Batton down the hatches, Mary

Oh boy...Mother Nature is throwing us another one...two.

Right now we are experiencing sustained winds of 54 mph and gusts are hitting 70mph. The Straight of Juan de Fuca is supposed to get gusts up to 90 MPH tonight.

We've got thunder and lightening going on outside too. Our main highway, the 520 floating bridge closed for the night and is closing through tomorrow due to the wind gusts. In 1990, the I90 bridge sank during a wind storm. Since then they close our bridges when wind gusts reach a certain speed for 15 minutes or more. They were showing the bridge tongiht on the news, the waves are crashing onto the bridge deck. Scary I tell yah. Tomorrow's commute is going to S.U.C.K.

Between 4 and 5pm tonight we had over an inch of rain in an hour. Can I tell you? The Mustang doesn't have TURBO wipers. And the Mustang no likey standing water that's a foot or more deep. I swear I should have outfitted this car with water skis.

The company party was tonight. A success, of course. Nothing but kudos to me for finding the little gem of Cafe Pirouette. I just love this little cafe. Our white elephant exchange was also a success. I came home with one of my gifts. Yes, one of them. See, being a Project Manager, AND having done these type of parties before, someone always forgets. And in fact, due to the weather, one of our team members couldn't get home to get his gift. So I had an extra. And I ended up with it. Anyone want a tropical fish water bottle?

This too shall pass...

And thankfully it did. Only one day of visiting PittyPartyVille. Whew.

On to bigger and better adventures. Some of you may know, and if you don't you're about to, but I'm planning the Christmas - scratch that - Holiday party - oh F*** it - Christmas party for the new company this year. My new boss, who's code name has yet to be determined, was just getting around to planning it last Thursday. I coyly mentioned that I could do it since I have some time on my hands, and happen to be an expert at it. He took me up on it. He actually took me up on it. Its pure pro-bono work too, which is fine. I figured I'll start building the good karma with the new boss now and roll it over to next year.

His ideas for this party would be nothing short of a miracle if I was able to pull any of it off. See the party is the 14th. Yep, that's right, this Thursday. And he got me on board to help last Friday. He wanted it to have entertainment, other than a stripper he said. Whatever. He wanted to have a nice sit down dinner. And he wanted it to be on the east side. (For those not from this area, this means he doesn't want to drive into Seattle crossing a busy busy floating bridge).

Well. This would be challenging then. Because Seattle has all the fun spots.

Saturday I called several options. We have a cruise that goes around the lake checking out all the holiday decorations. That would work. They have a room available, but the dinner option was boxed lunches. Hmmmm...not exactly a holiday dinner.

Then I called the dinner train. The train has a mystery dinner train that happened to be on the night of our party. When I called to inquire about reservations, the receptionist, I swear, laughed at me. Great, now what.

Think.

Think.

AHHA....last April for Sherrie and Mike's birthday we all went to this little cafe called Cafe Pirouette. Its a small house in downtown Bellevue (on the east side). They had fantastic food,the best Chicken Saltimbocca ever, and specialized in crepes. Excellent. Ring. Ring. Oh wait, check their website. Dammit, they aren't open on Thursdays for dinner. Maybe they'll open for us. So I called them. The chef, who I immediately adore because she agrees to open for our small party and ONLY our party. Yeah. I get is all arranged.

I met with her on Monday to set the menu and the arrangements for the night. I just love how friendly and eager they are to hold our party. I'm sure she figures she's got nothing to lose and $$ to gain. I didn't tell her our budget, but knew we'd be able to tip her well.

Now, that's done. What else? Oh yes, entertainment. I threw out the idea of a White Elephant party. For some reason, everyone thought this was a great idea. Now, keep in mind, this "idea" came out yesterday. The party is Thursday. That means, rushing around to find a $5 gift. But I helped focus them by having the new boss come up with a theme. This year's white elephant theme: (drum roll please) "Summer's Almost Here." Huh? Summer stuff. What the.... How am I supposed to find anything summery? And for $5. So I'm heading off to the thrift store tonight. Maybe I'll find an Itsy Bitsy, Teeny, Weeny, Yellow Polka Dot Bikini. Eww.. I think I just grossed myself out.

The other "requirement" was Tim wanted name tags. Now, keep in mind there are 6 of us. SIX. How hard is it? But then you throw in any dates and you have 12, well 11 because I'm dateless as usual. So, being the creative type that I am, I made name tags last night. And I might say, they are kickin. I'll post copies once I get them scanned. But I really thought they turned out good.

AND....wait, there's much MUCH more...

I'm doing a trivia contest for door prizes. The prizes are TBD, but I thought a huge bottle of Aloe Vera, maybe a Beach Ball, and maybe a bottle of Two Buck Chuck wine.

The trivia Questions:
Name the reindeer's who's name's start with D.
On the 10th day of Christmas, what did my true love bring to me?

And this one's for you Bev

What street did a miracle take place on?

If you have any other GOOD trivia questions let me have 'em. These aren't written in stone yet, and depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, I might have to make them easier.

DANGER! Pitty Party Ahead! Turn back now!

It's really unlike me, but dammit I'm mad. I'm hurt. And I'm single. Normally, being single really doesn't bother me, not even at VD day. (Mostly because I host an Anti-Valentine's Day brunch usually). But this year, for some reason being single during the holidays is tough. Maybe its because I ran into an X? Maybe its because my "go to" date guy is dating someone? Maybe its because EVERYONE is dating someone? Maybe its because I've started talking to myself at home, and answering myself?

Whatever it is, it's hitting me hard. I'm planning our holiday party for the new company I'll be working for. We're a small group, and all of them will be bring a significant other...except me. WAHHHH!

This morning I heard what is now officially my theme song, for the next week or so. (Note: its not PMS either, so don't go there.)

I have climbed the highest mountain
I have sailed across the sea
I have wrestled with my demons
And woke up with only me
I have been around the block
Three times maybe four
And I think I deserve just a little more

In front of total strangers won't you kiss me
Flowers for no reason but you miss me
Oh I want to be in love
You're standing on the doorstep in the rain
Cause you couldn't wait to see me once again
Oh I want to be in love

I have made some big mistakes
And I've paid a heavy price
I found a little peace between will and sacrifice
I have watched as all my dreams
Went walking out the door
And I think I deserve just a little more

I'm looking for a heart of gold
I'm looking for a hand to hold
A happy end
Strong and kind
Somewhere to rest my troubled mind

*****************************************
By the way, this will pass. No need to call in reinforcements. Drug companies need not apply. This is only a temporary emotional detour.

Go! Speed Racer

The little pony I drive, aka the Mustang, hit several milestones yesterday. Some, I unwillingly admit with a sheepish grin, others, are just the facts.

First off, the Mustang, on the way home from a gathering with New Company Brits visiting from, you guessed it, the UK, hit an all time speed. 80 MPH. Why you ask? Well I had to out run the cops. Just kidding. Put your pants back on. In all seriousness, I didn't even realize I was going that fast. The road was dry and new ...just resurfaced and so it was smooth as a baby's butt, and fast apparently. I glanced down to set my cruise control when my eyes almost popped out of my head...I had no idea I was going that fast. Thank god for cruise control...

Secondly, we almost ran out of gas last night. Again, on my way home (oh and in case you're wondering, yes I had some win, but no there was no reason I shouldn't have been driving. New people in your life requires that you wait until the company Christmas party to get hammered and embarrass yourself.)... anyhow... the gas light came on. I was about 15 miles from my destination, so I was "sure" I'd make it. I read in my manual - yes I read the manual - that when the light goes on I have about 2 gallons left - roughly 17 miles give or take. And guess what, that calculation came to be a wee bit too close for my liking. I coasted into the gas station near my place in the hood (aka Lynnwood) and fed the beasty. 14.8 gallons is what it took. Um, just a few more hills, bumps, or curves and I'd be on the side of the road begging for gas.

Finally, we turned 5000K this morning. My mile count has leveled since the purchase of the car when I drove it 40 miles just because I could to go to some stupid store that had a location in my back yard...but why go 2 miles, when you can go 40 in a new car? Anyhoo....its time for the pony's first oil change. All together now..."Ahhhhh."

The Gift that keeps Giving

And I'm not talking about a hickey from Kinicky. (Um, hello Grease reference)

This year for Christmas our family has decided to give instead of get. It feels good to me, and right in so many ways. Its not that I don't enjoy getting, because I do. Who doesn't. But the way I figured it is, we'll all adults now and probably don't "need" anything. So why not give back. I sent a note out to the masses that is the Wraspir Clan and unilaterally they said, yes, let's do it.

This year's charity is one that is very near and dear to our hearts. My cousin Cindy passed away from cancer. She was one of those people who once you met her, you'd never EVER forget her. She had live by the balls and was pursuing all things Cindy. She did everything in her life with such passion and grace, that it seemed only natural that she would then become a professional Tango Dancer. I was only fortunate one time to see a video of her and I wish I had been able to witness her in action.

That all being said, our family has chosen to donate to her memorial fund. The Cynthia Wraspir Memorial Scholarship Endowment through the University of Idaho.

But wait, there's much much more.

Geeksoft (not my phrase, but that of one of my favorite bloggers.) has a giving tree. This tree was put up last week and COVERED in little red tags with gender, age and gift they'd like. This is nothing out of the ordinary I suppose. But what truly surprised me is the amount of gifts that have appeared under the tree. A bike is out there. Someone bought some child who wanted a barbie bike, an actually BARBIE Bike. I get all choked up just typing this. As I glanced at this tree, and marveled in the giving of the people here, an idea struck me. Why don't I give? And so I've chosen two tags from the tree. A boy and a girl.

The boy, age 6 wants a Batman Action Figure. And the girl, age 11, wants a Scrapbook kit. Do these fit me or what? Okay, well maybe the batman action figure doesn't completely. BUT I have seen all the Batman movies, AND I have the Daffy Duck Batman Action figure that McDonald's put out some 22 years ago. So there.

It feels good to hold these two tags in my hand and imagine what it must be like to not have anything. What angst it must be to wake up on Christmas morning and not have anything? That Santa somehow missed our house. I, like many of you, were one of the fortunate one's who always had something at Christmas. It may not have been the brightest, most fanciest new toy on the block, but there was always something. I guess I never really thought how fortunate, even in the tight years, I was. And so now I 'm giving back. Next year, I'd like to host a family for the holidays. Perhaps my new company will consider it. Perhaps I'll get my friends involved and we'll go and host a family. So many opportunities to give back during the holidays.

And here's my biggest issue: Why do we only really put our hearts into giving during the holidays? Why do food drives increase only during the holidays? Aren't these people needy year round? And so because it bugs me, instead of complain about it, I'm going to go see what I can do about it for the entire year. It might be a year of growth for me. One in which my karma bank gets fuller and fuller with good deeds. Wanna join me?

Her Name was Rio....

Well, her name isn't Rio, but she was certainly a Duran Duran fan. For some reason I put the Duran Duran CD "Decade" into my car rotation. Listening to Duran Duran music for an hour this morning, got me thinking about one of my favorite GalPal Laura.

Laura and I were best buds in 10th grade. Almost inseparable in many cases. And some of the memories we made together will stay with me forever. She'll kill me for posting these stories, and for posting these pictures. Sorry Laura - not really.

Laura and I met on our way to USA Camp for color guard. She and I hit it off instantly and had a certain "wit" about us. We got each other. Scary as that was. She was a HUGE Duran Duran fan, as was I - though my like/love for them grew as our friendship grew. I, though, never had the Nick Rhodes hair... tee hee. At one point, we had secret Duran Duran names for ourselves. But I'll never spill what they were...too embarrassing for us both, right Nicky. Love Simey.

Anyhow, at USA camp was where my first favorite Laura story takes place. We were on the 9th floor of a dorm at UC Santa Barbara, which was where the camp was. Laura and I decided to take the elevator down to the "fat room". Once we were loaded up with junk food, we figured why not work it off first by taking the stairs up. We made it to, I think, the 4th floor, then went to find the elevator. Many years later we laughed at the thought of perhaps taking the stairs down and the elevator up...but we weren't the sharpest tools in the shed then. I got Super Sensational that year for rifles at USA Camp. Laura was there to cheer me on. In fact, in the middle of my routine, I could hear her screaming for me. It's amazing I didn't goof up.

I was the proud owner of a 1971 Ford Country Squire station wagon, with wood paneling. Yes, I was the cool kid driving the horrid car. It got 8 miles a gallon, really. BUT, it got me to where I wanted to go. Laura and I decided to drive the beast up to the "Manson house". I said no because my mom wouldn't hear of it (note: insert innocent tone in my voice). But Laura twisted my arm and "forced" me to drive up there. We stopped and got some type of ice cream treat and started on our quest. In Quartz Hill, where we lived, one of the houses the Charles Manson supposedly hid out in was up this hill. It was a "scare" factor for most the local kids, so we had to go. On our way up there, somehow, someway and to this day I'm not 100% sure how, I hit a garbage can. I swear it was Laura's fault. Honest. = ) Thankfully they were plastic cans, but still. My car could have been hurt.

I was massively jealous of Laura. She had the great hair, the fun clothes, and she had the eye of Michael Pomerleau - who everyone knows was my first true love and consequently my first real heartbreak. Laura, bless her heart, though helped me get a small kiss from Mr. Pomerleau. On my last day of school, I passed Laura and innocent and enormously top secret note indicating that the only thing that I really wished for was a kiss from Mike. Well, Miss Laura, SHOWED HIM THE NOTE! While I did get that kiss, I was mortified by what she did. Thankful, but mortified.

Laura's mom was a nut case too. Her mom loved to torment her, but in a fun loving way. California had these drive through dairies in our area. They were basically a 7-11 that you can drive through. Anyhow, Laura had the hots for this guy who worked at one of them. Her mom, DROVE through with us and proceeded to tell Mr. Hotty that her daughter Laura had a crush on him. We both died. She died of embarrassment. I died laughing my ass off.

I could go on and on about our friendship. The years have passed, and we've both gone and done our own thing. I moved to Washington, and later off to Switzerland, and then back. Through all that we stayed friends. Writing letters, phone calls, etc. To this day we chat. 22 years later, we're still friends.

She's one of those friends to me, and I know you all have one like this, where months could go by without us talking, ,but when we do its as if we've never been gone. She's one of my favorite people and I'm so very glad that I went to USA camp that year.

Perchance come day she and I will live by each other again.
(PS - Perchance was her mom's favorite phrase)

Laura - Thanks for the memories. Apparently you were a bad influence to me. = )

Did you see it?

Jenn has a new blog.

http://cookingwithjennw.blogspot.com/

I'll see your James and raise you a Bond

I am, for the most part, a James Bond snob. I admit it. I can't help it. The most, bestest, James Bond by far was Sean Connery. Followed very closely by Pierce Brosnon and then Roger Moore. But never ever, EVER should Timothy Dalton and the words James Bond be mentioned in the same sentence. Never. Ever.

Cousin and I went to go see Casino Royal yesterday. Against my better judgement, we ventured out into the holiday crowds to see this movie. And, I must say, despite the throngs of people out there, it was soooo worth it.

My expectations of this film were low. I had heard a few non so happy things about this film. For example, there aren't as many gadgets that he's so known for. And he's not nearly as charming. Both I'd agree. There were less gadgets, no car chase to be mentioned really, and he certainly aren't as charming as he is known to be.

So what about this new Bond? I wasn't sure when I had seen the trailers. He just didn't seem to fit the glory that is James Bond. But now! Now that I've seen him in action, well, let's just say I drooled in my popcorn. He's HOT! I mean H. O. T. I whole-heatedly approve of this new James. He has the body, the eyes, the James Bond wit, and well, he's H.O.T. Did I mention that?

The thing about this movie that was a bit out of whack was the timing. Considering this is supposed to be the "first" novel, it's hard to get past the fact they have cell phones and it's post 9/11. Well not that hard, but it was Cousin who brought that up. Oh well, it had excellent eye candy.

Oh and for the guys out there....the bond girls in this one are H.O.T. too. I used to look like that before I cut my hair. I swear.

The Three words that best describe you are as follows, and I quote, "Stink! Stank! Stunk!

They neither stinked. Nor stanked. Nor stunked. Yes, that's right kids, the Dudley Holiday show was last night. A BIG shout out to GalPal Shannon for bearing with me through another dudley show. (she's not a fan). She did keep calling the lead singer by me former crushes name. (She's the only one who made a connection that former crush kinda sorta looks like the lead singer of Dudley. Coincidence?)

Anyhow, the boys did not disappoint. They played all my favorite regulars, a few new ones, and of course all my favorite holiday songs.

One of my favorite movies, and therefore holiday song, is The Grinch (the Jim Cary version of the movie). I just love that song. Is that wrong to have the Grinch as your "favorite" holiday song? Does that say something about how I enjoy the holidays? Anyhow, I digress.

Last night I discovered I have VIDEO on my camera. Look out world. So here's my attempt at recording the guys. Now you all get to enjoy them. Yeah you. Mr. Jensen (aka the man of my dreams and the lead singer of Dudley) might have had a few drinks last night as he didn't exactly sing the song correctly. He mixed and matched the versus, which is what I enjoy, shows he's not perfect afterall.



You’re a mean one Mr Grinch
You’e a nasty wasty skunk
Your sould is full of unwashed socks
Your soul is full of gunk
The three words that best describe you are as follows, and I quote, “Stink! Stank! Stunk!”

Oh no, you didn't think that was all I was going to give you now that I have video.

Second favorite Dudley song that they rarely sing.


And finally, GalPal Shannon helped me realize a goal this year. I set forth to go to every Dudley show this year. Not a stretch you say? Hah. Try finding someone to go with me to each show. THAT's the real goal. But as of last night I went to all their shows this year. Yeah me! I wonder what the boys would say if they knew they had such a fan as me.

There is one more show this year, the New Year's Eve show. I'll be sure to video more there, since now I can.

The opening band last night was yet another band that Mr. Dudley was in, Batum Schrag (pronounced BATE - Em Shrag). (http://batumschrag.com/main.html) Sorry about the lack of linkedl link. Blogger Beta is being, um - particular again. They were good. I liked their sound a lot. Maybe I'll go see them this year.

And I'll leave you with this last video.

Quote of the day:
"I feel like a schizophrenic when I listen to your iPod."


I know I can't possibly be the only person to have serveral different "types" of music on her iPod. Now, granted my range from Christian Rock, to Josh Grobin and back to some serious hard rock types of songs. I even have country and a little Disney on it. It's a sickness isn't it? I should consult my doctor for medication.

Santa Pookie

Many of you who read my blog know about the black mangy cat that I live with. Pookie. He's my buddy. I have several names that I adoringly call him: PookieSnack, Snack-N-Poop, Big Black Beast of Burden, Sweety, Hey you, "Get off the table", Mr. Vocal, Gato Lindo (beautiful cat in spanish), etc. And I'm sure if Pookie could talk he'd have a few "names" for me.

It's not like he's doted on or anything. He lavishes in the attention he gets from me, when he wants it. He sleeps on soft cushy furniture and or bed. Has an eternal trough of food and water. He really has it tough. Just ask him, he'll tell you. Poor neglected kitty.

Then there are days like today in which I'm sure if he could talk, he'd have nothing pleasant to say. I have to admit something to you, my lovely readers. I like to torment my cat occasionally.

Today was just that occasion.

Stopping at Rite-Aid on the way home to buy a Santa hat for tomorrows Dudley Manlove Holiday show, I saw this cute little, miniature Santa hat for dogs and cats. AND it was on sale. Well, then. "It's adorable," I said to myself, "I Must buy." As I got to the cashier she asked what kind of dog I had. When I explained that it was for my cat, she directed me to Aisle 2 for band aids. Silly woman, Pookie's de-clawed for JUST this reason.

I giggled all the way home thinking about putting it on the cat. Well, maybe no giggled, but laughed with an evil slant to it. I had to plan it just right, or he keen sense of smell would tell him something was up.

I nonchalantly entered the house. Put everything down, and out came the screaming banshee out of the room. He's a talkative sort you see. Ask anyone who knows him...he's got a lot to say and say it he does. I'm convinced he actually has the answer for world peace, but since I don't speak cat, no comprendo.

I followed my normal routine so not as to cause any suspicion. All the while, Mr. Vocal following me throughout the apt. "meow" - Changed clothes. Meow - went potty (too much information?). Meow - got myself something to drink. Meow - pulled out the tri-pod... wait, what the...? ...tripod? I could see the suspicion welling in his eyes. But still, Mr. Not So Smart didn't leave my side. He still had so much to tell me. "Meow" ( I slept in.) "Meow" (then I ate) "Meow" (then I slept again) "Meow" (Then I stretched and slept some more), etc.

I set the tri-pod up and a chair in front of the Christmas tree. Putting his new little costume on the chair, I figured I'd have plenty of time to put the hat on him and sit and smile for the picture.

Making sure everything was right, I went for it. Started walking toward him, as he started walking away. He stayed one step in front of me, just out of grasp the entire time. Stupid cat. Or rather, maybe smart cat. Finally, I grabbed him. He protested the entire time I carried him to the chair. I thought myself quite smart to have the darling, little hat ready to put on him though. But Mr. Squirm-butt was having none of that. So this was the shot.

Yah, you see where this is headed, don't you?

Attempt number two resulted in me attempting to herd the cat, put the hat on him, all the while, "him" being a slippery as a greased pig. I know his fur is all nice and soft and everything, but slippery? Whodathunk? He was wise to what was up at this point, so I figured I had two more good opportunities to get this photo or he'd be hidden for days.

So this was attempt 3:

If looks could kill man. I'd be dead.

But the crafty little bugger got away this time. So I did what any sane cat owner would do when the feline won't come when you call. I opened a can of tuna. What? Like you wouldn't have done that. See, Pookie isn't THAT smart. He thought he was getting treats. AH-HA. Grabbed him. Hatted him. Hit the timer and got this:

So I think I'm going to stop while I'm ahead. Pookie and I send everyone a happy holiday's shout out. I gotta go check my shoes. Pookie might have left me a "lump of coal", if you know what I mean.

We're having a heat wave. A tropical heat wave.

I was thinking, shocked I know, about our news media here. Now, I realize they are no different than any other sensational-drama team in other parts of the world. But I love, I LOVE, the drama about weather. There, apparently, has been no other news in our region or around the world in the last 4 days. Because the ONLY thing on the news are the drama queens (all of them are queens...if you know what I mean?) has been the -insert evil sounding voice - The Snowflakes of death. Duh duh duunnnnnn

But today, today we're having a heat wave. I'm about to swap my closet back to the summer clothes. It was 35 today. And you know what's on the news, the weather. That's right. Of course, I realize I'm only adding to the drama by complaining non stop for 4 days now about the weather, but hey, I - hate - the - snow. Yesterday I got so bored at home that I started plotting my trip around the world. Including the cost. After I did the cost, there will be no trip around the world for St. Jenn of the Blessed Sarcasm. At least not until she meets and marrys Mr. Rich all the time.

And in case you care, and I know you do or you wouldn't be reading. It is official. November was the wettest month in history. Well, since like 1933. We've had 15.59 inches in ONE month. "That amount shatters the December 1933 record of 15.33 inches, which was collected at the Federal Building in Seattle."

There. That should be enough to not invite anyone to visit Seattle for a very long time. At least until the summer, because its beautiful here.

Snow Patrol: Round Duo

Baby its cold out there. I will, I promise, stop whimpering about the frozen tundra I live in. I promise. But until then, I'm too cold to whimper.

The "great snow storm of 2006" isn't coming to an end anytime soon. I've not made it to work this week. Though ironically I was able to make it to a lunch with the VPs of the new company I'll be working for. Though, not the smartest thing I've done all year. Those there roads were ice. And my frozen pony doesn't like ice. And dirty. Jeezus. That road grime when they sand is just down right nasty.

If you know me at all, you know I am totally in love with the black cat that lives with me. Or rather that I live with. This nutty feline has kept me in stitches for years. Earlier today I couldn't find him. He wouldn't come when I called him (yes, he generally comes when I call him). I looked in every hiding place I knew existed. Then I walked back into my room and I heard a muffled Pookie lazy meow. I pulled the blanket back and there he was. He had wedged himself UNDER the blanket. Something tells me Pookie might be cold. So I did what any deranged parent would do. I took a picture.

But the Fire is so delightful

Yes, Its 9:25 AM and I have a fire in my fire place. I awoke this morning to a smashing 18 degrees outside. EIGHTEEN-F*#%&$G - Degrees. I'd like to ask, when did I move to North Dakota. Its freakin' cold outside.

Seattle doesn't do snow and ice very well. Right before the evening commute last night it started to snow. Many people were stranded and or crashed. It took Sherrie 5.5 hours to go 15 miles to get home. FIVE HOURS. Oy vei!

But today. Today is a true snow day. The large software company in Redmond actually closed today. I was planning on staying home anyways, or at least going in later, but for them to close, you know it's bad.

My mom seems to be of the belief that we, Seattlites, are paying for our beautiful summer we had. And I think she might be on to something. The weather gods have decided that since we had such a nice, long, rain free summer that they will unleash their fury on us. First the floods, now the ice. I checked the bible and there's no reference of Noah putting skis on the arc. So I may have to rewrite that section.

Gotta go thaw out the cat. He's got a parka and uggs on.

IT'S A STAY HOME DAY!

Remember when we were kids, and the slightest mention of snow meant we'd wake super early to flip on the radio for the school closure report. Then we'd sit, patiently waiting to hear our school district closed for the day. With each school that was read - usually in alphabetical order - you waited. Then as if the angels were listening to your prayers for a day off from school, you'd hear them say your school was closed.

Today was one of those days for most kids in the northern Seattle area. I watched the snow continually fall last night and thought, "There's no way in hell I'm driving to work tomorrow." Then this morning, like a kid waiting for the announcement, I flipped on the TV. Waiting. Hoping. Wishing they'd say, "no work today." But of course they didn't.

So I left. My shivering pony reluctantly pulled out of the parking spot. Slipping and sliding our way down to the street I held my breath. The roads didn't look bad, but looks, as we all know, can be deceiving. 32 degrees outside and "wet" roads really mean 32 degrees and ICE. The stang and I cautiously drove to the corner coffee hut I go to every morning. What? If I'm gonna die driving, I at least want my coffee. As I sat there I watched three or four cars spin out of control. Coffee in hand, I drove home. No need to risk life, limb or the new car to get to a job in which I don't have that much to do.

So today is a snow day for me. It'll cost me I'm sure. First I don't get paid for today and secondly the heat will be on all day, which isn't normal.

I stood at my sliding glass door checking out how much snow was on the fence post. Pookie looked like he desperately wanted out. So I opened the door. Now, you should know that Pookie isn't an outdoor cat. I keep telling him he has it really good inside and he should stay inside. But I cracked the door enough for him to peek out. One paw moved forward to the cold frozen cement deck. And one paw quickly came back inside. He turned and walked away. Uh-huh, just as I thought.

The sun is shining, which just means we have no cloud cover, which means its butt cold out there. The thermometer says 31...ugh. I need to move south. And if you can't read the ruler it's just shy of 4 inches. The shivering car to the right is my mustang. I'm sure there's some of you on the east coast that are calling me a wuss right now...but keep in mind, Seattle is a hilly town, and most of the time we don't see snow. So when it does dump snow, it's serious.

Oh the Weather outside is Frightful....

Look! I built a snowman.

Okay well maybe I didn't build those.

But I built this one.

Ken, while visiting, mentioned that I need to blog about more than the weather. But when the

weather is as *exciting* as it is in Seattle, why not blog about it.

As I sit and type, I can see my Christmas tree (yes I've already put it up) and the snow falling. Yes, you read that correctly. Its snowing. I'm not a big fan of the snow. In fact, would prefer it to just be on TV or in the movies. Its 33 outside and white as ever. Naturally, I'm not going anywhere because as we know the Mustang and anything white do not get along. So I'm staying put. I did venture out with my camera to snag a picture as proof that it's snowing.




Ken and Vicky should be on their way home now. We had a fun time I think. We went into Seattle on Friday and went to Pike Place Market. Packed. It was absolutely packed. Where did all these people in November come from. Um,hello, tourist season is over. Go home! But it was sunny and relatively clear, so I guess that's why people were out. But despite all the people, Pike's Place Market is one of my favorite Seattle destinations. If you look close to the top left, you can see this thing they call "blue sky".

We're not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy!

That was what was on a bumper sticker my Great Aunt Martha sent me when I went off to boarding school in Switzerland. In her letter she sent with the bumper sticker she wrote, "While away from your norm, live, explore, and experience." I called her Auntie M and she was one of my favorite aunts.

Auntie M left us yesterday. She was called to new life in heaven to be with all her brothers, sisters, parents and beloved animals that had passed. It was her time, and I'm glad she's in a happier place today. She'll be remembered in my heart with a smile.

Yesterday was a day to give thanks and even as I write this I get a bit teary-eyed. I hosted Thanksgiving here for friend Vicky, her husband Ken and his family. I originally volunteered to host it because they would all be up here for a wedding and were going to go to a restaurant. Then once they were here I found out they hadn't been together for Thanksgiving for some time and this was an opportunity for them to get caught up. To be able to provide dinner and a place for them to do just that, really meant a lot to me. While I may not have been with my family, I believe the holidays are about doing these types of things. And it fills me with joy knowing I could do it.

The feast included all my family favorites.Me, Vicky and Ken

I have to send a shout out to my mom though. Without her "forcing" me to help her in my younger years, then us doing it together for years as a team - almost looking forward to it - I never would have been able to pull off this feast. And a feast it was. 11 of us ate our way through the day yesterday and everyone left full and happy. Mom and I spoke throughout the day "checking" in to make sure our feasts were coming off without any "surprises." No Thanksgiving can be smooth and without "issues". My turkey wasn't thawed completely - a call to mom to ask what to do. While mom was cooking jello, boiling the water and actually adding the jello to the boiling water and cooking it. Um, yah....All in all though I'm sure her feast was spectacular. I KNOW mine was.

Windshield wipers slapping out a tempo....

My mother, bless her, cursed me. She, not more than 1 hour ago, asked me when the Thanksgiving Day storm was supposed to be here. It's a joke to those of us who live and love Seattle. Doing a Thanksgiving dinner when the power goes out...that's a good time.

I should probably catch you up to date as to why mom and I were having this conversation. Friends, Vicky and Ken are heading up here from California as we speak. Ken's brother is getting married this weekend and he and his bride (Vicky) and Ken's family are all up here. They were planning on going to a restaurant for Thanksgiving....so, me, being the nice girl I am, invited them to my place for a real like Turkey dinner. Well, the turkey won't be live. But the entertainment will be.

Since the invite, and the acceptance, Ken has been "preparing" me via Vicky about his "crazy" family. Ken clearly hasn't met the Wraspir clan. We put the "craze" in crazy. Ken assures me that after this Thanksgiving I'll have much more interesting things to blog about than the weather....hey wait? Is that an insult?

So...now that you're caught up. I called mom today asking how long it would take to cook a 21 pound bird in a turkey bag. She called back and told me to open my bag and it would tell me. Surprise! I didn't have a turkey bag, I had a small meat bag for only 8-10 lbs. Yah, the 21 pounder isn't likely to fit, unless I cut it apart and use all the bags on all the parts. This wasn't starting out well.

Off I went to find a Turkey bag. Stopping at Starbucks on the way, because a search for a Turkey bag requires a Grande Vanilla Americano for assistance and courage.

One hour and 4 stores later, I find my bag. BUT.... suddenly the once relatively bright sky is BLACK. And by black, I mean the mean dark clouds that just look like the devil is lurking in them. Now, many of you know of my beloved vehicle, my mustang. The mustang doesn't like water. It's a horse not a fish. Though I'm getting estimates to equip it with snorkel gear. Anyhow, the sky opened up. I'm about 2 miles from my apt, the windshields were pounding out a tempo but it was one fast tempo.

Thunder

Lightening

Rain

Rain

A lot of Rain....

... and then...

Oh Hail!

The roads are white and the hail is coming down in massive amounts of white. My first thought, though not for my safety or the safety of those around me, but rather, "This freakin hail better now dent my car."

The mustang doesn't like hail either. Which just proves my point that any white substance falling from the sky is an invitation for me to stay home from work.

So, turkey bag in hand, extra onion just in case, and the Thanksgiving day storm...I'm all set. Now all I need is the power to go out. Crap. I had to say it didn't I?

And now, more on that subject

Okay, so I need to catch some of you up on the whole "I got the job" post. First off, thank you everyone for your excitement. I could feel the worldly sigh of relief. I bet you think it'll stop me writing about the weather, don't you? Hah. Shows how much you know.

Now, what about this job?

Its the job I wanted. The company is called Content Master and they are based out of the UK. There are many reasons I'm excited about this job. The first being that I can utilize my project management skills now in an environment that needs structure. I'm all about the structure and all about "streamlining" things. So that makes me happy.

Then there's the fact that its a small office. Here in the US, there are only 4 other guys and me. Oh goody. And all of them are of the smart ass persuasion, so that'll be good. And, more importantly, they are all smart. I suspect I'll be learning a lot from this crowd. So very exciting.

The company is just down the road from where I work now, so commuting will be the same. I'm hoping I can still manage to commute with my carpool partner, we'll see how that goes.

In other news, this weekend was the BIG GAME. The Apple Cup. I will refrain from commenting on this debacle called a football game. As typical, the Cougs - my team - came out strong, and well, both teams (UW Huskies vs WSU Cougs) practiced their punting a lot during the first half. Then in typical Cougar fashion, they forgot there was a second half. Either way, though we had good food and good friends over watching.

A little serving of Jenn

Lesley tagged the world, so I figured I would follow her instructions. You don't wanna piss Lesley off.

Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends


1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Egg nog makes me gag. So I'm going with HC - with whip of course.

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Yes. And Santa was very careful to make sure that sis and I had the same # and roughly all the same size of packages. Not that we were competitive or anything. Never. Not us.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
This might be where I admit a little bit of OCD...I like them all to match. The multi-colored ones hurt my head.

4. Do you hang mistletoe?
Of course. You never know when the x-crush might be lingering in your doorway. Of course its a double edge sword. You never know when that icky person may linger too.

5. When do you put your decorations up?
Don't tell, but the Friday AFTER Thanksgiving. I love me some decorating for Christmas. My apt generally looks like a snowman blew up in it.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)
Broccoli Casserole. OMG. I don't know where mom found the recipe, but its now and has been for many a Christmas' my favorite.

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child:
Oh...hmmmm...it might be my Grandma Miller's wrapping. She used to use this metallic sparkly paper and put a unique design on each of our packages. I wish now, as an adult and with her no longer with us, that I would have taken a picture of them. They were beautiful.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I'm pretty sure my older sister told me. I don't really remember, but knowing my sister, she told me. And she probably tortured me with it by saying Santa didn't like me or something.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Nope. We were allowed to open ONE gift on Christmas Eve and it was almost ALWAYS pick up sticks. Don't know why or how that tradition started, but every year we get pick up sticks...oh and the chocolate covered cherries. MMMM

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
Er, ah, with my hands. Oh and Pookie. He generally helps. But ornament wise, I'm a snowman girl. Many of my ornaments are snowmen, or flamingos. Don't ask. No garland though and no tinsel - the cat eats it.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
Hate it. Especially if I have to drive in it. If it would snow and NOT land on the roads, I'd be fine.

12. Can you ice skate?
Yes, if I'm very drunk, because that's the ONLY time you'd get me on skates. Though a couple of years ago for my birthday -which is 4 days after Christmas - I was going to have a big party at the local ice skating rink, but all hell froze over that Christmas.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
Em, no. I don't think I had a favorite. Maybe the Barbie camper or the airplane. I was big into Barbies.

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you?
The food. Dah, have you met me. Oh and maybe the family and going to Tucson. Its warm in Tucson. I'm usually the ONLY person at Christmas dinner with shorts on. Its like 75 for heavens sake...that is NOT sweater weather.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
I'm not a big dessert fan, but I love me my mom's peanut butter fudge...or the chocolate fudge...mmmm... Hey Mom, get busy. You need to have that made by the time I get down there. You have 31 days.

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Mom and I making the dinner. We get up early, and work our butts off. We make Clam dip and have it about 3 quarters the way through getting stuff done. Its fun. We move around the kitchen like we're related or something.

17. What tops your tree?
A gold star I bought at Crate & Barrel two years ago.

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving?
Well, I'd prefer getting, but in the spirit of Christmas, as I've aged, I like the idea of giving - especially to charities.

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
I'd say "do they know it's Christmas" But Lesley may be reading this and she'll punch me. So I'll go with Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow! And funny Jenn story - when I was in choir many years ago, we were singing O Holy Night and we messed up the lyrics and I now sing it the WRONG way every time. Instead of "O Holy Night, the stars are brightly shining." We/I sang, "O Holy Night, the stars are shightly BrY-ning"...and so that's how I sing it. What? Like you're surprised I'm a goof ball.

20. Candy Canes?
Yuck. Hate um.

And for those of you who care, my Christmas cards are done, hand made, addressed, stamped, with Christmas letter inside...and ready to be sent December 1st. If you want a special handmade Christmas card from Jenn, and you know you do, AND you're not on the regular Jenn mailing list, just send me your address and I'll oblige.

Can I get an AMEN?

I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB! I GOT THE JOB!

Yeah me.

We're on a road to no where...come on along.

I wonder.

I wonder why our lives are so full of experiences, good and bad, and yet we mostly carry the bad with us every waking hour. What does it take to break away from past experiences to witness something with clear eyes? Start fresh. Do people who lose their memory get to start fresh? Or are we predestined, even then, to experience the same and carry the baggage with us?

Its possible I may have been wrong about something. I know. I know. Shocking that I might be wrong, but stranger things have happened. But this possibility got me to thinking is is possible that I reacted a certain way because past experiences influenced my perception and automatically created an outcome?

I was reading an article earlier today that made me start thinking about our past experiences and how they influence our every day life. George Miller, a Princeton Professor of Psychology, stated our dilemma in communication best when he said, "Most of our failures in understanding one another have less to do with what is said and what is heard than with what is intended and what is inferred." So basically, whenever we observe another's behaviour, whenever we hear words being spoken, whenever we get information through any of our five senses, our brains work immediately to draw some conclusion about what was meant or intended. Our minds use this information to find meaning from these experiences. It fills in the gaps.

Let's take for example a scenario. Let's say you have a friend. That friend starts dating someone and suddenly you are pushed to the side lines and feel as if you are no longer good enough or worthy enough, because say you're single, to be part of their "in" crowd. And let's say that you have, in the past on several occasions, experienced heart wrenching situations in which you were kicked to the side by other friends who suddenly find themselves involved. Is it possible that your past experiences clouded your judgment about a recent friend whom you feel has abandoned you?

Is it possible I could have been wrong? Is it possible that my mind, based on previous situations just assumed or concluded the outcome of this relationship too? Could it be that I misread all the communication? Could I be the source of my own pain?

Walking on Sunshine....

Okay, maybe not walking, but I saw the sun today. No shit. I left my apartment and glanced sky-ward like I always do...and was blinded by this bright big thing in the southern sky. I blinked...and it was gone.

This is a picture of one of our floating bridges yesterday getting hammered by waves. We had a small wind storm/rain storm last night. Gusts were measured up to 90 MPH. In the hood, where I live, we had gusts up to 75mph...I thought I was in Kansas and the tornado was coming to take me to Oz.

Because I think its amusing to talk about the weather, we have hit a milestone here. In what is normally our wettest month, we have broken a record of wetness. This month's total rainfall hit 11.63 inches last night. The record was 11.62 from November 1998. Phew...just made it. And the month isn't even close to being over yet. Oy vei.

And these crazy meteorologists are excited that we might beat more records:
"We could sink the official wettest-month-of-the-year record of 12.92 inches, set in January 1953 at Sea-Tac. And there's the December 1933 Seattle record of 15.33 inches accumulated at the federal building."

Who me? Cynical? Nahhh..

Okay, maybe a little. But I come by it naturally. I have come to love and cherish my cynical side. I just need to put that side away sometimes and learn to allow happy thoughts of hope to creep into my psyche and know that it won't hurt. It may scar, but it won't hurt.

What the hell am I talking about? I can hear you saying that now. I have bionic ears you know. Which, by the way, if I were ever to be granted a bionic option, ears would not be my first choice.

Anyhooooo...

The job front. So the Boeing job and the wireless job both well, sank. Which left me with my original job I so desired at Content Master. They had to postpone their hiring due to other internal hiring priorities. But now they're back and so am I.

I got a call yesterday from the hiring manager. He left a 5 minute - no lie, I saved it - voice mail on my cell phone telling me the reason for the delay. He didn't want me to think it was because it was me, but rather they had some internal priorities to deal with. But that he now has been given the go-ahead to hire. So....he ultimately asked if I'd be available to come in for an informal chat with he and another PM.

Yesterday afternoon, I found myself swimming to my informal chat. I met with him and another PM on staff. I got a chance to ask all the hard questions of the PM that I was dying to ask, and his answers shocked me and made me want the job EVEN more.

As I was leaving, the hiring manager explained to me that he'd like to make a decision by Friday, but would like to see a few more resumes. He's comparing all the candidates to me and my skills. So I very slightly told him that he would not be disappointed by hiring me. I'd add value and I'd be a good fit.

All that being said, it sounds like its in the bag. Which is where the cynical side comes out. I really hesitate to be happy or excited about this job, because it seems every time I do, I get burned. With each ring of the phone, I'm sure its them saying, "Thanks, but we'll pass."

My heart keeps telling me that I did the best I could, and that its okay to be happy about the the possibility. While my brain, who for the first time in months, appears to have a louder voice than my heart, is yelling, "oh no you don't. You're not getting your hopes up to just be disappointed again. No way, Jose."

Oh the turmoil of multiple personalities.

So happy thoughts everyone. I need them (as does Ken so happy - job thoughts for us both)

C - @ - L

Get it? Seattle ? I’m clever. But not as clever as the men and women in the tourist industry here in the great northwest. They’ve designed a new brand for Seattle and a new word.

Metronatural? The what, the who?

Pet Peeve #569 - the creation of new stupid words, or the misspelling of words to be "cute" - as in Kwik Stop.

So for some reason this dreary, wet, rain soaked, emerald city I live in feels the need to improve its image to get tourist to visit in the winter. Now, I ask you, tourist, why on EARTH would you choose to go some place guaranteed to be wet, grey, and about 45 degrees - maybe - when you can go some place warm and tropical? But the leaders of this fair city are doing all they can to drive tourism here during the winter. For those of us who live her year round, and have earned every inch of our webbed feet think "finally - I can walk around Seattle and not run into a tourist".

But all that aside, the state and now the city, really needs to work on its advertising campaigns. Perhaps you heard, the state of Washington's new campaign, "Say Wa?" [pronounced "say wahhh" As in Say what? though a clever use of the abbreviation for Washington - I'll give them that one] I hereby nominate this slogal the worst slogan every, AND the worst use of state dollars ($$ half a million dollars to come up with this).

Amused by this, I did a search on the tourism website and found this announcement / proclimation of Say Wa.

" The SayWA moment - When jaws drop, that's a SayWA moment. When you collapse in a field of freshly fallen snow, with the stars all around, and the sound of laughter travels a mile, that's another. The SayWA moment is the moment when an experience becomes emotional. In Washington State, these moments form a plentitude, a series of endless discoveries, and each will make you SayWA in a new and different way."

Um, yah, emotional! I'm getting something, but it ain't emotional.

The Say Wa campaign did get a lot of exposure when it was anounced, mostly in a joking fashion, but any exposure is good exposure right.

So I can't WAIT to hear what the fun loving, web-footed, rusty tan, folks of the great northwest have to say about their new city slogan. Seattle Metronatural.

Some other potential slogans.

1. 15 million slugs can't be wrong.

2. Seattle: Noah's home

3. Seattle: Bad weather, bad traffic.

4. Seattle: Land of the gooeyduck (this photo is a real photo of a gooeyduck...)

Two Down...One to go...

The wireless carrier I interviewed with called. They're passing on me right now (which really means forever). They really need/want someone who has more experience in general, but specifically someone who has more experience in the execution phase of projects.

On a plus side, the recruiter did say they liked "me" as a person. Too bad I can't make $$ being Just Jenn.

It's no lie...really...

Just so you all don't think I'm a complete lunatic (no comments Beverly), here are some photos my mom sent me showing the flood around here. It's been a crazy, crazy week. We're forcasted to get rain now for 10 days straight. Oh joy. So glad I live here.

Puget Sound Flooding

Now, granted non of this is near me really. Me and my castle are up on the hill, and about oh...several miles from any river or lake. So I think I'm safe. But just in case, I'm going to get a quote to fix a snorkel on the Mustang. But the flooding is real for many folks, and after seeing these photos (by the way you need to keep going on them, they get serious) I feel bad for the souls who do have to deal with this. What a mess.

In other and more exciting news, the Boeing job is out. WAY over qualified for that job and I'd be bored to tears. Strange, very strange interview process.

Interviewed for a major wireless carrier on Friday. LOVED THE JOB. I'd have to say, right now they are ahead of Content Master in every way. Not only do they pay better, but it would be in the group of emerging products. All the new, geeky, techy stuff for cell phones. I'd so dig that.

The cynic in my says to not get my hopes up for either job, but the optimistic Jenn is fighting hard to keep Cynic Jenn at bay. Who will win I wonder? Stay tuned!

Quote for the Day:
"Too many people are ready to assert their rights, but not to assume their responsibilities."

Noah Called

Apparently Home Depot is having a sale on 2-by-4's. Just in time really. Noah and I are starting the lower level of the ark this afternoon. Chances of us finishing before Seattle is under water...zero to none...Seattle is already under water.

I started making a list of animals to NOT bring on the ark. No need.

1. Bees
2. Snakes
3. Icky boys
4. Sloths (or is it sloughs?)
5. Slugs

One down. Two to go.

Had the Boeing interview this afternoon. Despite my desire to work for the large aerospace company, I don't think this job was for me. Their interview structure was weird to say the least. On the one hand I see why they have to do it this way, but the other hand says I feel like a cow that's been in the middle of cattle call. (no comments about me being a cow please).

So last night was the networking dinner. I fought with my inner voices as to whether to attend. Generally speaking I hate those situations. I hate going into an environment where I know no one. So having this small fear, I thought why not take a chance to work on this fear. As it turned out it was crazy. 90% of the participants were fresh college grads or soon to be grads. Average age in the room = 23.

The networking dinner was really a big ol' hoorah for Boeing to convince the participants to go to work for Boeing. I see why Boeing has to do that these days. The market is better for job availability.

Today I drove my butt all the way back down to SeaTac to interview. I didn't actually interview with the hiring managers, at least I didn't get the feeling I was interviewing the hiring managers. There's a pool of these jobs available, and it sounds like they put those capable in the pool and pick and choose from there. So I could be working anywhere.

The company apparently has been burned by their interviewing practices in the past, so they are extremely structured and scripted. Yes. Scripted. The main interview guy told me up front that the interview would be scripted. There would be 6 questions already predefined and pre written.

So began the interview.

All the questions were, in my opinion, relatively easy considering the interview questions I've gone through of late. None of the questions asked "specific" issues about my past. All the questions were situational and I was then required to answer by first telling them the situation, then the process I went through to fix it and the result. Its hard when you've practiced your interview answers as story telling and then suddenly forced to break them up.

The bottom line is this. The job isn't for me. The job appears to be very routine and specific to just one aspect of project management. I want the full scale project management experience.

So, one down, two to go.

The Old Man is Snoring...

So let's clear a few things up shall we.

1. Elections are over. Thank god. I was tired, tired, tired of the commercials.
2. The democrats got what they wanted, relatively speaking anyhow.
3. The rain has stopped for a nano second here. Long enough for the car wash lines to form. Yes, I was one of those in line.

Now that all that is out of the way, I have a real problem. And this blog is, after all, about me.

Jobs. When you want one, you can't find one. When you don't need one, they're everywhere.

Please keep in mind while you read this, I'm not complaining. In now way, shape, or form should the following be construed as complaining.

But I find myself in a professional pickle with regard to potential jobs. This is all hypothetical, sorta.

Job 1: Remember in October the job I really really really wanted? Then they suddenly stopped interviewing for that job because they had some internal priorities come up. They asked me to hold out at the current gig until January. Yah. Remember that job. Well they called today. They have figured out their "internal priorities" and are ready to send me to the next round of interviews the week of Nov 27th. Keep this in mind...this is where it gets interesting.

Job 2: Boeing. I finally, after several months, have an interview with Boeing tomorrow. Tonight is the dreaded networking dinner. Dreaded? Yes, dreaded. I hate being in situations in which I know no one and have to be someone. Anyhow, their interview is tomorrow.

Job 3: Contract position with major wireless carrier in Redmond. I interviewed with a recruiter yesterday who wants to put me in front of the hiring manager for this "wireless" company. Fine. I'm down with that. However, the recruiter told me they only want to put candidates in front of this hiring manager IF the recruit would take the job if offered. Well, now how am I supposed to know that before interviewing. So I told the recruiter that I would certainly consider the job. This interview is Friday AM.

What's the pickle you say? How could having 3 very strong possibilities be an issue? Here's the issue.

I REALLY want Job #1. That company has been my first choice.

Boeing is an extremely stable company. But they take forever to hire.

Job 3 - didn't like the way the recruiter gave me an ultimatum. What if I interview and I hate the manager?

All three jobs will require commuting.
All are within my salary range with variance down more than up.

My issue is how to play this hand. I don't want to toss any job opportunity to the curve. So, I'm trying to get Job #1 to have the VP interview me earlier via phone (she's located in the UK that's why it's not until later). I can stall the wireless job. And well Boeing is the great unknown.

I'm very thankful I have this "problem". I like having multiple choices, but hate the ambiguity that comes with it. I'm a black and white person most the time...and this "unknown" stuff bugs the shit out of me.

Hey! You're not supposed to be here.

You're supposed to be out voting. Now get out there. Now! Vote! Its you're right. It's your privilege....don't scorn it. Your voice can make a difference. If you're not voting, you'd better have a good reason...and I mean good. Like a note from God good. Otherwise, I don't want to hear it.

The one bonus to today being election day: NO MORE POLITICAL COMMERCIALS. Thank the Lord! Seattle was ruthless this year with one major congress seat open as well as a Senate race. The mudslinging is bad this year too. Worse than I've ever seen it. I had half a mind to not vote for a candidate just because of the mud slinging. Negativity never gets anything accomplished.

Wait. What are you still doing here? Aren't you supposed to be out voting?

It's Raining...It's Pouring....Still

And it won't let up...ever.

Just to give some of you who aren't from Seattle an idea of how much rain is coming...I give you this photo. Snoqualmie Falls. This photo was taken in August and is what the falls normally look like. Beautiful, ain't it?

Now...let us look at what it's like today. I'd say we have some water coming over that there falls.

Snoqualmie is also a generator of power, which is good, considering the amount of water that's passing through it now, we shouldn't have an electricy shortage. The problem is that this water falls down into the Seattle area rivers. And therefore, causes massive floods. One of the rivers in the area was scheduled to crest last night at 17 FEET above its normal.

Gotta go. Need to get to Home Depot so I can start building the ark.

Web feet and gills

If ever there was any question that Seattle is wet...let me set those questions straight.

Seattle area has received 20 inches of rain in the month of November. TWENTY INCHES...and its only the 5th. That's more rain than we've had in the last 5 months. Oy vei! And in the next 12 hours we are expected to get 4 INCHES.

Check out the doppler picture of 10pm tonight. Oh and the lights are out...thank god for wireless and battery.

Maybe instead of a Mustang I should have bought an ark.

I'm Hungry, are you?

It's been several weeks since Ken and I dropped the recipe swap idea. Ken's busy working on his masterpiece and looking for the perfect job. But I got to thinking this weekend that perhaps there are others of you out there who are missing the recipes too. If you're not too bad...if you are...feast on this.

This weekend I made two new recipes. One I won't bother to post because it took too long and wasn't very good. It was just average. Nothing I'd make again, and so therefore won't pass on to you all.

I decided several months ago that I was going to put together a cookbook of family and friends favorite recipes, as well as all the recipes I've made this year alone. I figure I average 5 a month - give or take - that's - um...er...(hold please...getting the calculator...) by the end of the year it should be about 60 new recipes. Whoa!

The real question is how many of those recipes did I actually "follow" the recipe and not add my two cents...probably two.

Here's tonight's recipe.

Chicken Fried Rice - Servings: 4 - 6
3/4 C Chicken (I used a lb of thinly sliced chicken breasts)

1/2 tsp Cornstarch

1/4 tsp Salt

1 T Vegetable oil

2 eggs, slightly beaten

1 T Vegetable oil (yes its listed twice)

1 C Sliced Water Chestnuts, drained

1 C Sliced mushrooms

1/2 Tsp Salt

2 T Vegetable Oil (yes...its listed three times - trust me)

3 cups Cooked Rice (DO NOT use short grain rice for this. I did and it turned out kinda sticky)

1 T Soy Sauce (I used about 2 T, but I like Soy Sauce...and I used Low Sodium)

1 T chopped Green onions

Dash of Salt and Pepper to taste

Mix chicken, cornstarch and salt in a dish. Cornstarch should coat the chicken. Let sit for 5 minutes. Heat wok or skillet. Add 1 T oil, add eggs; cook and stir until eggs are thickened throughout but still moist. Remove from wok and set aside.

Heat wok until very hot. Add 1 T vegetable oil. Add chicken; saute until brown. Add water chestnuts, mushrooms, 1/2 tsp salt; stir fry for 1 minute more. Remove from wok.

Add 2 T oil; add rice and stir fry for 1 minute. Stir in soy sauce. Add chicken mixture; eggs and green onions; stir fry for 30 seconds.

*******************

Now, can you guess the one thing this recipe is missing? GARLIC. So I added three medium size cloves garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Don't ask. I like the combination of those two flavors...and I think it made it better.

If you have any recipes you want me to add to my First Annual Cookbook, send them to me. AND if you want a copy of the cookbook (expected to be out in January) send me a note.

I'm a Booker...

A scrapbooker that is. Yes, another well known fact of St. Jenn of the Blessed Sarcasm. What? Didn't you read my comments? My pal (I say that sarcastically) Mike - also know as Jesus Christ - JC for short - said I should be named St. Jenn of the Blessed Sarcasm. So shall it will be? Lesley - do I need your permission? Being that you're already a Patron Saint. Can you grant me this privilege?

Now back to scrapbooking. Many hours and many thousands of dollars (Yes you read correctly - THOUSANDS of dollars) worth of scrapbooking and scrapbooking supplies. My friends joke that I could open my own store. They might not be wrong there. I do know for certain that I could have easily paid for a house by now. But all that aside, today I did what no normal scrapbooker has ever done. I'm sure of it. I looked it up on the interWEB and it never lies. Okay. So I didn't look it up, but I'm sure. Trust me. Would a Patron Saint lie?

I got in and out of a scrapbook convention in 30 minutes. No shit. Thirty minutes. Some women pack lunches and hope they get done in 8 hours. I knew exactly what I wanted. I parked (didn't pay like I was supposed to so that karma will come back and get me I'm sure), walked into the place, bought my ticket, plunked down the allotted amount of $$ available from Bank of Jenn for ONE small item at the show, and walked out. Thirty minutes people. That is truly an all time record.

Oh and PS - for those of you who do religiously read my blog, thank you. And to those people who didn't at all call to check on me after I said I might die from glue poisoning...um, yah. Thanks!

Death by Envelop

If you don't hear from me tomorrow, I've died. I'm licking 90 envelopes today...finishing my christmas cards...finally. I know. I know. It's only November. But I make all my cards by hand...and well, it takes a long time. So tonight I'm sealing the ones that won't get letters. Blech! These envelopes taste disgusting. And so am reminded of the Seinfeld in which George's fiance dies from the glue of the envelopes. I'm just saying.

Patron Saint of Single Women

This post is Lesley's fault.

Apparently, through reading Lesley's blog, there's a Patron Saint of Single Women. Me, being a single women thought, "Why not check it out?" Even though I gave up being Catholic for Lent (that's a joke...get it? Catholics' give up things for Lent...) I figured it couldn't hurt.

Then what to my amazed eyes did I find. This!

And I quote:

The Patron Saint of Single Women is the martyr St. Agatha. Forced into a brothel by an evil magistrate, she refused customers in order to preserve her purity, though she endured beatings and torture. It is said that during a particularly cruel beating, an earthquake struck and killed her captor. Agatha thanked the Lord for the end to her suffering and then died herself.

Prayer to St. Agatha:Dear Virgin and Martyr, whom the Church recalls in her liturgy, you heroically resisted the temptations of a degenerate ruler. Subjected to long and horrible tortures, you remained faithful to your heavenly Spouse. Help us to be faithful that we will find an earthly love and love him as you have loved. Amen.

Did you get that? Did you read that prayer to St. Aggy?

You won't find me receiting this prayer...as I'm too old for such nonesense. But I thought it worthy of blogland...

I, of course, had to take this Patron Saint thing one step further and looked up the following.

Patron Saint of Homosexuals?

Yes, there is one.

But I found this...and almost busted a gut at the number of Patron Saints out there (be sure to scroll down to the list). With this many...I can surely apply and be recognized as, um, let's see...already got a Patron Saint of Smartmouths (Lesley), maybe a patron saint of Sarcasm? Yah...that's it.

Some of my favorites

Patron Saint of ...

Bachelors

Birds

Basket-Makers (I'm not making this shit up)

Brewers

Cranky Children

Dog Bite

Dream Interpretation

Foot Trouble

Gravediggers

Lamp Makers

Lost Articles

Organ Makers (Isn't that God? Get it? He made us, and thus our organs... )

Procrastinators

Tanners - is it a sin to tan?

So you see, I'm just saying, with all these saints, surely there's room for a few more. Gotta go..need to finish my application for Saint-hood.

Hard Habit to Break

Ever noticed that when you know you need to tell someone you're sorry, its often harder than it should be. At least, that's how it is for me most the time. And so I did some inward surfing to figure out why its so hard.

Let me tell you a story.

Recently I've been cleaning my "friend" house. I've been tossing aside friendships in which I've determined the "friend" wasn't meeting me half way and didn't add value in my life anymore. It's painful, and not a fun thing to do. It forces you to look and see how you've perhaps been left behind, or have been the one to leave behind.

There's nothing wrong with this "cleaning". As I've aged (or grown up) I've come to realize the people I want in my life, are people who add to my life, not distract from it. Some people will always be "acquaintances", while others I'd like to cultivate the friendship to have it around for a lifetime.

I have friends whom I rarely speak too anymore, yet when we do speak, we pick up where we left off. We were such good friends at a time in our lives, that the kinship of friendship stays with us, no matter how far we've traveled in distance or time. That's a good friend. Of course, these are also the friends whom you have to keep close because they know WAY too much about you to not keep them close.

But then there are the superficial friends. The friends that seem on the surface to be a good friend, but as you experience life together you find that the "friendship" you've forged is nothing more than a black hole. There's really nothing there. A few things in common, a few memories to hold on to, but really, at the sign of trouble or a change in life direction, they're gone. Those are the friends I'm clearing out.

One such friend I had deemed in the latter group, the one in which I felt used and unappreciated. So I tried to clean her out. I tried to toss her aside like a candy wrapper. Only I missed the most important part of that candy bar...the inside. As the days progressed, I swore I wouldn't be the one to email first, or call first. Nope. I was done. Then suddenly it hit me, like lightening striking a metal pole (or the metal plate in my head that had replaced my brain). She was someone I wanted in my life. And the only thing keeping that from happening was me.

And so began the process of being sorry.

I realized that I needed to make the first step and say I give. I'm sorry. And as I wrote that email (what? how else do you communicate these days?) I discovered a valuable emotion about being sorry....pride. My attempt to push her out of my life was all about my pride. My overbearing, in-you-face pride. I sat at my computer and thought about the feeling of I was experiencing of 1) admitting that my pride got in the way, 2) letting go of that pride, and 3) feeling frightened at how close my pride had come to discarding an important relationship in my life.

After we fixed our issue and communicated like adults, all is good. She's not likely to leave my life now...unless of course she decides to toss me to the curb. But I took some time to reflect on the whole situation. Why was pride so powerful in me? Why did I hide behind it so often? I use pride as a shield to protect me from something? Pain? Rejection? What?

I don't have all the answers yet. They're in there and I'll eventually find them. I do know this, saying sorry to someone you care about is liberating. It opens your naked soul and puts in on display for all to see. It shows that you too, are human.

"Pride attaches undue importance to the superiority of one's status in the eyes of others; And shame is fear of humiliation at one's inferior status in the estimation of others. When one sets his heart on being highly esteemed, and achieves such rating, then he is automatically involved in fear of losing his status." - Lao Tsu