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Remembering Derek K. Miller (@penmachine) #WeLoveDerek

Raul — Fri, 04 May 2012 06:29:01 +0000

Photo credit: Derek K. Miller

May 3rd marks exactly 365 days since my dear friend Derek K. Miller (@penmachine) died. His last post touched the lives of over 16 million people within the first few days after his death, and many more millions after. It’s hard to believe it’s been a year.

I clearly recall where I was exactly 365 days ago, and it’s only fitting that I spent the same evening with the same person: I was sitting at UBC, on JT’s car, sobbing uncontrollably on his shoulders while he hugged me as hard as he could. He said nothing, he only held me in his arms, ran his fingers through my hair and tried to console me and comfort me. My friend was gone, and cancer had yet again triumphed over me.

I wasn’t by any stretch of the imagination Derek’s closest friend. That privilege was bestowed upon several others, whom I was privileged to meet and work with afterwards in the preparation of Derek’s memorial. Those closest friends of Derek (along with my dear friend Airdrie, Derek’s widow), made me feel part of something incredibly special.

In this past year, I have tried as hard as I have been able to, to follow Derek’s and Airdrie’s advice: to take care of myself and to stop pushing myself to the limit. I have taken days off. I have gone away for entire weekends. I have taken blogging hiatus more than once. I hired interns. I’ve let blogging pitches go unanswered.

I wish Derek were here. But that’s an impossibility. But his memory lives in mine, and his digital legacy lives on to teach me (to teach us, anybody who chooses to read this incredibly wise man’s online heritage) how you live to the fullest while loving to the fullest. My dear friend Airdrie, I think of you everyday, but even more so, I think of you and your girls on this difficult day. I think of Derek’s parents and of his extended family. And Air, your strength in the face of pain has taught me many a lesson and I’m proud of you. So proud of you.

Today, I’m thinking of you, Derek. And I love you, my friend.

The Marquis (South Granville)

Raul — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:46:48 +0000

You know those hidden gems that I’ve been writing about lately? I don’t know how but I always happen to come upon those. The Marquis in South Granville (between 10th and 11th Avenue on Granville) is one of those hidden gems. I think it’s because it’s kind of hidden, and people don’t seem to realize it’s there. But yes, it is actually classy as it portrays itself (although I am not sure why they added the TV screens)

Quite frankly, I wouldn’t have added the TV screens, I like the room nice as it is without them! My good friend Jana and I arrived there right after the Live At Squamish launch party at the Commodore (it was a tad too noisy for me, thus we decided to head to The Marquis, a place I had been wanting to check for YEARS. Yes, you heard me. In my decade(s) of living in Vancouver, I had NOT checked The Marquis. I am glad we did, not only because we had a fantastic time, but because I got the Assistant Manager (Jenna) to create a sweet drink on my name (The Hummingbird, so if you like sweet martinis, you should totally ask Jenna to make you one).

That is, you should ask her to make you a Hummingbird; she will know what that means.

Nowhere else will you get the opportunity to enjoy the superb variety of authentic dishes presented in such elegant style and ambience. Truly a celebrated marriage of old and new, served to you in the tradition of European graciousness. Our menu offerings are prepared by accomplished chefs who are equally at home with native dishes and international haute cuisine, with this blend of preparation and style of service European gastronomie comes into its own and takes its rightful place. The Marquis offers a totally new way of casual dining, a place where traditional rises to new levels of continental elegance, yet remains very much at home. An experience that is at once European and cosmopolitan Canadian. Sooner or later a restaurant like this had to be created.

I think both Jana and I agree that The Marquis is everything it promises to be and more. While we only had an appetizer and a few martinis, I think the experience overall was fantastic. Rarely have I felt more at home than at The Marquis. And the martinis aren’t out of your range ($10-12 is a bit on the higher end for a martini, but these are VERY strong and VERY well made). Overall, I will definitely return.

Disclosure: Both Jana and I paid for our own drinks on our own dime. Nobody expected us to write a review, and as usual I retain full editorial control over anything I post on my site.

Remembering David Holtzman

Raul — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 05:04:20 +0000

Andrea Reimer with David Holtzman

I was on the bus reading my Twitter stream enroute to a friend’s birthday when I suddenly stopped to read an article from Metro Vancouver (excerpt below)

A prominent community organizer and activist from Vancouver’s queer community, David Holtzman, died suddenly this week while on vacation with his partner in Palm Springs, Calif. He apparently suffered a heart attack, according to a source close to his friends and family. Holtzman was director of operations at Vancouver’s Out On Screen Film & Video Society. He had previously been the executive director for A Loving Spoonful, which provides meals, nutritional support and counseling to people living with HIV/AIDS, and also briefly served as executive director for the Wilderness Committee in 2010.

The news caught me completely off-guard and left me in a bit of a shock. After all, not long ago had I seen a check-in from David on my Facebook news feed talking about his holiday. “This can’t be possible“, I thought to myself. I wish it weren’t. I still can’t fathom it. I was at David and Peter’s for drinks just a few months ago. Vancouver and the queer community have lost an amazing community builder.

David Holtzman was always a friend to me, someone who extended his welcoming embrace even when I felt that I was just a newbie in covering issues related to the queer community. He and Peter (his partner) made me feel as welcome in their home as though we had been friends forever (even though we hadn’t – and here is where I wish I had spent more time getting to know him).

Every single time we saw each other at any event (be it Project Empty Bowl, or Vancouver Pride, or the Vancouver Queer Film Festival, or the Vancouver Queer Arts Festival), David was incredibly nice and always made sure to introduce me to everyone. I could always count on David to make me feel connected to my community. He was a role model and will continue to be in memory.

Peter, my thoughts and prayers are with you and yours. David, I wish I had spent more time knowing you, but I am grateful for the time we spent together and for your help in connecting me with the queer community. Your community building work will have a lasting legacy, and I personally felt honored that you and Peter gifted me with your friendship.

Happy belated birthday @anabellebf!

Raul — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 05:34:07 +0000

I feel terrible. I’m normally really good at keeping up with birthdays and all that jazz. And then I totally missed my dear friend and former intern Anabelle Bernard Fournier’s birthday (which was yesterday) and I feel obviously so embarrassed. Yes, admittedly I’m crazy busy but I shouldn’t forget dear friends’ birthdays. Anabelle, you know how much you mean to me and I am so glad you came into my life.

The work we did together and the time we spent collaborating alongside Jessica (go, Team Universe Domination!) was fantastic and I’m proud of you and what you’ve accomplished. I love that you have the same kind of sense of humour, and that we share so many characteristics (amongst them, we are academic geeks!) And if I made a difference in your life is only because you made a difference in mine. Happy belated birthday! Lunch on me next week when I’m in Victoria!

Narrowing the circles of friends…

Raul — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 23:05:13 +0000

Richard Long, Sea Lava Circles, 1988. Photo credit: yhsu on Flickr.

When I was a child, I used to get extremely painful canker sores. Even as a teenager. Mostly, they were associated with stress and excess work. But I remember very clearly once when my Mom told me that there was someone who theorized that canker sores were (in part) a result of keeping secrets (secrets that weren’t yours to keep) and/or keeping stuff bottled inside (e.g. not speaking out when something was bothering you).

Whether the theory is true or not, I have to fully admit that I now rarely suffer from canker sores, and that is probably the result of the fact that, given that now I have a blog with a pretty large audience and a voice that is heard, I rarely keep my mouth shut. That’s also part of why I tweet and have other social platforms. In order to NOT keep things bottled inside. So in that spirit, I should admit that I have been my circles of friends narrower, and that the number of people whom I trust is diminishing in number.

This is not at all a reflection on me or my value as a human being, but the direct result of (a) clearly knowing that I no longer can count on some people on whom I thought in the past I could count, and (b) the shift in my priorities and the subsequent change in my routines and goals. This is also the result of (c) people’s priorities shifting too. I am no longer part of the list of priorities of some people, and neither are they.

I have decided in 2012 to only focus on the people, projects and things I am really interested in. I am intent on stopping myself whenever I want to say YES to everything people ask me to do, invite me to do or request that I help with. Now, I am only interested in the people who are interested in me with the same intensity I am interested in them. The people (even if they are only a handful) whom I can trust and ask for help whenever I need it. And those who are part of my circle of priority friends know they are there, and know the reason behind.

Yes, I am learning to say no. I am learning to not accept pressure to do anything I don’t want to do. And yes, I’m narrowing the circles of friends, and speaking out about it too. And speaking out never felt this good.

No related posts.

Happy birthday @GusF!

Raul — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:02:44 +0000

My good friend Gus is someone I keep close to my heart even if I don’t get to see him often enough. Gus, and his partner Russ, have become part of my family. They say friends are the family you choose, and I’m thrilled that we’ve all chosen each other as family members. Gus is, like me, of Latino blood (Argentinian blood runs through my good friend’s veins). We often speak in Spanish and we cherish our friendship even if we don’t get to see each other very often. Gus, I hope you have a wonderful birthday and look forward to celebrating with you sometime soon!

Guu Otokomae (Guu Izakaya, Gastown)

Raul — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 07:20:33 +0000

Few things make me happier than dinner with one of my closest friends (Air). She is fond of the Guu Izakaya family (I have my reservations, mostly because of the attitude on the Thurlow one), but since she is, as I said, a very close friend of mine, I decided to go with her instinct. And I’ll have to admit that, for someone who translates Japanese food into “oh my God I need sushi so I’m going to run to MoMo Sushi”, it’s always interesting to try out izakayas. So we went to try Guu Otomokae (the Guu Izakaya that is located in Gastown).

I was crazy about trying this Japanese style Ahi tuna steak, and I think we expected something very different but we ate it nonetheless. Moist and tasty, but not extremely flavourful.

This dish, I was totally surprised by how much I liked it.

While the mixture may look gross at the beginning, in the end it’s incredibly tasty, a Kimchi Pork Bibimbap.

And the reality is, who doesn’t love tempura shrimp bathed in spicy sauce. I certainly do! These are called Ebimayo. Absolutely delicious.

I tend to like thick slices of seared tuna in a spicy noodle bedding, but that’s just because it’s one of those dishes that I had at April Point Resort and stayed with me. Guu Tataki, if I’m not mistaken.

Dessert was simply absolutely delicate. Bananas, deep fried batter and ice cream? Sign me up! The Banana Tempura was one of the best dishes we tried. Overall an amazing evening with a great friend.

Disclosure: Each of us paid for our own dinner

On friendship, Singles Awareness Day (SAD), Valentine’s Day

Raul — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:06:07 +0000

“The only reward of virtue is virtue; the only way to have a friend is to be one.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

I used to think of myself as “a professional friend”. I would always be (I always am) at my friends’ reach. I have (and no, I’m not gloating) saved countless lives (I have been a designated driver since I first got my license), and always tried to preclude my friends from getting into way more trouble. My friends always called me, since childhood, when they had issues and I’ve been privileged to be part of so many people’s lives. I count my life in friendships, not in years.

Credit: Heather On Her Travels on Flickr.

For me, Valentine’s Day is an actual day to celebrate. I have someone very special in my life with whom I have celebrated this day for almost a decade. We do dinner, watch a movie, spend time together. We love this day because of what it means. But in Mexico, I celebrated Valentine’s Day by doing something sweet for my (too many) friends. I bought them cards, stuffed animals. I spent a small fortune in phone calls across the continent and up North (I have a lot of friends worldwide).

“My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.”
- Henry Ford

As I’ve grown older, my circle of real and trusted friends has grown smaller. True, I have acquaintances, colleagues, buddies, but my friends’ circle is MUCH smaller than you would think. Particularly, friends that I can call upon and ask for help. THAT is perhaps the biggest measurement of how close I am to a friend. If I ask for help or for an opinion/advice, the friendship is definitely very strong.

“Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.”
- Helen Keller

February 14th is dreaded by a lot of folks because, I think, it has been framed as a Hallmark holiday, focused on couplehood, being together with someone else. That’s why some people instead celebrate SAD (Singles Awareness Day). In Mexico, the day is celebrated as the day of love and friendship. And for me, it’s always been about celebrating friendship.

I hope this Valentine’s Day, my friends know how much I love them. I get sometimes so overwhelmed with work that I’m not always the best at demonstrating how much I care. But I will definitely carve some time in my rather busy schedule to send notes and texts of love and care to my beloved friends, because they are worth it. Because friendship is worth it.

Because I may not be a professional friend, but I am certainly a very good friend.

“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”
- Martin Luther King Jr.

Pourhouse (Gastown)

Raul — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:00:51 +0000

So, I’ve been to Pourhouse a few times but never wrote about it. Weird, huh? And it’s so close to my office. The first time I came here was for drinks with my good friend Jason Sanders and recently I went there for lunch with my good friend Degan Walters. Degan is, like me, a food writer and thus, when she says something is good, I listen.

We both ordered their special for lunch (sandwich, a side and a beer for $14, which I find is really great value for your money). Neither of us felt like alcohol, so I ordered a soft drink (which was refilled at no charge) and the meatloaf sandwich (which I also ordered without cheese – so sue me). Loved the meatloaf, which was juicy without being overly spiced up. The bun could be a little bit less toasted, but overall, a delicious lunch that then Degan and I had to walk off, because despite the apparent size, it’s actually bigger than you think.

Overall, a nice find in my area for lunch, though I know that many people may like it for drinks. I’ll definitely come back at some point for dinner. More relevant to me was to have the opportunity to catch up with Degan, someone who is a loved friend of mine but we rarely have enough time to hang out!

Disclosure: I paid for both Degan and my lunch on my own dime. As always I retain full editorial control over anything I post on my site.

The Bengal Lounge at The Fairmont Empress (Victoria, BC)

Raul — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:00:49 +0000

Considering how little time academics have to eat, let alone eat AND socialize, I feel blessed that my good friend Janni Aragon (Political Science, University of Victoria) had the time to come meet me at The Bengal Lounge at the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, BC, for lunch. We both teach in respective Political Science departments and carry a fairly busy research, community service and teaching agenda.

But we had the chance to meet for lunch and we decided to splurge and go to The Bengal Lounge at The Fairmont Empress. I had stayed at the Empress before, but never made the effort to eat at the Bengal Lounge. So, I’m glad we did. We both ordered the buffet and I can tell you, I have NEVER had THIS MUCH FOOD in my entire life. Even as I was full I kept going back.

The Bengal Lounge : Drawing inspiration from Queen Victoria’s role as the Empress of India, this colonial style lounge is known throughout Victoria for its authentic curry buffet and signature cocktail menu. While new restaurants and lounges appear in Victoria regularly, The Bengal Lounge is a favourite of residents and visitors alike. Overlooking our stately gardens, the richly appointed Bengal Lounge offers not only a delicious curry lunch and dinner buffet but also an impressive international à la carte menu. Cocktail and martini aficionados will appreciate our vast selection of signature drinks.

Oh, and the desserts. Did I tell you about the desserts?

If you are hungry and it’s my fault for showing you just how delicious the Bengal Lounge’s buffet service is, you’re welcome.

Disclosure: I paid for both Janni and my lunches on my own dime and did not receive any special treatment by the Bengal Lounge. As always I retain full editorial control of anything I write on my site.

Hamilton Street Grill (Yaletown)

Raul — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 17:45:21 +0000

I now understand why Arieanna said it was her favorite restaurant a couple of years ago when I requested a list of the favorite restaurants of people (remember that post?). We went for dinner to Hamilton Street Grill recently to celebrate Arieanna’s 30th birthday, and the experience was simply spectacular. The service was outstanding (my waitress was definitely an absolute sweetheart), and the company was bar-none. Airdrie and I had a fantastic time catching up at Arieanna’s birthday, and it was great to see other close friends of both the Schwebers and myself.

Located in the trendy Yaletown area of the city, the Hamilton Street Grill has a great location. It is close to everything, whether you are interested in sporting events, the theatre or a special concert by that big-name entertainer. This converted warehouse now features high ceilings, rich oak and a long bar where you can enjoy wines by the glass from the extensive wine list. The Hamilton Street Grill is a contemporary steakhouse featuring Certified Angus Beef along with a large selection of fresh seafood entrees.

Admittedly, the Hamilton Street Grill touts itself as a steakhouse, and I recognize if people think it’s kind of ridiculous that I stuck to seafood at a steakhouse, but I’m not terribly drawn to steak in Canada (Mexico, that’s another thing). Besides, the food was SO DAMN GOOD. I ordered Garlic Prawns (pan seared with garlic butter and lime) to start ($12, not a bad price point for an appetizer, but on the higher end of the scale – this is Yaletown, after all). I wish my prawns had had MORE garlic, but what they didn’t have in garlic sauce they made up with garlic bread. Really nice presentation too, and huge prawns. I could have had the prawns for dinner and be happy.

For dinner, I chose the wild salmon with vegetable risotto and balsamic reduction ($24, at the medium-high end of the scale, but pretty common for any restaurant that does fine dining, and a really big portion). The salmon was cooked perfectly, it was flavourful without being overpowering. It also included some shavings of green onion that complimented the slightly tart flavour of the risotto.

I could have stopped there but I ordered a chocolate mousse for dessert ($8, in hindsight a mistake because I was too full to eat it all). Drinks at the Hamilton Street Grill are delicious but lethal (I had chocolate martinis at $10 and a couple of other nice sweet martinis, which totally gave my wallet a big hit)

Overall, I totally would come back for dinner to the Hamilton Street Grill, but perhaps be a bit more frugal (there’s plenty of good items that are great value for money and that I could have had, but I went all out – also, the drinks added to my bill!)

Disclosure: I paid for my dinner on my own dime. No portion of our dinners was complimentary. We didn’t receive any special treatment even though it was Arieanna’s birthday (we didn’t expect special treatment either). Chef Neil Wyles did kindly recharge my iPhone for 30 minutes, though, as the battery was totally depleted.

Happy belated birthday, Monique @somisguided

Raul — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 17:03:45 +0000

So, I bumped into my good friend Monique Trottier (from Boxcar Marketing and So Misguided) and because I was running around trying to get to my tickets, I totally didn’t have a chance to chat with her. AND I was thinking “I’m sure Monique’s birthday is coming up and I’m hoping not to forget to write about it… well, I did. Monique’s birthday was on the 16th, as my blog post attests!

Monique Trottier is one of those friends you don’t need to see regularly to cherish and love. She is extremely supportive, incredibly warm and an amazing talent overall. Every time we sit down and talk (most recently when we went for lunch to la vie boheme), we share stories of geekery, academia, books (which we both love) and life in general. Monique is truly a gem and I am incredibly fortunate to be a friend of hers.

Monique and her fiance James (now husband) recently got married and I had an opportunity to see her in her wedding dress, and I felt fascinated. Monique is so beautiful outside and in her soul. Hope you had a wonderful birthday, Monique, and your drinks next time we hang out are on me. Much love always.

Wordless Wednesday: Happiness or, Friends are the Family You Choose

Raul — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 22:01:08 +0000

Not exactly wordless, but there is one thing that makes me incredibly happy: my friends. This is just a very, very small sample of photos of friends of mine

Happy birthday Minna! @TheNetworkHub

Raul — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 07:02:01 +0000

Dearest Minna,

By the time this post is published, I will probably be fast asleep as your birthday (like mine did) falls on a Monday. And I know that you don’t need a blog post to tell you how much I value your friendship and how much I love you, my dear friend. But the truth is, I learned from my parents and grandparents (when I was just a little child) to never miss an opportunity to tell the people you love how much you DO love them. And I adore you.

I am always in awe of your amazing energy, your strength, your entrepreneurial spirit and your endless generosity. You have made of me a better entrepreneur, a better friend, a much more reasonable boss with those who work under my direction, and a better human being. You always have my back, and without missing a beat, you can switch quickly from gently scolding me to laughing with me uncontrollably as we do mindless one-dollar-store-shopping. You’re my friend, my sister and my confidant. And I’m always eternally grateful to the Universe for bringing you to my life. Have a wonderful birthday, today and every single day of your life.

I hope we’ll get to celebrate together many more of those birthdays! And know that if I ever move away from Vancouver, you’ll always have a special place in my heart and somewhere to stay over when travelling the world.

With love, your friend,
Raul

Happy birthday, Airdrie Miller! (@airdriehislop)

Raul — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:15:21 +0000

Airdrie Hislop Miller is one of my very best friends. Whenever I think of the good things that blogging has brought to my life, I think of Airdrie and our friendship. A few years ago, when I was still a relatively newbie blogger, Airdrie invited me for dinner to her house, to one of the great gatherings she and Derek used to host. Airdrie welcomed me as though we had been best friends for years. And I cherished that openness and warmth. I still do.

Through the years, Airdrie and I have been able to work together in things, and I’ve done projects thanks to her inspiration. In 2009, Air organized a panel at Northern Voice, the blogging/social media/geek conference, where she assembled a panel of speakers (another two good friends of mine, Tod Maffin and Isabella Mori) who spoke openly, candidly and incredibly about the challenges of mental illness (depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, etc.) and how social media could be used to, in fact, cope digitally.

Airdrie had blogged about depression for a while, and her courage always has inspired me as she’s one of the most ardent advocates of de-stigmatization of mental illness. Her strength and amazing ability to deal with Derek’s illness in the way she did, and how she has managed to continue to raise her kids (both of whom I love and adore) is an inspiration day after day. Whenever I feel down, I think of how strong Airdrie is and how she’s done everything she has and I stop whining.

Through the years, Air has made me a part of her projects too. The host and founder of award-winning podcast and blog, Lip Gloss and Laptops, a podcast and blog about the beauty and cosmetics industry, Airdrie invited me to be a guest host and I’ve often reviewed colognes on the site. Airdrie, I’ve told you this many times in person, in private and I can also do it publicly: every day your strength, courage and drive inspires me. Your friendship has kept me sane in more ways than I can count, and the good times we’ve spent as we have built our friendship have been great reminders of how blessed I am to call you a friend, and a very good friend in fact.

You have kept me in check and encouraged me to take better care of myself even when I forget to do so myself. And you are the best partner-in-crime for any event I could ever think of. You make my life better every day, just by being you.

Air, I’m extremely proud of calling you a friend and I wish you the very best today and every day.

Happy birthday.

Sea Monstr Sushi (Gastown)

Raul — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:00:03 +0000

I love the fact that my friends almost always have the same adventurous approach to eating out. I hadn’t checked out Sea Monstr Sushi in Gastown, and I had wanted to try it for a long while. My good friends Ashleigh Smith and Chris Walts had just returned from a month in Peru, and thus we agreed to meet at Sea Monstr Sushi for a bite to eat. Not sure why, I wasn’t really too hungry, but I wanted to see them, so we met up there. Sea Monstr Sushi is a quaint little place, so don’t expect huge decorations or a very fancy, flashy restaurant location. But the sushi it serves is very good and the service is really excellent.

I ordered a Sushi Combo ($9.00) and 1 piece of salmon nigiri ($2.50). My combo brought along a few pieces of California roll, spicy tuna roll and some salmon roll bits. It also included a miso soup.

I loved in particular the spicy tuna sushi roll, fresh, tasty, spicy and just the right amount of rice. The miso soup was really flavourful and not very salty (a negative characteristic I have found in some restaurants’ sushi combos).

Disclosure: I paid for my dinner on my own dime.

Gusto Di Quattro (Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver)

Raul — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 22:00:15 +0000

The Quattro family of restaurants is one of my favorite, and I’m pretty sure everyone who reads my blog knows this. I took my Mom to Quattro on Fourth (in Kitsilano) for her birthday 2 years ago, and I took JT for dinner for a special occasion to Quattro al Centro on Richards Street (in Yaletown/Downtown). I hadn’t seen my good friends Ianiv and Arieanna Schweber and their little one, Aiden (whom I affectionately call my nephew, as I am very close and I do feel he is like my actual blood nephew) so they joined me for dinner at Gusto Di Quattro.

Going to Gusto Di Quattro was a big gamble. Not because of the food (I’m pretty sure that the food at ALL Quattro restaurants is consistently good). The gamble was – would Gusto Di Quattro be child-friendly-enough? We were all very surprised by the really great food available on the menu for the little ones, and Aiden loved his dinner. As for us the adults, Arieanna and I shared a Combinazione (at $24 per person with substitutions $2 per, with a minimum of 2, a fairly decent price for a higher-end, high-scale Italian restaurant). We enjoyed a combination of rotolo farcito, fusilli salsiccia, penne arrabiata, linguine pesto, and fettuccine caprese. Ianiv ordered their risotto with fruti di mare.

I’ll have to say that I knew the Combinazione would be a winning combination. Both Arieanna and I love pasta, and this particular combination of pastas was a definite winner. In particular, I’m in love with the rotolo farcito. The fusilli salsiccia (with sausage) is a popular one, flavourful and strong (but bear in mind – I LOVE strong flavours). And even the linguine pesto had enough garlic that I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Overall, as I knew it would be the case, Gusto Di Quattro was a big win. Great food, really nice upscale decor, and a service that has nothing to ask other restaurants. The staff was incredibly sweet and kind to Aiden, and we didn’t face major issues (with obviously the exception that the restaurant isn’t really well equipped for changing toddlers, but that’s not even an issue as Arieanna and Ianiv have handled these situations before and they totally adapted quickly). The staff was very apologetic for not having the changing station for toddlers, but as I said, it’s not an issue to dampen our dinner. Overall, great experience at Gusto Di Quattro in the Lower Lonsdale area of North Vancouver. You should try it out.

Disclosure: We each paid for our dinners on our own dime. All views on this post are mine and mine only. A review is neither expected, nor has it been paid for (since, as you can see, we paid on our own dime). I retain editorial control at all times on anything published on my site.

Chef Suzi (Bastion Square, Victoria BC)

Raul — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:00:22 +0000

Last month, when my Mom was visiting, I took my good friend Janni Aragon (who as you know, teaches in the Department of Political Science at University of Victoria and who, like me, is an enthusiast of social media) and my Mom for brunch to Chef Suzi (a little quaint restaurant/coffee shop in Bastion Square, in the core of downtown Victoria. We were very surprised at how good the service was. And how good our breakfast was too, and not expensive at all. I ordered the Chef Suzi version of Huevos Rancheros, which is not Mexican at all. But to be honest, we really were there just to hang out, more than the actual food.

Chef-prepared meal preparation with an emphasis on tantalizing, wholesome, balanced meals using the freshest ingredients available. Leave the planning, shopping and preparation to Suzi, so that you can focus on what is most important to you. All meals fully cooked, in individualized containers, ready to heat and serve, or to pop in your freezer for later.

I would bring friends here for breakfast, particularly for a little hole-in-the-wall so that nobody would bother us for breakfast. We had a few other guests sitting near by and they all seemed quite impressed so I’m quite happy that we ended up having breakfast there. Really, all we wanted was to celebrate Janni. And obviously, introduce her to my Mom. I’ll be back to Chef Suzi for sure.

Disclosure: I paid for all of our breakfasts on my own dime.

Campagnolo on Main (Strathcona/Chinatown)

Raul — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 22:02:57 +0000

I had eaten at Campagnolo on Main before (with Tony Nicalo) but never actually thought of writing about it. Recently, my good friend Lisa Thomas-Tench invited my Mom and I to have dinner there (my Mom and I have always had a very strong friendship connection to Lisa and this was almost certainly the only chance we’d all get to have dinner together while my Mom is in town).

I don’t know if it’s the fact that I had been to Campagnolo already or the fact that I was there with Lisa and my Mom, but I think the service was absolutely spectacular and fast. The evening went by without even noticing the pass of time. We started the evening with a martini and I asked for a house salad.

I ordered a Polderside Chicken (cacciatore sauce, sunchokes, red swiss chard at $21, regular price point for main courses in casual/fine dining restaurants). My Mom ordered a traditional Lasagna ($19, but it brought along a salad) and so did Lisa.

My Mom raved about Campagnolo’s Lasagna as one of the best she had tasted anywhere. As for my chicken, I think the presentation was great, the execution wasn’t stellar but overall, it was a very nice dish. I think at an Italian restaurant, it’s a bit of a mistake to deviate away from the traditional pastas/pizzas, but I liked the chicken. I was just expecting a bit stronger flavours (used as I am to Puttanescas and Arrabiata’s and the like).

But if there’s something we all agreed upon was that the dessert is always supremely well executed, and this wasn’t the exception when we were there for dinner.

The best part of dinner was simply spending time with two of my favorite people (Lisa and my Mom). Obviously, eating together was great and the food at Campagnolo (and service) were stellar, but overall the main plus of the evening was just hanging out.

Affordable, casual Italian dining in a warm and welcoming space. Campagnolo serves rustic dishes inspired by the Piedmont and Emiglia-Romagna regions of Italy in an open, spacious room highlighted by original old growth fir wood beams. Owners and savvy restaurateurs Tom Doughty, Robert Belcham and Tim Pittman of the award winning Fuel Restaurant have created a pleasurable and entertaining dining experience for guests.

Overall, I had a great time, and I would probably come back to Campagnolo for their Tagliatelle.

Disclosure: Lisa invited both my Mom and I for dinner. I wasn’t paid to write this review, nor was I required to do so either. The purpose of this blog entry is just to describe and document our experience at a restaurant we all really liked. In any review I write or publish on my site, I retain editorial control at all times. Should you have any questions/concern feel free to contact me via e-mail through my contact form.

Happy birthday Katharine Holmes! (@GDGeek)

Raul — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 19:11:02 +0000

I’ve been friends with the Holmes’ (Paul and Katharine) for the better part of 3 years. They have opened their house and hearts and have always invited me to speak to any of the events (social media or WordPress-related) that they organize. I think that, without fault, I’ve spoken at all of their events so far. Katharine shares with me a love of all things geek, AND martinis).

And she is (like her husband) an extremely kind-hearted woman. Katharine, today and every day, all the best for you. Miss you and Paul and hope to see you both soon (and your little guy too!). Enjoy your day.

Hapa Izakaya (Yaletown)

Raul — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 19:00:58 +0000

My good friend Airdrie Miller recently invited me for dinner to Hapa Izakaya in Yaletown recently, right after we participated in the eBeauty.ca and CityTV event. I had been to other izakaya’s but not to Hapa (I went to Hapa Umi the other day, but it’s not the same thing as Hapa Izakaya).

We ordered a ISHI-YAKI (Hapa’s version of the Korean hot stone bowl: rice, minced pork, flower chives, egg, tomato, lettuce and spicy-miso; mixed tableside, $8.80), some GOMA-AE (vegetable, in this case, jicama with goma-ae (sesame) dressing).

For a first time visiting Hapa Izakaya, I’ll have to say I’m thoroughly impressed.

I was even more impressed that we didn’t really eat that much and yet we weren’t hungry after dinner. Overall, Hapa Izakaya is definitely a place I want to come back and try several other items. The “tapas” style is one that gives me a bit of cognitive dissonance since I’m used to Spanish tapas rather than Japanese tapas, but overall, I’ll definitely have to come back. Thanks Air, for introducing me to Hapa Izakaya!

The District (North Vancouver, Lower Lonsdale)

Raul — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:00:49 +0000

Few things make me happier than having dinner with close friends. Last year, my Mom met my close friends Arieanna and Ianiv Schweber but did not have the opportunity to meet their son, Aiden. This year we made ourselves a promise that we’d make an effort to come to North Vancouver (Lower Lonsdale, which is where Ianiv and Arieanna live) to see them. Thanks to their flexibility, we managed to sneak dinner so incredibly soon.

We went to have dinner at The District, a restaurant that Arieanna reviewed earlier and that is a favorite of them (and one I hadn’t tried at all). The District has a separate room for parties which totally attracted my attention for the possibility of celebrating my birthday there.

The District’s menu isn’t all that varied, but it offers several really good possibilities. As I normally do when I go to a restaurant that is famous for its burgers, I try them (I wanted to do the onion soup but alas, I was too full with my burger).

I ordered a No. 13 burger, boasting a huge ground sirloin meat patty and flavoured with The District’s special version of tapenade (I *love* tapenade, by the way) with a side of salad, and was positively impressed with the creative use of dried cranberries, dates nuts and raisins. Given the patty size, I think adding lettuce sort of took away from the use of the tapenade and I had to get creative eating it without making a huge mess. The burger is extremely flavourful and within the normal range ($11-13 for burger and a side of salad or fries).

Overall a great experience and I’ll be back to The District. And the closeness to the Lonsdale Quay and the Seabus really helps.

The Red Wagon Café (East Hastings and Nanaimo, East Vancouver)

Raul — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:00:55 +0000

When my good friend Jason Sanders said that we couldn’t have brunch at The Waldorf Hotel because they weren’t open for brunch on Canada Day, I was kind of disappointed as i was looking forward to trying their famous Mexican brunch. But I’m really glad that Jason suggested that we go to The Red Wagon Café, located in Hastings Sunrise. When he told me it was also in East Vancouver, I had to Google it. I’m not really much of an East Vancouver boy that goes beyond Commercial Drive (I know, heresy!).

The Red Wagon Café is located near Nanaimo Street on East Hastings (I’ll even tell you, very close to the Mexican restaurant El Barrio). I had very bad luck with transit so the commute was kind of annoying. But once we got there, and even though we had to wait for about 45 minutes altogether (30 that I was late, sorry Jason! and 15 that we were waiting outside), the wait was totally worth it. And you know me, I don’t wait in line even for a doctor’s appointment.

Seeing how I was in the mood for Mexican breakfast, I ordered Chilaquiles ($9.50, two eggs, corn tortilla chips, salsa verde, feta cheese, crema and red onions). I’ll have to say that I’m glad my Mom hasn’t seen the presentation of the chilaquiles yet. They aren’t really chilaquiles as we know them in Mexico (the red onions look totally weird and I had to order a side of salsa verde to add on top of my scrambled eggs), but I’ll have to say that the flavours were exquisite.

The scrambled eggs were fluffy and cooked to perfection, the salsa verde I could have sworn was made by a Mexican, and the amount of food was absolutely perfect for someone who exercises in the morning and is extremely hungry by 11 am (actually, by then it was noon). The service was spectacularly outstanding, even under the face of extreme pressure, the waitresses (who didn’t have a busser) were absolutely adorable and apologizing all the time about us having to wait a little bit for our food and wait in line.

For the quality of food we received, the amazing service, and the really nice ambiance (not to mention, the chance to hang out with my good friend Jason), I think I’m totally giving The Red Wagon Café a 10 out of 10. Remember, you’ll have to wait in line, but it’s worth it (and there’s lots of cute hipsters to look at while you wait in line). I will definitely come back.

Disclosure: Jason invited me for brunch and he paid for both of our breakfasts out of his own pocket. I am neither obligated nor expected to write this review but I really enjoyed my brunch so that’s why I am writing about it. As always, I retain full editorial control over anything I publish on my site.

Happy birthday, Lorraine Murphy! (aka @raincoaster)

Raul — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 07:05:08 +0000

Lorraine Murphy at WordCamp Fraser Valley (photo credit: John Biehler on Flickr)

The truth of the matter is that the Raincoaster persona is not exactly the same person as my good friend Lorraine Murphy. Lorraine happens to be actually a very nice person with a brain and broad range of experiences that rivals that of many modern times’ intellectuals.

I was having breakfast with Lorraine a week ago before she left town to head to Yellowknife to work in a social media agency, and I told her that I had total and utter confidence in her capacity to change lives up North. Lorraine’s social media (especially blogging) skills are extremely solid, and she’s done some amazing work, especially for the Fearless City project, empowering folks in the Downtown East Side (where she used to live) and enabling them to tell stories through blogs and other social media outlets.

Normally, I would have taken Lorraine for drinks for her birthday but since she’s up North, a blog post will have to do. Lorraine, I’m very proud of how far you’ve gone, and as I told you once – you rock, and you WILL continue to rock, long time. Have fun up North, change people’s lives, show them the way and then assimilate them into th Cthulhu

Happiest of birthdays, my friend.

Remembering @penmachine Derek K. Miller on his birthday #welovederek

Raul — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:16:14 +0000

Every year, ever since I met Derek K. Miller (aka Penmachine), I would write a happy birthday blog post for him. And he’d comment on it. I would be invited to celebrate his birthday with his family, friends and him, of course. Last year, my Mom was in town so she was also one of the people who attended Derek’s birthday party. This year, Derek is no longer with us, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t remember him.

Derek would have been 42 years old today. I miss him, in many ways. One of the ways in which I miss him the most is his amazingly incisive writing. I often wonder “what would have Derek written about the riots? What would he have said? . Derek wrote some of the best and strongest analyses of many tough issues. In the past year Derek wrote a blog post that completely mesmerized me, an incredibly kind and gentle post yet a ruthless indictment of anti-gay bigotry in the US (the reason why some young gay children are still killing themselves). Derek would look at tough issues and provide a viewpoint that would be incredibly compelling.

Given that Derek was an atheist, it’s kind of odd for me to say that I’ve kept him on my prayers. But more than anything, I’ve been remembering him a lot today, the day that we celebrate when he was born and that he was loaned to us for almost 42 years. Thinking of Derek on his birthday, today, even if he is no longer with us.

Happiest of birthdays to my dear friend @moritherapy (Isabella Mori)

Raul — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 17:14:42 +0000

Isabella and Raul Credit: Karen Hamilton (Tiny Bites) on Flickr

You know how there are people who arrive in your life and live an indelible mark in it, and regardless of how much time you do (or do not) spend with them, they’re always there for you in the good, in the bad, when you need them and even when you just want to vent and get something out of your system? My dear friend Isabella Mori (who writes the blog Moritherapy) is one of those people.

Isabella is one of the most kind-hearted, generous, smart, sensible and well-meaning individuals on the face of this planet. Gifted with an amazing ability to be empathetic and understanding, Isabella has enhanced the lives of many, many people, myself included. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to be her successor as a Vancouver Blogger Meetup organizer, and a co-organizer of Mental Health Camp Vancouver.

When we sat down and talked about how rough this 2011 had been on us, we both wanted to get up and say “yes, we can do this simply because we’re Isabella and Raul and we always accomplish what we set to“. And we both realized at the same time that we’re mentally, physically and emotionally exhausted. And having the capacity to understand how each other feels and supporting each other’s efforts is part of what makes my friendship with Isabella very special.

Isabella, I’m so proud of you for your amazing strength, your compassion, your ability to stay focused on the grand vision rather than on the short-term goals, and for your ability to always stand by your friends and believe in them, even when some of us don’t always believe in ourselves. Much love as always, and happiest of birthday.

Happy birthday Tanya! (@NetChick)

Raul — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:44:07 +0000

Photo credit: NetChick on Flickr

It’s been a year, I think, since I last saw Tanya Desrosiers (neé Davis), one of my best friends, and one of the most established bloggers in Vancouver and since a year or so, in Calgary. Tanya has a heart of gold and was one of the very first people in the blogging world in Vancouver who became my friend.

I’m very proud of the many ways in which Tanya has grown, in the past 2-3 years she’s made a number of changes in her life that have taken her to another level, and that have made her a role model for anyone who wants to grow and evolve. I’m very proud of you, Tanya, and I’m sending you much love.

And sorry I missed you this past time I visited Calgary. Next time!

Happy birthday, @KateLeGresley

Raul — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 01:50:39 +0000

Raul and Kate. Photo credit: 6S Marketing

My good friend Kate LeGresley (Community Manager at Invoke Media) is celebrating her birthday today. And I’ve been travelling for 2 weeks and haven’t had a chance to congratulate her. But I’m thrilled that she is celebrating her birthday today, as 2011 has been the first year that has allowed us to work together (professionally) on a social media project.

Kate and I are currently collaborating in a project for the City of Surrey and I’ve been amazed at how well we work together and at her very strong work ethic and wonderful ideas in the social media realm. Kate, it’s awesome having a chance to get to know you first as a friend and now as a colleague in a project. Your smile and ability to keep calm and carry on with the projects you start are things that make working together on collaborative projects all the more fun.

And of course, needless to say, I really value your friendship. You’re a gem. Much love always.

In loving memory of Derek K. Miller @penmachine

Raul — Wed, 04 May 2011 19:01:09 +0000

My friend Derek K. Miller (Penmachine) is gone. Gifted with an amazing clarity of thought, strength of character and courage, and true word wizardry, Derek had the ability to do what I have never seen anyone else do: he wrote his own epitaph. And perfectly worded, perfectly tagged. His writing was perfect, as was his whole being.

I first met Derek at Northern Voice 2008, when I fully immersed myself in the Vancouver blogging community. I shared with him and his family many a party. He taught me SO MUCH about photography, podcasting, blogging and more importantly, he taught me about love. His devotion to his wife Airdrie Hislop Miller (whom I am proud to call one of my very best friends) was only matched by his devotion to his daughters Marina, Lauren and his parents, Karl and Hilkka, all of whom I’m proud to know.

These, these two people (Derek and Airdrie) have been my inspiration for the past 4 years. I began co-organizing Mental Health Camp Vancouver with my loved friend Isabella Mori (not surprisingly, also a friend of Derek and Airdrie’s) because of Airdrie, because she organized a panel at Northern Voice 2009. I began taking better care of myself because they both urged me to do so. Derek and Airdrie may very well have saved my life. Even in Derek’s last few months, he reminded me to take care of myself, and to stop doing something, RIGHT THERE AND THEN. Derek and Airdrie reminded me that I needed to live my life, not be consumed by it.

And I did. I promised Derek that I would stop pushing myself to the limit, and I have.

I have Blogathoned for 3 years in a row (2007, 2008, 2009) for the BC Cancer Foundation in his name. Derek and Airdrie both guest-posted on my blog and their posts remain some of my absolute favorite. Airdrie wrote on her experience as the wife of a cancer patient. Truly an amazing woman. I don’t know how she did it, I don’t know how she does it. All I know is I’m proud of her and honored to be her friend.

THIS (the photo below) is such a precious memory in my head (and I remember from Arieanna’s Facebook that it is a precious memory for her. The games nights. When we were just ourselves, a group of friends. No tweetups, no meetups, no social media “scene”. Just a bunch of friends. Bloggers, for the most part, but friends all the way.

Photo credit: Derek K. Miller on Flickr

I can’t stop crying. I haven’t stopped crying since I found out that Derek had passed away. Marking final papers is proving a struggle, but it’s nothing compared to what Derek and Airdrie have gone through, and I can only imagine the pain Derek’s family is feeling. If I’m in deep pain, mine is nothing compared to theirs.

Derek’s devotion to Airdrie remained until his very last post, and I quote:

Airdrie, you were my best friend and my closest connection. I don’t know what we’d have been like without each other, but I think the world would be a poorer place. I loved you deeply, I loved you, I loved you, I loved you.

Rest In Peace, Derek K. Miller aka Penmachine. A friend to many, an inspiration to everyone who has ever read his blog and someone whose life I will honor for the rest of mine, living it to the fullest. Just like Derek did. And I look forward to spending time with Airdrie, Derek’s daughters and his extended family and help them as much as I can as they transition to a life without him in it.

The world is a wondrous place, Derek K. Miller, because you were in it. Your legacy lives on. I love you.

Derek’s website appears to be overwhelmed with traffic right now. Please read a Google Cache copy here. Derek’s writing is truly inspiring.

Happy birthday @TrevorBoudreau

Raul — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:20:17 +0000

My good friend Trevor Boudreau (tb communications) celebrates his birthday today (and clearly, I should have planned better as I totally would not have caught it were it not for that handy tool called Facebook). While Trevor and I met in the most traditional way (Trevor worked for Wilcox PR and he pitched me a couple of things to write about on my blog), we’ve built a solid friendship through hanging out.

Trevor also kindly volunteered his time to help me with a component of the public relations strategy for Mental Health Camp and I really appreciated that too. Smart, kind-hearted and generous, Trevor is the kind of friend we all strive to be, and few manage to become.

Trevor, I know I’ve been remiss in hanging out more, but I do hope we get an opportunity to catch a musical or go for a drink to celebrate your birthday. All the best today and every day, my friend! xo

Happy birthday Andy! (@apeatling)

Raul — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 22:40:11 +0000

I had pre-scheduled this blog post a while ago (as I normally do when I can actually recall my friends’ birthdays) and as it so happens, it’s probably close to the end of the day in Ireland where my good friend Andy Peatling lives now. Andy, all the best today and every day and looking forward to hanging out when you are back in Vancouver!

Photo credit: Terry Chay on Flickr

Happy birthday, Gus! (@GusF)

Raul — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 08:01:14 +0000

Blogging has brought me many, many great things, some not so good. But the one thing I am most grateful for is the friendships that my blog has brought to me. My very good friend Gus Fosarolli is hands down one of my very best friends, to the point that I see him like my brother. We have many things in common (we are both Latin-blooded, we both speak Spanish, and we both have blogs).

More than anything, we both value friendships and have a very strong sense of loyalty and devotion to our loved ones. It’s been amazing to grow a friendship with someone who is so dedicated to his loved ones, be it his Mom, his family, his partner or his friends. You are a true inspiration, Gus. You are smart, loving and extremely supportive of everything I do, and for that I am grateful, very grateful.

Love you lots, and I hope you have a wonderful birthday. I’m sorry I am not in Vancouver to celebrate but we’ll celebrate next week!

Dinner at the Tigh-Na-Mara’s Cedar Room

Raul — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 16:00:22 +0000

I have extremely fond memories of the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort and Spa, as evidence by the ample coverage I’ve provided it on my site. I’ve stayed at this wonderful Parksville oceanside resort 3 times already, including when I covered Parksville Uncorked and this summer when my Mom and I got away for a few weeks to Vancouver Island.

This past December, my friend Luba Plotnikoff and I were invited for dinner by Jenn Houtby (Director of Marketing at the Tigh-Na-Mara). It was simply superb, and I wish I had made sure to get better lighting because I don’t think my photos make justice to the amazing Caesar salad and salmon risotto I had when visiting the Cedar Room (for the third time, I might add). I never get tired of the Tigh-Na-Mara.

It was a really fun evening and reminded me of the fact that my friendaversary with Jenn and Luba (as well as Tanya Smith and Dana Hutchings from CHEK TV) is precisely coming up at Parksville Uncorked 2011. I look forward to celebrating again! Thanks so much to Jenn and to the Tigh-Na-Mara for such a delicious dinner. The menu at the Cedar Room is always innovative, reasonably priced and more importantly, the service is top-notch.

My dinner (the Fresh Seafood Mixed Grill, with Ahi tuna, scallops and tiger prawns, saffron garlic cream and citrus risotto, $29) was absolutely delicious (who can say no to saffron garlic cream, risotto and seafood), and compared to other similar high-end restaurants I’ve been to in Vancouver, the price was in the same scale.

I will definitely come back to the Cedar Room next time I’m in Parksville (which is coming up as I’ll be covering Parksville Uncorked).

Disclosure: My and Luba’s dinner at the Tigh-Na-Mara’s Cedar Room Restaurant in Parksville was complimentary. Thanks to Jenn Houtby and the Tigh-Na-Mara, as they wanted to be part of my recent Vancouver Island writing retreat (which included stops in Victoria, Courtenay/Comox, Nanaimo and Parksville/Qualicum Beach). However, I covered every other single expense I incurred during this travel, including (but not limited to) breakfast, lunch, dinner and transportation (except when explicitly indicated). I wasn’t paid to write this review, nor was I required to do so either. The purpose of this blog entry is just to describe and document my experience at the resort. In any review I write or publish on my site, I retain editorial control at all times. Should you have any questions/concern feel free to contact me via e-mail through my contact form.

Renfrew Ravine and Renfrew Park (Vancouver)

Raul — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 19:45:05 +0000

I never get tired of my walks around the city with my good friend Erica Hargreave. Actually, I never get tired of walking anywhere with my friends, to be quite honest. Particularly when it comes to discovering somewhat unusual places in the city. I’m a sucker for all things urban nature, and having a water stream flow through in such a distinct manner as it does through the Renfrew Ravine makes me go all giddy for no good reason. Plus, it’s in my neighbourhood of East Vancouver. Go East Vancouver!

I have written about the Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival before, but I wrote that post when I had actually not been there (though admittedly, my friend Tris Hussey and I gave a talk at the Renfrew Park Community Centre last year on how to grow your readership through blogging).

A couple of weeks ago, Erica and I wandered around to check it out. Walking through the ravine, we found a labyrinth, a German-Canadian monument and lots of beautiful, peaceful nature.

As you may (or may not know) my research encompasses the industrial/urban transformation of cities and its environmental effects, so I am always keen to explore urban settings and appreciate the intersection of nature with urbanization. Erica and I walked through the Renfrew Ravine Greenway all the way from 29th Avenue Skytrain station to the Renfrew Park.

Beautiful natural water streams and bodies within urban settings never cease to amaze me. I am just as fascinated with Renfrew Ravine as I am with my beloved Trout Lake. Both beautiful locations within my East Vancouver neighbourhood.

The Friendaversary

Raul — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 18:00:52 +0000

We make up words, I admit. Heck, I am a wordsmith for all I know! So it was fun to have a chance to chat with my good friend Jason Sanders recently and mention about the fact that our Friendaversary is coming up. Yes, I made up this word (or maybe we made it up together?)

Jason and I met and became friends at last year’s Twestival, which this year is on March 24th, 2011, and again organized by another good friend of mine, Rebecca Bollwitt).

I don’t really think Rebecca and I actually have a friendaversary date set in our calendars, although I would fathom that perhaps our friendaversary would be the end of July every year (as we both did Blogathon 2007 and that sort of triggered our friendship).

With other good friends, like Arieanna and Ianiv Schweber, Derek and Airdrie Miller, Beth Snow, Tod Maffin, Isabella Mori, I’d say my friendaversary falls around Northern Voice (as is the case with many of my other friends from the blogging community).

With my friends Gus and Russ I don’t have a specific friendaversary date, but I do have a very fond memory of when Gus took Russ and I for dinner after my 2008 Blogathon.

And of course, I do have a specific friendaversary with Minna Van and Jay Catalan and the rest of the team at The Network Hub, which is April of 2008. Almost 3 years I’ve been at The Network Hub. Can you imagine? My, how time flies! I can even remember the very first time I set foot at The Network Hub, which was in April of 2008 when I liveblogged one of the very first Third Tuesday that I ever attended. I am so glad I did, because I managed to build a very strong friendship with the whole Network Hub team (even more so with Minna and Jay). So here is my question to you – do you ever celebrate your ‘friendaversaries’?

No related posts.

Happy birthday Dr. @Beth77

Raul — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 23:19:27 +0000

We are both academics, we both have PhDs, we both write blogs, we both have crushing debts, and we care deeply about the environment. AND we both love teaching. On your birthday, Dr. Beth, I wish you all the very best!

Happy birthday Rebecca! (@miss604)

Raul — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 17:18:03 +0000

Photo credit: John Bollwitt on Flickr

January is a good month for birthdays of good friends of mine. A few years ago, almost 5, I started blogging and around a year later, I started reading the local blog Miss604.com, written by who now has become a close friend of mine, Rebecca Bollwitt. While we are both incredibly busy and both of our blogs are pretty popular, we’ve made an effort to maintain our friendship outside of the whole social media world. As I once told Rebecca, I couldn’t care less that she is Miss604, the popular Vancouver blogger and the WordPress site-building guru. To me, she’s my friend and that’s what is important. Because after all is said and done, all we have to speak for ourselves is our actions and the people we care for and we love. I’m glad I got to celebrate your birthday, Rebecca, and I look forward to many years of birthday celebrations, both yours and mine! Have a wonderful day.

Marble Slab (Denman and Davie, West End)

Raul — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 03:03:46 +0000

Calories consumed with good friends don’t count. At least, that’s what I tell myself. And that’s what I told my good friend Rebecca Bollwitt (Miss604) in order to convince her to join me for some ice cream (originally we were going to go for a very healthy frozen yogurt at Qoola, but they were closed) after I took her for lunch to Miko Sushi (for her pre-birthday lunch). So, we headed almost next door to Marble Slab.

I ordered a small size cup of cotton candy flavor ice cream with blackberries (pictured above). The beautiful thing about Marble Slab is that you get to see them mix the ice cream and add-ons right there, on a marble slab (hence the name). Rebecca ordered double chocolate ice cream with some almonds which looked absolutely delicious too. I am totally hooked on Marble Slab, and I’ll definitely come back sometime soon!

Once your desired flavor has been selected, the magic begins. We scoop the ice cream onto a frozen marble slab, where your choice of fruits, nuts and candies, known as Marble Slab Creamery “mixins,” will be skillfully blended in with the ice cream, then finally piled high on the delectable waffle cone of your choosing. The result is your very own, one-of-a-kind dessert. From there, repeat as desired, which will probably be often.

I am totally addicted now to Marble Slab. This is not going to be helpful for any weight loss. But it’s SO yummy.

Disclosure: I paid for both of our ice creams out of my own pocket.

Happy belated birthday André (@ramcio)

Raul — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 22:56:44 +0000

I am a horrible friend. Well, not really, but I am terrible when it comes to scheduling blog posts. So, my good friend André Malan (currently finishing his undergraduate degree in Computer Science at UBC) had a birthday this past January 2nd. And I had in my mind “oh, yes – I will schedule André’s birthday blog post RIGHT after I schedule Chris Walts’ post (as his birthday is January 1st)”. And then I forgot. I totally forgot, despite the fact that I had been corresponding with André via email (he has been instrumental in helping me implement technology tools to my teaching at UBC). And that makes me feel twice as guilty.

So, in lieu of an apologetic email (which you will also get) here is a big, public celebration of your (belated) birthday, my friend. It has been great getting to know you and learning along with you about how I can implement technology, seen through the eyes of one stellar student. You have mentored me in implementing a student-centred view of technological platforms for higher education and I am grateful both for our friendship and for the help you have provided me. And I am sure many of my hundreds of current and past students are grateful too!

Happy belated birthday André!

Happy birthday, @ChrisWalts

Raul — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 15:39:55 +0000

Year after year, for some reason, there’s something that gets in the way of me having a chance to wish my good friend Chris Walts (of The 49th Parallel fame) happy birthday in person. Either I am out of town with family, or I’m out of town on my own. But it’s almost a given that I’m going to have to wish him happy birthday a few days late. That’s ok, because in the geekiest of forms, here’s a blog post for him.

Chris, it’s always a pleasure to spend time with you and you’re one of the best friends anyone could ask for. Your honesty, directness and bubbly personality are just matched by your smarts. Much love as always and happy new year, and happy birthday!