So I'm remodeling the kitchen. When I say "remodeling" I mean new cabinets, new counter tops, new floor, the works. But as usual, D and I are doing it ourselves.
The cabinets should be delivered next week. Dad is coming the end of July to help us do the floor (tile - same as what we put in the hallway/ powder room over Christmas). I'm also going to tile the back splash - my first foray into vertical tiling....
That leaves the counters. I picked out and priced what I wanted at Lowe's (our favorite place. D and I have "dates" there. Are we dorks or what??) My in-laws suggested a local place for a competitive quote where they got their counter tops. I'm all for competition - it makes for better pricing for the consumer, right??
So here's my REALLY LONG story as short as possible...
I was really busy at work a few weeks ago, and trying to include D in the kitchen remodel process, asked him to call this place and have them quote on the counter tops. So we got a quote that was several hundred cheaper than Lowe's - whoo hoo!! So the following weekend we headed to their showroom to choose specifics (edging, sink, etc...).
Once in the showroom I realized the sales guy was a PRICK!! Sorry - no other way to describe it. He kept referring all questions to D, even though D made it clear it was my project and to address all questions to me because I was the "grand pooh bah" of this whole shebang. He was all self important, loved to hear himself talk (which he did for TWO HOURS!!!). He then wasted our time pontificating on why we should buy one of his faucets and why it's a cardinal sin to buy one at Home Depot or Lowe's. I'm even skimming the top as to the hundred and ten ways this guy totally pissed me off.
So why didn't I just walk out of the showroom?? (because the thought did cross my mind the WHOLE time I was standing there....) Because my in-laws and their friends swore by their counter tops and installation. (this guy was just the sales guy...) That, combined with the several hundred dollar savings, I was willing to stand there for bit. But believe me, when we finally left D got an earful. Not that any of it was his fault - just that I vented on what a dick this sales guy was and I was having serious second thoughts about buying a hot steaming pile of pooh from him, let alone several thousands of dollars worth of counter tops....
So, I called the guy back yesterday to confirm the quote as we needed him to add a few little pieces that surround our stove. The quote jumped FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS!!! He swears that WE changed the dimensions of the island piece and that accounted for the price change.
Ok, I won't bore you the back and forth - but we didn't change anything - he got the original dimensions wrong and was now making up for his original low ball quote. (anyone seeing flashing neon signs here???)
So the "correct" quote is now only $120 cheaper than Lowe's. I tell D that I'm willing to cough up the $120 and go to Lowe's because I'm sick of dealing with this chump. It's about customer service -of which I have gotten plenty of it at Lowe's. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about saving every penny I can but I'm sick and tired of this aggressive, sexist idiot. I want nothing more to do with him.
So today I call the "idiot" up to tell him that his "new" quote is not as competitive as we originally thought... (and to give him the boot) and as soon as the words are out of my mouth he starts dealin'. He's now $265 cheaper than Lowe's and has thrown in $80 worth of "extras".
Ok, at $120 I was easily willing to tell him to suck a lemon... but at almost $300 savings I'm having second thoughts.... That's an amount that means something now...
Remember, this guy is only sales. He doesn't install. I have two couples that have have been very happy with the company's work. What do you think - do I eat crow and still go with the company to save money? Or do I go with Lowe's on principle?? The ante was just raised...
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
He said what??
Ok, I don't normally blog about my office specifics - as in what so-and-so said to whom, etc.... That could potentially cause some serious issues... But this is too much to pass up.
Today I took my "Promotional Marketing Team" out for our first annual "Team Appreciation Lunch". In case you didn't know, they've only been "my" team since November-ish when I got a promotion. The team consists of Crumby, Cakey and Token Male (TM). (sorry - the gals are bakers too!!! : ) Good group - but small. Small enough to have it's quirks for sure. We get along so long as everybody does what I tell them to ; ) (hee, hee)
You know how sometimes people say things innocently that might be considered in certain company as, well... tactless. That happens here in the office on occasion totally by accident. Inevitably, regardless where you are sometimes you might accidentally offend someone. Sometimes you realize it and apologize and sometimes you don't realize it.
I will say there were a few times when TM first started I think Crumby might have said a few things - purely innocently - that I cringed, hoping TM didn't take offense. (Did I mention he's Jewish??) We all know in the office that Crumby would never mean any offense at all!!! But if TM was offended he never really acted it. And I'm sure that once he got to know Crumby he knew she never would say anything maliciously. Now that's he comfortable working with us he jokes with all of us, no big deal.
So, fast forward to today at lunch. Crumby was telling a story about how she had this stool that was wobbly and she started hacking on the legs to get it even to where she ended up with a stool that was only about a foot and a half tall!! So TM pipes in and started telling about how he and his g-friend bought 2 bar stools and realized they were about 2 inches too tall for their table. So TM went out, borrowed his brother's chop saw and trimmed them perfectly on the first try! He swears the last time he ever did anything like that was back in shop class!
Crumby: You know, I bet you're so good at that because...
TM: Why? because I'm Jewish?? Because JC was a carpenter?!
At first when he said this we all weren't sure if he was mad thinking Crumby was going through a religious zinger at him or if he was just kidding. There was that confused moment were Crumby and I sat there trying to figure out was was going on. (Cakey was had just left to hit the girl's room.)
While we were contemplating where this was going Crumby weakly muttered "no". And then TM started to laugh and we realized he was totally pulling her chain!! It was PERFECT on TM's part. Played PERFECT!!!! Then to top it all off:
TM: See, we're told to measure twice, cut once!
This sent Crumby really over the edge. Even though TM was still referring to trimming the bar stools Crumby was taking the context into other Jewish rituals....
All the while I'm watching the whole exchange laughing so hard I started to tear up. It's not often that someone beats Crumby at her own game!!! I loved it!! I almost wet my pants!!!
*In Crumby's defense, she was going to tell TM that she thought he'd be good at it because he's our graphic designer. She thought that him being a designer, and I guess his attention to detail (I'm speculating now because we really didn't get the whole "real" answer) would account for his precise measuring and cutting.*
Today I took my "Promotional Marketing Team" out for our first annual "Team Appreciation Lunch". In case you didn't know, they've only been "my" team since November-ish when I got a promotion. The team consists of Crumby, Cakey and Token Male (TM). (sorry - the gals are bakers too!!! : ) Good group - but small. Small enough to have it's quirks for sure. We get along so long as everybody does what I tell them to ; ) (hee, hee)
You know how sometimes people say things innocently that might be considered in certain company as, well... tactless. That happens here in the office on occasion totally by accident. Inevitably, regardless where you are sometimes you might accidentally offend someone. Sometimes you realize it and apologize and sometimes you don't realize it.
I will say there were a few times when TM first started I think Crumby might have said a few things - purely innocently - that I cringed, hoping TM didn't take offense. (Did I mention he's Jewish??) We all know in the office that Crumby would never mean any offense at all!!! But if TM was offended he never really acted it. And I'm sure that once he got to know Crumby he knew she never would say anything maliciously. Now that's he comfortable working with us he jokes with all of us, no big deal.
So, fast forward to today at lunch. Crumby was telling a story about how she had this stool that was wobbly and she started hacking on the legs to get it even to where she ended up with a stool that was only about a foot and a half tall!! So TM pipes in and started telling about how he and his g-friend bought 2 bar stools and realized they were about 2 inches too tall for their table. So TM went out, borrowed his brother's chop saw and trimmed them perfectly on the first try! He swears the last time he ever did anything like that was back in shop class!
Crumby: You know, I bet you're so good at that because...
TM: Why? because I'm Jewish?? Because JC was a carpenter?!
At first when he said this we all weren't sure if he was mad thinking Crumby was going through a religious zinger at him or if he was just kidding. There was that confused moment were Crumby and I sat there trying to figure out was was going on. (Cakey was had just left to hit the girl's room.)
While we were contemplating where this was going Crumby weakly muttered "no". And then TM started to laugh and we realized he was totally pulling her chain!! It was PERFECT on TM's part. Played PERFECT!!!! Then to top it all off:
TM: See, we're told to measure twice, cut once!
This sent Crumby really over the edge. Even though TM was still referring to trimming the bar stools Crumby was taking the context into other Jewish rituals....
All the while I'm watching the whole exchange laughing so hard I started to tear up. It's not often that someone beats Crumby at her own game!!! I loved it!! I almost wet my pants!!!
*In Crumby's defense, she was going to tell TM that she thought he'd be good at it because he's our graphic designer. She thought that him being a designer, and I guess his attention to detail (I'm speculating now because we really didn't get the whole "real" answer) would account for his precise measuring and cutting.*
Thursday, May 29, 2008
My May
Well, Madhatter was complainin' that I haven't posted since May 10th. Well turns out I've been home 2 days between May 10th and May 25th. (and that would be May 11th and May 15th.) I got home at 12:24am on May 25th.
Feel sorry for me?
I didn't think so. Hey, I tried....
So here's what I was doing all that time. If you don't care what I was doing then feel free to skip this post. Hey, I gave you fair warning....
So, May 12 - 14th I was in New Castle, NH for our eastern regional sales meeting. It was held at this awesome Marriott Inn and Spa that is on the historical register. It's called Wentworth by the Sea. If you ever want a piece of quaint New England this is it. It's right outside of Portsmouth, NH and right on the Maine state line. I highly recommend it.
Then I was home the 15th - ok, well in the office.... Then on the 16th I was off to Toronto for a tradeshow. I stayed at the Renaissance Sky Dome, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. The hotel is actually built into the dome. Cool, huh?? This was taken from the hotel bar. I was hungry and didn't want to sit in my room and do work..
Since I have status with Marriott's (Renaissance is a Marriott brand) I got bumped up to a sweet suite. The bathroom was HUGE!!! So big, in fact, I had to take pictures....
The show lasted through the 20th (yes, we work through weekends...) but Monday night I headed over to London, Ontario which is where our corporate office is located for a meeting with IT since I'm working on reorganizing our extranet and totally redesigning our website. (want my job now??) I left the office in London to get home a little after 6 PM. David wasn't home - he had flown to Toledo for work on Monday.
Wednesday morning I was up at 4:30 AM in order to catch a 6AM flight to Palm Springs, CA for our western regional sales meeting. I was in meetings for a few days. Remember, I was in the DESERT! Was it hot and sunny??
nope.
It was cold. (in the 60's. It was breaking record lows.)
It was raining. (scattered thunderstorms.)
It was hailing and had tornado's touching down.
Figures.
Since I couldn't fly back on Friday after the meetings were over (have you ever tried finding a flight to get back across the country on a Friday afternoon?? They don't exist.) I had to fly back on Saturday.... of Memorial Day weekend... So I went to the spa... and spent $200 on ONLY a facial and a pedicure. The guys that couldn't fly home until Saturday were golfing (in hail. how smart are they??) So the good news is that my company covered $90 of my spa bill because my boss figures that's what they spent golfing. I still think they spent more but I can't argue....
SO - I finally landed at home around 12:30AM Sunday morning and got home around 12:45am...
I know it sounded good with all the perks but I was going non-stop and my Memorial Day weekend got bit into. I'm still pooped. No days off since I got back.
I'm still working frantically trying to get this extranet ready to go live. I head BACK to Canada on Monday for three days. I really hate driving across the border. Try explaining how you live and work in NY but your corporate headquarters is in Canada. And no, I do NOT need a work permit to be in the country... I PROMISE!!!
Man, those Canadians do not want anyone working in their country without work permits!!!
So that's what I've been doing since May 10th.
So help me God if any one of you ever ask me again why I dont' have kids yet... If you do I might twist your arm off.
Don't believe I'd do that??
Try me.
Feel sorry for me?
I didn't think so. Hey, I tried....
So here's what I was doing all that time. If you don't care what I was doing then feel free to skip this post. Hey, I gave you fair warning....
So, May 12 - 14th I was in New Castle, NH for our eastern regional sales meeting. It was held at this awesome Marriott Inn and Spa that is on the historical register. It's called Wentworth by the Sea. If you ever want a piece of quaint New England this is it. It's right outside of Portsmouth, NH and right on the Maine state line. I highly recommend it.
Then I was home the 15th - ok, well in the office.... Then on the 16th I was off to Toronto for a tradeshow. I stayed at the Renaissance Sky Dome, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. The hotel is actually built into the dome. Cool, huh?? This was taken from the hotel bar. I was hungry and didn't want to sit in my room and do work..
Since I have status with Marriott's (Renaissance is a Marriott brand) I got bumped up to a sweet suite. The bathroom was HUGE!!! So big, in fact, I had to take pictures....
The show lasted through the 20th (yes, we work through weekends...) but Monday night I headed over to London, Ontario which is where our corporate office is located for a meeting with IT since I'm working on reorganizing our extranet and totally redesigning our website. (want my job now??) I left the office in London to get home a little after 6 PM. David wasn't home - he had flown to Toledo for work on Monday.
Wednesday morning I was up at 4:30 AM in order to catch a 6AM flight to Palm Springs, CA for our western regional sales meeting. I was in meetings for a few days. Remember, I was in the DESERT! Was it hot and sunny??
nope.
It was cold. (in the 60's. It was breaking record lows.)
It was raining. (scattered thunderstorms.)
It was hailing and had tornado's touching down.
Figures.
Since I couldn't fly back on Friday after the meetings were over (have you ever tried finding a flight to get back across the country on a Friday afternoon?? They don't exist.) I had to fly back on Saturday.... of Memorial Day weekend... So I went to the spa... and spent $200 on ONLY a facial and a pedicure. The guys that couldn't fly home until Saturday were golfing (in hail. how smart are they??) So the good news is that my company covered $90 of my spa bill because my boss figures that's what they spent golfing. I still think they spent more but I can't argue....
SO - I finally landed at home around 12:30AM Sunday morning and got home around 12:45am...
I know it sounded good with all the perks but I was going non-stop and my Memorial Day weekend got bit into. I'm still pooped. No days off since I got back.
I'm still working frantically trying to get this extranet ready to go live. I head BACK to Canada on Monday for three days. I really hate driving across the border. Try explaining how you live and work in NY but your corporate headquarters is in Canada. And no, I do NOT need a work permit to be in the country... I PROMISE!!!
Man, those Canadians do not want anyone working in their country without work permits!!!
So that's what I've been doing since May 10th.
So help me God if any one of you ever ask me again why I dont' have kids yet... If you do I might twist your arm off.
Don't believe I'd do that??
Try me.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Pill boxes crack me up
Here's one for a mental image. Picture this: I'm lying in bed (by myself - hubby's out of town, coaching) in an old t-shirt and shorts, in my glasses, under the covers, laptop on my chest. Lights are out. To see to type I have my camping head lamp on my forehead.
I must be a sight to see. No wonder I never get any sex these days...
Anywhoo.... I digress. I got back from a trade show late Friday nite. The only thing interesting about the show were the booths around me. Since there wasn't much traffic we were all chattin' it up with each other to pass the time. On one side was a company that sold pulse oxymetry stuff . Don't know what that is? Don't worry - you're not missing anything. 2 guys working the booth - one would work while the other was off doing something. Most of my conversations were with the younger guy. We'll get to him.
The other side of me was a company that made pill boxes in the US. A family company - mom, dad and daughter. The daughter was a few years older than me. Now they were MY PEOPLE!!! What a hoot!!!!!
Pill box family - if you're out there - Anita, Frank and Leslie - I would like to thank you for making an otherwise lackluster show probably one of the most entertaining trade shows I've been to in quite a long time! (Definitely the most enjoyable one I've been to with this company!!!)
Probably one of the best parts was when - somehow - it came up in conversation that young guy from PO company DIDN'T KNOW WHO JIMMY BUFFET WAS!!??? Ok, well, he'd heard of him but thought he was a country singer... and the kid was only 26 and from San Diego.. Apparently Anita and Frank are / were parrot heads and Anita proceeded to give the kid a proper lecture on the finer points of Jimmy. Leslie (daughter) and I were rolling!!!!
Poor kid never lived it down. Even as he was packing up to leave all of us were reminding him to have fun in Margaritaville...
I swear I saw him give us the finger as he left the convention center...
Oh, and now I have enough pill boxes to last me until I die...
I must be a sight to see. No wonder I never get any sex these days...
Anywhoo.... I digress. I got back from a trade show late Friday nite. The only thing interesting about the show were the booths around me. Since there wasn't much traffic we were all chattin' it up with each other to pass the time. On one side was a company that sold pulse oxymetry stuff . Don't know what that is? Don't worry - you're not missing anything. 2 guys working the booth - one would work while the other was off doing something. Most of my conversations were with the younger guy. We'll get to him.
The other side of me was a company that made pill boxes in the US. A family company - mom, dad and daughter. The daughter was a few years older than me. Now they were MY PEOPLE!!! What a hoot!!!!!
Pill box family - if you're out there - Anita, Frank and Leslie - I would like to thank you for making an otherwise lackluster show probably one of the most entertaining trade shows I've been to in quite a long time! (Definitely the most enjoyable one I've been to with this company!!!)
Probably one of the best parts was when - somehow - it came up in conversation that young guy from PO company DIDN'T KNOW WHO JIMMY BUFFET WAS!!??? Ok, well, he'd heard of him but thought he was a country singer... and the kid was only 26 and from San Diego.. Apparently Anita and Frank are / were parrot heads and Anita proceeded to give the kid a proper lecture on the finer points of Jimmy. Leslie (daughter) and I were rolling!!!!
Poor kid never lived it down. Even as he was packing up to leave all of us were reminding him to have fun in Margaritaville...
I swear I saw him give us the finger as he left the convention center...
Oh, and now I have enough pill boxes to last me until I die...
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
New addiction...
Ok, so I'm a little late on techno wagon...
I've perused ebay on occasion. I've even bought something off of it. (for my dad... he wanted this very specific creel for x-mas a few years back and I could only find it on an ebay store...) But I have now gone the next step....
Yes folks - I'm now officially selling things on ebay.
But out of, what to call it??
shame? no, that's not really it. (especially if I end up making some coin at it!! : )
embarassment? no, that's not really it either... I don't think...
but anyway - I'm not telling you what ID I'm using so you won't know what I'm selling.
It all started because I'm drowning in all the "stuff" in my house. I started to gather things for a garage sale I've already scheduled for June 14th. I started looking at some of the stuff and realized that a few things are pretty nice!!! It's just that I'm not utilizing them and their taking up precious space in my house!
I thought - too bad I won't get the money that stuff is worth at a garage sale.
Then it hit me.... I ought to put it on Craig's list or something. Or better yet!! Ebay!!!!
So, I just started listing a few things. I don't see this as a long term thing - I only have a few "nice" things that I was hoping to get a bit more money for than I would at the garage sale. I mean really - the packing up and shipping wouldn't make this a practical endeavor for the majority of what I have anyway...
I've perused ebay on occasion. I've even bought something off of it. (for my dad... he wanted this very specific creel for x-mas a few years back and I could only find it on an ebay store...) But I have now gone the next step....
Yes folks - I'm now officially selling things on ebay.
But out of, what to call it??
shame? no, that's not really it. (especially if I end up making some coin at it!! : )
embarassment? no, that's not really it either... I don't think...
but anyway - I'm not telling you what ID I'm using so you won't know what I'm selling.
It all started because I'm drowning in all the "stuff" in my house. I started to gather things for a garage sale I've already scheduled for June 14th. I started looking at some of the stuff and realized that a few things are pretty nice!!! It's just that I'm not utilizing them and their taking up precious space in my house!
I thought - too bad I won't get the money that stuff is worth at a garage sale.
Then it hit me.... I ought to put it on Craig's list or something. Or better yet!! Ebay!!!!
So, I just started listing a few things. I don't see this as a long term thing - I only have a few "nice" things that I was hoping to get a bit more money for than I would at the garage sale. I mean really - the packing up and shipping wouldn't make this a practical endeavor for the majority of what I have anyway...
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Beware of those that look innocent...
See this face? Looks innocent doesn't it? Doesn't look like a human eating machine, does it?
Well, it is.
This adorable looking, slipper fetish, Jax-cuddling bundle of fur is on the NY state animal biting shit-list.
Really.
And now I'm on TWO antibiotics with a red, swollen hand, a finger that looks like a vienna sausage and seeing a surgeon for check ups every few days to make sure the little booger didn't "accidentally" chomp into a tendon or nerve in my hand and cause some really serious damage. (who knew cats mouths are so dirty??!!!)
Really.
Monday Karl had to go to the vet for a routine check-up. Guess what - he really didn't want to go. I got bit TWICE in the process. NY state law says the vet has to write it up and Karl has to be quarentined for 10 days. (can't let him outside - no problem...)
It gets better. After 10 days I have to bring him BACK TO THE VET for another check-up so the vet can complete the NY state paperwork!!! Do they realize that that's what got me into this predicament in the first place????
Do we really need any more drama at my house??? and many thanks to my friend Yana who's a physician asst. - I was able to call her afer it happened and go to her house. She took care of me - cleaned the wound, determined no stitches were needed, wrapped me up and wrote me some scripts. Kept me from having to book it over to urgent care at 7:30pm on a Monday night!!!
Argh!!!
Monday, April 07, 2008
The Secret
Have you heard of the book The Secret? It's been on Oprah.... It's the book that says if you really want something all you have to do is "ask" for it and the stars align, and the universe answers what you want....
I'm The Reverse Secret. Over the weekend I'm driving and realize my inspection for my car has expired. Since I got a ticket for an expired inspection February '07 I think to myself, "Self, must get car inspected and soon!! Wouldn't want to get another ticket for an expired inspection!!" I get in the car Sunday and again remind myself how dire the situation is. I MUST get the inspection situation remedied. The NY state troopers do NOT mess around with these things. But what can I really do about it on a weekend??
So this morning I'm driving to work bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready to start a new week. As I'm pulling on to the interstate entrance ramp I notice a back-up of cars. "Is there a wreck on the interstate??" I tune into the radio trying to find traffic info when it's my turn to go. I make my left hand turn and lo and behold... a checkpoint. ON THE ENTRANCE RAMP!!!
At first I think "I'm fine. I have my seat belt on." Then it hits me! SHIT!! My inspection's expired!!! I thought about it and thought about it and the universe made it so!!! Sure enough, the trooper is slowly waving cars through, gets to me, holds up his hand and motions me to the side of the road.
I pull over. I'm getting a ticket for an expired inspection AGAIN. But what's worse... it's the SAME COP that pulled me over the last time!!! Thank god he didn't recognize me. And at least this time he had a sense of humor.
Cop: ma'am do you realize you're inspection has expired?
me: you're not going to believe me, but yes. I just realized it last night. I swear. (I'm actually smiling because I truly can't believe my luck. cop is actually smiling too.)
Cop: may I have your drivers license and registration?
me: sure, hold on. (I'm cool as a cucumber because, again, I can't believe my luck - which, in fact must have been what made me so believable.)
I start rummaging through my filthy glove compartment looking for my registration - which I don't understand because in NY your registration is also right on your damn windshield anyway. I think they do it to make you nervous.... didn't work.
me: Do you mind if I go ahead and get you mu drivers license? It might take me a while to find this.
Cop: (grinning) sure.
me: Ok. it's in the back seat. (purse is back there with computer bag) hold on.
I quickly retrieve said DL, hand it over, and return to rummaging through glove compartment. Nothing.
me: I have it, I swear. Do you mind if I call my husband and ask him what he did with it?
Cop: (smiling) ma'am, that won't be necessary. This'll be fine. (looks at the info on my windshield and goes back to his car.)
Meanwhile I'm still shifting through the shit in my glove box, cussing David in my head wondering where in the hell he put these important documents. I mean, really. I've kept these things in here my whole life. Where are they?? I give up and start throwing it all back in there.
Then it occurs to me that Ford provides you with this nice little zipped up binder for your manual and maintenance log.... and again, lo and behold... that's where it was...
Cop walks back up to my car... I'm sitting there with the documents in my hand...
me: (meekly) I found them... (weak smile...)
Cop: really? I already wrote you up for them!
me: really!!
Cop: (smiling) no, I'm kidding.
Yeah, funny, ha, ha...
He actually was nice and wrote me up for a lesser charge. (apparently our previous run in 14 months ago wasn't in the system... thank god...) Needless to say I took care of it at lunch!!!
Car inspected - check!!!!!
I'm The Reverse Secret. Over the weekend I'm driving and realize my inspection for my car has expired. Since I got a ticket for an expired inspection February '07 I think to myself, "Self, must get car inspected and soon!! Wouldn't want to get another ticket for an expired inspection!!" I get in the car Sunday and again remind myself how dire the situation is. I MUST get the inspection situation remedied. The NY state troopers do NOT mess around with these things. But what can I really do about it on a weekend??
So this morning I'm driving to work bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready to start a new week. As I'm pulling on to the interstate entrance ramp I notice a back-up of cars. "Is there a wreck on the interstate??" I tune into the radio trying to find traffic info when it's my turn to go. I make my left hand turn and lo and behold... a checkpoint. ON THE ENTRANCE RAMP!!!
At first I think "I'm fine. I have my seat belt on." Then it hits me! SHIT!! My inspection's expired!!! I thought about it and thought about it and the universe made it so!!! Sure enough, the trooper is slowly waving cars through, gets to me, holds up his hand and motions me to the side of the road.
I pull over. I'm getting a ticket for an expired inspection AGAIN. But what's worse... it's the SAME COP that pulled me over the last time!!! Thank god he didn't recognize me. And at least this time he had a sense of humor.
Cop: ma'am do you realize you're inspection has expired?
me: you're not going to believe me, but yes. I just realized it last night. I swear. (I'm actually smiling because I truly can't believe my luck. cop is actually smiling too.)
Cop: may I have your drivers license and registration?
me: sure, hold on. (I'm cool as a cucumber because, again, I can't believe my luck - which, in fact must have been what made me so believable.)
I start rummaging through my filthy glove compartment looking for my registration - which I don't understand because in NY your registration is also right on your damn windshield anyway. I think they do it to make you nervous.... didn't work.
me: Do you mind if I go ahead and get you mu drivers license? It might take me a while to find this.
Cop: (grinning) sure.
me: Ok. it's in the back seat. (purse is back there with computer bag) hold on.
I quickly retrieve said DL, hand it over, and return to rummaging through glove compartment. Nothing.
me: I have it, I swear. Do you mind if I call my husband and ask him what he did with it?
Cop: (smiling) ma'am, that won't be necessary. This'll be fine. (looks at the info on my windshield and goes back to his car.)
Meanwhile I'm still shifting through the shit in my glove box, cussing David in my head wondering where in the hell he put these important documents. I mean, really. I've kept these things in here my whole life. Where are they?? I give up and start throwing it all back in there.
Then it occurs to me that Ford provides you with this nice little zipped up binder for your manual and maintenance log.... and again, lo and behold... that's where it was...
Cop walks back up to my car... I'm sitting there with the documents in my hand...
me: (meekly) I found them... (weak smile...)
Cop: really? I already wrote you up for them!
me: really!!
Cop: (smiling) no, I'm kidding.
Yeah, funny, ha, ha...
He actually was nice and wrote me up for a lesser charge. (apparently our previous run in 14 months ago wasn't in the system... thank god...) Needless to say I took care of it at lunch!!!
Car inspected - check!!!!!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Add another blogger to the list!
Welcome my good friend KM to the blogging world!!! Or, as she's know on blogger - CrazyPetLady (I'm calling her CPL for short from now on...)
Check her out! I LOVE ANIMALS!
WELCOME!!!!
Check her out! I LOVE ANIMALS!
WELCOME!!!!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
THE PREMIER!!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Preparing for my first movie premier
This past weekend my brother-in-law, Chris, had his first ever movie premier! Whoopie!! We all got invited and it was our first ever movie premier. Since it was filmed in Philly that's where they decided to premier it. So, me, David and the in-laws hit the road this past holiday weekend to see what "Crooked Necktie" was all about! Check it out!
Thursday it hit me - what exactly does one wear to a movie premier?? You know me, the fashionista... plus this wasn't a red carpet event. It's an indie film. casual... but still! what do I wear??!!! So I had KM over after lifting to help pick out something "premier appropriate". I was determined that there was something in my closet that I could wear without having to purchase something new. And if there was KM could find it.
So after lifting KM comes over and we headed up to my closets. (yes, I have the two in the master bedroom. They're small...) I open them up and show KM. She takes and look without even riffling through them and asks "is this all your clothes?..... Like all the clothes you own in your whole entire life??" I guess that means I need to go shopping....
In my own defense all my t-shirts and workout clothes are in drawers... but of course I'm not going to a premier in T-shirts and workout clothes.... but I wouldn't put it past me to try...
But the good news is KM did find something appropriate in my closet. Figures - it was something I bought about 2 years ago that I had never worn before. I didn't know what to wear it with. It still had the tags on it.
So - the premier was a success!!! I would post pictures - but they're all on our home computer so you're going to have to wait. I'll post again with pictures and tell you more about the premier itself.
Thursday it hit me - what exactly does one wear to a movie premier?? You know me, the fashionista... plus this wasn't a red carpet event. It's an indie film. casual... but still! what do I wear??!!! So I had KM over after lifting to help pick out something "premier appropriate". I was determined that there was something in my closet that I could wear without having to purchase something new. And if there was KM could find it.
So after lifting KM comes over and we headed up to my closets. (yes, I have the two in the master bedroom. They're small...) I open them up and show KM. She takes and look without even riffling through them and asks "is this all your clothes?..... Like all the clothes you own in your whole entire life??" I guess that means I need to go shopping....
In my own defense all my t-shirts and workout clothes are in drawers... but of course I'm not going to a premier in T-shirts and workout clothes.... but I wouldn't put it past me to try...
But the good news is KM did find something appropriate in my closet. Figures - it was something I bought about 2 years ago that I had never worn before. I didn't know what to wear it with. It still had the tags on it.
So - the premier was a success!!! I would post pictures - but they're all on our home computer so you're going to have to wait. I'll post again with pictures and tell you more about the premier itself.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
What a twist
Today KM and I were at the gym working out. She was giving me the update on her boyfriend and his latest drama and how it's affecting her, et cetera.... Then I was giving her the scoop on how D's season has already started, how his work is going full force and how he's going to run himself ragged already if he's not careful, et cetera...
Then we both started laughing. Who woulda thunk! The girls in the weight room, puming iron, talking about all the drama in their boy's lives!
What a twist!!
Monday, March 10, 2008
It's the little things...
I just want my hubby to know that I know I've been a handful to live with lately. It's not him, mind you. I think I'm going through some sort of mid-life crisis. I know, I'm too young for a mid-life crisis... but I don't know what else to call it... so I'll call it that.
It's not the weather - but that sure as hell isn't helping!! I don't know what it is. Which isn't helping because I can't articulate to him what the hell is eating at me. But it's not him. It definitely isn't him.
He wants to help me but I don't know what to tell him to do to help. But I can tell him that whatever he is doing does help. It's the little things... like when I got in my car this morning and the clock was already changed!
I don't know how many years I've owned this damned Explorer, or how easy it is to change the clock - but I'll be damned that every time the time changes I have to pull out the manual and look up how to change the clock again...
Or when I was listening to the radio this morning and realized he had also changed the setting to show the name of the song and the artist! Anyone who knows me knows that I can't name the song or artist to save my life- unless of course it's from the 80's. In that case I can tell you what year it came out, what I was doing when I first heard it and what outfit I was wearing... oh, and who was dating who, and all kinds of other ridiculous, useless information...
So, I just want to tell him that these things don't go unnoticed and they DEFINITELY are appreciated... even if I forget to say so.
love you hon.
Friday, March 07, 2008
A couple of long weeks
Wow - I didn't realize how long it's been since I last posted! Time flies when you're on the road!!
Well, let's see, I spent almost a week in Canada, a week in Utah and this week I've been in the office trying to catch up. The next few months are going to be a whirlwind for me at work. Meetings, tradeshows, more meetings, more tradeshows... If I can get through May I'll be ok.
I did have a great time in Utah. I met up with our rep there, Brooke. If you're an avid reader of my blog, and have a great memory, you may remember her from a trip I made to Kanasas City a while back. I went to a kickboxing class with her (and blogged about it, of course!) Well, now she lives in Denver and is our rep for Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. I happened to catch up with her in Salt Lake City to work and then play for a bit on the slopes in Park City. We had a blast!! Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures on the slopes... didn't want to drop my phone in the snow!! But I did get a few at dinner one night in SLC!
Well, let's see, I spent almost a week in Canada, a week in Utah and this week I've been in the office trying to catch up. The next few months are going to be a whirlwind for me at work. Meetings, tradeshows, more meetings, more tradeshows... If I can get through May I'll be ok.
I did have a great time in Utah. I met up with our rep there, Brooke. If you're an avid reader of my blog, and have a great memory, you may remember her from a trip I made to Kanasas City a while back. I went to a kickboxing class with her (and blogged about it, of course!) Well, now she lives in Denver and is our rep for Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. I happened to catch up with her in Salt Lake City to work and then play for a bit on the slopes in Park City. We had a blast!! Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures on the slopes... didn't want to drop my phone in the snow!! But I did get a few at dinner one night in SLC!
Right now I'm trying to think positive thoughts that I'm NOT getting sick. I SWEAR I get sick all the time since I've moved to this damned state. I've been working out, eating well, taking my vitamins, I got my flu shot... what else can I do???!!!!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Count 'em... FIFTY!!!!
Y'all know I HATE shopping for clothes for myself. And it's not just the "oh no, do I have to?" kind of hate. This hate qualifies for the Psychiatry Desk Reference. It's so bad I've been known to have panic attacks. really.
There are several reasons I hate it, not just one in particular. Part of it is the frustration of not finding the right size and fit. Pile on top of that the self-conscious confusion of not understanding where to shop in a department store (of which I have finally figured out to just stop shopping). Mix with that my total lack of (and acceptance of) fashion and style - but not acceptance of snooty sales associates. Add a slice of me hating to part with my money, regardless of how much disposable income my husband and I are fortunate to actually have (again, another one for the Psychiatry Desk Reference). And finally finish off with a dollop of (past) social anxiety. And that folks, is the fixin's for how you get a girl to have a panic attack when shopping for clothes.
Sad, isn't it.
That said, I only own three pairs of jeans. One is actually a "girl" pair, purchased in December of 2001 and 2 are "boy" pairs - as in bought from the men's section of the GAP - purchased in 2004 because the most of the few pairs I had at the time no longer fit (because they were left over from college...) The girl jeans I just started to fit back into a few months ago and the boy jeans are now way too big (and too short. I SWEAR my legs have gotten longer since I bought them...)
Now I just didn't have an epiphany the other day that I needed new jeans. Nope - been talkin' about this for months now. Just couldn't bring myself to do it. (See aforementioned issues.) My friend KM- good soul and fashion-guru that she is - offered her shopping services long ago. I did take her up on it but the more I thought about it the more I wanted to back out. KM's a good friend and I wanted to keep her as a good friend. I figured if she went shopping with me and she saw "my shopping side" the friendship might come to a grinding halt. Then for my birthday she got me a gift certificate to the mall with the specific intent for me to use for us to go jean shopping. I couldn't back out now!!
If you'll recall my birthday was January 28th. We finally went last night. I needed some talking-into... We went on a weeknight - not as crowded, less intimidating. We even forfeited a weight lifting session to go shopping! (KM and I are lifting partners.)
KM had a plan (a GREAT one if you ask me!!) I just stand in the dressing room and she brings me jeans. I just try them on. I promised no whining. Ok, maybe I didn't promise her that out loud but I promised myself that because I figured if I started whining she would never help me again. And I figured I'd probably need her help again...
First stop the GAP. Inside I cringed. Last time I bought jeans I came to the GAP, tried on EVERY style of women's jeans - no luck and then bought 2 pairs of men's. But that was also 2004. So KM starts walking from rack to rack, shelf to shelf. She knows what she's doing and she's on a mission. I'm like her little kid, right on her heels, following her around, not a clue what's going on. Every time a sales associate walks up "can I help you?" Nope lady, we got it. Look at us!! Can't you see????
The first 2 pair I try on look good. Great start. They go in the "possibility" pile. I keep going. I know I have to try on a million pairs. I've seen Stacey and Clinton on TLC. I know what this is all about (which is kinda one reason I've avoided it....) I keep trying. Most end up in the "bad" pile on the floor. No sweat. This is why I have KM. She keeps handing, I keep trying.
You've seen me. You know how I'm shaped. I'm 5'7" with short, thick legs and an "athletic" build. KM is 5'10" and has very long legs and a long and lean build. Needless to say we have body types on the opposite ends of the spectrum. I was a bit worried at first that KM would only know how to shop for her body type but she was great is getting my things that looked great on me too!!!! However, I have this weird thing with a lot of jeans. I get that big ol' gap in the back. I don't think KM is used to the gap in the back. I guess I just have more of a caboose than KM 'cuz that's all I can figure that causes the gap...
So, off to the next store we go. Try on 4 pair there. Next sore, 3 pair there, next store 5 pair there... on and on....
Express
Banana Republic
Limited
NY and Co
Macy's
back to the GAP
Old Navy
There were some noteworthy stores....
Banana Republic:
Unlike some of the other stores that have walls covered in jeans, BR has just 3 or so styles to choose and then 1 or 2 washes. That's it. But we went in anyway. You never know! We picked one pair of each style. I tried the first one. Didn't fit, legs too tight (story of my life..) Tried the next one - didn't fit, can't remember why.
Tried the third one. OH MY GOD!!! remeber the little plastic sleeves you slip onto eggs at easter, dip them into hot water and tada- nicely decorated easter eggs?? I felt like I had those plastic films on my legs (after the boiling water) but the stomach and ass was loose and back of the waistband... I can't even explain it!! It was so loose KM coulda climbed in there with me!! Not only did it just look ridiculous but our next thought was "Who in the hell did they design this for???" What exactly does this person look like???? I mean, really! We were laughing so hard we were getting funny looks from other people in the store. Laughing so hard tears were staring to form. And this was only our second or third store!!
Macy's:
This was what we thought was our last store. KM found this sailor-style pant (she's either fond of sailors or thinks I belong in the navy, I don't know which...) and had me try it on in the size I had been trying all night. Let's just say it didn't fit - as in I FLOATED in it. Yes, we were slap happy, we had now been shopping for OVER TWO HOURS!!, but it too was just styled funny. And it was Ralph Lauren!!! Again - trying to picture who this would flatter was just hilarious!
Eventually we hit a bunch of stores. My ass was draggin! I was so tired! My saddlebags were on fire form trying on all those jeans. I really did start to complain of a rash I was getting around my waist and on my saddlebags.... I told KM if I had to try on one more pair my saddlebags were going to burst into flames. So, we circled back around to the GAP to grab a pair I had put on hold. First KM made me try on MORE jeans there!! No dice. Finally I went to buy the pair the set aside earlier. You're not going to believe this - it was the FIRST pair I tried on. really. They looked good, fit good, felt good on. I bought them. Only problem. They were cute and all but wouldn't look good with my cowboy boots. They were more "trendy" type. So it was looking as though I was going to have to resume my jean hunt another day of more jeans for the boots.
By now we had been shopping for well over two hours. The mall was getting ready to close within 30 minutes. As we were walking out to the car we passed Old Navy which reminded KM that we hadn't stopped there. I really wasn't excited about it because, as I mentioned before, my ass was about to light on fire if I tried on one more pair of denim. But alas, I followed her in. Sure enough, I tried on four more pair - and there, lurking in the depths of the shelves of Old Navy were the perfect pair of jeans for my boots that also flattered my figure!! (AND were only $30!!!!)
On the way home KM and I counted it up. I tried on FIFTY pair of jeans in three hours. And could only find TWO pair that were flattering. Ugh!! So I'm the proud owner of two new pair of jeans. I bet this is just the beginning seeing as how KM is making me throw out the old ones... I'm going to need new to replace the old.... We'll see how lon git takes her to tlak me into that jean shopping trip!!
There are several reasons I hate it, not just one in particular. Part of it is the frustration of not finding the right size and fit. Pile on top of that the self-conscious confusion of not understanding where to shop in a department store (of which I have finally figured out to just stop shopping). Mix with that my total lack of (and acceptance of) fashion and style - but not acceptance of snooty sales associates. Add a slice of me hating to part with my money, regardless of how much disposable income my husband and I are fortunate to actually have (again, another one for the Psychiatry Desk Reference). And finally finish off with a dollop of (past) social anxiety. And that folks, is the fixin's for how you get a girl to have a panic attack when shopping for clothes.
Sad, isn't it.
That said, I only own three pairs of jeans. One is actually a "girl" pair, purchased in December of 2001 and 2 are "boy" pairs - as in bought from the men's section of the GAP - purchased in 2004 because the most of the few pairs I had at the time no longer fit (because they were left over from college...) The girl jeans I just started to fit back into a few months ago and the boy jeans are now way too big (and too short. I SWEAR my legs have gotten longer since I bought them...)
Now I just didn't have an epiphany the other day that I needed new jeans. Nope - been talkin' about this for months now. Just couldn't bring myself to do it. (See aforementioned issues.) My friend KM- good soul and fashion-guru that she is - offered her shopping services long ago. I did take her up on it but the more I thought about it the more I wanted to back out. KM's a good friend and I wanted to keep her as a good friend. I figured if she went shopping with me and she saw "my shopping side" the friendship might come to a grinding halt. Then for my birthday she got me a gift certificate to the mall with the specific intent for me to use for us to go jean shopping. I couldn't back out now!!
If you'll recall my birthday was January 28th. We finally went last night. I needed some talking-into... We went on a weeknight - not as crowded, less intimidating. We even forfeited a weight lifting session to go shopping! (KM and I are lifting partners.)
KM had a plan (a GREAT one if you ask me!!) I just stand in the dressing room and she brings me jeans. I just try them on. I promised no whining. Ok, maybe I didn't promise her that out loud but I promised myself that because I figured if I started whining she would never help me again. And I figured I'd probably need her help again...
First stop the GAP. Inside I cringed. Last time I bought jeans I came to the GAP, tried on EVERY style of women's jeans - no luck and then bought 2 pairs of men's. But that was also 2004. So KM starts walking from rack to rack, shelf to shelf. She knows what she's doing and she's on a mission. I'm like her little kid, right on her heels, following her around, not a clue what's going on. Every time a sales associate walks up "can I help you?" Nope lady, we got it. Look at us!! Can't you see????
The first 2 pair I try on look good. Great start. They go in the "possibility" pile. I keep going. I know I have to try on a million pairs. I've seen Stacey and Clinton on TLC. I know what this is all about (which is kinda one reason I've avoided it....) I keep trying. Most end up in the "bad" pile on the floor. No sweat. This is why I have KM. She keeps handing, I keep trying.
You've seen me. You know how I'm shaped. I'm 5'7" with short, thick legs and an "athletic" build. KM is 5'10" and has very long legs and a long and lean build. Needless to say we have body types on the opposite ends of the spectrum. I was a bit worried at first that KM would only know how to shop for her body type but she was great is getting my things that looked great on me too!!!! However, I have this weird thing with a lot of jeans. I get that big ol' gap in the back. I don't think KM is used to the gap in the back. I guess I just have more of a caboose than KM 'cuz that's all I can figure that causes the gap...
So, off to the next store we go. Try on 4 pair there. Next sore, 3 pair there, next store 5 pair there... on and on....
Express
Banana Republic
Limited
NY and Co
Macy's
back to the GAP
Old Navy
There were some noteworthy stores....
Banana Republic:
Unlike some of the other stores that have walls covered in jeans, BR has just 3 or so styles to choose and then 1 or 2 washes. That's it. But we went in anyway. You never know! We picked one pair of each style. I tried the first one. Didn't fit, legs too tight (story of my life..) Tried the next one - didn't fit, can't remember why.
Tried the third one. OH MY GOD!!! remeber the little plastic sleeves you slip onto eggs at easter, dip them into hot water and tada- nicely decorated easter eggs?? I felt like I had those plastic films on my legs (after the boiling water) but the stomach and ass was loose and back of the waistband... I can't even explain it!! It was so loose KM coulda climbed in there with me!! Not only did it just look ridiculous but our next thought was "Who in the hell did they design this for???" What exactly does this person look like???? I mean, really! We were laughing so hard we were getting funny looks from other people in the store. Laughing so hard tears were staring to form. And this was only our second or third store!!
Macy's:
This was what we thought was our last store. KM found this sailor-style pant (she's either fond of sailors or thinks I belong in the navy, I don't know which...) and had me try it on in the size I had been trying all night. Let's just say it didn't fit - as in I FLOATED in it. Yes, we were slap happy, we had now been shopping for OVER TWO HOURS!!, but it too was just styled funny. And it was Ralph Lauren!!! Again - trying to picture who this would flatter was just hilarious!
Eventually we hit a bunch of stores. My ass was draggin! I was so tired! My saddlebags were on fire form trying on all those jeans. I really did start to complain of a rash I was getting around my waist and on my saddlebags.... I told KM if I had to try on one more pair my saddlebags were going to burst into flames. So, we circled back around to the GAP to grab a pair I had put on hold. First KM made me try on MORE jeans there!! No dice. Finally I went to buy the pair the set aside earlier. You're not going to believe this - it was the FIRST pair I tried on. really. They looked good, fit good, felt good on. I bought them. Only problem. They were cute and all but wouldn't look good with my cowboy boots. They were more "trendy" type. So it was looking as though I was going to have to resume my jean hunt another day of more jeans for the boots.
By now we had been shopping for well over two hours. The mall was getting ready to close within 30 minutes. As we were walking out to the car we passed Old Navy which reminded KM that we hadn't stopped there. I really wasn't excited about it because, as I mentioned before, my ass was about to light on fire if I tried on one more pair of denim. But alas, I followed her in. Sure enough, I tried on four more pair - and there, lurking in the depths of the shelves of Old Navy were the perfect pair of jeans for my boots that also flattered my figure!! (AND were only $30!!!!)
On the way home KM and I counted it up. I tried on FIFTY pair of jeans in three hours. And could only find TWO pair that were flattering. Ugh!! So I'm the proud owner of two new pair of jeans. I bet this is just the beginning seeing as how KM is making me throw out the old ones... I'm going to need new to replace the old.... We'll see how lon git takes her to tlak me into that jean shopping trip!!
Monday, February 11, 2008
you're gonna hate me....
To my friends with kids - don't read this or you might hate me....
Ah, Sunday. I did NUTHIN! And I mean NUTHIN! I didn't even get out of my jammies until I decided to finally take a shower around 5... PM...
Yeah, I did a few loads of laundry when the spirit moved me. But mostly I laid around and watched tv. I rented "The Kingdom" off iControl. I took a nap.
Ok, a few naps. With several cats.
I eventually got up and unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher. I laid back down and watched more tv. I wouldn't have even eaten anything if I hadn't had hunger pangs.
Talk about LAZY!!!! I loved it. and I wasn't even sick! That's the life! Now if I could only figure out how to make money at that I'd be set!
Ah, Sunday. I did NUTHIN! And I mean NUTHIN! I didn't even get out of my jammies until I decided to finally take a shower around 5... PM...
Yeah, I did a few loads of laundry when the spirit moved me. But mostly I laid around and watched tv. I rented "The Kingdom" off iControl. I took a nap.
Ok, a few naps. With several cats.
I eventually got up and unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher. I laid back down and watched more tv. I wouldn't have even eaten anything if I hadn't had hunger pangs.
Talk about LAZY!!!! I loved it. and I wasn't even sick! That's the life! Now if I could only figure out how to make money at that I'd be set!
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