Fun In The Sun

Dauphin Countryfest never seems to disappoint!

George Canyon's "The Sky's Not The Limit Tour"

George Canyon stopped by the Winnipeg Airport to play a show on his "The Sky's Not The Limit Tour" in support of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Troy had a chance to chat with him before the show...

R & R

Time to presto - disappearo for a stretch.

Back on the Horse

Back to the blog!

Defying Gravity for Keith Urban - Day 3

This morning, Ed came in to play Jenga against Troy Westwood.

They took turns taking a block from the middle and putting it on top as the pieces defied gravity.

Ed ended up losing, and in a rare instance, Troy ended up winning, but we decided to do the right thing and give Ed Row 3 Tickets on the floor to see Keith Urban at the MTS Centre.

Defying Gravity for Keith Urban - Day 2

This morning, we asked you to send us pictures of you "Defying Gravity".

You did, and we thank you for that.  But, there can only be one winner.  And his name is Scott Steffensen (he's the one "floating" in the picture).

Scott wants to surprise his sister with Keith Urban tickets.  And now he'll be able to, by giving her Row 4 tickets on the Floor to see Keith Urban!

Defying Gravity for Keith Urban

This morning, we gave Pam Spence "gravity-defying" hair for a pair of tickets to Keith Urban's second concert, September 27th at MTS Centre.

Sure, it is only natural for you to feel sorry for her, but keep in mind she'll be watching the show from Row 5! Now who's laughing?

Good job, Pam!

Defying Gravity for Keith Urban

This morning, we gave Pam Spence "gravity-defying" hair for a pair of tickets to Keith Urban's second concert, September 27th at MTS Centre.

Sure, it is only natural for you to feel sorry for her, but keep in mind she'll be watching the show from Row 5! Now who's laughing?

Good job, Pam!

Defying Gravity for Keith Urban

This morning, we gave Pam Spence "gravity-defying" hair for a pair of tickets to Keith Urban's second concert, September 27th at MTS Centre.

Sure, it is only natural for you to feel sorry for her, but keep in mind she'll be watching the show from Row 5! Now who's laughing?

Good job, Pam!

Urban Encore?

Wanna see Keith Urban in Winnipeg for one more night?

This One's For The Kids

If you can help. Do.

BBQ's Rock!!!!

Chicken anyone????

Rod Peeler

Rod Peeler WILL be singing Rod Stewart songs with The Waking Crew.  Why is this funny?  Because he looks EXACTLY like Rod Stewart.

Don't believe me...see for yourself.

Finger Lickin' Good

The much discussed rib recipe;

It's Good To Laugh Again

Good friends can get you through anything.

Bye Bye Winter

Good riddance.....

Apparently, life must go on.....

Kozy needs me......

He Was A Gift....

Love doesn't end.

One Day At A Time

I suppose it is times like these that define us.

I Miss Him Too.....

I guess its time to answer the question I get most these days....

What Day Is It?

My Grandpa was right....the older you get the faster it goes....

Things Are Almost Back To Normal.......

One more week and normal life resumes.....

Bring on 2009!

Wow that went fast!

Carrie Underwood in Concert!

It's easy to see why she won it all in 2005.....

A Month Or Less To Go......

Where does the time go?

CMA's Come and Gone........

I thought the three hours went by fairly quickly.......

Music, Sunshine and Good Times

It should be warm by then......

Johnny Reid live from Club Regent

Here's a couple of video clips from Johnny Reid's performance at Club Regent on Friday night.  Enjoy!

It's Coming.....

There are some things you just can't deny.....

Why Won't My T.V. Work??????

I can never figure this stuff out.......

To The Polls We Go......

You've just gotta do it.......

I Never Want To Do That Again.....

Moving is just a drag.....

Smile and say.......nothing.....

I want to smile!!!!!

One Great CCMW!

I can't believe it's already come and gone....

 

Bring On The CCMA's

Okay.....I'm over the Bomber loss in Regina, and I'm on to the CCMA madness.....

One Long Boring Drive

Let's hope the Blue and Gold put in a performance worthy of $250 worth of gas........

One Crazy Week!!!!

I am already preparing for one busy and fabulous week headed my way......

Oh Goody......Another One!

I have discovered another thing that's not as much fun as it looks.......

The Minds of Men

It's kind of like a dog whistle....for guys

Someone check me for ticks.....

I'm doing my best, but I may need a little help.

It's an infestation!

I have never seen it this bad!

CCMA Press Conference

Check out this video from the CCMA Press Conference at the MTS Centre.  It's got all your ticket information and some of the performers who are going to be at the show!

Blue Need A Win!

The Bombers under the gun for the first win of the season.

Oh Canada!!!!

One great country!

Deep Fried Oreos

Red River Ex = Good Eating!

Outta Here!

Ahhhhh....sweet sleeping-in. I am off for a week of communing with nature and a fluffy pillow. I also have my Mom's DVD collection of the entire Gilmore Girls series. I have never seen a single episode...but it is one of my Mom's all-time favourites and I suspect I'm gonna love it! Score 250 QX Rewards Points with the word Gilmore until Friday June 13th. I'll be back on the 16th! Take Care.

Golf Tournament Season Begins

We had the pleasure of heading out to the golf course this week. It was the Manitoba Children's Museum's annual Golf Tournament....and although it was threatening to rain all day...it ended up staying nice and dry. Along with celebrity golfers CTV's Gord LeClerc, and curling great Kerry Burtnyk, about 100 others ponied up to support the museum and hit the links at Bridges. I myself am not much of a golfer. I would obviously enjoy it more if I were better at it....but I'm not....and apparently I can't be bothered to put the time in to improve. I do enjoy driving golf carts. I would happily spend the day doing that.

Sex and the City

Wow...you can't seem to turn around without hearing about this movie. Talk about marketing....jeepers! I can't imagine ever wanting to see a movie enough to line up at midnight....or even line up at all. As much as I do want to see Carrie and the girls on the big screen, I can certainly wait until the crowds die down a little bit. I actually think it will be a perfect night out with the girls. Ron was telling me that the movie contains over 300 wardrobe changes, with Carrie herself having over 80 of them. It's funny, the reason Ron doesn't want to bother going is the reason I can't wait.

Indy Rides Again

I had the pleasure of checking out the Qx 104 premiere of the latest Indiana Jones movie this week. You could feel the energy in the theatre as I joined a handful or so of excited contest winners to be among the first to see what Lucas and Spielberg have been up to for the last 19 years. Yup....19 years since the last one came out. I expected Harrison Ford to be looking a little long in the tooth for an action hero. He is 65 in real life.....but in Indiana Jones years he looks just perfect. They must have some of that good night cream out in Hollywood, because he hasn't aged a whole lot. I would have been around 18 when the last Indy graced the screen.

Get Me Out Of The City!!!

Okay....so it's almost believable that summer is actually coming. I awaken to the sound of song birds, the grass is greener and those parking lot bedding plant stands are cropping up all over. I can't wait for it to warm up so I can hunker down for another gorgeous Manitoba summer....this time lakeside. So far, our time out there has been pretty intense work. Installing flooring, replacing furniture and fresh coats of paint. I loved having a cottage as a kid, but I forgot how much work it can be to get ready for another season. I know I'll forget all of the work when I'm sitting around the fire pit, looking up at a sea of stars with no traffic to be heard.

Busy Times

It is that time of year again. It seems both spring and fall are busy, busy times for charity dollars and annual dinners. It's also the time of year that I go through way too many pairs of contact lenses and nylons. I have shoes strewn throughout the house, clothes still on the ground where they were hastily shed in the hopes of getting at least 5 hours of sleep. It's a crazy time. It all started with the Rainbow Society Auction and continues this week with the 22nd Annual Ronald McDonald House Fashion Show and Dinner. This week also marks our first get together with the Walking Crew, who will be hoofing it in Hawaii on behalf of the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Aloha

I hope you are considering joining the Walking Crew this year. It is the most amazing experience, and it really is an invitation to change your life. To shake things up and challenge yourself. Do something you've never done, or thought you could do. The whole point is to raise funds and draw awareness to the epidemic that is diabetes. In training with us for the marathon or 10 km walk/run you will be making the very lifestyle changes that can fight Type 2 diabetes...It really is an opportunity to do something remarkable. I hope you will find it in yourself to click on the Walking Crew link and drop us a line about why you would like to join the Walking Crew and fight diabetes.

Another Great Night!

What a great time Saturday night at the MTS Centre. It's always nice to get out and see a packed house full of enthusiastic country fans. There's nothing like the site of row upon row of people with happy smiling faces....full of anticipation. I love Brooks and Dunn pretty much every time I see them. They have sooo many hits. Speaking of hits...Alan Jackson could probably stay up there for hours and not get to everything. I also liked the inside look at Jackson family photos and memories on the big screen at the back of the stage....very cool! It's strange not to have another major headliner at the MTS Centre to look forward to.

Casino's Right On!

 
What a great time Monday night at Club Regent. I was lucky enough to check out the Country Rat Pack. That involved Tracy Byrd, Tracy Lawrence and Richie McDonald (formerly of Lonestar), sitting around with their guitars, playing songs and telling stories.

Bring It On!

Are you loving the weather these days? It has been such a treat to walk around outside. Okay, so you still need a jacket, but just a fleece and you are pretty much good to go. I am holding off on bringing out the bike for a little while yet. I can just picture myself hitting a piece of ice and flying onto the sidewalk. I have resumed my daily stroll down the Riverwalk. I just love it down there at the Forks....the Provencher bridge and then back behind St. Boniface Hospital. I find it hard to believe that it will all be under water soon....but I suppose it happens every year. There doesn't seem to be a tonne of snow to melt, so maybe...if the rain holds off....it won't be too bad.

To My Child (Just For Today)

The following is a poem I read during Radiothon. It was written by a woman after her 9 year old son's leukemia diagnosis. I have been asked for copies repeatedly since I shared it during our broadcast, and I hope it moves you as it did me.

To My Child (Just For Today)

Just for this morning I am going to smile when I see your face, and laugh when I feel like crying.

Just for this morning I will let you wake up softly in your flannel p.j.'s and hold you until you are ready to stir.

Just for this morning I will let you choose what you want to wear, and I will say how beautiful you are.

From The Bottom Of My Heart.....

Wow! $676,742. Unbelievable. That's the amount of money raised at the Children's Miracle Radiothon that we held last week live from Children's Hospital. Thank you so very much. Thank you for picking up the phone and giving what you can give. Thank you for listening to my voice for 3 straight days....I promise we will have Ron back next year for a little bit of relief. Thank you for crying along with me as I spoke of children who had more to deal with than anyone ever should. Thank you for the barrage of e-mails. I will reply as soon as I possibly can find the time. Please know that your words supported me and gave me strength when I simply didn't think I had any more.

Vacations Fly By!!!!

Wow.......12 days of sleep ins have come and gone. As with all good things (long weekends, banana splits and the stomach flips of brand new love) it has come and gone too quickly. I took my annual trip to Palm Desert...a place I have always thought to be my favourite spot on earth. Gorgeous desert surrounded by snow capped mountains. It is glorious....and of course, they still have a Target! As much as I adore vacation, it's a pretty good feeling when your plane has finally touched down in Winnipeg. Dorothy had it right...."there's no place like home". Score 250 QX Count

Lists, Lists, Lists

I have long been a list maker. Lists have saved my life on many occasions. Trips to the grocery store, Christmas gifts, and of course lists of stuff to pack. I actually have a notepad right by my bed for the lists I make just about every night before I go to sleep....that seems to be when I go over my mental check list and try to put it on paper. For instance, on the list for this morning I have written "change your blog"...and so it is done. I would hate to leave town without giving you a new bonus word. Score 250 Qx Country Club Rewards with the word vacation...good until midnight on March 23rd.

Time Flies

I don't know where the week has gone? Why is it that short work weeks never actually feel very short? I took the day off on Monday...which feels like cheating. When Sunday night rolls around and you realize that an early bedtime doesn't apply to you....it's absolutely delicious! It would stand to reason then that the 4 day work week that follows would seem 20% easier to deal with. It never works like that. It is always at least as tiring as a regular week if not more so.....it's puzzling. I blame Kozak on this one. It was covering for him for a few days that must have put me over the edge....the nerve of him.

Lost on LOST

Last fall I decided that I wanted to get into a television show. I hadn't really been invested in any kind of serial show since Knotts Landing (still one of the greatest shows ever....Greg Sumner was fantastic!). Anyway, I asked around and decided on LOST. I loved Matthew Fox in Party of Five...and that was enough to get me interested. Over the Christmas Season I caught up on the first 3 Seasons, and have been watching weekly since Season 4 kicked off at the end of January. I really do like the show....but I always feel like each episode leaves more and more questions with very few answers.

I Love To Read

February is always a bit of a crazy time of year. It's I Love To Read month, and I am always invited to visit a variety of schools to sit down a read a storybook or two to some kids. It is always such a fun experience, but being around children has always made me a little bit nervous. Kids will tell you the truth....whether you are ready to hear it or not....you're getting it. After the story session I always open up the floor for questions. The ones I get most often include "How old are you?", "Do you have any pets?" and the always popular "How much money do you make?" Kids are great.

Love Is In The Air

Happy Valentine's Day. It's always been kind of a strange holiday. Is it even really a holiday? I know that if you are single or in a troubled relationship at the moment, this day can't go by quickly enough. Who needs the blatant reminder that other people are having a little more success in the relationship department? Please....it's hard enough. However, I always try to keep in mind that there are many partnerships that appear to be thriving...but aren't. I know this first hand by the shock and awe of those around me when my marriage finally ended. It hadn't been good in a very long time when we finally decided we had exhausted our options....but it certainly took many people in our lives by surprise.

Let the Sunshine In

Ahh.....it looks so nice outside. Okay, so you step outside and there's still that winter chill....but from inside it sure looks nice. I was out for lunch the other day and was sitting in a window for about an hour. I could not believe how hot the sun felt on my skin. Spring is imminent....what a great feeling! I am also loving how much earlier in the morning we are seeing the sun.....and it's sticking around so much later. It's funny.....obviously the days gradually get longer beginning right around Christmas....but every year it seems to happen overnight. I guess I just notice it one day.

I Can't Take It Anymore

All right...all right.....I get it...it's Manitoba...it's the middle of winter....it's supposed to be cold. I understand that...I even accept that. The cold doesn't even really bother me most of the time....but, come on. Enough already!!!! These windchills are not fit for human consumption. I saw a bike courier the other day (yup...a bike courier!) and he was pretty much completely frosted over. I wanted to scrape him with my credit card like I have to do with my car windows sometimes. The poor guy! I really think at a certain temperature it shouldn't just be schools that shut down.

Fa La La La La

Jan. 25th - Okay this is it.....I will take down my Christmas Tree this weekend. I am a tad bit ashamed to admit that it's still up. Not only that, but I still have presents under it.....can we say "procrastinate?" The problem is that this year I bought a bunch of brand new decorations, and before I put them away I need to go through all of my old stuff and throw away most of it. The process seems daunting. I am by no means a pack rat. I hate clutter too much to be a pack rat. I do however, have trouble parting with things from family members. Old dusty stuff that one relative or another gave to me ages ago.

Let the Concert Season Begin

It is definitely going to be a busy few months.....I should just get myself a parking space at the MTS Centre. It all begins with Big and Rich, along with Cowboy Troy, Terri Clark and Emerson Drive. It's a great triple bill.....I have seen both Terri and the Emerson boys many times, and they never disappoint. This will be my first time checking out Big and Rich. I would expect them to be a little bit nuts, and definitely high energy. That place just might explode when "Save A Horse" begins. I will have to get a nap in before this show.....I have a feeling it could require a lot of energy just to spectate.

A Lazy Weekend

I had one of my very favourite things this past Sunday. An entire day when I did not leave the house.....truth be told I never got out of my pyjama pants. That is the basis of a pretty much perfect day! Not only that....but it was full of playoff football. There are few things that can compare to being warm and cozy inside, while the wind blows outside. I drank a little coffee, did a little cooking and watched at least one of the Manning brothers advance in their Super Bowl quest. I also did about four hundred Sudoku puzzles. I find them quite addictive. Just when I think I'm pretty smart and it's a piece of cake, I'll screw one up....and it's almost impossible to go back and discover where exactly you screwed it up.

Bring On The Thaw

I am loving this mild weather. I realize we still have a long way to go...but I'm already counting down to springtime. It's not that winter bothers me so much. I don't really mind the cold, and I actually think the snow can be kind of pretty. It's just that the summer has so many great activities to choose from. Most of all, I love getting out of town for the weekend. Camping, cottaging, even just driving out to the beach for a day...there's almost nothing better. Ron counts if off by paydays......5 paydays until spring...not so bad. In the meantime I'll take this soft, slushy, mild stuff.

2008 Resolution Free

I refuse to make resolutions. There's just too much pressure to stick to it....and quite frankly, I have way too much great food in my fridge to make any kind of resolution actually stick. I can try not to buy anymore chocolate and cookies, but to not eat the ones that are currently in the fridge just seems wrong.  I suppose I could always put some stuff in the freezer until I manage to drop ten pounds, but that just won't work. The butter tarts will call out to me one night at around 9:00 and I'll be defrosting in no time......or if it's a case of emotional distress I won't even bother defrosting....no time.

Sleeping In Is Good

It's so nice to be done. Done shopping, and thinking about shopping, and planning shopping, and figuring out how to pay for all of the shopping. I realize the Holidays shouldn't be about shopping....but there's no better feeling than finding the perfect gift for people you care about. I'm a little giddy thinking about those I love pulling back the paper and seeing what I came up with. I am lucky enough to be surrounded by lots of grateful people. I could wrap up some note paper, and my family would be happy to have it. Most of the time we're just happy to be together for a little while, without everyone having to rush off to work.

Ho Ho Ho!!!!

For the first time in three years I actually put up a Christmas tree over the weekend. It was really nice to get back to the tradition of it. I even treated myself to brand new decorations. Shiny new ornaments and stuff. Things have really changed since the last time I went shopping for decorations. So many choices...different styles, different colours. Still, no matter how much technology has advanced, I have one strand of twinkle lights that twinkle, and one strand that doesn't. We have refrigerators that can give us a weather forecast, but still have issues with 4 dollar twinkle lights.

Shopping, Shopping, Shopping

It has begun! I finally started Christmas shopping, and it's kind of like opening the flood gates. I have my lists of stuff, and  just want to get out there and spend.... There's nothing quite like finding the perfect gift. The timing is great too, because it gives me the chance to completely update my boyfriends wardrobe under the premise of "gift-giving". For the Bomber fan on your list you may want to check out the annual Locker Room sale...find 35% off all sorts of stuff...and it's a chance to check out the Locker Room of our beloved Bombers....if you read anything about me in there, don't believe it! Score 250 QX Reward Points by entering the word retail until midnight Dec 19th.

USA A-OK

Had a great time in Minneapolis. Lots and lots of snow.....yet the highways were great! IKEA great, Target great, Dove bars great! My first NFL game was amazing! It was the 102nd consecutive sell-out for the Minnesota Vikings....with an attendance of over 62,000 people. What fan support....it was wonderful! I do most of my shopping here at home, but it is definitely nice every once in a while to see stores that are different and merchandise that you don't see all the time. I'm really getting into the Christmas Spirit...and I love how it feels. The season just doesn't last long enough....so get into it! You can score 250 QX Reward Points by entering the word IKEA before midnight on Dec.

NFL Here I Come

You've gotta love a weekend. I have been looking forward to this particular one for quite some time. I have actually given myself a long weekend (off on Monday), and I am heading down to Minneapolis. There are many reasons to be excited.....Mall of America, Ikea, Oreo Cakesters.....but the real highlight for me is that on Sunday I will be in the Metrodome to watch the Vikings play the Lions. I have been a fan of the NFL (Denver Broncos in particular) for as long as I can remember. My brother got me involved during the Elway years and it hasn't stopped. I am actually just a huge fan of football in general....but this is my very first NFL game and I am wild with excitement.

Not Quite The Ending We Were Looking For......

Oh well....that was a tough game to watch. I loved seeing our boys introduced at the Grey Cup. I think Milt Stegall was the most excited guy out there. It was pure joy....and it was contagious. I wanted our guys to win more than anything. I wanted it for Troy and for Milt and for my friend Dan. I wanted it for the entire team, and for our city. It was incredible to get so close. Now, Mr. Westwood would tell you that there's no solace in getting close and not winning.....and I'm sure he feels that way....but I disagree. You can only feel proud of our guys for getting as far as they possibly could this year.

Decked out in Blue and Gold!

Woo Hoo! I cannot wait for the Grey Cup game. I am so excited! Bombers versus Riders....who could have come up with a better scenario? Toronto won't know what the heck hit them.....lookout Big Smoke...the Prairie folk are coming!! There has been a run on merchandise at the Bomber Store.....particularly Dinwiddie jersey's....who would have thought we'd need to stock up on Dinwiddie paraphernalia? I would suspect that you'll see the boys sporting the blue pants and gold jersey's that have brought them through the playoffs to the big dance. You stick with what works! I'm still not sure if I'll be watching live in Toronto, or I'll be hanging out here in the Peg City....but wherever I am, I will be proudly sporting Blue and Gold.

When you least expect it........

Life is funny. I have been pretty upfront about the fact that my marriage ended a while back. It's actually been over 2 years now.....time certainly flies. That's a good thing, because for the longest time things seemed to stand painfully still. My marriage didn't end because of another person....we managed to ruin it all on our own. For most of the last few years I had kind of resigned myself to being alone....and I think it's been a good thing. You really get to know who you are and what you want. I think some good, solid alone time will help you make better choices the next time around. I sure hope so. I was beginning to feel that maybe there wasn't going to be anyone in my life....and lo and behold....there he was. Having someone to love you is a remarkable thing......Score 250 bonus points by entering the bonus word shocking, until midnight Nov, 22nd.

Saturday Night

I hope you'll join me Saturday night (November 10th) at the Bay Polo Park for the "What to Wear Holiday Gala". The event takes place after the store closes, from 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.. It's a great time to browse and shop the cosmetic, fragrance and jewellery departments. There's all sorts of special things going on.....a holiday fashion show, refreshments, exclusive gifts with purchase, prizes and live entertainment. Tickets are just $15.00, with $2.00 going to charity, and $8.00 redeemable on a purchase that night. I have been lucky enough to host these events for the Bay for a few years now, and it is such a great night out with the girls. It's also a super time to get a jump on your holiday shopping, score a pile of gifts with purchase, and enter to win a bunch of gift baskets.....it's really fantastic. Purchase your tickets at any cosmetic, fragrance or jewellery counter at the Bay Polo Park, and I'll see you Saturday night! For reading my blog you can earn 250 QX Country Club Reward Points. Just enter the bonus word gala by the end of Nov. 15th.

Okay, it's really Fall

I finally gave in. I am no longer in denial. It is officially Fall.....I have bought long pants. Up until this week I was still donning my capri pants each and every morning. I may have had to add a fleece on top....but I still clung to visions of sunshine, and wore the old capri pants. No longer. It was just becoming a little too chilly on the shin area to keep it up. I ventured out shopping and bought myself some new jeans. One thing life has taught me is that when you find a good pair of jeans that you feel good in.....you must buy multiple pairs. I'm not sure that men understand this. Luckily, there are many options when it comes to jeans. I myself bought not only the regular denim, but also the dark denim. I remember back when denim was just denim....never mind straight leg, slim leg, boot cut, slim fit etc. etc. etc.. If men truly want to understand why women are stressed out they should come shopping in the women's department. You just might not make it back out again......

Enterprising Women Indeed!

Another great weekend. Okay, so the Bomber game knocked it down a couple of pegs....but I still have faith. Loving the Bombers has never been particularly easy. They seem to always make it harder on themselves than is completely necessary.....but everything can still work out. I was pleased to see Mr. Westwood back out there in Blue and Gold.....why wasn't he punting? Not sure I understand that one.....probably never will. Friday night I had the pleasure of heading out to the downtown campus of Red River College and helped kick off the 4th Annual Enterprising Women's Conference. I have never been to the campus before, and I will definitely go back and do some exploring....what a beautiful facility. The event hosted some remarkable women holding a variety of seminars about challenges and opportunities in the work place. It was a super event, and wonderfully organized. It was a pleasure to be a part of it. Coming up this week I am out at the QX Premiere of "B Movie" on Tuesday, Ladies Night at Assiniboine Park Conservatory (in support of the Firefighter's Burn Fund) on Thursday, the final regular season home game goes for the Bombers on Friday, and on Saturday night I will be at Pantages Playhouse with the MB Children's Museum. I guess I better go and do some laundry....it's going to be a busy one!

Big and Rich.......Fantastic!

Wow...big news! The first of what I hope will be a 2008 full of great concerts was announced this week. Qx 104.1 presents Big and Rich at the MTS Centre on Jan. 21st. I am a big fan of theirs, and have never seen them live before.....so I have been pretty excited about this show. It's the perfect thing for the dead cold of January. Of course they're not coming alone.....Emerson Drive and Terri Clark will be there to make it all a little bit more Canadian....eh? The rest of my wish list for the year looks something like this; Keith Urban, Gary Allan, Kenny Chesney.......that would be a good start.

Another Weekend

Could someone please tell me where the week went? It seems like the Brad Paisley show happened yesterday....not a week ago! Wow. It should be a great weekend.....kicking off with a Bomber win over the Stampeders. That would be a nice beginning. From there I am off to Boo at the Zoo on Saturday. It's Qx 104.1 night, and my niece Ashley always has a wonderful time. There will likely be some Headless Horseman anxiety.......Ash never runs faster than when it's away from the Headless Horseman....but it's always good for a laugh! Rumor has it we may actually see the return of the sunshine on Sunday.....I'm ready for it.

Digging Deep

I'm having one of those weeks. I wouldn't say that I'm sick, but things just aren't right. It's that kind of achy, tired feeling that you just can't seem to shake. People often blame this kind of lethargy on the change of season. Maybe it's true....I don't know. It does seem to be the case that people seem a little low energy at the moment. Maybe it's the increasing darkness.....the upcoming cold weather.....maybe it's just the way the Bombers have been playing lately.....who knows? I guess I'll keep taking my vitamins, grab as much sleep as I can, and wait for my energy to return.

Collin Raye in Winnipeg

I remember my first few days working in country radio. The truth is that the radio station I was working at was a light rock outfit that literally flipped to country overnight. I was completely unfamiliar with the music at the time, but I learned fast. That was 12 years ago, and I can honestly say that discovering country music was one of the greatest things to happen to me. Country music has the power to heal people, it is music you can believe in, and it's often just darn fun to listen to! Anyway, my point (and I do have one) is that when I was brand new to the format it also happened to be a time when Collin Raye was just about the hottest thing going. He was easily my first "country" love , and continues to be the artist that moves me like no other. I believe he has the voice of an Angel, and I am so grateful for having come across his incredible talent. I am also grateful that in my job I get the opportunity to spend time with many of our artists when they come through town. Collin and I actually hung out for a bit after his show on Thursday. We had a beer and touched on a variety of subjects. It's always so refreshing when the people you think highly of actually turn out to be worthy of it. Collin Raye ranks among the sweetest people I have ever spent time with. I am a big fan of kindness, and compassion, and those seem to be qualities that define him. Every time I talk to Collin he strikes me as the type of person that makes the world a more beautiful place. It was a treat to spend some time with you.....stay well and come back soon.

It's Cold!

I can't believe how much rain has come down in the last couple of days. It just poured on Monday....relentlessly! I kept thinking it would have to let up throughout the afternoon....but (in the downtown area anyway), it just kept on coming. Not a great weekend in the weather department. I guess it started off badly at Canad Inns Stadium Friday night, and just continued from there. I think the only thing colder than the Bombers on Friday were my fingers....I suppose it's time to crack out the gloves. As much as I want to deny it.......it's time. I am slightly jealous about the turkey dinners out there on the weekend.....I didn't actually have one...but that will make Christmas that much better.

Long Weekends Are Good!

Does it not seem early for Thanksgiving? I realize it is the earliest it can be.....but I'm thinking it feels weeks earlier than usual. I suppose that's because the weather's been pretty easy to take. The morning's certainly are getting chilly, but I think we're doing okay so far. Hopefully the Bombers will chalk up another win tonight. It's far from a slam dunk though, particularly when the B.C. Lions are involved......it will definitely be a battle....I hope they're up for it! I am hoping to hit the trails on my bike again this Saturday......assuming the rain holds off.

October Already?

Okay, there are a few things that just don't seem possible. I can't believe that it's only a week away from Thanksgiving.....I can't believe that the wind cut through me enough this morning that I actually considered that it's time for a much more "winterish" coat....I can't believe that I have watched an entire Season of "Lost" in the span of a week.....and I can't believe that after all these years I am still surprised that working out and eating well is both difficult and boring. Oh well....what are you gonna do? Another win for the Bombers this weekend.....they don't all have to be pretty.

My New Addiction

I recently decided that I was going to engage in following one television series.....what I couldn't decide was whether to go with Heroes, Grey's Anatomy or Lost. All three shows have gotten a lot of press and have a great deal of followers. I myself have some commitment issues, and not a lot of time, so I know I can only pick one. I discussed my options at length with a friend and co-worker I'll call Mike. That is, after all, his name. Mike, the Qx104.1 Webmaster dude, is the same guy who turned me onto The Office, which I quite love. Mike also manages to always find the most amusing and relevant You Tube clips. For this, and a few other reasons, I decided to trust him and go with Lost. On Monday Mike delivered Season 1, and I have been pretty much glued to the DVD player ever since. First of all, I love Matthew Fox. I have since Party of Five. The only problem is that to me, he will always be "Charlie"...but I'm getting used to the "Jack" thing. Where has Josh Holloway been all my life? Wow! You could strand me with him any day. I am trying to get Ron to let me call him Sawyer....but he's not going for it. I adore Mr. Locke and am totally into all of the characters back stories. I expect to have Season 1 finished this weekend, and move onto Season 2. It's going to be a real drag when the new season finally starts and I am limited to one episode a week. Although my devotion is turning me into a bit of a shut-in. It's okay.....just me and Sawyer hanging out.....it could be worse.

The Last Great Weekend?

Well, it's officially Fall. I really like this time of year.....I get to wear my leather jacket, and the shaving of the legs no longer needs to be a daily thing. I decided on Saturday to take advantage of what might have been the last really warm, sunny day. I met up with my brother and we headed out on our mountain bikes. I had no idea how many great bike trails there are right in the city. I still think we could use more....but heading down Churchill Drive all the way to Kingston Row and then looping around to Wildwood Park and over the Bishop Grandin Bridge into St. Vital Park....it was fantastic! We ended up being out on the trails for about 2 hours.

Everything Hurts

Okay....so it's taken me a little longer than usual this week to get up and down the stairs at work....I have returned to the gym (again) and everything hurts. I do not like working out....I do not like sweating....and sports bras just don't cut it. That being said I feel better, healthier...and that's where I need to go. This is far from my first "triumphant return" to the life of the worker-outer. Sometimes my commitment sticks for a substantial amount of time....and sometimes not so much. I have noticed however, that my frequent backslides seem to be shorter, and much less damaging as time goes on....so maybe there's hope for me yet. As long as I live to be at least 140, I should be able to lick this problem once and for all. It hardly comes as a surprise that my "emotional eater" issues would rear their ugly heads on the heels of the most emotional years of my life...but that excuse just isn't cutting it for me anymore. Do you ever just get sick of yourself? I do. That, and I have become somewhat obsessed with Paul Plakas. He's the trainer on the show "X-Weighted" and my girlfriend in Vancouver and I have (unbeknown to him) developed a relationship with Paul. I swear it's not as creepy as it sounds...but it is motivating. Did I mention that I hate crunches? I do.....I really do.

One Last Breath of Summer

Wow....Monday again, huh? I sure hope you managed to get outside on the weekend. Temps. were way above normal. I myself took in the River Walk....good old duck watching is always a good thing! It was another busy weekend......went to see the Blue Man Group on Friday. I wasn't sure what to expect...but I knew it would be something different.....and it certainly was! I don't think it was everyone's cup of tea....I'm pretty sure I was much more into it than my date....but there was something in it for everyone. Silent men painted blue....how can it miss? I thought it was both interesting and amusing and would go see them again if I ever get the chance.

Nice Job Boys!

What a game yesterday! 5th consecutive sell-out...just a great atmosphere. The Bombers had something to prove after that last minute loss to the Riders on Labour Day. Well, the boys in Blue and Gold answered the call in spades. I have to say that first half was 30 of the finest minutes of football I have ever seen. It's was a pure joy to watch! If they could play like that every time, we will see Milt Stegall hoisting the Grey Cup in November.....no doubt about it. It's unlikely that the guys will click that well every time out for the second half of the season......but once you know what they're capable of.....it would kind of be a shame not to deliver.

Too Many Nights Out....Not Enough Wardrobe

With Labour Day behind us, yesterday was the perfect time to sit back with my day-timer and get a handle on the busy fall season. I can't believe all of the shows coming up.....Aaron Pritchette, Marty Stuart, Collin Raye, Brad Paisley.....and those are just the ones we know about. Throw in a variety of Charity Events and Evenings, and it will be Christmas in no time. I took some time to go over the dates and straighten out who was with me for what. I think at the same time I should jot down little wardrobe notes. It would probably save me lots of time in the long run. Whenever I'm busy like this my apartment ends up looking like a disaster area. Clothes everywhere.....shoes everywhere...and don't even get me started on earrings....it's a wonder I can ever find anything. I met up with someone for dinner on Monday, and that alone took 4 changes before I was satisfied......True to all the men I've loved before....the date in question took no notice of my subtle co-ordination of accessories....silly boys...they have no idea how much work goes into looking casual.

Corey Cox Killed Chuck Norris

Wow......what a weekend! It seems the football game wasn't the only thing lost over the weekend....I left most of my voice in Regina as well. Okay, so the Bombers didn't win, which is a total drag....but at least it was a great game.....we we're in it right until the end....and that beats a blow-out every time. It's funny though......the players get on a bus right at the stadium and head back to Winnipeg.....it's those of us that made the drive that have to endure the "walk of shame" through the streets of Regina back to the hotel. It's a long walk....let me tell you.

Where Did the Summer Go?

I can't believe it's already the Labour Day long weekend? The summer seemed to fly by, and I have no idea where it went. It seems that once again my vows of getting outdoors and spending countless evenings on patios didn't quite go as planned...what else is new? The scariest thing of all is that in a flash it will be Christmas, Christmas everywhere. I always find that the time between school starting and Christmas just sails on by....It is however my favourite time of year. I like the crisp cool weather. It's the frigid cold weather I can do without. This year I will once again spend the Labour Day weekend in Regina.

Getting My Sexy Back

Okay.....let me start by saying that I don't know much about Justin Timberlake. I know he used to date Brittany Spears and Cameron Diaz. He was on the Mickey Mouse Club and he was in one of those boy bands....I can never remember which one...and I'm not sure that it matters. Anyway, my point is that I probably had no business being at his show on Saturday. A bunch of my friends were going, it was Saturday night so I figured what the heck.....It was okay. I loved watching the crowd. The MTS Centre was completely packed and all of the young ladies looked so excited.....it was fun to see. Also....the boy can dance.....I absolutely adore a man who can dance....

It's Good To Be Back

Ahhh..holidays...No doubt about it, they are good for the soul. It felt like I was away for a long weekend, not two weeks. Although it's nice to have friends and family claim that it felt like I was gone for ages.....I think they might be embellishing things slightly for my benefit....but I'll take it. I do love British Columbia. Anywhere near the ocean feels like home to me. I find the water very calming...in a herbal tea and wool socks kind of way. I actually lived in Victoria for 3 years back when I was barely a grown up. It was a fabulous time in my life....although I'm not sure I recognized it at the time.

Sleeping In Is Good

Sitting here at the newsdesk, it's difficult to think that I won't be at work for the next few weeks. Holidays are strange. It's such a radical difference from ordinary life....which I suppose is the point....but when you enjoy your job as I do, it seems odd to stay away from it for a few weeks. I would imagine these feelings are temporary, and after a few mornings of sleeping in, I will begin to grow accustomed to my life of leisure and really get into it. I am actually heading off to the west coast...a place I called home for a few years, many years ago. I will visit my old dorm room at UVic, re-connect with old friends and probably be astounded by how ten years changes a city.

Congratulations Touchdown King!

Wow....I can't believe how quickly the weeks are going by. Every time I turn around another one has passed, and I'm having a bit of a time keeping up. Okay,...how about that game on Friday? Congratulations to everyone that bought a ticket and found themselves at CanadInns Stadium to witness history. The noise was deafening, and the air was just electric. It was a moment I will always remember....and I think there's about 30,000 other people who feel the exact same way. Milt Stegall is an amazing example of what hard work and dedication can do for you. He is always kind and modest....and then proceeds to accomplish amazing things out on the field.

Finally Some Heat

I have heard over and over again that the weather has been a bit of a disappointment so far this summer. Kind of wet...a little bit on the cool side. Well that certainly seems to be behind us. I cannot believe the forecast......so hot, and nothing but sunshine.......Perhaps best of all is the fact that there is not a drop of rain in the forecast for the next 5 days. I will admit that I am a bit of a skeptic when it comes to the predictions of Environment Canada.....but when it's this good I'll take it! What the heck.....Weather like this makes me wish I had a cottage.....I had a family one when I was growing up and I loved it....great memories up near Lac Du Bonnet! Get outside.....sunscreen first.....and take in all the heat you can.....it's January in 6 months.

Thanks For A Great Day!

It certainly wasn't a very well kept secret that Friday was my birthday. My 37th to be exact. I may not have chosen to reveal the actual number, but Troy Westwood took care of that when he co-hosted earlier in the week.....so I may as well just go with it. I'm actually okay with the number. In my heart I think I will always feel that I'm somewhere around the 24 mark.....but the telltale lines around my eyes would say otherwise. I am humbled by the amount of attention my Birthday garners each year. I mean come on....everybody has one! All the same I am touched by how many of you took the time to pick up the phone or send an e-mail, and wish me good things. I will respond to all of you eventually....but I'm afraid it's going to take some time. It's funny, when you do what I get to do for a living, you can lose sight of the fact that there are people out there taking an interest. Getting up early and goofing around on the radio has pretty much always been my job. It's simply what I do...and I don't think very much about it beyond that. Today was a wonderful reminder that it's not that simple. There are people on the other end of it all, and I would be nowhere without you. I think that with age comes a certain amount of appreciation for the people in your life. I have been blessed with tremendous opportunities....hopefully I have made the most out of the majority of them. I have always had the good fortune to have extraordinary teachers and friends...and they have often been one and the same. My life thus far has certainly not turned out the way I imagined it would...but maybe it has turned out the way it was supposed to. One thing is for certain.....and that is that it ain't done yet. My Birthday has a tendency to make me reflective, and inevitably a little bit sad. The passage of time can sometimes highlight hopes that are still unrealized...but maybe that can best be harnessed as a motivator to go further, and to be more. Ultimately I would just like to pass on how deeply grateful I am for all of the kindnesses extended to me. I am blessed beyond words. I am aware of it...and I wish you all the kind of warmth and appreciation that you give to me so generously. Best of all, today I will eat cake and not feel bad about it........ It doesn't get much better that that!

Where Did My Memory Go?

Have you ever had difficulty trying to remember what you did yesterday? I have been having one of those brain cramps today. I could not for the life of me remember what I did Friday night....I actually had to pull out my daytimer to refresh my memory.......Come on...that was only a couple of days ago......very scary. Perhaps if my weekend had been a little more exciting I would have found it easier to recall. It was pretty quiet. Lots of sleep in an attempt to quash this summer cold that seems to have found me. I went and saw Oceans 13. Two hours of George Clooney never hurt anybody! Here we are in Week #2 of Ron's holidays.

Love you babe.....kicking or not.

 
There is no question that Troy Westwood is someone I'm quite fond of. He has been a frequent co-host of mine (when Ron's been away), he has certainly appeared in past blog entries, and he has been a topic of discussion countless times over the years. Troy has always been, and continues to be, one of my very favourite people. Those feelings have little to do with kicking. I admire his style, his tenacity and the way he lives a life without apology. The man believes in himself and follows his heart....it's an admirable way to live, and most of us aren't brave enough to do it.

What A Crazy Week!

I can usually gauge just how busy I am by counting the number of contact lenses I go through. I use disposable lenses so when I have a pair, they are good for 8 hours or so, but when a nap takes place, the lenses have to come out and I crack a new set. I'm sure there are more economical ways to go....but I'm a sucker for convenience....and I like it. Anyway, I have been tearing through the lenses this week. It's always a bit of a challenge to fill in for Boyd, as I have done this week. The day starts a little bit earlier and there's just a lot more to do. On top of that it has been one jam packed week.....Willie Nelson on Tuesday was wonderful.

A Great Night!

I am still reeling from what was a tremendous night at the Blue Bomber Legacy Dinner. Although I have been working for the Blue Bombers for many years now, every now and then I still find it overwhelming to be around some of my childhood heroes. Such was the case last night. Mike Riley was inducted into the Bomber Hall of Fame, and proof of how beloved he was as a coach was shown by those in attendance. Chris Walby, James Murphy, Trevor Kennerd, Bob Cameron, Rick House, Joe Poplawski....and the list goes on. I was still in high school when Mike Riley brought his first Championship to our city, but I remember it like it was yesterday.

Target Here I Come

I am giddy at the prospect of some serious shopping this weekend. I am joining the flock of Canadians taking advantage of increased duty exemptions and a strong dollar...and I am outta here! Actually, the fact that there's some great shopping is only part of the fun. As far as I'm concerned checking into a hotel...any hotel....is a great thing. It's very likely that I will be buying many, many pairs of shoes. I'm not sure why, but there always seems to be a vast selection of fabulous/cheap shoes just a few hours to the south. There also seems to be better candy......why is that? I swear, if I lived in the States I would have even more weight issues that I already have.

Teddy Bears = Smiles

Yesterday I had the pleasure of doing a very good deed made possible by many of you. I was at the Children's Hospital to visit the kids, enjoy a Pizza Party and distribute Teddy Bears. Back in March when we did our live Radiothon, we tried to encourage donations by promising a special Party for the kids, and that for every donation we would put the name of your choice on a Teddy Bear and place it in the arms of a child in hospital. Rest assured both the bears and the pizza we're donated, not purchased.....all donations are strictly for the hospital.....but I can't even begin to count up the hours spent by the staff at the Children's Hospital Foundation labelling each and every Teddy Bear. That must have been painstaking, tedious work. The kind of task that can only be completed when the motivation is love. In some respects, spending a few hours going from bed to bed could seem like a chore....until you see the smiles. Sometimes it was the patient, sometimes it was the parents, most often it was both. Your donations lit those faces up.....it was a hand delivered ray of sunshine that let those little guys know that somebody cares. The older kids read the tag themselves, and a few of the younger ones had me read it to them.....either way, they just wanted to say thank you. I want to thank you too. I got to see first hand the effects of your generosity. It made me proud of an audience that never ceases to give back. Yesterday, your kindness made sick kids feel better....and what's more important than that? You have my gratitude.

Get Out There!!

Although a Friday, in any form, is a great thing....you have got to LOVE a Friday that promises a weekend of sunshine...particularly after our rather wet week....we deserve some good stuff! I want to get a tan that I didn't get out of my make-up bag that morning. I keep thinking that we're behind on the whole summertime weather thing....but I suppose I shouldn't have expected much more before June. That being said, June is now officially here....so let's get at it! Sunshine and Summertime means drinks on patios, walks on waterfronts and of course Blue Bomber Football. Rookie camp is on now, and the vets hit the field on Sunday.....I can't wait to see the boys in blue and gold back out there in action...and I am referring to the football field, not the karaoke bar......although the latter is pretty entertaining as well.....I will be at the Winnipeg Transit Open House Saturday morning, and other than that, I hope to log many hours on my bike zipping around our beautiful city! This is the first of only 14 summer weekends....you can't waste a single one......Enjoy!

Venus and Mars....the discussion continues

As my new life as a single woman continues, I have become increasingly amazed that men and women ever get together under any circumstances. Since the last time I was a single gal I have received a University degree, been a homeowner, invested for retirement, and developed a strong understanding of my place in the world......but when it comes to dating, I have learned absolutely nothing at all. It's completely ridiculous. Ron continues to try and convince me that men enjoy being asked out.....I am having a great deal of difficulty with is. I firmly believe that if a guy is interested in you, he will broach the subject, and if he doesn't well......."he's just not that into you". Nobody likes rejection, I get that. However, I still think that men hold the power in these situations. In theory, a woman should be able to take the bull by the horns and make things happen......but don't these same woman come off as domineering or controlling? Ron has also told me that I am.....let me get this right....."scary as hell" to most men....I think that would make them a tad short-sighted.  You can't do the job I do without having developed a fairly thick skin. That's a tough thing to turn off and on at will. Add to that, the heartbreak of a marriage that didn't work, and it's tough not to have some walls up. But, I'm workin' on it. Everyone knows that those who appear to be the toughest, are often the softest inside, right?  In the meantime long bike rides, old movies, good friends and hot licorice tea get me through the weekends.

Gotta Love Long Weekends!!

I don't know about you....but, I do love long weekends. It's almost like they breathe life right back into you. Over the last few days I went out to Assiniboia Downs, spent hours tooling around town on my bike, celebrated my Grandpa's 87th Birthday, went grocery shopping with my Mom, picked up some life lessons from my 6 year old niece Ashley, finally watched the Hugh Grant movie Music and Lyrics (ho-hum) and slept in for three mornings in a row.....that alone is a dream come true! I probably ate too much, watched too much television and didn't spend enough time on that pesky spring cleaning, but sometimes ignoring those tasks is good for the soul! Now I'm ready for summer....I'm ready for heat....and I'm ready for Blue Bomber Football.

Out Of My Element

Do you ever find yourself in an environment that you have absolutely no business being in? That was the case for me this past Saturday at the Convention Centre. I had received some tickets for an industry wine tas