On November 14th, I went to the National Gallery in Ottawa to watch my piece being auctioned off at this year's second annual Ottawa Timeraiser. One of my favorite event shots by Emily Molly Fitzpatrick is this one, http://picasaweb.google.com/timeraiser/2009OttawaTimeraiserEventPhotos#5405140512271467666 It's two women checking out my piece and truly looking like they're enjoying! When I saw this picture, it put a smile on my face!http://picasaweb.google.com/timeraiser/2009OttawaTimeraiserEventPhotos#slideshow/5405140418158942546
http://picasaweb.google.com/timeraiser/2009OttawaTimeraiserEventPhotos#slideshow/5405160858501385266
Just wanted to share will post some more pics later!

Saturday Night with Arkells

I went to see a band called Arkells last night. I had already seen them live once before at Ottawa's bluesfest but it was different for me this time because I wasn't in the pit taking shots of them. No camera was in hand this time although I have to say I was thinking about how great the light was and how at many times their movement would've looked great on camera. I think that even when I'm going out to have a good time, I'm often still thinking of how things would look through a view finder. The plus side was that I got to really enjoy the music, bust some moves and have a few drinks.
The guys from Hamilton, Ontario put on a great show. Honestly, if you haven't heard of them, you should absolutely check out their stuff www.Arkells.ca or on twitter @arkellsmusic
I've mentioned these guys in a post a few months ago but let me explain why they are getting another post. When they sing live, it's just insanely obvious how much they love what they do. From time to time, it's as though the lead singer sees how he is doing exactly what he loves and wants to do and shoots this contagious smile across the room. It's not only the lead singer that has the ability to shine on stage, they all seem to have their moments. I love going to shows and the band is almost theatrical but still real! I think that the band actually energized the crowd!
When watching many bands, more often than not the lead singer and the guitarists are more noticed on stage but this does not ring true for the Arkells, the bassist moves around and joins the singer or the guitarist looking like he also feels passionately about their music. The keyboardist is absolutely not boring to watch, he is not one to just stand there and play, he jives along too! No matter what the style of music if it's good music it will invigorate you, make you smile, or connect in some way and that's what the Arkells do. They share their love for music with the crowd.
My point, these guys are extremely talented and will explode onto the scene and your radios soon if they already haven't so check them out and go and enjoy them while tickets are still affordable.
Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off.

Hi All,
My new and improved site is up and running. Check it out and let me know what you think! http://www.wix.com/Jenlap/photography

Movie Rental Reviews #2

It's about that time again, movie reviews for those looking to rent!

Transformers: Revenge of The Fallen-Scifi/Action movie

Being that I am an (early) 80's baby with two brothers, initially being forced into watching the cartoon and eventually liking it. I've been practicing my Transformers sound effects to be prepared for the upcoming rental release of Transformers:Revenge of the Fallen. I've already seen the movie of course and love it but I'm not exactly an unbiased opinion. The truth of the matter is, this is absolutely the kind of movie you should watch on a big screen. I don't think that Meghan Fox had to really act in this movie just run a lot in slow motion but at the same time this is not the kind of movie that needs a great amount of dialogue. It's Transformers, what is needed is great visuals, sound effects, special effects and fight scenes and that is absolutely provided. There weren't too many epic battles but there were still battles none the less.

Management-Drama

The lead actors are Steve Zahn who normally plays a supporting role and Jennifer Aniston who tends to have quite a bit of hits and misses and nothing in between. At the beginning of the film, I thought to myself Oh no please don't be like The Good Girl but as much as it seems bleak and the characters initially come off lacking emotion, that's the point. They are stuck and initially feel unemotional towards life and are extremely lonely. When the two lonely people meet, their lives are affected by each other. Considering the nature of the characters and how they previously seem to be affected by nothing, living quite a bleak existence, watching the tone progressively and not magically change makes it a good watch. Although it is not a favorite or a movie that will go down in the classics, it is good but definitely not life changing or for entertainment purposes only. Unlike most movies including Jennifer Aniston, it hits right in the middle!

The Proposal-Romantic Comedy

For once all the funny parts were not in the previews! I unexpectedly laughed a lot in this movie and what was nice is that the two leads, Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock, could actually act. I loved that Betty White was the grandmother in the movie. If you don't know who she is, she was one of the broads on the television series, Golden girls, and is still able to hit her comedy cues with so much ease. There are always predictable parts in romantic comedies and they are usually a good watch when you just feel like shutting off your brain for awhile and kicking back. As much as some parts were predictable, it was more unique than most and made me laugh more than any romantic comedy I have seen in a few years. For all of you men out there who don't particularly like watching these movies (I know a lot who fake their distaste for them but secretly love watching them), if you have to watch one, watch this one.

I love you, man- Comedy

Being a fan of comedies and good comedies very rarely being released lately, this is the best one I've seen in a very long time. This movie is about heterosexual man-crush a.k.a the bromance. Personally, I wasn't affected by how the women were depicted in the movie because there are women in this world who talk shit and although that isn't all of us, there are some and the fact of the matter was, it's about the journey of two guys looking for a real but hilarious buddy to hang out with. Personally, the air guitar moments made me laugh out loud more than once. It's not the kind of movie that you take seriously, it's there to make you laugh and for me it was accomplished.

State Of Play-Thriller

I really enjoyed this movie, it was never boring! Russell Crowe does an amazing job and unexpectedly so does Ben Affleck. For once, I didn't notice that Ben Affleck was trying to act and actually got involved with his character instead. I never like to give too much away in case, you, the reader haven't seen it. I'll just say it's about a reporter, Russell Crowe, and his sidekick, Rachel McAdams, who is chasing a story about a senator, Ben Affleck, who is some how involved in a murder. The plot has twists and turns and is really entertaining to watch it all unfold.

Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off!

Meet Bloomistry

Hi readers,

I thought I would share one of my new pieces of photography with you. This is from last Saturday's gig of Bloomistry at Raw Sugar in Ottawa,Canada. The band can be found on twitter @Bloomistry. These guys were amazing live and a lot of fun to work for. Now if you decide to copy and paste this photo off of the blog because it's a rare occasion that I did not water mark it or bring the size down, please say that it is by me, Jenifer Lapierre, and who it is (Bloomistry). Word of mouth is a beautiful thing, if you let it be. New photos will be posted soon at Jaelphotography.carbonmade.com/

Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off!

Feedback!

I need some feedback today so please comment.

I'm thinking about self publishing a photography book for about 25.00. Basically, I'm thinking that quite a bit of people love the arts but most of the time their pocketbooks, can't handle purchasing original art. People would be able to purchase the book online and it would mostly consist of my landscapes and Urban work. I have new stuff but I'm not posting it online so that some unseen stuff would be in there. Jaelphotography.carbonmade.com/

That's it, I'm just wondering if there would be interest. Now it's your turn, Comment away. Be honest, you think no way then say it! xox

Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off!

Love of the Arts

As I listen to, "There's an arc" by Hey Rosetta, ( http://www.myspace.com/heyrosetta ) I realize this is one of the things that has never changed about me, my love for music. Although, I can't hold a tune to save my life, I'm not lying, I'd probably make children cry if I had to sing to them. It's not an ability I possess but it is a love of mine, for sure. I think that's what's difficult about being passionate about the arts, the question am I talented and love it or do I just love it? Any of you that are on my twitter know that I am a photographer and may also know that I'm an aspiring writer but my passion for this often conflicts with my finances. I'm not exactly an open book but my desire to do what I love has forced me out of that because the fact of the matter is if I'm not open then how can anyone know or see what I love?

That's the point of this blog to try to gain exposure while putting the word out about other artists. I'm not really young anymore but I'm not old either and so I guess this is it. If it doesn't work then I will not have regrets. Sometimes I feel like talent isn't enough because we all know it helps to have money and contacts. I hope I'm not diluted and imagining I have talent lol, that would suck! Artists if you want to share your story contact me at Jenlap_artsblog@hotmail.com

If you're a new reader to this blog, it won't always be so bloggy but it will always have my honest opinion whether you feel it is factual or not.

By the way, for all of you google wave invite owners, I love technology so hook a lady up!

Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off

Jaelphotography.carbonmade.com/

Bands

Renee Yoxon

Ottawa, Ontario

As I age, my taste for music grows and with that comes my interest in Jazz. A fellow Ottawa area artist, Renee is a Jazz singer who just needs to get signed. This girl is insanely talented! Note to Renee, I promise to see you live before December! I'm sorry if I say your last name wrong whenever we meet, I am totally English but my franglais family made me incapable of either language lol. http://www.reneeyoxon.com/home.html I have absolutely no comparison for her as I really only know the classics and very few at that. @reneeyoxon twitter

The Stills

Montreal, Quebec

I took some shots of them at Bluesfest and probably embarrassed myself in the pit, busting a move as I took shots of them. The truth is if I cared, I wouldn't have done it lol, that's just how I roll:) I guess they'd fall under the genre of light rock but Light Rock reminds of Bon Jovi or someone like that and they are absolutely not like that. Their music is the kind of stuff that you can go on a road trip with or if you're making a mixed tape (older version of a play list) for your crush:) Just a side note, I find the singer looks like Johnny Knoxville, is it just me? www.Jaelphotography.carbonmade.com/ By the way guys, your people never got back to my people (me) about my shots. Check them out http://www.myspace.com/thestills

The Arkells

Hamilton, Ontario

These guys were also a band that I took shots of at bluesfest and also have as a ringtone. Right before the show started, I realized I forgot to put my phone on vibrate and just hoped it didn't ring their song during the silence. This band is the kind of band that you can't help but move to even if it's just a little foot tapping under the table, trust me it'll happen! Check out their fan page on Facebook, I have some shots on there. I didn't want to disturb them before the show so I decided against going to meet them. It looks like they'll be everywhere this season so check them out! To all my loves, they come to Ottawa two weeks after my birthday wink wink nudge nudge lol. Note to The Arkells I'll take some shots for two tickets:) @arkellsmusic on twitter http://www.myspace.com/arkellsmusic

Late Nite Wars
Merrimack Valley, Massachusetts

For all of you Real World fans, the guitarist/vocalist was on the last season. I accidentally ran into the bands music while on Myspace. This band reminds me of the 90's when I lived at Punk shows and I wasn't afraid to be in the pit. This is when Blink 182 played with the alkaholiks. When I met them(Blink), I thought they were the coolest ever lol. I can't help it, I still like them and all of the bands that they created after that. This band sounds like Get Up Kids and Boys Night Out blended together. If you love old school punk, you'll love them. @latenitewars for twitter http://www.myspace.com/latenitewars

Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off

The Blog is Back

This summer has been a roller coaster ride for me with good and bad but that is how life goes sometimes. I'm just either busy with no time on my hands or have absolutely nothing to do but I'm living with it.

I'm back to the blog and will be loyal again but unfortunately I think many of you have stopped being loyal readers as I have not been a loyal blogger!

Firstly, I would like you to know that my photography website is up and running http://jaelphotography.carbonmade.com/

Secondly, my work with Luminosus magazine is complete until about february. I am happy that the issue will be out for the readers to see but sad that it is over, it is a bitter sweet thing for me! Check it out at the end of October beginning of November www.lumlive.com

It is currently being revamped so the site will be down for a few weeks. I've met some fantastic people through working with Luminosus and will be happy for the next issue to be starting again. The editor-in-chief, Julene, is a gem and can't wait to have a relaxing, fun time with her whenever I can get my butt up to Toronto. It'll be nice to talk magazine without deadlines involved lol. The cover will have Ben Barry. The articles that I wrote will be of Ben Barry who is an amazing person who believes in beauty of all shapes and sizes and will also have Evan Starkman, the reality t.v. personality on MTV, who is charming and innovative to say the least. I'm pretty sure The Real World/Road Rules The Ruins airs tonight in the States and who knows when in Canada. Janet Han of Fashionably Yours will also have an article as well as a few Canadian hidden gems that I found along the way, a painter named Kendal Kendrick who has limitless talent and Juanita Koo, a personal trainer/Cake decorator. All of these people were very different but fascinating in their own right.

October 6th is the pre-party drop off date for Ottawa's Timeraiser event. It's finally coming and my work called on Track will be up for auction. Come join the festivities if you're in Ottawa on November 14th http://www.timeraiser.ca/en/2nd-Ottawa/

I'm still trying to get a show together in Toronto if finances permit. I just submitted to another artist call and hopefully get into that, my pieces will then be in Toronto for sure.

From this point on, I will be posting weekly either by video, voice clip or in writing!

Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off

Slow Life with alot of Rain

Life is slow this week which I hate. It's not really slow just what I'm doing isn't very active. I've been editing photos, watermarking, adding stuff to my new site, sending emails and my least favorite thing in the world.... waiting. I hate waiting and for some reason, it feels like that's what I've mostly been doing. Right now, I'm waiting for bands to respond back to me regarding my photography. This is all up in the air whether people will be using my photos or not which I love not knowing. Obviously, I'm being sarcastic:)

Things are moving but I think I expect the world to move quicker then it does but I know everything is a process.

Bluesfest was fantastic with great Canadian bands like the Arkells, Metric, Beast, Sam Roberts band, The Stills, K'naan and American bands like Ben Harper and The relentless 7, Stone Temple Pilots, Live, and Gym Class Heroes to name a few. I'm really happy with many of the shots that came out of it! Some shots that aren't being sold to bands will be available to be seen www.lumlive.com at the end of august along with some articles I wrote about some fab Canadians many of which are making some differences in the world! Inspiring to say the least. I'm excited about the movement that is happening in regards to exposure just still hoping for my financial life to catch up.

I'll post the link to my website sometime next week when band photos are up!

Weather wise Rain, Rain, rain, glimpse of sunshine, rain! I don't know if I should inform mother nature but I think she's a little confused, this is not the west coast!!!!

Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off!

Finally I've posted!!

Dear Blog and Blog readers, I am sorry for neglecting you, this month has been very hectic filled with interviews, article writing, a trip to Montreal, events and photography.

Here's some good news, one of my pieces called On Track was accepted to this year's Ottawa Timeraiser event! I am also in the middle of organizing a show, so cross your fingers for a sell out:) There will be an auction of one of my pieces to a charity, if I get to choose, I'm thinking the heart and Stroke foundation (The best father ever, my dad passed away at a young age in 2001 from a heart attack) now don't get sad, this is a good thing every little bit counts towards a cure right and if not a cure a longer life! Solid organizing of that should begin next week after Bluesfest is over as I am doing the event shots for that for Luminosus magazine. So far it looks like the event will take place in Toronto and I am hoping a little earlier than Fall but it looks like Fall is actually the most reasonable date. I'm looking for some sponsors so if you know anyone send them my way!!!!

Also, I just entered into another open artist call for a solo show in Montreal so I'm really hoping that happens as well.

In the next few weeks I will get back on the blog ball, I hope you are all still following!

Flaunt Ottawa Event

This is to all of my Canadian readers and Americans that will be visiting Ottawa, The nation's Capital on June 27Th. There is a great event coming up!

Check it out

http://www.flauntottawa.com/

Luminosus

Hi readers,

I just thought I should attach the magazine that I'm writing for right now. It's called Luminosus, my articles will be in the Fall issue which launches at the end of august. Pass it around and spread the word about it. It's a new magazine and the first issue came out this passed spring.

http://www.lumlive.com/Home.html Keep your eyes open for the Fall issue guys and gals!

Movie Rental Reviews

It is Movie review day!! Don't get too excited now:) I will be reviewing three movie rentals, two new and one old.

Happy-Go- Lucky

This newer movie rental wasn't so Happy-Go-Lucky. We rented it in the hopes that it would be an up beat, optimistic film that was easy to watch and basically just light hearted fun. What I didn't realize was that the main character, Poppy, would be overly optimistic, accepting, and always trying to find ways to agree with others with the expectations of no confrontation while the rest of her world was cranky, low key and at times lacked personality. I won't give too much away for those readers who have a desire to watch the film but the one moral seemed to be that if crazy people attack your optimism try to politely disregard them and tell them very nicely that you don't have a desire to see them anymore.

Taken

Liam Neeson is shockingly a good action hero. The main character, Bryan Mills, is an overprotective father eventually with reason and happens to have the skills to back up his words. This movie had a strong storyline for an action film and had me at the edge of my seat!

And now something old...

Blind Dating

Now that the world knows and people are crushing on the new Captain Kirk of Star Trek, people may be interested in watching Chris Pine in a romantic comedy. This is an absolutely quirky film filled with a few bad lines but overall pretty cute and easy to watch.

Celebrity Gossip Slow Down, Ashton Kutcher Makes a Point

I feel like I've been bombarded with useless information about celebrities lately. I turn on the TV at 7 pm and the first thing I hear is how a celebrity ate jelly beans, picked out a new hat or even worse how families and couples are being hassled by paparazzi. I'm starting to miss the days when we as a society had no idea what a celebrity did on a Sunday for lunch. Celebrity stalking isn't cool!! Why does it feel like it's gaining momentum rather than losing momentum? I remember the days when the National Enquirer was the only tabloid magazine, that you picked up in the grocery line feeling a little silly. It seems like it is everywhere now and really my brain doesn't need this information.

What do you say to your child or teenager when they say that they want to be an actor? Stick to theatre, film and television bring you nothing but overexposure and lack of privacy. Shouldn't people have the choice to let the world know what they are doing, when and with who? Obviously, I am aware that certain celebrities walk down a specific area in hollywood to get seen but there are the people that just get straight up harassed. I know why people do it, there is major cash involved but at what expense?

At least, I know as a photographer and a writer that whether I become popular or not and even if I make it to the red carpet (dream) for my screenplay, the actor will get more attention and I will not be followed by paparazzi.

Isn't it kind of sad that there is more exposure about what shade of lipstick someone was wearing yesterday rather than the fact that people are homeless, starving, and losing their homes. Of course, it's human nature to be curious but it would be nice to have a little bit more of a balance. I'll make a point to put my title as something celebrity related to see how many hits I get.

I read all of these articles on the internet ragging Ashton Kutcher about the 10,000 or 20,000 nets for malaria awareness being a stunt to get to the million mark on twitter faster. Wasn't it a thoughtful stunt? He would've reached it anyway so at least he got awareness on something else other than just his celebrity. I appreciate the fact that he knows how our society works and uses it to spread the word about doing a good deed.

Quite a bit of things are publicity stunts its the only way you can create a following sometimes and if the cause is right why not. If you have the means check out a local artist or a far away one lol like me or give to a local charity. Sometimes a little bit is a lot.

Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off

Interview with Author Heath Fox Part 2

Here is Part two of the interview with Heath Fox. Like Part one it is only excerpts due to space limitation. For all of you Skywalker fans the second edition to the series is almost done and it is called Skywalker: The Traveler so keep your eyes and ears open for its release date.

Jenlap:Do you feel that you will continue to write in the genres of adventure, horror and thriller or do you ever consider exploring other genres?

Heath Fox: I think that the novel Blood 4 Blood will set me apart. I don't want to be that writer that just writes thrillers...I don't want to be a writer that just writes one specific thing. When I want to write, I just want to write...In Blood 4 Blood I was writing in the sense of The Diary of Anne Frank and War and Peace...It's a novel that represents the Russian side of things. In WWII, I don't think a lot of the world knows the entirety that the Russians went through(mentions that the loss of Russians was 26.5 million). I think it's time that there's a story about that.

Jenlap: Do you ever consider screenwriting instead of novel writing or adapting one of your novels into a screenplay?

Heath Fox: I have a screenplay that I'm working on, it's the remake of Forbidden Planet. It was one of the greatest science fiction novels written of all time (explains how Star Trek, Star Wars were influenced by this movie). What I'm working on is modernizing it...

Jenlap: Do you think that social networking sites have enabled you to reach a wider audience?

Heath Fox: Yes. through twitter I have been able to reach out to publishers and other writers. James Rollins, we have been tweeting back and forth. We have an ongoing joke, where I edit his website and send him the errors. I think twitter is a powerful tool! James Rollins was one of my first followers, he's one of my heroes so it was quite a big deal to me.

Jenlap: Do you have any advice for up and coming writers?

Heath Fox: Keep going. A lot of writers these days will write a novel that they think will scream bestselling novel and writing doesn't work that way. You have to approach it in a realistic manner...If you are the next Ernest Hemingway or think that you're the next Ernest Hemingway, if you're thinking your writing is too good for anybody to shoot down then writing probably isn't something you should do if you're expecting commercial success... If you want to be a writer just be a writer and don't give up.

You can find Heath Fox (@Heathfox) on twitter.

For all of you Canadian readers Skywalker is available at amazon.ca

http://www.amazon.ca/Skywalker-Tablet-Ninurta-Heath-Fox/dp/0595336809/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1243306786&sr=8-5

For all of you American readers. Here is the link for the Seed you can also find it on amazon kindle for iPhone and ipod, Skywalker is also available

http://www.ebookmall.com/ebooks-authors/heath-fox-ebooks.htm

http://www.amazon.com/Seed-Heath-Fox/dp/1439221626/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1243307138&sr=8-4

Now we are all more informed about the writer Heath Fox, hope you enjoyed it and take the time to pick up one his novels. For more information on Heath Fox visit his website http://www.heathfox.com/

Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off.

Interview with Author Heath Fox Part 1

On Friday I had a phone interview with author Heath Fox of such novels as The Seed, Skywalker and the upcoming novel Blood 4 Blood. It was an interesting interview with such information like Heath Fox is really his pen name and that part of Fox' pen name derived from actor Red Fox. The post will be in two parts and I unfortunately did need to leave a bit out due to space limitation but here are some excerpts:

Jenlap: As an author are your characters driven from real people or experiences?
Heath Fox: They're not driven from real people. In Skywalker what I wanted to do was create a character that could fit in the world today, a realistic person. The character Jack is a native american searching for who he is and where his place is. As far as his culture goes he doesn't really claim his culture. As it turns out through a series of events he realizes maybe there is something to what his father and grandfather have to say.

Jenlap: I've noticed that some authors feel most inspired at a certain time of day, is this the case for you?
Heath Fox: No, not really. I come up with ideas all over the place. At 2 o'clock in the morning, I came up with the storyline for a book I'm working on called Blood 4 Blood. Stephen King came up with misery on a plane. He was at a hotel in London when he wrote it on a napkin.

Jenlap: I guess it's good to have a pen and pad handy.
Heath Fox: I usually do it all by memory and put it on my laptop later.

Jenlap: Which of your novels was most difficult to write and why?
Heath Fox: The Seed. It's a novel about what's going on today, you're either pro-America or a terrorist. You're either on their side or our side. That right there is the atmosphere that has developed over the years from the previous administration. In writing the novel I wanted to put across the argument by saying here we have an Iraqi man that his wife and family was killed by one of our bombs trying to find Saddam Hussein. Which in turn created a terrorist because of our policies, how we do things, how we perceive the rest of the world and how the world perceives us...The way I ended the novel (The Seed), I didn't really want to end it that way, I did it because it was expected, I guess. I wanted it to just be a draw because it is a draw right now...

Jenlap: In the novel, The Seed, you ask yourself the question is there another way other than violence. Do you feel that this is an ongoing question for individuals?
Heath Fox: I think that this is something we as individuals need to confront on an individual basis and address...that violence doesn't work period. History has proven through time and time again, all wars end with conversation...

Upcoming interview and News on People/Portraiture Photography

Good evening everyone,
First let me apologize to the readers of this blog for the lack of posts this week, it has been quite a busy week.
I had an interview with the author, Heath Fox, who wrote the novel The Seed on Friday and that will be posted tomorrow night. It was a great interview and can't wait for you all to read it. There's something for everyone in the interview!
I have also been going through my photo gigs and figuring out which one's belong in the People/Portraiture album. Some of these shots turned out really well and if you'd like to check out what I've been up to photography wise you can sneak a peak here http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeniferlapierreprints/sets/72157618681091968/
Finally the nice weather came and I took full advantage of it.
So be ready for tomorrow's interview, it's a good one!
Until next time, the is one n'd Jen signing off

Technology a Wonderful Burden, Television on The Internet, HP Creating Animation

It's a new age where people don't necessarily watch television on a TV anymore, let alone even require a TV to watch our favorite shows. I'm not talking about watching movies or television illegally. I'm talking about how it's not even required to leave your home to watch a movie. Companies are trying to keep up with technology and the individuals seem to be ready to latch on to the new gadget, social network or upgrade. 

Here's my secret I love television but don't have cable. I watch everything on the Internet and now with flat screen monitors sometimes it's better. I get to choose the time during the week that I want to watch my favorite show and that's that. The only thing that isn't so great is that quite a few of the American networks don't allow Canadians to have access to these shows. Don't we still watch the same advertisements and aren't we able to request these networks in our cable packages? So what's up with that?

 If you're a twitter follower of mine you've unfortunately had to deal with the painful feeds about my obsession with Smallville and my nerdy knowledge of the details behind the original Superman and how for instance Clark doesn't have glasses yet with fellow admirer of the show. Anyhow because I can't watch the show on that networks website, I now have to wait to buy the season which I mostly like would have done anyway but wouldn't they make more money off of us Canadians if they just let us watch the show online and watch the advertisements like our fellow Americans?

All you American readers please convince the networks to let us keep up with our favorite television shows via the Internet. You don't really have to go to that extent if your heart desires something less complicated just please don't tell any secrets until we catch up.

For the movie goers who already know such companies that deliver your movie rentals straight to your front door, now you can just download through itunes. Once again Canadians are a little more limited in the selection but the new releases are very up to date. If your lazy and haven't pre-ordered your movie that's an option.

It's unbelievable that not so long ago we were watching one dimensional cartoons and playing pacman on a black and yellow or black and green computer screen and now there's this. This decade has been incredibly revolutionary in terms of entertainment and accessibility. 

I know my blog says Arts, Life....here's the thing this is arts and life, technology has entered our households and studios. 

It's amazing the programs they have for artists now, I saw this program through HP that Dreamworks used to create movies like Kungfu Panda. It's amazing how you can draw and erase right on the monitor. Oh technology how I want to throw you when you have a glitch but how wonderful you are when you work. I don't have the website address with the creating of the animation but if you love art definitely try to find it. That is absolutely on my dream things to own list.

Even with photography people seem to have so many programs that they use with this art. I personally just have the basic one that came with my camera but some people go all out. 

All I have to say is our computers better not crash because most of our prized possessions seem to be looming around in here. 

Even for writers there's screenwriting programs like Final draft to make life easier. I've used it and love it. 

An absolute plus about having such technology in the household is that the whole Internet world can connect and be pen pals of sorts. Being bored or lonely at home is truly non-existent due to the ability to sit in a chair turn on a computer and talk to the person next door or 10,000 miles or kilometres away. In ways it is the best and worst thing that has happened to people because now many individuals don't feel a need to go out and socialize when in reality our typing skills are improving but the real human experience of meeting new people and socializing may at times dwindle from this. There's a generation currently growing up with no knowledge that most people met each other in person originally, played sports outside not staring at a TV screen and chatted with a coffee or drink outside on a patio. We need to remind ourselves that as wonderful as it is, that we need to enjoy the world and all of its complexities without technology sometimes. 

It's insane how many different technologies everyday people have now and although sometimes the complications that come with them can annoy us, they can still be nice to have. It has absolutely affected how we interact with others and what we consider hobbies, how we integrate our passions in everyday life and how we network. We just can't forget that there's a world out there to explore and enjoy that isn't always technology based. That's my technology rant for tonight just thought I should share.

Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off

Summer Fun and an Adventurous Spirit or Looking to Laze

As the TV finale's start coming around, it's the perfect time to find a hobby or enjoy some art. I've been on the search to interview up and coming artists so if your interested email me at Jenlap_artsblog@hotmail.com

my personal summer hobbies are writing on the days that it rains, quite a bit of volleyball, and of course photography. The winter months here are brutal so I pretty much live outside throughout the hot summer days. It's almost time to break out the blender for those cold drinks with umbrellas and start fulfilling those fun things to do. If you have the means and an adventurous spirit grab a buddy and try out some of these things:

1. Indoor Skydiving. It's not as risky as the real thing but looks like quite a bit of fun and you can kiss your kids and dog goodbye and not be as frightened. It's a wind tunnel that moves up in a vertical column.

2. Indoor rock climbing is relatively cheap and fun and in my experience for some reason the first few times it feels like 8 to 10 feet in the air is so high until you look down and realize you could jump.

3. Go whitewater rafting or canoeing but make sure the canoe is in the right direction or you may want to beat up the person your with for going in circles repeatedly. It's a fun relaxing time as long as the canoe is actually the front of the canoe.

4. Take a dance class salsa, tango, line dancing it really depends what will interest you most.

5 Go zip lining. For first timers this will get your heart pumping again.

6. For all those people who think the top five are absolute madness than perhaps a roller coaster ride is excitement enough.

7. There is up and coming artists in every city and usually a festival for them. Check your local listings and go to something like art in the park. These people need some exposure.

8. If being dangerous to you is eating the most heavenly triple chocolate Sunday and you don't have any health problems associated with sugar, absolutely do it at least once.

9. If money is tight call up some friends or grab the kids, pack a lunch and have a picnic on the beach and possibly take on the task of building the world's largest sandcastle. Although this isn't the most exciting activity it is fun.

10. If life is hectic you can just make some iced coffees or green tea lemonade and just relax while reading a book on your patio for the day. There are some recommendations on a previous blog.

How to make Iced coffee and green tea lemonade:

Just throw coffee in the fridge and add cream and sugar as desired. Steep green tea, chill over night, 2/3 green tea 1/3 lemonade and shake over ice. Martini shakers work very well.

11. If your looking for a lazy adventure after a long day the Imax often has a variety of themes of interest.

12, Camping is low cost and although it isn't for everyone it can be a fun way to get the friends or family together. S'mores are always a classic love with camping and if you can't make it out to the country this is more for children or maybe a cheesy romantic night pitch the tent up in the living room and pop some s'mores in the microwave.

Looking For and What's Going Down

I would like to do an interview on here with any kind of artist so if you are interested please contact me at Jenlap_artsblog@hotmail.com 

The same way I would like some exposure, I figure there's others so if you want people to know about your hidden talent or your very well known talent please don't be shy. I am hoping to do one or two of these interviews per month so if you're not chosen this month there will be further 

opportunities.

Went to the Country yesterday, it was nice to breathe in the fresh air and BBQ. It sounds so simple but it was nice to get some R & R.

Random fact of the day, it is May 16th and it is snowing in Manitoba. I am very happy I don't live there right now!

It's another rainy day and I swear my writing ideas diminish with the rain lately.  The birds are chirping and I'm hoping it's a sign to the end of this on going precipitation. We are getting west coast style rain which is very strange for this area! I have been unable to get out and do great shots let alone any shots, I don't have a rain protector for my camera. I'm pretty excited for the nice weather to start due to having a bunch of people shots lined up. No word, on an agent yet but I have submitted some query letters to magazines.

My P.s. today is pictures of my cool a@# Boston terriers.

Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off.

This is Moo one of my beautiful Boston terriers.

This is Marty on last years road trip.

Book Recommendations

On this rainy day what would be better to write about than great books to read. I've personally noticed that during the summer months the only way I read is if I have already picked out a few books prior to the sunny days. Isn't it nice to go to the beach on a lazy Sunday with a good book in tow? I was trying to come up with a strong list with a few light reads but as I wrote out the list I realized that most of the books I love are controversial, dense or dark so I asked a few people to pick their favorite books and for the most part they were still not the most uplifting but excellent reads.

I chose quite a bit of 20th century American fiction due to the many changes in society, political, sexual revolutions and inequalities that occurred during this time. Although much of the writing may be politically incorrect and even outrageous at times it allows one to see how we got from there to here which makes for a great read. Just a warning the first few books are not for the faint at heart and if you need your spirits to be brought up it is probably not the time to read these books.

1. The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne  2. The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett

3. Rabbit Redux by John Updike        4. Atonement by Ian Macewen

5. McTeague by Frank Norris            

The next few are recommendations by others that I mostly haven't read but believe to be good due to respecting their opinions.

6. Crime and Punishment by Fyordr Dostoyavsky ( A dense read)

7. A Child's night dream by Oliver Stone ( I was told if you love his films, you'll love this book)

http://www.amazon.com/Childs-Night-Dream-Oliver-Stone/dp/0312167989

8. Stormy weather by Carl Hiaasen ( I was told that it is a light and wacky read)

http://www.amazon.com/Stormy-Weather-Carl-Hiaasen/dp/0446677167/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1242327986&sr=1-3

9. Confessions of a shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella ( I was told an extremely light read)

     http://www.amazon.com/Confessions-Shopaholic-Movie-Sophie-Kinsella/dp/0440244870/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1242328106&sr=1-1  

I added a couple links so that it would be easier to find some of the books. Just thought it would be nice to have a few book ideas to enjoy during the summer months.

Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off.

About My Photography As Requested

Today I decided to ask my twitter "followers" what they would like to read about in my blog today. I figure that every once and awhile, I'll ask the people that read this blog what they want to read about and so this is the first post request question : I'd like to hear about your photos and your dream place 2 travel for photo taking.

When I was a kid I was asked the question what do you want to be when you grow up? In order to fulfill my desire to write, photograph and fly I said that I wanted to be a pilot and a photojournalist. I said that being a pilot would help me with my ability to take great pictures from the sky. I guess I figured my plane could be on autopilot while I took these pictures lol. I have loved photography my whole life but only started taking it seriously about two years ago when I got my first SLR camera. The best advice I can give people who have an interest in photography is that practice isn't only for amateurs, improvement is an on going affair. Everyone looks at life in a different way and I try to capture how I perceive life through the lens. My flickr page currently just focuses on my landscapes due to the fact that I'm in progress of building my urban and portraiture/people portfolio. For the portraiture/people album I am mainly concentrating on individual uniqueness and their passions. At some point very soon I have a photo gig with a band so that might get posted. Sometimes it's tough to put yourself out there in order to be critiqued but how else can we do what we love?

Last year I began my travels from Quebec to Alberta taking photography of Canada's wide array of landscapes. I wanted to demonstrate how simple things in life can have so much beauty. I do not photograph one specific thing, I feel as though I should be open to the world and all of its diversity. I enjoy photography because it demonstrates beauty in life. I believe that being an artist is just a part of me that I can not deny. It is an experience that allows constant room for growth. I am involved in photography because when I finally get that shot that makes me smile, it creates a sense of pride in a piece. I am the kind of personality that is always trying to push my own boundaries and explore further aspects of this medium. I would say that I try to find beauty whether it is gritty, dark or simple. My desire is when people see my work that they feel moved by it and that perhaps for a moment they forget that it is photography. Most of my photography, no matter what it is I would identify it mostly as a fresh and soft look.

My dream place to travel for photo taking would be....

This is a tough question because I have more than one place. I'll be a little greedy and pick three places. I think that amazing photography would come out of going to the northwest territories although I would need to bare with the cold. My reason for choosing this location is because of the beautiful skies, it's unique qualities and the opportunity to see animals that I've never seen before. It wouldn't exactly be my dream vacation spot but it would absolutely be a place that would give experiences to remember.

The next choice would have to be Newfoundland because of its natural beauty and no matter whether I would be photographing people or landscapes, it would give opportunity for a variety of settings.

Last would be a dream place for photo taking and a dream vacation spot. I think I would have to say Spain and Italy ( I know there's two here but I could travel to both while I was there:). This is a choice because of the tremendous architecture and landscape. That would be a place that I would absolutely not want to forget my camera.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeniferlapierreprints/

My photography is for sale on requests and most are limited editions.

I guess these are kind of diverse choices but each have such great unique qualities.

Hope this answered your questions and you enjoyed!

Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off

What Dreams are Made of

I initially began this blog thinking that maybe a miracle would happen and that I would get some interest in my screenplay, photography or writing skills in general. I figured that this would be the opportunity to give a voice to people trying to follow their dreams who didn't necessarily have a significant upper hand. In my case, there's a few things that lessen my odds I don't have contacts, money or live in a geographic location where the arts are 'big'. What I have is hope that my ability will shine through and that perseverance will help me with that. I gave myself a rule, to never be negative while writing these blogs but sometimes it is quite difficult to do so. Everyone has something to complain about, some more than others. I am fortunate enough to live in a society where we are lucky enough to have many of the basic necessities but necessities aren't what dreams are made of.
People spend their lives singing their hearts out, dancing in the hopes of being seen, and writing in the hopes that someone will read. This all comes from our childhood fantasies, when the question is asked what do you want to be when you grow up? So, you practice in the mirror, sing under the stars or dance in the daisies because one believes that it is possible. We're too young to know that if you try hard enough sometimes it's just not what's meant to be. Is it? Or do people, life, or our economic status make us believe so? Sometimes it is easy to forget that we can still sing under the stars or dance in the daisies and that we don't necessarily need to be paid for it. Yes, it would be nice to get paid for it though, wouldn't it.
Some people spend their lives wondering what it's like for those fortunate souls to have the opportunity to do what they love. I'm personally under the assumption that it's wonderful not blissful but wonderful. Life still happens and pains still occur but the passions aren't ignored between 9 to 5 Monday to Friday. Meetings are still a must but wouldn't it be wonderful to know that it was for what you loved.
I'm just a girl trying to be myself in a world where sometimes putting yourself out there isn't so kind. Paying the bills and having a place to live is nice so I don't recommend calling up your boss and quiting your job to play the cowbell but trying to do what we love even if it is a hobby, can be rewarding even if we don't have a million fans, friends or followers whatever one wants to call them.
Whoever is reading these blogs, I hope that it is an enjoyable experience and that it doesn't feel too much like mindless rants all the time.
Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off

Lazy Saturday Night

On this lazy Saturday what better to write then recommendations for movie rentals and snacks to go with it. If you're looking for an older movie to rent and don't want to feel lost in the aisles here's what I have for you.
Drama
House of Sand and fog
A Beautiful Mind
Stand By Me
Atonement (especially if you read the book)
Good Will Hunting
The Prince of Tides
Fried Green Tomatoes
Thelma & Louise
Coming of Age
Reality Bites
Threesome
St. Elmo's Fire
Romantic Comedy
Love Actually
Monster-in law
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
When Harry Met Sally
Four Weddings and a Funeral
Dirty Dancing
Ghost
Comedy
Weekend at Bernie's
Captain Ron
Zoolander
My Super Ex-Girlfriend
Superbad
City Slickers
Dick Tracey
Ghostbusters
INDIE
Broken Flowers
Premier Juillet (helps if you understand french or don't mind reading subtitles)
Juno
Bon Cop, Bad Cop
The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz
Mambo Italiano
Grosse Point Blank
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist
Garden State
Sideways
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Classics
Casablanca
Gone With the Wind
Anything With Marilyn
Quick and Easy to Make
Now that the movie options are up, what to eat what to eat! Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are always great to have especially with whipped cream.
If you want to go a little Junk foodish Rice crispy squares or s'mores can be great
If you're looking for something not so sweet crackers with cheese with lobster flavoured Alaskan pollack is so good. It's in a package usually by the meat section.
A baguette with soft unripened goat cheese and some tomatoes (you can bake for a few minutes but don't need too!)
baby carrots and dip are good
Just thought I would name a few things out of the junk food section, that way there's some alternatives. Happy Saturday all!
Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off

Dreams Should We Just Give Up or Persevere?

As a person who has a deep desire to have a career in the arts, my question today is at what point do you say to yourself, it's time to be logical and find a new dream? If it was myself answering this question I would probably answer never but then I would need to ask myself is this out of stubborn pride or the fact that I actually have ability? I'm relatively normal, I just have big goals that I can't seem to let go of. It's hard to make the conscious decision to leave your home and take a chance, if it's only merely a chance. If someone called me up today and said listen this is where it's at and we'll give you a shot, I'd absolutely be there. With no contacts how does one get those calls? I'm networking but self promoting can only go so far.
As previously said in a former post, I have been using twitter to network but it seems as though the people with the connections don't respond as much as I would like. In my opinion it seems as though it is alright to promote a movie that is already being made but as a unknown screenwriter and a photographer, it is put into the category of promoting. Aren't we all promoting ourselves in ways? When actors go on talk shows to talk about their movies aren't they doing the same thing? When one goes for an interview aren't we promoting our best qualities, in the hopes that we get the job?
We are all unique creatures with something to give and when we find that something that we love, shouldn't we try.
I read this article that talked about people being self absorbed and that twitter was part of this. Who wants to hear about how many cookies we ate or what we accomplished today. My answer to that is that sometimes it's nice to be able to put yourself out there in the hopes that someone is listening and it isn't always about the self, sometimes it's about what one can do for others, trying to put a smile on someones face and plainly just saying you know what I hear you. Yes life can be monotonous at times but pushing through and trying to be who you are can be worth it. We might not all make a million dollars a year doing what we love but I say if we tried at least we won't have regrets.
Until next time, this one n'd Jen signing off

What to Do When Times get Tough

Watching a fashion show, I absolutely love watching these shows but ever since the economic crisis for some reason people are commenting about how tough it is out there. blah blah We all know, we're going through it. It is really nice to know that we're not the only one's but when one's advice is to buy an haute couture dress or shirt so that you can look good while having troubles, this is horrible advice. Now is the perfect time to give my opinion about how to have fun during an economic low point.
1. Check out up and coming bands. The tickets are much cheaper than well known artists and you can usually check them out on a site like Myspace prior to attending.
2. Have a Potluck. You get to meet up with friends and your not going to freak about how much your spending.
3. If you can afford a pet, go to a place like the SPCA. Sadly, one of the first things to go during financial problems is our beloved furry friends.
4. Check out smaller theatre companies, the tickets are usually cheap.
5. Read my blog. It's free lol
6. If you usually go on an annual trip and can't afford it, check out what's interesting in the area make a day out of it.
I love the arts and if you can, support it because when the downturn is over, we do want our favorite talents to still be out there.

Twitter Madness

I was initially disinterested with twitter and didn't really get what the point was. I knew that celebs were on the site but that's not what tempted me. What tempted me was that as an artist we all need some love and exposure especially if we're up and coming. This would do it for me, this would give me a chance to display my abilities to twitterland or twitterverse. It's not that I want to be known, it's that I want to do what I love and to do that I have to put myself out there, way out there. My first week using twitter was quite effective and interesting! We all know facebook but twitter isn't like facebook! I'm not knocking facebook, I still use it. Twitter just serves a different purpose! When one finally figures out the real people over the imposters and spammers, things begin to go smoothly.
The problem for me as a writer is that directors, producers and actors seem to have this overall feeling that quite a few of the unknown screenwriters think that we feel that anyone can do it. I know one thing and I know that three years of studying english made me a strong writer and my ability to understand a wide range of people does help! I write what I know and this is why I wrote a coming of age dramedy. My photography is generating some interest because Twitter allowed me to gain some exposure. Enough about me and twitter, what about those who use it for fun and to be able to write to their favorite actors/actresses, comedians, directors etc?
With technology always expanding, this is better than writing a fan letter! People may not get absolute instant gratification but they do get to know that these people are just as real as the rest of us.
For all the celebs on twitter this is a great avenue to use in order to say hey this is who I am, don't listen to the paparazzi. Also. it's great for them to gain fans, promote their new creations and refer other less famous celebs.
Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off

The First Non Introductory Blog. Welcome

I'm not sure if I'm getting hits on google yet or not for this blog so the amount of views I have are most likely pretty low. I figured that I would write this one now anyway because people can just catch up once it's more accessible.
I just watched the season finale of Private Practice that was insane! Wow, I don't want to give any spoilers for those of you who TVo'd it. If you're into the show, this is absolutely a must see.
For all of you who were thinking of picking up a book, please do. It's hard out there for authors speaking as a canadian, we have so many amazing writers out there just waiting to be found. It's tough with the economic crisis right now. I'm thinking that the next blog will be in the style of an article with cheap but fun outings and ideas. We all need to spice it up alittle even with the penny pinching. We might not be able to go to spas, go to our favorite restaurant or buy those fabulous shoes but at least we have eachother right? I know, I know I'm not the best at consolation prizes.
Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off.

The introduction

My first official post is this saturday evening. First, let me introduce myself and my intentions for this blog. My name is Jen, I went to University for three years and studied English to gain more ability in writing and editing. I wrote a screenplay over a year ago and am busting my a@$ to get someone to read it. How does someone with no contacts or credits get someone to read a screenplay?I'm also a photographer, let me shamelessly promote myself for a second...Here's my link http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeniferlapierreprints/ . This blog is intended to hopefully display my abilities, discuss art, culture, movies and the adventures of life. I'll absolutely be discussing Boston terriers as well as some technology. I have recently discovered twitter and have been taking full advantage of it.
I'm a canadian in love with the arts, I'm not the kind of person that wants to be famous and do nothing. What I would love is to be able to write screenplay's for a living and secondly do photography. I would love to audition for something just to see what would happen. I have dreams, big dreams I just hope that some of them come true.
That's me in a nutshell.
I will be writing about something other than myself within 24 hrs so if you like what you hear follow me. If you love my art refer it or contact me for prices and if you're in the film industry and want to give me a shot, definitely contact me asap lol. If you think you'll be into this blog, follow me and I'll be here.
Until next time, this is one n'd Jen signing off.