Dagny's World

Moving Day

2005-05-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

I finally decided to move over to the new blog. Still tweaking with it a bit but it's starting to grow on me.

It would be way past bedtime if I actually owned a bed

2005-05-26T03:03:00.000-07:00

So about three weeks ago I fell asleep in a completely wrong position. After a week and a half of pain, I went to the doctor. He determined that I strained a deep muscle in my neck/upper back. Being in Northern California, I had numerous friends ask if the problem could not have been solved by a massage therapist or a chiropractor. It probably could have but those solutions would have involved taking even more time off from work. I must say once more that I completely love Flexeril, the prescription the doctor wrote. Because I was in a great deal of pain at that time, he also wrote me a prescription for Tylenol 3. I'm saving that bottle for a real emergency. I would have needed them if it hadn't been for the Flexeril. The only thing I worry about is that the Flexeril runs out over this weekend. Does that mean that I will be wired for weeks? When I first started taking the pills, I was ready to go into coma sleep by about 4 p.m. (The earliest that I get off of work is 6 p.m.) Last week was hellish. This week is sooooo happy.

I guess I should head off to sleep now but if I leave now, I will be stuck with the sounds of Digital Underground doing "Freaks of the Industry."

Idle Hands

2005-05-25T23:23:00.000-07:00

So I have a load of spare time on my hands these days it seems. Mainly because I refuse to deal with the mess that is the bedroom until I actually purchase furniture for that room. Don't worry though. It will happen soon. I have to have furniture in place in the room by mid-July at the latest. That means I have about a month and a half to deal with it all. Actually maybe I should shoot for late June as I am debating throwing myself a birthday party. I will be almost completely over the hill after all. (I must not think about that. I must remind myself that according to that lovely quiz, I act like I'm 26. Actually 26 was a good year so I think I'll stay with it as long as possible. Oh, and if I act like I'm 26, does that mean that it's still ok for me to date 21 year old guys?)

Enough of that. Back to the real topic -- spare time. I attribute the sudden gain in free time to the end of the television season. That's why I had to go to the library earlier this week. I recently realized that I wasn't completely happy with this blog and wanted to do some re-designing. However, there are limitations on what I can do with this. I have spent the last week or so trying to come up with a new look. Actually I have "finished" it; I just need to let the idea marinate a bit and see if I still like it. I figure that should be about another week or so. At that point I will post the link and hopefully see you all there.

On a quest for literacy

2005-05-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

So this weekend I went to see Crash. We arrived in the area of the theater early, so we browsed through a bookstore. It's been some time since I've bought a book -- at least three months. I just can't stomach paying the outrageous prices they charge now for hardcovers though. Then I remembered that part of the appeal of my apartment is that it is within walking distance of the public library. Add to this the fact that the sun has decided to make an extended appearance this week and the fact that I got off work at 6:00. Well, it was just an outing in the making.

I ran into my apartment as quickly as possible so that I could change into something more casual (and cooler). I remembered to grab a tote bag on my way out the door to carry my finds home in. As I strolled along, I was greatly tempted to join the other fine residents of the People's Republic who were enjoying a cold one. Then I remembered I was on a mission. Not more than a block later I was tempted to stop to go shopping. Then I remembered my empty wallet and decided to continue on my way.

I finally reached the library only to discover that most of the books I wanted had already been checked out. I didn't leave empty-handed though; I got three. Even more important I got the first library card I've had in about ten years.

On my way back home, I remembered to stop in the Indian restaurant that's about three blocks away. I desperately needed a takeout menu because they deliver. (Yes, I realize they are only three blocks away and I could easily walk there. I've gotten my exercise for the week though. I did take the stairs in the library up to the fourth floor and back down.) Across the street is a taqueria. I was tempted to stop there too. Finally as I neared home, I saw a sign up at the French bistro around the corner from me. They now have cafe service in the morning. Guess what they're serving? That's right -- pain au chocolat. One day I'm just going to head out and eat my way through the neighborhood.

Another day, another dollar.

2005-05-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here at work and realizing that I haven't posted since last weekend. Actually I hope that I will be able to finish this post while at work. The new boss can be a stickler about certain things. Oh, and I do have a ton of work piled up that is begging me to come take a look.

The new boss is pretty much ok. I may not like some of her rules (like when I work on Fridays that I'm expected to be here until 5 and on Saturdays until 3). My old boss was pretty flexible on this kind of thing. Fridays I didn't have to stay any later than 4 and on Saturdays I could leave at 3. Then again she has been a consistent presence in the center since she began. Often I didn't know when the old boss was going to show up, if ever. Then her bosses would call and she'd expect me to cover for her. Hmmm ... maybe she needs that trust fund more than I do.

Looks like there's a new boy around, but he's already starting to irritate me. He called earlier this week because he said he had a few questions. I decided to just cut to the chase and said, "I already know what one of your questions is. You want to know why I didn't invite you to my housewarming." That was precisely the question. He was angry/hurt because I didn't. Mind you, I'd only met this guy three weeks before my housewarming. I told him that it was mostly family present. I just am picky about who gets to meet my family. His response? "Well it has to happen at some point." The last time some guy reacted that way to something I had said, the guy was planning our lives together. I keep wondering if these guys (yes, there have been quite a few of this type in my life) are this way all the time or do I bring out this obsessive quality.

Boy called this morning around 7 a.m. saying that he needed me to call him back at 8:30. He has jury duty and doesn't own an alarm clock. I get the feeling that this guy won't be around for much longer. Maybe that's the real reason why I didn't invite him.

Well, I'd better get back to work. I can't believe I still have four more hours to go.

Time to relax

2005-05-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

I have just bid farewell to my final guests and as promised, I have pictures.

The spread

My friends and relatives were impressed, as always, by the food spread. A couple asked when I was going to give up the education thing and just start a catering business.

The Fig and Walnut Tapenade has always been a hit. My friend, Yvette, couldn't make it because she had no one to watch her daughter. She called her twin sister, Yvonne, during the festivities to specifically ask if I had made the tapenade. Yvonne told her that I had known that Yvette would make the request. Ten minutes earlier I had told Yvonne that she would have to take some home to Yvette because I remembered how much she had loved it before.

The Chicken Empanadas are another hit in Yvonne's family. Her other sister Monique couldn't make it because she is already dilated one centimeter. I said there was no need for Monique to attend. I mean, do I really want her water breaking in my apartment? Monique had already instructed Yvonne to inquire about the empanadas before Yvonne arrived. Yvonne said, "She may be starting labor but all she can think about is food." I had already set some aside for Monique. They aren't the prettiest ones I've made, but they're still tasty. (The empanadas were the last item I made and so I rushed in rolling out the dough. Oh, and Gloria, the dough is made from flour, cream cheese, and butter.)

Of course there was the requisite sangria to wash it all down. I am finishing the last of it as I write this. Well, I would if I could find my cup. That was one of my main problems today. I could never remember where I had left my cup.

I had told people that there was no need to bring anything, but we all know I really didn't mean it. Here's the loot I collected. Not pictured is the check that my dad gave me. It will buy my chairs at Ikea and then some. The tray (the box in the front) is from my stepmother. I was really surprised. She had already given me a check which enabled me to buy my lovely kitchen table from Ikea. Oh, and my dad is the one who gave me the lovely 6-pack of wine. In total I received seven bottles of wine and a bottle of Chivas. My friends say I have the start of another party.

This final image is from my hallway. Everyone was fascinated with it. I guess it's left from the old intercom system in the building.

I said it's time to relax, but let's get real. I still need to deal with the mess that is supposed to be the bedroom. I refuse to take more pictures of it until I have it decorated. At least now there is a path through the room.

I'm it.

2005-05-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

I was tagged yesterday so here goes. I let myself marinate ... ummm I mean meditate ... with some Chuck last night. Here's my answers.

The Premise (pick 5):
If I could be a scientist…
If I could be a farmer…
If I could be a musician…
If I could be a doctor…
If I could be a painter…
If I could be a gardener…
If I could be a missionary…
If I could be a chef…
If I could be an architect…
If I could be a linguist…
If I could be a psychologist…
If I could be a librarian…
If I could be an athlete…
If I could be a lawyer…
If I could be an inn-keeper…
If I could be a professor…
If I could be a writer…
If I could be a llama-rider…
If I could be a bonnie pirate…
If I could be an astronaut…
If I could be a world famous blogger…
If I could be a justice on any one court in the world…
If I could be married to any current famous political figure…

If I could be an inn-keeper...
I'd have the kind of place that would make you feel at home. In fact you'd love it there so much, you'd never want to leave. Of course it would be impossible to get a reservation, it would be so popular. Oh, and the decor, food, etc. would make people say, "Martha who?"

If I could be a linguist...
I'd make more of an effort to travel more. Actually I did briefly toy with the idea of majoring in linguistics in undergrad. I've always been fascinated by language. That is how I ended up taking both Spanish and Italian in undergrad. (The linguistics department requires that you study at least two languages.)

If I could be a librarian...
I'd try to find ways to get kids away from their PS2's and to read more. I have always loved books. I am also picky about who gets to borrow mine. I think they should be treated with care and respect. Last year my classroom was directly across the hall from the school library. I thought I had died and gone to heaven.

If I could be a painter...
I'd actually be able to draw what I see. Well, at least I hope so. The prof for the drawing class I took in college used me as an example once. "See how she has gone back over the work? She is not afraid to go back and try to correct what she has gotten wrong."

If I could be an architect...
I'd create affordable yet stylish homes for people around the San Francisco area. Why? Because I have accepted the fact that I will probably never be a home owner unless I get married. That is probably the only way that I will have the minimum income necessary to apply for a home loan given the current median prices.

So that's me. Guess it's my turn to decide who to tag next. I think I'll need more Chuck to make that decision. Guess I'd better run along before I'm late for work.

Eggs scrambled or over easy?

2005-05-11T00:15:00.000-07:00

(with those cajones)

I was at a loss for my next post until I commented on another post. Funny how other posts will suddenly inspire you.

My boss quitting has brought out the alpha female in me. (Think an softer alpha male -- NOT!) I have always been a perfectionist and do not expect less from others. Before she quit, my boss gave me permission to address the instructors individually. Today I took full advantage of that opportunity.

As the day progressed, we suddenly realized that my boss was supposed to have a conference with a parent. I said that I could handle the conference as long as I did not have to work with students at the same time. What happened? You guessed it. I had to work with students at the same time. I quickly looked over the schedule and discovered a teacher who could work with my students until I was free. His response to the assistant I sent with the message? "I can do it for 10 or 15 minutes but then I have to get ready for my next class." Somehow he had forgotten that I am his boss. I was tempted to rip him a new one but I held back. Instead at the end of my conference, I stated that his response was highly non-supportive. He denied that he ever made any such statement. I have since received corroboration from elsewhere. He really is an idiot. When I was in undergrad (prior to attending law school and then dropping out), many people said that I should become a PI because I had a way of finding out things that nobody else could. What can I say? People trust me, as they should.

As far as progress on my cleaning goes, for those who may care, it is still at a standstill. I took some trash out tonight but the room still looks the same. At this point it just means that if I have to go through sleep deprivation to make the place presentable, I will. I am the queen of procrastinators.

One last time ... trust fund...

2005-05-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

I am really looking forward to going to work today. Yesterday my boss arrived at work earlier than I had expected her. Why did she show up so early? So that she could pack up her personal belongings because she was quitting. That was a wonderful start for the week. The other manager, who just started work a week ago, came into my office shortly after our boss had left to ask if I was planning to stay around or not.

I was a little too shellshocked last night to proceed with the cleaning. Instead I watched some tv and had a couple of glasses of Chuck. I'm looking at the mess now. I think I have reached the point where the majority of stuff in there just needs to be thrown out. Nothing like a little spring cleaning.

Oh and if anyone has any musical suggestions for my housewarming on Sunday, I'd appreciate them.

I'm going in

2005-05-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

With the festival over, it is now time for me to turn my attention back to my apartment. I swear that the mess that is the bedroom has grown.

I decided to turn in early last night so that I could get to IKEA bright and early today. (Apparently my aunt called me around 10:30 last night. That's what the call log on my phone says anyway. I guess I was in a coma.) I didn't get up early enough though because it took me at least 10 minutes to find a parking space. Thankfully I knew what I wanted to buy and where in the store to find it.

I am now the proud owner of a lovely Norden table. I even managed to put it together. Actually the real feat was getting out of my car and into my apartment -- alone.

I also went to Albertson's and Trader Joe's because my fridge was quite empty. Also if I plan to let people into my apartment next weekend, I really should have something to offer them. When I set out, I had planned to go to Albertson's first but my car operates on autopilot. I was thinking Albertson's but found myself in front of Trader Joe's. I figured that I may as well park and head on in. A month ago they had these wonderful lamb chops; they don't now. Such is life at Trader Joe's.

I really do plan to tackle the room today. I just need to get some food in my stomach first. All the shopping and putting together of furniture has drained me.

Now what do I do with myself?

2005-05-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

Last night was closing night for the Film Festival. The film was The Dying Gaul. I enjoyed it. Patricia Clarkson was present. Of course I had VIP tickets for the party. At one point my friend, Rica, looked up and exclaimed, "There's Patricia Clarkson." A cosmopolitan later, Rica was inspired to go and talk to Ms. Clarkson. A dirty martini later, Rica was inspired to hit the dancefloor. Finally around midnight, I pointed out that perhaps we should be heading home. We both have to work today after all. (Speaking of work, I need to head there as soon as I finish this post. Once more all I have to say is trust fund.)

Now that it's all over, I must find new ways to entertain myself. I suppose I should finish unpacking. I did invite people over next weekend for a housewarming. I know I would be greatly embarrassed to have anyone see my place in it's current state. I'd also like to go check out the Berkeley Public Library. I've always loved that place and haven't been in a couple of years. Oh, and I'd like to get away from my upstairs neighbor. This morning shortly after awakening I got to hear him having sex. The girl was a screamer. I wish he'd just go back to having loud parties.

If you have any suggestions of ways to fill my time, I'd greatly appreciate them.

May the party never end

2005-05-04T02:32:00.000-07:00

I was busy writing this post in my head on my way home. Sad thing is that the minute I sat down in front of the computer, I suddenly forgot all the witty things I wanted to say.

Tonight I went to the filmmaker's party at Bruno's. There were actually a few filmmakers present. My friends and I tried to keep things low key tonight; we're saving our energy for Thursday, the closing night. I had thought about not going tonight due to my hellish day at work. Then I came to my senses and realized it was my obligation to attend because I had had a hellish day at work. (By the way, have I mentioned recently how much this work thing sucks? Where is my trust fund or, in its absence, my extremely wealthy husband who lets me spend money indiscriminately?)

Saw the new boy tonight. Just as well. There weren't a great deal of prospects present. Thursday night will be different and the boy has stated that he cannot make Thursday night's festivities.

He interviewed Wanda Sykes today for his tv show. He remembered to ask her about her show that had been on Fox -- thanks to me. He really should keep me. That's never the question though. The real question is do I want to keep him. Answer -- for now.

The party was sponsored by Sterling Vineyards. There was food. Don't ask me what it was though. I had just eaten dinner before arriving. Good thing. The people descended on the food like locusts on a field. Five minutes later there was nothing left. So much for people who allegedly have money. Where's their class? I think I will have nightmares about the feeding frenzy for years to come.

Luckily I ran into Katie tonight. I've known her for years. At Opening Night she gave me her card. I am lucky that my license was still in my purse at the end of the night, let alone someone's card. I got another card tonight. Katie is a filmmaker and wants to make a documentary about my family reunuion this summer. Sick and twisted, right? Needless to say, I'll keep you posted.

So she didn't lie to me

2005-05-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

Opening Night of the festival was almost two weeks ago. Shortly after arriving at teh party, my friend Yvonne and I were approached by a photographer from The A List. She said that the photos would be available on the site. I have checked almost everyday since. Today I was happy to see that the photos are finally posted. I do hate taking photos though. It must have been the Skyy vodka that made me pose.

Beware boys

2005-05-02T19:35:00.000-07:00

It was a slow morning the other day so it was back to the online surveys.

Your Seduction Style: Siren / Rake

You possess an unbridled sensuality that appeals to many.
The minute you meet anyone, you can make them crave you almost immediately.
You give others the chance to lose control with you... spiraling into carnal bliss.
A dangerous lover, you both fascinate and scare those you attract.

I love it when the surveys tell me things I already know.

I have been loving my siren-like appeal of late. It's a shame the Film Festival is almost over. I will have to find new places to try to lure men to their ruin.

Friday I hit the party at the W Hotel in honor Joan Allen. She looked fab and was really nice. The food and cocktails were outstanding too. I met a guy who works for the Mayor's Office. Now I just have to find a reason why I need a meeting with the Mayor besides the obvious reason of he should marry me. Spent the rest of the evening hanging out with the guy I met at the party at the Bubble Lounge. Then I took myself on over to Zuni Cafe. Unfortunately my friend, who is the manager there, was working and tried to cut me off. I just waited for him to leave before I called the bartender over. Following that cocktail, it was off to the Kabuki for the midnight screening of Phil the Alien. I had to go; I had told the director when I ran into him at the party that I was going. Besides I needed the time in the theater to sober up.

Saturday was mostly spent recuperating. I then headed into North Beach to meet up with the boy from the Bubble Lounge. We went to check out a new tapas place -- good food & wine, nice atmosphere. I've decided that I'll keep him around a bit longer as he didn't irritate me while I was sober.

Tomorrow night is yet another party. The boy can't make it so I figure I can check out new boys...

Shake it like a salt shaker

2005-04-27T01:58:00.000-07:00

Well tonight I headed off to see November at the festival. Of course there was a party after. I just got over to VIP too late to see Ms. Cox.

I was bummed to learn that there is a party tomorrow night for director Taylor Hackford that I will not be able to attend because of work. Did I mention how much this working thing sucks? I think I should be able to attend the party on Friday night for Joan Allen though.

Back to tonight though. I owe one guy an email. I met his daughter. She is four years younger than I am. Another guy tried to invite me to an after party. This was after he paid for the drink I ordered at the bar. He felt that it was the least he could do after watching me on the dance floor. Another thing I forgot to mention ... I chose to wear my ultra lowrise bootcut leather pants with the strappy sandals with 4 inch heels. I like to think of it as my classy stripper -- oops, exotic dancer -- wear. Oh and before I forget, the party was held at Ruby Skye. I loved it until the last song when the dj chose to play "Red Red Wine." All I could think was, "Tonight a dj didn't save my life."

The real joy is that I have finally broken the chain. Tonight I was home by 1:20.

It's all Gloria's fault

2005-04-26T12:40:00.000-07:00

Gloria has been procrastinating again. That means that she has spent loads of time shopping online and taking quizzes. I am slowly working my way through the quizzes on her latest post -- and no, I will not be buying her any skirts from Anthropologie.

Here are the results from the latest quiz. The results would be of no surprise to my mother. They were kind of a surprise for me though.

You Are 26 Years Old

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe.

13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.

20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.

30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more!

40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

What Age Do You Act?

2:45 is the magic time

2005-04-25T19:01:00.000-07:00

I am starting to notice a pattern here. Both Thursday and Sunday nights I arrived home at 2:45. I am going to yet another party tomorrow night. I hope to be home much earlier than 2:45 tomorrow.

After catching a couple of films yesterday, I headed over to one of my fave places in the Fillmore, Perry's Joint. The picture is for Gloria.

Coney Island Dog

The first film I caught, Mad Hot Ballroom, was great. You should all go out and see it. It opens sometime in May.

After stuffing my face at Perry's, I headed over to the Bubble Lounge for the Brad Bird party. I should have skipped the hot dog. There was sushi, shrimp, and caviar. There was also free wine and beer. I left there around 10 or so and ended up at Vesuvio for some port. I then ended up at a dance club. The guy who was paying for my drinks (I met him at the party at the Bubble Lounge) finally insisted that I leave the club so that I could head home. He was kind enough to call me today to make sure that I made it home ok.

I was planning to head to some more screenings tonight but my back is killing me. I desperately need to go to the party tomorrow too. Therefore, I will be taking it easy tonight.

Laissez le bontemps rouler

2005-04-24T11:36:00.000-07:00

First of all, I must say that my French sucks so it's quite possible that I got it wrong. The only French I know is that which I have picked up from others; I took Spanish and Italian in school.

My rear is healing nicely and my head is no longer throbbing. That means only one thing -- let the party continue. I just thought I'd write a quick note before heading out for the day. Today I hope to catch a couple of movies at the festival before heading off to yet another party. This party is at The Bubble Lounge in honor of Brad Bird who will be giving the State of Cinema address at the festival. If I don't partake of too much wine, then it will be back to another film.

If only I didn't have to work tomorrow. Where is my trust fund?

Injured again

2005-04-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

I don't know what hurts worse -- my head or my rear. The story is not quite as sordid as you would like to think.

Last night I went to Opening Night of the San Francisco International Film Festival along with my two best friends, Millicent and Yvonne. It's become an annual tradition for the three of us. We enjoyed the movie. We really enjoyed the gift bags. Well, Millicent and I did at least. Skyy Vodka is one of the major sponsors of the Festival so the gift bag always includes a little bottle of Skyy. Millicent and I always consume our bottles during the film. Yvonne doesn't because she is a lightweight. That also makes her the designated driver.

After the film, there's a party with lots of -- yep, you guessed it -- Skyy Vodka. Oh, and wine and beer too thanks to the other sponsors, Sterling Vineyards and Stella Artois. There is fabulous food too. Unfortunately I did partake of the food as much as I should have. My palate was poisoned by venison with some weird orange sauce. It took several drinks to get the taste out of my mouth. I do remember posing for a photo that is supposed to appear on a website.

Then it was off to the VIP room. Unfortunately I only had two VIP passes and there were three of us. I volunteered to go into VIP to check it out and come back with a report. Well, the twit at the door gave me a wristband but didn't collect my pass. I quickly handed off the passes to Millicent and Yvonne. From there things just went crazy. Yvonne and I posed for souvenir photos from Sterling Vineyards. (The photos were printed and framed by the time we were ready to leave the party.) Yvonne is a dear friend who is always on the lookout for me. After checking out the band playing in the room, Yvonne stated, "The drummer's really cute. Of course I'm looking for you." Did I mention that Yvonne has been married for ten years and has two kids? We all quickly agreed that indeed the drummer was cute. The band was playing a bunch of covers. At one point in the evening, Millicent started yelling out a request for "Roxanne." Yvonne and I were mortified ... until the band started playing "Roxanne." Before leaving the party, I remember having a long conversation with the drummer. Oh, and he let me play the drums too. It's a shame they're from Atlanta.

I really should have known that it was going to be a bad night when Yvonne announced that we couldn't go home quite yet because she was drunk. So where'd we go? To a bar of course. I paid $21 for a round of drinks that we basically didn't touch. If only we had left the bar five minutes earlier. It seems I had told some guy that I was heading to the bar. He showed up as we were leaving and insisted on coming along. He drove me back to my car and was going to follow me home. I managed to lose him in the streets of Berkeley. What's the guy's name? I don't know, but I could find out. I apparently gave him my phone number also because he called me after I lost him.

Then to end a perfectly lovely evening I stumbled into the bathroom and slipped. On my way to meet the floor, my rear met up with the toilet. Sitting is quite painful to say the least.

So in the end I think that in the future I will not mix merlot with vodka.

Oh, and perhaps there will be pictures in the near future. I had a disposable camera with me last night and have apparently used half the roll of film. It should be very interesting.

First FedEx...

2005-04-18T19:27:00.000-07:00

I checked out the Williams Sonoma site and discovered that I could register with their site for a housewarming. This morning I decided I wanted to add more items. My registry could not be located. Waaaaaa!!!

I tried to register again. I just checked and once more my registry is not available. This is soooo unfair. I have spent so much money on wedding gifts from that store over the years. It seems only fair that I should give people the chance to register for gifts.

People need to know that I really need the Imperia Pasta Machine.

It's finally my turn

2005-04-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

Over the years I have given countless shower gifts -- wedding and baby. I have become a pro at the more popular shower games. (No one can beat me at the clothespin game.) Since children and marriage are nowhere in my near future, as far as I know, I was beginning to feel cheated. Not anymore.

Now that I've moved, people keep asking when I am going to have a housewarming. (It will be in May.) Some asked about gifts. Well here's the cool thing. Apparently you can register for housewarming gifts. I registered with Bed, Bath, and Beyond a few weeks ago. Last night I decided to check out some other websites. I am now registered at Crate & Barrel and Pier One. If only Ikea had registry...

Gotta run along though. I just realized that I forgot to register with Williams Sonoma. This is way too much fun.

My Southern Roots

2005-04-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

I am a confused person. I was born and raised in California, but my parents are transplants from the South. At times I can seem like the stereotypical Californian; at others, I am pure Southerner. I remembered this when recently getting into a discussion on bbq (see post on heading to the Big Easy). This all reminded me of something that happened when I was living in Virginia.

I had gone to DC for the day with some friends to hear an oral argument at the Supreme Court. On the ride back, this guy from Mississippi started a heated conversation with my friend, Karen, about "damn Yankees." (Karen was from upstate New York.) After half an hour or so, Karen finally turned to the guy and asked, refering to me, "Why don't you pick on her? She's from California." His answer? "She may have been born in California but her parents are Southerners. Therefore, she was raised right." As far as many Southerners I have met over the years are concerned, I'm one of them. It's not really my fault that my parents decided to move to California a year before I was born.

I just find that "Yankee" take on barbeque to be quite interesting. That whole obsession with sauce just seems to be a Texas/Kansas City kind of thing to me.

Injured

2005-04-12T22:06:00.000-07:00

It never fails. I am always injuring myself but can never remember when it happened. (No, this does not happen after imbibing too much ... anymore. It's been a number of years since I've left college. Check my profile. Do the math.)

Today I awoke with a long newly-formed scab on my arm. I can only guess that it occured while I moved the last of my belongings into the apartment. By the way, if you think the last photo was frightening, then you haven't seen anything yet. My belongings are kin to the Blob and have taken over the apartment. Thankfully I'm off work most of this weekend and will be able to deal with it.

Oh yeah. This is not supposed to be about the mess around me but the thing on my arm. When I got home tonight, I immediately headed for the computer so that I could do my evening check of my fave blogs. In the middle of it all, I looked down and realized that my arm was actually bleeding. What's worse is that I now notice that there are several scratches in the same area -- all of them red. I just hope they don't get infected like last year when I got a piece of fence stuck in my arm. Now that was a lot of fun. The guy in the surgery department said that he was trying to minimize the scarring but of course I have a scar on my arm. I love to tell that story and watch people cringe.

Anyway, just felt like sharing the bleeding arm thing. It felt very "Gloria." hehe

Tuck and Roll

2005-04-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

A couple of years ago I spent Christmas in Virginia with my mom's family. I stayed with one of her younger sisters. My mom's older sister wanted to see me as soon as I had arrived of course. (She's strange this way. Well, some might just say she's strange, but that would be a whole other post.) This particular aunt was living with her son at the time because there had been a fire in her building and her condo had smoke damage. As any mother is apt to do, she was driving her son completely mad. Anyway, her son had to drive her to our aunt's house. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that around the same time there was the fire in the building, my aunt totaled her car. That's why her son was driving her around. When she arrived, she rang the doorbell. It took me no more than 60 seconds to reach the door. Upon opening the door, I looked up and down the street. My cousin's car was nowhere in sight. On Christmas Day I asked him about this.

"When you dropped your mother off the other day, did you even slow down?"

"A little. I told her,'We're approaching the house. Tuck and roll. Tuck and roll.'"

I thought of this because tomorrow I have to pick my mother up from the airport. I called her this morning to confirm this. She was rather short with me. My interpretation is that she is still pissed off with me for moving. I told my dad -- my sane parent -- that if she gives me any crap on the drive from the airport, I'm going to pull over to the side of the road and tell her to get the hell out of my car. (You don't understand. My mother is just insane enough that she might actually have the audacity to yell at me after I have been kind enough to get her.) Now that I think about it though, "tuck and roll" seems a lot more fun. Perhaps I should then toss her luggage out a little further up the road.

I suppose that this means she probably won't have any jewelry for me like she usually does.

Children?

2005-04-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

Mr. Man

Well, I just got off the phone with a former co-worker. She had to get off the phone to tend to her toddler. It was fun talking to her because the last time we spoke she was pregnant with said toddler.

Anyway, I thought I'd post a photo of the cutest toddler around -- my cousin's son. Actually most people in my family are damn cute. He's so cute though that I almost want to rush out and have one of my own. Then I remember, from my job, what it's like to have kids around and I come to my senses. I still remember students last year questioning me at the beginning of the school year about my marital status. When I said that I am single, one of the girls said, after some thought, "That means that you can still go out to the clubs because you don't have to worry about any kids. I want to be like you when I grow up."

Glad to know that despite it all I can be a role model...

Overwhelmed and sick

2005-04-07T08:31:00.000-07:00

Gloria keeps asking for photos so here you go. Please excuse the photo quality. I have been having to use my cellphone. I know my other camera is around here somewhere but I haven't encountered it recently.

What should be the bedroom

So this is a photo of what is supposed to be my bedroom. Since I don't have any bedroom furniture yet, I figured this was the perfect place to store boxes. The problem is that I have too much stuff and so decided to weed it out. What you see is the aftermath of my idea of consolidation. I hope to have it all sorted (and put away) in the next week. It is really quite depressing to come home each night and see the mess.

Oh yeah. The rest of the title. Have I mentioned that I hate Spring? It is allergy season and I am truly suffering. I spent most of yesterday either sneezing or on the verge of sneezing. My coworkers asked if I was ok because I looked like I had been crying. Needless to say, with my current state I have not been too inspired to deal with the mess.

Worth the wait

2005-04-04T21:12:00.000-07:00

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 7-Piece Cookware Set

FedEx delivered my package to work this morning -- finally. I am rather proud of my uncle. I think he did quite well all on his own. I now have pots and pans that are safe for the oven. Guess it's time to pull out the cookbooks again.

I hate FedEx

2005-04-01T17:02:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I was talking to my uncle in Denver. He asked if there was anything I needed for the new place. I said that I could probably use some new pots and pans. (I do love to cook.) He said that he would look for some.

Last Thursday night I received a phone call from my uncle while I was on my way home from work. He wanted to know if I had received the new pots and pans yet. I was surprised because I had not. When I got home, I discovered no package nor was there a doortag. The next morning I called to ask him for the tracking number.

I looked online and discovered that they had allegedly been trying to deliver the package since Tuesday and that it was due to be delivered again that same day. I then called the lovely people at FedEx. They confirmed that indeed the package was on the truck. That was all nice but I had to go to work and would not be at home. I asked them if they could simply deliver it to my work address. They told me that this would now be possible unless the shipper, my uncle who at this point was on a plane to LA to go on a cruise, requested the change in shipping. I asked if they could hold it at the station and I would simply pick it up on Saturday. (I had already been told that they were open Tuesday through Saturday.) I was told that it would be no problem. Friday afternoon I received a call from the driver telling me that he was five minutes away from my apartment. I told him that that was all very nice but I was not there. He then became indignant. "What do you mean you are not there? This is the fourth time I have tried to deliver this package."

Saturday I went to work and then drove out to the station to pick up my package. There was no one there! The stupid place was closed. I had driven 30 miles out of my way just to not get my package. Needless to say I promptly dialed the 800 number yet again. I was told to call back on Monday when the station would be open. Ummm ... didn't they tell me on Friday that this particular location was only open Tuesday through Saturday? Whatever...

Monday I promptly called FedEx again. I confirmed that the station was closed. They then said that re-delivery was highly unlikely as they had already attempted to deliver the package four times. Excuse me? I asked that the package be re-delivered on Friday, today. The rep told me that she would have someone from the station call me on Tuesday to confirm all of this. I received said call on Tuesday and everything was set ... so I thought.

I was waiting for the lovely folks from SBC so that they could finally turn on my phone so that I could actually buzz folks in the main door. (My feelings about the folks at SBC formerly Pacific Bell could probably use their own post. This was their second trip out to turn on my phone. Funny, but I didn't get any notice from them the first time they came out either.) I have a phone now, but I still didn't have my package. I decided that perhaps it was time to call FedEx yet again. What did I discover? That my package had not been sent out today, but instead was scheduled for delivery tomorrow. Since when has "Friday" sounded anything like "Saturday?" I told them that I thought their customer service was a bit lacking. I also told them that in the future I would perhaps suggest to my uncle that he use US mail. The post office is only a few blocks from me; I would have had the package by now. I finally spoke to a manager. She finally decided that they would send it to my job on Monday.

Hopefully I receive my package on Monday. All I know at this point is that these had better be the best damn pots and pans I have ever seen.

Will the move ever end?

2005-03-30T22:16:00.000-08:00

I have spent the last few days sorting through things in boxes. How did I ever accumulate so much stuff? What I have discovered is that at least half of it is trash. I have found some interesting finds along the way though. Why just this morning I found my hard copy of The Purity Test. Way back in the dark ages when I was in college, my friends and I used to say that we were going to throw a "Lower Your Score" party. The way this works is that upon arrival, guests would take the test. By the time they left the party, there score had to be lower. This would be a challenge for some of my friends. Animals? I don't think so. One has to draw the line somewhere.

Now I have the thrill of re-boxing the stuff that I actually plan to keep as I haven't figured where I am going to put it these days. And, yes, Gloria, that is why I refuse to take photos currently. Also I need to recharge my camera. Well, first I need to locate it. I know it is in one of these boxes.

Bad daughter? Who cares?

2005-03-27T21:52:00.000-08:00

So I just got back from visiting my dad and stepmother. I went for the rack of lamb but was pleasantly surprised when my stepmother presented me with a card. It was a housewarming gift and contained a check for $100. I now suddenly feel the urge to run to IKEA.

I could use some more bookcases. But then again I still don't have a bed or table and chairs. (Before you get too concerned I have been sleeping on the futon in the living room until I can get a bed.) I'm thinking that if I wait until my next payday in two weeks, then I should go out and get the table and chairs. Which to get is the big question. There is always the Jokk set. Then there is Norden table. The problem with the Norden is that then I have to try to select chairs. The obvious choice wouold be the Stefan in blue, but I also like the Roger. Then again, I'm not necessarily thrilled with the price for the Roger -- $236 for four chairs. Uh oh. I just noticed Bertil.

As you can see, I am in dire need of help. I gladly welcome your opinions.

I am a bad daughter

2005-03-26T16:48:00.000-08:00

So today I finally took care of the one task that I have been dreading -- telling my mother about my move. I guess I should give you some background so that you can understand.

About ten years ago my mother retired and moved to Mexico. Her house in the Bay area stood empty for a year or two. Why? Because at that time I was living in a fabulous apartment in San Francisco. I would go and check on the house once a month. Then I got the deluded idea of moving back into the house. I had recently changed jobs and it was a shorter commute from the house. It was supposed to be a temporary thing.

I woke up one day last fall and realized that this temporary thing had lasted for eight years. In that time period I had noticed a marked decline in my social life. (OK. So part of it was that many of my friends had gone off and gotten married during those years. I guess I could have too. Well, I did have the opportunity to do so once, but that's another story.) I also came to the realization that my mother has a way of trying to undermine anything that she perceives may take me away from my house-sitting duties.

House-sitting ... well there's a major bone of contention. My mother has always believed that she is doing me a huge favor by letting me live in the house. (She reiterated this today as she screamed in the phone at me.) I have always seen it as more of a symbiotic relationship. We both get something out of it.

After much screaming -- on my mother's part -- it comes down to I have until April 12 to get all of my stuff out of the house and to clean it. I assured her that I had every intention of doing this. Oh, and the reason for that deadline is that is when my mother returns to the house for a quick vacation. Did I fail to mention that? See, the real fun of the living situation is that my mother returns whenever she wants, for as long as she wants. It is her house after all. I, in turn, get the thrill of changing my life or getting yelled at if I fail to do so. Last September it escalated to her doing things like unplugging the garage door opener so that I could not get back in. And she wonders why I wanted to move?

At least the worst is over. Now I just have to concentrate on packing, unpacking, and cleaning. Oh ... and I am planning on throwing myself a housewarming party in a few weeks. I have purposefully planned it for a date on which I know my mother will be present. It's her choice if she wants to show up. I hope to take loads of pictures that day too. Yes, Gloria, I will post the pictures at that time.

From the mouths of babes

2005-03-23T01:26:00.000-08:00

So Gloria thinks that I should post more photos of my new home. I would but it's a total mess so instead I'll give you this.

Teaching today (yes, people honestly trust me with impressionable minds) one of my students asked about my tastes in movies. Poor fool didn't know what door he was opening. He had made his dad watch "Donnie Darko." The student asked if I had ssen it; I said at least twice. (Of course I mostly teach math so this is definitely tangential.) I have not seen the director's cut so we had to discuss that. He then stated that his dad made him watch an older film that was a parody of 50s horror. It took me two guesses to determine that the film in question was "Rocky Horror." Why do I suddenly feel so old? I explained to him that "Rocky Horror" is best seen in a theater at midnight with a full cast and props. I knew that I loved his dad. When I met with his dad in a conference recently, he (the dad) paused to tell me that his political views were pretty far left, like Marx. Pretty heartening to hear that a lawyer feels, or at least supposedly feels, for the people.

Of course what really disturbed me is that dad made reference to 50s horror (such a statement on the Cold War) without actually showing the poor kid any of the movies from the era. I asked, "Of course you have seen 'The Incredible Shrinking Man?'" The answer was, "No." The answer was the same to all the films I named. Why do parents insist on examples without giving the full history?

I guess I don't understand because I am not a parent. I just spend more time with kids than most of their parents do. What do I know?

Internet at home ... again

2005-03-18T19:43:00.000-08:00

Good ole Chuck.

I am happy to say that I finally have an internet connection at my new place. I am also off work this weekend. Therefore, I should be out partying, but noooooo ... it has to start raining today.

That's ok though. Besides getting my internet connection today, I also added cable TV. I have not had cable TV in eight years. I think I will stare at it endlessly tonight while flipping through the plethora of channels.

What's up with the picture, you ask? Well, I figure that nothing says Friday night like two buck Chuck.

Lost and Found

2005-03-15T16:19:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to say that I have located my flatware over the weekend. I also moved my computer and desk over the weekend. Unfortunately I will not have an internet connection at my new place until Friday. (I am writing this post at work. Hopefully, my boss -- or even worse, her boss -- does not plan to walk into my office soon.)

Now that I have the necessities of life at my new place, I have begun to go out to explore the neighborhood. I'll try to remember to take a camera with me the next time I'm out and about. Since I don't have to work this weekend, it should probably be then.

Until I get an internet connection at home, ciao!

This is what my life has become

2005-03-09T21:56:00.000-08:00

As you know, I have been moving recently. Due to my strange work schedule, it has been a slow process. I'm almost finished though. Tonight I had to rush the instructors out of the center because I desperately needed to go shopping.

It is a shame that the highlight of my day was heading to K-Mart this evening. They have some of my favorite towels though. (I went with the blush and the sky blue.) It also seemed right to buy the lovely Martha Stewart towels to celebrate her release from jail. (I'm still waiting for them to lock up Kenneth Lay.) A co-worker tried to dissuade me from shopping at K-Mart as they are a "red" store. I had already checked out Target though and their towels just weren't as soft. I think a towel should not feel like a thin piece of sandpaper. Hmmm ... I have the same thoughts about toilet paper. Basically, anything that touches your skin should not feel like sandpaper. (Oh dear. I was about to digress into a whole thing about men with facial hair, but perhaps I should save that for another time.)

Of course I was not content to stop with the towels. I found a number of things that I needed in the store. The employees were really helpful too. Then again, it was getting near closing time. I think they just wanted me to leave the store.

Now that I have towels, I plan to finally spend my first night in my new home tomorrow. Now if I could only find my flatware...

Bald Boy

2005-03-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

I started writing posts about the bald boy, as Gloria likes to call him, on Online Misadventures. He's managed to stay around a couple of weeks so I decided it was about time he got a post here.

We were supposed to be going out tonight but then he called yesterday morning to say that tonight wouldn't work for him. There was some sort of work dinner thing that he had not planned on attending, but everyone started telling him that it was one of those necessary events. The plan was to go out last night instead.

I decided that dinner was a good idea because I'm in the middle of moving and don't have much food around. Also, I've been a little broke. He decided that since he chose the restaurant for our first date, that I could chose the restaurant this time. (I know what Gloria is thinking. Yes, that is a very dangerous thing.) Because I didn't want to drive too far, I picked Skates. It's this place on the Berkeley Marina that does wonderful things with seafood. I had their Hawaiian Ahi, one of the specials last night, and I wish I had brought a camera. The presentation was wonderful. For dessert we split a Cranberry Pear Apple Cobbler. After dinner we headed out to walk along the pier. Sicko that I am, I had to point out that this was around the area where Lacey Peterson's body was dumped. (See how romantic I can be?)

I needed that nice meal because today it was back to moving hell. If things go well though, I will have most of my stuff moved by the end of tomorrow. Next I'll have to start planning the housewarming party.

So much for fun

2005-03-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

I am really excited about moving into the new apartment. One of the highlights is that there are bars and clubs crawling distance away. I think this is a key feature in looking for a place to live. It looks like I might have to put my partying on hold though.

Yesterday I was driving into work when I received a phone call from the other manager. Nothing strange there because we often call each other to warn of the insanity that is going on. What was the insanity yesterday? She had been fired. I was completely shocked. I knew that the bosses didn't necessarily like her, but I didn't really expect them to fire her. My boss was in a meeting when I got in. As soon as it was over, she wanted to talk but I had a meeting scheduled at that time. Then right after that one my former co-worker had a meeting scheduled that I had to cover. Needless to say, yesterday was a frantic, draining day.

So much for celebrating the new place. I'm not sure when I will have a semi-sane moment for some time. OK. So I rarely have sane moments, but at least they're usually fun.

New home

2005-02-27T19:27:00.000-08:00

Well, I have finally succeeded in doing what I have been threatening to do for years -- find a new place to live. I am proud to say that I am now a resident of the People's Republic of Berkeley. Well, I will be as soon as I move all of my stuff over there. After getting off work yesterday, I spent most of the rest of the weekend taking carloads of stuff over. I own way too much. I haven't even started on my clothing, let alone the big items.

I can't wait to be out of suburbia hell. I have missed being able to just walk out my door and find things to do. Perhaps I will be able to come up with some more interesting posts. Having to drive everywhere has curtailed my ability to get into trouble. I believe that's what has been missing from my life. Either way, I'll be sure to let my readers (hopefully there are more of you out there besides Gloria) know.

Dreaming of the tropics

2005-02-25T17:58:00.000-08:00

Barbados

I know I shouldn't be complaining, but it still isn't warm enough here for me. Today it was in the 60s. This time of year that's pretty warm. At least it isn't raining around here like it is in southern California either. Of course, up this way, we're used to rain like that in the winter. It's a shame that I've been saving up money to move. Otherwise I could just blow it all on yet another trip to Barbados. I just wish that spring would hurry up and come.

Continuing Tale of the Cousin

2005-02-23T19:45:00.000-08:00

So now the latest on my 20 year old cousin is that she plans to bring her new beau to our family reunion this summer. I personally think that she has lost her mind. I would only subject a man to my family if I was serious enough about him to contemplate marriage. Our family is mostly male. They therefore like to dream that the women -- well, at least those related by blood -- are chaste and pure. My cousin's older brother has stated on numerous occasions that he does not believe that she should date until she is 35. Insane, right? Our uncles are not much better.

I remember when I was around 13 and my dad's friends pointed out that I was becoming quite the "looker." My dad's response was that he might just have to invest in a shotgun so that he could greet perspective beaux. Ah, the joys of having Southerners as parents. (My dear mother believed that potential dates had to first be "interviewed." This interrogation was to take place days before the possible date so that my parents could determine if I would be even allowed to go on the date.)

My cousin has a similar mother to mine. Well, her mother is actually worse. Her mother told me recently that she does not think that her daughter should date until finishing college. Once more, what kind of insanity is that?

When I think of my family, I keep wondering what century this is.

Today's Perplexing Question

2005-02-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

I usually have at least one question that vexes me each day. Sometimes I ignore it. This time I decided to do some research.

I have spent too much time reading Jane Austen novels, I suppose. As a result, I have always kind of wondered what a guinea was. How much was it worth? I really feel that there should be footnotes for these kinds of things. How did this question arise once more, you ask? Today I was flipping through Schott's Food and Drink Miscellany when I came upon the page listing wages for servants in times past. It stated that most servants were paid in guineas. Those who weren't had the amounts listed as Pounds Sterling. Once more, there was loads of text but no explanation in this text of what a guinea was. It seems to me that Ben Schott could have been kind enough to include this information, but noooo...

For those of you who have pondered this question as I have, here is the answer finally. What is a guinea?

Now I can sleep peacefully tonight.

Young Love

2005-02-17T01:02:00.000-08:00

So I was driving home from work one evening about a couple of weeks ago (at a respectable hour for once) and decided to call my 20 year old cousin. What a mistake that was. For the first fifteen minutes of the conversation, my contribution was "uh huh," "oh really," and "how nice."

My cousin lives in the heart of the Bible belt. That alone could make her naive. Add onto that the fact that she attended a Christian school for high school. Even worse? She in now in college and her mother thinks that she should not date until she finishes college. I see loads of therapy in her future. Thank goodness she's a psychology major.

Back to our conversation though. She thinks that her boy is totally sweet and nice. I think he's a player. He had her meet him at his house and then took her to the spot where he likes to go to write poetry. (He's dropped out of college because he believes that God has given him a gift and that college is not necessary. Of course this poetry is apparently the kind that you can find at Hallmark.) When they reach the spot, there is blanket and I believe a small picnic already set up. He then chooses this moment to kiss her for the first time. I was so close to throwing up, it wasn't funny. I was driving at the time and decided that throwing up could seriously impair my driving ability. She really needs to get out more so that she can see just how oily this guy really is.

I started writing this post before I acquired the instant boyfriend. Maybe I was just being a bitter old hag. Nah, I don't think so.

An evening out

2005-02-06T10:24:00.000-08:00

Last night I headed out with two really good friends to celebrate the birthday of one of them. (How depressing to realize that we will be 40 next year.) We don't get out as much as we used to because they are both married and have children.

Per usual, my one friend (actually since we have known each other since I was seven, she is my oldest friend) stated, "We should do this at least once a month." Every time we all get together every six months or so, she says this. Why don't we get together more often? Because they have husbands and kids. She had wanted to see comedy this weekend but there was no one in town that we really wanted to see. She had asked me earlier in the week to check for later dates. I discovered that D. L. Hughley will be in town at the end of the month at Cobb's Comedy. What's the problem with this outing? It's the same weekend as her husband's birthday.

Back to last night. We had thought of going to Zuni Cafe, but instead went to Absinthe. The cocktails were fab. The appetizers were fab. The meals were fab. (I had the cassoulet.) I haven't had this satisfying a culinary experience in some time.

We then headed around the corner to Citizen Cake for dessert. When we arrived, we found out that there would be a 45 minute wait for a table. That was ok though because the hostess offered to get us drinks and we were able to browse the display cases. My one complaint is that it seems like they should have a daily menu as you are allowed to order items in the case but many are not on the menu. After seeing so many, it was difficult to remember them all by the time we were finally seated. Fortunately we were able to describe one of the creations adequately enough that the server brought the correct one. We also liked that they had coat check. The other fun was the people watching as the symphony (or was it the opera or the ballet?) let out. (My confusion on which is because all are in the area.) My friends accused me of selecting the seat facing the window so that I could watch the men who were alone walk past. It is not my fault that so many of them were good-looking.

We finally poured ourselves out of the restaurant and into the minivan. I spent more than I should have, but it was well worth it.

Dating is hell

2005-02-04T17:57:00.000-08:00

So I went on my date last night. (For details see Why I hate dating)

I have spent the day in emails with various friends trying to analyze the whole situation. Gloria seems to think that everything went well. I'm not too sure it did. My best friend from high school sees it all differently. She used to be friend's with the guy's younger brother. Also her older brother was the guy's best friend. Therefore, she's had loads of time to observe him. She thinks that I'm a little to high energy for him. Perhaps I intimidated him. I've heard that a few times before. Since I have not had an answer to my usual thank you email at this point, I am just going to assume that I should just move on.

My high school friend also advised me that there are plenty of divorcees out there in my age range who just made the mistake of marrying young. I told her I already know one of those. He's a large part of the reason why I gave up dating for three years. I couldn't trust my judgment anymore. The problem is that now I think I'm a little too guarded. Or maybe I'm just too honest. I don't know. I hope to figure it out soon.

Oscar Predictions

2005-02-02T23:25:00.000-08:00

I am mildly obsessed with movies. OK. That might be an understatement. Each year a group of friends and I try to come up with our own Oscar predictions. I will probably revise my list as the various Guild awards are announced. (You have to check out the general buzz and the Guild awards as well as the Golden Globes to get an accurate feel for the possible recipients.)

The DGA award went to Clint Eastwood for Million Dollar Baby, so he is clearly the front-runner in the Director category. It's kind of shame because that means that once more Martin Scorcese will be denied.

The SAG awards are this weekend. The buzz seems to be for Jamie Foxx for Ray, Hilary Swank for Million Dollar Baby, and Cate Blanchett for The Aviator. Usually by this time of the year, I have seen most of the nominees. I have been a slacker and not seen as many movies as usual so I think I'll be sitting this out to see the SAG results.

I do feel a little comfortable in thinking that Alan Alda will receive the Best Supporting Actor award. He's older and has never received an Oscar before. Of course, maybe Morgan Freeman will sneak up on him.

I'll be updating my predictions over the coming weeks and will of course have locked in my selections before the awards on 27 February. Stay tuned...

A Splendid Day

2005-02-01T23:11:00.000-08:00

Today could not get any better. I have a date later this week. Check out A Very Surreal Day for details on how I pulled that one off. I told a friend last night and the first thing she asked was, "What are you going to wear?" I cannot even begin to think of that right now because I know that I will obsess.

My boss had to calculate our month end numbers. I just started in this position in December. When I came in, there hadn't been a full team in place in months. The higher-ups have been giving us loads of grief because we haven't been making numbers. Well, this month we did. We figure that they can complain about all the nitpicky things all they want to at this point. As long as we make our numbers each month, then we're proving that we know how to do our jobs.

Bottom line is I just refuse to believe that anything bad can happen this week. (And it better not.)

Here goes...

2005-01-31T22:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been posting to Online Misadventures for about the last month or so. I decided it was time to finally try a solo blog. I'm not sure what the focus will be, if any.