[Gaming] What was that?!

So, I played Minecraft the other day. It wasn't my first time, but it was the first since it was officially launched, I believe. It's been a heck of a long time.

I found a nice seed to play, and spent the day gathering materials. As the sun went down, I retreated to a house in the nearby village. I did some crafting, and read my book for a while, as I waited for sun rise. Evidently, I should have kept myself up to date on the changes. I knew about Endermen, and that was enough to make me want to stop playing.

Now, I'm happy to watch someone play a scary game. I'll prance around in anticipation behind them, but I generally don't scare* until you put a controller of keyboard/mouse in my hand. However, I thought that at night, all I had to worry about were creepers, zombies, skeletons, spiders, and Endermen. Apparently, the zombies now making a loud banging sound when they touch doors. I did not know this. All I knew was something was trying to bang down my door and eat my face. Can they actually break the door? Can monsters get in now?? It turns out, there was nothing even at my house that I could see. I do recall seeing a zombie across the village at someone else's door, though. I guess that's where the racket was coming from...
Thanks, Notch, for instilling that extra bit of terror in what I thought was going to be a fun, and mostly relaxing kind of game.

Yes, boys and girls, this is what
terror looks like in the world of Jenicsaco. 

* The "water level" in Amnesia thus far has been the only exception. That was terrifying even to watch!

~Jenicsaco

[Animals] Here We Go Again

So, another harbor porpoise has been rescued of BC's coast! And again, I've signed up to help. Confidentiality keeps me from saying too much, or posting any pictures. At least, that was the drills last time, I assume it's the same as always. Regardless, I'm excited! A young adult, named Theodore.

Click here for more info on Theodore. Photo credit goes to
the Vancouver Aquarum. 

I know I shouldn't speculate, but if he survives (that's a huge if), I think chances could be good that he could be released. That is of course, assuming the damage done to his tail doesn't have any lasting effects. Though, it is to my understanding that stranded cetaceans often suffer from serious muscle damage. So, that could have a negative impact as well. It would be nice to seem him released though. It would be fantastic for the Aquarium, knowing that for any new animal that makes its home there, "animal rights" groups have a field day. "Oh, they just want another animal for their collection.". If these groups really knew anything about these animals, they would know that they could not survive in the wild. (I'm referring to Jack and Daisy, here) The decision to be released, or kept, is not even up to the Aquarium in any way. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (a government operation) is responsible for that decision.

Due to the fact that he's a bit older than Jack and Daisy were, I think he stands a better chance of release. However, it seems that the older animals haven't done as well in recovery, and the muscle damage/tail wound  could really impact his recovery and chance of release.

Then again, I'm just thinking aloud here, and I don't have any fancy degrees, and I can't speak for the animal care staff. Please do not take this post too seriously. Anything could happen. Let's all just wish Theodore good luck, and a speedy recovery.

[Wedding] Surprise Generosity

So I don't know anyone that isn't terribly well off right now, financially. Or at least, doesn't complain about money. That's how it always is though, isn't it? Anyhow, with that being said, I never really expected much help from anyone save for maybe a little cooking, or helping set up. Things like that, that I really truly need help with. That isn't to say that I have a lot of money or anything, but I fully anticipated that my fiance and I would be paying every last penny for the wedding. I had accepted that, and it was fine.

However, my mum decided to surprise me. Massively. She sent me enough money to pay for my dress, and then some (Keep in mind, our budget is only $2000, but still. It was plenty). She's apparently doing well enough in her sales that she felt like she could spare some for her daughters wedding. I cried. I can't possibly thank her enough. (That being said, I'll put up a link to her website below. Check it out!)

That blew my mind, but then at my housewarming party, one of my bridesmaids really surprised me. She offered to take care of my liquor. Whatever I decide I want to do, hosted bar, self-serve, licences/research. That's been one thing I've been struggling with. Figuring out licences, and whether or not I should even serve alcohol. It's been a bit confusing for me. That she's offered to help me with this, I can't even. She's a pro drinker, so I know that she know's what she's talking about, and she knows what's what. Trust is something I very rarely dish out, and I trust her with this.

There are some aspects of my wedding that are making me pretty anxious...but some pretty amazing things have happened. I hope that the trend continues....I want this to be a great and fun event for my friends/family.



This is my mom's website, with links to all her shops. She sells a wide variety of artsy things. (My favorite is her Etsy shop, Licorice Wits. Odd, quirky, and offbeat stuff.)

www.SavageArtworks.ca

[PG-13] Happiest News

So, the other day I had sent an e-mail to my apartment's manager inquiring as to when/if my lights would be fixed after an outlet was installed in my bathroom. Thankfully, they're coming today. She also mentioned to me that in response to a noise complaint send the night before, that the neighbors below us will be moving out at the end of August. I cannot convey how happy this made me. (Granted, someone worse could move in below...but let's think positive!).

Let me elaborate a little here. These guys have been a nightmare for me. I think it may have something to do with my Misophonia...maybe. My brain just isn't wired like it should be. The bass from the music they play, when loud enough, just completely frazzles me in a way I can't really explain. It makes me feel panicked, terrified, and at its worst times, I've ended up curled on my bed sobbing hysterically. In general though, it's simply too loud. I should never be able to feel their music in my feet, in my chest.

My fiance and I have taken to stomping on the ground when it gets too loud, and for the most part, they turn it down. The weird thing is, the music doesn't generally last for very long, so I have no idea what they're doing. It's always the same songs, too. Still, it's just too loud. This happens thankfully only two to four times a week, generally.

The guy scares me though, which is why neither of us has personally confronted him. Our manager has given them two notices now though, to keep to volume down. From above, I hear this guy yelling a lot. Generally along the lines of "FUCK!". The tone of voice though, gives me the impression he'd have no problem slugging someone who told him what to do. I want to avoid him at all costs. I'm pretty sure I heard fighting during one drunken evening. Classy.

Anyhow, yes. This was absolutely fantastic news to hear.

Most un-dear neighbor guy....

Sincerely, 

~Jenicsaco

[Animals] My New Fur Baby

Our handsome boy, Monster. 

So yesterday (July 21st, 2012), we acquired a kitty!
His name is Monster, who's a five year old tabby (born June 21st). We adopted him from my fiance's dad, who will be moving soon-ish.

His old parents brought over some essentials that they had; food, bowls, bed. We used a small Rubbermaid tote for a makeshift litter box last night, which he used with no problem. He didn't seem to mind being in a new home either, even still. Within the first hour or two, he had plenty to eat and drink, and used the litterbox a few hours later. He's wandered around headbutting everything, rubbing his scent all around, and spending lots of quality time in his bed from his old home. He's vaguely familiar with Scott and I, but either way, I don't think he'd mind. He's very friendly, and affectionate, again, lots of rubbing and attention seeking without being annoying or aggressive.

We took a trip to PetSmart today to pick up some more food, litter pan, a cat carrier, and a few other little things. I found the cat carrier that I saw online that I'd wanted, and I'm -so- happy with it. We loaded the small things into it for the trip home, so it was probably as heavy as Monster, and the grip on the shoulder straps made it very, very comfortable. I wouldn't mind using it as a purse.

The Bergan Elite Pet Carrier.
Super comfy. 

We got the 'Jumbo' sized one
 with double locks.

Sheets of plastic with holes for loose litter
to fall back through. 

It's nice to have another cat...despite some the less fun things like cleaning the litter box. I think I made a good call with the litter box that I did purchase. However, despite asking someone if they thought the large sifting liners were the right size, we still ended up with ones too small. Oh well. We're just not using them,  and going bare-box. Too bad though, I've never seen or heard of sifting liners, but they're a really neat idea! I'm happy to report that he's used the second new litter box, too! This makes me extra happy, because Monster was typically an outdoor cat, going outside whenever he pleased by way of cat door.

I'm curious to see how Monster transitions from having that freedom to come and go as he pleases, to being strictly indoor. We live in an apartment on the second floor, any outdoor privileges are simply not going to happen. Unless I decide to harness train him. Thus far, he's followed me to the balcony door a couple times and rubbed against it, or just sat by it. I imagine he's expecting me to open it for him, but that's been pretty rare. The front door, which I dreaded, hasn't been an issue. When we're leaving, he's either in his bed, or sleeping under our bed. He really doesn't seem to pay much attention at all to the front door, which is fantastic!
I'd fully anticipated him to be out of sorts for a couple of days, while he transitioned, but really...Monster hasn't missed a beat.
An interesting quirk of his, is that unless he's walking around, or sound asleep, he's kneading. Making biscuits. Whatever. My goodness, does he have big paws, too! So I'll warn anyone that wants to hold him, or let him sleep on their lap...You'll probably get claws. I'm not really sure that he can even help it. It's cute as heck to watch though. We figure he was taken from his mom too early. This was also suspected by his old parents, and a lady at Pet Smart.  A happy alternative is just sitting next to him and giving him all the rubs and pets you can stand to give him. I've gotten bored with petting him before he'd tire of it every time so far. And that says a lot,

I'm happy, though. Since losing Skittles in 2010, once the pain had faded, roughly a year later, I've seriously wanted a cat in my life again. Now we have Monster...and his fluffiness reminds me so much of Skittles...this is a nice addition to my life. It's new, but not too strange.

Oh Monster, you sexy beast. 

My Porpoise In Life

So let me start off by saying that I never thought I would even see a harbor porpoise in real life, let alone have the opportunity to help rehabilitate three. Honestly, harbor porpoises weren't really even on my radar. I knew of them, I thought they were cute, but that was about it. Now though, I have a deep fondness and passion and respect for the species.

Daisy and her precious noodles.

The first was Daisy. My first shift started with her in September, 2008. It was instant love. She spent a lot of time puttering around in a sling that was made just for her, to help support her in the water while she was too weak to swim. Once she was strong enough, she seemed to develop a love for pool noodles. She'd push them around on her little head. I remember having to make sure that they didn't cover her blow-hole. I took the noodle off once, and pushed it away from her....Daisy promptly picked up the noodle on her head and swam back to me. I'm convinced she thought she was a dog...

Daisy even inspired me to get a tattoo, my second one. Porpoise flukes splashing out from some waves, with of course, a daisy in the background.

Daisy coming over to say 'hello!'.

In July 2009, she was deemed non-releasable by the Canadian government, and was transferred to the Vancouver Aquarium. In my opinion, they made the right decision (I apply this thought to Jack as well.) She was too dependent on humans, and having stranded at such a very young age, she had next to none of the skills necessary to survive in the wild. She's thriving now, and (pardon my anthromorphism), she seems pretty darned content. She seems in enjoy the visitors that come to see her, as well as her new companion, Jack. 

Learn more about Daisy here.




Siyay was the second harbor porpoise that I met. A little older than Daisy. "Sub-adult" they called him. I had one, maybe two shifts with him in May, 2011. He was rescued on April 26, 2011. Unfortunately, this handsome boy didn't survive...He would seem to get better, then something would get worse. It was up and down a lot...

Siyay, Unknown Source. Credit goes to the photographer, not myself. 

The cause of death ended up being a terrestrial parasite called "protozoan endephalitus", something in his brain that I don't think ever could have been detected. I hope that he last days were as comfortable as they could have been....he was certainly surrounded by people that loved him. I'm sorry we couldn't help you, Siyay.


Official photos of Siyay.
More information about his rescue here and his death here.

A typical 'Jack' greeting. 

Jack was the third, and latest porpoise that I was able to work with, my first shift starting in October 2011. When I say 'work with', by the way, I mean monitoring respiration-rate, assisting with feeding, watching for strange behavior, and more or less babysitting.  Jack was a lot different from Daisy...similar to boys vs, girls, I suppose. While Daisy liked playing with her toys, Jack was more outgoing and "Hey, look at me!".  He liked to spyhop (he still does), and like Daisy, he also seemed to enjoy retrieving his toys and bringing them back.

This is typically what you'll see now when you visit the "Sugar Seal Pool".
You can tell it's Jack by the long white scar in front of his dorsal fin. 

In May 2012 (I think...honestly can't remember exactly when), Jack made his debut at the Vancouver Aquarium. Sharing a habitat with Daisy, and being as social as ever. Jack seems to absolutely love any visitors that come to see him, spending most of his day at the viewing window. (It's hard to leave him, when you know he'll be there, watching you walk away. I wonder if he thinks to himself, "Why are they leaving? What did I do?".) He's a people-pleaser, that's for sure. Their habitat is not a main attraction, but I implore anyone visiting the Vancouver Aquarium to go and visit the harbor porpoises. No, not the "baby dolphins". They are very different. There is plenty of signage to tell you exactly who, and what they are. Daisy now has things on her mind other than visitors, quite often, so it is like Jack that will be the first to come and say hi.

Learn more about Jack here.

Sometimes, you get both, and everything becomes the cutest thing you've ever seen. 

Wedding Woes

Okay, this seems like a good time for a post, while I'm bashing my head against the wall.

I had thought I found a good, affordable place that would balance cost and set-up, but after looking a little deeper, it's still way beyond my budget, which was probably too high to begin with. It was $3000, but I've knocked it down to $2000. I really can't let it go higher than that.


So now...I'm looking at renting a hall, or something similar. That can become very affordable, but at the cost of having to ask my friends and family to help with set-up and take down. That's one thing I want to avoid like the plague. I'd feel like scum, asking my loved ones to help me set things up and tear it down.

If anyone knows of some great and uber cheap locations for food, venue, or anything else in the Surrey/Vancouver area, please let me know!

The good news? I've got about $1300 save for the wedding so far! (Honeymoon is a different beast entirely...)

Introducing...Me

So this post is a little more about me, and things I'll be blogging about here...exciting, right?

Finances - I don't know how much I'll touch on that, but currently, my fiance and I are trying to find that balance between paying off a large credit card bill, a loan, paying our bills, and also saving for our wedding/honeymoon, as well as a down payment on a home (or condo, or townhouse). The saving's going slow at the moment, with me only putting $20 from each paycheck towards wedding and home. Of course though, bills must always come first.  We're still working on that bit where we need to spend more carefully...I think our food bills end up to be way more than they should be.

Wedding - I was proposed to (much to my surprise) on December 17th, 2011. There's no specific date quite yet, but it will be sometime in October, 2013. So, I plan to go over my whole wedding planning experience here. It should be interesting!

Food - Uh, yeah. So, I love food. I'm not a fancy fois gras kinda gal though...I like to be able to pronounce what I'm eating. Simple things...I may give a whirl at restaurant reviews, who knows? I'll also share recipes I find/make up here, and other things of that sort.

Parenting - I'm not a mom yet, and probably won't be for a few more years. Regardless, every bone in my body aches to be a mom, it has for as long as I can remember. I'll be posting mom-related thoughts and ideas here in the mean time. In my previous occupation, I feel I've learned a lot about proper parenting (through the fails I've seen on a daily basis), and would like to share that wisdom.

That's pretty much it, which is actually quite a broad spectrum for a blog, I think! I'll try to keep this organized and tidy, though.

~Jenicsaco~

Internal Struggle

World of Warcraft and I have an...interesting relationship. I am constantly switching between two phases.
A) I'm going to play! I want to have one 85 of each race/class. (You can see all my alts on the page background, as well as through a link on the sidebar.)
B) I'm an adult now, I need to always be productive. Hours in Warcraft is a waste of my time.

In the end, I'm a big kid, and I like games. I'm even trying to get into my fiance's board and card games. I've played the basic Arkham (sp?) Horror, and I've built a few decks with my Rage cards. They're both a lot of fun. At least just playing with him. I don't know why, but gaming with others makes me incredibly uncomfortable. I really don't like it.

I'm back into playing Warcraft right now...it's that time to push! My main, a troll druid, is four bars shy of 81. The cap is in sight! (Unless Pandaria somehow sneaks up on me, and is out before I can hit 85.)

Game safe, my friends.

~Jenicsaco~

[G] Addicted to 'fresh starts'

Why can't I ever complete something? I must be addicted to starting over, or something...Anyways, I've started a myriad of new blogs! All through Blogger, which is lovely. I've decided to try my hand at 'themed' blogs (the links are on the side). This way, people aren't getting bombarded with posts they aren't interested in. That seems logical to me. Doesn't it?

This isn't going to be a long post, I just wanted to put it out there, what I've been up to. They still need a bit of tweaking, but I'll start posting more regularly in the next couple of days. Until then, uh...I need a "sign-off"...

~Jenicsaco~

PS: Oh! So I've also changed my 'handle'. I decided to go with something a little more...me? I've taken the first two letters of each of my names and smashed 'em together. Je-Nic(the c was a typo, but I just went with it...)-Sa-Co (the last one is my fiance's last name, which I plan to hyphen). There you have it. Nothing too crazy or interesting. :P

I also welcome any variation of 'Jenicsaco' such as: Nic, Nikki, 'Taco', Jen, or anything else I've missed.