Columns

The Mindful Bard – The Primary Instinct

Film: The Primary Instinct Director: David Chen “If the realm of pure invention is what we call God, then the realm of reinvention is what we call man, and the marriage between the two is prayer.” – Stephen Tobolowsky At a pivotal point in his stage monologue career a small boy in the audience asked… Read more »

From Where I sit – That’s a Plan

Before long I’ll begin packing for my Canmore getaway. Checking the reminders from past trips should ensure I don’t forget anything I need or bring anything I don’t. Bring peanut butter; don’t bring sugar. Bring scissors, a surge protector, a reading light; don’t bring Kleenex, shampoo, or a hair dryer. Typically I shop Safeway when… Read more »

Dear Barb – Cheated in the Past

Dear Barb: I am just finishing my last course at AU. My boyfriend and I have been dating for almost a year and we get along great. I wasn’t aware of any problems between us; however I just found out that my boyfriend slept with someone else. Last Saturday night he went to a party… Read more »

Primal Numbers – A in Aerobics

We all know the way to get better grades. Turn off the TV, put down the smartphone, and spend more time studying. It’s good advice, but there’s something else you should be doing to improve your memory and ability to focus. As the latest research shows, hitting the gym could be just as good for… Read more »

From Where I Sit – I Hope You’re Engaged

In 1993 I was convinced to run in a bye-election in our rural municipality. The vacancy was created when Ed Stelmach won a seat in the legislature. The good news is that I ran against three men and won the election. It began an incredible experience like no other. I highly recommend that everyone consider… Read more »

Dear Barb – Humane Attention

Dear Barb: Every Sunday morning my husband and I go to our local Humane Society and walk the dogs. Humane Societies across the country are full of unwanted dogs and It’s very disturbing to walk through the pound and see these poor abandoned dogs begging for your love and attention. I have a friend who… Read more »

Music Review – Bri Ingram

Artist: Bri Ingram EP: I Am Music has a way of taking some of the most difficult times in our lives and forcing us to see them in a new way. Lyrics about heartbreak and disappointment don’t necessarily have to be put to dark or somber music. Instead, bravely pairing such lyrics with more upbeat… Read more »

The Mindful Bard – Max Richter

Album: From Sleep Composer and pianist: Max Richter “O sleep, O gentle sleep, Nature’s soft nurse, how have I frightened thee, That thou no more will weigh my eyelids down, And steep my senses in forgetfulness?” – William Shakespeare, Henry IV, Part 2 You know when terms like “easy listening” have entered the parlance of… Read more »