I went to lunch with my friend, K, yesterday. She works for the same company, but is lucky to have off this entire week, so we planned lunch for yesterday.
Last week, I posted about my co-worker's son who passed away after losing his battle with AML. Calling hours were yesterday and the funeral is today. Our group is carpooling to the funeral this morning.
K knows this co-worker and made a point to say she refuses to go to calling hours or the funeral because attending a funeral for a child is "not her thing." She isn't the first one to make a such a comment. I have heard similar ones.
Well, really, then what is "your thing?" It drives me insane when people make these comments and I don't understand why this is acceptable. Seriously... I can't think of anyone who enjoys going to calling hours/funerals. I get it, it's especially awful when it's for a child. But get over it already. It's a part of life and it's about paying your respect and being supportive to the people you care about who are going through an extremely difficult time. Especially in this case. I cannot possibly imagine what it is like to lose a child... I hope I never find myself in that situation. But the reality is that some people do and it's the support of family and friends that helps get them through it. For just a few minutes think about THAT instead of simply saying it's "not your thing" to attend calling hours/funerals.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Weekend & Thanksgiving
This past weekend was not a good one. Our family is in shock and major disappointment over some news we recently received. So many emotions going on right now and this is not something I feel comfortable blogging about. It seems that we are headed for some twists and turns, but it's nothing I can talk about. At least not right now.
Due to recent events mentioned above, this will be one uncomfortable Thanksgiving, so I'm not really looking forward to that, either.
However, I don't want this to be a pity party, so I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I will be catching up with your blogs, soon. I'm excited that this is only a 3 day work week, and having Monday off as well will be very nice. On a side note, I am totally loving the new gym I just joined last week.
After visiting three different houses for Thanksgiving, (yes three, can you say holy overeating?! I will definitely need that workout on Friday!!) me and my sister in law are going to the Lodi Station Outlets to go shopping at midnight. We've done this the last couple of years and they have had some great deals. After that, I should pretty much be done with my Christmas shopping... hopefully.
What are your plans this Thanksgiving?
Due to recent events mentioned above, this will be one uncomfortable Thanksgiving, so I'm not really looking forward to that, either.
However, I don't want this to be a pity party, so I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I will be catching up with your blogs, soon. I'm excited that this is only a 3 day work week, and having Monday off as well will be very nice. On a side note, I am totally loving the new gym I just joined last week.
After visiting three different houses for Thanksgiving, (yes three, can you say holy overeating?! I will definitely need that workout on Friday!!) me and my sister in law are going to the Lodi Station Outlets to go shopping at midnight. We've done this the last couple of years and they have had some great deals. After that, I should pretty much be done with my Christmas shopping... hopefully.
What are your plans this Thanksgiving?
Friday, November 20, 2009
Cleveland, You Disappoint Me
Yes, I'm a Cleveland sports fan. At times, I really have no idea why... but for some reason, I remain loyal. I get made fun of a lot for this. And sometimes I think the people making fun are a-holes. But I have to admit that sometimes, I'm just jealous of people rooting for other teams. I am so disgusted with the Browns this year, but still, I continue to watch them. At the beginning of the season, I told M I wanted to go to a Browns game this year but he flat out refused, saying we are not spending $90+ on tickets to watch them be pathetic. Now, I can't blame him for that.
The Cleveland Browns Dawg Pound is arguably one of the most recognized groups of fans in the NFL... they're passionate and loyal to a fault. At what point should Cleveland fans stop supporting their teams? I mean, prices for tickets are not cheap. Tailgating is fun and all, but it's not worth the money for the tickets to watch your team constantly lose. Since this is football season, I'm mostly directing this towards the Browns. (The Cavs are our best hope, but I've never really been a basketball fan). Anyway, even during past seasons when the Browns were always losing, I still wanted to go to the games. I think I've really just had it this year. Maybe it's time to start withholding salaries? Maybe that will kick their butts into gear a little bit. Because let's face it... really, I don't think think the players even care at this point. They play terribly and still get paid a ridiculous amount of money for it. If the fans are still spending money on the tickets... the team doesn't care. I think it's about time for Browns fans to stop shelling out the money to go to games only to continually be disappointed.
And don't even get me started on LeBron James. He is so overrated.
But I digress.
Back to the Browns. Randy Lerner and Coach Mangini... awful. Hopefully Mangini will be gone soon. He is no leader. He makes bad decisions and his communication skills pretty much suck. Mangini simply lives off his reputation that he was a coordinator for Bill Belichick.
The Browns are completely mismanaged. Randy Lerner should consider selling the team to someone who cares a little bit more. I mean, if this were a company, you would be looking at the CEO, right? Lerner is a joke.
Well fuckadoodledoo... it's not rocket science.
Come on already, the Browns aren't even competitive anymore, and they are almost impossible to watch. I say the fans need to boycott.
On another note... TGIfreakingF!! M and I are headed to happy hour to meet up with some co-workers after this crazy week.
Have a fabulous weekend.
The Cleveland Browns Dawg Pound is arguably one of the most recognized groups of fans in the NFL... they're passionate and loyal to a fault. At what point should Cleveland fans stop supporting their teams? I mean, prices for tickets are not cheap. Tailgating is fun and all, but it's not worth the money for the tickets to watch your team constantly lose. Since this is football season, I'm mostly directing this towards the Browns. (The Cavs are our best hope, but I've never really been a basketball fan). Anyway, even during past seasons when the Browns were always losing, I still wanted to go to the games. I think I've really just had it this year. Maybe it's time to start withholding salaries? Maybe that will kick their butts into gear a little bit. Because let's face it... really, I don't think think the players even care at this point. They play terribly and still get paid a ridiculous amount of money for it. If the fans are still spending money on the tickets... the team doesn't care. I think it's about time for Browns fans to stop shelling out the money to go to games only to continually be disappointed.
And don't even get me started on LeBron James. He is so overrated.
But I digress.
Back to the Browns. Randy Lerner and Coach Mangini... awful. Hopefully Mangini will be gone soon. He is no leader. He makes bad decisions and his communication skills pretty much suck. Mangini simply lives off his reputation that he was a coordinator for Bill Belichick.
The Browns are completely mismanaged. Randy Lerner should consider selling the team to someone who cares a little bit more. I mean, if this were a company, you would be looking at the CEO, right? Lerner is a joke.
Well fuckadoodledoo... it's not rocket science.
Come on already, the Browns aren't even competitive anymore, and they are almost impossible to watch. I say the fans need to boycott.
On another note... TGIfreakingF!! M and I are headed to happy hour to meet up with some co-workers after this crazy week.
Have a fabulous weekend.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thirty Five And Some Bad News
Christmas is only 35 days away. Crap. I have a lot to do. Not because of Christmas, but because of the moving in situation. Nothing is packed. M and I have already decided we aren't going do much in the decorating department since I will be in the process of moving in with him then.
Also new for this year, we have decided to just buy gifts for the kids. As in, my nieces. This is a big deal and has helped make Christmas much less stressful. As much as I like buying gifts for people, it was just too much... you see, I have a big family. I have 3 brothers and a sister, my parents are also divorced, so I have my stepmom to buy for as well... then add in my nieces and my siblings' significant others. It was just getting out of hand. Not to mention, my wallet can use a break this year. Christmas is all about the kids anyway.
Soo... I have barely started Christmas shopping, but I'm realizing that's ok since I have a lot fewer people to buy gifts for this year.
Other than that, it has been a bad week at work, I can't wait for it to be over. A girl in our department, K, has a son who has been battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia for some time now. He is 4 and it has been heartbreaking. Everyone has been praying for a miracle, but we received news this morning that her son passed away yesterday evening.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/kylestewart
My little cousin was diagnosed with AML a few years ago, he was 3 at the time. I am happy to say that he is currently in remission after a bone marrow transplant. I know first hand how devastating it is for a family to watch such a small child have to suffer in this way. It just doesn't seem fair.
If you are of the praying kind, please keep this sweet boy, Kyle Stewart, and his family in your prayers during this difficult time. It really puts things into perspective and makes you realize everything you have to be thankful for.
God Bless.
Also new for this year, we have decided to just buy gifts for the kids. As in, my nieces. This is a big deal and has helped make Christmas much less stressful. As much as I like buying gifts for people, it was just too much... you see, I have a big family. I have 3 brothers and a sister, my parents are also divorced, so I have my stepmom to buy for as well... then add in my nieces and my siblings' significant others. It was just getting out of hand. Not to mention, my wallet can use a break this year. Christmas is all about the kids anyway.
Soo... I have barely started Christmas shopping, but I'm realizing that's ok since I have a lot fewer people to buy gifts for this year.
Other than that, it has been a bad week at work, I can't wait for it to be over. A girl in our department, K, has a son who has been battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia for some time now. He is 4 and it has been heartbreaking. Everyone has been praying for a miracle, but we received news this morning that her son passed away yesterday evening.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/kylestewart
My little cousin was diagnosed with AML a few years ago, he was 3 at the time. I am happy to say that he is currently in remission after a bone marrow transplant. I know first hand how devastating it is for a family to watch such a small child have to suffer in this way. It just doesn't seem fair.
If you are of the praying kind, please keep this sweet boy, Kyle Stewart, and his family in your prayers during this difficult time. It really puts things into perspective and makes you realize everything you have to be thankful for.
God Bless.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Come ON Already, Friday
Happy Hump Day, everyone.
Friday can't come soon enough... I can't believe it's only Wednesday. I'm definitely paying for the vacation I took last week, as I am crazy busy at work. I am also having a severe case of sarcasm that I'm really trying to keep to myself. I'm just in a bad mood. Mostly, I'm sick of everyone complaining about their jobs (um, hello... be thankful you have one!) and trying to get everyone else to do their jobs for them. Project managers are the worst offenders. They think they are the most important people in the world and THEIR issues should come first. Oh really? Yeah, I have about 6 or 7 other PM's who think the same thing as you do Mr. Iamsoimportant. So kindly, stand in line, shut your mouth and wait your turn. Also, you get paid way more than I do... don't expect me to do your job for you. P.S. I am also not your secretary. K, thanks.
I wanted to send out a memo along these lines today, but figured it wouldn't go over so well and since my perfomance appraisal is next week, I decided against it.
Speaking of work, we have a lot of people taking voluntary early retirement (in order to avoid future layoffs, our company offered incentives for early retirement) and several people within our group are taking advantage of this. This means the holidays are starting early... as in parties. You know what that means, bad food choices. This is not good. While I haven't gained weight (which is a miracle, I assure you), I certainly haven't lost any. This is a problem.
SO... I'm headed after work to join a new gym that is 2 minutes away. My friend and co-worker is doing this with me, so that makes it even better. I hate, hate, hate the gym and exercising (except for maybe kickboxing). Nothing about it is fun and I have a hard time staying motivated. Since this new gym is close to work and I will have a workout buddy, I'm hoping this will help.
Wish me luck.
Friday can't come soon enough... I can't believe it's only Wednesday. I'm definitely paying for the vacation I took last week, as I am crazy busy at work. I am also having a severe case of sarcasm that I'm really trying to keep to myself. I'm just in a bad mood. Mostly, I'm sick of everyone complaining about their jobs (um, hello... be thankful you have one!) and trying to get everyone else to do their jobs for them. Project managers are the worst offenders. They think they are the most important people in the world and THEIR issues should come first. Oh really? Yeah, I have about 6 or 7 other PM's who think the same thing as you do Mr. Iamsoimportant. So kindly, stand in line, shut your mouth and wait your turn. Also, you get paid way more than I do... don't expect me to do your job for you. P.S. I am also not your secretary. K, thanks.
I wanted to send out a memo along these lines today, but figured it wouldn't go over so well and since my perfomance appraisal is next week, I decided against it.
Speaking of work, we have a lot of people taking voluntary early retirement (in order to avoid future layoffs, our company offered incentives for early retirement) and several people within our group are taking advantage of this. This means the holidays are starting early... as in parties. You know what that means, bad food choices. This is not good. While I haven't gained weight (which is a miracle, I assure you), I certainly haven't lost any. This is a problem.
SO... I'm headed after work to join a new gym that is 2 minutes away. My friend and co-worker is doing this with me, so that makes it even better. I hate, hate, hate the gym and exercising (except for maybe kickboxing). Nothing about it is fun and I have a hard time staying motivated. Since this new gym is close to work and I will have a workout buddy, I'm hoping this will help.
Wish me luck.
Monday, November 16, 2009
I'm Back
So I'm still catching up on your blogs, but I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend.
The painting is done... and it looks good. Nothing major to report with Mr. Painter Guy. I'm just glad we are done dealing with him. We spent all weekend put everything back in order and semi redecorating. The house just looks so cozy now.
Moving on...
Let's talk about Taylor Swift for a second. Personally, I'm sick of hearing her songs. They all sound the same to me and are way overplayed. I turn the station as soon as one come on. I think this also may have something to do with the fact that I'm not 12. If you try singing along to the lyrics, any grown up just sounds ridiculous.
BUT, that does not change the fact that I think she is talented and has worked hard to get to where she is at. She recently won the CMA Entertainer of the Year Award. Good for her. Really, I mean it. She's the youngest to ever win this award and should be proud of herself.
But Wynonna Judd didn't think so, apparently. She made the comment that it is "too much too soon." http://www.examiner.com/x-704-Pop-Media-Examiner~y2009m11d12-Wynonna-Judd-on-Taylor-Swifts-Entertainer-of-the-Year-CMA-Its-just-too-much-too-soon
How rude. Seriously. Get over yourself Wynonna, you're obviously jealous of Taylor's success.
That being said, this isn't the first time Taylor has been "dissed" (I'm sure you remember the whole Kanye incident). Girlfriend, stand UP for yourself already. Young girls everywhere look up to you. It's ok, you don't always have to be so nice when people like Kanye and Wynonna Judd try to rain on your parade! Have a little more confidence because it's ok to feel a little entitled to your success and winning these awards... and it's ok for you to let people know this who don't think you are worthy. Because you are.
Have a good week everyone!
The painting is done... and it looks good. Nothing major to report with Mr. Painter Guy. I'm just glad we are done dealing with him. We spent all weekend put everything back in order and semi redecorating. The house just looks so cozy now.
Moving on...
Let's talk about Taylor Swift for a second. Personally, I'm sick of hearing her songs. They all sound the same to me and are way overplayed. I turn the station as soon as one come on. I think this also may have something to do with the fact that I'm not 12. If you try singing along to the lyrics, any grown up just sounds ridiculous.
BUT, that does not change the fact that I think she is talented and has worked hard to get to where she is at. She recently won the CMA Entertainer of the Year Award. Good for her. Really, I mean it. She's the youngest to ever win this award and should be proud of herself.
But Wynonna Judd didn't think so, apparently. She made the comment that it is "too much too soon." http://www.examiner.com/x-704-Pop-Media-Examiner~y2009m11d12-Wynonna-Judd-on-Taylor-Swifts-Entertainer-of-the-Year-CMA-Its-just-too-much-too-soon
How rude. Seriously. Get over yourself Wynonna, you're obviously jealous of Taylor's success.
That being said, this isn't the first time Taylor has been "dissed" (I'm sure you remember the whole Kanye incident). Girlfriend, stand UP for yourself already. Young girls everywhere look up to you. It's ok, you don't always have to be so nice when people like Kanye and Wynonna Judd try to rain on your parade! Have a little more confidence because it's ok to feel a little entitled to your success and winning these awards... and it's ok for you to let people know this who don't think you are worthy. Because you are.
Have a good week everyone!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Frustrating People
I will be taking off the rest of this week (well I already have off this Friday... yay for 9/80 work schedules, but Wednesday and Thursday are vacation days). See, I will be moving in with M next month and there a few things we would like to get done before this happens. One includes painting. The ceilings and some rooms. His idea, not mine... I think everything is fine the way it is. Anyway, since I have more vacation time left than he does, he is taking today off to get things started and I am taking tomorrow and the next day off to finish the deal. Fun, right?
Well, I'm not crazy about this because I have a bad feeling about the painter. While you are reading this, keep in mind that Painter Guy owns the business. That's right, he does not just work there... oh no, he is the owner.
The first time he was supposed to come over to the house to give us and estimate, he was a half hour late. If you read a few posts back, you know how I feel about this. It's rude. Strike one, Mr. Painter Guy.
The second time he came over, he was bringing paint samples for us to choose from. Mr. Painter Guy didn't show. Nope, no phone call, nothing... didn't show up. M called him and left a voicemail. The guy finally called back a little over an hour later to say that he was at a job and "lost track of time." He didn't even apologize. How unprofessional! At this point I told M we should just find someone else to do the work, but being the nice guy that he is, M gave him another chance and rescheduled. As far as I was concerned, strike two, Mr. Painter Guy.
By now, you may be thinking, wow, what a b*tch... but I have very little tolerance for rudeness. If the guy would have just called to say he would be late, or apologized for goodness sake, it would not have been that big of a deal.
M called Painter Guy last week and left a message (because Mr. Painter Guy never answers his phone... ever) telling him our paint choices, but never heard back from him. So M decided to call again yesterday evening to make sure everything was still on to start this morning. (Noticing the pattern that M is initiating most of the communication here)? Painter Guy did not call back until 7:45 this morning (he was scheduled to be at M's house at 8:00) to say that he is on his way... oh, and he sent M a text last week to confirm that everything was good with the paint choices. That's it Mr. Painter Guy, STRIKE THREE.
***On a side note, M does not even have texting. I know, I know, he needs to get with it already.
But really... you are running a business and you are TEXTING people to confirm things?! Really? Are you kidding me? Unlucky for you, Mr. Painter Guy, you will be dealing with me tomorrow and the next day instead of M, who for whatever reason, puts up with your crap. Seriously, you better be worth the hassle because I will be the one responsible for writing your check. Thankyouverymuch.
You may not see a blog from me until Monday morning. We have a lot of work to do with getting the house back in order after all of the painting. Hopefully I won't have any stories to tell about fighting with Mr. Painter Guy.
Well, I'm not crazy about this because I have a bad feeling about the painter. While you are reading this, keep in mind that Painter Guy owns the business. That's right, he does not just work there... oh no, he is the owner.
The first time he was supposed to come over to the house to give us and estimate, he was a half hour late. If you read a few posts back, you know how I feel about this. It's rude. Strike one, Mr. Painter Guy.
The second time he came over, he was bringing paint samples for us to choose from. Mr. Painter Guy didn't show. Nope, no phone call, nothing... didn't show up. M called him and left a voicemail. The guy finally called back a little over an hour later to say that he was at a job and "lost track of time." He didn't even apologize. How unprofessional! At this point I told M we should just find someone else to do the work, but being the nice guy that he is, M gave him another chance and rescheduled. As far as I was concerned, strike two, Mr. Painter Guy.
By now, you may be thinking, wow, what a b*tch... but I have very little tolerance for rudeness. If the guy would have just called to say he would be late, or apologized for goodness sake, it would not have been that big of a deal.
M called Painter Guy last week and left a message (because Mr. Painter Guy never answers his phone... ever) telling him our paint choices, but never heard back from him. So M decided to call again yesterday evening to make sure everything was still on to start this morning. (Noticing the pattern that M is initiating most of the communication here)? Painter Guy did not call back until 7:45 this morning (he was scheduled to be at M's house at 8:00) to say that he is on his way... oh, and he sent M a text last week to confirm that everything was good with the paint choices. That's it Mr. Painter Guy, STRIKE THREE.
***On a side note, M does not even have texting. I know, I know, he needs to get with it already.
But really... you are running a business and you are TEXTING people to confirm things?! Really? Are you kidding me? Unlucky for you, Mr. Painter Guy, you will be dealing with me tomorrow and the next day instead of M, who for whatever reason, puts up with your crap. Seriously, you better be worth the hassle because I will be the one responsible for writing your check. Thankyouverymuch.
You may not see a blog from me until Monday morning. We have a lot of work to do with getting the house back in order after all of the painting. Hopefully I won't have any stories to tell about fighting with Mr. Painter Guy.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Eating Habits
Today is my sister's birthday. She's 20 years old. Since she still lives at home, M and I went to my parents yesterday to celebrate her birthday. I spoke to my stepmom on the phone the day before and asked if we'd just be having cake... oh, no, we'd be eating, too. Munchies. Because that's what J (my sister) wanted. Munchies? What does that involve? Well, pizza rolls, poppers (breaded jalapeno peppers with cheese sauce), mac and cheese, several kinds of chicken wings, buffalo chicken tenders, cheese and crackers, spinach dip, taco dip and chips... and well, you get the point. My stepmom also mentioned that this didn't even cover everything J wanted. J made her a list of everything she wanted, but this only included half of it.
Oh and of course we had cake. I couldn't even finish mine. I ate half... because the pieces were huge and the chocolate fudge frosting, while good, was very, very sweet. But hey, as my stepmom said, that's what J wanted!!
I was disgusted.
Here's where I should mention that my sister has quite a weight problem. It would be rude for me to try to guess her weight, but just to put things into perspective, at my highest weight ever, I was 227, and my sister is much, much bigger than that. I am 5'7'' and she is also a couple of inches taller than me. Did I mention she is only 20 years old?! THIS is why I am disgusted. I still have weight to lose, I know. But a year and half ago when I stepped on the scale and saw 227, that was it for me. I will never see that number again. And I did something about it. J was gaining weight at that time and my sister in law and I joined a boot camp and tried to get J to do it with us. She wouldn't... because she didn't want people yelling at her. Of course, it was not fun at all, but I lost 25 lbs in no time. I have lost more since then, but the initial 25 lbs came off fast. It was hard work though and that's something J wants to avoid. J is also in denial. Recently, she told our sister in law that she has a big butt. Our sister in law is about 5'3'' and weighs about 125 lbs. J also thinks it's funny to make fun of people with weight problems... the pot calling the kettle black. This is coming from a girl who thinks it's fine to eat Chipotle almost every day.
My parents are overweight as well. My stepmom just found out she is boderline diabetic. Growing up, it was not like this. While no one in my family has ever been small, until recently, there haven't been any major weight issues (I gained most of my weight my last year of college). We always ate pretty healthy growing up and it's just shocking to see the eating habits of my sister and my parents whenever I go to their house. In particular, I am completely surprised at my dad's lack of interest in losing weight. He was off work for a period of time a few years ago due to some health issues and that is when he gained all of his weight. Up until then, he was never overweight. I know he cannot possibly be comfortable with his current weight.
Over the past year, my oldest brother, sister in law, and I have tried several different things... talking to my parents and sister... sharing recipes... trying to get my sister to join boot camp with us... I even joined the YMCA with my stepmom. All they leave us with are excuses. And the three of them just enable each other. It's incredibly frustrating. And sad. Has anyone else had similar issues with family members?
Oh and of course we had cake. I couldn't even finish mine. I ate half... because the pieces were huge and the chocolate fudge frosting, while good, was very, very sweet. But hey, as my stepmom said, that's what J wanted!!
I was disgusted.
Here's where I should mention that my sister has quite a weight problem. It would be rude for me to try to guess her weight, but just to put things into perspective, at my highest weight ever, I was 227, and my sister is much, much bigger than that. I am 5'7'' and she is also a couple of inches taller than me. Did I mention she is only 20 years old?! THIS is why I am disgusted. I still have weight to lose, I know. But a year and half ago when I stepped on the scale and saw 227, that was it for me. I will never see that number again. And I did something about it. J was gaining weight at that time and my sister in law and I joined a boot camp and tried to get J to do it with us. She wouldn't... because she didn't want people yelling at her. Of course, it was not fun at all, but I lost 25 lbs in no time. I have lost more since then, but the initial 25 lbs came off fast. It was hard work though and that's something J wants to avoid. J is also in denial. Recently, she told our sister in law that she has a big butt. Our sister in law is about 5'3'' and weighs about 125 lbs. J also thinks it's funny to make fun of people with weight problems... the pot calling the kettle black. This is coming from a girl who thinks it's fine to eat Chipotle almost every day.
My parents are overweight as well. My stepmom just found out she is boderline diabetic. Growing up, it was not like this. While no one in my family has ever been small, until recently, there haven't been any major weight issues (I gained most of my weight my last year of college). We always ate pretty healthy growing up and it's just shocking to see the eating habits of my sister and my parents whenever I go to their house. In particular, I am completely surprised at my dad's lack of interest in losing weight. He was off work for a period of time a few years ago due to some health issues and that is when he gained all of his weight. Up until then, he was never overweight. I know he cannot possibly be comfortable with his current weight.
Over the past year, my oldest brother, sister in law, and I have tried several different things... talking to my parents and sister... sharing recipes... trying to get my sister to join boot camp with us... I even joined the YMCA with my stepmom. All they leave us with are excuses. And the three of them just enable each other. It's incredibly frustrating. And sad. Has anyone else had similar issues with family members?
Thursday, November 5, 2009
TGIF
I saw this on Miss Amber Lane's blog and decided to grab it.
All about M & I...
1. What are your middle names?
Marie & Alan
2. How long have you been together?
Almost a year.
3. How long did you know each other before you started dating?
Couple of months.
4. Who asked who out?
We just kind of started hanging out.
5. How old are each of you?
He is a lot older than me...
6. Did you go to the same school?
No.
7. Are you from the same home town?
No, but not too far away.
8. Who is the smartest?
We both are.
9. Who majored in what?
He majored in Business and I majored in Sociology/Criminal Justice
10. Who is the most sensitive?
Depends. A lot of times, it is him.
11. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Las Vegas.
12. Who has the worst temper?
We both do.
13. How many children do you want?
Not sure. One, if any.
14. Who does the cooking?
I cook, he grills.
15. Who is more social?
Him.
16. Who is the neat freak?
Him.
17. Who is the most stubborn?
Me.
18. Who wakes up earlier?
He does.
19. Where was your first date?
We went to Olive Garden for lunch. Then we went to have a drink. This wasn't a date to begin with, but it kind of turned into that.
20. Who has the bigger family?
Definitely me.
21. Do you get flowers often?
No.
22. How do you spend the holidays?
With both families.
23. Who is more jealous?
Both have our moments, but neither of us are really the jealous types.
24. How long did it take to get serious?
It happened very fast, actually.
25. Who eats more?
Him.
26. What do you do for a living?
We both work for Supply Management for a power generation company... but in different departments within supply management.
27. Who does the laundry?
We both do.
28. Who's better with the computer?
I am.
29. Who drives when you are together?
Most of the time he does.
30. What is your song?
We don't really have one.
So glad it is Friday... enjoy the weekend, everyone!!!
All about M & I...
1. What are your middle names?
Marie & Alan
2. How long have you been together?
Almost a year.
3. How long did you know each other before you started dating?
Couple of months.
4. Who asked who out?
We just kind of started hanging out.
5. How old are each of you?
He is a lot older than me...
6. Did you go to the same school?
No.
7. Are you from the same home town?
No, but not too far away.
8. Who is the smartest?
We both are.
9. Who majored in what?
He majored in Business and I majored in Sociology/Criminal Justice
10. Who is the most sensitive?
Depends. A lot of times, it is him.
11. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Las Vegas.
12. Who has the worst temper?
We both do.
13. How many children do you want?
Not sure. One, if any.
14. Who does the cooking?
I cook, he grills.
15. Who is more social?
Him.
16. Who is the neat freak?
Him.
17. Who is the most stubborn?
Me.
18. Who wakes up earlier?
He does.
19. Where was your first date?
We went to Olive Garden for lunch. Then we went to have a drink. This wasn't a date to begin with, but it kind of turned into that.
20. Who has the bigger family?
Definitely me.
21. Do you get flowers often?
No.
22. How do you spend the holidays?
With both families.
23. Who is more jealous?
Both have our moments, but neither of us are really the jealous types.
24. How long did it take to get serious?
It happened very fast, actually.
25. Who eats more?
Him.
26. What do you do for a living?
We both work for Supply Management for a power generation company... but in different departments within supply management.
27. Who does the laundry?
We both do.
28. Who's better with the computer?
I am.
29. Who drives when you are together?
Most of the time he does.
30. What is your song?
We don't really have one.
So glad it is Friday... enjoy the weekend, everyone!!!
Late For Work... Again
I am one of those people who thinks it is rude to be late. I am always on time, even early for appointments, meeting up with people, anything that involves being somewhere at a certain time. Except for work. I am always walking in the door at 6:35. I am only talking 5, maybe 10 minutes at the most... but keeping in mind the fact that I am punctual when it comes to everything else, this drive me nuts. I was even up 15 minutes earlier than usual this morning. I have no idea why I can't seem make it to work any earlier than 6:35 in the morning.
However, in my defense... this morning, I was using the flashlight trying to see down the bathroom drain hoping I wouldn't see that the necklace I wanted to wear today was knocked down there by my cat. He is a brat... like the bad kid in school, always getting into things he is not supposed to. He especially likes finding my jewelry and somehow it is always ending up in the sink. I didn't find the necklace this morning, so I'm hoping to find it before I have to tell M I lost it.
I digress.
I know, you're probably saying, just change your hours and come in later. Let's see... even if I started coming into work at 7:00 (because we can change them that easily here where I work), you know I would be walking into work at 7:05 everyday. I think maybe it is because in the back of my mind it's because I know it is so laid back here. This is both a good and bad thing. It's nice that the bosses basically let us do as we please as long as our work gets done, but bad because there are, of course, a few people who abuse this. I know a lot of workplaces are not like this.
Heck, I'm willing to bet no one would be concerned at all unless I was more than an hour late. Earlier this week someone was out sick and we didn't even know he called in about it until right before lunch because that's when our boss decided to check his messages.
Now, I certainly don't want you thinking I am a slacker. I like my job (ok, most of the time), and the majority of the time I actually stay late and sometimes even work during lunch... that is, when M doesn't take me out to lunch (AHEM, take NOTE, M). So I definitely make up for the 5 minutes, and then some, but it still makes me crazy that I can't seem to be here by 6:30 am.
*** If you are one of my bosses, please disregard this post, except for the part about staying late and working during lunch, read THAT part!! (Hi Mr. W & Mrs. Y) (They love me)
However, in my defense... this morning, I was using the flashlight trying to see down the bathroom drain hoping I wouldn't see that the necklace I wanted to wear today was knocked down there by my cat. He is a brat... like the bad kid in school, always getting into things he is not supposed to. He especially likes finding my jewelry and somehow it is always ending up in the sink. I didn't find the necklace this morning, so I'm hoping to find it before I have to tell M I lost it.
I digress.
I know, you're probably saying, just change your hours and come in later. Let's see... even if I started coming into work at 7:00 (because we can change them that easily here where I work), you know I would be walking into work at 7:05 everyday. I think maybe it is because in the back of my mind it's because I know it is so laid back here. This is both a good and bad thing. It's nice that the bosses basically let us do as we please as long as our work gets done, but bad because there are, of course, a few people who abuse this. I know a lot of workplaces are not like this.
Heck, I'm willing to bet no one would be concerned at all unless I was more than an hour late. Earlier this week someone was out sick and we didn't even know he called in about it until right before lunch because that's when our boss decided to check his messages.
Now, I certainly don't want you thinking I am a slacker. I like my job (ok, most of the time), and the majority of the time I actually stay late and sometimes even work during lunch... that is, when M doesn't take me out to lunch (AHEM, take NOTE, M). So I definitely make up for the 5 minutes, and then some, but it still makes me crazy that I can't seem to be here by 6:30 am.
*** If you are one of my bosses, please disregard this post, except for the part about staying late and working during lunch, read THAT part!! (Hi Mr. W & Mrs. Y) (They love me)
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Girlfriends
Friendships can be hard... for me, specifically, it's friendships with girls that are the hardest for some reason.
When I was younger, I was pretty shy (you would never guess that now!). I grew out of that in high school, but still kind of kept to myself and didn't make a whole lot of friends. And after high school, didn't keep in touch with many of the people I was friends with. In college, I had no problem making friends of the male kind (go figure), but I found with the girls always came the drama and I've never really been able to tolerate the drama. My little sister is my complete opposite in this sense - she is a drama queen and we get on each others nerves often. On the other hand, I'm very close with my sister in law (who is a lot like me) and my three brothers as well.
Now that I'm all grown up (most of the time) I really wish I had a few more cool girlfriends to hang out with at happy hour... or go out to dinner with on the weekends... or sip coffee with at starbucks before going shopping. Did I miss the memo? Is there somewhere I can sign up?
I like watching football and drinking a few beers with M and my guy friends, but sometimes it's nice to hang with the girls, too.
Good girlfriends are hard to find. Is it just me, or does anyone else feel the same way?
*** MOM - No need to email me and tell me you will be my friend. I already know that.
When I was younger, I was pretty shy (you would never guess that now!). I grew out of that in high school, but still kind of kept to myself and didn't make a whole lot of friends. And after high school, didn't keep in touch with many of the people I was friends with. In college, I had no problem making friends of the male kind (go figure), but I found with the girls always came the drama and I've never really been able to tolerate the drama. My little sister is my complete opposite in this sense - she is a drama queen and we get on each others nerves often. On the other hand, I'm very close with my sister in law (who is a lot like me) and my three brothers as well.
Now that I'm all grown up (most of the time) I really wish I had a few more cool girlfriends to hang out with at happy hour... or go out to dinner with on the weekends... or sip coffee with at starbucks before going shopping. Did I miss the memo? Is there somewhere I can sign up?
I like watching football and drinking a few beers with M and my guy friends, but sometimes it's nice to hang with the girls, too.
Good girlfriends are hard to find. Is it just me, or does anyone else feel the same way?
*** MOM - No need to email me and tell me you will be my friend. I already know that.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Standing Up For Yourself
I ran into a girl I had a class with several years ago... this brought back thoughts that made my skin crawl. No, not because of the girl. Because of the professor. She was the professor for my Women's Studies class that I took my last semester of college.
I started my college degree at Baldwin-Wallace, a respected liberal arts college (also a private, very expensive college), but then transferred to the University of Akron to finish my degree. This was a lot closer to work (10 minutes as opposed to 50 and much more affordable), as I was also working full time. The core classes which are normal for most bachelors degrees included required cultural diversity classes, which I put off until the end of my college career. I decided on taking American Diversity and Women's Studies.
The American Diversity class was a joke. We learned things like the definition of the word prejudice. I'm all for a good American Diversity class... but seriously, the definition of words like prejudice? Do you get my point? The class was a complete waste of time.
I was not very excited about the Women's Studies class, either, but decided I was going to have a positive attitude. I won't give you her full name, I will just refer to my professor as Miss H. She was a nightmare. She was also African American and this class quickly became not only all about how oppressed women are, but how African Americans are still victims. The woman was so stubborn and if you dared to disagree with her, it definitely resulted in a poor grade. But being as opinionated as I am, Miss H and I never saw eye to eye and I'm pretty sure she hated me. A lot of people in the class just told her what she wanted to hear to get through the class with a good grade, but I've never been good at things like that.
What really irritated me was when she would tell me I didn't understand because I had "white privilege." What?? Honestly, I really believe that racism exists in many cases because of things such as affirmative action. We are trying to make up for past mistakes, but at this point are overcompensating and it is only helping racism to continue. That's not white privilege. That's common sense.
You should just quit reading now if you are already mad at me, but I'm not going to apologize.
Really though... Miss Black America... NAACP... BET... etc., etc., - how is any of this helping with the racism issue? Isn't that dividing us even more?
Miss H used to come to class every day with a new set of statistics to throw at us (which by the way, were completely skewed) but why don't we just try talking to real people with real experiences. For every minority who has had a bad experience, there is a white person who has had one, too. One time we talked minorities and jobs and I took the opportunity to mention how white (men, in particular) have a harder time getting jobs out of the police academy than do minorities, who a lot of times are hired first. Miss H asked me where my statistics were. Of course, I didn't have any right then and there, but I asked her if she wanted me to bring in the city police chief, because I knew he'd back my story.
Running into the former classmate just kind of got me thinking because there is a co-worker who is a little like Miss H. Point is, I don't understand why some people are so adamant about the race issue. Can't we all just get a long?
P.S. Miss H. actually gave me an F in that class (which would have prevented me from graduating... all because she didn't agree with me). I've never had an F in my life! As it turned out she failed a lot of people and gave others grades they didn't deserve. The director of Women's Studies had to go through everyone's papers and exams again and regrade them. I ended up with an A- in the course. Moral of the story - always stand up for yourself.
I started my college degree at Baldwin-Wallace, a respected liberal arts college (also a private, very expensive college), but then transferred to the University of Akron to finish my degree. This was a lot closer to work (10 minutes as opposed to 50 and much more affordable), as I was also working full time. The core classes which are normal for most bachelors degrees included required cultural diversity classes, which I put off until the end of my college career. I decided on taking American Diversity and Women's Studies.
The American Diversity class was a joke. We learned things like the definition of the word prejudice. I'm all for a good American Diversity class... but seriously, the definition of words like prejudice? Do you get my point? The class was a complete waste of time.
I was not very excited about the Women's Studies class, either, but decided I was going to have a positive attitude. I won't give you her full name, I will just refer to my professor as Miss H. She was a nightmare. She was also African American and this class quickly became not only all about how oppressed women are, but how African Americans are still victims. The woman was so stubborn and if you dared to disagree with her, it definitely resulted in a poor grade. But being as opinionated as I am, Miss H and I never saw eye to eye and I'm pretty sure she hated me. A lot of people in the class just told her what she wanted to hear to get through the class with a good grade, but I've never been good at things like that.
What really irritated me was when she would tell me I didn't understand because I had "white privilege." What?? Honestly, I really believe that racism exists in many cases because of things such as affirmative action. We are trying to make up for past mistakes, but at this point are overcompensating and it is only helping racism to continue. That's not white privilege. That's common sense.
You should just quit reading now if you are already mad at me, but I'm not going to apologize.
Really though... Miss Black America... NAACP... BET... etc., etc., - how is any of this helping with the racism issue? Isn't that dividing us even more?
Miss H used to come to class every day with a new set of statistics to throw at us (which by the way, were completely skewed) but why don't we just try talking to real people with real experiences. For every minority who has had a bad experience, there is a white person who has had one, too. One time we talked minorities and jobs and I took the opportunity to mention how white (men, in particular) have a harder time getting jobs out of the police academy than do minorities, who a lot of times are hired first. Miss H asked me where my statistics were. Of course, I didn't have any right then and there, but I asked her if she wanted me to bring in the city police chief, because I knew he'd back my story.
Running into the former classmate just kind of got me thinking because there is a co-worker who is a little like Miss H. Point is, I don't understand why some people are so adamant about the race issue. Can't we all just get a long?
P.S. Miss H. actually gave me an F in that class (which would have prevented me from graduating... all because she didn't agree with me). I've never had an F in my life! As it turned out she failed a lot of people and gave others grades they didn't deserve. The director of Women's Studies had to go through everyone's papers and exams again and regrade them. I ended up with an A- in the course. Moral of the story - always stand up for yourself.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Over The Top
I got an award. Yay, my first one. It's from Rachel over at I want to LOSE IT (for real)Check out her blog!
This beautiful girl is on her way to getting fit and healthy. I love watching her progress. Thanks, girl!
Along with this award comes a survey with one word answers...
1. Where is your cell phone? Close.
2. Your hair? Straight.
3. Your mother? Silly.
4. Your father? Strong.
5. Your favorite food? Mexican.
6. Your dream last night? None.
7. Your favorite drink? Coffee.
8. Your goal? Happiness.
9. What room are you in? Work.
10. Your hobby? Football.
11. Your fear? Failure.
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Successful.
13. Where were you last night? Home.
14. Something you aren’t? Selfish.
15. Muffins? Pumpkin.
16. Wish list item? Jewelry.
17. Where did you grow up? Ohio.
18. Last thing you did? Work.
19. What are you wearing? Clothes...
20. Your TV? Home.
21. Your pets? Kittibabies.
22. Your friends? Awesome.
23. Your life? Wonderful.
24. Your mood? Good.
25. Missing someone? Always.
26. Vehicle? New.
27. Something you’re not wearing? Socks.
28. Your favorite store? Macy's.
29. Your favorite color? Red.
30. When was the last time you laughed? Morning.
31. Last time you cried? Awhile...
32. Your best friend? M.
33. One place that I go over and over? Home.
34. One person who emails me regularly? Mom.
35. Favorite place to eat? Home.
I'm passing this on to
Kace at Calling Him Krew
Monica at Confessions of a + Sized Girl
Jennifer Q at Finding My Stability
Have a wonderful week everyone!
Slacker
I know, I'm a slacker. Here are some pumpkin patch pictures from the 24th when we went to pick out pumpkins with E.
E was all about the biggest pumpkins she could find.
E was all about the biggest pumpkins she could find.
But then settled on a smaller one.
Nice face, E.
In other news, M and I went to Halloweekends at Cedar Point on Friday and had so much fun! We passed out candy to the little kids Saturday night. It was a pretty low key Halloween which was nice. Hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween!!
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