Hello all - if any of you are still out there reading my BLOG. I again am sorry for my lack of posts from November to December. It has been THAT crazy since my "promotion," if you can call it that, and while I am not stressed-out (thank god for Paul), I am overworked, unpaid, and somewhat miserable. This week didn't help either.
So Monday before dawn, I awoke to find I couldn't breathe - Ahhhh, Asthma! I had a rough day all day Monday, especially when Maggie wanted to play with me and I was too winded to do anything. We did manage to watch TV for a bit and play a game she had gotten for Christmas. Otherwise, I lounged and took shallow breaths.
Tuesday morning, I could not be wakened at all - the meds I had taken had pretty much wiped me out and my mom had to really stir me to say goodbye to Maggie (sniff, sniff). Maggie came bounding onto my bed and gave me a big hug and told me goodbye. I was so drained at this point, I managed to sob myself back to sleep for 4 hours. I didn't even go into work - let's face it, work was dead and wouldn't miss me.
So Wednesday, I go to work, still sick, but luckily with a 1pm doctor's appointment. I get a call on my cell and it's Paul - he is sick (stomach issues) and was it okay if he didn't come in? Duh! Not a problem. Then he drops a bombshell on me - I have an appointment for lunch - "Angie's in town" - at 1130am (which I cannot make since I have the doctor at 1pm and should work at least a half a day). He said he understood but to please let people know and apologize for him. No worries! That, I can do.
1030am rolls around and who happens upon my desk, but Kerstin - with Mikey in tow - to remind me about lunch. Now look, I didn't know about it, nor did I arrange for this, but I got a guilt-trip for 45 minutes about not going and I could miss work and do my tasks later...you know, I am directing this at you Kerstin! And Mikey - you didn't help. Then, I start thinking about how someone would probably take it the wrong way if I didn't go, so I caved. I'm not a bitch, and nor do I ever want to be perceived as one...I'm just really fucking busy! Honestly, I'm shocked she agreed to this lunch in the first place - seemed out of characted based on her exit from Georgia.
So I went - and man was it odd. It was like I was having lunch with someone who really didn't want me around - but I tried anyway. People change, I get that, but friendships - true ones - shouldn't change for the worse. Were you ever friends in the first place? Was it all just convenience? Who knows. I have tried and tried, and I feel like no ones cares but me. I'm out of touch and feel guilty about it - but again, does anyone care but me? I may be reading things into this, but some of it was implied (hello, no eye-contact).
So we ate, I paid (for half of the meal, anyway). We chatted about nothing too meaningful and then I had to cut it short - I had to get to the doctor. I couldn't really breathe and was really sick. Turns out, I had a 102-degree fever all through lunch and didn't know it - it should have been a MAJOR clue that I did not order a burger and I was at The Vortex for crying out loud! Dude, doesn't that count for something?
I don't know - I guess it is past mattering. I guess I should be happy I got a Christmas card or something...personally, I had no time to send cards this year, but I did buy gifts (not that I saw someone during the holiday - scheduled - to give them to her). So FedEx will handle it for me.
I got lots of Will and Maggie time and I got do some fun things. I have plans for New Year's and a Poker Night penciled in a few weeks down the road. Life could be worse - don't get me wrong. I don't hate my life, I just hate what has happened to parts of it.
So tomorrow is the end of the year and I can start fresh - right? Isn't that the deal? I promise to BLOG more and take more time for myself. I will learn to delegate more once the people who work for me are ready and will stop working such freakin' long hours and have some fun! A few of you have kept me sane these past few months and for that I thank you - Stephanie has been leading the charge with Paul pulling neck-and-neck (look man, a promise of a hockey game will always make me happy)!
Happy New Year to all - I will try to post once I crawl home Sunday morning - it should be fun for most of you to read!
Friday, December 30, 2005
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Return of Kong
Movie Review: King Kong
Sorry for the lack of posts for so long - life is a bitch right now and I just have NO time! I spend it at work, running errands, or sleeping - Have I mentioned that I have been asleep by like 9 or 930pm nightly for a couple of months? I have been that beat - especially working 12-hour days! The only free time I have, I have been at my parents house helping them, or hanging with one of my friends.
I'll start by saying that it has been a slow movie year for me - mostly because my movie-going buddy moving 3000 miles away and left me to fend for myself most nights. Add in that work has gotten completely insane (I mean, this is my first post for December, after all) and I am now in the position my boss was in only two months ago - how bizarre is that?
Luckily, Leslie keeps me in passes, but I have been too sleepy to attend a lot, but I have found a couple of friends to go with me for entertainment - thank goodness. Well, I missed the Kong screening, but it was okay as I knew my brother and sister-in-law would want to see it for our traditional Christmas movie - I just thought there would be more of us in attendance...but I digress.
So Kong - what can I say? Peter Jackson has done it again! It was a little long, a few parts could have been pared down and would not have damaged the integrity of the picture, but overall it was an instant classic! The V-Rexes versus Kong scenes were absolutely incredible, but a little drawn out.
The acting was incredible - including poor Naomi Watts who had to act the entire movie in front of a Green Screen with people pretending to be the 25-foot gorilla - but you cannot even tell. She seemed to fall in love with the CGI-beast without fail and you felt every single emotion expressed on her face (uh, we had a lot of close-ups of her face since it was kinda hard to have dialog with an ape).
It was truly inspired and I know I will own this one without fail. Add it to the ever-expanding collection now - what's one more flick when you have so many? Maybe I'll have to move into a 3-bedroom place next, huh?
Sorry for the lack of posts for so long - life is a bitch right now and I just have NO time! I spend it at work, running errands, or sleeping - Have I mentioned that I have been asleep by like 9 or 930pm nightly for a couple of months? I have been that beat - especially working 12-hour days! The only free time I have, I have been at my parents house helping them, or hanging with one of my friends.
I'll start by saying that it has been a slow movie year for me - mostly because my movie-going buddy moving 3000 miles away and left me to fend for myself most nights. Add in that work has gotten completely insane (I mean, this is my first post for December, after all) and I am now in the position my boss was in only two months ago - how bizarre is that?
Luckily, Leslie keeps me in passes, but I have been too sleepy to attend a lot, but I have found a couple of friends to go with me for entertainment - thank goodness. Well, I missed the Kong screening, but it was okay as I knew my brother and sister-in-law would want to see it for our traditional Christmas movie - I just thought there would be more of us in attendance...but I digress.
So Kong - what can I say? Peter Jackson has done it again! It was a little long, a few parts could have been pared down and would not have damaged the integrity of the picture, but overall it was an instant classic! The V-Rexes versus Kong scenes were absolutely incredible, but a little drawn out.
The acting was incredible - including poor Naomi Watts who had to act the entire movie in front of a Green Screen with people pretending to be the 25-foot gorilla - but you cannot even tell. She seemed to fall in love with the CGI-beast without fail and you felt every single emotion expressed on her face (uh, we had a lot of close-ups of her face since it was kinda hard to have dialog with an ape).
It was truly inspired and I know I will own this one without fail. Add it to the ever-expanding collection now - what's one more flick when you have so many? Maybe I'll have to move into a 3-bedroom place next, huh?
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
The Long Journey Home
Alas, I am home once again, but not without happy memories and a desire for the Christmas spirit to bite me in the ass!
Unfortunately, I did not have the best in-air experience. Who said people can take cats and dogs on planes. Now look, they banished bags of peanuts for people with peanut allergies, but more people in the world are allergic to dander (and highly allergic to cats) and therefore the cats and dogs should be banished!
Now look, I love animals - I do! However, I just cannot be around them in closed spaces (and just ask my old boss Clare about me in parks with them). I know some of you have pets you need to transport cross-country, but there are other ways.
Luckily, I had a savior names Reiko - the flight attendant who went to bat - and almost to blows - for allergic folks everywhere. I never complained - my eyes swelled up and I had trouble breathing and just tried to sleep through it all, but this woman (the row in front of me) kept taking her dog out of the carrier and petting her vigorously thus releasing tons of dander into the plane - NICE! The woman next to me also had a problem, but she couldn't see the dog, so she had no idea why.
Finally, the passenger put the dog away and kept it away the rest of the flight, but the damage was done. All I could do was thank the flight attendant for her help and hope I made it to Atlanta still breathing!
So I am home and work is gonna be nuts for a couple of weeks, but then the kiddies will be in town for an entire week! How many days left until Christmas??
Unfortunately, I did not have the best in-air experience. Who said people can take cats and dogs on planes. Now look, they banished bags of peanuts for people with peanut allergies, but more people in the world are allergic to dander (and highly allergic to cats) and therefore the cats and dogs should be banished!
Now look, I love animals - I do! However, I just cannot be around them in closed spaces (and just ask my old boss Clare about me in parks with them). I know some of you have pets you need to transport cross-country, but there are other ways.
Luckily, I had a savior names Reiko - the flight attendant who went to bat - and almost to blows - for allergic folks everywhere. I never complained - my eyes swelled up and I had trouble breathing and just tried to sleep through it all, but this woman (the row in front of me) kept taking her dog out of the carrier and petting her vigorously thus releasing tons of dander into the plane - NICE! The woman next to me also had a problem, but she couldn't see the dog, so she had no idea why.
Finally, the passenger put the dog away and kept it away the rest of the flight, but the damage was done. All I could do was thank the flight attendant for her help and hope I made it to Atlanta still breathing!
So I am home and work is gonna be nuts for a couple of weeks, but then the kiddies will be in town for an entire week! How many days left until Christmas??
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Tea for Four
My sister-in-law loves to fill up the days and hours with lots of things to do when the family (mostly the parents) are in town for the week, and this time she suggested a Children's Tea. Sounded interesting, but quite the unknown event for me. But it was an afternoon with the ladies (including the littlest lady, Maggie).
We headed to Palo Alto and went to this little tea shop where we were served by two young ladies, one who was only 9 or 10! We each picked our tea (Maggie got her own tea pot with milk in it) and a plate of goodies for each of us. Maggie ended up with 4 little heart-shaped peanut butter sandwiches that she absolutely adored, while the grown-ups had other tea sandwiches, little quiches, tartlets and the like. We had quite a nice time and Maggie was very well-behaved.
This was too much fun - it seemed like such a relaxing way to sit with the girls and talk (and eat) and just enjoy it. I highly recommend it for anyone who might be interested. Now I just have to find tea rooms here AND a group of ladies that might consider making it a monthly event...I can be SUCH a girl sometimes!
We headed to Palo Alto and went to this little tea shop where we were served by two young ladies, one who was only 9 or 10! We each picked our tea (Maggie got her own tea pot with milk in it) and a plate of goodies for each of us. Maggie ended up with 4 little heart-shaped peanut butter sandwiches that she absolutely adored, while the grown-ups had other tea sandwiches, little quiches, tartlets and the like. We had quite a nice time and Maggie was very well-behaved.
This was too much fun - it seemed like such a relaxing way to sit with the girls and talk (and eat) and just enjoy it. I highly recommend it for anyone who might be interested. Now I just have to find tea rooms here AND a group of ladies that might consider making it a monthly event...I can be SUCH a girl sometimes!
Friday, November 25, 2005
A Tale of Two Turkeys
Happy Turkey Day, one and all (unless you are in Canada)!
A hearty dinner and some full bellies later...
In my family, we have a tradition of deep-frying the turkey - I may have Thanksgiving in California, but we are from the South! My brother makes quite the spectacle of lowering that bird into the hot fat - but DAYHUM isn't it right tasty!
So in order for there to be enough for all AND for turkey sandwiches all weekend (on homemade bread, of course), we have to also roast a turkey. I am of the mind that when you cannot find the perfect recipe, take the best aspects of several and create your own. Not only do you end up with tasty vittles, but you can call it your own ;)!
So I roasted a turkey over some stuffing (yes, I said over) and it was delicious - I wish you could have been there to partake. I'd post the menu, but why torture you?
So I hope you all had just as happy a Turkey Day as we did - here's to the Christmas feast in our short futures!
A hearty dinner and some full bellies later...
In my family, we have a tradition of deep-frying the turkey - I may have Thanksgiving in California, but we are from the South! My brother makes quite the spectacle of lowering that bird into the hot fat - but DAYHUM isn't it right tasty!
So in order for there to be enough for all AND for turkey sandwiches all weekend (on homemade bread, of course), we have to also roast a turkey. I am of the mind that when you cannot find the perfect recipe, take the best aspects of several and create your own. Not only do you end up with tasty vittles, but you can call it your own ;)!
So I roasted a turkey over some stuffing (yes, I said over) and it was delicious - I wish you could have been there to partake. I'd post the menu, but why torture you?
So I hope you all had just as happy a Turkey Day as we did - here's to the Christmas feast in our short futures!
Thursday, November 24, 2005
A Day at the Cirque
Theatre Review: Corteo
Corteo, meaning a joyful procession, was just that. This centers around a clown who dreams of his own funeral and is a very light a playful atmosphere. In a carnival-like environment, you really get pulled into the wonderment of it all. Tightrope walkers, jugglers, acrobats, flying bicycles, the works!
The music in this version of Cirque was truly inspirational. It was not intrusive, it flowed well with the feelings portrayed in the work on stage. I highly recommend all Cirque Shows honestly - but I still haven't seen a couple of them.
Saltimbanco
Quidam
Dralion
Alegria
Varekai
Mystere
KA
Corteo
"O" - unseen
La Nouba - unseen
Zumanity - unseen
This one is not my favorite, but it was really amazing and well worth the cost of admission. At least I got to see this one now, instead of waiting a year for it to come to Atlanta!
Corteo, meaning a joyful procession, was just that. This centers around a clown who dreams of his own funeral and is a very light a playful atmosphere. In a carnival-like environment, you really get pulled into the wonderment of it all. Tightrope walkers, jugglers, acrobats, flying bicycles, the works!
The music in this version of Cirque was truly inspirational. It was not intrusive, it flowed well with the feelings portrayed in the work on stage. I highly recommend all Cirque Shows honestly - but I still haven't seen a couple of them.
Saltimbanco
Quidam
Dralion
Alegria
Varekai
Mystere
KA
Corteo
"O" - unseen
La Nouba - unseen
Zumanity - unseen
This one is not my favorite, but it was really amazing and well worth the cost of admission. At least I got to see this one now, instead of waiting a year for it to come to Atlanta!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
To Market, To Market
An entire day at the Ferry Building Market and fancy food for lunch - what could be better? Squash Blossoms, Arugula, Asian Pears, Millions of Peppers, my idea of Eden.
So my family and I spent the day on the Bay shopping for fresh fruits and veggies for our Thanksgiving Dinner. We had a pleasant late lunch, including a sampling of breads, chocolates, fruits, and gelatos. And behold, we found the turkey of all turkeys...A Heritage Bourbon Red Turkey! This is the Porshe of turkeys. My brother and I saw red and jumped at the chance. We ordered ourselves one and walked away patting ourselves on the backs for being so alert as to find them.
These turkeys are more along the lines of the original turkeys in this country and have much more flavor then your regular white, almost tasteless birds. However, the deposit we put down on a 14-pound Red was $50...YIKES! So we changed our minds and decided spending $200 for a turkey was a bit extravagant.
Anyway, no worries, it is the Frank household and we can make an extravagant meal without such a bird...but I do want to try it at some point.
Nothing else exciting to report (not that the above is anything to write home about). Ahhhhh, the Bay Area. Oh, how I miss it!
So my family and I spent the day on the Bay shopping for fresh fruits and veggies for our Thanksgiving Dinner. We had a pleasant late lunch, including a sampling of breads, chocolates, fruits, and gelatos. And behold, we found the turkey of all turkeys...A Heritage Bourbon Red Turkey! This is the Porshe of turkeys. My brother and I saw red and jumped at the chance. We ordered ourselves one and walked away patting ourselves on the backs for being so alert as to find them.
These turkeys are more along the lines of the original turkeys in this country and have much more flavor then your regular white, almost tasteless birds. However, the deposit we put down on a 14-pound Red was $50...YIKES! So we changed our minds and decided spending $200 for a turkey was a bit extravagant.
Anyway, no worries, it is the Frank household and we can make an extravagant meal without such a bird...but I do want to try it at some point.
Nothing else exciting to report (not that the above is anything to write home about). Ahhhhh, the Bay Area. Oh, how I miss it!
Monday, November 21, 2005
A Well-Deserved Break
Vacation at last! A nice long trip to San Francisco with my family to spend a very happy and fruitful week for Thanksgiving.
I'm leaving work here in a couple of hours and look forward to the long plane ride across the country to see my Peanut (nephew) and my Punkin (niece). Nothing is better than taking a week off from work and cooking and eating good food, right?
Now if everyone would just leave me alone until 1pm, then maybe I can waste my last bit of time without interruption!
tick...tick...tick...tick...
I'm leaving work here in a couple of hours and look forward to the long plane ride across the country to see my Peanut (nephew) and my Punkin (niece). Nothing is better than taking a week off from work and cooking and eating good food, right?
Now if everyone would just leave me alone until 1pm, then maybe I can waste my last bit of time without interruption!
tick...tick...tick...tick...
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Difficult Times Lie Ahead, Harry
Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Let me preface by saying just this - this is the best Harry Potter movie to date. That said, and sicne many people in the world have NOT seen this yet, there are no spoilers ahead, unless you do NOT read the books.
The Dark Mark has re-emerged and this can mean only one thing - Death Eaters! Not only is this the most dangerous time for Harry due to the return of Voldemort's henchmen, but also because people are conspiring to bring Harry face-to-face with the Dark Lord by entering him in the Triwizard tournament - a Wizardy School triathalon pitting the 3 schools against each other (Hogwarts, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang) for the unlimtate prize, the Triwizard cup.
This is by far, the darkest of the movies so far, but this makes sense since it was the darkest (and longest) of the books so far. But honestly, I felt this was one of the truest adaptations. Look, there was nothing about Hermione liberating House Elves, but it was no great loss.
All the tasks were brought to life brilliantly by Mike Newell. I was on the edge of my seat, chearing Harry on, and found myself holding my breath several times during the 2 hours and 45 minutes of the flick.
This is what sequals and adaptations should be - Hollywood, take note. You must see this movie if you have enjoyed any of the previous films or any of the books. This is the reason I love movies and spend my time in the dark theatres. See this film!
A special "shout out" to Leslie for the pleasant surprise in my mailbox. This was the best pass I have received thus far. Thanks for taking such good care of me and my habits!
Let me preface by saying just this - this is the best Harry Potter movie to date. That said, and sicne many people in the world have NOT seen this yet, there are no spoilers ahead, unless you do NOT read the books.
The Dark Mark has re-emerged and this can mean only one thing - Death Eaters! Not only is this the most dangerous time for Harry due to the return of Voldemort's henchmen, but also because people are conspiring to bring Harry face-to-face with the Dark Lord by entering him in the Triwizard tournament - a Wizardy School triathalon pitting the 3 schools against each other (Hogwarts, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang) for the unlimtate prize, the Triwizard cup.
This is by far, the darkest of the movies so far, but this makes sense since it was the darkest (and longest) of the books so far. But honestly, I felt this was one of the truest adaptations. Look, there was nothing about Hermione liberating House Elves, but it was no great loss.
All the tasks were brought to life brilliantly by Mike Newell. I was on the edge of my seat, chearing Harry on, and found myself holding my breath several times during the 2 hours and 45 minutes of the flick.
This is what sequals and adaptations should be - Hollywood, take note. You must see this movie if you have enjoyed any of the previous films or any of the books. This is the reason I love movies and spend my time in the dark theatres. See this film!
A special "shout out" to Leslie for the pleasant surprise in my mailbox. This was the best pass I have received thus far. Thanks for taking such good care of me and my habits!
Friday, November 11, 2005
Land Ho!
I finally am home, have napped a bit and now am wide awake! From Manila, to Tokyo, to LA, to Atlanta - lots of sleep, a few meals and several movies later and it is great to be home!
So there is nothing exciting about this trip home except that I am glad it's over. The most exhausting part of my entire trip was my driver from the airport - Robbie. Wow, that guy can talk! I guess it was good that he kept me awake, but seriously, such a name-dropper...and I am nobody so why does he care?
At least the LA airport provided some entertainment in the form of people watching. The fashions (both clothes and hair) were a sight to see, but seeing poor Kirk Cameron being mobbed by teenage girls and old ladies was the icing on the cake. The guy was just trying to get a Latte at Starbucks. Anyway, his travelling companion was an evangelist of some kind handing out million dollar bills with Christian messages on them. Very odd and somewhat surreal.
Personally, I was much more impressed that I saw a soap star I recognized, Becky Herbst. I'm a girl, what can I say :)
I'm just happy to be home for a minute before I head to SFO for Thanksgiving!
So there is nothing exciting about this trip home except that I am glad it's over. The most exhausting part of my entire trip was my driver from the airport - Robbie. Wow, that guy can talk! I guess it was good that he kept me awake, but seriously, such a name-dropper...and I am nobody so why does he care?
At least the LA airport provided some entertainment in the form of people watching. The fashions (both clothes and hair) were a sight to see, but seeing poor Kirk Cameron being mobbed by teenage girls and old ladies was the icing on the cake. The guy was just trying to get a Latte at Starbucks. Anyway, his travelling companion was an evangelist of some kind handing out million dollar bills with Christian messages on them. Very odd and somewhat surreal.
Personally, I was much more impressed that I saw a soap star I recognized, Becky Herbst. I'm a girl, what can I say :)
I'm just happy to be home for a minute before I head to SFO for Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
McDo's and McDon'ts
Every country has a different McDonald's menu. While shopping in the mall across from our hotel, Julia said she wanted to go into the restaurant to look at the menu. Little did we know, that such an act would cause such side-splitting laughter for me and Traci.
Introducing the McDo.
Honestly, we had no idea what it was, what was on it, nothing, but the name just sent us into such a fit of laughter, that we had to walk out of the restaurant. Turns out, it is a hamburger with some Honey-Barbecue sauce. Couple that with the McSpaghetti and the Corn-Dipped Ice Cream Cone, and Traci and I would never recover.
I will admit, that most of you needed to be there for this to be so hysterical, but imagine if you will 3 women who were road wearily, sleep deprived and shopping at the equivalent of 11pm in Atlanta. Yeah...we lost it.
The side effects of such an outing were the subsequent conversations about the "McDo Flu," an ailment that apparently causes your ankles to swell, constant laughter and a flightiness that can only be attributed to our crazy gang of CS misfits.
I need sleep!
Introducing the McDo.
Honestly, we had no idea what it was, what was on it, nothing, but the name just sent us into such a fit of laughter, that we had to walk out of the restaurant. Turns out, it is a hamburger with some Honey-Barbecue sauce. Couple that with the McSpaghetti and the Corn-Dipped Ice Cream Cone, and Traci and I would never recover.
I will admit, that most of you needed to be there for this to be so hysterical, but imagine if you will 3 women who were road wearily, sleep deprived and shopping at the equivalent of 11pm in Atlanta. Yeah...we lost it.
The side effects of such an outing were the subsequent conversations about the "McDo Flu," an ailment that apparently causes your ankles to swell, constant laughter and a flightiness that can only be attributed to our crazy gang of CS misfits.
I need sleep!
Saturday, November 05, 2005
The Long Road Back Again
Hello my friends. Sorry it has been so long since I have posted, but many things have been happening at work and my job recently got a lot bigger. I have a new boss (yes, Chester is now my peer) and more responsibility. However, I did get a team of my very own and I couldn't be happier. The catch? Well, two people on the new team have not been in customer service at this company before, and therefore have no knowledge of our customer calls, or systems, our agents. Wow, you are thinking my name should be Unlucky Lindy, right? Nope! I have good folks who are eager to learn and absorb and therefore we are in Manila once again!
After a day and a half of travelling (yuck), here we are in the fancy Shangri-La in Makati City living it up! Today, my good friend, Exx, and his girlfriend, Cathy, took us to the mall - Greenhills. Now Traci, one of my newbies, had not been here before, but had heard all about my pearl shopping experience, and therefore that was the first stop. And boy, did I make a dent...in the checkbook, that is.
Traci bought many things, mostly for family and friends, including a watch for her husband and a bag for her sister...she has to learn to buy for herself too! Julia missed out - she is under the weather (some combo of sinuses and migraine) and she decided to stay in bed (smart thinking). Exx, being ever the host, offered to take her again later in the week.
This being my 3rd stay here, apparently that warranted an upgrade to an Executive Suite (ooooo, fancy). I feel SO special!
I'm not sure what the rest of our day will hold, but it should prove interesting. Stay tuned for more from the Philippines!
After a day and a half of travelling (yuck), here we are in the fancy Shangri-La in Makati City living it up! Today, my good friend, Exx, and his girlfriend, Cathy, took us to the mall - Greenhills. Now Traci, one of my newbies, had not been here before, but had heard all about my pearl shopping experience, and therefore that was the first stop. And boy, did I make a dent...in the checkbook, that is.
Traci bought many things, mostly for family and friends, including a watch for her husband and a bag for her sister...she has to learn to buy for herself too! Julia missed out - she is under the weather (some combo of sinuses and migraine) and she decided to stay in bed (smart thinking). Exx, being ever the host, offered to take her again later in the week.
This being my 3rd stay here, apparently that warranted an upgrade to an Executive Suite (ooooo, fancy). I feel SO special!
I'm not sure what the rest of our day will hold, but it should prove interesting. Stay tuned for more from the Philippines!
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
4 8 15 16 23 42 = 108!
Television Review: "Lost"
Sorry I haven't posted in almost 2 weeks, but remember that bug I thought I had...well, I still have it and I don't think it is just a bug now. So I have spent the past 2 weeks eating nothing but mashed potatoes, soup and bread...anything else enters my body and I get horribly sick. I'm walking around in a constant state of nausea and have gone days at a time with out consuming anything! Not fun.
So today, after all the water cooler discussions here at work, I decided to turn from the big screen to the small one and talk about the best show on television today - LOST.
I will start by saying that I have been a long time fan of J.J. Abrams - his writing has been incredible for close to 15 years and I remain addicted. From his screen writing for Regarding Henry and Forever Young (we'll just ignore Armageddon), to his breakthrough TV gems of "Felicity" and "Alias", J.J. spins a tale like no other.
After Season One, I thought to myself, they cannot keep this level of effort up for yet another season, can they? But truly, they have. Now, I will preface this by saying that the following are theories, not Spoliers. These are just some revelations my Lost buddies and I have come up with. But let's start with the obvious, but not-so-obvious items.
The Numbers:
These numbers are everywhere. Some people may have missed it, but all throughout Season One, they seemed to pop up all over the place. Dates spoken, times spoked - Mr. Rutherford's time of death, 8:15 - soccer jersey numbers, medicine vials, even the flight number - all have the core 6 numbers in them...until Season Two, this was it for the numbers...now we have a new number - 108. Well this number, duh why didn't we think of this before, is the sum of the mysterious 6 numbers...oooooo, intrigue.
The Tailies:
The 23 survivors from the tail section on the plane. They have dwindled in numbers - why? Most likely, they are being tortured by the Others. Or this mysterious disease has gotten them. My first thought was that this was an Alive scenario, but I have since thought better of it.
The Others:
Are these the Tailies? I think not - I think these are a different set of people hiding on the island. They are the ones who stole Danielle's baby and this is the group where Ethan came from...remember him? The Others like to kidnap children. Did this crash occur just to get Walt?
Walt:
Some sort of "special" kid. He makes things happen on the island by thinking of them - the Polar Bear from the comic book. He appears as an apparition to Shannon and the only discernable word out of his mouth, if I was reading lips right, was "button." So he knows about the button...hmmmmm.
The Button:
Does it or doesn't it? Is it the way to prevent something unspeakable from happening? What might happen if 108 minutes pass and the button isn't pressed?
The Orientation Film:
What is missing? That movie jumped around too much to not have been spliced. I worked in movie theatres too long not to recognize the tell-tale splicing. Something was cut out of that movie...but what? What was too disturbing to show, or what did the first hermit cut out so that Desmond would stick around?
Desmond:
Hermit #2 with amazing healing powers...is he sent from the heavens? I feel like he had something to do with Mrs. Dr. Jack's healed spine and Locke's sudden ability to walk again. And where is he running to and what will happen when he gets there? This is not the last of him...and are his powers tied to Walt's?
Locke:
Why was he in that wheelchair? What happened between his lady friend catching him at his dad's house again and him being unable to walk? Why does he have these survival skills (and all those knives) if he worked at a box company and a toy store? And what is his fascination with certain survivors...Kate, Boone, Claire?
Claire and Charlie & Shannon and Sayid:
Will they or won't they? Will this show ever go there? C'mon, they have been on this island for 40 some odd days - people are getting close - are you telling me there is no action going on here? Even on Survivor, it takes less than 39 days for 2 people to hook up. They have to go there soon - we can only suspend disbelief for so long...
The Hatch:
...And then there were 2. So the Original 42 have a hatch and the 23 Tailies have a hatch (notice the numbers) - what is going on with the hatches? Observation posts? Why do they need such powerful magnets? Well, magnets do mess with navigational systems - this is probably why no one has found the island on purpose...
That's all I can think of at the moment - I may build on these theories more later.
Are you watching this show, too? If so, feel free to respond with your own theories - I would love to read them. If not, why not? What are you afraid of? If you too are sucked into this - check out The Fuselage and Oceanic Airlines...these are some great sites!
Sorry I haven't posted in almost 2 weeks, but remember that bug I thought I had...well, I still have it and I don't think it is just a bug now. So I have spent the past 2 weeks eating nothing but mashed potatoes, soup and bread...anything else enters my body and I get horribly sick. I'm walking around in a constant state of nausea and have gone days at a time with out consuming anything! Not fun.
So today, after all the water cooler discussions here at work, I decided to turn from the big screen to the small one and talk about the best show on television today - LOST.
I will start by saying that I have been a long time fan of J.J. Abrams - his writing has been incredible for close to 15 years and I remain addicted. From his screen writing for Regarding Henry and Forever Young (we'll just ignore Armageddon), to his breakthrough TV gems of "Felicity" and "Alias", J.J. spins a tale like no other.
After Season One, I thought to myself, they cannot keep this level of effort up for yet another season, can they? But truly, they have. Now, I will preface this by saying that the following are theories, not Spoliers. These are just some revelations my Lost buddies and I have come up with. But let's start with the obvious, but not-so-obvious items.
The Numbers:
These numbers are everywhere. Some people may have missed it, but all throughout Season One, they seemed to pop up all over the place. Dates spoken, times spoked - Mr. Rutherford's time of death, 8:15 - soccer jersey numbers, medicine vials, even the flight number - all have the core 6 numbers in them...until Season Two, this was it for the numbers...now we have a new number - 108. Well this number, duh why didn't we think of this before, is the sum of the mysterious 6 numbers...oooooo, intrigue.
The Tailies:
The 23 survivors from the tail section on the plane. They have dwindled in numbers - why? Most likely, they are being tortured by the Others. Or this mysterious disease has gotten them. My first thought was that this was an Alive scenario, but I have since thought better of it.
The Others:
Are these the Tailies? I think not - I think these are a different set of people hiding on the island. They are the ones who stole Danielle's baby and this is the group where Ethan came from...remember him? The Others like to kidnap children. Did this crash occur just to get Walt?
Walt:
Some sort of "special" kid. He makes things happen on the island by thinking of them - the Polar Bear from the comic book. He appears as an apparition to Shannon and the only discernable word out of his mouth, if I was reading lips right, was "button." So he knows about the button...hmmmmm.
The Button:
Does it or doesn't it? Is it the way to prevent something unspeakable from happening? What might happen if 108 minutes pass and the button isn't pressed?
The Orientation Film:
What is missing? That movie jumped around too much to not have been spliced. I worked in movie theatres too long not to recognize the tell-tale splicing. Something was cut out of that movie...but what? What was too disturbing to show, or what did the first hermit cut out so that Desmond would stick around?
Desmond:
Hermit #2 with amazing healing powers...is he sent from the heavens? I feel like he had something to do with Mrs. Dr. Jack's healed spine and Locke's sudden ability to walk again. And where is he running to and what will happen when he gets there? This is not the last of him...and are his powers tied to Walt's?
Locke:
Why was he in that wheelchair? What happened between his lady friend catching him at his dad's house again and him being unable to walk? Why does he have these survival skills (and all those knives) if he worked at a box company and a toy store? And what is his fascination with certain survivors...Kate, Boone, Claire?
Claire and Charlie & Shannon and Sayid:
Will they or won't they? Will this show ever go there? C'mon, they have been on this island for 40 some odd days - people are getting close - are you telling me there is no action going on here? Even on Survivor, it takes less than 39 days for 2 people to hook up. They have to go there soon - we can only suspend disbelief for so long...
The Hatch:
...And then there were 2. So the Original 42 have a hatch and the 23 Tailies have a hatch (notice the numbers) - what is going on with the hatches? Observation posts? Why do they need such powerful magnets? Well, magnets do mess with navigational systems - this is probably why no one has found the island on purpose...
That's all I can think of at the moment - I may build on these theories more later.
Are you watching this show, too? If so, feel free to respond with your own theories - I would love to read them. If not, why not? What are you afraid of? If you too are sucked into this - check out The Fuselage and Oceanic Airlines...these are some great sites!
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
Stroke of Luck
Movie Review: The Greatest Game Ever Played
Yet another Mommy Movie since I was in San Francisco - this is a nice little tradition my sister-in-law and I have. Believe it or not, it is always quite enjoyable!
This week was an interesting choice, but actually a pretty decent movie. Look, if this had not been the chosen movie for the Reel Moms, I probably would not have seen it in the theatres - let's be honest. But I certainly didn't feel like my time was wasted in any way.
So let's discuss the odd and varied carrer of Bill Paxton to start. Believe it or not, he is the director of this flick and I would have to say that he did a very nice job in creating the right mood and atmosphere. He has come a long way from the days of the Fish Heads music video - one of my personal favorites! Honestly, I think this was the most redeeming quality of this movie - the direction and cinematography - it made it worthwhile.
Now, I'm not implying that the acting of the young Shia LaBeouf wasn't good - it was - but I feel like he left something on the table...something was missing here. What he did, he did well, but he still has some work to do on his craft. I don't know what it is, but he always seems the same to me not matter what the emotion - but let's face it, he IS young.
After the movie, we had a nice lunch and headed home. Unfortunately, by the time we got home I was violently ill and ended up flying home ill (thank goodness I had an entire 3 seats to myself to stretch out and sleep). Today sucked as I was still terribly ill - I can't seem to keep anything down...BLECH. Not the way I wanted to end my trip at all!
Yet another Mommy Movie since I was in San Francisco - this is a nice little tradition my sister-in-law and I have. Believe it or not, it is always quite enjoyable!
This week was an interesting choice, but actually a pretty decent movie. Look, if this had not been the chosen movie for the Reel Moms, I probably would not have seen it in the theatres - let's be honest. But I certainly didn't feel like my time was wasted in any way.
So let's discuss the odd and varied carrer of Bill Paxton to start. Believe it or not, he is the director of this flick and I would have to say that he did a very nice job in creating the right mood and atmosphere. He has come a long way from the days of the Fish Heads music video - one of my personal favorites! Honestly, I think this was the most redeeming quality of this movie - the direction and cinematography - it made it worthwhile.
Now, I'm not implying that the acting of the young Shia LaBeouf wasn't good - it was - but I feel like he left something on the table...something was missing here. What he did, he did well, but he still has some work to do on his craft. I don't know what it is, but he always seems the same to me not matter what the emotion - but let's face it, he IS young.
After the movie, we had a nice lunch and headed home. Unfortunately, by the time we got home I was violently ill and ended up flying home ill (thank goodness I had an entire 3 seats to myself to stretch out and sleep). Today sucked as I was still terribly ill - I can't seem to keep anything down...BLECH. Not the way I wanted to end my trip at all!
Monday, October 03, 2005
An Incredible Birthday
How can it be? How does time fly by so quickly anyway? It seems almost unnatural for Maggie to be 4 years old already. I remember holding her as a baby and watching her take her first steps and hearing her first words...
Now it is 2005 and Maggie and I have long and quite cohesive telephone conversations. She knows what she wants and isn't afraid to ask for it! Starting with her birthday cake for her 4th birthday party (which was held yesterday). Maggie has known for some time that she wanted an Aunt D chocolate cake and that she wanted The Incredibles in a purple bubble on it..."all of them, Aunt D, even Jack Jack"
Okay, well, let me start by explaining that I am not a great artist - I just cannot draw. Pen and paper is hard enough, but try using an icing bag! So I had been stressing over how I was going to draw 5 superheros in a purple bubble (for those of you who don't know, the "purple bubble," as Maggie likes to call it, is the force field that Violet uses as her super-power). However, I had an epiphany - bakeries have been putting kids' school photos and the like on cakes for a few years now. All I had to do was find a bakery willing to do a scan for me and not have me buy the cake from them...enter Christina, my sister-in-law. She called a local place and they said it was no problem - $12. BOOK IT!
So here is the end result:
I'm happy with it and Maggie was happy with it - what more can I say? All in all it was a great birthday experience for Maggie and she will hopefully remember it always!
Now it is 2005 and Maggie and I have long and quite cohesive telephone conversations. She knows what she wants and isn't afraid to ask for it! Starting with her birthday cake for her 4th birthday party (which was held yesterday). Maggie has known for some time that she wanted an Aunt D chocolate cake and that she wanted The Incredibles in a purple bubble on it..."all of them, Aunt D, even Jack Jack"
Okay, well, let me start by explaining that I am not a great artist - I just cannot draw. Pen and paper is hard enough, but try using an icing bag! So I had been stressing over how I was going to draw 5 superheros in a purple bubble (for those of you who don't know, the "purple bubble," as Maggie likes to call it, is the force field that Violet uses as her super-power). However, I had an epiphany - bakeries have been putting kids' school photos and the like on cakes for a few years now. All I had to do was find a bakery willing to do a scan for me and not have me buy the cake from them...enter Christina, my sister-in-law. She called a local place and they said it was no problem - $12. BOOK IT!
So here is the end result:
I'm happy with it and Maggie was happy with it - what more can I say? All in all it was a great birthday experience for Maggie and she will hopefully remember it always!
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
The Reincarnation of the Browncoats
Movie Review: Serenity
"JOSS WHEDON IS MY MASTER NOW," so sayeth a T-shirt or two at the screening last night of this fall's most anticipated TV to Big Screen adaptation to hit the theatres - only this time it isn't really an adaptation, but more of an homage, or episodes 12 and 13 some might say. This is on sci-fi western that has been sorely missed on the little screen by fans and those same fans herald its return to multiplexes everywhere!
Universal Studios has been really wise about the release of such an anticipated film – screen it for 6 months to all the fans out there (Browncoats) and let them spread the word – they call that marketing genius.
I do want to state that you do not have to be a fan of the show to enjoy this movie – many members of last night’s audience admittedly had never watched Firefly, and they were some of the most vocal!
This flick has some big surprises while keeping the feel of the TV show. It explained so much, yet opened up many new questions for those of us dying to know. Now if this can do some good box office money and allow us either TV or another movie, I will be a very happy camper!
"JOSS WHEDON IS MY MASTER NOW," so sayeth a T-shirt or two at the screening last night of this fall's most anticipated TV to Big Screen adaptation to hit the theatres - only this time it isn't really an adaptation, but more of an homage, or episodes 12 and 13 some might say. This is on sci-fi western that has been sorely missed on the little screen by fans and those same fans herald its return to multiplexes everywhere!
Universal Studios has been really wise about the release of such an anticipated film – screen it for 6 months to all the fans out there (Browncoats) and let them spread the word – they call that marketing genius.
I do want to state that you do not have to be a fan of the show to enjoy this movie – many members of last night’s audience admittedly had never watched Firefly, and they were some of the most vocal!
This flick has some big surprises while keeping the feel of the TV show. It explained so much, yet opened up many new questions for those of us dying to know. Now if this can do some good box office money and allow us either TV or another movie, I will be a very happy camper!
Monday, September 26, 2005
The Little Lady Vanishes
Movie Review: Flightplan
Good, not great. I have to start by stating this fact (which should be obvious to most). You spend most of this movie trying to figure out if Jodie Foster is crazy or just plain insane. Personally, I was fitting her for a rubber room most of the movie, but I will give her credit for exercising her acting chops quite convincingly.
Now, as for plausibility - Red Eye was better at the mid-air terror plot-wise, but Flightplan was more brilliantly photographed. I was not really on the edge of my seat for this one, but I was not entirely disappointed. Now, the mystery of the plot - I figured out too early. It was not a complete waste of time or money, but you could wait for the Netflix queue for this one and not lose anything.
I would have to say that I would not mind traveling on such a lush airplane on my trips to the Philippines, but at least give me better Flight Attendants. At least for a laugh, you need to check out this article for some entertainment...it makes seeing this movie worthwhile and begs the question - "What is this world coming to?" By all means, compare the impact of 9/11 and a Hollywood movie - that makes sense?!?
Good, not great. I have to start by stating this fact (which should be obvious to most). You spend most of this movie trying to figure out if Jodie Foster is crazy or just plain insane. Personally, I was fitting her for a rubber room most of the movie, but I will give her credit for exercising her acting chops quite convincingly.
Now, as for plausibility - Red Eye was better at the mid-air terror plot-wise, but Flightplan was more brilliantly photographed. I was not really on the edge of my seat for this one, but I was not entirely disappointed. Now, the mystery of the plot - I figured out too early. It was not a complete waste of time or money, but you could wait for the Netflix queue for this one and not lose anything.
I would have to say that I would not mind traveling on such a lush airplane on my trips to the Philippines, but at least give me better Flight Attendants. At least for a laugh, you need to check out this article for some entertainment...it makes seeing this movie worthwhile and begs the question - "What is this world coming to?" By all means, compare the impact of 9/11 and a Hollywood movie - that makes sense?!?
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Wedding the Dead
Movie Review: Tim Burton's Corpse Bride
The vision and creativity of Tim Burton never fails to amaze me - and this new stop-motion installment is no different.
Let me preface this review by stating that this movie is NOT for everyone. However, if you are a fan of such gems as Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas, this movie should delight you just as much.
This movie is witty and ghoulish, funny and deranged, dark and gothic. This is the Runaway Groom meets Night of the Living Dead version of animation and the irony that ensues is well worth the 90 minutes of entertainment.
The characters - all all-star voice cast – make this story what it is. The Everglots, an aristocratic family who is down on their luck (and funds) have decided to marry off their daughter Victoria to the local nouveaux riche fishmonger couple's son, Victor. After much performance anxiety, Victor runs to the woods to practice his vows. When he places the ring on what appears to be a branch, suddenly he is faced with the Corpse Bride. As it happens, she was murdered on the eve of her wedding and has been waiting for her groom ever since – thus hilarity ensues.
Honestly, this is a love story albeit a bit whacky. Every move is beautifully sculpted and beings both the land of the living and the land of the dead to life! Even the chorus-line of singing and dancing skeletons seems completely normal, yet brilliantly executed.
Take the time, but not the kids…this one is a little too goth for the younger folk.
The vision and creativity of Tim Burton never fails to amaze me - and this new stop-motion installment is no different.
Let me preface this review by stating that this movie is NOT for everyone. However, if you are a fan of such gems as Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas, this movie should delight you just as much.
This movie is witty and ghoulish, funny and deranged, dark and gothic. This is the Runaway Groom meets Night of the Living Dead version of animation and the irony that ensues is well worth the 90 minutes of entertainment.
The characters - all all-star voice cast – make this story what it is. The Everglots, an aristocratic family who is down on their luck (and funds) have decided to marry off their daughter Victoria to the local nouveaux riche fishmonger couple's son, Victor. After much performance anxiety, Victor runs to the woods to practice his vows. When he places the ring on what appears to be a branch, suddenly he is faced with the Corpse Bride. As it happens, she was murdered on the eve of her wedding and has been waiting for her groom ever since – thus hilarity ensues.
Honestly, this is a love story albeit a bit whacky. Every move is beautifully sculpted and beings both the land of the living and the land of the dead to life! Even the chorus-line of singing and dancing skeletons seems completely normal, yet brilliantly executed.
Take the time, but not the kids…this one is a little too goth for the younger folk.
Monday, September 19, 2005
It's a Wonderful Afterlife
Movie Review: Just Like Heaven
I am a sucker for romantic comedies - ask anyone who knows me. I see most of them and get some form of enjoyment from them, even if they are less than stellar; however this movie is exactly what it needed to be - fun and entertaining and highly recommendable!
Let's start with the ever-fabulous, Reese Witherspoon. I see why she feels this is her favorite of the movies she has made. She is funny and delightful as the crazy cat lady (without a cat) who had no life but her work. Elizabeth finds herself in the same outfit for days having found a hunky man (enter Mark Ruffalo) has moved into her apartment when she thought she still lived there. Unable to forcibly remove him (a funny bit of her running at him and flying out the window was good for some sniggers), she finds herself without a memory of who she is or what she does.
A movie full of twists and turns, most of which you did not see coming, this flick is refreshing and focuses on two very damaged individuals trying to learn to cope with each other as well as themselves.
A fun and humorous supporting cast includes the always enjoyable Donal Logue as the not-so-therapeutic psychologist friend and the forever Napoleon Dynomite-esque Jon Heder who has "the gift" and helps meld the otherworldly and the reality of a spirit who just won't go into the light - and believe me, they both lend plenty of levity and zaniness to this movie to help round it out.
Hardly just a chick-flick, but plenty of scenes to you make think it is, there is fun for the guys as well - especially the well-developed "hot girl" who lives downstairs and likes to dress in workout clothes or nothing at all. Enjoy, boys!
I am a sucker for romantic comedies - ask anyone who knows me. I see most of them and get some form of enjoyment from them, even if they are less than stellar; however this movie is exactly what it needed to be - fun and entertaining and highly recommendable!
Let's start with the ever-fabulous, Reese Witherspoon. I see why she feels this is her favorite of the movies she has made. She is funny and delightful as the crazy cat lady (without a cat) who had no life but her work. Elizabeth finds herself in the same outfit for days having found a hunky man (enter Mark Ruffalo) has moved into her apartment when she thought she still lived there. Unable to forcibly remove him (a funny bit of her running at him and flying out the window was good for some sniggers), she finds herself without a memory of who she is or what she does.
A movie full of twists and turns, most of which you did not see coming, this flick is refreshing and focuses on two very damaged individuals trying to learn to cope with each other as well as themselves.
A fun and humorous supporting cast includes the always enjoyable Donal Logue as the not-so-therapeutic psychologist friend and the forever Napoleon Dynomite-esque Jon Heder who has "the gift" and helps meld the otherworldly and the reality of a spirit who just won't go into the light - and believe me, they both lend plenty of levity and zaniness to this movie to help round it out.
Hardly just a chick-flick, but plenty of scenes to you make think it is, there is fun for the guys as well - especially the well-developed "hot girl" who lives downstairs and likes to dress in workout clothes or nothing at all. Enjoy, boys!
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Taking Flight
Movie Review: Red Eye and Valiant
The worst part about migraines in the inability to withstand the daylight. What makes things worse is that my apartment has many windows without curtains (yes, I must remedy this). So instead of suffering at home, I decided I would kill 2 birds with one stone and see some movies. At least it is dark in the theatres, right?
First up, Wes Craven's newest thriller. Now the past few movies from Mr. Craven have not even interested me enough to spend the cash and actually leave my house. This one was different. I really enjoyed it. It was the right balance of terror and was in no way over the top. Nothing seemed predictable, and having such strong characters was refreshing.
Look - it isn't going to win any Oscars, and it certainly isn't a scare-fest like Mr. Craven's previous fare, but it is worth the time and money to get to the theatre to enjoy a good movie. Plus, it was quite nice to see that there is life after reality TV and it took the form of Colby Donaldson playing a secret service agent and doing it wuite well, I might add.
Afterwards, I walked down the hall to see the pigeon-flick called Valiant. Honestly, this was more a mission to determine if this was Maggie-friendly or not, plus it was the only movie that was starting after Red Eye (without having to wait 90 minutes).
Ewan McGregor is cute as a little pigeon who wants to be a war hero. This movie was okay for a G-rated animated flick, but better off as a rental for the kids. It had a couple of funny moments, but nothing like the Pixar films of the past...this is why I can't wait for Cars next year. I basically spent the entire movie trying to place voices instead of really following the plot, but it is all about carrier pigeons during World War II. It was cute, but it also made me happy that kids movies are usually barely 90 minutes long.
This will be a busy week for flicks, so look for more reviews to come.
The worst part about migraines in the inability to withstand the daylight. What makes things worse is that my apartment has many windows without curtains (yes, I must remedy this). So instead of suffering at home, I decided I would kill 2 birds with one stone and see some movies. At least it is dark in the theatres, right?
First up, Wes Craven's newest thriller. Now the past few movies from Mr. Craven have not even interested me enough to spend the cash and actually leave my house. This one was different. I really enjoyed it. It was the right balance of terror and was in no way over the top. Nothing seemed predictable, and having such strong characters was refreshing.
Look - it isn't going to win any Oscars, and it certainly isn't a scare-fest like Mr. Craven's previous fare, but it is worth the time and money to get to the theatre to enjoy a good movie. Plus, it was quite nice to see that there is life after reality TV and it took the form of Colby Donaldson playing a secret service agent and doing it wuite well, I might add.
Afterwards, I walked down the hall to see the pigeon-flick called Valiant. Honestly, this was more a mission to determine if this was Maggie-friendly or not, plus it was the only movie that was starting after Red Eye (without having to wait 90 minutes).
Ewan McGregor is cute as a little pigeon who wants to be a war hero. This movie was okay for a G-rated animated flick, but better off as a rental for the kids. It had a couple of funny moments, but nothing like the Pixar films of the past...this is why I can't wait for Cars next year. I basically spent the entire movie trying to place voices instead of really following the plot, but it is all about carrier pigeons during World War II. It was cute, but it also made me happy that kids movies are usually barely 90 minutes long.
This will be a busy week for flicks, so look for more reviews to come.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Maggie and Willie and Molly and May
Sorry for the delay in posting about my trip out with the kiddies, but as soon as I got back it was a non-stop barrage of work crap. Also, I decided to make the weekend a long, lazy, but productive one, so I stayed off the computer except to do catering stuff.
So I arrived in SFO late on Saturday night and was completely spent. Maggie and my brother came to the airport to pick me up and as soon as Maggie saw me, she unbuckled her seatbelt and did a little dance in the backseat - she could not wait to give me a big hug! We headed for home and I could not have been happier!
So we walked in the door and a friend of ours was there. She had come over for dinner and to see me, which was cool. I sat down for a bite of home cooking and Maggie pulled up a chair right next to me. She insisted on sitting close while I ate and tell me all about her day. I gave her the presents I brought her and she loved her toy Jeepney. She went to my room and picked out my PJs for the night (blue cloud PJs, just like her) and had me read her a bedtime story.
The weekend was great. We went to a 4-year old birthday party on Sunday and I got to watch Maggie play on the gymnastics equipment. She insisted I take lots of pictures of her and walk around with her.
After the party, we had a nice lunch of homemade pancakes and bacon (Maggie insists I make her pancakes every time I come and visit). Will was very attentive and I finally got my hands on him. He loves to stand on your thighs - it is like he is trying to jump ahead 9 months and start walking! He is SO adorable and I cannot wait until he does even more tricks next month :)
Maggie and I took an afternoon nap and she learned the benefits of an iPod. I got to help pick her up from school each day and spend the evening with her.
The worst (and also best) part of the trip was when she told me she would be disappointed if I left and to please stay. This choked me up a ton! I explained to her that in order for me to come back for her birthday, I had to go home. And after much ado, she decided that was okay. (snif, snif).
Tuesday night, after dinner and Maggie put on her PJs, she and my brother took me to the airport. She insisted on walking me to the door and giving me lots of hugs and kisses before I left. With tears welling in my eyes, I started walking to the people mover and she is standing in the motor lobby waiving and saying Bye, Buh-Bye, Aunt D! I look back, fighting back tears, and see my brother whispering to her. She then says "Bye, bye...have fun storming the castle, Aunt D!". I just started giggling and then she started giggling. It was great.
After a long overnight flight where I couldn't really sleep, I came home to find that I was locked out of my house. My mother had come over to have some furniture moved and she turned the bolt on her way out, thus keeping me from being able to open the front door. After calling my mom and waking her from a dead sleep, she drove to my rescue and let me in my house. I climbed 2 flights of stairs by the hardest (one of those with my 57 pound suitcase) and flopped into bed. I called my boss and explained that my lack of sleep would hinder me from being productive and I was going to sleep instead of going to work. I woke up almost 12 hours later!
So I am back to see my Maggie and Will in 4 weeks for Maggie's big day and I am already counting the days!
So I arrived in SFO late on Saturday night and was completely spent. Maggie and my brother came to the airport to pick me up and as soon as Maggie saw me, she unbuckled her seatbelt and did a little dance in the backseat - she could not wait to give me a big hug! We headed for home and I could not have been happier!
So we walked in the door and a friend of ours was there. She had come over for dinner and to see me, which was cool. I sat down for a bite of home cooking and Maggie pulled up a chair right next to me. She insisted on sitting close while I ate and tell me all about her day. I gave her the presents I brought her and she loved her toy Jeepney. She went to my room and picked out my PJs for the night (blue cloud PJs, just like her) and had me read her a bedtime story.
The weekend was great. We went to a 4-year old birthday party on Sunday and I got to watch Maggie play on the gymnastics equipment. She insisted I take lots of pictures of her and walk around with her.
After the party, we had a nice lunch of homemade pancakes and bacon (Maggie insists I make her pancakes every time I come and visit). Will was very attentive and I finally got my hands on him. He loves to stand on your thighs - it is like he is trying to jump ahead 9 months and start walking! He is SO adorable and I cannot wait until he does even more tricks next month :)
Maggie and I took an afternoon nap and she learned the benefits of an iPod. I got to help pick her up from school each day and spend the evening with her.
The worst (and also best) part of the trip was when she told me she would be disappointed if I left and to please stay. This choked me up a ton! I explained to her that in order for me to come back for her birthday, I had to go home. And after much ado, she decided that was okay. (snif, snif).
Tuesday night, after dinner and Maggie put on her PJs, she and my brother took me to the airport. She insisted on walking me to the door and giving me lots of hugs and kisses before I left. With tears welling in my eyes, I started walking to the people mover and she is standing in the motor lobby waiving and saying Bye, Buh-Bye, Aunt D! I look back, fighting back tears, and see my brother whispering to her. She then says "Bye, bye...have fun storming the castle, Aunt D!". I just started giggling and then she started giggling. It was great.
After a long overnight flight where I couldn't really sleep, I came home to find that I was locked out of my house. My mother had come over to have some furniture moved and she turned the bolt on her way out, thus keeping me from being able to open the front door. After calling my mom and waking her from a dead sleep, she drove to my rescue and let me in my house. I climbed 2 flights of stairs by the hardest (one of those with my 57 pound suitcase) and flopped into bed. I called my boss and explained that my lack of sleep would hinder me from being productive and I was going to sleep instead of going to work. I woke up almost 12 hours later!
So I am back to see my Maggie and Will in 4 weeks for Maggie's big day and I am already counting the days!
Tuxedo Parade
Movie Review: La Marche de l'empereur (March of the Penguins)
This is the story of annual trek of Emperor penguins as they fight the elements to arrive at their breeding ground. On the surface, I know it sounds riveting, but truly it was.
I was in San Francisco and my sister-in-law and I did our Tuesday trip to the movie theatre for the Mom's Matinee (thanks to Century Theatres) - see previous post for more info: Begin the Bat.
This was a great film for the entire family - despite the death and sex involved! Considering they are penguins, and you don't really see anything (some heavy petting and balls of fur covered in snow), it is a very tame movie. The amazing piece is how these penguins survive and keep their young alive. I was enthralled and had no idea what penguins went through to keep their species alive.
The US version of this film was narrated by none other than, the master himself, Morgan Freeman. His voice was very nurturing and really played well with the film. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is interested...and even if you aren't, maybe you should be?!
This is the story of annual trek of Emperor penguins as they fight the elements to arrive at their breeding ground. On the surface, I know it sounds riveting, but truly it was.
I was in San Francisco and my sister-in-law and I did our Tuesday trip to the movie theatre for the Mom's Matinee (thanks to Century Theatres) - see previous post for more info: Begin the Bat.
This was a great film for the entire family - despite the death and sex involved! Considering they are penguins, and you don't really see anything (some heavy petting and balls of fur covered in snow), it is a very tame movie. The amazing piece is how these penguins survive and keep their young alive. I was enthralled and had no idea what penguins went through to keep their species alive.
The US version of this film was narrated by none other than, the master himself, Morgan Freeman. His voice was very nurturing and really played well with the film. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is interested...and even if you aren't, maybe you should be?!
Monday, September 05, 2005
Posts Delayed!
Hey gang -
So as you can see, I finally got the posts published from my trip. They have been wasting away in a Word doc for too long and after a lazy weekend, I took the time to put them up. I'll post about SFO tomorrow sometime, for sure!
Thanks all for checking in while I was gone, I'm just sorry I didn't have anything up for you to read when you got here...enjoy the multi-post evening :)
--Lindy ;)
So as you can see, I finally got the posts published from my trip. They have been wasting away in a Word doc for too long and after a lazy weekend, I took the time to put them up. I'll post about SFO tomorrow sometime, for sure!
Thanks all for checking in while I was gone, I'm just sorry I didn't have anything up for you to read when you got here...enjoy the multi-post evening :)
--Lindy ;)
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Touchdown San Francisco!
Wahoo - left my boss and coworkers behind for world's cutest almost 4-year old and she was so happy to see me, she unbuckled her carseat and did a little dance in the backseat! Man, is she adorable!
So I am at home (close enough) and happy to be here. My belly is full with a home-cooked meal and I am ready for sleep...but first, I must allow Maggie to pick out my PJs for the evening and a book or two for me to read to her. Then the sleep will come in a nice cozy bed in a temperate climate (did I mention it's 50 degrees here...AHHHH).
Not sure I will have time to write the next couple of days, but I will do my best for a longer post sometime during the week, folks!
Thanks for being patient!
So I am at home (close enough) and happy to be here. My belly is full with a home-cooked meal and I am ready for sleep...but first, I must allow Maggie to pick out my PJs for the evening and a book or two for me to read to her. Then the sleep will come in a nice cozy bed in a temperate climate (did I mention it's 50 degrees here...AHHHH).
Not sure I will have time to write the next couple of days, but I will do my best for a longer post sometime during the week, folks!
Thanks for being patient!
What Day is It, Anyway?
Okay, I think I am losing my mind. I have no idea what day or time it is, just that we are getting on a plane in a few hours...I think.
So I get a couple hours to sleep (man I hope I can) and then we are going to have dinner and then head for the airport. After a 16-hour flight (I think), I will be in San Francisco and world's most fabulous niece will meet me at the airport...honestly, that's all that matters right now!!
Shopping - what a trip. For $161 US, I left with 3, super nice, strands of pearls. One for my mom for Christmas...SHHHHHH, and the other two for me. Now, this was after I spent 45 minutes helping my boss pick out pearls for this new girlfriend that he won't cop to...MEN!
Anyway, most of the conversations were him asking me how I knew what was good and what wasn't - c'mon, man...I'm a chick! We are raised this way (some of us are, anyway). It was comical and I think I may lord it over him for a while. Then, I had to help him pick out "sparkly shoes" (they are beaded slippers) for a coworker and again, the man was lost. I just hope Jen likes what I picked out!
Then we did the sleazy thing - we met a guy in a parking garage and looked through his pirated DVDs...and they aren't worth a crap, but they are only $1 a piece...a waste of 30 minutes, if you ask me.
Anywho, I'm catching some Z's before dinner and the airport - not sure when I will have time to write again...not that these are even posted yet :)
So I get a couple hours to sleep (man I hope I can) and then we are going to have dinner and then head for the airport. After a 16-hour flight (I think), I will be in San Francisco and world's most fabulous niece will meet me at the airport...honestly, that's all that matters right now!!
Shopping - what a trip. For $161 US, I left with 3, super nice, strands of pearls. One for my mom for Christmas...SHHHHHH, and the other two for me. Now, this was after I spent 45 minutes helping my boss pick out pearls for this new girlfriend that he won't cop to...MEN!
Anyway, most of the conversations were him asking me how I knew what was good and what wasn't - c'mon, man...I'm a chick! We are raised this way (some of us are, anyway). It was comical and I think I may lord it over him for a while. Then, I had to help him pick out "sparkly shoes" (they are beaded slippers) for a coworker and again, the man was lost. I just hope Jen likes what I picked out!
Then we did the sleazy thing - we met a guy in a parking garage and looked through his pirated DVDs...and they aren't worth a crap, but they are only $1 a piece...a waste of 30 minutes, if you ask me.
Anywho, I'm catching some Z's before dinner and the airport - not sure when I will have time to write again...not that these are even posted yet :)
Friday, August 26, 2005
Pearls Before Swine
I'm operating on no sleep and am about to embark on a shopping spree. We have the hook up for great pearls and I, for one, am going to take full advantage!
We are heading to a local mall to a friend of a friend who has a booth to sell her jewelry. Plus, I'm sure we will buy a pirated DVD or two on the trip...
I'll fill you in when I get back :)
We are heading to a local mall to a friend of a friend who has a booth to sell her jewelry. Plus, I'm sure we will buy a pirated DVD or two on the trip...
I'll fill you in when I get back :)
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Are We Done Yet?
I am SO ready to go home (well, to SFO anyway).
Another rousing success today, but the sleep deprivation is killing me. I am still under the weather and ready for my own bed.
The big boss is gone, and so is my boss' positive attitude. I knew he couldn't hold out forever. I need a vacation from this trip!!!!
One work-night left and it promises to be a short one. Is it Saturday yet???
Another rousing success today, but the sleep deprivation is killing me. I am still under the weather and ready for my own bed.
The big boss is gone, and so is my boss' positive attitude. I knew he couldn't hold out forever. I need a vacation from this trip!!!!
One work-night left and it promises to be a short one. Is it Saturday yet???
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
2 Call Centers Down...1 To Go
So last night was a success. Not only did the meetings go well, but I think I may have impressed the new grandboss of my abilities. Nice.
However, I am getting sick of all the fish. I am ready for a real meal and one free of fishy smells.
I have nothing in me tonight folks - sorry to say. I gotta get some sleep.
More tomorrow :)
However, I am getting sick of all the fish. I am ready for a real meal and one free of fishy smells.
I have nothing in me tonight folks - sorry to say. I gotta get some sleep.
More tomorrow :)
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
A Trip to Wonderland?
Believe it or not, I am now back in Manila. After work, we headed to the airport (and frankly, saw a sight that has scarred me for life) and caught a plane back here for days 3, 4, & 5. This was an interesting journey as it was me, Clay, Kevin, my boss, his boss and 2 other VPs (Kyle and Scott). This trip was insane as no one was on their best behavior...how fun!
So let me explain the game that lead to this disturbing bus ride. Jessee (my co-worker) commented the last time we were here that he was looking forward to counting the pee-ers...Cebu is very rural and people (mostly men) often relieve themselves on the side of the roads. Jessee, being the odd duck that he is, likes to count these people for sport. Our boss kept telling Jessee that he would not see as many as 3, however women count as 2 points and anyone taking a dump (pardon my bluntness) would count as 3 points. Jessee insists he has seen a 3-pointer before, but I cannot imagine that to be true...
Well, I spoke too soon. We are driving along and Clay cries out "OH MY GOD" and burries his head in the carseat. Of course, we all turn. And there, leaving up against a tree...well, let your mind do the rest. 3 points! Like I said - SCARRED FOR LIFE!
Enough about bodily functions.
After we checked into the hotel in Makati, some of us were hungry so we went to the buffet at the restaurant called Circles. Well, they had just transitioned from breakfast to lunch, which was a thrill! So we dug in. The boys got alcohol and I stuck with Coke (it is hot enough in this country, I need no alcohol to raise my body temperature at all)!
Well, the madness began. So my boss, has recently stayed in a great mood, which we all have determined means he has a girlfriend. Not sure how that happened, but he has dropped many a hint concerning dates, cooking dinner for someone, etc. I have a theory that this woman works with us, but my team does not buy it one bit. I'm actually determined to confirm my suspicions on this sojourn.
After a scotch or two (including my giving him crap for mixing a single malt with water and ice), he drops her name. Huzzah! I knew it. Victory is mine. Now, while you may not think this is evidence, it isn't. However, after he said her name, Kyle looked right at me and winked - there was my proof! I'm not done, but I know I am on the right track.
After a few more drinks, I found myself falling asleep at the table and decided I should head to my room (where it should be close to 5 degrees by now) and catch some Z's. Apparently, I was not the only one who felt this way as quickly the other 4 followed me out...
So here I sit, awake, looking for something to lull me into sleep...maybe the iPod will do the trick.
Goodnight all!
So let me explain the game that lead to this disturbing bus ride. Jessee (my co-worker) commented the last time we were here that he was looking forward to counting the pee-ers...Cebu is very rural and people (mostly men) often relieve themselves on the side of the roads. Jessee, being the odd duck that he is, likes to count these people for sport. Our boss kept telling Jessee that he would not see as many as 3, however women count as 2 points and anyone taking a dump (pardon my bluntness) would count as 3 points. Jessee insists he has seen a 3-pointer before, but I cannot imagine that to be true...
Well, I spoke too soon. We are driving along and Clay cries out "OH MY GOD" and burries his head in the carseat. Of course, we all turn. And there, leaving up against a tree...well, let your mind do the rest. 3 points! Like I said - SCARRED FOR LIFE!
Enough about bodily functions.
After we checked into the hotel in Makati, some of us were hungry so we went to the buffet at the restaurant called Circles. Well, they had just transitioned from breakfast to lunch, which was a thrill! So we dug in. The boys got alcohol and I stuck with Coke (it is hot enough in this country, I need no alcohol to raise my body temperature at all)!
Well, the madness began. So my boss, has recently stayed in a great mood, which we all have determined means he has a girlfriend. Not sure how that happened, but he has dropped many a hint concerning dates, cooking dinner for someone, etc. I have a theory that this woman works with us, but my team does not buy it one bit. I'm actually determined to confirm my suspicions on this sojourn.
After a scotch or two (including my giving him crap for mixing a single malt with water and ice), he drops her name. Huzzah! I knew it. Victory is mine. Now, while you may not think this is evidence, it isn't. However, after he said her name, Kyle looked right at me and winked - there was my proof! I'm not done, but I know I am on the right track.
After a few more drinks, I found myself falling asleep at the table and decided I should head to my room (where it should be close to 5 degrees by now) and catch some Z's. Apparently, I was not the only one who felt this way as quickly the other 4 followed me out...
So here I sit, awake, looking for something to lull me into sleep...maybe the iPod will do the trick.
Goodnight all!
Only the Goofy Must Rule
Day 2 in Cebu, Philippines and I got to spend it with my new Senior Veep. Can I just say, he is a crazy man. Trading barbs with his direct reports and making light of just about everything, was so entertaining...it didn't hurt that my boss was a butt of a few jokes. I can get used to this!
So there was a big celebration here this morning - a real live pig roast. Okay, well the pig was really roasted elsewhere, but they hacked up that puppy right outside.
The reps put together a video and did a dance all to celebrate an award they won (plus it didn't hurt that the bog bosses were in town)!
We are about to head for the airport and I have to power down. Later gators!
So there was a big celebration here this morning - a real live pig roast. Okay, well the pig was really roasted elsewhere, but they hacked up that puppy right outside.
The reps put together a video and did a dance all to celebrate an award they won (plus it didn't hurt that the bog bosses were in town)!
We are about to head for the airport and I have to power down. Later gators!
Monday, August 22, 2005
Just Another Day at the Beach
So day one has come and gone. It was a long day in the training room teaching the new kids how to do something new. It was nice to show up at the office and have my name on an office door all my own...I feel so special :)
It can be nerve-wracking to stand in front of a bunch of people and try to teach them - I never really thought I had the knack for it. But today was easy as tomorrow comes the harder part.
Tomorrow, the grand-boss arrives and I get to attend all-day, high-level meetings and try to show I am worth my salt. The guy seems cool, but I think this may be the TRUE test for me.
So far the boss has been cool. The tempers have stayed pretty even and I don't want to kill him yet, but stay tuned, folks!
Sleep is coming early tonight!
It can be nerve-wracking to stand in front of a bunch of people and try to teach them - I never really thought I had the knack for it. But today was easy as tomorrow comes the harder part.
Tomorrow, the grand-boss arrives and I get to attend all-day, high-level meetings and try to show I am worth my salt. The guy seems cool, but I think this may be the TRUE test for me.
So far the boss has been cool. The tempers have stayed pretty even and I don't want to kill him yet, but stay tuned, folks!
Sleep is coming early tonight!
30 Hours to Anywhere
So after worlds longest trek - even moreso since I am dying from a sinus infection - scary, but it feels true - and I finally get to the hotel and they put me in a smoking room...I already have a hard enough time breathing.
So they moved me - thank god! After an exhausting trip and a couple of fevers, it's nice to have a comfy bed and air conditioning once again!
My trip was not that exciting except for a run-in with a flight attendant who just kept insisting on putting raw seafood in front of me...it took me 5 tries and then showing my Medic-Alert bracelet to get him to take it away. However, not before me told me not to be hostile! How rude! Life or death, man...
So it is time for sleep...my long week begins with me trying to sleep during the daylight. At least I slept for 10 hours on the plane. Thank goodness for iPods!
More to come...
So they moved me - thank god! After an exhausting trip and a couple of fevers, it's nice to have a comfy bed and air conditioning once again!
My trip was not that exciting except for a run-in with a flight attendant who just kept insisting on putting raw seafood in front of me...it took me 5 tries and then showing my Medic-Alert bracelet to get him to take it away. However, not before me told me not to be hostile! How rude! Life or death, man...
So it is time for sleep...my long week begins with me trying to sleep during the daylight. At least I slept for 10 hours on the plane. Thank goodness for iPods!
More to come...
Friday, August 12, 2005
Missing the Left Coast
I have been back in Georgia for 15 months and it is about that time that California starts to beckon me home...
Granted, I was pretty much raised in Georgia and all of my friends and half my family is here, but the most important part of my family today is in San Francisco. The main problem is that while I love it here for all it's quirks, I get a lot of benefits from being here - most of all, cost of living. So what is the draw to SFO, you ask?
This is what one would call the sweetest faces of all time! And they are calling to me day and night.
Here is my dilemma...first, these kids are my life...my family. I have discussed with my brother my need for involvement and he is toally on board (it doesn't hurt them to have a babysitter living nearby). What I think it really comes down to is figuring out what works best for me and for them. So there are a couple of choices:
1) Stay here and earn my sabbatical (261 days) and during my sabbatical, go stay in SFO and find a job to move me back out.
2) Stay with EarthLink and find a job in Pasadena (this puts me 4 hours away)
3) Scrap it all and go live like a bum on my brother's couch :)
We'll see. Nothing is going to happen today...or tomorrow. It's just active thoughts in my head. I get pictures and I start to think about how close Maggie and I are and a lot of that has to do with my being around so much early-on. Will doesn't have that I and sincerly hope that Maggie talks to him about me all the time!
Granted, I was pretty much raised in Georgia and all of my friends and half my family is here, but the most important part of my family today is in San Francisco. The main problem is that while I love it here for all it's quirks, I get a lot of benefits from being here - most of all, cost of living. So what is the draw to SFO, you ask?
This is what one would call the sweetest faces of all time! And they are calling to me day and night.
Here is my dilemma...first, these kids are my life...my family. I have discussed with my brother my need for involvement and he is toally on board (it doesn't hurt them to have a babysitter living nearby). What I think it really comes down to is figuring out what works best for me and for them. So there are a couple of choices:
1) Stay here and earn my sabbatical (261 days) and during my sabbatical, go stay in SFO and find a job to move me back out.
2) Stay with EarthLink and find a job in Pasadena (this puts me 4 hours away)
3) Scrap it all and go live like a bum on my brother's couch :)
We'll see. Nothing is going to happen today...or tomorrow. It's just active thoughts in my head. I get pictures and I start to think about how close Maggie and I are and a lot of that has to do with my being around so much early-on. Will doesn't have that I and sincerly hope that Maggie talks to him about me all the time!
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Decisions, Decisions
So this week has been dragging along quite annoyingly and this morning is no different. At least today I get my snazzy new brain (aka Treo 650).
My boss has been particularly rude and cruel and driving me up the fucking wall!
Luckily, yesterday was a short day at work as I had to run some errands to get prepared for the trip to the Philippines. Basically, going to my 2 doctors to get stocked up on my meds and get medical authorizations to carry needles on the planes. No big deal, but time consuming and $40 a pop!
Then, thank god for Vessi, I chopped off my hair! It was over 2 inches too long and I had had no time to get it cut. It was like an enormous weight had been lifted and I feel much better now...and hopefully look better too!
I did get to talk to my sweet Maggie last night when she called me and said she needed helping making Zucchini Boats (stuffed zucchini) and then explained that eventhough she would make them (and she described to me how to scoop out the seeds, spread them out (sauté) and then putting "stuffing" in them), she wouldn't eat the stuffing as it was spicy and meant she would need to drink even more milk than she does already!
Now I ask you, how can your day not improve after such a sweet phone call? It's not possible :)
So here I sit, exhausted with a killer headache, having too much work to do and no time to do it in, completely hating my job, but loving it all the same...and even though it seems that someone is throwing me a lifeline, I will most likely say thanks but no thanks as I have not yet begun to fight and am not really ready for big change.
Sorry to ramble and not make too much sense here...it's been a rough few months!
My boss has been particularly rude and cruel and driving me up the fucking wall!
Luckily, yesterday was a short day at work as I had to run some errands to get prepared for the trip to the Philippines. Basically, going to my 2 doctors to get stocked up on my meds and get medical authorizations to carry needles on the planes. No big deal, but time consuming and $40 a pop!
Then, thank god for Vessi, I chopped off my hair! It was over 2 inches too long and I had had no time to get it cut. It was like an enormous weight had been lifted and I feel much better now...and hopefully look better too!
I did get to talk to my sweet Maggie last night when she called me and said she needed helping making Zucchini Boats (stuffed zucchini) and then explained that eventhough she would make them (and she described to me how to scoop out the seeds, spread them out (sauté) and then putting "stuffing" in them), she wouldn't eat the stuffing as it was spicy and meant she would need to drink even more milk than she does already!
Now I ask you, how can your day not improve after such a sweet phone call? It's not possible :)
So here I sit, exhausted with a killer headache, having too much work to do and no time to do it in, completely hating my job, but loving it all the same...and even though it seems that someone is throwing me a lifeline, I will most likely say thanks but no thanks as I have not yet begun to fight and am not really ready for big change.
Sorry to ramble and not make too much sense here...it's been a rough few months!
Monday, August 08, 2005
Nothing Like a Boring Weekend
Have I ever mentioned how much I detest the phone...ironic really since I work in call centers, but I did do my best to get off the phones rather quickly? I am, however, quite good on the phone, I just hate it. At least if I have to talk on the phone, let it be with someone I want to talk to :)
So this weekend was pretty dull and boring from the outside looking in, but I loved every minute of it. It was laundry, cooking, cleaning, stitching, watching movies and mindless TV and not having to be anywhere at any time...it was fabulous! The OLN is showing Survivor reruns and even though I think I have seen most episodes (okay, except for that crappy season or 2 in the middle), I am sucked right back in. It's much better storing up 8 episodes before you watch...fast forwarding over eating of disgusting creatures and naked Richard Hatch. It makes for a mindless weekend, for sure!
Then, there was an interruption...the phone. ARGH! So much for the silence. Now who would call and ruin my perfectly perfect weekend? An Ex, of course. So it's been enough months that the bad penny has decided to turn up yet again. Now actually, that isn't really fair. He is a really good guy and he cares for me deeply, but each time my phone rings, I know it is him, usually defeated by life and looking for love again and wanting to get back with me.
Don't get me wrong, I care for him very much, but I just am not in love with him...believe me, I wish I was. He has family issues and therefore has grown up all screwed up and I have picked up the pieces enough for anyone in a lifetime. His parents would rather have me as their daughter than him as their son - how f-ed up is that, I ask you?
Anyway, we had a good conversation and I was not too harsh. He asked me to meet him for coffee, which was a repeat of the last time he called me. This time, I said no. Now honestly, I would love to say that it was will-power talking, but I was in grubby shorts and a t-shirt with my hair on top of my head with no particular order to it and absolutely NO makeup on at all...and my legs weren't shaved! My saving grace :)
So we ended up talking for quite a long time as I, for once, had lots of things to catch him up on...people moving out west, crazy turns in my job, a new nephew, etc. He wanted to fill me in on his current cheffing job and how he misses all his old friends. He said nothing about his dad, step mom or mom, but did talk about his sisters (which was nice as I know them all and had been seriously lacking for news). Then it started...why can't we try again?!
It is exhausting to have this conversation every six months, and I seriously considered changing my phone number. I love him; I'm just not in love with him. He will always be young and think that things will just miraculously work out no matter what the problems are. I need more maturity than that (I say this having drooled over 20-somethings in meetings the last 3 weeks). I just need to find him the right woman so he and I can remain friends. Problem being, I can't seem to find a man of my own, so I should probably work on that instead of helping other people's love lives.
Anyway...the hunt continues...without any time for hunting. I'm back at work, putting in my 60-hour weeks and wishing for a vacation or maybe just a little trip to Neverland!
So this weekend was pretty dull and boring from the outside looking in, but I loved every minute of it. It was laundry, cooking, cleaning, stitching, watching movies and mindless TV and not having to be anywhere at any time...it was fabulous! The OLN is showing Survivor reruns and even though I think I have seen most episodes (okay, except for that crappy season or 2 in the middle), I am sucked right back in. It's much better storing up 8 episodes before you watch...fast forwarding over eating of disgusting creatures and naked Richard Hatch. It makes for a mindless weekend, for sure!
Then, there was an interruption...the phone. ARGH! So much for the silence. Now who would call and ruin my perfectly perfect weekend? An Ex, of course. So it's been enough months that the bad penny has decided to turn up yet again. Now actually, that isn't really fair. He is a really good guy and he cares for me deeply, but each time my phone rings, I know it is him, usually defeated by life and looking for love again and wanting to get back with me.
Don't get me wrong, I care for him very much, but I just am not in love with him...believe me, I wish I was. He has family issues and therefore has grown up all screwed up and I have picked up the pieces enough for anyone in a lifetime. His parents would rather have me as their daughter than him as their son - how f-ed up is that, I ask you?
Anyway, we had a good conversation and I was not too harsh. He asked me to meet him for coffee, which was a repeat of the last time he called me. This time, I said no. Now honestly, I would love to say that it was will-power talking, but I was in grubby shorts and a t-shirt with my hair on top of my head with no particular order to it and absolutely NO makeup on at all...and my legs weren't shaved! My saving grace :)
So we ended up talking for quite a long time as I, for once, had lots of things to catch him up on...people moving out west, crazy turns in my job, a new nephew, etc. He wanted to fill me in on his current cheffing job and how he misses all his old friends. He said nothing about his dad, step mom or mom, but did talk about his sisters (which was nice as I know them all and had been seriously lacking for news). Then it started...why can't we try again?!
It is exhausting to have this conversation every six months, and I seriously considered changing my phone number. I love him; I'm just not in love with him. He will always be young and think that things will just miraculously work out no matter what the problems are. I need more maturity than that (I say this having drooled over 20-somethings in meetings the last 3 weeks). I just need to find him the right woman so he and I can remain friends. Problem being, I can't seem to find a man of my own, so I should probably work on that instead of helping other people's love lives.
Anyway...the hunt continues...without any time for hunting. I'm back at work, putting in my 60-hour weeks and wishing for a vacation or maybe just a little trip to Neverland!
Thursday, August 04, 2005
A Basic Lack of Time
Sorry it has been an entire week, but my time has not been my own for at least that long. Between this major project at work and helping organize and throw my friend Vanessa her baby shower, I really have not sat at a computer for more than 20 minutes at a time in the past 7 days.
In order to stay ahead of the curve, I took Friday off to make a baby shower cake and help my mom with her personal chef tasks for the week. The day was pretty long, but very successful.
Saturday was the shower and it seemed to be a big hit! We had great food, fun activities and great girl-time. Most importantly, the guest of honor seemed to be very happy and after all, that was the main goal of the day :)
Sunday was putting finishing touches on the cooking and deliver the personal chef food to the client. I have the Jeep, so it makes it very easy to deliver. After a very long weekend, I was almost happy to go back to work on Monday...until it was Monday and I was back in all day meetings.
So here it is Thursday morning and I am headed back to work for more meetings (luckily, I think I may get out halfway through the day). I do actually have another job I have been absent from for over 3 weeks. I'm supposed to travel to Manila/Cebu in a couple of weeks and I really do not have the time to spare...not that my boss gives a shit. Apparently, I don't already have enough to do so he keeps giving me more responsibility - not that my 2005 goals reflect ANY of them. I gotta get a new gig. Anything away from the nightmare that is my boss these days.
The bright side of travel to Manila is that it appears we are travelling through San Francisco...Maggie and Will time!!!! I made a pronouncement to my boss last week that said, if we travel through the SFO airport, then I am staying a couple days to see my family...honestly, it is the least he can do and he should NOT make me use vacation time for it...yeah, that won't happen! I'll deal - it will be happy Maggie and Will time and therefore it will be worth a little pain...note - I said little...
Well - I'm off to work and another long day and more exhaustion. I barely have time to breathe these days, much less sit at my desk...and unfortunately, there is not an end in site for 6 months...(sigh)
In order to stay ahead of the curve, I took Friday off to make a baby shower cake and help my mom with her personal chef tasks for the week. The day was pretty long, but very successful.
Saturday was the shower and it seemed to be a big hit! We had great food, fun activities and great girl-time. Most importantly, the guest of honor seemed to be very happy and after all, that was the main goal of the day :)
Sunday was putting finishing touches on the cooking and deliver the personal chef food to the client. I have the Jeep, so it makes it very easy to deliver. After a very long weekend, I was almost happy to go back to work on Monday...until it was Monday and I was back in all day meetings.
So here it is Thursday morning and I am headed back to work for more meetings (luckily, I think I may get out halfway through the day). I do actually have another job I have been absent from for over 3 weeks. I'm supposed to travel to Manila/Cebu in a couple of weeks and I really do not have the time to spare...not that my boss gives a shit. Apparently, I don't already have enough to do so he keeps giving me more responsibility - not that my 2005 goals reflect ANY of them. I gotta get a new gig. Anything away from the nightmare that is my boss these days.
The bright side of travel to Manila is that it appears we are travelling through San Francisco...Maggie and Will time!!!! I made a pronouncement to my boss last week that said, if we travel through the SFO airport, then I am staying a couple days to see my family...honestly, it is the least he can do and he should NOT make me use vacation time for it...yeah, that won't happen! I'll deal - it will be happy Maggie and Will time and therefore it will be worth a little pain...note - I said little...
Well - I'm off to work and another long day and more exhaustion. I barely have time to breathe these days, much less sit at my desk...and unfortunately, there is not an end in site for 6 months...(sigh)
Thursday, July 28, 2005
My Own Lex Luthor...and Other Yummy Men
So this week has sucked! You have all been privy to my bitching about the hours I am putting in at work, but honestly, I hit 40 hours after I was at work about 90 minutes today...that is sad, even for me. Thank god I took tomorrow off! More about that in a minute...
In all these meetings I am in, I am sitting within view of many hunky and/or cute men. There are men from my own company, and men from a consulting firm. Some speak with accents (and I prefer that they do) and some are just pretty to look at. As Hugh Grant would say, I am this shallow!
The meetings have gone by pretty quickly; it is just the running around from meeting to meeting that really killed me yesterday. I had a 3 hour break from this project so I could meet about another project (outsourcing the last bit of call center folks). This project kills me as it means the end of having a lot of old friends here at work and I feel like I haven't really had the time to let this idea truly sink in. I think when these folks aren't here anymore that I will really dislike this place. It makes me want to cry.
When I went to this other meeting, I wasn't expecting to have Lex Luthor sitting across the table from me. I mean, don't get me wrong, but I have never really been attracted to bald men (expect on the big or small screen), but it was a pleasant surprise. So that meeting was cool and it ended up not being at all stressful as I was worried it might be so I sauntered down to the meeting on my other project, where there were no cute men yesterday…such a disappointment. At least I had some Lex time.
So this morning should prove to be interesting. I have no project meetings and can actually sit at my desk all day and get the work for my real job done. Nice thought, eh?
My boss seems to think that I am invincible and can do the work for 3 or 4 people and not crack under the pressure...the positive feedback I get is great, but I would like to be able to get home before 9pm and actually attend the screenings I have passes for. I would like to have a life outside of work and find someone fun to hang out with and I dunno...date!?
My boss is lucky right now that I don't march in his office and tell him to shove it and walk right out the door. I think about it multiple times daily and if I didn't work with such fabulous people who are sympathetic and see what I go through on a daily basis (plus my countdown clock on my monitor), I would have said some horrible things to him more than once in the last couple of weeks. Having a boss that doesn't trust you in the least is crap - especially when he continues to pile up the work on you and gives you a hard time when his own boss gives you kudos.
Byte me!
Off to work and another day of hell...I need to just walk around and look at the pretty men some more...and find the cute consultants and make them talk to me, just so I can listen! This will help me escape in my own world for a while
In all these meetings I am in, I am sitting within view of many hunky and/or cute men. There are men from my own company, and men from a consulting firm. Some speak with accents (and I prefer that they do) and some are just pretty to look at. As Hugh Grant would say, I am this shallow!
The meetings have gone by pretty quickly; it is just the running around from meeting to meeting that really killed me yesterday. I had a 3 hour break from this project so I could meet about another project (outsourcing the last bit of call center folks). This project kills me as it means the end of having a lot of old friends here at work and I feel like I haven't really had the time to let this idea truly sink in. I think when these folks aren't here anymore that I will really dislike this place. It makes me want to cry.
When I went to this other meeting, I wasn't expecting to have Lex Luthor sitting across the table from me. I mean, don't get me wrong, but I have never really been attracted to bald men (expect on the big or small screen), but it was a pleasant surprise. So that meeting was cool and it ended up not being at all stressful as I was worried it might be so I sauntered down to the meeting on my other project, where there were no cute men yesterday…such a disappointment. At least I had some Lex time.
So this morning should prove to be interesting. I have no project meetings and can actually sit at my desk all day and get the work for my real job done. Nice thought, eh?
My boss seems to think that I am invincible and can do the work for 3 or 4 people and not crack under the pressure...the positive feedback I get is great, but I would like to be able to get home before 9pm and actually attend the screenings I have passes for. I would like to have a life outside of work and find someone fun to hang out with and I dunno...date!?
My boss is lucky right now that I don't march in his office and tell him to shove it and walk right out the door. I think about it multiple times daily and if I didn't work with such fabulous people who are sympathetic and see what I go through on a daily basis (plus my countdown clock on my monitor), I would have said some horrible things to him more than once in the last couple of weeks. Having a boss that doesn't trust you in the least is crap - especially when he continues to pile up the work on you and gives you a hard time when his own boss gives you kudos.
Byte me!
Off to work and another day of hell...I need to just walk around and look at the pretty men some more...and find the cute consultants and make them talk to me, just so I can listen! This will help me escape in my own world for a while
Monday, July 25, 2005
Fred Has Lost His Touch (Movie Spoilers Ahead)
Hello, my name is Lindy and I am 32 and a Harry Potter addict...deal with it!
Let me fill you in on an interesting set of developments on the local Atlanta radio scene this past weekend. I listen to the morning show on 99X - I enjoy the show quite a bit - most days - but I mostly listen because a friend of mine is on it (Leslie has been previously praised on this blog quite a bit). Anyway, I listen to the show starting at 5:30 each morning until I get into work around 7:00 - sometimes 7:30, sometimes 8:00. Some days when Leslie isn't on, I will tune to NPR instead, depending on how entertaining the show may be.
So Friday, I'm driving into work and listening to the show. Leslie does her news brief and mentions some girl from Kansas or something who was disappointed in the ending of Harry Potter Book 6. 'Nuff said...move on. Not for Freddy Toucher - oh no! He has to start making fun of Harry Potter and this 13-year-old girl from middle-America. Anyway, some jackass caller says he read the book and threw it down at the end he was so upset with the ending. Leslie jumps in and says, don't ruin it! But no, not enough for Fred - before I realize it, he asks "What happens?". I hear 2 words. I can't turn off the radio fast enough - I even swerved the car. I decide to just switch the station, but I can't with the power off.
I turn the radio on soon enough to hear the cast talking about how the adults that read these books are parents of kids, but truly guys, many adults without kids read these because they are so entertaining! So I switch to NPR and let that be that.
I get home and get my mail and there is my Entertainment Weekly with Daniel Radcliffe on the cover. I start flipping through and find disclaimers warning of book spoilers, so I put the magazine under something heavy and move on. I spend all weekend avoiding any media so the ending cannot be ruined. All I know is someone dies, which the author had released a couple of months back. Crisis averted!
Day 4 of Pottergate and I am stupid enough to listen to 99X again this morning. They decide they are going to replay what happened on Friday so Harry Potter fans beware...then he says it...3 little words (and actually, Jimmy may have done that, but I cannot be sure). Before I could switch the channel, they blurt out (clearly on purpose) the 3 words that spoil the ending for me. I yelped as I could not get to the other room to turn off the radio fast enough...assholes!
So since it is ruined (I'm only 1/3 of the way through the book), I continue to listen. 2 blocks from work, Toucher is reading one of the 200+ nastygrams he got over this fiasco and reads "if you want to really piss off listeners, the culprit is..." So NPR it was, and will be until I complete the book.
Look, I do my best to support the station since they do keep me well supplied with movie passes and I only end up paying for half of my yearly flicks, but this time he went too far!
So Fred - let me just throw out a few for you:
The Crying Game - She's a MAN!
The Sixth Sense - Bruce Willis is really dead!
The Usual Suspects - Kevin Spacey is Keyser Soze
Fight Club - Ed Norton is really Tyler Durden!
Psycho - His mother is dead!
Vertigo - She was already dead and was being impersonated by a twin!
Gosford Park - The maid did it!
Presumed Innocent - The wife did it!
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back - Darth Vader is Luke's father!
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi - Luke and Leia are siblings (ewww....they kissed)
Planet of the Apes - It's Earth!
Identity - All the people are in John Cusack's head - he's crazy!
Vanilla Sky - It's a dream!
Let me fill you in on an interesting set of developments on the local Atlanta radio scene this past weekend. I listen to the morning show on 99X - I enjoy the show quite a bit - most days - but I mostly listen because a friend of mine is on it (Leslie has been previously praised on this blog quite a bit). Anyway, I listen to the show starting at 5:30 each morning until I get into work around 7:00 - sometimes 7:30, sometimes 8:00. Some days when Leslie isn't on, I will tune to NPR instead, depending on how entertaining the show may be.
So Friday, I'm driving into work and listening to the show. Leslie does her news brief and mentions some girl from Kansas or something who was disappointed in the ending of Harry Potter Book 6. 'Nuff said...move on. Not for Freddy Toucher - oh no! He has to start making fun of Harry Potter and this 13-year-old girl from middle-America. Anyway, some jackass caller says he read the book and threw it down at the end he was so upset with the ending. Leslie jumps in and says, don't ruin it! But no, not enough for Fred - before I realize it, he asks "What happens?". I hear 2 words. I can't turn off the radio fast enough - I even swerved the car. I decide to just switch the station, but I can't with the power off.
I turn the radio on soon enough to hear the cast talking about how the adults that read these books are parents of kids, but truly guys, many adults without kids read these because they are so entertaining! So I switch to NPR and let that be that.
I get home and get my mail and there is my Entertainment Weekly with Daniel Radcliffe on the cover. I start flipping through and find disclaimers warning of book spoilers, so I put the magazine under something heavy and move on. I spend all weekend avoiding any media so the ending cannot be ruined. All I know is someone dies, which the author had released a couple of months back. Crisis averted!
Day 4 of Pottergate and I am stupid enough to listen to 99X again this morning. They decide they are going to replay what happened on Friday so Harry Potter fans beware...then he says it...3 little words (and actually, Jimmy may have done that, but I cannot be sure). Before I could switch the channel, they blurt out (clearly on purpose) the 3 words that spoil the ending for me. I yelped as I could not get to the other room to turn off the radio fast enough...assholes!
So since it is ruined (I'm only 1/3 of the way through the book), I continue to listen. 2 blocks from work, Toucher is reading one of the 200+ nastygrams he got over this fiasco and reads "if you want to really piss off listeners, the culprit is..." So NPR it was, and will be until I complete the book.
Look, I do my best to support the station since they do keep me well supplied with movie passes and I only end up paying for half of my yearly flicks, but this time he went too far!
So Fred - let me just throw out a few for you:
The Crying Game - She's a MAN!
The Sixth Sense - Bruce Willis is really dead!
The Usual Suspects - Kevin Spacey is Keyser Soze
Fight Club - Ed Norton is really Tyler Durden!
Psycho - His mother is dead!
Vertigo - She was already dead and was being impersonated by a twin!
Gosford Park - The maid did it!
Presumed Innocent - The wife did it!
Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back - Darth Vader is Luke's father!
Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi - Luke and Leia are siblings (ewww....they kissed)
Planet of the Apes - It's Earth!
Identity - All the people are in John Cusack's head - he's crazy!
Vanilla Sky - It's a dream!
Sunday, July 24, 2005
Divorced White Female Seeks a Box Office Success
Movie Review: Must Love Dogs
I have to say that romantic comedies still get me to the theatre, despite past flops that had me considering otherwise. This movie made me glad that I keep trying, even if my expectations are considerably low.
Let me start by saying that John Cusack still does a great job playing the romantic lead, even if that lead is as oddball as his Jake is. Diane Lane is equally enthralling as someone so vulnerable that she will even throw her rulebook out the window (even I have been there!)
So just a quickie review here - preschool teacher recently divorced is wallowing in self-pity has a family who meddles and a love life that is non-existent. Meanwhile across town, recently divorced boat craftsman seeks Doctor Zhivago loving female who is neurotic and off the wall just like him. Oh yeah - they both Must Log Dogs. Now, ladies and gentlemen, let the fun ensue!
This is a decent date movie with a few laughs and an almost too honest look at what the dating world is like out there, single or divorced. I was sufficiently entertained for close to 2 hours and it didn't feel like close to 2 hours. I wasn't sorry to spend the $7 and see this before most of the world - one less thing to get seen!
I have to say that romantic comedies still get me to the theatre, despite past flops that had me considering otherwise. This movie made me glad that I keep trying, even if my expectations are considerably low.
Let me start by saying that John Cusack still does a great job playing the romantic lead, even if that lead is as oddball as his Jake is. Diane Lane is equally enthralling as someone so vulnerable that she will even throw her rulebook out the window (even I have been there!)
So just a quickie review here - preschool teacher recently divorced is wallowing in self-pity has a family who meddles and a love life that is non-existent. Meanwhile across town, recently divorced boat craftsman seeks Doctor Zhivago loving female who is neurotic and off the wall just like him. Oh yeah - they both Must Log Dogs. Now, ladies and gentlemen, let the fun ensue!
This is a decent date movie with a few laughs and an almost too honest look at what the dating world is like out there, single or divorced. I was sufficiently entertained for close to 2 hours and it didn't feel like close to 2 hours. I wasn't sorry to spend the $7 and see this before most of the world - one less thing to get seen!
Friday, July 22, 2005
Surf's Up!
Yesterday was a full-day meeting on this major project I mentioned earlier in the week. Not that I mind an entire day away from my email, but now I am just 1 day behind in everything else.
I ended up having to give a presentation on all our tools and systems with no notice...the only positive was that cute boys were trapped in the room with me all day...I enjoy suffering when I am not alone and have something to look at! These meetings seemed productive, only time will tell.
Unfortunately, this meeting identified me as needing to be in today's all day meeting and a half day meeting on Monday (sigh).
Something I didn't mention as part of my movie-going experience on Wednesday was that I finally met some of the crazy people. By that I mean the group of Usual Suspects (US) Angie and I always saw at all the screenings - this is what happens when you don't take a partner in crime with you. So, it's all Angie's fault.
So I get there really early - I had no idea how the crowd and/or traffic would be, so I got there 2 hours before it was going to start - this is not unusual. Anyway, the only other person in line was this guy, Jeff, one of the US's. Since it is just 2 of us in line, the small talk began and it was all downhill from there. Don't get me wrong, Jeff is a nice guy, but it's all just weird. And here I was complaining about taking Ryan with me...again, I blame Angie...and she knows it.
As time dragged on, Jeff introduced me to a few other US's and they were nice enough - I think they thought of me the same Angie and I thought of them. The biggest difference here is they like to sit on the front row of the Stadium section, and I prefer a few rows back (whew).
I really need to find a permanent movie-buddy... one that isn't shopping screenplays in Hollywood. Yeah, yeah...poor pitiful me :)
I ended up having to give a presentation on all our tools and systems with no notice...the only positive was that cute boys were trapped in the room with me all day...I enjoy suffering when I am not alone and have something to look at! These meetings seemed productive, only time will tell.
Unfortunately, this meeting identified me as needing to be in today's all day meeting and a half day meeting on Monday (sigh).
Something I didn't mention as part of my movie-going experience on Wednesday was that I finally met some of the crazy people. By that I mean the group of Usual Suspects (US) Angie and I always saw at all the screenings - this is what happens when you don't take a partner in crime with you. So, it's all Angie's fault.
So I get there really early - I had no idea how the crowd and/or traffic would be, so I got there 2 hours before it was going to start - this is not unusual. Anyway, the only other person in line was this guy, Jeff, one of the US's. Since it is just 2 of us in line, the small talk began and it was all downhill from there. Don't get me wrong, Jeff is a nice guy, but it's all just weird. And here I was complaining about taking Ryan with me...again, I blame Angie...and she knows it.
As time dragged on, Jeff introduced me to a few other US's and they were nice enough - I think they thought of me the same Angie and I thought of them. The biggest difference here is they like to sit on the front row of the Stadium section, and I prefer a few rows back (whew).
I really need to find a permanent movie-buddy... one that isn't shopping screenplays in Hollywood. Yeah, yeah...poor pitiful me :)
Thursday, July 21, 2005
The Attire of the Clones
Movie Review: The Island
This movie must take place in a perpetual state of "before Labor Day." Apparently, our future is full of clones wearing fancy white jumpsuits with Nike shoes - but if they look like Ewan McGregor.
Where to begin...the premise of this movie is that in 14 years, the rich and elite of the future can purchase a clone of themselves to be created in case they need organ transplants as an insurance policy...ewww creepy. The trick is, the clones have to idea what their purpose is. They live in this highly controlled world, or should I say bunker, being told they are the only survivors of a fatally contaminated Earth, where they have an ultimate goal of getting to The Island where they can live free, in the only remaining pathogen-free environment.
The action in this movie was somewhat enjoyable, but the sci-fi side was a little much. This movie boiled down to a few great moments surrounded by filler materials including some of the most insulting product placement I have ever seen...Scarlet Johansson plays a clone of her Calvin Klein persona??? C'mon Hollywood, couldn't you have shot some of your own material instead of making us look at the already overused print and TV ads for Eternity? I guess this way Calvin Klein PAID you and therefore it cost you nothing to include it, eh? There were some other obvious placements, but they weren't nearly as annoying.
Ewan did shine for one part of the movie when he got to play against...wait for it...HIMSELF! But overall, I think this movie played the role of "if we aren't careful, this could be come a reality." Basically, this is not that much of a stretch of raising our clones to standby for a liver or kidney should we want to live forever, but personally I would rather we spent money on finding cures instead of ways to cheat death with no regard for the moral consequences.
What humors me most about this entire experience is that the least used actor in this movie, Michael Clarke Duncan (who admits he worked only 2 days and is on screen for maybe 7 minutes total), is doing the press tour of talk shows and I have yet to see the stars scheduled for anything.
Save your $8 to $10 and pop this one in your Netflix queue today so you don't forget about it as soon as it leaves the theatres for oblivion. However, if you just want a couple of hours of mindless entertainment, or to get out of the rain and you have seen everything else, feel free to waste the time.
This movie must take place in a perpetual state of "before Labor Day." Apparently, our future is full of clones wearing fancy white jumpsuits with Nike shoes - but if they look like Ewan McGregor.
Where to begin...the premise of this movie is that in 14 years, the rich and elite of the future can purchase a clone of themselves to be created in case they need organ transplants as an insurance policy...ewww creepy. The trick is, the clones have to idea what their purpose is. They live in this highly controlled world, or should I say bunker, being told they are the only survivors of a fatally contaminated Earth, where they have an ultimate goal of getting to The Island where they can live free, in the only remaining pathogen-free environment.
The action in this movie was somewhat enjoyable, but the sci-fi side was a little much. This movie boiled down to a few great moments surrounded by filler materials including some of the most insulting product placement I have ever seen...Scarlet Johansson plays a clone of her Calvin Klein persona??? C'mon Hollywood, couldn't you have shot some of your own material instead of making us look at the already overused print and TV ads for Eternity? I guess this way Calvin Klein PAID you and therefore it cost you nothing to include it, eh? There were some other obvious placements, but they weren't nearly as annoying.
Ewan did shine for one part of the movie when he got to play against...wait for it...HIMSELF! But overall, I think this movie played the role of "if we aren't careful, this could be come a reality." Basically, this is not that much of a stretch of raising our clones to standby for a liver or kidney should we want to live forever, but personally I would rather we spent money on finding cures instead of ways to cheat death with no regard for the moral consequences.
What humors me most about this entire experience is that the least used actor in this movie, Michael Clarke Duncan (who admits he worked only 2 days and is on screen for maybe 7 minutes total), is doing the press tour of talk shows and I have yet to see the stars scheduled for anything.
Save your $8 to $10 and pop this one in your Netflix queue today so you don't forget about it as soon as it leaves the theatres for oblivion. However, if you just want a couple of hours of mindless entertainment, or to get out of the rain and you have seen everything else, feel free to waste the time.
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
The View From the Back
This post will be short and sweet since my day today is completely booked...I have one open 30 minute slot, but knowing my luck, it we be filled before lunchtime.
Yesterday was world's biggest and most useless kick-off meeting of a project ever. We did get a free lunch and I did get to leave the building for a few hours (never a bad thing). However, the rest of the meeting was just a rehash of previous meetings and a complete snooze-fest.
The only redeeming quality this meeting had, was the view. We were at a local hotel in one of their ballroom/conference rooms and it was set up with like 12 tables. My team and I (being such good strategists) picked one on the far side of the room and in the middle (so we weren't avoiding the front, but not being nerds by being in the front).
Did I mention there are some very yummy men on this project - some of them work for us, and some work as consultants, but there seemed to be a memo that the cute ones should sit in the table smack-dab in the middle of the room. This accomplished two things - 1 - I could zone out looking at this table, yet it looked like I was consentrating hard on the meeting and 2 - I could just stare and be stealthy about it. Some days, my job doesn't suck :)
Anyway, I think we all agreed that this meeting was not what we were expecting at all and we now have like 10 more of these through the next week and a half...can I go on vacation, please??? Otherwise, assign me to "surfer-boy" and he can keep me interested in this project :D
Yesterday was world's biggest and most useless kick-off meeting of a project ever. We did get a free lunch and I did get to leave the building for a few hours (never a bad thing). However, the rest of the meeting was just a rehash of previous meetings and a complete snooze-fest.
The only redeeming quality this meeting had, was the view. We were at a local hotel in one of their ballroom/conference rooms and it was set up with like 12 tables. My team and I (being such good strategists) picked one on the far side of the room and in the middle (so we weren't avoiding the front, but not being nerds by being in the front).
Did I mention there are some very yummy men on this project - some of them work for us, and some work as consultants, but there seemed to be a memo that the cute ones should sit in the table smack-dab in the middle of the room. This accomplished two things - 1 - I could zone out looking at this table, yet it looked like I was consentrating hard on the meeting and 2 - I could just stare and be stealthy about it. Some days, my job doesn't suck :)
Anyway, I think we all agreed that this meeting was not what we were expecting at all and we now have like 10 more of these through the next week and a half...can I go on vacation, please??? Otherwise, assign me to "surfer-boy" and he can keep me interested in this project :D
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Rule #7: Rated-R Makes for a Better Movie
Movie Review: Wedding Crashers
What can I say except that combine Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson with an R-Rating and some good, old fashioned nudity and raunchy jokes and you have yourself a hit!
Not since the original American Pie has there been such a flick that marries humor and a little bit of a love story to make something so funny and entertaining as Crashers.
The premise of this flick is that two best friends, Jeremy (Vaughn) and John (Wilson) spend their evenings and weekends crashing strangers' weddings in order to pick up (and bed) hot, single, vulnerable chicks - c'mon ladies, you know we all get stirred up at weddings and keep our eyes out for eligible men!). The go to every kind of wedding and follow some simple rules (I lost count, but it sounds like there are over 100 of them).
Basically, if you act like a wallflower you are more likely going to look out of place than if you make an ass out of yourself and be a spectacle. Well, they certainly succeed - all the way to Treasury Secretary Cleary's (adeptly played by Christopher Walken) summer home for the weekend.
The quite Kennedy-esque family has a couple of single daughters ripe for the picking. One is a crazy and obsessed girl who has latched onto Jeremy much to his dismay and the other has her head on straight but is marrying the wrong guy. Of course, John is ready for the challenge, but this time, he has really fallen in love with the prey.
The daughters, played by Isla Fisher and Rachel McAdams, keep up with the true match-made-in-heaven couple Vaughn and Wilson. Fisher plays crazy well, and she and Vaughn created some of the funniest moments in the film (handjobs at the dinner table and slapping him one minute and then straddling him the next). McAdams and Wilson have a great chemistry as well, but it isn't hard to root for Wilson to win the girl when they make her fiancé world's biggest, sleaziest, maniacal ass (well overplayed by hunky Bradley Cooper from "Alias" fame.
Take the time, go to the theatre and see this movie if you are looking for some laughs - even the 70+ old guy sitting next to me was laughing throughout the film. This movie makes me want to take Owen Wilson home with me once again.
Someone quick, sign these two up for another movie...while the iron is HOT!
What can I say except that combine Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson with an R-Rating and some good, old fashioned nudity and raunchy jokes and you have yourself a hit!
Not since the original American Pie has there been such a flick that marries humor and a little bit of a love story to make something so funny and entertaining as Crashers.
The premise of this flick is that two best friends, Jeremy (Vaughn) and John (Wilson) spend their evenings and weekends crashing strangers' weddings in order to pick up (and bed) hot, single, vulnerable chicks - c'mon ladies, you know we all get stirred up at weddings and keep our eyes out for eligible men!). The go to every kind of wedding and follow some simple rules (I lost count, but it sounds like there are over 100 of them).
Basically, if you act like a wallflower you are more likely going to look out of place than if you make an ass out of yourself and be a spectacle. Well, they certainly succeed - all the way to Treasury Secretary Cleary's (adeptly played by Christopher Walken) summer home for the weekend.
The quite Kennedy-esque family has a couple of single daughters ripe for the picking. One is a crazy and obsessed girl who has latched onto Jeremy much to his dismay and the other has her head on straight but is marrying the wrong guy. Of course, John is ready for the challenge, but this time, he has really fallen in love with the prey.
The daughters, played by Isla Fisher and Rachel McAdams, keep up with the true match-made-in-heaven couple Vaughn and Wilson. Fisher plays crazy well, and she and Vaughn created some of the funniest moments in the film (handjobs at the dinner table and slapping him one minute and then straddling him the next). McAdams and Wilson have a great chemistry as well, but it isn't hard to root for Wilson to win the girl when they make her fiancé world's biggest, sleaziest, maniacal ass (well overplayed by hunky Bradley Cooper from "Alias" fame.
Take the time, go to the theatre and see this movie if you are looking for some laughs - even the 70+ old guy sitting next to me was laughing throughout the film. This movie makes me want to take Owen Wilson home with me once again.
Someone quick, sign these two up for another movie...while the iron is HOT!
Friday, July 15, 2005
Sweets for the Maladjusted?
Movie Review: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
This is one of those movies I have been waiting for, for quite a long time now. It's safe to say that my hopes were up and I had a very good chance of being let down. Well, I'm happy to say that I left the theatre quite content.
First, I loved the book by Roald Dahl, and I really enjoyed the original movie version, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, however, Johnny Depp really gave life to Willy Wonka in all his creepiness and this movie gave us insight as to why he is the way he is.
I was expecting this movie to be more different from the original movie, but in truth, while the story was very similar, this movie did a much better job bringing out the feelings in me that the book did. Bravo Tim Burton. I will say that the "demise" of the 4 rotten kids - Veruca Salt, Augustus Gloop, Mike Teavee, and Violet Beauregarde - played out much more creatively on screen this go-round. However, a lot of that can be attributed to today's technology. Violet's transformation into a giant blueberry was one of the movie's best moments!
The sets were amazing and were not green-screened. I felt like I was there, in the midst of this incredible wonderland of a chocolate factory. Burton paints an extraordinary picture that cannot be outdone once again!
I will say that this movie was a bit saccharine, but so was the original...the rotten kids get their due and Charlie, the boy who cares more about his family than himself, receives the greatest gift of all. Okay, beat me over the head with a shovel - but I didn't mind as much as I usually do.
I do have to give props to Deep Roy. Most of you are thinking...who? But he has done everything from dressing up as a Jawa to being a circus performer in Burton's Big Fish. Most of you will probably recognize him when you see him, but half of his credits are as a stuntman, not an actor.
Mr. Roy plays the Oompa Loompas - not just one, and not one who is then replicated by the magic of the movies, but over 165 Oompa Loompas shot separately. It sounds like he worked harder on this movie than anyone. He was magnificent and personally, I feel he should get a nomination (but I know that won't happen). He is well worth the $8 ticket.
If you loved the book and enjoyed the first movie – this is a must-see flick. If you have never read the book, this is the perfect time to sit down (after you finish Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince) and read a children’s book.
This is one of those movies I have been waiting for, for quite a long time now. It's safe to say that my hopes were up and I had a very good chance of being let down. Well, I'm happy to say that I left the theatre quite content.
First, I loved the book by Roald Dahl, and I really enjoyed the original movie version, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, however, Johnny Depp really gave life to Willy Wonka in all his creepiness and this movie gave us insight as to why he is the way he is.
I was expecting this movie to be more different from the original movie, but in truth, while the story was very similar, this movie did a much better job bringing out the feelings in me that the book did. Bravo Tim Burton. I will say that the "demise" of the 4 rotten kids - Veruca Salt, Augustus Gloop, Mike Teavee, and Violet Beauregarde - played out much more creatively on screen this go-round. However, a lot of that can be attributed to today's technology. Violet's transformation into a giant blueberry was one of the movie's best moments!
The sets were amazing and were not green-screened. I felt like I was there, in the midst of this incredible wonderland of a chocolate factory. Burton paints an extraordinary picture that cannot be outdone once again!
I will say that this movie was a bit saccharine, but so was the original...the rotten kids get their due and Charlie, the boy who cares more about his family than himself, receives the greatest gift of all. Okay, beat me over the head with a shovel - but I didn't mind as much as I usually do.
I do have to give props to Deep Roy. Most of you are thinking...who? But he has done everything from dressing up as a Jawa to being a circus performer in Burton's Big Fish. Most of you will probably recognize him when you see him, but half of his credits are as a stuntman, not an actor.
Mr. Roy plays the Oompa Loompas - not just one, and not one who is then replicated by the magic of the movies, but over 165 Oompa Loompas shot separately. It sounds like he worked harder on this movie than anyone. He was magnificent and personally, I feel he should get a nomination (but I know that won't happen). He is well worth the $8 ticket.
If you loved the book and enjoyed the first movie – this is a must-see flick. If you have never read the book, this is the perfect time to sit down (after you finish Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince) and read a children’s book.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Makin' Turtle Tracks
I'm an odd duck normally. You never know what I will enjoy from one day to the next. I'm pretty opened minded and enjoy most things, but certain items (like art), I just have to be in the mood to go see. I love art - don't get me wrong - but I don't have a lot of down time, so usually I don't spend it in museums. Now, when the art comes to me, it is a lot easier. And who knew that such art would be in the form of 5-foot-tall fiberglass turtles??? Let me explain...
Atlanta is a big city, but more so, we have lots of outlying suburbs considered to be part of Atlanta (most of these are OTP - outside the perimeter). Sandy Springs is one of these suburbs...soon to be its own city!
I basically grew up in Sandy Springs from the time I was 8 until I was 20-something and my parents continue to live there. SS has been trying for many years to be made into its own city, and they finally won this battle this past June.
In April, a new exhibit was revealed called The Town Turtles of Sandy Springs. Basically, this is our answer to The Trail of Painted Ponies and The Cow Parade. Why the turtle? Well, my brother and I would love to think that this is because Sandy Springs was the home to the greatest music store of all time - Turtle's - but alas, the turtle is the town mascot since apparently the turtle is indigenous to Sandy Springs.
So 75 artists got together to design and paint turtles and businesses got to buy them to display them for 6 months at the low, low price of $5000. The turtles are scattered all over Sandy Springs.
It was really fun in the beginning, finding them in random places and pointing them out, but now it has become a mission for me...and I am up to 58 spotted.
This is how lame I am - I am driving around with a map and list of turtles in my car and checking them off as I find them. I am also driving home convoluted ways to see if I can get 2 or 3 checked off. My next mission, is to drive around and get pictures of them...yes, I am a big NERD! There is a little girl, she is 4 or 5, I think, who just got her picture taken with the 75th turtle - and this made the Sandy Springs newspaper...okay, maybe I'm not a nerd, maybe I'm just a kid at heart!
Here is the sad part - kids are destroying the art. Turtles have been kidnapped and thrown in the lake, set on fire, painted on, and damaged by pranksters who will someday end up in prison or on the streets - people suck! They have had to put together a Turtle Hospital to cart the turtles off to for restoration and repair...what is this world coming to?
This instills a sense of community and it's just plain fun...what is wrong with that, I ask you?
Anyway, if you get the chance, and are in Georgia, drive around Sandy Springs and see the turtles on display - they are fun for the whole family!
Atlanta is a big city, but more so, we have lots of outlying suburbs considered to be part of Atlanta (most of these are OTP - outside the perimeter). Sandy Springs is one of these suburbs...soon to be its own city!
I basically grew up in Sandy Springs from the time I was 8 until I was 20-something and my parents continue to live there. SS has been trying for many years to be made into its own city, and they finally won this battle this past June.
In April, a new exhibit was revealed called The Town Turtles of Sandy Springs. Basically, this is our answer to The Trail of Painted Ponies and The Cow Parade. Why the turtle? Well, my brother and I would love to think that this is because Sandy Springs was the home to the greatest music store of all time - Turtle's - but alas, the turtle is the town mascot since apparently the turtle is indigenous to Sandy Springs.
So 75 artists got together to design and paint turtles and businesses got to buy them to display them for 6 months at the low, low price of $5000. The turtles are scattered all over Sandy Springs.
It was really fun in the beginning, finding them in random places and pointing them out, but now it has become a mission for me...and I am up to 58 spotted.
This is how lame I am - I am driving around with a map and list of turtles in my car and checking them off as I find them. I am also driving home convoluted ways to see if I can get 2 or 3 checked off. My next mission, is to drive around and get pictures of them...yes, I am a big NERD! There is a little girl, she is 4 or 5, I think, who just got her picture taken with the 75th turtle - and this made the Sandy Springs newspaper...okay, maybe I'm not a nerd, maybe I'm just a kid at heart!
Here is the sad part - kids are destroying the art. Turtles have been kidnapped and thrown in the lake, set on fire, painted on, and damaged by pranksters who will someday end up in prison or on the streets - people suck! They have had to put together a Turtle Hospital to cart the turtles off to for restoration and repair...what is this world coming to?
This instills a sense of community and it's just plain fun...what is wrong with that, I ask you?
Anyway, if you get the chance, and are in Georgia, drive around Sandy Springs and see the turtles on display - they are fun for the whole family!
Monday, July 11, 2005
Behold the Wrath of Dennis
Not many people named Dennis in the world tend to leave such a path of destruction. It was one thing to name a storm Cindy (and then she totally wipes out Atlanta Motor Speedway - she must have lost many relationships to NASCAR and/or Indy racing)., but Dennis - that really instills no fear.
Well - times, they are a-changin.
The weather has arrived, and while many are evacuating homes and sitting out the storms, according to our CEO, another system is gaining speed ready to hit our coastline once again...and not only that, but Dennis - who is causing the current damage - isn't even a storm anymore...he is a Tropical Depression...go figure.
So here we are - middle of July, and its wet and stormy and has only just begun. So, I did a little digging to find out what other silly names we have coming for the rest of the storms this year (each year, the World Meteorological Organization picks 21 names for the year (names are used on a six-year rotation) - every so often a year is bad enough that they have to start over at A). I'm sure you are wondering why such cool letters as Q and X are skipped...well, duh!? How many different names can you come up with that start with Q and X?
For 2005 (drum roll please), here are the Atlantic Tropical Storm names...
Arlene
Bret
Cindy
Dennis
Emily
Franklin
Gert
Harvey
Irene
Jose
Katrina
Lee
Maria
Nate
Ophelia
Philippe
Rita
Stan
Tammy
Vince
Wilma
Wow - I'm shaking in my boots. I enjoy the rain, but I hate the destruction. People rained out of house and home. Devastation of entire cities - who is gonna create the device that sends hurricanes back out to sea, or at least that shielding device that does not allow them to touch down on shore? Where are all the geniuses when you need them?
Maybe someone needs to make a movie about such a device before anyone gets the idea to build one...
On a personal note - tonight is supposed to be Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. However, I am so ill, I cannot stop hurling and I have a killer migraine to go alone with it. Currently, I am biding my time until Mike gets into work so I don't feel so guilty about going home and getting into bed...even the big boss, who got on the elevator with me this morning, looked at me like I was dying...I tried smiling through the pain, but he saw right through me. Of course my boss is on vacation, which adds another layer of guilt (and oh, did I mention that Vanessa is sick and not here either?).
So odds are, my passes will go to waste and I will go home and pass out for 18 hours...at least 2 of the 4 will be used with no problem.
Well - times, they are a-changin.
The weather has arrived, and while many are evacuating homes and sitting out the storms, according to our CEO, another system is gaining speed ready to hit our coastline once again...and not only that, but Dennis - who is causing the current damage - isn't even a storm anymore...he is a Tropical Depression...go figure.
So here we are - middle of July, and its wet and stormy and has only just begun. So, I did a little digging to find out what other silly names we have coming for the rest of the storms this year (each year, the World Meteorological Organization picks 21 names for the year (names are used on a six-year rotation) - every so often a year is bad enough that they have to start over at A). I'm sure you are wondering why such cool letters as Q and X are skipped...well, duh!? How many different names can you come up with that start with Q and X?
For 2005 (drum roll please), here are the Atlantic Tropical Storm names...
Arlene
Bret
Cindy
Dennis
Emily
Franklin
Gert
Harvey
Irene
Jose
Katrina
Lee
Maria
Nate
Ophelia
Philippe
Rita
Stan
Tammy
Vince
Wilma
Wow - I'm shaking in my boots. I enjoy the rain, but I hate the destruction. People rained out of house and home. Devastation of entire cities - who is gonna create the device that sends hurricanes back out to sea, or at least that shielding device that does not allow them to touch down on shore? Where are all the geniuses when you need them?
Maybe someone needs to make a movie about such a device before anyone gets the idea to build one...
On a personal note - tonight is supposed to be Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. However, I am so ill, I cannot stop hurling and I have a killer migraine to go alone with it. Currently, I am biding my time until Mike gets into work so I don't feel so guilty about going home and getting into bed...even the big boss, who got on the elevator with me this morning, looked at me like I was dying...I tried smiling through the pain, but he saw right through me. Of course my boss is on vacation, which adds another layer of guilt (and oh, did I mention that Vanessa is sick and not here either?).
So odds are, my passes will go to waste and I will go home and pass out for 18 hours...at least 2 of the 4 will be used with no problem.
Friday, July 08, 2005
The End of an Era...The Beginning of a Pain in my Arse
Yesterday was a blow to the heart strings...but somehow, I guess I should have expected it.
Lay offs - the worst part of any job, I think. At least this time, I'm not the Manager of 60-some-odd of these folks having to motivate until the end of the job. Personally, a nice severance package should be enough for some people, but I know how hard it can be to muster the effort when you know the company is letting you go.
Last time this happened, I was one of the ones being let go, but I was lucky enough to find a new job - and some of these folks will be that lucky too. We have a lot of great resources who just got burnt-out where they are now. (There are the ones who haven't cared about anything more than a paycheck for some time now and are probably thrilled to get a package like this).
Things like this are inevitable in this day and age and unfortunately, its the cost of doing business in 2005. So why am I complaining?
Well, my job keeps expanding...and expanding. Yet, it is just me handling all of CS and yet there are seven people handling TS. Look, we are laying off some good people - let me hire a couple of them (3 would be fabulous, but I can live with 2). But no - just one - and even then, they won't report to me, so CS still won't be their main focus....HELP ME!
I feel sorry for my friends losing their jobs yet here I am, still employed, and bitching about my job. But truly - I have no time in my day each day. I haven't eaten lunch this week because I have no time. Things just keep piling up and I am working 10 hours a day just trying to tread water. Oh yeah, did I mention I am now traveling to the Philippines again because of this? Big shocker! Okay Lindy, just drop everything that was deathly important last week and now spend every waking hour preparing for 10 new challenges...thanks.
While I appreciate the confidence, I need help. And not only help, but more time (and preferably an office so I can actually get work done. At the very least I need Violet's "purple bubble" (as Maggie calls it) force-field to keep the little stuff off my desk and give me 8 hours of isolation and complete quiet so I can concentrate and get some things accomplished. ARGH.
At least now, it is Friday. Two days off that I truly need to survive my current state - and I don't have anyone to truly vent to anymore. Somehow this job got a lot harder in the last 3 or 4 months - who knew that losing a best friend would impact every aspect of my life...certainly not me.
Out of respect, I won't be posting my days remaining to sabbatical until after September, but it cannot come fast enough! Did I mention that not only is one of my co-workers going on Maternity Leave, but the other one is leaving to go to another job...I'm the only Senior Manager left to handle 3 lines of business - oh goody! Someone get me a Valium....quick!
Lay offs - the worst part of any job, I think. At least this time, I'm not the Manager of 60-some-odd of these folks having to motivate until the end of the job. Personally, a nice severance package should be enough for some people, but I know how hard it can be to muster the effort when you know the company is letting you go.
Last time this happened, I was one of the ones being let go, but I was lucky enough to find a new job - and some of these folks will be that lucky too. We have a lot of great resources who just got burnt-out where they are now. (There are the ones who haven't cared about anything more than a paycheck for some time now and are probably thrilled to get a package like this).
Things like this are inevitable in this day and age and unfortunately, its the cost of doing business in 2005. So why am I complaining?
Well, my job keeps expanding...and expanding. Yet, it is just me handling all of CS and yet there are seven people handling TS. Look, we are laying off some good people - let me hire a couple of them (3 would be fabulous, but I can live with 2). But no - just one - and even then, they won't report to me, so CS still won't be their main focus....HELP ME!
I feel sorry for my friends losing their jobs yet here I am, still employed, and bitching about my job. But truly - I have no time in my day each day. I haven't eaten lunch this week because I have no time. Things just keep piling up and I am working 10 hours a day just trying to tread water. Oh yeah, did I mention I am now traveling to the Philippines again because of this? Big shocker! Okay Lindy, just drop everything that was deathly important last week and now spend every waking hour preparing for 10 new challenges...thanks.
While I appreciate the confidence, I need help. And not only help, but more time (and preferably an office so I can actually get work done. At the very least I need Violet's "purple bubble" (as Maggie calls it) force-field to keep the little stuff off my desk and give me 8 hours of isolation and complete quiet so I can concentrate and get some things accomplished. ARGH.
At least now, it is Friday. Two days off that I truly need to survive my current state - and I don't have anyone to truly vent to anymore. Somehow this job got a lot harder in the last 3 or 4 months - who knew that losing a best friend would impact every aspect of my life...certainly not me.
Out of respect, I won't be posting my days remaining to sabbatical until after September, but it cannot come fast enough! Did I mention that not only is one of my co-workers going on Maternity Leave, but the other one is leaving to go to another job...I'm the only Senior Manager left to handle 3 lines of business - oh goody! Someone get me a Valium....quick!
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Light My Fire?
Movie Review: Fantastic Four
Well, Leslie strikes again. I'm not sure what I would do without her feeding my habit (while saving my bank account) and I hope I never have to find out. She is one of the coolest people I know and I consider her a dear friend...but one of these days I have to figure out how to repay her (or do something really nice that doesn't pale in comparison).
So tonight was another Marvel movie - and this was one that I grew up with...but let me tell you, the Human Torch wasn't exactly this hunky in the comic books. He can light my fire anytime, and I don't even know his name!
I have to admit, I went into this movie with really low expectations. I mean, I heard not-so-great things about it, and c'mon, the Marvel flicks are hit or miss most of the time (Spidey 1 and 2 - hits...Hulk - big miss). But look - it was free!
Now, I will admit that this movie makes fun of itself...a lot! There is some sappy love story elements and soap-like qualities to all the characters and overall, not as big a disappointment as I expected...that said - save your bucks and watch it on HBO or pop it in your Netflix queue.
The backstory was fabrication - these guys were not radiated by a space cloud to get their powers based on the emotions they were feeling at the time (I'm sorry, what emotion makes you stretchy, again?). What do 5 people do with their new super powers? Hide in a penthouse apartment and annoy each other a la Big Brother. Not only that, but their "powers" are used for cheap laughs that really don't further the story (let me use my stretchy arms to get toilet paper from the closet across the hall while on the crapper because, as a man, I was too lazy to handle it when I finished the last roll) - at least it's honest. Most men would probably use their powers for such a noble cause! And, of course, we have Jessica Alba playing Invisible Girl, so let's make sure to catch her naked a lot...ummmm ok? And the only way a hunky stone-man can get a girl is if she is blind?! C'mon Hollywood, are we that stupid?
That said, the effects were kind cool, and the couple of scenes of them using their powers for good were at least good enough to make us remember that these are Super Heros - but overall, this one fell short. I will say, it helps to dislike a movie less when you go in with such low expectations - at least I can't be disappointed. Next time, I think I'll just go see Batman Begins, again.
On a side-note, I had to find myself a new movie-going buddy so half of these passes don't go to waste. I will say that it is definately different (and weird), but at least he sits on the correct side of me. But somehow, it isn't really right. I will say, at least he doesn't talk through the movies. It's nice, but it seems to be causing a stir - and it really shouldn't be.
I do have something more to report - but I think I will save it for morning. But basically TPTB determined that we needed to lay off more employees. I understand why, but it saddens me. I've been there and while some people welcome the opportunity to leave, others just don't. More tomorrow.
Well, Leslie strikes again. I'm not sure what I would do without her feeding my habit (while saving my bank account) and I hope I never have to find out. She is one of the coolest people I know and I consider her a dear friend...but one of these days I have to figure out how to repay her (or do something really nice that doesn't pale in comparison).
So tonight was another Marvel movie - and this was one that I grew up with...but let me tell you, the Human Torch wasn't exactly this hunky in the comic books. He can light my fire anytime, and I don't even know his name!
I have to admit, I went into this movie with really low expectations. I mean, I heard not-so-great things about it, and c'mon, the Marvel flicks are hit or miss most of the time (Spidey 1 and 2 - hits...Hulk - big miss). But look - it was free!
Now, I will admit that this movie makes fun of itself...a lot! There is some sappy love story elements and soap-like qualities to all the characters and overall, not as big a disappointment as I expected...that said - save your bucks and watch it on HBO or pop it in your Netflix queue.
The backstory was fabrication - these guys were not radiated by a space cloud to get their powers based on the emotions they were feeling at the time (I'm sorry, what emotion makes you stretchy, again?). What do 5 people do with their new super powers? Hide in a penthouse apartment and annoy each other a la Big Brother. Not only that, but their "powers" are used for cheap laughs that really don't further the story (let me use my stretchy arms to get toilet paper from the closet across the hall while on the crapper because, as a man, I was too lazy to handle it when I finished the last roll) - at least it's honest. Most men would probably use their powers for such a noble cause! And, of course, we have Jessica Alba playing Invisible Girl, so let's make sure to catch her naked a lot...ummmm ok? And the only way a hunky stone-man can get a girl is if she is blind?! C'mon Hollywood, are we that stupid?
That said, the effects were kind cool, and the couple of scenes of them using their powers for good were at least good enough to make us remember that these are Super Heros - but overall, this one fell short. I will say, it helps to dislike a movie less when you go in with such low expectations - at least I can't be disappointed. Next time, I think I'll just go see Batman Begins, again.
On a side-note, I had to find myself a new movie-going buddy so half of these passes don't go to waste. I will say that it is definately different (and weird), but at least he sits on the correct side of me. But somehow, it isn't really right. I will say, at least he doesn't talk through the movies. It's nice, but it seems to be causing a stir - and it really shouldn't be.
I do have something more to report - but I think I will save it for morning. But basically TPTB determined that we needed to lay off more employees. I understand why, but it saddens me. I've been there and while some people welcome the opportunity to leave, others just don't. More tomorrow.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Who Shot JR?!
Jeremy Roenick...one of my absolute favorite hockey players ever...and that says a LOT! Especially since he plays for my least favorite team (when they actually PLAY hockey), the Philly Flyers.
Let me explain the ethics around a sound-bite...they are edited by the media. They can take any snippet of words and probably get the Pope to denounce Christianity if they wanted to - so please remember that.
Now I will admit that I fell victim to the sound-bite - I was fuming at JR yesterday along with every other hockey fan I know (and some non-hockey fans, too). But JR needs to not read a 1000-word essay to any reporter, as he is a smart enough guy to know that it will be reduced to the most juicy 10 words ever spoken. Besides, most of his comments that made such an uproar, were in reaction to stupid questions from reporters...
He told it like it is - and has been given the opportunity to explain this sound-bite of his thesis and appease us all (or at least me, anyway). Look, I know he has little to do right now, but coming onto the Atlanta morning show to set the record straight and take calls from listeners/fans, impressed the hell out of me. Way to go JR!
If you think about it, some of what he said was really true. The NHLPA is ending up with a shitty deal and the owners are getting what they want. That's great for the fans - we might actually get a season - but like the rest of us out the in the work-force, we work really hard to get merit increases and make our jobs worth the paycheck we receive. Why should athletes be ANY different?
They are going to improve the game - I'm not going to complain - and the players are coming back for less money because they love the game so much...as do I.
So the next time you hear something disturbing from a celebrity, take it with a pound of salt...who knows what the media is feeding us this week. After all, if I had followed my first instincts, I would probably have auctioned off my JR jersey in haste and really hated myself for it down the line! Did I mention this was a signed Blackhawks jersey?!
You rock JR - hurry back to the ice, will ya?!
Let me explain the ethics around a sound-bite...they are edited by the media. They can take any snippet of words and probably get the Pope to denounce Christianity if they wanted to - so please remember that.
Now I will admit that I fell victim to the sound-bite - I was fuming at JR yesterday along with every other hockey fan I know (and some non-hockey fans, too). But JR needs to not read a 1000-word essay to any reporter, as he is a smart enough guy to know that it will be reduced to the most juicy 10 words ever spoken. Besides, most of his comments that made such an uproar, were in reaction to stupid questions from reporters...
He told it like it is - and has been given the opportunity to explain this sound-bite of his thesis and appease us all (or at least me, anyway). Look, I know he has little to do right now, but coming onto the Atlanta morning show to set the record straight and take calls from listeners/fans, impressed the hell out of me. Way to go JR!
If you think about it, some of what he said was really true. The NHLPA is ending up with a shitty deal and the owners are getting what they want. That's great for the fans - we might actually get a season - but like the rest of us out the in the work-force, we work really hard to get merit increases and make our jobs worth the paycheck we receive. Why should athletes be ANY different?
They are going to improve the game - I'm not going to complain - and the players are coming back for less money because they love the game so much...as do I.
So the next time you hear something disturbing from a celebrity, take it with a pound of salt...who knows what the media is feeding us this week. After all, if I had followed my first instincts, I would probably have auctioned off my JR jersey in haste and really hated myself for it down the line! Did I mention this was a signed Blackhawks jersey?!
You rock JR - hurry back to the ice, will ya?!
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Attack of the Tripods
Movie Review: War of the Worlds
This won't be easy to review this movie without giving too much away - but I will try my best. So let's start with the story.
Ray, Tom Cruise, is an almost deadbeat dad who is a New Jersey dock worker. It's "his weekend" with the kids and the first few minutes of the movie identify his lack of maturity when it comes to being a dad, but this is a character who is definitely flawed and it seems that he cares, but just doesn't know how to be a dad. His kids are not so thrilled to be at dad's place for the weekend and it only gets worse for them. I must say that Dakota Fanning turns in another stellar performance.
The movie picks up the pace very quickly, but not so quickly that you don't get to know these characters a little bit - Steven Spielberg is really good at this method of storytelling. He gives us enough of an insight into the people before introducing the shark..I mean aliens.
The next 45 minutes are completely intense. This movie is full of shock and terror for the audience - who would expect these things to have been on the planet for a million years, just lying in wait...certainly not the people in the theatre with me. I think the reason these initial scenes are so scary, is that you are feeling the panic and desperation of the people running for their lives because Spielberg shot it from the point of view of these people - well done!
The other thing that is done so well in this movie is that many things are implied, but never shown - a river of death, and war being played out between the military and the tripods and just enough data being passed around to make your own mind start to come to conclusions about the aliens. Again, this is what Spielberg does best. Think back to that shark eating his first victim, but all you see is this girl being dragged around the water and screaming...next thing you know, she is pulled under and there is nothing but silence. Spielberg pulls from all of his previous films in this movie - there is an homage to his raptors in the kitchen scene from Jurassic Park that takes place in Tim Robbin’s basement – you will all recognize it.
There are kids in danger, a lot of death and destruction, and pure terror in this movie, but without it, I don't think this movie would be as good. You have a feeling that there is no way out of this mess and everyone is going to die - and I loved every minute of it.
I will say the movie drops off in the second half, but not so much that I minded - after all, how do you sustain such intensity for 2 hours? I don't think I could have taken it. There is one scene that bothered me and I think should be removed - there is a scene where Ray and his family are attacked for having the only working vehicle - I could have lived without this scene. Unfortunately, it is pretty honest as to what would probably happen, but still, I'll be skipping that chapter when the DVD comes into my house.
The effects are amazing - hats off to ILM once again! They really did the trick to help you believe these aliens (and their freaky red vines - anyone buy Twizzlers at the concession stand?) were real. The destruction, the incineration of human beings, the ominous tripods - it was all amazing.
Look - ignore the crap in the media and go see this movie. Who cares if they are or if they aren't; ignore the Scientology-factor (I have for years working at my company). Go see this movie and enjoy every minute of it! I give it high marks :)
This won't be easy to review this movie without giving too much away - but I will try my best. So let's start with the story.
Ray, Tom Cruise, is an almost deadbeat dad who is a New Jersey dock worker. It's "his weekend" with the kids and the first few minutes of the movie identify his lack of maturity when it comes to being a dad, but this is a character who is definitely flawed and it seems that he cares, but just doesn't know how to be a dad. His kids are not so thrilled to be at dad's place for the weekend and it only gets worse for them. I must say that Dakota Fanning turns in another stellar performance.
The movie picks up the pace very quickly, but not so quickly that you don't get to know these characters a little bit - Steven Spielberg is really good at this method of storytelling. He gives us enough of an insight into the people before introducing the shark..I mean aliens.
The next 45 minutes are completely intense. This movie is full of shock and terror for the audience - who would expect these things to have been on the planet for a million years, just lying in wait...certainly not the people in the theatre with me. I think the reason these initial scenes are so scary, is that you are feeling the panic and desperation of the people running for their lives because Spielberg shot it from the point of view of these people - well done!
The other thing that is done so well in this movie is that many things are implied, but never shown - a river of death, and war being played out between the military and the tripods and just enough data being passed around to make your own mind start to come to conclusions about the aliens. Again, this is what Spielberg does best. Think back to that shark eating his first victim, but all you see is this girl being dragged around the water and screaming...next thing you know, she is pulled under and there is nothing but silence. Spielberg pulls from all of his previous films in this movie - there is an homage to his raptors in the kitchen scene from Jurassic Park that takes place in Tim Robbin’s basement – you will all recognize it.
There are kids in danger, a lot of death and destruction, and pure terror in this movie, but without it, I don't think this movie would be as good. You have a feeling that there is no way out of this mess and everyone is going to die - and I loved every minute of it.
I will say the movie drops off in the second half, but not so much that I minded - after all, how do you sustain such intensity for 2 hours? I don't think I could have taken it. There is one scene that bothered me and I think should be removed - there is a scene where Ray and his family are attacked for having the only working vehicle - I could have lived without this scene. Unfortunately, it is pretty honest as to what would probably happen, but still, I'll be skipping that chapter when the DVD comes into my house.
The effects are amazing - hats off to ILM once again! They really did the trick to help you believe these aliens (and their freaky red vines - anyone buy Twizzlers at the concession stand?) were real. The destruction, the incineration of human beings, the ominous tripods - it was all amazing.
Look - ignore the crap in the media and go see this movie. Who cares if they are or if they aren't; ignore the Scientology-factor (I have for years working at my company). Go see this movie and enjoy every minute of it! I give it high marks :)
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