One thing I didn't mention in my last post was that on Tuesday, after my Monday meeting with Dr. Chaos and before my interview at the new practice, Dr. Chaos' wife came in to talk to me. She cornered me in the lunchroom while I was eating. I saw her throught the window and knew why she was there, but I didn't have time to escape.
She basically reiterated everything her husband had already said. The main difference was that she seemed willing to talk more freely about certain things than he did. I had asked him some direct questions about the "changes" he planned on making within the practice, and about the new administrator he had hired.
A woman had come in a few weeks prior to interview for the administrator position. She impressed me, and everyone else she spoke to, as a total bitch. I asked Dr. Chaos right up front if she was the one he had hired, and let him know that if so, it would pose a problem. I didn't like her and had no desire to work with her. He dismissed my questions by saying, "I am not at liberty to discuss that with you." Well, after speaking with Mrs. Chaos and several other employees, I found out that she was in fact the new administrator. Also a few other things that he had told me weren't adding up.
After the great interview I had with the new practice on Tuesday afternoon, I had pretty much made up my mind that I was leaving and was derading my next meeting with Dr. Chaos. The new place called me Wednesday morning and confirmed the new job. I was ecstatic! When Dr. Chaos confronted me on Wednesday afternoon, I told him that I had made my decision and was taking the new job. He acted flabbergasted and asked me why. I saw no choice but to tell him the truth. I told him he was not honest with me at our last meeting, and explained why I was making this claim. His response: "I didn't say it was her and I didn't sayit wasn't her - so I didn't lie to you."
I had asked him direct questions about matters that were not confidential or top secret. I let him know that I had some issues with theses matters. He deliberately evaded my questions and didn't tell me the truth because he knew I wouldn't like the answers. As far as I am concerned, this constitutes dishonesty.
I told him I thought he was self-serving, manipulative and dishonest. I start my new job on March 5th. Can't wait!!!
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Monday, February 26, 2007
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Suspense
Well, I had my job interview today. It went very well as far as I could tell. The doctor kept saying how qualified I am. He seemed to indicate that he thought I would be a good fit with the practice. He asked if I had any questions, and answered a few, but when I asked about health insurance and benefits, he referred me back to the practice administrator. I got back with her, has a tour of the facility and got all the pertinent info. I definitely got the impression that I would get the job, but they said they would call me.
I told my current boss yesterday that I planned on leaving and taking another job. I may have jumped the gun a little, since I don't have a concrete offer yet, but in my field I don't think I will have any trouble finding work. He pleaded with me to stay, offered me more money, made "promises", the whole 9 yards. He wasn't very happy when I told him I couldn't give him an answer on the spot.
I told him I had a meeting scheduled the next afternoon with this other doctor, and I wanted to meet with him and hear what he had to say. I commented, "I only think that's fair." Dr. Chaos looked me straight in the eye and said "Why is that fair?" I was almost speechless at that. I tried to explain that I had committed to an appointment and that this man had set aside time from his schedule to speak with me. Then I thought "Why am I trying to justify this?" and just said, "I'm keeping the appointment and I will let you know after. Thank you for giving me this time to make my decision."
Dr. Chaos' response to this was, "So you'll call me in the morning?" I said, "No. I will call you after the meeting and after I make a decision." He said nothing to that.
I can't see any reason for the new place not to offer me the job. It's perfect for me. The salary will be about the same, but the benefits are FAR superior to where I am now. I dread telling Dr. Chaos that I have decided to leave, because I know he will be unhappy and may pressure me. I am just trying to avoid contact with him until I know for sure that I have the job.
The suspense is killing me!!!
-
I told my current boss yesterday that I planned on leaving and taking another job. I may have jumped the gun a little, since I don't have a concrete offer yet, but in my field I don't think I will have any trouble finding work. He pleaded with me to stay, offered me more money, made "promises", the whole 9 yards. He wasn't very happy when I told him I couldn't give him an answer on the spot.
I told him I had a meeting scheduled the next afternoon with this other doctor, and I wanted to meet with him and hear what he had to say. I commented, "I only think that's fair." Dr. Chaos looked me straight in the eye and said "Why is that fair?" I was almost speechless at that. I tried to explain that I had committed to an appointment and that this man had set aside time from his schedule to speak with me. Then I thought "Why am I trying to justify this?" and just said, "I'm keeping the appointment and I will let you know after. Thank you for giving me this time to make my decision."
Dr. Chaos' response to this was, "So you'll call me in the morning?" I said, "No. I will call you after the meeting and after I make a decision." He said nothing to that.
I can't see any reason for the new place not to offer me the job. It's perfect for me. The salary will be about the same, but the benefits are FAR superior to where I am now. I dread telling Dr. Chaos that I have decided to leave, because I know he will be unhappy and may pressure me. I am just trying to avoid contact with him until I know for sure that I have the job.
The suspense is killing me!!!
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Sunday, February 18, 2007
Onward and Upward
Well, I've finally decided to do it. I'm going to quit my job. No, I'm not taking a sabbatical or choosing to stay home with my son; I couldn't afford to do that. It's not that I don't want to work anymore, I just don't want to work there.
I try not to go on about work too much on this blog, but I know I have shared some stories in the past. I started work there 1 1/2 years ago, and there have probably been about 10 or 12 employees that have started since then, and have also quit/walked off the job/went to lunch and never came back, etc. since then. And several "long term" employees who were there before I started have also resigned since I've been there. And this is not a huge company. We have 20-25 employees total.
You'd think most employers whose heads were not shoved completely up their asses would realize that there's a problem somewhere. Turnover like that is ridiculous. We have been shorthanded in at least one department, sometimes more, for at least the last year and a half. Everybody else realizes that this is because the boss is a total jerk, the practice has no organization whatsoever, payscale is relatively low for the area, the "benefits" are minimal, bonuses and incentives are nonexistent, but for some reason he can't see this.
Why would I take a job there in the first place? Well, the boss painted a much prettier picture of the situation during the interview and tour of the practice. Unfortunately, I didn't really do much investigation beyond this because the main reason I went there was that I had worked previously with one of the doctors ("Dr. W") there, and wanted to work with him again.
The place I will (hopefully) be working at is a practice which I had prior conatct with a couple years ago. When I first decided to move to this area, I sent them a resume. they called me back almost immediately and were very interested. I was definitely leaning toward taking a job there, and only changed my mind and took the job I took so that I could work with Dr. W.
They had 2 job openings 2 years ago, one employee moved and another quit to have a baby. That was the first turnover they had in years. The opening they have now is the first since then. What a contrast to the Practice of Chaos where I work now.
Anyway, I have an interview with the new place on Tuesday - basically I have to meet the head doctor, and if he approves, I have the job! My current boss is about to be very, very unhappy. A doctor, the senior tech, and another tech all gave their notice last week. Now his "employee of the year" will soon be following suit.
Funny, but I really don't have the slightest bit of symapthy.
-
I try not to go on about work too much on this blog, but I know I have shared some stories in the past. I started work there 1 1/2 years ago, and there have probably been about 10 or 12 employees that have started since then, and have also quit/walked off the job/went to lunch and never came back, etc. since then. And several "long term" employees who were there before I started have also resigned since I've been there. And this is not a huge company. We have 20-25 employees total.
You'd think most employers whose heads were not shoved completely up their asses would realize that there's a problem somewhere. Turnover like that is ridiculous. We have been shorthanded in at least one department, sometimes more, for at least the last year and a half. Everybody else realizes that this is because the boss is a total jerk, the practice has no organization whatsoever, payscale is relatively low for the area, the "benefits" are minimal, bonuses and incentives are nonexistent, but for some reason he can't see this.
Why would I take a job there in the first place? Well, the boss painted a much prettier picture of the situation during the interview and tour of the practice. Unfortunately, I didn't really do much investigation beyond this because the main reason I went there was that I had worked previously with one of the doctors ("Dr. W") there, and wanted to work with him again.
The place I will (hopefully) be working at is a practice which I had prior conatct with a couple years ago. When I first decided to move to this area, I sent them a resume. they called me back almost immediately and were very interested. I was definitely leaning toward taking a job there, and only changed my mind and took the job I took so that I could work with Dr. W.
They had 2 job openings 2 years ago, one employee moved and another quit to have a baby. That was the first turnover they had in years. The opening they have now is the first since then. What a contrast to the Practice of Chaos where I work now.
Anyway, I have an interview with the new place on Tuesday - basically I have to meet the head doctor, and if he approves, I have the job! My current boss is about to be very, very unhappy. A doctor, the senior tech, and another tech all gave their notice last week. Now his "employee of the year" will soon be following suit.
Funny, but I really don't have the slightest bit of symapthy.
-
Monday, February 12, 2007
I'm Back...Sort Of
Well, we made it back from the famous family ski trip! That's where I was all last week, hence no posts and hardly any comments.
The bad news is, we are all sick with a stomach virus. "We" being myself, husband and 22 month old. The kid got it first, I assume he picked it up in the daycare we had him in while we were skiing. Hubby and I followed suit.
I didn't go in to work today, slept all day and went to the doctor. Doctor said not to go in tomorrow either, so another day of sleeping is planned. That and clear liquids.
I'll try to put up a better post in a few days.
Goodnight!
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The bad news is, we are all sick with a stomach virus. "We" being myself, husband and 22 month old. The kid got it first, I assume he picked it up in the daycare we had him in while we were skiing. Hubby and I followed suit.
I didn't go in to work today, slept all day and went to the doctor. Doctor said not to go in tomorrow either, so another day of sleeping is planned. That and clear liquids.
I'll try to put up a better post in a few days.
Goodnight!
-
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Another Milestone
My beautiful baby,the joy of my life, the apple of my eye, etc. etc. has just accomplished his crowning acheivement to date:
He (finally) learned to say "mommy"!
He has been saying "daddy" for some time now, and my husband goes on about how wonderful it makes him feel to hear Trevor say it.
I agree - it was really awesome!!!
___________________________________________________
Colts, Cowboys & Patriots!!!
An Indianapolis Colts fan, a Dallas Cowboys fan and a New England Patriots fan were all in Saudi Arabia, sharing a smuggled crate of booze.
All of a sudden Saudi police rushed in and arrested them.
The mere possession of alcohol is a severe offense in Saudi Arabia, so for the terrible crime, they were sentenced to death!
However, it was a Saudi national holiday the day their trial finished, and the extremely benevolent Sheik decided they could be released after receiving just 20 lashes each of the whip.
As they were preparing for their punishment, the Sheik suddenly said, "It's my first wife's birthday today, and she has asked me to allow each of you one wish before your whipping."
The Patriots fan was first in line (he drank the least), so he thought about this for a while and then said, "Please tie a pillow to my back." This was done, but the pillow only lasted 10 lashes before the whip went through. The Patriots fan had to be carried away crying like a baby.
The Cowboys fan was next up (he almost finished an entire fifth by himself), and after watching the scene, said "All Right! Please fix two pillows on my back." But even two pillows could only take 15 lashes before the whip went through, sending the Cowboys fan out crying like a little girl.
The Colts fan was the last one up (he had finished off the crate). The Sheik turned to him and said, "You support the greatest team in the world. Your city and fans are the greatest. For this, you may have two wishes!"
Thanks, your most Royal highness," the Colts fan replies. "In recognition of your kindness, my first wish is that you give me not 20, but 100 lashes.
"Not only are you an honorable man, you are also very brave," the Sheik says with an admiring look on his face. "If 100 lashes is what you desire, then so be it. And your second wish? the Sheik asks.
"Tie the Cowboys fan to my back!"
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Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Cameras, Computers, and the Cursed "C"
I have been very negligent with my blogging lately. I haven't posted in almost 3 weeks! I also have not been visiting any of you as often as I should. Sorry about that.
Anyway, things have calmed down at work. Pretty much. Our newest employee started on Jan. 2 - out of the 4 work days that week, he called in with a "family emergency" twice, and called in sick once. He tried to call in yesterday, but our supervisor told him if he wanted to keep his job, she really needed him to be at work. He showed up. Late.
On a better note - 19 DAYS 'TIL OUR VACATION!!! We will soon be off for a week of freezing our butts off in the mountains. If you didn't know, this is our annual family (and almost family) ski trip in Colorado. There are 9 of us including altogether - my parents, my sis and bro-in-law, a very close family friend and her husband, and of course there's me, Johnny and Trevor. We always have a terrific time! I'm hoping Trevor can start skiing next year.
I have started a new diet and exercise plan. I have stuck to the diet faithfully and haven't cheated at all. I have been so-so on the exercise. All in all, though, I have lost 2 pounds and feel really good, so I can't complain.
My parents bought us a new digital video camera for Christmas, so we could record and send them videos of their grandson. At first I was really excited and enthusiastic about learning to use it. Then I open the box and took out a bunch of wires, computer discs and other small objects as yet unidentified. OK, I can sort this out. Then I looked at the instruction manual. I tried to flip it open to the English section, then realized it was open to the English section.
I have managed to take some video footage and download it to the computer with the software that came with the camera. I used to do this fairly easily with my old, cheap, low resolution camera that produced small blurry videos. With this new camera, it took some doing. The horrendous instruction manual explained how to then transfer this footage to a recordable DVD via my computers DVD drive with writing capabilities. It looked simple, but wasn't. I still haven't been able to record a DVD. I even put down (well, threw down) the manual and just started trying stuff on my own. Hey, it's worked before. Unfortunately, not this time.
I found another program on my computer that was meant to copy and write CD's and DVD's. "Oh, cool!", I think, "let's try this one!" FRUITLESS!!! Every attempt, another dead end! I have not been this frustrated with an electronic device in quite some time. All I can figure is that the camera, knowingly or not, has joined the ranks of the dreaded "C".
Anyway, the camera, all the wires, discs and stuff that came with it, my computer and all of it is going with us to Colorado so my dad and my geek squad brother in law can figure it out.
I hope.
-
Anyway, things have calmed down at work. Pretty much. Our newest employee started on Jan. 2 - out of the 4 work days that week, he called in with a "family emergency" twice, and called in sick once. He tried to call in yesterday, but our supervisor told him if he wanted to keep his job, she really needed him to be at work. He showed up. Late.
On a better note - 19 DAYS 'TIL OUR VACATION!!! We will soon be off for a week of freezing our butts off in the mountains. If you didn't know, this is our annual family (and almost family) ski trip in Colorado. There are 9 of us including altogether - my parents, my sis and bro-in-law, a very close family friend and her husband, and of course there's me, Johnny and Trevor. We always have a terrific time! I'm hoping Trevor can start skiing next year.
I have started a new diet and exercise plan. I have stuck to the diet faithfully and haven't cheated at all. I have been so-so on the exercise. All in all, though, I have lost 2 pounds and feel really good, so I can't complain.
My parents bought us a new digital video camera for Christmas, so we could record and send them videos of their grandson. At first I was really excited and enthusiastic about learning to use it. Then I open the box and took out a bunch of wires, computer discs and other small objects as yet unidentified. OK, I can sort this out. Then I looked at the instruction manual. I tried to flip it open to the English section, then realized it was open to the English section.
I have managed to take some video footage and download it to the computer with the software that came with the camera. I used to do this fairly easily with my old, cheap, low resolution camera that produced small blurry videos. With this new camera, it took some doing. The horrendous instruction manual explained how to then transfer this footage to a recordable DVD via my computers DVD drive with writing capabilities. It looked simple, but wasn't. I still haven't been able to record a DVD. I even put down (well, threw down) the manual and just started trying stuff on my own. Hey, it's worked before. Unfortunately, not this time.
I found another program on my computer that was meant to copy and write CD's and DVD's. "Oh, cool!", I think, "let's try this one!" FRUITLESS!!! Every attempt, another dead end! I have not been this frustrated with an electronic device in quite some time. All I can figure is that the camera, knowingly or not, has joined the ranks of the dreaded "C".
Anyway, the camera, all the wires, discs and stuff that came with it, my computer and all of it is going with us to Colorado so my dad and my geek squad brother in law can figure it out.
I hope.
-
Friday, December 29, 2006
Happy New Year!!!
Then can we rest?
We had a great Christmas weekend visiting very dear friends down in Key Largo. The weather was beautiful, 80 degrees and sunny. Our Christmas dinner was a delicious seafood feast including crab legs, grouper filet, mahi mahi filet, shrimp, crab dip, and a few other items. Trevor got a few fresh bruises in the process of exploring a new environment, but overall it was a great visit.
We got home about 10:00 pm on Monday, and I had to work Tuesday morning. Most of our staff took this week off so we were running with a skeleton crew, some of us travelling from office to office together. One employee got an attitude with the doctor on duty and called him some interesting names including a racial slur. She then walked out. Another long-time employee had put in her notice and today was her last day. So now we have only 2 people to cover front desk, check out, and phones; one girl just started this week and the other is a part time employee. The doctor on duty this week is ready to hand in his resignation due to some other political b.s. which I won't go into now. The big boss comes back from vacation next week and I'm sure the proverbial shit will hit the equally proverbial fan. I feel like a housewife watching a saop opera, except it lasts 8 hours each day and I get paid.
At least I get to enjoy another 3 day weekend.
Actually, I'm kind of looking forward to Tuesday to find out what happens next. Damn those soaps, they always leave you with a cliffhanger for the weekend!
Best wishes to all for the new year!
-
We had a great Christmas weekend visiting very dear friends down in Key Largo. The weather was beautiful, 80 degrees and sunny. Our Christmas dinner was a delicious seafood feast including crab legs, grouper filet, mahi mahi filet, shrimp, crab dip, and a few other items. Trevor got a few fresh bruises in the process of exploring a new environment, but overall it was a great visit.
We got home about 10:00 pm on Monday, and I had to work Tuesday morning. Most of our staff took this week off so we were running with a skeleton crew, some of us travelling from office to office together. One employee got an attitude with the doctor on duty and called him some interesting names including a racial slur. She then walked out. Another long-time employee had put in her notice and today was her last day. So now we have only 2 people to cover front desk, check out, and phones; one girl just started this week and the other is a part time employee. The doctor on duty this week is ready to hand in his resignation due to some other political b.s. which I won't go into now. The big boss comes back from vacation next week and I'm sure the proverbial shit will hit the equally proverbial fan. I feel like a housewife watching a saop opera, except it lasts 8 hours each day and I get paid.
At least I get to enjoy another 3 day weekend.
Actually, I'm kind of looking forward to Tuesday to find out what happens next. Damn those soaps, they always leave you with a cliffhanger for the weekend!
Best wishes to all for the new year!
-
Sunday, December 17, 2006
A Budding Nudist
I can't keep clothes on my kid! He has figured out how to remove pretty much every article of clothing he has. And his diapers!
At first we thougth maybe he was taking his pants and diaper off because he was uncomfortable when he was wet or dirty. He usually fusses when he needs a change, though. We started checking his diaper more frequently.
I have come to realize that his removal of clothing and/or diapers has nothing to do with the condition of the diaper. Yesterday morning I changed his diaper and dressed him. Not 5 minutes later he was shirtless, had his pants around his knees and was working on the diaper.
I am thinking that it's probably about time he was toilet trained. If he wants to run around naked, I at least want him to potty in the toilet, not on the floor, like he did earlier in the week.
My husband came up with a solution(?) that seems to be working, at least for now. If we wrap a strip of duct tape around his waist, over the waistband of his pants, he doesn't seem to be able to take them off. I'm sure he will figure it out pretty soon. The trick is trying to stay a step or two ahead of him.
Has anyone else had this problem?
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At first we thougth maybe he was taking his pants and diaper off because he was uncomfortable when he was wet or dirty. He usually fusses when he needs a change, though. We started checking his diaper more frequently.
I have come to realize that his removal of clothing and/or diapers has nothing to do with the condition of the diaper. Yesterday morning I changed his diaper and dressed him. Not 5 minutes later he was shirtless, had his pants around his knees and was working on the diaper.
I am thinking that it's probably about time he was toilet trained. If he wants to run around naked, I at least want him to potty in the toilet, not on the floor, like he did earlier in the week.
My husband came up with a solution(?) that seems to be working, at least for now. If we wrap a strip of duct tape around his waist, over the waistband of his pants, he doesn't seem to be able to take them off. I'm sure he will figure it out pretty soon. The trick is trying to stay a step or two ahead of him.
Has anyone else had this problem?
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Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Live and Let Live
Everyone seems to be blogging and exchanging emails about whether it's appropriate to say Merry Christmas".
Of course it's appropriate! We supposedly have both freedom of religion and freedom of speech, right?
What I wish is that everybody would just go on and celebrate whatever holiday they celebrate, and not get offended when others do the same.
Wishing someone a happy holiday or a merry Christmas should be accepted as an expression of good will, and not another reason to be offended.
MERRY CHRISTMAS! (or whatever)
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Of course it's appropriate! We supposedly have both freedom of religion and freedom of speech, right?
What I wish is that everybody would just go on and celebrate whatever holiday they celebrate, and not get offended when others do the same.
Wishing someone a happy holiday or a merry Christmas should be accepted as an expression of good will, and not another reason to be offended.
MERRY CHRISTMAS! (or whatever)
-
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
First Word
My son has finally actually spoken his first word. I mean "spoken" as in he said it on purpose and knew what he was saying. He makes a lot of sounds while babbling that resemble real words, but he doesn't really mean anything by it. He has since repeated this word several times, on purpose, meaning it.
Oh, I suppose you want to know what the word was?
It was "Daddy"! His father is very proud.
His mother is slightly jealous, but oh well.
Oh, I suppose you want to know what the word was?
It was "Daddy"! His father is very proud.
His mother is slightly jealous, but oh well.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
"Tis the Season
I always put up my Christmas tree on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. I did manage to get that done today, and as promised, here are the pictures:
In the photos, it almost looks like one of those white trees that are supposed to look like they're covered with snow (I guess). It is actually made from silver foil and it is very shiny. Apparently these were popular for a while in the early 60's or thereabouts. Do any of you remember having one?
I guess it's about time to start thinking about Christmas shopping. I heard on the radio the other day, that December 23rd closely rivals Black Friday as one of the busiest shopping days of the year. As a usual last minute shopper, I thank the Good Lord for internet shopping with next day delivery! I haven't set foot in a mall in years.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
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In the photos, it almost looks like one of those white trees that are supposed to look like they're covered with snow (I guess). It is actually made from silver foil and it is very shiny. Apparently these were popular for a while in the early 60's or thereabouts. Do any of you remember having one?
I guess it's about time to start thinking about Christmas shopping. I heard on the radio the other day, that December 23rd closely rivals Black Friday as one of the busiest shopping days of the year. As a usual last minute shopper, I thank the Good Lord for internet shopping with next day delivery! I haven't set foot in a mall in years.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
-
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
I'm Still Here
I know, I know, I haven't posted in forever! I could make excuses, but I won't bother.
My dad (John Earle) posted recently about the passing of his mother, my grandmother. While she was alive, I had no idea how much money she was worth nor did it occur to me that she might leave me something when she died.
Upon her passing, I was informed that there was in fact a sizeable estate which was to be divided between Grandma's son , daughter and 6 grandchildren. Well, OK, I guess this is alright. How does this work, I ask.
Then I found out how much money the government takes off the top in the name of "inheritance tax." Then, on top of that, they take even more tax from money left to grandchildren in the name of the "generation skipping tax."
I'm not kidding! Maybe you all knew this already, but I had no clue. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I'm upset about getting less money. I don't care about that. It's just, where does the government get off taking that much money from one's estate? No matter that you work and pay taxes all your life, they just think they are entitled to half of your money simply because you die? Crazy.
Anyway...
Plans for Thanksgiving. A friend from Key West has a property on the bank of a river about an hour North of where I live. It is a very pretty peaceful spot. He is throwing a little get together for family and friends with tons of food, beverage, music and good company. Since we don't live near enough to family, or have enough money and time off to travel, we will be celebrating with friends on the river.
This weekend we will put up our Christmas tree! I have a really cool, different kind of tree - I will post a picture of it next week.
I'm off to read all your blogs now...
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
-
My dad (John Earle) posted recently about the passing of his mother, my grandmother. While she was alive, I had no idea how much money she was worth nor did it occur to me that she might leave me something when she died.
Upon her passing, I was informed that there was in fact a sizeable estate which was to be divided between Grandma's son , daughter and 6 grandchildren. Well, OK, I guess this is alright. How does this work, I ask.
Then I found out how much money the government takes off the top in the name of "inheritance tax." Then, on top of that, they take even more tax from money left to grandchildren in the name of the "generation skipping tax."
I'm not kidding! Maybe you all knew this already, but I had no clue. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I'm upset about getting less money. I don't care about that. It's just, where does the government get off taking that much money from one's estate? No matter that you work and pay taxes all your life, they just think they are entitled to half of your money simply because you die? Crazy.
Anyway...
Plans for Thanksgiving. A friend from Key West has a property on the bank of a river about an hour North of where I live. It is a very pretty peaceful spot. He is throwing a little get together for family and friends with tons of food, beverage, music and good company. Since we don't live near enough to family, or have enough money and time off to travel, we will be celebrating with friends on the river.
This weekend we will put up our Christmas tree! I have a really cool, different kind of tree - I will post a picture of it next week.
I'm off to read all your blogs now...
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
-
Thursday, November 09, 2006
What Day Is It, Anyway?
Based on my morning, I would swear it was Monday, but that doesn't seem right...
First I overslept. I woke up in the middle of a very bizarre dream (which I have since forgotten) to realize I had only 20 minutes to get ready and leave for work or I would be late. This includes giving Trevor a bottle and changing his diaper.
I jumped in the shower and ran to hit the coffee. I made the unfortunate mistake of stopping at the computer. Never, ever, ever do this when you are running late.
I had a little message window up informing me that my computer couldn't find something. I didn't really care, so I tried to get rid of the little window. It wouldn't go away! No matter what I did, IT WOULDN'T GO AWAY!
This got me frustrated so I started closing things at random. During this phase, I lost some pictures my parents just sent me from their recent visit. We're talking about so many pictures that it took over an hour for them all to come thru. And we are both on cable high speed internet.
Incidentally, the window I was trying to close was still there.
I looked at the clock, said "Oh, shit!", grabbed my coffee and purse and left for work.
When I got going, I called my dad to tell him about my computer problems. As we were talking, I entered Interstate 75. The doctor I work for has 3 offices, all just off I-75. Yesterday I took I-75 south to our Sun City, FL office. Today I was supposed to go north to our Bushnell, FL office.
"Oh shit!" I said again. I just realized I was going south. I got off the phone and tried to get turned around. It took a good 15 or 20 minutes, because of the roads and traffic. My the time I got headed north, I had 20 minutes to drive 45 miles. Not gonna happen.
I got to work about 15 minutes late. Please don't figure out how fast I was driving.
I did make it to work, and yes, I called in to let them know. I sure do feel stupid though. As I was leaving work today one of my coworkers reminded me to take the northbound on-ramp tomorrow. I still haven't figured out how to retrieve my pictures from the computer.
Thank goodness tomorrow's Friday!!!
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First I overslept. I woke up in the middle of a very bizarre dream (which I have since forgotten) to realize I had only 20 minutes to get ready and leave for work or I would be late. This includes giving Trevor a bottle and changing his diaper.
I jumped in the shower and ran to hit the coffee. I made the unfortunate mistake of stopping at the computer. Never, ever, ever do this when you are running late.
I had a little message window up informing me that my computer couldn't find something. I didn't really care, so I tried to get rid of the little window. It wouldn't go away! No matter what I did, IT WOULDN'T GO AWAY!
This got me frustrated so I started closing things at random. During this phase, I lost some pictures my parents just sent me from their recent visit. We're talking about so many pictures that it took over an hour for them all to come thru. And we are both on cable high speed internet.
Incidentally, the window I was trying to close was still there.
I looked at the clock, said "Oh, shit!", grabbed my coffee and purse and left for work.
When I got going, I called my dad to tell him about my computer problems. As we were talking, I entered Interstate 75. The doctor I work for has 3 offices, all just off I-75. Yesterday I took I-75 south to our Sun City, FL office. Today I was supposed to go north to our Bushnell, FL office.
"Oh shit!" I said again. I just realized I was going south. I got off the phone and tried to get turned around. It took a good 15 or 20 minutes, because of the roads and traffic. My the time I got headed north, I had 20 minutes to drive 45 miles. Not gonna happen.
I got to work about 15 minutes late. Please don't figure out how fast I was driving.
I did make it to work, and yes, I called in to let them know. I sure do feel stupid though. As I was leaving work today one of my coworkers reminded me to take the northbound on-ramp tomorrow. I still haven't figured out how to retrieve my pictures from the computer.
Thank goodness tomorrow's Friday!!!
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Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Me? Post About Golf? Ha!
Golf seems to a fairly popular blog topic. My dad, John, for example, has a little obsession going on. Those of you who read his blog, well, you know what I mean.
Anyway, someone emailed me this funny golf joke last night so I decided to post it today.
I started browsing some other blogs first, though, and happened upon Peter's. He has posted not one, not two, but eleven golf jokes. Pretty funny ones too!
Well, I'm glad it's not a contest, because I would have had my ass kicked.
Here's the joke anyway:
HONESTY
On the 2nd tee of the golf course with his wife, the husband says, "Twenty years ago I had a brief affair, it meant nothing. I hope you can forgive me."
His wife was hurt, but said, "Dearest, those days are long gone. What we have now is far more valuable. I forgive you."They embraced and kissed.
On the 17th tee, the husband was starting his back swing when the wife blurted out, "I'm sorry darling, I've been so conscience-stricken since you told me of your affair. Since we're being honest with each other, I have something to tell you also.
Thirty-two years ago I had a sex change operation, I was a man before I met you. I hope you can forgive me"
The husband froze at the top of his back swing, and then threw a fit! He slammed the driver into the ground, kicked the ball into the woods, stormed off the tee, pushed the golf cart over on its side, broke the rest of his clubs one by one, then started on hers.
He screamed and ranted, "You liar! You cheat! You despicable deceiver! How could you? I trusted you with all my heart and soul...
...and all these years you've been playing off the ladies tees!"
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!
Anyway, someone emailed me this funny golf joke last night so I decided to post it today.
I started browsing some other blogs first, though, and happened upon Peter's. He has posted not one, not two, but eleven golf jokes. Pretty funny ones too!
Well, I'm glad it's not a contest, because I would have had my ass kicked.
Here's the joke anyway:
HONESTY
On the 2nd tee of the golf course with his wife, the husband says, "Twenty years ago I had a brief affair, it meant nothing. I hope you can forgive me."
His wife was hurt, but said, "Dearest, those days are long gone. What we have now is far more valuable. I forgive you."They embraced and kissed.
On the 17th tee, the husband was starting his back swing when the wife blurted out, "I'm sorry darling, I've been so conscience-stricken since you told me of your affair. Since we're being honest with each other, I have something to tell you also.
Thirty-two years ago I had a sex change operation, I was a man before I met you. I hope you can forgive me"
The husband froze at the top of his back swing, and then threw a fit! He slammed the driver into the ground, kicked the ball into the woods, stormed off the tee, pushed the golf cart over on its side, broke the rest of his clubs one by one, then started on hers.
He screamed and ranted, "You liar! You cheat! You despicable deceiver! How could you? I trusted you with all my heart and soul...
...and all these years you've been playing off the ladies tees!"
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Another Costume Idea...
Or not!
Don't forget to set your clocks - spring forward, fall back. We get an extra hour today!
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Thursday, October 26, 2006
What will you be for Halloween?
What a day! I had planned on posting today but don't really have the energy.
Well, I guess I have the energy to post a joke, but not to come up with anything creative.
Trick Or Treat!
A little boy and girl go trick or treating.
They knock on the door of this house and the man who answers it says, "Well, you two are awful cute. Who are you supposed to be?""We're Jack and Jill" the girl replied.The man says, "You can't be Jack and Jill, you're black!"
They go off and a while later they come back dressed differently.
They ring the do or bell and once again and the man opens the door."Well now, that is just darn cute. Who are you this time?""We're Hansel and Gretel" says the little boy."Well, I hate to disappoint you son, but you can't be Hansel and Gretel because you're black!" says the man.
Heads hung low, the kids leave.Not too much later the man hears the bell ring again.
This time when he opens the door there stand the two children but this time they are BUCK NAKED. "Oh my! And just who are you supposed to be now?!" he asks.
"Chocolate M & M's," said the little girl. "I'm plain. He's got nuts."
Well, I guess I have the energy to post a joke, but not to come up with anything creative.
Trick Or Treat!
A little boy and girl go trick or treating.
They knock on the door of this house and the man who answers it says, "Well, you two are awful cute. Who are you supposed to be?""We're Jack and Jill" the girl replied.The man says, "You can't be Jack and Jill, you're black!"
They go off and a while later they come back dressed differently.
They ring the do or bell and once again and the man opens the door."Well now, that is just darn cute. Who are you this time?""We're Hansel and Gretel" says the little boy."Well, I hate to disappoint you son, but you can't be Hansel and Gretel because you're black!" says the man.
Heads hung low, the kids leave.Not too much later the man hears the bell ring again.
This time when he opens the door there stand the two children but this time they are BUCK NAKED. "Oh my! And just who are you supposed to be now?!" he asks.
"Chocolate M & M's," said the little girl. "I'm plain. He's got nuts."
Thursday, October 19, 2006
The Long Run
We have tried a number of times over the last couple years to buy a DVD recorder/player that actually works. We have a DVD player that works. And in the past we have had VCR's (video cassette recorders) that worked.
Well, a couple years or so ago, our VCR died, so we decided to upgrade to a DVD recorder. We bought one (inexpensive) that worked for about 3 months. Hoping it was a fluke, we traded that one in for another one just like it, which worked for about 6 months.
Then we bought another one, a different brand, slightly more expensive. It worked just long enough that we couldn't return it to the store. My husband smashed it with a hammer.
Then we bought a mid-range to expensive one that worked for the better part of a year. Guess what? Right. It soon went in the dumpster.
Yesterday we bought another one, yet a different brand, inexpensive to mid range. Yeah, we are gluttons for punishment. It was the most complicated by far of any of them. And once we finally got it figured out, we found it didn't work!
I had pretty much decided if I never got another DVD recorder it would be too soon.
This afternoon, the cable guy knocked on our door. He offered us an upgrade to digital cable (twice the channels) plus a DVR system (digital video recorder, like Tevo) for only about $5 more than we are paying now for regular cable.
And, if I switch over my phone and internet to this company, I get a package discount, so the total price is within $5-$10 of what we're paying now. There are lots of extras, so we are getting way more bang for our buck.
Sometimes things just work out for the best in the long run.
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Well, a couple years or so ago, our VCR died, so we decided to upgrade to a DVD recorder. We bought one (inexpensive) that worked for about 3 months. Hoping it was a fluke, we traded that one in for another one just like it, which worked for about 6 months.
Then we bought another one, a different brand, slightly more expensive. It worked just long enough that we couldn't return it to the store. My husband smashed it with a hammer.
Then we bought a mid-range to expensive one that worked for the better part of a year. Guess what? Right. It soon went in the dumpster.
Yesterday we bought another one, yet a different brand, inexpensive to mid range. Yeah, we are gluttons for punishment. It was the most complicated by far of any of them. And once we finally got it figured out, we found it didn't work!
I had pretty much decided if I never got another DVD recorder it would be too soon.
This afternoon, the cable guy knocked on our door. He offered us an upgrade to digital cable (twice the channels) plus a DVR system (digital video recorder, like Tevo) for only about $5 more than we are paying now for regular cable.
And, if I switch over my phone and internet to this company, I get a package discount, so the total price is within $5-$10 of what we're paying now. There are lots of extras, so we are getting way more bang for our buck.
Sometimes things just work out for the best in the long run.
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Friday, October 13, 2006
Joke Day
Peter at Holties House has invited anyone interested to participate in a blog joke day. This is not a meme, repeat, this is NOT a meme!
Here's how it works:
The idea is to pick a joke which everybody who wants to participate publishes on the given day along with their own joke, which may or may not be along the same lines.
This is the starter joke, and it's a reasonably funny one too.
Blond Joke.
A blind man and his guide elephant enter a bar and find their way to a stool. After ordering a drink and sitting there for a while, the man yells to the bartender; “Hey , you wanna hear a blond joke?”
The bar falls quiet. In a deep husky voice the woman next to him says; “Before you tell that joke, you should know something. The bartender is blonde, the bouncer is blonde and I’m a 1.82 tall, 90kg blonde with a black belt in karate. The woman sitting next to me is blonde and she’sa weight lifter. The lady to your right is blonde and she’s a pro-wrestler. Think about it seriously, mister; You still wanna tell that joke?”
The man says; “Nah, not if I’m gonna have to explain it five times.”
Now here's my joke:
One Sunday, in counting the money in the weekly offering, the pastor of a small Florida church found a pink envelope containing $1000. It happened again the next week.
The following Sunday, he watched as the offering was collected and saw a little old lady put the distinctive pink envelope in the plate.
This went on for weeks until the pastor, overcome by curiosity, approached her."Ma'am, I couldn't help but notice that you put $1,000 a week in the collection plate," he stated.
"Why yes," she replied, "every week my son sends me money, and I give some of it to the church."
The pastor replied, "That's wonderful, how much does he send you?"
The old lady said, "$10,000 a week."
The pastor was amazed. "Your son is very successful. What does he do for a living?"
"He is a veterinarian," she answered.
"That is an honorable profession," the pastor said. "Where does he practice?"
The old lady said proudly, "In Nevada....He has two cat houses in Las Vegas and one in Reno."
__________________________________________
Have a good weekend, everybody!
-
Here's how it works:
The idea is to pick a joke which everybody who wants to participate publishes on the given day along with their own joke, which may or may not be along the same lines.
This is the starter joke, and it's a reasonably funny one too.
Blond Joke.
A blind man and his guide elephant enter a bar and find their way to a stool. After ordering a drink and sitting there for a while, the man yells to the bartender; “Hey , you wanna hear a blond joke?”
The bar falls quiet. In a deep husky voice the woman next to him says; “Before you tell that joke, you should know something. The bartender is blonde, the bouncer is blonde and I’m a 1.82 tall, 90kg blonde with a black belt in karate. The woman sitting next to me is blonde and she’sa weight lifter. The lady to your right is blonde and she’s a pro-wrestler. Think about it seriously, mister; You still wanna tell that joke?”
The man says; “Nah, not if I’m gonna have to explain it five times.”
Now here's my joke:
One Sunday, in counting the money in the weekly offering, the pastor of a small Florida church found a pink envelope containing $1000. It happened again the next week.
The following Sunday, he watched as the offering was collected and saw a little old lady put the distinctive pink envelope in the plate.
This went on for weeks until the pastor, overcome by curiosity, approached her."Ma'am, I couldn't help but notice that you put $1,000 a week in the collection plate," he stated.
"Why yes," she replied, "every week my son sends me money, and I give some of it to the church."
The pastor replied, "That's wonderful, how much does he send you?"
The old lady said, "$10,000 a week."
The pastor was amazed. "Your son is very successful. What does he do for a living?"
"He is a veterinarian," she answered.
"That is an honorable profession," the pastor said. "Where does he practice?"
The old lady said proudly, "In Nevada....He has two cat houses in Las Vegas and one in Reno."
__________________________________________
Have a good weekend, everybody!
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Thursday, October 12, 2006
You're It!
Well, my dad tagged me with this meme. I have to answer the questions below and then tag 5 people to do the same on their blog. I doubt if 5 people even read my blog. Oh well, I'll give it a shot anyway.
1) One book that changed your life: This is a tough one, as so many books I've read have stuck with me and influenced me in some way. If I have to pick one, I guess it would be J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings." Yeah, I know it's fiction, but it's one of the first stories I remember reading and being totally enthralled with. I have read it a number of times. I have read many, many works of literature (being an English minor in college) but can't remeber any which have touched me the way this story has.
2) One book that you’d read more than once: only one? I read pretty much everything I enjoy more than once. The one book in my bookcase that I think of as "If I can't find anything else I feel like reading, I can always read this," is "River God" by Wilbur Smith. I can't even tell you how many times I have read this one.
3) One book you’d want on a deserted island: One story or just one book? If I could include a story consisting of 7 books instead of just one single book, I would say Stephen King's "The Dark Tower" series. One of the best stories ever written, IMO. And, if you're on a deserted island, you want something long.
4) One book that made you laugh: Jimmy Buffett's "Tales from Margaritaville."
5) One book that made you cry: Again, "River God." Made me laugh too.
6) One book you wish you’d written: Not a writer so don't really care. Prefer reading to writing!
7) One book you wish had never been written: I can't answer this one.
8) One book you're currently reading: "Making the Terrible Two's Terrific" by John Rosemond.
(thanks, Mom!)
9) One book you've been meaning to read: Nothing right now. Pretty much like my dad said, if I want to read something, I just go get it and read it. If I have a new book I want to read, nothing can make me put it off for very long! I guess, if anything, it would be "The Da Vinci Code."
10) Tag five people: OK, how about M.E, Faith, Peter, Pointmeister, and Steve.
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1) One book that changed your life: This is a tough one, as so many books I've read have stuck with me and influenced me in some way. If I have to pick one, I guess it would be J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings." Yeah, I know it's fiction, but it's one of the first stories I remember reading and being totally enthralled with. I have read it a number of times. I have read many, many works of literature (being an English minor in college) but can't remeber any which have touched me the way this story has.
2) One book that you’d read more than once: only one? I read pretty much everything I enjoy more than once. The one book in my bookcase that I think of as "If I can't find anything else I feel like reading, I can always read this," is "River God" by Wilbur Smith. I can't even tell you how many times I have read this one.
3) One book you’d want on a deserted island: One story or just one book? If I could include a story consisting of 7 books instead of just one single book, I would say Stephen King's "The Dark Tower" series. One of the best stories ever written, IMO. And, if you're on a deserted island, you want something long.
4) One book that made you laugh: Jimmy Buffett's "Tales from Margaritaville."
5) One book that made you cry: Again, "River God." Made me laugh too.
6) One book you wish you’d written: Not a writer so don't really care. Prefer reading to writing!
7) One book you wish had never been written: I can't answer this one.
8) One book you're currently reading: "Making the Terrible Two's Terrific" by John Rosemond.
(thanks, Mom!)
9) One book you've been meaning to read: Nothing right now. Pretty much like my dad said, if I want to read something, I just go get it and read it. If I have a new book I want to read, nothing can make me put it off for very long! I guess, if anything, it would be "The Da Vinci Code."
10) Tag five people: OK, how about M.E, Faith, Peter, Pointmeister, and Steve.
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Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Changing Seasons
Summer is almost over. The last two mornings here in Tampa have been in the low to mid 60's. We went to the beach this past weekend, and while the water was still warm, the breeze was a little chilly when you came out. We may be able to make it to the beach once or twice more before the water gets too cold to be fun anymore. For me that's when it gets below 80.
Now it's time to start thinking about the Ski Trip!!! If any of you don't know, this is an annual event and a time honored family tradition (hence the capitals). We have made modifications and improvements on the trip and our stay in the mountains based on things we have learned from experience. Our destination, however, and the basic structure and logistics of the vacation have remained the same for 17 years. My son was not able to spend his first Christmas with any other family besides me and his father. But bringing him on his first Ski Trip with his matching sweater more than made up for it. The Ski Trip is as much, for us, of a tradition and time to celebrate family as any regular holiday is to anyone. Trevor is now part of an almost 18 year old tradition, and in a few more years he will look forward to it as much as any of us.
Other news: I took a test this weekend to attain a certification for my job. It is not required, but is definitely beneficial. I was a little nervous going in to it, but it wasn't as bad as I anticipated. They allowed 3 hours for the test, and I finished in about 1 hour. I was notified immediately that I passed (Yay!!!) but will receive the full results of what I missed and what I got right in the mail soon.
Have a great week!
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