In my attempt to get back into my photography eye, I've been reliving some of my favorite photography sites. In researching, I came across this site http://www.leslieduss.com/. This, to me, is real photography. Its not sceneries or posed pictures. It's real. Its human. It's love. It's hatred. It's happiness. It's sadness. It's life. It's surreal. It's emotional. It's surprising. It's candid. It's lonely. It's together. It's morbid. It's artistic.
In a nut shell, it makes me feel so many different things. I just love it. It's the type of photography I crave. The type I strive for. It's my new goal.
Friday, March 31, 2006
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Engagement and Listening
Have you ever experienced a conversation with someone whom you felt was 100% in the moment with you? With someone who was completely engaged and "there"?
Its not something I'm accustomed to feeling, but when I do, it sure makes you feel like the person your talking to really wants to know you and understand you. Like they value you and appreciate the things you have to say. Which, or course, only causes me to chatter on even more, all the while my brain telling me to shoosh! But that's not the point...
The point is, communication has always been a strong suit of mine (well minus the public speaking and awkward chatter to a cute guy you're attracted to - but those don't count). Its always been easy for me to strike up a conversation with people. But that is only half of communication. With all the project management training I've had I learned that 70% of communication is listening. I also learned that most of us don't actually listen when someone's talking to us. Being a type A personality, its hard for me to focus long enough to actually listen to what's being said. I'm usually on to the next topic before the person has completed the first word. Our minds travel off to the grocery list, the plans for the weekend, the problem at work or home, etc.
But if you've ever experienced talking to someone who was 100% listening, you've just experience true communication.
I had such an experience recently, and I felt valued and a little cherished. That may sound weird, but I felt like what I was saying was important enough to this other person that they wanted to listen 100%. And the fact that I felt this person was engaged and listening made me want to articulate myself clearly and to the point, so as to not waste their time. And on top of it all, it made me want to be a better listener. If I could provide someone else with the feeling I just felt as I was talking to this person, that is a skill I think I need/want in my trove of skills.
Add one more item to the list of things to "fix".
Its not something I'm accustomed to feeling, but when I do, it sure makes you feel like the person your talking to really wants to know you and understand you. Like they value you and appreciate the things you have to say. Which, or course, only causes me to chatter on even more, all the while my brain telling me to shoosh! But that's not the point...
The point is, communication has always been a strong suit of mine (well minus the public speaking and awkward chatter to a cute guy you're attracted to - but those don't count). Its always been easy for me to strike up a conversation with people. But that is only half of communication. With all the project management training I've had I learned that 70% of communication is listening. I also learned that most of us don't actually listen when someone's talking to us. Being a type A personality, its hard for me to focus long enough to actually listen to what's being said. I'm usually on to the next topic before the person has completed the first word. Our minds travel off to the grocery list, the plans for the weekend, the problem at work or home, etc.
But if you've ever experienced talking to someone who was 100% listening, you've just experience true communication.
I had such an experience recently, and I felt valued and a little cherished. That may sound weird, but I felt like what I was saying was important enough to this other person that they wanted to listen 100%. And the fact that I felt this person was engaged and listening made me want to articulate myself clearly and to the point, so as to not waste their time. And on top of it all, it made me want to be a better listener. If I could provide someone else with the feeling I just felt as I was talking to this person, that is a skill I think I need/want in my trove of skills.
Add one more item to the list of things to "fix".
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Jenn: 0 Refrigerator: 1
In the middle of the night Pookie and I were jolted awake by the sound that I can only describe as a motorcross in action. In my just-suddenly-awaken state, I stumble out to the living room to see what the hell that noise was. I no sooner stepped out in the living room and I was immediately transported to earlier that evening.
I need to take you back to earlier that evening. The night started off like most Monday nights. I was sitting down for a nice night of the Donald and Apprentice when I decided to have myself a glass of cranberry juice. (No alcohol this time, just juice. That was my first mistake). I grab my glass and head to the fridge. Popping open the door, pour my juice and return the bottle unharmed to the fridge. As I turn to leave my hand decides it no long wants to hold the glass of cranberry juice and releases it to free fall to the ground.
Now stay with me here. The glass hit the floor perfectly on the bottom and cranberry juice shot straight up into the air and covered anything in its path, which included me and the fridge. As I stood in the kitchen marveling at the mess 8 oz of cranberry juice can make, I begin to clean. As I'm wiping off the fridge I have to take the paper scraps with recipes and / or quotes off to clean them as well. One such scrap, not more than a 3X5 piece of purple (important to the rest of the story) cardstock (also important to the rest of the story) falls. And as if it has a specific purpose and knows exactly where to go, I watch it float effortlessly to the ground and under the fridge.
You with me so far? Thinking I'd get the paper later and I went on about my business. Water in hand - gave up on the juice - I sit and watch the Donald.
Approximately 15 minutes later, Pookie and I are startled by this commotion in the kitchen. The sound? Remember when you were a kid and you used to put a card in the spokes of your bike wheel so it would make that ratta-tat sound. Yah well, amplify that by 10 as a piece of purple cardstock stuck in a fan of a fridge. That would be the noise. Got that visual? Great.
Trying to think on my feet I grabbed the first thing that looked as if I could push it under the fridge and dislodge the paper....Pookie's cat toy, a long plastic stick with a feather on the end. No I didn't put the feather part in the fan....though amusing that would have been. The fridge is old and I couldn't exactly see the paper. All the fridge guts were hanging down and in the way. After getting the super power flashlight (and thanking mom and dad for buying batteries for it on the last trip), I started to study the muck and mess under the fridge to see where that fan/paper were. All the while the noise...man...stop the noise. The visual of this still cracks me up. I'm lying on the kitchen floor, cat toy in hand, flashlight in the other feverishly poking under the fridge trying to find the paper/fan combo. Nothing. Finally, I hit pay dirt....sorta.
The Mr. Cat toy met Mister Fan. Poke. Poke. Poke and the fan shuts off.
Proud of myself for my effort, I call the apartment complex to leave a message asking them to come in tomorrow and get the paper out of the fridge...Imagining fires and all.
1:24AM the motor cross starts again. Only this time the monster trucks are at the party. Pook and I are rattled awake by the deafening noise coming from the kitchen. I make my way to the fridge and just stare at it, willing it to stop. So me, Mister Cat Toy and Mister Flashlight saddle up to the fridge for another round of "STOP THAT NOISE". Then, as if an angel coming from heaven I see the purple paper. I poke to try to dislodge it, but am poking the fan, which stops the fan, and does ultimately hit the paper, but does nothing. To no avail, the paper stays lodged and the sound continues. The only success I had was moving the paper more into the jaws of the fan.
Admitting defeat, I do what any sane person at 2AM would do, I pull the fridge out and unplug it. Ahhh...the sound of silence. And thus ends the game:
Jenn: 0
Refrigerator: 1
I need to take you back to earlier that evening. The night started off like most Monday nights. I was sitting down for a nice night of the Donald and Apprentice when I decided to have myself a glass of cranberry juice. (No alcohol this time, just juice. That was my first mistake). I grab my glass and head to the fridge. Popping open the door, pour my juice and return the bottle unharmed to the fridge. As I turn to leave my hand decides it no long wants to hold the glass of cranberry juice and releases it to free fall to the ground.
Now stay with me here. The glass hit the floor perfectly on the bottom and cranberry juice shot straight up into the air and covered anything in its path, which included me and the fridge. As I stood in the kitchen marveling at the mess 8 oz of cranberry juice can make, I begin to clean. As I'm wiping off the fridge I have to take the paper scraps with recipes and / or quotes off to clean them as well. One such scrap, not more than a 3X5 piece of purple (important to the rest of the story) cardstock (also important to the rest of the story) falls. And as if it has a specific purpose and knows exactly where to go, I watch it float effortlessly to the ground and under the fridge.
You with me so far? Thinking I'd get the paper later and I went on about my business. Water in hand - gave up on the juice - I sit and watch the Donald.
Approximately 15 minutes later, Pookie and I are startled by this commotion in the kitchen. The sound? Remember when you were a kid and you used to put a card in the spokes of your bike wheel so it would make that ratta-tat sound. Yah well, amplify that by 10 as a piece of purple cardstock stuck in a fan of a fridge. That would be the noise. Got that visual? Great.
Trying to think on my feet I grabbed the first thing that looked as if I could push it under the fridge and dislodge the paper....Pookie's cat toy, a long plastic stick with a feather on the end. No I didn't put the feather part in the fan....though amusing that would have been. The fridge is old and I couldn't exactly see the paper. All the fridge guts were hanging down and in the way. After getting the super power flashlight (and thanking mom and dad for buying batteries for it on the last trip), I started to study the muck and mess under the fridge to see where that fan/paper were. All the while the noise...man...stop the noise. The visual of this still cracks me up. I'm lying on the kitchen floor, cat toy in hand, flashlight in the other feverishly poking under the fridge trying to find the paper/fan combo. Nothing. Finally, I hit pay dirt....sorta.
The Mr. Cat toy met Mister Fan. Poke. Poke. Poke and the fan shuts off.
Proud of myself for my effort, I call the apartment complex to leave a message asking them to come in tomorrow and get the paper out of the fridge...Imagining fires and all.
1:24AM the motor cross starts again. Only this time the monster trucks are at the party. Pook and I are rattled awake by the deafening noise coming from the kitchen. I make my way to the fridge and just stare at it, willing it to stop. So me, Mister Cat Toy and Mister Flashlight saddle up to the fridge for another round of "STOP THAT NOISE". Then, as if an angel coming from heaven I see the purple paper. I poke to try to dislodge it, but am poking the fan, which stops the fan, and does ultimately hit the paper, but does nothing. To no avail, the paper stays lodged and the sound continues. The only success I had was moving the paper more into the jaws of the fan.
Admitting defeat, I do what any sane person at 2AM would do, I pull the fridge out and unplug it. Ahhh...the sound of silence. And thus ends the game:
Jenn: 0
Refrigerator: 1
Monday, March 27, 2006
One Martini, Two Martini, Three Martini, Floor...
Okay, so it wasn't quite that bad. But I can say that I had a very healthy buzz going all night. And Sunday (the day after the Open House) things were a bit fuzzy and my reaction time a bit slower. It sucks to get old...takes twice as long to recover from any drink.The party was a smashing success. Thanks to all the friends who came out. It was really you who made it a success. Attendees: Mike, Sherrie, Lisa, Kris, Kim, Neil&Taunya, Lars and Debbie, Mark&Vanessa, Megan, Shannon, Gary, Monica, Kari, and Melinda. Good times.
First the drinks.
Latinpolitan's - Pleasure in a glass. oh dear God these go down smooth. They are really a cosmo with rum instead of vodka. I had purchased the pink sugar for rimming the glasses and between the sugar and the rum, it was a tasty treat. The hit of the party I think.
Cosmopolitan's - Also tasty, but I didn't drink one on Saturday.
Appletini's - I had purchased a green sugar for this drink as well and Appletini mixture. So it was a simple drink and was apparently my drink du jour after a couple Latinpolitan's. (see why things were fuzzy on Sunday...? Mixing my drinks. Especially considering I had started with a beer at about 3pm due to nerves for the party).
Seattle Manhattans - Starbucks Liquor is the star of this show. Several people drank these and seemed to enjoy their coffee goodness.
Honorable Mentions: Beer - which no one drank so now I have a fridge full of beer. Actually that's not true Shannon did drink all my Stella. Damn you Shannon!
The food: A gorgeous display of taste and class. See this party was really all about me having an opportunity to cook. And cook I did. We had Basil and Crab topped cucumbers, Curried Garlic Dip and Vegis, Olive Crisps, Shrimp spread, Hot Artichoke dip, meatballs, and sweet treats for later. I had a ton of food and by the grace of God barely a nibble left.
Sadly, I didn't take ONE PICTURE. Can you believe it? Me, the queen of pictures. I must have been lost in love or something. Yes, the "crush" was there (BTW, I keep mistyping crush to curse...you think there's something to that?) and seemed to enjoy himself. I can't really tell you much more without giving away his identity. I love a good mystery!
I also am convinced I need to now have Cocktail Party's every now and then just for fun. No need to have an excuse.
Friday, March 24, 2006
My old friend Photography
I miss photography. I dropped photography a couple of years ago when I dropped the X boyfriend (okay it was a mutual drop). But photography had always been a passion of mine and something I really wanted to work at and something I was good at. Then I got in a slump. My minds eye could no longer see the beauty, see the picture. Nor did it want to take the shot, or to even look for it. All I took pictures of were flowers; close up macro type of pictures. Some say the pictures are beautiful, and gorgeous...and for some I'd agree. Not that I'm patting myself on my back, but how many artists do you know that actually like their work?
I have been mildly successful in selling a few pictures (mostly on cards), but the passion for taking pictures had left. I really just didn't enjoy it as much. And I don't think it had anything to do with no longer being with the X - who was a photographer - as much as photography drove that relationship and I think I was just bored and tired of it. I wanted to toss it aside like the wilted flower I had become.
So its spring. And all the flowers are blooming and I find myself yearning to take pictures of them. And yet, I stop myself because its what I always take pictures of. But today is different. Today I put the camera back in my bag. I am carrying the camera with me on my journey through today. What I'll take pictures of is still unknown. But it feels good to have my old friend with me again. It feels comfortable. It feels right.
Last night I got out my portfolio. This book filled with years of what I considered "successful" pictures. I tried to look at them as if I had never seen them before and as if I wasn't the one who took the picture. I tried to open my mind to see their beauty, to see what that photographer all those years ago was trying to capture. I was mildly successful at it. I did find small things wrong here and there: Too many white spots, not focused as well, maybe a better f-stop...oh the pain. But in the end when I slowly closed the book of my work, I felt like I had something. Not really sure what that something was. The person who took those pictures back then was VERY much a new person today. Maybe that person looking through the lense of a camera could in fact take better/different pictures...see a different view through the lense. Experience the photos different. And so, I start my photography journey once again. Only this time, a mature person who's taken the time to look through the lense of her life.
Stay tuned.
I have been mildly successful in selling a few pictures (mostly on cards), but the passion for taking pictures had left. I really just didn't enjoy it as much. And I don't think it had anything to do with no longer being with the X - who was a photographer - as much as photography drove that relationship and I think I was just bored and tired of it. I wanted to toss it aside like the wilted flower I had become.
So its spring. And all the flowers are blooming and I find myself yearning to take pictures of them. And yet, I stop myself because its what I always take pictures of. But today is different. Today I put the camera back in my bag. I am carrying the camera with me on my journey through today. What I'll take pictures of is still unknown. But it feels good to have my old friend with me again. It feels comfortable. It feels right.
Last night I got out my portfolio. This book filled with years of what I considered "successful" pictures. I tried to look at them as if I had never seen them before and as if I wasn't the one who took the picture. I tried to open my mind to see their beauty, to see what that photographer all those years ago was trying to capture. I was mildly successful at it. I did find small things wrong here and there: Too many white spots, not focused as well, maybe a better f-stop...oh the pain. But in the end when I slowly closed the book of my work, I felt like I had something. Not really sure what that something was. The person who took those pictures back then was VERY much a new person today. Maybe that person looking through the lense of a camera could in fact take better/different pictures...see a different view through the lense. Experience the photos different. And so, I start my photography journey once again. Only this time, a mature person who's taken the time to look through the lense of her life.
Stay tuned.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
All's quiet on the Western Front
Where did that phrase come from anyhow?
Anyhow, nothing overly new and exciting in my life. I scored a big one at work yesterday. We are trying to track down very specific customers that fit a certain profile. Currently of our 100+ customers we have like 2 of these specific types. Well, yesterday I spoke with a random customer who was considered "umanaged" and yet, found that they have been spending thousands on Speech Server, and oh by the way, they fit perfectly into our profile. Our beta is to release in the next couple of months, and we are profiling customers who we feel would be good candidates to work on the beta and then ultimately stand on stage with us at launch. I think we might have found one.
It sure feels good to do something good for a change.
Other than that, I'm excited for my little soiree this weekend. I was chatting with my office mate about this and I realized this "open house" isn't really about the apartment at all. No, its me wanting to entertain. To cook. To have friends over. THAT's what its all about. (And all this time we thought the hokey pokey was what it was all about).
My gathering of friends is going to be "interesting". Coming over are friends from all walks of my life. Many have never met the others. So it'll be interesting to see what happens when several worlds collide.
In my Uber Planning Self, I've already got the bar laid out, the glasses for the bar set, the menu out, the table set with what's going where, the apartment cleaned (minus last minute vacuuming because Pookie is shedding like mad. Damn long haired cat. ), food purchased, alcohol purchased, and Saturday planned out completely.
Now...all that's left to do is P-A-R-T-Y!!!!
Anyhow, nothing overly new and exciting in my life. I scored a big one at work yesterday. We are trying to track down very specific customers that fit a certain profile. Currently of our 100+ customers we have like 2 of these specific types. Well, yesterday I spoke with a random customer who was considered "umanaged" and yet, found that they have been spending thousands on Speech Server, and oh by the way, they fit perfectly into our profile. Our beta is to release in the next couple of months, and we are profiling customers who we feel would be good candidates to work on the beta and then ultimately stand on stage with us at launch. I think we might have found one.
It sure feels good to do something good for a change.
Other than that, I'm excited for my little soiree this weekend. I was chatting with my office mate about this and I realized this "open house" isn't really about the apartment at all. No, its me wanting to entertain. To cook. To have friends over. THAT's what its all about. (And all this time we thought the hokey pokey was what it was all about).My gathering of friends is going to be "interesting". Coming over are friends from all walks of my life. Many have never met the others. So it'll be interesting to see what happens when several worlds collide.
In my Uber Planning Self, I've already got the bar laid out, the glasses for the bar set, the menu out, the table set with what's going where, the apartment cleaned (minus last minute vacuuming because Pookie is shedding like mad. Damn long haired cat. ), food purchased, alcohol purchased, and Saturday planned out completely.
Now...all that's left to do is P-A-R-T-Y!!!!
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
I've got a Crush on you....
What a funny phrase, "I've got a crush." The word immediately transports you back to high school, doesn’t it? Where the object of your crush was some guy you would never in a million years talk to. Okay, maybe that was my high school days. Over the years I've had several "crushes". Some were stronger than others, and most disappearing from crush to friend. (Yes, boys, I'm the girl everyone wants to be "just friends". It’s a curse and a blessing all in one.)
Out of curiosity I decided to see what my old pal Webster said a “crush” was. When I read this definition in context of a relationship, it really doesn’t sound healthy at all.
Crush: 1 a : to squeeze or force by pressure so as to alter or destroy structure b : to squeeze together into a mass
2 : to reduce to particles by pounding or grinding
3 a : to suppress or overwhelm as if by pressure or weight b : to oppress or burden grievously c : to subdue completely
I'm 37 years old. You wouldn’t expect an intelligent, good hearted, fun loving, emotionally available, professionally successful 37 year old woman to say she has a "crush" on someone. But that is exactly what I have. A crush!
I have a crush! I have a crush! I have a crush!
Now the object of my crush may or may not know. In fact, he likely doesn’t know. Or maybe I’m not giving him enough credit to read my “signals”. My “signals” I believe are either partially blocked by men, or translated incorrectly by men, again, it’s a curse and a blessing.
I’ve only “known” this crush for a short time. That is to say I’ve only actually had a conversation with him, and chatted with him for a short time, but have “known of him” for some time. In my “woman” mind, (“Woman” is in quotes because we all know “women” think very differently from men. Its that Mars and Venus thing) I’ve made it abundantly obvious of my attraction. I mean, the casual conversation; the casual unassuming glances in his direction, innocent heart-felt smiles, and of course making up reasons to spend time together etc. This really means that my actions are not out of the norm in any way nor could ever be construed by a man as attraction. Please see previous paragraph on signals.
I’m a bad flirt. I admit it. I think I take myself way too seriously and don’t want to come off like those ditsy, scatter brained bimbos I’ve seen shamelessly flirting with some guy. If they had flirting classes in school, I must have been at band practice. (read: the reason I’m a bad flirt is because I was a band geek). “How to Flirt Successfully.” Or “Flirting 101”. Either way, I’m quite sure what I consider “flirting” is really just actions that average, normal people take in their daily existence with each other. Because god forbid the person actually think you’re flirting with them. I know. I see the problem. I live(d) the problem.
But that feeling to have a crush on someone again, the memories it conjures up. The pain it conjures up. The glorious feelings of anticipation of “maybe” seeing him walk around the corner. Or “maybe” seeing him standing by your locker after school. Or “casually” running into him after class and “accidentally on purpose” ending up sitting next to him during lunch. And then when you do see him your heart beats faster, your mouth goes dry and any hope of actually putting a structured sentence together is gone. Did you see Dirty Dancing? When Baby sees Johnny for the first time and has an opportunity to speak to him she says, “I carried a watermelon.” That’s EXACTLY what would happen to me.
And, oh the drama of crushes in high school. Do you remember that? It’s likely a girl thing, but every woman reading this can relate to having a crush on a guy who likes your best friend, or worst a cheerleader - ugh. But the drama we created around it was enormous. You know, come to think of it, I don’t think you could pay me enough to go back to high school.
Exactly who this crush is, I can't say. Please, I'm not that brave. But I will say this, my goal is to remain a calm, relatively normal, seemingly intelligent person in his presence. I'll let you know if I'm successful. And I can hear you all saying, “yah right.”
PS - No the crush isn't Paul Jensen(aka Dudley Manlove)...well it is, but that's a different type of crush I can't discuss because my mother reads this blog. Hi Mom!
Out of curiosity I decided to see what my old pal Webster said a “crush” was. When I read this definition in context of a relationship, it really doesn’t sound healthy at all.
Crush: 1 a : to squeeze or force by pressure so as to alter or destroy structure b : to squeeze together into a mass
2 : to reduce to particles by pounding or grinding
3 a : to suppress or overwhelm as if by pressure or weight b : to oppress or burden grievously c : to subdue completely
I'm 37 years old. You wouldn’t expect an intelligent, good hearted, fun loving, emotionally available, professionally successful 37 year old woman to say she has a "crush" on someone. But that is exactly what I have. A crush!
I have a crush! I have a crush! I have a crush!
Now the object of my crush may or may not know. In fact, he likely doesn’t know. Or maybe I’m not giving him enough credit to read my “signals”. My “signals” I believe are either partially blocked by men, or translated incorrectly by men, again, it’s a curse and a blessing.
I’ve only “known” this crush for a short time. That is to say I’ve only actually had a conversation with him, and chatted with him for a short time, but have “known of him” for some time. In my “woman” mind, (“Woman” is in quotes because we all know “women” think very differently from men. Its that Mars and Venus thing) I’ve made it abundantly obvious of my attraction. I mean, the casual conversation; the casual unassuming glances in his direction, innocent heart-felt smiles, and of course making up reasons to spend time together etc. This really means that my actions are not out of the norm in any way nor could ever be construed by a man as attraction. Please see previous paragraph on signals.
I’m a bad flirt. I admit it. I think I take myself way too seriously and don’t want to come off like those ditsy, scatter brained bimbos I’ve seen shamelessly flirting with some guy. If they had flirting classes in school, I must have been at band practice. (read: the reason I’m a bad flirt is because I was a band geek). “How to Flirt Successfully.” Or “Flirting 101”. Either way, I’m quite sure what I consider “flirting” is really just actions that average, normal people take in their daily existence with each other. Because god forbid the person actually think you’re flirting with them. I know. I see the problem. I live(d) the problem.
But that feeling to have a crush on someone again, the memories it conjures up. The pain it conjures up. The glorious feelings of anticipation of “maybe” seeing him walk around the corner. Or “maybe” seeing him standing by your locker after school. Or “casually” running into him after class and “accidentally on purpose” ending up sitting next to him during lunch. And then when you do see him your heart beats faster, your mouth goes dry and any hope of actually putting a structured sentence together is gone. Did you see Dirty Dancing? When Baby sees Johnny for the first time and has an opportunity to speak to him she says, “I carried a watermelon.” That’s EXACTLY what would happen to me.
And, oh the drama of crushes in high school. Do you remember that? It’s likely a girl thing, but every woman reading this can relate to having a crush on a guy who likes your best friend, or worst a cheerleader - ugh. But the drama we created around it was enormous. You know, come to think of it, I don’t think you could pay me enough to go back to high school.
Exactly who this crush is, I can't say. Please, I'm not that brave. But I will say this, my goal is to remain a calm, relatively normal, seemingly intelligent person in his presence. I'll let you know if I'm successful. And I can hear you all saying, “yah right.”
PS - No the crush isn't Paul Jensen(aka Dudley Manlove)...well it is, but that's a different type of crush I can't discuss because my mother reads this blog. Hi Mom!
Monday, March 20, 2006
Wireless Cafes and Sunshine
HEAT WAVE...Seattle hit a whoppin' 58 yesterday...at least Lynnwood did.
If you're not from around here, you probably wouldn't understand, but sunshine = mass exodus of people to the outdoors. Trying to do anything that involved being outside on one of the first sunny days in a while is close to impossible.
I spent the day in a brilliant wireless coffee shop in Shoreline, reading my recent book Wicked - The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. Tough book to read, but perfect for a cuppa Joe and a quiet Sunday.
While sitting in this wireless cafe it dawned on me that 1) I was the only female and 2) I was the only one not sitting with a computer. My odds were good being the only female in the room, though I reprimanded myself that I was there to read and not "stalk" anyone. But, then it dawned on me that not only were they all men, but men about my age...and several appeared single. Maybe wireless cafes in Shoreline is the new library? Maybe this is where to go to meet men? Except then I remember, they already had a sure thing...their computers.
I'm a voyeur. I love to watch people. Sherrie always gets mad when we go to dinner because I'm usually watching the people behind her doing whatever it is that has caught my attention. So, I inconspicuously watched the men in this cafe. One guy caught my attention (and everyone's attention) pretty quickly. I have to admit in good faith, I did feel bad for this guy and wanted to give him a hug for strength.
He walked into the place beaming with a smile that would catch the eye of Venus. Cute? In a techy, geeky sort of way. Wearing shorts and carrying a load of crap. He orders his coffee then scanned the room for the perfect table to place himself, his 14 books and his laptop. He spies it. Walks over to it like a male lion hunting a deer. But wait, the floor is a wee bit uneven...he trips a little...stumbles, but doesn't fall. The books, however, fly everywhere. But he saved his laptop. Of course.
After scrambling to retrieve all 14 books (I may be exaggerating, it may only have been 3). He sits in the nearest table. His face burning red with embarrassment, when he looks around the place and sees there's only a few other people all of which appear to not be paying attention to him. He starts to lay out his books, opens his laptop and tries to get things organized. He drops his pen. Picks it up, drops it again.
The barista yells, "Tall, skinny latte with extra foam". Our hero starts to walk to the counter, forgetting about the uneven floor board slightly stumbles again. He looks back to see WHAT on earth is making him trip. (We've all done that haven't we? You trip on some imaginary thing and look back to see what it was instead of admitting you're just clumsy) And in my mind I'm wishing, hoping - praying really - he remembers and doesn't trip on his way back with his hot coffee. But our hero ceremoniously makes it back without incident, well, almost.
Putting his coffee down he somewhat misjudges exactly where the book ends and the table begins. In slow motion, I see him scramble to his feet attempting to retrieve the slow falling coffee cup that is about to fall onto his computer. Superman would have been jealous to see this man's lightening quick speed to save his laptop. In his attempt to save the laptop, which is miraculously does, his coffee still spills everywhere. He sits down and I swear I saw a little white flag being waved from him. As he gets up to get napkins to clean up his mess I just about spit my own coffee out laughing at his Tshirt and the saying on it. It reads, "Today is not your day. Tomorrow isn't looking good either."
If you're not from around here, you probably wouldn't understand, but sunshine = mass exodus of people to the outdoors. Trying to do anything that involved being outside on one of the first sunny days in a while is close to impossible.
I spent the day in a brilliant wireless coffee shop in Shoreline, reading my recent book Wicked - The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. Tough book to read, but perfect for a cuppa Joe and a quiet Sunday.
While sitting in this wireless cafe it dawned on me that 1) I was the only female and 2) I was the only one not sitting with a computer. My odds were good being the only female in the room, though I reprimanded myself that I was there to read and not "stalk" anyone. But, then it dawned on me that not only were they all men, but men about my age...and several appeared single. Maybe wireless cafes in Shoreline is the new library? Maybe this is where to go to meet men? Except then I remember, they already had a sure thing...their computers.
I'm a voyeur. I love to watch people. Sherrie always gets mad when we go to dinner because I'm usually watching the people behind her doing whatever it is that has caught my attention. So, I inconspicuously watched the men in this cafe. One guy caught my attention (and everyone's attention) pretty quickly. I have to admit in good faith, I did feel bad for this guy and wanted to give him a hug for strength.
He walked into the place beaming with a smile that would catch the eye of Venus. Cute? In a techy, geeky sort of way. Wearing shorts and carrying a load of crap. He orders his coffee then scanned the room for the perfect table to place himself, his 14 books and his laptop. He spies it. Walks over to it like a male lion hunting a deer. But wait, the floor is a wee bit uneven...he trips a little...stumbles, but doesn't fall. The books, however, fly everywhere. But he saved his laptop. Of course.
After scrambling to retrieve all 14 books (I may be exaggerating, it may only have been 3). He sits in the nearest table. His face burning red with embarrassment, when he looks around the place and sees there's only a few other people all of which appear to not be paying attention to him. He starts to lay out his books, opens his laptop and tries to get things organized. He drops his pen. Picks it up, drops it again.
The barista yells, "Tall, skinny latte with extra foam". Our hero starts to walk to the counter, forgetting about the uneven floor board slightly stumbles again. He looks back to see WHAT on earth is making him trip. (We've all done that haven't we? You trip on some imaginary thing and look back to see what it was instead of admitting you're just clumsy) And in my mind I'm wishing, hoping - praying really - he remembers and doesn't trip on his way back with his hot coffee. But our hero ceremoniously makes it back without incident, well, almost.
Putting his coffee down he somewhat misjudges exactly where the book ends and the table begins. In slow motion, I see him scramble to his feet attempting to retrieve the slow falling coffee cup that is about to fall onto his computer. Superman would have been jealous to see this man's lightening quick speed to save his laptop. In his attempt to save the laptop, which is miraculously does, his coffee still spills everywhere. He sits down and I swear I saw a little white flag being waved from him. As he gets up to get napkins to clean up his mess I just about spit my own coffee out laughing at his Tshirt and the saying on it. It reads, "Today is not your day. Tomorrow isn't looking good either."
Friday, March 17, 2006
Dr. Deming and the Learning curve
I started a new Project Management book this week called "The Leader Handbook". Only into it 10 pages and I'm hooked.
If you've never heard of Deming, Dr. W. Edwards Deming taught that by adopting appropriate principles of management, organizations can increase quality and simultaneously reduce costs (by reducing waste, rework, staff attrition and litigation while increasing customer loyalty). He came up with a "Transformation's learning curve". His transformation learning curve struck out against the traditional learning curve. You know the type, flat then dips down, then up and then flat again.
Anyhow, Deming's Transformation learning curve looks a bit different. His has a somewhat steep line up, then drops WAY down, then slowly curves up and flattens a bit. Its hard to describe, just work with me on this. It can be thought of as in the begining the illusion of learning "knowing enough to be dangerous", then goes into significant understanding to see that "we don't know much", like an "AHA moment". Then when it drops way down is when the real learning begins. If I can find an image, I'll post it. For now use your imagination.
There are some items this book lists as what we can learn from the false learning curve. And once I read those I thought, these can be used in every day life, and not just management scenarios.
Be patient. Most often we will notice progress only by looking back at how we were two or three years ago.
Be persistent. Don't ever give up! Don't get restless and look for a new management philosoph du jour.
Be humble. The arrogant organization will find it difficult to learn anything. Acknowledge our inadequacies. Instead of assured pronouncements, offer hypotheses that need data for support.
Be inelegant. Give yourself permission to be inept and ask dumb questions. Don't try to fake it. Rather Seek to learn it.
My personal favorite point is the last one.
If you've never heard of Deming, Dr. W. Edwards Deming taught that by adopting appropriate principles of management, organizations can increase quality and simultaneously reduce costs (by reducing waste, rework, staff attrition and litigation while increasing customer loyalty). He came up with a "Transformation's learning curve". His transformation learning curve struck out against the traditional learning curve. You know the type, flat then dips down, then up and then flat again.
Anyhow, Deming's Transformation learning curve looks a bit different. His has a somewhat steep line up, then drops WAY down, then slowly curves up and flattens a bit. Its hard to describe, just work with me on this. It can be thought of as in the begining the illusion of learning "knowing enough to be dangerous", then goes into significant understanding to see that "we don't know much", like an "AHA moment". Then when it drops way down is when the real learning begins. If I can find an image, I'll post it. For now use your imagination.
There are some items this book lists as what we can learn from the false learning curve. And once I read those I thought, these can be used in every day life, and not just management scenarios.
Be patient. Most often we will notice progress only by looking back at how we were two or three years ago.
Be persistent. Don't ever give up! Don't get restless and look for a new management philosoph du jour.
Be humble. The arrogant organization will find it difficult to learn anything. Acknowledge our inadequacies. Instead of assured pronouncements, offer hypotheses that need data for support.
Be inelegant. Give yourself permission to be inept and ask dumb questions. Don't try to fake it. Rather Seek to learn it.
My personal favorite point is the last one.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
And this too shall pass...
Ever had one of those days. I knew LAST night that today wasn't going to be a good one. Which makes me wonder if I created the "bad" day.
That aside, I was out late last night celebrating with the BCC Praticum classes (long story, but the BCC Practicum classes were doing their final projects for the BCC Proj Mgmt Association -BCC PMA - of which I am VP, so attended). We went to the Keg and I had all intentions of leaving early. But I was having too much fun. I knew when I left at the late hour that I'd be in trouble today...see being that I'm "older" now, I can't stay out until the wee late hours and expect to feel 100% the next day. Let's not discuss the three beers on an empty stomach.
Bright and early, well okay, not bright, but early I had a conf call with our Sales team. About 3.5 minutes into it I became the proverbial punching bag. And throw punches they did. By the time the call ended I am exhausted. Its not anything I did, or didn't do, but I hate it when people are unsatisfied with the way I'm doing/handling things. I'm a pleaser at heart...and I am constantly reminding myself that "This is business, not personal." I only wish I didn't feel like I had three black eyes and a headache the size of the Grand Canyon. Of course that might have something to do with the beers and no food.
Well, as Scarlet O'Hara said, "I shall never go hungry again." Oh wait, that's not right...
Okay, well then whoever said, "Tomorrow's another day..." That's the one I'm looking for.
That aside, I was out late last night celebrating with the BCC Praticum classes (long story, but the BCC Practicum classes were doing their final projects for the BCC Proj Mgmt Association -BCC PMA - of which I am VP, so attended). We went to the Keg and I had all intentions of leaving early. But I was having too much fun. I knew when I left at the late hour that I'd be in trouble today...see being that I'm "older" now, I can't stay out until the wee late hours and expect to feel 100% the next day. Let's not discuss the three beers on an empty stomach.
Bright and early, well okay, not bright, but early I had a conf call with our Sales team. About 3.5 minutes into it I became the proverbial punching bag. And throw punches they did. By the time the call ended I am exhausted. Its not anything I did, or didn't do, but I hate it when people are unsatisfied with the way I'm doing/handling things. I'm a pleaser at heart...and I am constantly reminding myself that "This is business, not personal." I only wish I didn't feel like I had three black eyes and a headache the size of the Grand Canyon. Of course that might have something to do with the beers and no food.
Well, as Scarlet O'Hara said, "I shall never go hungry again." Oh wait, that's not right...
Okay, well then whoever said, "Tomorrow's another day..." That's the one I'm looking for.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Burning Red Face of Shame
Most of you know, I'm a talker. BUT to put me in front of my peers and ask me to speak is a whole other story. Sweaty palms, shaking hands, forgetting my name, the whole works.
It was requested to me to do a presentation about my job and my vision of the job to my stakeholders (Sales(3), Director of Sales, Marketing(3), Director of Marketing and boss). The boss and Director of Marketing pretty much get my job, duh, they designed it. But the others, well, we needed to be sure they understood it.
Seems like a simple task.
I worked hard on a 6 slide presentation. I had 25 minutes, and I knew I'd complete it and leave plenty of time for questions.
I rehearsed and rehearsed the night before.
I gave the presentation to Pookie. He liked it. (Well, let me rephrase that he stared blankly at me ... which is normal... which could mean it sucked... oh man)
I did the presentation in my sleep ALL night.
I practiced in the car on the way into work.
I was ready.
I was primed for success.
The meeting was to be a conference call, which suited me just fine, that way I could call in from my humble office and present to no one.
Slight change of plans at 7:55 AM (by the way the meeting was at 8AM). Let's all do the conference call in the big conference room. "Yes, Lets," I say with a squeaky voice.
Okay. Deep breath. Deep CLEANSING breath. BREATH!
So now, I go from Confident City to wanting to run screaming from the building.
I'm in a conference room with 6 other people, 3 on the phone.
I tell myself, I can still do this.
I try to breath...I try to remember my opening line. Oh crap, what was my opening line. Oh crap, WHAT IS AN OPENING LINE?
I secretly hope the con phone won't work, but it does.
I sit trying to look calm, cool and collected, instead of nervous, shaking with sweaty palms.
I grab my pen to fiddle with it while I talk so my hands won't shake. I'm not even paying attention to what's being said. And then I look up and EVERYONE is staring at me.
DOH! Must be my turn.
Time to turn on the Professional charm.
Next thing I know we're leaving the conf room. I have no idea what I said, what the responses were, nothing. All I could think about was, "THANK GOD its over."
Next meeting was our team meeting, which consisted of everyone (minus Sales) in the previous room. The hum in the room was one of positive gestures, and smiles toward me. Or were they smiles of concern and "Gee its been nice working with you." The Director of Marketing speaks first. His comments on my presentation were...wait...what? You liked it? I did okay? Holy Crap! Really? I didn't sound like a complete moron or a bumbling idiot?
I'm know I'm a smart person. And I know I'm professional and I know my stuff. But to force me to publicly speak just kills me. Maybe I'll join Toastmasters or something again. I joined Toastmasters WAY back in 1991 right after college, but promptly quit when I realized we ALL had to give speeches.
So the long and short of it is, I did fine and got plenty of kudos for my efforts. Which is a nice thing to hear from such smart people around me. I secretly wondered if any of them know I was terrified. I asked my boss and he said he didn't see a scared rabbit giving a speech.
I feel good about my success, but please don't make me do that again!
It was requested to me to do a presentation about my job and my vision of the job to my stakeholders (Sales(3), Director of Sales, Marketing(3), Director of Marketing and boss). The boss and Director of Marketing pretty much get my job, duh, they designed it. But the others, well, we needed to be sure they understood it.
Seems like a simple task.
I worked hard on a 6 slide presentation. I had 25 minutes, and I knew I'd complete it and leave plenty of time for questions.
I rehearsed and rehearsed the night before.
I gave the presentation to Pookie. He liked it. (Well, let me rephrase that he stared blankly at me ... which is normal... which could mean it sucked... oh man)
I did the presentation in my sleep ALL night.
I practiced in the car on the way into work.
I was ready.
I was primed for success.
The meeting was to be a conference call, which suited me just fine, that way I could call in from my humble office and present to no one.
Slight change of plans at 7:55 AM (by the way the meeting was at 8AM). Let's all do the conference call in the big conference room. "Yes, Lets," I say with a squeaky voice.
Okay. Deep breath. Deep CLEANSING breath. BREATH!
So now, I go from Confident City to wanting to run screaming from the building.
I'm in a conference room with 6 other people, 3 on the phone.
I tell myself, I can still do this.
I try to breath...I try to remember my opening line. Oh crap, what was my opening line. Oh crap, WHAT IS AN OPENING LINE?
I secretly hope the con phone won't work, but it does.
I sit trying to look calm, cool and collected, instead of nervous, shaking with sweaty palms.
I grab my pen to fiddle with it while I talk so my hands won't shake. I'm not even paying attention to what's being said. And then I look up and EVERYONE is staring at me.
DOH! Must be my turn.
Time to turn on the Professional charm.
Next thing I know we're leaving the conf room. I have no idea what I said, what the responses were, nothing. All I could think about was, "THANK GOD its over."
Next meeting was our team meeting, which consisted of everyone (minus Sales) in the previous room. The hum in the room was one of positive gestures, and smiles toward me. Or were they smiles of concern and "Gee its been nice working with you." The Director of Marketing speaks first. His comments on my presentation were...wait...what? You liked it? I did okay? Holy Crap! Really? I didn't sound like a complete moron or a bumbling idiot?
I'm know I'm a smart person. And I know I'm professional and I know my stuff. But to force me to publicly speak just kills me. Maybe I'll join Toastmasters or something again. I joined Toastmasters WAY back in 1991 right after college, but promptly quit when I realized we ALL had to give speeches.
So the long and short of it is, I did fine and got plenty of kudos for my efforts. Which is a nice thing to hear from such smart people around me. I secretly wondered if any of them know I was terrified. I asked my boss and he said he didn't see a scared rabbit giving a speech.
I feel good about my success, but please don't make me do that again!
Retraction Statement
Actually, I don't think its a retraction statement, but I have to admit I printed the Dudley list incorrectly. Oh the shame!
The real list...
The Top Six Fan Favorite Songs:
1. "December 1963 (Oh What a Night)" -- Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
2. "Hold Me Now" -- Thompson Twins
3. "I Think I Love You" -- Partridge Family
4. "Any Way You Want It" -- Journey
5. "I Was Made for Loving You" -- Kiss
6. "Take a Letter Maria" -- RB Greaves
really just swap the Journey song and the Kiss song...
The real list...
The Top Six Fan Favorite Songs:
1. "December 1963 (Oh What a Night)" -- Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
2. "Hold Me Now" -- Thompson Twins
3. "I Think I Love You" -- Partridge Family
4. "Any Way You Want It" -- Journey
5. "I Was Made for Loving You" -- Kiss
6. "Take a Letter Maria" -- RB Greaves
really just swap the Journey song and the Kiss song...
Monday, March 13, 2006
Recipe of the Week: Tinga Poblana de Pollo y Papas
So, most of you know I have a slight obsession with recipes and cooking. I love to cook. And many of you benefit from that love of cooking. I have over 600 recipes currently on file on my computer. About half are for the entre or side dishes or salads. So I got creative and put all these recipe names in a big brandy sniffer. Each week I take one out and that's the Recipe of the Week.
Generally speaking, I love each one of them. But once in awhile one will come along that I either love or absolutely hate. If I hate it, it goes in the trash. No need to save it since I won't likely make it again.
This week's recipe I loved and thought I'd share it with you all. It makes enough for about 6 servings. In typical Jenn fashion, I sorta followed the recipe. So I'll give you the recipe as it is supposed to be and I'll add in my changes.
**This recipe can have a bite to it, depending on the amount of peppers you put in.**
2 lbs chicken thighs (I don't like dark meat so I used chicken breasts and it worked just fine)
6 cups water
1 Large White onion, quartered
2 Tsp Salt
2 cloves garlic, not minced
1 can (14 oz) Whole Tomatoes in juice
4 Tsp chopped canned chipotle chilies in adobo (I used two whole chipotle's and it was perfect for me.
1 tsp Oregano (I'm not a fan of oregano so I skipped this ingredient)
1 Link (1.5 oz) Chorizo sausage, finely chopped
1 T Vegetable Oil
1 lb Boiling potato (I used Yukon Golds because I think they boil up the best for soups and stews)
2 oz crumbled queso fresco, ricotta salata or farmer cheese ( I personally didn't add this)
Bring chicken, water, 1/2 of onion and 1 Tsp salt to a boil, covered, in a 4 or 5 quart pot over moderately high heat. Boil 10 minutes, then remove from heat and let stand, until chicken is just cooked through, about 10 minutes. (I have to admit, I didn't do this. I boiled it until I felt the chicken was done.)
Transfer chicken to a plate, reserving broth with 2 quarters onion. When cold enough to handle, coarsely shred chicken, discarding skin and bones. (Again, I chose to not do this. I diced my chicken in the beginning into bite size pieces. And I used boneless, skinless chicken breasts.)
While chicken is cooking, heat a dry well seasoned cast iron skillet over med high heat. (I didn't have a cast iron skillet so I used my regular skillet). Brown garlic and remaining 2 onion quarters. Transfer onion and garlic to blender. Add tomatoes with juice, chilies, and oregano, then puree until smooth.
Cook Chorizo in heavy skillet over med high heat (I used the same skillet I cooked the onions and garlic in). Carefully add puree and cook about 10 minutes. Peal potatoes and cut into 3/4 inch pieces (bite size pieces), then add to reserved broth with remaining tsp salt. Simmer covered until potatoes are almost tender. Add potatoes and onions to chorizo mixture along with 2 cups broth. Stir in chicken and simmer 15 minutes. Serve sprinkled with cheese (again, didn't do the cheese part.)
I did have a couple corn tortillas on hand though to help sop up the yummy juices.
Enjoy!
Generally speaking, I love each one of them. But once in awhile one will come along that I either love or absolutely hate. If I hate it, it goes in the trash. No need to save it since I won't likely make it again.
This week's recipe I loved and thought I'd share it with you all. It makes enough for about 6 servings. In typical Jenn fashion, I sorta followed the recipe. So I'll give you the recipe as it is supposed to be and I'll add in my changes.
**This recipe can have a bite to it, depending on the amount of peppers you put in.**
2 lbs chicken thighs (I don't like dark meat so I used chicken breasts and it worked just fine)
6 cups water
1 Large White onion, quartered
2 Tsp Salt
2 cloves garlic, not minced
1 can (14 oz) Whole Tomatoes in juice
4 Tsp chopped canned chipotle chilies in adobo (I used two whole chipotle's and it was perfect for me.
1 tsp Oregano (I'm not a fan of oregano so I skipped this ingredient)
1 Link (1.5 oz) Chorizo sausage, finely chopped
1 T Vegetable Oil
1 lb Boiling potato (I used Yukon Golds because I think they boil up the best for soups and stews)
2 oz crumbled queso fresco, ricotta salata or farmer cheese ( I personally didn't add this)
Bring chicken, water, 1/2 of onion and 1 Tsp salt to a boil, covered, in a 4 or 5 quart pot over moderately high heat. Boil 10 minutes, then remove from heat and let stand, until chicken is just cooked through, about 10 minutes. (I have to admit, I didn't do this. I boiled it until I felt the chicken was done.)
Transfer chicken to a plate, reserving broth with 2 quarters onion. When cold enough to handle, coarsely shred chicken, discarding skin and bones. (Again, I chose to not do this. I diced my chicken in the beginning into bite size pieces. And I used boneless, skinless chicken breasts.)
While chicken is cooking, heat a dry well seasoned cast iron skillet over med high heat. (I didn't have a cast iron skillet so I used my regular skillet). Brown garlic and remaining 2 onion quarters. Transfer onion and garlic to blender. Add tomatoes with juice, chilies, and oregano, then puree until smooth.
Cook Chorizo in heavy skillet over med high heat (I used the same skillet I cooked the onions and garlic in). Carefully add puree and cook about 10 minutes. Peal potatoes and cut into 3/4 inch pieces (bite size pieces), then add to reserved broth with remaining tsp salt. Simmer covered until potatoes are almost tender. Add potatoes and onions to chorizo mixture along with 2 cups broth. Stir in chicken and simmer 15 minutes. Serve sprinkled with cheese (again, didn't do the cheese part.)
I did have a couple corn tortillas on hand though to help sop up the yummy juices.
Enjoy!
And the Favorites are....
I know you've all been waiting with baited breath on the outcome of my Dudley night. I must admit it was a shockingly bad performance. Their first set really wasn't that great as they focused on slower not so exciting songs. Rather boring to me. Me, the girl who was in about 3 beers by the time the show started and who was ready to dance the night away. Instead, I found myself being lulled to sleep.
But never fear, the second set was a pleaser. Maybe the first set was foreplay, which if it was, then Dudley should stick to singing and not sex.
Anyway, I digress. The second set brought the top 5 -er 6 Fan Favorites. The boys of the band decided on 6 because they felt like it.
Here they are - now no chuckling or smirking...
#6 - Take a Letter Maria - RB Graves - I didn't realize I knew this song, but I found myself singing along.
#5 - Any way you want it - Journey: A rockin song that got the party started
#4 - I Was Made for Lovin' You - Kiss: The song I voted on over and over again. I have to admit Dudley does a bad version of Kiss.
#3 - I think I love You - Patridge Family Quote of the night from Shannon, "this is someone's favorite song?"
#2 - Hold me now - Thompson Twins - Not a favorite of mine
#1 - December 1963 - Four Seasons. You know this song, "Oh what night. Late December Nineteen Sixty Three, what a very special time for me. What a lady oh what a night."
All in all it was a fun night and I enjoyed myself, especially enjoyed the fact that the bars in Seattle are now smoke free. So I got to go out, and come home and NOT smell like an ashtray (apologies to all those smokers out there...but that stuff stinks).
The other great adventure of the weekend was purchasing an 8 drawer dresser from non other than Swedish Torture company, IKEA. Now, I love IKEA, don't get me wrong. In fact, my entire apartment is IKEA. But jeez, putting furniture together is a royal pain. Let me take you through the steps.
7:30 Friday night - Take off for 30 mile trek to KENT in hopes of avoiding traffic both on the freeway and at IKEA.
8:00 Arrive IKEA - I didn't drive the speed limit I admit
8:05 Park and wonder where the heck is the main entrance. They've done some remodeling since last time I was there...
8:15 Find entrance, cussing.
8:30 Locate said dresser and night stand in warehouse aisle.
8:31 dilemma - how to get heavy dresser boxes off the shelf by myself.
8:32 Decide against bodily harm and doing it myself. Locate worker bee.
8:34 Enter Jason - who might be 19 maybe and weighs all of 65 lbs.
8:36 Jason and I pull the TWO boxes for the dresser off the shelf and load the cart
8:40 Jason and I are still pulling two boxes off the shelf to load onto the cart
8:43 With a loud snap and pop (part of my back that apparently doesn't appreciate being used in this manner, we have the items loaded.
8:44 Realize Cart has it out for me and refuses to drive straight. It wasn't me, I swear.
8:50 Fork out the cash and roll unweilding cart 3 miles to parking garage.
8:55 Stand stunned at Explorer suddenly wondering how the hell I'm going to load this into the car myself
8:56 practice helpless woman look at the handsome man next to me.
8:57 Flipping off handsome man for not helping.
9:00 FINALLY decide to push unweilding cart to Pick up location at the OTHER end of the garage.
9:03 After walking 1/4 mile BACK to my truck, drive ALL the way back to loading dock...
9:05 Wait for assistance to help load this truck. Secretly wondering if a husband might not be as worthless as I thought.
9:10 Cranky sales girl helps me load items into the truck.
9:11 Drive off happily with furniture in tow.
9:55 Park Explorer and think, "How the hell am I going to get this furniture into the apt.
956 - 10:15 Unload boxes piece by painful piece. Who'da thunk an 8 drawer dresser would have so many flippin' parts.
10:16 Stupidly decide to put together night stand...
11:15 Fall into bed wondering how the hell I'll find the strength to put the dresser together.
Saturday AM
WAKE at 10AM - I never sleep in that late.
10:15 Coffee in hand, I browse the "directions". Which I admit I'll call directions lightly. Little useless drawings that you need a Masters Degree in Engineering to figure out.
10:30 Still "attempting" to understand directions.
Fast forward to 1:15PM - Still in PJs STILL trying to put flipping dresser together. All 8 drawers are done miraculously without having to take them apart and "re-read" instructions.
1:30 Begin big job of putting the frame of dresser together. Plugging along nicely until.... Dammit! Dammit ! Double Dammit! ONE piece is on backwards. ONE piece...
2:15 Realize one piece is on backwards, move back 3 spaces. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200 dollars.
3:15 Finally figured out that TWO pieces were backwards, got them turned around and on the move now.
3:34 - Dresser almost done. Four pieces left. Only three shown in directions. Oh Crap! An extra piece of a dresser can't be good.
3:37 - Wonder if drinking this early is a bad thing.
4:00 Figure it all out. Dresser put together in Living room. Begin pushing 8 DRW DRESSER by myself into bedroom...only...it won't fit through the FLIPPIN door. You've got to be kidding me? 4:10 After several minutes of cussing like a sailor, brilliant thought pops into my mind for the first time in THREE days.
4:11 Push 8 DRW DRESSER up on end, push it through bedroom door
4:15 Cuss outloud because I neglected to move current furniture to make room for new dresser.
4:16 Pull new 8DRW DRESSER out of bedroom. Rearrange current furniture.
4:20 Push 8DRW DRESSER into bedroom, make if horizontal Fall onto the BED in puddle of tiredness.
4:30 Realize I still have to get ready for Dudley show tonight.
4:31 VOW to NEVER EVER buy IKEA Again.
But never fear, the second set was a pleaser. Maybe the first set was foreplay, which if it was, then Dudley should stick to singing and not sex.
Anyway, I digress. The second set brought the top 5 -er 6 Fan Favorites. The boys of the band decided on 6 because they felt like it.
Here they are - now no chuckling or smirking...
#6 - Take a Letter Maria - RB Graves - I didn't realize I knew this song, but I found myself singing along.
#5 - Any way you want it - Journey: A rockin song that got the party started
#4 - I Was Made for Lovin' You - Kiss: The song I voted on over and over again. I have to admit Dudley does a bad version of Kiss.
#3 - I think I love You - Patridge Family Quote of the night from Shannon, "this is someone's favorite song?"
#2 - Hold me now - Thompson Twins - Not a favorite of mine
#1 - December 1963 - Four Seasons. You know this song, "Oh what night. Late December Nineteen Sixty Three, what a very special time for me. What a lady oh what a night."
All in all it was a fun night and I enjoyed myself, especially enjoyed the fact that the bars in Seattle are now smoke free. So I got to go out, and come home and NOT smell like an ashtray (apologies to all those smokers out there...but that stuff stinks).
The other great adventure of the weekend was purchasing an 8 drawer dresser from non other than Swedish Torture company, IKEA. Now, I love IKEA, don't get me wrong. In fact, my entire apartment is IKEA. But jeez, putting furniture together is a royal pain. Let me take you through the steps.
7:30 Friday night - Take off for 30 mile trek to KENT in hopes of avoiding traffic both on the freeway and at IKEA.
8:00 Arrive IKEA - I didn't drive the speed limit I admit
8:05 Park and wonder where the heck is the main entrance. They've done some remodeling since last time I was there...
8:15 Find entrance, cussing.
8:30 Locate said dresser and night stand in warehouse aisle.
8:31 dilemma - how to get heavy dresser boxes off the shelf by myself.
8:32 Decide against bodily harm and doing it myself. Locate worker bee.
8:34 Enter Jason - who might be 19 maybe and weighs all of 65 lbs.
8:36 Jason and I pull the TWO boxes for the dresser off the shelf and load the cart
8:40 Jason and I are still pulling two boxes off the shelf to load onto the cart
8:43 With a loud snap and pop (part of my back that apparently doesn't appreciate being used in this manner, we have the items loaded.
8:44 Realize Cart has it out for me and refuses to drive straight. It wasn't me, I swear.
8:50 Fork out the cash and roll unweilding cart 3 miles to parking garage.
8:55 Stand stunned at Explorer suddenly wondering how the hell I'm going to load this into the car myself
8:56 practice helpless woman look at the handsome man next to me.
8:57 Flipping off handsome man for not helping.
9:00 FINALLY decide to push unweilding cart to Pick up location at the OTHER end of the garage.
9:03 After walking 1/4 mile BACK to my truck, drive ALL the way back to loading dock...
9:05 Wait for assistance to help load this truck. Secretly wondering if a husband might not be as worthless as I thought.
9:10 Cranky sales girl helps me load items into the truck.
9:11 Drive off happily with furniture in tow.
9:55 Park Explorer and think, "How the hell am I going to get this furniture into the apt.
956 - 10:15 Unload boxes piece by painful piece. Who'da thunk an 8 drawer dresser would have so many flippin' parts.
10:16 Stupidly decide to put together night stand...
11:15 Fall into bed wondering how the hell I'll find the strength to put the dresser together.
Saturday AM
WAKE at 10AM - I never sleep in that late.
10:15 Coffee in hand, I browse the "directions". Which I admit I'll call directions lightly. Little useless drawings that you need a Masters Degree in Engineering to figure out.
10:30 Still "attempting" to understand directions.
Fast forward to 1:15PM - Still in PJs STILL trying to put flipping dresser together. All 8 drawers are done miraculously without having to take them apart and "re-read" instructions.
1:30 Begin big job of putting the frame of dresser together. Plugging along nicely until....
2:15 Realize one piece is on backwards, move back 3 spaces. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200 dollars.
3:15 Finally figured out that TWO pieces were backwards, got them turned around and on the move now.
3:34 - Dresser almost done. Four pieces left. Only three shown in directions. Oh Crap! An extra piece of a dresser can't be good.
3:37 - Wonder if drinking this early is a bad thing.
4:00 Figure it all out. Dresser put together in Living room. Begin pushing 8 DRW DRESSER by myself into bedroom...only...it won't fit through the FLIPPIN door. You've got to be kidding me? 4:10 After several minutes of cussing like a sailor, brilliant thought pops into my mind for the first time in THREE days.
4:11 Push 8 DRW DRESSER up on end, push it through bedroom door
4:15 Cuss outloud because I neglected to move current furniture to make room for new dresser.
4:16 Pull new 8DRW DRESSER out of bedroom. Rearrange current furniture.
4:20 Push 8DRW DRESSER into bedroom, make if horizontal Fall onto the BED in puddle of tiredness.
4:30 Realize I still have to get ready for Dudley show tonight.
4:31 VOW to NEVER EVER buy IKEA Again.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
The Return of Dudley Mania
All the usual suspects are unavailable (aka out of town) for this weekend's extravaganza of Dudley Manlove's 11th Anniversary show. I'll be attending, of course. This year they are doing something a little different. They are going to perform the top 5 Fan Favorites that the fans voted on. Of course I voted, what would even make you think I did not. Wanna know what horribly bad but fun songs I voted for? (I realize I'm not supposed to end a sentence in "for", but who cares?)
Now, keep in mind that my decision to vote on these songs was strictly based on wanting to hear my fave singer Paul Jensen sing these songs with the rest of the Dudley band. They generally do cover songs exceptionally well, I think. Of course I may be a wee bit biased. (Hey I have no kids to brag about so I have to brag about something).
I Wanna Be Sedated – Ramones - They already do this song and I love when they do it.
I Was Made for Lovin’ You – Kiss - oh come on ... you know you like this song.
I Want You to Want Me – Cheap Trick - No comment - perhaps a slight freudian thing here
Drift Away – Dobie Gray
I Melt With You – Modern English
Stay tuned for the results.
Now, keep in mind that my decision to vote on these songs was strictly based on wanting to hear my fave singer Paul Jensen sing these songs with the rest of the Dudley band. They generally do cover songs exceptionally well, I think. Of course I may be a wee bit biased. (Hey I have no kids to brag about so I have to brag about something).
I Wanna Be Sedated – Ramones - They already do this song and I love when they do it.
I Was Made for Lovin’ You – Kiss - oh come on ... you know you like this song.
I Want You to Want Me – Cheap Trick - No comment - perhaps a slight freudian thing here
Drift Away – Dobie Gray
I Melt With You – Modern English
Stay tuned for the results.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Dubai - Friend or Foe?
I just can't decide how to feel about Dubai potentially owning American ports. I can't decide, which is rare for me, which way I feel.
On the one hand, I think being against it based on the fact that Dubai has "Arabs" and therefore are bad or dangerous, is wrong and a bit racist. Not something I'm willing to admit might exist in me, even though rationally I know we all have some aspect of racism in us. That being said, I think "Arabs" in general is a bad thing to categorize as bad or dangerous. Just a few bad apples in the bunch, doesn't mean they are all bad. Because if we said that, we'd have to apply that logic to Americans - and we wouldn't want to do that. (Insert Timothy McVeigh)
On the other hand, I feel like...actually I don't think there is another hand. I think that the only hand there is, is about the controversy in my own thoughts regarding "Arabs" good or Arabs dangerous.
Having lived in Saudi I know a bit about Arabs. I am, by no means, an expert, but I never felt scared for my life, or worried of what may happen to me and my family. That was 20 years ago though (Holy crap that was TWENTY years ago!). Things have changed and not for the good. I am sure I wouldn't be comfortable there now, and not just because I'm a woman. But I don't think ALL Arabs are bad or evil or out to kill Americans. And because of that thought I struggle with the Dubai thing.
So my point is, I am still undecided which way to feel. I hesitate to say NO WAY just because its Dubai and thus Arabs - Dubai has always been a friend to the US. Yet a part of me quivers in fear of the idea that "Arabs" might have control over locations so important to the US economy. I just can't decide how to feel on this one.
On the one hand, I think being against it based on the fact that Dubai has "Arabs" and therefore are bad or dangerous, is wrong and a bit racist. Not something I'm willing to admit might exist in me, even though rationally I know we all have some aspect of racism in us. That being said, I think "Arabs" in general is a bad thing to categorize as bad or dangerous. Just a few bad apples in the bunch, doesn't mean they are all bad. Because if we said that, we'd have to apply that logic to Americans - and we wouldn't want to do that. (Insert Timothy McVeigh)
On the other hand, I feel like...actually I don't think there is another hand. I think that the only hand there is, is about the controversy in my own thoughts regarding "Arabs" good or Arabs dangerous.
Having lived in Saudi I know a bit about Arabs. I am, by no means, an expert, but I never felt scared for my life, or worried of what may happen to me and my family. That was 20 years ago though (Holy crap that was TWENTY years ago!). Things have changed and not for the good. I am sure I wouldn't be comfortable there now, and not just because I'm a woman. But I don't think ALL Arabs are bad or evil or out to kill Americans. And because of that thought I struggle with the Dubai thing.
So my point is, I am still undecided which way to feel. I hesitate to say NO WAY just because its Dubai and thus Arabs - Dubai has always been a friend to the US. Yet a part of me quivers in fear of the idea that "Arabs" might have control over locations so important to the US economy. I just can't decide how to feel on this one.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Its not even 8AM and I'm having one of those days...
Ever had those days, where everything and anything that could go wrong does? Yah, I've had them, but I don't usually complain about them.
Yet, this morning as I'm doing my Seattle duty and sitting in line for a drive up espresso stand, this woman parks her car, gets out and walks over to the window of the stand. Um...did she miss it was a DRIVE UP? Anyhow, she doesn't know me from Eve, yet she starts complaining about how bad her day is and how horrible things this morning have been.
Okay, I'll bite.
"Like what", I say, secretly hoping she won't actually respond.
Instead she goes into the WAR and PEACE story about how long the red light at the bottom of the hill is. So I ask again, "And that's what has your day off to a bad start?" Flustered she responds with a , "Well, yes. The city planners, blah blah blah..." (blah blah blah = me tuning out because I quickly summised that she was a nutcase.) I get my cuppa Joe, thankfully, put my car in drive and tell this poor poor soul with the brightest, happiest smile I can conjure, to have a nice day.
As I drove off I got to thinking how easy we put things into the "pain in the ass/horrible" category. I mean really, in the grand scheme of things, is the red light not changing fast enough really worth having a bad day over. I think this as I spill coffee down my shirt (and anyone who knows me knows that's a frequent event). Normally, I'd cuss a little and just shrug. This time I pondered just how earth shattering the coffee stain could be. How horrible my life was because I spilled coffee on me? How my world has now come to a screeching holt because I had dark brown, drippy marks on a shirt. But I couldn't do it. I couldn't make it ruin my day. I just shrugged - no cussing - and said, "It figures."
My point, if there is one, to this blog is that perhaps we should consider how insignificant the small things can be in life and focus instead on what may be, for our lives, more important, more worth our valuable energy. For the sake of argument I'll say that maybe this lady did decide that a light changing, or not changing, was worthy of her energy, but I suspect she has more things to worry about - fashion for one...but I digress.
Yet, this morning as I'm doing my Seattle duty and sitting in line for a drive up espresso stand, this woman parks her car, gets out and walks over to the window of the stand. Um...did she miss it was a DRIVE UP? Anyhow, she doesn't know me from Eve, yet she starts complaining about how bad her day is and how horrible things this morning have been.
Okay, I'll bite.
"Like what", I say, secretly hoping she won't actually respond.
Instead she goes into the WAR and PEACE story about how long the red light at the bottom of the hill is. So I ask again, "And that's what has your day off to a bad start?" Flustered she responds with a , "Well, yes. The city planners, blah blah blah..." (blah blah blah = me tuning out because I quickly summised that she was a nutcase.) I get my cuppa Joe, thankfully, put my car in drive and tell this poor poor soul with the brightest, happiest smile I can conjure, to have a nice day.
As I drove off I got to thinking how easy we put things into the "pain in the ass/horrible" category. I mean really, in the grand scheme of things, is the red light not changing fast enough really worth having a bad day over. I think this as I spill coffee down my shirt (and anyone who knows me knows that's a frequent event). Normally, I'd cuss a little and just shrug. This time I pondered just how earth shattering the coffee stain could be. How horrible my life was because I spilled coffee on me? How my world has now come to a screeching holt because I had dark brown, drippy marks on a shirt. But I couldn't do it. I couldn't make it ruin my day. I just shrugged - no cussing - and said, "It figures."
My point, if there is one, to this blog is that perhaps we should consider how insignificant the small things can be in life and focus instead on what may be, for our lives, more important, more worth our valuable energy. For the sake of argument I'll say that maybe this lady did decide that a light changing, or not changing, was worthy of her energy, but I suspect she has more things to worry about - fashion for one...but I digress.
Monday, March 06, 2006
Risking backlash again...
Disclaimer: If you feel strongly one way or the other about abortion, you may not want to read further.
I am Pro Choice. Period. I believe it is the right of a woman to make her decision about her body. I do not think this is a political decision, nor do I think it’s a decision that should be made by would be politians who are trying to get their names published.
The Government of South Dakota has signed a law banning abortion. This slaps in the face of civil liberties that women have had for many years. I am not a full on feminist, but this decision (and the subsequent decisions from other states that will follow) shows that woman rights are really at all as sacred as we thought. I will never understand how anyone thinks it’s OKAY to make this very intimate, very personal decision for a woman.
I would probably never choose an abortion over life. I am, however, assuming I have enough brains about me to think about the consequences prior to participating in an act that may, if unprotected, could result in pregnancy. But I am a free person and would love to feel confident that I, and only me, can make the personal decision regarding my body. If we make abortions illegal, in some situations we are condemning some, unfortunate children to a very difficult and challenging life.
I am Pro Choice. Period. I believe it is the right of a woman to make her decision about her body. I do not think this is a political decision, nor do I think it’s a decision that should be made by would be politians who are trying to get their names published.
The Government of South Dakota has signed a law banning abortion. This slaps in the face of civil liberties that women have had for many years. I am not a full on feminist, but this decision (and the subsequent decisions from other states that will follow) shows that woman rights are really at all as sacred as we thought. I will never understand how anyone thinks it’s OKAY to make this very intimate, very personal decision for a woman.
I would probably never choose an abortion over life. I am, however, assuming I have enough brains about me to think about the consequences prior to participating in an act that may, if unprotected, could result in pregnancy. But I am a free person and would love to feel confident that I, and only me, can make the personal decision regarding my body. If we make abortions illegal, in some situations we are condemning some, unfortunate children to a very difficult and challenging life.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
I truly try to be non confrontational...I do.
BUT...there are some things that really gets my blood boiling. And Seattle/Washington State politics (poli-tickles as it were) is one of them.
For those not of this area, you may not know that we have a dying, archaic viaduct that was massively compromised during our earthquake some 5 years ago. According to the Engineer's who have studied the viaduct, they all agree, the viaduct is a ticking bomb and needs to be replaced. And so starts the political battle (don't even get me started on the Seattle Lite-rail/monorail initiative) over how to replace the ailing viaduct.
The Mayor of Seattle wants a tunnel. The tunnel option will not only cost an exorbitant amount of $$, and it will open up the Seattle waterfront to more businesses. Thus lining the Mayor's pocket.
Other folks of the poli-tickle circle want to just replace the viaduct. It will cost less, and still function. This is, after all, the purpose of such a structure.
The Seattle PI Today wrote that Seattle planning group has given the government an "ultimatum" stating that if the $$ for the tunnel isn't available/funded by April 1st, they will proceed with the plans to replace the viaduct. The article THEN goes on to say, that currently the council/planning team continues to plan for BOTH options. Which is, a waste of good tax payer $$.And as all of us who live here know, they will continue to argue this point, nothing will be done, Seattle will have another earthquake, hundreds of people will die and THEN will they decide to do something.
The other poli-tickle thing going on is with our local NBA team, the Sonics, wants Seattle to pay for a new arena. Now, their old arena renovations are not even 10 years old yet. But they are threatening to leave Seattle if the city doesn't build them a new home. My two cents is good riddance. The interesting thing here is Seattle is STILL paying for 5 arenas. And two of them don't even exist anymore because we've mowed them down to build new ones. One of the arenas, the Kingdome, we still own $$ on for 11 more YEARS. We tore that thing down in 2000. ARGH!
And so my question: Shouldn't the tax $$ go to more necessary fixes like transportation? We have a few bridges, highways, freeways, and an aging viaduct, that are sorely in need of a make over. Or better yet, could we use the $$ to build a - gulp - lite rail system that is actually useful to the majority of commuters (see Monorail comment from before)?
I'd like to say I'm going to stop voting (but I won’t because its too damn important to have a voice) because it seems that no matter whom we vote in Seattle, and Washington is destined to just argue until the cows come home and still do nothing. WE live in a society full of activist and political parties that love to battle, and there in lies the problem. No one can agree on anything.
For those not of this area, you may not know that we have a dying, archaic viaduct that was massively compromised during our earthquake some 5 years ago. According to the Engineer's who have studied the viaduct, they all agree, the viaduct is a ticking bomb and needs to be replaced. And so starts the political battle (don't even get me started on the Seattle Lite-rail/monorail initiative) over how to replace the ailing viaduct.
The Mayor of Seattle wants a tunnel. The tunnel option will not only cost an exorbitant amount of $$, and it will open up the Seattle waterfront to more businesses. Thus lining the Mayor's pocket.
Other folks of the poli-tickle circle want to just replace the viaduct. It will cost less, and still function. This is, after all, the purpose of such a structure.
The Seattle PI Today wrote that Seattle planning group has given the government an "ultimatum" stating that if the $$ for the tunnel isn't available/funded by April 1st, they will proceed with the plans to replace the viaduct. The article THEN goes on to say, that currently the council/planning team continues to plan for BOTH options. Which is, a waste of good tax payer $$.And as all of us who live here know, they will continue to argue this point, nothing will be done, Seattle will have another earthquake, hundreds of people will die and THEN will they decide to do something.
The other poli-tickle thing going on is with our local NBA team, the Sonics, wants Seattle to pay for a new arena. Now, their old arena renovations are not even 10 years old yet. But they are threatening to leave Seattle if the city doesn't build them a new home. My two cents is good riddance. The interesting thing here is Seattle is STILL paying for 5 arenas. And two of them don't even exist anymore because we've mowed them down to build new ones. One of the arenas, the Kingdome, we still own $$ on for 11 more YEARS. We tore that thing down in 2000. ARGH!
And so my question: Shouldn't the tax $$ go to more necessary fixes like transportation? We have a few bridges, highways, freeways, and an aging viaduct, that are sorely in need of a make over. Or better yet, could we use the $$ to build a - gulp - lite rail system that is actually useful to the majority of commuters (see Monorail comment from before)?
I'd like to say I'm going to stop voting (but I won’t because its too damn important to have a voice) because it seems that no matter whom we vote in Seattle, and Washington is destined to just argue until the cows come home and still do nothing. WE live in a society full of activist and political parties that love to battle, and there in lies the problem. No one can agree on anything.