Marli Says

Texting and Walking

2012-01-09T12:51:00.000-08:00

Over the past year this has become a controversial problem, and I really don’t understand why. Yes, it is annoying to have someone suddenly stop to check their phone in front of you. It is also hilarious when you watch someone walk into a wall, or door because they are looking at their phone. But, can it really be a crime? In my opinion: no, no it can’t. Here are my reasons why.

See, even Bieber! He even has bodyguards!

Stopping while texting....

This is ridiculous. Is it only now that we notice the annoying people who sharply stop in front of us? No! If anyone has gone anywhere in Toronto where people like to shop, or I don’t know...walk? Since you probably have, you have likely been stopped short by someone who just abruptly stops because a) they are lost, b) they do a human U-turn when they realize where they are and run into you, c) they are stopping to go into their purse, or d) they want to look at the window of a store. This happens everywhere, and not because of just texting. So, unless you are going to make all abrupt human stops illegal maybe you should think about how everyone (including yourself) behaves while walking anywhere.

People running into things..

What? Really? That is more expensive than a parking ticket!

While hilarious, happens all the time and especially when they are walking with somebody. At any moment you could be looking in the wrong direction, and end up running into a pole, a door, or even get hit by a car. I would like to point out that as a pedestrian if you get hit by a car, its not your fault, even if you were not paying attention. As a driver it is ALWAYS your fault. You take the responsibility of watching the road, and looking around to make sure nothing and no one is in your way. One of the first lessons in driving school is that if drunk Johnny is walking into an intersection and you don’t see him and hit him even though it’s your green, it is your fault if you hit him, as you are the responsible party. I know it’s hard to believe but it is true, cars are dangerous and that is why a pedestrian is never at fault.

If you are going to fine pedestrians because they get hit by a car... no wait.. you wouldn’t do that because it is a stupid idea.

This idea that people have about texting and walking being a crime is a double standard on what pedestrians do everyday without a phone involved. People are distracted all the time, and run into the back of people who have stopped because it is unexpected, or maybe they weren’t paying attention. We are not vehicles, so there are no fines. Do you really want to start them? If so, then at any point a pedestrian runs into another pedestrian they will be fined (Or is it a double standard only for people texting, and not just people who aren't paying attention?). Or at any point a car hits a pedestrian they will just say “Oh they were texting! So it’s not my fault!” Really? This is the world you want to live in?

This only happens when someone texts, you know!

Lastly, why on earth are people comparing drunk driving and crystal meth addictions to texting and walking. No, its not the safest thing, but you are not risking someone's life, or slowly destroying your body, and spending all your money on a drug. It sort of undermines the seriousness of drunk driving and drug addiction. Texting and walking is an issue, but compared to some of the shit out there that people do because they are idiots, its not that bad. Yes over 1000 people have gone to the hospital because of it, but how many people have gone because they were drunk and crossing a street without looking, or drunk and fell down a flight of stairs? On drugs and overdosed? Drunk and got alcohol poisoning? Texted while driving and got into an accident? Didn’t follow speed signs? Or my favourite: walked through a glass window thinking it was open? Exactly. Pedestrians just need to be careful. Something that they should do at all times walking anywhere. You never know what dangers are around you. I work in Parkdale for crying out loud, trust me, I am aware of my surroundings.

If you are going to text and walk, just play it safe, and apologize if you run into someone. You know, like you would if you suddenly human U-turned into another person. Say sorry, and move on. If you get hit by a car, or fall down a man hole maybe it will smarten you up. You should always look both ways first. Duh.

Here is a link to the video that was a trigger for my blog today. Here!

-Says Marli

A Good End To A Good Story: American Horror Story (Spoilers)

2011-12-23T18:14:00.000-08:00

This week concluded the first season of American Horror story, and the final season that deals with the Harmons, and the many ghosts of the Murder House. Yep, all girls out there can begin the deepest pout in knowing we likely will not see Tate Langdon ever again. (The horror!!!) While at first, I was furious at the decision I have actually come to terms with it. All in all the point of the show was made pretty clear at the end that haunts don’t just end because we humans will it to end. Honestly, even the characters ended their stories respectfully, and for that I give the writers some serious credit on that. Going into this more I am going to begin to explain why the characters stories actually ended really nicely, and in a mostly non cliche way.

Bella Swan Wishes She Was Her

1. Violet

She honestly seemed to like Tate so much that she would look past all his actions, and try to tell herself that he didn’t remember he killed those kids, or that he has changed. She accepted that he was a monster, a monster that she loved, but she loved her mother and family more. In the end she gave respect to those who cared about her most, and sent him away. I liked this because it was honest, and showed that Violet may be a teenager, but has a head on her shoulders. One that will not allow some silly boy to blind her from the truth. Who would date a serial killer? Considering a certain book/movie kind of ruined the strength of women by allowing her female character to look past all the monstrous sides of her love and just accept it. Violet believes in justice, and she knows the best justice for Tate is to not let him have what he wants: her. It was a very mature thing to do.

2. Vivian and Ben

They learned to forgive each other, and to be happy with their lot in life. That was honestly all they needed. It took the whole season for the parents to finally realize that their most valuable belonging was their daughter. The one who loved them both, without fail Violet loved them, and no matter what indiscretion she didn’t want to see them hurt. They didn’t need another baby, what they needed was each other. Even before Ben died they had sorted this out, but the death lead to them being able to live happily as a family the way they all wanted but just couldn’t seem to get when alive.

3. Constance

Constance was one of the most family oriented person in the series. Her issue will always be control, and her desperate need of it. She will never change as a person, and that was shown in the finale. She is selfish about being the best mother around. Her need to feel like she is taking care of her kids is important. So much so, that she will look past their flaws and try to right them. Not that it is always the best choice, or even possible. Her character stayed the same the whole way through, and we see that with her grandson. She does not care that he killed the nanny, because in her head she can fix him, and he is family. Tate Jr. really.

Bye Bye Pretty

4. Tate

Is a monster. All the way through, and he never faltered in being a monster. Even when he was loving Violet, he could never let go of the darker side of himself. He lied to her their entire relationship, only admitting when asked to. We have to look at it honestly, and realize that no matter how pretty, a monster is still a monster who needs to pay for their crimes. And he will pay for his. Forever.

It was an interesting end, and while it is sad to say goodbye to the cast I think we can all hope for a few cameos next season, as it will be back on around Halloween. You know, the day that ghosts can wander wherever they wish. Yeah, they best bring Evan Peters back. Or I may have to cut a bitch.

-Says Marli

Activism For The Sake Of Activism

2011-12-10T15:22:00.000-08:00


Clearly, we blame her.(What?!)

I’m sure many of us have seen or heard people doing this throughout our lives, but at the same time watched either it not fulfilled, or people speaking in part for a cause or problem they do not understand. I decided to write about this today due to coming across a news article (Right) about a liquor board ad that was recently taken down. Reason why? The ad “clearly” was placing blame on rape victims, saying “it was their own fault they got raped”. I looked at the ad, and it CLEARLY does not state anything of the sort. Some people called the ad “graphic” and its message “disgusting”. If anything, the ad is providing awareness of the dangers of alcohol. Being honest about the fact that alcohol is not measurable in effect on any human being, and really the effects vary from mild to extreme in any given group of people drinking. You may be an efficient drinker, who gets drunk enough to just be having a good time, where a friend of yours can have even less to drink than you but somehow end up so drunk they wander away from the group, talk to strangers, and even start obnoxiously showing their body off because the part of the brain that makes logical decisions isn’t really in arms length for them. For them, there is no morally right way to act.

Therefore the ad is just trying to open your eyes to being more cautious with not only yourself but with your friends. The author and many of her readers state that the term “She didn’t want to do it, but she couldn’t say no” is a sort of blame on the victim. It’s not. This is where people take their voices to far, and comment on things they do not understand. Like for example, that rape isn’t just what a boogie man in an alley way does, but it is what anyone can do to another person. Male or female. Rape doesn’t just happen to slutty dressed girls. No, it can happen to a completely sober person, and another person who takes advantage of a situation that is in fact socially normal. And over drinking is socially normal. It is so common that people aren’t surprised by it, and most times expect one person in their group to go too far. this is where the ad steps in and says “take care of each other” because likely your friend either is passing out with this person, and can’t physically say no, they feel the situation is normal and should just be ok with the sex, or is fearful of other consequences (like,say getting punched or kicked). As another commenter on the article stated the ad’s message is similar to that of “"she didn't really want to get ran over by a truck but she couldn't get up" and is in no way putting blame on the victim. For whatever reason, your friend is not in a position to say no, or even if they are the assailant won’t let them, or even hear it.

There is also an argument from many readers that we should stop saying “Don’t get raped” and say “Don’t rape”. I’m sorry but that is easier said than done. In all reality we cannot stop these people from feeling like rape is on ok thing to do, but can prevent it by being aware of our surroundings, and setting up safety nets within our group of friends. Like being ok if a friend calls and needs a place to stay after the subways and buses are done, or keeping an eye on friends who are more inebriated then us. I’m certain that we cannot stop violent people from being violent just by saying stop, because it just seems to be a part of human nature to break the rules. It’s not right, but it’s not something that has an easy solution. if we cannot stop something, the best thing we can do is try to create awareness within our communities to provide protection for those that may not be able to protect themselves. As for those who believe ads like this actually do put blame on the victim, you are looking for a way to make the ad go away. You do not want to think about rape happening, but sadly it does. This may be a graphic ad, but it needs to be at this point. Nothing else seems to work except for shocking ads, and scenarios. If that is what it takes to make a community take care of each other, then so be it.

Changeable definition!

Many people take activism a step to far, and at times ignore that basis for an individuals decisions or actions. Like homophobic activism for example, just like the rape ad above, wants you to create awareness for violence happening in our communities. Take care of each other is the main message, and that is all great until someone steps in and goes a bit too far. Homophobia is a horrible fear, and in many cases is not founded by those with it. These people can end up harming someone because of the strong fear of their sexual lifestyle, or because they deem it as wrong. While we can create awareness, and try to stop people from acting out on their hate, there has to be an understanding that people don’t have to like everything in the world. I do not like the idea of a woman having to cover herself head to toe because her religion says so, but that’s not me having to wear it. So, I tolerate that it is just the way they choose to live. I don’t make fun of them, or bombard them with hate speech about it, but that lifestyle would not work for me. It’s my problem not theirs. Same with those who do not understand homosexuality, they shouldn’t come after you with torches at the ready, but they don’t need to like what you do. That is their problem, not yours. It only becomes your problem when they attack you verbally or physically. Then you have the right to defend yourself. Many gay activists try to shove it down the throats of everyone who may have even the slightest problem with them. Not cool. Just because I say “Hey, please stop hitting on me.” does not mean I am saying “Ew you lesbian, get your dirty hands off me.” In fact what I said is similar to what I say to most guys who hit on me that I am not interested. Personally, I have no issue with homosexuality mainly because it does not affect me in any direct way. I will march with my friends, and stand up for them when I believe they have been wronged because that is what friends do for each other. Other than that, the gay community and I have very little to do with each other because it is not my sexual lifestyle, and therefore I have very little need to be in a lesbian bar. Those with homophobia aren’t always the monsters the media makes them out to be. Nor are they the uneducated mass that some like to think they are. Homophobia is a fear of homosexuals, and their the sex life. This needs to be remembered when approaching someone you think may not be comfortable with the homosexual community. You can’t yell at them, or make them feel bad if they aren’t doing anything wrong. They have a right to fear, and to not understand. One day maybe they will come to terms, but don’t force them. Maybe those who act aggressively towards the gay community should have a different name for themselves “Arrogant Dickwads.” or “Violent Deviants”. There is likely a better name...? Anyways. ( Side note: I’m afraid of the dark, but I don’t kick the shit of the dark. I just steer clear, cause it scares me. So are you going to tell me to just suddenly not fear the dark cause YOU tell me to?)

Scary Dark Is Scary

You ask for tolerance, but really what you are asking for is complete approval. Sorry to burst your bubble but that is not what tolerance means. It means to tolerate something that you may not like or agree with, and in keeping a mostly nonaggressive stance on a topic because one may be biased in opinion. If you think what I am saying is a farce well please let me give you one more example of someone with homophobia. A male that I know was once raped by another male, and because of this situation is justifiably uneasy and sometimes fearful around those who are homosexual. He doesn’t hate the gay community, he is just scared because of going through that horrible encounter again. He does not need an activist telling him that he is the horrible person who needs to be more open, because he doesn’t have to give you that. I have seen this done to many people by gay activists, and that is where a line needs to be put up. If you ask for tolerance, could you please make sure to understand the meaning first. I tolerate cats because I am allergic, I do not approve of them because they cause me horrible allergies, but I do not attack them for the exact same reason. Tolerance.

While reading this you may have noticed that during the rape portion I did not put in the words “she” or“her”. I do this to make a point that rape is not a male on female situation only. It is already embarrassing as a woman to admit that someone defiled you, and with that is just as embarrassing for a guy to admit the same. Whether he be raped by a man or a woman it does not matter. The reason why guys don’t come up a lot as the victim of a rape is because many do not admit to it happening, or are not even aware that it happened. Similar to women who do not come forward about a rape, it is punch to ones dignity. As many women are not aware that they were taken advantage of because they believe they agreed to it, or were convinced into agreeing to it. It works the same for men, but in our society more males keep their mouths zipped on the topic. Likely because of a socialized ideal that males can’t get raped This has to do with my next activism for the sake of activism.

If I'm seeing this right...SEXISM!

Sexism is for some reason determined in our society as something that only effects women. incorrect. I see many women be just as belittling towards men. Fact: Sexism used to be a problem for mostly women due to the worlds decision that we were lower then males on the food chain. Fact: Sexism against women still needs to be fixed. Fact: So does sexism against men. It cannot go only one way, if you want respect as a woman, than be respectful to the men who give it to you, and give it back equally. Don’t say “Ugh, such a guy thing to say.” and then be mad when he goes “Ugh, such a girl thing to say.” Both comments are sexist. I won’t have to get too far into this one because i feel it speaks for itself. Feminism has gone too far, to the point where some women believe the answer to sexism is by committing genocide on the male gender. TOO FAR. That is just as bad, if not worse (I vote worse) than men thinking we belong in the kitchen. If you believe violence against men, or sexism towards men is just fine and dandy well I’m sad to say it but: You are a sexist person. Don’t give me that “It’s not sexism it’s being gender prejudice.” F-off, this is just looking for a way to make it a woman only club. At my work, there can never be more than 2 guys on the floor because “It looks bad for business.” No, sexism. Sexism because the guys lose out on shifts because they don’t have boobs, and sexist because girls are being objectified to make money for a bar. Try to reword this anyway you want so it fits your beliefs, but I stand by them. Sexism is not a female only club, and if it is well it’s a sexist word. (Mind blown) We should make things equal, not only better for women. We do not need to punish the men in our lives because of what their great x10 grandfathers thought and decided. We can educate them on how equal both genders are, and can be. And where both genders need each other and why.

If you disagree, and think we should punish them?

You suck.

-Says Marli.

4 Things That Frustrate Mostly Everyone

2011-12-03T12:19:00.000-08:00

Annoyed Marli

I have recently been noticing a bunch of small things that people tend to do, that I find annoying because of how common it is. This includes friends, and sometimes my family. I know I have done a few of these too, but it just gets to be too much in large batches. As someone who has had tattoos for over around 10 years, a lot of these are tattoo related annoyances. Sorry.

Everyone. Everyday.

1. Complaining About Money Problems

This is a big one for me. I loathe it when people tell you how shitty their money issue is, mainly cause it is a horrible conversation starter. You know it is just going to be an angry rant and eventually you will join in on it as well, or seethe quietly beside the person talking at you. The worst money issue discussion comes from the people you work with. You know, those people who are getting the same pay as you, same hours as you, same taxes as you, and sometimes same rent price. What is it that you want me to say? “Hey, I know! I am going through the EXACT same crap!” Well we both know you won’t let me say that, so I stand there nodding instead. All the while I want to grab your voice box, and stomp it to bits on the ground. Now I must add that while everyone needs a quick rant about the shit they are going through, when you do this to everyone you see anytime money, or working comes
up you have become a jackass. You say “Oh, I wish I could go to the bar with you, but I have so many bills, and I need to be blah blah blah, and then that blah blah that I need. I so wish I could go but I’m so broke, and I just want a damn beer cause its been a week. You have no idea how bad it is for me right now.” Instead of doing the proper response of “Oh wish I could, but money is tight this week. Catch you another time, have fun.” It is just not the other persons fault you don’t have the money, whether it is through no fault of your own it does not matter. They have bills too, and that is just the way it is.When it gets out of hand, you tend to talk like that at your work to your coworkers, and instead of getting a decent comrade you get an enemy. Who rolls their eyes to themselves when you come a huffing outside for a smoke break because of shitty customers, or lack of shifts. Listen, we all deal with stupid people everyday, and we all wish we could be making $20 an hour, but we deal with it rather than complain to people who are dealing with the exact same crap. Blowing off steam is one thing, acting like you’re problems are the most important ones is another. And it is freaking annoying, so stop it!

2.“Hey where can I get a decent tattoo done in this city???!!”

NO! It is not my job or anyone else to help you find a tattoo artist. This is not 60’s where there are relatively no tattoo shops. They are literally everywhere, and everyone's son and daughters want to be tattoo artists. There is no shortage of decent artists across any given city. Especially Toronto, so please just do your job as a consumer and look around at prices, pieces of work, and experience. It is as simple as that. No shop is going to be mad if you come in looking for an estimate for prices, or want a chance to discuss the type of work you want done, and how you want it to look. If anything, they will respect you more. Do you know how many people come in throw down a drawing and say do it without blinking? Tons! And if that is how you are going to go about it, you probably shouldn’t be getting a tattoo yet. This is going to be done permanently to you, and without lots of cash you can’t get it off with some soap. So, this is your responsibility, not your friends. If you are too lazy to do research, than save your cash for a new iPhone.

It means love. Dipshit.

3. Asking Me About My Tattoos When I Don’t Know You

I don’t know you, and these are personal to me. Most importantly, I DON’T KNOW YOU! I am always asked the same questions about my tattoos, and I have begun to wonder “How many people have you asked this same question to?” because having a tattoo is not an exclusive club anymore. Do these people go out and ask everyone who has a tattoo what it means, why they got it, or did it hurt? I wonder when someone doesn’t if maybe somebody finally punched them in the head for being annoying. I wear hoodies in order to keep my tattoos under wrap when I go out to highly populated bars, or clubs because I want to be left alone to hang with my friends. Just because I have them does not mean I am welcoming you to come and chat with me. I have them because I like them on my body, and for the significance they hold for me. Whether that be a serious reason, or a silly reason it is still not your business. When I am having a coffee with my girlfriend I do not appreciate a random dude at another table waving me down to ask me about my tattoos. If you can see them then look, it’s fine. But, please just move along after that point. DO NOT go out of your way to get my attention, I just want to be out with friends. If I really wanted your attention I’d point them out to you, and I don’t cause that is also obnoxious. It is what it is, just let it be. I must also add that if you have tattoos as well, it does not mean we have some sort of unspoken bond. It does not mean that I will care about your tattoos, or even the fact that you have them. I’m letting you do your thing, because I’m not going to go to everyone who has a blackberry and go “Oh, I have one too! Aren’t they swell?!” It’s silly, and you look like a needy jackass who is desperate for attention. Stop.

See the space by the door?

4.Walking Onto A Bus Or Train When People Are Still Coming Out Of It

Fuuuuuu! What part of you cannot fit through a door that people are coming out of do you not get? You are not a ghost that can flitter through others, you are a physical person, and you just make getting on and off a train a lengthier process. And don’t stand right in front of the door way staring at me like I’m doing something wrong. You knew this was going to happen. It is apart of the process of commuting. You are not the only one who takes transit. You stand to the sides and allow the ones getting off the vehicle space to actually get off. It is not rocket science! And yes, I will swear at you and point you out for doing it because you are an idiot. If you happen to be an elderly person, a pregnant woman, or a physically disabled person it does not mean that the rules change you still need to wait for the people to come out. Then, and only then can you start looking for the right to sit down or get in first. Physics does not allow your selfishness to actually work in this situation. And if you do try to get through don’t be mad that people are squishing past you, and bumping you. You made your choice, and your fate is inevitable.

While many of these things are fine in small doses, when they constantly happen for weeks on end, it makes one want to go awol on everyone around them. So just think about what makes you pissed off, and think about what you are doing before putting some other poor soul through this kind of crap. Please.

-Says Marli.

Fall Line Up: Sexy and Shameless

2011-11-23T00:21:00.000-08:00

This fall line up has gone through pretty well. I have to admit that the newest shows have actually garnered my attention. Along with a couple shows that have either made me sit there dumbfounded at the fact that they got green lit, or that they have become so clever by the newest season that I’m dumbfounded it got this far.

American Horror Story

American Horror Story
First to talk about is American Horror Story for it’s wonderful abundance of weird. (The weird that makes you continue watching, however.) There is actually something for everyone. At least under the age of 50, and maybe a few exceptions that are above. (Cool parents for the win!) My mother for example would probably find it odd, and be too creeped to continue further past the second episode. This is also the woman who watched all 5 seasons of Queer as Folk with her daughter. (My mother is a critic.) Although, for my generation, this is like giving condoms to teenagers. Easy sell based on the fact that it is supernatural related. Then enough older references to movies like Rosemary’s Baby, Poltergeist, and even Beetlejuice. It can easily get a crowd, as it is a viewer magnet.

This show has made me smile the whole way through every episode, and at the same time hide behind my blanket. It is a smart, clever, and spooky show to say the least. Of all the supernatural shows that I have seen over the years (and its a lot!) this has got to be the most suspenseful one ever. There are so many interesting characters that as a viewer it would not be hard to find someone to relate to. For most teenage girls it is Violet, and while I’m in my 20’s I still feel the most camaraderie with her. She is falling for the bad boy, and a real bad boy, not some Edward Cullen shit. Tate is exactly what Edward should be seen as, a creepy guy whose smile girls cannot help but swoon at. In this case though, the girls know he is creepy and likely evil, but still want to change him. There was even a moment where Tate watches her sleep, and I am sorry but it was flippin creepy. Edward does this too, but no one thinks that is creepy they think it is romantic. (It’s not, get the shit outta my house.) No fan of Tate’s denies that he is a creepy mofo, and that its a character not a real person. That is why you can like him, kind of like Spike in Buffy.

CREEPY MOFO IS CREEPY

AHS is a show that allows you to watch with desire, but a forbidden desire that deep down you know is wrong. It is fictional, and the desire in which you meet it may as well be too. Honestly, it is a sexy show, a scary show, and at times a morbid show. Somehow, it wraps all three to become exactly what supernatural fans want. I call this a win!

Supernatural
While this used to be a staple of my Thursday (now Friday) nights, it has taken on a much less needed watching on my part. I don’t almost “die” throughout a week of not watching it, instead I just go “Hey, there is nothing to do at 1am, let’s watch Supernatural.” I’m pretty sure I have said that every Friday since this season started. I am sorry, but this show needs to end.
They have literally killed off every character I have ever gave a shit about. And a lot of them have been in the 2 seasons that never should have been! I am not sure about how others feel but I think Sam should of just stayed in hell. Let Dean live the life he deserved, and let it end on a sad, but epic ending. In this ending Castiel and Bobby are still alive! And if you have watched season 7 they are even trying to kaput Bobby! ( HOW DARE YE!) Do these guys have a curse where everyone they give a shit about dies? At this point, I don’t even know if you can end it, and I fear a similar fate like that of Sliders. Where the main actors moved on, and yet the show didn’t. All that was left was one character we sorta liked, but without all the charisma he once had with his old cast mates. Rembrandt Brown was no longer cool without someone to actually call Q-Ball.

Moving along. The point is, this show has jumped the shark, and so far to the point that their is no water anywhere in sight for them to land. All the possibilities that were mostly acceptable to viewers have come and gone, and all that is left is something that I guarantee will leave a sour taste in your mouth. Or sulfur. Dirty, dirty sulfur.

Shameless!

Terra Nova
This. Is. The. Stupidest. Show. On. Prime. Time.

SERIOUSLY? It’s a show that wishes it had been Jurassic Park, but cannot afford Jeff Goldblum, or the money that he once came with. And oh my frak, please look at it’s IMDB page!! The key plot words are laughable in conjunction! “Family Relationships, Dinosaur, Alternate Universe, and Time Travel. No! Bad! I even watched the pilot, and the two following episodes with my eyes wide with confusion. Why? Every character is either overly depressed, or overly angry about something small! The son hates his father because he went to jail trying to protect the youngest daughter. Somehow this is a betrayal in the sons eyes because how dare a Dad not actually be a dead beat, like, how un-cliche.

I'm just gonna laser point at the T-Rex, ooops! Sorry Johnny Boy!

And then, there is this dude. Who is so macho military dude, who for some reason thought it was a great idea to bring laser weaponry 85 Million years in the past. Thumbs up on bringing first world problems with you to your new home where you were to have a “fresh” start. I get keeping certain technology but isn’t it like basic logic that says “Weapons are bad!” They are always bad! Jesus!

Decidedly this show is full of over used plot devices, and sadly forced drama between characters. I’m sorry, I thought you employed real creative writers, not 16 year olds who are taking a semesters worth of Film Production and Scriptwriting. This mish mash of all sorts of movies and shows is ridiculous, like could you at least make your tunnel back in time look a little bit different from the Sliders tunnel?

Yupp. Is Nice.

Vampire Diaries
I figured I’d end the blog on a happy note. This show is pretty fantastic, I know, it is shocking for me to admit that as i tend to hate the teenage vampire romances. I do hate the Vampire Diaries, but not the show, the book it was based on. I am always willing to give a horrible movie, or show a chance when it comes to their books. If I didn’t I would never have read the Percy Jackson series (please check this out).

The show is in it’s 3rd season, and it is amazing. I am actually impressed with where the story has come. We have so many interweaving plot lines, that actually manage to compliment themselves without being so far apart in story it may as well be a different show. (I’m looking at you True Blood) The actors really got into it during the 2nd season, and you can see the energy rise. It may have been the uneasy feeling of being in yet another vampire drama, but it paid off. With writers like Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson who have been on the writers team for Kyle XY, The Faculty, and Dawsons Creek, I am pretty certain you can find a nifty edge for drama, and the supernatural. Also, it does help that Ian Somerhalder is a sexy, sexy man.

So that’s my line up for this fall. Needless to say Terra Nova is not being watched by me, so people out there who do watch it. Please explain why, when there are much better shows on television that could do with a bit more of a budget, and a few more seasons.

I also need to show you all this picture I found while on the hunt for pictures for my blog today.

What The Shit?

Yupp. Another reason this show needs to be canceled. It's fans have lost their minds.

-Says Marli

#firstworldproblems

2011-11-16T12:15:00.000-08:00

I am not a fan of the Occupy Toronto, and fellow Occupy Canada movements, basically because I feel that the message has lost its meaning at this point, and are undermining the worse problems out there. Specifically not in the First World Countries. I think the main argument has long since been lost in the muddled rantings of people who have now taken advantage of parks, found themselves a home they won’t get evicted from (in some cases, Toronto being one of them) and even got donations for food, generators, and hygienic products to get through the winter. Um, how about you send that to the orphaned kids living on the streets around the world at the age of 6 who would just be happy to get a warm home, and a hot meal. Or even for our own homeless people here in Toronto who struggle to get into a shelter, whose health is so degraded that they actually cannot get a job due to their mental/physical health from years of living on the streets. Who wish they had a job, or a school that they could leave to protest the corporations! I bet some of these people wish they had a real toilet to use.
Why in the world do these adults need these things? I am sorry to sound un-empathetic but when you live in countries where there is even a small possibility for a homeless person to get into a shelter, or a place where kids who are orphaned have places to go no matter what, how can you be that ignorant and selfish!? No, these things are not perfect in out First World Country, but they are available and a work in progress. These things, should be what we should protest for more of. It may not be easy, or what one wants to have to go through but at least there is a way, unlike for all those families living naked in the more economically challenged countries in the world. Where protesting gets you shot, or being homeless means that you are left to die in the streets cause you are worthless.

Yes, there is no doubt there are problems with our economics, and for the rights of many of our citizens. Things are not easy for us in some respects. Many might say “Our rights as human beings are being belittled! They don’t care about the 99%”, and while I understand your frustration, I don’t see how we have it so bad. There are people all over the world that have no rights because they are poor, female, or of the wrong
religion of the country they live in. For these people there is no minimum wage, welfare, pensions, food banks, Goodwills, healthcare, or even a right to an education.

We may not be perfect here in our country, but we have a hell of a lot more than most. We try. In Canada, we don’t have to start working as children because they have a place for those who do not have homes. They may not be the nicest places, but as I have stated before: It’s a work in progress. This is what we should work together towards to make better. Not moan that it takes us 2-3 incomes to have a decent apartment/home (at
least you have an income!). Not yell at others walking by these movements who are trying their best to get by.

A friend of mine was recently yelled at by men at Occupy Toronto as she walked to the subway; “Hey! Can I occupy your vagina if you come join the fight?" and some female Occupants laughed at her. I’m sorry but really?! You want respect as human beings, but you can’t even give respect to a fellow human being yourself? You want people to take you seriously then be grown ups, and be respectful to others. You want to be treated properly, but you treat a female as if she is a sexual object? You want her to join your movement so you can screw her? I’m sorry but that is not your right. Her right in this country is to walk proud as a woman, and yet these people who have joined the movement can’t even give her that.

So, until you people can show respect for the rest of the world, and at the very least respect for those you say that you are fighting for, (because yes she is just like you, she deals with being paid low amounts in order to keep her home) you don’t have anything to be whining about. When you too can peacefully make your point without being disgusting pigs, when you can understand what you have compared to those in third world countries, when you don’t take for granted the many things Canada does have to help those in need then maybe the majority will listen to what you have to say about the problems that need to be fixed. While your movement does have a point, the majority that Occupy are ruining it, by all the things stated above being taken for granted, or ignored.

We all know there is a problem in this country. We just need to figure out what it is specifically, and target that. Not people.
Find your message, find a solution, find your ground, then come talk to the rest of us. We are happy to listen. We are all in this together.

-Says Marli.

Adults Need To Stand Up

2011-11-08T11:41:00.000-08:00

Over the last few weeks many of us have found out about Zachary Quinto’s coming out to the public. Which of course was caused by a recent suicide of a gay teen in the states. (Coincidentally of the same name as the one who committed suicide in Ottawa.)

I have read a few articles of his interview about coming out, and he manages to make it not about his sexuality, but about the need for gay bullying to stop. Only using his sexual preference as a way to talk to the press about anti-gay bullying, and of course with the press wanting to know more about him. He graciously avoids these questions, and keeps on topic. I think it is safe to say that he is a very good speaker, and also good at ignoring superficial questions.

From an objective standpoint Quinto’s only real reason for coming out randomly was due to his desire to stand up as an adult, and be a voice for the gay teens out there dealing with a vicious world. Quinto is lucky to have hollywood behind him, and knowing this he originally kept very much under wraps about what goes on in his bedroom.

This year has been seemingly the best year for support of gay teens, by both youth and grown ups. More and more people are taking advantage of their position in the eye of the media, and advocating awareness for the teens who are being abused out there.

And like my friend Kate said a couple weeks ago, it is also helping to really out all the bullying that is going on in our world. We all know that gay bullying isn’t the only type going on in our high schools, but we also know that even less is being down about other types of bullying. That is a scary thought.

Upon some inquiring about gay actors, and actor advocates who stand up for those who get bullied it is easy to get that most of them dealt with the exact same if not similar problems with bullying, and they managed to make it through. Their skin was thick enough to weave through the hell hole that is high school. Now, here they are standing up for those without a voice. If only those kids who look up to them and yet bully the crap out of others would take a second to think about where their favourite celebrities actually came from. Some how, in this day and age most theatre kids are still considered nerds. And yet shows and movies about these exact same kids are the most popular in the entertainment world. How backwards is that? You would think that people would begin to understand. How often a sad story is sensationalized on the news about a gay teen committing suicide, and yet nothing changes in our schools. How many kids go to their elders for help and our just told to grow a thick skin, and yet the problem continues on. That skin is slowly deteriorating, and yet no long standing action will ever be taken to help those in need. Just proving how bad of a problem gay bullying, and bullying in general truly is in our day and age.

To read more about bullying, please hop on over to my friend Kate’s blog two weeks ago.

http://www.katehasablog.com/2011/10/youtube-of-week_26.html

-Says Marli

They're Pregnant, They're Disabled, They Are My Enemy....Obviously.

2011-11-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

In today’s news, Manitoba is getting a lot of complaints filed by mentally ill, and pregnant employees claiming discrimination by their employers. What in sweet jesus? Are you kidding me? Well, I guess it's not shocking when you're thinking about it. But it certainly should be.

Being pregnant or mentally ill in the workplace can look, from some outsiders perspective, as a great way to easily flow by, and get premium shifts, or awesome maternity leave benefits.

This is sadly not true. While you may get more shifts as a mentally ill employee, depending on your availability, it does not mean you won’t be discriminated against, or even used as an employee. It may save your job in some cases, as even though an employer may wish to fire you because you are not quick enough at your job, or they may not like your personality, they may not actually have grounds due to your illness. At the end of the day you deserve respect in your workplace, and the understanding that just like everyone else you need the job to keep on making it through. People are equal not matter what their difference, even the mentally ill (if they are able to work without severe complication to their well being). Don’t be a jealous coworker, and hate on them, they have likely been through enough crap in their life, and honestly are just trying to make a living. And, I wonder how long it took them to get a job? Probably as long as you, if not longer. Its not important at the end of the day, whats important is that as human beings we all deserve an equal chance at a semi decent life. A chance to be happy, and do something on our own. Make our own choices of how hard we work, and how we go about it.

As a pregnant woman you will go through much of the same, but with the added maternity leave used against you. If you are like me, you will work through anything, a cold, migraine, and even a broken leg. Some employers loathe that, especially if their business is going through a rough patch, or they are just hating the idea that they have to pay their employees. If this is your case, they will likely try to persuade you into taking maternity leave, which sounds all honky dory on the outside but in practice really doesn’t account for a lot. If your full time, you will like get about 60%- 80% of your wages paid out during your time off, part time, well its just not worth it to be honest. Then there is the whole going down to the E.I offices, filling out paperwork, and waiting possibly a month before receiving any funds. Basically, its easier to just keep working until you really can’t anymore. They cannot tell you to go on maternity leave, they cannot fire you, but they can give you deferred work duties. It is their job to find a suitable place where you will not easily tire due to standing on your feet. If you do not believe me, just checkout your provinces workplace regulations, and laws that your employer must follow. Also, I bet you could find a lawyer happy to sue the pants off of some discriminatory company. Just saying.

Simply, while it may look like your coworkers are getting a skip ahead pass, it is not true. They are likely dealing with a lot emotionally, physically, and money wise. In most cases they do not think they are more important than you, but all they ask for is to be treated equally and not as some fragile object that is costing a company money simply by default of mental illness or creating the miracle of life. We were all babies once with the same possibility of being born mentally ill or physically disabled that would have made our lives difficult. Our mothers could have been the women being treated awfully by their employer, and coworkers. And we wouldn’t want that, right? I certainly hope not.

Respect each other as you want to be respected, and stand up for each other and yourselves, you are a human being who deserves equal opportunity and freedom of choice, just like everyone else.

-Says Marli.

Supernatural Books That Aren't Twilight; Looks Good!

2011-11-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

It seems that Twilight is slowly going out of its craze. Of course we still have two more films to go through, but lets focus on the positive. Teens are reading! Hurray! And yet, tattoos....anyhow.

Now that many of you have read or re-read Stephanie Meyer’s series, you may wonder if there are any other series that may prove to be just as interesting if not down right awesome? Now, I am going to post two different age ranges here, so this way people can pick and choose what is right for them. Trust me, I know everyone has a different taste in reading than myself, and that is just fine with me. So bear with me, if they just aren’t your style.

For those teens looking for a good read;

There are for sure a few series that while at the store may seem juvenile, or even down right silly but after a few chapters become addictive. A new favourite author of mine has to be Rick Riordan. Many people in their 20’s will likely note the similarities to Harry Potter in his writing, and be easily turned off. It does not help that his main characters are called half-bloods. Honestly though, take a look at the Percy Jackson series, and please don’t be put off by the movie, like in most cases the book is better.

Riordan has created a series that while similar in some plot building to Harry Potter actually can be like getting your kids to learn about Greek Mythology. Or if you like the mythology already but have no real desire to read the Odyssey, and enjoy a fun read with sometimes dark undertones than this is probably a good book for you to read.

Another series is by Cassandra Clare, The Mortal Instruments, and in fact this series is apparently in the works of getting a movie starring that really hot guy from Sweeney Todd, Jamie Campbell Bower( and yes, he was in Twilight too). Anyhow, this series about a race of creatures called the Nephilim, who are children of angels. They fight the Downworlders; vampires werewolves, witches, etc. And like any supernatural novel, not all things are what they seem, even the Downworlders. So yes, if you are a vampire or werewolf sympathizer this book is likely for you.

Now for a more adult approach into the supernatural realm, if that is what you like, and the fact that Twilight never got really into the good sexy stuff; here is some stuff for you.

I am about to give you a name of an author who changed my mind about reading when I was 16 years old and thought reading was boring. Kelley Armstrong. Oh man, if you have never read a thing by her you are strongly missing out. This woman is a fantastic writer, and she is also Canadian, and with that many of her first novels were set in Toronto. And if you are a Canadian, than you have likely had a bit of a heart jump at the mention of Canada and/or Toronto cause we’re like that. If you do read her books start with Bitten, it is the first in the series, and is a real pleasure to read. I really don’t want to give much of it away as it really creates its own great reviews.

I could go on with many other series that I think people who like the supernatural/fantasy genre should read, but I’ll let you all dwell on that for a little while before I refer a few more. Of course, I could say many fowl words towards Stephanie Meyers ~~abomination~~ creation, but its all been said and done. Now lets just try to get those fans into some other books that could open up a whole new world for them. Yes my close friends, I am looking at you.

-Says Marli.

Welcome!

2011-11-03T14:37:00.000-07:00

A blog, sure, many people have them. I'm not really sure what I am going to focus on blog wise, but I will do my best to not bore people with too many downers. In fact, I'll just try to review a few of my favourite new books and movies, and every now and then I'll post something on a controversial topic which will gladly lend me a few unfavourable comments that I will roll on the floor while laughing, and then proceed to delete.

I will return soon with a new update.

-Says Marli.