The Dude and Maxine also got dressed up for Halloween. Poor dogs. But they're just so funny! Hah!
Saturday, November 10, 2007
She's a little bit country...
he's a little bit rock 'n roll.
The Dude and Maxine also got dressed up for Halloween. Poor dogs. But they're just so funny! Hah!
The Dude and Maxine also got dressed up for Halloween. Poor dogs. But they're just so funny! Hah!
Pictures of the toothless giraffe
I'm finally posting pics of the now legendary giraffe costume we made Sam for Halloween. Yes, I busted out the sewing machine, and Dave now has a special place in his heart for paper mache.
Sam asked specifically to have a removable tail (it safety pins on) so he could have the option of rocking the giraffe suit as jammies or casual wear after Halloween had come and gone. The top and bottom are made of polar fleece and pretty soft, so I guess I can understand that thinking.
P.S. Sam lost his first tooth a couple of weeks before Halloween. The new one is already halfway in, but it did make this giraffe a bit of a snaggletooth.
Sam asked specifically to have a removable tail (it safety pins on) so he could have the option of rocking the giraffe suit as jammies or casual wear after Halloween had come and gone. The top and bottom are made of polar fleece and pretty soft, so I guess I can understand that thinking.
P.S. Sam lost his first tooth a couple of weeks before Halloween. The new one is already halfway in, but it did make this giraffe a bit of a snaggletooth.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Are they telling us to shut up?
Young Dad (the same one who fancies himself a musician) and family wrote us a note! It came through our mail slot late in the week. The handwriting makes me think it was probably written my Mrs. Young Dad.
The note reads:
"Hi All --
We're having friends with 19 month old twins to stay through Tuesday, I believe. They'll be staying in our middle room -- bedtime 8:00. Wake up time is usually 6:15 -- we'll see how they do in a new place. Regardless, we will do our best not to disturb you."
Is this a polite warning of possible noise to come? Or is this a passive aggressive command to be quiet between the hours of 8pm and 6am? They'd best look out having just set a precedent for note writing.
P.S. The guitar was going last night until 11:45pm, twins or no twins. I have yet to hear a baby noise come of of that apartment.
P.P.S. Yes, I was home on a Friday night, trying to sleep at 11:45pm. What of it?
The note reads:
"Hi All --
We're having friends with 19 month old twins to stay through Tuesday, I believe. They'll be staying in our middle room -- bedtime 8:00. Wake up time is usually 6:15 -- we'll see how they do in a new place. Regardless, we will do our best not to disturb you."
Is this a polite warning of possible noise to come? Or is this a passive aggressive command to be quiet between the hours of 8pm and 6am? They'd best look out having just set a precedent for note writing.
P.S. The guitar was going last night until 11:45pm, twins or no twins. I have yet to hear a baby noise come of of that apartment.
P.P.S. Yes, I was home on a Friday night, trying to sleep at 11:45pm. What of it?
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Column on The Office
One of my authors wrote this column that was printed in the Detroit News today, drawing some contrasts between the hysterical funniness of The Office and real life. Her book comes out next month.
Monday, September 24, 2007
From the men who brought you If I Had a Million Dollars...
I recently posted about The Three Signs of a Miserable Job, the first book I worked on at my current job. The book is selling like hotcakes, and currently on several best seller lists -- including the New York Times business list.
The author is best known for a previous book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, which has sold over a million copies. A lot of people run across this book during training sessions at work. It's also a business fable, aka a short novel about people in an office that teaches management and teamwork principles through examples in the story.
We all (meaning my own work team) were forwarded this YouTube clip of the Bare Naked Ladies, playing a song they made up about the book. For those of you who haven't read it, they use actual terms from the book in the song (fear of conflict, lack of commitment, etc.).
http://www.youtube.com/v/QYo3IWt5sSw
Somehow, I never expected musicians to find inspiration in popular management books. I guess it just goes to show that understanding management principles is good for everyone.
The author is best known for a previous book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, which has sold over a million copies. A lot of people run across this book during training sessions at work. It's also a business fable, aka a short novel about people in an office that teaches management and teamwork principles through examples in the story.
We all (meaning my own work team) were forwarded this YouTube clip of the Bare Naked Ladies, playing a song they made up about the book. For those of you who haven't read it, they use actual terms from the book in the song (fear of conflict, lack of commitment, etc.).
http://www.youtube.com/v/QYo3IWt5sSw
Somehow, I never expected musicians to find inspiration in popular management books. I guess it just goes to show that understanding management principles is good for everyone.
You can see the fallopian tubes here
Okay, I know it's breast cancer awareness and supposed to look like a ribbon, blah, blah. However, I find it amazing that any designer could produce a corkscrew that evokes health class diagrams of the female reproductive organs so perfectly... yet with a modern, Ikea-esque flare.
ARC + RB
I was just accepted into the Berkeley Board Fellows, an opportunity set up through the Haas Non-Profit Management program that allows MBA candidates to serve on the governing board of a local non-profit. "During the school year Fellows work closely with board members and executive directors, serve on board committees, attend full board meetings, and participate in special events and projects. Essentially, Fellows act as non-voting members of the board."
Should I choose to accept the position, I would be working with ARC Associates out of downtown Oakland. ARC is an organization that provides tutoring about 1,000 students in California, including helping with GEDs for migrant workers and organizing charter schools. It's a pretty good match, in terms of mission, as I had expressed an interest in organizations working to improve the quality of public education in California. I haven't heard of ARC before, though, so I have a little homework to do.
To be honest, I really wasn't expecting to get this fellowship. I'm a little dumbstruck... and totally excited! I hope we publish a "Boards for Dummies."
Should I choose to accept the position, I would be working with ARC Associates out of downtown Oakland. ARC is an organization that provides tutoring about 1,000 students in California, including helping with GEDs for migrant workers and organizing charter schools. It's a pretty good match, in terms of mission, as I had expressed an interest in organizations working to improve the quality of public education in California. I haven't heard of ARC before, though, so I have a little homework to do.
To be honest, I really wasn't expecting to get this fellowship. I'm a little dumbstruck... and totally excited! I hope we publish a "Boards for Dummies."
Beer pong, California Berkeley syle
Somehow I've never got around to posting pictures of the beer pong table I inherited from Team Traille at the beginning of the summer. They left for high-profile international internships, and I scored their super sweet, handmade, pong table. Those Trailles always seem to have it all. But now the table is mine.
Anyhoo, as you can see for yourself, it is a glorious piece of equipment (only moderately portable, and currently living in Dave's "backyard"). I hope it sees some action at least a couple of more times before the season ends. The coming weekend might be a good one for pong, since there's no home game to get across the Bay for. Except Sam will be around, and he usually shows an unhealthy amount of interest in drinking games for a five-year-old.
We've got spririt! And Highlife!
Anyhoo, as you can see for yourself, it is a glorious piece of equipment (only moderately portable, and currently living in Dave's "backyard"). I hope it sees some action at least a couple of more times before the season ends. The coming weekend might be a good one for pong, since there's no home game to get across the Bay for. Except Sam will be around, and he usually shows an unhealthy amount of interest in drinking games for a five-year-old.
We've got spririt! And Highlife!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
How do you end a blog?
I think the social phenomenon of keeping a personal blog as a hobby is coming to a close. I see more and more people worried about the personal information they are putting out onto the Internet, even if anonymously. I myself changed the URL for my blog several months ago (in hopes of making it a little less conspicuous in a search), a couple friends have password protected their blogs, and a lot of people have just stopped updating their blogs altogether.
Today I was asked to take a research survey about blogs and blogging. This question was included:
Why do you blog?(Please check all that apply.)
To express yourself creatively
To document your personal experiences or share them with others
To stay in touch with friends and family
To share practical knowledge or skills with others
To motivate other people to action
To entertain people
To store resources or information that is important to you
To influence the way other people think
Other (please specify)
The writing I have posted to RBlog over the past three years has been motivated at one time or another by each of above reasons. But, I've posted less and less lately. I think this is primarily due to two factors:
1) When you figure in work, commuting, school, homework, volunteer projects, sleep, and commitments I've made to Dave, Sam, and friends, I have less than 1 free hour per day during the work week, and I rarely want to spend it in front of a computer.
2) Many of the things I'm motivated to write about are not appropriate for some part of the audience that I know reads this blog. They are either too personal, too R-rated, could get me into trouble at work, or probably just not that interesting to you.
And so, in my mind this blog has become bits and pieces that get posted when I am in the mood, and mostly a way to keep in touch with the friends and family who still check it. That seems like a fine use for now, and there's always the possibility that somewhere down the line I will become a more active blogger.
There are some takeaways from my blogging experience so far. For a blog to have any sustainable life and be able to grow a relevant community around it, it needs to have 1) a mission statement-like focus and a reason for existing that goes beyond the ego of the author(s), 2) author(s) who post each day, 3) the freedom (usually created through the anonymity of the author) to be honest, interesting, express a unique personality, and cover personal topics that inspire genuine interest and passion in readers.
Today I was asked to take a research survey about blogs and blogging. This question was included:
Why do you blog?(Please check all that apply.)
To express yourself creatively
To document your personal experiences or share them with others
To stay in touch with friends and family
To share practical knowledge or skills with others
To motivate other people to action
To entertain people
To store resources or information that is important to you
To influence the way other people think
Other (please specify)
The writing I have posted to RBlog over the past three years has been motivated at one time or another by each of above reasons. But, I've posted less and less lately. I think this is primarily due to two factors:
1) When you figure in work, commuting, school, homework, volunteer projects, sleep, and commitments I've made to Dave, Sam, and friends, I have less than 1 free hour per day during the work week, and I rarely want to spend it in front of a computer.
2) Many of the things I'm motivated to write about are not appropriate for some part of the audience that I know reads this blog. They are either too personal, too R-rated, could get me into trouble at work, or probably just not that interesting to you.
And so, in my mind this blog has become bits and pieces that get posted when I am in the mood, and mostly a way to keep in touch with the friends and family who still check it. That seems like a fine use for now, and there's always the possibility that somewhere down the line I will become a more active blogger.
There are some takeaways from my blogging experience so far. For a blog to have any sustainable life and be able to grow a relevant community around it, it needs to have 1) a mission statement-like focus and a reason for existing that goes beyond the ego of the author(s), 2) author(s) who post each day, 3) the freedom (usually created through the anonymity of the author) to be honest, interesting, express a unique personality, and cover personal topics that inspire genuine interest and passion in readers.
You are making me hate you and your electric keyboard synthesizer thing
After three years of uncommonly good housing luck, my spree of domestic bliss may have just come to an abrupt end. Last month, new neighbors moved into the apartment below us. They are a very cute young couple with a very cute baby. You may assume that it would be the baby causing the problem, but you'd be wrong. The problem I'm facing is the dangerous amateur musician with a baby combo. I may never sleep past eight again.
It works like this. Young men in San Francisco seem to almost always see themselves as blossoming musicians. These guys are EVERYWHERE and incredibly difficult to avoid when selecting a) housing, or b) a boyfriend. Are you, reader, a male living in SF under the age of 38? There's an 85% chance you have some kind of musical instrument in your apartment and believe that its being there and the fact that you make it make noise sometimes somehow make you cooler.
One of the greatest mysteries around is why these guys think they need to bless the world to their musical stylings, because they -- almost without exception -- are not good. They play the same stupid song, or piece of a song, over and over and over and over. And then again. Twenty more times. Frequently they make the same mistake each time, too, which is a real treat for those of us forced by the proximity of our apartments to listen.
To validate my expertise in this area, I want you to know that I have lived with or next to, and/or dated guys who think they can play:
the piano
the guitar (x5)
the banjo
the mandolin
the drums
the xylophone
the saxophone
turn tables (not really an instrument, but equally annoying)
I digress... Back to the update on our new neighbor situation. Young Dad down there seems to have both a guitar (of course) and an electric keyboard synthesizer thing. And he likes to sing.
To her credit, I have not heard the baby once. But she is equally guilty, for people with babies and small children become accustomed to waking up at 6am or earlier (even on the weekends). This family is no exception, I'm sure. As a result, Young Dad downstairs believes that electric keyboard synthesizer practice at 8am on a Sunday is okay. After all, he's probably been up for hours!
Honestly, it's enough to make me want to buy a treadmill and start jogging up here at 10:30 each night.
It works like this. Young men in San Francisco seem to almost always see themselves as blossoming musicians. These guys are EVERYWHERE and incredibly difficult to avoid when selecting a) housing, or b) a boyfriend. Are you, reader, a male living in SF under the age of 38? There's an 85% chance you have some kind of musical instrument in your apartment and believe that its being there and the fact that you make it make noise sometimes somehow make you cooler.
One of the greatest mysteries around is why these guys think they need to bless the world to their musical stylings, because they -- almost without exception -- are not good. They play the same stupid song, or piece of a song, over and over and over and over. And then again. Twenty more times. Frequently they make the same mistake each time, too, which is a real treat for those of us forced by the proximity of our apartments to listen.
To validate my expertise in this area, I want you to know that I have lived with or next to, and/or dated guys who think they can play:
the piano
the guitar (x5)
the banjo
the mandolin
the drums
the xylophone
the saxophone
turn tables (not really an instrument, but equally annoying)
I digress... Back to the update on our new neighbor situation. Young Dad down there seems to have both a guitar (of course) and an electric keyboard synthesizer thing. And he likes to sing.
To her credit, I have not heard the baby once. But she is equally guilty, for people with babies and small children become accustomed to waking up at 6am or earlier (even on the weekends). This family is no exception, I'm sure. As a result, Young Dad downstairs believes that electric keyboard synthesizer practice at 8am on a Sunday is okay. After all, he's probably been up for hours!
Honestly, it's enough to make me want to buy a treadmill and start jogging up here at 10:30 each night.
LUNAFEST is coming up
A friend of mine heads the branding group for LUNA Bars (the lady-version of Cliff). She asked me to help spread the word about their annual film festival. I've heard it's always a very fun event. Here are the details:
LUNAFEST, is having it's annual premiere at the Herbst Theatre here in San Francisco on October 4th. The evening consists of of a VIP reception and a 90 minute program of award winning films all by, for and about women (and they are all excellent films). All proceeds of the event benefit Breast Cancer Fund.
Event:
Thursday, October 4th
Herbst Theatre San Francisco (War Memorial Building)
6:00- VIP reception with food, wine and lux goody bag
7:30- Film Screening, all attendees a goody bag
Prices:
$75 for VIP reception and films
$20 for films only
$10 for students
Check out the films and our new site at: http://www.lunafest.org/the-films.cfm
LUNAFEST, is having it's annual premiere at the Herbst Theatre here in San Francisco on October 4th. The evening consists of of a VIP reception and a 90 minute program of award winning films all by, for and about women (and they are all excellent films). All proceeds of the event benefit Breast Cancer Fund.
Event:
Thursday, October 4th
Herbst Theatre San Francisco (War Memorial Building)
6:00- VIP reception with food, wine and lux goody bag
7:30- Film Screening, all attendees a goody bag
Prices:
$75 for VIP reception and films
$20 for films only
$10 for students
Check out the films and our new site at: http://www.lunafest.org/the-films.cfm
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Go to the Cole Street Fair
This Sunday, September 23 is the Cole Street Fair. 10am - 6pm. The Cole Street Merchants hold an annual "Heart of Cole Street" fair. From what I hear it's pretty fun times. Plus, the PTA will be out in force, fundraising PTA-style:
"Every year Grattan Elementary has a booth, this year at the corner of Parnassus & Cole. We sell baked goods, this year graciously donated by Il Fornaio and the Owens Family (rooms 106 & 208 ) and lemonade donated by Trader Joe's. We also sell our Grattan t-shirts/sweatshirts, and share what makes Grattan great with the community."
You know you want a Grattan sweatshirt.
Did I mention Dave and I joined the PTA? Dave will be manning the bounce house.
"Every year Grattan Elementary has a booth, this year at the corner of Parnassus & Cole. We sell baked goods, this year graciously donated by Il Fornaio and the Owens Family (rooms 106 & 208 ) and lemonade donated by Trader Joe's. We also sell our Grattan t-shirts/sweatshirts, and share what makes Grattan great with the community."
You know you want a Grattan sweatshirt.
Did I mention Dave and I joined the PTA? Dave will be manning the bounce house.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Holy crap!
It finally happened! KFed has been granted temporary custody of the Spears children! The Superficial reported it earlier today!
This is in no way surprising! Not even a little bit! And yet, I'm still feeling the exclamation points. It's one of those things we've all been waiting on and expecting for so long that when it finally happens you just can't believe it. Like passing the bar, or getting engaged.
Oh, hush. I'm totally kidding about the engaged thing.
This is in no way surprising! Not even a little bit! And yet, I'm still feeling the exclamation points. It's one of those things we've all been waiting on and expecting for so long that when it finally happens you just can't believe it. Like passing the bar, or getting engaged.
Oh, hush. I'm totally kidding about the engaged thing.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Stupid maternal instincts
I have been feeling kinda upset in the last hour and when I stopped to think about why, I realized I am sad that I don't get to go pick up Sam today. I keep wondering how kindergarten went and what he did at school today. I am missing him.
I miss him?
Yes, I miss him.
I miss a five-year-old boy who picks his nose and makes me literally crazy with frustration 75% of the time we are in the same room.
Good god, what is happening to me? Ugh.
I miss him?
Yes, I miss him.
I miss a five-year-old boy who picks his nose and makes me literally crazy with frustration 75% of the time we are in the same room.
Good god, what is happening to me? Ugh.
Go Bears!
I'm feeling a lot of school spirit this morning, but it's not related to football or my deep love of Cal Band. Haas was ranked second in the nation in this year's Wall Street Journal ranking of b-schools! We beat out Harvard (#14) and Stanford (#19), and moved up three slots from our fifth place ranking last year. Their article mentioned, "Harvard University and Stanford University -- two schools that typically rank low despite reputations for academic excellence -- again were criticized for what recruiters said were their students' inflated egos and excessive expectations." Take that, you intellectual snobs!
The WSJ ranks the schools based entirely on feedback from recruiters hiring candidates out of the schools, so you could argue this list actually means something.
The WSJ ranks the schools based entirely on feedback from recruiters hiring candidates out of the schools, so you could argue this list actually means something.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Congrats!
Today was a huge day for both Scotty and Turd! They both passed the bar and are now officially attorneys. The state of Oregon says so.
Congratulations you guys -- the summer of torture paid off. Crack open a beer, or fourteen.
Congratulations you guys -- the summer of torture paid off. Crack open a beer, or fourteen.
Ahhhh!
This morning I woke up at 4:30 to drive Dave to the airport (he's now on a guy's weekend to catch the Michigan vs ND game tomorrow). I then proceeded to work a thirteen hour day without leaving my desk, and I just ate enough Chinese food for a family of three. Literally.
Surprisingly, despite all that, I feel pretty awesome. I think it's because for the first time in possibly three months, I do not have any huge responsibility left untended to, weighing on my mind, and causing me extreme amounts of stress. Of course there are a couple of little things*, but nothin' that can't wait.
Obscene amounts of Eric's, a quiet apartment, the couch, some crappy TV... so much happiness.
*Personal marketing plan required by Haas for On Campus Recruiting, developing versions of my resume appropriate for applying to positions in HR and education organizations, laundry and straightening the apartment before Sam gets dropped off tomorrow morning.
Surprisingly, despite all that, I feel pretty awesome. I think it's because for the first time in possibly three months, I do not have any huge responsibility left untended to, weighing on my mind, and causing me extreme amounts of stress. Of course there are a couple of little things*, but nothin' that can't wait.
Obscene amounts of Eric's, a quiet apartment, the couch, some crappy TV... so much happiness.
*Personal marketing plan required by Haas for On Campus Recruiting, developing versions of my resume appropriate for applying to positions in HR and education organizations, laundry and straightening the apartment before Sam gets dropped off tomorrow morning.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Back to school
This week is back to school for me. I've been thinking a lot about how happy and gleeful all y'all who are not headed back to school right now must be feeling. Amongst you: Turd, JT, Scotty, Julia, and all my Haas cohorts who managed to wrap up their MBA requirements last summer. How I envy you!
Actually, it's not that bad. The classes I'm taking are interesting and I dig the professors, especially the young, funny, intellectually hot one. It's just rough getting used to the 9am to 11pm work to school schedule again. After a week or two I will be so sleep deprived I won't notice it anymore. Nor will I notice that my underwear are on inside out or that I haven't checked my voicemail in eight days.
This back to school season has been a touch more exciting than years past, because my little friend Sam started kindergarten on Monday. Needless to say, it was an exciting event for all. Watching him go through the excitement of picking out a "big kid" backpack (the backpack is totally rad -- dark green camo print with florescent orange accents) and then getting the jitters the night before and deciding all the other kids would think his backpack was stupid and make fun of him for it brought back a lot memories. Being new to this de facto parenting thing, I forgot to take pictures in the morning on his first day of school (will he be able to claim negligence later in life if he doesn't have a photographic record of his first day of kindergarten?), but I do have this to offer up -- the Grattan Elementary school song...
I'm Happy
It will beat all your expectations, I promise. I think it might make the Top 40 next week.
Actually, it's not that bad. The classes I'm taking are interesting and I dig the professors, especially the young, funny, intellectually hot one. It's just rough getting used to the 9am to 11pm work to school schedule again. After a week or two I will be so sleep deprived I won't notice it anymore. Nor will I notice that my underwear are on inside out or that I haven't checked my voicemail in eight days.
This back to school season has been a touch more exciting than years past, because my little friend Sam started kindergarten on Monday. Needless to say, it was an exciting event for all. Watching him go through the excitement of picking out a "big kid" backpack (the backpack is totally rad -- dark green camo print with florescent orange accents) and then getting the jitters the night before and deciding all the other kids would think his backpack was stupid and make fun of him for it brought back a lot memories. Being new to this de facto parenting thing, I forgot to take pictures in the morning on his first day of school (will he be able to claim negligence later in life if he doesn't have a photographic record of his first day of kindergarten?), but I do have this to offer up -- the Grattan Elementary school song...
I'm Happy
It will beat all your expectations, I promise. I think it might make the Top 40 next week.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Digestive woes continue
Things aren't getting much better inside my digestive system, but on the bright side they're not getting worse either. I think my doctor might be onto something with the no dairy plan. Those MDs -- they know stuff. I discovered this the hard way.
I woke up around 2am on Monday night to find that my roommate had just stocked up on a brand new quart of 2%, and, predictably, I fell off the wagon. I drank about half of it before I went back to bed (sorry, Nadia). It was so delicious and refreshing, and it answered every craving I'd been having for the last two and a half weeks. The milk binge did result in extreme "problems" about 12 hours later, though. As a result, I'm back to avoiding all things dairy (aka all things good).
I think I've finally grown accustomed to soy milk in coffee, but there's just no replacement for cheese. As is evidenced by the fact I've lost 15 pounds since June.
I woke up around 2am on Monday night to find that my roommate had just stocked up on a brand new quart of 2%, and, predictably, I fell off the wagon. I drank about half of it before I went back to bed (sorry, Nadia). It was so delicious and refreshing, and it answered every craving I'd been having for the last two and a half weeks. The milk binge did result in extreme "problems" about 12 hours later, though. As a result, I'm back to avoiding all things dairy (aka all things good).
I think I've finally grown accustomed to soy milk in coffee, but there's just no replacement for cheese. As is evidenced by the fact I've lost 15 pounds since June.
Not too shabby
A review of the first book I worked on in my current job was published in the Wall Street Journal this week.
I feel like I'm bragging about my report card
I feel like I'm bragging about my report card
Friday, August 10, 2007
The results are in
So, I took the tests. When it came down to it, I figured I would kick myself if I walked around with a tapeworm for years because I didn't take a few disgusting and logistically difficult tests when the doctor asked me to. I will spare you further details. They all came back normal and I don't have any parasites.
I'm still on my no dairy diet, and other than that things seem to be improving. The non-dairy lifestyle has made me extremely sympathetic to the lactose intolerant (it's a miserable way to live) and extremely resentful of vegans. I can't understand why anyone would willingly choose a life without cheese. I've seen those cows running around Point Reyes, and they look well cared for and damn happy.
I read this article yesterday with extreme envy. I'd give anything for a huge glass of milk.
I'm still on my no dairy diet, and other than that things seem to be improving. The non-dairy lifestyle has made me extremely sympathetic to the lactose intolerant (it's a miserable way to live) and extremely resentful of vegans. I can't understand why anyone would willingly choose a life without cheese. I've seen those cows running around Point Reyes, and they look well cared for and damn happy.
I read this article yesterday with extreme envy. I'd give anything for a huge glass of milk.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
It got better
They made the Greendimes service (the one I wrote about that takes your name off mailing lists so you don't get random junk mail) cheaper and easier. This is from their latest newsletter:
"GreenDimes is now a $15 one time charge instead of $36 every year. None of you, our existing members, will be charged again. We also have a $5 refer-a-friend bonus and a store with new products. All of the tools we have built are still yours, but for free, forever.
We're going to monitor mail preference lists every single month to make sure your name and address are not on them. And as always, if you have questions or if you feel like you're continuing to get junk mail, contact customer service and we'll be happy to help you. Nothing has changed from a service perspective, it's just cheaper and easier than ever before."
Sweet! Makes sense to sign up for this service. It's good for you and good for the environment.
"GreenDimes is now a $15 one time charge instead of $36 every year. None of you, our existing members, will be charged again. We also have a $5 refer-a-friend bonus and a store with new products. All of the tools we have built are still yours, but for free, forever.
We're going to monitor mail preference lists every single month to make sure your name and address are not on them. And as always, if you have questions or if you feel like you're continuing to get junk mail, contact customer service and we'll be happy to help you. Nothing has changed from a service perspective, it's just cheaper and easier than ever before."
Sweet! Makes sense to sign up for this service. It's good for you and good for the environment.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Stupid ethics
I wish it wasn't completely unethical to post some of the book proposals and emails I get everyday at work, because, man -- there is some high entertainment value there. Basically, it's all rooted in laughing at someone's genuine book idea, though, so it's pretty much evil entertainment. Arguably the best kind.
That's the thing about book publishing. It's such a fine line between being a creative genius and a complete and total nutjob. It might not even matter if you're a complete at total nutjob as long as you're a skilled self-promoter with some business sense.
Speaking of, here's a website I stumbled across today: www.animalsign.com.
That's the thing about book publishing. It's such a fine line between being a creative genius and a complete and total nutjob. It might not even matter if you're a complete at total nutjob as long as you're a skilled self-promoter with some business sense.
Speaking of, here's a website I stumbled across today: www.animalsign.com.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Nothin' like a good posting about poop
I dedicate this post to Annie.
Some of you know already that things have not been quite right with me since I got back from China. Internally, I mean. Things with my digestive system.
The embarrassing truth is that nothing has been functioning properly since I left for Beijing. Now that I think about it, I had the stomach flu (hours and hours of barfing) for three days before I left for Beijing, so we might as well lump that week in there, too. Let's just say, that since late May my innards have not been performing up to par. Vomiting, pain, every kind of poo-related problem you can think of... You get the drift.
Last weekend/Monday was another round. Dave, and my wish to remain employed, finally convinced me that this was not something that could continue to go ignored. I went to the doctor for a physical. She ran a lot of tests. Some of them are still in process. Let me tell you more!
I had heard of people having to give stool samples, but never really got into the logistics of it with anyone. My doctor decided they need to do three separate tests on my poop. At this point, I can't remember what each will test for because I was so distracted in a completely horrified way by the instructions for processes that I have to get through to provide the samples they need.
Test #1: Fill pomade-sized tub with poop. Nothing can touch the poop before it goes in the tub. Put the lid on the tub, and then put the tub in the provided ziplock bag. Then, get a second ziplock bag and fill it with ice and the first ziplock bag. Bring iced-up poo to the lab immediately after the sample is collected.
Test #2: This test involves three large-pill-bottle-sized jars, each half full of clear liquid that is supposedly preservative of some sort. Each jar has a line at the top. Fill each jar with poo until the clear liquid reaches the line. Be sure to include any portions of poo that might be "slimy" or bloody. Put the lid on each and return to the lab.
Test #3 (my personal favorite): Do not eat red meat or uncooked vegetables for three days. On the fourth day, a sample of poo must be smeared on a specific area of a small plastic card. There are smear areas for the fifth and sixth days, as well. This test requires three separate smears from three separate days worth of poo. No red meat or uncooked veggies can be consumed until the entire test is done.
I'm not making any of this up.
Some things I would like you to consider:
How am I to accomplish all of this pooing in jars, smearing of poo, and running to the lab to drop off samples while I am supposed to be at the office all day? Do I carry that poo smear card in my purse with me, so I can break it out at the right time?
I don't have a car. The only option I have is to ferry my poo back and forth on MUNI.
Should I invest in some poo-manipulating instruments? How exactly does one go about collecting the correct amounts and smearing in an orderly and hygenic fashion?
Surmising that I was so sick in Las Vegas that I wiped out all my internal linings, my doctor has also forbid me from eating any dairy products for the next month. Apparently, it takes about four months for a body to heal its linings and dairy is ultra irritating to them -- it hinders the process. As a result, in the last two days I have learned that my normal diet consists entirely of red meat, raw vegetables, and dairy products.
I have not made a final decision on whether or not to go through with these tests. I just don't know if I can make it happen. Not because I'm grossed out, which I definitely am, but more because I can't handle dedicating the necessary 12 plus hours it's going to take me to collect all these samples properly.
Some of you know already that things have not been quite right with me since I got back from China. Internally, I mean. Things with my digestive system.
The embarrassing truth is that nothing has been functioning properly since I left for Beijing. Now that I think about it, I had the stomach flu (hours and hours of barfing) for three days before I left for Beijing, so we might as well lump that week in there, too. Let's just say, that since late May my innards have not been performing up to par. Vomiting, pain, every kind of poo-related problem you can think of... You get the drift.
Last weekend/Monday was another round. Dave, and my wish to remain employed, finally convinced me that this was not something that could continue to go ignored. I went to the doctor for a physical. She ran a lot of tests. Some of them are still in process. Let me tell you more!
I had heard of people having to give stool samples, but never really got into the logistics of it with anyone. My doctor decided they need to do three separate tests on my poop. At this point, I can't remember what each will test for because I was so distracted in a completely horrified way by the instructions for processes that I have to get through to provide the samples they need.
Test #1: Fill pomade-sized tub with poop. Nothing can touch the poop before it goes in the tub. Put the lid on the tub, and then put the tub in the provided ziplock bag. Then, get a second ziplock bag and fill it with ice and the first ziplock bag. Bring iced-up poo to the lab immediately after the sample is collected.
Test #2: This test involves three large-pill-bottle-sized jars, each half full of clear liquid that is supposedly preservative of some sort. Each jar has a line at the top. Fill each jar with poo until the clear liquid reaches the line. Be sure to include any portions of poo that might be "slimy" or bloody. Put the lid on each and return to the lab.
Test #3 (my personal favorite): Do not eat red meat or uncooked vegetables for three days. On the fourth day, a sample of poo must be smeared on a specific area of a small plastic card. There are smear areas for the fifth and sixth days, as well. This test requires three separate smears from three separate days worth of poo. No red meat or uncooked veggies can be consumed until the entire test is done.
I'm not making any of this up.
Some things I would like you to consider:
How am I to accomplish all of this pooing in jars, smearing of poo, and running to the lab to drop off samples while I am supposed to be at the office all day? Do I carry that poo smear card in my purse with me, so I can break it out at the right time?
I don't have a car. The only option I have is to ferry my poo back and forth on MUNI.
Should I invest in some poo-manipulating instruments? How exactly does one go about collecting the correct amounts and smearing in an orderly and hygenic fashion?
Surmising that I was so sick in Las Vegas that I wiped out all my internal linings, my doctor has also forbid me from eating any dairy products for the next month. Apparently, it takes about four months for a body to heal its linings and dairy is ultra irritating to them -- it hinders the process. As a result, in the last two days I have learned that my normal diet consists entirely of red meat, raw vegetables, and dairy products.
I have not made a final decision on whether or not to go through with these tests. I just don't know if I can make it happen. Not because I'm grossed out, which I definitely am, but more because I can't handle dedicating the necessary 12 plus hours it's going to take me to collect all these samples properly.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
I hate writing papers
Because they come out sounding like this:
"Almost every manager our group spoke to during our two-week tour reported that he or she was facing the following challenges:
• A lack of leadership abilities and management skills in the local workforce. Many U.S. companies and joint ventures expressed interest in installing Chinese management in their Chinese offices, but felt they could not find qualified applicants. The only candidates with leadership abilities were either expats, or Chinese nationals returning to China after earning an education, living, and working abroad.
• An inability to get employees to work effectively as a part of a team. Some managers attributed this problem to the first generation born under the one-child policy hitting the Chinese workforce, and the lack of team sports or team-based extra-curricular activities in the highly competitive Chinese schools and universities.
• An inability to retain employees. Most managers in China seemed to now realize that offering bigger and bigger salary packages to win employees or convince them to stay in their jobs is not sustainable, and these bidding wars are in fact part of the cause of high turnover rates.
Again, when I heard the China-based managers consistently bring up these themes, I was struck by similarities with the challenges that the human resources community has been facing back in the U.S. American employers are now seeing an onslaught of retiring baby boomers (a population of about 76 million), and a resulting lack of employee talent, especially leadership talent. This has left U.S. employers looking to younger employees and recent college graduates to fill the gap. This group (a population of about 80 million), dubbed "Generation Y" or the "millenials" by the media, has been broadly criticized for a lack of loyalty to organizations resulting in higher turnover, a lack of leadership and independent problem solving skills, and for being self-centered -- not being team-players. These problems are truly global business issues. The list of key human resources challenges on the desks of China-based managers, could almost be the same list found on the desks of U.S.-based managers."
I remember writing a paper about a Monet painting as an undergraduate. Why didn't I appreciate that more? Argh.
"Almost every manager our group spoke to during our two-week tour reported that he or she was facing the following challenges:
• A lack of leadership abilities and management skills in the local workforce. Many U.S. companies and joint ventures expressed interest in installing Chinese management in their Chinese offices, but felt they could not find qualified applicants. The only candidates with leadership abilities were either expats, or Chinese nationals returning to China after earning an education, living, and working abroad.
• An inability to get employees to work effectively as a part of a team. Some managers attributed this problem to the first generation born under the one-child policy hitting the Chinese workforce, and the lack of team sports or team-based extra-curricular activities in the highly competitive Chinese schools and universities.
• An inability to retain employees. Most managers in China seemed to now realize that offering bigger and bigger salary packages to win employees or convince them to stay in their jobs is not sustainable, and these bidding wars are in fact part of the cause of high turnover rates.
Again, when I heard the China-based managers consistently bring up these themes, I was struck by similarities with the challenges that the human resources community has been facing back in the U.S. American employers are now seeing an onslaught of retiring baby boomers (a population of about 76 million), and a resulting lack of employee talent, especially leadership talent. This has left U.S. employers looking to younger employees and recent college graduates to fill the gap. This group (a population of about 80 million), dubbed "Generation Y" or the "millenials" by the media, has been broadly criticized for a lack of loyalty to organizations resulting in higher turnover, a lack of leadership and independent problem solving skills, and for being self-centered -- not being team-players. These problems are truly global business issues. The list of key human resources challenges on the desks of China-based managers, could almost be the same list found on the desks of U.S.-based managers."
I remember writing a paper about a Monet painting as an undergraduate. Why didn't I appreciate that more? Argh.
Monday, July 23, 2007
Celeb gossip reactions
I just spent a couple of minutes online catching up on my celebrity gossip. Two thoughts to share:
1) It saddens me to hear that Tammy Faye Baker/Messner passed away last week. If you haven't seen The Eyes of Tammy Faye you should rent it. It's surprisingly thoughtful and interesting.
2) Why do celebrities make sex tapes of themselves? What is the purpose of these tapes? And if you're going to make a sex tape and you know you are famous, should you be shocked and upset when it goes missing or someone sells it to the media? I think not. In my mind, having the tape go missing and sold to the media so you can publicize how shocked and upset you are is pretty much the only purpose that making such a tape serves.
1) It saddens me to hear that Tammy Faye Baker/Messner passed away last week. If you haven't seen The Eyes of Tammy Faye you should rent it. It's surprisingly thoughtful and interesting.
2) Why do celebrities make sex tapes of themselves? What is the purpose of these tapes? And if you're going to make a sex tape and you know you are famous, should you be shocked and upset when it goes missing or someone sells it to the media? I think not. In my mind, having the tape go missing and sold to the media so you can publicize how shocked and upset you are is pretty much the only purpose that making such a tape serves.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
First book
This is the first book that will be published that I acquired in my current job. I'm excited about it! I really admire the author and her organization. Galley copies went out to the media this week and the author is starting to line up speaking engagements.
This book, which I edited and managed in my manager's absence, will also hit the shelves soon. Equally excited about it, as the author is a best-seller and already has written one book that went on to sell over a million copies. Plus, it was totally fun to work on. First time I'd edited anything novel-like professionally.
Not too sure what to make of the leaving your job theme.
This book, which I edited and managed in my manager's absence, will also hit the shelves soon. Equally excited about it, as the author is a best-seller and already has written one book that went on to sell over a million copies. Plus, it was totally fun to work on. First time I'd edited anything novel-like professionally.
Not too sure what to make of the leaving your job theme.
Severe hit to the wallet
I just bought airline tickets to Hawaii for Thanksgiving. It was a fairly painful experience, as they cost roughly the same amount as my tickets to China (for half the distance and no free drinks since the flight isn't international!). All to be expected when traveling anywhere good for the holidays, I suppose. I was looking for the cheapest tickets available, so the flights are also with slightly sketchy airlines I found on Orbitz. I don't understand the airline industry at all, because odds are that my flight will be cancelled or delayed regardless of the fact that I spent a ton of money. And it won't matter. They might apologize, but probably not. Orbitz does make it a little bit better because they will call your cell phone in advance if the airline reports a cancellation or delay. I've already been on three flights that were cancelled this year. All different airlines. Only Orbitz called.
I may have extra bad luck when it comes to cancellations and delays. I am never on a flight that takes off and lands on time. Never. Dave won't fly with me because of it... or so I suspect. My coworkers also try to avoid it. Maybe it's a karmic thing? Hard to imagine having racked up worse karma than the airlines, though. I've never spit on anyone or kicked a pigeon.
I may have extra bad luck when it comes to cancellations and delays. I am never on a flight that takes off and lands on time. Never. Dave won't fly with me because of it... or so I suspect. My coworkers also try to avoid it. Maybe it's a karmic thing? Hard to imagine having racked up worse karma than the airlines, though. I've never spit on anyone or kicked a pigeon.
Monday, July 16, 2007
LinkedIn is pretty awesome
I spent some time adjusting my profile today, and realized that they have really put some serious thought into how to make that site super useful. The job search and job listings are especially impressive since they are listed with specific contacts at the company and info about how exactly you are networked to that person. It's also a great resource for professional stalking, which I have to do a lot of at work. It's a step above any other networking site I've used.
Does anyone pay for the upgraded service? I'm wondering what extra bells and whistles it comes with, and whether or not it's worth $20 a month.
Does anyone pay for the upgraded service? I'm wondering what extra bells and whistles it comes with, and whether or not it's worth $20 a month.
Send an email instead
Sometime over the last six months I have developed a slight phobia related to checking my voicemail. I hate checking my voicemail and will put it off for completely unacceptable amounts of time... days... occasionally weeks. Is it possible that in my late twenties I have acquired an entirely new social disorder?
This problem definitely started with my work voicemail, which is understandable since usually the messages waiting there for me are from someone who either makes me nervous, who I don't want to talk to, who have to say no to, or are in regard to some complicated matter that I'm not sure what to do about. Probably only 10% of the calls that come into me at work are from someone I'm excited to talk to, and because of the caller ID I pick those up, so there's no voicemail from them. Unfortunately, the phobia has now also spread to my personal voicemail. I absolutely dread checking any of it. I'm not sure why -- pretty much everyone who calls me on my personal number is someone I actually want to talk to.
Hopefully, this is a temporary phase and admitting I have a problem is the first step to recovery. Maybe I need to attack this on a behavior modification level and have everyone call and start leaving extremely positive, reinforcing messages, so I get excited about checking voicemail rather than apprehensive.
This problem definitely started with my work voicemail, which is understandable since usually the messages waiting there for me are from someone who either makes me nervous, who I don't want to talk to, who have to say no to, or are in regard to some complicated matter that I'm not sure what to do about. Probably only 10% of the calls that come into me at work are from someone I'm excited to talk to, and because of the caller ID I pick those up, so there's no voicemail from them. Unfortunately, the phobia has now also spread to my personal voicemail. I absolutely dread checking any of it. I'm not sure why -- pretty much everyone who calls me on my personal number is someone I actually want to talk to.
Hopefully, this is a temporary phase and admitting I have a problem is the first step to recovery. Maybe I need to attack this on a behavior modification level and have everyone call and start leaving extremely positive, reinforcing messages, so I get excited about checking voicemail rather than apprehensive.
Pretty China pics
One of the guys on my China trip was a skilled photographer. He posted all of his shots here, in case you're interested in checking them out. They're kinda artsy and more interesting to look at than the usual standing-in-front-of-a-monument vacation photos.
Here's a sample:
I don't know how he got that shot, since we were banned from taking photos in that temple. Tricky guy. That buddha was about five stories tall and carved from one solid piece of sandalwood. Or maybe this was the one in the temple before that one? There were a lot of them. It's like the duomos in Tuscany. You've seen one...
Here's a sample:
I don't know how he got that shot, since we were banned from taking photos in that temple. Tricky guy. That buddha was about five stories tall and carved from one solid piece of sandalwood. Or maybe this was the one in the temple before that one? There were a lot of them. It's like the duomos in Tuscany. You've seen one...
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Monday, July 09, 2007
Knocked Up
I went to go see that Katherine Heigl/Seth Rogen movie yesterday and was pretty disappointed. Parts of it were funny, but the reviews had made it sound like it was going to be peeing-my-pants funny. It was more just a chuckle-here-and-there-and-now-I-am-for-sure-never-getting-pregnant funny. In fact, I was a little upset and grossed out when I left the movie theater. Not a lot, just enough that I wouldn't say I really enjoyed it. I still love both Katherine Heigl and Seth Rogen, though.
A tip
There should be a rule about no in-depth discussion of allergies on first dates. If you're a dude, it just makes you sound like a weenie. You have to be sure a lady is fairly smitten with you before you draw attention to any major flaw or weakness. Food allergies being a huge weakness, if you ask me. Nothing more high maintenance than a dude with food allergies.
If you can't eat cheese, then don't order cheese. Just don't talk about it. We don't want to think about your bowels coping with milk enzymes. Same for any problems involving a lot of snot. Not sexy.
If you can't eat cheese, then don't order cheese. Just don't talk about it. We don't want to think about your bowels coping with milk enzymes. Same for any problems involving a lot of snot. Not sexy.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Ugh
I have been hating life all week. Everything is going wrong and everyone is driving me crazy. There are four possible reasons for this:
A) PMS
B) Mercury in retrograde
C) Post-vacation blues
D) All of the above
I hope it ends soon, because I'm so pissy to be around that I'm annoying even myself.
A) PMS
B) Mercury in retrograde
C) Post-vacation blues
D) All of the above
I hope it ends soon, because I'm so pissy to be around that I'm annoying even myself.
I'll throw the panda shots up, too
There was SO much panda hype in Beijing, obviously, and I was pretty amped up about seeing the actual panda bears. I must say, they could not have been more disappointing. They all seemed to be suffering hangovers... passed out pandas. See for yourself:
On the bus
This is the ride to the Great Wall, on my birthday. Really good way to celebrate a birthday, by the way.
An abridged email from Sally
Sent while I was traveling...
"Mom has been watching the news and wants to know if you were one of the 76 people who died in some floods they had in the Southern China. Dad and I tried to explain to her that there are about 1.3 billion people in China, so the likelihood that you were one of 76 who died in a flood is probably not very good. Anyway. She'll be glad to hear from you.
I have attached some photos from Dad's and my trip to So Cal. Pretty exciting. Despite the fact that it was 115 degrees there one day we had a great time. I like the desert. I brought home some cacti. Funny how they will let you on the plane with some really sharp plants, but I can't take my eyelash curler on board."
"Mom has been watching the news and wants to know if you were one of the 76 people who died in some floods they had in the Southern China. Dad and I tried to explain to her that there are about 1.3 billion people in China, so the likelihood that you were one of 76 who died in a flood is probably not very good. Anyway. She'll be glad to hear from you.
I have attached some photos from Dad's and my trip to So Cal. Pretty exciting. Despite the fact that it was 115 degrees there one day we had a great time. I like the desert. I brought home some cacti. Funny how they will let you on the plane with some really sharp plants, but I can't take my eyelash curler on board."
Monday, July 02, 2007
I want my long weekend
I'm going to go on record as saying that having Independence Day on a Wednesday is about the dumbest thing ever. As someone who has already managed to rack up a vacation-day deficit in less than a year of employment, I am incredibly bitter about being cheated out of a three-day weekend. It should be in the constitution that we have the right to a long weekend during the first week of July.
Speaking of three day weekends, I bought three plane tickets to Portland this afternoon. Yes, it's finally been arranged -- I'm taking the boys home to meet my parents. Both Dave and Sam. I must admit, I've taken a few boyfriends home to meet the parents before, and for some reason taking a kid too makes the whole thing a lot less nerve wracking and a lot more amusing. You wouldn't think it, but it's true.
Speaking of three day weekends, I bought three plane tickets to Portland this afternoon. Yes, it's finally been arranged -- I'm taking the boys home to meet my parents. Both Dave and Sam. I must admit, I've taken a few boyfriends home to meet the parents before, and for some reason taking a kid too makes the whole thing a lot less nerve wracking and a lot more amusing. You wouldn't think it, but it's true.
Claim your shirt
Sometime back in May, Dave found a Banana Republic bag in his car. The bag has a brand new, extra small blouse in it, with the sales receipt. It was purchased with a debit card, but the receipt in the bag doesn’t list a name. After running through a list of everyone who has been in the car, neither one of us can figure out who it belongs to. No one will claim it. The other thing is, I really can’t picture anyone I know wearing it. It’s sort of a purple leopard print-esque pattern, but a very conservative, almost masculine cut.
The bag has been sitting on my dresser for weeks now, and I don’t know what to do with it. The shirt fits me, but I’d never wear it.
The bag has been sitting on my dresser for weeks now, and I don’t know what to do with it. The shirt fits me, but I’d never wear it.
Overheard
A dude to his friend (also a dude), while sitting in a Noe Valley bagelry:
"So... I guess if we move here, one of us is going to have to get pregnant."
"So... I guess if we move here, one of us is going to have to get pregnant."
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Easing into the China pics
Here's a shot of me and Brian drinking vodka red bulls at a dance club in Shanghai on the last night of the trip. I'm the one on the left. There are crazy clubs everywhere in Shanghai... very swanky. Ten dollar beers type swanky. And they don't ever close.
Okay, here's another one.
It's the view of one bar/club's balcony (many had decks that overlook the river) from another club.
I'm feeling a little overwhelmed with the task at hand -- sharing photos and tales of this trip. I figure if I get something out there, the flood gates will open. Baby steps.
Here's one more before I call it a night. Haasholes having happy hour drinks in the afternoon at that same bar. You might recognize the Pearl Tower in the skyline behind them.
Julia, the one in the middle (of course) was my roomie for the trip.
Vegas is gross
I know it's not just Vegas fatigue, because I've been feeling this way since the moment we landed. I'm starting to be very confused by those few people I know who are die-hard Vegas fans, because it just seems so cheesy and gross.
Maybe it's just because I didn't have my pick of hotels (had to crash at the one with the conference rate -- I'm at the MGM Grand where they don't seem to understand the concepts of "customer" or "service"). But really, I can't get my head around the casinos either. Everyone in them seems to be one or all of these things, 1) chain smoking, 2) obese, 3) elderly, 4) from Texas or another one of those red states, 5) sporting bad fake tits. The ones with all five make me really depressed. Especially when they're sitting at the slot machines at 6 am.
I can see how it would be a good destination for something like a bachelorette party... I guess. Seems like somewhere like Scottsdale or a variety of spots in Mexico might offer up the same party atmosphere with a little more class.
You know me. I'm a classy broad.
Maybe it's just because I didn't have my pick of hotels (had to crash at the one with the conference rate -- I'm at the MGM Grand where they don't seem to understand the concepts of "customer" or "service"). But really, I can't get my head around the casinos either. Everyone in them seems to be one or all of these things, 1) chain smoking, 2) obese, 3) elderly, 4) from Texas or another one of those red states, 5) sporting bad fake tits. The ones with all five make me really depressed. Especially when they're sitting at the slot machines at 6 am.
I can see how it would be a good destination for something like a bachelorette party... I guess. Seems like somewhere like Scottsdale or a variety of spots in Mexico might offer up the same party atmosphere with a little more class.
You know me. I'm a classy broad.
My blog is also PG
Also, as in addition to Linda's. We're such clean cut girls.
This was determined by the presence of the word "turd" twice (really, that's all?), as well as the presence of the word "crappy."
This was determined by the presence of the word "turd" twice (really, that's all?), as well as the presence of the word "crappy."
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Back in the U.S.
Albeit, Vegas. I've been here since Sunday, which is quite enough Vegas for anyone. Flew into SFO from Shanghai Saturday morning, flew out to Vegas Saturday night. Had just enough time at home to squeeze in some quick lovin', unpack, and repack.
There's no blogging in China. You can't access any of them, or the blogger.com site. The government firewall locks it all out. Word on the street is that some blogs that are hosted by Chinese blog sites work, but I couldn't call them up. Eventually, I'll have some photos up and some reflections on the trip to post. The short version is that is was awesome and I was sad when it ended.
Since arrival in Vegas, I have spent much of my time combating the worst stomach problems I have ever had. Sunday night I was curled into the fetal position on the bathroom floor -- as close as possible to the toilet -- when my sister started asking if she should take me to the hospital. The concierge offered to send up a medic. The whole group that went to China suffered from the usual collection of traveler's digestive problems (some fairly severe), but I have no idea why mine should take such an extreme turn upon reentry.
I'm feeling almost human now, and honestly can't wait to be back in my hood and sleep in my own bed.
There's no blogging in China. You can't access any of them, or the blogger.com site. The government firewall locks it all out. Word on the street is that some blogs that are hosted by Chinese blog sites work, but I couldn't call them up. Eventually, I'll have some photos up and some reflections on the trip to post. The short version is that is was awesome and I was sad when it ended.
Since arrival in Vegas, I have spent much of my time combating the worst stomach problems I have ever had. Sunday night I was curled into the fetal position on the bathroom floor -- as close as possible to the toilet -- when my sister started asking if she should take me to the hospital. The concierge offered to send up a medic. The whole group that went to China suffered from the usual collection of traveler's digestive problems (some fairly severe), but I have no idea why mine should take such an extreme turn upon reentry.
I'm feeling almost human now, and honestly can't wait to be back in my hood and sleep in my own bed.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
As if I didn't feel bad enough
Dave emailed a passel of fun-in-the-sun photos from yesterday. While I was languishing in coach, they all spent Memorial Day at the pool. So sad for RB.
Dave's sister and her family were in from Utah for the holiday weekend. Their youngest daughter, Mia, is sitting next to Sam in this pic. That's a chaise-full of cuteness right there.
Dave's sister and her family were in from Utah for the holiday weekend. Their youngest daughter, Mia, is sitting next to Sam in this pic. That's a chaise-full of cuteness right there.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Perpetual daylight
I'm in NYC this week, staying at the W in Times Square. There's a huge publishing conference at the end of the week, so my company reserved a big block of rooms here for everyone traveling into the city. The W cracks me up, because it's trying sooooo hard to be cool and turns out to be just sort of annoying and silly. For instance, is it really necessary that all the lights in the hall are low and blue or red? No one is clubbing or making out out there. Seems like it would make more sense to be able to get the card key in the door and the roller bag in the room without tripping. They do have a cool gift shop, I'll give them that. I want to buy everything in there.
Because the hotel is in Times Square, the window by my bed is lit up round the clock. It literally looks like it's 5pm outside right now (it's really 11pm). All neon, but you wouldn't necessarily notice unless you were over there checking it out.
Because the hotel is in Times Square, the window by my bed is lit up round the clock. It literally looks like it's 5pm outside right now (it's really 11pm). All neon, but you wouldn't necessarily notice unless you were over there checking it out.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Headed out of town
I'm driving to Tahoe this Friday morning. I haven't been in years, it seems (I try to avoid the torture of being a non-skier in Tahoe during ski season), and I can't remember what the weather is like this time of year. There was talk of tubing down the Truckee on Saturday, but it seems like we'd freeze, right? Even thought it's supposed to be sunny and in the 70s, that river is just liquid snow. I may be remembering wrong, but I thought it was freezing even in August.
Nothin' much on the agenda other than sleeping in, drinking beers in the afternoon, and maybe making some big dinners. I've got to squeeze in some spacey, unproductive, fun-in-the-sun time before heading to NYC first thing Monday.
Nothin' much on the agenda other than sleeping in, drinking beers in the afternoon, and maybe making some big dinners. I've got to squeeze in some spacey, unproductive, fun-in-the-sun time before heading to NYC first thing Monday.
Box in a box
I'm guessing everyone has already seen this parody of Dick in a Box, since it's been around for months. I'm posting it anyway, because it totally cracked me up.
Yes, I'm officially the oldest and most out of touch with pop culture person ever.
Yes, I'm officially the oldest and most out of touch with pop culture person ever.
B2B photo
It's the only one I've seen of Dave's costume, which pretty much makes him unrecognizable. Miraculously, that moustache stayed on all day, despite being soaked in beer.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
My favorite holiday
Another Bay to Breakers has come and gone. It truly is the best day of the year in San Francisco, and I can't believe I was considering skipping it.
I wore the disco jumpsuit again this year. People actually recognized me from years past and came up to say hello, which made me feel like a bad ass. As did my 27-second keg stand at Hayes and Scott.
It seems like the most popular costume this time around was to spoof Justin Timberlake's "Dick in a Box" skit from SNL. There were at least 10 groups of guys all dressed up like JT in that skit. However, the funniest version of this -- by far -- was a chick I saw, wearing jeans and a t-shirt, but with the gift-wrapped box strapped to her crotch. I told her I liked her box, and she looked at me, winked, and said, "It's a box in a box."
Next year will be a tough call. It's very likely that my graduation and Bay to Breakers will fall on the same day. I might have to go B2B early and then roll into graduation in the jumpsuit. It could work.
I wore the disco jumpsuit again this year. People actually recognized me from years past and came up to say hello, which made me feel like a bad ass. As did my 27-second keg stand at Hayes and Scott.
It seems like the most popular costume this time around was to spoof Justin Timberlake's "Dick in a Box" skit from SNL. There were at least 10 groups of guys all dressed up like JT in that skit. However, the funniest version of this -- by far -- was a chick I saw, wearing jeans and a t-shirt, but with the gift-wrapped box strapped to her crotch. I told her I liked her box, and she looked at me, winked, and said, "It's a box in a box."
Next year will be a tough call. It's very likely that my graduation and Bay to Breakers will fall on the same day. I might have to go B2B early and then roll into graduation in the jumpsuit. It could work.
More Greendimes awesomeness
I just found myself wandering around the Greendimes website again and realized that you can add up to three additional names at your mailing address for only $1 a year. My roomies just got added (whether they like it or not).
Also, the Greendimes peeps sent out this announcement today:
"Matt Damon, who has joined our Board of Directors, was gracious enough to do an Earth Day spot for a major TV talk show. He's an amazing person with a big heart and we're humbled by his involvement. We can't mention the show's name, so search for 'Matt Damon GreenDimes' and you'll figure it out. It just doesn't get any better! Oh wait, it can. And it did. We were also on The Ellen Show on 5/15!
We launched our service for Canada a few weeks ago -- so if you have friends to the north, let them know we're around.
We had a booth at the Google Earth Day Fair and it was a blast -- what a nice invitation from a GREAT company!
In honor of World Malaria Day, we partnered with The United Nations Foundation to fund the purchase of 5,000 bed malaria nets to help in the fight against this aggressive and preventable disease. We accomplished the goal in 11 days! From April 25th to May 6th, every new GreenDimes membership helped save trees, reforest the earth AND save a life! Wow!
Direct List Technology, one of the mailing companies we contact on your behalf, asked us to send them an electronic file instead of a postcard -- a huge thanks to them for being so cooperative."
The show that Matt Damon's spot was filmed for is Oprah. Unbelievable publicity for this little company. It seems like they are about to take off. I hope so, as they absolutely deserve the success.
Also, the Greendimes peeps sent out this announcement today:
"Matt Damon, who has joined our Board of Directors, was gracious enough to do an Earth Day spot for a major TV talk show. He's an amazing person with a big heart and we're humbled by his involvement. We can't mention the show's name, so search for 'Matt Damon GreenDimes' and you'll figure it out. It just doesn't get any better! Oh wait, it can. And it did. We were also on The Ellen Show on 5/15!
We launched our service for Canada a few weeks ago -- so if you have friends to the north, let them know we're around.
We had a booth at the Google Earth Day Fair and it was a blast -- what a nice invitation from a GREAT company!
In honor of World Malaria Day, we partnered with The United Nations Foundation to fund the purchase of 5,000 bed malaria nets to help in the fight against this aggressive and preventable disease. We accomplished the goal in 11 days! From April 25th to May 6th, every new GreenDimes membership helped save trees, reforest the earth AND save a life! Wow!
Direct List Technology, one of the mailing companies we contact on your behalf, asked us to send them an electronic file instead of a postcard -- a huge thanks to them for being so cooperative."
The show that Matt Damon's spot was filmed for is Oprah. Unbelievable publicity for this little company. It seems like they are about to take off. I hope so, as they absolutely deserve the success.
Greendimes.com
I've been meaning to post about this website/service for months now.
Remember back when I used to blog endlessly about how much crappy junk mail I received and how long it took to shred it? Well, a group of Haas MBAs answered my prayers and started up Greendimes. It's a service that stops your junk mail and plants a tree for you every month -- for only $36 a year. It's a pretty sweet deal.
I signed up with Greendimes about a half a year ago. It took approximately three months to fully kick in, but the amount of stupid junk mail I get has been cut by at least 80 percent. There are a few mail order catalogs that are apparently unstoppable. The Pottery Barn catalog just won't quit. Supposedly there is a place on their website where I could report that sort of thing and they would take care of it for me, but I've been too lazy.
The last time I checked in at their site, they had just set up a gift membership so you can buy the service for other people. I know what everyone is getting for Christmas from me this year. The amount of needless waste paper this service prevents is phenomenal.
Remember back when I used to blog endlessly about how much crappy junk mail I received and how long it took to shred it? Well, a group of Haas MBAs answered my prayers and started up Greendimes. It's a service that stops your junk mail and plants a tree for you every month -- for only $36 a year. It's a pretty sweet deal.
I signed up with Greendimes about a half a year ago. It took approximately three months to fully kick in, but the amount of stupid junk mail I get has been cut by at least 80 percent. There are a few mail order catalogs that are apparently unstoppable. The Pottery Barn catalog just won't quit. Supposedly there is a place on their website where I could report that sort of thing and they would take care of it for me, but I've been too lazy.
The last time I checked in at their site, they had just set up a gift membership so you can buy the service for other people. I know what everyone is getting for Christmas from me this year. The amount of needless waste paper this service prevents is phenomenal.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Oregonians hate reading
From one of my industry newsletters:
"Jackson County, OR voters turned down an $8.3 million tax increase designed to reopen their 15-branch library system by a 60-40 margin--about the same as a vote last November (prior to the actual closing of the libraries in early April.) The head of the Save the Libraries campaign 'said he believes many residents voted against the levy not because they don't support the libraries, but because they don't support this method of funding them.'"
"Jackson County, OR voters turned down an $8.3 million tax increase designed to reopen their 15-branch library system by a 60-40 margin--about the same as a vote last November (prior to the actual closing of the libraries in early April.) The head of the Save the Libraries campaign 'said he believes many residents voted against the levy not because they don't support the libraries, but because they don't support this method of funding them.'"
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
It's party time!
The semester is officially over and I have a truck and six kegs waiting for me to pick them up on Saturday morning. What could be more promising than that?
Last night (after one or two glasses of wine) I decided I should marry that Utah Jazz basketball player we've all been seeing so much of lately, so I could take his last name. I would then be Becky Boozer, party planner extraordinaire! My event planning empire would grow at an astonishing rate, and I'd have to change this blog to www.beckyboozer.com.
The headcount for Saturday's celebration is now up to 350, which is causing me a little anxiety. Not really sure how this is all gonna work, as the site we've got is meant for 150 people. I'm sure all those 350 picnickers won't all show up at once, right?
Last night (after one or two glasses of wine) I decided I should marry that Utah Jazz basketball player we've all been seeing so much of lately, so I could take his last name. I would then be Becky Boozer, party planner extraordinaire! My event planning empire would grow at an astonishing rate, and I'd have to change this blog to www.beckyboozer.com.
The headcount for Saturday's celebration is now up to 350, which is causing me a little anxiety. Not really sure how this is all gonna work, as the site we've got is meant for 150 people. I'm sure all those 350 picnickers won't all show up at once, right?
Email from Jenica
"Hi there,
This morning I found out that the soldiers in Iraq who were kidnapped are from the 10th Mountain Division in Watertown New York, where my brother is from. He's fine. But it freaked me out and I feel so bad for the families who are not so lucky. He hasn't been in contact with us for several days. Amy (his wife) didn't know til yesterday that they were from their army base. Luckily Gene contacted her through a friend's email (all communication between his brigade and the outside world is blocked, as dramatic as that sounds).
My mom was worried about him as soon as she found out about it. But of course I told her that she was being dramatic. I didn't know that for once she had the right to worry. Gene was supposed to be in that group but was changed at the last minute (before deploying). Yikers.
Anyway...I saw a bumper sticker yesterday that said 'I don't remember signing my son's permission slip to Iraq.' It was next to a yellow ribbon sticker.
If you could keep those soldiers in your thoughts....
Love, Jenica"
This morning I found out that the soldiers in Iraq who were kidnapped are from the 10th Mountain Division in Watertown New York, where my brother is from. He's fine. But it freaked me out and I feel so bad for the families who are not so lucky. He hasn't been in contact with us for several days. Amy (his wife) didn't know til yesterday that they were from their army base. Luckily Gene contacted her through a friend's email (all communication between his brigade and the outside world is blocked, as dramatic as that sounds).
My mom was worried about him as soon as she found out about it. But of course I told her that she was being dramatic. I didn't know that for once she had the right to worry. Gene was supposed to be in that group but was changed at the last minute (before deploying). Yikers.
Anyway...I saw a bumper sticker yesterday that said 'I don't remember signing my son's permission slip to Iraq.' It was next to a yellow ribbon sticker.
If you could keep those soldiers in your thoughts....
Love, Jenica"
Saturday, May 12, 2007
A professional opinion
Dave suggested I send my keg query to Kieran, who manages Solstice on Divisadero. Here was his professional recommendation about how many kegs to line up:
"The beer question you pose is humanity's true mystery, isn't it? Will there be anything other than beer offered? Wine and spirits? Or just soft drinks? How long is the event? All things that make the difference between 1 keg and 10 kegs...
Mathematically speaking there are about 90-100 glasses of beer in a standard American keg (15.5 gallons). That figures in 12 oz glasses with minor spills and fobbing (foaming in lay-terms). I generally figure on 1.5 glasses per person per hour which accounts for the people that will drink 3 in an hour as well as the people that will drink 0. That however, depends on what else is available to drink. If there is nothing else, I think your golden number for a 3 hour event is about 8 kegs , which is about 760 total beers (give or take 40) or 3.8 beers per person on a 200 person party."
It all makes sense, though eight kegs seems like a crapload of beer. Too much beer is definitely better than not enough, especially when you have Bay to Breakers happening the next morning.
To complicate the situation, our RSVP list has gone up from 200 to 250 in the last week.
I am at least feeling on top of the food situation -- A.G. Ferarri will be bringing in a bunch of sandwiches, salads, and nibbly stuff. And we booked a face painter for the kids. Oski is out, face painter is in. I wanted to rent a bouncy house (actually I wanted one for the kids and one for the drunk adults), but the contract for the park won't allow it.
"The beer question you pose is humanity's true mystery, isn't it? Will there be anything other than beer offered? Wine and spirits? Or just soft drinks? How long is the event? All things that make the difference between 1 keg and 10 kegs...
Mathematically speaking there are about 90-100 glasses of beer in a standard American keg (15.5 gallons). That figures in 12 oz glasses with minor spills and fobbing (foaming in lay-terms). I generally figure on 1.5 glasses per person per hour which accounts for the people that will drink 3 in an hour as well as the people that will drink 0. That however, depends on what else is available to drink. If there is nothing else, I think your golden number for a 3 hour event is about 8 kegs , which is about 760 total beers (give or take 40) or 3.8 beers per person on a 200 person party."
It all makes sense, though eight kegs seems like a crapload of beer. Too much beer is definitely better than not enough, especially when you have Bay to Breakers happening the next morning.
To complicate the situation, our RSVP list has gone up from 200 to 250 in the last week.
I am at least feeling on top of the food situation -- A.G. Ferarri will be bringing in a bunch of sandwiches, salads, and nibbly stuff. And we booked a face painter for the kids. Oski is out, face painter is in. I wanted to rent a bouncy house (actually I wanted one for the kids and one for the drunk adults), but the contract for the park won't allow it.
Friday, May 04, 2007
The price of Oski
Another party-related dilemma I'm facing this week is that it would be pretty sweet to book Oski for this party. It's supposed to be a celebratory, Cal spirited, family event. There will be kids there, and it seems like they'd like Oski at least as much as I do.
Then again, it's come to my attention that I may be a little Oski-obsessed. And Oski comes with some pretty steep appearance fees (they are, however, much more reasonable than Paris Hilton's). How much do you think it's worth to get Oski at something like this? I think I'm gonna try and negotiate him down.
Then again, it's come to my attention that I may be a little Oski-obsessed. And Oski comes with some pretty steep appearance fees (they are, however, much more reasonable than Paris Hilton's). How much do you think it's worth to get Oski at something like this? I think I'm gonna try and negotiate him down.
A keg riddle
I need some help forecasting how much beer to buy for the end of year party we're working on. I figure a lot of you drink beer, so maybe you'll know! Here's the situation:
Two-hundredish attendees projected, at least fifty of which will be children or non-drinkers, but at least fifty of which will be alcoholics or heavy drinkers.
The Internet says about one hundred and forty cups of beer in a keg.
I will be humiliated if we run out, but I don't want to have way too much because kegs are not cheap and I personally will have to deal with transporting them all to and fro, potentially in a truck that I will have to rent.
So, how many kegs does RB need?
Two-hundredish attendees projected, at least fifty of which will be children or non-drinkers, but at least fifty of which will be alcoholics or heavy drinkers.
The Internet says about one hundred and forty cups of beer in a keg.
I will be humiliated if we run out, but I don't want to have way too much because kegs are not cheap and I personally will have to deal with transporting them all to and fro, potentially in a truck that I will have to rent.
So, how many kegs does RB need?
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Can I borrow your truck?
I need to move a bunch of kegs the weekend of May 19. Does anyone have a truck or SUV I could borrow?
Poo
This just in from Dave:
"Talked to Rob – B2B float building isn’t happening. Neither of us have the time to pull it together at this point. Looks like it will be backpacks and beers… pass that on."
House remodeling and final exams seem to have conspired against the annual Bay to Breakers keg float effort. I can't complain about it, especially since I contribute nothing to the effort, other than awe and appreciation. On the positive side, now I don't have to order a convict costume online (the theme this year was going to be cops and robbers). Looks like the disco jumpsuit tradition will not die in 2007.
"Talked to Rob – B2B float building isn’t happening. Neither of us have the time to pull it together at this point. Looks like it will be backpacks and beers… pass that on."
House remodeling and final exams seem to have conspired against the annual Bay to Breakers keg float effort. I can't complain about it, especially since I contribute nothing to the effort, other than awe and appreciation. On the positive side, now I don't have to order a convict costume online (the theme this year was going to be cops and robbers). Looks like the disco jumpsuit tradition will not die in 2007.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
More on Fuqua
While I'm no advocate for cheating, I'm starting to feel a little sorry for the b-school students who are getting expelled from Fuqua. I read another article about it this morning, and it sounds like the whole thing is getting blown out of proportion.
For starters, it was an open book take-home test. And the "cheating" was that the students collaborated while working on it. If it's open book, does it really matter that you talked about it with some other students? Really, an open book test is only testing your ability to read and apply what you read. Also, the only reason they know the students collaborated is because they openly admitted to it.
This is my favorite quote from the article:
"'I would say at many business schools it is a part of the culture,' Dr. McCabe said. 'You want to talk rationalizations? I could give you thousands of them: everybody else does it, it’s the teachers’ fault, you have to do it to get ahead.'"
Makes us sound like middle school students.
I've got another rationalization -- in b-school you don't do anything independently. Every single project we have is team-based or collaborative, because that's pretty much how it works in the real world. Your ability to work with people is what makes you succeed in the workplace. Collaborating with other students, studying with other students, and talking about everything is ingrained within the first month of your first year.
For starters, it was an open book take-home test. And the "cheating" was that the students collaborated while working on it. If it's open book, does it really matter that you talked about it with some other students? Really, an open book test is only testing your ability to read and apply what you read. Also, the only reason they know the students collaborated is because they openly admitted to it.
This is my favorite quote from the article:
"'I would say at many business schools it is a part of the culture,' Dr. McCabe said. 'You want to talk rationalizations? I could give you thousands of them: everybody else does it, it’s the teachers’ fault, you have to do it to get ahead.'"
Makes us sound like middle school students.
I've got another rationalization -- in b-school you don't do anything independently. Every single project we have is team-based or collaborative, because that's pretty much how it works in the real world. Your ability to work with people is what makes you succeed in the workplace. Collaborating with other students, studying with other students, and talking about everything is ingrained within the first month of your first year.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
My whereabouts
I bet it seems a bit like I've fallen off the face of the planet. After a brief revival, I haven't been keeping up on the blogging. I've been out of the swing of my usual habits and out of touch with everyone. The past few weeks have been more introspective that usual and I've mostly been occupied by
hanging out with Sally,
standing around in airports,
writing papers,
networking and attending informational interviews,
trying to get a Chinese visa,
scratching my inexplicably extremely itchy legs and worrying that I developed have a skin condition,
meditating on parenthood,
planning a BBQ,
being trapped in my cube,
feeling very much in love,
shopping for a summer cocktail dress,
aging,
reading leadership books,
and trying to gear up for summer, which feels almost within my reach.
My semester ends next week. Two papers to go, before school ends and I launch myself head-first into an extended period of travel.
hanging out with Sally,
standing around in airports,
writing papers,
networking and attending informational interviews,
trying to get a Chinese visa,
scratching my inexplicably extremely itchy legs and worrying that I developed have a skin condition,
meditating on parenthood,
planning a BBQ,
being trapped in my cube,
feeling very much in love,
shopping for a summer cocktail dress,
aging,
reading leadership books,
and trying to gear up for summer, which feels almost within my reach.
My semester ends next week. Two papers to go, before school ends and I launch myself head-first into an extended period of travel.
I am a dork
Julia recently accused me of being obsessed with Franklin-Covey, and I've come to realize it's true -- I love me my Franklin-Covey. I've been using it as a life planning system for about six years now, and I can't get enough. I love the lists, I love the inspirational quotations, I love the emphasis on priorities and personal goals, and I love the stylish leather binder. I love that it allows you to customize to your heart's content and keep everything in one place. If anyone out there feels they need more organization in his or her life, please -- let me convince you to adopt the Covey!
Just to give you a taste, here's an inspirational quote from last week:
"You have brains in your head, and feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose." -- Dr. Seuss
Simple, yet eloquent.
Just to give you a taste, here's an inspirational quote from last week:
"You have brains in your head, and feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose." -- Dr. Seuss
Simple, yet eloquent.
NSFW
What does NSFW mean? I get that they always list it in front of links that connect to nudie photos, but what does the acronym actually stand for?
Dumbest thing ever
Dave just sent me a link to an article about the cheating scandal at Fuqua. His comment was, "Pretty stupid on the students' part -- why would you cheat in an MBA program of all places?" By which he probably means it's a stupid thing to do because b-school is not really that hard,* and on top of that your grades just don't matter that much. I doubt he means that it's a stupid thing to do because we're supposed to be role models for ethical decision making, but you never know.
I think it's pretty stupid for 30 graduate students turn in answers that were similar enough for a professor to tell everyone was cheating. Did they really think that was going to work? Seems like if you're going to cheat, you should at least do a decent job of it. I also think Fuqua is a stupid word.
*Dave thinks b-school is not hard. I think parts of it are hard.
I think it's pretty stupid for 30 graduate students turn in answers that were similar enough for a professor to tell everyone was cheating. Did they really think that was going to work? Seems like if you're going to cheat, you should at least do a decent job of it. I also think Fuqua is a stupid word.
*Dave thinks b-school is not hard. I think parts of it are hard.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
From the Chinese Embassy website
"Additional information
Any person suffering from a mental disorder, leprosy, AIDS, venereal diseases, contagious tuberculosis or other such infectious diseases shall not be permitted to enter China."
Pretty broad list, there.
Any person suffering from a mental disorder, leprosy, AIDS, venereal diseases, contagious tuberculosis or other such infectious diseases shall not be permitted to enter China."
Pretty broad list, there.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Makes me chuckle
I haven't been all that intrigued by the postcards on Postsecret.com lately. They're often boring and the same thing over and over again. However, this one caught my eye.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
I've always wondered
...why they call him Oski.
From Oski.com:
"The official mascot of the University of California, Oski, has been a tradition at the school since making his debut on September 26, 1941 during the football season-opener against St. Mary's. Prior to his arrival, live mascots were used at Memorial Stadium with varying degrees of success. It was decided in 1940 that a costumed mascot would make a more suitable alternative to a live bear.
Named after the popular turn of the 20th century 'Oski Wow-Wow' yell, the Cal mascot is selected by the Oski Committee, a governing body that oversees all aspects of caring for the lovable, 5-foot-7-inch, size 15 tennis shoe wearing Bear. Oski's identity is unknown to everyone, with the exception of the committee.
Oski Wow-Wow!
Whiskey Wee-Wee!
Olee! Muckie-eye!
Olee! Berkeley-eye!
California! Wow!"
What a silly yell.
From Oski.com:
"The official mascot of the University of California, Oski, has been a tradition at the school since making his debut on September 26, 1941 during the football season-opener against St. Mary's. Prior to his arrival, live mascots were used at Memorial Stadium with varying degrees of success. It was decided in 1940 that a costumed mascot would make a more suitable alternative to a live bear.
Named after the popular turn of the 20th century 'Oski Wow-Wow' yell, the Cal mascot is selected by the Oski Committee, a governing body that oversees all aspects of caring for the lovable, 5-foot-7-inch, size 15 tennis shoe wearing Bear. Oski's identity is unknown to everyone, with the exception of the committee.
Oski Wow-Wow!
Whiskey Wee-Wee!
Olee! Muckie-eye!
Olee! Berkeley-eye!
California! Wow!"
What a silly yell.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Speaking of children
Sam's fifth birthday is right around the corner. What does a five-year-old boy want for his birthday? Difficult to determine. When you ask him, he says "something trains," but this is not helpful as he already owns every train related thing ever invented.
And I hate the trains. Blech. I guess I should mention that they're not just regular old train-set trains, but Thomas the Tank Engine trains that all have little cartoon faces on the ends and a corresponding DVD with high-pitched, sing-songy British voices. The DVD plays on repeat forever automatically, unless you turn it off.
For Christmas I went with books. There were some slightly bloody Tyranosaurus Rex-related titles that went over well. The all-time favorite was a book about dinosaur fossils. It featured glow-in-the-dark dinosaur skeletons on each page. Big hit.
I'll admit the books weren't a huge thrill upon unwrapping, but they seemed to be appreciated over time. I'll probably stick with books out of loyalty to my industry. And because I want to make sure the kid learns how to read.
And I hate the trains. Blech. I guess I should mention that they're not just regular old train-set trains, but Thomas the Tank Engine trains that all have little cartoon faces on the ends and a corresponding DVD with high-pitched, sing-songy British voices. The DVD plays on repeat forever automatically, unless you turn it off.
For Christmas I went with books. There were some slightly bloody Tyranosaurus Rex-related titles that went over well. The all-time favorite was a book about dinosaur fossils. It featured glow-in-the-dark dinosaur skeletons on each page. Big hit.
I'll admit the books weren't a huge thrill upon unwrapping, but they seemed to be appreciated over time. I'll probably stick with books out of loyalty to my industry. And because I want to make sure the kid learns how to read.
Two more things about Children of Men
I was thinking about the movie on the train this morning, when I realized that it's probably a fairly good movie if I'm still seriously pondering it after two days.
Here's what I was mulling over...
1) Did anyone else feel like it was only 30 minutes long? Maybe it's because I watched it in two sittings? Maybe it's because so many of my questions about what was going on were still unanswered? I looked it up online and it was supposedly a 109 minute runtime.
2) Let's discuss the title: Children of Men. Why? Why not "Children of People," "Our Children," "Human Children," or just "Children" ? It doesn't make sense. Men can't have children alone. Does that have something to do with the basic premise? Thoughts?
Titling is one of the hardest things for me at work. People are always so opinionated about titles -- they seem to know intuitively what a title should be -- and I feel like I can never come up with anything. I spend a crazy amount of time stuck on titles and what makes a good title vs a bad title.
Here's what I was mulling over...
1) Did anyone else feel like it was only 30 minutes long? Maybe it's because I watched it in two sittings? Maybe it's because so many of my questions about what was going on were still unanswered? I looked it up online and it was supposedly a 109 minute runtime.
2) Let's discuss the title: Children of Men. Why? Why not "Children of People," "Our Children," "Human Children," or just "Children" ? It doesn't make sense. Men can't have children alone. Does that have something to do with the basic premise? Thoughts?
Titling is one of the hardest things for me at work. People are always so opinionated about titles -- they seem to know intuitively what a title should be -- and I feel like I can never come up with anything. I spend a crazy amount of time stuck on titles and what makes a good title vs a bad title.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Blogging code of conduct
Here's an interesting article about a proposed set of guidelines for blog sites and blogging communities. Some of it seems reasonable, but I don't think they'll ever convince me not to allow anonymous comments. Anonymous comments make for at least half the fun in the blogosphere.
Business reading trends
"Management reading lists this year don't include tomes by celebrity executives. Instead, readers are seeking advice on the nitty-gritty tasks of running companies, analyzing complex data to make smart decisions and expanding undervalued assets."
So says The Wall Street Journal.
So says The Wall Street Journal.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Children of Men
I just finished watching Children of Men on DVD. It took me a couple of sittings to get through, because I have such extreme reactions to violence (even though I know it's not real) and this movie is so extremely violent. Have you guys seen this film? I'm curious to hear what others think... is the future really hopeless without the presence of children? I guess on a grand scale, yes, but what about the individual scale? There must be things other than future generations that provide hope and the prospect of a meaningful future in our individual lives.
And why can no guy ever understand my aversion to violence, even if it is only film violence? I don't like watching people get hurt or killed -- especially if it is an extremely graphic, realistic depiction. One of the key purposes of film is entertainment. I think it's a little sick that everyone seems to think there's something wrong with me just because I am upset by graphic renderings of the ways in which people can suffer. I think the world would be a better place if more people were upset by them. We watch movies to relax and have fun. Bloody beatings and/or death does not equal fun or relaxation in my book.
And why can no guy ever understand my aversion to violence, even if it is only film violence? I don't like watching people get hurt or killed -- especially if it is an extremely graphic, realistic depiction. One of the key purposes of film is entertainment. I think it's a little sick that everyone seems to think there's something wrong with me just because I am upset by graphic renderings of the ways in which people can suffer. I think the world would be a better place if more people were upset by them. We watch movies to relax and have fun. Bloody beatings and/or death does not equal fun or relaxation in my book.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
More bad news for books
From The Chronicle:
"Cody's Books in San Francisco is closing, following on the heels on the closure of its legendary Berkeley flagship store on Telegraph Avenue in July.
The last day for the Stockton Street retail shop will be April 20."
"Cody's Books in San Francisco is closing, following on the heels on the closure of its legendary Berkeley flagship store on Telegraph Avenue in July.
The last day for the Stockton Street retail shop will be April 20."
Turd dreams
I received a rare email from Turd Ferguson this morning. He wanted to tell me about this dream he had last night:
"We were at the Seafood and Wine Festival up here in Oregon. It was me, you, some girl from your business school, and Scotty Leonard. It was clear for some reason that you and Scotty were dating or something. All of a sudden, this conversation takes place--
Girl-"Becky thinks you should have gone to business school."
Me-"Really? That's cool."
Girl-"But actually, I think you look more like a janitor."
Then the Goose showed up and I followed her around a candy store trying to get her attention, because she didn't know me and I really liked her or something. Then my teeth started falling out and I woke up."
Turd then went on to tell me that he has recurring dreams about his teeth falling out, which is super weird because I do, too, and I always have.
RB and Turd -- separated at birth?
"We were at the Seafood and Wine Festival up here in Oregon. It was me, you, some girl from your business school, and Scotty Leonard. It was clear for some reason that you and Scotty were dating or something. All of a sudden, this conversation takes place--
Girl-"Becky thinks you should have gone to business school."
Me-"Really? That's cool."
Girl-"But actually, I think you look more like a janitor."
Then the Goose showed up and I followed her around a candy store trying to get her attention, because she didn't know me and I really liked her or something. Then my teeth started falling out and I woke up."
Turd then went on to tell me that he has recurring dreams about his teeth falling out, which is super weird because I do, too, and I always have.
RB and Turd -- separated at birth?
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Networking by the pool
Next month I'm headed to one of my company's seasonal sales conferences. This one is in Sarasota, Florida, at the Ritz-Carlton. I'm looking forward to the trip, because even though Sarasota isn't exactly exotic, it is sunny and beachy. That goes a long way with me these days.
From what I've been able to gather, there's not a lot of leaving the hotel complex during the week. There are meetings scheduled each day in various hotel conference rooms, and at night there are events at the restaurants and bars in the complex.
One of the key functions of the conference is to network internally -- get to know colleagues from other departments and offices and establish a rapport. At least that's much of the reason they're sending me, a relatively new editor. I hear a lot of this networking happens poolside, over cocktails. I'm trying to picture this, and honestly, I'm having a hard time with it. Maybe it's because the concept of hanging out with coworkers in bathing suits makes me a little anxious.
Talking about event planning or publicity opportunities with no clothes on (come on, a bikini is essentially underwear) seems rough. And the mental image I'm getting imagining some coworkers their swim gear is not good, either. Have a become a prude?
From what I've been able to gather, there's not a lot of leaving the hotel complex during the week. There are meetings scheduled each day in various hotel conference rooms, and at night there are events at the restaurants and bars in the complex.
One of the key functions of the conference is to network internally -- get to know colleagues from other departments and offices and establish a rapport. At least that's much of the reason they're sending me, a relatively new editor. I hear a lot of this networking happens poolside, over cocktails. I'm trying to picture this, and honestly, I'm having a hard time with it. Maybe it's because the concept of hanging out with coworkers in bathing suits makes me a little anxious.
Talking about event planning or publicity opportunities with no clothes on (come on, a bikini is essentially underwear) seems rough. And the mental image I'm getting imagining some coworkers their swim gear is not good, either. Have a become a prude?
Delicious!
This is an extremely easy and wonderful pasta recipe. I made it for dinner tonight and I strongly recommend it.
BEA
I just read this blurb on this year's Book Expo America, a NYC conference I'll be at during the first week in June:
"The former Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, Dr. Alan Greenspan, will kick off BookExpo America's (BEA's) author events in a unique and special way by appearing as BEA's Conference Keynote Speaker on Friday, June 1 at 11am. Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, comedian Stephen Colbert, novelist Khaled Hosseini and Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus will be among the other many notable personalities who will be speaking at BEA this year."
I'm pretty geared up about that speaker line up. Exciting!
"The former Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, Dr. Alan Greenspan, will kick off BookExpo America's (BEA's) author events in a unique and special way by appearing as BEA's Conference Keynote Speaker on Friday, June 1 at 11am. Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, comedian Stephen Colbert, novelist Khaled Hosseini and Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus will be among the other many notable personalities who will be speaking at BEA this year."
I'm pretty geared up about that speaker line up. Exciting!
Comments?
I seem to be having some problems with blogger.com since my last post. Is there a link for you guys to post comments on each post? Sometimes it shows up for me... sometimes it does not.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
New hottie
Last night, Linda and I went to see Little Children, that Kate Winslet movie about the young parents who have an affair. After thinking about it for awhile, I don't think I liked it. It was all about trying to make a statement and not so much about having a super engaging plot or characters one can easily connect with.
Patrick Wilson, the male lead who I don't recognize from anything else, was definitely the highlight of the movie for me. Holy crap, that guy is beautiful. The director must have thought so to, for most every scene he's in involves him being at least half naked. I guess you don't need a plot when you have a half naked Patrick Wilson.
Patrick Wilson, the male lead who I don't recognize from anything else, was definitely the highlight of the movie for me. Holy crap, that guy is beautiful. The director must have thought so to, for most every scene he's in involves him being at least half naked. I guess you don't need a plot when you have a half naked Patrick Wilson.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Sad
A blurb from today's Publisher's Lunch newsletter:
"The SF Chronicle reports that a county in southern Oregon is preparing to close all 15 of their (recently renovated) libraries after the system lost $7 million in federal funding, comprising 80 percent of its budget. 'The library crisis has stirred accusations of county mismanagement, children's protests in the streets, and a backlash against a proposed property tax to keep the libraries open,' the paper says.
Voters turned down a property tax increase in November that would have generated the necessary revenue to support the libraries."
"The SF Chronicle reports that a county in southern Oregon is preparing to close all 15 of their (recently renovated) libraries after the system lost $7 million in federal funding, comprising 80 percent of its budget. 'The library crisis has stirred accusations of county mismanagement, children's protests in the streets, and a backlash against a proposed property tax to keep the libraries open,' the paper says.
Voters turned down a property tax increase in November that would have generated the necessary revenue to support the libraries."
Monday, February 19, 2007
Mini-study abroad
My annual June vacation is shaping up to be a two-week Haas excursion to Shanghai and Beijing. I made it on the list of twenty students that can go on the early summer international seminar (there is another seminar in July, to South Africa). This will be my first trip to Asia.
If I go, it means that I'll finish my MBA a semester earlier than I had been planning. For some reason, that freaks me out a little.
If I go, it means that I'll finish my MBA a semester earlier than I had been planning. For some reason, that freaks me out a little.
Trim it
I have noticed an overabundance of nose hair on those around me lately. I mean the kind that is attempting to escape from it's relegated territory, creeping out of the nostril, sometimes curling out and up and around in a way that makes it seem impossible for the owner of the nose hair (OONH) not to notice. These are some seriously long hairs. Shouldn't the OONH be irritated by a tickle as the nose hair is blowing in the breeze?
Men, women... young, old. The aggressive nose hair does not discriminate. Previously, I believed nose hair to be something that only grandfathers and older uncles had to combat, but in 2007 it's everywhere.
There are three major problems with this:
A) It's gross and hard not to stare at when someone is talking to you.
B) There's no polite way to point out the problem and help someone with their nose hair issue, regardless of how well you might know them.
C) I have been noticing this phenomenon in relatively well-groomed people -- people who probably dedicate more time to their appearance than I do. If they have not observed their own fly-away nose hairs, is it possible that I too am unaware of the same problem in my own nose?
I urge you, head to the bathroom mirror (maybe with some tweezers or a small pair of scissors) and check things out. We all owe it to each other to be more diligent about keeping our nose hair under control. Peace out.
Men, women... young, old. The aggressive nose hair does not discriminate. Previously, I believed nose hair to be something that only grandfathers and older uncles had to combat, but in 2007 it's everywhere.
There are three major problems with this:
A) It's gross and hard not to stare at when someone is talking to you.
B) There's no polite way to point out the problem and help someone with their nose hair issue, regardless of how well you might know them.
C) I have been noticing this phenomenon in relatively well-groomed people -- people who probably dedicate more time to their appearance than I do. If they have not observed their own fly-away nose hairs, is it possible that I too am unaware of the same problem in my own nose?
I urge you, head to the bathroom mirror (maybe with some tweezers or a small pair of scissors) and check things out. We all owe it to each other to be more diligent about keeping our nose hair under control. Peace out.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Wise words from my CEO
Today I interviewed my CEO for a class project. Since I work for a global company that has thousands of employees worldwide, I hadn't ever met him before and didn't really expect to. It's amazing the kind of access you can get to people when there is a school project in the mix.
He was a very approachable and friendly guy, charismatic and chatty. Once of the questions I asked him was whether he had any advice for someone at the beginning of her career -- say, maybe in an MBA program -- who might aspire to lead a company one day. He said that the most important thing is to focus on your current responsibilities. Consistently excellent performance is the basis for building a reputation, and it's your reputation that you build a career on. He said there's no excuse for not performing well. If you don't like a job, or don't think it's important, you should move on quickly.
He also recommended being extra careful to only go to companies with a good reputation that will provide you opportunities to learn and grow. He said it's important to be able to grow without hopping from company to company, and it's the choice of companies that enables this.
Finally, he told me that you have to WANT success. You have to want it bad. You have to be competitive, and you have to have the drive to get you where you want to go.
He was a very approachable and friendly guy, charismatic and chatty. Once of the questions I asked him was whether he had any advice for someone at the beginning of her career -- say, maybe in an MBA program -- who might aspire to lead a company one day. He said that the most important thing is to focus on your current responsibilities. Consistently excellent performance is the basis for building a reputation, and it's your reputation that you build a career on. He said there's no excuse for not performing well. If you don't like a job, or don't think it's important, you should move on quickly.
He also recommended being extra careful to only go to companies with a good reputation that will provide you opportunities to learn and grow. He said it's important to be able to grow without hopping from company to company, and it's the choice of companies that enables this.
Finally, he told me that you have to WANT success. You have to want it bad. You have to be competitive, and you have to have the drive to get you where you want to go.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
The party of the century(s)
Tomorrow night is my company's much anticipated 200th anniversary party. Just like the formal dances back in high school, the office has been buzzing about this event for months. Mainly the coversation has been centered on who is bringing a date and what everyone is planning to wear. Some conversation has also been dedicated to the debate on why the hell anyone would plan something like this on a Monday night. The shindig is at the Palace Hotel downtown, and will be a relatively formal event. I'll be busting out the old black cocktail dress and my date will be suited up.
My primary goal for the evening is to not drink too much champagne. The 8am presentation I'm scheduled to give the next morning should provide sufficient motivation to stick to that goal. The primary goal enables the secondary goal: no dancing in front of my coworkers.
My primary goal for the evening is to not drink too much champagne. The 8am presentation I'm scheduled to give the next morning should provide sufficient motivation to stick to that goal. The primary goal enables the secondary goal: no dancing in front of my coworkers.
Semester of introspection
I'm taking leadership and negotiations this semester, which basically means I have had to take every kind of personality/leadership/career assessment or evaluation that exists. I just took one that says I should be working for a non-profit, working in HR, or be a CEO. It strikes me that it might be kinda tough for me to ever get to the CEO role if I'm working in HR at a non-profit. Too bad there's no such thing as an entry-level CEO. I could start interviewing now.
I get my Meyers-Briggs results on Thursday. I am suffering evaluation fatigue.
I get my Meyers-Briggs results on Thursday. I am suffering evaluation fatigue.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Linda's new sibling
...IS SO FRICKIN' ADORABLE! Maggie is getting cuter as she grows, I'm sure of it. Just adds to her family's renown for producing cute blonde bitches.
Linda's dad is pretty cute, too...
Linda's dad is pretty cute, too...
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Everyone needs a little egging on
I've had a great need for inspiration lately, which is why I appreciate the new effort happening at EggOn. This blog offers creative experiments based on the cheesey-motivational-poster model. I think they're picking up stream with some of the recent posts. Enjoy!
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Happy Birthday, Linda!
Today's the big day -- Linda is turning 30! So, I'm posting this photo in her honor:
Yes, Linda loves that Clive Owen. She also likes her men roughed up a little. With hairy chests. And drenched in rain. Have a fabulous day, Linda!
Yes, Linda loves that Clive Owen. She also likes her men roughed up a little. With hairy chests. And drenched in rain. Have a fabulous day, Linda!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Sad day
I'm sick today. I have a throat thing. And I also have some very sad news to report: the amaryllis isn't working. I'm not sure why, but it's only growing leaves -- no bud stalk. I suspect that means I could keep watering it forever, but it won't have a flower this year. Maybe they lose the ability to flower after awhile? I'm gonna have to call Grandma this weekend and check in on that one. Maybe I'll also have to go out and buy a new amaryllis. Would that be a variable "household" expense? Or a irregular "misc." expense?
Budgeting
I took the advice of Anonymous and downloaded PearBudget, a spreadsheet designed to help you make budgets and track expenditures. I never thought keeping a budget could be so fun! And I have no idea why it actually is fun, but it is. PearBudget has you break your expenditures into sub-categories under variable expenses (like groceries and entertainment), regular expenses (like rent), and irregular expenses (like gifts, vacations, or one-time big purchases). You can make the sub-categories anything you want them to be. I found that thinking about expenditures in terms of whether they're variable, regular, and irregular was really helpful in considering where it would actually make sense to cut back.
I haven't come to any major conclusions about my spending just yet. In January I spent about $80 on groceries and about $250 at restaurants. I thought this might be a sign I should cut back on dining out and cook more, until it was pointed out to me that I'm still spending less than $11 per day on food (seems pretty reasonable for the Bay Area). For now, I guess it's enough to have an understanding of where my money actually goes coming into focus.
Maybe that career in accounting isn't quite as hopeless as I thought.
I haven't come to any major conclusions about my spending just yet. In January I spent about $80 on groceries and about $250 at restaurants. I thought this might be a sign I should cut back on dining out and cook more, until it was pointed out to me that I'm still spending less than $11 per day on food (seems pretty reasonable for the Bay Area). For now, I guess it's enough to have an understanding of where my money actually goes coming into focus.
Maybe that career in accounting isn't quite as hopeless as I thought.
Champion this
I'm on the phone with Sallie Mae's endless series of recordings right now, trying to sort problems with some of my student loans. The fact that they open the call with a recording that says, "Sallie Mae, champions of higher education!" kinda makes me want to stab someone's eyeballs out.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Quick lessons in negotiations
Some quick tips I've picked up in class so far that may prove useful in your negotiations this weekend:
1) Always make the first offer, unless it is socially unnacceptable to do so.
2) Never accept a first offer.
3) Never reveal your BATNA. You can say that you have a BATNA, but never reveal specifics to the other party.
4) Don't mistake silence for an answer. Wait to hear a concrete response before making concessions.
1) Always make the first offer, unless it is socially unnacceptable to do so.
2) Never accept a first offer.
3) Never reveal your BATNA. You can say that you have a BATNA, but never reveal specifics to the other party.
4) Don't mistake silence for an answer. Wait to hear a concrete response before making concessions.
I know those underwear!
In fact, I have the exact same pair. And I wouldn't say they're underwear, as much as I would say that they're a serious piece of technical equipment. They attach at the base of your bra and provide coverage all the way down to your thighs like bike shorts. They work by sucking everything in, to the extent that you can't really breathe -- they give you a little lift in the ass, and they magically make dresses that are maybe a size too small wearable. They're a borderline miracle product. However, I'm also working on a theory that having your internal organs compressed in such a way may severely limit your tolerance to alcohol and result in embarrassing behavior at formal functions. I have no way to substantiate that, of course, but it feels true.
I'm not sure why Katie is taking heat for wearing them. They're kinda hot. You know, in that wrestling singlet way. And she is married to Tom Cruise.
I'm not sure why Katie is taking heat for wearing them. They're kinda hot. You know, in that wrestling singlet way. And she is married to Tom Cruise.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
BATNA
"BATNA" (pronounced bat-na) is a new term I learned in negotiations class, and I'm a little obsessed with it. I think I'm a little obsessed with negotiations class in general.
BATNA is an acronym for Best Alternative To the Negotiated Agreement. In a negotiation, pretty much all of your power comes from your BATNA. A simple, quick example is that if you have an offer from someone who wants to buy your futon for $100, you would never accept an offer from another party for under $100, unless they could sweeten the deal somehow to get it to a value of more than $100 ($90 and they haul it out of your third floor apartment for you, and then give you a backrub?). $100 is your futon BATNA.
I think BATNA needs to be worked into my day to day vocabulary and I'm keeping an eye out for such opportunities. It should have some good applications in conversations about dating.
BATNA is an acronym for Best Alternative To the Negotiated Agreement. In a negotiation, pretty much all of your power comes from your BATNA. A simple, quick example is that if you have an offer from someone who wants to buy your futon for $100, you would never accept an offer from another party for under $100, unless they could sweeten the deal somehow to get it to a value of more than $100 ($90 and they haul it out of your third floor apartment for you, and then give you a backrub?). $100 is your futon BATNA.
I think BATNA needs to be worked into my day to day vocabulary and I'm keeping an eye out for such opportunities. It should have some good applications in conversations about dating.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
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