Wow! I've been such crap at this. No posts in ages. So very sorry. Things have been truly INSANE around here! Work is busy, busy, busy. And I'm loving it for sure! I've been lucky enough to be able to stay on days for the moment. My boss decided that I would work with the new training class. There are 15 of them, and of those, 12 will be going to nights. So, my boss wanted them to know a third shift supervisor, and know who they should be asking questions to. The new group seems to be pretty good. There are a few who are having problems, but otherwise I think they'll get it. Our trainer is one of the best, so I have no doubt. I will say that some of them are a little stressed right now about they are going to "get it". I promised them that it would come and reminded them that I was in the same place 4 1/2 years ago.
Classes are going great. It is so much more work than I ever expected it to be. In fact, tomorrow my plan is to head to Starbuck's to do some reading. I'm finding that it's way too easy to find other things to do around here. Like re-arranging my shoes. And cleaning the bathroom. And re-arranging the pantry. So, I think it'll be good to get out and not have anything else to focus on. And I'm rather glad I don't have a laptop yet, because the Internet is such a total time-suck.
It's amazing how fall has come upon us. The trees are changing colors already. And they are simply beautiful! This is truly my favorite time of year. I love the crisp mornings and the beautiful sunny afternoons. I love wearing jeans and t-shirts. And as the weather gets cooler, I love sweaters and fleece. I love the colors and the smell...I love fall!
21 September 2007
11 September 2007
9/11
It's 9/11. 6 years. And are we safer? Is the US more secure? Nobody is saying. It's not a debate I choose to have here on my blog.
I do remember that day, clearly. Like it was yesterday. It's one of those incredibly traumatic events that is scorched on every one's brain. Like for everyone who was alive, they remember exactly where they were when Kennedy was shot. Or when the Challenger exploded. 9/11 is the same thing. And so here is my story.
At the time, I was teaching in North Carolina. I taught in a trailer in the playground along with 6 other teachers. I took my kids into the building for a bathroom break and one of the 4th grade teachers walked by me and whispered into my ear. I was only half paying attention to him, there were so many things I was paying attention to. He said "A plane flew into the WTC." I barely even heard what he said, and I certainly didn't understand what he meant. I assumed that it was a tiny plane and an accident. I didn't even pause as I rounded out my kids and continued teaching. About an hour later, my kids were in a special, and I walked into the classroom next to mine, hearing her television on (her kids were in a special as well). I saw scenes of the plane that crashed into the Pentagon. That's when I got very confused. I couldn't understand how someone could confuse the WTC in NYC and the Pentagon in DC. (At this point I still hadn't realized that they both had been attacked.)
The main office then cancelled all afterschool activities for the day. We sent all of the kids home at the end of the regular school day. I guess the administration felt that it was a time to be with their families (and I was 1000 miles from my closest relative). This was the first time I had a chance to learn what was going on. I sat in another teacher's classroom and watched the now famous TV footage of the towers being hit by those two planes. Tears streamed down my face. I realized then that this was no accident. And as I watched, I started putting the pieces together. I drove home in a fog. All of the local radio stations had suspended regular broadcasts and were doing news and call-in shows. My favorite radio personalities were still on air at 4 in the afternoon (their show, was on from 6-10 in the morning). They were serious and you could hear the emotion in their voices.
I got home and turned on the news and watched and cried. I called my family, and told them I loved them. I honestly don't think I have ever felt so alone. I just sat in front of the TV watching footage of the buildings burning, desperate people jumping, and the buildings finally collapsing. I was numb and I ached. The country that I love had been attacked.
I cried like I lost a loved one that day. (I didn't. In fact, I didn't even know anyone who died that day...) That doesn't matter. Even still, 9/11 makes me cry. I haven't been able to watch any footage of it since that week. Alan Jackson's song, "Where were you (when the world stopped turning)" speaks to me. I think whether you like country music or not, it's words touch your heart. I remember his first performance of the song, shortly after the attacks. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house that night. I know mine weren't.
And that day changed me. In profound ways. I felt that I had to do something. I had to find a way to help, to make the US safer. To protect my friends and family. And so, I left teaching, I found the job that I have now.
That's my 9/11 story, what's yours?
I do remember that day, clearly. Like it was yesterday. It's one of those incredibly traumatic events that is scorched on every one's brain. Like for everyone who was alive, they remember exactly where they were when Kennedy was shot. Or when the Challenger exploded. 9/11 is the same thing. And so here is my story.
At the time, I was teaching in North Carolina. I taught in a trailer in the playground along with 6 other teachers. I took my kids into the building for a bathroom break and one of the 4th grade teachers walked by me and whispered into my ear. I was only half paying attention to him, there were so many things I was paying attention to. He said "A plane flew into the WTC." I barely even heard what he said, and I certainly didn't understand what he meant. I assumed that it was a tiny plane and an accident. I didn't even pause as I rounded out my kids and continued teaching. About an hour later, my kids were in a special, and I walked into the classroom next to mine, hearing her television on (her kids were in a special as well). I saw scenes of the plane that crashed into the Pentagon. That's when I got very confused. I couldn't understand how someone could confuse the WTC in NYC and the Pentagon in DC. (At this point I still hadn't realized that they both had been attacked.)
The main office then cancelled all afterschool activities for the day. We sent all of the kids home at the end of the regular school day. I guess the administration felt that it was a time to be with their families (and I was 1000 miles from my closest relative). This was the first time I had a chance to learn what was going on. I sat in another teacher's classroom and watched the now famous TV footage of the towers being hit by those two planes. Tears streamed down my face. I realized then that this was no accident. And as I watched, I started putting the pieces together. I drove home in a fog. All of the local radio stations had suspended regular broadcasts and were doing news and call-in shows. My favorite radio personalities were still on air at 4 in the afternoon (their show, was on from 6-10 in the morning). They were serious and you could hear the emotion in their voices.
I got home and turned on the news and watched and cried. I called my family, and told them I loved them. I honestly don't think I have ever felt so alone. I just sat in front of the TV watching footage of the buildings burning, desperate people jumping, and the buildings finally collapsing. I was numb and I ached. The country that I love had been attacked.
I cried like I lost a loved one that day. (I didn't. In fact, I didn't even know anyone who died that day...) That doesn't matter. Even still, 9/11 makes me cry. I haven't been able to watch any footage of it since that week. Alan Jackson's song, "Where were you (when the world stopped turning)" speaks to me. I think whether you like country music or not, it's words touch your heart. I remember his first performance of the song, shortly after the attacks. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house that night. I know mine weren't.
And that day changed me. In profound ways. I felt that I had to do something. I had to find a way to help, to make the US safer. To protect my friends and family. And so, I left teaching, I found the job that I have now.
That's my 9/11 story, what's yours?
20 August 2007
Exciting Things Happening
So, I've just spend a fantastic morning shopping for Lead Momma's birthday present. And I have to say, if I have to mail a birthday present, it's always late. This time, I'm happy to say that her birthday isn't until the end of the week, and her gift has been wrapped, boxed and dropped at the post office just about an hour ago! I think someone needs to make a note of this. It may never happen again!
I also got my textbooks for my first class today. I have to say, I'm very excited about this. Although I was a little scared when I picked up the box. It was HEAVY. I wanted to take a photo of the stack of books to post, but my darn batteries in the camera have died, and I can't seem to find any new ones around here. I promise at some point this week, there will be a pic. There are four books for this class, two of which are longer than 800 pages. The other two are around 300 pages each. I was talking to a man I work with about grad school and he said that from his experience, graduate level classes are about 3 times the amount of work of an undergrad class. I think he may be right. I think I'll start reading now!
I don't know if I've mentioned it yet, but I decided to adopt a soldier. This is a charity organization that matches up soldiers who don't get mail/packages with someone in the States who commits to sending at least 1 letter a week and one package a month for the duration of the soldier's deployment. It breaks my heart that there are men and women out there who never get any mail. Anyway, I decided that this was the least I could do. All of this is to say that I got an email today from my soldier. I was totally surprised for a few reasons. We're warned not to expect to hear from them, and my first letter was mailed just last week. I can't believe how efficiently the mail was able to get to him. And what I've realized about this, the statement 'it feels better to give than receive' is 100% true. I feel absolutely great about being able do this! It's just my small part.
I also got my textbooks for my first class today. I have to say, I'm very excited about this. Although I was a little scared when I picked up the box. It was HEAVY. I wanted to take a photo of the stack of books to post, but my darn batteries in the camera have died, and I can't seem to find any new ones around here. I promise at some point this week, there will be a pic. There are four books for this class, two of which are longer than 800 pages. The other two are around 300 pages each. I was talking to a man I work with about grad school and he said that from his experience, graduate level classes are about 3 times the amount of work of an undergrad class. I think he may be right. I think I'll start reading now!
I don't know if I've mentioned it yet, but I decided to adopt a soldier. This is a charity organization that matches up soldiers who don't get mail/packages with someone in the States who commits to sending at least 1 letter a week and one package a month for the duration of the soldier's deployment. It breaks my heart that there are men and women out there who never get any mail. Anyway, I decided that this was the least I could do. All of this is to say that I got an email today from my soldier. I was totally surprised for a few reasons. We're warned not to expect to hear from them, and my first letter was mailed just last week. I can't believe how efficiently the mail was able to get to him. And what I've realized about this, the statement 'it feels better to give than receive' is 100% true. I feel absolutely great about being able do this! It's just my small part.
17 August 2007
An Amazing Book...A Must Read
I've just read the most amazing book. A Thousand Splendid Suns was written by Khaled Hosseini. He also wrote The Kite Runner, which was good, but this is superb. One thing that absolutely shocked me was how accurately he captured a woman's thoughts. How believable it was that the main character was female. Had I not known that the author was male, I would have believed the author to be female. But beyond the gender of the author and the main characters, the story was captivating. I could picture the settings in my mind clearly, and the story lived on even though I closed the book. It's a story that will stay with me, and one I'm sure I'll re-read.
These characters moved me. The love between Laila and Tariq was achingly beautiful. I don't usually believe in two people being "meant" for each other. These two were. Now, if I had been at home reading this, instead of at work, I would have been sobbing when she was told of his death. I felt it wasn't fair. They belonged together. They deserved happiness in the chaos that was Kabul. My heart ached, no other words for it, my heart ached.
And I was fascinated by the backdrop of the book, the last 30 years in Afghanistan. From before the Soviet invasion, to the rise (and ultimately the fall) of the Taliban. I felt it was honestly portrayed, neither glorified nor apologized for, through the lives of these characters.
There are so many more things that I'd like to say about the book, but it would ruin the story for anyone else. I think I'd have to say it's a must read. The strength of the two main characters, Laila and Mariam, is inspiring. So, go out, get the book and start reading. And hopefully, you'll love it as much as I did.
These characters moved me. The love between Laila and Tariq was achingly beautiful. I don't usually believe in two people being "meant" for each other. These two were. Now, if I had been at home reading this, instead of at work, I would have been sobbing when she was told of his death. I felt it wasn't fair. They belonged together. They deserved happiness in the chaos that was Kabul. My heart ached, no other words for it, my heart ached.
And I was fascinated by the backdrop of the book, the last 30 years in Afghanistan. From before the Soviet invasion, to the rise (and ultimately the fall) of the Taliban. I felt it was honestly portrayed, neither glorified nor apologized for, through the lives of these characters.
There are so many more things that I'd like to say about the book, but it would ruin the story for anyone else. I think I'd have to say it's a must read. The strength of the two main characters, Laila and Mariam, is inspiring. So, go out, get the book and start reading. And hopefully, you'll love it as much as I did.
13 August 2007
Work Woes
Okay, so forgive me, but this post is predominantly going to be me complaining. I'm really frustrated and need to get it all out and I can't vent at the people who are causing my frustrations. So here goes.
I work in a facility that is considered mission critical. That means that we have to be there 24/7. This is something that is abundantly clear at the outset of hiring. It is mentioned multiple times in the interview and is clear throughout the process. So, it's nothing unknown to any of us working in the building. AND. Our schedule is set for between 6 months and a year, however, there is a disclaimer on it which states, "schedule based on the needs of the service". Translation: if things need to be changed, then they are going to be changed. We are a mission critical 24/7 facility and there needs to be someone here to do the job.
As I've mentioned recently, I've been reassigned to the communications center to answer phones because of staffing issues. Since that has happened, it was announced that I had been hired as a supervisor. While waiting for that to become official, they have had to find my replacement and train him. The decision has also been made that the staffing in the unit is insufficient in comparison to the work load. Too many people have been given the weekend off. (the previous supervisor in the unit wanted to make his friends happy, so he gave them all the weekends off, even though the unit is busiest on the weekends.) So, the new supervisor has to change the schedule and that has pissed off everyone in the unit but me.
The one individual who caused the issues in the first place (convinced the old supervisor to give him the days off he wanted) is acting like a 5 year old at this point. I can't comment on what precisely is happening, but to be honest, the entire building would be better without him and the old supervisor. Of course, we can't seem to do that. How frustrating.
And here are a few other things that are driving me nuts:
I work in a facility that is considered mission critical. That means that we have to be there 24/7. This is something that is abundantly clear at the outset of hiring. It is mentioned multiple times in the interview and is clear throughout the process. So, it's nothing unknown to any of us working in the building. AND. Our schedule is set for between 6 months and a year, however, there is a disclaimer on it which states, "schedule based on the needs of the service". Translation: if things need to be changed, then they are going to be changed. We are a mission critical 24/7 facility and there needs to be someone here to do the job.
As I've mentioned recently, I've been reassigned to the communications center to answer phones because of staffing issues. Since that has happened, it was announced that I had been hired as a supervisor. While waiting for that to become official, they have had to find my replacement and train him. The decision has also been made that the staffing in the unit is insufficient in comparison to the work load. Too many people have been given the weekend off. (the previous supervisor in the unit wanted to make his friends happy, so he gave them all the weekends off, even though the unit is busiest on the weekends.) So, the new supervisor has to change the schedule and that has pissed off everyone in the unit but me.
The one individual who caused the issues in the first place (convinced the old supervisor to give him the days off he wanted) is acting like a 5 year old at this point. I can't comment on what precisely is happening, but to be honest, the entire building would be better without him and the old supervisor. Of course, we can't seem to do that. How frustrating.
And here are a few other things that are driving me nuts:
- I will not apologize for being hired as a supervisor
- If you didn't apply, don't complain
- If you did apply, it's not my fault you didn't get it
Okay, I think I'm done complaining. I'm sure after tonight I may have some other things to say, who knows!
09 August 2007
Loss
So, I posted the photos last night, but haven't written much recently. So, here goes. This past week has been a whirlwind. When we got back from CT, I found out that the ex's grandmother had died. I knew that she had been sick, I wrote about visiting her, didn't I? But loss is still hard. The funeral was on Friday and I really felt like I had to go. After all, he and I were together for 6 years. They were my family. It seemed to really mean a lot to his mother that I was there. And, really, that's all that mattered to me. She was such a dear lady. She used to crack me up. She was spunky and funny and always told it like it was.
I've realized that when you experience a new loss like this, it reminds you of all the other people you've lost. Grief is a really funny thing like that. So, I've been thinking a lot about the people in my life who have died. Cheery, no? And I've been trying to have patience with myself as I go through this, but as usual, I tend to get frustrated. Oh well, I try.
Other than that, Captain Contrary and I hung out last Thursday all day. Preschool Queen had some things to do, so we chilled. It was a ton of fun. When it was time to bring him home, he looked at me and said, "why do we have to go?" I told him that the parental units would like him to come home. He still didn't want to leave. It cracked me up.
And of course, his party was Saturday. Like I said, decorating the cake wasn't finished until 2 AM on Saturday morning, but his reaction was totally worth it. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I actually had a lot more fun than I thought I would. I popped in a few Harry Potter audio Cd's and listened as I decorated. I've certainly learned a few lessons, and I think the more I do these things, the better I'll get. I know that this one was far from perfect, but hey, the kids just loved it and that's what is important to me.
Sunday I had drinks and dinner with a very good friend of mine at work who is leaving. I think I'll call her Arizona Chica. She's moving this weekend, and as may now be obvious, she's going to AZ. I'm really proud of her for doing this. It's a huge move! But it's going to be great for her! So we ended up being out until about midnight. We had a great time.
And this week at work I was able to be a part of some training on Human Trafficking. I really feel like I learned a ton about it. One thing that I learned was that the phrases human smuggling and human trafficking cannot be used interchangeably, although they often are.
And this brings us back up to today. Last night I was chatting with my supervisor, and first, we've found a replacement for me (who was replacing Arizona Chica) in the comm center. Thank goodness! So, anyway, he and I were chatting and he told me that although he'd like me in the unit until October, it wouldn't be a good idea since there wouldn't usually be 6 people down there. Of course I jumped on this opportunity to ask to be removed from the unit once the new guy is trained. Totally awesome, he agreed, so after next week, I don't have to be around the crazily ringing phones! Yeah!!!!
I've realized that when you experience a new loss like this, it reminds you of all the other people you've lost. Grief is a really funny thing like that. So, I've been thinking a lot about the people in my life who have died. Cheery, no? And I've been trying to have patience with myself as I go through this, but as usual, I tend to get frustrated. Oh well, I try.
Other than that, Captain Contrary and I hung out last Thursday all day. Preschool Queen had some things to do, so we chilled. It was a ton of fun. When it was time to bring him home, he looked at me and said, "why do we have to go?" I told him that the parental units would like him to come home. He still didn't want to leave. It cracked me up.
And of course, his party was Saturday. Like I said, decorating the cake wasn't finished until 2 AM on Saturday morning, but his reaction was totally worth it. I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I actually had a lot more fun than I thought I would. I popped in a few Harry Potter audio Cd's and listened as I decorated. I've certainly learned a few lessons, and I think the more I do these things, the better I'll get. I know that this one was far from perfect, but hey, the kids just loved it and that's what is important to me.
Sunday I had drinks and dinner with a very good friend of mine at work who is leaving. I think I'll call her Arizona Chica. She's moving this weekend, and as may now be obvious, she's going to AZ. I'm really proud of her for doing this. It's a huge move! But it's going to be great for her! So we ended up being out until about midnight. We had a great time.
And this week at work I was able to be a part of some training on Human Trafficking. I really feel like I learned a ton about it. One thing that I learned was that the phrases human smuggling and human trafficking cannot be used interchangeably, although they often are.
And this brings us back up to today. Last night I was chatting with my supervisor, and first, we've found a replacement for me (who was replacing Arizona Chica) in the comm center. Thank goodness! So, anyway, he and I were chatting and he told me that although he'd like me in the unit until October, it wouldn't be a good idea since there wouldn't usually be 6 people down there. Of course I jumped on this opportunity to ask to be removed from the unit once the new guy is trained. Totally awesome, he agreed, so after next week, I don't have to be around the crazily ringing phones! Yeah!!!!
08 August 2007
Captain Contrary's Birthday Party
The brave knights and fair maidens at the party successfully slayed the dragons and captured the treasure!
And here's his knight's pavillion...
This is the cake I made. Not Perfect, but the kids just loved it for sure...only took 6.5 hours to decorate!
Okay, so no time for a indepth post, but these are some of the photos from Captain Contrary's birthday party last weekend. Fun was had by all! More details later.
02 August 2007
The Police Concert
So, Tuesday night was the Police concert at Rentschler Field at UConn in Hartford, CT. Preschool Queen and I and 30,000 of our closest friends were there. We drove down on Tuesday afternoon, getting into her sister-in-law's house around 3pm. She and a friend of hers were going to tailgate with us in the evening and then see if they could pick up tickets anywhere. (they hadn't purchased them yet) So we ate and had a good time just watching the crazy people around us. There were certainly very unique outfits on some of the women at the show. We had a pretty good laugh on more than one occasion that's for sure!
As everyone was walking to the gate with us, a man was selling two tickets to the show. The ladies offered him $150 for the pair of tickets and he took it! (now the tickets were $250 each) We were totally psyched. Turns out they were tickets on the floor...20th row. We went our separate ways when we got into the stadium since we were in an upper section. The opening band was pretty darn good. Turns out it was Sting's son's band. I'll have to find more things by them, but I enjoyed it.
Before the Police took the stage, Preschool Queen and I went and we got t-shirts...(yes I was there and have the t-shirt to prove it!) They took the stage at just about 9pm and immediately started playing the hits that everyone loves. The whole crowd was singing and screaming and dancing. It was just wild. After about 5 songs, the other two women came up to our seats and switched with us. They said since PQ and I were the really big Police fans, we should be down on the floor. So, we made our way down there, and WERE IN THE 20th ROW!!! It was just about the coolest thing in the world!!!
I have no words for how amazing the music was. They were so dang good. There were big screens around so that you could see the band close up and other things during the songs. When they played Invisible Sun there were pictures of refugee children being flashed up. And I stood there listening to the words and singing along, watching these pictures. The thought that flashed through my mind was, "I'm not sending UNICEF nearly enough money." But I suppose that was their point. If you can spare enough money to spend anywhere from $100-$300 on a concert ticket, then you can certainly help those who need it.
So, now that I've established that this was the coolest concert in the Universe, there are two complaints that I have. First. While there were many people in the neon yellow shirts who worked security in the venue, there was no security clearing. No one checking bags, no pat down, no wanding. People could have brought in anything that they wanted. And that really bothered me. If someone had wanted to cause damage or loss of life, this would have been a perfect opportunity. Second. The traffic fiasco which was 30,000 people all trying to leave at the same time. Now I know that this is not the first time this location has had a large crowd. It's where the UConn football team plays. They know about crowds. But although there were many police officers around, they weren't directing traffic in any way. It was really frustrating to leave.
But like I said, it was a blast! Something I'll never forget.
As everyone was walking to the gate with us, a man was selling two tickets to the show. The ladies offered him $150 for the pair of tickets and he took it! (now the tickets were $250 each) We were totally psyched. Turns out they were tickets on the floor...20th row. We went our separate ways when we got into the stadium since we were in an upper section. The opening band was pretty darn good. Turns out it was Sting's son's band. I'll have to find more things by them, but I enjoyed it.
Before the Police took the stage, Preschool Queen and I went and we got t-shirts...(yes I was there and have the t-shirt to prove it!) They took the stage at just about 9pm and immediately started playing the hits that everyone loves. The whole crowd was singing and screaming and dancing. It was just wild. After about 5 songs, the other two women came up to our seats and switched with us. They said since PQ and I were the really big Police fans, we should be down on the floor. So, we made our way down there, and WERE IN THE 20th ROW!!! It was just about the coolest thing in the world!!!
I have no words for how amazing the music was. They were so dang good. There were big screens around so that you could see the band close up and other things during the songs. When they played Invisible Sun there were pictures of refugee children being flashed up. And I stood there listening to the words and singing along, watching these pictures. The thought that flashed through my mind was, "I'm not sending UNICEF nearly enough money." But I suppose that was their point. If you can spare enough money to spend anywhere from $100-$300 on a concert ticket, then you can certainly help those who need it.
So, now that I've established that this was the coolest concert in the Universe, there are two complaints that I have. First. While there were many people in the neon yellow shirts who worked security in the venue, there was no security clearing. No one checking bags, no pat down, no wanding. People could have brought in anything that they wanted. And that really bothered me. If someone had wanted to cause damage or loss of life, this would have been a perfect opportunity. Second. The traffic fiasco which was 30,000 people all trying to leave at the same time. Now I know that this is not the first time this location has had a large crowd. It's where the UConn football team plays. They know about crowds. But although there were many police officers around, they weren't directing traffic in any way. It was really frustrating to leave.
But like I said, it was a blast! Something I'll never forget.
28 July 2007
Week Wrapup
I absolutely can't believe it's the last week of July! Where has this year gone? In about a month classes will be starting, and I'll be pretty busy to say the least.
This past week has been overwhelming and busy and crazy! I'm so excited about starting this new job! It was funny, I was asked not to say anything about the job for a while. When Will and I went for a walk on Tuesday he noticed that I was acting oddly. He figured out what it was, but I wouldn't tell him. So, forgetting that he knew the blog address, I thought things were safe. Foolish me! He went right here and read the last post indicating that I had gotten the job. I think he's really happy for me, which means more than he'll ever know!
This past week has been overwhelming and busy and crazy! I'm so excited about starting this new job! It was funny, I was asked not to say anything about the job for a while. When Will and I went for a walk on Tuesday he noticed that I was acting oddly. He figured out what it was, but I wouldn't tell him. So, forgetting that he knew the blog address, I thought things were safe. Foolish me! He went right here and read the last post indicating that I had gotten the job. I think he's really happy for me, which means more than he'll ever know!
23 July 2007
BIG NEWS!!!
I GOT THE JOB!!!!
Yep, got the phone call this afternoon after getting home from Preschool Queen's house. Yes, Monday is laundry day...what fun and excitement, no?
Anyway, I got the phone call offering me the job, and of course I accepted it, who wouldn't? So, of course I went right back to Preschool Queen's house and we all had dinner and champagne, naturally. I think I may have drunk a bottle of it by myself...it's all good, though. Another friend who was there walked me home, no there was no driving. So, I'll get my wheels tomorrow!
Just had to share the awesome news!
Yep, got the phone call this afternoon after getting home from Preschool Queen's house. Yes, Monday is laundry day...what fun and excitement, no?
Anyway, I got the phone call offering me the job, and of course I accepted it, who wouldn't? So, of course I went right back to Preschool Queen's house and we all had dinner and champagne, naturally. I think I may have drunk a bottle of it by myself...it's all good, though. Another friend who was there walked me home, no there was no driving. So, I'll get my wheels tomorrow!
Just had to share the awesome news!
22 July 2007
JK Rowling is the Best Author Ever
Okay there will be spoilers in this post. If you don't want to know what happens, stop reading.
This was the best Harry Potter book ever! From the very first page, the action was off and running, and there was no stopping until the very last word. (Which was NOT scar, btw...)
And to those of you out there who say it's just a children's book, to you I say. Read this one. It is most certainly not for children. People die left and right. From the very beginning, Voldemort is torturing and killing. Mad-eye Moody dies within the first few chapters. And while the actual death did not bother me terribly, the reaction of the members of the Order of the Phoenix did. Hedwig died at the same time. That devistated me. And then George is maimed. In true twins humor, the jokes roll in as they deal with the loss of his ear.
I was furious when Ron left Harry and Hermione. And didn't understand until he came back and talked about wearing the horcrux. Last night, as Will was reading, he called me and wondered if the doe patronus belonged to Snape. This morning I was shocked to learn he was right! Nice going, Will! And his logic was dead on. It was all because of Lily.
Can I say that Neville was brilliant in this one? He had truly come into his own. What a brave young man!
I was thrilled that Snape was good. All along. I am thrilled that she explained why Dumbledore always trusted him. I love that Harry was able to call him the bravest man he ever knew. And that at his end, Snape gave Harry all of his memories of Lily. It broke my heart that he loved her all his life. I can only imagine how much his was broken.
I sobbed when Dobby was killed. But he died saving Harry Potter. What a truly brave little elf. And Kreature! How much he changed! He ROCKED! I'm amazed that he completely changed his tune. And the key was Regulus.
That Lupin and Tonks died so shortly after Teddy was born was simply heartbreaking. I wish JK had told us who he lived with and who raised him once they were gone. I am so glad that they were able to have some happiness together before their murders.
And Percy redeemed himself! That was just fantastic! It is so hard to be able to admit when you are wrong. Percy had a hard time doing that, but when it came down to it, he was there when it mattered.
I'm also glad that Malfoy (Draco) survived as well. I was pleasantly surprised that he protected Harry, Ron and Hermione when they were taken to the Malfoy Manor.
I think the death that was most painful for me was Fred's. I was so sure that the twins would survive the war. I never thought one of them would die. But I suppose that is how war is.
And so, I have to buy Will dinner. Although I was sort of right. Harry did die, sort of. And then he came back and was able to kill Voldemort. So in the end, I owe him dinner.
Finally, Mrs Weasley killing Bellatrix was simply brilliant! Who would have thought? Now all there is to do is re-read!
This was the best Harry Potter book ever! From the very first page, the action was off and running, and there was no stopping until the very last word. (Which was NOT scar, btw...)
And to those of you out there who say it's just a children's book, to you I say. Read this one. It is most certainly not for children. People die left and right. From the very beginning, Voldemort is torturing and killing. Mad-eye Moody dies within the first few chapters. And while the actual death did not bother me terribly, the reaction of the members of the Order of the Phoenix did. Hedwig died at the same time. That devistated me. And then George is maimed. In true twins humor, the jokes roll in as they deal with the loss of his ear.
I was furious when Ron left Harry and Hermione. And didn't understand until he came back and talked about wearing the horcrux. Last night, as Will was reading, he called me and wondered if the doe patronus belonged to Snape. This morning I was shocked to learn he was right! Nice going, Will! And his logic was dead on. It was all because of Lily.
Can I say that Neville was brilliant in this one? He had truly come into his own. What a brave young man!
I was thrilled that Snape was good. All along. I am thrilled that she explained why Dumbledore always trusted him. I love that Harry was able to call him the bravest man he ever knew. And that at his end, Snape gave Harry all of his memories of Lily. It broke my heart that he loved her all his life. I can only imagine how much his was broken.
I sobbed when Dobby was killed. But he died saving Harry Potter. What a truly brave little elf. And Kreature! How much he changed! He ROCKED! I'm amazed that he completely changed his tune. And the key was Regulus.
That Lupin and Tonks died so shortly after Teddy was born was simply heartbreaking. I wish JK had told us who he lived with and who raised him once they were gone. I am so glad that they were able to have some happiness together before their murders.
And Percy redeemed himself! That was just fantastic! It is so hard to be able to admit when you are wrong. Percy had a hard time doing that, but when it came down to it, he was there when it mattered.
I'm also glad that Malfoy (Draco) survived as well. I was pleasantly surprised that he protected Harry, Ron and Hermione when they were taken to the Malfoy Manor.
I think the death that was most painful for me was Fred's. I was so sure that the twins would survive the war. I never thought one of them would die. But I suppose that is how war is.
And so, I have to buy Will dinner. Although I was sort of right. Harry did die, sort of. And then he came back and was able to kill Voldemort. So in the end, I owe him dinner.
Finally, Mrs Weasley killing Bellatrix was simply brilliant! Who would have thought? Now all there is to do is re-read!
| You Are Paper |
 Crafty and creative, you are able to adapt freely to almost any situation. People tend to underestimate you, unless they've truly seen what you are capable of. Deep down, you're always scheming and thinking up new plans. Your mind is constantly active. You are quite capable of anything you dream of. You can always figure out a way to get what you want. You can wrap a rock person up in your sheet of trickery. A scissor person can sneak up and cut you to pieces. When you fight: No one can anticipate your next move If someone makes you mad: You'll attack them mercilessly when they're unprepared |
21 July 2007
The Wait is Over!
I'll post much more when I have time tomorrow night, I promise.
But I have my copy of the book!
I'm a little over half-way through it.
It's actually a lot harder to read than I thought it would be!
I've had to keep putting it down and walking away.
Tomorrow, pictures and stories from the Midnight Madness Party!
But I have my copy of the book!
I'm a little over half-way through it.
It's actually a lot harder to read than I thought it would be!
I've had to keep putting it down and walking away.
Tomorrow, pictures and stories from the Midnight Madness Party!
17 July 2007
Three Days and Counting
It's only 3 days until Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is released. Preschool Queen and I are going to Barnes and Noble for the midnight release of the book. This is the first time either of us have done this, but we thought it would be fun since it's the last of the series.
It has been 10 years since the first Harry Potter book came out, and many readers have grown up with Harry. I didn't start reading the books in '97. In fact, I didn't start reading them until sometime around when Prisoner of Azkaban came out. I was in college at the time, and one of my professor's (in fact, my favorite professor) was talking about the books, and the fact that the third in the series was about to come out. She thought I would like them and encouraged me to read the first two that had already been published. So I did. I read the first two books very quickly; and I borrowed her copy of the third book and read it in one day. I was completely hooked. The writing is exceptional. Now, I realize that this is nothing that hasn't already been said about the books or JK. She has done something that no other writer in recent memory has been able to do. I mean there is no midnight release party for the most recent Danielle Steele books.
As the day comes closer and closer, I wonder more and more how the series will end. Will Harry survive? Who's side is Snape on? And where are all the Horcruxes? As much as I want to get the book and devour it immediately, I know that this is it. Once I'm finished reading, there are no more on the horizon. There will never be another group of readers who have to wait for the next installment (sometimes for an agonizingly long period of time). And so I wonder, will it satisfy all of my expectations? Will all my questions be answered? Only Three more days to wait!
It has been 10 years since the first Harry Potter book came out, and many readers have grown up with Harry. I didn't start reading the books in '97. In fact, I didn't start reading them until sometime around when Prisoner of Azkaban came out. I was in college at the time, and one of my professor's (in fact, my favorite professor) was talking about the books, and the fact that the third in the series was about to come out. She thought I would like them and encouraged me to read the first two that had already been published. So I did. I read the first two books very quickly; and I borrowed her copy of the third book and read it in one day. I was completely hooked. The writing is exceptional. Now, I realize that this is nothing that hasn't already been said about the books or JK. She has done something that no other writer in recent memory has been able to do. I mean there is no midnight release party for the most recent Danielle Steele books.
As the day comes closer and closer, I wonder more and more how the series will end. Will Harry survive? Who's side is Snape on? And where are all the Horcruxes? As much as I want to get the book and devour it immediately, I know that this is it. Once I'm finished reading, there are no more on the horizon. There will never be another group of readers who have to wait for the next installment (sometimes for an agonizingly long period of time). And so I wonder, will it satisfy all of my expectations? Will all my questions be answered? Only Three more days to wait!
11 July 2007
New Carpet Saga Continued...
Remember I mentioned that work was having the carpets replaced? Well, the carpet in our office is the small squares of carpeting rather than one long roll. And the installers are using a spray adhesive to make it stick to the floor. A spray adhesive that has a variety of warnings on the can. Including that the product should not be used indoors and if it must be used indoors, that it should be a well-ventilated room. We have double plate glass windows. This product, highly toxic. Apparently all attempts should be made to not inhale it. We've been sitting in the office for almost 2 weeks now while they use it. Totally explains the painful headaches I've been getting lately that won't go away no matter what I try.
09 July 2007
Lead Momma's Funniest Blog Comment Ever
Okay, so this is probably going to be pretty snarky, maybe even bordering on mean; but this is just too funny to not draw attention to.
Let me set up the whole situation. Lead Momma calls me on her way home from work today and it was the first time she and I have chatted since I saw her new haircut. So I commented on it, and she asked me if I had seen the other comment on her blog entry. I said that I hadn't noticed it, and she said that it was from Poopy-head. (This is what we call her loser ex fiance.)
So, of course I ran right to my computer and checked out her blog to see it; and this is what I find:
Let me set up the whole situation. Lead Momma calls me on her way home from work today and it was the first time she and I have chatted since I saw her new haircut. So I commented on it, and she asked me if I had seen the other comment on her blog entry. I said that I hadn't noticed it, and she said that it was from Poopy-head. (This is what we call her loser ex fiance.)
So, of course I ran right to my computer and checked out her blog to see it; and this is what I find:
It's Dan. We were engaged a bunch of years ago. Anyway, I tracked you down
online and see you have a beautiful son. Good for you! My second girl just
turned one. Drop me a line. I'd love to hear from you; sounds like you've become
a wonderful mother. No surprise there. Bye!
I started howling when I read this. THIS is how he identifies himself? We were engaged a bunch of years ago? Is he FREAKING kidding? Oh THAT Dan. I forgot you but boy, once you described yourself that way. Now I remember who you are. She was with him for 6 years. Who the hell forgets someone they spent six years of their lives with and planned to marry? Seriously, WTF? We both laughed so hard. There were tears...true story. Now to continue, one of the things he said didn't work for him was the fact that Lead Momma wanted to have children. Ummm...now he has 2? WTF again, I ask... And finally...'Drop me a line.' NO CONTACT INFORMATION. But please. Drop him a line. Right. She'll be right on that. Because she wants a loser like this guy to be back in her life.
Lead Momma is the closest thing I'll ever have to a sister. She is an amazing woman. She has an absolutely sparkling personality. She is brilliant, funny and loving. She is one of the best people I have ever met. This is all just a lead up to my being able to say how happy I am that she is where she is in her life. She has been blessed. While it certainly didn't feel that way when Poopy-head left just 6 months before the wedding, she rebounded and found a man who truly loves her. And is deserving of her love in return.
We think that he (Poopy-head) must have some unresolved issues since he's contacting her. Whatever. She was thinking about commenting back to him, and I told her to just ignore him; live in the satisfaction of the amazing life she has. They say that living well is truly the best revenge around. And she's truly doing that.
So, anyway, in closing...to say that this was truly my laugh for the day would be an understatement.
06 July 2007
Master's Bound...
I GOT IN!!!!!
It's funny how life works sometimes. As I was sitting here feeling really rotten about a variety of things and getting frustrated with just about everything, I decided in my randomness to take out the trash. (yes, the completely unglamorous side of living alone...) So while I was down there, I grabbed the mail.
Crammed into my mailbox was a big envelope from the University. I knew then that if it had been a letter turning down my application, it would have just been a legal sized envelope. I ran back upstairs and was already crying when I read the first line of the letter that said 'Congratulations.' And then I couldn't stop crying.
So, in just two short years, I'll have my degree and will be done with my thesis! I'm so very excited!
It's funny how life works sometimes. As I was sitting here feeling really rotten about a variety of things and getting frustrated with just about everything, I decided in my randomness to take out the trash. (yes, the completely unglamorous side of living alone...) So while I was down there, I grabbed the mail.
Crammed into my mailbox was a big envelope from the University. I knew then that if it had been a letter turning down my application, it would have just been a legal sized envelope. I ran back upstairs and was already crying when I read the first line of the letter that said 'Congratulations.' And then I couldn't stop crying.
So, in just two short years, I'll have my degree and will be done with my thesis! I'm so very excited!
05 July 2007
To Call or Not to Call continued...
So, the overwhelming advice I got (I mean from EVERYBODY except Marsh--sorry honey) was to drop an email thanking him for a nice evening and suggesting a second date. So, that's what I've done. I did that this morning; and so now, more of the waiting game. I really just wish I knew one way or the other.
Of course, self-doubt has started creeping in and I've started wondering if he didn't have such a good time with me. Which leads me to wonder how on earth I ever could have mis-read the entire evening like that. I really thought we hit it off. This whole dating thing, so not fun. Well, let me rephrase that. The date was great, wonderful, a lot of fun. This part sucks. This waiting, this insecurity, this not knowing.
Of course, self-doubt has started creeping in and I've started wondering if he didn't have such a good time with me. Which leads me to wonder how on earth I ever could have mis-read the entire evening like that. I really thought we hit it off. This whole dating thing, so not fun. Well, let me rephrase that. The date was great, wonderful, a lot of fun. This part sucks. This waiting, this insecurity, this not knowing.
Communications Center...
Work always has it's moments, doesn't it? A very good friend of mine there works in the communications center. Remember I was writing about it before? Anyway, she just got a job offer in Florence, AZ; and she's taking it. It'll be a pay increase and way more opportunities for her. I'm completely and totally excited for her to say the least. Now I have a reason to visit AZ.
But this means that there is a vacancy in the communications center. And my old supervisor is now the supervisor there. He called me into his office tonight and said that while he wasn't going to force me, he'd really like me to join the unit again. Since my friend had already told me about her job, I knew that this was coming. So, I said yes. What else could I have done? I mean really. What was I going to do? Stomp my feet and act like a 3 year old? I did make two requests, first: that my friend re-train me before she leaves; and second: that I keep my current schedule. He was agreeable to those demands. I'm taking it as a chance to have a change of pace and new opportunities for my resume. So as of mid-August, I'll be answering phones again. I think the job will be fine, it'll be the attitudes of everyone else in the unit that will drive me absolutely insane to say the least.
This is of course, totally dependent on whether or not I get the supervisor position. That would negate all of the previous ramblings. So, it's the waiting now.
But this means that there is a vacancy in the communications center. And my old supervisor is now the supervisor there. He called me into his office tonight and said that while he wasn't going to force me, he'd really like me to join the unit again. Since my friend had already told me about her job, I knew that this was coming. So, I said yes. What else could I have done? I mean really. What was I going to do? Stomp my feet and act like a 3 year old? I did make two requests, first: that my friend re-train me before she leaves; and second: that I keep my current schedule. He was agreeable to those demands. I'm taking it as a chance to have a change of pace and new opportunities for my resume. So as of mid-August, I'll be answering phones again. I think the job will be fine, it'll be the attitudes of everyone else in the unit that will drive me absolutely insane to say the least.
This is of course, totally dependent on whether or not I get the supervisor position. That would negate all of the previous ramblings. So, it's the waiting now.
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