(I Swear I thought I had written it already, but I was wrong. Wrong! and I apologize)
You likely know it by a different name, like, Egg in a raft, Eggy in the basket or even ... I don't know. The potential list of metaphoric names for toast with a section hollowed wherein one fries an egg is likely extensive. I have no idea who first called it Toad In The Hole. I would love to know if any of you had a different name for this food when you were younger. No need to make up metaphors really, cuz I could do that...
Imagine how different commando films would feel if they yelled it each time the tossed a grenade or used a breaching charge: Instead of "Fire In the Hole!!!' it would be "Toad In the Hole" and the enemy soldiers would be like: "zey are attacking mit ze toads? Kvik, Hans, get ze tennis rackets, ve must defend ze bunker!" Hehehe
It also makes me think of the phrase "ace in the hole." Yet I haven't figured a scenario that 's even vaguely plausible to fit such a change....
Gangsta 1: We need to take Vinnie down, he's gonna rat us out.
Gangsta 2: Yeah, but he's paranoid and he's gonna underground. Nobody can reach him now.
Gangsta 1: It's okay, I've got an ace, I mean Toad in the hole. Y'see he's got a thing for fresh linen. Irish linen. We simply slip some poison into his pillow case. He calls for fresh sheets... Next time he lays his head down, it's for the Big Sleep, see?
that's three. more soon.
thanks for reading
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Resolution
This is a happy type entry, but before I start I should apologize for the double entry about language earlier. Not that many of you responded, which is a shame, but in general terms. That mistake was due to an embarassing lag time that blogger users suffered that day.
Here's the Good Stuff:
1) Called the landlord. "My furnace isn't working." The vivacious and pretty secretary answers and makes a quick check of things. "We can have a guy there in an hour." (^_^)!
2) Bureaucracy Demon the First: SLAIN! This would be the demon that barred the gates to convocation. In the eleventh hour of an epic struggle between myself and the demon, I struck it a mortal blow and my prize is that I can graduate. 28 Oct., 10 a.m., Everybody invited.
3) Bureaucracy demon the Second: Flagging. It's getting weaker and I am set to rally. Soon I shall have my OSAP.
4) I don't know about 4, I think I am just in a good mood today. If you are in a Not Good mood, come seek me out and I will cheer you up. I can make you smile!
Here's the Good Stuff:
1) Called the landlord. "My furnace isn't working." The vivacious and pretty secretary answers and makes a quick check of things. "We can have a guy there in an hour." (^_^)!
2) Bureaucracy Demon the First: SLAIN! This would be the demon that barred the gates to convocation. In the eleventh hour of an epic struggle between myself and the demon, I struck it a mortal blow and my prize is that I can graduate. 28 Oct., 10 a.m., Everybody invited.
3) Bureaucracy demon the Second: Flagging. It's getting weaker and I am set to rally. Soon I shall have my OSAP.
4) I don't know about 4, I think I am just in a good mood today. If you are in a Not Good mood, come seek me out and I will cheer you up. I can make you smile!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Missing
I am missing a few things. In keeping with established style, I will mention three:
I have missed the first anthro dinner, of which I am rather insensed. This is the only one I have missed since being at LU. It is an unusual chance to catch up with some really cool people that I don't get to see enough of.
Tonight I shall miss the flamenco espectacularrrrrr (roll the 'r') and that is Such a shame! Obviously, I want to hear the music and see the dancing, (and be jealous that I don't know how to do either). I also hoped to get some wicked photos at the event too. Pics would be nice because I could get them in Lambda, whose pics from the metric concert just Sucked.
Lastly, I miss . You know who you are.
Tune in later for More exciting updates.
I have missed the first anthro dinner, of which I am rather insensed. This is the only one I have missed since being at LU. It is an unusual chance to catch up with some really cool people that I don't get to see enough of.
Tonight I shall miss the flamenco espectacularrrrrr (roll the 'r') and that is Such a shame! Obviously, I want to hear the music and see the dancing, (and be jealous that I don't know how to do either). I also hoped to get some wicked photos at the event too. Pics would be nice because I could get them in Lambda, whose pics from the metric concert just Sucked.
Lastly, I miss . You know who you are.
Tune in later for More exciting updates.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
A side thought about language
So I was trying to find an image of Rose McGowan, because she is beautiful. This led, as anyone would reasonably guess, to a grammar quiz. Someone was urging whoever read his writing to preserve the english language. Pardon: the English language. I felt I should respond.
One has to understand that language changes over time, like it or lump it. Over a long enough time it becomes a new language. It is fun to toy with those high school teachers who lament any change whatsoever, any usage that is less than "good english." This concept varies from teacher to teacher, of course - try comparing some teachers and see for yourself.
You see, the argument is quite old. Back in the 1600s there were also people of influence (men, primarily, because the patriarchy kept women down) who made the same complaints. The usage that bothered them is now standard english. At one point for instance, the use of contractions was abominable and low class. Incidentally, the vulgar and vernacular tend to be the crucible for new language - the birthplace of new language. It is of course foolish to resist the creation of new language. It is futile. All language changes.
Personally, I have always found it one of the more charming aspects of english that its adaptability, flexibility and willingness to expand its horizons have made it the largest language in history (by lexicon). The upshot? Speakers have more ways to express themselves. Language Is about communicating, after all.
I know there are those of you out there who carry an utter disdain for ebonics, 1337, and other lower forms. Ironically, this attitude comes primarily from academia, an area with such elitistly developed modes of language use that 'hypocrisy' hardly covers what is going on. Nonetheless, I will agree wholeheartedly that they Are Lower forms.
Perhaps the reason I am so surprised at people who most want to 'preserve' the language, is that they are often the ones who seem to claim most vehemently their love of the language. Yet there is no joy, no laughter, no creation to their relationship with the language. Sorry. Of course there is, but only in rigidly prescribed manners. I'm not trying to slag these people, because I see some validity in what they are saying. I feel that a little must be added to it, though.
I think, (and I hope people will throw in their two cents), that the idea is people should understand the Formal Usage of a language before using other modes. Some will say this is essential. I would say important, but not essential. remember that the basic value of language is getting the idea across. If you hear something like ebonics and don't understand it, perhaps you haven't considered that the message is not intended for you. On the other hand, I do insist that if one is speaking ebonics to an academic, the speaker is at fault for not choosing clearly understandable speech. Not to let the 'learned' off the hook though, this principle goes both ways, a double edged knife!
The forging of new language is a wonderful, enjoyable and often intellectual pursuit. I cannot suggest it strongly enough as an activity befitting the rich, the poor, the woman, the boy, the smart, the stupid, the black, white, yellow and red - Everybody! The trick lies in how you impart your meaning to others.
Since I have already asked for responses, I shall make a more specific request: why not reply with a word or phrase of your own devising? State the meaning or intended usage. I promise I will try to use as many of them as I can. If anyone reading this loves language, then let us forge our own additions to english together.
One has to understand that language changes over time, like it or lump it. Over a long enough time it becomes a new language. It is fun to toy with those high school teachers who lament any change whatsoever, any usage that is less than "good english." This concept varies from teacher to teacher, of course - try comparing some teachers and see for yourself.
You see, the argument is quite old. Back in the 1600s there were also people of influence (men, primarily, because the patriarchy kept women down) who made the same complaints. The usage that bothered them is now standard english. At one point for instance, the use of contractions was abominable and low class. Incidentally, the vulgar and vernacular tend to be the crucible for new language - the birthplace of new language. It is of course foolish to resist the creation of new language. It is futile. All language changes.
Personally, I have always found it one of the more charming aspects of english that its adaptability, flexibility and willingness to expand its horizons have made it the largest language in history (by lexicon). The upshot? Speakers have more ways to express themselves. Language Is about communicating, after all.
I know there are those of you out there who carry an utter disdain for ebonics, 1337, and other lower forms. Ironically, this attitude comes primarily from academia, an area with such elitistly developed modes of language use that 'hypocrisy' hardly covers what is going on. Nonetheless, I will agree wholeheartedly that they Are Lower forms.
Perhaps the reason I am so surprised at people who most want to 'preserve' the language, is that they are often the ones who seem to claim most vehemently their love of the language. Yet there is no joy, no laughter, no creation to their relationship with the language. Sorry. Of course there is, but only in rigidly prescribed manners. I'm not trying to slag these people, because I see some validity in what they are saying. I feel that a little must be added to it, though.
I think, (and I hope people will throw in their two cents), that the idea is people should understand the Formal Usage of a language before using other modes. Some will say this is essential. I would say important, but not essential. remember that the basic value of language is getting the idea across. If you hear something like ebonics and don't understand it, perhaps you haven't considered that the message is not intended for you. On the other hand, I do insist that if one is speaking ebonics to an academic, the speaker is at fault for not choosing clearly understandable speech. Not to let the 'learned' off the hook though, this principle goes both ways, a double edged knife!
The forging of new language is a wonderful, enjoyable and often intellectual pursuit. I cannot suggest it strongly enough as an activity befitting the rich, the poor, the woman, the boy, the smart, the stupid, the black, white, yellow and red - Everybody! The trick lies in how you impart your meaning to others.
Since I have already asked for responses, I shall make a more specific request: why not reply with a word or phrase of your own devising? State the meaning or intended usage. I promise I will try to use as many of them as I can. If anyone reading this loves language, then let us forge our own additions to english together.
A side thought about language
So I was trying to find an image of Rose McGowan, because she is beautiful. This led, as anyone would reasonably guess, to a grammar quiz. Someone was urging whoever read his writing to preserve the english language. Pardon: the English language. I felt I should respond.
One has to understand that language changes over time, like it or lump it. Over a long enough time it becomes a new language. It is fun to toy with those high school teachers who lament any change whatsoever, any usage that is less than "good english." This concept varies from teacher to teacher, of course - try comparing some teachers and see for yourself.
You see, the argument is quite old. Back in the 1600s there were also people of influence (men, primarily, because the patriarchy kept women down) who made the same complaints. The usage that bothered them is now standard english. At one point for instance, the use of contractions was abominable and low class. Incidentally, the vulgar and vernacular tend to be the crucible for new language - the birthplace of new language. It is of course foolish to resist the creation of new language. It is futile. All language changes.
Personally, I have always found it one of the more charming aspects of english that its adaptability, flexibility and willingness to expand its horizons have made it the largest language in history (by lexicon). The upshot? Speakers have more ways to express themselves. Language Is about communicating, after all.
I know there are those of you out there who carry an utter disdain for ebonics, 1337, and other lower forms. Ironically, this attitude comes primarily from academia, an area with such elitistly developed modes of language use that 'hypocrisy' hardly covers what is going on. Nonetheless, I will agree wholeheartedly that they Are Lower forms.
Perhaps the reason I am so surprised at people who most want to 'preserve' the language, is that they are often the ones who seem to claim most vehemently their love of the language. Yet there is no joy, no laughter, no creation to their relationship with the language. Sorry. Of course there is, but only in rigidly prescribed manners. I'm not trying to slag these people, because I see some validity in what they are saying. I feel that a little must be added to it, though.
I think, (and I hope people will throw in their two cents), that the idea is people should understand the Formal Usage of a language before using other modes. Some will say this is essential. I would say important, but not essential. remember that the basic value of language is getting the idea across. If you hear something like ebonics and don't understand it, perhaps you haven't considered that the message is not intended for you. On the other hand, I do insist that if one is speaking ebonics to an academic, the speaker is at fault for not choosing clearly understandable speech. Not to let the 'learned' off the hook though, this principle goes both ways, a double edged knife!
The forging of new language is a wonderful, enjoyable and often intellectual pursuit. I cannot suggest it strongly enough as an activity befitting the rich, the poor, the woman, the boy, the smart, the stupid, the black, white, yellow and red - Everybody! The trick lies in how you impart your meaning to others.
Since I have already asked for responses, I shall make a more specific request: why not reply with a word or phrase of your own devising? State the meaning or intended usage. I promise I will try to use as many of them as I can. If anyone reading this loves language, then let us forge our own additions to english together.
One has to understand that language changes over time, like it or lump it. Over a long enough time it becomes a new language. It is fun to toy with those high school teachers who lament any change whatsoever, any usage that is less than "good english." This concept varies from teacher to teacher, of course - try comparing some teachers and see for yourself.
You see, the argument is quite old. Back in the 1600s there were also people of influence (men, primarily, because the patriarchy kept women down) who made the same complaints. The usage that bothered them is now standard english. At one point for instance, the use of contractions was abominable and low class. Incidentally, the vulgar and vernacular tend to be the crucible for new language - the birthplace of new language. It is of course foolish to resist the creation of new language. It is futile. All language changes.
Personally, I have always found it one of the more charming aspects of english that its adaptability, flexibility and willingness to expand its horizons have made it the largest language in history (by lexicon). The upshot? Speakers have more ways to express themselves. Language Is about communicating, after all.
I know there are those of you out there who carry an utter disdain for ebonics, 1337, and other lower forms. Ironically, this attitude comes primarily from academia, an area with such elitistly developed modes of language use that 'hypocrisy' hardly covers what is going on. Nonetheless, I will agree wholeheartedly that they Are Lower forms.
Perhaps the reason I am so surprised at people who most want to 'preserve' the language, is that they are often the ones who seem to claim most vehemently their love of the language. Yet there is no joy, no laughter, no creation to their relationship with the language. Sorry. Of course there is, but only in rigidly prescribed manners. I'm not trying to slag these people, because I see some validity in what they are saying. I feel that a little must be added to it, though.
I think, (and I hope people will throw in their two cents), that the idea is people should understand the Formal Usage of a language before using other modes. Some will say this is essential. I would say important, but not essential. remember that the basic value of language is getting the idea across. If you hear something like ebonics and don't understand it, perhaps you haven't considered that the message is not intended for you. On the other hand, I do insist that if one is speaking ebonics to an academic, the speaker is at fault for not choosing clearly understandable speech. Not to let the 'learned' off the hook though, this principle goes both ways, a double edged knife!
The forging of new language is a wonderful, enjoyable and often intellectual pursuit. I cannot suggest it strongly enough as an activity befitting the rich, the poor, the woman, the boy, the smart, the stupid, the black, white, yellow and red - Everybody! The trick lies in how you impart your meaning to others.
Since I have already asked for responses, I shall make a more specific request: why not reply with a word or phrase of your own devising? State the meaning or intended usage. I promise I will try to use as many of them as I can. If anyone reading this loves language, then let us forge our own additions to english together.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Touchstone friends
My friend Andrew is one of my touchstone friends. For those of you who don't know what a touchstone is, attend: The ancients found a special stone upon which you could scrape other substances and it would leave a mark. When Gold was set to it, the gold would leave a mark distinct from anything else. This was probably the earliest form of anti-fraud device for humankind.
Gold. I seek people who are as good as gold, in their own quirky ways. When I say someone is a touchstone, then, you can surmise that I am somehow comparing you to them. Well, that's a little off base. What I am thinking is that if you have a problem with such a person, odds are I will end up having a problem with you (sooner or later).
This is not a righteousness trip. It could well turn out that this is my loss. It doesn't mean the person in question is any less valid in their humanity, dignity, opinions, etc... it's just a guideline for me - a caveat, even. On occasion, I have ignored this impulse and once or twice it even worked out. Generally, it is a good impulse.
Gold. I seek people who are as good as gold, in their own quirky ways. When I say someone is a touchstone, then, you can surmise that I am somehow comparing you to them. Well, that's a little off base. What I am thinking is that if you have a problem with such a person, odds are I will end up having a problem with you (sooner or later).
This is not a righteousness trip. It could well turn out that this is my loss. It doesn't mean the person in question is any less valid in their humanity, dignity, opinions, etc... it's just a guideline for me - a caveat, even. On occasion, I have ignored this impulse and once or twice it even worked out. Generally, it is a good impulse.
Sudbury Transit gets a boost - or, Two!
By chance, I spoke with a co-ordinator for our fair city's illustrious transit system today. It was pleasant, he was a decent chap. I won't linger on the less significant biz, but I do want to share this:
I mentioned to him how ages ago in Hamilton, the transit system assigned every bus-stop a personal phone number. Riders could call the number and find out precisely how long until their next bus came. Aside from obvious slow-downs like black ice or blizzards, the system was invariably accurate to within a minute or two at the absolute outside.
O my faithful readers, you Know how I used to disdain Sudbury Transit when I first came here. One never realizes how good home was until they leave, eh? Well after I describe this to co-ordinator guy, he tells me that the bus authority are already in phase one of putting the same system into effect here! Phase One - the GPS system is being put into place even as I write this! Phone numbers are being arranged...
This is a major boon to bus users all over the city. Further, there are eleven (or was it thirteen?) new buses coming to Sudbury, to increase schedule times and run later. Hot Damn!
It is a common thing to work in threes on this blog, so I shall also mention the U-Pass system, which is hard at work for all full time undergrads at L.U. It's here now, and no amount of pissing and moaning can stop it. Frankly, I think it is great. Cambrian will be online with this idea next year. Hopefully, so will Boreal.
Exciting times in the mass transit milieu. For all the complaints I have had about buses here, I would like to say now that I am indeed impressed with the advances Sudbury Transit is making. Kudos to all bus-affiliated workers, you're on the right track.
I mentioned to him how ages ago in Hamilton, the transit system assigned every bus-stop a personal phone number. Riders could call the number and find out precisely how long until their next bus came. Aside from obvious slow-downs like black ice or blizzards, the system was invariably accurate to within a minute or two at the absolute outside.
O my faithful readers, you Know how I used to disdain Sudbury Transit when I first came here. One never realizes how good home was until they leave, eh? Well after I describe this to co-ordinator guy, he tells me that the bus authority are already in phase one of putting the same system into effect here! Phase One - the GPS system is being put into place even as I write this! Phone numbers are being arranged...
This is a major boon to bus users all over the city. Further, there are eleven (or was it thirteen?) new buses coming to Sudbury, to increase schedule times and run later. Hot Damn!
It is a common thing to work in threes on this blog, so I shall also mention the U-Pass system, which is hard at work for all full time undergrads at L.U. It's here now, and no amount of pissing and moaning can stop it. Frankly, I think it is great. Cambrian will be online with this idea next year. Hopefully, so will Boreal.
Exciting times in the mass transit milieu. For all the complaints I have had about buses here, I would like to say now that I am indeed impressed with the advances Sudbury Transit is making. Kudos to all bus-affiliated workers, you're on the right track.
Not just another manic Monday.
Not Manic at all, o commanders of the faithful, but instead very pleasant and rather relaxing. So here are the major concerns, along with their status.
Convocation. Well on my way. The final hurdle is being hurdled as we speak. My prof from up the hill at Huntington is helping to keep me on track. Just one more reason to suggest taking her classes. So at the end of the month, my poor immigrant parents will be able to attend my Grad.
OSAP. I have to register a three credit (i.e. half year) course, to upgrade to full time studenthood. I am currently most interested in Engl 2827, documentary film-making, but it doesn't appear to be offered. For further commentary on this issue, see previous blogs relating to school and administration.
I listened to my Happy music and had a cool discussion with a co-ordinator of Sudbury Transit. (see next blog).
Then I left school, while my friend's jump drive (which I borrowed) was still in the computer in the lab. A quick but pleasant jot over to the Uni and I had it back in my hot little mitts. Kinda restores your faith in people not stealing stuff, eh?
Dinner was a delish chili, made by Virginia. Chris was along for dinner as well. As we digested, Verge fought terror, Chris Limewired the new Rammstein and I chatted online with Verge's friend Lisa. Lisa is outgoing and fun, we've chatted before - it's time well spent.
I'm just thinking how nicely a cig would finish this evening... mmmm cigs!
Convocation. Well on my way. The final hurdle is being hurdled as we speak. My prof from up the hill at Huntington is helping to keep me on track. Just one more reason to suggest taking her classes. So at the end of the month, my poor immigrant parents will be able to attend my Grad.
OSAP. I have to register a three credit (i.e. half year) course, to upgrade to full time studenthood. I am currently most interested in Engl 2827, documentary film-making, but it doesn't appear to be offered. For further commentary on this issue, see previous blogs relating to school and administration.
I listened to my Happy music and had a cool discussion with a co-ordinator of Sudbury Transit. (see next blog).
Then I left school, while my friend's jump drive (which I borrowed) was still in the computer in the lab. A quick but pleasant jot over to the Uni and I had it back in my hot little mitts. Kinda restores your faith in people not stealing stuff, eh?
Dinner was a delish chili, made by Virginia. Chris was along for dinner as well. As we digested, Verge fought terror, Chris Limewired the new Rammstein and I chatted online with Verge's friend Lisa. Lisa is outgoing and fun, we've chatted before - it's time well spent.
I'm just thinking how nicely a cig would finish this evening... mmmm cigs!
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