I have moved my blogging platform...
Please find me at my new location at http://sheilamia.wordpress.com/
7.24.2008
Rollercoaster ride
A friend who attended BlogHer gave me some web addresses of women she met who blog about their struggles with infertility. I haven't had the desire to check them out yet. Not sure why.
I have often thought about whether I should start a blog focused on my fertility challenges, but I haven't been able to bring myself to do so. I guess the optimist in me is keeping hope that this is a temporary situation.
Let's face it, I've been dealing with this for over a year now. It sure ain't temporary and sure doesn't seem to be going away anytime soon. As I go through box after $30 box of ovulation kits only to see a single blue line each day... my emotions and state of mind are on a constant roller coaster ride. One day, I am optimistic after the positive words from my Chinese medicine guru. The next day, I am bummed again from a negative result on a stupid plastic device. Those DAMN plastic devices. I hate them. (guess you can tell which frame of mind I'm currently in?!?)
The next question is... do I skip the madness and go straight to the "big guns" treatment: I.V.F (price tag $13,000), do I keep spending cash on acupuncture treatments (still much less than the Western treatments) which may be a slow process - and let's face it, I ain't getting any younger - OR do I baby step it with $3,000 I.U.I treatments which may not work and require I do I.V.F anyways?
Also, the issues have been isolated to me so far. My husband hasn't been a factor at all. But let's face it HE isn't getting any younger either.
Can someone wave a magic wand and make me fertile, please?
I have often thought about whether I should start a blog focused on my fertility challenges, but I haven't been able to bring myself to do so. I guess the optimist in me is keeping hope that this is a temporary situation.
Let's face it, I've been dealing with this for over a year now. It sure ain't temporary and sure doesn't seem to be going away anytime soon. As I go through box after $30 box of ovulation kits only to see a single blue line each day... my emotions and state of mind are on a constant roller coaster ride. One day, I am optimistic after the positive words from my Chinese medicine guru. The next day, I am bummed again from a negative result on a stupid plastic device. Those DAMN plastic devices. I hate them. (guess you can tell which frame of mind I'm currently in?!?)
The next question is... do I skip the madness and go straight to the "big guns" treatment: I.V.F (price tag $13,000), do I keep spending cash on acupuncture treatments (still much less than the Western treatments) which may be a slow process - and let's face it, I ain't getting any younger - OR do I baby step it with $3,000 I.U.I treatments which may not work and require I do I.V.F anyways?
Also, the issues have been isolated to me so far. My husband hasn't been a factor at all. But let's face it HE isn't getting any younger either.
Can someone wave a magic wand and make me fertile, please?
7.23.2008
When something you depend on fails you
Somehow, I have found myself addicted to Twitter. Chute, I even set Lucy up with an account!
It's a great tool for me to quickly let a bunch of people know what I'm doing. It's also the easiest way to learn what's new in technology, sports, and other topics that interest me.
You can do it to! Simply find an available twitterer from Twellow who is an expert in the industry and start to follow them.
Next thing you know, you'll get up-to-date "tweets" as your "followed" twitterers post something. You can get these tweets on the web or even on your cellphone if you want.
The problem with Twitter is it is highly unstable. The service goes down if there are too many twitterers using it. I have seen their "service down" screen (picture of a whale being carried by a swarm of orange birds) way too many times for something that so many people rely on.
There is clearly much misery displayed (in the form of tweets received an hour later than intended, once the service has returned) from users who are sick and tired of the lack of availability of this tool.
Sadly, I think everyone is in the same boat as I. We love to hate Twitter. I can't imagine giving up on Twitter at this point, so I just live with it.
It's a great tool for me to quickly let a bunch of people know what I'm doing. It's also the easiest way to learn what's new in technology, sports, and other topics that interest me.
You can do it to! Simply find an available twitterer from Twellow who is an expert in the industry and start to follow them.
Next thing you know, you'll get up-to-date "tweets" as your "followed" twitterers post something. You can get these tweets on the web or even on your cellphone if you want.
The problem with Twitter is it is highly unstable. The service goes down if there are too many twitterers using it. I have seen their "service down" screen (picture of a whale being carried by a swarm of orange birds) way too many times for something that so many people rely on.
There is clearly much misery displayed (in the form of tweets received an hour later than intended, once the service has returned) from users who are sick and tired of the lack of availability of this tool.
Sadly, I think everyone is in the same boat as I. We love to hate Twitter. I can't imagine giving up on Twitter at this point, so I just live with it.
7.22.2008
Like an old friend.
Saturday morning was crazy - my cell phone fell out of my bag during morning walkie. Luckily a wonderful woman picked it up and emailed me to let me know she had found it on the trail. How lucky am I? All the chaos meant I had to rush around to make my 9am acupuncture appointment. Of course I had to drive to the city cause San Ramon was booked up... Of course my gas light came on halfway into the city so I had to stop for a fill-up. It is amazing I made it there at 9:02am.
The SF Harmony Acupuncture office is on Clement street, which is like a mini-Chinatown. All of the shops cater to the Chinese community... grocery stores with unidentifiable fruits and vegetables outside. Signs written in Chinese, etc.
I walked along Clement looking for the address, passing shabbily dressed, elderly Asians clutching bags of groceries. Echoing in the back of my mind were my mom's words when I first told her I was doing acupuncture, "is the place clean?" (forehead crinkled with look of cringe on her face). I finally found the address: a nondescript brown door with a homemade sign that read, "Harmony Acupuncture."
I walked up the stairs and immediately all of my anxiety disappeared. I was greeted by a smiling older Chinese man. You know those people who put you at ease the moment you meet them? I felt like I was seeing an old friend. He asked me to hold on, since he was checking out another patient. I overheard their hushed conversation. My Chinese man said to the woman, "if your period doesn't come, make an appointment and we'll try something else." I SOO wanted to rush over and introduce myself to the gal and exchange contact details so we could become a fertility support network for each other. "I'm in the same position as you!" I thought to myself. Of course, I sat tight.
Finally the man introduced himself as Dr. Po-Lin Shyu, the master of the program. I felt somewhat honored to be in his presence. He whisked me into one of the patient rooms. It was a much more pleasant room compared to the rooms in San Ramon, painted pink with drapes on the window. The room was quite warm, which made me happy since I'm always on the cold side. Dr. Shyu asked me many questions, a very different experience from the very clinical, business-like practitioners at the San Ramon office.
When he "needled" me (the term they use), he tapped the location where the needle would go in just before inserting the needle... so I never felt the needle going in! Ok, well, except for the one that went in my right foot - there just ain't a lot of flesh on my feet.
The 25 minute wait was not as boring and tedious as it was for me in San Ramon. Maybe it was the atmosphere, or maybe just my frame of mind. While waiting, every so often I'd hear a kitchen timer go off. Someone (I'm sure it was Dr. Shyu) would turn off the alarm then move to another room, presumably to help other clients. The background noise was a pleasant distraction for me.
Finally my alarm went off and the needles came out. Dr. Shyu informed me that the masseuse who was supposed to do my acupressure massage was stuck with a broken down car. He apologized and said he'd massage me for a little bit. He spent 10 minutes or so massaging my mid-section. Perfect! I wasn't looking forward to a 60 minute acupressure massage anyways (see my post, "A different kind of massage" for more info).
When he was done, Dr. Shyu actually told me that everything seemed "really good" and that he felt no tight spots within my organs. YES! I SOO needed the positive feedback that what I'm doing is right.
The SF Harmony Acupuncture office is on Clement street, which is like a mini-Chinatown. All of the shops cater to the Chinese community... grocery stores with unidentifiable fruits and vegetables outside. Signs written in Chinese, etc.
I walked along Clement looking for the address, passing shabbily dressed, elderly Asians clutching bags of groceries. Echoing in the back of my mind were my mom's words when I first told her I was doing acupuncture, "is the place clean?" (forehead crinkled with look of cringe on her face). I finally found the address: a nondescript brown door with a homemade sign that read, "Harmony Acupuncture."
I walked up the stairs and immediately all of my anxiety disappeared. I was greeted by a smiling older Chinese man. You know those people who put you at ease the moment you meet them? I felt like I was seeing an old friend. He asked me to hold on, since he was checking out another patient. I overheard their hushed conversation. My Chinese man said to the woman, "if your period doesn't come, make an appointment and we'll try something else." I SOO wanted to rush over and introduce myself to the gal and exchange contact details so we could become a fertility support network for each other. "I'm in the same position as you!" I thought to myself. Of course, I sat tight.
Finally the man introduced himself as Dr. Po-Lin Shyu, the master of the program. I felt somewhat honored to be in his presence. He whisked me into one of the patient rooms. It was a much more pleasant room compared to the rooms in San Ramon, painted pink with drapes on the window. The room was quite warm, which made me happy since I'm always on the cold side. Dr. Shyu asked me many questions, a very different experience from the very clinical, business-like practitioners at the San Ramon office.
When he "needled" me (the term they use), he tapped the location where the needle would go in just before inserting the needle... so I never felt the needle going in! Ok, well, except for the one that went in my right foot - there just ain't a lot of flesh on my feet.
The 25 minute wait was not as boring and tedious as it was for me in San Ramon. Maybe it was the atmosphere, or maybe just my frame of mind. While waiting, every so often I'd hear a kitchen timer go off. Someone (I'm sure it was Dr. Shyu) would turn off the alarm then move to another room, presumably to help other clients. The background noise was a pleasant distraction for me.
Finally my alarm went off and the needles came out. Dr. Shyu informed me that the masseuse who was supposed to do my acupressure massage was stuck with a broken down car. He apologized and said he'd massage me for a little bit. He spent 10 minutes or so massaging my mid-section. Perfect! I wasn't looking forward to a 60 minute acupressure massage anyways (see my post, "A different kind of massage" for more info).
When he was done, Dr. Shyu actually told me that everything seemed "really good" and that he felt no tight spots within my organs. YES! I SOO needed the positive feedback that what I'm doing is right.
He didn't even charge me for the massage. I pretty much made the decision right then and there, to start seeing him going forward.
Guess I'll be driving to the city more often...
7.21.2008
Death row inmates are allowed to blog?!?!
I just read this and I am thoroughly outraged,
http://tinyurl.com/5mfavn
I cannot believe that this guy has been given the privilege of engaging with the public. He has been deemed a treat to society but he's still allowed to influence others?
I'm (of course) a big fan of blogging. I could see a non-violent prisoner being given the right to blog. Perhaps as a useful tool to promote reform... but NOT for someone who killed their wife and baby.
Tell me what you think...
http://tinyurl.com/5mfavn
I cannot believe that this guy has been given the privilege of engaging with the public. He has been deemed a treat to society but he's still allowed to influence others?
I'm (of course) a big fan of blogging. I could see a non-violent prisoner being given the right to blog. Perhaps as a useful tool to promote reform... but NOT for someone who killed their wife and baby.
Tell me what you think...
Just an observation
I made an interesting revelation this weekend. Most of the people I engage with are Democrats and very few are Republicans.
It hit me this weekend that those who are Republican are quite aggressive when it comes to stating their points. There also seems to be an air of defensiveness, akin to a bulldog protecting his bone from being taken away.
On the flip side, the Democrats I know are pretty unobtrusive, keeping their opinions to themselves, unless asked.
Just an observation... No offense meant to anyone.
It hit me this weekend that those who are Republican are quite aggressive when it comes to stating their points. There also seems to be an air of defensiveness, akin to a bulldog protecting his bone from being taken away.
On the flip side, the Democrats I know are pretty unobtrusive, keeping their opinions to themselves, unless asked.
Just an observation... No offense meant to anyone.
7.18.2008
Friday Bullets!
Yipee! It's Friday. This has been a long week. A good week. A productive week. But LONG. When's the next 3 - day weekend?
- First off, "slacker intern" put in his two week notice. Hasta la vista! That's what I say. As Kathy wrote so eloquently, "Don’t let the door bang you in the butt on your way out!" The scary part is I really don't think my boss would have fired him. Upon bossman's return from vacation, I proceeded to tattle on "slacker intern" about his slackerish behavior while the "cat" was away. I was shocked that bossman made excuses for slacker and he remained an employee. Guess that is a good thing for my own employment security...
- We're going to dinner tomorrow night. Wheeee! It has been an eternity since I've dressed up and gone to an actual restaurant for dinner. We are celebrating my wonderful friends Jackie & Mark's birthdays. Happy Birthday Jackie & Mark! Will see some friends I haven't seen in a while as well. Plus we are going to Le Colonial - the food is amazing and I have such great memories here.
- I'm very sad that I am not at the BlogHer conference. http://www.blogher.com/ I made the decision not to attend since I've been a bit to lackadaisical with my spending lately, and I'm trying to cut back. I really wish I'd bit the bullet and signed up. I am being tormented all day long with tweets from happy women who are writing their updates while at the conference. Mostly the messages are cryptic cause I'm ON THE OUTSIDE! It's like they have the secret "cool chick" language that is not revealed to the geeky girls. Next year for sure.
- I am going to set up a twitter account for Lucy. She turns 3 in October and I think she's mature enough now to be introduced to social networking. If you have any ideas for what her twitter name should be, please comment. I am leaning towards squirrel_patrol.
My "bullets" have gotten long... more like actual paragraphs, but hey, it's my blog. I can do what I want!
7.17.2008
Inspiration
Inspiration always hits me at unpredictable times.
I have been feeling a bit morose lately, like life is happening outside my window and all I can do is sit and watch. I know that this feeling is stemming from new plan to get healthy. A plan that means lots of rest, no alcohol and following a specific diet which is hard to get at restaurants. My lifestyle up until now has pretty much revolved around going to nice restaurants and drinking wine - of course, that was never the main focus. The focus has been getting together with great friends and sharing the experience.
So, as you can imagine that the transition has been a bit rough for me. Don't get me wrong, I definitely feel "healthier" and I'm happy I'm doing this. Am I putting my life on hold OR is this simply a transition period? OR is this my "new life"?
This morning, on "walkie", Lucy and I ran into one of her favorite people friends, a woman named Susan. Susan usually walks with two other women and I have always really admired them. I always felt like they are a trio who I'd really enjoy sharing a bottle of wine with (old life, of course!) I am guessing that they are in their late 50s or maybe early 60s and seem to have a really geniune friendship with each other. They walk every single day and they walk long & far... I didn't know how far until today. Anyhoo, Susan was on her own today and happened to be turning around so we walked together for a good 1/2 mile. Our conversation was very much like conversations I have with my own fabulous girlfriends. We covered topics like how we each ended up living in the SF Bay area, family, life in general. She (of course) asked if I had kids and her response, "it will happen when it is meant to." Love that!
That 1/2 walk disappeared quickly and I wished I could blow off work and continue walking with her.
At one point I asked her how long she walks and she said, "I walk for 4 1/2 hours" !!?!?! Wow. She's in fantastic shape, but I would have guessed that she and her friends walk more in the range of 4 1/2 miles. Lucy and I are slackers in comparison!
I am truly inspired... and a bit humbled.
I have been feeling a bit morose lately, like life is happening outside my window and all I can do is sit and watch. I know that this feeling is stemming from new plan to get healthy. A plan that means lots of rest, no alcohol and following a specific diet which is hard to get at restaurants. My lifestyle up until now has pretty much revolved around going to nice restaurants and drinking wine - of course, that was never the main focus. The focus has been getting together with great friends and sharing the experience.
So, as you can imagine that the transition has been a bit rough for me. Don't get me wrong, I definitely feel "healthier" and I'm happy I'm doing this. Am I putting my life on hold OR is this simply a transition period? OR is this my "new life"?
This morning, on "walkie", Lucy and I ran into one of her favorite people friends, a woman named Susan. Susan usually walks with two other women and I have always really admired them. I always felt like they are a trio who I'd really enjoy sharing a bottle of wine with (old life, of course!) I am guessing that they are in their late 50s or maybe early 60s and seem to have a really geniune friendship with each other. They walk every single day and they walk long & far... I didn't know how far until today. Anyhoo, Susan was on her own today and happened to be turning around so we walked together for a good 1/2 mile. Our conversation was very much like conversations I have with my own fabulous girlfriends. We covered topics like how we each ended up living in the SF Bay area, family, life in general. She (of course) asked if I had kids and her response, "it will happen when it is meant to." Love that!
That 1/2 walk disappeared quickly and I wished I could blow off work and continue walking with her.
At one point I asked her how long she walks and she said, "I walk for 4 1/2 hours" !!?!?! Wow. She's in fantastic shape, but I would have guessed that she and her friends walk more in the range of 4 1/2 miles. Lucy and I are slackers in comparison!
I am truly inspired... and a bit humbled.
Superwoman...
...That's what I have been today. It has been "one of those days". The kind of day where I'm on the phone, responding to emails, meanwhile another call is coming in. Off the phone, check voicemail and the process starts again. Nonstop. I did manage to take a breather to shower (my own odor was starting to bug me) and to get lunch (late, cause I *actually* forgot to eat lunch - people that does NOT happen to me... ever).
Anyways, please don't ask me who I had my first call with or what was discussed, cause I cannot recall.
Good news is busyness = sales = $$ for me! Also, I prefer to be running around like a chicken with her head chopped off than to be bored to tears, twiddling my thumbs.
Things seem to have finally settled down and I had promised myself to blog (since I was not inspired yesterday), so here we are.
My next entry will be more interesting, I promise.
Anyways, please don't ask me who I had my first call with or what was discussed, cause I cannot recall.
Good news is busyness = sales = $$ for me! Also, I prefer to be running around like a chicken with her head chopped off than to be bored to tears, twiddling my thumbs.
Things seem to have finally settled down and I had promised myself to blog (since I was not inspired yesterday), so here we are.
My next entry will be more interesting, I promise.
7.15.2008
Ads that are annoying me
KNBR (the sports radio station I listen to pretty much every waking hour) has started a new ad campaign for some fertility center in SF. I am finding these ads really obnoxious and annoying.
They are stories of different couples who had different fertility problems. But voila! Problem solved at xxx Fertility Center and now they have a bouncing baby.
Wouldn't it be great if it really were that simple? Of course they neglect to mention that the process is tedious and tiresome - signing your life away on contract after contract, multiple tests & safeguards... all before the long & often painful treatment begins. And then when you get your bill.... holy mackerel. They actually have a financial counselor on staff which gives you an idea of the kind of dollar ticket we are talking about.
What I don't understand is why they are targetting a sports radio station that primarily attracts men?
They are stories of different couples who had different fertility problems. But voila! Problem solved at xxx Fertility Center and now they have a bouncing baby.
Wouldn't it be great if it really were that simple? Of course they neglect to mention that the process is tedious and tiresome - signing your life away on contract after contract, multiple tests & safeguards... all before the long & often painful treatment begins. And then when you get your bill.... holy mackerel. They actually have a financial counselor on staff which gives you an idea of the kind of dollar ticket we are talking about.
What I don't understand is why they are targetting a sports radio station that primarily attracts men?
7.14.2008
Stay the path
I have a little silver buddha on my keychain. It is a reminder to keep myself in check when I want to cheat and go off my "fertility plan". ie: drink wine, eat white flour products (no crusty bread dunked in olive oil, sob!), eat seafood (doesn't make sense, I know - but that's what they told me). I'm pretty sure french fries are off the list. My goal is to get to a point where I look like my little buddha keychain. Everyday I follow the rules is another day of healthiness which will (hopefully) contribute to me achieving my goal.
Itching for what's next
I am itching to put something on the calendar... a trip. I like having something to look forward to.
I am thinking about someplace warm in the winter. Santa Fe? Albuquerque? Cabo again? Maybe I could persuade Pete that we need to visit his nephew in Phoenix? Vegas is always fun bet.
Drat that I can't win the lottery and be able to travel anytime I want!
I am thinking about someplace warm in the winter. Santa Fe? Albuquerque? Cabo again? Maybe I could persuade Pete that we need to visit his nephew in Phoenix? Vegas is always fun bet.
Drat that I can't win the lottery and be able to travel anytime I want!
There's Hope!
This was a very heart-warming article I read today in SFGate.
http://tinyurl.com/69vcdb
I guess this dispells my theory that all Gen Y'ers are worthless slackers!
http://tinyurl.com/69vcdb
I guess this dispells my theory that all Gen Y'ers are worthless slackers!
7.11.2008
Friday Bullets
- Okay, the Giants are pathetic. Their East Coast performance has been embarrassing thus far (swept by the Mets, first game with the Cubbies lost).
- This weekend I have zero plans of the typical "Social Sheila" variety (parties, dinners out, etc - you know the type of plans that require makeup and wardrobe planning) but rather have plans to walk with Anna and Julianne in Tiburon Saturday morning. Maybe a hike with Amy Sunday morning. Other than that, nada! Yay, that means I could get away with wearing shorts, t-shirts & flipflops all weekend long.
- Today I went to lunch with my mom. As I described my acupuncture treatment, she actually asked me, "was she (as in the practitioner) Chinese?" followed with, "was the place clean?" - had to do a bit of educating about the world today. For those of you who are scratching your head, this will explain it: my mother is Japanese and grew up with a very competitive and anti-Chinese/Korean mentality.
- Lucy managed to lose her collar today. I have no idea how she got it off nor where she put it. I am thinking it somehow got lodged somewhere and came apart. She took one look at it and thought, "a-ha! here's my chance", buried it in the backyard and said, "good riddance!" Now she's back wearing the stinky collar she was wearing when she got skunked.
7.10.2008
Making like a pincushion
Okay, I know you all have been waiting with bated breath to hear all about my acupuncture experience, so I'll put you all out of your misery.
Well, I survived. Seriously, it wasn't that bad. Strange, but not unpleasant. A bit anticlimactic really.
My practitioner had me lay down on the cot in the doctor's office (very clinical environment). First thing she did was take my pulse. "Great pulse!" she cheerily informed me. Cracks me up. Hello! I'm alive, just infertile.
In all casualness, she proceeded to stick these teeny-tiny needles in areas on my legs, feet, hands, ear and head (yes, you read that right, needles in my head!) Seriously, I could barely feel them going in... except for the one close to my ankle.
The worst part of the experience was having to lie on the cot for 25 minutes bored out of my skull. I am not a napper, so 25 minutes in the dark with nothing to do or think about is excruciating. I ended up singing "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall" to myself.
Note to self: if this all pans out and we do end up with a real-life child of our own, totally use this experience as ammunition. ie: "I got needles stuck in me so you could be here today... now go wash my car."
Well, I survived. Seriously, it wasn't that bad. Strange, but not unpleasant. A bit anticlimactic really.
My practitioner had me lay down on the cot in the doctor's office (very clinical environment). First thing she did was take my pulse. "Great pulse!" she cheerily informed me. Cracks me up. Hello! I'm alive, just infertile.
In all casualness, she proceeded to stick these teeny-tiny needles in areas on my legs, feet, hands, ear and head (yes, you read that right, needles in my head!) Seriously, I could barely feel them going in... except for the one close to my ankle.
The worst part of the experience was having to lie on the cot for 25 minutes bored out of my skull. I am not a napper, so 25 minutes in the dark with nothing to do or think about is excruciating. I ended up singing "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall" to myself.
Note to self: if this all pans out and we do end up with a real-life child of our own, totally use this experience as ammunition. ie: "I got needles stuck in me so you could be here today... now go wash my car."
No longer mad
My mom used to say, "I get mad because I care. One day, I will no longer get mad and you will regret it." Of course she didn't really mean it. She was simply reacting to me or my sister being Pills when we were kids.
I am watching a really ugly Giants game. In years past, I'd be ranting and raving, steaming mad. Throwing things at the tv, saying mean things to Pete. Interestingly enough, I find myself numb. I'm almost laughing. It's ridiculous how bad this team is.
Does that mean I've stopped caring?
I'm sure the love will come back one day, but more than likely NOT this year.
I am watching a really ugly Giants game. In years past, I'd be ranting and raving, steaming mad. Throwing things at the tv, saying mean things to Pete. Interestingly enough, I find myself numb. I'm almost laughing. It's ridiculous how bad this team is.
Does that mean I've stopped caring?
I'm sure the love will come back one day, but more than likely NOT this year.
I hate needles
I do not like needles, however today I am going to get needles poked into me. I made the appointment a couple of weeks ago and it is finally sinking in that in a few short hours, someone will poke needles into me. What have I done?!?!
My girlfriend recently went for acupuncture and they put needles in her head (!!!) I'm not sure I'm ready for this.
Luckily, I have my "massage: just beforehand... please reference my previous blog post,
http://tinyurl.com/5pbptj
It's gonna be a "fun" afternoon.
My girlfriend recently went for acupuncture and they put needles in her head (!!!) I'm not sure I'm ready for this.
Luckily, I have my "massage: just beforehand... please reference my previous blog post,
http://tinyurl.com/5pbptj
It's gonna be a "fun" afternoon.
7.09.2008
Anti-Terrorism Exercise in China
These are great photos... it comforts me that they are preparing so diligently for the big event,
http://tinyurl.com/6r964e
http://tinyurl.com/6r964e
Quotes that speak to me
"How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours." --- Wayne Dyer
"It's my experience that folks who have no vices have generally very few virtues." --- Abraham Lincoln
"You wouldn't worry what others thought of you if we knew how little they did." --- Unknown
"We do not have to stay in the boxes that we are shipped in." --- Unknown
"Be as good as your dog already thinks you are." --- Unknown
7.08.2008
4th of July Parade in Danville, CA
Definitely a fun experience in Danville, CA. Lucy made lots of new friends and it was just amazing how many people came out for the fun.
Not me
A worrywart is not something I'm known to be. I tend to let stuff wash over me and I'm not the type to let minor details get to me.
Today, I am finding myself in a worrisome mood, however. I am trying to pinpoint the problem and what is nagging at me. I know it has to do with an upcoming "consultation" at THE clinic.
This process is so slow and frustrating. Also, they have so many "rules" which only complicate things further.
But, what is my alternative?!?
Today, I am finding myself in a worrisome mood, however. I am trying to pinpoint the problem and what is nagging at me. I know it has to do with an upcoming "consultation" at THE clinic.
This process is so slow and frustrating. Also, they have so many "rules" which only complicate things further.
But, what is my alternative?!?
Whoa, baby it is hot!
It's 106 degrees in Danville... Lucy, Beethoven and I would never know 'cause we are holed up indoors with the AC blasting.
Luckily we are in California and not in Arizona where it is like this most of the summer. Ouch!
Luckily we are in California and not in Arizona where it is like this most of the summer. Ouch!
Sick
This just makes me sick,
http://tinyurl.com/6owo2a
He is sick and I am sick just thinking about what he did. Not to mention, what if he only gets 15 years in prison, now?
I am only happy that the jury must feel a sense of relief and affirmation that they made the right decision.
http://tinyurl.com/6owo2a
He is sick and I am sick just thinking about what he did. Not to mention, what if he only gets 15 years in prison, now?
I am only happy that the jury must feel a sense of relief and affirmation that they made the right decision.
7.07.2008
Life is Precious...
I have always said it is the saddest scenario when a parent outlives their child.
We received sad news this past weekend that Pete's - cousin's - husband's - nephew (follow that?) had suddenly passed away. He was 23 years old.
He had been staying with them. Apparently he went to a music festival over the weekend. The next day after he returned, he felt ill with a fever. He went to sleep and started to feel better, but in the morning felt worse. They took him to the hospital and he died within a few hours.
This is not supposed to happen to healthy 23 year old boys. He somehow contracted Meningitis and, because it was in his blood, it traveled through his body quickly.
Fortunately he had family by his side at the hospital, but it's another sad story of a life taken much too soon.
Tell your loved ones that you do. Cherish life... yours and everyone else's... cause you just never know. Life is precious.
We received sad news this past weekend that Pete's - cousin's - husband's - nephew (follow that?) had suddenly passed away. He was 23 years old.
He had been staying with them. Apparently he went to a music festival over the weekend. The next day after he returned, he felt ill with a fever. He went to sleep and started to feel better, but in the morning felt worse. They took him to the hospital and he died within a few hours.
This is not supposed to happen to healthy 23 year old boys. He somehow contracted Meningitis and, because it was in his blood, it traveled through his body quickly.
Fortunately he had family by his side at the hospital, but it's another sad story of a life taken much too soon.
Tell your loved ones that you do. Cherish life... yours and everyone else's... cause you just never know. Life is precious.
We live in a baby-centric world
Has something changed in the world? I don't recall there ever being a time when there was so much focus on babies. It's an epidemic I tell you.
Am I right? or am I being hypersensitive cause I'm "trying"? My frame of reference may be a bit fuzzy in light of my situation.
This past weekend, it seemed like everywhere I went, all I saw were were happy mommies & daddies pushing strollers, bouncing babies decked out in Giants gear at the baseball game, babies smiling up at me as I pass by stores that craftily use the cutest thing on earth for their advertising campaigns. The first thing you see when you walk into Pottery Barn is their Baby Collection. There's a new store that just opened up in Walnut Creek called "Day One Center". It's a go to spot for expectant parents who want to take classes, buy supplies, meet other expectant parents, and other mysterious activities. Clients pay a monthly subscription fee. Sounds like a scam to me... what's wrong with the services at the local Hospital? Just curious.
I'm sure I will totally appreciate it when I finally get to the point when I actually have one of my own. Luckily I'm a sucker for a chubby, happy baby. I do love 'em and will never resist the opportunity to coo over a cutie pie. But sometimes it feels like a smack in the face reminder of what I don't have.
Am I right? or am I being hypersensitive cause I'm "trying"? My frame of reference may be a bit fuzzy in light of my situation.
This past weekend, it seemed like everywhere I went, all I saw were were happy mommies & daddies pushing strollers, bouncing babies decked out in Giants gear at the baseball game, babies smiling up at me as I pass by stores that craftily use the cutest thing on earth for their advertising campaigns. The first thing you see when you walk into Pottery Barn is their Baby Collection. There's a new store that just opened up in Walnut Creek called "Day One Center". It's a go to spot for expectant parents who want to take classes, buy supplies, meet other expectant parents, and other mysterious activities. Clients pay a monthly subscription fee. Sounds like a scam to me... what's wrong with the services at the local Hospital? Just curious.
I'm sure I will totally appreciate it when I finally get to the point when I actually have one of my own. Luckily I'm a sucker for a chubby, happy baby. I do love 'em and will never resist the opportunity to coo over a cutie pie. But sometimes it feels like a smack in the face reminder of what I don't have.
7.03.2008
A parallel universe in Walnut Creek?
Those of you that follow my blog have heard me bitch about our new intern who clearly has no work ethics or drive to prove his value. Back in the days when I was an intern, I worked my ass off for almost no pay. All for the valuable recommendation and the ability to include, "Advertising Account Manager" on my resume.
Friends of mine and I have spent many times discussing and analyzing Generation I (not I as in me but i as in internet because they do not know any other way of life than a life with the internet). http://tinyurl.com/4eqj85
Generation I is the generation that has recently entered the work force or will soon enter the work force.
This group is very me-centric. They spend much of their time on the social networking sites and texting their friends in a language only they understand. They also grew up being coddled by their parents and when the going gets rough, they got used to mommy bailing them out.
So now that they've entered the workforce, they still expect to be able to act the way they've acted all their lives. They weren't taught about the importance of working your way to the top, performing grunt work, saying "yes" when you don't want to, and all the other unpleasant aspects of being an employee at the bottom of the barrel.
Instead they block their calendars for their lunchtime yoga sessions, complain to their higher-ups about workload, and feel it is well in their right to spend time during the workday editing their Facebook profile. (okay, so I do that too, but I wouldn't have dared do so if this were my very first job!)
This is a pretty interesting article about Gen I,
http://nymag.com/news/features/27341/
So what's my point? I do tend to ramble.
This morning I had to return my rental car and pick up my newly repaired Jeep - I can't recall if I blogged about it but someone backed into me while I was parked. Luckily, I happened to be dining on a patio right in front of my car!
Anyhoo, I had to go to Enterprise Rent-a-Car then Cook's Collision, both in Walnut Creek. The experience was quite strange. I'm still scratching my head wondering if it really occurred.
I walk into Enterprise, where I'm greeted by two young men dressed in suits and two young women dressed very sharply in business attire. They all had big smiles on their face and the second I walked in, one of the gals asked if I was returning or picking up? She proceeded to pull up my information. She made sure to ask me how I liked the car, and if I had any problems. She was so efficient, I was done in a couple of minutes. Immediately, the other gal stepped forward to give me a ride to Cook's Collision, even though it is only a block away. As I left with the other gal, one of the men yelled out, "have a great 4th of July". I looked back to say, "you too" and he had a huge beaming smile on his face. Almost freaky! Customer service is clearly a priority here.
When I got to Enterprise, it was almost the exact same experience. The two gals working there practically ran to the front when I walked in. The rest of the experience was pretty much identical to the experience at Enterprise. I was in and out.
Every single person I encountered this morning, I'd classify as being part of Generation I. So why were they so different from our lazy, careless intern? I am really wondering if I walked into a parallel universe.
Friends of mine and I have spent many times discussing and analyzing Generation I (not I as in me but i as in internet because they do not know any other way of life than a life with the internet). http://tinyurl.com/4eqj85
Generation I is the generation that has recently entered the work force or will soon enter the work force.
This group is very me-centric. They spend much of their time on the social networking sites and texting their friends in a language only they understand. They also grew up being coddled by their parents and when the going gets rough, they got used to mommy bailing them out.
So now that they've entered the workforce, they still expect to be able to act the way they've acted all their lives. They weren't taught about the importance of working your way to the top, performing grunt work, saying "yes" when you don't want to, and all the other unpleasant aspects of being an employee at the bottom of the barrel.
Instead they block their calendars for their lunchtime yoga sessions, complain to their higher-ups about workload, and feel it is well in their right to spend time during the workday editing their Facebook profile. (okay, so I do that too, but I wouldn't have dared do so if this were my very first job!)
This is a pretty interesting article about Gen I,
http://nymag.com/news/features/27341/
So what's my point? I do tend to ramble.
This morning I had to return my rental car and pick up my newly repaired Jeep - I can't recall if I blogged about it but someone backed into me while I was parked. Luckily, I happened to be dining on a patio right in front of my car!
Anyhoo, I had to go to Enterprise Rent-a-Car then Cook's Collision, both in Walnut Creek. The experience was quite strange. I'm still scratching my head wondering if it really occurred.
I walk into Enterprise, where I'm greeted by two young men dressed in suits and two young women dressed very sharply in business attire. They all had big smiles on their face and the second I walked in, one of the gals asked if I was returning or picking up? She proceeded to pull up my information. She made sure to ask me how I liked the car, and if I had any problems. She was so efficient, I was done in a couple of minutes. Immediately, the other gal stepped forward to give me a ride to Cook's Collision, even though it is only a block away. As I left with the other gal, one of the men yelled out, "have a great 4th of July". I looked back to say, "you too" and he had a huge beaming smile on his face. Almost freaky! Customer service is clearly a priority here.
When I got to Enterprise, it was almost the exact same experience. The two gals working there practically ran to the front when I walked in. The rest of the experience was pretty much identical to the experience at Enterprise. I was in and out.
Every single person I encountered this morning, I'd classify as being part of Generation I. So why were they so different from our lazy, careless intern? I am really wondering if I walked into a parallel universe.
A tribute to the Freak
I just finished reading the S.I. article on the Giants' phenom pitcher, Tim Lincecum. Fascinating stuff even though I know nothing about the biomechanics of pitching.
http://tinyurl.com/6yp6l7
http://tinyurl.com/6yp6l7
A very different massage
I went for a massage today. I know what you are thinking, "lucky bitch, must be nice to skedaddle mid-day for some pampering."
we-ll I must say this massage was probably more stressful than relaxing. It was a massage prescribed to me by a medical practitioner for fertility reasons to stimulate my system to act more "normal" ie: fertile.
I had no idea what to expect. Unlike typical massages, I didn't have to get naked. Like typical massages, the room was dark. Unlike typical massages, I lay face up. Unlike typical massages, I was an active participant.
The first "exercise" my "masseuse" had me do is breathe in a totally unnatural way, through the stomach. I could not grasp how to do it until she told me to pretend I'm trying to blow up a helium balloon that is in my stomach. I finally got a hang of it.
Then, she proceeded to put pressure on each of my organs: the right kidney, left kidney, heart, liver, stomach and reproductive organs. With each organ, as she put pressure, there was a different way for me to breathe, a different color light to focus on, a different emotion to focus on releasing, and a different emotion to focus on bringing into the organ. For example, when she put pressure on my heart, I had to focus on red lights and during the exhale I had to vocally utter, "vuhhhhhhhh". I can't remember the different emotions but they were things like, focusing on releasing anxiety and impatience while focusing on obtaining kindness and generosity.
A year ago, I would have thought this was wavy gravy, hokey b.s. But I guess some might say I'm getting desperate!
She then put massaged with funny movements paying further attention to each of the organs, probably more similar to a typical massage but given the pressure was on vital organ parts, it wasn't a pleasant feeling.
The end of the massage was very nice, she massaged my neck and head, much like a normal massage.
I guess I'm sold cause I have an appointment for another next week!
we-ll I must say this massage was probably more stressful than relaxing. It was a massage prescribed to me by a medical practitioner for fertility reasons to stimulate my system to act more "normal" ie: fertile.
I had no idea what to expect. Unlike typical massages, I didn't have to get naked. Like typical massages, the room was dark. Unlike typical massages, I lay face up. Unlike typical massages, I was an active participant.
The first "exercise" my "masseuse" had me do is breathe in a totally unnatural way, through the stomach. I could not grasp how to do it until she told me to pretend I'm trying to blow up a helium balloon that is in my stomach. I finally got a hang of it.
Then, she proceeded to put pressure on each of my organs: the right kidney, left kidney, heart, liver, stomach and reproductive organs. With each organ, as she put pressure, there was a different way for me to breathe, a different color light to focus on, a different emotion to focus on releasing, and a different emotion to focus on bringing into the organ. For example, when she put pressure on my heart, I had to focus on red lights and during the exhale I had to vocally utter, "vuhhhhhhhh". I can't remember the different emotions but they were things like, focusing on releasing anxiety and impatience while focusing on obtaining kindness and generosity.
A year ago, I would have thought this was wavy gravy, hokey b.s. But I guess some might say I'm getting desperate!
She then put massaged with funny movements paying further attention to each of the organs, probably more similar to a typical massage but given the pressure was on vital organ parts, it wasn't a pleasant feeling.
The end of the massage was very nice, she massaged my neck and head, much like a normal massage.
I guess I'm sold cause I have an appointment for another next week!
Friday Bullets...
... brought to you on Thursday, how 'about that! I sure as heck won't be writing tomorrow. : )
This has been a LONG week, so ready for the weekend. Do I say that every week?
Seriously, my boss left for vacation, the network has been down about 50% this week, our 19 year old intern "worked" (if you can call it that) for 2 hours today then announced he had to take off for a doctor's appointment. Rolling my eyes, revealing my advanced age and saying, "Kids these days...."
Luckily it's 4th of July weekend and I'm ready for fun.
Tomorrow I'm meeting a pal to watch the famous Danville Parade - I have lived here for 8 years and have never seen it. Supposedly 40 to 50k people come out!
Then... Pete and I are heading out to catch the Giants annihilate the Dodgers and watch another stellar performance by Jonathan Sanchez. I hope I'm not jinxing them.
Saturday is a BBQ/Party at Ayelet's house. My girl goes ALL out, she truly is amazing. It's certain to be the party of the summer.
Sunday will be recovery day I'm guessing as well as bracing myself for what is certain to be another LONG week. Boss gets back on July 13.
This has been a LONG week, so ready for the weekend. Do I say that every week?
Seriously, my boss left for vacation, the network has been down about 50% this week, our 19 year old intern "worked" (if you can call it that) for 2 hours today then announced he had to take off for a doctor's appointment. Rolling my eyes, revealing my advanced age and saying, "Kids these days...."
Luckily it's 4th of July weekend and I'm ready for fun.
Tomorrow I'm meeting a pal to watch the famous Danville Parade - I have lived here for 8 years and have never seen it. Supposedly 40 to 50k people come out!
Then... Pete and I are heading out to catch the Giants annihilate the Dodgers and watch another stellar performance by Jonathan Sanchez. I hope I'm not jinxing them.
Saturday is a BBQ/Party at Ayelet's house. My girl goes ALL out, she truly is amazing. It's certain to be the party of the summer.
Sunday will be recovery day I'm guessing as well as bracing myself for what is certain to be another LONG week. Boss gets back on July 13.
7.02.2008
Bored
That is an ugly, bad word for me. I hate to be bored. I am the type of person who prefers to be "on the move" -- places to be, people to see.
My boss left for vacation and our network has been down most of the day. Perfect timing, right? Apparently our intern (this is funny: my boss fired this guy a week ago, then hired someone else who quit after 2 days, so my boss groveled for ex-intern to return) is going to go fix the network later this afternoon. I am skeptical. This kid is an immature 19 year old. I am willing to bet he shows up and plays video games all day.
I should really be researching new technology or other useful work-related things that I can do on my home network without logging in... but I'm just not in the mood. I was so bored that I actually voted 25 times (!!!) for the All-Star Game. Then I drove to Blockbuster to pick up a couple of movies, which should help me kill a few hours.
Thank goodness this is a quiet week and my lack of activity should not result in lack of business.
My boss left for vacation and our network has been down most of the day. Perfect timing, right? Apparently our intern (this is funny: my boss fired this guy a week ago, then hired someone else who quit after 2 days, so my boss groveled for ex-intern to return) is going to go fix the network later this afternoon. I am skeptical. This kid is an immature 19 year old. I am willing to bet he shows up and plays video games all day.
I should really be researching new technology or other useful work-related things that I can do on my home network without logging in... but I'm just not in the mood. I was so bored that I actually voted 25 times (!!!) for the All-Star Game. Then I drove to Blockbuster to pick up a couple of movies, which should help me kill a few hours.
Thank goodness this is a quiet week and my lack of activity should not result in lack of business.
The power of generosity
I need to blog about something that has really been bothering me. Something happened over the past week that I recognize is a pattern with me.
I am the type of person who is extremely trusting and willing to give almost anyone the benefit of the doubt. My mother was my strongest role-model and influence growing up. She taught me the power of generosity - this applies to material items as well as generosity in the spiritual, emotional sense. I look at it as a positive, back to basics approach to treating others as you want others to treat you. Like throwing coins in the karma fountain. Those who reciprocate and share in this philosophy are the ones to hold on to. Those who take advantage of your generosity are the ones to let go.
I'm noticing that at times, this personality trait of mine does me no good. The reality is there are people (probably the majority of this world) who take advantage of good-natured, generous souls. I have been burned many times and each time the experience affects me deeply. I find it really hard to comprehend that others aren't "like me". Sounds egotistical but I think I cherish this trait of mine and don't want to change. It bums me out that the more times I get burned, the more inclined I am to become more protective of myself and less generous.
I can only learn from my mistakes. As I advance in age, I find it easier to pinpoint those people quicker than in the past. Luckily the people who are closest to me share in this philosophy and I feel very fortunate to have them in my life.
I am the type of person who is extremely trusting and willing to give almost anyone the benefit of the doubt. My mother was my strongest role-model and influence growing up. She taught me the power of generosity - this applies to material items as well as generosity in the spiritual, emotional sense. I look at it as a positive, back to basics approach to treating others as you want others to treat you. Like throwing coins in the karma fountain. Those who reciprocate and share in this philosophy are the ones to hold on to. Those who take advantage of your generosity are the ones to let go.
I'm noticing that at times, this personality trait of mine does me no good. The reality is there are people (probably the majority of this world) who take advantage of good-natured, generous souls. I have been burned many times and each time the experience affects me deeply. I find it really hard to comprehend that others aren't "like me". Sounds egotistical but I think I cherish this trait of mine and don't want to change. It bums me out that the more times I get burned, the more inclined I am to become more protective of myself and less generous.
I can only learn from my mistakes. As I advance in age, I find it easier to pinpoint those people quicker than in the past. Luckily the people who are closest to me share in this philosophy and I feel very fortunate to have them in my life.
Haters...
Sure enough we ran into the ugly, mean lady with her husband & dog again this morning. I completely ignored her but if looks could kill, I wouldn't be here to document the experience. If I have to see her every day, I may need to change our route.
THEN, as we're walking along the Iron Horse Trail minding our own business, a nasty man on a bicycle bellowed, "LEASH your dog, NOW!" He was so loud that I actually jumped. I yelled out, "Jackass!" which made me feel better but the whole experience just leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
Morning "walkies" with Lucy are my daily spiritual time. I cherish those moments like you would not believe. So when someone or something ruins this for me, I get really angry.
THEN, as we're walking along the Iron Horse Trail minding our own business, a nasty man on a bicycle bellowed, "LEASH your dog, NOW!" He was so loud that I actually jumped. I yelled out, "Jackass!" which made me feel better but the whole experience just leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
Morning "walkies" with Lucy are my daily spiritual time. I cherish those moments like you would not believe. So when someone or something ruins this for me, I get really angry.
6.30.2008
Happiness is enjoying time with great girlfriends
I am very fortunate to have a group of wonderful women in my life. I can't imagine life without them.
My girlfriends respect and genuinely care about each other. My girlfriends share a common perspective and love for life. My girlfriends do not judge or criticize each other. My girlfriends value humor and good conversation. That's not all! I could go on and on...
I went away with such a group of gals this past weekend. For me, hanging with my girlfriends is a healthy endeavor, almost therapeutic... not unlike doing a yoga session or going for a long walk. It's a chance to stretch my heart and mind with people who understand and share the value that girlfriends bring to one's life. I am free to be myself with these women.
We may not share the same opinions or perspectives on everything, but we accept each other's uniqueness. Often, our discussions give us the opportunity to learn about life lessons, topics or events that don't apply today but may apply someday.
I'm ready to plan our next getaway... Mexico? Half Moon Bay? No matter where we decide to go, there is no doubt we will have a great time.
Dog Days of Summer
What a day... it's the last day of the month and the last day of the quarter which has implications that only a salesperson can relate to.
It all started on morning walkie with Lucy.
I had a big goofy smile plastered on my face from the moment I woke up. After a relaxing, fun weekend with wonderful girlfriends, I was in great spirits.
Lucy and I set out on walkie. Lucy happily chased squirrels, and unearthed old tennis balls while I listened to my boys on KNBR, feeling good that the Giants managed to take 2 out of 3 games from the A's... not at all concerned that today is a Monday.
I should have known the moment I spotted this threesome down the trail. The gray haired skinny woman with a sour look on her face, her husband who meekly walked a step behind her and a small, tawny collie type dog who looked like it wanted nothing more than to get away from them.
As Lucy and I passed by, the collie dog excitedly pulled on the leash trying to jump toward Lucy. Meanwhile Lucy calmly walked past with zero interest in any of them. As I walked by, the lady said to me, "you need to put your dog on a leash. It IS the law after all" - I'm sure you can imagine the sneering voice. Any other day, I would have wanted to smack this lady but today nothing could ruin my great mood. So I pretended I didn't hear her.
Classic. Clearly she was mad /jealous 'cause her dog was so unruly ON the leash, while Lucy was so well-behaved OFF her leash.
Haters, I tell you. I can only feel sorry for people like this cause clearly she leads a miserable, unhappy life.
6.25.2008
Same story, another day
That is the theme for the day. I heard back from my big prospect in the U.K. that budget was not approved to purchase my product and "if business gets better" they will purchase in Q4 or Q1 '09.
The kicker is that these people have told us this pretty much every quarter for the past 2 years. Is it time to face reality and give up? As a salesperson, I am the eternal optimist. When someone says they will put it in the budget for the next year, I believe them. Silly me.
Luckily there are days when someone will call me and say, "guess what? we got approval to purchase ahead of schedule". Those days are pretty rare, but I guess it goes to show you that life as a salesperson is a bit like a roller-coaster ride.
On another note, my boss just fired our intern... so now he's interviewing a new lackey to handle our technology needs. I guess we all should have known when on his first day at the job, the kid blatantly played video games at his computer! It seems like our employees either last for years or for a very very short time.
Happy Hump Day!
The kicker is that these people have told us this pretty much every quarter for the past 2 years. Is it time to face reality and give up? As a salesperson, I am the eternal optimist. When someone says they will put it in the budget for the next year, I believe them. Silly me.
Luckily there are days when someone will call me and say, "guess what? we got approval to purchase ahead of schedule". Those days are pretty rare, but I guess it goes to show you that life as a salesperson is a bit like a roller-coaster ride.
On another note, my boss just fired our intern... so now he's interviewing a new lackey to handle our technology needs. I guess we all should have known when on his first day at the job, the kid blatantly played video games at his computer! It seems like our employees either last for years or for a very very short time.
Happy Hump Day!
6.23.2008
The problem with blogging as an online diary
First off, this is a picture of me & my family celebrating a belated Father's Day. We feasted on homemade breadsticks, salad, grilled asparagus & cauliflower and baked pork tenderloins. Dessert was a refreshing, cool, smooth vanilla flavored panna cotta with fresh mint and raspberry puree as a sauce.
My mom is amazing. The reality is she could fry up some plastic forks and it would be delicious.
I forget how great my nephew is. I miss him and hope we can have him over for a long weekend sometime soon. He's 13 years old and just plain fun. We played "telephone" and his word/phrase was, "Mytosis Green" --- we all thought he said "my toes are green".
I was not very productive today. I'm still in weekend mode but I think it's more like NEXT weekend mode. Too bad I have a gazillion meetings this week to survive first. What's going on next weekend? WELL, it's the girl's (Ayelet & Jackie) bday celebration up at Healdsburg. We are staying at a fabulous 5 bedroom private home in Wine Country. There is a jacuzzi, deck, bbq, wifi, and all the amenities. http://www.vrbo.com/174516
It's been a while but here's my one thoughtful comment for the day... This is something that has actually been bugging me for a while. Okay, you probably recognize that I do love to blog, when I'm in town. For me, it's a rather therapeutic way to process the random thoughts that run through my haphazard mind. You'd agree that blogging is like an online diary. But what if you feel a STRONG need to blog (vent, gossip, criticize, talk smack about, etc) someone or some people that you know are regular readers of your blog? You just can't - unless you are willing to have your family disown you. Oops, did I give it away? Anyhoo, that is why I would really love to find a blog medium that allows you to create multi-tiered access levels: a ridiculously small set of friends or lovers would have access to everything, friends/FAMILY would have access to certain juicy posts, and the general public would have access to the most mundane and bland of the posts. I would feel a lot more free to speak my mind truly and freely (to the privileged few of course). I have yet to find such a tool. Hell, I might actually pay for such a product!
So... you software developers out there, get to work. And then when you are done, let me know, so I can sell your product to others. yeah, any chance to work it... I will!
6.20.2008
Friday Shorts
TGIF. This has great meaning for me this week. After two weeks away from my desk, this week seemed VERY long.
But, I survived. My boss decided to "get back at me" by scheduling a 2 week vacation starting July 2.
Here's what's going on this weekend for me:
Tonight, I will be chilling and watching baseball. G-men vs. the Kansas City Royals... I don't think there is a less attractive game for sports fans
Really looking forward to Saturday. We're heading to the city to catch Pete's cousin, Anthony's flick. Check it out, http://tinyurl.com/6ocbrs - I had no idea he was doing this but it was his dissertation project to get a PhD degree. Now I know two people who have created documentary films!
Saturday night my SF pals are coming out of the woodwork to hang out (let's face it they want to escape foggy SF) to have dinner with Pete and I. We will check out the new "hotspot" in Danville, http://tinyurl.com/5jy6wd - only wish Ayelet could be there to join us. She is definitely my new restaurant partner in crime. Alas, she will be in Barcelona - I shouldn't feel too bad!
Sunday is a belated Father's Day celebration with my family. I'm sure my mom will create a masterpiece lunch for us and it will be fun to catch up with everyone.
My foot seems to be healing, which is very good news. After all, walkies with Lucy are a requirement, not an option.
Have a great weekend, all!
But, I survived. My boss decided to "get back at me" by scheduling a 2 week vacation starting July 2.
Here's what's going on this weekend for me:
Tonight, I will be chilling and watching baseball. G-men vs. the Kansas City Royals... I don't think there is a less attractive game for sports fans
Really looking forward to Saturday. We're heading to the city to catch Pete's cousin, Anthony's flick. Check it out, http://tinyurl.com/6ocbrs - I had no idea he was doing this but it was his dissertation project to get a PhD degree. Now I know two people who have created documentary films!
Saturday night my SF pals are coming out of the woodwork to hang out (let's face it they want to escape foggy SF) to have dinner with Pete and I. We will check out the new "hotspot" in Danville, http://tinyurl.com/5jy6wd - only wish Ayelet could be there to join us. She is definitely my new restaurant partner in crime. Alas, she will be in Barcelona - I shouldn't feel too bad!
Sunday is a belated Father's Day celebration with my family. I'm sure my mom will create a masterpiece lunch for us and it will be fun to catch up with everyone.
My foot seems to be healing, which is very good news. After all, walkies with Lucy are a requirement, not an option.
Have a great weekend, all!
6.19.2008
Bermuda
Bermuda is beautiful. It was the first Caribbean island I had ever visited. I must say it is quite a beautiful place... pristine, clean and you can definitely get a sense for the British influence.
We cruised here from NJ. I enjoyed the experience for the most part, except for the rough seas due to storms off the Atlantic coast. I have a tendency to get sea-sick and the 2nd day of cruising was pretty painful. BUT, we made it and I really enjoyed hanging out at Hamilton Beach, where, yes, the beaches are pink... guess it is cause the consistency is coral rather than silicon.
I must say, do not make plans to stay here for a week. I really feel like you may run out of things to do. The beaches are beautiful but there isn't much else to offer. I didn't make it to Hamilton, the capital, so unless there is a plethora of fun stuff there.... Bermuda is a 2 or 3 day trip max. Unlike places like Hawaii or Mexico where you can find good hiking and other areas to explore, I felt like Bermuda was a bit limited.
BUT, as I said, it's beautiful, pristine, clean, and everyone you meet is ultra polite and fits that "island relaxed" style.
6.18.2008
The Best Auntie ever...
Ayelet is just wonderful. While I was away missing Lucy like crazy, she sent a bunch of pictures and a link to her blog entry. You can read her entry below.
My Lucy Adventures
I have a house guest this week and it's a very different guest than I've ever had. I am sleeping with this guest and it's so strange. Her name is Lucy and she is the cutest Boston Terrier around. Sheila and Pete are on a cruise and I've adopted Lucy while they are away. I was only supposed to have her for the weekend but after talking to the dog walker on Monday, I decided (with Sheila's consent) that it would be best to keep her here until Pete returns on Thursday.
When I went to the school performance on Thursday night with Amy, I saw that I had a text message and it was from Sheila. She asked if I could stop by and see Lucy on my way home after the show. So I did. Lucy was so excited to see me. I think she was just sad and so I took her on a short walk and spent some time with her.
On Friday night, I went to see Sex and the City in the city and got home after midnight. It was a really fun evening. The next morning I went to get my haircut in Emeryville and met Jackie. We picked Lucy on the way back and she went wild. We managed to get her in the car and to my house. It was a beautiful day so we went to sit in the backyard and watched Lucy explore. I thought it would be great to send Sheila and Pete some photos so I went to get my camera. I heard Jackie saying: "Oh my, Lucy just went through a hole in the fence." I rushed out and we both ran up the hill and there she was on the other side.
My property is adjacent to 4 others, which means that I have 4 different fences. And what I discovered on this Saturday was that there were some major gaps that Lucy can escape through. Jackie is an angel. We started to evaluate the situation and I headed to the garage where I found some miscellaneous items that we could use to keep Lucy on my side of the fence. The first gap was easy. I had an old fireplace screen that was gathering dust in the garage. It fit perfectly and we wedged in a way that it was very secure.
The second gap was much more difficult as the ground was uneven. We started carrying large rocks up the hill. It was hard work and these rocks were heavy. I found 2 boards in the garage and the second gap was now gone but it was more of a make shift solution. And then, when we sat down and were so proud of our handy work, Miss Lucy jumped through another fence. It's funny now but frustrating when it happened. We were lucky to find some chicken coop fence that we can secure. I also found some rope in the garage and so we were making some funny designs.
We sat down again feeling good that our Lucy would now be safe. But we were so wrong. We missed one area and in seconds, she was in the neighbor's yard. So we got up again and managed to secure the fence. What was funny was that she has been to my place many times and never "escaped." Even though we didn't end up on a walk, we both felt we had a good work out especially after playing with Lucy for a while. She got under our skin and made us laugh. I was so grateful Jackie was there to help me and spend time together.
Mark showed up and we headed out to dinner. Lucy was at the door looking at us with her big, brown eyes and both J and I felt unbelievably guilty. Mark shook his head and said: "she's a dog. She'll be ok." But when we looked back, she was leaning on the door giving us a sad look.
She is a dog and everything was ok when we got back home. We hung out and watched a movie. Lucy was a fun date but I don't think she could read the subtitles. Sleeping was not easy. She snores! And she decided that I should get up at 5 am, which I didn't. I let her out in the backyard when I got up. And that is when I was grateful that we fixed the fence. Lucy rushed up the hill and started barking. I wasn't sure what she was barking about. And then, I saw it: a huge deer. If we didn't know there was a gap, Lucy and the deer would have been together. It's nice when life comes together!
We went on a fabulous walk on Sunday morning to the reservoir and then had breakfast outside. We were both exhausted.
I am now waiting for the dog walker to show up and take her on a walk.
My Lucy Adventures
I have a house guest this week and it's a very different guest than I've ever had. I am sleeping with this guest and it's so strange. Her name is Lucy and she is the cutest Boston Terrier around. Sheila and Pete are on a cruise and I've adopted Lucy while they are away. I was only supposed to have her for the weekend but after talking to the dog walker on Monday, I decided (with Sheila's consent) that it would be best to keep her here until Pete returns on Thursday.
When I went to the school performance on Thursday night with Amy, I saw that I had a text message and it was from Sheila. She asked if I could stop by and see Lucy on my way home after the show. So I did. Lucy was so excited to see me. I think she was just sad and so I took her on a short walk and spent some time with her.
On Friday night, I went to see Sex and the City in the city and got home after midnight. It was a really fun evening. The next morning I went to get my haircut in Emeryville and met Jackie. We picked Lucy on the way back and she went wild. We managed to get her in the car and to my house. It was a beautiful day so we went to sit in the backyard and watched Lucy explore. I thought it would be great to send Sheila and Pete some photos so I went to get my camera. I heard Jackie saying: "Oh my, Lucy just went through a hole in the fence." I rushed out and we both ran up the hill and there she was on the other side.
My property is adjacent to 4 others, which means that I have 4 different fences. And what I discovered on this Saturday was that there were some major gaps that Lucy can escape through. Jackie is an angel. We started to evaluate the situation and I headed to the garage where I found some miscellaneous items that we could use to keep Lucy on my side of the fence. The first gap was easy. I had an old fireplace screen that was gathering dust in the garage. It fit perfectly and we wedged in a way that it was very secure.
The second gap was much more difficult as the ground was uneven. We started carrying large rocks up the hill. It was hard work and these rocks were heavy. I found 2 boards in the garage and the second gap was now gone but it was more of a make shift solution. And then, when we sat down and were so proud of our handy work, Miss Lucy jumped through another fence. It's funny now but frustrating when it happened. We were lucky to find some chicken coop fence that we can secure. I also found some rope in the garage and so we were making some funny designs.
We sat down again feeling good that our Lucy would now be safe. But we were so wrong. We missed one area and in seconds, she was in the neighbor's yard. So we got up again and managed to secure the fence. What was funny was that she has been to my place many times and never "escaped." Even though we didn't end up on a walk, we both felt we had a good work out especially after playing with Lucy for a while. She got under our skin and made us laugh. I was so grateful Jackie was there to help me and spend time together.
Mark showed up and we headed out to dinner. Lucy was at the door looking at us with her big, brown eyes and both J and I felt unbelievably guilty. Mark shook his head and said: "she's a dog. She'll be ok." But when we looked back, she was leaning on the door giving us a sad look.
She is a dog and everything was ok when we got back home. We hung out and watched a movie. Lucy was a fun date but I don't think she could read the subtitles. Sleeping was not easy. She snores! And she decided that I should get up at 5 am, which I didn't. I let her out in the backyard when I got up. And that is when I was grateful that we fixed the fence. Lucy rushed up the hill and started barking. I wasn't sure what she was barking about. And then, I saw it: a huge deer. If we didn't know there was a gap, Lucy and the deer would have been together. It's nice when life comes together!
We went on a fabulous walk on Sunday morning to the reservoir and then had breakfast outside. We were both exhausted.
I am now waiting for the dog walker to show up and take her on a walk.
I'm Baaack!
Phew! Where do I begin? I got back last Friday but I'm still trying to re-acclimate myself to life on the West Coast.
Two weeks of jam-packed days on the East Coast and I found myself absolutely exhausted.
I ended up sleeping most of the weekend away and I am still finding my eyes shutting around 8:30pm each night.
I'll have to blog the fun stories and experiences from my trip. For now, I just need to ease back into it slowly.
I've definitely fallen off the wagon with regard to my "diet" and I'm having a really difficult time getting back to it. I start off well in the am but somehow in the afternoon I get the urge to snack on no-no items. If diet were the only factor involved, I must be the mot infertile person at the moment. I am not supposed to eat seafood, that's pretty much all I ate while I was away. Drinking like a bottle of wine every day could not be good either.
I can't seem to bring myself to do yoga either.
Next week I will be good... Already looking forward to fun this weekend.
Two weeks of jam-packed days on the East Coast and I found myself absolutely exhausted.
I ended up sleeping most of the weekend away and I am still finding my eyes shutting around 8:30pm each night.
I'll have to blog the fun stories and experiences from my trip. For now, I just need to ease back into it slowly.
I've definitely fallen off the wagon with regard to my "diet" and I'm having a really difficult time getting back to it. I start off well in the am but somehow in the afternoon I get the urge to snack on no-no items. If diet were the only factor involved, I must be the mot infertile person at the moment. I am not supposed to eat seafood, that's pretty much all I ate while I was away. Drinking like a bottle of wine every day could not be good either.
I can't seem to bring myself to do yoga either.
Next week I will be good... Already looking forward to fun this weekend.
5.29.2008
Vacation!
Off to catch a red-eye to NJ... cruisin' to Bermuda, then a whirlwind weekend in Miami. Finishing with Orlando for a tradeshow with the techies (TechEd).
Will be back with stories...
5.28.2008
The Big Scare
I am feeling much better, by the way... Phew! sickness aborted.
Anyhoo... thought I'd mention my big scare over the weekend. I almost lost my beloved Lucy.
I cannot bear to think about life without her... not to mention my husband would probably divorce me.
I typically let her walk with me off-leash, much to the chagrin of other dogwalkers who are obedient unlike me. She's usually pretty good at following me or at least catching up to me if I get too far up the trail. She does have lots of distractions - the 1/2 eaten bagel near the HS, uncovering lost tennis balls, other doggie smells, and of course chasing her nemeses: squirrels! ... And yes, I double-checked, nemeses IS the plural of nemesis.
On Sunday I wanted to experiment by doing a bit of run/walking. We were at one section of the trail and I started running. I looked back and saw her about 100 yards back darting out of some bushes. It looked like she was running out to catch up with me, so I kept running. A few paces later, I looked back and she was nowhere in sight. So, I backtracked, calling her, then angrily screaming her name ("that dog!" I muttered to myself). After a few minutes I started to get worried. I walked back and forth in that stretch of the trail several times and my mind started to race. Panicked I thought that perhaps she had shimmied under a fence and someone decided to take her inside. But, how could that happen so quickly? I started asking everyone who passed me if they had seen a black and white dog. Finally, two of the ladies I had asked called out to me and I saw that they were leading my little Lucy back. Thank GOODNESS I had reached out to them. Apparently Lucy ran out of the bushes, didn't see me so she backtracked and was in a completely different section of the trail.
Tears of joy as Lucy raced toward me and into my arms. She ain't a real baby but she's my baby.
Anyhoo... thought I'd mention my big scare over the weekend. I almost lost my beloved Lucy.
I cannot bear to think about life without her... not to mention my husband would probably divorce me.
I typically let her walk with me off-leash, much to the chagrin of other dogwalkers who are obedient unlike me. She's usually pretty good at following me or at least catching up to me if I get too far up the trail. She does have lots of distractions - the 1/2 eaten bagel near the HS, uncovering lost tennis balls, other doggie smells, and of course chasing her nemeses: squirrels! ... And yes, I double-checked, nemeses IS the plural of nemesis.
On Sunday I wanted to experiment by doing a bit of run/walking. We were at one section of the trail and I started running. I looked back and saw her about 100 yards back darting out of some bushes. It looked like she was running out to catch up with me, so I kept running. A few paces later, I looked back and she was nowhere in sight. So, I backtracked, calling her, then angrily screaming her name ("that dog!" I muttered to myself). After a few minutes I started to get worried. I walked back and forth in that stretch of the trail several times and my mind started to race. Panicked I thought that perhaps she had shimmied under a fence and someone decided to take her inside. But, how could that happen so quickly? I started asking everyone who passed me if they had seen a black and white dog. Finally, two of the ladies I had asked called out to me and I saw that they were leading my little Lucy back. Thank GOODNESS I had reached out to them. Apparently Lucy ran out of the bushes, didn't see me so she backtracked and was in a completely different section of the trail.
Tears of joy as Lucy raced toward me and into my arms. She ain't a real baby but she's my baby.
5.27.2008
Barf session - there goes my lunch...
... If I get sick I am going to scream. It really would be just my luck that literally HOURS before we leave for vacation I become ill.
Monday blues on a Tuesday
How hard is it to motivate on a Tuesday after a long Holiday weekend? I am struggling over here. Luckily my 5am call got cancelled.
The countdown is on. 3 days till our trip. Definitely getting excited. I can't wait to get out of this cold town (what's up with the heat wave one weekend and rain/cold the next?) and get myself to warmer climates.
Yesterday was fun... a little get together at A's place. She is truly the model hostess (as well as a model friend, sister, daughter, employee, member of society -- if we weren't great friends, I'd probably hate her!) ; )
It was just so nice to chill with great people, enjoying great food/wine, and conversation. A perfect end to a relaxing weekend.
Maybe I'll be inspired to write more later today...
The countdown is on. 3 days till our trip. Definitely getting excited. I can't wait to get out of this cold town (what's up with the heat wave one weekend and rain/cold the next?) and get myself to warmer climates.
Yesterday was fun... a little get together at A's place. She is truly the model hostess (as well as a model friend, sister, daughter, employee, member of society -- if we weren't great friends, I'd probably hate her!) ; )
It was just so nice to chill with great people, enjoying great food/wine, and conversation. A perfect end to a relaxing weekend.
Maybe I'll be inspired to write more later today...
5.23.2008
Okay Kathy just sent me this note... I feel a bit better now!
" Oh my gosh that is super cute about Lucy and her vacation plans. She’s going to have a ball with her ladies and her dog sitter and her (PetSitter) dvd and everything. When you come home, she’ll be like “Oh, it’s you. That’s nice. Now excuse me while I get back to my dvd”. That is freakin adorable that the neighborhood ladies have a soft spot for Miss Lucy, I guess she knows how to win friends and influence people. She’s going to be just fine!"
T.G.I.F -- more random than usual
TGIF holds so much more meaning when it is the Friday before a 3 day weekend. Yipee!!
In a nutshell, here's what's going on with me:
1. Dealing with conflicting emotions -- leaving my baby is going to be SOOO hard. (she had tears in her eyes the last time I left for just one week). Meanwhile I just spoke with Anna who will be joining me in Miami and I'm really excited for our upcoming trip.
2. First things first though... I gotta survive 3 more days of work, yet another company dinner and a couple of big presentations next week.
3. Fun stuff in store for the weekend: lunch with a pal in Danville on Saturday, Fun times with great friends in Sausalito on Sunday (I heart wine & art festivals), BBQ Bash at A's house on Sunday. A bit of baseball here and there, quality time with the pup, packing and relaxation should round things up and make it a GREAT weekend.
4. Yoga is getting easier and I'm starting to get addicted. I feel stronger and my body feels more alive too. May try a class on the cruise.
5. Barry Zito: 0 - 8 (first pitcher to start the season 0-8 since 1890!!) Do I laugh or cry? He's pitching tonight...
6. Learned another technology product in 10 minutes thanks to a competent Partner -- awesome!
In a nutshell, here's what's going on with me:
1. Dealing with conflicting emotions -- leaving my baby is going to be SOOO hard. (she had tears in her eyes the last time I left for just one week). Meanwhile I just spoke with Anna who will be joining me in Miami and I'm really excited for our upcoming trip.
2. First things first though... I gotta survive 3 more days of work, yet another company dinner and a couple of big presentations next week.
3. Fun stuff in store for the weekend: lunch with a pal in Danville on Saturday, Fun times with great friends in Sausalito on Sunday (I heart wine & art festivals), BBQ Bash at A's house on Sunday. A bit of baseball here and there, quality time with the pup, packing and relaxation should round things up and make it a GREAT weekend.
4. Yoga is getting easier and I'm starting to get addicted. I feel stronger and my body feels more alive too. May try a class on the cruise.
5. Barry Zito: 0 - 8 (first pitcher to start the season 0-8 since 1890!!) Do I laugh or cry? He's pitching tonight...
6. Learned another technology product in 10 minutes thanks to a competent Partner -- awesome!
5.22.2008
Blah blah blog
I'm not in the mood to blog, but feel obligated to do so. Lame, I know. I'll try to make this tolerable to you all, but I'm guessing it will be a lot of rambling blah blah blah. Guess inspiration comes and goes.
I have a not so fun call to make later this afternoon, and I'll be meeting a potential dog walker for Lucy for when we are away. Hopefully I can sneak in a yoga session in between.
It's funny, I started asking folks on the trail if they have recommendations for Dog Sitters/Walkers and it is amazing how many people offered to walk her themselves... she's certainly a much-loved dog!
I think I'll have her favorite walking ladies take her out in the a.m. as they walk about the same amount as Lucy is used to each day. Then, I'll have the Dog Sitter come for play and maybe a shorter walk later in the day. That, and with visits from her favorite Auntie A, hopefully she'll be so tired out, she won't even miss us!
I also realized yesterday upon doing a bit of research, that cell phone / internet access on the boat is stupendously expensive..... as in the range of $4.50/minute! Yikes. Looks like I won't be blogging for at least a week starting on the 31st. The week after, I'll be in Orlando dealing with tradeshow madness, so chances aren't so good then either. Guess I'll have to make note of my blogworthy anecdotes and play catch up upon my return.
I have a not so fun call to make later this afternoon, and I'll be meeting a potential dog walker for Lucy for when we are away. Hopefully I can sneak in a yoga session in between.
It's funny, I started asking folks on the trail if they have recommendations for Dog Sitters/Walkers and it is amazing how many people offered to walk her themselves... she's certainly a much-loved dog!
I think I'll have her favorite walking ladies take her out in the a.m. as they walk about the same amount as Lucy is used to each day. Then, I'll have the Dog Sitter come for play and maybe a shorter walk later in the day. That, and with visits from her favorite Auntie A, hopefully she'll be so tired out, she won't even miss us!
I also realized yesterday upon doing a bit of research, that cell phone / internet access on the boat is stupendously expensive..... as in the range of $4.50/minute! Yikes. Looks like I won't be blogging for at least a week starting on the 31st. The week after, I'll be in Orlando dealing with tradeshow madness, so chances aren't so good then either. Guess I'll have to make note of my blogworthy anecdotes and play catch up upon my return.
5.21.2008
Words of 2008 in my life
Here is a follow up to the 2008 words post... the 2008 words as they pertain to ME!
(see my previous post for reference, or you will be ultra confused)
My husband and I (verifiable mouse potatoes) strive to become Sitcoms someday. We do not currently live in Generica. However if we do become Sitcoms, more than likely that is where we will be! My parents on the other hand are Woofs... go figure.
At work, I seem to have a lot of salmon days and deal with many 404s regularly. My boss is definitely a stresspuppy.
I do suffer from an addiction to irritainment, looking forward to my US magazine delivery each Thursday afternoon.
To give you an idea of the kind of luck I have, I have swipeouts often and the Ohnoseconds come often.
Luckily I do not live in a cubicle, so I don't have to deal with cubefarms or prairiedogging, but cropdusting does occur 'round here!
(see my previous post for reference, or you will be ultra confused)
My husband and I (verifiable mouse potatoes) strive to become Sitcoms someday. We do not currently live in Generica. However if we do become Sitcoms, more than likely that is where we will be! My parents on the other hand are Woofs... go figure.
At work, I seem to have a lot of salmon days and deal with many 404s regularly. My boss is definitely a stresspuppy.
I do suffer from an addiction to irritainment, looking forward to my US magazine delivery each Thursday afternoon.
To give you an idea of the kind of luck I have, I have swipeouts often and the Ohnoseconds come often.
Luckily I do not live in a cubicle, so I don't have to deal with cubefarms or prairiedogging, but cropdusting does occur 'round here!
2008 Words
A friend sent me this list. I guess they are new words for 2008. There are some funny ones. I wanted to be sure to save the list, so I am posting it here!
1. BLAMESTORMING Sitting around in a group, discussing why a deadline was missed or a project failed, and who was responsible.
2.SEAGULL MANAGER: A manager, who flies in, makes a lot of noise, craps on everything, and then leaves.
3.ASSMOSIS: The process by which some people seem to absorb success and advancement by kissing up to the boss rather than working hard
4.SALMON DAY: The experience of spending an entire day swimming upstream only to get screwed and die in the end.
5. CUBE FARM : An office filled with cubicles.
6.PRAIRIE DOGGING : When someone yells or drops something loudly in a cube farm, and people's heads pop up over the walls to see what's going on.
7. MOUSE POTATO : The on-line, wired generation's answer to the couch potato.
8.SITCOMs: Single Income, Two Children, Oppressive Mortgage. What Yuppies get into when they have children and one of them stops working to stay home with the kids.
9.STRESS PUPPY: A person who seems to thrive on being stressed out and whiny.
10.SWIPEOUT: An ATM or credit card that has been rendered useless because magnetic strip is worn away from extensive use.
11.XEROX SUBSIDY: Euphemism for swiping free photocopies from one's workplace.
12.IRRITAINMENT: Entertainment and media spectacles that are Annoying but you find yourself unable to stop watching them.
13. PERCUSSIVE MAINTENANCE: The fine art of whacking the crap out of an electronic device to get it to work again.
14. ADMINISPHERE : The rarefied organizational layers beginning just above the rank and file. Decisions that fall from the adminisphere are often profoundly inappropriate or irrelevant to the problems they were designed to solve.
15. 404 : Someone who's clueless. From the World Wide Web error Message '404 Not Found,' meaning that the requested site could not be located.
16. GENERICA : Features of the American landscape that are exactly the same no matter where one is, such as fast food joints, strip malls, and subdivisions.
17.OHNOSECOND : That minuscule fraction of time in which you realize that you've just made a BIG mistake. (Like after hitting send on an email by mistake).
18.WOOFS: Well-Off Older Folks.
19. CROP DUSTING: Surreptitiously passing gas while passing through a Cube Farm.
1. BLAMESTORMING Sitting around in a group, discussing why a deadline was missed or a project failed, and who was responsible.
2.SEAGULL MANAGER: A manager, who flies in, makes a lot of noise, craps on everything, and then leaves.
3.ASSMOSIS: The process by which some people seem to absorb success and advancement by kissing up to the boss rather than working hard
4.SALMON DAY: The experience of spending an entire day swimming upstream only to get screwed and die in the end.
5. CUBE FARM : An office filled with cubicles.
6.PRAIRIE DOGGING : When someone yells or drops something loudly in a cube farm, and people's heads pop up over the walls to see what's going on.
7. MOUSE POTATO : The on-line, wired generation's answer to the couch potato.
8.SITCOMs: Single Income, Two Children, Oppressive Mortgage. What Yuppies get into when they have children and one of them stops working to stay home with the kids.
9.STRESS PUPPY: A person who seems to thrive on being stressed out and whiny.
10.SWIPEOUT: An ATM or credit card that has been rendered useless because magnetic strip is worn away from extensive use.
11.XEROX SUBSIDY: Euphemism for swiping free photocopies from one's workplace.
12.IRRITAINMENT: Entertainment and media spectacles that are Annoying but you find yourself unable to stop watching them.
13. PERCUSSIVE MAINTENANCE: The fine art of whacking the crap out of an electronic device to get it to work again.
14. ADMINISPHERE : The rarefied organizational layers beginning just above the rank and file. Decisions that fall from the adminisphere are often profoundly inappropriate or irrelevant to the problems they were designed to solve.
15. 404 : Someone who's clueless. From the World Wide Web error Message '404 Not Found,' meaning that the requested site could not be located.
16. GENERICA : Features of the American landscape that are exactly the same no matter where one is, such as fast food joints, strip malls, and subdivisions.
17.OHNOSECOND : That minuscule fraction of time in which you realize that you've just made a BIG mistake. (Like after hitting send on an email by mistake).
18.WOOFS: Well-Off Older Folks.
19. CROP DUSTING: Surreptitiously passing gas while passing through a Cube Farm.
Life is Good
Today I'm "working" in the backyard while our housecleaner does her thing. Can I please get someone to turn the wind down a notch? My papers are flying everywhere... thanks!
I'm listening to baseball on the radio, staring at some beautiful redwood trees and trying not to notice the dry, almost brown lawn (there is a water ban going on in my neighborhood). I can't complain too much.
Plus it's a long weekend this weekend and I have fun plans on the agenda.
I'm listening to baseball on the radio, staring at some beautiful redwood trees and trying not to notice the dry, almost brown lawn (there is a water ban going on in my neighborhood). I can't complain too much.
Plus it's a long weekend this weekend and I have fun plans on the agenda.
Icing on the cake is I'm off for vacation in about a week. 5 day cruise to Bermuda with the in-laws... hopefully noone goes overboard! Naw, I'm just joshing... I actually like my in-laws, so all should go well.
Just gotta survive 5 more work days...
5.20.2008
Minor blip in an otherwise fabulous day
I can't believe I didn't blog about this yesterday!
Sunday afternoon I met up with my favorite gal, A, for a quickie snack / glass of wine - BR Cohn Chardonnay to be exact (we were both craving it as they had run out of Chardonnay at the BR Cohn WINERY when were were there the day before - isn't that against the law in California?)
Anyhoo, we were relaxing on the patio while Lucy charmed the other customers, enjoying a perfect afternoon. All of a sudden, we heard a loud bang. I looked toward the sound and realized someone had just backed into MY car! I was so worried they would drive off, so I ran over and started waving him down. Luckily he was already getting out of the car and seemed shocked that there was something behind hime.
Side note: I did notice he was wearing a Bay to Breakers t-shirt and I do remember that post-race dazed and confused state of mind (it hasn't been THAT long since I was an avid runner)
At first I didn't think there was any damage but then I noticed a huge crack to the side of my license plate on my bumper. His back hitch had hit my license plate and the impact caused the bumper to crack.
Luckily the other driver was very cooperative and apologized a few times. We exchanged information and he went on his way and I went back to my Chardonnay...
Of COURSE, dealing with the insurance adjusters has not be quite so smooth.... Is it just me or could these people care less about their job?
Sunday afternoon I met up with my favorite gal, A, for a quickie snack / glass of wine - BR Cohn Chardonnay to be exact (we were both craving it as they had run out of Chardonnay at the BR Cohn WINERY when were were there the day before - isn't that against the law in California?)
Anyhoo, we were relaxing on the patio while Lucy charmed the other customers, enjoying a perfect afternoon. All of a sudden, we heard a loud bang. I looked toward the sound and realized someone had just backed into MY car! I was so worried they would drive off, so I ran over and started waving him down. Luckily he was already getting out of the car and seemed shocked that there was something behind hime.
Side note: I did notice he was wearing a Bay to Breakers t-shirt and I do remember that post-race dazed and confused state of mind (it hasn't been THAT long since I was an avid runner)
At first I didn't think there was any damage but then I noticed a huge crack to the side of my license plate on my bumper. His back hitch had hit my license plate and the impact caused the bumper to crack.
Luckily the other driver was very cooperative and apologized a few times. We exchanged information and he went on his way and I went back to my Chardonnay...
Of COURSE, dealing with the insurance adjusters has not be quite so smooth.... Is it just me or could these people care less about their job?
5.19.2008
Post # 101!
I was so surprised to log in to blogger and learn that I've published 100 posts to my blog so far!
I know there are folks out there with thousands of blog entries, but this feels like an accomplishment to me.
Mondays are always my most least inspired of days, but let's see if I can come up with something witty, intelligent, or meaningful... fat chance!
Last week during our weekly company meeting, the topic of earthquakes came up... namely the ginormous quake that is estimated to hit the bay area in the next ~10 years. My boss then told us he had heard that scientists were actually considering pouring a bunch of baby powder down the fault line so that when the earthquake finally hits, the plates will move smoother, resulting in a less devastating situation. ???
I asked him if Johnson & Johnson was sponsoring the project. That just sounds like an urban legend if you ask me! In fact I am going to Google this now... watch this space.
UPDATE:
I could not find anything to this effect, but in the following article, they do reference looking to see if talc exists deep in the faultline core... hmmmm, verrrry interesting.
http://tinyurl.com/3ouane
I know there are folks out there with thousands of blog entries, but this feels like an accomplishment to me.
Mondays are always my most least inspired of days, but let's see if I can come up with something witty, intelligent, or meaningful... fat chance!
Last week during our weekly company meeting, the topic of earthquakes came up... namely the ginormous quake that is estimated to hit the bay area in the next ~10 years. My boss then told us he had heard that scientists were actually considering pouring a bunch of baby powder down the fault line so that when the earthquake finally hits, the plates will move smoother, resulting in a less devastating situation. ???
I asked him if Johnson & Johnson was sponsoring the project. That just sounds like an urban legend if you ask me! In fact I am going to Google this now... watch this space.
UPDATE:
I could not find anything to this effect, but in the following article, they do reference looking to see if talc exists deep in the faultline core... hmmmm, verrrry interesting.
http://tinyurl.com/3ouane
5.16.2008
Friday Chronicle
One of my new favorite bloggers (who I found on Twitter, reference my previous post)... posts a bulleted list on Fridays... it's simply a list of short topics, plans for the weekend and other tidbits.
I've decided I'm going to follow her style. I am definitely much more random than usual on Fridays, so this should make it easier for me to follow my "blog each workday" rule.
* my practitioner says that as long as I'm "good" 80% of the time, they are satisfied.
I've decided I'm going to follow her style. I am definitely much more random than usual on Fridays, so this should make it easier for me to follow my "blog each workday" rule.
- It's HOT but supposed to start cooling off. Lucy is miserable.
- I may be in the city on Sunday and I just know it will be freezing once the fog rolls in.
- Getting my hair done tomorrow, then off to a party at BRCohn in Napa -- and YES, I WILL be drinking wine. (80% rule, baby*).
- Starting to look forward to a fun cruise to Bermuda, leaving at the end of the month.
- In summary, this week I've learned more than I have learned the rest of the year so far (did I mention how much I love Twitter?)
- Pete won his first online poker tournament. Check out his blog. I'm a proud wife!
- The Giants are starting to show their true colors -- there were a couple of truly DISASTROUS games this week.
- I predict Jason Cook will be crowned American Idol this year (pretty safe bet).
* my practitioner says that as long as I'm "good" 80% of the time, they are satisfied.
5.15.2008
Welcome to my new world..
So my Eastern Medicine "Practitioner" (not sure what the correct word is) told me today that I can only drink liquids that are room temperature, warm or preferably hot...
She tells me this on the hottest day of the season so far (it's easily 100 degrees). Gulp, just before my appointment I had devoured an icy fruitsicle.
So, now I'm blogging drinking hot tea feeling like a dumb A and I had to take all of my cold drinks out of the refrigerator. Sigh.
But, all in all, I feel positive about my new Eastern Medicine Plan. My practitioner spent 45 minutes with me talking about the various procedures in store for me. She told me they would mix an herbal remedy. And of course she described my new diet... pretty much I will not be able to eat out in an actual restaurant anytime in the near future.
There goes my social life, officially.
The good news is I didn't have to pay a dime, the first consultation was FREE! In contrast my previous "practitioner" charged me $275 the moment I walked in the door. Guess that's just one of the many differences between Eastern and Western medicine.
She tells me this on the hottest day of the season so far (it's easily 100 degrees). Gulp, just before my appointment I had devoured an icy fruitsicle.
So, now I'm blogging drinking hot tea feeling like a dumb A and I had to take all of my cold drinks out of the refrigerator. Sigh.
But, all in all, I feel positive about my new Eastern Medicine Plan. My practitioner spent 45 minutes with me talking about the various procedures in store for me. She told me they would mix an herbal remedy. And of course she described my new diet... pretty much I will not be able to eat out in an actual restaurant anytime in the near future.
There goes my social life, officially.
The good news is I didn't have to pay a dime, the first consultation was FREE! In contrast my previous "practitioner" charged me $275 the moment I walked in the door. Guess that's just one of the many differences between Eastern and Western medicine.
Old Age...
brings senility...
This morning, I ransacked my house for 15 minutes in search of my keys.
Finally I went out to my car and the keys were in the ignition, doors unlocked overnight.
Yikes, I'm only 37... am I losing it?
Oh! On the topic of my advance age, I have my first acupuncture appointment this afternoon... I'm a bit nervous as needles freak me out.
Wish me luck!
This morning, I ransacked my house for 15 minutes in search of my keys.
Finally I went out to my car and the keys were in the ignition, doors unlocked overnight.
Yikes, I'm only 37... am I losing it?
Oh! On the topic of my advance age, I have my first acupuncture appointment this afternoon... I'm a bit nervous as needles freak me out.
Wish me luck!
5.14.2008
Speaking of OCD...
I just read this article (from Twitter of COURSE),
http://tinyurl.com/3te7wj
The Chumby is a little "pet" that sits on your desk and displays widgets or mini-programs of all kinds. Examples: streaming media, weather updates, YouTube videos, etc.
Talk about serious stimulation and distraction overload. I have enough to distract me on my PC, I certainly don't need more.
Or perhaps my OCD just hasn't gotten that advanced... yet.
http://tinyurl.com/3te7wj
The Chumby is a little "pet" that sits on your desk and displays widgets or mini-programs of all kinds. Examples: streaming media, weather updates, YouTube videos, etc.
Talk about serious stimulation and distraction overload. I have enough to distract me on my PC, I certainly don't need more.
Or perhaps my OCD just hasn't gotten that advanced... yet.
WARNING: People with OCD should stay away from Twitter
Yikes! Somehow I've found a new addiction.
How did this happen?
Innocently enough, as addictions usually do... An simple email invitation from my girl, A.
I thought, Twitter? What the heck is that? A quick visit to the website did not tell me much. But when I finally figured it out and suddenly received a text message from my great friend, I thought, "hmm.... okay, pretty cool".
Come to find out, you can search for anyone in the world and "follow" them, assuming their account is open to the public. I found myself searching on Bill Gates, George Bush, Martha Stewart. As of yet, it seems to be that the majority of the members are techie geeks or savvy bloggers who want another medium to express themselves.
I am now following Guy Kawasaki, the Silicon Valley VC maven and a bunch of other technologists. The way it works is when folks post to their account via email, web, IM or text message, everyone who follows them receives that message either on the web or via text message. It's like instant messaging for the world.
So now, suddenly, I am being bombarded with a constant stream of information. I gotta say, I'm LOVING it. I'm getting great information that will certainly be valuable to me as a technology sales person and it satisfies my obsessive - compulsive need for constant stimulation. I find myself constantly hitting refresh to get my updates on the web. My favorite followee alerts are set to be sent to my blackberry.
I probably need to weed down my followee list, otherwise, I may lose my job due to the fact that I'm spending all of my time learning random stuff and not selling my existing technology solutions!
How did this happen?
Innocently enough, as addictions usually do... An simple email invitation from my girl, A.
I thought, Twitter? What the heck is that? A quick visit to the website did not tell me much. But when I finally figured it out and suddenly received a text message from my great friend, I thought, "hmm.... okay, pretty cool".
Come to find out, you can search for anyone in the world and "follow" them, assuming their account is open to the public. I found myself searching on Bill Gates, George Bush, Martha Stewart. As of yet, it seems to be that the majority of the members are techie geeks or savvy bloggers who want another medium to express themselves.
I am now following Guy Kawasaki, the Silicon Valley VC maven and a bunch of other technologists. The way it works is when folks post to their account via email, web, IM or text message, everyone who follows them receives that message either on the web or via text message. It's like instant messaging for the world.
So now, suddenly, I am being bombarded with a constant stream of information. I gotta say, I'm LOVING it. I'm getting great information that will certainly be valuable to me as a technology sales person and it satisfies my obsessive - compulsive need for constant stimulation. I find myself constantly hitting refresh to get my updates on the web. My favorite followee alerts are set to be sent to my blackberry.
I probably need to weed down my followee list, otherwise, I may lose my job due to the fact that I'm spending all of my time learning random stuff and not selling my existing technology solutions!
In The Valley of Elah
Pete and I watched this movie Sunday night and I can't stop thinking about it. It was quite intense and disturbing.
I am wondering why the movie didn't get more hype at the Oscars? I think that the American public are still not quite ready for stories of the Iraq war. Especially a movie that portrays the effects of the war on returning soldiers so damaging.
Tommy Lee Jones' performance was masterful. I have a new appreciation for him as an actor. The competition was pretty fierce for best Actor at the Oscars last year, so I can see why he didn't win that role. However, the movie was not even nominated for any other categories.
Luckily I rented 27 Dresses today, so perhaps that will help me I'll get myself into a more lighthearted frame of mind!
I am wondering why the movie didn't get more hype at the Oscars? I think that the American public are still not quite ready for stories of the Iraq war. Especially a movie that portrays the effects of the war on returning soldiers so damaging.
Tommy Lee Jones' performance was masterful. I have a new appreciation for him as an actor. The competition was pretty fierce for best Actor at the Oscars last year, so I can see why he didn't win that role. However, the movie was not even nominated for any other categories.
Luckily I rented 27 Dresses today, so perhaps that will help me I'll get myself into a more lighthearted frame of mind!
Glad I kicked the caffeine addition...
It takes 189 cups of Diet Coke Coffee to kill sheila.
... Although, I suppose I won't be drinking 189 cups!
See how many cups it takes to kill YOU:
5.13.2008
The do gooders in the world - can I be one?
I have been thinking a lot about the truly altruistic people in this world. I have a great friend who belongs to this group of individuals. She is working for a non-profit that provides technology to areas which have been devastated by a disaster. Obviously they are quite busy in light of the recent tragedies in Myanmar and China.
Her influence has rubbed off on me... at least a little bit (I'm still selfish as ever). I've spent a lot of time in recent months searching for a suitable volunteer project that I can participate in. You'd think that it would be easy to go contribute your time to a worthy cause. Not necessarily. Many of the opportunities need help during work week hours. Many require a commitment of a few weekends in a row for orientation or training. Some of them require special technical or medical skills. Some of them just don't call you back. I thought I found a great opportunity helping the American Cancer Society with their Relay for life event. I actually got a woman on the phone who excitedly said that, yes! They need help. She said she'd contact me when they get their initial volunteer meeting scheduled. I am still waiting for that call....
Should I take a hint? Is my selfishness that transparent?
Anyways... I guess I'll keep looking but if you know of a worthy non-profit in the East Bay Area that will allow me to contribute time in the early evenings or weekends without bureaucratic red tape, send 'em my way.
Her influence has rubbed off on me... at least a little bit (I'm still selfish as ever). I've spent a lot of time in recent months searching for a suitable volunteer project that I can participate in. You'd think that it would be easy to go contribute your time to a worthy cause. Not necessarily. Many of the opportunities need help during work week hours. Many require a commitment of a few weekends in a row for orientation or training. Some of them require special technical or medical skills. Some of them just don't call you back. I thought I found a great opportunity helping the American Cancer Society with their Relay for life event. I actually got a woman on the phone who excitedly said that, yes! They need help. She said she'd contact me when they get their initial volunteer meeting scheduled. I am still waiting for that call....
Should I take a hint? Is my selfishness that transparent?
Anyways... I guess I'll keep looking but if you know of a worthy non-profit in the East Bay Area that will allow me to contribute time in the early evenings or weekends without bureaucratic red tape, send 'em my way.
I hate to admit it...
A friend forwarded me one of those horoscope emails... you know, the ones where you gotta forward to x number of friends or you will have x number of years of bad luck.
This one is spookily accurate. (especially the beautiful inside and out description) ; )
SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One (Nov 22 - Dec 21)Good-natured optimist. Doesn't want to grow up (Peter Pan Syndrome). Indulges self. Boastful. Likes luxuries and gambling. Social and outgoing. Doesn't like responsibilities. Often fantasizes. Impatient. Fun to be around. Having lots of friends. Flirtatious. Doesn't like rules. Sometimes hypocritical. Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. Doesn't like being doubted. Beautiful inside and out.
This one is spookily accurate. (especially the beautiful inside and out description) ; )
SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One (Nov 22 - Dec 21)Good-natured optimist. Doesn't want to grow up (Peter Pan Syndrome). Indulges self. Boastful. Likes luxuries and gambling. Social and outgoing. Doesn't like responsibilities. Often fantasizes. Impatient. Fun to be around. Having lots of friends. Flirtatious. Doesn't like rules. Sometimes hypocritical. Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. Doesn't like being doubted. Beautiful inside and out.
Good things happen to good people (sometimes)
I learned today that a great friend of mine who I do not see often enough is going to be a daddy.
I feel privileged to be one of only a few to learn the good news. His excitement was obvious from his email and there is no doubt in my mind that he'll be a great daddy.
I have not met his partner but I know that she is someone very special. The last time I saw my friend, he had many questions for me about the time when Pete and I had broken up for a 6 month period (many many years ago, before we were married, of course). He also mentioned that he was back in touch with this gal.
I recall thinking, "hmmmm..." and sure enough a couple of months later, they were back together with plans to get serious.
My friend is a great guy who has been single much of the time I've known him. He is the IT Director at a company where I used to work at. I know first hand his dedication to work, his commitment to excellence and his never ending desire to improve the company.
As a friend, I appreciate his kindness, generosity, and loyalty.... And, he has a fantastic sense of humor.
This baby will be something else, and I am very excited for the family.
I feel privileged to be one of only a few to learn the good news. His excitement was obvious from his email and there is no doubt in my mind that he'll be a great daddy.
I have not met his partner but I know that she is someone very special. The last time I saw my friend, he had many questions for me about the time when Pete and I had broken up for a 6 month period (many many years ago, before we were married, of course). He also mentioned that he was back in touch with this gal.
I recall thinking, "hmmmm..." and sure enough a couple of months later, they were back together with plans to get serious.
My friend is a great guy who has been single much of the time I've known him. He is the IT Director at a company where I used to work at. I know first hand his dedication to work, his commitment to excellence and his never ending desire to improve the company.
As a friend, I appreciate his kindness, generosity, and loyalty.... And, he has a fantastic sense of humor.
This baby will be something else, and I am very excited for the family.
5.12.2008
Bright Spot
Top 3 things that made me happy this weekend:
1. Friday night drinks with great girlffriends at the St. Regis -- the lobby bar is just so elegant, I always feel so fancy here.
1. Omar Vizquel back in the line-up baby. I have the biggest crush on this guy. : )
http://tinyurl.com/5v96ky
2. Chill out Sunday afternoon lunch with my favorite people at one of my favorite new joints, Sideboard.
http://tinyurl.com/69yj5w
1. Friday night drinks with great girlffriends at the St. Regis -- the lobby bar is just so elegant, I always feel so fancy here.
1. Omar Vizquel back in the line-up baby. I have the biggest crush on this guy. : )
http://tinyurl.com/5v96ky
2. Chill out Sunday afternoon lunch with my favorite people at one of my favorite new joints, Sideboard.
http://tinyurl.com/69yj5w
5.09.2008
5.08.2008
another sad story
Every now and then you hear a tragic story... a parent accidentally leaves their kid in a heated car, or a toddler drowns in a pool, etc. These stories break my heart every time. I seem to read about these episodes too often for my comfort level.
This morning a woman in Pittsburgh accidentally ran over her 6 year old daughter who was riding a tricycle behind her car. The girl died.
How do you live with yourself if you are the mother? I cannot fathom it. I like to think I will be a parent with awareness. But accidents happen, and you can never guarantee they won't happen to you.
This morning a woman in Pittsburgh accidentally ran over her 6 year old daughter who was riding a tricycle behind her car. The girl died.
How do you live with yourself if you are the mother? I cannot fathom it. I like to think I will be a parent with awareness. But accidents happen, and you can never guarantee they won't happen to you.
Clean Living
I have been eating so healthy, I think my toilet is deriving benefits!
(sorry)
I feel like I've learned more in the past week than I've learned in the past year.... With knowledge, comes further questioning and interest, so I've become a search engine hound - seeking more and more information on the subject of Eastern Medicine. I'm also looking forward to my accupuncture appointment next week.
I've come to realize that the body is a fragile system that relies on proper balance to function properly. Chinese medicine works by getting each organ back in balance. It also works to establish proper functioning of blood flow to each of the organs.
The confusion comes when you aren't quite sure which aspect of your body is out of balance. In comparing my symptoms to the corresponding diagnosis, it seems like I could be off balance in multiple areas. So which remedy should I follow?
One remedy prescribes to eat lots of soy beans, the other says to stay away from soy products.
One remedy says to eat lots of pineapple, the other says to eat lots of raspberries.
One says eat lots of eggs, the other says stay away from dairy & cheese.
My diet has certainly become much more varied in the past week or so... bring on the wheatgrass, spirulina and tofu!
(sorry)
I feel like I've learned more in the past week than I've learned in the past year.... With knowledge, comes further questioning and interest, so I've become a search engine hound - seeking more and more information on the subject of Eastern Medicine. I'm also looking forward to my accupuncture appointment next week.
I've come to realize that the body is a fragile system that relies on proper balance to function properly. Chinese medicine works by getting each organ back in balance. It also works to establish proper functioning of blood flow to each of the organs.
The confusion comes when you aren't quite sure which aspect of your body is out of balance. In comparing my symptoms to the corresponding diagnosis, it seems like I could be off balance in multiple areas. So which remedy should I follow?
One remedy prescribes to eat lots of soy beans, the other says to stay away from soy products.
One remedy says to eat lots of pineapple, the other says to eat lots of raspberries.
One says eat lots of eggs, the other says stay away from dairy & cheese.
My diet has certainly become much more varied in the past week or so... bring on the wheatgrass, spirulina and tofu!
5.07.2008
Okay, now we're getting hokey..
I'm onto the "positive affirmation" section of the Eastern Medicine book...
They recommend spending about 15 minutes a day repeating the following affirmations:
I am healthy and happy, my hormone levels are balanced.
My cycle is in tune with my body's natural rhythm.
I will conceive a healthy baby when I make the conscious decision to do so.
I believe in myself, for I am incredible.
I am taking charge of your own fertility.
Come on now! Are you kidding? I think I need to draw the line here. What's next? patchouli and nude colonies? I gotta keep my mojo, people. : )
They recommend spending about 15 minutes a day repeating the following affirmations:
I am healthy and happy, my hormone levels are balanced.
My cycle is in tune with my body's natural rhythm.
I will conceive a healthy baby when I make the conscious decision to do so.
I believe in myself, for I am incredible.
I am taking charge of your own fertility.
Come on now! Are you kidding? I think I need to draw the line here. What's next? patchouli and nude colonies? I gotta keep my mojo, people. : )
5.06.2008
Inflexible
...That's me! I did 30 minutes of an hour long yoga tape yesterday... I am sore today, yikes!
As part of my new health kick, I've started deep breathing, stretching and yoga.
I have been pretty active most of my adult life... an avid runner and cyclist for years. After one too many running injuries, I retired from running and I'm now a "Lucy walker". Clearly, those sports do nothing for one's flexibility. I am humbled.
As part of my new health kick, I've started deep breathing, stretching and yoga.
I have been pretty active most of my adult life... an avid runner and cyclist for years. After one too many running injuries, I retired from running and I'm now a "Lucy walker". Clearly, those sports do nothing for one's flexibility. I am humbled.
5.05.2008
The value of friendship
I make darn sure I enjoy every weekend... every moment of the two days off of work are precious to me. I am lucky enough to have wonderful people (and canines!) in my life to help make weekends enjoyable.
I made a realization this weekend... there is nothing more valuable than best girlfriends who you can just BE with, trust, and never feel the concern of offending them. There is no pretense, no judgment, no posturing... Just appreciation, understanding and respect for each other. We appreciate our similarities as well as our differences. If one is having a problem, we try to lend and ear, offer consolation and suggest solutions. There is no bravado or jealousy, even though one of us might be in a better position financially or more successful personally or careerwise. Icing on the cake is a friend who you can have fun with and laugh with.
It is rare to find people in this world who you can develop such a relationship with. Let's face it, you aren't necessarily going to have this type of relationship with family members.
Here's to great friends... I feel blessed to have them in my life!
A new approach
I have made a turn in my pursuit to become fertile... I realized this weekend that the process I have been in just isn't working. So, I'm going a different route. Instead of following orders and pumping mysterious synthetic products into my system (oh yeah and spending a boatload of my insurance company's money), I am going to take on an active role. From now on, I'm calling the shots. (I can talk big can't I?) : )
We'll see how I feel in a coupla months... but, for now, I feel good about my new "project".
I had already cut out caffeine, artificial sweetener and alcohol - well, in order to not feel deprived, I will allot myself a glass or so of vino per week : )
I figure, why not? Let's go all out! I bought a book on Chinese medicine and fertility. I can't put it down. It's fascinating. Every single thing I've read thus far makes just too much sense.
The contrast between Eastern and Western medicine is stark. They give is following analogy: Western medicine is like throwing fertlizer on a plant, whereas Eastern medicine is about creating a fertile ground, using compost, etc.
So... in the fertility world, the Western medicine approach is to identify which hormones are lacking then hyperstimulate the system with synthetic hormones. Conversely, the Eastern medicine approach is the get the body back to a balanced state hormonally so the body does what it is supposed to do... for women, it's have babies. Duh!!! How much sense does that make? It's almost laughable.
I also booked an appointment at an acupuncture clinic that specializes in fertility, and I may go get some Chinese herbs too. It could just be that I need to get my Qi back. (if you don't know what that means, go get a Chinese medicine book!)
I will keep you updated... watch this space!
We'll see how I feel in a coupla months... but, for now, I feel good about my new "project".
I had already cut out caffeine, artificial sweetener and alcohol - well, in order to not feel deprived, I will allot myself a glass or so of vino per week : )
I figure, why not? Let's go all out! I bought a book on Chinese medicine and fertility. I can't put it down. It's fascinating. Every single thing I've read thus far makes just too much sense.
The contrast between Eastern and Western medicine is stark. They give is following analogy: Western medicine is like throwing fertlizer on a plant, whereas Eastern medicine is about creating a fertile ground, using compost, etc.
So... in the fertility world, the Western medicine approach is to identify which hormones are lacking then hyperstimulate the system with synthetic hormones. Conversely, the Eastern medicine approach is the get the body back to a balanced state hormonally so the body does what it is supposed to do... for women, it's have babies. Duh!!! How much sense does that make? It's almost laughable.
I also booked an appointment at an acupuncture clinic that specializes in fertility, and I may go get some Chinese herbs too. It could just be that I need to get my Qi back. (if you don't know what that means, go get a Chinese medicine book!)
I will keep you updated... watch this space!
5.02.2008
The lion
Last night I dreamt that I was in a car driving on Danville boulevard. I saw a mother and her two daughters on the side of the road and just to the left of them, appeared a lion. The mother panicked and she and the two daughters ran across Danville Blvd... the lion proceeded to chase the girls.
All of a sudden, my sister Laura appeared. She had jumped out of the car behind us to go save the girls. So, the lion then decided to go after Laura. It was so vivid and the lion pounced so quickly that I swore Laura was history.
Before I had time to react or do anything, I woke up. Reflecting on the dream, I think about how Laura reacted but I didn't. That definitely speaks to our characters. Laura is definitely the more compassionate of the two of us.
I found Dream Moods, an online Dream Dictionary. Here is what they say about lions appearing in dreams:
"To see a lion in your dream, symbolizes great strength, aggression and power. You will overcome your emotions and/or difficulties. As king of the jungle, the lion also represents royalty, leadership, pride and dominion. You have much influence over others. You may also need to exercise restraint in your own personal and social life."
Royalty? I don't think so, but I'll take the rest of it as a positive.
All of a sudden, my sister Laura appeared. She had jumped out of the car behind us to go save the girls. So, the lion then decided to go after Laura. It was so vivid and the lion pounced so quickly that I swore Laura was history.
Before I had time to react or do anything, I woke up. Reflecting on the dream, I think about how Laura reacted but I didn't. That definitely speaks to our characters. Laura is definitely the more compassionate of the two of us.
I found Dream Moods, an online Dream Dictionary. Here is what they say about lions appearing in dreams:
"To see a lion in your dream, symbolizes great strength, aggression and power. You will overcome your emotions and/or difficulties. As king of the jungle, the lion also represents royalty, leadership, pride and dominion. You have much influence over others. You may also need to exercise restraint in your own personal and social life."
Royalty? I don't think so, but I'll take the rest of it as a positive.
Worried Mama...
This morning Lucy and I went on our daily "walkie". When we got to her favorite part where the trail opens up and there's a nice sized meadow where she can sprint around and around, I noted that the grass had gotten quite dry and tall.
About an hour after we returned home, Lucy started sneezing uncontrollably, clearly she was in agony. It wasn't subsiding so Pete took her to the vet.
Apparently she got a foxtail up her nose and they would need to sedate her and use forceps to get it out. Poor baby! She's at the vet now and the house seems so empty without her.
Oh, I must mention the pricetag for the vet visit: $420! Ouch. Ayelet told me, "you could stay at a five star hotel for that price!" Double ouch. Oh well, my Lucy is worth 5 stars!
5.01.2008
Just like a drug
My girlfriend, Ayelet, wrote about this topic, so I am going to copy her! : )
I have weaned myself off caffeine. It's been going well... except for the dull headache I seem to have constantly.
This afternoon I was drinking one of those new & hip enhanced water drinks, called "Alive". It tasted pretty good!
I started to read the bottle and there was actually a note that the drink has as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, as a benefit of course... doh!
No wonder that headache subsided for a while.
I have weaned myself off caffeine. It's been going well... except for the dull headache I seem to have constantly.
This afternoon I was drinking one of those new & hip enhanced water drinks, called "Alive". It tasted pretty good!
I started to read the bottle and there was actually a note that the drink has as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, as a benefit of course... doh!
No wonder that headache subsided for a while.
dreams
I have been having really whacky dreams lately... verging on psychotic. I am usually late to meet someone and I find myself lost in a crazy land I don't recognize. Last night there was a big gray and white fluffy dog (not Lucy?!?) who would take my finger in its mouth and flub (is that a word? dunno but it is the only way I can describe it) its lips around my finger. Bizarre. Then, I had my violin bow out... not sure what I was doing, but I recall feeling distraught cause the horsehair had completely fallen off.
What does that mean?!?! Am I losing it?
What does that mean?!?! Am I losing it?
4.30.2008
It's the last day of the month!
Update: Giants won today!
Unfortunately I was too busy today to spend much quality time watching the game, but I'm happy they won.
Something happened to the internet connection at my boss' house (yes, it is crazy, but our "corporate" server resides at his home!) so working was truly painful as every application we use was ridiculously slow.
I got the funniest email from the IT Director of a large East Coast University who had all but promised to purchase software from me by the end of April. He wrote me a 3 paragraph email that was basically a sob story about why he could not buy now but needed to wait until July 1 (school budgets are weird).
Too funny... I have never received an email like that before. I ended up working with him to commit to a purchase so he could secure the "special deal" that expires at the end of today. Truth be told, I wouldn't have cared if the order were to arrive tomorrow, but I felt like I should get the signed piece of paper just in case.
I really like this man and I intend to do everything I can to ensure things go smoothly for them. It is so refreshing to deal with a prospect who is honest, upfront and even HUMAN. He also bent over backward to get me what I needed, so I felt a sense of respect I usually do not get.
Unfortunately I was too busy today to spend much quality time watching the game, but I'm happy they won.
Something happened to the internet connection at my boss' house (yes, it is crazy, but our "corporate" server resides at his home!) so working was truly painful as every application we use was ridiculously slow.
I got the funniest email from the IT Director of a large East Coast University who had all but promised to purchase software from me by the end of April. He wrote me a 3 paragraph email that was basically a sob story about why he could not buy now but needed to wait until July 1 (school budgets are weird).
Too funny... I have never received an email like that before. I ended up working with him to commit to a purchase so he could secure the "special deal" that expires at the end of today. Truth be told, I wouldn't have cared if the order were to arrive tomorrow, but I felt like I should get the signed piece of paper just in case.
I really like this man and I intend to do everything I can to ensure things go smoothly for them. It is so refreshing to deal with a prospect who is honest, upfront and even HUMAN. He also bent over backward to get me what I needed, so I felt a sense of respect I usually do not get.
Baseball in the Afternoon
I'm getting ready to watch the final game of the Giants vs. Rockies series... I love day baseball and luckily since I work from home, I can have the game on in the background while I work (sshhh! Don't tell my boss!)
I am pleasantly surprised by how well the Giants are doing this year. I truly thought they would be an embarrassment to the Bay Area. Instead, they are young, scrappy, and eager to win. It's also fun to see so many of the young'uns stealing bases all the time -- we sure didn't have much of THAT the past few years.
Management seems committed to doing what they need to do to win as well. Barry Zito (see my blog on 4.23.2008) has been demoted to the Bull Pen -- as my KNBR morning guys say, "thank you GOD!" (you gotta hear the sound byte to get the full effect).
I'm not dumb enough to believe they have a chance at the playoffs, but hey, it's a start!
4.29.2008
The right verdict
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/04/29/BAKU10DLNG.DTL&tsp=1
I am surprised by the news that the jury found him guilty of 1st degree murder, given no body has been found... but I'm happy with their decision.
There was just too much circumstantial evidence. I have been following this murder story and trial. It is shocking to me that this happened right here in the Bay Area and Nina seemed like someone who I could be friends with.
I am surprised by the news that the jury found him guilty of 1st degree murder, given no body has been found... but I'm happy with their decision.
There was just too much circumstantial evidence. I have been following this murder story and trial. It is shocking to me that this happened right here in the Bay Area and Nina seemed like someone who I could be friends with.
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