...so its a few hours before my plane leaves - about 8 hours. I'm really happy to be headed home, but I still sorta want to stay. I can't really explain why, but let's just attribute it to lobsters.
So there is this restaurant here that's really a chocolate bar. Chocolate Soup, Chocolate Eggs Benedict, and I just keep hearing about it. Unfortunately, no time to get there this trip, but a promise for a visit next time will see me through.
Many things I want to say, but just really can't tonight. Weird things are afoot and here I am in my hotel room, killing time before the flight - Jessee is off playing with his PlayStation 2, while Dave and Jason are having a cigar at Kiplings. Personally, I'm glad I'm here, taking it easy. I can pack, watch a movie or two and in general relax! As soon as I sleep, I'm going to have some odd dreams that worry me a bit, but you can't be held accountable for what you dream about doing, right?
Anyway, I can't believe it has been an entire week int he Philippines with my boss and I still have a job...shocker! I had thoughts that this would be bad, but I survived!
We ate an incredible meal tonight and I think Jason and I ate half the restaurant - or at least it feels that way. We actually went back to the same restaurant from last night but ate much more! It was fabulous - I definately want to eat there again some day.
I think that's all worth posting at the moment - maybe I'll post from Tokyo again!
Saturday, October 30, 2004
Friday, October 29, 2004
What A Long Strange Trip Its Been...
...so this is my last day in the office here overseas. It has been quite a ride - ups, downs, weird food, snazzy hotel rooms, great people, goofiness overall.
It is currently Friday night here - 1015pm. The is THE holiday weekend in this part of the world as most people take off All Souls Day. The office is having a costume party tonight and alas, my Pink Lady costume is at my house in the States :( If I had known, I would have brought it with me. The halls are decorated and everyone really gets into the spirit. I makes me miss home more.
I think we are sight-seeing tomorrow. Which might be fun, even though there is something odd about doing "fun" things with your boss. Maybe it's the weird relationship I have with my current boss, but we just don't "get" each other at all. It causes for a sense of discomfort for sure.
So I didn't get enough sleep this morning - not in the slightest. I am dog-tired and wishing for 3pm so I can give my presentation and go back to bed. I have really enjoyed my time, but when it gets to be October, my life seems to hectic, that coming to the Philippines has seemed to throw me off my game. I'm ready for Thanksgiving with my family and to see Sweet Maggie Ming again. I cannot believe I am not Trick or Treating with her this year. So depressing. I don't even know what she is going as...I might make myself cry here in a minute.
So anyway, I'm sleepy, ready for some good ol' southern cooking - and a day off from work. I'm taking Tuesday off to go to the Pro-Am at the Tour Championship which will be a blast. I need to knock some dust off my camera and take some shots!
I guess I should get back to work - at least for now. I still need to post a rebuttal to Angie's take on my "rules" post...
It is currently Friday night here - 1015pm. The is THE holiday weekend in this part of the world as most people take off All Souls Day. The office is having a costume party tonight and alas, my Pink Lady costume is at my house in the States :( If I had known, I would have brought it with me. The halls are decorated and everyone really gets into the spirit. I makes me miss home more.
I think we are sight-seeing tomorrow. Which might be fun, even though there is something odd about doing "fun" things with your boss. Maybe it's the weird relationship I have with my current boss, but we just don't "get" each other at all. It causes for a sense of discomfort for sure.
So I didn't get enough sleep this morning - not in the slightest. I am dog-tired and wishing for 3pm so I can give my presentation and go back to bed. I have really enjoyed my time, but when it gets to be October, my life seems to hectic, that coming to the Philippines has seemed to throw me off my game. I'm ready for Thanksgiving with my family and to see Sweet Maggie Ming again. I cannot believe I am not Trick or Treating with her this year. So depressing. I don't even know what she is going as...I might make myself cry here in a minute.
So anyway, I'm sleepy, ready for some good ol' southern cooking - and a day off from work. I'm taking Tuesday off to go to the Pro-Am at the Tour Championship which will be a blast. I need to knock some dust off my camera and take some shots!
I guess I should get back to work - at least for now. I still need to post a rebuttal to Angie's take on my "rules" post...
Thursday, October 28, 2004
Let's Do It Again...
So I know I already posted today, but I am at a crossroads...
I have very high ideals (in most situations) and a strict code I live by.
1) No married men - I did this once, and I justified it to myself and others and still feel somewhat okay in that relationship. His wife was a big mistake and he says he never loved her - and they are long since divorced. Course, he isn't with me either. And I look back on it and it was not a mistake for me, but I would never do that again.
2) Stick with older men - or at least the same age as you. So Angie has this rule she set years ago that she couldn't date anyone who wasn't born when Star Wars: A New Hope was released (originally) in the theatres. Now she is 2 years older than me, so my rule is the same, but with The Empire Strikes Back. Younger guys seem fun to start out, but then their immaturity rears its ugly head and I end up banging mine against a wall. It isn't always true, and I would never dismiss someone I had a spark with over age, but I try not to go looking for a younger man.
3) Don't date people you work with - Again, done this before. How can I not, I feel like all I ever do is work and I tend to make friends at work and hang out with people from work...so who else am I going to date? That said, why is it I meet some of the nicest, sweetess (and yummiest) guys at work. It's like a curse. Do they know they drive me batty? Probably not, I try not to show it. But I am a natural flirt and cannot help myself sometimes. ARGH!
4) Try not to steal someone else's man - this ties into #1 a bit, but even if they are dating someone (and especially if you like the girlfriend well enough), you try not to look. So why do men become more appealing when they have girlfriends? Is it that you can see the guy in a relationship and therefore know he is good boyfriend material? Is it the challenge of getting him for yourself? Is it all just electrons? What's the deal, Lucille?
5) Always see past the exterior - and this one is a must. There are certain things about people that just jump out - it could be looks, it could be their nature...who knows. I'm good at finding diamonds in the rough - no doubt. But why is it that people do not just act like themselves? Honestly, it kills me some of the false bravdo that gets put out there - sheesh!
6) Don't date guys who play head games - I don't want to have to work at it. I don't want to worry about calling him or not - have I waited long enough? Is he messing with me? Put it out there, man. If you are interested, great! If you want a play thing, go jump off a bridge, ya know?
7) Long distance relationships suck - I did it and hated it. It didn't work out, of course it didn't. I was in Georgia and he was in Sweden - how is that going to work? I seriously wasted time in my life when I should have been open to possibilities and even though he is gone now, which saddens me deeply, I know that if it had worked out, it would have been a big mistake. I just don't think we would have grown together - I know me now, and I know how I was then (I was really young) and I am twice the age now and have loved deeply (and been hurt) and would have missed out on a lot of things that made me the person I am today. Those of you who contributed, you know who you are!
Okay, I think those are all my rules. I'll probably come up with another one later. Next point, so what do you do when you meet someone that falls into a couple of these categories? Throw the rules out the window? Live a solitary life? Day dream about how you could have had this person more in your life? It's SO hard. I am trying really hard to "behave" myself and not let my emotions seep through my skin. And is it emotions? I mean, maybe it is just infatuation or just a distraction, but DAMN! You know that crazy feeling you get when something just fits? It's like "where have you been?" "Of course I enjoy myself when you are around," "Can you stick around for always, please?" Man - I think I am ranting a bit...what does it all mean?
Life is hard, and don't mess with Texas. Those of you in the back of the room reading this will understand.
I think I need to fly to France or Orlando right about now...thoughts? I think I need a vacation, or at least a nice break from reality :)
I have very high ideals (in most situations) and a strict code I live by.
1) No married men - I did this once, and I justified it to myself and others and still feel somewhat okay in that relationship. His wife was a big mistake and he says he never loved her - and they are long since divorced. Course, he isn't with me either. And I look back on it and it was not a mistake for me, but I would never do that again.
2) Stick with older men - or at least the same age as you. So Angie has this rule she set years ago that she couldn't date anyone who wasn't born when Star Wars: A New Hope was released (originally) in the theatres. Now she is 2 years older than me, so my rule is the same, but with The Empire Strikes Back. Younger guys seem fun to start out, but then their immaturity rears its ugly head and I end up banging mine against a wall. It isn't always true, and I would never dismiss someone I had a spark with over age, but I try not to go looking for a younger man.
3) Don't date people you work with - Again, done this before. How can I not, I feel like all I ever do is work and I tend to make friends at work and hang out with people from work...so who else am I going to date? That said, why is it I meet some of the nicest, sweetess (and yummiest) guys at work. It's like a curse. Do they know they drive me batty? Probably not, I try not to show it. But I am a natural flirt and cannot help myself sometimes. ARGH!
4) Try not to steal someone else's man - this ties into #1 a bit, but even if they are dating someone (and especially if you like the girlfriend well enough), you try not to look. So why do men become more appealing when they have girlfriends? Is it that you can see the guy in a relationship and therefore know he is good boyfriend material? Is it the challenge of getting him for yourself? Is it all just electrons? What's the deal, Lucille?
5) Always see past the exterior - and this one is a must. There are certain things about people that just jump out - it could be looks, it could be their nature...who knows. I'm good at finding diamonds in the rough - no doubt. But why is it that people do not just act like themselves? Honestly, it kills me some of the false bravdo that gets put out there - sheesh!
6) Don't date guys who play head games - I don't want to have to work at it. I don't want to worry about calling him or not - have I waited long enough? Is he messing with me? Put it out there, man. If you are interested, great! If you want a play thing, go jump off a bridge, ya know?
7) Long distance relationships suck - I did it and hated it. It didn't work out, of course it didn't. I was in Georgia and he was in Sweden - how is that going to work? I seriously wasted time in my life when I should have been open to possibilities and even though he is gone now, which saddens me deeply, I know that if it had worked out, it would have been a big mistake. I just don't think we would have grown together - I know me now, and I know how I was then (I was really young) and I am twice the age now and have loved deeply (and been hurt) and would have missed out on a lot of things that made me the person I am today. Those of you who contributed, you know who you are!
Okay, I think those are all my rules. I'll probably come up with another one later. Next point, so what do you do when you meet someone that falls into a couple of these categories? Throw the rules out the window? Live a solitary life? Day dream about how you could have had this person more in your life? It's SO hard. I am trying really hard to "behave" myself and not let my emotions seep through my skin. And is it emotions? I mean, maybe it is just infatuation or just a distraction, but DAMN! You know that crazy feeling you get when something just fits? It's like "where have you been?" "Of course I enjoy myself when you are around," "Can you stick around for always, please?" Man - I think I am ranting a bit...what does it all mean?
Life is hard, and don't mess with Texas. Those of you in the back of the room reading this will understand.
I think I need to fly to France or Orlando right about now...thoughts? I think I need a vacation, or at least a nice break from reality :)
We all breathe liquid for nine months, Bud...
Day 827 in The Philippines and man am I ready for my own bed. I have like 3 cricks in my neck and a hankering for some good old Southern Cooking. Mashed Potatoes, Country Fried Steak, Succotash - yum!
So I need to head home for another reason - basically, my lungs. It is really smoggy here and since this time yesterday, I am having serious breathing problems. It's like trying to push sludge in and out of my lungs. I feel like there is a Mack Truck parked on my chest right now - yuck!
So the plan is to work tonight and tomorrow night (Thursday and Friday business hours for you cats in the states) and then sleep a couple hours and then tour Old Manila. Cool idea, but touring with my boss - not my idea of fun. Jason will be there and he is a cool guy - fun to hang out with. Then apparently, they want to drink Saturday night and party and be stupid - tour the clubs, smoke cigars, etc. Thanks, but NO THANKS. I would like to get some sleep before I spend 18 hours getting back home again. I mean seriously, we would be drinking until it was time to go to the airport. I don't think so - even if it includes lobster.
So my hacking and coughing is driving me nuts - and I talk for hours on end in these presentations. I keep drinking bottled water like it is going out of style. The guys keep going to Starbucks, but I don't want to chance it. I hear the milk here is bad (so I have steered clear) and who knows what they may put in there for flavorings without your knowledge - with my luck, it would be nuts of some kind. I think I will stick with Perrier, bottled water and Orange Juice.
So we had Italian for breakfast (remember I am working nights) and it was pretty decent, but halfway through, I started feeling a bit ill. Not sure why, but I stopped eating to be safe. It must be all the bubbles from the Perrier or something. Now I feel better - but it was this weird feeling I can't explain. As we were leaving, we drove past this movie theatre. Personally, they should have had Garden State playing, but no...the did have The Grudge playing, and as freaky as that movie was, I actually thought to myself "Self, you should go see that again." Alas, no time for movies :(
Okay - on to my next Focus Group to find out who, what, why, when and how.
Later kids!
So I need to head home for another reason - basically, my lungs. It is really smoggy here and since this time yesterday, I am having serious breathing problems. It's like trying to push sludge in and out of my lungs. I feel like there is a Mack Truck parked on my chest right now - yuck!
So the plan is to work tonight and tomorrow night (Thursday and Friday business hours for you cats in the states) and then sleep a couple hours and then tour Old Manila. Cool idea, but touring with my boss - not my idea of fun. Jason will be there and he is a cool guy - fun to hang out with. Then apparently, they want to drink Saturday night and party and be stupid - tour the clubs, smoke cigars, etc. Thanks, but NO THANKS. I would like to get some sleep before I spend 18 hours getting back home again. I mean seriously, we would be drinking until it was time to go to the airport. I don't think so - even if it includes lobster.
So my hacking and coughing is driving me nuts - and I talk for hours on end in these presentations. I keep drinking bottled water like it is going out of style. The guys keep going to Starbucks, but I don't want to chance it. I hear the milk here is bad (so I have steered clear) and who knows what they may put in there for flavorings without your knowledge - with my luck, it would be nuts of some kind. I think I will stick with Perrier, bottled water and Orange Juice.
So we had Italian for breakfast (remember I am working nights) and it was pretty decent, but halfway through, I started feeling a bit ill. Not sure why, but I stopped eating to be safe. It must be all the bubbles from the Perrier or something. Now I feel better - but it was this weird feeling I can't explain. As we were leaving, we drove past this movie theatre. Personally, they should have had Garden State playing, but no...the did have The Grudge playing, and as freaky as that movie was, I actually thought to myself "Self, you should go see that again." Alas, no time for movies :(
Okay - on to my next Focus Group to find out who, what, why, when and how.
Later kids!
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
There's No Place Like Home!
Okay, so day 123 and I'm in Manila/Makati City. It is great here, it's almost like being in New York or Downtown Atlanta. The hotel is amazing. I thought the Shangri-La in Cebu was awesome (it was on the beach) but this one is absolutely incredible! I mean, the lobby alone looks like we are at the Ritz or something.
We got into town and were tired and hungry, so Clay and I had Prime Rib (and other goodies) before heading to our rooms to sleep - thank god I got some real food. Lucky Clay is on his way to the airport as we speak and is headed back to the states.
So I am in this current state of flux - I want to be here and do my job, but I really am ready to be home. I mean, first, travelling with your boss is rarely a good idea. Look, my boss is fine - decent guy, I don't let him bug me, I don't dislike him, but he seems to be high maintenance. And I like my own space, or at least the company of a friend.
That said, I am SO ready to get back to the States. Maybe I'll just hop a plane to San Francisco and go see Maggie for the rest of the week? Hmmmmm. It's a thought.
I miss my friends, I miss eating real food, I miss my own bed. Did I mention my medical condition has been fodder for joking, cajoling, and borderline harassment? Yeah - no way I trust anyone anywhere near my syringes if I have an attack - let me die.
Enough - happy thoughts....ummmm, don't have any. Wow, that sucks. I think I have learned a very valuable lesson over here - don't travel with your boss. Unless you are maybe friends outside of work or whatever. I learned this with my last boss, but I thought it was just her. Apparently not.
Oh well - maybe he will let me leave on Saturday.
We got into town and were tired and hungry, so Clay and I had Prime Rib (and other goodies) before heading to our rooms to sleep - thank god I got some real food. Lucky Clay is on his way to the airport as we speak and is headed back to the states.
So I am in this current state of flux - I want to be here and do my job, but I really am ready to be home. I mean, first, travelling with your boss is rarely a good idea. Look, my boss is fine - decent guy, I don't let him bug me, I don't dislike him, but he seems to be high maintenance. And I like my own space, or at least the company of a friend.
That said, I am SO ready to get back to the States. Maybe I'll just hop a plane to San Francisco and go see Maggie for the rest of the week? Hmmmmm. It's a thought.
I miss my friends, I miss eating real food, I miss my own bed. Did I mention my medical condition has been fodder for joking, cajoling, and borderline harassment? Yeah - no way I trust anyone anywhere near my syringes if I have an attack - let me die.
Enough - happy thoughts....ummmm, don't have any. Wow, that sucks. I think I have learned a very valuable lesson over here - don't travel with your boss. Unless you are maybe friends outside of work or whatever. I learned this with my last boss, but I thought it was just her. Apparently not.
Oh well - maybe he will let me leave on Saturday.
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Cheeseburger in Paradise
Day something or other - not sure, I think it's Wednesday now for me. What I owuldn't give for a Vortex burger right now! The food is fine, but so much I cannot eat. We went to this Asian restaurant (you know, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, etc). Anyway, everything has fish, seafood, fish sauce, coconut, tofu, etc. Things I can't eat. So I ate Teriyaki Lamb and some Satay, but that wasn't much and so my boss harassed me about it. "You must not be hungry, Lindy," "Um, no, I just couldn't eat most of what you ordered," "Oh, you could have ordered more, so you must not be hungry."
Anyway, the call center is great still. I listened in on some calls and am about to go give a presentation. Fun, Fun!
So we head to Manila later this "morning" - the hotel has lobster on the menu - woo hoo! So I need to run, just a quickie note to say I'm still alive and kicking in SouthEast Asia!
Later!
Anyway, the call center is great still. I listened in on some calls and am about to go give a presentation. Fun, Fun!
So we head to Manila later this "morning" - the hotel has lobster on the menu - woo hoo! So I need to run, just a quickie note to say I'm still alive and kicking in SouthEast Asia!
Later!
Monday, October 25, 2004
From Peru to Cebu hear the power of Babylon
So I am in Cebu, working at the call center in this little, tiny room, with lots of cold air pumping in...but the humidity here is so bad, my hair still has not dried from my morning shower - silly me for putting it up today.
So I slept for close to 9 hours (during the day here) and woke up at 5pm to shower, get dressed and finish some work. Then we had breakfast (which is really dinner) of chinese food. What an odd way to start your day. So we had really good food (our hotel has a bunch of restaurants) and my co-workers were really sweet not to order any seafood. Orange Chicken, true Kung Pao Chicken, Ginger Beef, and Sweet and Sour Pork - now I know you are thinking, you are in Asia, eat real Asian food - but I swear, this was authentic stuff. It isn't what you would find in a restaurant in the states. They even had Shark Fin soup on the menu (Angie would be SO excitied by that). They bring the roasted chicken and ducks out whole too - Angie, get a fork! I'll call Rob :)
So we got into the center, and there was a big sign welcoming me and my co-workers to the site. Everyone is really nice and sweet and I am having fun. They even have a Starbucks here (only 1, and they don't have the Venti size for anything).
On another note - the BoSox are up 2 games to none (wahoo) and that keeps my boss happy (thank goodness).
Back to work - stuff to do - people to talk to. Later world!
So I slept for close to 9 hours (during the day here) and woke up at 5pm to shower, get dressed and finish some work. Then we had breakfast (which is really dinner) of chinese food. What an odd way to start your day. So we had really good food (our hotel has a bunch of restaurants) and my co-workers were really sweet not to order any seafood. Orange Chicken, true Kung Pao Chicken, Ginger Beef, and Sweet and Sour Pork - now I know you are thinking, you are in Asia, eat real Asian food - but I swear, this was authentic stuff. It isn't what you would find in a restaurant in the states. They even had Shark Fin soup on the menu (Angie would be SO excitied by that). They bring the roasted chicken and ducks out whole too - Angie, get a fork! I'll call Rob :)
So we got into the center, and there was a big sign welcoming me and my co-workers to the site. Everyone is really nice and sweet and I am having fun. They even have a Starbucks here (only 1, and they don't have the Venti size for anything).
On another note - the BoSox are up 2 games to none (wahoo) and that keeps my boss happy (thank goodness).
Back to work - stuff to do - people to talk to. Later world!
Sunday, October 24, 2004
In Shangri-la did Kubla Khan A stately pleasure-dome decree
So I finally have arrived. Sorry I didn't post from Manila, but I did not have access to the net. So let's hit the highlights...
Manila - Japan Air was cool - again people were always surprised when this white girl says Arigato instead of thank you. Go figure. The flight attendant, Suzuki, kept waking me to offer me food and beverage - very sweet.
The Manila airport was a bit odd. Customs was fine (really strange that through 4 x-rays, no one stopped me with my epi-pens). We hopped a cab to the "Old Domestic Airport" to wait for the flight to Cebu. Okay, this terminal was sketchy. As Jessee put it, it was like an old 50's era laundromat. We waited in the warm air watching very odd TV with a bunch of Filipinos. The funniest was, and I still crack up about this hours later, was this commercial for the sitcom Friends. Okay, we all know this show is a comedy, but they are clearly behind in the schedule here because they are talking about the triangle of Joey, Ross and Rachael. But it was all serious, and acting like a soap opera. Tune in next time on Friends! You had to see it to believe it. Also Hilary Duff is apparently a big deal out here - every 5 seconds was something about her.
Onto Cebu. This flight was only an hour on an old plane - board from the tarmack, etc. So the flight was uneventful (Jessee and I slept while Dave worked and flirted). So we get into Cebu, and Dave sort of starts worrying. Clay better be picking us up, he better not ditch us, etc. So the weird cabbies were trying to take our luggage - they all wanted to give us a ride to the hotel. We weren't having it. They are pretty bizarre and don't usually take you where you want to go. So Dave called the hotel, and they sent someone to get us.
So now I am at the Shangri-La in Cebu. Very nice, kind of a fancy room. Vanessa has been going on about slippers since May, but I don't see any lying around...very interesting.
So we are on the "Flam Plan," which is to say my nutty boss wants us to act as if we are still on Eastern time. So "NO SLEEPING" he says as we head up to our rooms at 3:30am Cebu time. Meet me for "dinner" which is breakfast at 6am and then you can sleep...whatever dude! I've been travelling for about 30 hours and I need a nap! Did I mention I'm starving too? FOOD! So I need to shower and erase the hours of grime on me from the travelling, close quarters with strangers and my claustrophobia causing me to perspire - ICK!
I'll try and stick to the "Flam Plan," but I'm not holding my breath! Now if only my parents would look at a computer and respond to my AIMs!
Later all
Manila - Japan Air was cool - again people were always surprised when this white girl says Arigato instead of thank you. Go figure. The flight attendant, Suzuki, kept waking me to offer me food and beverage - very sweet.
The Manila airport was a bit odd. Customs was fine (really strange that through 4 x-rays, no one stopped me with my epi-pens). We hopped a cab to the "Old Domestic Airport" to wait for the flight to Cebu. Okay, this terminal was sketchy. As Jessee put it, it was like an old 50's era laundromat. We waited in the warm air watching very odd TV with a bunch of Filipinos. The funniest was, and I still crack up about this hours later, was this commercial for the sitcom Friends. Okay, we all know this show is a comedy, but they are clearly behind in the schedule here because they are talking about the triangle of Joey, Ross and Rachael. But it was all serious, and acting like a soap opera. Tune in next time on Friends! You had to see it to believe it. Also Hilary Duff is apparently a big deal out here - every 5 seconds was something about her.
Onto Cebu. This flight was only an hour on an old plane - board from the tarmack, etc. So the flight was uneventful (Jessee and I slept while Dave worked and flirted). So we get into Cebu, and Dave sort of starts worrying. Clay better be picking us up, he better not ditch us, etc. So the weird cabbies were trying to take our luggage - they all wanted to give us a ride to the hotel. We weren't having it. They are pretty bizarre and don't usually take you where you want to go. So Dave called the hotel, and they sent someone to get us.
So now I am at the Shangri-La in Cebu. Very nice, kind of a fancy room. Vanessa has been going on about slippers since May, but I don't see any lying around...very interesting.
So we are on the "Flam Plan," which is to say my nutty boss wants us to act as if we are still on Eastern time. So "NO SLEEPING" he says as we head up to our rooms at 3:30am Cebu time. Meet me for "dinner" which is breakfast at 6am and then you can sleep...whatever dude! I've been travelling for about 30 hours and I need a nap! Did I mention I'm starving too? FOOD! So I need to shower and erase the hours of grime on me from the travelling, close quarters with strangers and my claustrophobia causing me to perspire - ICK!
I'll try and stick to the "Flam Plan," but I'm not holding my breath! Now if only my parents would look at a computer and respond to my AIMs!
Later all
Lost in Transition
...pretty close to Bill Murray - I'm in the Tokyo-Narita airport's business lounge feeling about as out of place as Bill wearing the orange camouflage shirt.
So let me ask you - a business lounge with 15 work stations and only one is wired???? So I was an idiot and left my wireless card at home - stupid Lindy - but still, 1 out of 5 has an Ethernet port? This is Tokyo - they build computers here...one would think.
Anyway, the 13 1/2 hour flight went by pretty quickly. Business class rocks. Every 5 minutes someone is bringing you something to eat or drink or a hot towel. NICE. I slept, I ate, I slept, I watched movies. Overall, not too shabby.
Anyway, I'm here on a layover and am waiting for my Japan Air flight to Manila. So far I have seemed to impress a couple of locals by thanking them in Japanese and bowing slightly. You would think most business travellers would do the same, but apparently not based on the reactions I am getting. Hey man, go with the flow. Thank god for Styx ;)
Okay, powering down - giving someone else the chance to use this port for good andnot blogging. Later from the next country I inhabit!
So let me ask you - a business lounge with 15 work stations and only one is wired???? So I was an idiot and left my wireless card at home - stupid Lindy - but still, 1 out of 5 has an Ethernet port? This is Tokyo - they build computers here...one would think.
Anyway, the 13 1/2 hour flight went by pretty quickly. Business class rocks. Every 5 minutes someone is bringing you something to eat or drink or a hot towel. NICE. I slept, I ate, I slept, I watched movies. Overall, not too shabby.
Anyway, I'm here on a layover and am waiting for my Japan Air flight to Manila. So far I have seemed to impress a couple of locals by thanking them in Japanese and bowing slightly. You would think most business travellers would do the same, but apparently not based on the reactions I am getting. Hey man, go with the flow. Thank god for Styx ;)
Okay, powering down - giving someone else the chance to use this port for good andnot blogging. Later from the next country I inhabit!
Saturday, October 23, 2004
So I’m Leaving, On A Jet Plane…
Movie Review: Alfie
But I do know when I’ll be back again – Halloween! So I’m off at the crack of dawn this fine October morning to the Philippines for EarthLink. First stop is Tokyo with Typhoon Nook-Ten bearing down on the Asia – should be good for a few laughs.
I’m traveling with my boss and a co-worker for a week and this should be interesting. I haven’t spent this much time with either of them and now I’ll be seeing them almost non-stop for a week…FUN! I’ll do my best to post from Southeast Asia this week! If nothing else, I’ll keep Angie entertained :)
So I didn’t get a chance to post my review for Alfie – the remake of the Michael Caine classic starring Jude Law. Basically, I think I would watch Jude do just about anything for as long as he likes, but this movie was a true delight. It was funny and sad all at the same time. He is a bastard when it comes to women, but is so charming as he dishes out advice to those of us sitting in the theatre and it certainly helps us women figure out bizarre behaviors of past boyfriends! I especially loved the use of these 1-word billboards that inevitably crept into the shot to give you a clue as to what was coming next – very creative.
Okay, I need to take out the trash and finish putting stuff in my suitcase. Happy Saturday!
But I do know when I’ll be back again – Halloween! So I’m off at the crack of dawn this fine October morning to the Philippines for EarthLink. First stop is Tokyo with Typhoon Nook-Ten bearing down on the Asia – should be good for a few laughs.
I’m traveling with my boss and a co-worker for a week and this should be interesting. I haven’t spent this much time with either of them and now I’ll be seeing them almost non-stop for a week…FUN! I’ll do my best to post from Southeast Asia this week! If nothing else, I’ll keep Angie entertained :)
So I didn’t get a chance to post my review for Alfie – the remake of the Michael Caine classic starring Jude Law. Basically, I think I would watch Jude do just about anything for as long as he likes, but this movie was a true delight. It was funny and sad all at the same time. He is a bastard when it comes to women, but is so charming as he dishes out advice to those of us sitting in the theatre and it certainly helps us women figure out bizarre behaviors of past boyfriends! I especially loved the use of these 1-word billboards that inevitably crept into the shot to give you a clue as to what was coming next – very creative.
Okay, I need to take out the trash and finish putting stuff in my suitcase. Happy Saturday!
Tuesday, October 19, 2004
I’ve Always Wanted to Lift an Immense Quadruped Over My Head
Movie Review: The Grudge
So I am a little behind in my reviews – sorry about that, but life has been a bit, shall we say, nutty?! Anyway, I’ve been a bit busy, but still manage to work in the occasional movie, or other form of entertainment (concerts, plays, etc). If it weren’t for my “hook-up” with the movie passes, I think I might go broke seeing 100 movies a year in the theatres. Tonight was no exception – we saw The Grudge.
Let me explain the history of this movie. It is based on Japanese lore, which states that if someone dies in a fit of rage, or immense sadness, a curse is left behind. This curse basically lives or haunts the place where the person died and proceeds to kill anyone who touches it. Enter Sarah-Michelle Gellar, a.k.a. Buffy the Vampire Slayer who is a nurse/social-worker living in Tokyo with her boyfriend and just happens to be sent to this house where such a curse resides. This movie was originally done in Japan and was called Ju-on and was by the same writer/director. Even the actor who plays the little boy in the original is in this new version. Think The Ring vs. Ringu.
So the movie was great – lots of scary parts, great audience reaction and not as predictable as you might think. If you like suspense and horror flicks – go see this movie. Oh, and Jason Behr – very sexy with his long hair and goatee!
Now for real culture, I saw Bell, Book and Candle at the Neighborhood Playhouse in Decatur, Georgia this past weekend. I have to preface my review with the fact that I am probably the greatest Jimmy Stewart fan of ALL time. I love everything he ever did and was devastated when he died in 1997. That said, I went in with not-very-high expectations – I mean this is local theatre performing a classic tale. However, a friend from work was starring in it, so I had high hopes for him. I was pleasantly surprised.
So the actors were good, with a couple of exceptional standouts. Jason Vaughn (okay, I’m a little biased as he is my friend from work) was extraordinary as the straight-laced, debonair publisher, Shep, who falls under Gillian’s spell. Keep his name handy – I’m sure you will see it in the future. And this says a lot for me, as he was replacing my idol! And Coco Chalfant as quirky Queenie – well she just stole the show. Who is this woman? She made me snigger all night (for Muggles that means snicker/giggle). I wanted more of her on stage, for sure! The rest of the cast seemed to be trying too hard – they seemed uptight in comparison. Maybe Jason and Coco were just too good for this production? I’m not sure, but I would have been happy with a 2-man show! Don’t get me wrong, I know how hard it is to do what they do – I’ve done it – but I guess I just missed Kim Novak and Jack Lemmon!
If you get the chance before the end of October, go and see this production - I think you will enjoy yourself!
Off to bed - more tomorrow!
So I am a little behind in my reviews – sorry about that, but life has been a bit, shall we say, nutty?! Anyway, I’ve been a bit busy, but still manage to work in the occasional movie, or other form of entertainment (concerts, plays, etc). If it weren’t for my “hook-up” with the movie passes, I think I might go broke seeing 100 movies a year in the theatres. Tonight was no exception – we saw The Grudge.
Let me explain the history of this movie. It is based on Japanese lore, which states that if someone dies in a fit of rage, or immense sadness, a curse is left behind. This curse basically lives or haunts the place where the person died and proceeds to kill anyone who touches it. Enter Sarah-Michelle Gellar, a.k.a. Buffy the Vampire Slayer who is a nurse/social-worker living in Tokyo with her boyfriend and just happens to be sent to this house where such a curse resides. This movie was originally done in Japan and was called Ju-on and was by the same writer/director. Even the actor who plays the little boy in the original is in this new version. Think The Ring vs. Ringu.
So the movie was great – lots of scary parts, great audience reaction and not as predictable as you might think. If you like suspense and horror flicks – go see this movie. Oh, and Jason Behr – very sexy with his long hair and goatee!
Now for real culture, I saw Bell, Book and Candle at the Neighborhood Playhouse in Decatur, Georgia this past weekend. I have to preface my review with the fact that I am probably the greatest Jimmy Stewart fan of ALL time. I love everything he ever did and was devastated when he died in 1997. That said, I went in with not-very-high expectations – I mean this is local theatre performing a classic tale. However, a friend from work was starring in it, so I had high hopes for him. I was pleasantly surprised.
So the actors were good, with a couple of exceptional standouts. Jason Vaughn (okay, I’m a little biased as he is my friend from work) was extraordinary as the straight-laced, debonair publisher, Shep, who falls under Gillian’s spell. Keep his name handy – I’m sure you will see it in the future. And this says a lot for me, as he was replacing my idol! And Coco Chalfant as quirky Queenie – well she just stole the show. Who is this woman? She made me snigger all night (for Muggles that means snicker/giggle). I wanted more of her on stage, for sure! The rest of the cast seemed to be trying too hard – they seemed uptight in comparison. Maybe Jason and Coco were just too good for this production? I’m not sure, but I would have been happy with a 2-man show! Don’t get me wrong, I know how hard it is to do what they do – I’ve done it – but I guess I just missed Kim Novak and Jack Lemmon!
If you get the chance before the end of October, go and see this production - I think you will enjoy yourself!
Off to bed - more tomorrow!
Oh, what a weird ass day...
So I wake up this morning in somewhat of a daze - nothing too new for 5:15am, but the day still seemed off. I showered, got dressed, did a little computer work for the catering business and then headed off to work. So the traffic was a bear way too early - so it took me twice as long to get into the office. I got here, dove right into work and then realized that I could not work on my first task of the day since I had not received the deliverables from other parties needed to get my task done - and here I thought I was behind schedule.
So I keep hacking and coughing - I cannot stop and it it driving me crazy. People are around that aren't usually and my boss isn't coming in until later...like I said, weird ass day!
Anywho, so lobsters...don't you just love lobsters? I mean, all juicy, with lots of warm melted butter? Okay, so technically, I'm allergic, highly allergic to lobsters (most creatures from under the sea actually), but that's not the kind of lobster I am referring to...Just ask Phoebe from Friends'The One with the Prom Video:
PHOEBE: Hang in there, it's gonna happen.
ROSS: Wha, OK, now how do you know that?
PHOEBE: Because she's your lobster.
CHANDLER: Oh, she's goin' somewhere.
PHOEBE: C'mon you guys. It's a known fact that lobsters fall in love
and mate for life. You know what, you can actually see old
lobster couples walkin' around their tank, ya know,
holding claws like. . .
That's all I'm saying :)
So hum-drum work is not as hum-drum this week. I'm preparing for my trek overseas to meet all these people I talk to each day, and I think it will be a lot of fun, but a lot of work and very exhausting!
So I keep hacking and coughing - I cannot stop and it it driving me crazy. People are around that aren't usually and my boss isn't coming in until later...like I said, weird ass day!
Anywho, so lobsters...don't you just love lobsters? I mean, all juicy, with lots of warm melted butter? Okay, so technically, I'm allergic, highly allergic to lobsters (most creatures from under the sea actually), but that's not the kind of lobster I am referring to...Just ask Phoebe from Friends'The One with the Prom Video:
PHOEBE: Hang in there, it's gonna happen.
ROSS: Wha, OK, now how do you know that?
PHOEBE: Because she's your lobster.
CHANDLER: Oh, she's goin' somewhere.
PHOEBE: C'mon you guys. It's a known fact that lobsters fall in love
and mate for life. You know what, you can actually see old
lobster couples walkin' around their tank, ya know,
holding claws like. . .
That's all I'm saying :)
So hum-drum work is not as hum-drum this week. I'm preparing for my trek overseas to meet all these people I talk to each day, and I think it will be a lot of fun, but a lot of work and very exhausting!
Friday, October 15, 2004
15 Minutes of Fame
So this has been a very odd week...but it truly started about a month ago. So I'm watching something on TV - I don't remember precisely what it was - but it doesn't matter for the story. I have the TV on, but I was working in my office on the computer and I heard a familiar voice. I looked up and knew I did not recognize the guy talking - well that's because the TV had moved onto another commercial. Thank goodness for TiVo as I backed up and found a CitiBank commercial...
You know the one, the whole office starts saying "nice email" and "you sent that to the whole company" and this guy sitting in his cube gets this look of complete terror...then the boss walks up and he tries to wiggle out of it by saying "thank you." Well, cube-boy is my friend Brian Baumgartner, whom I have known since we were 8 years old. Talk about a surprise. I mean, Brian and I did all the Drama and Choir stuff together (we had a pretty cool group of talented people) and was a truly talented actor and singer, so I wasn't surprised that he was acting, but I didn't expect to see him on TV right then.
So fast forward to 2 days ago - I was in San Fran for a week, so I was seriously behind in my TiVo watching. I started watching the LAX from 2 Mondays ago (yes, I am watching this show) and there is Brian, playing a characted named Wes. So I went and looked him up on IMDB and there he was. He was also in an episode of The Lyon's Den which didn't air and CSI from last season. SO COOL!
Anyway, not only that, but my friend April was on this show Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn on Monday as well. She is a Morrissey stalker and was in NYC to see him.
So my friends are famous - go figure! Back to work kids :)
You know the one, the whole office starts saying "nice email" and "you sent that to the whole company" and this guy sitting in his cube gets this look of complete terror...then the boss walks up and he tries to wiggle out of it by saying "thank you." Well, cube-boy is my friend Brian Baumgartner, whom I have known since we were 8 years old. Talk about a surprise. I mean, Brian and I did all the Drama and Choir stuff together (we had a pretty cool group of talented people) and was a truly talented actor and singer, so I wasn't surprised that he was acting, but I didn't expect to see him on TV right then.
So fast forward to 2 days ago - I was in San Fran for a week, so I was seriously behind in my TiVo watching. I started watching the LAX from 2 Mondays ago (yes, I am watching this show) and there is Brian, playing a characted named Wes. So I went and looked him up on IMDB and there he was. He was also in an episode of The Lyon's Den which didn't air and CSI from last season. SO COOL!
Anyway, not only that, but my friend April was on this show Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn on Monday as well. She is a Morrissey stalker and was in NYC to see him.
So my friends are famous - go figure! Back to work kids :)
Thursday, October 14, 2004
Life has taken over my life - go figure
Okay, so it has been well over a month since my last post, and it has not been intentional by any means. Basically, between work, new fall TV season and quilting, I have had little time in front of the computer - even at work!
Can you say - Meetings suck? I mean, meetings are important, no question. But 10 a day - sometimes more? Usually I have at least some portion of my day double or triple booked. I need a Mini-Me in the worst way.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the independance of not having any direct reports - in fact, it has been fabulous! However, there is only one of me, but my list has grown to be enough for at least 2 people. The Godfather (someone from work) jokes that he puts an S on the end of my name because there has to be more than 1 of me to do all the work I do - he's funny and that is sweet to say, but unfortunately, it is JUST me. I mean, I have Nessa and her team to help - thank god - but their focus has been such that truly, they don't have any time either - ARGH!
Enough about work...did I mention today how fabulous my niece is? Maggie is like the greatest little girl in the history of the world. She is so sweet and so brilliant and calls me just to tell me things. I took her to Shark Tale last week (not a bad flick) and she called me on Tuesday night to tell me that she told all her little friends at school about the movie...and apparently I am Lola!
Okay, so it is time for my next meeting - I only have 6 today...blech!
Can you say - Meetings suck? I mean, meetings are important, no question. But 10 a day - sometimes more? Usually I have at least some portion of my day double or triple booked. I need a Mini-Me in the worst way.
Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the independance of not having any direct reports - in fact, it has been fabulous! However, there is only one of me, but my list has grown to be enough for at least 2 people. The Godfather (someone from work) jokes that he puts an S on the end of my name because there has to be more than 1 of me to do all the work I do - he's funny and that is sweet to say, but unfortunately, it is JUST me. I mean, I have Nessa and her team to help - thank god - but their focus has been such that truly, they don't have any time either - ARGH!
Enough about work...did I mention today how fabulous my niece is? Maggie is like the greatest little girl in the history of the world. She is so sweet and so brilliant and calls me just to tell me things. I took her to Shark Tale last week (not a bad flick) and she called me on Tuesday night to tell me that she told all her little friends at school about the movie...and apparently I am Lola!
Okay, so it is time for my next meeting - I only have 6 today...blech!
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