Ah, Hundionu is going to the vacation! The REAL vacation. The first one in my life:) It is SO needed. And I'm SO excited.
It will be the North-American style - ie seven days all inclusive in a resort on a beach! Gentle wind and warm temperatures and palmtrees and cocktails from 10 am:)
I'm just 24 days and 2 hours by car 5 hours by plain and 2 hours by bus away:)
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
the buses are back
Unbelievable! When I was destressing after the TAing over a bubbly glass of yeasty tasteness, then the city and the union reached to the agreement as they were scared of the governments "back to work" legislation, which would have been inevitable. And this means that the strike is over immediatly. Wow. It has been 51 days without buses. And now they will be back. It's going to be weird.
And it will be nice to have spacious shuttles back:)
Ahh... how little we need for happiness:)
Ironic thing is also that the union where I belong to (teaching union) sent an e-mail today at 5.07 pm, saying that the strike is ridiciolous and that the poor transit union is the under-dog in this and therefore we need to show our support. And at that time the strike was already over! (the union lost). What a bad timing for this writing. Better check the news before you click send, when it comes to strikes.
PS! But the students are still morons. I gave to kids 0 on their technical skills. Cos they were skill-less. 100%. Plus I also had 13 students instead of 10 that is also the maximal number in books. There's almost no physical space for 3 extra people. And how am I supposed to spread my love and care with these crowds? Eh... I am not impressed with this University. Anyway. I'll survive. I'm a strong Eastern European Woman!
And it will be nice to have spacious shuttles back:)
Ahh... how little we need for happiness:)
Ironic thing is also that the union where I belong to (teaching union) sent an e-mail today at 5.07 pm, saying that the strike is ridiciolous and that the poor transit union is the under-dog in this and therefore we need to show our support. And at that time the strike was already over! (the union lost). What a bad timing for this writing. Better check the news before you click send, when it comes to strikes.
PS! But the students are still morons. I gave to kids 0 on their technical skills. Cos they were skill-less. 100%. Plus I also had 13 students instead of 10 that is also the maximal number in books. There's almost no physical space for 3 extra people. And how am I supposed to spread my love and care with these crowds? Eh... I am not impressed with this University. Anyway. I'll survive. I'm a strong Eastern European Woman!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
good night, however drinkless
Another night is almost over. And no drink has fit in... Tomorrow perhaps.
But I have had a good night. Had a good chat with Sujeeve, started a career day article, finished two "arts" projects, made a plan for tomorrow. And - I made dinner:)
Now it's time for bed:)
Ah, and the most important thing - I think I will write a book! A real book, not thesis. Something to keep me busy:)
I have always wanted to write one. I have even started a few (way back about 22 years ago). And now, the idea sparked from a random comment from my Supervisors wife and got supported by a friend and honestly - why not?
But I have had a good night. Had a good chat with Sujeeve, started a career day article, finished two "arts" projects, made a plan for tomorrow. And - I made dinner:)
Now it's time for bed:)
Ah, and the most important thing - I think I will write a book! A real book, not thesis. Something to keep me busy:)
I have always wanted to write one. I have even started a few (way back about 22 years ago). And now, the idea sparked from a random comment from my Supervisors wife and got supported by a friend and honestly - why not?
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
first days of freedom
Updates:
on Friday we (BMI Grad Student council) had a Career Day. SUCH a success! More than 100 people (so many people won't even show up to the compulsory events), and a great line of speakers. Again - very inspirational. I was actually hoping to get some answers, but it seems that I am simply too good. I could do EVERYTHING. Well, actually I do have some thoughts... but I'll come back to them later.
But all and all I feel very satisfied with the event. Now there's just the ski-trip to be attend, but overall we have accomplished all of the goals/dreams I set a year ago.
Friday night I went to Patty Bolands - an Irish Pub on the market. It used to be a decent place... for a pub. But wow, not anymore. First they demanded 2.50 for cover and forced us to leave our coats to the coat-check. And gave us attitude not to lose the tickets, 'cos then we have to stay until 2.30 am. Do I look 12 and fully drunk to you????
And then the place was full of too young too drunk people, who threw up at some point. The beverages were served in plastc (!!). I was lucky enough to get one beer served in a glass and so I kept re-pouring my other 2 beers from plastic into that. And the music - SO loud! And so off tuned. Horrible. I was deaf all Saturday.
Anyway - if it weren't for Juzer's birthday, I would have not stayed. But the Birthday -related stuff was all good - good people and good chats.
Saturday I pretended to clean and organized an entire floor-full of papers. And then headed to Dorotas. We made guljash (hungarian meat dish) togehter and had lots of tea and watched tv. Such a wonderful night.
And Sunday we had a superlong breakfast and chatted and played with Kornelius (the cat) and went for a walk around the neighbourhood. Once I made it home I was ready for bed:)
Monday I went skating for the first time this season. I woke up and the radio announced -35 degrees outside... Hmmm, I thought. But I had a deal with Supervisors wife that we meet at 10.30 am at the Canal Ritz. So I just bundled up and headed to the canal. It was NICE. Smooth ice, frail snow falling, no people. Indeed, my soles started to cramp after the first kilometer, but I toughed it out and made it to the meeting point and then to the Dows lake (the end) and back to Canal Ritz for the lunch. Really nice. And then I skated back home:) I was glad I made it out. It didn't feel THAT cold. And skating was amazing.
Later I watched "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist". A romantic movie. Voted as one of the best romantic movies from 2008, and it was really, really cute! I recommend. It's with the same guy who played Bleaker in "Juno" (Michael Cera) and Kat Dennings - a really pretty girl.
And today is Monday. I made it to work today. To get rid of all the extra theses at home (I almost broke my toes over them and then almost broke my back carrying them) and to have lunch with Dorota and to urge supervisor to send in my examiners. But I also got a bad news today.... I'm not going to Tanzania... I really wanted to. Lets Talk Science was sending 2 volunteers over there to teach for 3 weeks in September. And I wanted to go. But it seems it was not meant to be. I think it's their loss, honestly. Because I am their longest standing volunteer, and I have loads of experience and I am resourceful and calm, which is important when travelling so far. Anyway... no go. It may be better for my career anyway though. As how could I ask for 3 weeks off in September if I'm going to maybe get the job in august?
But I am disappointed. I should have a drink.
I also feel very tired and restless. I feel I need to have my future all straight and clear. But it's not. I need a vacation. And again - perhaps a drink will help.
on Friday we (BMI Grad Student council) had a Career Day. SUCH a success! More than 100 people (so many people won't even show up to the compulsory events), and a great line of speakers. Again - very inspirational. I was actually hoping to get some answers, but it seems that I am simply too good. I could do EVERYTHING. Well, actually I do have some thoughts... but I'll come back to them later.
But all and all I feel very satisfied with the event. Now there's just the ski-trip to be attend, but overall we have accomplished all of the goals/dreams I set a year ago.
Friday night I went to Patty Bolands - an Irish Pub on the market. It used to be a decent place... for a pub. But wow, not anymore. First they demanded 2.50 for cover and forced us to leave our coats to the coat-check. And gave us attitude not to lose the tickets, 'cos then we have to stay until 2.30 am. Do I look 12 and fully drunk to you????
And then the place was full of too young too drunk people, who threw up at some point. The beverages were served in plastc (!!). I was lucky enough to get one beer served in a glass and so I kept re-pouring my other 2 beers from plastic into that. And the music - SO loud! And so off tuned. Horrible. I was deaf all Saturday.
Anyway - if it weren't for Juzer's birthday, I would have not stayed. But the Birthday -related stuff was all good - good people and good chats.
Saturday I pretended to clean and organized an entire floor-full of papers. And then headed to Dorotas. We made guljash (hungarian meat dish) togehter and had lots of tea and watched tv. Such a wonderful night.
And Sunday we had a superlong breakfast and chatted and played with Kornelius (the cat) and went for a walk around the neighbourhood. Once I made it home I was ready for bed:)
Monday I went skating for the first time this season. I woke up and the radio announced -35 degrees outside... Hmmm, I thought. But I had a deal with Supervisors wife that we meet at 10.30 am at the Canal Ritz. So I just bundled up and headed to the canal. It was NICE. Smooth ice, frail snow falling, no people. Indeed, my soles started to cramp after the first kilometer, but I toughed it out and made it to the meeting point and then to the Dows lake (the end) and back to Canal Ritz for the lunch. Really nice. And then I skated back home:) I was glad I made it out. It didn't feel THAT cold. And skating was amazing.
Later I watched "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist". A romantic movie. Voted as one of the best romantic movies from 2008, and it was really, really cute! I recommend. It's with the same guy who played Bleaker in "Juno" (Michael Cera) and Kat Dennings - a really pretty girl.
And today is Monday. I made it to work today. To get rid of all the extra theses at home (I almost broke my toes over them and then almost broke my back carrying them) and to have lunch with Dorota and to urge supervisor to send in my examiners. But I also got a bad news today.... I'm not going to Tanzania... I really wanted to. Lets Talk Science was sending 2 volunteers over there to teach for 3 weeks in September. And I wanted to go. But it seems it was not meant to be. I think it's their loss, honestly. Because I am their longest standing volunteer, and I have loads of experience and I am resourceful and calm, which is important when travelling so far. Anyway... no go. It may be better for my career anyway though. As how could I ask for 3 weeks off in September if I'm going to maybe get the job in august?
But I am disappointed. I should have a drink.
I also feel very tired and restless. I feel I need to have my future all straight and clear. But it's not. I need a vacation. And again - perhaps a drink will help.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
inspiration
I had to TA all day today... overall it was ok, but I had one moron in the morning and one in the evening... they simply could not understand. insane.
And then at 3.45 my voice gave up. And literally my "voice cords" hurt... it's crazy.
but - survived. and only 9 weeks to go...
but on the different note - we had a dinner with Dr. Rod McInnes, who is the director of Genetics in CIHR (which is the biggest health research grant agency). We as grad sudents invited him to come and give a talk and tomorrow he will give a talk on our career day. Today we got to take him out for dinner. There was about 10 of grad students and him.
It was really fun.
The most important thing was that I got to talk to him about my career... and I got some points clear for myself. Of course it all comes down to what I want to do, but it is necessary to know what is where and etc.
And besides, he said that he could recommend me to one PI at the Columbia University, NY. So thats quite something. The prof at the Columbia University is also an Estonian though - Rando Allikmets:)
He also kept referreing to Estonia all the time. I hope he meant good. But at least I think that even though he will probably not remember my name, he will remember the Estonian girl. So - it;s the start.
But all and all - I think I would like some creative people around me once I get to the real world... and according to him there's just one place, and that's academia.
Ah, so much to think about.
And then at 3.45 my voice gave up. And literally my "voice cords" hurt... it's crazy.
but - survived. and only 9 weeks to go...
but on the different note - we had a dinner with Dr. Rod McInnes, who is the director of Genetics in CIHR (which is the biggest health research grant agency). We as grad sudents invited him to come and give a talk and tomorrow he will give a talk on our career day. Today we got to take him out for dinner. There was about 10 of grad students and him.
It was really fun.
The most important thing was that I got to talk to him about my career... and I got some points clear for myself. Of course it all comes down to what I want to do, but it is necessary to know what is where and etc.
And besides, he said that he could recommend me to one PI at the Columbia University, NY. So thats quite something. The prof at the Columbia University is also an Estonian though - Rando Allikmets:)
He also kept referreing to Estonia all the time. I hope he meant good. But at least I think that even though he will probably not remember my name, he will remember the Estonian girl. So - it;s the start.
But all and all - I think I would like some creative people around me once I get to the real world... and according to him there's just one place, and that's academia.
Ah, so much to think about.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Obama and I aka the new life started
I got it in! My thesis. Just on the dot. Literally, the office was open until 4.30, and I waltzed in at 4.30 and 30 seconds, so the door was still open (they locked it right after me). And after the 1 minute transfer period I was no longer a student. Done and Done! The third Done will be after the defence.
And the interesting thing is that I will always remember the day when Obama was inaugurated into his President of USA position. That was today. I even got to listen to his speech.
So a new start for him and me. And only time will tell, whether it is a good omen to start something with the US President.
The weather was gorgeous today. The perfect winter day. Comfortable temperature, sparkly white snow, warm sunshine. Beautiful!
And I had a long day. I had an amazing breakfast at my supervisors and then we went over a part of my thesis. The details are not important to be remembered. But eventually I got it all finished and printed and submitted. There was a little drama, but how else can big things like these, function? And I am eternally grateful to Dorota and Natalie for taking me through the drama/crisis time. And thank you, Dorota, SO much, for getting me to the FGPS on time:)
As my supervisor said, tomorrow I will no longer be his slave. Tomorrow I will be his colleague.
Vot!
And now I'm off to my well-deserved rest. No more skipped nights. I had pizza and beer (a pint) with Leslie, Dorota and Natalie, and a nice bubble-bath and tomorrow I will sleep in! :)
And the interesting thing is that I will always remember the day when Obama was inaugurated into his President of USA position. That was today. I even got to listen to his speech.
So a new start for him and me. And only time will tell, whether it is a good omen to start something with the US President.
The weather was gorgeous today. The perfect winter day. Comfortable temperature, sparkly white snow, warm sunshine. Beautiful!
And I had a long day. I had an amazing breakfast at my supervisors and then we went over a part of my thesis. The details are not important to be remembered. But eventually I got it all finished and printed and submitted. There was a little drama, but how else can big things like these, function? And I am eternally grateful to Dorota and Natalie for taking me through the drama/crisis time. And thank you, Dorota, SO much, for getting me to the FGPS on time:)
As my supervisor said, tomorrow I will no longer be his slave. Tomorrow I will be his colleague.
Vot!
And now I'm off to my well-deserved rest. No more skipped nights. I had pizza and beer (a pint) with Leslie, Dorota and Natalie, and a nice bubble-bath and tomorrow I will sleep in! :)
DONE!
So yes - I think I am done!!!
For now.
I just finished adding the page numbers to my figures/tables. So that means that the text cannot be moved anymore.
So - done!
Unbeliveable...
These last weeks have been quite intense. And I can't believe that I can sleep tomorrow night. Even though - it will take me a while to get out of the nocturnal schedule.
At 7 am I am expected at Supervisors place. To have breakfast and to show him my thesis. He has not seen it yet. Even not a tiny peak. So he better like it. 'Cos the doors are closed for changes.
And then to the lab, print it, and deliver it.
And then - have a drink! (I have been on probation for too long). And a nice meal.
:)
I guess it's too late to go to bed now... it's already 5.30. I guess I could just enjoy this time. It is a weird time. Tomorrow, after submitting this "oopus" the world will not be the same anymore. I will not be a student anymore. Well, of course, I do have to defend, and I will be sort of a student until then, but still - no tuition to pay. It's going to be sweet! And the world will be just there. I gotta "grow up". I hope He (Mr. World, or perhaps Dr. World) will be nice.
5 long years. I have seen, learnt, experienced, gone through A LOT! And what made it into my nice 142 page (it's a tiny thesis:) thesis is just a fraction. But about that at some other time.
For now.
I just finished adding the page numbers to my figures/tables. So that means that the text cannot be moved anymore.
So - done!
Unbeliveable...
These last weeks have been quite intense. And I can't believe that I can sleep tomorrow night. Even though - it will take me a while to get out of the nocturnal schedule.
At 7 am I am expected at Supervisors place. To have breakfast and to show him my thesis. He has not seen it yet. Even not a tiny peak. So he better like it. 'Cos the doors are closed for changes.
And then to the lab, print it, and deliver it.
And then - have a drink! (I have been on probation for too long). And a nice meal.
:)
I guess it's too late to go to bed now... it's already 5.30. I guess I could just enjoy this time. It is a weird time. Tomorrow, after submitting this "oopus" the world will not be the same anymore. I will not be a student anymore. Well, of course, I do have to defend, and I will be sort of a student until then, but still - no tuition to pay. It's going to be sweet! And the world will be just there. I gotta "grow up". I hope He (Mr. World, or perhaps Dr. World) will be nice.
5 long years. I have seen, learnt, experienced, gone through A LOT! And what made it into my nice 142 page (it's a tiny thesis:) thesis is just a fraction. But about that at some other time.
Monday, January 19, 2009
the hour is approaching
Wow - I'm about 24 hours from THE day... And 36 hours from freedom...
But my god - I still have a good load of things to do. But important thing is that I have a draft.
Also - I just submitted my two manuscripts. Does it ever take long time... But in about 4-5 hours I got done. In one of the journals, my manuscript is already nr 71. Nice number methinks.
I have kept up my schedule of going to bed at 7 am and getting up around 11. Except last night I got tired and went to sleep at 3.30 am. And I couldnt get up before noon. It was good. Otherwise I would kaput already.
Yesterday was nice though. I got to share Dorotas birthday morning and breakfast. We went to the Blackthorn cafe and it was really tasty. And then we cruised to the lab and then to the Shoppers and then I made it home. Back to work.
Also I made all the pieces into one file yesterday. And it made me feel good. It's quite a body of work. I do think that I have done quite a substantial contribution.
And today I organized my discussion. And added the biotech/agriculture frame into my thesis.
So now I have to tidy up the last little things in the discussion; write an acknowledgements; rework the abstract; finish one table; finish one figure; make two supplemental figures; work on format...
Ah, and insert the tables/images and this stuff...
anyway - I think I will have something by Tuesday:)
But my god - I still have a good load of things to do. But important thing is that I have a draft.
Also - I just submitted my two manuscripts. Does it ever take long time... But in about 4-5 hours I got done. In one of the journals, my manuscript is already nr 71. Nice number methinks.
I have kept up my schedule of going to bed at 7 am and getting up around 11. Except last night I got tired and went to sleep at 3.30 am. And I couldnt get up before noon. It was good. Otherwise I would kaput already.
Yesterday was nice though. I got to share Dorotas birthday morning and breakfast. We went to the Blackthorn cafe and it was really tasty. And then we cruised to the lab and then to the Shoppers and then I made it home. Back to work.
Also I made all the pieces into one file yesterday. And it made me feel good. It's quite a body of work. I do think that I have done quite a substantial contribution.
And today I organized my discussion. And added the biotech/agriculture frame into my thesis.
So now I have to tidy up the last little things in the discussion; write an acknowledgements; rework the abstract; finish one table; finish one figure; make two supplemental figures; work on format...
Ah, and insert the tables/images and this stuff...
anyway - I think I will have something by Tuesday:)
Friday, January 16, 2009
one more day survived/ lucky girl
So, it's 6 am again. I have done some good progress, I feel. Hopefully my supervisor will sign off my thesis today. It is not quite complete yet, but it's on its way. I have to work on the figures and I still need some references. And it needs grammatical help.
Ah, and two manuscripts need to be submitted.
And the format i need to work on.
Anyway. But updates:)
Wednesday - attended the MBA info session. Very interesting. More about it later.
Wednesday evening- surpise visit by Leslie with the BEST surprise ever! - the groceries! She is the best! Just so thoughtful! I am such a lucky girl.
Wednesday night - updated my third manuscript. Analyzed another set of 30 images. Finalized the figure and sent it to co-author. Also worked on the intro/discussion. Got to bed at 4. Something was beeping. Fell asleep at 5 am.
Thursday morning - wake up at 7.45, because at 8.30 I had to be at the lab teaching. I didn't feel too refreshed. Teaching until 10.30. Quick lunch and then worked on my intro. Taught more from 1 to 3.30. I had 12 students. Maximum is 10. Usually. But I am not an usual case. And one pair was simply stupid. Anyway.
4 pm - home. worked a bit.
4.30 - ealized that I forgot my phone to the lab. walk there and back. On my way pick up a package from Tallinn - it's going to be the treat next week:)
5 - 6 - work.
6-8 - nap
8 pm to now - serious work on the intro. It's significantly closer to being ready. Worked on the discussion. It still needs some organization, but I need a soundboard for that. And wrote the abstract. And wrote the contributions to the each chapter.
AND - I made lasagna that Leslie brought. It was delicious!
And now - nap time. Apparently our labs pic is being taken today at 10.30 at the greenhouse but I dont think I should go there to ruin it... Plus - I don't have time for this.
Also - did I say that it's cold in ottawa? Like -29C? Nice and crisp!
Also also - it's crazy what our body can do if you force it... but what i wonder is that how LONG will it take me to recover? Quite a while, I think.... But I'll deal with it when i get there.
Ok, nite.
Ah, and two manuscripts need to be submitted.
And the format i need to work on.
Anyway. But updates:)
Wednesday - attended the MBA info session. Very interesting. More about it later.
Wednesday evening- surpise visit by Leslie with the BEST surprise ever! - the groceries! She is the best! Just so thoughtful! I am such a lucky girl.
Wednesday night - updated my third manuscript. Analyzed another set of 30 images. Finalized the figure and sent it to co-author. Also worked on the intro/discussion. Got to bed at 4. Something was beeping. Fell asleep at 5 am.
Thursday morning - wake up at 7.45, because at 8.30 I had to be at the lab teaching. I didn't feel too refreshed. Teaching until 10.30. Quick lunch and then worked on my intro. Taught more from 1 to 3.30. I had 12 students. Maximum is 10. Usually. But I am not an usual case. And one pair was simply stupid. Anyway.
4 pm - home. worked a bit.
4.30 - ealized that I forgot my phone to the lab. walk there and back. On my way pick up a package from Tallinn - it's going to be the treat next week:)
5 - 6 - work.
6-8 - nap
8 pm to now - serious work on the intro. It's significantly closer to being ready. Worked on the discussion. It still needs some organization, but I need a soundboard for that. And wrote the abstract. And wrote the contributions to the each chapter.
AND - I made lasagna that Leslie brought. It was delicious!
And now - nap time. Apparently our labs pic is being taken today at 10.30 at the greenhouse but I dont think I should go there to ruin it... Plus - I don't have time for this.
Also - did I say that it's cold in ottawa? Like -29C? Nice and crisp!
Also also - it's crazy what our body can do if you force it... but what i wonder is that how LONG will it take me to recover? Quite a while, I think.... But I'll deal with it when i get there.
Ok, nite.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
it is 6.20...
... and no, I haven't made it to bed yet...
But I thought I would give you an update.
Monday was a bad day. I got to bed at 6 am and had to wake up at 11 am, to make it to the lab by noon thirty. The bus was too full, so I had to wait for the next one. Then I had to wait around for my Supervisor. At least we got my examiners sorted out. Or at least started. I also found out that my wheat paper got rehjected (tear). And then at 7 pm we finally made it to my manuscript nr 3. Between 7 and 9 we covered the discussion.
I got home at 10, had dinner (the only food I had all day), talked to Sujeeve and fixed my focus. And then I actually went to sleep and slept until 9 am. It was great!
Tuesday started at 10. And I did a lot today.
I got to the lab at noon thirty.
I talked to Leslie and Lem - just to get updates on their awesome organizing
I spent close to 2 hours on the microscope taking 60 plus images of my slides.
I searched for a few example thesis and brough the home (one is so fat that it could be used for hurting people)
I had dinner (still biryani and still loving it).
I took care of some e-mails.
At 6.30 I started to work.
Between 6.30 and midnight I fixed my intro somewhat and completely wrote my discussion. From start to finish. Mind you, it's the first draft, but now all my thoughts are out and now I just need to "prettyfy". It's a great achievement.
And it's 4.5 pages single spaced. Plus I have a table plus 2 figures. So this will be good.
And then I fixed my manuscript nr 3. I think the text is ready to be given my other prof-coauthor.
At 3 am I started to analyze the images. I have dots on the images and I needed to count then and analyze the size distribution.... my goodness - not as easy as it sounds...
Anyway - i analyzed 30 images and got the numbers. And then - the numbers didn;t show me what i wanted to see.... hmmm... so i had some tea and fixed my manuscript3 figures in the meanwhile. And now i think i have figured out how I can show the difference. With the rations and the size increase.
But i still have to analyze e. coli 3o images...
And I need to sleep to re-evaluate all my genius ideas.
Anyway - it has been a good night! (even though my ass does not agree. Thank god for Leslie, Leslie-the-Laptop, since this enables me to be half-laying).
It's 6.34... time to sleep.
Goodnite/morning/day!!!
But I thought I would give you an update.
Monday was a bad day. I got to bed at 6 am and had to wake up at 11 am, to make it to the lab by noon thirty. The bus was too full, so I had to wait for the next one. Then I had to wait around for my Supervisor. At least we got my examiners sorted out. Or at least started. I also found out that my wheat paper got rehjected (tear). And then at 7 pm we finally made it to my manuscript nr 3. Between 7 and 9 we covered the discussion.
I got home at 10, had dinner (the only food I had all day), talked to Sujeeve and fixed my focus. And then I actually went to sleep and slept until 9 am. It was great!
Tuesday started at 10. And I did a lot today.
I got to the lab at noon thirty.
I talked to Leslie and Lem - just to get updates on their awesome organizing
I spent close to 2 hours on the microscope taking 60 plus images of my slides.
I searched for a few example thesis and brough the home (one is so fat that it could be used for hurting people)
I had dinner (still biryani and still loving it).
I took care of some e-mails.
At 6.30 I started to work.
Between 6.30 and midnight I fixed my intro somewhat and completely wrote my discussion. From start to finish. Mind you, it's the first draft, but now all my thoughts are out and now I just need to "prettyfy". It's a great achievement.
And it's 4.5 pages single spaced. Plus I have a table plus 2 figures. So this will be good.
And then I fixed my manuscript nr 3. I think the text is ready to be given my other prof-coauthor.
At 3 am I started to analyze the images. I have dots on the images and I needed to count then and analyze the size distribution.... my goodness - not as easy as it sounds...
Anyway - i analyzed 30 images and got the numbers. And then - the numbers didn;t show me what i wanted to see.... hmmm... so i had some tea and fixed my manuscript3 figures in the meanwhile. And now i think i have figured out how I can show the difference. With the rations and the size increase.
But i still have to analyze e. coli 3o images...
And I need to sleep to re-evaluate all my genius ideas.
Anyway - it has been a good night! (even though my ass does not agree. Thank god for Leslie, Leslie-the-Laptop, since this enables me to be half-laying).
It's 6.34... time to sleep.
Goodnite/morning/day!!!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
100 victories
Guess what am I doing to take a break and think?
Yes... I play Solitaire. I've never thought too much of it, but it appears to be such a good distruction. So when I need to think something out, I play a game. So my fingers and eyes have an activity, and then brain can think in peace.
And today I won (that means I got all the cards assembled) for the 100th time. The winning % is 17. So you can calculate how many games I have played...
It's still less than 600...
And my highest score 4090 (whatever this means).
And the longest winning streak is 3 and losing streak is 22.
So..
Ok, back to work:)
Yes... I play Solitaire. I've never thought too much of it, but it appears to be such a good distruction. So when I need to think something out, I play a game. So my fingers and eyes have an activity, and then brain can think in peace.
And today I won (that means I got all the cards assembled) for the 100th time. The winning % is 17. So you can calculate how many games I have played...
It's still less than 600...
And my highest score 4090 (whatever this means).
And the longest winning streak is 3 and losing streak is 22.
So..
Ok, back to work:)
Friday, January 9, 2009
the vote is no
www.cbc.ca/canada/ottawa/story/2009/01/07/ot-090107-transit-vote.html
So they said NO. The transport union people - that is the busdrivers, mechanics etc...
I think they don't have neither brain nor heart. What they are doing is mean and cruel. And all this for what?
I am SO disappointed in transport union people.
The strike has been on for 30 days. In the middle of Ottawa winter. The traffic is crazy. People drive 3 hours to get to work. The school shuttle stop has gazillion people waiting at all times. Etc.
The ironic thing is that the city of Ottawa wanted to save 3 million dollars over the next 3 years with getting the rights over scheduling more cost-effective routes. But by now the city has saved about 10 million from the strike (no salaries to pay, no transport fees). So I guess the city has won already:) But poor, poor people who can't get anywhere...
And now there is even no hope left.
Maybe the summer will come before the end of strike.
So they said NO. The transport union people - that is the busdrivers, mechanics etc...
I think they don't have neither brain nor heart. What they are doing is mean and cruel. And all this for what?
I am SO disappointed in transport union people.
The strike has been on for 30 days. In the middle of Ottawa winter. The traffic is crazy. People drive 3 hours to get to work. The school shuttle stop has gazillion people waiting at all times. Etc.
The ironic thing is that the city of Ottawa wanted to save 3 million dollars over the next 3 years with getting the rights over scheduling more cost-effective routes. But by now the city has saved about 10 million from the strike (no salaries to pay, no transport fees). So I guess the city has won already:) But poor, poor people who can't get anywhere...
And now there is even no hope left.
Maybe the summer will come before the end of strike.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
watching pigs
... and birds. and foxes stealing meat.
So what am I doing at 3 am?
I am watchin/listening the forest. It's a gorgeous morning in Estonia today. Seems to be pretty cold, and there's snow, and the sky was pretty yellow:)
But - Estonia has two live-feed cameras in the forest. One is for watching pigs at night - they come out to eat. And they people like me, who have nothing else to do, can spy on them. Yesterday the entire gang was out at 5 pm or so (Ottawa time). Pretty neat.
And at this hour it's good to check out the birds and birdies. There was an eagle sitting on a branch earlier. And the fights among the birds.
And today - I was watching and then working and then watching. There was a big piece of meat for a buzzard (kull ;) on it. Nice. I worked for a bit. And and the buzzard-dude took a break as well. I check back - no buzzard, no meat. Hmmm..
Turns out that Uncle Fox decided to come over and climb on the table and steal the meat. Hooligan! On tegelane.
If you wanna spy on forest dudes too, then check this:
http://looduskalender.ee/
On the left-hand side choose either "Metsakaamera striim" for the pigs or "Kotkakaamera striim" for the eagle show.
The forest noises are so calming...
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Hundionu made dinner today. For a village.
I was rudely (just kidding) woken up by Dorotas phonecall today. She called me at 1.30 pm. This is getting out of hand. Tomorrow I have to be at the lab teaching at 8.30 am. I'm seriously considering just skipping the night...
So but I got up at 2 or so and made it to the grocery store. I was out of milk, so I HAD to go. It was snowing wide, wide, beautiful snow. Quite lots of it. The cars had a hard time moving on...
And then I decided to make a real dinner for change. Santa (called Sujeeve) sent me a cookbook. And I already chose one out the day I got it. And today it seemed like a good day to make it.
It's called Mutton Biryani Bina's Mian. I made it a la estonian. That is - I replaced lamb with ground beef (cos I forgot the lamb).
Here's the recipe:
2 cups of basmati rice
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (I was out, so I skipped it. Otherwise I love saffron in food)
1/4 cup of butter
1 chopped onions
1 inch peeled and chopped ginger
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon of crushed cardamom seeds (I wasn't too sure how to crush them. So I hit them with the wooden box a few times and called it ready)
1 cinnamon stick
1 pound lamb, cut into 1 inch cubes (I took ground beef, unknown amount)
4 ounces dried apricots halves
4 ounces raisins
2 ounces cashews, slit in half
2 ounces slivered almonds
2 bay leaves
3 teaspoons of salt
2 cups chicken stock
3 tablespoons melted butter
2 ounces pistachio nuts
Rince rice, soak in cold water for 30 min.
Put a little bit of hot water on saffron and soak 10 min.
Melt butter on a skillet, add onions, ginger and garlic. Stir and saute for 5 min or until onions are soft and translucent. Add cumin, coriander, cardamom and cinnamon. Saute/stir for 2 min.
Add lamb cubes, saute for 10 min until they are seared and brown.
Add apricots, raisins, cashews, half of the almonds, bayleaves and 1 tsp salt. Pour in the chicken stock, cover and simmer for 35-40 min until the lamb is tender. Remove from heat, discard the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Keep warm.
Preheat oven to 350 F.
Bring 3 pints of water to boil. Add some salt and the rice and boil for 2 min. Drain the rice.
Take a large (!) casserole dish. Put some butter on the bottom. Put one third of the rice on the bottom. Sprinkle with saffron water. Cover it with half of the meat/fruit mixture. Add another third of rice. Sprinkle with saffron water. And then the second half of meat/fruit mixture. Then add final layer of rice. Sprinkle with saffron water. Poor the remainder of the juices from the pan over the rice. Sprinkle almonds and pistachios on top.
Put it into the oven and bake until the liquids have been absorbed by the rice - about 30 min. Enjoy!
Of course I didn't realize the amount. I started off as the recipe said. So I ended up with TWO casserole dishes FULL. So my diet is confirmed for the rest of the week. Or I can host a big party.
It turned out really tasty though. I like:)
So but I got up at 2 or so and made it to the grocery store. I was out of milk, so I HAD to go. It was snowing wide, wide, beautiful snow. Quite lots of it. The cars had a hard time moving on...
And then I decided to make a real dinner for change. Santa (called Sujeeve) sent me a cookbook. And I already chose one out the day I got it. And today it seemed like a good day to make it.
It's called Mutton Biryani Bina's Mian. I made it a la estonian. That is - I replaced lamb with ground beef (cos I forgot the lamb).
Here's the recipe:
2 cups of basmati rice
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (I was out, so I skipped it. Otherwise I love saffron in food)
1/4 cup of butter
1 chopped onions
1 inch peeled and chopped ginger
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon of crushed cardamom seeds (I wasn't too sure how to crush them. So I hit them with the wooden box a few times and called it ready)
1 cinnamon stick
1 pound lamb, cut into 1 inch cubes (I took ground beef, unknown amount)
4 ounces dried apricots halves
4 ounces raisins
2 ounces cashews, slit in half
2 ounces slivered almonds
2 bay leaves
3 teaspoons of salt
2 cups chicken stock
3 tablespoons melted butter
2 ounces pistachio nuts
Rince rice, soak in cold water for 30 min.
Put a little bit of hot water on saffron and soak 10 min.
Melt butter on a skillet, add onions, ginger and garlic. Stir and saute for 5 min or until onions are soft and translucent. Add cumin, coriander, cardamom and cinnamon. Saute/stir for 2 min.
Add lamb cubes, saute for 10 min until they are seared and brown.
Add apricots, raisins, cashews, half of the almonds, bayleaves and 1 tsp salt. Pour in the chicken stock, cover and simmer for 35-40 min until the lamb is tender. Remove from heat, discard the bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Keep warm.
Preheat oven to 350 F.
Bring 3 pints of water to boil. Add some salt and the rice and boil for 2 min. Drain the rice.
Take a large (!) casserole dish. Put some butter on the bottom. Put one third of the rice on the bottom. Sprinkle with saffron water. Cover it with half of the meat/fruit mixture. Add another third of rice. Sprinkle with saffron water. And then the second half of meat/fruit mixture. Then add final layer of rice. Sprinkle with saffron water. Poor the remainder of the juices from the pan over the rice. Sprinkle almonds and pistachios on top.
Put it into the oven and bake until the liquids have been absorbed by the rice - about 30 min. Enjoy!
Of course I didn't realize the amount. I started off as the recipe said. So I ended up with TWO casserole dishes FULL. So my diet is confirmed for the rest of the week. Or I can host a big party.
It turned out really tasty though. I like:)
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
10 hours of sleep...
I slept today until 2 pm.
Nice, isn't it? I guess I really needed it.
The thing is though that I actually went to bed early. Early for me that is. At 3.30 am.
It's just that I only get stuff (read: my thesis) done at night. When it's about 10 or 11 pm here, this is when my brain kicks into gear and is ready to go. And then I go along. Usually until 4 or 5 am. And then I sleep. Usually until 10 or 11 am, because I feel guilty to sleep when it's light outside. And then I do random stuff all day. And when radio Elmar (Estonian radio playing only Estonian music) plays their Morning song (the same song every morning at 7 am), then I'm ready to work again.
So that's my schedule nowadays.
It's nice though.
Every morning I get to talk to Kristi. And sometimes I chat with Julia. For them it's the morning.
And Dan and I chat. He lives next building and has the nocturnal lifestyle.
Today I also went to school. I made it in at 4.30 pm. Just in time to finish on time at 5 pm:P
I dropped of the manuscript nr 3 with my Supervisor and the other co-author.
And then Leslie and I went for the amazing dinner at the Perfection-Satisfaction place. It was amazing as always.
Later I had a drink with Alejandro and watched the gold medal game between Canada and Sweden in juniors hockey. It was a great game. Canada won. 5:1. I think its Canadas fifth gold medal in a row. Nice. But poor swedes... I still like them too.
Alejandro is going to Uruguay on Friday. Lucky him.
And boys are tricky. Is there such thing as just going for drink with no alternative thoughts? Or not? And should these be previously discussed? Or no? And how would you even do it? That would require assuming a lot, and how could one sweet girl assume anything? Or is it better to be mysterious, confident, but stand to your values? I guess the last one is the best. Sometimes I just think that maybe it's a little evil from my side.
And I learned that there are new rules for immigrants now. So once I get my degree, I can apply for the work permit, which will allow me to work here up to three years. Which is great. Because before one had to get the job first, and then the permit, and it was always tied to your contract. So if you changed the job, you needed the new permit. And now it's the open permit. Which would make me so much easier to hire. Perfect.
And in addition there's supposedly a tax break as well. That apparently I would pay less tax as the fresh graduate.
So this is good. Takes some stress off my sholders. I can stay in Canada, if I'd wish:)
Nice, isn't it? I guess I really needed it.
The thing is though that I actually went to bed early. Early for me that is. At 3.30 am.
It's just that I only get stuff (read: my thesis) done at night. When it's about 10 or 11 pm here, this is when my brain kicks into gear and is ready to go. And then I go along. Usually until 4 or 5 am. And then I sleep. Usually until 10 or 11 am, because I feel guilty to sleep when it's light outside. And then I do random stuff all day. And when radio Elmar (Estonian radio playing only Estonian music) plays their Morning song (the same song every morning at 7 am), then I'm ready to work again.
So that's my schedule nowadays.
It's nice though.
Every morning I get to talk to Kristi. And sometimes I chat with Julia. For them it's the morning.
And Dan and I chat. He lives next building and has the nocturnal lifestyle.
Today I also went to school. I made it in at 4.30 pm. Just in time to finish on time at 5 pm:P
I dropped of the manuscript nr 3 with my Supervisor and the other co-author.
And then Leslie and I went for the amazing dinner at the Perfection-Satisfaction place. It was amazing as always.
Later I had a drink with Alejandro and watched the gold medal game between Canada and Sweden in juniors hockey. It was a great game. Canada won. 5:1. I think its Canadas fifth gold medal in a row. Nice. But poor swedes... I still like them too.
Alejandro is going to Uruguay on Friday. Lucky him.
And boys are tricky. Is there such thing as just going for drink with no alternative thoughts? Or not? And should these be previously discussed? Or no? And how would you even do it? That would require assuming a lot, and how could one sweet girl assume anything? Or is it better to be mysterious, confident, but stand to your values? I guess the last one is the best. Sometimes I just think that maybe it's a little evil from my side.
And I learned that there are new rules for immigrants now. So once I get my degree, I can apply for the work permit, which will allow me to work here up to three years. Which is great. Because before one had to get the job first, and then the permit, and it was always tied to your contract. So if you changed the job, you needed the new permit. And now it's the open permit. Which would make me so much easier to hire. Perfect.
And in addition there's supposedly a tax break as well. That apparently I would pay less tax as the fresh graduate.
So this is good. Takes some stress off my sholders. I can stay in Canada, if I'd wish:)
Sunday, January 4, 2009
the day the kitty left
Ah, Audi just went home... I'm sad.
I actually really, really got used to her. It was so nice to have someone else at home. Someone whom to talk to and whom to hug (even though she usually disliked it). We watched movies together and sometimes she decided to treat me and sleep on my lap. And someone who asked for food and came to cuddle at night (she liked to sleep under the covers with me). And then, when I woke up, she was always right next to my pillow - checking whether I'm awake or not. And if I was not ready to get up yet, we snoozed together for a little bit longer. Little furball:)
Soooooooooooo nice!
Don't you agree that she is just adorable?
I guess I just have to hope that her owners are soon going for another trip:)
In the meanwhile I'm suffering over my thesis.. I think the chapter 3 is ready to be shown to my Supervisor (right after I insert the references and write an abstract). And the intro is in the works... so far I have copy-pasted together all the intros I have ever written... gotta recycle, you know:P But still I need to beef it up significantly if I need this 30 pages that is required. And the discussion... I have a few thoughts, but I need to get to it very soon.
Also, Team Canada beat Russia yesterday in the world junior hockey championship 6-5 in overtime. I didn't see the game, but followed it on the internet. It was a very intense game. I'm so happy for Canada! So now there's just one game left - to decide who will take the gold home... It's between Canada and Sweden... which is a little bit tougher choice for me:) But still - Go, Canada:) I will cheer for Sweden once I will live there. If ever.
And the buses are still not running... The strike started on Dec 10th... It has been very many days. It seems to be that the dude who runs the transport union is just simply stupid. His arguments are sounding more like from a crybaby who wants attention. even the federal Labour Minister Rona Ambrose has got involved here and has forced the bus drivers and etc to vote on the next offer from the city. The head of the union still thinks that the union people will vote no. I honestly hope they have sober minds and they are able vote for accepting the offer. The city is already offering the pay rise and more guarantees (whatever these are). And the entire strike is based on the demand the union wants to control the schedule of working hours and the routes and they don't want the city to be involved. But at the same time it is the public service, mostly funded by the city, and I think it only makes sense that the city would have the right to design the most approprite routes and have adequate number of buses running. Otherwise we would have most of the buses running empty at odd hours, and during the rush hour at important routes there would be no-one.
Anyway. This just makes me mad. They honestly keep the city like in hostage. People don't get food, can't go to the doctor etc. Crazy!
Tomorrow is the first day of work... I can't get in, since the yellow school buses will start on Tuesday. And I hope there will be still room for me too. Thankfylly I can still write from home.
On the positive note - I spent almost 2 hours of qulaity time on the Skype talking to Kullionu and Julia. It's always so wonderful to talk to good people:) I need to do it more often:)
I actually really, really got used to her. It was so nice to have someone else at home. Someone whom to talk to and whom to hug (even though she usually disliked it). We watched movies together and sometimes she decided to treat me and sleep on my lap. And someone who asked for food and came to cuddle at night (she liked to sleep under the covers with me). And then, when I woke up, she was always right next to my pillow - checking whether I'm awake or not. And if I was not ready to get up yet, we snoozed together for a little bit longer. Little furball:)
Soooooooooooo nice!
Don't you agree that she is just adorable?
I guess I just have to hope that her owners are soon going for another trip:)
In the meanwhile I'm suffering over my thesis.. I think the chapter 3 is ready to be shown to my Supervisor (right after I insert the references and write an abstract). And the intro is in the works... so far I have copy-pasted together all the intros I have ever written... gotta recycle, you know:P But still I need to beef it up significantly if I need this 30 pages that is required. And the discussion... I have a few thoughts, but I need to get to it very soon.
Also, Team Canada beat Russia yesterday in the world junior hockey championship 6-5 in overtime. I didn't see the game, but followed it on the internet. It was a very intense game. I'm so happy for Canada! So now there's just one game left - to decide who will take the gold home... It's between Canada and Sweden... which is a little bit tougher choice for me:) But still - Go, Canada:) I will cheer for Sweden once I will live there. If ever.
And the buses are still not running... The strike started on Dec 10th... It has been very many days. It seems to be that the dude who runs the transport union is just simply stupid. His arguments are sounding more like from a crybaby who wants attention. even the federal Labour Minister Rona Ambrose has got involved here and has forced the bus drivers and etc to vote on the next offer from the city. The head of the union still thinks that the union people will vote no. I honestly hope they have sober minds and they are able vote for accepting the offer. The city is already offering the pay rise and more guarantees (whatever these are). And the entire strike is based on the demand the union wants to control the schedule of working hours and the routes and they don't want the city to be involved. But at the same time it is the public service, mostly funded by the city, and I think it only makes sense that the city would have the right to design the most approprite routes and have adequate number of buses running. Otherwise we would have most of the buses running empty at odd hours, and during the rush hour at important routes there would be no-one.
Anyway. This just makes me mad. They honestly keep the city like in hostage. People don't get food, can't go to the doctor etc. Crazy!
Tomorrow is the first day of work... I can't get in, since the yellow school buses will start on Tuesday. And I hope there will be still room for me too. Thankfylly I can still write from home.
On the positive note - I spent almost 2 hours of qulaity time on the Skype talking to Kullionu and Julia. It's always so wonderful to talk to good people:) I need to do it more often:)
tujurikkuja - mood destroyer - more estonian entertainment
Tujurikkuja:
http://uudised.err.ee/?0&popup=video&id=19118
Vaga vahva pooltund vana-aasta ohtust:)
4 - it would be a great place for you to practice and improve your estonian skills:) And you would like the jokes too:)
http://uudised.err.ee/?0&popup=video&id=19118
Vaga vahva pooltund vana-aasta ohtust:)
4 - it would be a great place for you to practice and improve your estonian skills:) And you would like the jokes too:)
Paevalehte loed?
Soovitan lugeda: http://www.epl.ee/artikkel/453900
See lugu kirjeldab minu elamusi Pohja-Ontarios 2008 aprillis. Ma vist kunagi ei joudnud nii kaugele, et siia midagi kribada. Aga akki yhel heal paeval panen mone pildi, kus mina ka peal olen:)
Siiralt teie,
Kask Kuusemetsas
See lugu kirjeldab minu elamusi Pohja-Ontarios 2008 aprillis. Ma vist kunagi ei joudnud nii kaugele, et siia midagi kribada. Aga akki yhel heal paeval panen mone pildi, kus mina ka peal olen:)
Siiralt teie,
Kask Kuusemetsas
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Happy New Year - Good times for the 2009
It's already the 1st of January, 2009!
The year started well:)
I had to have a nap after the rowdy" celebrations for the Estonian new year, but by 11 pm I was ready again:) So I bundled up (not well enough, I realized later), and headed out to meet Leslie and Co and go to the canal for the celebrations in Ottawa.
Finger Eleven was giving a concert and there was a good crowd (nothing like Canada Day though:P). It was very nice. Cold and clear winter night (-25 degrees or so), and people, and good music! They played until midnight, then we greeted the 2009 and then they played a few more songs. Ah, there was also a small pyrotechnical show - small rackets and some fire. No real fireworks this year. It's ok though. Last year the fireworks was over the top though - the picture on the card is taken last year.
After we headed to Lauras/Damiens and had some Martinis and I had a late dinner. By 3.30 I was at home:)Good start for the new year! :)
And here is the Good Times by Finger Eleven - let there be lots of good times in 2009! (that was 2009 welcoming song in Ottawa).
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