I'm sick to my stomach. I'm scared. I'm angry. I'm (almost) speechless.
Today, I received not one but three phone calls at work from Hubby.
Usually, he calls me in the morning just to check in. Any other information that flows between us during the day is usually via email. Unless it's something important. I can't remember why he called the second time. It wasn't important.
But....the third phone call? The one I wish I'd never received? It was important. Uber-important.
He called to let me know that he'd just been let go.
After 12 years of giving his blood, sweat and tears to that place.
What ticks me off? Is that he is least-paid and respected manager; but yet he was the one who always managed to pull the miracles off. Yet he was the only one released.
You know what else ticks me off? He was only given about 3 weeks severance - for 12 years of service. For 12 years of being on call 24/7. For 12 years of (pardon me but...) fucking with our family time.
At first I was angry that he called me at work - why couldn't he wait till I got home. Do you know how hard it was to hold it together for the rest of the day?
But then I realized, it was better that he did tell me before hand. So I could compose myself for our son. Who is a worrier (just like his dad). And I can tell, he's worried. He asked me when his dad was out of earshot if we will be okay.
I know will be okay (hopefully) in the short term. Yeah, our finances aren't were they should be, but at least until unemployment runs out (hopefully we won't get to that point!) we should be okay.
I try really hard to look for the positives (usually) in most situations - so I'm hoping that this is a "one door closing and another one opening" type of thing (pleeeeaaaasssssee let it be that type of thing).
So far, Hubby is taking it far better than me.
Like I said, he's a worrier. And for the most part of our marriage, since he's taken on that role I haven't worried. Even when things were pretty darn bad.
But now? I'm worried.
And his ex-boss? He'd better be worried too. Cause if I see him on the street...... let's just say I'm not making any promises that the car won't suddenly jump the curb and mow him down.....
Who's willing to be my alibi?
May 12, 2010
Someone send a memo to management! And a few crazed, ramblings.....
Not reading y'all at work (during DOWN TIME) is seriously cramping my style.
Somebody send a memo to management. ASAP. This must be remedied. STAT! (how'd you like the use of acronyms there?)
Granted, I've not been particularly inspired lately (i.e., nothing has been fantastically funny (to me anyway) or has horrifically ticked me off.....) but still...
If I get my reading done early. Then there isn't so much "catch up" time later. Which gives me plenty of time for "witty" (at least in my mind! If you feel they aren't - keep it to yourself...) comments and plenty of time to think - which in turn gives me blog fodder (if you actually saw into my brain - you would understand that statement - there is so much swirling around up there).
But despite the constraints that "The Man" has put on me - I have been able to create two posts today. Thanks only to a miracle (and Respectfully Yours). And, that is, if you actually consider this a "post" rather than just some ramblings of a crazed woman.
Ahhh, BUT you ARE reading the ramblings of a crazed woman.....so we jump from one subject to another.
Let's chat about Nair, shall we? They have this fantastical, new product. It's called Shower Power. According to the directions (and the website) this product has amazing water-resistent properties so that you can use it in the shower. If you follow the directions.
So guess what? I attempted to use the product for some "maintenance." I followed the directions. Emmm, didn't seem to work as well as advertised.
But I will give it another shot tomorrow. Maybe their idea of waiting a "minute" and my idea of a "minute" is two different things.....we'll see if this topic gets re-visited tomorrow as to whether or not it worked or if it all went horribly, horribly wrong.
Now let's move on to this Disqus-thing that is overtaking blogs everywhere. Okay, I understand it. As a blogger you do want some kind of control over your blog. You don't want spam. You want to be able to respond, etc. I get it.
Here is what I don't get. How come on one blog that utilizes Disqus, I don't have to type anything in? When I check on that blog it automatically knows it's me and fills in all the info? (which if you think about it too much, could be kinda scary) But on all the other blogs? I have to type in everything?
Someone PLEASE explain this to me. Because if there is a way to make it so my info fills in automatically every time that would make me happy (if not slightly paranoid).
Now, those of y'all that utilize Disqus - please don't take offense. I will fill in all the info requested when I have something to say; believe me (have I ever let you down?). But the whole why one blog recognizes me and the others don't is driving me crazy. So if anyone can help me figure this one out - you'll be my best friend forever!!
Somebody send a memo to management. ASAP. This must be remedied. STAT! (how'd you like the use of acronyms there?)
Granted, I've not been particularly inspired lately (i.e., nothing has been fantastically funny (to me anyway) or has horrifically ticked me off.....) but still...
If I get my reading done early. Then there isn't so much "catch up" time later. Which gives me plenty of time for "witty" (at least in my mind! If you feel they aren't - keep it to yourself...) comments and plenty of time to think - which in turn gives me blog fodder (if you actually saw into my brain - you would understand that statement - there is so much swirling around up there).
But despite the constraints that "The Man" has put on me - I have been able to create two posts today. Thanks only to a miracle (and Respectfully Yours). And, that is, if you actually consider this a "post" rather than just some ramblings of a crazed woman.
Ahhh, BUT you ARE reading the ramblings of a crazed woman.....so we jump from one subject to another.
Let's chat about Nair, shall we? They have this fantastical, new product. It's called Shower Power. According to the directions (and the website) this product has amazing water-resistent properties so that you can use it in the shower. If you follow the directions.
So guess what? I attempted to use the product for some "maintenance." I followed the directions. Emmm, didn't seem to work as well as advertised.
But I will give it another shot tomorrow. Maybe their idea of waiting a "minute" and my idea of a "minute" is two different things.....we'll see if this topic gets re-visited tomorrow as to whether or not it worked or if it all went horribly, horribly wrong.
Now let's move on to this Disqus-thing that is overtaking blogs everywhere. Okay, I understand it. As a blogger you do want some kind of control over your blog. You don't want spam. You want to be able to respond, etc. I get it.
Here is what I don't get. How come on one blog that utilizes Disqus, I don't have to type anything in? When I check on that blog it automatically knows it's me and fills in all the info? (which if you think about it too much, could be kinda scary) But on all the other blogs? I have to type in everything?
Someone PLEASE explain this to me. Because if there is a way to make it so my info fills in automatically every time that would make me happy (if not slightly paranoid).
Now, those of y'all that utilize Disqus - please don't take offense. I will fill in all the info requested when I have something to say; believe me (have I ever let you down?). But the whole why one blog recognizes me and the others don't is driving me crazy. So if anyone can help me figure this one out - you'll be my best friend forever!!
Halloween 2005
Respectfully Yours from Here Is What I Think . . . has tagged me to play along in this game. Basically, you go to the 8th folder and choose the 8th picture to post about. (Actually this all sounds vaguely familiar…..)
Anyway, I had to tweak the rules a bit for privacy reasons. Apparently, the 8th folder/8th picture is of someone else’s small child. And since they don’t know I blog, I can’t very well go and ask if she minds if I put the image out there.
So since I have various folders with pictures, I went to another and pulled the 8th image from there. And this is what I found (which is actually one of my all time favorite pictures):
This is Man-Child when he was about 10 or so dressed up for Halloween. He was going as a big shot. He walked into the kitchen and started out with a whole routine – asking about his driver, waving around a wad of cash (fake of course), puffing on his (fake) cigar and here is where I captured him in character.
I actually ended up using this picture for New Year’s cards (unlike the insanity that is Christmas cards, I don’t do that on a yearly basis – but couldn’t pass up the opportunity to send out cards with this image and a message reading, Hope you have a Happy & Prosperous New Year).
Now I suppose I’m to pass this on, but I think I’ve noticed that a majority of you have already participated in this tag (or one very similar) and since I'm a rebel that way – I’m going to leave it open to anyone who wants to play along.
Oh, and since I already changed the rules, feel free to do the same!
Thanks, RY! This game brought a smile to my face as I found this picture again!
Anyway, I had to tweak the rules a bit for privacy reasons. Apparently, the 8th folder/8th picture is of someone else’s small child. And since they don’t know I blog, I can’t very well go and ask if she minds if I put the image out there.
So since I have various folders with pictures, I went to another and pulled the 8th image from there. And this is what I found (which is actually one of my all time favorite pictures):
This is Man-Child when he was about 10 or so dressed up for Halloween. He was going as a big shot. He walked into the kitchen and started out with a whole routine – asking about his driver, waving around a wad of cash (fake of course), puffing on his (fake) cigar and here is where I captured him in character.
I actually ended up using this picture for New Year’s cards (unlike the insanity that is Christmas cards, I don’t do that on a yearly basis – but couldn’t pass up the opportunity to send out cards with this image and a message reading, Hope you have a Happy & Prosperous New Year).
Now I suppose I’m to pass this on, but I think I’ve noticed that a majority of you have already participated in this tag (or one very similar) and since I'm a rebel that way – I’m going to leave it open to anyone who wants to play along.
Oh, and since I already changed the rules, feel free to do the same!
Thanks, RY! This game brought a smile to my face as I found this picture again!
May 10, 2010
A look at my Mother's Day
It was a beautiful day, if rather chilly, but the sun was shining so we were off to a good start.
Apparently, the guys left the shopping till the last minute. But that was fine.
I'm 14 1/2 years into this Mom-gig. I'm not going to be receiving the sweet, hand-made, sticky (from glue and who knows what else) cards anymore.
Basically, I was in a "acknowledge me and move on" kind of mood.
(Which, between you and me? I blame on PMS - which somehow seems to be worsening with age.....)
Anyway, I started the day off with a load of laundry. Yes, Hubby offered to do it. He gets many gold stars for that (anyone who at least offers to do laundry? I'll love them for life!). But I have a "system." So, I told him no, thank you (although in retrospect, I should have at least let him do his own clothes.....).
Then there was errands to be ran. Which apparently, worked to their plan. For whatever reason, that I have yet to figure out - we have only one card for a particular store. I had it. Hubby asked for it. (Why I had it, I'll never know since he's the only one that uses it - which may explain why we only have one card instead of two....). When I handed it over - I told him, I don't need anything. And I was serious. I don't. We made a plan to meet back at the house to head out for an early dinner, hoping to avoid the crowds.
After a frustrating morning/early afternoon of running errands (again-PMS and idiot drivers....) I headed home. And there, I found this......
Upon arriving home, I took a much needed, quick cat-nap and then went to finish laundry. Where I then discovered Man-Child's clothes littering the floor. After threatening to set them all on fire if he didn't get them off the floor and into a hamper or, preferably, into the washing machine immediately I then discovered peace and quiet for the rest of the evening as they then hid from me.
OH! And the kicker? We ran out of propane yesterday. Yup, the stuff that enables us (I mean Hubby) to cook and the ability to have hot water was gone, nada, kaput! Hubby had ordered it last week. They never came. It was really lovely trying to get ready for work this morning.......luckily they came today (or there would have been hell to pay - PMS, remember?). I will be talking to them tomorrow about a scheduled delivery from here on out - particularly since this one cost us a whopping $600! Hmmmm, maybe those earrings should go back?? Noooooooooo!!!
And then, as I was taking pictures of the flowers and the card, I noticed this......
So what have we learned here?
Mother's Day + allergies + PMS + over-medication + no hot water + out of control laundry + broken treasure = not a very happy mom (although her ears are spectacularly decked out).
I'm sooooo ready for next year!
Apparently, the guys left the shopping till the last minute. But that was fine.
I'm 14 1/2 years into this Mom-gig. I'm not going to be receiving the sweet, hand-made, sticky (from glue and who knows what else) cards anymore.
Basically, I was in a "acknowledge me and move on" kind of mood.
(Which, between you and me? I blame on PMS - which somehow seems to be worsening with age.....)
Anyway, I started the day off with a load of laundry. Yes, Hubby offered to do it. He gets many gold stars for that (anyone who at least offers to do laundry? I'll love them for life!). But I have a "system." So, I told him no, thank you (although in retrospect, I should have at least let him do his own clothes.....).
Then there was errands to be ran. Which apparently, worked to their plan. For whatever reason, that I have yet to figure out - we have only one card for a particular store. I had it. Hubby asked for it. (Why I had it, I'll never know since he's the only one that uses it - which may explain why we only have one card instead of two....). When I handed it over - I told him, I don't need anything. And I was serious. I don't. We made a plan to meet back at the house to head out for an early dinner, hoping to avoid the crowds.
After a frustrating morning/early afternoon of running errands (again-PMS and idiot drivers....) I headed home. And there, I found this......
from my son. Who apparently, wanted to make me cry with the card. I didn't (again, blaming PMS - usually I'm a sucker for a poignant card). But had I known his intent, I'm sure I could have found a few tears.
There was also some beautiful heart-shaped ruby earrings from hubby - sorry no picture as they are currently in my ears. Sometimes when he ignores me, it's a good thing.
When they finally came back home we went off to dinner. Which was wonderful. From what I can remember.
In addition to PMS, I'd been suffering with allergies all day. So finally, in desperation, I took some medication. But did so un-thinkingly. Normally, I only take one pill as I simply cannot handle a full dose. But for Man-Child I am usually doling out two pills at a time. So in that mode of thinking.....yup, you guessed it; I took two. And had some wine with dinner. By the end of it, I could hardly keep my eyes open and, for the life of me couldn't figure out why. Apparently, was too groggy to put two and two together. It's a good thing Hubby was driving! There was no way I could have gotten us out of the parking lot, much less all the way home.
Upon arriving home, I took a much needed, quick cat-nap and then went to finish laundry. Where I then discovered Man-Child's clothes littering the floor. After threatening to set them all on fire if he didn't get them off the floor and into a hamper or, preferably, into the washing machine immediately I then discovered peace and quiet for the rest of the evening as they then hid from me.
OH! And the kicker? We ran out of propane yesterday. Yup, the stuff that enables us (I mean Hubby) to cook and the ability to have hot water was gone, nada, kaput! Hubby had ordered it last week. They never came. It was really lovely trying to get ready for work this morning.......luckily they came today (or there would have been hell to pay - PMS, remember?). I will be talking to them tomorrow about a scheduled delivery from here on out - particularly since this one cost us a whopping $600! Hmmmm, maybe those earrings should go back?? Noooooooooo!!!
And then, as I was taking pictures of the flowers and the card, I noticed this......
This was a Mother's Day present from Man-Child from many, many moons ago (1st or 2nd grade?). *sigh* This is what nearly brought me to tears. The little paper flower on the popsicle stick says "I love you." and has his name on it.
I had just found this the other day - pushed way back behind the mixer. I'm sure someone (hubby) placed it there to get it out of the way - he doesn't believe in decorative or sentimental touches apparently. I should have left it there. I pulled it out and put it on the window sill so that I could smile every time I saw it. Someone opened the window without moving it; and this is the result.
Here's hoping I can piece it back together - again. Someone has already broken this once before....
So what have we learned here?
Mother's Day + allergies + PMS + over-medication + no hot water + out of control laundry + broken treasure = not a very happy mom (although her ears are spectacularly decked out).
I'm sooooo ready for next year!
May 7, 2010
Why is it always celebrated with food?
My husband believes that any and every celebration cannot be celebrated unless there is food involved.
I'm just guessing here, but am assuming it's because he's Italian?
Don't get me wrong. I like food. I even eat it on occasion.
But every, single holiday or celebration? There must be copious amounts of food. Even if it's only the three of us. And although Man-Child can put away just about twice his weight in food - even his appetite is no match for the amount of food his father can produce.
Today, he asked me if I wanted to have a cook out for Mother's Day. Emmmm. Not really. Whether it's just us or with friends - this means cleaning, cleaning and some more cleaning. And isn't it kind of against the law for me to have to do any kind of labor on Mother's Day? Well, okay, maybe not against the law - but it certainly isn't in the whole spirit of the day, now is it?
I am certainly not complaining about Hubby. Because this is a man who can (and does) cook - and if we are having a cook out - either just us or a whole bunch of friends - he does it all. But I'm in charge of cleaning before, during and usually after (although he will help if asked; sometimes. Unless he's in the middle of cooking and then he's all "Can't you see I'm cooking here? And I'm all, "Well, sorry! But thiscan't be moved/done/fixed by just me! And you know this must be done before the guests arrive.") - so yeah not exactly what I want to be doing on Mother's Day. A day when I should be waited on hand and foot. Loved unconditionally. A day when no one argues with me or talks back. And I should be lavished with gifts.
So I think we've reached a compromise. I believe we are going out to eat.
At least I won't have to clean the dishes.....
*****
In case I don't get a chance let me wish all you Mothers out their a very happy day - doing whatever it is your heart desires!
I'm just guessing here, but am assuming it's because he's Italian?
Don't get me wrong. I like food. I even eat it on occasion.
But every, single holiday or celebration? There must be copious amounts of food. Even if it's only the three of us. And although Man-Child can put away just about twice his weight in food - even his appetite is no match for the amount of food his father can produce.
Today, he asked me if I wanted to have a cook out for Mother's Day. Emmmm. Not really. Whether it's just us or with friends - this means cleaning, cleaning and some more cleaning. And isn't it kind of against the law for me to have to do any kind of labor on Mother's Day? Well, okay, maybe not against the law - but it certainly isn't in the whole spirit of the day, now is it?
I am certainly not complaining about Hubby. Because this is a man who can (and does) cook - and if we are having a cook out - either just us or a whole bunch of friends - he does it all. But I'm in charge of cleaning before, during and usually after (although he will help if asked; sometimes. Unless he's in the middle of cooking and then he's all "Can't you see I'm cooking here? And I'm all, "Well, sorry! But this
So I think we've reached a compromise. I believe we are going out to eat.
At least I won't have to clean the dishes.....
*****
In case I don't get a chance let me wish all you Mothers out their a very happy day - doing whatever it is your heart desires!
May 6, 2010
If you thought I was quiet before......and a follow up
Let me preface this by saying: I don't blog at work. Period.
Yes, I may take a spare moment to type up some notes, or the beginnings of a blog, but that's it - I do not post.
I will however read blogs at work - during down time only - and very, very occasionally will I post comments. That's it. (Because truly? It's the only way I can keep up - you guys are busy writers!)
I tried to log in yesterday - and apparently Big Brother's filter has finally caught up with me. *sigh* I knew this day was bound to come.
Although, I have found a way around it so that I could continue to read you all - I still can't comment. The problem is that if I read it - and want to comment - I have to somehow remember that I wanted to comment, where I wanted to comment and what I wanted to say that was so desperately important that I say it right then.
So, I have decided (for the time being) that I will not even attempt to read at work (which truly? If I'm staring at a computer screen during down time at least I am looking busy as compared to staring out the window and sighing heavily every few minutes.....) which means that I will have limited time to read and comment in the wee hours of the morning and in the evening; which is when Man-Child is leaning over my shoulder every two minutes saying, "Ya done yet?" "How about now?" "Are you still on the computer?" (Yeah, I'm thinking someone might be getting a computer come birthday time.....for the two of them to share to leave this one to me! Although, I really, really, really like having the control of knowing where he's been and what he's been up too.....'cause y'all? Although our little corner is nice and safe - not all of the internet is such a nice place)
Anyway - I wanted to follow up on the post I did the other day - you know about the slacker. (Yeah, I tried to respond to some of y'all personally - but apparently you don't have an email attached to your name.....)Yes, I agree that a supervisor needs to be told BUT since I wasn't the one who discovered her I really can't say anything (hearsay, you know). Plus, office politics being what they are - the one doing the telling could be considered "catty" at best. Another thing would be the big boss (who would really need to be the one told - as her immediate supervisor shields her) isn't exactly known for his listening skills or for his ability to manage "staff" issues (believe me, I've lived to tell the tale). So the slacker will just continue to get away with stuff like this until management catches her - and it'll happen. Eventually. Probably long after I'm dead. But it'll happen - I'm sure of it. Anyone that emboldened is bound to slip up sooner or later.
Yes, I may take a spare moment to type up some notes, or the beginnings of a blog, but that's it - I do not post.
I will however read blogs at work - during down time only - and very, very occasionally will I post comments. That's it. (Because truly? It's the only way I can keep up - you guys are busy writers!)
I tried to log in yesterday - and apparently Big Brother's filter has finally caught up with me. *sigh* I knew this day was bound to come.
Although, I have found a way around it so that I could continue to read you all - I still can't comment. The problem is that if I read it - and want to comment - I have to somehow remember that I wanted to comment, where I wanted to comment and what I wanted to say that was so desperately important that I say it right then.
So, I have decided (for the time being) that I will not even attempt to read at work (which truly? If I'm staring at a computer screen during down time at least I am looking busy as compared to staring out the window and sighing heavily every few minutes.....) which means that I will have limited time to read and comment in the wee hours of the morning and in the evening; which is when Man-Child is leaning over my shoulder every two minutes saying, "Ya done yet?" "How about now?" "Are you still on the computer?" (Yeah, I'm thinking someone might be getting a computer come birthday time.....for the two of them to share to leave this one to me! Although, I really, really, really like having the control of knowing where he's been and what he's been up too.....'cause y'all? Although our little corner is nice and safe - not all of the internet is such a nice place)
Anyway - I wanted to follow up on the post I did the other day - you know about the slacker. (Yeah, I tried to respond to some of y'all personally - but apparently you don't have an email attached to your name.....)Yes, I agree that a supervisor needs to be told BUT since I wasn't the one who discovered her I really can't say anything (hearsay, you know). Plus, office politics being what they are - the one doing the telling could be considered "catty" at best. Another thing would be the big boss (who would really need to be the one told - as her immediate supervisor shields her) isn't exactly known for his listening skills or for his ability to manage "staff" issues (believe me, I've lived to tell the tale). So the slacker will just continue to get away with stuff like this until management catches her - and it'll happen. Eventually. Probably long after I'm dead. But it'll happen - I'm sure of it. Anyone that emboldened is bound to slip up sooner or later.
May 3, 2010
So seriously?? How do some people get away with it???
So.....we've got this one woman in our department.
She cries and moans about how over-worked she is - all the freakin' time.
Seriously? I've been at this company for almost nine years, in this particular department for at least six years. And can I tell you? I have yet to meet one person who is over-worked. Period. In fact, I'm thinking my company should hire me as an efficiency consultant; because I know what dead wood looks like when I see it.....
Anyway, this particular woman has been known to go "missing" during the day. Her lunch hours seem particularly long and her days particularly short.
The woman who held my job before me (who has since left the company) once told me (after she left) that this woman had told her that she would leave her purse at her desk and her computer on so folks would think she was around somewhere. (ok - first off, how bright is that? To actually tell someone who works with you your ploy?). She once mentioned to another employee that she'd gone out to see a movie in the middle of the day! (yeah, not the brightest bulb in the package....) So yeah, we all know that she is screwing off. Not our business. Whatever. Karma, baby. (unfortunately, karma seems to take it's own sweet time about coming around....)
Until....she starts foisting work off on the rest of us. Which, really? Would be fine if you are sooooo swamped, but when your not....doesn't really foster that team atmosphere now does it? But whatever, none of us are so busy that we can't handle it. In fact, some of us even welcome it - because nothing makes a day longer than having nothing to do. And besides it kind of makes us look even better when the annual reviews come around....
But today? Do you know what happened today?
Her immediate supervisor was out (and he's a whole 'nother post in himself.....and I'm pretty sure he knows what she's up to but doesn't care because he's cut from the same cloth.....). And suddenly, she went missing. Normally, we wouldn't really notice because she's around the corner. But then not one, but two, people came around asking if we'd seen her. . . of course, we hadn't - but antennaes were raised at the mention of her computer being on and her purse sitting there....
A little while later, a co-worker went to drop some paperwork off in the missing woman's supervisor's office. It was locked, but the co-worker had a key so she let herself in. Guess who was in the floor? With the lights off? Apparently, when she heard the key, she began to scramble and act like she'd dropped something. But no, it was pretty apparent....she was sleeping in there!
This woman comes and goes as she pleases. She disappears for long stretches of time. She is foisting her work off on other people - and . . . she is napping in the her boss' office?
First of all - where does she get the nerve? I could never even begin to think about pulling some of the stuff she does (but then again, I have a work ethic....). And particularly in this economy! People are fighting for jobs out there - and for a job at this company? Forget about it. Most of the people here are "lifers" and for good reason! And second of all, seriously? Does she really think no one notices? Or makes comments?
I would like to think she's seriously worried (I hope) that my co-worker doesn't drop a comment to key people. But somehow....I doubt it. She's skated this long - why should she start worrying now?
Seriously, they need to hire me as a consultant - I know dead wood when I see it.
*****
Yeah, I know. Three posts in one day....I'm on a roll!
She cries and moans about how over-worked she is - all the freakin' time.
Seriously? I've been at this company for almost nine years, in this particular department for at least six years. And can I tell you? I have yet to meet one person who is over-worked. Period. In fact, I'm thinking my company should hire me as an efficiency consultant; because I know what dead wood looks like when I see it.....
Anyway, this particular woman has been known to go "missing" during the day. Her lunch hours seem particularly long and her days particularly short.
The woman who held my job before me (who has since left the company) once told me (after she left) that this woman had told her that she would leave her purse at her desk and her computer on so folks would think she was around somewhere. (ok - first off, how bright is that? To actually tell someone who works with you your ploy?). She once mentioned to another employee that she'd gone out to see a movie in the middle of the day! (yeah, not the brightest bulb in the package....) So yeah, we all know that she is screwing off. Not our business. Whatever. Karma, baby. (unfortunately, karma seems to take it's own sweet time about coming around....)
Until....she starts foisting work off on the rest of us. Which, really? Would be fine if you are sooooo swamped, but when your not....doesn't really foster that team atmosphere now does it? But whatever, none of us are so busy that we can't handle it. In fact, some of us even welcome it - because nothing makes a day longer than having nothing to do. And besides it kind of makes us look even better when the annual reviews come around....
But today? Do you know what happened today?
Her immediate supervisor was out (and he's a whole 'nother post in himself.....and I'm pretty sure he knows what she's up to but doesn't care because he's cut from the same cloth.....). And suddenly, she went missing. Normally, we wouldn't really notice because she's around the corner. But then not one, but two, people came around asking if we'd seen her. . . of course, we hadn't - but antennaes were raised at the mention of her computer being on and her purse sitting there....
A little while later, a co-worker went to drop some paperwork off in the missing woman's supervisor's office. It was locked, but the co-worker had a key so she let herself in. Guess who was in the floor? With the lights off? Apparently, when she heard the key, she began to scramble and act like she'd dropped something. But no, it was pretty apparent....she was sleeping in there!
This woman comes and goes as she pleases. She disappears for long stretches of time. She is foisting her work off on other people - and . . . she is napping in the her boss' office?
First of all - where does she get the nerve? I could never even begin to think about pulling some of the stuff she does (but then again, I have a work ethic....). And particularly in this economy! People are fighting for jobs out there - and for a job at this company? Forget about it. Most of the people here are "lifers" and for good reason! And second of all, seriously? Does she really think no one notices? Or makes comments?
I would like to think she's seriously worried (I hope) that my co-worker doesn't drop a comment to key people. But somehow....I doubt it. She's skated this long - why should she start worrying now?
Seriously, they need to hire me as a consultant - I know dead wood when I see it.
*****
Yeah, I know. Three posts in one day....I'm on a roll!
I CAN be a domestic goddess. . . sometimes...
It is well documented here, there and everywhere that I don't cook. Ever.
I attempted to way, way, way back when. When Man-Child was just an infant and I was a stay at home mom. Then after the great oregano meat-loaf incident (what? I never told you about that? Hmmm, let's just keep it that way for now....) Hubby asked me to just stop! Apparently, he wanted to live or something. I don't know. Whatever. I said sure, no problem and (thankfully) haven't cooked since.
Now, I will bake (because that is not cooking). In fact I (usually) enjoy baking. Unless there's pressure. And usually there is pressure since it involves baking for an event or something.
Man-Child asked me to make him some muffins yesterday. But I was so not in the mood. It was hot and I was in the middle of a book that is turning out to be very good; good enough that I may tell you about it when I am done - maybe; we'll see (the way I've been lately I just can't make any commitments! I keep forgetting about them!). Anyway, I didn't make them - I know - bad mom! Right? Especially since they'd been gone all weekend - but I was in the middle of a good book and it was hot! So I get a pass. Plus I'd kinda gotten into the groove of doing whatever I wanted to do . . .
Anyway, since today is his "hard" workout day (the kind of workout where he needs his dad to go with him to spot him on the weights - this means I have the house to myself for about 1 1/2 hours after I get home) I decided to make him cranberry muffins (see! Totally making up for yesterday's bad mom moment!).
So basically, this is the long way of telling you I made muffins. And since I'm nice that way, I thought I'd share the recipe. Muffins from scratch is super, super easy and, according to Man-Child, very, very yummy (although we'll have to see what his opinion on these are as I've never made cranberry muffins before).
Ingredients:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon sale
1 beaten egg
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup cooking oil
1 cup cranberries
2 tablespoons sugar
Heat the oven to 400⁰
Grease muffin pan, or line with paper cups; set aside.
In a medium bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Make a well in the center of flour mixture; set aside.
In another bowl combine egg, milk and oil. Add egg mixture all at once to flour mixture. Stir until just moistened (batter should be lumpy). Fold in cranberries and 2 tablespoons sugar.
Spoon batter into prepared pan, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for about 18 minutes; or until a toothpick inserted near the centers comes out clean. Cool and enjoy.
Now since I'm a bad, bad blogger - I didn't take any pictures of the process, but I did manage to remember to take one of the result (before M-C gets home & eats the evidence!).
I attempted to way, way, way back when. When Man-Child was just an infant and I was a stay at home mom. Then after the great oregano meat-loaf incident (what? I never told you about that? Hmmm, let's just keep it that way for now....) Hubby asked me to just stop! Apparently, he wanted to live or something. I don't know. Whatever. I said sure, no problem and (thankfully) haven't cooked since.
Now, I will bake (because that is not cooking). In fact I (usually) enjoy baking. Unless there's pressure. And usually there is pressure since it involves baking for an event or something.
Man-Child asked me to make him some muffins yesterday. But I was so not in the mood. It was hot and I was in the middle of a book that is turning out to be very good; good enough that I may tell you about it when I am done - maybe; we'll see (the way I've been lately I just can't make any commitments! I keep forgetting about them!). Anyway, I didn't make them - I know - bad mom! Right? Especially since they'd been gone all weekend - but I was in the middle of a good book and it was hot! So I get a pass. Plus I'd kinda gotten into the groove of doing whatever I wanted to do . . .
Anyway, since today is his "hard" workout day (the kind of workout where he needs his dad to go with him to spot him on the weights - this means I have the house to myself for about 1 1/2 hours after I get home) I decided to make him cranberry muffins (see! Totally making up for yesterday's bad mom moment!).
So basically, this is the long way of telling you I made muffins. And since I'm nice that way, I thought I'd share the recipe. Muffins from scratch is super, super easy and, according to Man-Child, very, very yummy (although we'll have to see what his opinion on these are as I've never made cranberry muffins before).
Ingredients:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon sale
1 beaten egg
3/4 cup milk
1/4 cup cooking oil
1 cup cranberries
2 tablespoons sugar
Heat the oven to 400⁰
Grease muffin pan, or line with paper cups; set aside.
In a medium bowl combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Make a well in the center of flour mixture; set aside.
In another bowl combine egg, milk and oil. Add egg mixture all at once to flour mixture. Stir until just moistened (batter should be lumpy). Fold in cranberries and 2 tablespoons sugar.
Spoon batter into prepared pan, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for about 18 minutes; or until a toothpick inserted near the centers comes out clean. Cool and enjoy.
Now since I'm a bad, bad blogger - I didn't take any pictures of the process, but I did manage to remember to take one of the result (before M-C gets home & eats the evidence!).
They look good . . .
***************
Well, Man-Child just arrived home and informed me that in his "opinion as muffin expert they are AWESOME!"
So, I guess with that recommendation . . . if you are in the mood for muffins and have a few minutes to spare - try them out. From the time I began to make them, popped them in the oven and cleaned the kitchen it only took 30 minutes; then 18 more for them to cook. So yeah, I can kinda rock that Domestic Goddess title (every once in a while).
Electron Boy (and the other Super Heroes)
Did anybody happen to catch this story? It’ll bring a tear to your eye and a lump to your throat.
Go read it. I’ll wait.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2011740342_electronboy30m.html
Any words I have on this subject are completely and totally inadequate to cover the way this story touched my heart.
We all know that the folks at the Make-A-Wish foundation are utterly amazing. But so are all the other hundreds of folks that pitched in to help make this kid’s dream a reality.
All you have to do is type the words Electron Boy into Google and you will get over 800,000 hits. There is now a Fans of Electron Boy page on Facebook, which at the time I am writing this has 2,508 fans. And this just happened last Thursday.
Although we all know that there are good people out there; wonderful, kind, generous and loving people – sometimes it’s hard to remember when most of the articles you read in the paper, online or see on television cover so many bad things – murder, drugs, natural disasters, war; etc. The list depressingly goes on and on.
And then you come across an article like this one. And it makes you cry into your coffee cup as you read it. And your heart swells. And once again you are reminded that there is good in the world and that there are people out there who are actively spreading the love around – not for fame, fortune or recognition. But just because they wanted to help make a little boy’s wish come true – and give him, in his own words, The best day of his life.
And these folks? The ones that pulled this off? They are true superheroes in my book – right up there with Electron Boy.
Go read it. I’ll wait.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2011740342_electronboy30m.html
Any words I have on this subject are completely and totally inadequate to cover the way this story touched my heart.
We all know that the folks at the Make-A-Wish foundation are utterly amazing. But so are all the other hundreds of folks that pitched in to help make this kid’s dream a reality.
All you have to do is type the words Electron Boy into Google and you will get over 800,000 hits. There is now a Fans of Electron Boy page on Facebook, which at the time I am writing this has 2,508 fans. And this just happened last Thursday.
Although we all know that there are good people out there; wonderful, kind, generous and loving people – sometimes it’s hard to remember when most of the articles you read in the paper, online or see on television cover so many bad things – murder, drugs, natural disasters, war; etc. The list depressingly goes on and on.
And then you come across an article like this one. And it makes you cry into your coffee cup as you read it. And your heart swells. And once again you are reminded that there is good in the world and that there are people out there who are actively spreading the love around – not for fame, fortune or recognition. But just because they wanted to help make a little boy’s wish come true – and give him, in his own words, The best day of his life.
And these folks? The ones that pulled this off? They are true superheroes in my book – right up there with Electron Boy.
May 1, 2010
Another episode where I show you how insane I can be.....(titled this because I couldn't come up with a better title; but at least I remembered to title it)
It has been quiet here at Gigi's casa today. And while there has been some goofing off and loafing around much has been accomplished.
It's amazing to me how much can get done when there aren't other people around to obstruct my objectives.
Just as I was settling down for a quiet evening on the back porch with my glass of wine, expecting that chores were done for the night what should continually catch my eye? My poor sad Chinese Privet. You remember, the one I moved that wasn't doing so well?
Despite all the love, water, plant food, prayer, threats, cajoling, etc. It is dying. In fact, it is on it's very last legs. I expect we'll be having a funeral soon.
So leaving the computer and my glass of wine, I went in search of a shovel. Why, you ask? Because I figured I needed to move it - - again. (yes, yes. I'm insane. I know. Hubby reminds me of this constantly). It simply had to be done right at that very moment!
I had determined that it wasn't happy where I had placed it. So I figured I'd put it somewhere else. Where it might get some more sun; somewhere it might thrive. And if not, well then at least it would have the sun shining down on it as it struggles through it's dying days.
Basically, I figured at this point I had nothing to lose.
So it's done. Even though it's leaves are curled and kinda crunchy - it somehow looks happier over here, don'cha think?
But lest you think that I am a total plant-murderer (but yes, Hubby is! Evidence above.); I thought I'd share some of my successes in the yard.
It's amazing to me how much can get done when there aren't other people around to obstruct my objectives.
Just as I was settling down for a quiet evening on the back porch with my glass of wine, expecting that chores were done for the night what should continually catch my eye? My poor sad Chinese Privet. You remember, the one I moved that wasn't doing so well?
Despite all the love, water, plant food, prayer, threats, cajoling, etc. It is dying. In fact, it is on it's very last legs. I expect we'll be having a funeral soon.
So leaving the computer and my glass of wine, I went in search of a shovel. Why, you ask? Because I figured I needed to move it - - again. (yes, yes. I'm insane. I know. Hubby reminds me of this constantly). It simply had to be done right at that very moment!
I had determined that it wasn't happy where I had placed it. So I figured I'd put it somewhere else. Where it might get some more sun; somewhere it might thrive. And if not, well then at least it would have the sun shining down on it as it struggles through it's dying days.
Basically, I figured at this point I had nothing to lose.
So it's done. Even though it's leaves are curled and kinda crunchy - it somehow looks happier over here, don'cha think?
Ignore the dirt and water hose - I've yet to get the mulch for this area (it's on the list).
If it lives, it will hopefully hide the hideous box.
Alas, my poor forsythia (that Hubby RAN OVER) is not faring so well either.
Hmmm, all my mulch has washed away (add it to the never-ending list!)
But lest you think that I am a total plant-murderer (but yes, Hubby is! Evidence above.); I thought I'd share some of my successes in the yard.
My phlox (to the left) and coreopsis are completely taking over. The phlox was absolutely stunning when it was in bloom and the coreopsis should start blooming in another month or so. In the middle, which you can barely see are my Asiatic Lilies - which have also doubled since last year. They will have to moved after they bloom so they can have room to breathe next year. Apparently this little corner is plant heaven. I never expected any of this stuff to get so big! (Hmmm, maybe if I put that dying privet over here a miracle might occur....)
This is called Artemisia, or a type of wormwood. It has also doubled since last year. I love this stuff. It is so soft to the touch - I guess you could call it the cashmere of plants. I'm hoping it stays. The last time I used it, it failed to return after the second year.
My irises are blooming beautifully this year. I got lucky when I bought these last year in that they are double bloomers which I didn't realize at the time. After these blooms die off, they will bloom again sometime in the summer, I think. At least, they did last year.
I cannot for the life of me ever remember what this is called. But it is crazy the way it takes off. Last year it grew out of the bed practically covered the front walk. It is actually considered an annual, but apparently in our region it can be a perennial. But I mainly took this picture because of the toadstools. I love these things and buy at least one whenever I see them. Unfortunately, as they are pottery they are fragile. And being in a home with two guys is dangerous for them. I can't tell you how many I've already lost.
Actually this was a very theraputic post. As you know I'm re-doing the front bed. And it is very slow going for the "want it done and want it done NOW" kind of girl that I am. So this has just reminded me of all the good stuff that has been done (and crossed of the list) and that, with time (and patience), eventually that front bed will be done.
In the meantime? Send your good thoughts and prayers for my poor Chinese Privet.....
It needs all the help it can get.
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