Holy shit. I got a package. It didn't come FedEx, like the email said, it came USPS.
Mad props to Sherri and the folks at Duluth Trading. This is was above zero is about.
Yes, I have the replacement jacket in time to contend with the snow we've gotten up here.
Our saga has a happy ending. I should write more, but I have gaming to attend to.
Just remember: Calvinball 24-7.
EDIT: Looking at the jacket in the daylight, it is the original item I ordered. The dark blue really looked black. So I guess I'll wait for the replacement to arrive and go from there. I like it enough where I just might pay for the second one and send it to mom.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Retention
As a whole, humans don't remember much. We don't remember a lot of the sensory input we take in.
For example, your body doesn't remember pain. You can remember that it hurt, but you can't recreate the feeling of hitting the pavement at 35 mph, or the first time you punched something solid enough to break bone. Or, you know that fresh cinnamon rolls make you feel all warm and fuzzy, but you can't remember in any great detail what the cinnamon smells like. You have a vague idea, you can recall the sensation, but you can't replicate it. Your mouth might water, but you can't taste it. We need input, we crave it, we thrive on it.
Life's lessons are very similar. You remember that getting drunk and puking all over your car sucks ass, but after a time, you forget. After swearing off drinking, it's a matter of time before you get bombed again and puke all over someone else's car. You can remember that you told yourself to stop snacking late at night and to go to bed earlier, but it's not long before you lapse into old, comfortable habits.
You need a wake-up call.
Once upon a time, I told myself I wouldn't settle. Not in love, not professionally. I still haven't settled in love; I genuinely love Scott more than any other person and can't imagine life without him. And so I'm forced to look at my professional life, or lack thereof.
I have my current job because for the most part, I enjoy the people I work with. I like the fact that at Corp X, I can use my computer of choice. I'm good at it. I know it, I understand it. I can help my agents understand it. That's the part of the job I like. That, and helping identify trends and passing that info along to the mothership.
Lately, the routine has become just that: A routine. Jumping through hoops and passing gates. Where is the time for my agents? Why don't I have enough time for them? Why do I tell them, "I have a meeting, I'm busy"? My job is about them, being there for them. I have become what I despise because I'm settling.
I have allowed myself to get caught up in the bullshit I said I wouldn't be a part of. I've stopped being my own person, being true to myself. And now, something has to give.
So do I fight a war I can't win, or do I droop my shoulders, hang my head and become a mindless drone who goes with the flow? Or do I reject those possibilities and do it my way anyway?
When I thought about writing this, the intent was to bitch about a meeting I had today, to talk about throwing in the towel and how much I detest the weakness I showed today. But the more I wrote, the more the ideas made themselves clear, the anger has turned to determination.
Prior to today, the last person to make me cry was Scott, and he wasn't even there. Enough of the people who read this will figure it out. Frankly, I'm past the point of discussing it. It happened, I'm not proud of it, but I'm not ashamed either. I have emotions, I bleed. Above all, I'm me, and if that's not good enough for you, fuck you, fuck your dog, fuck your momma for having you, and fuck everyone who looks like you.
So the anger is still there. With me, it never really goes away. But we're changing the game. I'll still play by the rules I'm forced to, but we're adding my own set.
Now it's about me, and how entertained I am. I'll play your fucking games. I won't like it, but you'll never know that now. At the same time, if you find out, it really doesn't matter. Because in the grand scheme of things, it's not important.
I choose my mood. I choose my attitude. My happiness comes from me. My strength comes from me.
I'm disappointed I forgot that. I carry those beliefs with me everyday, and yet I've allowed them to become buried by so many layers of Corp X bullshit. Enough. I won't forget. I can't forget. Not again, not ever.
For example, your body doesn't remember pain. You can remember that it hurt, but you can't recreate the feeling of hitting the pavement at 35 mph, or the first time you punched something solid enough to break bone. Or, you know that fresh cinnamon rolls make you feel all warm and fuzzy, but you can't remember in any great detail what the cinnamon smells like. You have a vague idea, you can recall the sensation, but you can't replicate it. Your mouth might water, but you can't taste it. We need input, we crave it, we thrive on it.
Life's lessons are very similar. You remember that getting drunk and puking all over your car sucks ass, but after a time, you forget. After swearing off drinking, it's a matter of time before you get bombed again and puke all over someone else's car. You can remember that you told yourself to stop snacking late at night and to go to bed earlier, but it's not long before you lapse into old, comfortable habits.
You need a wake-up call.
Once upon a time, I told myself I wouldn't settle. Not in love, not professionally. I still haven't settled in love; I genuinely love Scott more than any other person and can't imagine life without him. And so I'm forced to look at my professional life, or lack thereof.
I have my current job because for the most part, I enjoy the people I work with. I like the fact that at Corp X, I can use my computer of choice. I'm good at it. I know it, I understand it. I can help my agents understand it. That's the part of the job I like. That, and helping identify trends and passing that info along to the mothership.
Lately, the routine has become just that: A routine. Jumping through hoops and passing gates. Where is the time for my agents? Why don't I have enough time for them? Why do I tell them, "I have a meeting, I'm busy"? My job is about them, being there for them. I have become what I despise because I'm settling.
I have allowed myself to get caught up in the bullshit I said I wouldn't be a part of. I've stopped being my own person, being true to myself. And now, something has to give.
So do I fight a war I can't win, or do I droop my shoulders, hang my head and become a mindless drone who goes with the flow? Or do I reject those possibilities and do it my way anyway?
When I thought about writing this, the intent was to bitch about a meeting I had today, to talk about throwing in the towel and how much I detest the weakness I showed today. But the more I wrote, the more the ideas made themselves clear, the anger has turned to determination.
Prior to today, the last person to make me cry was Scott, and he wasn't even there. Enough of the people who read this will figure it out. Frankly, I'm past the point of discussing it. It happened, I'm not proud of it, but I'm not ashamed either. I have emotions, I bleed. Above all, I'm me, and if that's not good enough for you, fuck you, fuck your dog, fuck your momma for having you, and fuck everyone who looks like you.
So the anger is still there. With me, it never really goes away. But we're changing the game. I'll still play by the rules I'm forced to, but we're adding my own set.
Now it's about me, and how entertained I am. I'll play your fucking games. I won't like it, but you'll never know that now. At the same time, if you find out, it really doesn't matter. Because in the grand scheme of things, it's not important.
I choose my mood. I choose my attitude. My happiness comes from me. My strength comes from me.
I'm disappointed I forgot that. I carry those beliefs with me everyday, and yet I've allowed them to become buried by so many layers of Corp X bullshit. Enough. I won't forget. I can't forget. Not again, not ever.
Jacket Watch, Day 4
So.
Not a word from FedEx. I'm not surprised by this, more disappointed by the fact they don't have their shit together. And there's no package here, which means the driver fucked up or it was stolen off the porch after he delivered it.
I just got an email saying the replacement shipped. Via FedEx. Sherri had told me it would go out USPS, so I don't know what happened. I beginning to feel a little bit defeated by the whole thing, but that could be my current mood, which will be chronicled in another blog.
Anyway, Chris wanted to know what kind of jacket it was, so here's a pic from the Duluth Trading site (www.duluthtrading.com). The original order was blue. The replacement is black.
Guys grabbed our Grab Jacket by the thousands last year -- it's just got a great knockaround look and feel. We think you'll grab it for the same reasons. Feels like an old friend, protects you mightily against chilly weather, many times better than a sweatshirt. Fends off the cold, windy, drizzly stuff in that "crummy weather zone" of about 30°F to 45°F. Durable 3-ply Supplex® nylon shell is lined with soft, midweight fleece. Drawcord hood is fully fleece lined, to keep your head warm. Drawcord waist snugs to seal out cold drafts. Nylon-lined sleeves for easy off and on. Three pockets outside, three pockets inside -- two inside pockets zip closed for secure storage, and the other is just right for your cell phone. You won't find a better jacket for the money. Machine wash. Imported.
This would be a really nice jacket to have with how cold it's been. *sigh*
Not a word from FedEx. I'm not surprised by this, more disappointed by the fact they don't have their shit together. And there's no package here, which means the driver fucked up or it was stolen off the porch after he delivered it.
I just got an email saying the replacement shipped. Via FedEx. Sherri had told me it would go out USPS, so I don't know what happened. I beginning to feel a little bit defeated by the whole thing, but that could be my current mood, which will be chronicled in another blog.
Anyway, Chris wanted to know what kind of jacket it was, so here's a pic from the Duluth Trading site (www.duluthtrading.com). The original order was blue. The replacement is black.
Guys grabbed our Grab Jacket by the thousands last year -- it's just got a great knockaround look and feel. We think you'll grab it for the same reasons. Feels like an old friend, protects you mightily against chilly weather, many times better than a sweatshirt. Fends off the cold, windy, drizzly stuff in that "crummy weather zone" of about 30°F to 45°F. Durable 3-ply Supplex® nylon shell is lined with soft, midweight fleece. Drawcord hood is fully fleece lined, to keep your head warm. Drawcord waist snugs to seal out cold drafts. Nylon-lined sleeves for easy off and on. Three pockets outside, three pockets inside -- two inside pockets zip closed for secure storage, and the other is just right for your cell phone. You won't find a better jacket for the money. Machine wash. Imported.
This would be a really nice jacket to have with how cold it's been. *sigh*
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Jacket Watch, Day 3
I called the shipper today to let them know that jacket was missing. I spoke with a very nice woman named Sherri who renewed my faith in humanity.
She was polite, fun, efficient... and she said I'd have another jacket (hopefully) by Saturday. Didn't question me when I said FedEx didn't deliver the package as they stated, just wanted to make it right immediately. She even apologized for FedEx -- and agreed with me that getting the new jacket shipped USPS would make any theft or misdirection a federal crime. Sherri was great; I wish there was a way to leave good feedback for her.
I called FedEx later in the afternoon after I ran to the bank. I spoke with Charlotte, who was the most informative person I've encountered so far with FedEx. She said the depot received the notification. The driver was supposed to head up here today, retrieve the package, get it processed and then it would be delivered again. I reiterated that if the package wasn't here, how would the driver pick it up? I asked this question twice. Charlotte helpfully informed me that the driver was the only one who knew where it was delivered and he had to fetch it and make things right. With any luck, I'll hear from this depot tomorrow.
I took the time to explain to Charlotte that if the previous agents hadn't set up false expectations, I wouldn't have needed to call a third time. Give me the information I need; don't chitter with your friends or be so apologetic you forget to tell me important things -- like when I should expect a call or what kind of time frame we're working with here.
This isn't rocket surgery. This is a very simple thing. I want my damn jacket, which is back ordered until Jan. 25 now. Sherri is sending me a black one, though the original order was for a blue one. I can be flexible, I can be reasonable. But don't fuck around. Know your product, know how to support it. Tell your customer that it will take the better part of a week to locate something YOUR COMPANY LOST.
Or go find a job where they don't give a fuck about anything except whether or not the customer was given the correct change.
Three cheers for Sherri.
FedEx... doing the foxtrot tango...
She was polite, fun, efficient... and she said I'd have another jacket (hopefully) by Saturday. Didn't question me when I said FedEx didn't deliver the package as they stated, just wanted to make it right immediately. She even apologized for FedEx -- and agreed with me that getting the new jacket shipped USPS would make any theft or misdirection a federal crime. Sherri was great; I wish there was a way to leave good feedback for her.
I called FedEx later in the afternoon after I ran to the bank. I spoke with Charlotte, who was the most informative person I've encountered so far with FedEx. She said the depot received the notification. The driver was supposed to head up here today, retrieve the package, get it processed and then it would be delivered again. I reiterated that if the package wasn't here, how would the driver pick it up? I asked this question twice. Charlotte helpfully informed me that the driver was the only one who knew where it was delivered and he had to fetch it and make things right. With any luck, I'll hear from this depot tomorrow.
I took the time to explain to Charlotte that if the previous agents hadn't set up false expectations, I wouldn't have needed to call a third time. Give me the information I need; don't chitter with your friends or be so apologetic you forget to tell me important things -- like when I should expect a call or what kind of time frame we're working with here.
This isn't rocket surgery. This is a very simple thing. I want my damn jacket, which is back ordered until Jan. 25 now. Sherri is sending me a black one, though the original order was for a blue one. I can be flexible, I can be reasonable. But don't fuck around. Know your product, know how to support it. Tell your customer that it will take the better part of a week to locate something YOUR COMPANY LOST.
Or go find a job where they don't give a fuck about anything except whether or not the customer was given the correct change.
Three cheers for Sherri.
FedEx... doing the foxtrot tango...
Monday, November 27, 2006
Jacket Watch, Day 2 update
So I decided to play the wait-and-see game. Which is to say, I got involved in a huge-ass game today and didn't make the call. But yeah.
Here's the best part: I got my refund from the catalog folks since the jacket I exchanged for was less than the original order. And still... no jacket.
No jacket, no word from FedEx. I will be speaking to their next level of customer support tomorrow. Guaranteed. And they will locate the fucking jacket.
It's not like this is the world's greatest jacket or anything. It's a nice, warm functional jacket that I will wear all winter, assuming I can ever get it delivered. This is more about the fact my shit is missing and FedEx doesn't give a fuck. It's my shit. I paid for it. And if one of the neighbors grabbed it, then it's war. But it's more fun to take on FedEx. At least for now.
It's about the man trying to keep me down.
Fuckers.
P.S. In light of the temperature drop and SNOW, this would be a nice time for Jen to have her fucking jacket. Ahem.
Here's the best part: I got my refund from the catalog folks since the jacket I exchanged for was less than the original order. And still... no jacket.
No jacket, no word from FedEx. I will be speaking to their next level of customer support tomorrow. Guaranteed. And they will locate the fucking jacket.
It's not like this is the world's greatest jacket or anything. It's a nice, warm functional jacket that I will wear all winter, assuming I can ever get it delivered. This is more about the fact my shit is missing and FedEx doesn't give a fuck. It's my shit. I paid for it. And if one of the neighbors grabbed it, then it's war. But it's more fun to take on FedEx. At least for now.
It's about the man trying to keep me down.
Fuckers.
P.S. In light of the temperature drop and SNOW, this would be a nice time for Jen to have her fucking jacket. Ahem.
Jacket Watch, Days 1-2
I didn't expect to hear from FedEx on a Sunday. I better hear from someone today. In fact, I will be calling them in a few hours to find out WTF the problem is. I paid for the fucking jacket. You said you delivered it. It's not here. Why is this so difficult?
With any luck, it will make for another amusing customer service story.
I'm also calling the shipper so they can file a claim -- and explain why they didn't sent it USPS like they did the first time.
If all else fails, we will awaken the tooth.
Off to the game store.
With any luck, it will make for another amusing customer service story.
I'm also calling the shipper so they can file a claim -- and explain why they didn't sent it USPS like they did the first time.
If all else fails, we will awaken the tooth.
Off to the game store.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Expectations
I don't shop a lot online. I'm not opposed to it, I'm just more impulsive and would rather have the item in hand instead of waiting for it. Instant gratification, that's me.
I ordered a jacket online a few weeks ago. It wasn't what I really wanted and I needed a different size. I sent it back the next day to exchange it for the one I wanted to begin with. Tuesday, I got an email saying my new jacket was on its way and I'd have it the 28th. Cool. I could live with that.
Today, I checked FedEx's web site to see where the package was. To my surprise, the tracking number indicated it was delivered at 11:45 a.m. Funny. I didn't see a package when I went to get the mail. I looked around, asked the roommates, no package. So I called FedEx.
I don't have high expectations for customer service. I know how we do things at work, and I know why the company gets good marks. The rep I talked to was someone named Farina, and I couldn't understand her. A sense of dread filled my stomach.
I ended up repeating my situation three times. It wasn't a case of her trying to gain agreement with me (something we do at work with our customers to make sure we know what we're trying to troubleshoot), rather, it was that she just didn't understand the words coming out of my mouth.
She launched into this response about how the depot would have to call me and that I would have to wait until they could talk to the driver and find out what happened with my package, that she showed being delivered to the front door at 11:45 a.m.
"Yes, I know it says the package was delivered. I am telling you it's not here and I want to know where it is."
"So you don't have package."
"No, I'm calling because I want to know where my package is."
"It shows it was delivered at 11:45 a.m. to the front door."
"Yes, I know that. I'm calling because IT IS NOT HERE."
"Your name is Jen?"
*sigh*
"OK, well 1125606...."
"What number is that?"
"It is 1-1-2-5-6-0-6 --"
"No, what is the number for??"
"It's your (mumble) number for (mumble)."
"Um, yeah. Usually, if you have information to give your customer, you should let them know that they should get something to write it down on."
"You can write it on whatever you like ma'am."
"Just give me the damn number."
I don't think it's unreasonable to expect the shipping carrier to know where the fuck my package is. It's their job to know. I called FedEx several hours later because they had set up the expectation that I'd be called that afternoon. But Farina was too busy chatting with her co-workers and giggling to do her job properly. The second rep I spoke to was pretty nice. I let her know I had an unfavorable experience and she was apologetic during the whole call. I suppose I should point out that English wasn't Farina's first language, but I think she was from the shallow end of the gene pool to begin with.
But language does bring up an important point. If your job is to talk to customers on the phone, it's my expectation that you'll be able to understand simple requests and give intelligible answers. It's my expectation that, while I'm on the phone with you, you will give me your undivided attention and you will work to resolve my issue. I know that's how I treat my customers. But dog damn... if you can't speak the language, how does that help me? About as much as if I tried to assist someone who didn't speak English.
When I worked at Flying Pie, we had something called "Above zero... and rising." It's the principle that your customer comes in with no expectations, or they expect very little. If you provide exceptional service to begin with, that leaves a lasting impression. It takes very little effort, which is why I can't understand why more people can't do it. It's greeting the customer, smiling, being cheerful... things most of us do anyway. Amazing a little pizza joint in Boise can do something a multi-billion dollar corporation can't.
Keeping with the "Above Zero" theme, I had the pleasure of an emergency dental visit on Wednesday. I had Angry Tooth, the molar with a hole in it that was causing great pain and making me even more unbearable to be around. I went to the dentist for the first time in at least 10 years. I expected a root canal and a HUGE bill. Instead, I got a filling and paid less than $200. The dentist did a great job, her assistant was awesome, and they've got a repeat patient -- all because they exceeded my expectations by providing the same kind of professionalism they give all of their customers.
It's such a simple thing. It's amazing how many people/businesses fuck it up.
I ordered a jacket online a few weeks ago. It wasn't what I really wanted and I needed a different size. I sent it back the next day to exchange it for the one I wanted to begin with. Tuesday, I got an email saying my new jacket was on its way and I'd have it the 28th. Cool. I could live with that.
Today, I checked FedEx's web site to see where the package was. To my surprise, the tracking number indicated it was delivered at 11:45 a.m. Funny. I didn't see a package when I went to get the mail. I looked around, asked the roommates, no package. So I called FedEx.
I don't have high expectations for customer service. I know how we do things at work, and I know why the company gets good marks. The rep I talked to was someone named Farina, and I couldn't understand her. A sense of dread filled my stomach.
I ended up repeating my situation three times. It wasn't a case of her trying to gain agreement with me (something we do at work with our customers to make sure we know what we're trying to troubleshoot), rather, it was that she just didn't understand the words coming out of my mouth.
She launched into this response about how the depot would have to call me and that I would have to wait until they could talk to the driver and find out what happened with my package, that she showed being delivered to the front door at 11:45 a.m.
"Yes, I know it says the package was delivered. I am telling you it's not here and I want to know where it is."
"So you don't have package."
"No, I'm calling because I want to know where my package is."
"It shows it was delivered at 11:45 a.m. to the front door."
"Yes, I know that. I'm calling because IT IS NOT HERE."
"Your name is Jen?"
*sigh*
"OK, well 1125606...."
"What number is that?"
"It is 1-1-2-5-6-0-6 --"
"No, what is the number for??"
"It's your (mumble) number for (mumble)."
"Um, yeah. Usually, if you have information to give your customer, you should let them know that they should get something to write it down on."
"You can write it on whatever you like ma'am."
"Just give me the damn number."
I don't think it's unreasonable to expect the shipping carrier to know where the fuck my package is. It's their job to know. I called FedEx several hours later because they had set up the expectation that I'd be called that afternoon. But Farina was too busy chatting with her co-workers and giggling to do her job properly. The second rep I spoke to was pretty nice. I let her know I had an unfavorable experience and she was apologetic during the whole call. I suppose I should point out that English wasn't Farina's first language, but I think she was from the shallow end of the gene pool to begin with.
But language does bring up an important point. If your job is to talk to customers on the phone, it's my expectation that you'll be able to understand simple requests and give intelligible answers. It's my expectation that, while I'm on the phone with you, you will give me your undivided attention and you will work to resolve my issue. I know that's how I treat my customers. But dog damn... if you can't speak the language, how does that help me? About as much as if I tried to assist someone who didn't speak English.
When I worked at Flying Pie, we had something called "Above zero... and rising." It's the principle that your customer comes in with no expectations, or they expect very little. If you provide exceptional service to begin with, that leaves a lasting impression. It takes very little effort, which is why I can't understand why more people can't do it. It's greeting the customer, smiling, being cheerful... things most of us do anyway. Amazing a little pizza joint in Boise can do something a multi-billion dollar corporation can't.
Keeping with the "Above Zero" theme, I had the pleasure of an emergency dental visit on Wednesday. I had Angry Tooth, the molar with a hole in it that was causing great pain and making me even more unbearable to be around. I went to the dentist for the first time in at least 10 years. I expected a root canal and a HUGE bill. Instead, I got a filling and paid less than $200. The dentist did a great job, her assistant was awesome, and they've got a repeat patient -- all because they exceeded my expectations by providing the same kind of professionalism they give all of their customers.
It's such a simple thing. It's amazing how many people/businesses fuck it up.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Thursday, November 9, 2006
No apologies
For the record...
I'm a liberal
I'm a gamer
I'm a geek
I'm a Mac user
I'm yonsei
I'm a journalist
I'm impulsive
I'm loyal
I'm me
I'm in love
I believe you shouldn't legislate morality
I believe a woman's body is hers, and hers alone
I believe that you take responsibility for your actions
I believe that if there is a god, she's a loving and just god, not a vengeful one
I believe in conspiracy theories
I believe in a thing called love
I believe in the Bill of Rights
I believe people can change
I believe in myself
I believe in karma
I want my own business
I want financial security
I want to own a house
I want to be healthy
I want to lose weight
I want to finish my degree
I want to live near the ocean
I want another motorcycle
I want to be successful
I want to write a book
I don't like broccoli
I don't like spiders
I don't miss my ex
I don't like people who can't drive
I don't smoke
I don't read the newspaper
I don't like BSU
I don't believe in forgiveness
I don't think Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone
I don't believe we're alone in the universe
I miss my mom
I miss the ocean
I miss my ferrets
I miss snuggling on Sunday mornings
I miss fat pay checks
I miss the Bay Area
I miss good local radio (not the corporate shit)
I miss chillin' at the Post
I miss the thrill of deadline
I miss my family
I wish I was a better dancer
I wish I was neater
I wish there were hours in the day
I wish there was a cure for cancer
I wish there was a cure for AIDS
I wish we were all more tolerant
I wish we were all more patient
I wish I didn't have to fire people
I wish the two-party system worked
I wish I had a million dollars
I'm thankful for down comforters
I'm thankful for electricity
I'm thankful for my family
I'm thankful for my friends
I'm thankful for my education
I'm thankful I can vote
I'm thankful for my health
I'm thankful for the internet
I'm thankful I'm not shy
I'm thankful for hugs
I need challenge
I need balance
I need to take a step back more often
I need a better job
I need to travel more
I need to call my grandma
I need to eat healthier
I need to get more sleep
I need to play my guitar
I need to keep seeing the humor in things
I will not settle
I will not compromise my beliefs
I will vote blue in a red state
I will continue to vote with my wallet
I will read more
I will not shop at Wal-Mart
I will stand up for my employees
I will not be a corporate drone
I will take more photos
I will embrace my creative side
I will be me
I love who I have become
I love Scott
I love Roscoe and Cassie
I love sunsets
I love the way it smells after it rains
I love strawberry ice cream
I love my friends
I love my family
I love the sound and smell of the ocean
I love music
I love being a secret admirer
I love flirting
I love making other people laugh
I love holding hands
I love looking up at the stars
I love chatting with friends across the country
I love writing
I love gaming
I love turkey with gravy and mashed potatoes
I love a good steak
I love Flying Pie
I love sleeping in
I love lamp
And you can quote me. On all of it.
I'm a liberal
I'm a gamer
I'm a geek
I'm a Mac user
I'm yonsei
I'm a journalist
I'm impulsive
I'm loyal
I'm me
I'm in love
I believe you shouldn't legislate morality
I believe a woman's body is hers, and hers alone
I believe that you take responsibility for your actions
I believe that if there is a god, she's a loving and just god, not a vengeful one
I believe in conspiracy theories
I believe in a thing called love
I believe in the Bill of Rights
I believe people can change
I believe in myself
I believe in karma
I want my own business
I want financial security
I want to own a house
I want to be healthy
I want to lose weight
I want to finish my degree
I want to live near the ocean
I want another motorcycle
I want to be successful
I want to write a book
I don't like broccoli
I don't like spiders
I don't miss my ex
I don't like people who can't drive
I don't smoke
I don't read the newspaper
I don't like BSU
I don't believe in forgiveness
I don't think Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone
I don't believe we're alone in the universe
I miss my mom
I miss the ocean
I miss my ferrets
I miss snuggling on Sunday mornings
I miss fat pay checks
I miss the Bay Area
I miss good local radio (not the corporate shit)
I miss chillin' at the Post
I miss the thrill of deadline
I miss my family
I wish I was a better dancer
I wish I was neater
I wish there were hours in the day
I wish there was a cure for cancer
I wish there was a cure for AIDS
I wish we were all more tolerant
I wish we were all more patient
I wish I didn't have to fire people
I wish the two-party system worked
I wish I had a million dollars
I'm thankful for down comforters
I'm thankful for electricity
I'm thankful for my family
I'm thankful for my friends
I'm thankful for my education
I'm thankful I can vote
I'm thankful for my health
I'm thankful for the internet
I'm thankful I'm not shy
I'm thankful for hugs
I need challenge
I need balance
I need to take a step back more often
I need a better job
I need to travel more
I need to call my grandma
I need to eat healthier
I need to get more sleep
I need to play my guitar
I need to keep seeing the humor in things
I will not settle
I will not compromise my beliefs
I will vote blue in a red state
I will continue to vote with my wallet
I will read more
I will not shop at Wal-Mart
I will stand up for my employees
I will not be a corporate drone
I will take more photos
I will embrace my creative side
I will be me
I love who I have become
I love Scott
I love Roscoe and Cassie
I love sunsets
I love the way it smells after it rains
I love strawberry ice cream
I love my friends
I love my family
I love the sound and smell of the ocean
I love music
I love being a secret admirer
I love flirting
I love making other people laugh
I love holding hands
I love looking up at the stars
I love chatting with friends across the country
I love writing
I love gaming
I love turkey with gravy and mashed potatoes
I love a good steak
I love Flying Pie
I love sleeping in
I love lamp
And you can quote me. On all of it.
Wednesday, November 8, 2006
And another thing...
ight now, the Republican candidate for governor is leading. Dude's name is Butch Otter. Yeah. What an image that conjures up.
"Things are looking a little rough for Republicans, a little bit rough for the country," Otter said at a GOP election-night party at the Doubletree Hotel Riverside in Boise. "Idaho is still the reddest of the red states in the union."
A little rough for Republicans? A little rough for the country?
What the fuck is Lesbian Lutra (lutra = Latin for otter...) talking about? Haven't we suffered enough? Fuck him.
And if by "reddest of the red states" he means the most backward and homophobic, he would be correct.
For the record, all of you dipshits who might have voted "yes" on HJR2 -- it does more than ban gay marriage. COHABITATION BY NON-MARRIED FOLKS IS PROHIBITED.
Bet you dumb fuckers didn't read that part, did you.
Stopping now before I get too worked up...
"Things are looking a little rough for Republicans, a little bit rough for the country," Otter said at a GOP election-night party at the Doubletree Hotel Riverside in Boise. "Idaho is still the reddest of the red states in the union."
A little rough for Republicans? A little rough for the country?
What the fuck is Lesbian Lutra (lutra = Latin for otter...) talking about? Haven't we suffered enough? Fuck him.
And if by "reddest of the red states" he means the most backward and homophobic, he would be correct.
For the record, all of you dipshits who might have voted "yes" on HJR2 -- it does more than ban gay marriage. COHABITATION BY NON-MARRIED FOLKS IS PROHIBITED.
Bet you dumb fuckers didn't read that part, did you.
Stopping now before I get too worked up...
So yeah...
If you didn't vote...
STFU AND DON'T FUCKING COMPLAIN.
Yay America. First female Speaker of the House. Rock on.
STFU AND DON'T FUCKING COMPLAIN.
Yay America. First female Speaker of the House. Rock on.
Sunday, November 5, 2006
Huck the folidays
I like the holidays.
Well.
Hmmmm....
I like family. I like eating. I like presents. Yeah, I'll admit that. (So send me stuff, k?)
I hate the commercialization. And I'm not just talking Christmas. It's all of them. New Year's. Valentine's Day. St. Patrick's Day. Easter. Memorial Day. Independence Day. Labor Day. Halloween. Christmas.
Chuck Fristmas.
Right. Back the truck up. I know. But those of you who know me should know where this is headed. I think. But yes. A rewind is required.
The Halloween party was last weekend. It was great fun. And the best costumes were the ones people made themselves -- I thought Justin's was the best (not just because the party was at his place, or because he grilled meaty treats!) because you knew he spent time on it. Tami's was the most interactive (she was an Etch-A-Sketch); Dawn's cracked me up (she was Operation). And there was Jim, who went as himself -- with a mask that was about 1.5 times bigger than his head. I laughed every time I looked at him. I was a Mac, and Scott was ... a PC. For work, I went as Mario, complete with penciled on mustache and eyebrows. And two plungers. Yeah. Definitely two plungers for the office.
I spent a lot of time looking for costume components, mostly because I had no clue what I was going to be. I hit both Halloween stores in town, and both sucked hard. I didn't go to the Costume Shop because I knew it would be a zoo. And deep down, I wanted to put it together myself. Which I did. Still, I had to look at the stores, just to reaffirm my belief that I could put something together for much less than if I bought something made by slave labor overseas.
But in the process of seeking out costume parts, I was disgusted to see all the shit they peddle for Halloween -- the same holiday the right-wingers despise because they say it's satanic and promotes evil. I think that's a blog for another day. Anyway, knowing this, there was a part of me that was pretty happy about Halloween exploding into this commercialized success because it makes a certain portion of the populace cringe. But I digress.
The capper for me came Halloween night when we were taking the boys home after they went trick or treating with some friends.
If you've been to Boise, you know there are some very nice houses along Warm Springs. They decorate for Halloween and Christmas. And if you want the big-ass candy haul, this is where you go.
But it was about 9 p.m. and most of the folks were done. Except for a few groups that were dragging around some wee ones who should've been in bed hours before. It was enough for us to launch into a whole production about parents who exploit their children for Halloween candy. Or force them to parade around in costumes they want the kids to wear, forgetting that the child should have some input.
[The scene: A parent and child are trick or treating. It's quite late. The child is 5 or 6, and is quite tired.]
Child (in a very tiny, timid voice): Can we go home?
Parent: NO! You get up to that porch and you take that candy from that stranger!
Child: But you said not to take candy from strangers...
Parent: You get up there and get that candy. I did NOT spend all that time in line at the Costume Shop buying you that costume for you NOT to trick or treat until I've gotten my money's worth!
Child: I hate Halloween *sniffle*
Parent: Princesses DO NOT CRY!
Child: I wanted to be a cowboy...
Parent: Dammit, Johnny, you will wear that princess costume and enjoy it!
Child: I wanted to be a cowboy and tend to my herd of free-range, organic cattle...
Parent: Will you get off it?! EVERYONE wants to be a princess!
Child: But I'm a little boy!!
Parent: IT WAS WHAT THEY HAD LEFT!
Child: I hate Halloween
It was all down hill from there.
Retailers start the Christmas push in June or July, or whenever Hallmark puts out the ornaments for that year. Yes, I'm guilty of buying them that early, but they were Star Wars ornaments, OK? I'm a victim of marketing, I know.
There is so much crap out there for you to buy to "get into" the "holiday spirit." Shit for your yard, shit that lights up, shit that plays music, shit for your dog, your cat and your fish; shit for your plants, shit for your car. Shit for your shit. Red and green shit, most of it.
I've always had a problem with Christmas music. I want to hear it, maybe one week out of the year, if that. If the Vandals are playing it, yeah, I can listen just about any time. But they won't play the Vandals holiday songs in public. I don't give a shit about decking halls in October. I'm sure as fuck not going to be holly and jolly at the mall. Fuck the mall.
I tend to buy things for people all year if I have the money. I don't need a holiday to purchase something for someone. I just need the mood to strike and I'm good. I don't need a countdown telling me I have 49 shopping days to Christmas. As I've gotten older, I appreciate the holidays for family and friends, not for how much I can spend on a gift.
I think I've run out of steam on this one, at least for the day. I've got more to say on the topic, but we'll save that for later.
Well.
Hmmmm....
I like family. I like eating. I like presents. Yeah, I'll admit that. (So send me stuff, k?)
I hate the commercialization. And I'm not just talking Christmas. It's all of them. New Year's. Valentine's Day. St. Patrick's Day. Easter. Memorial Day. Independence Day. Labor Day. Halloween. Christmas.
Chuck Fristmas.
Right. Back the truck up. I know. But those of you who know me should know where this is headed. I think. But yes. A rewind is required.
The Halloween party was last weekend. It was great fun. And the best costumes were the ones people made themselves -- I thought Justin's was the best (not just because the party was at his place, or because he grilled meaty treats!) because you knew he spent time on it. Tami's was the most interactive (she was an Etch-A-Sketch); Dawn's cracked me up (she was Operation). And there was Jim, who went as himself -- with a mask that was about 1.5 times bigger than his head. I laughed every time I looked at him. I was a Mac, and Scott was ... a PC. For work, I went as Mario, complete with penciled on mustache and eyebrows. And two plungers. Yeah. Definitely two plungers for the office.
I spent a lot of time looking for costume components, mostly because I had no clue what I was going to be. I hit both Halloween stores in town, and both sucked hard. I didn't go to the Costume Shop because I knew it would be a zoo. And deep down, I wanted to put it together myself. Which I did. Still, I had to look at the stores, just to reaffirm my belief that I could put something together for much less than if I bought something made by slave labor overseas.
But in the process of seeking out costume parts, I was disgusted to see all the shit they peddle for Halloween -- the same holiday the right-wingers despise because they say it's satanic and promotes evil. I think that's a blog for another day. Anyway, knowing this, there was a part of me that was pretty happy about Halloween exploding into this commercialized success because it makes a certain portion of the populace cringe. But I digress.
The capper for me came Halloween night when we were taking the boys home after they went trick or treating with some friends.
If you've been to Boise, you know there are some very nice houses along Warm Springs. They decorate for Halloween and Christmas. And if you want the big-ass candy haul, this is where you go.
But it was about 9 p.m. and most of the folks were done. Except for a few groups that were dragging around some wee ones who should've been in bed hours before. It was enough for us to launch into a whole production about parents who exploit their children for Halloween candy. Or force them to parade around in costumes they want the kids to wear, forgetting that the child should have some input.
[The scene: A parent and child are trick or treating. It's quite late. The child is 5 or 6, and is quite tired.]
Child (in a very tiny, timid voice): Can we go home?
Parent: NO! You get up to that porch and you take that candy from that stranger!
Child: But you said not to take candy from strangers...
Parent: You get up there and get that candy. I did NOT spend all that time in line at the Costume Shop buying you that costume for you NOT to trick or treat until I've gotten my money's worth!
Child: I hate Halloween *sniffle*
Parent: Princesses DO NOT CRY!
Child: I wanted to be a cowboy...
Parent: Dammit, Johnny, you will wear that princess costume and enjoy it!
Child: I wanted to be a cowboy and tend to my herd of free-range, organic cattle...
Parent: Will you get off it?! EVERYONE wants to be a princess!
Child: But I'm a little boy!!
Parent: IT WAS WHAT THEY HAD LEFT!
Child: I hate Halloween
It was all down hill from there.
Retailers start the Christmas push in June or July, or whenever Hallmark puts out the ornaments for that year. Yes, I'm guilty of buying them that early, but they were Star Wars ornaments, OK? I'm a victim of marketing, I know.
There is so much crap out there for you to buy to "get into" the "holiday spirit." Shit for your yard, shit that lights up, shit that plays music, shit for your dog, your cat and your fish; shit for your plants, shit for your car. Shit for your shit. Red and green shit, most of it.
I've always had a problem with Christmas music. I want to hear it, maybe one week out of the year, if that. If the Vandals are playing it, yeah, I can listen just about any time. But they won't play the Vandals holiday songs in public. I don't give a shit about decking halls in October. I'm sure as fuck not going to be holly and jolly at the mall. Fuck the mall.
I tend to buy things for people all year if I have the money. I don't need a holiday to purchase something for someone. I just need the mood to strike and I'm good. I don't need a countdown telling me I have 49 shopping days to Christmas. As I've gotten older, I appreciate the holidays for family and friends, not for how much I can spend on a gift.
I think I've run out of steam on this one, at least for the day. I've got more to say on the topic, but we'll save that for later.
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