenny pulls the cruelest prank on Spenny in order to win the competition.
Below is a copy of the letter to both horrify you and entertain you.
You might experience the death of your soul. Truly, you will benefit no more from the experience that I post than to perfect find a remote amount of humour in one guy's audacity.So I hear the rumours are true. The show is heavily staged. But, if you want to be like me and believe it to be not true. The revel and revile!
Happy spring day! Enjoy!
President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf will deliver an address at the University of Toronto as part of her two-day visit to Canada on Thursday, March 29 at noon in the Great Hall of Hart House.
Johnson Sirleaf’s address, entitled “Stand With Us, Canada: What Gives Liberia Hope”, will focus on how Canada can help Liberia set an example for African nations emerging from conflict. Premier Dalton McGuinty will be in attendance and Janice Gross Stein, Director of the Munk Centre for International Studies, will moderate a question and answer period following the address.
“The University of Toronto has been engaged for decades in the scholarly study of Africa through our African Studies program, and recently has built partnerships on the continent to fight the HIV/AIDS pandemic,” says University of Toronto president David Naylor. “We are honoured to welcome President Johnson Sirleaf and to hear her vision for the renewal of Liberia.”
Johnson Sirleaf is a Harvard-educated economist and the first woman to be elected head of state in Africa. Inaugurated as President in January of 2006 in Liberia’s first elections since the end of a 14-year civil war, Johnson Sirleaf is credited with taking steps to reduce corruption, build support from international donors, and encourage private investment in the West African nation.
WHO: Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of the Republic of Liberia
WHERE: Great Hall, Hart House, 7 Hart House Circle
WHEN: Thursday, March 29, 2007 at noon
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Kids,
I'm going to say this once, and hopefully it'll correct a lot of ills out there.
But, this sign:
Are not the same thing.
The above is the American Sign Language for "I Love You". Yes, it's both touching, and beautiful.
The lower image is of "La Corna" a derogatory hand gesture to symbolize horns, also used as the sign of the devil at rock concerts such as Slayer.
If you want to tell your deaf girlfriend something touching, you use the "I Love You" one. If you want to stick your tongue out and look hardcore in a photo with your friends eating MacDonald's on a streetcorner, you use the "La Corna" one.
Hopefully this tutorial has saved a few more geeky white guys the pain of saying I love you to the lead guitar player in their favorite thrash metal group.
Apparently, young trendsetters are hungry to pimp it on the fairway. Out are the extreme sports of yore and in is the nouveau geriatric "play safe play hard" leisure sports.
Now trendsters can putt putt their way from the 8th green to stylin' in a whole array of generically safe prepster fashion. While the line boldly ignores the "no white after labour day" philosophy, I was disappointed to see not one shirt read "GOLF OR DIE!"
Lesbians will LOSE IT with the lines attention to comfort. Clothes are cut minus an appreciation for the female form. Images of models swim in shapeless golf shirts, waistlines pucker unexpectedly at the girth of breasts, skirts fall at unflattering lengths, and hoodies mimic the comfortable style of Lululemon. All visible on the line's website.
Ironically, the company description invites "Adventure junkies" to rejoice. For the days of conformist golfing fashion is now apart of the past.
Please.
McGill grads Geoff Tait and Bobby Pasternak have their heart in their right place. However, the line falls short of the company's key promise "Fashion not fit for the fairway"
Guys, not only is it fit for the fairway, it's fit for the elderly, the infirm and the chronically boring.
Competing American retailers have an exciting line of accessories that break tradition and will put the zip back in your golf attire. Try Ame & Lulu's Sassy Golf Belts and Cocchia "Styles that Swing"
Cocchia saucy style features, well cut polos, tweed gauchos, form fitting tops, and 30's inspired button seamed pencil skirts.
Or, if you can't be bothered to try and locate those items in Toronto, then head over to Urban Outfitters at Yonge & Shuter. Assemble your own sexy golfing outfit from their urban line of fitted t's, hoodies, pants including smocked waist convertible, cropped, and widelegged seersucker trousers. UO even has a few sassy golf skirts, romper short sets and fab accessories to keep you looking fresh and urban on the green.
Quagmire Golf is a disappointing Toronto start up that lacks the delivery of unboring and excels in generic lululemon spins that ignore the basic principal of dressing a lady.
We like to look and feel pretty.
Just because it's Canadian doesn't mean I can't say it sucks.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
The nicest night of the year. The first real night of spring. I in my expertly applied smoky eyes and FCUK shirt/dress went out to dance like my knee wasn't popped only four days prior. Ask me where I ended up?
I landed on College St. but I ended up on fucking Church. Again!
And, I wonder why I don't meet any guys? Oh sorry, let me clear up the confusion:
straight
They still exist right? I mean are there still guys out there who like girls? Because, they are slipping further and further into the afterglow of my youth. Back next to my copy of Nora Jones- No, I'm joking! I don't listen to that shit. But, you know what I'm sayin, right?
Tonight though was a special night in the Gaybourhood. Tonight of all nights, I was introduced to Sasks. (ie- a lesbian pick up joint ripe with cat lovers.) Lookin as fine as I did, ready to cruise the hotties on College I'm left to crank the saucy dial up from sexy bitch pass ghetto sass straight on over to So Hot She Be On Fire and rocking it in a hiphop video.
Dem bitches be crayzee!
Yes, tonight I was introduced to the incestuous bullpen of Old Navy tank tops, crew cuts and cocktails served in ribbed half pint disposable beer cups. I ask, how did the feminim aesthetic leave these womyn? Did it get lost in the sea of Velmas? I will tell you what didn't get lost- this ethnic Daphne! I killed it on the dance floor!
Then I paid the price- been openly groped on more than one occasion. Bitch (that's me) had to hold it down and front when need be. Trust me, it wasn't easy what with the injury and all, but it was THE ONLY way that I could protect myself in the back AND in the front!
So when the novelty of womyn backing down to my supremacy wore off. When the awkward attempts to mimic my moves failed to entertain me longer. It was time to make my exit to the tune of “I really enjoyed watching you dance. You girls were holdin it down on the dance floor and you looked great. You really elevated the club.”
Uh- yeah! Hello, this is what a facial, an attention to style and a $300 dollar pair of jeans will get you. You can't invest and not work it!
Even if it's for a crowd that feared it... but, they all wanted it.
Style can be taught, sass can't.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
I am a goddess with a will to succeed.
I am aphrodite, cleopatra, nephertiti all rolled into one and I don't wait for anyone.
You want me?
Come and get me.
I don't beg. I'm not your servant.
I don't heel. I'm not your slave.
I am a queen.
Treat me like one.
I will give you the respect you deserve.
Until then, worship me from afar.
Give me the gift of your thoughts and I will give you something to think about.
My weakness is my strength.
My heart.
My head.
My will to survive.
I don't fear your judgement.
Of all.
I don't fear you.
You fear
Me.
Once upon a time there was a GEICO commercial featuring two malcontent cavemen seeking satisfaction from a highly insensitive GEICO employee.
It was mildly funny. I will never admit to more.
Then one day, a few years later, an ABC executive gets off on the idea of featuring the aforementioned cavemen in a show treatment that includes such hilarious jargon such as "brand extension" and "marketing tie in"
You know what? I'm laughing at the idea now. No doubt, Caveman will be an undisputed success. Following such run away commerical to sitcom hits including the California Raisins, and CBS sitcom Baby Bob which revolved around the exploits of a talking Baby. I'll just stop there, I feel revolted at the thought.
Apparently, this single camera laffer pilot has piqued the interest of "Blades of Glory" directors Will Speck and Josh Gordon.
Yeah, the whole thing just gets scarier and scarier. The concept is a group of 3 Cavemen living in the US and dealing with everyday predjudices towards their kind. No doubt a poignant commentary on race relations within the united states.
Regardless, I can't shake the notion that sitcom programming is so simple... Even a caveman could do it.
yeah I know... terrible terrible joke.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Since I started blogging, I've documented my life, celebrity gossip, politics, arts, music and 
movies, books and yes, even speed dating.
So while I brave the adventures of Toronto with my hoodie in my satchel, my chin up and my phone only a stones throw away. I realized, I'm a girl on a quest to experience the life that will put a smile on my face and a twinkle in my eye. Yes, I want to fall in love. I want to fall in love with every experience, person and place I find.
Here are two older posts I thought I might repost for fun. They made me smile!
July 2006:
"So what do I like? Like Amélie I like the feeling of plunging my hand into a barrel of dried beans, but, I also like the feeling of wet grass under my toes, and the sunshine on my face.
"I like jumping into cold water and hyperventilating from the chill just a little bit before I catch my breath... I like to see the face of someone who cares for me look so worried so I also like to lay it on thick!"
----------------------------------------
-"...the reason guys don't talk to us is that they look at us and think 'That girl would never go out with a guy like me!'"
-"But, that's so untrue! I would totally go out with a guy like him!" Motioning to a tall, somewhat scruffy hottie waking towards us.
-"Yeah, totally. But, he won't talk to you."
-"Why!?"
-"Because you look like some guy's girlfriend."
-"But, I'm not!"
-"But, we look like we are. Simple"
-"I don't even know what that means. Do I need to dress sluttier?"
I have to admit, I didn't write this. It's a circulation from my Oxfam group on Facebook. It is however, very useful and might be of interest to those of you seeking social justice in the confines of our concrete jungle.
Also, I have stuff going on that I can't write about just yet. Soon, but, not yet.
FAIR TRADE/ORGANIC FOOD ON CAMPUS (St. George)
(updated March 2007)
-----------------------------
The Hot Yam!
Every Wednesday during lunch (approx 11:30am on) - fresh, organic vegetarian meals made from scratch by students every week! contact hottestyam@gmail.com if you want to help or for more info! Located: International Student Centre
33 St. George Street in the Cumberland House
-----------------------------
Diabolo’s Coffee Shop, University College:
Coffee bar at University College, (in the JCR) serving drinks with healthy vegetarian, vegan, and organic fare options. Pay a deposit at the beginning of the year and get a ceramic mug all to yourself for the year! Containers now all biodegradable!
Hours: Mon. – Thurs. 8am - 6pm Fri. 8am – 4pm
Located: University College, the JCR (Junior Common Rm)
-----------------------------
The Human Bean Café, Victoria College:
Started by Anneleen Naudts this year, The Human Bean is an organic, fair trade coffee cafe run ENTIRELY on a VOLUNTEER basis by STUDENTS. Everything is fair trade and organic: coffee, tea (inc. loose leaf), espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, hot chocolate, Camino chocolate bars, cookies, biscotti with much more! The Cafe emphasizes sustainability using an indoors vermi-compost system, biodegradable cups, energy efficient kettle, ALL reused materials and furniture, and biodegradable cleaning products!!
Bringing your own mug gets you a 15¢ discount!
Hours: Mon-Thurs 9-5 and Fri. 9-3
If you’d like to volunteer at the cafe, e-mail anneleen.naudts@utoronto.ca
Located: Victoria College, 91 Charles st.
(Old Vic’s main floor, beside bookstore)
-----------------------------
Innis College Café:
Owners Damon and Shahram Shahidi are always serving with smiles! This small café sells beverages (inc. smoothies), sandwiches and yummy with healthy and veggie-friendly options to choose from!
Located: Innis College (further entance)
2 Sussex Avenue, 416-977-7434
-----------------------------
The Coffee Shed at New College:
Serve fair trade organic coffee + baked goods and sandwiches. Located: Wetmore Hall, New College, 21 Classic Avenue
-----------------------------
Food for All Equity Garden:
The garden located on grounds of the UTSU (SAC), run by OPIRG. The garden is dedicated to the U of T Food Bank but also has Open Community Harvest policy, meaning anyone can harvest organic vegetables for FREE0. Mission is to promote and practice food equity, social equity, and environmentalism.
The group meets Tuesdays 4:30 and always welcoming new participants. For more info visit: http://hrc.sa.utoronto.ca/
OPRIG: 416.978.7770
UTSU: 416.978.4911
-----------------------------
Good Food Box:
FoodShare Toronto started the Good Food Box program to ensure that Toronto-area citizens of all income levels had access to healthy and affordable food delivered to your neighbourhood! The Good Food Box runs like a large buying club with centralized buying and co-ordination. Boxes cost between $12-$32, depending on the version each brimming with fresh, tasty LOCAL produce.
At U of T, Women’s Centre is a designated Good Food Box drop-off point. To find the closest drop off point to you or to learn how to start your own, contact gfbox@foodshare.net. For more information visit www.foodshare.net
Located: U of T’s Women’s Centre
563 Spadina Avenue, North Borden Building Room 100 *** (make sure you’re in the right BUILDING!)
(between Wilcox and College on the east side of Spadina) 416-978-8201
Thursday, March 22, 2007
A prime minister is meant to unite not to divide.
Harper's outlook on Canadian unity is so pedestrian it's as if he's a 3 year old planning a national budget.
Oh wait.
He's an infantile planning a national budget.
Come on $700 million dollars in equalization payments to Quebec? Then everyone gets up in arms when Charest wants to apply it towards improving the lives of Quebec's residents.
Listen, at least Jean Charest is doing his job and keeping his people happy. On the other hand, Harper, not doing such a good job keeping his people happy. Sure we all hate budget time, someone always gets shafted. But, Harper's hack job at doling out the cash reminds me of a grade 2 homework assignment delivered and marked D.
"Steve, much improved on the penmanship! Technically, the page requirement for your budget isn't exactly being met if you double the size of your writing. Sorry.
"Doling out equalization payments in a vein attempt to garner more votes may have worked had Jean not re distributed them against your original designation. Now you have a big hole in your pocket and are dispised coast to coast.
"Enjoy sleeping on your Egyptian cotton on Sussex, because re-election is not in the cards for you. You are the leader who couldn't"
I really don't have time for the conservatives. They are just openenly corrupt!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Karaoke might be the Gladstone's biggest night, but that's not what draws this mixed bag of arts hungry bohemians to the hotel's ballroom. Congregating around small cabaret tables they huddle to warm up from the chill outside and anxiously glance at the bar waiting for it to open. No this isn't any normal Sunday night, any conventional night of underground arts and entertainment on Queen West. The hipsters are twittering with a particular brand of pretension tonight. The circus is in town.
Cabaret for a Cause to be exact.
And, while stilt-walking comedians weave through the modest audience coaxing smiles from the most stoic of arts nazis. It hardly evokes the feeling of when flint first struck stone in my panties whence I first glanced upon CK Model Freddie Ljungberg. It does however, pique my curiosity to know I will be sampling similar performances that will be taught to children in South Africa.
Yes, South Africa. The plot thickens. Stick with me here, it's the back story that really what makes it for me.
Enter Circus performer/Aerial Dancer, Stacey Clark's mother on a trip in
Lesotho (Luh-soo-too), Africa. Charmed by the strong community spirit of villagers she is particularly rattled by the disturbing truth that penetrates the community. Namely the children who are accustomed to surrender their childhood prematurely in order to contend with poverty, hunger and the pervasive threat of HIV/AIDS.
Mama Clark picks up the phone calls her daughter Stacey and proposes she bring her troupe (High Strung Aerial Dance) and her partner, Dean Bareham's group (Green Fools) down to Lesotho. The thought itself wasn't an awesome epiphany. In fact, for the past three years Stacey and Dean have forayed into the spiritually rewarding realm of workshops and education. With experience working with both children and adults in
remote Canadian communities, inner cities and on reservations, Lesotho's children posed a surmountable challenge.
They were ready to teach the kids how to play.
But before they could pack their diabolos and show the kids how to build self-esteem, while fostering an ongoing culture of HIV/AIDS education through performance, they needed to find equipment to give to the kids. Diabolos, balls, stilts, sneakers, you name it, they needed it in addition to their airfare. With generous donations from New Balance sneakers and similarly philanthropic circus equipment suppliers, Stacey and Dean were pretty much set.
But, travelling expenses, personal expense, random unexpected expenses had to be accounted for and this is where were join, back story to foretale. Enter Cabaret for a Cause.
While the entertainment was a random tableau of stupid human tricks, alluring juggling and bemusing acrobatics, I felt like an over enthuse three year old clapping incessantly partially through the amazement of the entertainment and partially through the joy of discovering the sound one's hands make when clapping.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
50/50 tickets were purchased and though I boasted that my tickets had numbers that could not
lose, I ate humble pie twice over. Once for not winning, and secondly for imagine the digital camera I would buy with the funds when the real winner donated his winnings back to the cause.
Cabaret for a Cause was the most entertainment I had in the Gladstone that didn't involve an inebriated rendition of "I Touch Myself". Yep, with Dean Bareham acting as the flamboyant Spanish MC in a red unitard, enjoyment was ensured where the alcohol left off. While, a small amount was raised that night, they did get the message out.
There are kids.
They don't have time to play.
We can help them.
For 10 dollars and an hour and a half of entertainment-
We all did.
Last night I decided I was going to meet up with my friend, Matt, and grab some drinks at a local pub.
Great idea, right?
Well it was until 7:15pm when Matt and I dramatically hugged, he twisted me, my knee dislocated and we both fell to the ground.
Yes, I did really do that.
With a Reiki Master on guard, and I in my craziness, I am helped to my feet where I fain absence of pain and make my way to the Shopper's Drug Mart. Once I have everything I need including an ace bandage and pain killers, I ask for a place to wrap my knee.
Although, I'm keeping "calm" I'm in serious pain and I need to get myself sorted out asap before the adrenalin wears off and I have nothing left to do but cry.
I will not cry.
I'm directed to the back of the store where I ask the Pharmacist for assistance.
-Please, I just dislocated my knee outside-
-You need to be some cold on it.
-Yeah, I know, I will, but-
He walks away.
-EXCUSE ME! I just hurt myself outside and it's quite serious!!
-Calm down.
-Trust me, I AM calm. I just need a room where I can bandage my knee.
-There's the waiting room.
I am Dumbfounded
-I have to take my pants down to stap my knee properly. Do you have a nursing room or something?
-No we don't
-A washroom?
-No we don't have a washroom
-You don't have a washroom... seriously.
At this point I'm moments away from welling up.
-Please, I need to fix my knee.
-*sigh* take a seat in the waiting room. We have a consulation room we just need to check to make sure someone isn't in there.
-Thank you.
I sit in the waiting room for up to 15 minutes. No one checked the room and I get impatient.
-Excuse me... was there someone in there?
-Yes.
-Please, I'm in quite a bit of pain. I need to strap my knee. If I don't do it soon I won't be able to walk.
-Hold on.
Woman goes in and comes out. Followed by a cashier and her dinner items.
WHAT! I, THE FIRST AID EMERGENCY WAS TOSSED ASIDE FOR THE CHECK OUT GIRL TO FINISH HER DINNER!?!?
Yes. that is so true.
Well, my knee is strapped and my ribs are mildly bruised and I must get my things together to get to work.
I had to vent about how evil the Shoppers Drug Mart at Bloor and Spadina is.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
The Olson Twins' conversion is nearly complete.
Who call for advice...
It's okay to like someone.
It's okay to like them even if they aren't fond of you.
It's not okay to chase them.
It's not okay to be unable to move on with your life.
You are not a slave to your emotions, they are apart of you and you shouldn't have to surrender to them all or nothing.
Further to that, why do you expect a relationship to happen over night? Just because you're intrigued by this person, it doesn't mean that they are there with you. So chill. If they see your inner beauty then they will call.
Trust me.
They will call.
I've said this a million times over, some of the strongest relationships that are in my life are those based upon partnerships. You both have strengths that work well together and you don't feel compelled to change them. Expecting fireworks everyday is unrealistic... you know what they say, "What goes up like a rocket comes down like a rocket!"
So what are you in a rush for anyway?
Just see what your strengths are and they will see them too.
Not every relationship starts off the same, not every person reacts the same way. People love differently. Respect that, respect yourself and be happy.
I'm not perfect. Trust me, my dearest friends. My problem is simply this, if I don't hear from someone, I assume it's over and I do my best to move on. Not every guy I meet is going to be obsessed with me. And, those that are, I'm disinterested in anyway.
So beyond a brief period in my life where I liked a guy so selflessly that I sacrificed myself and demanded the same from him. Later I realized, you cannot make demands and you cannot sacrifice yourself.
I shed many a tear asked many a question and emerged a person not pleased about having had gone through the experience. I understand it's made me a more enlightened person because of it. And, hopefully a stronger partner in the future.
So am I apprehensive about getting involved with someone? Well, of course! To the point that I crave excessive amounts of space by pushing folks away all so I can figure "things" out. I don't want to get hurt, I don't want to hurt someone else, I just want to be me.
Maybe that's my dysfunction? Maybe that's my baggage?
If my phone rings, I may not answer it. If there's a guy that gives me reason why I should answer it, I will. Because it's not attracting me that's the game, it's keeping me interested.
I recognize that dating is a power struggle. Women especially attempt to seek status by using their sexuality as a tool. So I seek to try and find that honesty of emotion. I refuse to whore myself and devalue everything that I have to offer. To date someone because you want their lifestyle is selfish and I despise it with everything I am.
I will never let my friends do that. To be a slave for status and wealth. That is to be earned, not to be bartered! There isn't enough goodness in the world.
For all of us, there will be someone we care for. It will be a person's goodness we will be attracted to.
Inshallah, they will see it in us too.
My confession.
I will not beg.
If you want me.
Come for me.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
I'm working on a few different posts... but, until then, enjoy an oh so hip shot of my green and white knit sweater from yesterday AND my oh so fabulous pin that I sported.
I'm not looking to misrepresent myself.
I'm just keeping it real!
I'm not Irish.
But, I am stylish.
SO KISS ME ALREADY!
Saturday, March 17, 2007
My rabbit hoodie is fixed! Thanks, Mum!!!
And, it's St. Paddy's Day...
So go on out... kiss a blarny stone, listen to some U2 and pretend you know how to dance a jig!
It's a holiday to get drizzunk because today we all are alcoholics.
So I'm going to be mozying over to O'Grady's on Church to catch up with the boys and look fab doing it.
Enjoy, Kids!
Friday, March 16, 2007
The world is against my love for George Strombo.
Do you see a pattern?
"I admire George's Style"
"You know he's short."
"I think George is a smart guy"
"I've seen him. He's short"
"I think I would be the most awesome A&E babe on The Hour. Don't you?"
"Listen, George is short. Get over it."
Ironically enough, when The Hour is on my phone rings.
"You know George is on TV right now."
"Wow. They actually allow him to be on tv?"
"Yeah, on The Hour! You watching?"
"No."
"I thought you love him."
"Not enough to obsessively call your friend every night to announce that The Hour is on."
"Are you making fun of me"
"What do you think?"
Anyway, during my semi regular stalking of Strombo.com I came across a fun little trick.
Thunderpuss Geisha, you will find this PARTICULARLY humourous:
 |
| 'What will your obituary say?' at QuizGalaxy.com |
Sometimes when I think there's no one out there I discover something like this:
It's nothing huge, but, someone out there likes what I'm doing enough to post it for others to read!
My stats report told me that many of my recent visitors have come from Craigslist and that the piece I wrote on The Spinsters Almanac is being emailed out to other folks.
Thanks everyone who believes in me, reads TheCake and sends me love.
It really means a lot.
To look out the window is to be visually accosted by an impressive
cluster of sky scrapers- overwhelming to my small town Maritime girl
sensibilities. Although, once I resolved to explore Canada's largest city, the
swirling drone of traffic noise, sidewalk musicians, and street vendors was a
heady lure into a multicultural mix that was both curious and
inviting.
It was apparent the moment I touched toe to Yonge Street, I
willingly crossed a point of no return. Like Alice through the looking glass, I
had committed to follow Yonge St. towards a din of the city's hustle and bustle.
When I turn to see from whence I came I realized the road is infinitely long,
dotted with lighted decorations, quaint community flags, and signage advertising
the city sanctioned abolishment of left turns on Yonge.
Once at Yonge Dundas Square a bustling market is well underway.
Hundreds of booths with international vendors are erected across this small open
air space in the heart of the city. While the temperature outside is chilly, the
air has a warmth to it, and the former clash of generic city noise is quelled by
rich Iranian airs magically constructed by the musicians voluntarily taking
residence on the open air stage. The music, combined with the voices of vendors
selling their wares including rich Middle Eastern textiles, Italian gelato and
South Asian silk saris magically ushers me into an international utopia.
With my interest piqued and my courage growing I quickly climb
aboard one of Toronto's landmark streetcars. There I stand, proud and
courageous: the small town girl who demystified the great Toronto. Then as the
bell rang to summon an upcoming stop, it dawns on me, I don't know where I'm
going.
And, I really didn't care!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
For some reason, I get a lot of folks asking lil' ol' KC what's going on in the city.
Why me?
I have a blog.
Makes perfect sense, doesn't it?
So, what's going down on March 15th in the T. Dizzle Dot?
Fun Thing #1
HIP-HOP Karaoke - God Damn, it's the return of the funky jam!
@ The Boat (158 Augusta Avenue, Kensington Market)
What you need to know:
Sign-up for songs is at 9pm. Arrive early. Avoid Disappointment.
Song List available here
Hosted by - More or Les & Dalia & Numeric & Ted Dancin'
Why it's hot:
Never Forgive Action, Kids! I know them, I've checked their nights out, they are a solid crew and this is a solid night. Besides, all degrees of seperation aside, doesn't it sound like fun?
Fun Thing #2
Bata Shoe Museum - If I walked a mile in anoth-Ah, Hell! Madonna's Shoes are there!
Corner of Bloor and St George
What you need to know:
It's free Thursday nights 5-8pm
Why it's hot:
Umm... Did I not just say? Madonna's Shoes are there? Marilyn Monroe's as well.
Fun Thing #3
Shopping Addicts Sale - Feel like you're RICH, BEYOTCH!
129 Spadina Ave (just south of Richmond)
What you need to know:
Prices so dirty low you'll feel like you're making money
Spring 2007 collection.
Click here for the website
Why it's hot:
Unlike the Clothing Sale at the Automotive Building, this is free entrance. No penance for entrance, just how KC likes it!
Traditionally, I don't go to watch dance.
A mix of longing and unavoidable regret laces every performance I witness as a reminder of my disability.
You always want something you can never have.
Right?
Last night was the exception. Escorted by my friend Parul, her girlfriend, Melissa and her roommate David, I bravely walked into the Distillery District's Young Centre for the Performing Arts.
The chosen performance? Double Dora Award winning Susie Burpee's first full-length evening of dance The Spinster's Almanac.
Once the show began, I settled into my front row seat and allowed myself to get sucked into the world of the Spinster. One defined by themes of loneliness, abandonment, joy, reflection, regret and passion.
The moment the first tear rolled down my cheek I was in love.
A woman so consumed by the parameters of her life, she begins to embody the characteristics of those items she cherishes and subsequently developes a ritualistic attachment to. The Spinsters eccentricities makes her both relateable and an imaginative caricature in this tragi-comic retelling of loneliness and survival.
Ever intriguing is Burpee's ability to spin the tale of the Spinster deftly with gentle actions universal to the aged while contrasting said movements with moments of violent torment and reprises of joy.
Yes, I can say without a doubt, the performance haunts me.
Burpee's mastery of movement is great and while it is obvious that Spinster's Almanac is a labour of love, I feel that it is but the tip of the iceberg and even greater full-length performances are left to come from the depths of her creative spirit.
While I should bring this post to a close, a word of praise is to be said for the original song cycle composed by Christine Fellows. Without it, the Spinter's tale would have only been seen in black and white and not colour.
Following uproarious applause a reception next door took place with the usual assortment of cheese, crackers and smoked salmon canapes. But, I gorged on strawberries dipped in sourcream then rolled in brown sugar, bite size caprese salad on skewers and brie (or swiss) cheese layered onto wafer thin oatmeal raisin cookies.
Of course, I have to mention the food!
So what's my verdict on The Spinster's Almanac for the ticket price $18-$22 you really can't go wrong. The show is entertaining and would most definitely be appreciated by the rare, the occasional and the seasoned art lover.
Trust TheCake, when have I ever led you astray?
I cried kids.
I cried.
You can get tickets through TOTix (You know the half price ticket booth at Yonge/Dundas Square)
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
My answers to Derrick's "IF I WAS DRUNK" survey
As requested by Thunderpuss Geisha
1.If I was drunk the least likely job I'd be able to perform would be?
The job of a sober person. Of course!
2. If I was drunk the job I'd most likely have no problem performing would be?
Chemist. The only people who mix liquids at work are Chemists and Drunks. In an effort to conceal the former, I’ll sign up for the latter.
3. If I was drunk the song I'd have the least shame about singing outside of a paramours bedroom window would be?
“Bob Bob Bob! He Doesn’t Attract Mosquitoes! Bob Bob Bob! He likes to eat Doritos!” (Doritos ad circa 1992)
Or, Sir Mix A lot’s “Baby Got Back” translated into French. Yes, I know it, I did it, I’ll make it happen with a few margaritas and a request to turn on the radio.
4. If I was drunk the most brazen question I'd ask on a first date would be?
If the person sitting next to us would be so kind as to give me money so I can buy my date and I another drink.
5. If I was drunk the piece of clothing I'd have the least amount of shame parading around in public would be?
A shirt that says,”Bachelorette” so I can get free drinks at the pub.
6. If I was drunk at the governors ball immediately following the Academy Awards the person I'd feel best about throwing up on would be?
Kirsten Drunks-Dunst! Just give me one good reason why one should NOT puke on her.
FYI: Kirsten has successfully answered questions #1-actor, #2-actor, #5-the hideous dress she wore to the oscar’s this year and #6 – herself.
7. If I was drunk the car I would most want to vandalize would be?
My own, so I could find a hottie to drive me home, whilst under the influence and, subsequently, unable to drive myself/ unwilling to pay for a cab.
Kirsten Dunst also vandalizes her own car, but, by running into things.
8. If I was drunk the job I'd lie about having in order to get laid would be?
I don’t need to lie in order to get laid.
Kirsten Dunst lies about being a good actress
9. If I was drunk the sign I'd most likely ignore would be?
Men’s Room. Do I really have to explain?
Kirsten Dunst ignores stop signs on the road
10. If I was drunk the woman I'd feel least ashamed about giving an open handed slap to the face would be?
Ted Simonette – The Canadian Tire Guy. Hate that bitch and his multi-use Mastercraft socket sets!
11. If I was drunk the friend I'd feel most comfortable about lying about having had sex with would be?
Derrick, because no doubt he's lied about sleeping with me. A body like mine has the ability to turn sinners into believers.
12. If I was drunk the tattoo I'd most likely INSIST on getting would be?
Forget Me Nots on the front of my… umm… Because, once you’ve seen it you will forget me not.
Yeah, I can hear the groans.
Kirsten Dunst would get Enter Here just above her rear (That's how Jake Liked it.)
13. If I was drunk the person I'd ask to stop 'hating' on my dancing would be?
*Insert Your Name Here*
14. If I was drunk the most socially awkward thing I could accuse my mother of being would be?
Honestly, my mother is a saint! Why would I ever say something terrible?! Now, YOUR mother on the other hand. Historically, I stand next to her and make beeping sounds when she steps back. She doesn't take offense, she actually find it helps in maneuvering her wide load.
15. If I was drunk the family restaurant I'd feel the least ashamed about throwing up in would be?
Golden Griddle… Misery loves company.
16. If I was drunk the most ridiculous racial slur I'd use against someone would be?
LIMEY HEADED TOWEL HEARDER!
17. If I was drunk the most Pius person I'd ask to 'stop judging me' would be?
Jesus. Because I have more friends than him on facebook.
18. If I was drunk the storefront I'd feel the least ashamed pissing on would be?
Ew. No. However, I would love to smash the whore-endous mannequins at B2.
19. If I was drunk the most random thing I'd have a candle light vigil for would be?
A candle light vigil for the speedy close of this survey.
20. If I was drunk the deity I'd most want to blame for my problems would be?
Tom Cruise’s Witchcraft God.
Causes me a lot of stress he does.
Oh, man, the candle light vigil worked!
Now I’m going to go and inject some vodka into an orange so I can keep this buzz going at work tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Tuesday morning in my little office.
Head down.
Erykah Badu sings
Time to save the world
Where in the world is all the time
So many things I still don't know
So many times I've changed my mind
Guess I was born to make mistakes
But I ain't scared to take the weight
So when I stumble off the path
I know my heart will guide me back
I stumble off the path a lot. I mean, I follow my heart as far as my head will allow me these days. I refuse to allow my self worth be measured through the opinions of others. I've already done that, it was called a beauty pageant, and I don't need to go back there again.
I am your average metropolitan girl. I have a fabulous place to live, a sassy group of girl friends to sit discuss life with over pot luck dinners. I can strut my way through Yorkville with my cuban military hat, my winter scarf spring tied around my neck and my oh-so-fitted spring pea-coat with my walkman in my ears I listen to an eclectic mix of Beastie Boys, Thrush Hermit, Lily Allen, Madonna and Jill Scott.
I toss a quarter to the hand out on the street, I listen to his story of his son. I accept his blessing, I wish him well.
I get a pink coloured drink from the coffee shop down the street. I sip on it as I play with an adorable Liliputian lap dog wriggling for attention.
March Breakers look for directions to the ROM across the street.
Construction workers turn to stare. I stare back, I pull down my sunglasses and wink back with a smile. We talk. Travellers mostly, New York, New Jersey, East Coast, West Coast, they've come to build the ROM. I ask if they get danger pay. They don't. We toast to not stepping on nails, they wish me well, I turn to wave goodbye.
This is my life. My city. My world. We all smile, we all work, we are all in it together.
Make it a community.
I can strut my way down the street with my head up...
(Yeah, I did smile at you)Now I work with my head down. But, I can't wait for my walk home.
Monday, March 12, 2007
If you haven't seen it before, CBC has a website that lists product recalls and advisories.
From bottled water to pregnancy tests, they have it all.
Except for the Urban Outfitters Fanny Packs (Picture on its way. Just trying to get blogger to upload it!)
These obnoxious little pouches were sold for $35 and are featured in black and brown. Manufacturing error accidentally attached purse to belt thereby producing noxious bad taste that might be harmful to the wearers overall sense of style.
Those who purchased the offending item are encourage to return to the store for a full return.
Councilling is available to those who deny the offensiveness of fanny packs.
Oh, they are so horrible they make me cringe!
Sunday, March 11, 2007
When I sing, I rarely sing for others, but, I adore the sumptuousness of the words in different languages that roll off my tongue. Words are music. An organization of sounds an silences. Singing for me, is so deeply personal, I only sing for those I trust, admire and adore.
Words I adore shaped through tones I create.
Poetry.
Beauty so true they are a confession of an artists inspiration.
As a writer, I strive for that power. To elicit a response.
To be an artist.
To be honest.
Reality is the greatest inspiration for art. And, I am inspired through many words that pop up in the unlikely alley of my msn window.
Words.
Released without fear.
Poetry. Epiphanies.
Honesty.
Here are some that struck me this weekend.
Mark: You're beautiful.
KC : umm... was that meant for me?
Mark: Yes.
KC: Awe, thanks!
Mark: I think you're absolutely stunning.
Mark: I wanted you to know. ;)
KC: Where did that loveliness come from
KC: *hugs*
Mark: Random. I think that's the best.
...............
MADD HATTERE: Before they left, we were joking around, and Ash said, I think I had an emotion once, and than it got surrounded by thoughts
MADD HATTERE: and we all laughed for a bit
MADD HATTERE: but than as I sat and waited for the subway, it came to me, Cil had emotion once, but than it got surrounded in thoughts
MADD HATTERE: and I couldn't stop laughing
...............
J:You're the ideal inner goddess, you're just wonderful. And beautiful, inside and outside
J: I READ "Hello Lil Squeaker"
J: i wanted to tell you
J: it's beauttiful
J: i also saw myself. i see commercials, i see full of babies in the city and I am afraid of never having this.
KC: I worry how people interpret me when they read it. They might think that I'm looking to forfeit my goals for settling down. When in fact, it's the opposite.
J: who cares!
J: you can't censure yourself
J: you're an artist
J: a creator
...............
Jay: you are rare and beautiful
Jay: ;)
...............
B (&): you are there with unconditional love for your friends
B (&): so they are there for you too
...............
Love you all.
Even if I work all the time and write until 4am.
:P
What would Ms. Bradshaw do?
She would drink.
She would call her BFs
And, she would go out and reaffirm her life.
Well, we drank, we chilled, and we went to the Mod Club.
D got passed off while P was dealing with her woman sleeping in the same bed as another and I, well, I my little KC faithfuls, just danced.
And I, minus my pretty pearl necklace- which is MIA.
The theme for the evening was blurred by personal drama, terrible fashion sense and the ability to shake it like a polaroid picture to bubbles moving gently through the airy melancholy of Radiohead. Yes, the evening was a white tastic salute to pop rock and rock pop from the 80's to present.
While the scene was peppered with confused dancers, grinding sans direction I was more concerned with the state of my hair, and the lift of my chest, to take much notice to the girls giving me cut eye for dancing like my life depended on it.
This is after intense preparty car karaoke-ing.
In which I killed.
Harmonies and shit.
It was a good night.
We made it fun.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
There's nothing like a self imposed moritorium to really get a girl motivated.
The hardest thing is wanting something so badly that I'll shut myself off in an effort to dedicate myself completely at the task at hand. To have ambition that sometimes infiltrates into other areas of my life and as a result makes me anything from emotionally distant with the people I care about, to an occasional moment of weakness, to even shedding the occasional tear.
For what it is that I want to do, is purely motivated by my heart's desire and not through any obligation to anything or anyone but myself. So letting myself down is my biggest fear. Because, when it's all said and done, when I reflect on my life I don't want to have regrets that outshadow my successes. I don't want to forfeit wisdom for disappointment.
I don't want to be less than I know I'm capable of being.
Where I stand now is in an interesting position. I have a sure bet, a bright future in which I can be in control. Or, a not so sure bet, where I have to relinquish all control and just submit to the whim of the universe.
So I sit.
Staring at my computer screen, looking at pages of prose, event plans, workplans, pages of research, advancement goals, and tear sheets for some photoshoots I'm working on. I can't help but feel overwhelmed.
I'm here and the right thing to do is to get started... I have to just stop staring out the window put down the phone, stop searching missing jewellery and put down the bag of chips. If I want to be who I want to become, then I need to buckle down.
Then as type these words, it occurs to me, it's not what we do does not define us. It's simply how we do it.
I'm going to do it...
NOT alone... And, I pick up the phone and call Parul.
Beginning of the week:
Minus 20
Felt like Minus 40
Of course, there was a wind chill as well.
It was one of those days when you inhaled through your nose, you could feel your lungs freeze.
When it's cold like that, people feel conflicted... well... apparently when coffee is involved.
Can you believe that line up at the Bloor and Bedford Tim Hortons? What are those people doing? Is this really necessary?
Really now?
Is it?
Friday, March 09, 2007
I'm doing it! Yep, six weeks of seduction, history and a final public performance all taught by Coco LaCrème (check out the saucy picture.) of Skin Tight Outta Sight Burlesque.
Be forewarned, I made a solemn vow after leaving the catwalk in 2005, to the chagrin of many:
It's understandable if you are disappointed.
They are real.
And, they are spectacular.
*sigh*
Latte, Macchiatto, Dolce's and Fraps.
Why is it when I fall in love with a new drink it gets discontinued?
I'm like the Jessica Fletcher in a Barrista's bad dream.
I tried the Cinnamon Dolce today.
It's no Maple Macchiatto.
This was THE MOST pointless post in a long time. I just needed to vent.
BTW, Beck's Update. Successfully 3 weeks and not one Beck's taxi later.
3 weeks and still no work from Gail Beck.
She's afraid of The Cake.
I would be too.
If I was avoiding being accountable for a taxi service that blows.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
1. I don't know how to steal cable.
2. I don't know much about hockey
3. If you ask for fries at the Red Room they give you 8 homefries wedge things that taste like left over hash browns. I'm serious. It's very disappointing.
I figure that number two on the list I can do something about. I have this philosophy that you should be introduced to something new by someone who really enjoys it. And, while I think I might have found someone willing to take on that task, I thought the least I could do was to learn some basics on the sport.
So I hit the interweb and found bumpkiss.
Literally.
Reading about hockey online is about as much fun as playing trivia alone.
Canada has over 500,000 registered hockey players, and you're telling me, not one of them can publish an entertaining overview on how to play hockey?
I just want to be entertained, and considering it's one of the most popular sports in my country, I should at least make an effort to understand it.
Right?
So here's the KC's rudementary guide to hockey, as I understand it, for all the ladies out there.
1. A mix of hot and not so hot guys hit the ice. About 6 of them. 5 and the goalie. Sometimes there are fights. Violence never is a solution to problems, but, when the gloves come off, feel free to fantasize that the shirts do too!
2. Two Players share one on one time with the puck. It's a chance to see who wants the puck more. It's a very special moment.
3. They skate around trying to steal the puck from each other to ultimately get it into a net barely larger than the gent guarding it. It's so important to keep the puck out, a man is willing to put himself in between a speeding projectile and the net.
Yes, Hockey is much more dramatic than I ever realized.
4. There are rewards for "Act of God" occurances. Should the tiny puck make it's way from one end of the rink directly into the net, the team gets a point. If it hits the wall instead... Well, you're gonna get in trouble.
"Dude, you may be skatin' on ice, but, you don't have a stick like Jesus."
5. They skate around for 3 periods that are 20 minutes each. Important, not so thrilling fact: They also switch sides. So don't cheer when it appears the visiting team scored accidentally for the home team.
Mistakes like that rarely happen.
There are few "Act of God" occurances during modern day hockey.
6. Junk food just tastes good when you're at an event. I recommend eating a lot, because, when it gets boring then you can always eat.
7. Sex in public. Hell, let's add this one in. Why not?
The End.
While in the middle of writing a post about Toronto Arts & Culture my telephone rang.
"Hello?"
"Hi, it's Fang." Fang= The woman whose mat leave I'm covering.
It's been a week since Fang gave birth to her first child Max and I've been itching to ring her up. However, the fear of disturbing her while she might be getting some well deserved rest or even worse, disturbing the baby!
I was so excited to hear from her, to hear about the birth and to hear her overwhelming happiness transcend through the telephone wires and touch me into smiling.
"You know when you wonder if it's all worthwhile (Giving birth to a child). It is. Believe me, KC when I tell you, it is." Yes, my eyes welled up. I'm a sucker for magic, and this is so beautiful it's the magic I want to believe in.
Fang is a genuine soul. An honest person with an inherit wisdom I've drawn audience to on more than one occasion since we first met in January. On our first day together she took my hand and put it on her belly so I could feel Max wriggle about. "He's unhappy with something" She told me. "How do you know?", I asked. "Because, when he's happy he does something quite different". Yeah, my eyes got teary then as well.
"Frank's been staring at him in awe. He's amazed that Max is his."
I could hear Little Max bubble and squeak on the other end of the line. And, I wished with all my heart I could reach out, pick him up and hold him. Max is so lucky to have parents like Fang and Frank. I couldn't be happier for two of the kindest people.
The older the get the more I wonder if I'm ever going to truly feel what Fang is lucky to feel. It's a privilege to find someone who values you enough to want you to be their partner and the eventual mother of their child. That is flattery, that has substance and meaning. That is being placed on a pedestal higher above any other honour.
It's easy to be a girlfriend.
It's hard to be a partner.
And, I am neither.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Please don't think it's contrived that Madonna did this. I think for a pop concert it is one of the most moving performances I ever did watch.
Particularly poignant when it's hot on the heels of the recent persecution of women protesting in Iran.
Madonna's Isaac is a beautifully horrid reminder that the freedoms that women have in the Western world outweigh the challenges we have still yet to face.
Within my race, within my ethnicity, women are creatures strong, beautiful and rare. Even in the Arabian Nights, they spoke of controlling women for we were prized for our intelligence and wit. They oppressed women, shut them in boxes and kept them removed from society as a means to prevent them from uprising.
Women's weakness, our feeling of being powerless.
We are powerless because we are unable to band together and help our sisters persecuted unjustly for crimes as simple as not covering their heads.
Judge Not Lest Ye Be Judged.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
What keeps KC up at night?
Every 3 seconds a child dies as a result of poverty. With over one billion people in the world live in abject poverty, 50, 000- one third of all the world's deaths are an unavoidable result.
A quarter of a million Canadians support initiatives focused on eleviating and/or abolishing extreme world poverty. However, Canada has fallen short on it's 2005 promise to introduce legislation that ensures 0.7% of our Gross National Income will fulfill Canada's human rights obligations by 2015.
In 2000 all members of the United Nations committed to the Millennium Development Goals- time-bound and quantified targets for addressing 8 goals that will ultimately address the many dimensions of extreme poverty including: income poverty, hunger, disease, lack of adequate shelter, promote gender equality, education and environmental sustainability.
Canada has barely devoted less than half of the minimum requirement and unless action is taken now, it is grim we will devote 0.7% of our GNI by 2015.
Enter the Better Aid Bill (c-293)!
In 2006, MP John McKay introduced a private member's bill, dubbed the Better Aid Bill (Bill C-293). When passed, Bill C-293 will ensure that Canada's foreign aid spending focuses on ending poverty consistent with our human rights obligations.
Bill C-293 will also allow the perspective of those actually living in poverty to be taken into account under this new law. By allowing residents of developing countries to submit written feedback to a committee should they feel that foreign aid spending isn't being used properly.
The law would also require parliamentarians to annually review all aid spending whether through CIDA or other departments like Finance and Foreign Affairs. I agree with the Canadian Coalition to End Global Poverty, that the recommendation to shift all of Canada's aid spending to the Department of Foreign Affairs is a mistake. "When development has to compete with trade, security and geo-politics - it's the poor who lose out"
Time To Take Action!
You want to help Make Poverty History? Then contact your local MP, RIGHT NOW and ask them to vote in favour of Bill C-293! Speed it required, this bill is being considered in the looming shadow of a pre-election debate over Canada's next federal budget. If the Government falls on the budget, the aid bill will probably be scrapped.
All is takes is a phone call, a letter or an email to say:
"Dear INSERT MP's NAME HERE,
I am in support of Bill C-293.
I ask you to vote in favour of the Better Aid Bill as a positive step in Canada's commitment to deliver .7% of our GNI to assist in addressing the many dimensions of extreme poverty including: income poverty, hunger, disease, lack of adequate shelter, promote gender equality, education and environmental sustainability.
Sincerely,
YOUR NAME HERE"
Just click here to get your MP's contact information. They are home in their constituencies right now on March Break. When they return to Parliament, the bill will be up to vote.
Thanks, Kids. Now I can get back to sleep!
Sunday, March 04, 2007
When freedom of thought turns into forced sedition towards a political rule it ceases to be a freedom.
It is absolutism.
When freedom is promised under a loose disguise of acceptance of equality.
It is a lie.
32 women arrested in Iran for protesting. They were standing as an act of solidarity for 5 women's rights activists on trial and facing charges including endangering public security, propaganda and taking part in an illegal gathering.
The women were holding signs that read "We have the right to a peaceful protest". The women were attempting to draw attention to discriminatory Islamic laws that often cause great suffering to women.
We can bring down governments for harbouring imaginary weapons, isolate countries with differing opinions, destroy countries seeking criminals that never ultimately get caught, however, we cannot work together to ensure that the rights of women are protected.
Especially when they most clearly are not.
We all have the right to freedom of assembly under international human rights law, and Iran is party to this. However, this is not the first time women's right have been infringed upon by virtue of their sex.
Or age.
Look at the recent trial of 18 year old Nazanin Fatehi. She was sentanced to death for the murder of one of three men who attempted to rape her and her 15-year-old niece. At the time she was 17 which ought to protect her under international treaties that forbid the execution of anyone under the age of 18. Iran is signatory to these treaties yet continue to violate them.
Thankfully, Nazanin has since been acquitted and released. However, it was not through the work of international advocacy groups or governments. It was the work of Canadian/Iranian woman Nazanin Afshan-Jam, a woman I met through Miss World Canada, where she held the title that I unsuccessfully sought.
When freedom of thought turns into forced sedition of Islamic law it ceases to be a freedom.
It is absolutism.
When a government violates international rights by persecutes female activists seeking peaceful change.
It is intolerance.
Intolerance we are tolerating.
Because they are women.