Cloud Shadows

Hopes make things happen....

2011-04-26T10:50:00.000-07:00

I am hopeful that one day this week I will be able to write my resignation letter. I hope to be moving on into a new position...well old position new company. I'm hoping to get back into IT as a Service Desk Manager. It could mean a lot of good things - good for me, good for my family.

I hold no ill feelings for my current company - but I want to be back doing what I love to do, and honestly be paid for doing it...right now I'm doing a lot of IT duties that I'm in no way compensated for.

It's not a done deal getting the new job, but I'm hopeful and hope that putting the resignation letter out into the universe will lead to all good things in the near future.

:)

Something Borrowed - Something New

2011-01-17T10:31:00.000-08:00

I read a recent article on line about bloggers using their blogs to help them lose weight. So I'm going to borrow a page from them and try something new for me.

Most people I know understand that I am not happy with my weight, but they may not understand how I've struggled with it my entire life. At graduation I was about 30lbs overweight.

When I went to college I was very active - exercising at school and going out dancing every night. Small meals partially due to not spending the money on food, partially because I just didn't take the time and really didn't need to eat a lot of food. During that time I lost 35lbs - when I went home for my first visit after 3 months I had to buy all new clothes because nothing fit me anymore. I weighed 123lbs. And was really happy with my weight for the first time I can ever remember, I wore a size 8.

After I had my first baby I still was a size 10-12...still active and was still happy with my weight. I was still active and my weight stayed fairly steady- it went up a little but not so much I even really noticed it. But then I had 2 more babies in rapid succession, was no longer active and had to make sure I prepared full meals everyday so that Jeff and the kids were all fed. And if they were fed - so was I.

It's never been what I eat - or how much, as much as the fact I don't get enough exercise. I friend of mine who is also overweight went to lunch with me at a former job. Finally one day she looked at me and told me she was throwing me out of the Fat Ladies Club because I had no business being overweight with as little as I actually ate.

Now in the intrest of being honest with myself - and also anyone reading this - I have a terrible sweet tooth. I have convinced myself on more than one occasion that if I'm going to eat 250 calories - it may as well be a snickers bar instead of lunch...or a few cookies have as many calories as a sandwich and are tastier. Or like last night when instead of dinner - I talked Jeff into ice cream. (It was late and it was really yummy ice cream though).

So my 250lb self is now being totally honest and trying to reduce myself. I know it's not going to be easy - I've had way too much stress in my life lately and it's way to easy to just eat a cookie to deal with it instead of go for a walk. But I'm trying.

?

2011-01-14T18:08:00.001-08:00

Hello? Is this thing on? :)

Psychedelic 45

2011-01-14T09:12:00.000-08:00

Well yesterday was it – my 45th birthday.

I woke up early after a night of not so much sleep…tossed and turned much of the night. Jeff wished me a happy birthday, I said a quick prayer of thanks to my mom for my birth. And got out of bed to start the day.

My wonderful hubby had something planned for me which he had been teasing me about for weeks, but wouldn’t tell me what it was. So I decided to let it go and just get through the work day and find out that evening.

A woman I work with had her birthday the day before mine so our boss took the team out for lunch to celebrate. We went to First Watch and had a very yummy and somewhat healthy lunch. Although one of the others complained because too much healthy stuff was on the menu. OMG – she actually complained because while yeah they have a buffalo chicken wrap – they ruin it by using a whole wheat tortilla. She ordered the one burger on the menu and complained because of the whole wheat bun it was served on. Oh well you can’t please everyone. I had a wonderful omlette and really enjoyed the time. When we came back to work we had a huge chocolate chip cookie cake to celebrate.

Throughout the day I received many many texts and Facebook messages wishing me a Happy Birthday! It was really nice to realize how many wonderful friends I have. But as the day went on – I realized the Jeff had shared with several of my friends exactly what he had planned…and I know this will come as a shock but I’m a little bit of a control freak. So it was killing me that people knew what was going on and I didn’t. ARGH! I tweeted that Jeff was being mean to me, he saw it and told me to quit whining.

I left work an hour early in order to accommodate whatever Jeff had planned for the evening. He picked me up at work at 4PM and we took off for my magical birthday evening. We went to dinner at Brio where I had a great meal of Garanelli Carbonara, along with a glass of Chardonnay. YUM!!! After dinner we went to Bar Louie’s and met friends for happy hour, which was really fun (so was the shot of Patron Silver!). Then it was Sephora to get my free birthday gift and a couple of other things.

I was then informed that we were on a slight schedule – so it was off to the car and driving to downtown again. My birthday surprise was tickets to see Wonderland! I was really happy for this – I had wanted to see the show but didn’t think we would be able to go so I hadn’t mention it to Jeff. I’m glad he knows me so well. The show was GREAT!!!! It opens on Broadway this spring and I hope to get to see it there sometime too.

After the show was over we went to see Sprinkles – (her birthday is today btw!) she had made me a psychedelic birthday cake…it was sooooo good. We enjoyed some time with her – told her about the day and then realizing it was getting really late and I had to be up for work this morning, so it was off to home and straight to bed.

Time wounds all heals?

2010-12-21T04:49:00.000-08:00

One thing I have learned is that life moves on...whether you want it to or not. I've been looking back at 2010 and it's been a tough year. I will not fall into the the trap of saying that 2011 has to be better because there is nothing that fate likes better than a challenge. A few highlights/lowlights of this year:

January started with me still out of work and spending a week with my sister from another mister while she underwent life changing/saving surgery. I'm sure we were different from the normal patients they have there...there's not much that this duo of divas can't find to laugh at. In a conscious decision Sprinkles had decided NOT to let this affect her normal self. A decision I completely agreed with...

February I finally became employed again...a job I like, company I like, making 1/3 of what I used to make...welcome to the new economy.

Spring and Summer progressed fairly normally - got back into the swing of working everyday...helped Sprinkles as I could with Chemo side effects, wish I could have done more. My daughter went to spend her summer off from college with her grandparents instead of coming home, she wanted to spend some time with them.

In August I flew up to spend a few days with them (my parents and my daughter) and had a wonderful time. And if you have read any of my other entries you know that very shortly I would lose mom to her COPD.

But as hard as this year was, some good things happened too...I met some great people at my job, several friends are expecting babies in the new year...spent some really nice time with family and friends. I have found an infinite amount of love coming my way from the people around me.

Christmas will be here very soon and while I know I will miss my mom, I know she wouldn't want us to dwell on it. I love her and she knows that. So I'm hoping for a happy holiday with family and friends. So far it's looking pretty good... :)

sigh

2010-12-06T07:50:00.000-08:00

too many people I love are in pain...lets all just take a chair and watch the world go by.

Love you people.

Connie Price

2010-10-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

On Friday the 15th I spoke with my mom on the phone – we talked about how she was glad to be home from the hospital, she said she was actually feeling good, better than she had in a long time. This conversation was good and made me think we had some time left before she would need to go back to the hospital again. It made me okay with travelling to New Orleans for the weekend where we were meeting my in-laws. They had been on a cruise and needed us to meet them and trade cars with them. We left about 9:30PM Friday night and got into New Orleans about 8:30AM Saturday morning. We got out of the car to walk around the Garden district when my phone rang. I looked at it and saw it was my dad’s cell phone…

Connie Rae Price, age 65, of Bussey, passed away Saturday, October 16, 2010, at Pella Regional Health Center in Pella.
Connie was born on July 17, 1945, in Albia to Irene Little. Connie was raised by her mother and step-father Louis Glasford. She attended and graduated from the Twin Cedars High School, class of 1963. After school Connie married John Price on July 10, 1964 at John’s brother’s house in Bussey. They shared 46 years of marriage before Connie’s passing.
Connie was a homemaker all of her life. She attended Community Regular Baptist Church in Bussey. She enjoyed crafts, sewing, painting, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.
Connie is survived by her husband, John Price of Bussey; her children, Tawnyia (Jeff) Svajdlenka of Tampa, FL., Michelle (Jay) Svajdlenka of Tampa, FL., and Allen (Josie) Collins of Knoxville; and 8 grandchildren. Connie is also survived by 1 brother Jerry DeMarce and 1 sister Joan Rutledge.
Connie is preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Irene Glasford; and one sister, Cherri Hancock.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to the family or to Community Regular Baptist Church in Bussey.

My mom compressed down to 192 words – I want to scream and cry that she was so much more than those words…how she had a heart whose capacity for love knew no bounds, she loved the unlovable – cared for those who could not or would not care for themselves. My mom gave all she had, she suffered so others didn’t have to. She taught me so much – how to take care of a house and make it a home. How to take a little bit of food and make it a wonderful meal – her knowledge was boundless even though she would laughingly say she wasn’t the smartest person on the planet.

I can’t say I didn’t have disagreements with my mom – I did. We aren’t a stepford family - just a normal one. I’ve spent the last week helping to make arrangements, attended a service, hugged over a hundred people, made small talk and agreed with everyone that “yes it’s good she’s not suffering anymore” But in my heart I know I’m selfish – I want her back…I want to laugh with her, cry with her, hug her, argue with her and just sit watching TV with her.

Jeff has meant so much to me this week – just silently being there for me – letting me be me, the me who had to go make funeral arrangements, pick out music, pick out flowers, help write an obituary. I don’t think I could do all this without his support behind me. My children adding their support in to help. I love them all so much and hope I give them as much as they give me. My friends sending me their messages of love and support. I want to hold and thank them all.

Watching my dad this week has been heartbreaking – my parents had 46 years together – at their 40th anniversary they had their church wedding – they did this at 40 because my mom didn’t think she would make it to 50. I guess she was right……….. But Dad has been strong holding himself together most of the time. He had his moments but then so did we all. The worst moment for me was during a video that was made of mom and dad for their wedding – Mom and I recorded a song I had written for my dad during Desert Storm, we (dad and I) didn’t realize that this had been added to the original video. So while watching pictures of my parent’s lives drift across the screen out of nowhere my mom’s voice blended with mine in song. My dad looked at me and I realized what I was hearing - That was my worst moment so far – I’m sure there will be a lot of worst moments moving forward but that one was bad.

Good night mom – I love you.

The Next Place

2010-10-12T19:19:00.000-07:00

I read this book in the chapel of the hospital while we were visiting with my mom. The pictures in the book were beautiful, but the sentiment is what really touched me. I think everyone should own a copy of this book.

The Next Place By Warren Hanson

The next place that I go

Will be as peaceful and familiar

As a sleepy summer Sunday

And a sweet, untroubled mind.

And yet . . .

It won't be anything like any place I've ever been. . .

Or seen. . . or even dreamed of

In the place I leave behind.

I won't know where I'm going,

And I won't know where I've been

As I tumble through the always

And look back toward the when.

I'll glide beyond the rainbows.

I'll drift above the sky.

I'll fly into the wonder, without ever wondering why.

I won't remember getting there.

Somehow I'll just arrive.

But I'll know that I belong there

And will feel much more alive

Than I have ever felt before.

I will be absolutely free of the things that I held onto

That were holding onto me.

The next place that I go

Will be so quiet and so still

That the whispered song of sweet belonging will rise up to fill

The listening sky with joyful silence,

And with unheard harmonies

Of music made by no one playing,

Like a hush upon breeze.

There will be no room for darkness in that place of living light,

Where an ever-dawning morning pushes back the dying night.

The very air will fill with brilliance, as the brightly shining sun

And the moon and half a million stars are married into one.

The next place that I go Won't really be a place at all.

There won't be any seasons --

Winter, summer, spring or fall --

Nor a Monday, Nor a Friday,

Nor December, Nor July.

And the seconds will be standing still. . .

While hours hurry by.

I will not be a boy or girl,

A woman or man.

I'll simply be just, simply, me.

No worse or better than.

My skin will not be dark or light.

I won't be fat or tall.

The body I once lived in

Won't be part of me at all.

I will finally be perfect.

I will be without a flaw.

I will never make one more mistake,

Or break the smallest law.

And the me that was impatient,

Or was angry, or unkind,

Will simply be a memory.

The me I left behind.

I will travel empty-handed.

There is not a single thing

I have collected in my life

That I would ever want to bring Except. . .

The love of those who loved me

,And the warmth of those who cared.

The happiness and memories

And magic that we shared.

Though I will know the joy of solitude. . .

I'll never be alone.

I'll be embraced

By all the family and friends I've ever known.

Although I might not see their faces,

All our hearts will beat as one,

And the circle of our spirits

Will shine brighter than the sun.

I will cherish all the friendship I was fortunate to find,

All love and all the laughter in the place I leave behind.

All these good things will go with me.

They will make my spirit glow.

And that light will shine forever In the next place that I go.

My Mom

2010-10-07T13:02:00.000-07:00

I’m back to work today after a week visiting with my mother in the hospital. My mom has COPD and is in the last stages of the disease. My dad called me on Wednesday night that my mom was back in the hospital, just 3 weeks after she went home from her last hospital stay. On Thursday afternoon I received a call from my dad – the Dr. had told him it was time to call my sister and me. I could tell from the tone of his voice that things were not good. My mom was told by the doctor that diagnosed her COPD that she had 5 years left – this was 6 years ago, so everyday is a borrowed day.

Dad told me that the doctors had been working on mom all day – she was in ICU and wasn’t expected to make it. So I rented a car and my sister, niece, and I started a fast as possible 24 hour drive to Iowa. Our biggest fear after speaking with dad was that we wouldn’t be in time. (I had just seen my mom in August when I went up for a quick vacation – but my sister and niece hadn’t seen her in a year.)

At some point while the doctors were working on mom she finally was coherent enough for the doctor to explain what was going on and my mom asked “Am I dying?” Dr. Robin answered “yes”. So Mom looked at her and asked “Today?” and the answer was “Possibly” to which my mom responded “I’m not ready to go yet.” So in my mom’s stubborn fashion – she didn’t go. In fact, after hearing that we were on our way up – she started improving.

We got in about 12:30AM Friday night/Saturday morning – and immediately went to sleep. By the time we got to see her on Saturday morning she was doing much better. They had moved her back to her own room, and was very glad to see us. Mom felt guilty that we had wasted our trip to Iowa since she was feeling better and was going to get to go home – to which I informed her that she can NOT feel guilty for NOT DYING! The trip was in no way a waste of our time.

Jeffrey (my oldest) and Cameron (my youngest) arrived on Monday night and we all spend Tuesday morning with mom. Jeffrey is staying up there as he needed a change from Tampa and was planning a move anyway. Cameron came back with us on Tuesday – he didn’t get to see mom for a long time but it was really great that she got to see him at all. We had to leave to return the rental car but none of us really wanted to go. We took pictures and said good-byes and the question in the air was would this be our last good-bye.

The drive home was fairly uneventful – we all had to fold ourselves into the car, because it wasn’t a very big car and there were four of us to get home. The last 200 miles I cried most of the way and have pretty much been crying off and on since then. Every little thing sets me off…

They moved mom into their rehab area called Skilled Care for physical and respiratory therapy for approximately a week before they allow her to go home. After that it’s a guessing game – hopefully she goes home and is able to stay well for a while --- a long while. But we all know that things are going to happen and none of us are ready for them when they do.

On the plus side and there were a couple – I was able to have a conversation with both of my parents about their end of life wishes….which no matter how many times I had tried to have the conversation before neither of them wanted to talk about it. My mom got to see her brother who came to visit her in the hospital and I was able to see my brother and one of my best friends.

Right now all I can do is try to go on with the day to day, call the hospital and check on her progress, and hope that she knows just how much I love her.

What can I say?

2010-08-31T12:52:00.000-07:00

I went home to visit my parents and my daughter who is there for the summer break a couple weeks ago - nice flight, horrible layovers. It was a wonderful visit and I got to see one of my best friends - going all the way to 5th grade.

2 days after I got home, my mother ended up in the hospital. Mom has COPD and congestive heart failure. So any illness hits her hard...this is what they found when they got her to the hospital:

Severe pneumonia in both lungs
Heart enzymes were elevated
EKG showed chronic changes to heart
Anemic
Low Blood Pressure
Blood Oxygen level was 65 (should be 95-100)
Dehydrated
Changes to kidney functions
Urinary infection (they think from the dehydration)

She finally came home from the hospital yesterday - and she sounds much better than she did. She gave us a really big scare and we all know this may be the beginning of a lot of scares. As the Dr. told me - a lot depends on how she does over the next few weeks. I wanted to try and arrange to go up there and work remotely for a few months just to be there to help with things.

So I talked to my boss and she talked to her boss and he turned her down. I didn’t get a reason – but needless to say I’m more than a little upset – I’ve completely revamped the way billing is done here by moving all the processes into sharepoint speeding the process up measurably – am currently working the integration of our latest acquisition and moving their processes in to our system – and also utilized my purchasing / IT knowledge for the upgrade of the departments computers. All of this in 6 months and for crap money. What I’m supposed to be happy for – is that they will let me take an unpaid leave AFTER I train a temp to do my job of course. UNPAID! So they would rather pay a temp to do the job than set a precedence or whatever the reasoning. What can you say though about a company that makes their money from outsourcing...?

So needless to say I am weighing my options – as quickly as possible.

Iowa visit and my mom...

2010-08-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

I went home to Iowa to visit for a couple of days last week. I really wanted to see my parents (it's been over a year since I've seen them) and as a bonus my daughter was there from college.

It was a great visit even though it was short - I was able to see one of my eternal best friends, we go back as far as elementary school. But I could tell my mom wasn't feeling well. Mom has COPD and is on oxygen 24/7, a couple days into the visit we discovered that she wasn't getting much airflow from the machine - they changed out something and she was feeling better.

HOWEVER - yesterday they put her in the hospital...pneumonia in both lungs, along with a host of other ailments. How did I find out this news? I found out because my sister saw an update on my daughter's FaceBook page... FACEBOOK!!!

How do you explain that if you live 1200 miles away you feel helpless enough without things like this? And I don't buy the "we didn't want to worry you" argument...it's not fair and not right.

Sigh...I can't yell at her - she's sick...

I have one of these....

2010-07-21T12:28:00.001-07:00

So I got called into my bosses office the other day...I've been working on our departments SharePoint site to streamline and revamp our billing process. Making it simpler and quicker for all involved. My company recently acquired it's largest competitor so the two billing managers were meeting. So my boss calls me into her office to meet him and get initial requirements for moving them into our site for billing.

After about 15 minutes of what back and forth - what information is already there...what information he would like to see, etc. He looks at my boss and tells her "I have one of these too - her name is Linda". ARE YOU KIDDING ME? I am now "one of these" property? What year is it...? It's like saying " I have a girl who does that for me. " OMG so pissed off about it. If I never see him again it will be too soon - but I'm sure I'll be meeting with him more to finalize this process. SIGH.

On the positive side - I got some really good news from my Sprinkly friend. And it makes up for anything bad this whole month.

:)

Gee Y N?

2010-05-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

Reposted from WTF Now?

Some people reading this may know that I've been having a lot of issues...I have "female" issues (see how I travel back to the '50s to talk about this) that are contributing to my anemia problems. At least that is that they believe is causing the problems. So I got an injection last week that is to stop my cycles for 3 months in order to help me prolong the time between now and when I will need surgery. I also had to have a biopsy in order to rule out any cancer or else the surgery could not be postponed. The biggest reason I need to postpone surgery is that after being laid off for over a year I am finally working but do not have any sick time or FMLA to protect my job or my income. Nice catch-22 for me.

Okay so here is the breakdown of how my Dr. visit went on Monday:

I tried to tell dr that i was still VERY BAD (things I don't want to spell out - pretty sure you can figure this out on your own) and they may want to rethink doing the exam and was told that it's no problem...just a day in the life at the GYN...

"we have these little pads to put beneath you" hahahahahaha

then when she saw how bad it was - "oh your life isn't fun is it?" NO SH!T “Lindsay can you get me some more pads?” and once more “Lindsay can you get me about 4 more pads?”

"how long has it been this way?" - since april 12th - "really - for 30 days?" - yes thats what I said - "for 30 DAYS?" - yes - "don't you feel weak" - HELL YES I FEEL WEAK but what are you gonna do?

so now she isn't sure she got enough material (i can't say tissue - it's yucky) MATERIAL to actually do the biopsy

After the exam the Dr wanted to run some more blood tests - thyroid and iron count - when her PA was taking blood the conversation went like this... "wow that's some crazy amount your bleeding, I don't know how you do it" so I asked her what was my alternative? things have to be done I can't just curl up in a ball and stay in bed all day no matter how much I want to

So just waiting to get the results of all the tests

- THEN IEZZI'S (my GP) OFFICE CALLED

I went for blood tests about 2 weeks ago and i have been trying to get the results of that test - well now they want me to go for more blood tests - one of the tests ordered wasn't done - and THEN we'll make an office appointment for you to come in and go over them. UHHMMM no I think I'll deal with my GYN for now thank you very much....

worries...

2010-03-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

Worried today about someone special to me. They are going through a rough time and there is nothing I can do to make it better. Crossing fingers, knocking wood, praying, none of these will change what has happened. I'm here if you need me.

There but for the Grace of God...

2010-03-30T06:23:00.000-07:00

Reposted from WTF Now?

I was greated on Facebook yesterday by a link from my cousin to a newspaper article about a guy I knew in high school. Bob Zellmer was a little older than me - but then a lot of my friends were older than me back then. (Funny that they are mostly all younger than me now.) Bob left this world earlier this month at the age of 50. In high school I remember him as always smiling...him and his brothers always had a little bit of a reputation then, but when you live in small town middle America all teenage kids have a reputation. He always had friends around him and everyone talked about what a great singer he was.

I haven't seen him in years, probably since I moved away from that small town. But like everything in you childhood things from then aren't supposed to change. A happy go lucky guy from high school is not supposed to die addicted and homeless. These are not things that should happen.

Even though Bob was homeless himself and dealing with addictions - he spent his time trying to help other homeless people have shelter - a place to get out of the weather. I guess that's what living in my small town did for all of us - everyone I know from there would give you the shirt off of their back...something that is sadly lacking these days. I don't know what happened in Bob's life but I do know that it only takes one small thing and you're on a path that is hard to change. I also know that I appreciate everything and everyone I have in my life. I have a roof over my head - friends and family that love me - and that's enough...no matter how much I bitch that it's not.

Rest in Peace Builder Bob - You will be missed more than you know.

Monday again

2010-03-29T06:20:00.000-07:00

Back at work on a very rainy Monday...this will probably be a short post, but trying to keep a promise to myself to actually spend some time writing.

Saturday night we went to see Cameron play at the Brass Mug. The guys just get better and better every time they play out. They are heading into the studio next month to record a demo CD. Cross your fingers!

Sunday was spent relaxing and catching up on the Gene Simmons Family Jewels marathon. I stopped watching it a year ago when they did the whole facelift thing - didn't want to spend my time watching people in pain. But caught up with them now and still find I really like them as people. I know it's a reality show and what you see isn't necessarily "REAL" but still it's nice to see them.

Woke up this morning about 2AM with my back complaining...the rain moving in just does not agree with me. Oh well what can you do?

And now back to work...

Wednesday?

2010-03-24T07:35:00.001-07:00

So yesterday finished...dealt with the yucky flavored coffee and went home - read until bed time while Jeff worked on his computer. He usually works on Tuesday nights and last night was no exception. He was also downloading pics of classic pinball machines. It is amazing some of the artists who painted the originals, also what great shape some of the old machines are really in.

Today has started fairly uneventful - working, IM'ing with some friends. Have disturbing e-mail from my sis on nephews health. Hoping he gets back on track quickly.

It's almost 11AM and I'm exhausted - really hope the anemia gets over quickly...I'm not used to being so drained all the time...just want to feel normal.

...whatever that is.

Tuesday

2010-03-23T08:16:00.000-07:00

Reposting from WTF Now?

Tuesdays appear to not be such a good day for me... While trying to help Jeff find his cell phone this morning I totally forgot to grab my badge to get into my office. When I asked what do I do about it - senior rep tells me that it's a huge hassle to get visitor badge so just borrow hers or co-worker#2's badge. (Co-worker #1 has morning off). OH YEAH - did I mention that I need this badge to actually get back in office from the restroom? So every tinkle time I will now need to borrow a badge from one of co-workers to get back in.

This information was quickly followed by the next set of events:
1. I got an e-mail from a client asking for backup to an invoice...which I had already provided the information I received through e-mail
2. I ask sr. rep about it and co-worker #2 gets involved informing me that I should have sent the scanned file also.
3. What scanned file? (WTF?)
4. It seems that while yes I sent the documents I had been e-mailed the account manager also interofficed a bunch of paperwork which i didn't know needed to be scanned and e-mailed to client. (because notes from previous person were unclear - gee guess who was the previous person?)
5. Co-worker #2 gets all preachy about it being in the notes and walks away
6. Sr. Rep agrees with me that the notes are not clear so I update them for whoever the next billing rep is that gets this account.
7. Co-worker #2 all sullen and biotchy...(did you remember that I'm supposed to be borrowing her badge today for the restroom breaks?)

So all quiet in office this morning as the only ones really speaking are me and Sr. Rep...and that's only when necessary for work (no tension there just both work focused).

And then the final WTF moment... it appears we are all out of regular coffee in the breakroom...and the only flavor available is GERMAN CHOCOLATE CAKE!!! ARRRRRGGGGHHHHH!!!!!

And it's only 11:00AM...sigh

issues

2010-01-11T08:50:00.000-08:00

Really trying to hold things together today - seems everyone around me having issues. Hope this is the residual 2009 pendulum swing for 2010 and things get be better.

what?

2010-01-07T11:50:00.001-08:00

What does not kill us makes us stonger...I must be one of the stongest people on the planet.

Days turn into years...

2009-04-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

So working my shift at Arts on 9th today. Nothing new, no one in...could have something to do with the people hanging around the door. Sigh. Anyway we had a great exhibit on Friday - Art Brigatta. Was art work of tattoo artists from TattooFest which was in Tampa last week. The show was great so we asked them to hold over for this Friday also. We'll have live music and other surprises going on. Should be a great time...unfortunately I'm helping out at the jewelry store on Fridays so I'll miss most of it.

Still no activity on the job search - just nothing out there. So working around the center keeping busy. Trying to figure out how to get more art work in here besides my own, right now there are empty shelves and we need more to fill it up. So if you know anyone who wants to sell their work...let me know.

I'm Back?

2009-02-24T05:54:00.000-08:00

Okay, I lost my job in December - my son had a car wreck 3 days later and fractured his neck. We're in the midst of opening a community art center and most of the promised funding has disappeared (due to one short sighted person) but we're moving forward and should open this week. While working on the new art center Jeff hurt his back and was severly impacted for about 6 weeks. My son got engaged and future daughter-in-law was in hospital for a week. I'm still looking for a job in an ecomomy that keeps tanking further and further. Promised leads havent materialized and most companies are on a hiring freeze if not actually downsizing themselves. My "transition counsellor" has informed me that I'm doing all the right things but the only growth industry is actually transition specialists.

So that brings everyone up to speed - I feel like I'm running a race but my shoes are filled with oatmeal...

How's your day?

Hello again....

2009-01-20T01:17:00.000-08:00

Well I haven't written anything since November - so here's a quick breakdown...

1. I lost my job the first week of December due to a RIF (Reduction in Force) aka layoff. I spent 3 days in tears because every time I got close to my computer another person who had just found out would IM me their outrage. Several of my friends were let go the same day - all of them were very talented and cared about their jobs. Sometimes things aren't fair as my HR Rep told me on my way out the door.

2. I didn't get to spend a whole lot of time in that depression because 3 days later my oldest son was in a car wreck...he fractured a vertebrae in his neck. I spent several days at the hospital with him and then several more taking care of him here. He has to wear a neck brace for possibly 12 weeks - which is not good for a 22 year old. Hard to find out you aren't invincible...

3. We finally got a lease on a building...we are in the process of creating a community arts center. Hooray finally a bit of good (make that GREAT news!) It's lots of hard work ahead of us but we're all looking forward to officially opening.

4. A few family medical issues - Jeff's aunt has to have an angioplasty (maybe someday I'll write about it) and my mother found out that she has a problem with a heart valve. The only way to correct is surgery but due to her other medical conditions she is not a candidate for the surgery...still trying to figure out what that means.

5. Jeff took me to Disney for my birthday - it was the most wonderful day. We stayed at a hotel on Disney property and had a great time. It was probably the best birthday I've ever had.

6. Took Sprinkles out to dinner for her birthday - what started as a dinner for the two of us quickly became dinner for 5 as more friends wanted to spend the time with her, a lot of people love her.

This brings us almost current...

7. Jeff has severe lower back strain and can only move with great difficulty- so this week has been spent helping him. I love him dearly and hate to see him in this pain. Hoping it starts to feel better soon.

There are other things I could write about - we had our annual Christmas party...spent Christmas day with Friends...etc. but it's 4:30AM and I'm a little tired so I'll write again soon.

PS: still looking for new job so if anyone has any ideas, please let me know.

Cypress Gardens RIP 2008

2008-11-17T05:58:00.000-08:00

Another part of old Florida is gone. Well maybe not completely gone but the essence of what made it special will be. Cypress Gardens was such a throwback to a simpler time with carnival rides and a small zoo along with the actual water show and gardens. We heard on the radio last week that this was to be the last weekend for the rides and animals, they are closing for a four month renovation where they will expand the water areas. Why they chose to close 5 weeks before Christmas just boggles my mind. According to an employee we talked to - they had a Business Analyst come in the park a few months ago and that was the recommendation. So sad -- another piece of old Florida disappearing - the park was so crowded this weekend with people wanting to say good-bye before it was gone. Too bad the Business Analyst didn't see that.

Here are pics I took before they were gone.

Hopefully someday someone will remember that it's not the Business Analysts that know what's important. It's your customers...if you weren't getting business - try lowering your prices and see what happens.

I don't understand

2008-11-07T06:32:00.000-08:00

As a country we made huge strides on election day...but once again for every step we make forward we make two back.

How do we as a country overcome racism and elect Barack Obama and yet overwhelmingly take rights and freedoms away from a huge section of our country?

see Sarah Palin pictures

A Time for Change!

2008-11-04T20:54:00.000-08:00

Congratulations President-Elect Obama!

Ironic...

2008-10-31T07:11:00.001-07:00

Confident?

2008-10-30T05:07:00.000-07:00

Got this from Barack Obama's myspace page this morning. Take it to heart...

Tea and Sympathy

2008-10-21T08:17:00.001-07:00

Or Coffee and Apathy - as I told my Sprinkly friend earlier - I'm so bored or maybe it's just apathy...Nothing much to say...I had a really good weekend, so maybe it's just weekend lag (like jetlag). So I'll just include this picture from EPCOT of us in our fabulous new life as per Spaceship Earth.

They like me - they really like me

2008-10-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Well maybe not me but they liked one of my photos...

The Schmap Guides - used one of my photos of the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine for their Jacksonville guide. I got an e-mail a couple weeks ago telling me that I was on the "short list" of photos being considered for the Jacksonville guide and could they have my permission to use the pic. I told them yes but didn't really think I would get chosen...I know it's not curing cancer or solving the financial crisis. But for me I still think it's pretty cool. Hope you do to.

You can check the guide out here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsvajdlenka/799359421/in/set-72157600793956046/

Or see below:

This is the picture they used:

This just in...

2008-10-14T11:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry - just saw this and had to post, John Cleese on Sarah Palin

Quick Questions

2008-10-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

Why do I try to make things better at work? Is it some deep seeded need to make the world a better place? To always be right? If you are going to go to all the trouble to make your workplace ITIL (look it up - it's too long to explain here) compliant, why go out of your way to make sure you don't actually follow any of the recommendations?

Why when you complain that you don't have enough time to get things done, and two people (one of which is your boss) give you ideas on how to save time and get things done more efficiently - if you don't take their advice - quit bitching about not having enough time.

Hockey What?

2008-10-13T07:19:00.001-07:00

How bad is it when you are billing yourself as a "hockey mom" and they boo you?

Treehugging

2008-10-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

Someone recently told me that they know I'm a liberal but they don't think I'm a "treehugger". OOPS I guess I'm doing something wrong. I'll try harder - so I apologize to all the treehuggers - and promise to try more. http://www.treehugger.com/

Experience

2008-10-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

It has just occurred to me that I was taken to Mexico on vacation as a small child, live in Florida which is next to Cuba and just recently I visited Canada.

I HAVE FOREIGN POLICY EXPERIENCE!!!! I need a raise...

LMAO :)

2008-10-09T06:41:00.000-07:00

see Sarah Palin pictures

see Sarah Palin pictures

If I hear one more thing about that "big ol' maverick" I'm going to scream!

Questioning the world around you

2008-10-08T05:27:00.000-07:00

In the past year I've discovered quite a bit about myself - and remembered a lot about my former self. I've been faced with looking at the world and people around me, and see that even though I have been friends with some of these people for more than 10 years - I can still be surprised. It's not a bad thing, I'm glad that I can be challenged - it means I have to think. And that is something that is sorely missing in today's world.

We are working diligently toward getting a building that we can turn into an art center, with music, theater, gallery space, and art classes. Hopefully by late this year or very early next year this will be a reality. I know it's a risky time to be embarking on any new endeavour so wish us luck. I truly believe we have the right mix of people to make this a success. Also, if you have any desire to be an artist or you've been missing playing music out to people who appreciate it...please keep us in mind. You can contact me and I'll fill you in on the details of the project.

I've learned this year that I can disagree with my friends for their own point of view or actions, and that I don't have to keep it to myself. If they are really a friend - a difference of opinion, no matter how strong should be tolerated. I've also figured out that I can be deeply hurt by one comment that someone made to me...I'm still friends with this friend, and love them dearly, but it made me watch more what I say to others. Because this one comment may forever taint how I feel about this person, I can't say if "forever" is the correct word - but so far it still stings. I keep it to myself because I know it was not said with malice (at least I hope it wasn't) but it just makes me more careful in HOW I say things to others.

In these politically unprecedented times - I've learned to embrace my liberal views...Yes I'm a liberal - it may be a shock to you. But when did that become a bad thing? When did LIBERAL become a 4-letter word?

lib·er·al
1. favorable to progress or reform, as in political or religious affairs.
2. favorable to or in accord with concepts of maximum individual freedom possible, esp. as guaranteed by law and secured by governmental protection of civil liberties.
3. free from prejudice or bigotry; tolerant: a liberal attitude toward foreigners.
4. open-minded or tolerant, esp. free of or not bound by traditional or conventional ideas, values, etc.

Those are just a few of the definitions from www.dictionary.com so you can check them out for yourself. But beyond being a liberal - in this economic meltdown, we HAVE to do something different. I think we have proven that TRICKLE DOWN usually means TRICKLED ON to the middle class. I'm tired of Reaganomics - and mostly tired of hearing how he was our most beloved president - IN WHO'S WORLD? I remember families living in the street - and hope we as a country have the intelligence to try and change it before it happens again.

And for the record - GOD BLESS TINA FEY!!! She rocks!!! It's coincidence that she looks like Palin - but to have the ability to completely act like her - embrace her mannerisms and use her own words, that's just brilliant.

So the last thing I need I want to say in this rambling bit of my brain:

I will be.

America we have a problem

2008-08-15T11:00:00.001-07:00

YUM

2008-08-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

So yesterday was funky day for me - but it's amazing how something as little as ice cream can make it all better. Our building had an ice cream social in the afternoon - and one little scoop of oreo ice cream and some chocolate sauce later and I'm all better. :)

Oh and check this out - a friend is trying to get an artist community started. This party / art show is to raise money for the endeavor. Our friends band "Still Life" will also be playing. So if you're local you may want to check it out!

Hello

2008-08-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

Just a quick hello today - trying to live up to my self imposed goal of writing more often...but today is one of those emotional days we all have. So I'll just post this picture that Jeff took last year when he was in NYC, it's one of my favorites.

Whining & Wine

2008-08-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

Okay - I know I said I was going to write more and I didn't write less, I just didn't write AT ALL!

The Whining
So where to begin - I went to Iowa with my sister in June to drop my nephew off with my parents for the summer. Then on to Michigan to pick my daughter up from college and bring her home for the summer. It was an interesting but not eventful trip. In someways it was very disappointing...watching my parents slip into somewhere I never thought I would see. I am a very liberal person - and my parents are a big part of the reason why (especially my dad) but they are more involved in things now that are leading them to a much more conservative bend - VERY conservative. It's like going home and finding out your in some sort of twilight zone. I just can't stand the judgemental things I heard. Oh well maybe that is fodder for another day. I love my parents tremendously - but I don't have to agree with them.

Iowa was in the middle of the flooding disaster when we were there this summer. We literally didn't know if we were going to be able to

1. Get to my parents

and

2. Leave if we did get there.

By the time we arrived in Iowa there was one route open to get to my hometown from the south and it basically closed up after we got there. Finally the night before we were to leave one of the northern interstates opened so we were able to make it out with no problems.

One cool thing - my parents have a hummingbird feeder so I was able to go sit under it and take cool pictures (at least I think they are cool!) of the beautiful little birds.

The Wine

In July we went on a real vacation - rode to NY with our friends Jon & Susan. They had sent their boys to Susan's parents for the summer and were driving up to get them. We went along and were dropped off in Albany at Syd & Heather's (Syeatherville). Jon & Susan's original intentions were to drop us off and head further upstate to Barb & David's (the parents). However, we were having a really great time visiting and showing them around Syeatherville that they decided to stay over an extra day with us and go north the next morning. So a fun night was had with much eating, drinking, and merry making. Sunday we all (the 6 of us) went to a little flea market for the morning and said good byes to J&S. We spent the rest of the day exploring Albany & Troy then on to BBQ Ribs!

On Tuesday, we headed into the Adirondacks to Lake Placid where we met J&S for lunch and exploring. (S&H were much too generous and loaned us their car for the trip so we didn't have to rent one). The mountains and Lake Placid area were truly beautiful it was a great day.

We went up to Barb & David's for the night to see everyone. Susan had told us that her parents house had beautiful antiques - and she wasn't exagerating. They really should be running a B&B, the house is wonderful and filled with exceptional things. Barb is such a glorious host and loves to make people happy.

We headed back to Albany with a quick stop in Lake Placid to pick up a thank you gift for S&H. They were making their own wine so we bought them each an apron from a local winery to use when winemaking. (Syd's said "I'm not getting older I'm getting more complex" and Heather's had 3 bottles of wine and said "Group Therapy") We also picked up a lovely bottle of strawberry wine for dinner that night. On the way back through the mountains we stopped to take pictures - the views were so beautiful. Jeff stopped along the road for me to take pictures of a huge bolder in the middle of a river along the mountain face with birch trees in the background. He decided to step over the barrier and get a better view to get me a really great picture. While climbing over rocks to get a better view he stepped over a very sharp jagged rock and fell - cut the hell out of his leg and gave me a heart attack. After I made sure he was okay - I cried most of the way down the mountains.

We got back and he finished cleaning up - I bandaged his leg which looked nasty. But not as bad as it could have been. We had dinner "make your own pizza" was a lot of fun and very delicious. After dinner was cleaned up we bottled the wine that they had been making. We bottled 29 bottles - they ended the evening with 26! Hee Hee! It was very yummy - will be even better after it ages a little but it was fine wine that night.

We stayed over with S&H an extra day as we were having such a wonderful vacation. The next day they drove us to our hotel in NJ and then into THE CITY! We had lunch together at a little pizza place that claimed the best brick oven pizza in the city. It was very good - not sure it was the best but then I haven't sampled every pizza in NY. We said good-bye to S&H (tear!) and then proceeded to walk around Chelsea to many different art galleries - so much fun - art is weird and wonderful.

Then we walked around the rest of the evening - went to FAO Schwartz, Central Park, Macys, Time Square. At the end of the day 2 very tired travelers went to the train station and headed back to our hotel and straight to bed. Our flight was at 6AM the next morning so we got up at 2AM in order to get ready, catch the shuttle and wait for our plane.

Jeffrey and Nessa picked us up at the airport and off to a quick lunch at 5 Guys Burgers and then home to sleep most of the afternoon away. What a wonderful vacation!

BTW - Yes Jeff's dad did have quadruple by-pass surgery in July - he's doing okay, not as well as we would like but okay. I'll write more about that soon.

Love to anyone who actually reads this.

Tawny

Funny Random Pic

2008-04-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

Okay just a little background...last Christmas we went to Disney World and went through the shops at the resorts. In one shop we saw this right inside the door - there were lots of sales people around and it struck us as hysterical that no one was fixing this. Maybe this was the look they were going for?

Yes the pants are down! The one across the doorway was fully clothed - but not this one.

Busy busy busy

2008-04-18T06:12:00.000-07:00

Been a busy time for me - seems like I've been on the run since October of last year. I can't remember the last time I just took a day and did nothing. Crazy but mostly fun times.

We took a couple of days off of work (Friday and Monday) in order to have a nice, relaxing weekend - Jeff's birthday was Sunday and relaxing time away from work sounded like just what the doctor ordered.

So Friday I went to the Dr. in the morning just to get scripts refilled but had huge problem there. They have continually billed my old insurance company for an office visit last July and every time I come in there tell my I owe them $. I have given them the correct info multiple times and they re billed wrong ins. 3 more times!!! So last time they finally got the correct insurance company - and they told me when I got there that my current insurance had denied it. So they turned it over to a collection agency!!! At that point I was livid (when was the relaxation supposed to start?) I called my insurance who told me that they had paid that claim - in NOVEMBER!!! When I told the office staff this information the girl looked at me and told me that I had to contact the collection agency. I looked at her and asked - "You've billed this wrong 4 times - and turned it over after it was already paid? - How is this my problem now? Shouldn't you take care of it?" She again told me I had to contact the collection agency - to which I responded that the only thing I HAD to do was find a different doctor.

We've been going to this doctor for about 12 years but they have been slipping for a while - I can't ever remember the last time I actually saw the doctor in the office...so I'm now without my prescriptions - nothing too serious but still a PITA. Everyone I ask about who they go to tells me they don't actually have a doctor - most go to walk in clinics - mostly due to insurance issues. ARGH!

Friday night we went out with friends and had a really great time - dinner an art show, including some performance art theater. Our group from the old art studio has new building and are trying to make a go of it. It was a lot of fun, after show we ended up a pub in Ybor and participated in Karaoke. It was just too funny - but again a really good time.

Saturday we saw the in-laws for lunch and they gave Jeff his birthday present - a weather radio flashlight, with a hand crank so you don't have to have batteries. Every one who knows Jeff knows how he loves following the weather, especially here in Florida during hurricane season. This was a perfect gift for him. We stopped by friends to pick up some fabric for our friend Rosemary the costume designer.

Sunday was a fun trip to pick up Jeff's b-day present - he collects vintage space toys. Then off to Ikea to get some picture frames for artwork we have at the house. Last a great trip over to EPCOT for the flower festival.

Monday we just did stuff around the house, put the artwork in frames. A quick knock at the door revealed the mailman delivering a couple of packages - one expected one not... expected = inflatable Margaritaville tequila bottle (to hang over our bar area FUN!) and unexpected = poster by Vargas that we both totally forgot we ordered. But how lucky - we just bought frames at Ikea the day before! So we framed it an put it up.

Tuesday - back to work...our friend Susan has been carpooling with us to save gas money since we are driving the same way every day anyway. Tuesdays she normally drives herself because her son has guitar and acting lessons so she needs to leave a little early those days to get him there on time. This week however she had family visiting from up north and had left them her car for the day. So we had a very funny but quick drive after work to make it by the skin of our teeth to get her home on time.

Wednesday - more work... did go out for happy hour after work with a couple of friends which is always fun. Bar Louie offers "tater tots" which are yummy but we got suckered into the "loaded tots" the waitress told us they came with bacon bits, cheese, sour cream - so okay we'll try. Well they did NOT live up to expectations. What was delivered to our table was tater tots but smothered in some sort of cheese sauce - and vegetables! Yes vegetables - okra, celery, carrots and others...honestly? Who the hell puts OKRA on tater tots!!!????

Anyway the evening finished with a phone call to my best sprinkly friend...and the most bizarre game of 20 questions I have ever played! I would love to share some of the questions but what happens between me and Sprinkles - STAYS between me and Sprinkles! I laughed my butt off though and was a great way to finish out the night.

Yesterday - more work...after the workday finished we went to Ybor and delivered the fabric to Rosemary - had a quick dinner with her at the Green Iguana. She is such a lovely person and always fun to be around. A truly great spirit who always makes me feel good. Back home in time for my sister and brother in law to arrive. They are taking my nephew to Disney this weekend so we are going to pick up the tickets for them today to save them time and $$$ we can use our AAA discount for them. Was a nice but short visit.

and Today? more work...except for this lovely time I've given to myself to update anyone who may actually read or care what I've been up to lately. Thanks if you read this, I do appreciate it. :)

Can we just start this day over?

2008-04-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

Okay so first thing this morning - my laptop died - it was not an unexpected death but was not without pain. I turned it on and BSOD - tried again...BSOD...tried Safe Mode - BSOD.

So I got a loaner from my computer tech, and was able to at least get e-mail. Then went for cup of tea in the break room with my friend Michelle. Walking out - someone had thrown a box by the garbage in the breakroom - which I promptly tripped over and slammed my wrist into the doorfacing. My wrist now has 2 lovely bumps that hurt like hell, but as Michelle told me "At least you didn't spill your tea!"

Went to lunch and when I got back I now have my computer - complete with new harddrive. Which I suppose I should be grateful for- but now have to try and recreate my links...download software...blah, blah, blah.

There were other small pieces of fun in between - some of which almost landed me in tears due to dreadful case of PMS...sigh.

Can we just start this day over?

What I don't want...

2008-03-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

I do NOT want to be a "Red Hat Lady"! No offense to those wonderful women who are a part of that organization. And to be honest I really did like the poem that inspired them:

The Red Hat Society takes its name from the opening lines of the poem Warning by Jenny Joseph, which starts:

“When I am an old woman I shall wear purple

With a red hat that doesn't go and doesn't suit me.”

But here's the deal - I liked the poem because it was about NOT conforming...not being like everyone else. And now with all the "Red Hat" clubs and gimmicks and kitsch...everyone IS conforming and like everyone else.

So I do NOT want to be a red hat lady.

Correction

2008-03-13T09:57:00.001-07:00

Okay I have a correction and story: Once upon a time my husband took me to a concert...a week early. Yes we had a great selection of seating which was good especially because I was eight months pregnant at the time and it was the middle of the summer!!! And to avoid parking problems we had taken the bus - all in all a comfortable rewarding experience - NOT!

Now on to why that is a relevant story today - when my husband started inquiring with our friends about the Spamalot tickets he told everyone it was on March 7th...then found out it was the 14th...NOW reality sets in - the show is actually March 21st. (Yes I went to the venue's website to make sure this time!) So NEXT week on Friday we will be attending Spamalot!

Bravo SNL - You're Fierce!

2008-03-12T05:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to admit - I've been addicted to Bravo reality for the past couple of years - Top Chef, Top Design,and my fav Project Runway. Last season's Project Runway was the ultimate for me...I'm not usually a reality fan but for some reason I love Bravo - (this season's left a lot to be desired - picked the winner right away, was pretty obvious.) I loved Project Runway so much that we drove around NYC looking for Parson's design school - and imagine how happy I was to walk past the window at Macy's and there was Jeffrey's collection from the finale of Project Runway! (I know - pathetic but I loved it!)

So I came across this clip from SNL this morning and laughed out loud watching it - if you have seen Project Runway you will totally understand this. Bravo SNL!

Blah blah blah

2008-03-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted for a while - not much really new. Work is work, everyone is overworked and underpaid. (Well almost everyone - there are a few that are the other way around).

A couple of weeks ago Jeff and I were talking about Playboy of all things. That is one of the things I love so much about my husband - in our marriage we talk about all sorts of things, including Playboy. I have never seen anything wrong with "adult" magazines, or any other "adult" media. What adults do is their business... but back to the Playboy conversation. I have always loved the little Femlin character on the Jokes page (the back side of the centerfold for those of you who never made it past the center!) With just a few lines the artist managed to create a character who was a sexy, mischievous little scamp. Turns out Jeff always loved her too so we decided to start collecting Femlin items. It actually amazed me how many items there were available - so we've already got quite a start on our collection. Including a book signed by the artist celebrating her 50 years. I believe she looks pretty good for a gal who's over 50!

On Friday night we will be going to see Spamalot - based on Monty Python's Holy Grail. We saw this play last year when it came to Tampa and really enjoyed it - so much so that we thought several of our friends would enjoy it too. We were very happy to see that it was coming back to the area. We will be attending with many of those friends - unfortunately some friends are unable to make it but it should be a great time. I grew up watching Monty Python with my Dad (an activity my Mom wasn't exactly fond of!) so needless to say I can't wait until Friday to see this again!

Dingo: You must spank her well, and after you are done with her, you may deal with her as you like... and then... spank me.
All: And me. And me too. And me.
Dingo: Yes. Yes, you must give us all a good spanking.
Dingo: And after the spanking, the oral sex.
Galahad: Well, I could stay a bit longer...

Questions

2008-02-01T06:02:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I had a discussion involving a couple of interesting questions - so I'm going to just put them out here. IF you feel you have an answer please feel free to let me know your opinion.

Which is harder - a physical betrayal or an emotional betrayal? Or to put it another way...is it worse to be in a relationship and be building another relationship, lie and hide things from your GF/BF/Spouse even if there is no physical contact vs. having a physical encounter, even just a one night stand?

The other question brought to me was this: is giving/getting orally - sex? or is it just fooling around?

Just a couple of things that have been floating around the workplace the last couple of days...sorry I apologize to my HR representatives. ;)

A Bit of Retrospect

2008-01-28T12:25:00.000-08:00

My sister bought me tickets to see what we thought was going to be an Elvis impersonators show at Cypress Gardens. This was my birthday present from her, and we thought it sounded like a lot of fun. As it turned out it was a "History of Elvis" the show was mainly Ronnie McDowell ("Now the King is Gone") and included the Jordanaires and Millie Kirkham. This was an incredible look at the early history of rock music with some of the people who were there. Millie Kirkham is the voice you hear singing the high notes on Elvis's rendition of Blue Christmas. Shelli and I were probably the youngest people in the audience so you know it was not a young crowd. But it was a fun time. These people could still sing, it was incredible and put me to shame!

At one point it occurred to me that I am the same age as Elvis was at his death. Talk about a quick glass of ice water poured down your back. Ronnie McDowell had a song he wrote for Elvis to record as though he was still here to record it. Then I started thinking of all the people we've lost way to young and what they may have done had they lived. I guess with all of the Heath Ledger gossip going on this week it was kinda floating around in my brain. It's all so incredibly sad...John Lennon, Jimmy Hendrix, Janice Joplin, Buddy Holly, and so many more on the music side...then the actors - James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, John Candy, John Belushi, Gilda Radner, River Phoenix, and now Heath Ledger. These people gave us so much...so with this flowing through my thoughts I looked up and saw the other side of the spectrum...The Jordanairs started in 1948 and still sound great.

So it was a strange thought process my brain went through...not sure what it really means. But I don't think things always need to MEAN something...I enjoyed the concert and I lament for the things that could have been.

On a lighter note - OMG the Elvis impersonators in the crowd who were lining up for the Jordanairs autographs! It was hysterical to watch!!!

:) Sorry the Evil Kitty sometimes makes an appearance and I just can't help it!

Clarification

2008-01-23T03:22:00.000-08:00

Just to clarify last night's post...I wanted to talk to Jeff about something but he was busy working. The person he works with is on vacation so he's working from home every night. So being the evil person I can be...(who me?) I put something from HBO on Demand on the television so that he would hear it...and it worked like a charm... as soon as he heard the noise he came out to investigate, and I got to talk to him. :)

Why?

2008-01-22T20:42:00.001-08:00

Why is it the surest way to get a man's attention is to put porn on the television? I'm not saying anything...just asking a question... ;)

Virgin no more

2008-01-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we made a pilgrimage to IKEA. Jeff and I have been there several times - in Atlanta and the new store in Orlando, but our Sprinkly friend has never been there. Even though her apartment has been adorned with Ikea items for many years thanks to gifts. We had a great time looking around, eating lunch in the cafeteria and of course buying things. We joked on the way home about her losing her virginity (not that one! gee where is your mind?) Her Ikea virginity...she's now a seasoned pro!

We had been looking for a small shelving unit for storing a portion of our DVD collection and had intended on buying this one:

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/70114753

But upon opening the box at home we found we had this one instead:

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90114752

Which is not only quite a bit smaller...it was bright red!!! So after some initial disappointment Jeff put it together and stacked DVDs on it. And it's actually quite cute. So happy accident!

After Ikea we hosted my brother-in-law, nephew, and our sons for football...the Packers (yea!) faced the Giants (boo!) It was bitterly cold in Lambeau and Coughlin (Giants coach) looked as though his face would crack and fall off...seriously that man had a severe case of frostbite...and he has no excuse, he used to coach in Green Bay - he knows it's cold there. Did no one think to give the man a scarf?? As time has shown the Giants won in overtime (again boo!!) So as the dejected members of the family trekked there way out to their respective domiciles (see I am poetic when faced with adversity) I cleaned up the remains of football fever...put away leftover lil smokies, bagged up the remaining cheese, boxed up the crackers, and did the dishes. All in time to start looking forward to next year. Even though this game ended on a sad note - I still have to say it was a hell of a season. Such is the life of a Packer fan...where we don't "like" a team - the team is part of the family.

Wait until next year.

Pure Evil

2008-01-16T07:19:00.000-08:00

My son is evil - some may say evil genius...I'm not sure I would go that far. But in his evil ways he sent me this to enjoy this morning. And since I shouldn't have to be the only one to suffer I present it for your viewing pleasure (or not!)

Birthday Presents!

2008-01-14T09:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my birthday - I turned a wonderful ## (edited-a lady never reveals her age- and this is about as close as I get to being a lady!) I had a great time with friends and family over the weekend. Saturday I received a early birthday present with the Packers win over the Seahawks! And because I love snowglobes, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this game. Go Pack!!!!

We have a great couple we are friends with who happen to be Giant fans. So Sunday we watched the Giants game with anticpation because we (the royal we is used here to denote Packer fans) DID NOT WANT TO TRAVEL TO DALLAS! So all were able to agree and cheer for the Giants as they went on to victory over the Cowboys! But now here comes the fun...the Giants now travel to Green Bay to face the Packers for the Championship game and the chance to go to the Superbowl. All of the football fans have agreed that THIS is a game that we will not be watching together. Because even though it was suggested that the "bantering" is half of the fun - there would not be "bantering" there would be BLOODSHED!

So I'm sure there will be plenty of text messages to share between the two households - but that's all!

****GO PACKERS!*****

Also, I want to wish my Sprinkly friend a very happy birthday! Next year will be different! *wink*

Here I am!

2008-01-08T10:08:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while - I've had technical issues...I'll try to write more and catch up in case anyone really wants to hear all about the last month or so. But one thing I'll tell you is I am tired of being tired - so I started taking my vitamins - trying to work out a little...I'll be 42 in a week, not much time left if I really want to make some changes.

So enjoy this and think of me taking my vitamins. :)

Weekend?

2007-11-05T07:56:00.000-08:00

I have decided that my life has one truth - there will either be an abundance of activity needing done at the same time or none at all. Lately it's been the abundance one. So this may get a little wordy - trying to catch up...

Thursday we signed the lease for our new apartment - and then I had to go sit in it for hours waiting on the cable installer as I had made an appointment 2 weeks ago for them to be there on move in day. As I was running around in panic mode to make sure that if I was sitting in an empty apartment with nothing but my computer and an aircard I had to make sure of a few things like water and toilet paper (both should be self explanatory). Sarah volunteered to take 1/2 day off and drive me to the apartment and sit with me. She told me she would bring a card table and chairs so that we could be semi-comfortable.

At the walk through we three (Jeff, Sarah and myself) identified various dings with the apartment (pre-existing stains and scuffs) so that when we moved out we would not be charged for these things...but the most drastic ding was the frozen air conditioner! As anyone in Florida knows - you cannot function in an apartment with no AC. The girl from the office put in an order to have it fixed immediately and Jeff went on his way back to work.

Sarah treated me to yummy Chinese food and back to the apartment to wait for the repairman and the installer (sounds like really bad porn). Once back there she surprised me with a car load of items for my new place - Water, soda, gum (her favorite), tissues, dog treats (Cabal's favorite) soda, straws, towels, air freshener and various others. She told me she was setting the level of expectation! LOL She is truly a gem and I'm grateful to have her as a friend. Everyone would be lucky to know someone like her! The repairman from the complex arrived to fix the AC (ew 4 inches of ice on it) and the cable installer finally arrived shortly before 5PM. Followed by another installer who's job it must be to just check up on the first installer - he obviously couldn't stand that we just ignored him and it was working on his last nerve, so he tried to get noticed...but we just continued to be ghouls and ignored him as much as possible. Jeff arrived later with taco's and then the day ended.

Friday, I took my son to the Dr. for a follow up visit from his pneumonia - they couldn't find his chart and a 9:15 appointment had us leaving at almost 11:00 with no information. ARGH I hate the medical system in this country. He then helped me the rest of the day moving various items from the house to the apartment. Later he helped Jeff move items from our studio which we are closing to our storage unit for use later.

Saturday dawned early as we moved two loads of items to the apartment and then Jeff wanted to go to Orlando for lunch at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. He said it had been such a stressful couple of weeks that we should get away for a few hours...and I agreed. But I knew he was up to something because he was way to worked up to get out of there on time and he kept asking when I last heard from our friends in Albany. Well the surprise was that they were both in the state and we ended up driving across the state to Melbourne to see them. (I'll post pictures later). We arrived back in Tampa around 11:00PM and straight to bed.

Sunday was up early - Jeff went to studio to work on some things there and I started consolidating items at that house for more trips to the apartment. Jeff called me around 9:00AM to remind me that it was daylight savings time and he was ahead by an hour! A pleasant surprise for him. We also had to make a trip to KB and Jaime's to pick up assorted Halloween items for storage. Once those trips were finished it was over to my sister's house for the Packer / Chief's game. YAY Packer's are 7-1!!! After game was quick trip back to move more items - my oldest son came along this time to move furniture. After many trips we almost have everything moved. We were able to stay at the apartment last night (felt a bit like a hotel but that will fade) and got to bed around 11:30PM.

Hopefully tonight will be earlier... and that's pretty much what I did for the weekend...what did you do?

OY!

2007-10-30T11:17:00.001-07:00

I know that I haven't updated in a while - not sure that it matters because I'm not sure anyone actually reads this. But it makes me feel better to pretend someone does so screw it!

Anyway, I've been very busy - helping a friend get their house sold, helping to throw a Halloween party, helping another friend with her Guavaween costume. (For those who don't know - Guavaween is a Latin flavor Halloween party held in Ybor City every year). Will be moving into a new apartment this week and finally finishing everything with the beformentioned friend's house. Throw an art show into the mix (great artist Karen Pike look her up!) and the fact that we are closing our art studio due to the building being sold to a developer for a bed and breakfast. (A nice little intimate 3 floor wooden cigar factory with 60 rooms - does that sound like a bed and breakfast?) Also add a hyper-extended knee caused by trying to help another group of friends with their haunted house project...and as you can see I'm either very busy or have too many friends! (I'm voting for very busy - because I love all my friends!!!!)

I know I've been rambling but here are some fun pics:

You go girl!

2007-10-23T10:18:00.001-07:00

When is too much - too much?

2007-10-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

Okay I want to start out by saying that I really HATE smoking. As a child I was surrounded by smokers, my parents, my cousins, grandmother, aunt, and various family friends. It is an addiction that is in the process of taking my mother from me. She is on oxygen for COPD, asthema and other various lung problems - but the addiction is too strong so she has been unable to give it up.

But this morning I saw this story about a device so that doctors can tell when a patient is lying to them about smoking. My question is - why? The story states that this "might be a cheap, easy way to help doctors talk to their patients about smoking." C'mon if a person lied to their doctor about smoking they already know that it can harm their health. And the last time I checked it wasn't against the law - so again I ask - Why?

What purpose would this serve? What's the doctor going to say to you? AH HA! You're not only a smoker but you are also a LIAR?

When do we realize that all of these little things add up to more big brother - watching us? thinking for us? punishing us? When did we become a society that just let everyone else do the thinking and living for us? Why is it that when you stand up and say something is wrong you're labled a liberal and no one listens to you anymore? When did being a liberal become a bad thing? Wake up people and think for yourselves while it's still possible to do so.

I can't wait....

2007-10-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Okay I really hate this "If we can just make it through this week" feeling...It never goes away. Because once you make it through whatever issues you have this week - next week there is always something else. When do you ever feel on an even keel?

I mean I'm generally a happy person - things are pretty good with everything. But there is always the push that once this project / week / month is over things will be better. But there is always something else...

Oh well, in the plagurized words of David Lee Roth - "That's Life!"

She said WHAT?

2007-10-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

I continue to be amazed at the narrow minded, right wing, bigotry in this country. Although I don't know why. When the poster child for the right is interviewed and shit continues to drop from her lips...Ann Coulter was interviewed by Donny Deutsch on CNBC (He is by the way, Jewish) - he asked her what the US looks like in her dreams.

The response? It would look like the Republican National Convention in 2004! Are you fucking kidding me? Followed up by "People were happy,” she said, “They're Christian. They're tolerant. They defend America."

On what planet are they tolerant? That is the biggest oxymoron I have ever heard. She continued the conversation to state that yes it would be better if we were all all Christian.

So let me ask this? At what point is she better than any radical Muslim who believes they must covert the world to Islam? When do we put her on a terrorist watch list - condemned by her own words?

But then I read that AL GORE WON THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE!!!!!! What a contrast...the citation for the prize praised Gore's "strong commitment, reflected in political activity, lectures, films and books, has strengthened the struggle against climate change. He is probably the single individual who has done most to create greater worldwide understanding of the measures that need to be adopted."

How sad is it though that the chairman of the prize committee had to come out with a statement saying that they weren't singling out the Bush administration for criticism.

I know that Al probably will not run for president in 2008 - but I hope that whomever wins has the intelligence to put him on the cabinet, with the power to make some real change in this country's direction before it's too late for the whole world. This isn't just our country that we are busy ruining.

Thanks Al for all of your work!

Hey!

2007-10-04T10:04:00.001-07:00

Eat to the Beat

2007-10-01T06:28:00.000-07:00

Saturday dawned very early, we had plans for Disney and if you don't get there before opening the whole day is wasted...right honey? We were meeting our friends KB and Jamie there to enjoy Magic Kingdom and talk over plans for Halloween. As we pulled into the parking lot I got a text message from KB that they were running a little late so Jeff and I enjoyed ourselves looking through the shops, at checking out the Disney Fall decor.

Part of the fun for this this day at Disney World Magic Kindgom was to initate Jamie who hadn't been there. So of course we took him on the best ride EVER! It's a Small World.

The day was lots of fun, and we spent plenty of time riding the Haunted Mansion to get ideas for Halloween. (More about that at another time.) They had to leave early to go home to doggies, but we had pretty much covered all the bases by then. It was a great time.

After they left we travelled to Epcot for the next part of our day and other reason for visiting Disney World that day. Al Stewart was performing at Epcot as part of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. (Year of the Cat and Time Passages- for those of you trying to figure out who Al Stewart is.) We got there just as he started his second show, and it was great!!

After the show we caught up with the Jay, Shelli (Jeff's brother, My sister) and their kids and we all watched the final Al Stewart set. He performed a different set of music than the first set so it was an excellent night. We all went to see a collection of tin toys on display sponsed by John Lassiter and then watched the fireworks to close out the evening.

SUNDAY!!!!

Oh what can I say about Sunday - It was a great day watching Brett Farve clinch the touchdown pass record. And even better - The Pack is 4-0!

bleck!

2007-09-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

One of the things I hate in life is being sick! And this week I have been oh so sick. Just a flu I hope (although Jeff's been watching me for signs of bacterial meningitis since a college student in my neighborhood just tragically died from it). So all in all not a good time to come down with similar symptoms. I'm usually able to bounce back but this has really kicked my arse!

I haven't been able to go into the office all week - or is that all weak? I totally miss my sprinkley friend whom I haven't seen in forever! I have worked from home as much as possible but who knows what I'll find when I get back to the office? I may have agreed to take on whole projects in my current state I wouldn't remember it anyway.

Oh well...time to go sleep some more. Wish my mom was here with chicken soup!

Apparently...

2007-09-26T10:39:00.000-07:00

Now everyone knows!

Yep...it's me

2007-09-24T05:35:00.000-07:00

You are The High Priestess

Science, Wisdom, Knowledge, Education.

The High Priestess is the card of knowledge, instinctual, supernatural, secret knowledge. She holds scrolls of arcane information that she might, or might not reveal to you. The moon crown on her head as well as the crescent by her foot indicates her willingness to illuminate what you otherwise might not see, reveal the secrets you need to know. The High Priestess is also associated with the moon however and can also indicate change or fluxuation, particularily when it comes to your moods.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Wrong impressions

2007-09-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

I just realized that with the last 2 posts I make it sound like I don't like my job. Actually that isn't the case - I really enjoy my job - just not all the politics around it. The sad part is that I'm actually pretty good at the politics - I can look through the bullshit and see what peoples motives are, and act/react accordingly.

But with all of the wonderful places, and beautiful sights, and intersting people on this planet why don't we just cut back a little on chasing the cheese at the end of the maze and enjoy each other a little more?

Work?

2007-09-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a question - and I don't really expect an answer. But really...why do people work? I mean who came up with this concept? How much thought went into it? Who decided that we'll run the rats through the maze, put obstacles in their way the whole time, give them some cheese (not as much as they want though) and have them do it all over again next week for 40 hours?

When we were evolving was this really the goal?

Happiness?

2007-09-20T06:33:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update - I drove to Busch Gardens last night to pick my son up after rehearsals for Howl-o-Scream. On the way I received a text message that read:

I got a chainsaw!

Yes, my son will be playing a deranged biker with a chainsaw at one of the haunted houses. He's almost giddy because he gets to wield a chainsaw and chase people down a hallway.

My only question at is - why can't I do that at work?

In the Spirit

2007-09-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of International Talk Like a Pirate Day! I received this from a co-worker:

So this pirate walks into a bar with a steering wheel on his shlong. The bartender says to him "hey pal, you know you got a steering wheel on yer shlong?"

"Aye, it be driving me nuts"

I know I know...

2007-09-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

I said I would try to post often - just hasn't worked out that way...so to bring you up to date (as if anyone out there really cares but me!) :)

My oldest son has gotten a tattoo and is currently in Philly- went up with a friend to see the Genesis concert. My daughter has moved to Michigan to attend college and see her boyfriend (not necessarily in that order). And my youngest son has gotten a job at Busch Gardens for Howl-o-Scream, (not mu cup of tea - but he's working).

Nothing really new at work - same old confusion and anarchy. No warm and fuzzies here.

Last night was kinda a jumble of things that were planned against the things that needed done...my son had unfortunate wardrobe malfunction yesterday so I left work and picked him up - which delayed my happy hour plans and postponed dinner plans with my in-laws. (My father in-laws birthday is today - so we rescheduled for tonight). After dropping him off at home I proceeded back to happy hour which now became a happy 10 minutes. One drink - a few laughs with friends (it's all it really is about anyway).

Home (sorta-long story there) and watched K-ville last night. I totally love New Orleans and what has happened since Katrina makes me horribly depressed. The show was pretty good - standard cop drama - but what I like is this...I read an article in Entertainment Weekly (TV previews for fall) and they stated that this show has pumped about $17mil into the NO economy. Also the cast members have joined with Habitat for Humanity and are helping rebuild NO. Gotta appreciate that.

OH AND THE BEST PART OF TODAY -

It is INTERNATIONAL TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY!!!!! Arrrr! Savvy?

Daily thought from RealSimple

2007-09-12T06:56:00.000-07:00

Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.
— Berthold Auerbach

I have always liked that sentiment. Music transports me away from the everyday crap that weighs me down. The right song at the right time and the world makes sense. BUT

The wrong song...then the world just feels like a discord. Maybe that's what's going on now - the world is listening to the wrong song.

Thought for tonight

2007-09-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

Where we have strong emotions, we're liable to fool ourselves.
- Carl Sagan

Daily Thought...

2007-09-04T07:52:00.000-07:00

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

I am?

2007-08-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

Okay took the book quiz and found out that I am "Love in the Time of Cholera" funny thing is that I never knew this book existed until the movie Serendipity. Guess I'll have to read it now...

You're Love in the Time of Cholera!

by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Like Odysseus in a work of Homer, you demonstrate undying loyalty by
sleeping with as many people as you possibly can. But in your heart you never give
consent! This creates a strange quandary of what love really means to you. On the
one hand, you've loved the same person your whole life, but on the other, your actions
barely speak to this fact. Whatever you do, stick to bottled water. The other stuff
could get you killed.

Take the Book Quiz
at the Blue Pyramid.

Empty Garden

2007-08-29T08:18:00.000-07:00

there is a line in Elton John's song Empty Garden that keeps playing in my head today...

"it's funny how one insect can damage so much grain"

I know it's better with the music.

RealSimple Thought for Today

2007-08-29T05:57:00.001-07:00

The manner of giving is worth more than the gift.
— Pierre Corneille

Up to speed

2007-08-29T05:43:00.000-07:00

I went on a trip to Atlanta with my sister this weekend. We left Saturday morning and got in early that evening. It was an enjoyable weekend overall - plenty of rest and shopping at IKEA & Dick Blicks (Art Supplies). Went in to the Atlanta office on Monday as my sister was in a payroll conference (the real reason for the trip).

As I was taken around and introduced to people in that office I didn't get any warm and fuzzies. My company was part of a recent acquisition and subsequently my department was transitioned to report to the corporate team. I manage our IT Helpdesk and there is also an IT Helpdesk in that office. I've been told we're keeping them separate so that both user groups get the support they need. But everyone I was introduced to had the same comment "oh I thought there was going to be one helpdesk". So feeling really secure now.

Oh well c'est la vie.

Got home late Monday night/Tuesday morning so I worked from home on Tuesday. Had a wonderful evening and horrible night. So now I sit at my desk in a foul mood...and now you're up to speed...

Thought of the day from RealSimple

2007-08-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

August 24, 2007
A kiss is just a pleasant reminder that two heads are better than one.
— Author Unknown

Blood Pressure

2007-08-20T12:54:00.001-07:00

So I'm going to tell you a little story about my Dr.'s office - The Dr. is part of a medical association and I have been going there for almost 10 years. This is the reason I am looking for a new Dr.

Using the wayback machine: I go to the Dr. for pain in my back and legs - Dr. runs tests and finds arthritis and bone spurs in my spine. Dr. tells me there is no cure for these things but that with medication I can control the pain. Dr. puts me on pain med (as needed-not narcotic - no Oxycontin for me), muscle relaxer, and arthritis anti-inflammatory (may cause stomach problems so make sure you tell us if it does and we'll put you on something else).

Flash forward to last month: I go to Dr. because I have migraine. I get them once in a while and it's been so long since I had one my medication is expired. Also my scripts for the other meds are expired so I need to get refills. Nurse tells me my blood pressure is a little high but that it may be caused by the migraine. Also tells me that MY migraine medication is no longer available.

Dr. asks me why do you get so many migraines?
ME: "I don't get so many - which is why my meds are expired..."
Dr.: Why do you take these meds? looking at the refill requests
ME: for the arthrtis in my spine
Dr.: who told you that you have arthritis - you're awfully young
ME: you did - see the tests in my medical records?
Dr.: Oh yeah

See a pattern here?

So as I already had a migraine and this was helping so much I foolishly approached the fact that I don't take my anti-inflammatory because it bothers my stomach, and could he prescribe something else instead? And I've been noticing that I'm swelling (retaining fluids) so is there something that can be done with that?

Dr.: well your blood pressure is a little high and it was the last few times you were in - so I'll give you a water pill that will take care of the blood pressure and the water retention. But for the anti-inflammatory we better look to see if any damage was done to your stomach before I prescribe anything else.

So I went through an endoscopy which showed no problems with my stomach. Next comes follow up visit:

ME: Endoscopy showed no stomach damage - and the water pill is helping.
Dr.: Yes your blood pressure is down too - I will keep you on this med. Have a good day see you at your next follow-up."
ME: Are you going to give me something for the arthritis?
Dr.: Oh I could but they are VERY expensive - just take Tylenol

TYLENOL? Are you kidding me? So he refuses to give me anything - which is why I went through the whole scope business in the first place....I'm upset and leave the Dr. Office...

A couple of weeks later I'm noticing my regular meds are low and I need to call in for refills - only one problem - HE DIDN'T GIVE ME ANY REFILLS! So now I have to call the Dr. office and see if I can pick them up - Oh and they charge you a fee if you get prescriptions without an office visit.

So I call the office and leave a message - mentioning that he didn't give me my usual refills and I was just in there a few weeks ago so it's not time for a follow up visit. I get a call back from the Dr. office - yes he will give me refills on the pain and muscle pills but he gave me 5 refills on the blood pressure med. So she tells me to have the pharmacy look up the original script.

Getting a little tired of the runaround?

I call the pharmacy - "pull the original"? Yes the original has no refills.

Call the Dr. "we'll give you a copy to show the pharmacy" (copy shows script for blood pressure med with 5 refills)

I take the copy to the pharmacy - "Can you show me the original? " OH the scripts are different? The prescription the Dr. gave me was for 3 medications all on the same script...the pain med, the muscle relaxer and the blood pressure med...with NO REFILLS"

The script they gave me a copy of at the Dr. office - I never received!...

So shouldn't be a big deal - just give me another script - with the refills and we'll call it a day? NO not that easy - the Dr. office won't call me back and NOW I really am going to need a blood pressure medication because this is causing my blood to boil.

What is the big deal? This is not a controlled substance - no one buys blood pressure / water pills on the streetcorner - Do they?

bland and blah

2007-08-20T05:36:00.000-07:00

It's almost 9:00AM I've been at work for over an hour. Quiet day so far- nothing happening. Everyone who actually came in to the office today seems to be recuperating from their weekends.

I had a really lovely weekend myself - saw my in-laws and helped them get set up with their new computer. They have been using WebTV for about 10 years now. They recently bought a new computer though - so we went over to help get them set up with e-mail, and instant messaging. I'm happy to see them taking this step, and about 5 minutes into having the new e-mail they received their first video file from Guy's aunt in AZ. She's been waiting for a long time to send videos to them.

I think they all belong to the same e-mail club: The one that makes you forward EVERYTHING you ever received! I believe my parents are part of that same club. I have received dirty jokes and religious renewal e-mails sent at the same time. Just this weekend I received 11 e-mails ranging from Senior Moments to Forgiveness. E-mails telling me to make sure I forward to 11 friends so that I don't have bad luck for the next year...but??? what if they don't have 11 friends to forward it on to? Then I've caused my friends to have bad luck for a year?

The best e-mail I received Saturday:

Subject: Why you should never question a drunk

A woman was shopping at her local supermarket where she selected:

a half-gallon of 2% milk,
a carton of eggs,
a quart of orange juice,
a head of romaine lettuce,
a 2 lb. can of coffee and
a 1 lb. package of bacon.

As she was unloading her items on the conveyor belt to check out, a drunk standing behind her watched as she placed the items in front of the cashier. While the cashier was ringing up her purchases, the drunk calmly stated, "You must be single."

The woman was a bit startled by this proclamation, but she was intrigued by the derelict's intuition, since she was indeed single. She looked at her six items on the belt and saw nothing particularly unusual about her selections that could have tipped off the drunk to her marital status. Curiosity getting the better of her, she said "Well, you know what, you're absolutely correct. But how on earth did you know that?"

The drunk replied, "Cause you're ugly."

And so it goes...Next week I'll be helping to instal spam filters and spyware protection...but for now let them have their fun. I can't wait to introduce them to YouTube.

Guilty Pleasures

2007-08-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

I was flipping through channels on the television last night not really interested - you know when you don't really know what you want to do? Watch a movie? Look for anything that may interest you? So I came across Frankie and Johnny. And I don't mean an Al Pacino movie - I mean ELVIS. Yes I admit it I am a sucker for an Elvis movie. I don't know why-and I don't try to figure it out - I just LOVE them!!!!! Elvis movies took a young girl from the middle of Iowa and transported her to places all over the world. When he was in Hawaii - I was in Hawaii! Years later when I actually did get to go to Hawaii, I secretly looked for places that I might recognize from Elvis movies. I probably drove my husband crazy singing songs from them. When I went to New Orleans - I was looking for balconies and people singing about Crawfish. And GI Blues took me to Germany - I haven't actually made it there yet, but if I ever do, you know I'll be looking for landmarks.

Especially dear to me are - Blue Hawaii, and Frankie and Johnny.

I think that Frankie and Johnny was the first time I realized the people on TV weren't really the characters they were playing. I was very young the first time I saw this movie and I knew Elvis wasn't Johnny - but there was Ellie May Clampett...on a showboat??? And did Jed know she was dressing that way and hanging around gamblers?

It's been 30 years since Elvis died, I was 11 years old and in the hospital for some minor thing when I heard. I rolled over and cried...sometimes I still do.

Squirrelly

2007-08-08T05:49:00.000-07:00

Had a fairly decent day at work today - especially telling my team that the new company that bought us does their reviews on a different cycle than our old company so they all had one day to get me their self appraisals. They took it fairly well and all went to work on them, now the only slacker in the group is ME! I cannot tell you how much I HATE doing a self appraisal. I know that this is your opportunity to tell the world about what a wonderful asset you have been to the company. But it always sounds so contrived and just rings false. I am not a toot-my-own-horn kind of person.

Bummed a ride home with AGOL as Guy (husband) had to come to the rescue of a damsel in distress who locked her keys in her car. Getting off the elevator in the parking garage we were greeted by a squirrel who was trying to get something out of the garbage can. He was really cute and just froze in place staring at us...probably wondering which nut he could take down! AGOL struggled to get her camera out and capture the moment on digital film so she just kept telling me to keep staring at him so he wouldn't leave. After a brief moment she got the camera - just in time for the little guy to fall completely into the garbage can. The flip-top lid came closed and the squirrel was trapped.

Well, neither of us marshmallows could allow the little rodent to stay trapped in a garbage can - (although we did get a good laugh at the imagined sight of some poor unsuspecting facility person going to empty the trash and getting a squirrel surprise!) So I gingerly walked over to the receptacle and tried to push the lid in, hoping for a quick escape. AGOL stood there armed with the camera, presumably to fend off the little beastie if he attacked - but more likely she was hoping to catch me in a very funny moment of squirrel terror. (I was once bitten by a squirrel as a child - long story, but I know those teeth hurt!) Unfortunately every time I lifted the lid, the squirrel moved inside the can and I screamed - which did not endear me to the squirrel. I finally removed the lid completely and we walked away. Knowing that we had done our best to give him an escape route. As we walked to the car we looked back and he was scampering away from the can and out of the garage. All is well that ends well.

Kitty Shame

2007-08-06T07:45:00.000-07:00

Just read a story about Thai cops wearing Hello Kitty armbands when they break the rules. This is intended to shame them and keep them from repeating the offense. Has anyone checked with Hello Kitty to make sure she isn't shamed? I mean really - being worn by rule breaking cops? That has to be a kick to the ego. Poor Kitty!

Subdued and Random Thoughts

2007-08-03T06:57:00.000-07:00

Been going back and forth between watching the coverage of the bridge collapse and trying not to watch coverage of the bridge collapse. I am unfortunately one of those people who feels the pain of these families so strongly that it's hard to get through my own day to day issues. I know everyone in this country is feeling this tragedy and I don't mean to imply that I feel it more. But it's just how I am - I hate to see anyone in pain, a child crying for a toy can send me over the edge. I always try to be the stronger person when in front of people but behind the scenes I fall apart. For some reason emotional pain cuts me like a knife. So for my own selfish needs I keep trying to not watch the coverage. But then I'm drawn to it - wishing there was more that could be done for the families. Waiting for maybe that one miracle that so far hasn't come...

Back to Florida and the pressing issues in my own day to day existence. AGOL has been plagued by a flat tire this morning and is trying to make it into work via the tire repair shop. My hubby is dealing with system issues that kept him up testing things most of the night. And I am working though random issues as they arise.

I was thinking earlier this morning about the crazy quilt of people I call friends. People of various ethnic backgrounds, beliefs, and sexual orientation. Very different than if I had remained in Iowa all of my life. My graduating class had one person who was not WASPY...he was born in Korea, he and his sister were adopted by a couple in the middle of small town America. Whenever he was asked what nationality he was - he would reply Dutch, as that was the background of his adopted parents. He loved watching people react to that. He's now the police spokesman (spokesmodel?) for the Des Moines police department. My parents keep me up to date on how he's doing when they see him on the news.

Anyway, I was thinking of all the diversity in my life and how different it was from small town Iowa. I have friends of all different backgrounds - Asian, African American, Hispanic, Redneck, Liberal, Republican (barely), Gay, Straight, and some that the jury is still out on...you know who you are. My parents raised me to believe that people are the same no matter what...no one person is any better than any other. I firmly believe that - I don't appreciate discrimination in any form, and HATE it when I see it creep into my own thoughts. But one thing I have to admit I do is try to mess with people's heads when I see bigotry...I can't help but call them on it - mostly they don't even realize it because they don't think of themselves as being bigoted.

The one group I can honestly say I have problems with is stupid people...and I'm not talking about their IQ's. Being Stupid just for the sake of stupidity really pisses me off. Acting a certain way just because their friends or their parents or someone else acts that way just sets me off. THINK FOR YOURSELF!!!

Okay, enough random soapbox issues for now...back to my mundane life.

I'm so LUCKY

2007-08-02T14:06:00.000-07:00

Apparently I've been chosen by a lawyer across the pond to be a part of an a 100% legal transaction. I will get 45% of 30.3 million US dollars. Seems some poor rich man in England died with no beneficiary (so sad - I hate when that happens).

"This prompted me to contact you. I want to front you as the next of kin and beneficiary to the late client thereby making you the legal beneficiary of the sum of $30.3M million U.S Dollars that is presently in the Financial and Security Company. I contacted you because it will be very easy for the Financial and Security Company to believe since they know me as his Lawyer and moreover i am working with a key member of the Financial and Security Company. The transaction is 100% legal and totally free of risks as all modalities has been perfected to ensure the hitch free success of the transaction."

And all I have to do is "send your full name, contact address, age and occupation, Fax and telephone numbers, company's name if any, a copy of drivers license or international passport for identification."

I've been born - but it wasn't yesterday...try someone else. The sad part is that somewhere, someone will get this and send their info. And the really sad part is "what if it's all true?"

Wait...where did I put that address?

Okay already

2007-08-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

I was sorely scolded by a certain sprinkly person today because I didn't have links on my blog...so I've posted some.

BTW - is it me or is there something fascinating about watching Christopher Walken?

Power Ballads and Stuff

2007-08-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

Helped give small birthday surprise to a woman in my office today - she seemed pleased which makes me glad. Sprinkles did most of the work as she always does. She's a great person and sometimes highly under appreciated. As evidenced by recent activities in her life. But that is her story to tell not mine.

Listening to power ballads today from the 80's - one of my guilty pleasures. I admit it - I'm a product of my environment and the 80's were definately a good time for me...I graduated high school in 84 - moved away and went to college, and met my future husbnd in 85 - married in 86 and had my children in 86, 88, and 89. I had my 3 kids close together which surprised a lot of people and they always told me I don't know how you do it. But now I am just into my 40's and they are all growing into their own adulthood. They are all wonderful in their own ways...and I am still young enough that I get to travel with my husband and enjoy our time together.

Back into the present - yesterday's drama with work friend was evidently laid to rest and she's a much calmer, happier person today. Which makes me happy - yes I am a closet sap...I hate to see people unhappy and tears will melt me like sugar in the rain. I try to have a hard candy shell to hide it. Sometimes it's not easy.

Continuing Drama

2007-08-01T12:22:00.001-07:00

Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1) - Cite This Source
friend /frɛnd/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[frend] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun
1.
a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard.

Why do people misunderstand what friendship is? Being a friend is not about agreeing with each other on every little thing. Being a friend is listening even when you don't agree. Understanding that your friend needs to be able to talk to you about whatever she needs to - and knowing that you will be there for your friend when she needs you.

On another note....how do you deal with people in your office who are talk-talk-talking....and it's important information but all you're really thinking about is 'when can I go to the bathroom...will they ever leave?....can't you send me an e-mail with this information? That's why we have technology!!!!'

First Annoyance

2007-08-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Why is it that some people can't stand up for themselves or do anything without approval? I have a woman whom I work with who will constantly come to me and ask questions that I then ask of the upper management. Doesn't she have the guts to ask for herself? I know it's my fault for enabling her behavior. But I can't help it - that's the way I'm wired. If someone asks me a question I will get the answer - even if I have to ask the CEO.

Maybe that's the problem...is she afraid of people who's title is higher than hers? Title and rank does not scare me and respect is earned not awarded.

Work in Progress

2007-08-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, today I start blogging...it may interest some and maybe not. But I will try to keep track of what interests or infuriates me at this particular moment...