Yes, it seams like every few months I go on a bit of a hibernation with the old c.t.overdrive. This time I plan on blaming it on the Alberta Election, Alberta Tweets and of course our impending move back to the great white north. But don’t fret, I’ll be back writing again soon enough. Look for a handful of final blog posts regarding our wonderful time in The District, with my series of ode’s to this wonderful screwed up capital of the world.

… but in the meantime, I thought I’d get the creative juices flowing by sharing what’s been hammering on my playlist for the past few weeks. I’m sure there will be something on this list that perks your interest.

Sleigh Bells – Comeback Kid

Of course, not much more needs to be said about this band that already hasn’t been said.

Fitz and The Tantrums – MoneyGrabber

We stumbled upon Fitz and The Tantrums through some odd ghetto show called The Stoop. Anyways, it’s a bit of a throw back to Hall and Oates and of course the motown sound. A great band which we were lucky to catch live at The Sweetlife Festival a couple of weeks ago…

Plus any band where the lead singer looks like Jean-Baptiste Emanual Zorg automatically gets street cred in my books.

Explosions in The Sky – Trembling Hands

Another reference to this year’s Sweetlife Festival (which as mentioned last year is a one day festival put on my a local Salad company… yes, a salad company), but we had the pleasure of catching Explosions In The Sky live and is easily one of our musical highlights over the past few years. Friday Night Lights fans will already know what we’re talking about…

Kid Cudi – Pursuit of Happiness

Poser/Inside joke alert: True confession, we could have seen Kid Cudi at the Sweetlife festival, but instead decided to head home early. So I can’t actually admit that I’ve seen him live, but since that weekend I’ve spent more time listening to his record trying to figure out why the kids like this guy, which is very, very solid record.

Gotye – Someone Who I Used To Know

It’s probably a travisty to post the Walk The Earth cover, but it’s a really well done cover and hey, the video is an incredible smash sensation. If you haven’t already heard this song, then I’m sorry for you as it’s probably one of the most infectious songs to have comeout in ages. Similarily the whole record is pretty solid.

Wugazi – Slow Like That

One of the biggest travesties of my “music reviewing career” was not including Wugazi on my top five records of 2011.. hopefully this makes up for it.

Did Obama just score the game winner? Tim Thomas is gonna be pissed tonight

— Count Bettman (@CountBettman) April 26, 2012

A little over two and a half years ago, I revealed that my wife had been accepted into the Masters program at George Manson University’s Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolutions. I talked about the excitement of the move and all the emotions that came with leaving Calgary for the capital of the United States.

Well, now it’s time for another change.

As of this month, my wife accepted a full scholarship to Carleton Universities’ prestigious Communications Ph.D program. My wife won’t admit this, but this is an incredible feat, with only five to seven students admitted each academic year. In essence, it’s the culmination of two and a half years of struggle, hard work, and amazing support from our friends and family. It is a fantastic opportunity for my wife who will be able to take her current passion for social media and political upheaval, to the next level in the academic world.

As with the move to Washington in 2009-10, this move is just as emotional. On one level, we’ve absolutely fallen in love with The District; with all it’s warts, insanity and unbridled electricity. Washington DC is an amazing city. Yes, people love to say it’s a second rate step child of New York, but DC truly is in a league of it’s own. Whether it’s wandering through Chinatown with Caps fans, slumming it at RFK to see DC United, stumbling along U-Street to get a Ben’s Chilli Dog before heading to the Black Cat or spending an afternoon walking down the mall – the city really is like no place on earth.

Yet on the other hand, as a couple, we’re extremely tired. I don’t mean on the level of we don’t sleep enough, eat horribly, don’t get enough exercise and are far too busy… wait… on second thought, actually I do mean that. Washington is an incredibly high paced city. But I also mean tired in a way that many will never understand. The past two and a half years have been amazing, but we’ve also grown weary of Gluten Free Mac N’ Cheese and Ham sandwiches for dinner. I won’t delve into it too much, but as visitors to this fine country it’s been a constant struggle and the financial pressures have been quite difficult to deal with. As a couple we contemplated staying in Washington, but the allure of a more stable and simplistic transition back to Canada won out.

This isn’t a formal farewell to Washington, much as Calgary will never be out of the picture, but for the time being the allure of universal health care and a more enticing environment for entrepreneurship is too much to pass up. We’ve spent the past two years taking advantage of the amazing opportunities that DC has provided us. We understand that some of the things we’ve done during our stint here would never have happened if we didn’t move across the continent. In turn being in DC has allowed us to grow as couple professionally and emotionally. So as my wife promised the Honourable Brian Mulroney last year, we are indeed taking our brains back to Canada.

So What’s Next For The c.t.overdrive

I know I’ve rambled on about my wife and our decision, and a few of you may be wondering what’s in store for me.

First off, for those who knew me in Jr. High and High School will find the connection between Calgary, Washington and Ottawa hysterical. Just for shits and giggles, I might have to resurrect the ratty Sens cap from it’s diseased ridden coffin. But on a more serious note, we couldn’t be more excited to for this next step.

Some of you may remember my video blog post two years ago, where I talked about my intentions for my tenure in DC. I was planning to use these two years, to really refine my craft and my career. Luckily for me I was able to do that and more. Not only am I a more confident designer and entrepreneur, but I’ve also been exposed to a new and engaging element of my industry. I’ve had the chance to take in some amazing conferences and talks, heck I’ve even had the opportunity to speak in front of High School kids and University Students on my work as a web designer, investor and mini-entrepreneur. So in essence, DC has been the perfect elixir for my career.

But now we’re moving back to Canada and as a 32 year old man, it’s time to take the shackles off and lay the bricks for a solid future.

Frequent readers will have noticed a dramatic change in my content on the site . It’s true that the political climate of Washington has infected me. And how could it not, I’ve always been a very politically engaged citizen, but by being immersed in the political hot bed of western society it was inevitable that it would take over. And in a way, being in Washington has made me even more passionate about Canadian politics. In a way, by seeing the pitfalls that has engulfed the American political climate, I am far more motivated to do what I can to help thwart this inevitable notion in my home country. Canada is a fantastic country, but one slowly being dragged down into a world of complacency and apathy. An element which is critically disappointing when it comes to the fundamentals of democracy.

The company made it’s first volley into the political realm last year and with AlbertaTweets.ca, we’ve made a more public declaration. The opportunity to move to Ottawa only further goes to solidify this decision. I’m not sure entirely which path I will take, the company will still continue to play a bit part in our lives. But the direction and focus may shift from solely web work to political campaigns and the world of web data both in Calgary and Ottawa (another huge benefit to moving back to Canada). Similar to what I’ve been able to do in Washington, I am planning to leverage my time in Ottawa to reach out on a federal and local political level… and with that who knows what lies ahead… might be nice to see the Turner name on a yard sign one day.

Either way, it’s an exciting time for the Turners. Yes, we are again leaving a city we absolutely love, with people and a lifestyle we won’t let slip away. But it’s on to a new adventure and the next stage in our lives. As Calgary has formed an element of our personalities, so to has Washington.

So in two months, it’s goodbye DC.

Herrrrrow Blottawa!

Towards the end of the project, Sarah asked if I would like to be interviewed for the site. And of course I was humbled to be asked, especially to appear with some of the great people already on it such as Conrad Whelan and Grant Hutchinson. Anywho, in conjunction with the launch of the redesign Sarah has posted my interview on the site.

It was a lot of fun and I got the chance to wax on about running Armadillo Studios (and finally explain why I called it that), what it’s like to start your own business and some of my personal aspirations for the future. I hope you like the interview. It was a lot of fun to work with Sarah who is a fantastic person.

And while you’re at it, make sure that you check out some of the other interviews on the site, there are some great insights on there.

A couple of links to get you in the mood today. Of course, it wouldn’t be a St. Paddy’s day with out some fighting so let’s get you in the mood with this classic opening scene from Gangs of New York.

And then find out some proper guidelines for celebrating the day, with this fantastic site – Paddy, not Patty.

And last but not least, if you don’t want to tempt fate and make your own Shamrock Shake, you may always tempt fate with the real thing from McDonalds.

Have a great day.

Anywho, here’s a short but fantastic little doc on The Origins of the Keep Calm and Carry On Posters and how they popped back in to the modern consciousness.

(via. Devour.com & NewsBoyCallen)

First – More nostalgia for all you nerds out there, Boing Boing has an insiders look at fan letters from Huxley (A Brave New World) to Orwell.

Second – With Euro 2012 just around the corner, it’s time for the big players of Europe to start releasing their new kits. The Port-e-guizzers, aka my third favorite team behind England & Ireland, have just released their new Nike away jerseys.

Gotta say, they look sharp. I especially love the recycled material aspect.

Third – Looking to invest in a new KickStarter project? Want to invest in an intriguing documentary on Thorium as an alternative to Uranium based nuclear energy? Or do you just want to help a strong Calgary based filmmaker? Well … make sure you check out Gordon McDowell’s new film project on Kickstarter

Yes, the project has already surpassed it’s intended goal donations, but this is an intriguing project from a fantastic local Calgary talent. If you’re interested in this topic of discussion or just want to help out, definitely donate.

Fourth – If you’re in Calgary and at all interested in being in business, Mount Royal University is holding a talking featuring Julien Smith and Chris Broggan on personal and social connection.

Now, if you are in Calgary… You have to be there. Clear the calendars and be there. Or else.

Fifth – I’m sure everyone has heard of the homeless hotspots at SXSW Interactive this year. Most people probably saw a two second blurb on the news or even a little article on twitter. But Wired.com has a full in depth look at the whole controversy – who was behind and the rationale.

Not sure why I posted that, but… well the more you know.

Sixth – This is all sorts of awesome… It’s a collection of polaroid photos from the set of the 1982 dystopian epic Blade Runner.

Seventh – This could be my favourite meme at the moment. (It also happens to be one of my favourite movies of all time) It’s Gene Wilder’s infamous You Get Nothing (Remixed) from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

Eighth – I know this Random Thoughts is pretty video heavy, but if you have 30-40 minutes do check out this great documentary on local DC salad franchise – Sweetgreen’s Sweetlife Festival from last year.

Caitlin and I had the pleasure to attend last year’s festival and we’re super excited to be heading out again. But the interesting element about the documentary is to the window into not only the festival itself but how it came together and three entrepreneurs behind Sweetgreen.

Where someone takes a classic, like Pride & Prejudice and then mixes it with elements of horror, monsters, zombies and ninjas… Which of course gives us books like Pride and Predjudice and Zombies (Which I am still only 60% finished) and the sequel Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.

And with all literary success stories comes the inevitable big screen adaptation. The first of which is coming in the form of Abraham Lincolin: Vampire Hunter. Which to be honest looks a solid mindless popcorn flick.

First – I think I posted this on pretty much ever social network I know last week, but it’s worth a read (or a second read) nonetheless. It’s from the Walrus and it’s a short essay called That Time We Beat The Americans.

Of course, living withing a few miles of the centre of the United States of America, I can’t help but find this essay fascinating. But I also appreciated it because of the two sided approach. Yes on the outset, it makes fun of past Colonial-America battle choices, but it also hints at underlying element of Canadian culture which I have always found frustrating. The fact that we as a country are far too afraid and humble to celebrate our own history.

Anyways, It’s always been one of the things I’ve always admired about the US. For as much as there is atypical stereotype that they don’t know enough about the outside world, they sure do know their own past. (Well except for Presidents 11-15… because really nobody knows who those guys were).

Second – It’s the Cosby Sweater Project (via. camhoff & @brennancreative)

Third – The Gorillaz, Andre 3000 and the guy from LCD Soundsystem on a track for Converse? Oh of course I’m going to download this one.

Fourth – I know, I know, I’m late to the whole Kenny Powers thing. I know, it’s been all the rage for a while. That being said, who ever decide that Kenny Powers would be the perfect spokes men for K-Swiss is a freaking genius.

Seriously though, I’m really not a K-Swiss fan. I don’t think I’ve ever been in a position where I’ve even considered buying the shoes before, but after these Kenny Powers ads, just call me a brand advocate. (BTW, this video is NSFW)

Fifth – With so much debate on C-30 and of course SOPA, TheOatmeal.com has in one single comic done a better job of explaining why were in this situation than other article released

Sixth – A great read on the crazy perception of President Barrack Obama as an alien… of sorts

Seventh – Do you use Rdio? Fo you have an iPhone? Well if you only answered yes to one of those, then either sign up of Rdio or buy an iphone.

Then once you’ve done that, download the Anthm app. Not only is it a Canadian (and Calgary developed app), but it a fantastic idea. Basically it works as a jukebox, which allows friends with the app to vote on songs. It’s absolutely genius.

P.S. They also have a killer music blog going too

Eighth – I’m sure you’ve heard of Pinterest. If not, I’m sorry for you, but check out your Facebook wall and you’ll see what it’s all about. (You can also follow me as I appear to be the only guy I know on it.)

Anywho, you know who’s really making a killing from Pinterest? That’s right, Women’s Magazines. Bet you didn’t see that one coming.

And on a sidenote, that right there. That’s your revenue model.

The more you know.

While these two recent events are seemingly tied together, one of the most catalytic events, was a presentation put on by JESS3 founder Leslie Bradshaw called Understanding The Agency of The Future in November of 2011. And while, I won’t continue to name drop talks like some swanky car salesman, this talk in particular was about the power of data and how social data is going to be one of the driving forces for Web Agencies in the future. It was a fascinating talk, which of course discussed the emerging trend of visualizing data. In essence, it was the seed that was planted in my mind and that’s be cultivating over the past couple months. (For your enjoyment, I’ve also embed the slides below)

Anywho, the more and more I wrap my head around this concept, the clearer it becomes – data and data interpretation is really going to be the future of the internet. I personally believe that that as an industry, there are going to be two big pushes in the upcoming years. One towards design and client web site development with a multi-focus on mobile development. (Not that this is a secret by any means. Just quickly look at the emerging trends of responsive design to see where we are going) And the second big push will be towards information visualization and the interpretation of data. The app and mobile design movement, will easily be the path that most design firms move towards. In essence, of the two paths, the mobile design/app functionality is the most linear of the two options. While a select handful will move towards visualization and the understanding of data. Which to me seams like a far more daunting task.

Of the two paths, the second path intrigues me the most.

While this concept of data visualization and interpretation may sound like a flash in the pan new trend. But as I said to the students at GMU, think of it this way; as the more social elements of the web become more ingrained in the everyday routine of society, it’s becoming clear and clear that the data associated with these interactions is becoming more important to analyze. We all know that services like Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare and Linkedin are really financially driven by the amount of data they have been able to collect on users. And yes, I acknowledge that there are obvious concerns about privacy, but that’s not what I’m interested in. Networks like Facebook aren’t valued based on advertising revenue alone, their valuation is based on the potential amount of data they provide businesses and society on clients and client behaviour. Similarly, Twitter isn’t based solely on it’s potential advertising revenue; it’s a combination of being a new medium of communication tool and also having the ability to provide instantaneous data and client feedback. (Of course, if Twitter can ever find a way to monetize both of these ideas at the same time, then it’ll be laughing). Similar services like Pinterest, Instagram and the like are all trying to find ways to take their invaluable social niches and transforming that information into revenue streams.

So where am I going with this?

Essentially, the next steps for many interested in this element of the web is to find a market and an opportunity. So how does one get involved with data visualization and digital interpretation. For a small studios like Armadillo, it’s a bit of a daunting task. The clients who can afford such endeavors aren’t within the reach of the small design firms like ours and the clients of our sized design firms typically don’t have the financial wherewithal to make such a leap.

Luckily for us, there are opportunities out there. The added benefit of the social web is that much of this data is somewhat available for anyone. With the exception of Facebook, much of this information is publicly available data and can be easily collected and analyzed. So the only question is opportunity.

And as we know sometimes it’s time to craft your own opportunities. Which of course leads me to AlbertaTweets.ca.

AlbertaTweets.ca

AlbertaTweets.ca is a new project that Armadillo Studios will be undertaking for the duration of the upcoming Alberta Provincial election. (Yes, I know it hasn’t been called yet, but it’s good to get one’s ducks in a row).

The idea is to take the publicly available twitter data regarding the Alberta election and analyze it (in an impartial way), and then craft useful infographics for public consumption. The concept of this idea is to get a sense of what’s being said online regarding each political party and to see how they (the parties) are using social media to reach an audience. Over the course of the election, Mr. Boley and myself are committing to publish two weekly infographics showing different online trends. Our goal is to provide simplistic analysis of this information as a way to test the waters on this sort of market. It’s also our hope that there will be some exciting by-product of discussion, either between Albertans or by the political parties themselves.

Now with that being said, this could be the most foolish endeavor we’ve ever undertaken. But it is something that we are excited to take on. So have a look, provide some feedback and give us a follow. There will be more news coming about the project when we officially go public in the upcoming weeks.

I had heard of the track Video Games over the summer, but didn’t take much stalk in it. It felt like a one off listen and I guess I wasn’t in the mood for it. But over the past few weeks, after seeing her name pop up all over the netz, I’ve spent some more time listening to the entire album and it’s really growing on me. Sure it’s a Starbucks staple at the moment, but it’s actual a fantastic record. So to combat some of the negative comments and epic floppiness of the SNL performance, here’s Lana Del Rey on Later with Jools. (Which as my cousin would say, is absolutely brilliant for live performances.)

(P.S. She also apparently redeemed herself on David Letterman this week)

First – The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a short film from a team of ex-Pixar creative members. It’s also the first release from Moonbot Studios and also happens to be nominated for an Oscar. So, if you want to remember why we love animation, then have a look at this beautiful featurette.

Second – With the New York Giants newly minted as Super Bowl Champions, the big question on everyone’s mind is… where do they send all the loser t-shirts and hats?. Well, in case you’re wondering, they get sent to disaster areas across the world. Places like Africa, Haiti and of course Edmonton.

Which of course is great, because I’m sure there is a new batch of Patriots fans in Africa at the moment, living life up in all of Tom Brady’s UGG boots glory.

Third – I’m not sure whether to thank or curse Mr. English for this heads up, but in addition to whatever DubStep is, there is a new dance genre gaining momentum called bruvstep… It’s leader is a 23 year old DJ called Skrillex. So for your entertainment, here’s Skrillex at his best?

BTW, if you decided to watch the video, make it to the 0:58 mark… That’s when it gets realz.

Fourth – This goes out to all my Gluten-Free readers… or better yet the people who follow my wife, but are still polite enough to drop by the old ctoverdrive. Anyways, DogFish Brewery out of Delaware (of all places) has released an epic Gluten Free beer called Tweason’ale. If you are curious to what it tastes like, let’s just say that at ChurchKeyDC last weekend, my wife described it as a religious experience.

Fifth – DC Comics, the legendary company responsible for subjecting the world to the disaster of a superhero that is Superman, has undergone a massive redesign of it’s corporate branding.

And while, I’m clearly not a fan of the DC Comicbook universe, I’ve gotta say I really, really dig the new branding and concept. It’s a drastic step to take a cherished brand and modernize it, but this is very well done.

Sixth – This may be my new favorite T-Shirt company and T-shirt. It’s a company called Edward Tea Belly.

Seventh – It would appear that The University of Western Ontario has made a massive, massive branding error. So much so, that most students and alumni are raising absolute hell. You know it’s bad when even the Alumni are pissed.

Eighth – Remeber when Andrew W.K., Matt & Kim and Soulja Boy teamed up for a music video? No?… Well it’s loaded below.

Anywho, it looks like The Gorillaz, James Murphy (of LCD Soundsystem) and Andrew 3000 will be continuing this tradition later this year. Of course it’s all for Converse All-Stars… which actually makes the entire project that much cooler.

Ninth – How about some Mayer Hawthorne x M83 love to finish up these Random Thoughts? (courtesy of The Hood Internet of course)

The Hood Internet – One Midnight With You (Mayer Hawthorne x M83) by hoodinternet

But unlike many people, who are completely burning out on the meme, I personally love it. And the main reason I enjoy it is, that unlike other image based meme where all you need is MS Paint or Photoshop. To create a really good SPS video, you’ve got to put some real time and energy into it. Film it yourself and then edit it perfectly.

Sorta like my favourite example, the Sh!t DC People Say video below.

BTW, have you heard? That place has got an amazing brunch.

First – Hey! Speaking of memes, how about a little Silicon Valley Ryan Gosling. Girl, I know you want to.

Second – Prometheus essentially looks like Ridley Scott’s Alien 2.0… but it still looks freaking stunning.

Three – One of our favourite spots in DC/VA is Northside Social Coffee House. It’s a quaint little coffeeshop that we frequent quite regularly. One of the things they do is promote local artists, by adorning their walls with art. Over the past few months, they’ve had the paintings of local Arlington artist, Chris Bishop all over their walls.

There’s something about his work that I just adore. The combination of the aesthetic and bright colours, catches my eyes everytime we walk. Anyways, it’s one of my favourite local artists and I’m hoping to pick up a print before we leave the district.

Fourth – If you haven’t heard, Twitter is now going to work with governments to block and censor some select tweets and accounts. While on the face value it’s a some what daunting development, here’s an interesting read on why it’s not that bad of a policy.

Fifth – I’ve been holding on to this for quite sometime, but this article from Eric Francis is just another example of why he’s a hack writer. I understand the hatred for this kid, but it’s clear that Francis knows nothing about Ovi… nothing… nothing.

Sixth – A couple of weeks ago, Kanye West crawled out of his online fortress of solitude to embark on one of the most talked about Twitter rants in recent history. Luckily for everyone, the sports blog Grantland has transcribed the entire rants.

Seventh – Did you know that Dungeons and Dragons is being redone? No, not the horrible Jeremy Irons movie. I mean the actual ten-side dice, playing with little figurines board game. Yeah and it’s being built through crowdsourcing. Please insert ten sided dice joke … here

Eighth – Awesome overload, AT-AT Dog eating a birthday Treat.

Ninth – A full retro-redesign of all 32 NFL logos. (via @Brennancreative)

(Even though I still despise Teebow, I’ve got to say Denver has the best redesign.)

Tenth – An interesting essay on how PRINT design, yes I just said print design, is going to be the future of the internet.

I feel dirty just agreeing with that statement.

Eleventh – Remember my little post on the Calgary food scene? No! Well then, scroll down a bit.

Anyways, it turns out that it got featured in Calgary Open file last month.

Twelfth – Reason #224 why Obama is going to win re-election in 2012, he looks far cooler as the incredible Hulk than Mitt or Newt.

Thirteenth – I’ll say this once and I’ll say this again, Detroit is easily one of the most facinating places on earth at the moment. Delapitated, desolate and depressed… Hell and that’s only the Pistons current record.

Okay, okay. Here is what looks to be a fascinating documentary on the dystopia that is Detroit

Alright, matured is an odd word, but it really is the best word I can think of. (I’m honestly not trying to be condescending)

And let me preface this post by saying, that I in no way consider myself a professional foodie. I also understand that Calgary still has a way to go to rival a Philadelphia (which I’m told is the foodie place on the eastern seaboard) or even elements of DC (albeit, I’ll take a Tubby Dog over the average dogs in DC). But since leaving my beloved hometown, I’ve had the opportunity to watch and marvel at the city’s food culture from a distance.

There’s a bunch of different factors that have probably ignited this change. Obviously, one of the most overstated initiatives was the Mayor’s move to get The Food Truck concept off the ground. But a dramatic change in demographics, with a younger population benefiting from above average levels of disposable income has to be one of the strongest reasons for this growth. But what I’ve noticed is that over the past few years the number of must see eating establishments in the city has tripled. Clearly a city as young and as vibrant as Calgary is ripe for an influx of innovative new restaurants. Something that hasn’t been lost on the city’s entrepreneurs.

Since coming back in mid-December, I’ve spent most of my time back in Calgary seeking out some of the new places that I’ve heard so much about. Which is in stark contrast to last year’s trip, which was more of a reunion tour than a exploration tour.

Since arriving back home, my wife and I have had the pleasure of devouring heaps of heaven at Diner Deluxe (which I understand is really only new to me) and gorging on delicious Gluten-Free wings at the newly renovated VooDoo Lounge. During my own work-related trips into the core, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling some of Calgary’s freshly minted Food Trucks with Charcut’s Alley Burger and Perogy Boyz Food Trucks. I’ve also spent far too much time sharing conversations with old friends and downing far too many cups of divine coffee at the various Phil & Sebastian locations. Not to mention spending far too much time salivating and stocking up at the racks of spices at the Silk Road.

And the worst part about this trip back, is that I haven’t even had the chance to check out some of the other places on my predetermined hit list. Such as the donuts at Jelly Modern, the Bavarian sausage platters at WURST, the thin crust pizza at UNA or even the gluten-free menu at Milk Tiger Lounge. And that of course doesn’t even cover some of the legendary staples like the A-Bomb at Tubby Dawg (Albeit, I did have the Yukon Cornelius with my niece), the buckets of maple bacon at The District, a chocolate-orange milk shake at Peter’s or the currys that I grew up on at The Radjoot. Hell, I could go on and on and on about all the places I love in this so-called redneck town.

As I said earlier, I’m definitely no foodie. I’m more of a what’s going to clog my arteries connoisseur. If you want a real foodie’s opinion of Calgary’s scene, check out Ugonnaeatthat.com or Avenue’s Food Blog. But what I do have is the pleasure of a) distance b) separation and c) a limited time.

There’s nothing in the world more motivating than a list of places you want to try and a tight time line. (Yes, I acknowledge a month seams long, but it really isn’t). Calgary’s food scene has grown leaps and bounds in the two years I’ve been away – this trip really confirmed it. There are dozens of places that are really intriguing in this city. But what this specific trip back to Calgary has taught me, is that rather than spending time just trying to relieve old memories, it’s better to take advantage of the growing food culture in the city. Sure there are mandatory staples, but there is some far more interesting place to eat popping up in this city. It really seams like each up and coming area of the city sprouts even more unique and enjoyable treasures.

For all of you living in this fair city, take some time to enjoy some of the places hidden in the different regions of the city. You’ll be surprised what’s lingering in your back yard.

So without further delay, welcome to the sixth edition of The Adventures Post! As with the past 6 years, The Adventures Post is where I lists the cities I’ve spent one or more nights in over the past year. The idea is completely stolen borrowed from kottke.org and has been a bit of a staple on the old c.t.overdrive.

And yes, I understand that flaunting the cities I’ve traveled to is a bit egotistical, as I know travel is something of a luxury for many. But it’s also a good way to look at the year in retrospective. And for once, my Adventures are actually quite lame this year, which only goes to show the ebb and flow of travel.

• Calgary, AB
• Arlington, VA/Washington, DC
• Topsail, NC
• Raliegh, NC
• Arlington, VA/Washington, DC
• Ottawa, ON
• Back to Arlington, VA
• Calgary, AB

Needless to say, although relatively quiet on the adventures front, 2011 was an interesting year. In our new adopted second home, we survived Thundersnow, A mini-snowpocalypse, an Earthquake, and a Hurricane. We also had the pleasure of being in Washington when the news that Osama Bin Laden was killed broke, saw the Egyptian, Tunsian and Lybian revolutions unfold, watched three congressional dramas push the US to the brink, watched Anthony Weiner torpedoed his career by tweeting his weiner and witnessed the Occupy Wall Street movement explode right in our own backyard. It’s been an incredible year and easily one that I’ll never forget.

But 2012 calls kids and more changes are in store for the overdrives… onwards and upwards.