[Gaming] Oops, I Did it Again...

 I made a new alt...got lost in the game. Ooh, baby it might seem like too much, but that doesn't mean, that I'm serious! 

 Ahem. Anyways. On the agenda today? My alt problem, and patch 5.0.4.!

 Yeah...So, I decided it was better to have my alts all on one server, (or three, in reality), so I deleted my old ones (most weren't quite level 30 yet), and re-rolled them onto less servers. If anyone wants a breakdown, here ya go:
Moon Guard
In my Horde guild, the Bahari : Deizi'ja (Troll druid, guild leader), Boomber (Goblin mage), Tiragh (Orc warrior), Buugi (Troll shaman), Lauradel (Forsaken death knight), Kavnah (Tauren hunter), and soon to inclue Dai'xi (Pandaren monk).
Alliance side, I've got Kisytt (Worgen rogue) in a friends' guild, Jade Dragons.

Medivh
I've made an Alliance version of The Bahari, which is home to Theiah (Human paladin, guild leader), Gimmix (Gnome mage), Shaleyn (Dwarf shaman), and Silvarah (Night Elf priest).

Antonidas
In a friend's guild, Brotherhood of Steel, is Kaijah (Draenei death knight).

I've made it a point to have at least one of each race and class. Because I'm a dork. :P I may be setting up some pages for them here to post their information, back stories, etc. That reminds me, I need to update this page's wallpaper, it's pretty out of date.

 This is what I do. Deal with it. 

Now, onto the latest patch, 5.0.4. How much do I love this? I want to have Blizzard's babies. I can't rave about the account-wide mounts and pets enough! I'm sure there are plenty of people whining about a new, bigger, shinier 'easy button'...but as a gal who has an obvious alt problem, this makes me very happy. To not have to grind on every alt of that pretty pet or mount that I want? YES. No more Mag'har grinding for Talbuk mounts on another alt? Thank you! I'm so happy that Blizzard finally implemented this. I'm sure we'll find plenty of bugs and kinks, as I doubt this was terribly easy for them to set up. (Especially with the pet battle system now underway.)

Pet battles...now, we can't actually use this feature yet, so it's hard to say for sure what will happen. However, I'm really hoping this new account-wide business comes into play with this  as well, in that if I level  a pet on one server, that will carry over to the other. This though, is just my alt-itis speaking again. *cough*

I don't really pay attention to patch notes, so a lot of this is new to me. Though, I did watch a video that highlighted some of the bigger things like account-wide bliss. One feature I'm liking is a "What has changed?" tab on the (I believe) Spellbook window. It gives you the rundown on the changes to your class. How handy is that? I love it!

Another delightful surprise (and another 'easy button' feature, which I love, because I'm lazy), is the boost to guild xp and reputation! Instead of grinding guild rep for years just to get to friendly, I'm flying into the good graces of my guild! For example, I had Shaleyn join The Bahari at level one. By the time she hit level five, she was friendly with the guild. Wowzah! I'm sure I'd be level sixty by the time that happened in the "olden days". Granted, that doesn't mean I've come close to being able to afford the 125g tabard that unlocks at friendly. Ah well. I most certainly won't complain!

In short, thank you Blizzard! You've made the life of a hopeless altoholic so much more happy and enjoyable. <3

-Jenicsaco

PS: While it's not super fantastic, my lag problem seems to have vanished when I got a new mouse! Yay :D


Edit:: Drats, looks like I'm going to have to wait to update Modelviewer before I can update that. :<

[Gaming] I Want to play, I swear

I would love nothing more to play some more World of Warcraft, and get my level 80 druid to 85, so I can delve into Pandaria content soon.

However...I'm experiencing some serious lag. I don't know what has changed, because maybe...two weeks ago, it was fine. Not perfect, at 30fps, but it was good enough for me. At the moment, it bounces between 30, and 7 frames per second. Half the time, it still reads 30, but obviously is not. My mouse apparently has some issues as well...I'm not a fan of holding down the buttons on my keyboard for too long at a time, so I use the double mouse button method of running. That has started to...lag on me as well. I'm running, and every few seconds, the movement pauses for a second. It's incredibly distracting.

I play a variety of other games, and their quality hasn't changed...I don't know if it's something to do with Warcraft, or is something on my end. I should probably look into that. I tend to, however, assume it's just me. My computer really doesn't like to run such big games. Up until recently though, it's done so without much complaint.

I should note, that all of my settings are at the lowest possible options.

I just  had to voice some frustration...I'll log in for a bit, but eventually, I just can't handle the lag. If anyone has any suggestions short of smashing my computer with a sledgehammer and getting a new one, please let me know. <3

~Jenicsaco

[Animals] Meeting Theodore

So last Monday, I met Theodore. He's a three year old harbor porpoise at the Vancouver Aquarium's Marine Mammal Rescue Centre (what a mouthful!). Due to confidentiality, and respect, I won't divulge too much. I'm going to try not to speculate too much either. It was a pleasure to meet him, though. I've still got my fingers crossed for him, because I still think there's a good chance he can be released, if he survives.

It may be because he's probably exhausted, and in some pain, but he seems pretty laid back. Compared to Jack and Daisy, his personality seems to be a lot less...attention-whorish. He's not jittery, and quite calm for the most part. Bear in mind, this is just my observations from sitting next to his pool for four hours. I could have just caught him on some down time, for all I know.

I'll be going back next week, which I'm looking forward to. It takes me an hour and a half to get there, and for a four hour shift, it can take a bit to get myself going. It's always worth it when I get to the centre though. Porpoise watch is pretty relaxed, and much easier on my bad back than it was to work with the seal pups that come in. I like that I can still help out.

Seal pups, I feel the need to mention, are adorable. However...a thought came to me on Monday when I was watching Theo. There's a pool with pups close to being able to be released directing behind me, which is blocked off by tarp and barrier across the ground. I could reach back and touch a pup if it was on the haul-out, if the barrier weren't there. And if I wanted to lose my position, probably job, and maybe a finger. That's how close they are. Anyways...seal pups sound an awful lot like zombies. Adorable little zombies. Espescially when you can't see them...The "maw'ing", groaning and moaning, and other odd noises. Just sayin'.

~Jenicsaco

[Wedding] One Step Closer

Okay, so it's update time!
I'm still in contact with the super nice lady, and she's sent me some proposals for some ideas on venue options. Now, I had said my budget was $1400 (canadian). My mom told me that I could push my my budget to $1900. The only reason I allowed this, was because I know having my wedding at an actual venue, not a hall, would take care of my biggest problem. They will handle all of the set-up/take-down. That was my biggest stress, and it's gone. That peace of mind is worth so much more than what they're charging.

At the moment, we're looking into a pasta buffet, which also comes with salad and garlic bread, and desserts. Who'd oppose that? Sounds great, and with everything else (decorations, set-up, taxes) it's just over $1800. Wow. It looks like I'm getting close to a wedding I never thought I'd be able to have!

I'm going to see the venue in September to check everything out. I'm so excited! Also really looking forward to meeting the woman who's been helping me. That's very odd of me to say...I'm generally crazy shy.

That's about it for wedding updates at the moment, I guess...short, but pretty darned exciting if you ask me!

My next big task is finding an officiant...Non-religous, and not stuffy. If anyone knows someone, let me know!

~Jenicsaco

[Transit] Single-file Monkey Style?

So proper escalator etiquette dictates that you "walk left, stand right". However, there are some idiots who refuse the acknowledge this, and stand on the left side. Despite the growing line of annoyed people behind them, who are considerably less lazy.

Today, I saw a blind man get on the escalator with his dog. They got on, the man on the right, the dog on his left. The man pulled the dog closer to his side, to free up space on the left. "Come here, let's leave room for people to walk." he said. The BLIND man has better etiquette then a good handful of diagonal-bound folks. Seriously. It isn't a difficult task. Do you have some grand excuse that you absolutely must stand beside the person you're traveling with? Doubtful. Quit being a douche.

Lines. I've ranted about this on other blogs before, but I'm in the mood to do so again.
Let's go with a recent experience. Today I went to grab a drink at Tim Hortons. Generally, the line will start at the designated 'please wait here' sign, and follow along the wall of the corridor the restaurant is in. (That make sense? ). However, some people, just want to watch the world burn. Instead of following the wall, they start turning the line so that it goes out, and cuts across the corridor, blocking the pedestrian flow. What is wrong with you? Do you lead such a charmed life that you need to rebel now and then? Try a different shampoo, instead of inconveniencing other mall-goers.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. A line is one of the most simple concepts. It's a line, that's all there is to it. Why do people feel the need to deviate from the norm, and take it on an outrageous new adventure?

Lines for the bus are even worse. When I wait for a bus, unless it's pouring rain and I don't have an umbrella, I will stand next to the bus stop to wait. That's just what you do, isn't it? I can understand elderly people sitting on the benches, and anyone else with an injury or something like that. I don't think that gives them the right to budge in line though...I dunno, when I'm old and grey, I will wait my turn in line. If people are kind enough to let me in front, great. I'd hope someone would also offer my a courtesy seat, but that's it.

 So sit on the bench if you need to, or stand in line. Don't be a weirdo standing next to the benches, or 5,6,7 feet down the road from the bus stop. Just, use some common sense, eh?

Ugh, I'm done. /endrant

-Jenicsaco

[Wedding] Fingers Crossed!

That's something I've been doing a lot lately, keeping my fingers crossed. I tend to get carried away in my hopes and dreams, get a little excited, then everything gets taken away from me. I'm expecting that to happen with this venue I've been looking at. I'm trying very hard to to get excited, but the more I talk to the events planner, the more likely it seems. Even my friends think it sounds good, which I take as a positive sign. I expect them to keep me grounded.

This place is Eaglequest Golf (Coyote Creek location). It looks beautiful. They also take care of the setup/take down of everything (which means I wouldn't have to beg people to help), and they have a complimentary bartender service (we just pay for drinks, or however we decide to do that. Cash bar or toonie bar, likely).

I was very clear to the events planner that my budget was small. I specifically told her $1400 for venue and food costs. She mentioned that the cheapest buffet was $23 per person, which I'm not sure we can afford, but it's by far the cheapest buffet option in all of the venues that I'd already looked into. She said it could be difficult, but suggested a lunch or cocktail reception.

Now, in all my e-mailings to potential vendors, I ask for costs, and look through whatever they send. Unfortunately for each, I've had to reply with "Thank you for your time. Unfortunately, this is quite a bit over my $1400 budget. I will keep you in mind though, if I am able to get some more money.". Nobody's responded to that.

However, this lovely lady at Eaglequest seems to be making every effort to find some way to accommodate me. I'm seriously impressed with this! Very friendly, and I'm getting terrified with the hope that she's giving me. I never once thought I'd ever be able to afford any sort of a 'golf course' wedding. There is hope.

She's out of town now until Monday, but I'll be giving her a call when she returns, and we'll set up a date for me to go and check out the venue. This sort of thing would normally have me very nervous. I hate talking to new people. I'm excited, comfortable, and ready to go! This should hopefully be a fun, and fruitful experience!

~Jenicsaco

[Animals] Rest in Peace, Kavna

This afternoon, the Vancouver Aquarium lost long time resident, Kavna. She was a 46(est.) year old beluga whale, who lived at the Aquarium since 1976.

My Encounter with Kavna

Kavna is estimated to be one of (if not, the) oldest living beluga whale in an aquarium. Generally, it is believed that beluga whales live to be 25-30 years old, and she had far surpassed that.

For more information, visit the Vancouver Sun's posting.

Kavna was a stubborn girl, who was very set in her ways. She was sweet though, and I'm so happy I was able to do an encounter with her. She was very gentle, and cooperative. It's my understanding that encounters with her were rare, because she could be a little fussy, so this was even more special. Thank you for your time, Kavna.

It's going to be so strange to see the Wild Arctic without here there. After so many years with her around, it just won't be the same. The Vancouver Aquarium had only been around twenty years before Kavna arrived. Most people who visited before today, though they may not know it, would not have been to the aquarium without her there.

I'm going to miss her so very much. Rest in peace, you beautiful beluga. There will never be another quite like you.

[Wedding] Holy Matrimony, Batman!

A cute little jar of honey was given to each guest as a gift.
I love the little bee, he's so cute!

Yesterday, two pretty awesome people got married, and I was there for the whole thing. My fiance's brother, married a lovely young lady. I love these guys both, and am very happy to have them both in my (almost) family.

I regret not taking any pictures, because it was quite pretty.

Let's break this review down a little bit, here. I try to keep things simple around here.

The Venue
   Hosted at the Ramada in Abbotsford, BC. The "Grand Ballroom" I believe the room was called, was huge. I never once felt too crowded, which was perfect. I hate crowds. The decorations were simple, but lovely. The hotel itself was very nice, too. I feel the need to add that I'd made an error in my reservation, booking it for the previous month. The front desk lady was extremely kind, helpful, and most importantly, calm. Everything was sorted out with no problems.

The Food
   I'm not going to write everything that was provided, but for the most part, it was fantastic. My only complaint would have been the salmon, which was very fishy, a quality that often indicates a lack of freshness. To counter that though,  their seafood is Ocean Wise , which is fantastic.
   The desserts were pretty nice (The trifle, of my goodness, I wish I took more.). I'm also going to give credit to the bride's mom. She baked a small red velvet cake, and a few dozen cupcakes. Decorated them all, to boot. Oh, did I mention that she apparently even took a (few?) cake decorating class before going on a baking rampage? It paid off, everything was beautiful! I can't speak for the red velvet, but the white cupcakes were very nummy.

Drink Service
   Two drink tickets were provided per person, and my wine glass was filled twice in the evening. That's a lot of booze, that I didn't pay for. I'm certainly not complaining, it was great! I also ended up with two extra tickets from people who weren't drinking. I think I found my new drink, as well. Malibu rum and coke. Randomly decided to try it, yummers!

The DJ
   This guy was amazing! Best DJ I've ever seen, really (not that I've seen a ton). I thought he personally knew the bride and/or groom. He was very personable, energetic, and a whole lot of fun. He played plenty of great music that I was able to get up and dance with my fiance to. During the song "You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC, he ran out on the dance floor with a (rock band) guitar and an outfit not unlike something Angus Young might wear. So unexpected! He also hosted a fun sort of musical chairs/scavenger hunt type game (which I need to remember for my own wedding), and made the garter/bouquet toss incredibly entertaining. If anyone needs a DJ in the Lower Mainland, I'll have to suggest Barry Chisholm, of Garry Robertson DJ Entertainment. 

The Attire
First off, the men looked so very sharp in their tuxedos provided by Moore's. The bride, I believe purchased her dress from David's Bridal. The bridal party was very well put together, and looked fantastic. Really, that's about all I have to say.

This is the dress style the bride wore, plus a gold sash.
The details are beautiful! 

My fiance modelling  the groommen tuxedos. Yeowza!

I think that about wraps it up. It was a fantastic event, and I had such an incredibly good time! Danced all night, and met a ton of new family members.

This morning, we got up a little early and took a dip in the hotel's swimming pool. It was wonderful, it was just the two of us. So much fun! Well, except the aftermath in my hair...I really hate chlorine.

[Health] Thank you, Starbucks

So yesterday morning started off darned well. I walked into my local Starbucks, and ordered a drink, and a sandwich. They took my name for my drink. The cashier was super pleasant, and the barista was very nice as well, sharing idle banter with me about the weather while she made my drink (which, by the way, was the best Caramel Macciato I've had in a very long time). She wished me a good day as I took my items and headed out. At the front door, I heard the cashier call, "Have a great day, Jen!". That's a first! I'm normally a little weirded out by people I don't know using my name...but it was nice. I felt welcome, and at home. That, is great service.

I wish I'd gone there today, because I could use some of those good vibes...Today is not a good day. It's not bad, but I am just utterly depressed today. I had a terrible night, for reasons I don't yet feel comfortable delving into. I don't want to scare off too many readers yet. Regardless, I'm fairly sure it was around 3am when I finally got to sleep. Now I'm tired, and weighed down by the residual depression. Certain stressful things lately are also hindering, I suppose. It's one of those depressions I just can't seem to pull myself out of, either. Just better to let it be, I suppose...

Even some new yellow nail polish gifted to me by my fiance, and purple Crackle hasn't fully brought me up. Makes me smile to look at it...but it doesn't last. Let's just try and get through the day, now.