OK, I watched Scrubs in its first season, but was turned off by one episode in particular and stopped watching. Then a few people at work commanded me to watch Scrubs again, and The Office. And you know me, I just go along with the herd. That, and the fact that Arrested Development is no longer on (after tonight's season/series finale - yeah, seriously on a Friday night at 8pm!) and I need a random comedy fix, brought be back to Scrubs. (I'm enjoying The Office, too, but that's not what this post is about.)
So anyway, today I'm asking for help. Can someone out there please help me find a clip of Turk's Air Band audition to Bel Biv Devoe's Poison (you can hear a sample at this Amazon.com link, too - just scroll down a little ways) online, so that I can link to it. First of all, it's hilarious. "Why is it hilarious?" you might ask. First of all, the song selection is priceless. The lip-synching was perfect. But what really put it over the top is Donald Faison's amazing dancing. Seriously, this guy is incredible. I've probably watched it five times already. And it will stay on the DVR for some time to come.
To aid in the search, the episode title is "My Half Acre."
Friday, February 10, 2006
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Doing what you love or loving what you do
We’ve all heard it said that if you do what you love, it won’t seem like work.
You know what’s funny, I’ve had a couple of experiences and found out that with me, when I do what I love for work, it just makes what I love seem like work, and ruins both the thing I love and my work. So that stinks.
I guess that means that I didn’t love writing or photography enough. But if that’s the case, then I don’t love anything enough to want to make a career of it.
So what is one to do?
What if there is nothing that you see yourself dedicating everything to, besides your spouse and family? What if there is nothing you’re willing to make such sacrifices of time (and money) for. What if you love something so much, but the talent just isn’t there to make a living at it? Or you aren’t smart enough to think of a way to turn whatever it is into a career?
So I guess the key is to find something you love that you do well (two steps, not just one). But what if you don’t even know what you love enough to do all day every day? I do envy those people, like my friend Jenni who’s known since she was 12 what she wanted to do, and she’s doing it. And this guy.
Of course, knowing what you love and going for it all can be a huge risk. But if you love it so much that you’re willing to take that risk, then you’re half-way there.
So that leaves me, at this stage, with loving what I do. Well, I don’t love it in the sense of that described above. But I do like it enough to enjoy myself at work and enjoy the people I work with every day, and yeah, I’m pretty good at it (even though I think I just fake it really well). This is a huge blessing that many people don’t have in their lives. I recognize that, and I’m thankful for it every day. So maybe I’m one-third of the way there.
You know what’s funny, I’ve had a couple of experiences and found out that with me, when I do what I love for work, it just makes what I love seem like work, and ruins both the thing I love and my work. So that stinks.
I guess that means that I didn’t love writing or photography enough. But if that’s the case, then I don’t love anything enough to want to make a career of it.
So what is one to do?
What if there is nothing that you see yourself dedicating everything to, besides your spouse and family? What if there is nothing you’re willing to make such sacrifices of time (and money) for. What if you love something so much, but the talent just isn’t there to make a living at it? Or you aren’t smart enough to think of a way to turn whatever it is into a career?
So I guess the key is to find something you love that you do well (two steps, not just one). But what if you don’t even know what you love enough to do all day every day? I do envy those people, like my friend Jenni who’s known since she was 12 what she wanted to do, and she’s doing it. And this guy.
Of course, knowing what you love and going for it all can be a huge risk. But if you love it so much that you’re willing to take that risk, then you’re half-way there.
So that leaves me, at this stage, with loving what I do. Well, I don’t love it in the sense of that described above. But I do like it enough to enjoy myself at work and enjoy the people I work with every day, and yeah, I’m pretty good at it (even though I think I just fake it really well). This is a huge blessing that many people don’t have in their lives. I recognize that, and I’m thankful for it every day. So maybe I’m one-third of the way there.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
It's about time...
It seems that plans are in the works to build a Victims of Communism Memorial in Washtington DC. Unfortunately, it won't have as prominant a location as many of the other memorials, but at least there will be something.
This column in the Wall Street Journal Opinion section details several other sites around the world, as well. I think the most interesting tidbit is the mention of how quickly many in Eastern Europe switched from Fascist to Communist at the end of WWII. Those two may seem rivals in ideology, but are certainly not so in practice. They simply seek to control people using different propaganda. But the goal was always the same - domination through oppression and fear.
Quick poll: If you haven't hit the link, do you know how many deaths have been attributed to Communism?
The Communists clearly out-classed the Fascists in death-toll category, partially due to the longer term of widespread "success."
But of course, let's not forget that Communism is all about equality, even if as George Orwell so astutely pointed out in Animal Farm "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others". Many will tell you that Communism's 100 million death toll only "happened" because it hasn't been done right, yet. It really is a good and wonderful theory (in the non-scientific definition of the word). Never mind that it's antithetical to human nature, and any such system can only be implemented through - guess what - oppression and fear.
This column in the Wall Street Journal Opinion section details several other sites around the world, as well. I think the most interesting tidbit is the mention of how quickly many in Eastern Europe switched from Fascist to Communist at the end of WWII. Those two may seem rivals in ideology, but are certainly not so in practice. They simply seek to control people using different propaganda. But the goal was always the same - domination through oppression and fear.
Quick poll: If you haven't hit the link, do you know how many deaths have been attributed to Communism?
The Communists clearly out-classed the Fascists in death-toll category, partially due to the longer term of widespread "success."
But of course, let's not forget that Communism is all about equality, even if as George Orwell so astutely pointed out in Animal Farm "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others". Many will tell you that Communism's 100 million death toll only "happened" because it hasn't been done right, yet. It really is a good and wonderful theory (in the non-scientific definition of the word). Never mind that it's antithetical to human nature, and any such system can only be implemented through - guess what - oppression and fear.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Pure Poppy Goodness
VH1 Classic has quickly become my favorite channel, since getting digital cable. As a matter of fact, I have the DVR set up to record Pop Show every time it comes on, and I watch these episodes in the morning while I'm having breakfast and getting ready. And whenever there's nothing on TV, I go to the DVR for relief. And there are my five or six episodes of Pop Show (and Edge of Country from GAC). Oh, and just let me mention that next week on CMT, Lyle and Bonnie Raitt will be playing on CrossRoads. I haven't seen an episode this season, but I know Radney Foster used to do the interviews. I don't know what I'm going to do if Radney and Lyle are on the screen together. I can't wait. But that is SOOO off topic.
I started this post because of the pure poppy goodness that was the January 28th episode of Pop Show. Almost pop perfection in its ability to take me back to so many great times. These are the videos in order of appearance:
"One More Night" Phil Collins, 1985
When I was in the forth and fifth grades, I thought this was one of the saddest songs I'd ever heard. I mean, I was 9, and I knew it was depressing. I was right. It still is. Actually, looking through his singles list on Billboard, I'm realizing that Mr. Collins sung a lot of damn depressing songs.
"Tell It To My Heart" Taylor Dayne, 1987
You have to be kidding me! This song? Look at that hair. The extensions don't even match the rest, and the bangs are crimped - CRIMPED. Did anyone wax their eyebrows in the 80's? She's in a black dress with what looks like a plastic chastity belt of some sort. But I can't help but be taken back to 1988 and want to dance at some horrible middle school dance in the cafeteria. Yep, that's right, not the gym, but the Cafeteria.
"La Isla Bonita" Madonna, 1987
It's never going to stop. They're dragging me through my childhood here with infinitely danceable tunes. True Blue was one of my first albums. I still have it.
"She Don't Use Jelly" Flaming Lips, 1995
Whoa, slow down here! You just hit the skip button and jumped right into college. Seriously, we just went from early Madonna to The Flaming Lips? This is great. I haven't fast forwarded through a song yet.
"Ironic" Alanis Morissette, 1996
Yeah, yeah, we all know it isn't ironic, after all, but I still can't bring myself to fast forward through this one, either. All four years at Georgia were so incredible, and this is one of those songs that takes me right back there in two seconds. I'm walking back to Myers from Park Hall, weaving my way through bus stop traffic in front of Tate with the headphones in and whatever mix tape turned up so loud that there is nothing else but the music, the sidewalk, and hundreds of feet in my periphery.
"End of the Road" Boyz II Men, 1992
Alright, slight rewind here, to the end of high school. Yeah, this is a break-up song, but we all know that songs relate to where we are in our lives. We were at the end of high school. I think this was actually Spring 1992 (is that right, Stacy?), and this was a senior song everywhere (we were juniors). I don't know that our senior class used it as theirs, but I do know it was in the yearbook slide show for the Seniors section. I think there were even some pictures of couples that had broken up. Or something like that. I may be making that up. It was in the slide show, though. That was a great slide show. Anyway, some of our friends were leaving for college, and we were about to be seniors. What a great time. That summer between junior and senior years is one of the best times of my life.
"I Wish I Was Your Lover" Sophie B. Hawkins, 1992
Wow, right about the same time. Again with the bushy eyebrows. You know, she's not an unattractive woman, but she's all butched up for this video. Of course, they were the days of flannel. This was a scream-along-with-the-radio-in-the-car song. Should I be ashamed of that?
Halfway through, and still haven't fastforwarded yet. This is the longest streak yet.
"I Can't Go For That (No Can Do)" Hall & Oates, 1981
We're way back on this one. I'm in Dad's station wagon (olive green with wood paneling). I think it was a Plymouth Volare. And we're driving at night in the rain. "I Love a Rainy Night" by Eddie Rabbitt puts me in the same place.
"You Make Me Feel Like Dancing" Leo Sayer, 1976
Yup, there had to be one that made me fastforward. This is it. That horrible falsetto and white man's afro. Good grief.
"Don't Leave Me This Way" Thelma Houston, 1976
Yeah, yeah, it was released in the disco days, and I don't remember it from my childhood, but well, it's all about Funkle Ester here. If I wasn't typing, I'd be dancing. I absolutely can't help but dance to this song. I was once in NY and had to wake up at 5:30 AM. This was the song on the radio when the alarm came on, and I had no problem waking up that day. Where's my shaker?! Damnit, Funkle Ester better play soon.
"Kiss" Prince and The Revolution, 1986
He's such a tiny little person. What are those heels, 4 inches? And his waste, 24? But just damn. Great song, great delivery. He's just fantastic.
"Young Turks" Rod Stewart, 1981
Video replete with terrible 80's choreography trying desperately for a West Side Story vibe. "But there ain't no point in talkin' when there ain't nobody listnin'" Wow, 1981 really does sum it up nicely.
"Cruel to Be Kind" Nick Lowe, 1979
This was somewhat alternative for my parents' taste when I was a kid, so I didn't discover this song until much later. Probably after college, actually. But it's just a great song, and Nick Lowe has aged really really well. Also, this actually had a narrative video. In 1979, where did these air?
Oh, we're at the end. That was the best hours of music videos I've seen in ages. Thank you VH1 Classic.
I started this post because of the pure poppy goodness that was the January 28th episode of Pop Show. Almost pop perfection in its ability to take me back to so many great times. These are the videos in order of appearance:
"One More Night" Phil Collins, 1985
When I was in the forth and fifth grades, I thought this was one of the saddest songs I'd ever heard. I mean, I was 9, and I knew it was depressing. I was right. It still is. Actually, looking through his singles list on Billboard, I'm realizing that Mr. Collins sung a lot of damn depressing songs.
"Tell It To My Heart" Taylor Dayne, 1987
You have to be kidding me! This song? Look at that hair. The extensions don't even match the rest, and the bangs are crimped - CRIMPED. Did anyone wax their eyebrows in the 80's? She's in a black dress with what looks like a plastic chastity belt of some sort. But I can't help but be taken back to 1988 and want to dance at some horrible middle school dance in the cafeteria. Yep, that's right, not the gym, but the Cafeteria.
"La Isla Bonita" Madonna, 1987
It's never going to stop. They're dragging me through my childhood here with infinitely danceable tunes. True Blue was one of my first albums. I still have it.
"She Don't Use Jelly" Flaming Lips, 1995
Whoa, slow down here! You just hit the skip button and jumped right into college. Seriously, we just went from early Madonna to The Flaming Lips? This is great. I haven't fast forwarded through a song yet.
"Ironic" Alanis Morissette, 1996
Yeah, yeah, we all know it isn't ironic, after all, but I still can't bring myself to fast forward through this one, either. All four years at Georgia were so incredible, and this is one of those songs that takes me right back there in two seconds. I'm walking back to Myers from Park Hall, weaving my way through bus stop traffic in front of Tate with the headphones in and whatever mix tape turned up so loud that there is nothing else but the music, the sidewalk, and hundreds of feet in my periphery.
"End of the Road" Boyz II Men, 1992
Alright, slight rewind here, to the end of high school. Yeah, this is a break-up song, but we all know that songs relate to where we are in our lives. We were at the end of high school. I think this was actually Spring 1992 (is that right, Stacy?), and this was a senior song everywhere (we were juniors). I don't know that our senior class used it as theirs, but I do know it was in the yearbook slide show for the Seniors section. I think there were even some pictures of couples that had broken up. Or something like that. I may be making that up. It was in the slide show, though. That was a great slide show. Anyway, some of our friends were leaving for college, and we were about to be seniors. What a great time. That summer between junior and senior years is one of the best times of my life.
"I Wish I Was Your Lover" Sophie B. Hawkins, 1992
Wow, right about the same time. Again with the bushy eyebrows. You know, she's not an unattractive woman, but she's all butched up for this video. Of course, they were the days of flannel. This was a scream-along-with-the-radio-in-the-car song. Should I be ashamed of that?
Halfway through, and still haven't fastforwarded yet. This is the longest streak yet.
"I Can't Go For That (No Can Do)" Hall & Oates, 1981
We're way back on this one. I'm in Dad's station wagon (olive green with wood paneling). I think it was a Plymouth Volare. And we're driving at night in the rain. "I Love a Rainy Night" by Eddie Rabbitt puts me in the same place.
"You Make Me Feel Like Dancing" Leo Sayer, 1976
Yup, there had to be one that made me fastforward. This is it. That horrible falsetto and white man's afro. Good grief.
"Don't Leave Me This Way" Thelma Houston, 1976
Yeah, yeah, it was released in the disco days, and I don't remember it from my childhood, but well, it's all about Funkle Ester here. If I wasn't typing, I'd be dancing. I absolutely can't help but dance to this song. I was once in NY and had to wake up at 5:30 AM. This was the song on the radio when the alarm came on, and I had no problem waking up that day. Where's my shaker?! Damnit, Funkle Ester better play soon.
"Kiss" Prince and The Revolution, 1986
He's such a tiny little person. What are those heels, 4 inches? And his waste, 24? But just damn. Great song, great delivery. He's just fantastic.
"Young Turks" Rod Stewart, 1981
Video replete with terrible 80's choreography trying desperately for a West Side Story vibe. "But there ain't no point in talkin' when there ain't nobody listnin'" Wow, 1981 really does sum it up nicely.
"Cruel to Be Kind" Nick Lowe, 1979
This was somewhat alternative for my parents' taste when I was a kid, so I didn't discover this song until much later. Probably after college, actually. But it's just a great song, and Nick Lowe has aged really really well. Also, this actually had a narrative video. In 1979, where did these air?
Oh, we're at the end. That was the best hours of music videos I've seen in ages. Thank you VH1 Classic.
Being lazy and quoting others today
Most people would rather be certain they're miserable than risk being happy.
-- Robert Anthony
-- Robert Anthony
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Bad Radio Bits, Superman, and Jack Bauer
Morning radio is awful. I wish they would just play music, do traffic, news and gossip, then play more music. This is all I want from morning radio. No games. No silly bits. No fake advertisements.
This morning wasn't much different. A radio station did a horrible bit this morning about Jack Bauer's "personnel file." I hated all except this one...
"Superman wears Jack Bauer pajamas."
This morning wasn't much different. A radio station did a horrible bit this morning about Jack Bauer's "personnel file." I hated all except this one...
"Superman wears Jack Bauer pajamas."
Monday, January 30, 2006
the.best.24.EVER
You read my file, the first thing I'm going to do is take out your right eye ...
After tonight, it's a toss-up.
Aaron
Jack
Aaron
Jack
Aaron's quiet, unflinching obedience to his duty, and willingness to sacrifice his job in order to do the right thing may have won out for me this time.
But then there's Jack's violent, unflinching obedience to his duty, and willingness to sacrifice his freedom in order to do the right thing.
See why I'm conflicted?
After tonight, it's a toss-up.
Aaron
Jack
Aaron
Jack
Aaron's quiet, unflinching obedience to his duty, and willingness to sacrifice his job in order to do the right thing may have won out for me this time.
But then there's Jack's violent, unflinching obedience to his duty, and willingness to sacrifice his freedom in order to do the right thing.
See why I'm conflicted?
I'm it
i've been tagged...
4 Jobs I've had
1. Waitress
2. Video Store Clerk
3. Events Photographer
4. "strategic alliances manager" - sounds cool, huh?
Four movies I can watch over and over:
1. Sixteen Candles
2. Casablanca
3. Lost Boys
4. Gladiator
Four places I've lived (in chronological order):
1. Alpharetta, GA
2. Dunwoody, GA
3. Athens, GA
4. Roswell, GA
Four TV shows I love:
1. 24 aka The Jack Bauer Power Hour
2. House
3. Arrested Development
4. Mad About You
Ten highly regarded and recommended TV shows that I've never watched a single minute of:
1. My Name is Earl
2. Carnivale
3. Entourage
4. The West Wing
5. Boston Legal
6. The Shield
7. Aqua Teen Hunger Force
8. The L Word
9. Prison Break
10. Commander-In-Chief
Four places I've vacationed:
1. Australia
2. New Zealand
3. Hilton Head Island
4. Key West
Four of my favorite dishes:
1. pasta
2. fresh grilled fish
3. fried catfish from Riverbend in Thomaston, GA
4. sushi
Four sites I visit daily:
1. Blogs
2. Bank Account
3. my company's intranet
4. News
Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Maloolooba Beach
2. Charleston
3. Any beach that's warm and sunny
4. On a boat
Four bloggers I am tagging:
1. Dave
2. I think everyone else has been tagged
4 Jobs I've had
1. Waitress
2. Video Store Clerk
3. Events Photographer
4. "strategic alliances manager" - sounds cool, huh?
Four movies I can watch over and over:
1. Sixteen Candles
2. Casablanca
3. Lost Boys
4. Gladiator
Four places I've lived (in chronological order):
1. Alpharetta, GA
2. Dunwoody, GA
3. Athens, GA
4. Roswell, GA
Four TV shows I love:
1. 24 aka The Jack Bauer Power Hour
2. House
3. Arrested Development
4. Mad About You
Ten highly regarded and recommended TV shows that I've never watched a single minute of:
1. My Name is Earl
2. Carnivale
3. Entourage
4. The West Wing
5. Boston Legal
6. The Shield
7. Aqua Teen Hunger Force
8. The L Word
9. Prison Break
10. Commander-In-Chief
Four places I've vacationed:
1. Australia
2. New Zealand
3. Hilton Head Island
4. Key West
Four of my favorite dishes:
1. pasta
2. fresh grilled fish
3. fried catfish from Riverbend in Thomaston, GA
4. sushi
Four sites I visit daily:
1. Blogs
2. Bank Account
3. my company's intranet
4. News
Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Maloolooba Beach
2. Charleston
3. Any beach that's warm and sunny
4. On a boat
Four bloggers I am tagging:
1. Dave
2. I think everyone else has been tagged
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Unbridled anger resulting in tears
So I'm a girl. When frustrated, I cry.
This Agitator post caused spontaneous tears. After everything I just posted, I don't know why I went there. It always angers and frustrates me. I was asking for it.
This is what did it:
Are any of you angry, yet?
This Agitator post caused spontaneous tears. After everything I just posted, I don't know why I went there. It always angers and frustrates me. I was asking for it.
This is what did it:
This isn't the first time this has happened in Virginia. A few years ago, the Virginia Beach police department sent a SWAT team to break up a suspected gambling operation at a country club. The sting ended with the death of a security guard, who by all indications thought the place was being robbed (it had been robbed just a few months earlier). The SWAT team knocked on the window to the car where he was stationed, then shot him when they thought he was reaching for a gun. His last words were, "I was reading a book. Why did you shoot me?"
Are any of you angry, yet?
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Where to go ...
If we leave the US in disgust, are we abandoning the fight? Yeah, I guess we are. And, looking at this Heritage Foundation Index of Economic Freedom, there are countries above the US, but those all limit social and personal freedoms on a greater scale that we do - today. And except for Hong Kong and Singapore, they're all damn cold places to live.
I think I'll write a letter to my congressman - like it will help. Maybe I'll have a conversation with Jack tonight.
I think I'll write a letter to my congressman - like it will help. Maybe I'll have a conversation with Jack tonight.
Congress shall make no law ...
Amendment I
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
From Websters online dictionary...
Main Entry: abridge
Pronunciation: &-'brij
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): abridged; abridg·ing
Etymology: Middle English abregen, from Middle French abregier, from Late Latin abbreviare, from Latin ad- + brevis short -- more at BRIEF
1 a archaic : DEPRIVE b : to reduce in scope : DIMINISH (attempts to abridge the right of free speech)
2 : to shorten in duration or extent (modern transportation that abridges distance)
3 : to shorten by omission of words without sacrifice of sense
Do you see that? Websters uses the First Amendment as a reference point for the definition of "abridge." Doesn't that say something about how plain this should be, especially those who are tasked with supporting, upholding, and protecting the Constitution?
I have rarely read anything that has made me so angry as this editorial today on the Wall Street Journal Opinion Journal online.
George Will has been banging this drum from day one of McCain-Feingold. And while I understood what he was saying, it never quite hit me like this piece did today.
The piece by Brian C. Anderson (author of South Park Conservatives) is long, but well worth the read. It's information that everyone needs to know and understand.
Most of the column is about the push McCain-Feingold gets from the left. While that is infuriating to me, I understand it. They can't win elections lately with their ideas, so they want to stifle the information going to voters. Fine, dirty play, but that's politics. I think the worst part of all this is that George Bush didn't veto this damn bill when he had the chance. Apparently he expected the Supreme Court to overturn it and wanted to avoid a fight with John McCain. Are you freakin' serious? I go back to the FIRST Amendment. First First First! They didn't say "here are the amendments to the Constitution, in no particular order." They put it first for a reason. Congress shall make no law ... abridging the freedom of speech... I'm sorry, do I not understand what the McCain-Feingold Bill is. Isn't it a law made by Congress, and doesn't it abridge the freedom of speech? And, when the founding fathers wrote this, they were talking specifically about political speech, which is exactly what this bill outlaws. That is worth fighting for, even if there are supporters in your own damn political party. And not only did our president sign it after admitting it is unconstitutional (no really, he did), but then the Supreme Court - defenders of the Constitution in the face of assaults by Congress - upheld it, too.
Clarence Thomas and the three other justices who voted along with him in the first challenge to McCain-Feingold had it right.
But there were only four of them. There should have been nine. And so far, there's no telling how the new court will look upon this. I'm not holding out hope, based on what I've heard so far.
Just like I don't want to hear that the Republicans are the party of small government until they actually act like it, I do not ever again want to hear that Democrats are the party of freedom. That's just absolute BS. They are for freedom to express their own ideas, but not those of anyone with whom they disagree. Simply look at the speech codes on any college campus. Simply try to say that you do not approve of someone's choices (not that they don't have a right to make those choices, but only that you disagree), and you are engaged in hate speech - which is a punishable offense.
But, this is all about avoiding corruption in politics, not free speech? Well, if avoiding corruption (perceived corruption, mind you) means voiding the very first amendment to our Constitution, then the method they've chosen to use to avoid corruption is unconstitutional. But that doesn't matter, really, since they don't agree with the speech, and someone may have more influence than another by virtue of their ability to communicate their ideas. In their eyes are all equal and should have absolutely equal influence on the political process. Nevermind that it's an impossibility, we'll do everything we can to make it happen. It's their Utopia. That already didn't work, but they'll keep trying.
Again, please read Amendment I.
Now they want to include the internet as an avenue of political speech to be regulated by the Federal Election Commission (bloggers beware).
Political radio is also a target. As usual, not able to win with their ideas, they'll just change the rules of the game like a seven year-old brat at recess.
What's scary about this is there seems to be no stopping it. Not only will the president sign an unconstitutional law and the Supreme Court uphold it, these rules they have imposed, and seek to expand, make it more and more difficult for political upstarts to get their ideas out and, therefore, get elected. This ensures that the sleazy politicians who voted for these regulations will stay in office. They are gerrymandering the Constitution.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
From Websters online dictionary...
Main Entry: abridge
Pronunciation: &-'brij
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): abridged; abridg·ing
Etymology: Middle English abregen, from Middle French abregier, from Late Latin abbreviare, from Latin ad- + brevis short -- more at BRIEF
1 a archaic : DEPRIVE b : to reduce in scope : DIMINISH (attempts to abridge the right of free speech)
2 : to shorten in duration or extent (modern transportation that abridges distance)
3 : to shorten by omission of words without sacrifice of sense
Do you see that? Websters uses the First Amendment as a reference point for the definition of "abridge." Doesn't that say something about how plain this should be, especially those who are tasked with supporting, upholding, and protecting the Constitution?
I have rarely read anything that has made me so angry as this editorial today on the Wall Street Journal Opinion Journal online.
George Will has been banging this drum from day one of McCain-Feingold. And while I understood what he was saying, it never quite hit me like this piece did today.
The piece by Brian C. Anderson (author of South Park Conservatives) is long, but well worth the read. It's information that everyone needs to know and understand.
Most of the column is about the push McCain-Feingold gets from the left. While that is infuriating to me, I understand it. They can't win elections lately with their ideas, so they want to stifle the information going to voters. Fine, dirty play, but that's politics. I think the worst part of all this is that George Bush didn't veto this damn bill when he had the chance. Apparently he expected the Supreme Court to overturn it and wanted to avoid a fight with John McCain. Are you freakin' serious? I go back to the FIRST Amendment. First First First! They didn't say "here are the amendments to the Constitution, in no particular order." They put it first for a reason. Congress shall make no law ... abridging the freedom of speech... I'm sorry, do I not understand what the McCain-Feingold Bill is. Isn't it a law made by Congress, and doesn't it abridge the freedom of speech? And, when the founding fathers wrote this, they were talking specifically about political speech, which is exactly what this bill outlaws. That is worth fighting for, even if there are supporters in your own damn political party. And not only did our president sign it after admitting it is unconstitutional (no really, he did), but then the Supreme Court - defenders of the Constitution in the face of assaults by Congress - upheld it, too.
Clarence Thomas and the three other justices who voted along with him in the first challenge to McCain-Feingold had it right.
In his powerful McConnell dissent, Justice Thomas spelled out "the chilling endpoint" of the court's reasoning: "outright regulation of the press"--exactly what the campaign-reform theorists ultimately seek. "Media companies can run pro-candidate editorials as easily as nonmedia corporations can pay for advertisements," Justice Thomas explained. "Media corporations are influential. There is little doubt that the editorials and commentary they run can affect elections." The Supreme Court has found little to distinguish media and nonmedia corporations. Asked Justice Thomas: "What is to stop a future Congress from determining that the press is 'too influential,' and that the 'appearance of corruption' is significant when media organizations endorse candidates or run 'slanted' or 'biased' news stories in favor of candidates or parties?" Answer: Nothing. "Although today's opinion does not expressly strip the press of First Amendment protection," Justice Thomas warned, "there is no principle of law or logic that would prevent the application of the Court's reasoning in that setting. The press now operates at the whim of Congress."
But there were only four of them. There should have been nine. And so far, there's no telling how the new court will look upon this. I'm not holding out hope, based on what I've heard so far.
Just like I don't want to hear that the Republicans are the party of small government until they actually act like it, I do not ever again want to hear that Democrats are the party of freedom. That's just absolute BS. They are for freedom to express their own ideas, but not those of anyone with whom they disagree. Simply look at the speech codes on any college campus. Simply try to say that you do not approve of someone's choices (not that they don't have a right to make those choices, but only that you disagree), and you are engaged in hate speech - which is a punishable offense.
But, this is all about avoiding corruption in politics, not free speech? Well, if avoiding corruption (perceived corruption, mind you) means voiding the very first amendment to our Constitution, then the method they've chosen to use to avoid corruption is unconstitutional. But that doesn't matter, really, since they don't agree with the speech, and someone may have more influence than another by virtue of their ability to communicate their ideas. In their eyes are all equal and should have absolutely equal influence on the political process. Nevermind that it's an impossibility, we'll do everything we can to make it happen. It's their Utopia. That already didn't work, but they'll keep trying.
To eradicate "corruption," leading theorists of campaign-finance reform, such as Ohio State University law professor (and former Ohio state solicitor) Edward Foley, Loyola law prof Richard Hasen, and radical redistributionist philosopher Ronald Dworkin, want to replace privately financed campaigns with a system in which government would guarantee "equal dollars per voter," as Foley puts it, perhaps by giving all Americans the same number of political "coupons," which they could then redeem on the political activities of their choice. This superpowerful government would ban all other political expenditures and require all political groups to get operating licenses from it, with stiff criminal penalties for violators. The experts have even started calling for draconian media restrictions to achieve their egalitarian aims. In Foley's view, the chilling of speech is "the necessary price we must pay in order to have an electoral system that guarantees equal opportunity for all." But when these experts pen law-review articles with titles like "Campaign Finance Laws and the Rupert Murdoch Problem," you know it isn't the New York Times or CBS News that they have in mind.
Again, please read Amendment I.
Now they want to include the internet as an avenue of political speech to be regulated by the Federal Election Commission (bloggers beware).
Liberal reform groups like Democracy 21 say no. "We do not believe anyone described as a 'blogger' is by definition entitled to the benefit of the press exemption," they collectively sniffed in a brief to the FEC. "While some bloggers may provide a function very similar to more classical media activities, and thus could reasonably be said to fall within the exemption, others surely do not." The key test, the groups claimed, should be whether the blogger is performing a "legitimate press function." But who decides what is legitimate? And what in the Constitution gives him the authority to do so?
Political radio is also a target. As usual, not able to win with their ideas, they'll just change the rules of the game like a seven year-old brat at recess.
What's scary about this is there seems to be no stopping it. Not only will the president sign an unconstitutional law and the Supreme Court uphold it, these rules they have imposed, and seek to expand, make it more and more difficult for political upstarts to get their ideas out and, therefore, get elected. This ensures that the sleazy politicians who voted for these regulations will stay in office. They are gerrymandering the Constitution.
Zero Tolerance
Zero tolerance policies have invaded our schools with the purpose of eliminating administrators' need to actually think and reason when determining punishment, or even whether to punish at all.
Now it seems that zero tolerance policies have invaded the college sports world, as well. To summarize: basketball coaches cannot enter the court for ANY reason whatsoever. If they do, they will receive a technical foul. They will even receive said technical foul if they collapse from a heart condition and are carried off the court on a stretcher. Seriously.
At least these refs have been reprimanded.
Now it seems that zero tolerance policies have invaded the college sports world, as well. To summarize: basketball coaches cannot enter the court for ANY reason whatsoever. If they do, they will receive a technical foul. They will even receive said technical foul if they collapse from a heart condition and are carried off the court on a stretcher. Seriously.
At least these refs have been reprimanded.
Magical Firearms
This story about the boy who accidentally shot a little girl in daycare is horribly tragic. The fact that she was shot in the arm will certainly help. I hope that he's young enough that this will not ruin the rest of his life. But, from what I've read about his father, whose gun this was, there's not much hope for this kid. It's sad that at such a young age, there's so little ahead of him. That, I think, because the girl was not killed or more badly wounded, is the biggest tragedy of this whole thing.
That dismal view, however, is not what this post is about. This post is about the way the Associated Press writer decided to phrase certain parts of this story.
"The boy had the weapon in a backpack and was playing with it when it went off, said Montgomery County police spokesman Derek Baliles."
Notice my quotation marks are around the entire sentence, with no single quotes around what the police spokesman said, according to the writer. That means that the writer isn't quoting the spokesman, but paraphrasing him. I would like to know what the actual quote is, but without being able to find that, I will assume that the words "it went off" are the writer's.
Did you know that guns are magical and go off all by themselves when children are playing with them? No, of course they're not. That poor child may have accidentally pulled the trigger, but the gun didn't just go off. I know they may be trying to spare him the responsibility of shooting the girl by saying the gun went off, instead of that he accidentally pulled the trigger while playing with the gun - or that he accidentally shot the girl or he accidentally pulled the trigger. But since reporters are supposed to report facts, that's exactly what this reporter should have said.
People are understandably afraid of guns, but why do they need to instill these objects with special powers like going off by themselves? Guns can be intimidating; they are powerful and dangerous in the wrong or in careless hands. People should treat them with great respect and focus. But don't be afraid of the gun, be afraid of the felon who owns guns illegally and leaves those loaded guns out where his eight year-old son can find them and take one to school. I guess it's just easier to be scared of the gun.
That dismal view, however, is not what this post is about. This post is about the way the Associated Press writer decided to phrase certain parts of this story.
"The boy had the weapon in a backpack and was playing with it when it went off, said Montgomery County police spokesman Derek Baliles."
Notice my quotation marks are around the entire sentence, with no single quotes around what the police spokesman said, according to the writer. That means that the writer isn't quoting the spokesman, but paraphrasing him. I would like to know what the actual quote is, but without being able to find that, I will assume that the words "it went off" are the writer's.
Did you know that guns are magical and go off all by themselves when children are playing with them? No, of course they're not. That poor child may have accidentally pulled the trigger, but the gun didn't just go off. I know they may be trying to spare him the responsibility of shooting the girl by saying the gun went off, instead of that he accidentally pulled the trigger while playing with the gun - or that he accidentally shot the girl or he accidentally pulled the trigger. But since reporters are supposed to report facts, that's exactly what this reporter should have said.
People are understandably afraid of guns, but why do they need to instill these objects with special powers like going off by themselves? Guns can be intimidating; they are powerful and dangerous in the wrong or in careless hands. People should treat them with great respect and focus. But don't be afraid of the gun, be afraid of the felon who owns guns illegally and leaves those loaded guns out where his eight year-old son can find them and take one to school. I guess it's just easier to be scared of the gun.
Learning to dance
Footloose has been on HBO lately, and, well, I can't help but watch it. While watching last week, I wondered out loud what had happened to Chris Penn. I mean, I know he'd still been acting, but I had forgotten how slim and cute he was back in the day. Lately, he's been bloated and not so cute.
I was sad to hear that he was found dead in his condo yesterday.
I was sad to hear that he was found dead in his condo yesterday.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Ah, immigration
I have to say I admittedly know very little about the immigration issue from an academic sense. And I can also tell you that, after this weekend, I have learned that I have very different views on it from my grandparents. I guess there's really no surprise there.
I simply go with my gut on this one, and I say up front that I back this with very little fact and have no way on knowing where to begin in implementing such a turnaround in policy. That being said, I do believe that making everyone who's here illegally now a legal resident of the US is a terrible idea. I do think, though, that it should be much more difficult to get here both legally and illegally. I think immigration to the US is fantastic. I think there should be more of it in a legal and documented way. I also think that along with that, we should make it virtually impossible to get here illegally, and if discovered, illegal immigrants should be sent home immediately, and legal immigrants that are convicted of a crime should also be deported.
I say all of this, just so I can link to a post by The Agitator. I might as well just make my blog one big link to his. Anyway, the net of his post is that immigration is showing to be good for the US - even if it taxes our infrastructure. Yeah yeah, bad pun. I'll stop now.
I simply go with my gut on this one, and I say up front that I back this with very little fact and have no way on knowing where to begin in implementing such a turnaround in policy. That being said, I do believe that making everyone who's here illegally now a legal resident of the US is a terrible idea. I do think, though, that it should be much more difficult to get here both legally and illegally. I think immigration to the US is fantastic. I think there should be more of it in a legal and documented way. I also think that along with that, we should make it virtually impossible to get here illegally, and if discovered, illegal immigrants should be sent home immediately, and legal immigrants that are convicted of a crime should also be deported.
I say all of this, just so I can link to a post by The Agitator. I might as well just make my blog one big link to his. Anyway, the net of his post is that immigration is showing to be good for the US - even if it taxes our infrastructure. Yeah yeah, bad pun. I'll stop now.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Yay!
Golden Globes
Actor, Drama: Hugh Laurie, "House," Fox
I would have loved to have seen that speech, but, well, Jack Bauer was on. That's a tough choice. It'd be like Dave trying to choose between two different Kate Beckinsale movies.
Actor, Drama: Hugh Laurie, "House," Fox
I would have loved to have seen that speech, but, well, Jack Bauer was on. That's a tough choice. It'd be like Dave trying to choose between two different Kate Beckinsale movies.
Monday, January 16, 2006
24
My favorite from Television Without Pity for the first episode of 24 this season...
"It's 7:11:22 as she invites him to breakfast and walks away from his door. Kiefer says he'll be right there, and closes the door so he can hide his gun before joining her. His handgun, I mean. It's not really clear whether he's been hiding his other gun in the landlady."
"It's 7:11:22 as she invites him to breakfast and walks away from his door. Kiefer says he'll be right there, and closes the door so he can hide his gun before joining her. His handgun, I mean. It's not really clear whether he's been hiding his other gun in the landlady."
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
It's a good thing that Funkle Ester
covers 70's songs. Because I just heard Hurdy Gurdy Man by Donovan for the first time. If they covered 60's music, I would be a very bad wife and never ever go to shows.
Drugs really are a bad thing. The end of this song is proof ...
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy he sang
Here comes the roly-poly man
He's singing songs of love
Roly poly, roly poly, roly poly poly he sang
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy he sang
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy he sang
Roly poly, roly poly, roly poly poly he sang
Drugs really are a bad thing. The end of this song is proof ...
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy he sang
Here comes the roly-poly man
He's singing songs of love
Roly poly, roly poly, roly poly poly he sang
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy he sang
Hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy, hurdy gurdy gurdy he sang
Roly poly, roly poly, roly poly poly he sang
Monday, January 09, 2006
I take requests ...
and happen to have a scanner. So, per a request at dinner this evening, I present to you in alphabetical order: Jennifer F., Stacy G., and Whitney H. as high school seniors.
Cool for me, I guess
I'm not the only one who fell on NYE, and at least mine didn't get photographed. Well, I haven't seen all the pictures, so maybe it did. Here are the shots of the incredibly crowded New Year's Eve event that Funkle Ester played.
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Damn
I feel bad for USC, but they've got two already. And I'm really happy for Texas. Incredible game on both sides, but Vince Young and Texas really stepped up.
Maybe not...
19 seconds left. Texas just went up by one, and they're going for two after this timeout.
The Game
I'm writing this as Vince Young is running for a long stand-up touchdown to bring the score within 6 points. The PAT now brings it within five after .
But, saying that, USC has finally faced a team with a great defense, and they are (barring a miracle for/by Texas) about to prove once again that they are the best team in the country. At least it's been a good game.
3rd and 7 with 2:22 left. Texas can still get the ball. This is fun stuff.
I still don't think the Pac 10 is the toughest conference in the country, though.
But, saying that, USC has finally faced a team with a great defense, and they are (barring a miracle for/by Texas) about to prove once again that they are the best team in the country. At least it's been a good game.
3rd and 7 with 2:22 left. Texas can still get the ball. This is fun stuff.
I still don't think the Pac 10 is the toughest conference in the country, though.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Sugar Bowl
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Happy New Year ... OUCH
Well, New Year's Eve was fun. Today wasn't so much, though. There was supposed to be food at the bash, but I never saw it. I had a bowl of chicken soup at about 7 before leaving, and then got to the party and started drinking. And drinking. And dancing. Lots of dancing.
Boy, did I hurt today. One of the top five hangovers in my life. So that sucked. That's not so bad. The worst part is that I was that person last night. I fell on my ass. Then a little while later, I fell flat on my back. I'm lucky I didn't crack my head open, because I was close to the stairs. Seriously, I fell twice. How embarassing. Oh well. Nothing to do about it now.
Some pictures ...
The place was packed
And everyone was having tons of fun.
Brett, Bryan, and Russ
The Boys
Stace and I
Boy, did I hurt today. One of the top five hangovers in my life. So that sucked. That's not so bad. The worst part is that I was that person last night. I fell on my ass. Then a little while later, I fell flat on my back. I'm lucky I didn't crack my head open, because I was close to the stairs. Seriously, I fell twice. How embarassing. Oh well. Nothing to do about it now.
Some pictures ...
The place was packed
And everyone was having tons of fun.
Brett, Bryan, and Russ
The Boys
Stace and I
Monday, December 19, 2005
George W. Bush hates white people
As more and more people dig into what happened before, during, and after Katrina in New Orleans, those things we were told are being exposed by the light of the truth. Now, I understand that in the chaos that followed the hurricane it was difficult to discern the details and nuances of every situation and fact. And reporters have to report what they are seeing; it's their jobs. But jumping to conclusions of opinion, based on pre-conceived expectations when there are no facts that support or refute your opinion is a whole other story.
We've found out that no, 5,000+ people didn't die as was expected, and seemingly wished for by those hoping to hold the federal administration responsible for something worse than that which was already so terrible (so far, it's 1,095 in Louisianna) - only to justify their own hatred.
And, now, we're finding out from a study by the LA Times.that the demographics of those who died are pretty spread out among economic and racial lines. As a matter of fact, it seems that while NOLA's (city) population is 28% white, 33% of the dead are white.
Admittedly, the sample is unreliable because of the difficulties of this job, and 19 bodies were pulled completely from the numbers because of inability to identify where they came from. So that 5% difference is probably not exactly accurate. And it could be 5% in the other direction.
Taking all that into account, though, it's interesting to see. A difference like this is often screamed from the rooftops as evidence of sexism or racism in other situations, using no other factors in the consideration. Women are 53% of the population, so if women don't make up 53% of any industry, it's obviously an industry rife with sexism. Same for ethnic representation. Well, if that's the case, then George W. Bush clearly hates white people.
And he hates the middle class and the rich just as much as he hates the poor - because, turns out, it wasn't only the poor who died because of Katrina.
Finally, it really makes me sad that the writer felt the need to include this sentence, "Not all white residents who died in the storm were well-to-do; not all African American victims were poor." Well, no kidding Sherlock. Don't they have rich black people in LA? I thought I'd seen a few on TV. Maybe they don't have poor white people there, and that's the confusion.
Yeah, I know I've built something of a strawman here, but my strawman can beat up Kanye's any day.
Hat tip Opinion Journal Best of the Web
We've found out that no, 5,000+ people didn't die as was expected, and seemingly wished for by those hoping to hold the federal administration responsible for something worse than that which was already so terrible (so far, it's 1,095 in Louisianna) - only to justify their own hatred.
And, now, we're finding out from a study by the LA Times.that the demographics of those who died are pretty spread out among economic and racial lines. As a matter of fact, it seems that while NOLA's (city) population is 28% white, 33% of the dead are white.
Admittedly, the sample is unreliable because of the difficulties of this job, and 19 bodies were pulled completely from the numbers because of inability to identify where they came from. So that 5% difference is probably not exactly accurate. And it could be 5% in the other direction.
The information used in The Times analysis was incomplete, due to difficulties in gathering data in the days after Katrina struck and to bureaucratic problems that followed.
The private company that was contracted to collect bodies was supposed to mark the GPS coordinates of each recovery, but state officials said they soon determined that data was "worthless." They had to reconstruct the locations where bodies were found but in some cases could provide information no more specific than "Canal Street." Although it is the most comprehensive data they have released on storm fatalities, state officials acknowledge that the information is still riddled with errors and probably will be corrected constantly in coming months.
The state data also include locations such as the interchange of I-10 and I-610 where rescuers in motorboats were directed to deposit bodies they found floating in the floodwaters. There is no way to determine where some of those 19 bodies came from, and all have been excluded from The Times analysis.
"The data you have leaves a lot to be desired," Cataldie said in an interview Friday. "I don't know if it'll ever be 100%."
Of the 1,095 people killed by Katrina in Louisiana, the state has formally identified and released demographic data on 535. Many other victims are tentatively identified, though 93 remain unidentifiable. A couple of bodies are recovered every week, and officials say other victims may have been swept into the Gulf of Mexico, never to be found.
Taking all that into account, though, it's interesting to see. A difference like this is often screamed from the rooftops as evidence of sexism or racism in other situations, using no other factors in the consideration. Women are 53% of the population, so if women don't make up 53% of any industry, it's obviously an industry rife with sexism. Same for ethnic representation. Well, if that's the case, then George W. Bush clearly hates white people.
"The affected population is more multiracial, multiethnic and multicultural than one might discern from national media reports," said Richard Campanella, a Tulane University geographer who has studied which parts of the city were hit the worst by flooding. His research showed that predominantly white districts in the city were almost as likely to flood as predominantly black ones.
And he hates the middle class and the rich just as much as he hates the poor - because, turns out, it wasn't only the poor who died because of Katrina.
The analysis contradicts what swiftly became conventional wisdom in the days after the storm hit — that it was the city's poorest African American residents who bore the brunt of the hurricane. Slightly more than half of the bodies were found in the city's poorer neighborhoods, with the remainder scattered throughout middle-class and even some richer districts.
"The fascinating thing is that it's so spread out," said Joachim Singelmann, director of the Louisiana Population Data Center at Louisiana State University. "It's not just the Lower 9th Ward or New Orleans East, which everybody has heard about. It's across the board, including some well-to-do neighborhoods."
... The state official in charge of identifying Katrina's victims, Dr. Louis Cataldie, said he was not surprised by the findings. "We went into $1-million and $2-million homes trying to retrieve people," he said.
Finally, it really makes me sad that the writer felt the need to include this sentence, "Not all white residents who died in the storm were well-to-do; not all African American victims were poor." Well, no kidding Sherlock. Don't they have rich black people in LA? I thought I'd seen a few on TV. Maybe they don't have poor white people there, and that's the confusion.
Yeah, I know I've built something of a strawman here, but my strawman can beat up Kanye's any day.
Hat tip Opinion Journal Best of the Web
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Good Stuff
From Morgan Freeman. Good for him.
The only people who insist on continually hyphenating Americans are those who profit from racism - in money, power, or both.
The only people who insist on continually hyphenating Americans are those who profit from racism - in money, power, or both.
Hmmm
Flipping channels this morning, I caught a woman saying this, "radical, pro-choice, lesbian feminist," and I started to turn the channel. But she followed that with something about the power of the individual. I was intrigued, so I didn't turn the channel. Then I find out it's Tammy Bruce, a woman I have never heard of. And she's talking about her book The New American Revolution.
I know nothing about this woman, but I think I'll do some more investigating. She seems interesting.
I know nothing about this woman, but I think I'll do some more investigating. She seems interesting.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Another death penalty case - from another angle
The Cory Maye story one is worth watching.
The War on Drugs is, at a minimum, pointless and at its worst, tyrannical. I'm not overstating it.
The War on Drugs is, at a minimum, pointless and at its worst, tyrannical. I'm not overstating it.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Pastel Sport Coats and No Socks
Ahhh, I just love this tv schedule. Miami Vice 24 hour marathon! Caught Smugglers Blues this morning. Fantastic. Too bad I actually have stuff to do today. Not too much of a loss, though, since I already own this, and season two is due out soon.
While I'm stuck in the 80's today, I should watch this, too.
And, yeah, both shows are dated, especially Miami Vice, but they're still so entertaining.
While I'm stuck in the 80's today, I should watch this, too.
And, yeah, both shows are dated, especially Miami Vice, but they're still so entertaining.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
I can be girlie, too ... sometimes
Got this dress a couple of weeks ago for the company Christmas parties. Yay! I LOVE it!
OK, so there's not a link. Sorry. I found pictures online the other day, but now they're not there. Oh well. You may have to take my word for it, unless I can find them tomorrow. Anyway, it's a fabulous dress.
Update:
Found it! The one I got is a bright royal blue, not this lavendar. Anyway.
OK, so there's not a link. Sorry. I found pictures online the other day, but now they're not there. Oh well. You may have to take my word for it, unless I can find them tomorrow. Anyway, it's a fabulous dress.
Update:
Found it! The one I got is a bright royal blue, not this lavendar. Anyway.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Saturday, December 03, 2005
New Phone
So, I'm really interested in this phone. It gets great reviews, and most are already set up for service with Schmingular, which happens to be my provider. The problem is that this phone is no longer listed as an available phone on the company's site, and even on eBay, they're about $250.
One thing I don't know: If I get one of these phones on eBay (some are locked, some are advertised as unlocked), how much will it cost me to take one of those lovely little phones to a shop and have it activated as my phone on my current plan? The hubby already got a new phone in July, and renewed the plan for another two years, too, so I won't be extending our plan.
Second thing I don't know: I hear that the provider has these phones refurbed for much much cheaper, but I can't find anything about that anywhere. Is this true?
Is there someone out there who can help me with this info? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
One thing I don't know: If I get one of these phones on eBay (some are locked, some are advertised as unlocked), how much will it cost me to take one of those lovely little phones to a shop and have it activated as my phone on my current plan? The hubby already got a new phone in July, and renewed the plan for another two years, too, so I won't be extending our plan.
Second thing I don't know: I hear that the provider has these phones refurbed for much much cheaper, but I can't find anything about that anywhere. Is this true?
Is there someone out there who can help me with this info? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
What's in a Name
You know, I love my name. Always have. It's a pretty name, and it's different. And up until about 10 years ago, I didn't mind sharing it with this person.
But then, on Tuesday night, I'm watching a show about a certain hotel-owning family. How Conrad was married to Zsa Zsa, and how Conrad's son Nicky was married to Elizabeth. And how another son Rick and Kathy Richards started dating and got married young, and have a happy marriage almost 30 years later. And in 1981, Rick and Kathy had Paris. Well, at least she doesn't go by her middle name.
I don't go by mine, either. But maybe I could start.
But then, on Tuesday night, I'm watching a show about a certain hotel-owning family. How Conrad was married to Zsa Zsa, and how Conrad's son Nicky was married to Elizabeth. And how another son Rick and Kathy Richards started dating and got married young, and have a happy marriage almost 30 years later. And in 1981, Rick and Kathy had Paris. Well, at least she doesn't go by her middle name.
I don't go by mine, either. But maybe I could start.
Very Exciting News
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Walk the Line
Yep, saw this last night. And I like it even more today than I did last night. Biopics aren't usually my favorite types of movies. Trying to fit someone's life into a standard plot formula doesn't usually make for great fare - more movie of the week than blockbuster. While I think Jamie Foxx did an incredible job as Ray Charles and I found the story interesting, I didn't really find it compelling. Interestingly, though Johnny Cash's story very much parallels Ray Charles' around his relationship with music, drugs, career, and women.
The funny thing about this one is that I was on the edge of my seat, waiting to see what happened next, even though I knew. As you've no doubt heard already, Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Whitherspoon are fantastic. He picked up the voice (so did she), and he even picked up the way Cash sings out of the side of his mouth, and the stage mannerisms. It's all there. Even though I went in expecting the acting from the two of them, what I didn't expect was the chemistry. They had fantastic chemistry. I wanted to cheer when they kissed the first time, even though he was married.
It does take some getting past the fact that he was married with daughters at home while he's trying to get June Carter to be with him. Looking back, you can see that he and June were "meant for each other," but at what point does that justify how you treat someone you once loved? I don't know that it does, and the movie doesn't even try to say that, which I applaud. It just puts the story out there for us. But it is hard for me to watch a man, even an incredibly charismatic and talented one, cheat on his wife and get upset over her frustrations by explaining that he's bought her the house of her dreams, and asking what else she wants. I certainly felt her frustrations at times, and think this woman was nothing but justified in her own reactions.
But I guess that's the thing about biopics, they are warts and all. And even after seeing the warts, you really can't help but root for Johnny and June to finally get together and live their happily ever after, in spite of the woman he left behind.
PS On a more selfish note, three cheers for a movie that portrays the south and southerners with all heart and zero cliche. The Thanksgiving scene brought me to tears, not only because of the strained relationship with his father, but when Mother Maybelle Carter tells of learning music in church and reading shape notes. There are so many things about the way I grew up that my own children won't experience: sitting around the piano while my grandmother played and sung hymns, heading to a local pond to go fishing after digging up your worms in the back yard, and walking railroad tracks by the cotton mill. Kids, don't roll your eyes when your parents wax nostalgiac about how they grew up.
The funny thing about this one is that I was on the edge of my seat, waiting to see what happened next, even though I knew. As you've no doubt heard already, Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Whitherspoon are fantastic. He picked up the voice (so did she), and he even picked up the way Cash sings out of the side of his mouth, and the stage mannerisms. It's all there. Even though I went in expecting the acting from the two of them, what I didn't expect was the chemistry. They had fantastic chemistry. I wanted to cheer when they kissed the first time, even though he was married.
It does take some getting past the fact that he was married with daughters at home while he's trying to get June Carter to be with him. Looking back, you can see that he and June were "meant for each other," but at what point does that justify how you treat someone you once loved? I don't know that it does, and the movie doesn't even try to say that, which I applaud. It just puts the story out there for us. But it is hard for me to watch a man, even an incredibly charismatic and talented one, cheat on his wife and get upset over her frustrations by explaining that he's bought her the house of her dreams, and asking what else she wants. I certainly felt her frustrations at times, and think this woman was nothing but justified in her own reactions.
But I guess that's the thing about biopics, they are warts and all. And even after seeing the warts, you really can't help but root for Johnny and June to finally get together and live their happily ever after, in spite of the woman he left behind.
PS On a more selfish note, three cheers for a movie that portrays the south and southerners with all heart and zero cliche. The Thanksgiving scene brought me to tears, not only because of the strained relationship with his father, but when Mother Maybelle Carter tells of learning music in church and reading shape notes. There are so many things about the way I grew up that my own children won't experience: sitting around the piano while my grandmother played and sung hymns, heading to a local pond to go fishing after digging up your worms in the back yard, and walking railroad tracks by the cotton mill. Kids, don't roll your eyes when your parents wax nostalgiac about how they grew up.
Friday, November 18, 2005
Oh, the irony.
Or is it ironic? I don't know anymore.
Reading one of my daily work newsletters, I came across this tidbit...
So, naturally, I decided to blog about it.
Reading one of my daily work newsletters, I came across this tidbit...
Blogging: About one in four workers average 3.5 hours a week reading online blogs that are not work-related, according to analysis by Advertising Age. All told, U.S. employees this year will waste "the equivalent of 551,000 years reading blogs" that have nothing to do with their jobs. Also, a white paper on blogs by public relations firm Edelman and Intelliseek reveals that "nearly 70 percent of companies have no policies or guidelines" for employee bloggers, raising liability questions. And while employee blogs have "helped enhance the reputation" of companies like Microsoft and Sun Microsystems, they also have "hurt reputations in the case of several high-profile firings" at Google Inc., Delta Air Lines, Waterstone's and Friendster, according to the Edelman-Intelliseek research. Even so, IBM is giving employees "blogging tools" and views blogs as a way to forge new relationships with business partners, as well as market new products.
So, naturally, I decided to blog about it.
Friday, November 11, 2005
The Trip
By singular demand I am posting the trip.
I don't know if I do summaries very well, but I'll try it - enter the joys of a one-week trip to the other side of the world.
Saturday morning we flew from Atlanta to LA, then LA to Sydney. The best part is that because of the time change in the States and Australia, instead of flying over night as is the usual itinerary, we were able to fly "during the day" and land Sunday night Sydney time. This allowed us to get there, and pretty much go straight to bed and get a full night's sleep, rather than having to start in the morning. I think this was the key to the fact that neither one of us experienced any jet lag in Austrlia. Upon check-in at our hotel, this was our view.
Not bad, I say.
The next day was Monday, and I worked from 10-5 while Dave walked around Sydney and figured out where things were. After work, we walked around and went to dinner. Some of the sites:
Seriously, we were really there. At the Sydney Opera House. I still don't know if I believe it.
On Tuesday, I worked 7-12, and Dave went to the aquarium. Then we met my colleagues at a pub to watch the Melbourne Cup. This is a horse race that shuts down the country. Think the Kentucky Derby's influence on Kentucky, and apply that to Australia, which is the size of the US's lower 48. I looked out the window of the pub during the race, and there was no one on the street, not even cars. Well, unlike the Derby, these horses can race multiple years. And the favorite was on her third race. We picked her, and she won. This is the first horse to win three in a row. We won $37 on a $10 bet. Good times.
Then we went to the airport to fly to Melbourne - a one hour and 20 minute flight south. Since the cup was there just a few hours earlier, and the week-long Carnival was still going on, things were crazy in Melbourne. Our hotel was a few miles outside of the city - probably similar to Decatur, if you have to compare it to Atlanta. We were about two miles from the Italian area, and that's where we ate. I've never seen anywhere like this. All the restaurants are right along the same street, one right after the other. They all had their sidewalks full of tables and chairs. We had about five feet to walk between the restaurant and tables along with everyone else going in our direction and the other. Meanwhile the restauranteurs were accosting us to come into their restaurants. Bizarre. So we went across the street to one that didn't attack us.
Wednesday was another 7-12 day, while Dave walked around. We ate on the river
and then took a tram for about 45 minutes to this little beach.
Something we started to realize is that modern cities are modern cities. Outside of something like the Sydney Opera House, if we had been dropped off without knowing where we were, these could have been pretty much any city in America. Well, ok, and driving on the left side of the road. But still, the buildings could be just about anywhere. The key is getting outside of the cities. And we got to do that when my boss gave me Thursday off, and directions to Mooloolaba beach about an hour outside of Brisbane. Turns out, this is where he was a member of the Mooloolaba Beach Surf Lifesaving Club. These are lifeguards, but they also participate in competitions.
The drive was beautiful, with these cool mountains that would pop up. Then the beach was incredible. Blue, cool water, nice sand, and huge waves. Huge waves. Waves like I've never seen in my life. I couldn't stand up in them. They knocked me over until I figured out that I better go under them or get out entirely. The pictures don't do them justice because there's no context, but they were at least five foot breakers. We had such a good time. This is somewhere we hope to go back to.
The beach
Apparently this is a protected beach, and the waves "aren't that bad." Thank you to my boss for sending us to this one.
Brisbane was a short day, and our flight left at 3pm. We then headed to Auckland, through Sydney. The flight created some cool shots. We could see how big Sydney really is. This shot is only one part of Sydney.
Ah, and then there's Auckland, New Zealand. We actually had a good bit of free time here, so this was great. Kayaking, driving around hills and beaches in a Suzuki Samarai, and then a visit to the Auckland Museum.
Some Auckland shots...
From the ferry
Waiheke Island Kayaking and Driving
A beautiful park in the heart of the city.
A different park, also in the city.
I guess that about sums it up.
The flights? Long - 14 hours LA to Sydney. 11 hours Auckland to LA. The jet lag? None going over. At first it seemed there wouldn't be any coming back, either. Ah, but there was. And has been all week. I'm still wiped out at about 3pm every day.
All in all, an amazing trip. I was ready to get home, but I definitely want to go back. We'd like to see more of the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast in Australia, plus more inland. And we definitely want to go back to New Zealand and hit the south island. That's where the truly amazing stuff is supposed to be. I can't even imagine.
I don't know if I do summaries very well, but I'll try it - enter the joys of a one-week trip to the other side of the world.
Saturday morning we flew from Atlanta to LA, then LA to Sydney. The best part is that because of the time change in the States and Australia, instead of flying over night as is the usual itinerary, we were able to fly "during the day" and land Sunday night Sydney time. This allowed us to get there, and pretty much go straight to bed and get a full night's sleep, rather than having to start in the morning. I think this was the key to the fact that neither one of us experienced any jet lag in Austrlia. Upon check-in at our hotel, this was our view.
Not bad, I say.
The next day was Monday, and I worked from 10-5 while Dave walked around Sydney and figured out where things were. After work, we walked around and went to dinner. Some of the sites:
Seriously, we were really there. At the Sydney Opera House. I still don't know if I believe it.
On Tuesday, I worked 7-12, and Dave went to the aquarium. Then we met my colleagues at a pub to watch the Melbourne Cup. This is a horse race that shuts down the country. Think the Kentucky Derby's influence on Kentucky, and apply that to Australia, which is the size of the US's lower 48. I looked out the window of the pub during the race, and there was no one on the street, not even cars. Well, unlike the Derby, these horses can race multiple years. And the favorite was on her third race. We picked her, and she won. This is the first horse to win three in a row. We won $37 on a $10 bet. Good times.
Then we went to the airport to fly to Melbourne - a one hour and 20 minute flight south. Since the cup was there just a few hours earlier, and the week-long Carnival was still going on, things were crazy in Melbourne. Our hotel was a few miles outside of the city - probably similar to Decatur, if you have to compare it to Atlanta. We were about two miles from the Italian area, and that's where we ate. I've never seen anywhere like this. All the restaurants are right along the same street, one right after the other. They all had their sidewalks full of tables and chairs. We had about five feet to walk between the restaurant and tables along with everyone else going in our direction and the other. Meanwhile the restauranteurs were accosting us to come into their restaurants. Bizarre. So we went across the street to one that didn't attack us.
Wednesday was another 7-12 day, while Dave walked around. We ate on the river
and then took a tram for about 45 minutes to this little beach.
Something we started to realize is that modern cities are modern cities. Outside of something like the Sydney Opera House, if we had been dropped off without knowing where we were, these could have been pretty much any city in America. Well, ok, and driving on the left side of the road. But still, the buildings could be just about anywhere. The key is getting outside of the cities. And we got to do that when my boss gave me Thursday off, and directions to Mooloolaba beach about an hour outside of Brisbane. Turns out, this is where he was a member of the Mooloolaba Beach Surf Lifesaving Club. These are lifeguards, but they also participate in competitions.
The drive was beautiful, with these cool mountains that would pop up. Then the beach was incredible. Blue, cool water, nice sand, and huge waves. Huge waves. Waves like I've never seen in my life. I couldn't stand up in them. They knocked me over until I figured out that I better go under them or get out entirely. The pictures don't do them justice because there's no context, but they were at least five foot breakers. We had such a good time. This is somewhere we hope to go back to.
The beach
Apparently this is a protected beach, and the waves "aren't that bad." Thank you to my boss for sending us to this one.
Brisbane was a short day, and our flight left at 3pm. We then headed to Auckland, through Sydney. The flight created some cool shots. We could see how big Sydney really is. This shot is only one part of Sydney.
Ah, and then there's Auckland, New Zealand. We actually had a good bit of free time here, so this was great. Kayaking, driving around hills and beaches in a Suzuki Samarai, and then a visit to the Auckland Museum.
Some Auckland shots...
From the ferry
Waiheke Island Kayaking and Driving
A beautiful park in the heart of the city.
A different park, also in the city.
I guess that about sums it up.
The flights? Long - 14 hours LA to Sydney. 11 hours Auckland to LA. The jet lag? None going over. At first it seemed there wouldn't be any coming back, either. Ah, but there was. And has been all week. I'm still wiped out at about 3pm every day.
All in all, an amazing trip. I was ready to get home, but I definitely want to go back. We'd like to see more of the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast in Australia, plus more inland. And we definitely want to go back to New Zealand and hit the south island. That's where the truly amazing stuff is supposed to be. I can't even imagine.
RIP
Someone else I know will be sad about the first one, but my day has been marred by the announcement of the cancellation of Arrested Development.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Trent Reznor
I may be the last one here, but has anyone out there seen Trent Reznor lately? He was interviewed for a clip on VH1 that I saw this morning, and I didn't recognize him. Even after they said it was him, it took me a minute. It's interesting that so many of the "rebellious" types take on a more conventional look as they get older. I mean, he was not that alternative looking before - just long hair. But his new look certainly doesn't fit the sound of NIN from back in the day. Anyway, I'm just rambling.
Before
Now
Um, yeah, that's him - second from the LEFT.
Before
Now
Um, yeah, that's him - second from the LEFT.
Saturday, November 05, 2005
To Sum it Up
Having dessert - tempura banana - at the Harbourside Restaurant,
after a day of kayaking
Waiheke Island New Zealand...
The radio plays "Wish You Were Here," Pink Floyd.
Indeed.
after a day of kayaking
Waiheke Island New Zealand...
The radio plays "Wish You Were Here," Pink Floyd.
Indeed.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Language and Dialect
Fun stuff from here. And not surprising one bit.
Your Linguistic Profile: |
60% General American English |
35% Dixie |
5% Yankee |
0% Midwestern |
0% Upper Midwestern |
Friday, October 28, 2005
A favorite columnist and a favorite blogger
The Agitator comments on a Thomas Sowell column.
As usual, they both say it so well that there's little more I can add.
As usual, they both say it so well that there's little more I can add.
Gratuitous post for Stacy
Trying to wrap things up at work, and we just had a wine tasting. As Stacy knows, I work much better after a drink, or two. Do you think that's a problem?
Anyway, must get back to tying up loose ends before the awesome trip for which we must be at the airport at 6:30am tomorrow morning, and I haven't packed a thing.
Listening to Duran Duran right now. Yay! (See, Stay, I told you it was for you)
Also, had a great time at a screening for Motor Home Massacre last night. So campy, and fun. If you get the chance to see it with a group of people, then it's totally worth it. If you're by yourself, or with someone with no sense of humor, you'll be miserable. Luckily, we were in a group, and with fun people last night.
Anyway, must get back to tying up loose ends before the awesome trip for which we must be at the airport at 6:30am tomorrow morning, and I haven't packed a thing.
Listening to Duran Duran right now. Yay! (See, Stay, I told you it was for you)
Also, had a great time at a screening for Motor Home Massacre last night. So campy, and fun. If you get the chance to see it with a group of people, then it's totally worth it. If you're by yourself, or with someone with no sense of humor, you'll be miserable. Luckily, we were in a group, and with fun people last night.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
A Band Question
Does the band Coheed and Cambria kind of freak anyone else out? I mean, they are nothing too unusual to look at,
at least in terms of rock music. I mean they don't make themselves up like Marilyn Manson - just some funky hair, really. But then the guy sings. With a voice somewhat similar to Geddy Lee. Get the videos here, for a sample.
I think it's the combination of the hair, the music, the smirk on the singer's face when he sings in the Suffering video, then that voice. Is it just me?
at least in terms of rock music. I mean they don't make themselves up like Marilyn Manson - just some funky hair, really. But then the guy sings. With a voice somewhat similar to Geddy Lee. Get the videos here, for a sample.
I think it's the combination of the hair, the music, the smirk on the singer's face when he sings in the Suffering video, then that voice. Is it just me?
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
I LOVE
I LOVE I Love the 80s. As Dave likes to say, Madison Ave. has my number for sure.
What I learned tonight that I, sadly, didn't know:
Rosanna by Toto was written for Rosanna Arquette, who was dating the lead singer of Toto at the time.
How did I miss that?
What I learned tonight that I, sadly, didn't know:
Rosanna by Toto was written for Rosanna Arquette, who was dating the lead singer of Toto at the time.
How did I miss that?
Meant to post on this a couple weeks ago
Dave, my mom, three of my coworkers, and I all got certified in CPR on October 8. It was a good class, and I truly think I could help in a bad situation. Honestly, it's a really cool feeling.
It's Halloween; who are you?
Hat tip, Stacy
vampire-- reserved and you love your privacy and
space. you enjoy spending time with only a few
close friends and are a bit of a loner
What halloween icon are you???
brought to you by Quizilla
vampire-- reserved and you love your privacy and
space. you enjoy spending time with only a few
close friends and are a bit of a loner
What halloween icon are you???
brought to you by Quizilla
Monday, October 24, 2005
Big Trip Coming Up
So, I said I wouldn't believe it until I was on the ground in Sydney, but I'm comfortable enough to say that Dave and I are headed to Australia and New Zealand next week. I think that apprehensive is the word I will use to describe my state of mind regarding this trip. I'm excited, but nervous about how my body will react to four cities in seven days, keeping in mind that Australia is roughly the size of the US. Our itinerary:
Saturday 8:30am leave Atlanta for LA
1pm leave LA for Sydney, arrive 9:35pm Sunday - local time
Monday and Tuesday in Sydney
Tuesday 5:30pm leave Sydney for Melbourne, arrive 7pm
Wednesday in Melbourne
Wednesday 6:05pm leave Melbourne for Brisbane, arrive 7:10pm
Thursday in Brisbane
Thursday 3:10pm leave Brisbane for Auckland, New Zealand, arrive 11:45pm
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in Auckland
Sunday 7:40pm leave Auckland for LA, arrive 10:30 am (the same day!)
1:50pm leave LA for Atlanta, arrive 9pm Sunday (still the same day)
So, maybe you see the apprehension. (Adding to this Dave's business trip this Wednesday and Thursday). I've never traveled so far, but I've also never traveled so much in such a short time-period. And I'll be working most of the time. But I still think it will be lots of fun, and I'm so excited that Dave gets to go along, too. Here's to kayaking the New Zealand coast on Saturday, November 5.
Saturday 8:30am leave Atlanta for LA
1pm leave LA for Sydney, arrive 9:35pm Sunday - local time
Monday and Tuesday in Sydney
Tuesday 5:30pm leave Sydney for Melbourne, arrive 7pm
Wednesday in Melbourne
Wednesday 6:05pm leave Melbourne for Brisbane, arrive 7:10pm
Thursday in Brisbane
Thursday 3:10pm leave Brisbane for Auckland, New Zealand, arrive 11:45pm
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in Auckland
Sunday 7:40pm leave Auckland for LA, arrive 10:30 am (the same day!)
1:50pm leave LA for Atlanta, arrive 9pm Sunday (still the same day)
So, maybe you see the apprehension. (Adding to this Dave's business trip this Wednesday and Thursday). I've never traveled so far, but I've also never traveled so much in such a short time-period. And I'll be working most of the time. But I still think it will be lots of fun, and I'm so excited that Dave gets to go along, too. Here's to kayaking the New Zealand coast on Saturday, November 5.
Increasingly Libertarian
Despicable
And if you're interested in libertarian bumper stickers, check these out. There are also stickers for the other political options.
And if you're interested in libertarian bumper stickers, check these out. There are also stickers for the other political options.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Nothing much
Work has been strange lately, and it's got me feeling a little odd - and down. So, conveniently enough, the second disc of the first season of Arrested Development came in the mail today.
Yay! I felt better after just one episode. And there are eight on the disc.
Yay! I felt better after just one episode. And there are eight on the disc.
Friday, October 14, 2005
Apple
Coming from a photo-journalism background, I once fawned all over Macs, too. Until I got one of my own that froze and crashed, just like PCs. It's just a damn computer. Anyway, interesting article for those obsessed with Mac, or those who find the obsession curious. It's really all about marketing and PR, after all.
Hat tip, the agitator, as usual.
Hat tip, the agitator, as usual.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Monday, October 10, 2005
More Pictures
From last week and weekend.
Newport has to be the most overtly wealthy place I've ever been. Mansion (castle) after mansion. And yacht after yacht. The biggest sailboats I've ever seen.
See that white speck on the far boat. That's a man.
Supposedly Steve Wynn's "boat."
From the wedding (none from the Oct. 2 wedding, because those are film. Will post later.)
Old friends.
Newport has to be the most overtly wealthy place I've ever been. Mansion (castle) after mansion. And yacht after yacht. The biggest sailboats I've ever seen.
See that white speck on the far boat. That's a man.
Supposedly Steve Wynn's "boat."
From the wedding (none from the Oct. 2 wedding, because those are film. Will post later.)
Old friends.
ArrDev
Just catching up on last week's episode. Best line ...
Lindsay, "How do you think I feel? Bob Loblaw's a handsome, professional man, and I'm only use to, well, none of those things."
Tobias, "OK, Lindsay, are you forgetting that I was a professional twice over? An analyst and a therapist. The world's first analrapist."
Lindsay, "Yes, and you were almost arrested for those business cards."
Tobias, "I know, it didn't look good on paper, but I didn't quit because of the police inquiries. I quit to raise our little daughter."
Lindsay, "How do you think I feel? Bob Loblaw's a handsome, professional man, and I'm only use to, well, none of those things."
Tobias, "OK, Lindsay, are you forgetting that I was a professional twice over? An analyst and a therapist. The world's first analrapist."
Lindsay, "Yes, and you were almost arrested for those business cards."
Tobias, "I know, it didn't look good on paper, but I didn't quit because of the police inquiries. I quit to raise our little daughter."
Sunday, October 09, 2005
It's been a while
Sorry I haven't posted in a while, but I was here for this wedding last Saturday and Sunday ...
in Medford, MA
Monday and Tuesday ...
in Newport, RI
Wednesday through Friday
and then here for another wedding Saturday
I'm recovering.
in Medford, MA
Monday and Tuesday ...in Newport, RI
Wednesday through Fridayand then here for another wedding Saturday
I'm recovering.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Monday, September 26, 2005
Conversation of the episode
from Arrested Development...
(probably not EXACTLY, but well, you'll get the idea).
Talking about GOB's recently discovered son...
Michael, "Could it be, GOB, that this feeling that you’re feeling is ... a feeling?"
GOB, "I don’t know what this is. It’s not pain, or even hunger."
Michael, "Could it be that it is love?"
GOB, "No, Michael, I know what an erection feels like! This is like the opposite, like my heart is getting hard."
There were also hilarious references to Andy Grifith (Ron Howard narrating), and to "meaty leading-man parts."
(probably not EXACTLY, but well, you'll get the idea).
Talking about GOB's recently discovered son...
Michael, "Could it be, GOB, that this feeling that you’re feeling is ... a feeling?"
GOB, "I don’t know what this is. It’s not pain, or even hunger."
Michael, "Could it be that it is love?"
GOB, "No, Michael, I know what an erection feels like! This is like the opposite, like my heart is getting hard."
There were also hilarious references to Andy Grifith (Ron Howard narrating), and to "meaty leading-man parts."
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Thank you Dean Kamen
Is that how you spell your name? If not, I'm sorry. But thank you. I'm sure you didn't intend your really complicated, technically spectacular invention to be a tourist's mode of transportation in random cities. I'm sure you had loftier goals for this invention. And they are probably being realized elsewhere. But on Tybee Island, we had a great time on the off-road XT version. So, thank you.
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Thank you, Erica
I have to give a big thank you to Erica for letting me buy her Keane tickets, so she could go see the Doves tonight. What a show! There are few bands or singers who put on live shows that illustrate how woefully inadequite recorded music can be (is). Well, CDs, actually. My dad has a reel-to-reel of Madame Butterfly that is the best recording I've ever heard of anything. I digress.
Turns out, Keane is one of those bands whose CDs do them no justice whatsoever. And I like their recorded music. But live. Damn. Just damn. The lead singer's stage presence is incredible. The band's presence as a whole isn't choreographed or contrived. Even the lighting is well-done. Their stage show is on par with some of the best, but they do it in places like the Tabernacle instead of Philips Arena (for now).
Turns out, Keane is one of those bands whose CDs do them no justice whatsoever. And I like their recorded music. But live. Damn. Just damn. The lead singer's stage presence is incredible. The band's presence as a whole isn't choreographed or contrived. Even the lighting is well-done. Their stage show is on par with some of the best, but they do it in places like the Tabernacle instead of Philips Arena (for now).
"Successful" Women
It seems that many women are deciding they want to stay at home with their children, even - gasp - women graduating from Ivy League universities.
First of all, I must put aside my initial reaction about best laid plans, especially those we make in college. After that, it's very interesting to see what's happening, at least anecdotally.
Thankfully, this is a balanced article. There are a couple of folks on one side who seem to believe that the definition of success for a woman can mean many things. The president of Princeton, for instance:
But this one in particular is my favorite:
Permit me to build a straw(wo)man...
This quote says so many things about the way people with this view see the world. To them, how a woman chooses to raise her own children is not a private choice for her to make. Let's not even talk about this being a choice she would most likely make with her husband. How dare a modern woman view this as her own choice. Anyone notice something interesting here? I'm guessing that Dr. Wexler screams from the rooftops her support for a woman's right to choose many other things in her life. Once she becomes a mother, though, she no longer has a right to her own private decisions?
Or is she saying that these women are brainwashed by our patriarchal society and, therefore, incapable of making their own decisions? If so, who should overrule a woman's decision to stay at home with her children?
She also says there are "no social changes to support [working mothers]." I wonder when was the last time she worked in corporate America. Any guesses? I know of many organizations that strive to keep women onboard once they've had children. In order to do this, they build lactation rooms, and they implement teleworking and flexible scheduling policies. They offer more maternity leave than legally required. They understand that these women are contributors they don't want to lose. So companies do what they can to keep these women. I work for one of these companies. Many of the mothers that have come back to work after maternity leave haven't done so because of financial need. They love their jobs and our company, and our company makes it possible for them to be both successful mothers and salespeople, programmers, and customer support reps - to name a few.
And finally, Wexler hopes this "would have been solved by now." First, she assumes that women choosing to stay at home with their children is a) a problem and b) something that women are forced to do. I'd also be interested to know what exactly Wexler has done to create a solution for this problem that so disturbs her. Maybe she's not a very good women's studies professor if she hasn't been able to teach even the smartest women (students at Yale, for instance) that being a stay-at-home mother is clearly the wrong decision.
link via Wall Street Journal Best of the Web Today.
First of all, I must put aside my initial reaction about best laid plans, especially those we make in college. After that, it's very interesting to see what's happening, at least anecdotally.
Thankfully, this is a balanced article. There are a couple of folks on one side who seem to believe that the definition of success for a woman can mean many things. The president of Princeton, for instance:
For example, earlier this month, Shirley M. Tilghman, the president of Princeton University, welcomed new freshmen, saying: "The goal of a Princeton education is to prepare young men and women to take up positions of leadership in the 21st century. Of course, the word 'leadership' conjures up images of presidents and C.E.O.'s, but I want to stress that my idea of a leader is much broader than that."
She listed education, medicine and engineering as other areas where students could become leaders.
In an e-mail response to a question, Dr. Tilghman added: "There is nothing inconsistent with being a leader and a stay-at-home parent. Some women (and a handful of men) whom I have known who have done this have had a powerful impact on their communities."
But this one in particular is my favorite:
"They are still thinking of this as a private issue; they're accepting it," said Laura Wexler, a professor of American studies and women's and gender studies at Yale. "Women have been given full-time working career opportunities and encouragement with no social changes to support it.
"I really believed 25 years ago," Dr. Wexler added, "that this would be solved by now."
Permit me to build a straw(wo)man...
This quote says so many things about the way people with this view see the world. To them, how a woman chooses to raise her own children is not a private choice for her to make. Let's not even talk about this being a choice she would most likely make with her husband. How dare a modern woman view this as her own choice. Anyone notice something interesting here? I'm guessing that Dr. Wexler screams from the rooftops her support for a woman's right to choose many other things in her life. Once she becomes a mother, though, she no longer has a right to her own private decisions?
Or is she saying that these women are brainwashed by our patriarchal society and, therefore, incapable of making their own decisions? If so, who should overrule a woman's decision to stay at home with her children?
She also says there are "no social changes to support [working mothers]." I wonder when was the last time she worked in corporate America. Any guesses? I know of many organizations that strive to keep women onboard once they've had children. In order to do this, they build lactation rooms, and they implement teleworking and flexible scheduling policies. They offer more maternity leave than legally required. They understand that these women are contributors they don't want to lose. So companies do what they can to keep these women. I work for one of these companies. Many of the mothers that have come back to work after maternity leave haven't done so because of financial need. They love their jobs and our company, and our company makes it possible for them to be both successful mothers and salespeople, programmers, and customer support reps - to name a few.
And finally, Wexler hopes this "would have been solved by now." First, she assumes that women choosing to stay at home with their children is a) a problem and b) something that women are forced to do. I'd also be interested to know what exactly Wexler has done to create a solution for this problem that so disturbs her. Maybe she's not a very good women's studies professor if she hasn't been able to teach even the smartest women (students at Yale, for instance) that being a stay-at-home mother is clearly the wrong decision.
link via Wall Street Journal Best of the Web Today.
You got people coming at you from the front, from the back, from the side, at the condiment exchange; kids on bikes
Reality Bites is the 90s' Breakfast Club, no? It probably lines up more appropriately with St. Elmo's Fire, the whole post-college adjustment thing, but I was more into Breakfast Club than St. Elmo's Fire. So I'm feeling the Breakfast Club vibe. Can't really explain it, I guess.
Is it wrong that I want to not go back to work from lunch because it's on AMC right now. Damn, college was fun.
Is it wrong that I want to not go back to work from lunch because it's on AMC right now. Damn, college was fun.
Monday, September 19, 2005
The Other Show
My other show started tonight. Great, bizarre humor, as usual.
George Sr. is a Blue-Man
GOB has a son
Kitty is off her post-pardum meds after 32 years
Favorite line so far...
When asked why she has stopped taking drugs for post-pardum depression 32 years after her youngest son was born, Lucille answers,
"Mood altering drugs lead to street drugs, according to a handsome doctor on the Today Show."
Michael, "Mom, that was Tom Cruise."
Lucille, "Oh, they said he was some kind of scientist."
I'm Oscar is the website Oscar started in prison to convince people that he's not his twin brother George. Anyone recongnize that inmate number?
George Sr. is a Blue-Man
GOB has a son
Kitty is off her post-pardum meds after 32 years
Favorite line so far...
When asked why she has stopped taking drugs for post-pardum depression 32 years after her youngest son was born, Lucille answers,
"Mood altering drugs lead to street drugs, according to a handsome doctor on the Today Show."
Michael, "Mom, that was Tom Cruise."
Lucille, "Oh, they said he was some kind of scientist."
I'm Oscar is the website Oscar started in prison to convince people that he's not his twin brother George. Anyone recongnize that inmate number?
What did I learn this weekend?
That frat boys at Clemson, Florida, Tennessee, and Auburn can buy seersucker shorts in orange (pardon me, that's melon).
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Politicians Suck
Many despicable things happened before, during, and after Katrina. This is one of them.
From The Agitator, as usual.
From The Agitator, as usual.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Thursday, September 08, 2005
As Usual
Radley Balko says it best.
Everyone is screaming about what the government didn't do for the victims of Katrina. But the real tragedy is what the government - local, state, and federal - did do. And that is stand in the way of those willing and able to help.
In his column, he also points to a fantastic visual presentation of why exactly the government cannot possibly respond quickly or appropriately to, well, anything, actually.
Everyone is screaming about what the government didn't do for the victims of Katrina. But the real tragedy is what the government - local, state, and federal - did do. And that is stand in the way of those willing and able to help.
In his column, he also points to a fantastic visual presentation of why exactly the government cannot possibly respond quickly or appropriately to, well, anything, actually.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Working late
To say the least, I'm working late tonight. This is not usual for me, but this is a funny situation. I have been slammed at work lately. Spinning the wheels, ggetting lots done, but not getting anywhere. Well, I'm taking tomorrow (today in three minutes) off, but there is one item I wan't able to do today before I left for a dinner engagement with family. So, here I am - typing up meeting notes. I just absolutely don't want to do any work on my day off. Well, not after I wake up in the morning, anyway. There's plenty to be done around the house, and errands to be run.
Anyway, just felt like posting.
Anyway, just felt like posting.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Reading that is more than worth the time
Whether you read business books typically, or not. Whether you read philosophy books typically, or not. Whether you read ANYTHING typically, or not. It doesn't matter. Get this book.
Leadership and Self-Deception is a book I'm reading for management training at work. The last book we read was ok. So I wasn't especially geared up for this one. But last night, I was flying back from Minneapolis with a couple hours on my hands, and nothing else to read. Before we landed, I had finished the book.
I would try to explain it, but it's too easy to butcher. Basically, though, there is a philosophical theory of self-deception, which says that we often deceive ourselves into a way of thinking about and treating other people because of refusing to do what we know we should. This creates a cycle in which people push back, and we cannot resolve the relationships. It's a cycle that prevents us from focusing on results - professional and personal - because we are focusing on ourselves and how others treat us.
From an editorial review on Amazon.com:
The theory (?) is told as a story, and is very easy to read. Sometimes it's pretty clear that they're simplifying the content to get across to a mass audience, but still good. It's not so easy to get the whole thing right up front though, so I'll probably read it again to get clarity on a couple of questions I still have. I'm excited for the discussion to begin at work. (what a geek)
I haven't done this book justice, though. Go out and get it. Read it. It will make a huge difference in how you think about and react to everyone around you.
Leadership and Self-Deception is a book I'm reading for management training at work. The last book we read was ok. So I wasn't especially geared up for this one. But last night, I was flying back from Minneapolis with a couple hours on my hands, and nothing else to read. Before we landed, I had finished the book.
I would try to explain it, but it's too easy to butcher. Basically, though, there is a philosophical theory of self-deception, which says that we often deceive ourselves into a way of thinking about and treating other people because of refusing to do what we know we should. This creates a cycle in which people push back, and we cannot resolve the relationships. It's a cycle that prevents us from focusing on results - professional and personal - because we are focusing on ourselves and how others treat us.
From an editorial review on Amazon.com:
The authors use examples from the characters' private as well as professional lives to show how self-deception skews our view of ourselves and the world and ruins our interactions with people, despite what we sincerely believe are our best intentions.
The theory (?) is told as a story, and is very easy to read. Sometimes it's pretty clear that they're simplifying the content to get across to a mass audience, but still good. It's not so easy to get the whole thing right up front though, so I'll probably read it again to get clarity on a couple of questions I still have. I'm excited for the discussion to begin at work. (what a geek)
I haven't done this book justice, though. Go out and get it. Read it. It will make a huge difference in how you think about and react to everyone around you.
Friday, August 26, 2005
Lazy today
Posting lyrics.
Artist: Barenaked Ladies
Album: Born On A Pirate Ship
Title: When I Fall
Words by Steven Page & Ed Robertson
Music by Ed Robertson
I look straight in the window, try not to look below
Pretend I'm not up here, try counting sheep
But the sheep seem to shower off this office tower
Nine-point-eight straight down I can't stop my knees.
Chorus:
I wish I could fly
From this building, from this wall
And if I should try,
would you catch me if I fall?
My hands clench the squeegee, my secular rosary
Hang on to your wallet, hang on to your rings
Can't look below me, or something might throw me
Curse at the windstorms that October brings.
I look in the boardroom; a modern pharaoh's tomb
I'd gladly swap places, if they care to dive
They're lined up at the window, peer down into limbo
They're frightened of jumping, in case they survive.
I wish I could step from this scaffold
onto soft green pastures, shopping malls, or bed
With my family and my pastor and my grandfather who's Dead
Look straight in the mirror, watch it come clearer
I look like a painter, behind all the grease
But paintings creating, and I'm just erasing
A crystal-clear canvas is my masterpiece
Chorus
Artist: Barenaked Ladies
Album: Born On A Pirate Ship
Title: When I Fall
Words by Steven Page & Ed Robertson
Music by Ed Robertson
I look straight in the window, try not to look below
Pretend I'm not up here, try counting sheep
But the sheep seem to shower off this office tower
Nine-point-eight straight down I can't stop my knees.
Chorus:
I wish I could fly
From this building, from this wall
And if I should try,
would you catch me if I fall?
My hands clench the squeegee, my secular rosary
Hang on to your wallet, hang on to your rings
Can't look below me, or something might throw me
Curse at the windstorms that October brings.
I look in the boardroom; a modern pharaoh's tomb
I'd gladly swap places, if they care to dive
They're lined up at the window, peer down into limbo
They're frightened of jumping, in case they survive.
I wish I could step from this scaffold
onto soft green pastures, shopping malls, or bed
With my family and my pastor and my grandfather who's Dead
Look straight in the mirror, watch it come clearer
I look like a painter, behind all the grease
But paintings creating, and I'm just erasing
A crystal-clear canvas is my masterpiece
Chorus
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Want to have kids?
My stepfather often says that there is no way he would bring children into today's world. While I don't feel as strongly, and understand that it has always been said that yesterday's world was better than today's, stories like this one do sometimes send me in that direction.
Short story ... cops launch a full-scale assault on a party, tear-gas and all. Their reasoning? The promoter didn't have the necessary permits. Some party-goers video-taped the raid. Cops then violently make efforts to confiscate the video. Some got out.
As always, thanks to The Agitator.
Short story ... cops launch a full-scale assault on a party, tear-gas and all. Their reasoning? The promoter didn't have the necessary permits. Some party-goers video-taped the raid. Cops then violently make efforts to confiscate the video. Some got out.
As always, thanks to The Agitator.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Wow, Mortality
So, our class (Dunwoody High School 1993) has experienced its first loss. Kelly died in a car accident in Denver and had been married less than a year.
All around, our class had been blessed. We never lost anyone while we were in school to the standard (sad as it is) suicide or car accident. And it's been 12 years now before we've lost anyone. The classes all around us have lost many people. I don't know why we'd been spared this long, but that doesn't make it any easier to hear about someone you've known since you were nine years old dying so suddenly.
I'm hit with this for selfish reasons, mainly - realizing that it can happen to anyone at any time, which means my loved ones, too. I'm so sad, though, for her family and friends. It's hard enough to think about someone you knew when, but I can't imagine if I were still close with Kelly like they all are. These things bring us all down to earth a bit, but the real tears are for her friends and family, left to be here without her, imagining everything she could have been and done had she only had more time.
All around, our class had been blessed. We never lost anyone while we were in school to the standard (sad as it is) suicide or car accident. And it's been 12 years now before we've lost anyone. The classes all around us have lost many people. I don't know why we'd been spared this long, but that doesn't make it any easier to hear about someone you've known since you were nine years old dying so suddenly.
I'm hit with this for selfish reasons, mainly - realizing that it can happen to anyone at any time, which means my loved ones, too. I'm so sad, though, for her family and friends. It's hard enough to think about someone you knew when, but I can't imagine if I were still close with Kelly like they all are. These things bring us all down to earth a bit, but the real tears are for her friends and family, left to be here without her, imagining everything she could have been and done had she only had more time.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
One of many reasons
that my husband is wonderful ... he cooks me healthy dinners.
You see, when I get home and he's taking a nap, I have an entire can of Cheetos for dinner.
You see, when I get home and he's taking a nap, I have an entire can of Cheetos for dinner.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Yes, indeedy
I'm 30 today. Honestly, as a young adult, I never thought I'd make it this far. Since I couldn't picture my life at 30, I assumed that meant I wouldn't make it. I have. And it's a wonderful life. So today is a day for celebration. I think that tonight I will watch Elvis movies, after BBQ with Dave, since most of the celebrating happened this weekend.
Thank you, Funkle Ester, for the recognition at Wild Wing. I got to play tamborine on stage, in front of family, friends, and strangers!
Now, it's off to meetings until 2:30. Yippee.
Thank you, Funkle Ester, for the recognition at Wild Wing. I got to play tamborine on stage, in front of family, friends, and strangers!
Now, it's off to meetings until 2:30. Yippee.
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Lyrics
The new Nickel Creek CD came out recently, and it's got a killer breakup song on it. Love the end of that third verse...
I hope you finally find someone
Someone that you trust
And give him everything
I hope you meet someone your height
So you can see eye-to-eye
With someone as small as you
Jealous of the Moon
Starin' down the stars
Jealous of the moon
You wish you could fly
But you're stayin' where you are
There's nothin' you can do
If you're too scared to try
And finally, Doubting Thomas:
What will be left when I've drawn my last breath
Besides the folks I've met and the folks who've known me
Will I discover a soul-saving love
Or just the dirt above and below me...
Can I be used to help others find truth
When I'm scared I'll find proof that it's a lie
Can I be led down a trail dropping bread crumbs
That prove I'm not ready to die
Please give me time to decipher the signs
Please forgive me for time that I've wasted
I'm a doubting Thomas
I'll take your promise
You've always kept me safe
Oh me of little faith
I hope you finally find someone
Someone that you trust
And give him everything
I hope you meet someone your height
So you can see eye-to-eye
With someone as small as you
Jealous of the Moon
Starin' down the stars
Jealous of the moon
You wish you could fly
But you're stayin' where you are
There's nothin' you can do
If you're too scared to try
And finally, Doubting Thomas:
What will be left when I've drawn my last breath
Besides the folks I've met and the folks who've known me
Will I discover a soul-saving love
Or just the dirt above and below me...
Can I be used to help others find truth
When I'm scared I'll find proof that it's a lie
Can I be led down a trail dropping bread crumbs
That prove I'm not ready to die
Please give me time to decipher the signs
Please forgive me for time that I've wasted
I'm a doubting Thomas
I'll take your promise
You've always kept me safe
Oh me of little faith
Friday, August 12, 2005
Oh my!
I'm sure you all do this, too, but sometimes I see myself from the outside and it scares me a little. Ok, a lot. Case in point...
Today, I'm working on the reconciliation report for our Australian distributor, and it's always unbelievably complicated (even though it shouldn't be), and it never matches up the first time around. In June we had a pretty complicated order go through, so just to get it out of the way, I started with that one. It matched up the first time. So, being very excited about this, a)I did a little dance in my chair. Then b), I found myself singing Get Down Tonight, and dancing even more.
Yes, so there it is. I think I'm ready for the Funkle Ester show tomorrow night.
Today, I'm working on the reconciliation report for our Australian distributor, and it's always unbelievably complicated (even though it shouldn't be), and it never matches up the first time around. In June we had a pretty complicated order go through, so just to get it out of the way, I started with that one. It matched up the first time. So, being very excited about this, a)I did a little dance in my chair. Then b), I found myself singing Get Down Tonight, and dancing even more.
Yes, so there it is. I think I'm ready for the Funkle Ester show tomorrow night.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
So bad
I've been so terrible about posting. I even had a great idea the other day that must not have been so great, because now I can't remember it. Oh well.
Anyway, thought I'd cheat and put some fun lyrics or something in here. Honestly, though, I just want to get home and relax (or move furniture, hang pictures on our newly painted den wall, and clean for Dave's friend's arrival into Atlanta this weekend).
So sorry to be a tease, but I'm headed home now.
Will try to post more later, but I will leave you with a well-reasoned post from The Agitator. Once they've nailed cigarettes, you know they're going after alcohol, right? It doesn't matter that it didn't work before. Just like communism, I guess prohibition just wasn't done right the first time.
Anyway, thought I'd cheat and put some fun lyrics or something in here. Honestly, though, I just want to get home and relax (or move furniture, hang pictures on our newly painted den wall, and clean for Dave's friend's arrival into Atlanta this weekend).
So sorry to be a tease, but I'm headed home now.
Will try to post more later, but I will leave you with a well-reasoned post from The Agitator. Once they've nailed cigarettes, you know they're going after alcohol, right? It doesn't matter that it didn't work before. Just like communism, I guess prohibition just wasn't done right the first time.
Monday, August 08, 2005
Yeah, yeah, yeah
I know it's been a while. I guess there's been a lot going on, but not much to really write about. We've successfully painted our living room and dining room now. The den is next, then the hallway, entryway, spare bedroom/current office, downstairs bath, and finally the kitchen. Then installing a new sliding glass door, banister, and fixing the shower downstairs. Oh, and new hardwoods where to old furnace killed our existing ones. Exciting, huh?
Let's see, last weekend, we stayed at the Ritz Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation. Wow. Fantastic place. If you ever have the occasion to stay there on someone else's tab, by all means, do NOT pass it up. If you ever have the occasion and pocket money to stay there on your own tab, I recommend it.
We shot our last wedding. Woohooooo! It went very well, and the pictures are lovely.
And the company I work for successfully began the merger process with another company. This is very exciting news, and I think the combined company will be one to be reckoned with in our industry. However, during a conference call with my new boss, he let slip something that my old boss hadn't yet let me in on. I was very much aware that my role will be changing, as they have someone at that company that does something similar to me. He's actually at a director level, though. Yikes. But what I didn't know was how significantly. Turns out, they are taking away my most lucrative business to let me focus on that in which I am not strong. My heart almost came out of my mouth. Let me say, though, that this company has always treated me extremely well, and given me nothing but opportunities to prove myself, contribute, and earn more money. As a matter of fact, I have the opportunity this year to earn a decent chunk of change in bonuses. That's what scares me to death. It's the partners I'm giving up that earn me those bonuses, not to mention trips to Australia and England. I'm terrified. This week should be interesting. I get to learn more about "the plan." I sure as hell hope the plan includes things staying the same through the end of the year and a nice little salary increase to make up for lost bonus pay next year. Somehow I doubt it. I imagine they are going to give me some new goals and new bonus opportunities. I just know that I don't like the idea of losing those that I've become adept at dealing with, and that have proven successful pieces of our business strategy worldwide.
Anyway, it's way past time for bed.
Let's see, last weekend, we stayed at the Ritz Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation. Wow. Fantastic place. If you ever have the occasion to stay there on someone else's tab, by all means, do NOT pass it up. If you ever have the occasion and pocket money to stay there on your own tab, I recommend it.
We shot our last wedding. Woohooooo! It went very well, and the pictures are lovely.
And the company I work for successfully began the merger process with another company. This is very exciting news, and I think the combined company will be one to be reckoned with in our industry. However, during a conference call with my new boss, he let slip something that my old boss hadn't yet let me in on. I was very much aware that my role will be changing, as they have someone at that company that does something similar to me. He's actually at a director level, though. Yikes. But what I didn't know was how significantly. Turns out, they are taking away my most lucrative business to let me focus on that in which I am not strong. My heart almost came out of my mouth. Let me say, though, that this company has always treated me extremely well, and given me nothing but opportunities to prove myself, contribute, and earn more money. As a matter of fact, I have the opportunity this year to earn a decent chunk of change in bonuses. That's what scares me to death. It's the partners I'm giving up that earn me those bonuses, not to mention trips to Australia and England. I'm terrified. This week should be interesting. I get to learn more about "the plan." I sure as hell hope the plan includes things staying the same through the end of the year and a nice little salary increase to make up for lost bonus pay next year. Somehow I doubt it. I imagine they are going to give me some new goals and new bonus opportunities. I just know that I don't like the idea of losing those that I've become adept at dealing with, and that have proven successful pieces of our business strategy worldwide.
Anyway, it's way past time for bed.
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