Sunday, February 24, 2008
R U OUT THERE?
I know that I have taken a pretty long break from my blog...but I am wondering.... ARE YOU OUT THERE? I used to get so many comments and emails from readers & friends who kept up with my blog. Since I have started up again...I am wondering....are you out there? (Geez. I feel like an insecure 17 year old girl. Ha)
Wedding update
Todd and I will be married in about 3 months. Deep breath. THREE months. I am so excited. And nervous. Half of me wants it to be over. And half of me wants it to always be about 3 months way. We have decided to try to get pregnant right away. I have been talking to doctors and trying to plan for this glorious time. Keep in mind folks that I am 35 and will be 36 in August. I am a HIGH RISK pregnancy. That sucks. But it is what it is. One good thing that has come from my work with the non-profit is that I have the best of the best docs in my circle. I have a list of docs that specialize in high risk pregnancies that I will have the opportunity to pick from. Nice benefit. Bad that I need this benefit. Think about it. And this is scenario is in perfect Emily form. I will be married and pregnant (hopefully) in the same year. I always have to do a ton of big stuff all at once. Deep breath. It will be great.
I know it will......
I know it will......
The Jury Is Out
I just finished watching the Oscars. I have to admit...not as thrilling of an experience as I typically enjoy. Oh well. Daniel Day Lewis? I didn't see the movie...so my comments should stop there. Too many of the movies nominated were bloody films...and that's not my cup of tea.
I have been fearing the implosion of my pocket computer calendar. It keeps all of my meetings and appointments...and I rarely go anywhere without it. It's really a piece of crap that I was issued from my non-profit employer...so it's death is not shocking to me. When I started at this job...I swore I would always use my paper (yes...paper) day-timer. I had the same one since I started my career. Every year, I would go and buy the replacement pages for the insides...my calendar. In fact, I remember going to the local office supply store and picking out the style of my day timer notebook. Just to give you perspective...the outside notebook was paisley. OK. Can you say 1989? Yup. Anyway...I fell in love with my computer day-timer...and it's impending death was freaking me out. I went to a store today to look at Smart Phones. Todd and I walk into the store and I announce that I plan to up my minutes package to around 1300 minutes a month and I am in the market for a Smart Phone. Side Bar: We live in an area of town that is up and coming....new store EVERYwhere. I picked this Verizon store because every time I go in...or drive by....no one is in there. OK. No customers. Back to the story. I tell this sales dude my deal. And to cut this story WAY short....he was trying to sell me the phone I wanted for $500. WTF? It's listed in the store with rebates for $299. Anyway. We told the sales guy he was not going to get our business for that price. We came home and found the exact phone with $65 in upgrades for $180 on ebay. Yes. It will be here by Friday. I called Verizon and I can hook this new phone to my current phone number for no charge. Why on earth would anyone ever buy a phone from a Verizon store. I dunno. I may have the answer in a week when the phone I purchased doesn't work. OR...I may be your saving grace for future purchases....the jury is out.
I have been fearing the implosion of my pocket computer calendar. It keeps all of my meetings and appointments...and I rarely go anywhere without it. It's really a piece of crap that I was issued from my non-profit employer...so it's death is not shocking to me. When I started at this job...I swore I would always use my paper (yes...paper) day-timer. I had the same one since I started my career. Every year, I would go and buy the replacement pages for the insides...my calendar. In fact, I remember going to the local office supply store and picking out the style of my day timer notebook. Just to give you perspective...the outside notebook was paisley. OK. Can you say 1989? Yup. Anyway...I fell in love with my computer day-timer...and it's impending death was freaking me out. I went to a store today to look at Smart Phones. Todd and I walk into the store and I announce that I plan to up my minutes package to around 1300 minutes a month and I am in the market for a Smart Phone. Side Bar: We live in an area of town that is up and coming....new store EVERYwhere. I picked this Verizon store because every time I go in...or drive by....no one is in there. OK. No customers. Back to the story. I tell this sales dude my deal. And to cut this story WAY short....he was trying to sell me the phone I wanted for $500. WTF? It's listed in the store with rebates for $299. Anyway. We told the sales guy he was not going to get our business for that price. We came home and found the exact phone with $65 in upgrades for $180 on ebay. Yes. It will be here by Friday. I called Verizon and I can hook this new phone to my current phone number for no charge. Why on earth would anyone ever buy a phone from a Verizon store. I dunno. I may have the answer in a week when the phone I purchased doesn't work. OR...I may be your saving grace for future purchases....the jury is out.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Urban Legends Reference Pages: 1943 Guide to Hiring Women
Urban Legends Reference Pages: 1943 Guide to Hiring Women
My friend sent me an email with a pdf version of the article above called “1943 Guide to Hiring Women” that was taken from Transportation Magazine. This "article" was designed to serve as a guidepost for male supervisors of women in the WWII workforce.
Below I comment how much things have....and haven’t....changed in 65 years.
1943 — If you can get them, pick young married women. They have these advantages, according to the reports of western companies: they usually have more of a sense of responsibility than do their unmarried sisters; they’re less likely to be flirtatious; as a rule, they need the work or they wouldn’t be doing it – maybe a sick husband or one who’s in the army; they still have the pep and interest to work hard and to deal with the public efficiently.
2008 – When I was single...I found myself wanting to climb and climb the corporate ladder. I worked very long hours and the only person who noticed how late I came home most nights was my cat when her tuna dinner was later. Now, I want to be home with Todd...not working. I just want to make a living...not live to work.
1943 — When you have to use older women, try to get ones who have worked outside the home at some time in their lives. Most transportation companies have found that older women who have never contacted the public, have a hard time adapting themselves, are inclined to be cantankerous and fussy. It’s always well to impress upon older women the importance of friendliness and courtesy.
2008 — I think the best part of the "rule"above is the use of cantankerous. Ha! I filed that word in my mental roladex and will use it soon.
1943 — While there are exceptions, of course, to this rule, general experience indicates that “husky” girls – those who are just a little on the heavy side – are likely to be more even-tempered and efficient than their underweight sisters.
2008 — I believe that in today's work force a "husky" girl is less likely to be hired and more likely to be fired.
1943 — Retain a physician to give each woman you hire a special physical examination - one covering female conditions. This step not only protects the property against the possibilities of lawsuit but also reveals whether the employee-to-be has any female weaknesses which would make her mentally or physically unfit for the job. Transit companies that follow this practice report a surprising number of women turned down for nervous disorders.
2008 — Little do they know...it's not our period that makes us crazy at work. It's stupid co-workers and bosses. Ha. Shhhh...that can be our secret.
1943 — In breaking in women who haven’t previously done outside work, stress at the outset the importance of time – the fact that a minute or two lost here and there makes serious inroads on schedules. Until this point is gotten across, service is likely to be slowed up.
2008 — So that’s where the work martyr syndrome (the disorder where women work longer and hard than necessary) originated from. Sheesh.
1943 — Give the female employee in garage or office a definite day-long schedule of duties so that she’ll keep busy without bothering the management for instructions every few minutes. Numerous properties say that women make excellent workers when they have their jobs cut out for them but that they lack initiative in finding work themselves.
2008 — So is women’s lack of iniative the reason why women-owned businesses have grown at twice the national rate this millenium?
1943 — Whenever possible, let the inside employee change from one job to another at some time during the day. Women are inclined to be nervous and they’re happier with change.
2008 — Naw...we don't need change at work to be happy...women are just smart and get bored doing the same task all day. Plus women are really fabulous multi-taskers. Just watch a stay at home mom....or ANY mom for that matter.
1943 – Give every girl an adequate number of rest periods during the day. Companies that are already using large numbers of women stress the fact that you have to make some allowances for feminine psychology. A girl has more confidence and consequently is more efficient if she can keep her hair tidied, apply fresh lipstick and wash her hands several times a day.
2008 — Rest? Women today don’t rest. Who has time between all the balancing, juggling, and multi-tasking to reapply lipstick? Besides, lipstick today can stay on for 8-straight-hours. Dude.
1943 — Be tactful in issuing instructions or in making criticisms. Women are often sensitive; they can’t shrug off harsh words the way that men do. Never ridicule a woman – it breaks her spirit and cuts her efficiency.
2008 – Really? Hillary Clinton is in the race to be president.
1943 — Be reasonably considerate about using strong language around women. Even though a girl’s husband or father may swear vociferously, she’ll grow to dislike a place of business where she hears too much of this.
2008 — Oh fuck
1943 –Get enough size variety in operator uniforms that each girl can have a proper fit. This point can’t be stressed too strongly as a means of keeping women happy, according to western properties.
2008 — Because all men wear the same size too huh?
End scene. This has been fun.
My friend sent me an email with a pdf version of the article above called “1943 Guide to Hiring Women” that was taken from Transportation Magazine. This "article" was designed to serve as a guidepost for male supervisors of women in the WWII workforce.
Below I comment how much things have....and haven’t....changed in 65 years.
1943 — If you can get them, pick young married women. They have these advantages, according to the reports of western companies: they usually have more of a sense of responsibility than do their unmarried sisters; they’re less likely to be flirtatious; as a rule, they need the work or they wouldn’t be doing it – maybe a sick husband or one who’s in the army; they still have the pep and interest to work hard and to deal with the public efficiently.
2008 – When I was single...I found myself wanting to climb and climb the corporate ladder. I worked very long hours and the only person who noticed how late I came home most nights was my cat when her tuna dinner was later. Now, I want to be home with Todd...not working. I just want to make a living...not live to work.
1943 — When you have to use older women, try to get ones who have worked outside the home at some time in their lives. Most transportation companies have found that older women who have never contacted the public, have a hard time adapting themselves, are inclined to be cantankerous and fussy. It’s always well to impress upon older women the importance of friendliness and courtesy.
2008 — I think the best part of the "rule"above is the use of cantankerous. Ha! I filed that word in my mental roladex and will use it soon.
1943 — While there are exceptions, of course, to this rule, general experience indicates that “husky” girls – those who are just a little on the heavy side – are likely to be more even-tempered and efficient than their underweight sisters.
2008 — I believe that in today's work force a "husky" girl is less likely to be hired and more likely to be fired.
1943 — Retain a physician to give each woman you hire a special physical examination - one covering female conditions. This step not only protects the property against the possibilities of lawsuit but also reveals whether the employee-to-be has any female weaknesses which would make her mentally or physically unfit for the job. Transit companies that follow this practice report a surprising number of women turned down for nervous disorders.
2008 — Little do they know...it's not our period that makes us crazy at work. It's stupid co-workers and bosses. Ha. Shhhh...that can be our secret.
1943 — In breaking in women who haven’t previously done outside work, stress at the outset the importance of time – the fact that a minute or two lost here and there makes serious inroads on schedules. Until this point is gotten across, service is likely to be slowed up.
2008 — So that’s where the work martyr syndrome (the disorder where women work longer and hard than necessary) originated from. Sheesh.
1943 — Give the female employee in garage or office a definite day-long schedule of duties so that she’ll keep busy without bothering the management for instructions every few minutes. Numerous properties say that women make excellent workers when they have their jobs cut out for them but that they lack initiative in finding work themselves.
2008 — So is women’s lack of iniative the reason why women-owned businesses have grown at twice the national rate this millenium?
1943 — Whenever possible, let the inside employee change from one job to another at some time during the day. Women are inclined to be nervous and they’re happier with change.
2008 — Naw...we don't need change at work to be happy...women are just smart and get bored doing the same task all day. Plus women are really fabulous multi-taskers. Just watch a stay at home mom....or ANY mom for that matter.
1943 – Give every girl an adequate number of rest periods during the day. Companies that are already using large numbers of women stress the fact that you have to make some allowances for feminine psychology. A girl has more confidence and consequently is more efficient if she can keep her hair tidied, apply fresh lipstick and wash her hands several times a day.
2008 — Rest? Women today don’t rest. Who has time between all the balancing, juggling, and multi-tasking to reapply lipstick? Besides, lipstick today can stay on for 8-straight-hours. Dude.
1943 — Be tactful in issuing instructions or in making criticisms. Women are often sensitive; they can’t shrug off harsh words the way that men do. Never ridicule a woman – it breaks her spirit and cuts her efficiency.
2008 – Really? Hillary Clinton is in the race to be president.
1943 — Be reasonably considerate about using strong language around women. Even though a girl’s husband or father may swear vociferously, she’ll grow to dislike a place of business where she hears too much of this.
2008 — Oh fuck
1943 –Get enough size variety in operator uniforms that each girl can have a proper fit. This point can’t be stressed too strongly as a means of keeping women happy, according to western properties.
2008 — Because all men wear the same size too huh?
End scene. This has been fun.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Eraser Tree
Todd told me the funniest story about a kid he went to elementary school with. I laughed my ass off when he told me....and thought I would share.
One day at school all of the student's rubber erasers were stolen out of their desks over recess. The teachers did their research and couldn't figure out who had stolen the erasers. The next day was Show & Tell. This boy Lance brought a rather odd item for Show & Tell...an "Eraser Tree". A stack of rubber erasers all glued together in the shape of a tree.
....Lance's parent's bought every kid at the school a new eraser.
Ha!
One day at school all of the student's rubber erasers were stolen out of their desks over recess. The teachers did their research and couldn't figure out who had stolen the erasers. The next day was Show & Tell. This boy Lance brought a rather odd item for Show & Tell...an "Eraser Tree". A stack of rubber erasers all glued together in the shape of a tree.
....Lance's parent's bought every kid at the school a new eraser.
Ha!
One word
Cherill sent me this quiz via email. The deal is that I am supposed to answer each question below with only one word. Ahem. Here we go. She said that it's harder than I would think to answer with just one word. Of course it will hard for me. I never answer any question with just one word. OK....here we go.
1. Where is your cell phone? Downstairs
2. Your significant other? Soulmate
3. Your hair? Blonde
4. Your favorite thing? TiVo
5. Your dream last night? Honeymoon
6. Your favorite drink? Vodka
7. Your dream/goal? Balance
8. The room you're in? Bedroom
9. Sport? Softball
10. Worst smell? Pee
11. Your ex? Who?
12. Your fear? Death
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Mom
14. Where were you last night? Work
15. What you're not? Mean
16. Muffins? Blueberry
17. One of your wish list items? Baby
18. Where you grew up? Lakewood
19. The last thing you did? Netflix
20. What are you wearing? Comfy
21. Your TV Brand? HGTV
22. Your pets? Many
23. Your computer? On
24. Your life? Bliss
25. Your mood? Sassy
26. Missing someone? Nope
27. Your car? Sporty
28. Something you're not wearing? Socks
29. Favorite Store? Shoe
30. Your summer? Wedding
31. Like someone? Most
33. When is the last time you laughed? Dinner
34. Last time you cried? Movie
1. Where is your cell phone? Downstairs
2. Your significant other? Soulmate
3. Your hair? Blonde
4. Your favorite thing? TiVo
5. Your dream last night? Honeymoon
6. Your favorite drink? Vodka
7. Your dream/goal? Balance
8. The room you're in? Bedroom
9. Sport? Softball
10. Worst smell? Pee
11. Your ex? Who?
12. Your fear? Death
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Mom
14. Where were you last night? Work
15. What you're not? Mean
16. Muffins? Blueberry
17. One of your wish list items? Baby
18. Where you grew up? Lakewood
19. The last thing you did? Netflix
20. What are you wearing? Comfy
21. Your TV Brand? HGTV
22. Your pets? Many
23. Your computer? On
24. Your life? Bliss
25. Your mood? Sassy
26. Missing someone? Nope
27. Your car? Sporty
28. Something you're not wearing? Socks
29. Favorite Store? Shoe
30. Your summer? Wedding
31. Like someone? Most
33. When is the last time you laughed? Dinner
34. Last time you cried? Movie
Friday, February 01, 2008
Reply ALL
OK. I am going to save some people from some crap. Maybe.
Ahem. OK. I am not Emily Post....or even her granddaughter....however. FOLKS. There is an etiquette with the reply all button on your email. When a person sends out an email to several people and has a request of that group.......probably 99.9% of the time the originator of the email does NOT require you to "reply all" and tell everyone on the original email YOUR RESPONSE to the question in the email. So. You stay-at-home-moms (the worst at this abuse of the reply all) don't click "reply all" on your email. Stop it. I don't need 15 emails about your attendance at party...especially one I have no intention of attending. Sheeeeeeh.
Ahem. OK. I am not Emily Post....or even her granddaughter....however. FOLKS. There is an etiquette with the reply all button on your email. When a person sends out an email to several people and has a request of that group.......probably 99.9% of the time the originator of the email does NOT require you to "reply all" and tell everyone on the original email YOUR RESPONSE to the question in the email. So. You stay-at-home-moms (the worst at this abuse of the reply all) don't click "reply all" on your email. Stop it. I don't need 15 emails about your attendance at party...especially one I have no intention of attending. Sheeeeeeh.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
NICU
I have worked for a non profit for over a year now. I raise money for an organization that works to ensure that every baby has a healthy start. As an organization, we often take sponsors and other supporters on tours of a NICU in a hospital to show them where their money goes. I have avoided doing a NICU tour since I started working here. A NICU is a neo-natal intensive care unit....where sick babies go for care. I hate hospitals and often faint in them. The smell. Something to do with the smell of a hospital. Much to my chagrin, I had to take a NICU tour on Tuesday at 8 am. The first room we toured was a "hospice" room. The tour guide described the room as where parents who have decided to take their baby off of life support go to say goodbye. Then she proceeded to tell me that they put beds in this room because sometimes the babies don't die right away and some families spend a day, night or more in the room. When she said that, I gasped, covered my mouth...and cried. I have seen enough to know that I don't want to ever go into another NICU ever again. Ever. Pictures of these small babies fighting for every moment and breath....don't tell the real story. I was horribly upset and tortured by what I saw. Like I need another reason to keep me up at night. Right?
....on a side note....I started taking Folic Acid on Monday. Our first step in my preparation to become a mom. Todd and I will start to try for a baby after the wedding. We will "take the goalie out of the net". Score! Because of the line of work I am in...I am privy to many doctors and specialists who care for high-risk moms. Since I am over 35...I am a high-risk candidate. We will start talking to the best of the best. A benefit of the job. One. Benefit.
....on a side note....I started taking Folic Acid on Monday. Our first step in my preparation to become a mom. Todd and I will start to try for a baby after the wedding. We will "take the goalie out of the net". Score! Because of the line of work I am in...I am privy to many doctors and specialists who care for high-risk moms. Since I am over 35...I am a high-risk candidate. We will start talking to the best of the best. A benefit of the job. One. Benefit.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Management style
Not to toot my own horn, but I have always considered myself a cool manager. My management style revolves around my ability to motivate my staff by positive feedback. I am a cheer leader of sorts. I wouldn't consider myself a bitchy co-worker or bitchy boss on any level. I am quick with an atta-boy and a thank you. However, I am also a tough boss. I expect...and get results. I work everyday to make sure that I share my expectations with my team and make sure that we set goals that will make sure we win. I am honest and straight forward and my team always knows where I stand and what I think of their performance. No games and guess work.
My management style is not working at my current employment. I am 2nd in command in our office of 15. We recently did a manager's retreat where all of us took a personality test called DISC Assessment. I LOVE personality profiles and tests. Love them. When I got my results back I scoured the 27 pages of results. The profile read like an exact description of me. It was nuts. I am a relationship person who loves to get results by positive feedback and team work. Correct - check! I have a high attention to detail and expect that of the people around me. Check. I have no patience for micro-management. Check. Double check. It went on and on. It was awesome. I often find myself opening the file and re-reading the results. I am fascinated. Anyway. Much to my chagrin, I was the only person on our management team who scored this way. The retreat facilitator told me that I was a "diamond in the rough". She explained that my daily work interaction with our team will prove to be frustrating for me. And...that my team may find it frustrating to work with me. Sweet. I think they should give this test BEFORE hiring people. Ha. Actually....the company where the facilitator works...does give this test to prospective hires...to make sure they will fit in the company community profile. Interesting. Anyway. I had a long frustrating conversation with my boss yesterday that revolved around the fact that I feel that I have to fight my employees every step of the way. I am so used to giving a project to the team and they take it and run with it. They GOT the job DONE. Not here. I hear bitching. Moaning. Blah Blah Blah. You wanna know what advice my boss gave me? She told me I need to change my management style and be a bitch. I need to scare them into doing their job. WTF? According to her...I guess I should have a freak out that scares the entire office into thinking I am some sort of "loose cannon" that will fire anyone for looking at me wrong. Maybe I will adopt a twitch when I walk that makes me look a little C-RAZ-YEEEEE. Ha. That'll teach 'em...huh?
My management style is not working at my current employment. I am 2nd in command in our office of 15. We recently did a manager's retreat where all of us took a personality test called DISC Assessment. I LOVE personality profiles and tests. Love them. When I got my results back I scoured the 27 pages of results. The profile read like an exact description of me. It was nuts. I am a relationship person who loves to get results by positive feedback and team work. Correct - check! I have a high attention to detail and expect that of the people around me. Check. I have no patience for micro-management. Check. Double check. It went on and on. It was awesome. I often find myself opening the file and re-reading the results. I am fascinated. Anyway. Much to my chagrin, I was the only person on our management team who scored this way. The retreat facilitator told me that I was a "diamond in the rough". She explained that my daily work interaction with our team will prove to be frustrating for me. And...that my team may find it frustrating to work with me. Sweet. I think they should give this test BEFORE hiring people. Ha. Actually....the company where the facilitator works...does give this test to prospective hires...to make sure they will fit in the company community profile. Interesting. Anyway. I had a long frustrating conversation with my boss yesterday that revolved around the fact that I feel that I have to fight my employees every step of the way. I am so used to giving a project to the team and they take it and run with it. They GOT the job DONE. Not here. I hear bitching. Moaning. Blah Blah Blah. You wanna know what advice my boss gave me? She told me I need to change my management style and be a bitch. I need to scare them into doing their job. WTF? According to her...I guess I should have a freak out that scares the entire office into thinking I am some sort of "loose cannon" that will fire anyone for looking at me wrong. Maybe I will adopt a twitch when I walk that makes me look a little C-RAZ-YEEEEE. Ha. That'll teach 'em...huh?
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Welcome home my friend
I just read on Em P's blog that the Provost family is moving home. Welcome home Provost clan. I look forward to the welcoming party. Cheers!
Em and I aren't as close as we used to be. Let me explain. We don't talk as often as we used to.....regardless, I would walk through fire for her and anyone in her family. It will be nice to know that seeing her is just a short drive away.
Em and I aren't as close as we used to be. Let me explain. We don't talk as often as we used to.....regardless, I would walk through fire for her and anyone in her family. It will be nice to know that seeing her is just a short drive away.
Weed be gone
I didn't go to Chicago this past weekend to see Maria & Brian. Brian's grandma passed away 3 days before I was to leave....and they needed to go to Michigan for the funeral. It was a blessing for her to pass...but bad timing to say the least. I am bummed. I need to find another weekend to get out there.....soon.
I have been sleeping like crap. I wake up at 1:30 am....wide awake. Toss. Turn. Toss. Toss. Toss. Turn. I can't turn my brain off....planning my next work meeting, my next speech, reviewing project plans.....so much stuff going on. For over a week now I have been wide awake for at least 4 hours each night. Sucks big time. Yawn.
My friend Katie and I play this morbid game where when someone famous dies....we send a text message to each other with only the deceased famous person's name. The first person to announce the death...wins. Sick? Hell yes. It was Katie's idea. Not mine. Ha. Sue me. Yesterday I was in Greeley training a new employee and I get a text from Katie. I take a peek at it. It reads....HEATH LEDGER. Dang. I shout at my phone..."NO...he has a small kid. Ewh!" My new employee now thinks I am a crack smoker. Oh well. I digress. What a tragic loss. Funny how I mourn the loss of someone I have never met....hell...I haven't even seen 1/2 of his movies. Still I find it horribly sad.
Years ago I set up this website that sends me an email reminding me of people's birthdays. I can't remember the password to update the website...to remove the name's of people that I don't keep in touch with...people who I have 'weeded my garden' of. I don't want to unsubscribe to the website...because so many of the people I get the birthday reminder emails about....I still want to know about. However, once in a while, a blast from the past makes me crack up. I got one today. Weed be gone. POOF!
I have been sleeping like crap. I wake up at 1:30 am....wide awake. Toss. Turn. Toss. Toss. Toss. Turn. I can't turn my brain off....planning my next work meeting, my next speech, reviewing project plans.....so much stuff going on. For over a week now I have been wide awake for at least 4 hours each night. Sucks big time. Yawn.
My friend Katie and I play this morbid game where when someone famous dies....we send a text message to each other with only the deceased famous person's name. The first person to announce the death...wins. Sick? Hell yes. It was Katie's idea. Not mine. Ha. Sue me. Yesterday I was in Greeley training a new employee and I get a text from Katie. I take a peek at it. It reads....HEATH LEDGER. Dang. I shout at my phone..."NO...he has a small kid. Ewh!" My new employee now thinks I am a crack smoker. Oh well. I digress. What a tragic loss. Funny how I mourn the loss of someone I have never met....hell...I haven't even seen 1/2 of his movies. Still I find it horribly sad.
Years ago I set up this website that sends me an email reminding me of people's birthdays. I can't remember the password to update the website...to remove the name's of people that I don't keep in touch with...people who I have 'weeded my garden' of. I don't want to unsubscribe to the website...because so many of the people I get the birthday reminder emails about....I still want to know about. However, once in a while, a blast from the past makes me crack up. I got one today. Weed be gone. POOF!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Lots of random comments
Lots of random comments:
I have my alarm clock set to "radio". Instead of a mind numbing bleeeeep bleeeep bleeeep. My alarm clicks on and plays the radio station I have set. Here's where it gets interesting. Two of my good friends are hosts on a local radio show...yes...the same one I have my alarm set to wake me up. It cracks me up where my alarm kicks on in the middle of the morning show's conversation. Funny. Imagine.....sleeping....then hearing one of your friend's voices right next to your head. Cracks me up.
I love to get gift cards. But I hate to shop. Ironic. However, as a side note, I love to shop on line....and love to get good mail (good = not bills). I buy what I want online....then in a few days get "good" mail....bliss. I digress. I just spent a gift card that I got last Christmas (in 2006) for Bath and Body Works. Yes. It's sick huh? That I waited so long to spend it. Anyway. I bought a skin care regimen from a Dr. Wexell. It ROCKS. I have never had such a quick turn around on my skin...I love it. I should take better care of my skin. Noxema is not doing it anymore for a 35 year old.
Maria called last night. Brian's grandma passed away. So my trip to Chicago this weekend is postponed. They are driving to Michigan for the wake and funeral. I am bummed....but I understand. In the same breath....we got some GREAT news about Maria's son Austin and his condition. I have shared that he was born 13 weeks early....at 27 weeks....on Oct. 14th. What I didn't share was that 3 days after he was born he was diagnosed with a level 4 brain bleed. (Note: 0 being the best) Basically that is the worst diagnosis possible. There was a good chance for severe lifelong disabilities. One month into Austin's life the doctors told Maria and Brian that Austin's brain was showing a level 3 brain bleed. Good! Progress! Celebrate each win! Still...the diagnosis is grim. This past Monday Austin had more tests....and Friday the results came in. Deep breath. He's a miracle baby. NO sign of brain trauma. Nothing. His brain healed itself. He's a level O brain trauma. Sigh. AND they checked his eyes (which they believed he would have a lifetime of sight challenges including a good chance he would be blind....) AND...his eyes are continuing to mature and show signs of being completely normal. Deep breath. Cheers. Tears. Celebrations. Fingers crossed. Prayers.
I have my alarm clock set to "radio". Instead of a mind numbing bleeeeep bleeeep bleeeep. My alarm clicks on and plays the radio station I have set. Here's where it gets interesting. Two of my good friends are hosts on a local radio show...yes...the same one I have my alarm set to wake me up. It cracks me up where my alarm kicks on in the middle of the morning show's conversation. Funny. Imagine.....sleeping....then hearing one of your friend's voices right next to your head. Cracks me up.
I love to get gift cards. But I hate to shop. Ironic. However, as a side note, I love to shop on line....and love to get good mail (good = not bills). I buy what I want online....then in a few days get "good" mail....bliss. I digress. I just spent a gift card that I got last Christmas (in 2006) for Bath and Body Works. Yes. It's sick huh? That I waited so long to spend it. Anyway. I bought a skin care regimen from a Dr. Wexell. It ROCKS. I have never had such a quick turn around on my skin...I love it. I should take better care of my skin. Noxema is not doing it anymore for a 35 year old.
Maria called last night. Brian's grandma passed away. So my trip to Chicago this weekend is postponed. They are driving to Michigan for the wake and funeral. I am bummed....but I understand. In the same breath....we got some GREAT news about Maria's son Austin and his condition. I have shared that he was born 13 weeks early....at 27 weeks....on Oct. 14th. What I didn't share was that 3 days after he was born he was diagnosed with a level 4 brain bleed. (Note: 0 being the best) Basically that is the worst diagnosis possible. There was a good chance for severe lifelong disabilities. One month into Austin's life the doctors told Maria and Brian that Austin's brain was showing a level 3 brain bleed. Good! Progress! Celebrate each win! Still...the diagnosis is grim. This past Monday Austin had more tests....and Friday the results came in. Deep breath. He's a miracle baby. NO sign of brain trauma. Nothing. His brain healed itself. He's a level O brain trauma. Sigh. AND they checked his eyes (which they believed he would have a lifetime of sight challenges including a good chance he would be blind....) AND...his eyes are continuing to mature and show signs of being completely normal. Deep breath. Cheers. Tears. Celebrations. Fingers crossed. Prayers.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
A memorial to....
...my fish. The "big dude" as I called him. Silly right? To mourn a fish? Not to me. Six years ago I bought 2 angel fish for one of fish tanks. They were about the size of a quarter when I bought them. They grew and grew and soon their bodies were the size of my fist...big fish. Their life span is 5-6 years. I have lost both fish in a matter of months. They were over 6 years old. I cried when the first one died. I bawled with the 2nd one died last night. What a saint Todd is to comfort me when I cried over a fish. But he know that this fish was my favorite. You must understand something about angel fish. They love their care-givers. Sounds crazy but every time I would get close to the tank they do this special fishy "dance". It's cool. When I was single and living alone...I will admit to talking to them and enjoying seeing something alive react to my voice. They were happy to see me. Anyway. I bawled when he died last night. As Todd put it....they had a perfect LONG fishy life.
Last night when I got home "big dude" was laying on the bottom of the tank (see pic). I knew the end was close....the other fish in the tank stayed close to him. Which is odd for fish. Normally when a fish is showing sickness or weakness...they pick on that fish or completely stay away from it. Big Dude's friends were there for him.....it was cool.
8 hours of pay
Today is my one year anniversary at my current job at MOD. Yesterday, my old assistant at my previous radio station gig was laid off. Poor girl. After I left the radio station they dangled my old job in front of her like a carrot for months. They didn't pay her any more...in fact...they didn't even give her parking in the building. Sweet. She busted her butt for a nearly a year for nothing extra...doing the job of 4. NRC rewarded her hard work by laying her off...and putting her job responsibilities on another guy (who didn't get a raise). She had been with the company for 3 years. They laid her off and paid her for the 8 hours she worked yesterday. Eight hours of pay....and then "SEE YA". NO SEVERANCE. Nuttin. My goodness I am glad I am out of radio. I have made it my personal goal to help her get a new gig. I feel guilty for some reason. What a horrible place to work. This radio company is locally owned and operated...which is super rare. She went back to talk to the Owner/CEO and the Owner/CFO and neither of those pussies would could out of their offices and talk to her. This company is circling the drain. That sound you hear is the toilet flushing on those pieces of shit. Thank God I don't own any stock in this company...because I couldn't sell it fast enough.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Chi-town Here I Come!
Maria and Brian's baby boy Austin (aka A.J.) is home from the hospital after spending the 1st 11 weeks of his life in the NICU. Whew. So glad he's home. He is thriving at home and almost weighs 7 bls now. He was born on Oct. 14th at 1 lb & 14 ozs. Maria and I find it interesting that there were so many number 14's in his early stats....born on the 14th & 14 ozs. Maria's college softball # was 14. I told her this is a good sign and must be for good luck. I am going to Chicago meet Austin and help out Jan 18 - 22. I found an airline ticket to Chicago for $149. Wow. Notice....another 14. It's good luck. I am sure of it.
Our Sweet Boy
Our dog is a 6 year old Black Lab named Barkley. He's a gentle soul who gives the sweetest doggy "hugs" by leaning his thick body into you. I just love that dude. He is so tolerant of the cat Sasha who often gives him rapid-fire smacks on his snout. Smack-smack-smack-smack-smack-smack. He just walks away from her. For the record, she doesn't use her claws when she smacks him...and often leans up to give him a nose-to-nose kiss after the abuse. It's sweet. Here's a pic of them hanging out looking out the window.
Barkley HATES to have his toe nails cut. He howls and cries this awful noise that is just too much to describe. We take him to the vet and pay them $40 to cut them for us. They plan ahead for Barkley's visit and always have 3-4 staff there to hold him. Sweet. He got them cut today...and he howled so much that the other dogs were howling too. He stirred up such a ruckus that a large white bird there to have it's nails cut started freaking out and flapping it's wings and squawking so loud. I am sure that bird was like if that big strong dog is in that much pain....I am IN for IT when it's my turn. Ha. He's so dramatic. It's embarrassing. And funny. He also got his temperature taken anally today and REALLY let the doctor know that he was NOT happy. I have to giggle a little....but you have no idea how loud and tortured this sound is. One time I was at the OTHER end of the Petsmart and could hear him howling. Other customers were saying to each other, "what in the world is that noise?" Ha. Oh our sweet boy.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Caucus is cock-eyed?
In light of the upcoming Iowa Caucus tomorrow. I felt inclined to share this story. A guy I work with is from Iowa and was explaining the election Caucus process to me today. I am going to share his view on a caucus without my own research on validity.
OK. Apparently it takes the average voter at least 3 hours to participate. Wha? Sounds like voting in ANY election in Denver. I digress. Anyway. You show up to your voting neighborhood area and show your support for your candidate by standing in a section of the room assigned to your candidate. Sounds like a high school student council deal to me. I can picture poster board, glitter and markers "Vote for HILLARY for 2008 Prom Queen. Anyway. Everyone can see WHO you support. Much different from a voting ballot box where your pick is private. Anyway. After a while, it is determined if your candidate is "viable" for your voting area. Which means...does your candidate have enough support to be one of the top 2 candidates for that party? If yes, VIABLE. If not, no....move on...find a new candidate to support. Say for example, you are for Edwards. After showing your support for Edwards, if he is not a "viable" candidate for that area...which means he doesn't have enough support by other voters...then you will be approached by the other candidate's supporters for your support of their candidate. "Hey Joe-Voter, I know you like Edwards, however, Hillary believes this-that-and-the-other issues the same. Come join our side." Seems like a sick game of playground rules to me. Should be interesting thing to watch tomorrow. I am an avid voter...but just NOW learned more about the process. Interesting.
OK. Apparently it takes the average voter at least 3 hours to participate. Wha? Sounds like voting in ANY election in Denver. I digress. Anyway. You show up to your voting neighborhood area and show your support for your candidate by standing in a section of the room assigned to your candidate. Sounds like a high school student council deal to me. I can picture poster board, glitter and markers "Vote for HILLARY for 2008 Prom Queen. Anyway. Everyone can see WHO you support. Much different from a voting ballot box where your pick is private. Anyway. After a while, it is determined if your candidate is "viable" for your voting area. Which means...does your candidate have enough support to be one of the top 2 candidates for that party? If yes, VIABLE. If not, no....move on...find a new candidate to support. Say for example, you are for Edwards. After showing your support for Edwards, if he is not a "viable" candidate for that area...which means he doesn't have enough support by other voters...then you will be approached by the other candidate's supporters for your support of their candidate. "Hey Joe-Voter, I know you like Edwards, however, Hillary believes this-that-and-the-other issues the same. Come join our side." Seems like a sick game of playground rules to me. Should be interesting thing to watch tomorrow. I am an avid voter...but just NOW learned more about the process. Interesting.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Watch our stuff....(wave)...thanks!
NYE was a blast. We started at Todd's friend's house. Fun. Good times. Tons of ankle bitters running about fueled by sugar and carbs. Everyone was very interested in our wedding plans and I really like Todd's friends. All good people. The party at the hotel did not disappoint. It was fun to hang with Paul & Sharon & Sara & Fizz. We danced and partied into the new year. Cheers to you all my naughty monkeys (a la Craig Ferguson...ha). Here's my favorite picture from the night. Self portrait of our New Years KISS!
So here's a story for ya. We got to the hotel party a little early and stood in line for the doors to open. We were able to score a table. Since it was just the 2 of us at the time...and it was a table for 8...I kept inviting couples to sit down with us. The scene was the same each time. A couple standing by the doors with a drink and a full plate of food scanning the room looking for a place to sit and eat. I would wave 'em in and ask them to join us. Met some great people. The first couple was interesting. They were in their 40's...dating...not married. The woman runs a company for thank you cards. She has created a software that people may use to type up their "thank you" cards, and the software will print them up in YOUR handwritting. I didn't completely grasp what she was saying...it was loud. Anyway. They announced that they were going to go grab their jackets to head outside to watch the fireworks show at 9 pm. They are walking towards the door and turn to say goodbye. I glance up and wave. She says, "Watch our stuff (wave) thanks!" Wha? She had left her purse and he had left his tuxedo jacket. WTF? We JUST met these people and they expect me to sit at this table and watch their crap while they go watch a fireworks show. Hell and no. OK OK...if you know me...you KNOW that we watched their crap. But STILL. I am a sucker. Ha. I am always entertained by people. Happy New Year!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Happy New Years Eve
Exactly 5 months from today is our wedding. Wowsa. Can't believe it. Deep breath. Tons to do still. We have enough done that we could get married tomorrow...but still more to do.
Happy New Years Eve to all. I hope you have a wonderful and safe celebration. Todd and I are going to his friend's house for a day-time party (these folks have wee ones...thus a Noon-Years-Eve deal) then downtown for a hotel party. I was able to score free tickets...and a very inexpensive price for hotel room at a swank hotel 1 block from the party. Sweet. I have a massive headache and head cold...and really really have no business going out. But the party machine has left the gate and we have already purchased our tickets. I am supposed to be getting ready to leave....and can sense Todd wishing I would get off of the computer and get into the shower...so I best run friends.
Cheers! So ready for 2008.
Happy New Years Eve to all. I hope you have a wonderful and safe celebration. Todd and I are going to his friend's house for a day-time party (these folks have wee ones...thus a Noon-Years-Eve deal) then downtown for a hotel party. I was able to score free tickets...and a very inexpensive price for hotel room at a swank hotel 1 block from the party. Sweet. I have a massive headache and head cold...and really really have no business going out. But the party machine has left the gate and we have already purchased our tickets. I am supposed to be getting ready to leave....and can sense Todd wishing I would get off of the computer and get into the shower...so I best run friends.
Cheers! So ready for 2008.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Crying
Admittedly I have been in this haze for about a year now. New job. Met the love of my life. Got engaged. Planning a wedding. Moved to a new home. ETC ETC. Just life I guess. I haven't posted to my blog much...and I haven't read my friends blogs enough either. I just read about 4 months of Em P's blog. Cried. Laughed. Hooted. Cheered for her. Wanted to hug her. Wished I was there for her. Love seeing her kids growing. Thanked God she has Peter in her life. Just loved reading about her family and the antics of her 2 kids. They are gorgeous creatures with the charm and intelligence of their parents. Then to Erin's blog. Same feelings. Started in June...and am still reeling from her sweet post on our engagement that I didn't see until today. Click here - Scroll to June 13th. Wow. The last line made tears stream down my face. Sometimes you don't know how much your friends see or feel...until you SEE it in black and white. I feel loved.
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