Here I am. In Ottawa. Should be packing. Have a long flight back to Vancouver via Toronto.
This "might" be my last trip to Ottawa.
It's not that I don't like these trips, I actually do.
But I'm starting to not so much like shit happening at the office.
I took this job with no job security because I thought it'd be a fantastic opportunity.
It has been.
Then they hired someone that I just can't work with. And I can work with anyone.
And it's not how she treats me. I don't work out of the office. It's how she treats others. She's made people cry, she's humiliated them, she's demeaned them. She's made them feel less than.
She has made my job a bit more difficult too. I have to go play clean-up at some meetings that she's really effed our relationships up with.
I'd always said, if she's still working for us by the next fiscal year, there's a chance I wouldn't be.
She's going to be here next fiscal year.
I'm not getting a raise. My workload is enough to make me cry if I sat back and thought about it. I haven't been able to sit back and think about it. Because I'm too busy.
Even in this economy I've been getting job offers from all over this country. From organizations who are embarking on the same work we're doing. Sadly none of those are in Edmonton.
So here it is, 5:50 am, and I'm getting ready for a flight back and tired as all hell, I have over 100 hours of overtime racked up and I just want to go back to bed but no, there's a lot of work to do.
I know someone who works for an organization who keeps telling me they'd love to have me. They need me. She's trying to revamp their budget and offer me a job. I've told her what kind of salary I'm looking for. She's agreed that's what I'm worth.
Once that happens it'll be an easier work schedule. 9 to 5 so to speak. Not this 6 - 6 that I seem to work because of eastern time zones.
I've told a couple of people at work about the possibility I'll be leaving and they don't really believe me/don't want to believe me.
There's still some clean up I'll have to do. I figure maybe by the beginning of July. Why? I have a lot of overtime hours to use and holidays to take. I worked hard for them so I want to make sure I take advantage of them.
I do love my job. But if these trips to Winnipeg, Saskatchewan, Ottawa, etc. came with a salary that matched, and if a certain person was called on her b.s., I'd be inclined to stay. But it doesn't look like it'll happen.
We'll see.
Right now, I have a plane to catch.
She's lied, she's
This "might" be my last trip to Ottawa.
It's not that I don't like these trips, I actually do.
But I'm starting to not so much like shit happening at the office.
I took this job with no job security because I thought it'd be a fantastic opportunity.
It has been.
Then they hired someone that I just can't work with. And I can work with anyone.
And it's not how she treats me. I don't work out of the office. It's how she treats others. She's made people cry, she's humiliated them, she's demeaned them. She's made them feel less than.
She has made my job a bit more difficult too. I have to go play clean-up at some meetings that she's really effed our relationships up with.
I'd always said, if she's still working for us by the next fiscal year, there's a chance I wouldn't be.
She's going to be here next fiscal year.
I'm not getting a raise. My workload is enough to make me cry if I sat back and thought about it. I haven't been able to sit back and think about it. Because I'm too busy.
Even in this economy I've been getting job offers from all over this country. From organizations who are embarking on the same work we're doing. Sadly none of those are in Edmonton.
So here it is, 5:50 am, and I'm getting ready for a flight back and tired as all hell, I have over 100 hours of overtime racked up and I just want to go back to bed but no, there's a lot of work to do.
I know someone who works for an organization who keeps telling me they'd love to have me. They need me. She's trying to revamp their budget and offer me a job. I've told her what kind of salary I'm looking for. She's agreed that's what I'm worth.
Once that happens it'll be an easier work schedule. 9 to 5 so to speak. Not this 6 - 6 that I seem to work because of eastern time zones.
I've told a couple of people at work about the possibility I'll be leaving and they don't really believe me/don't want to believe me.
There's still some clean up I'll have to do. I figure maybe by the beginning of July. Why? I have a lot of overtime hours to use and holidays to take. I worked hard for them so I want to make sure I take advantage of them.
I do love my job. But if these trips to Winnipeg, Saskatchewan, Ottawa, etc. came with a salary that matched, and if a certain person was called on her b.s., I'd be inclined to stay. But it doesn't look like it'll happen.
We'll see.
Right now, I have a plane to catch.
She's lied, she's
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth, Souray is Hot
You know what I'm absolutely sick of?
People's sense of entitlement.
You see it everywhere. Especially in meetings.
You want to be handed a buttload of cash because you specialize in something and by holding the cash you hold the rules and with that, you hold the terms, and with that you hold the authority.
It happened in Winnipeg last week. We had this meeting with this agency that has all the money. A LOT of it. And they wanted to develop a plan for working with us.
And they brought an organization in who doesn't like working with this. I know this because I was given the third degree at a meeting with them over a month ago and I left angrier than I've ever been in years. Swearing and wanting to punch someone in the face angry. I only usually get that way over hockey.
However, sad to say, I'm used to working with people like that. I'm used to being treated like someone they must entertain only because it would be uncivilized not to. They'd rather not be accountable.
After day 1 of the meeting I started hatching a plan on how to get through to these people. I came up with it and decided to take control on day 2. And my plan was evil genius. Right off the bat, I shut them down and shut them up.
Nothing pisses me off more than people who think that because they exist, they're born into a certain entitlement.
Yeah, sure buddy, the world will just come to you and give you everything you want. Work for it. I've had to. Nothing has ever been handed to me. I've worked hard, and continue to do so, for everything I have. And it means nothing to me. If I was in a car crash tomorrow, my nice vehicle would be toast but it's just a car.
Not that I'm a martyr. I do something, it has my name on it, but for the most part, I'm not looking for glory, I'm looking for results.
People's sense of entitlement.
You see it everywhere. Especially in meetings.
You want to be handed a buttload of cash because you specialize in something and by holding the cash you hold the rules and with that, you hold the terms, and with that you hold the authority.
It happened in Winnipeg last week. We had this meeting with this agency that has all the money. A LOT of it. And they wanted to develop a plan for working with us.
And they brought an organization in who doesn't like working with this. I know this because I was given the third degree at a meeting with them over a month ago and I left angrier than I've ever been in years. Swearing and wanting to punch someone in the face angry. I only usually get that way over hockey.
However, sad to say, I'm used to working with people like that. I'm used to being treated like someone they must entertain only because it would be uncivilized not to. They'd rather not be accountable.
After day 1 of the meeting I started hatching a plan on how to get through to these people. I came up with it and decided to take control on day 2. And my plan was evil genius. Right off the bat, I shut them down and shut them up.
Nothing pisses me off more than people who think that because they exist, they're born into a certain entitlement.
Yeah, sure buddy, the world will just come to you and give you everything you want. Work for it. I've had to. Nothing has ever been handed to me. I've worked hard, and continue to do so, for everything I have. And it means nothing to me. If I was in a car crash tomorrow, my nice vehicle would be toast but it's just a car.
Not that I'm a martyr. I do something, it has my name on it, but for the most part, I'm not looking for glory, I'm looking for results.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth, Souray is Hot
Long time no type! Catch me on twitter. All I have time for is 140 letters for micro-blogging.
This weekend I took off early on Friday, as in before noon, picked up a friend and drove to Portland, Oregon. It's about a 5 hour drive south, not including border wait times.
I love Portland. No taxes, no drama, pretty care-free. We stayed downtown and shopped. Then we drove further south to an outlet mall and went bat crazy.
Thank baby Jesus that our limit increased for trips over 48 hours to $400 per person.
Then we drove closer north last night and spent the morning shopping.
Now I'm home, looking through my purchases and seeing what I don't really want to ship off to family that'll make use of them. Like the chunky heeled shoes.
I'm debating travelling to Victoria tomorrow night and stay overnight for a meeting I have Tuesday. I have to leave Wednesday for Winnipeg, back Friday night.
The week after I'm going to Ottawa. Fun! /end fake excitement
I am going to London for fun. Dave Matthews and Bruce Springsteen in Hyde Park in June. We're going to also check out either Scotland or Ireland. Depends on where the wind takes us. We're only going for two weeks. That's all the time a friend can take off her highly stressful high level job.
This weekend I took off early on Friday, as in before noon, picked up a friend and drove to Portland, Oregon. It's about a 5 hour drive south, not including border wait times.
I love Portland. No taxes, no drama, pretty care-free. We stayed downtown and shopped. Then we drove further south to an outlet mall and went bat crazy.
Thank baby Jesus that our limit increased for trips over 48 hours to $400 per person.
Then we drove closer north last night and spent the morning shopping.
Now I'm home, looking through my purchases and seeing what I don't really want to ship off to family that'll make use of them. Like the chunky heeled shoes.
I'm debating travelling to Victoria tomorrow night and stay overnight for a meeting I have Tuesday. I have to leave Wednesday for Winnipeg, back Friday night.
The week after I'm going to Ottawa. Fun! /end fake excitement
I am going to London for fun. Dave Matthews and Bruce Springsteen in Hyde Park in June. We're going to also check out either Scotland or Ireland. Depends on where the wind takes us. We're only going for two weeks. That's all the time a friend can take off her highly stressful high level job.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
Oh. My. God. I. Have. A. Blog!
I keep forgetting about it, I know. That's not true. I just don't have anything to blog about.
I've been home the entire month of February, no travelling, no rushing to the airport, no checking into hotels, no meetings in other cities.
I do have a rant on people who have pissed me off lately:
Top of the list would be my roommates:
1. We bought house insurance. It cost us $124 each.
2. We ordered the entire season of Canucks PPV. It cost me $140. I don't watch the Canucks. Ever. Unless of course they're playing the Oilers because I always watch the Oilers. Watching the Canucks play the Oilers isn't because I like the Canucks it's because I'm watching the Oilers and don't care who they're playing. Get it?
Anyway, they start harping me about the house insurance. I gently remind them they still owe me for the Canucks PPV. They don't get it. Still want the $124. Even though they owe me $140.
The satellite is in my name. I ordered the Canucks PPV because they always watch that fucking team.
I ordered NHL Centre Ice because it's the only way I get to watch the Oilers all the time.
My cousin's husband isn't an Oilers fan. He watches the Oilers. When he watches the Oilers, the Oilers lose. I'm 95% positive it's because he's watching. He knows I hate it when he watches. I've said it time and again. He's fucking pissing me off.
I paid for NHL Centre Ice because they said I'd be the only one watching. It cost me $149. If I'm the only one watching why is he FUCKING WATCHING THE OILERS?!
I've also witnessed him watching other games. So shouldn't we be splitting the cost? So far it's almost $300 by myself for watching programs we all watch but I was harassed for the house insurance even though I told them how much they owed me for the Canucks.
Reason #1000 for being pissed off with roomie:
My Dad dropped his cellphone and it cracked the face. He can't read text messages, so I can't send him text messages anymore. Over Christmas, I was going to give him my old cellphone.
But, roommated thought he lost his in Mexico and needed a phone. He saw mine laying around so kept asking for it so he wouldn't have to pay for a new one.
I felt bad for not saying yes so I gave it to him. He actually found his cellphone in his suitcase (shouldn't you look there before saying you lost it?) but it also had a cracked face since he dropped it and didn't bother switching back since mine was better.
Well, apparently there was a recall on the phone so he went into Bell and exchanged my phone for a brand new one for himself, not feeling guilty at all, even knowing that I wanted to give the phone to my Dad and getting himself a brand spanking new one.
While I was cooking dinner yesterday he had the nerve to show me his brand new phone that cost him absolutely fucking nothing while I'm sitting on $300 it cost me to watch hockey and while my Dad still has a cracked cellphone.
My Dad says he doesn't need a new one anyway. Of course he'd say that. But when my Dad was in service areas, he'd send these funny text messages and I miss those so I'm really fucking pissed off.
And the internet connection too. I pay for that, they pay nothing. They have two computers that use the connection. Man, I've been tempted to change the security code for wireless and move the modem to my room and make them start paying.
They have no problems asking me for money when they feel I owe them something but the second I tell them how much I paid for something I'm met with silence.
I realize part of it is my fault. I'm not pushy at all when it comes to cash. Yeah. I make a fair bit of it. It's allowed me to do things, buy things, etc. But I work hard. My day doesn't end at 4:30 and it doesn't start at 8:30. I get emails from back east at 5:30 in the morning. I get emails after 4:30 and I answer.
I go to meetings that are hostile situations. This month, especially. Believe me, I'm underpaid. And I hate it when I feel that people are taking it for granted.
So I make more money than they do. Does that mean I've become some sort of government tax rebate program in-house?
Suffice it to say, because I've been home far too long, I'm taking off this weekend. I decided a trip to my sister's is what the doctor ordered. I'm leaving Thursday and coming back Monday night. We're going to Edmonton to catch the Oilers game on Saturday and just veg.
It's not just my roommates pissing me off. It's a bunch of things. It's just the straw that's breaking my back.
Thankfully, next month I have a bunch of trips planned for work. This experiment of being home for a month was a fail.
I'm gone for a week to the north, a few days in Winnipeg again, a day in Victoria, a possible trip to either Ottawa/Toronto.
And I'm thinking again of buying my own place. The problem is, I don't want a one bedroom/one bathroom apartment. Ugh.
A friend and I are thinking of buying a house. We get along great, we give each other space, we can say what we want.
This house wouldn't be so bad if I felt I could say what's on my mind. Problem is my cousin is delicate. She takes everything and bundles it up and makes herself sick. I don't want to be responsible for someone being sick.
BLAH BLAH BLAH
Wow. I rant when I want, eh.
I keep forgetting about it, I know. That's not true. I just don't have anything to blog about.
I've been home the entire month of February, no travelling, no rushing to the airport, no checking into hotels, no meetings in other cities.
I do have a rant on people who have pissed me off lately:
Top of the list would be my roommates:
1. We bought house insurance. It cost us $124 each.
2. We ordered the entire season of Canucks PPV. It cost me $140. I don't watch the Canucks. Ever. Unless of course they're playing the Oilers because I always watch the Oilers. Watching the Canucks play the Oilers isn't because I like the Canucks it's because I'm watching the Oilers and don't care who they're playing. Get it?
Anyway, they start harping me about the house insurance. I gently remind them they still owe me for the Canucks PPV. They don't get it. Still want the $124. Even though they owe me $140.
The satellite is in my name. I ordered the Canucks PPV because they always watch that fucking team.
I ordered NHL Centre Ice because it's the only way I get to watch the Oilers all the time.
My cousin's husband isn't an Oilers fan. He watches the Oilers. When he watches the Oilers, the Oilers lose. I'm 95% positive it's because he's watching. He knows I hate it when he watches. I've said it time and again. He's fucking pissing me off.
I paid for NHL Centre Ice because they said I'd be the only one watching. It cost me $149. If I'm the only one watching why is he FUCKING WATCHING THE OILERS?!
I've also witnessed him watching other games. So shouldn't we be splitting the cost? So far it's almost $300 by myself for watching programs we all watch but I was harassed for the house insurance even though I told them how much they owed me for the Canucks.
Reason #1000 for being pissed off with roomie:
My Dad dropped his cellphone and it cracked the face. He can't read text messages, so I can't send him text messages anymore. Over Christmas, I was going to give him my old cellphone.
But, roommated thought he lost his in Mexico and needed a phone. He saw mine laying around so kept asking for it so he wouldn't have to pay for a new one.
I felt bad for not saying yes so I gave it to him. He actually found his cellphone in his suitcase (shouldn't you look there before saying you lost it?) but it also had a cracked face since he dropped it and didn't bother switching back since mine was better.
Well, apparently there was a recall on the phone so he went into Bell and exchanged my phone for a brand new one for himself, not feeling guilty at all, even knowing that I wanted to give the phone to my Dad and getting himself a brand spanking new one.
While I was cooking dinner yesterday he had the nerve to show me his brand new phone that cost him absolutely fucking nothing while I'm sitting on $300 it cost me to watch hockey and while my Dad still has a cracked cellphone.
My Dad says he doesn't need a new one anyway. Of course he'd say that. But when my Dad was in service areas, he'd send these funny text messages and I miss those so I'm really fucking pissed off.
And the internet connection too. I pay for that, they pay nothing. They have two computers that use the connection. Man, I've been tempted to change the security code for wireless and move the modem to my room and make them start paying.
They have no problems asking me for money when they feel I owe them something but the second I tell them how much I paid for something I'm met with silence.
I realize part of it is my fault. I'm not pushy at all when it comes to cash. Yeah. I make a fair bit of it. It's allowed me to do things, buy things, etc. But I work hard. My day doesn't end at 4:30 and it doesn't start at 8:30. I get emails from back east at 5:30 in the morning. I get emails after 4:30 and I answer.
I go to meetings that are hostile situations. This month, especially. Believe me, I'm underpaid. And I hate it when I feel that people are taking it for granted.
So I make more money than they do. Does that mean I've become some sort of government tax rebate program in-house?
Suffice it to say, because I've been home far too long, I'm taking off this weekend. I decided a trip to my sister's is what the doctor ordered. I'm leaving Thursday and coming back Monday night. We're going to Edmonton to catch the Oilers game on Saturday and just veg.
It's not just my roommates pissing me off. It's a bunch of things. It's just the straw that's breaking my back.
Thankfully, next month I have a bunch of trips planned for work. This experiment of being home for a month was a fail.
I'm gone for a week to the north, a few days in Winnipeg again, a day in Victoria, a possible trip to either Ottawa/Toronto.
And I'm thinking again of buying my own place. The problem is, I don't want a one bedroom/one bathroom apartment. Ugh.
A friend and I are thinking of buying a house. We get along great, we give each other space, we can say what we want.
This house wouldn't be so bad if I felt I could say what's on my mind. Problem is my cousin is delicate. She takes everything and bundles it up and makes herself sick. I don't want to be responsible for someone being sick.
BLAH BLAH BLAH
Wow. I rant when I want, eh.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
I'm going to London, England!
A friend and I were planning a trip to Scotland and Ireland later this year but no dates were ever set. We were just going to fly by the seat of our pants, looking at August, maybe September.
I have tickets to see Dave Matthews Band in Las Vegas in May.
I'm going to sell those tickets.
Because a better offer came up.
I'm going to see Bruce Springsteen AND Dave Matthews at Hard Rock Calling in Hyde Park, London, England!!!
I got a pre-sale password from Dave himself and logged on at 1 am this morning to see if it worked and lo and behold it did.
We're going to London, Scotland and Ireland at the end of June. Not sure if we're going to London first, or Scotland/Ireland but I'm all kinds of excited.
I've never had the desire to visit Europe until recently so why not. My friend's been there more times than I can count so if there's a person to go with, it's her.
A friend and I were planning a trip to Scotland and Ireland later this year but no dates were ever set. We were just going to fly by the seat of our pants, looking at August, maybe September.
I have tickets to see Dave Matthews Band in Las Vegas in May.
I'm going to sell those tickets.
Because a better offer came up.
I'm going to see Bruce Springsteen AND Dave Matthews at Hard Rock Calling in Hyde Park, London, England!!!
I got a pre-sale password from Dave himself and logged on at 1 am this morning to see if it worked and lo and behold it did.
We're going to London, Scotland and Ireland at the end of June. Not sure if we're going to London first, or Scotland/Ireland but I'm all kinds of excited.
I've never had the desire to visit Europe until recently so why not. My friend's been there more times than I can count so if there's a person to go with, it's her.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
I'm too scared to blog because the Oilers have been winning.
Once they start losing again (if ever) I'll be back.
I fly to Toronto tomorrow. Travelling in the winter time is so much fun!
Once they start losing again (if ever) I'll be back.
I fly to Toronto tomorrow. Travelling in the winter time is so much fun!
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
Things I've learned so far this year:
Don't volunteer to go to Winnipeg because the meeting looks interesting.
It's freaking freezing in the centre of the country.
I didn't get to visit friends because they're both girls and girls don't like the cold. Neither do I. I guess that means I'm a girl.
That drivers in this city are idiots. It's not a new epiphany. Just cements my belief. Their race, gender, age don't matter. They're just all idiots.
You meet many people in Maple Leaf Lounge. It's like a bar without music and all old people.
I sit in meetings where the combined salaries of those involved would total millions annually but they can be pretty uneducated on matters and require handholding.
That is the most frustrating part of my job.
I've learned I'm tired of fighting, debating, playing devil's advocate and that's 75% of my job.
The other 25 is writing reports, recommendations and analysis of my fights. I don't like writing anymore.
I could make a lot of money consulting. To the point I'd only have to work 2 days a week. I was offered a consulting job at one of my meetings.
I love the Edmonton Oilers. No. Matter. What.
But that's not new. Just have to re-iterate mt feelings.
Don't volunteer to go to Winnipeg because the meeting looks interesting.
It's freaking freezing in the centre of the country.
I didn't get to visit friends because they're both girls and girls don't like the cold. Neither do I. I guess that means I'm a girl.
That drivers in this city are idiots. It's not a new epiphany. Just cements my belief. Their race, gender, age don't matter. They're just all idiots.
You meet many people in Maple Leaf Lounge. It's like a bar without music and all old people.
I sit in meetings where the combined salaries of those involved would total millions annually but they can be pretty uneducated on matters and require handholding.
That is the most frustrating part of my job.
I've learned I'm tired of fighting, debating, playing devil's advocate and that's 75% of my job.
The other 25 is writing reports, recommendations and analysis of my fights. I don't like writing anymore.
I could make a lot of money consulting. To the point I'd only have to work 2 days a week. I was offered a consulting job at one of my meetings.
I love the Edmonton Oilers. No. Matter. What.
But that's not new. Just have to re-iterate mt feelings.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
So, Friday night was ladies' poker night at a friend's/co-worker's.
There were actually 5 of my co-workers there. Two just hanging out while the rest of us played.
As you know, I bought a new sweet ride last August that I still love a lot. In fact, when everyone was homebound because of all the snow we had here in Vancouver, I was able to navigate everywhere. It really is a sweet ride.
Well, because of the snow, not all cars could park properly at a friend's. I made it to the driveway and a couple parked on the road, across the street.
My supervisor was one of the poker players. It was raining on Friday. It was dark, you get the drift.
She backed into the car parked on the street. We just heard a smash.
I guess in the vehicle, the passenger said, "YOU HIT GRACE'S CAR!" And they both looked scared at each other like someone was going to die. Then they turned around and saw that it wasn't mine it was a sweet girl's and she said, "Oh no, you hit Mandy's car." And my boss said, "Oh Thank God!".
I find it hilarious.
I mean I wouldn't have killed anyone. I would have done what I always do. Repress my anger while smiling.
Thankfully the damage is minimal. A mirror has to be replaced and a scratch on the door from when the mirror broke.
But why was everyone relieved that it wasn't my car? Was it because my car's new? My co-worker bought hers about 4 months before I bought mine so it's relatively new too. Or was it because of me?
I'm off to Winnipeg on Tuesday. Yeah. Fun stuff. I've decided to start flying back the evening after my meetings are over, if possible, so I could accumulate overtime in case I do get to Scotland for three weeks this summer.
I'm off to Toronto at the end of the month, and possibly off to Ottawa sometime in February. You know how many status airmiles that is? Approximately 10,000. You know how many status airmiles you need to become an elite member for aeroplan in a year? 35,000. I'm probably going to hit that around summer and get early recognition status for next year. You know what that means? More upgrade certificates and another year of early boarding, executive check-in, maple leaf lounge, extra luggage.
There were actually 5 of my co-workers there. Two just hanging out while the rest of us played.
As you know, I bought a new sweet ride last August that I still love a lot. In fact, when everyone was homebound because of all the snow we had here in Vancouver, I was able to navigate everywhere. It really is a sweet ride.
Well, because of the snow, not all cars could park properly at a friend's. I made it to the driveway and a couple parked on the road, across the street.
My supervisor was one of the poker players. It was raining on Friday. It was dark, you get the drift.
She backed into the car parked on the street. We just heard a smash.
I guess in the vehicle, the passenger said, "YOU HIT GRACE'S CAR!" And they both looked scared at each other like someone was going to die. Then they turned around and saw that it wasn't mine it was a sweet girl's and she said, "Oh no, you hit Mandy's car." And my boss said, "Oh Thank God!".
I find it hilarious.
I mean I wouldn't have killed anyone. I would have done what I always do. Repress my anger while smiling.
Thankfully the damage is minimal. A mirror has to be replaced and a scratch on the door from when the mirror broke.
But why was everyone relieved that it wasn't my car? Was it because my car's new? My co-worker bought hers about 4 months before I bought mine so it's relatively new too. Or was it because of me?
I'm off to Winnipeg on Tuesday. Yeah. Fun stuff. I've decided to start flying back the evening after my meetings are over, if possible, so I could accumulate overtime in case I do get to Scotland for three weeks this summer.
I'm off to Toronto at the end of the month, and possibly off to Ottawa sometime in February. You know how many status airmiles that is? Approximately 10,000. You know how many status airmiles you need to become an elite member for aeroplan in a year? 35,000. I'm probably going to hit that around summer and get early recognition status for next year. You know what that means? More upgrade certificates and another year of early boarding, executive check-in, maple leaf lounge, extra luggage.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
I've always only made one new year's resolution:
1. Travel to a place I've never visited before.
Last year that was accomplished by a trip to New Zealand, as well as parts of Australia I'd never been to.
This year, the resolution still stands.
I'm adding another.
I used to be fairly active. When I think back, it's quite depressing. I used to play hockey, soccer, basketball, softball. I used to ski, snowmobile (that involved lifting the machine out of many tough spots), running, and yoga.
Because I was so active, I never had to watch what I ate, my output was more than my input.
But I've obviously let that slide. Since I've started working far too much these past 5 years, the most activity I get is walking to and from meetings.
But my eating habits haven't changed. Which is part of the problem.
So, my additional NY resolution is to get healthy. Not through fringe diets that would be tempting, but getting back into some of the activities I loved.
I really do miss skiing. Part of my lack of skiing is this city's so pretentious. Back home I could go to 2 mountains and not have to think about what I'm wearing. Is it this year's outfit or last year's?
So, I think I'll go back to trying to start running/jogging again and looking up yoga classes in my neighbourhood.
And cutting back on pizza. And cooking more at home.
Which would help with my just now decided-upon action to pay off my visa in 3 months. It's not a new year's resolution.
The problem with my visa:
- purchasing Oilers tickets (over $2000)
- car repairs (over $2000)
- buying an Air Canada flight pass (over $2000)
Plus some holiday shopping and my sister using the visa card I gave her for purposes she wasn't supposed to (but I'm not going to bitch about). Then there was the lack of reimbursement for travel expenses for great lengths. I just finally received a reimbursement from the government for a trip I took in October (it cost me over $800). Yes, even though I left the gov't, I still occasionally travel on gov't business. In fact, I'm going to Winnipeg next week on gov't business. I travel more for them now that I've left, than I ever did while working there.
Anyway, I guess it adds up to 2 1/4 resolutions.
It doesn't help that I'm planning a trip to Vegas in May to see Dave Matthews Band. In my defense, I need a vacation and I didn't purchse the VIP tickets (for $250 a ticket) like I was going to. Instead I'll be in the audience with the rest of the poor people. I ditched the VIP package so I could possibly stay at a really nice hotel with really comfortable beds.
PS: This city's operations department totally sucks donkey ass.
1. Travel to a place I've never visited before.
Last year that was accomplished by a trip to New Zealand, as well as parts of Australia I'd never been to.
This year, the resolution still stands.
I'm adding another.
I used to be fairly active. When I think back, it's quite depressing. I used to play hockey, soccer, basketball, softball. I used to ski, snowmobile (that involved lifting the machine out of many tough spots), running, and yoga.
Because I was so active, I never had to watch what I ate, my output was more than my input.
But I've obviously let that slide. Since I've started working far too much these past 5 years, the most activity I get is walking to and from meetings.
But my eating habits haven't changed. Which is part of the problem.
So, my additional NY resolution is to get healthy. Not through fringe diets that would be tempting, but getting back into some of the activities I loved.
I really do miss skiing. Part of my lack of skiing is this city's so pretentious. Back home I could go to 2 mountains and not have to think about what I'm wearing. Is it this year's outfit or last year's?
So, I think I'll go back to trying to start running/jogging again and looking up yoga classes in my neighbourhood.
And cutting back on pizza. And cooking more at home.
Which would help with my just now decided-upon action to pay off my visa in 3 months. It's not a new year's resolution.
The problem with my visa:
- purchasing Oilers tickets (over $2000)
- car repairs (over $2000)
- buying an Air Canada flight pass (over $2000)
Plus some holiday shopping and my sister using the visa card I gave her for purposes she wasn't supposed to (but I'm not going to bitch about). Then there was the lack of reimbursement for travel expenses for great lengths. I just finally received a reimbursement from the government for a trip I took in October (it cost me over $800). Yes, even though I left the gov't, I still occasionally travel on gov't business. In fact, I'm going to Winnipeg next week on gov't business. I travel more for them now that I've left, than I ever did while working there.
Anyway, I guess it adds up to 2 1/4 resolutions.
It doesn't help that I'm planning a trip to Vegas in May to see Dave Matthews Band. In my defense, I need a vacation and I didn't purchse the VIP tickets (for $250 a ticket) like I was going to. Instead I'll be in the audience with the rest of the poor people. I ditched the VIP package so I could possibly stay at a really nice hotel with really comfortable beds.
PS: This city's operations department totally sucks donkey ass.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
Well, I obviously didn't post 365 posts last year. In my defense it was a freakin' busy year.
For all the problems Air Canada had flying out of Vancouver, here's my experience:
I was awake at 5:30 am, finishing packing my clothes and gifts. I shovelled the walk the night before and shovelled again before I left for fear some thieves would know that nobody was home, break in and steal all our stuff.
I then drove to a friend's as she was dropping me off and using my vehicle while I'm away.
Got to the airport about 1.5 hours early. She parked and came in, just in case my flight didn't leave.
The line-up for check-in was freakin' insane. This is where all my insane travelling this past year came in handy. I immediately went to the Executive Check-in. That line-up was insanely long too. Before, you'd just be able to walk up to the counter and check-in. I had to walk around the side towards international departures to get in line.
I was starting to become concerned when we'd barely moved after about 20 minutes, thinking I'm going to miss check-in and be totally screwed.
Then someone from Air Canada was walking along the line asking if anyone is a Super Elite member. When nobody answered, she asked if anyone was an Elite member. The lady in front of me was, as was I so she moved us to the front of the line, ahead of those that paid an arm and a leg for their executive seats.
I then checked in FOUR pieces of HUGE luggage, making sure each weighed less than my allotted 70 lbs each.
Each of my luggage was tagged with "PRIORITY", as was my boarding pass.
I then walked through the priority security check-in lane and proceeded to the Maple Leaf Lounge for complimentary breakfast, beverages and wireless internet connection and announcement for my flight.
Obviously my plane was late leaving but I still got out with no problems whatsoever.
After watching the news, I was one of the fortunate ones.
My 55,000 status miles flying on one airline - and it's partners - paid off.
I have two trips coming up in January. One for four days to Winnipeg and another four day trip to Toronto as well. Thinking about Vegas in February but may hold off until May when DMB is there. Thinking about getting VIP tickets to their concert there.
I got a PS3 for Christmas. I'm going to be either an avid blu-ray dvd collector or a hardcore gamer.
Oh yeah, and my missing awesome camera was found in Toronto. Can't wait to get it. I don't think anyone realized how much I missed it until my friend emailed telling me her new puppy found it under my bed. You'd figure it was Christmas all over again with how I was calling everyone saying, "they found my camera!"
For all the problems Air Canada had flying out of Vancouver, here's my experience:
I was awake at 5:30 am, finishing packing my clothes and gifts. I shovelled the walk the night before and shovelled again before I left for fear some thieves would know that nobody was home, break in and steal all our stuff.
I then drove to a friend's as she was dropping me off and using my vehicle while I'm away.
Got to the airport about 1.5 hours early. She parked and came in, just in case my flight didn't leave.
The line-up for check-in was freakin' insane. This is where all my insane travelling this past year came in handy. I immediately went to the Executive Check-in. That line-up was insanely long too. Before, you'd just be able to walk up to the counter and check-in. I had to walk around the side towards international departures to get in line.
I was starting to become concerned when we'd barely moved after about 20 minutes, thinking I'm going to miss check-in and be totally screwed.
Then someone from Air Canada was walking along the line asking if anyone is a Super Elite member. When nobody answered, she asked if anyone was an Elite member. The lady in front of me was, as was I so she moved us to the front of the line, ahead of those that paid an arm and a leg for their executive seats.
I then checked in FOUR pieces of HUGE luggage, making sure each weighed less than my allotted 70 lbs each.
Each of my luggage was tagged with "PRIORITY", as was my boarding pass.
I then walked through the priority security check-in lane and proceeded to the Maple Leaf Lounge for complimentary breakfast, beverages and wireless internet connection and announcement for my flight.
Obviously my plane was late leaving but I still got out with no problems whatsoever.
After watching the news, I was one of the fortunate ones.
My 55,000 status miles flying on one airline - and it's partners - paid off.
I have two trips coming up in January. One for four days to Winnipeg and another four day trip to Toronto as well. Thinking about Vegas in February but may hold off until May when DMB is there. Thinking about getting VIP tickets to their concert there.
I got a PS3 for Christmas. I'm going to be either an avid blu-ray dvd collector or a hardcore gamer.
Oh yeah, and my missing awesome camera was found in Toronto. Can't wait to get it. I don't think anyone realized how much I missed it until my friend emailed telling me her new puppy found it under my bed. You'd figure it was Christmas all over again with how I was calling everyone saying, "they found my camera!"
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
Oilers got spanked last night while I was out at a Christmas dinner.
It's like they know when I don't watch, blog, etc.
Man, I was pissed.
People must consider my activities and loyalty to the Oilers before scheduling things.
One dude last night said, "Oilers fans always talk about the 80's"
I said, "Canucks fans always talk about how close they came to almost winning the Cup in 94"
They were hurt.
But you can never outdig me in hockey regarding my Oilers.
I'll take a whole room on.
I'm looking - still - for tickets to tonight's game. I have friends calling friends calling friends.
I'm not willing to pay $300 a ticket. But I might have to.
Because it pains my heart to think I'll be missing my boys while they're here in Vancouver.
It's like they know when I don't watch, blog, etc.
Man, I was pissed.
People must consider my activities and loyalty to the Oilers before scheduling things.
One dude last night said, "Oilers fans always talk about the 80's"
I said, "Canucks fans always talk about how close they came to almost winning the Cup in 94"
They were hurt.
But you can never outdig me in hockey regarding my Oilers.
I'll take a whole room on.
I'm looking - still - for tickets to tonight's game. I have friends calling friends calling friends.
I'm not willing to pay $300 a ticket. But I might have to.
Because it pains my heart to think I'll be missing my boys while they're here in Vancouver.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
So as to not tempt fate.
Doing a little post.
Since the Oil are facing the nucks.
I have to buy 23 gifts this year.
I've bought 6 so far.
Cost of 6 gifts: $1200.00.
I kid you not.
One of them is a trip to Vegas.
Oilers just scored.
They shall win.
And I shall be in debt for a year after this Christmas.
But it's all good.
Doing a little post.
Since the Oil are facing the nucks.
I have to buy 23 gifts this year.
I've bought 6 so far.
Cost of 6 gifts: $1200.00.
I kid you not.
One of them is a trip to Vegas.
Oilers just scored.
They shall win.
And I shall be in debt for a year after this Christmas.
But it's all good.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
I'm so tired of work. So over having to work. Burnout? Probably.
I'm also tired of people thinking I want to hear their opinions. If I wanted it, I'd ask for it.
If I said something on a teleconference, I really don't need you to follow-up with me after it's over. I said my peace, you said yours, it's over.
I'm so over the Liberal Party. Let it implode.
I've been donating far too much for spoiled children to pout and cry until they get their way.
PS: Don't bother commenting on this. I don't care what your opinion is either.
Yeah, I'm bitchy. I always have been.
I just became too tolerant of shit and now I'm not again anymore.
I'm thinking of taking next week off work. We're supposed to have our retreat and our Christmas party but I'm not a fan of another wasted retreat and not a fan of a Christmas party at a stupid location.
I'm going home for Christmas. Two friends are fighting over which one will be using my Edge while I'm away for two weeks. It's kind of cute.
I'm also tired of people thinking I want to hear their opinions. If I wanted it, I'd ask for it.
If I said something on a teleconference, I really don't need you to follow-up with me after it's over. I said my peace, you said yours, it's over.
I'm so over the Liberal Party. Let it implode.
I've been donating far too much for spoiled children to pout and cry until they get their way.
PS: Don't bother commenting on this. I don't care what your opinion is either.
Yeah, I'm bitchy. I always have been.
I just became too tolerant of shit and now I'm not again anymore.
I'm thinking of taking next week off work. We're supposed to have our retreat and our Christmas party but I'm not a fan of another wasted retreat and not a fan of a Christmas party at a stupid location.
I'm going home for Christmas. Two friends are fighting over which one will be using my Edge while I'm away for two weeks. It's kind of cute.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
Last night, in the cold freezing snow, we went to the casino in Hull.
My friend was playing slots, and I was playing poker.
The staff at the casino are very nice and helpful.
The players at the casino all know each other.
I was the only person "new" at the table.
And I should trust my instinct.
This dude sitting beside me, another person and I were in a hand.
The flop was 5, 6, 7. The turn was a J.
The dude beside me raised $50.
The table was a $1-2 table.
Raising $50 was putting half my chips in.
I had a pair of Q's.
He said, "I have your hand beat." after the other guy folded.
I said, "Do you have a pair of jacks?"
He said no.
That only left a straight.
A straight would beat my queens.
I folded after he said he'd show me his cards.
He only showed me one.
He had a 5.
He didn't show the other and I said, "I had you beat."
Unless he had two pairs.
But he didn't.
A pair of 5's beat my Q's.
Fucker.
It really pissed me off.
The whole night prior he was honest with me.
And then he bluffed me out of a hand I could have won.
Lesson learned.
I ended up losing $50 playing poker.
First time I ever walked out of a casino playing poker with less money than I went in with.
And that pisses me off more.
I blame the tables.
They're all electronic. No dealer. No chips. No moving around of the button.
There's a big difference.
I get my reads on people with how and when they play with their chips, how their hands look (shaking, etc.) when betting or raising.
Here there's no dealer and no real movement. You have to keep an eye on who has the dealer button.
Oh well. Apparently they'll be getting live dealers on December 12.
Not that it helped me this trip.
But their buffet did have mussels! And I probably ate $50 worth of mussels.
Yesterday's meeting was LONG.
And a bit controversial.
Thankfully my time on the committee is done.
A co-worker is taking over the file for me.
Which made the director sad. Because I think he liked my militant ways.
They'll all be meeting in January.
I'll be at home in rainy but warm Vancouver.
I called my boss yesterday as she's just back from vacation and I had some concerns about an employee and it was easier calling than typing it all out on my blackberry.
She said, "It's cold here." So I asked the temperature. And it was like +7. When it's -1000 here.
Meh.
My friend was playing slots, and I was playing poker.
The staff at the casino are very nice and helpful.
The players at the casino all know each other.
I was the only person "new" at the table.
And I should trust my instinct.
This dude sitting beside me, another person and I were in a hand.
The flop was 5, 6, 7. The turn was a J.
The dude beside me raised $50.
The table was a $1-2 table.
Raising $50 was putting half my chips in.
I had a pair of Q's.
He said, "I have your hand beat." after the other guy folded.
I said, "Do you have a pair of jacks?"
He said no.
That only left a straight.
A straight would beat my queens.
I folded after he said he'd show me his cards.
He only showed me one.
He had a 5.
He didn't show the other and I said, "I had you beat."
Unless he had two pairs.
But he didn't.
A pair of 5's beat my Q's.
Fucker.
It really pissed me off.
The whole night prior he was honest with me.
And then he bluffed me out of a hand I could have won.
Lesson learned.
I ended up losing $50 playing poker.
First time I ever walked out of a casino playing poker with less money than I went in with.
And that pisses me off more.
I blame the tables.
They're all electronic. No dealer. No chips. No moving around of the button.
There's a big difference.
I get my reads on people with how and when they play with their chips, how their hands look (shaking, etc.) when betting or raising.
Here there's no dealer and no real movement. You have to keep an eye on who has the dealer button.
Oh well. Apparently they'll be getting live dealers on December 12.
Not that it helped me this trip.
But their buffet did have mussels! And I probably ate $50 worth of mussels.
Yesterday's meeting was LONG.
And a bit controversial.
Thankfully my time on the committee is done.
A co-worker is taking over the file for me.
Which made the director sad. Because I think he liked my militant ways.
They'll all be meeting in January.
I'll be at home in rainy but warm Vancouver.
I called my boss yesterday as she's just back from vacation and I had some concerns about an employee and it was easier calling than typing it all out on my blackberry.
She said, "It's cold here." So I asked the temperature. And it was like +7. When it's -1000 here.
Meh.
Labels: Go Oilers Go
I left my cellphone in Toronto. My friend's boyfriend was late getting me to the airport because he didn't want to wake up and I didn't want to yell "HURRY UP, I'LL BE LATE!"
So while sitting in the car, constantly looking at the time, I dropped my cellphone under the seat. I made a note to myself to pick it up when exiting the vehicle but by the time we got to the airport, I forgot and just jumped out, grabbed my suitcase and took off.
I didn't realize I left it until I was on the airplane. I have rituals when I fly. I send my sister text messages when I'm in my seat, telling her what time I'm expected to land. When I reached into my pocket to text, I couldn't find my cell. I had to re-hash my movements. Did I leave it on a chair in the waiting area? Security? At check-in? Nope, in the car! I sent a quick email from my blackberry. It's being shipped to my home.
So, if you have my cell, odds are I won't be taking your call for the rest of the week. Most have my email so that's the best way to get a hold of me since it loads on my blackberry.
It's freaking freezing in Ottawa. And even though my hotel window is closed, it wasn't locked all the way so there was a bit of an air drift that I didn't find out about until this morning. And I heard it all night. I thought they just had shitty windows.
And a noise I'm not used to. Snow removal. Yes, not only is it freaking freezing in Ottawa, it freaking snowed too.
I was thinking about flying back tonight instead of tomorrow but I had such a horrible night of sleep that I don't see myself surviving a long day by flying home. Which means I'll be here until the afternoon tomorrow.
An organization and I have been trying to set up a meeting for awhile. They got their wrists slapped for hosting meetings without us. So, they scheduled a meeting around my schedule. Problem is, it's happening when I'd normally be on a flight. So I'm joining via conference call. And the time of the call is the time I'd be flying back. And I can't complain. Because the date and time were picked by me, long before I had this trip to Ottawa.
Where it's freaking freezing. And I keep repeating that because I'll soon be going out in that freaking freezing weather. And I'm not going to enjoy it.
And I missed the Sens game last night. Because I didn't want to be out in the freaking freezing weather at night.
So while sitting in the car, constantly looking at the time, I dropped my cellphone under the seat. I made a note to myself to pick it up when exiting the vehicle but by the time we got to the airport, I forgot and just jumped out, grabbed my suitcase and took off.
I didn't realize I left it until I was on the airplane. I have rituals when I fly. I send my sister text messages when I'm in my seat, telling her what time I'm expected to land. When I reached into my pocket to text, I couldn't find my cell. I had to re-hash my movements. Did I leave it on a chair in the waiting area? Security? At check-in? Nope, in the car! I sent a quick email from my blackberry. It's being shipped to my home.
So, if you have my cell, odds are I won't be taking your call for the rest of the week. Most have my email so that's the best way to get a hold of me since it loads on my blackberry.
It's freaking freezing in Ottawa. And even though my hotel window is closed, it wasn't locked all the way so there was a bit of an air drift that I didn't find out about until this morning. And I heard it all night. I thought they just had shitty windows.
And a noise I'm not used to. Snow removal. Yes, not only is it freaking freezing in Ottawa, it freaking snowed too.
I was thinking about flying back tonight instead of tomorrow but I had such a horrible night of sleep that I don't see myself surviving a long day by flying home. Which means I'll be here until the afternoon tomorrow.
An organization and I have been trying to set up a meeting for awhile. They got their wrists slapped for hosting meetings without us. So, they scheduled a meeting around my schedule. Problem is, it's happening when I'd normally be on a flight. So I'm joining via conference call. And the time of the call is the time I'd be flying back. And I can't complain. Because the date and time were picked by me, long before I had this trip to Ottawa.
Where it's freaking freezing. And I keep repeating that because I'll soon be going out in that freaking freezing weather. And I'm not going to enjoy it.
And I missed the Sens game last night. Because I didn't want to be out in the freaking freezing weather at night.
Labels: Go Oilers Go
I probably don't fit the profile of a frequent flyer. I dress comfortably for flying and I'm not wearing anything Gucci or Prada.
But so far this year I've flown over 50,000 miles. About 15,000 of that thanks to my trip to New Zealand and Australia.
The rest is pretty much work related.
So, I don't usually take advantage of some of the benefits of flying frequently with Star Alliance.
For example, I have only used one upgrade certificate and I haven't used Maple Leaf Lounge yet either.
But I do like the priority baggage tag so I'm not waiting around for my suitcase upon landing.
I decided to use my gold benefit today when checking my luggage though since my friend's boyfriend was late bringing me to the airport.
I usually tag my own luggage and just drop off. The luggage line was in the same area as the executive. Both lines were small, the luggage dropoff smaller so I got in that. The chick checking luggage ahead of me was slow though so the person at executive waved me over.
She didn't put the priority tag on my suitcase so I asked her if she would. She looked at my ticket and said, "oh you do have priority. You belong over here." And put the tag on my suitcase.
It's nice to "belong" sometimes.
I may upgrade the flight home. Especially if I fly back tomorrow night instead of Wednesday afternoon.
I'll first see if the Sens are playing.
But so far this year I've flown over 50,000 miles. About 15,000 of that thanks to my trip to New Zealand and Australia.
The rest is pretty much work related.
So, I don't usually take advantage of some of the benefits of flying frequently with Star Alliance.
For example, I have only used one upgrade certificate and I haven't used Maple Leaf Lounge yet either.
But I do like the priority baggage tag so I'm not waiting around for my suitcase upon landing.
I decided to use my gold benefit today when checking my luggage though since my friend's boyfriend was late bringing me to the airport.
I usually tag my own luggage and just drop off. The luggage line was in the same area as the executive. Both lines were small, the luggage dropoff smaller so I got in that. The chick checking luggage ahead of me was slow though so the person at executive waved me over.
She didn't put the priority tag on my suitcase so I asked her if she would. She looked at my ticket and said, "oh you do have priority. You belong over here." And put the tag on my suitcase.
It's nice to "belong" sometimes.
I may upgrade the flight home. Especially if I fly back tomorrow night instead of Wednesday afternoon.
I'll first see if the Sens are playing.
Labels: Go Oilers Go
Oilers take on the Red Wings. When I didn't blog about it, they lost like 50-0.
So I'm blogging today.
I may get busted since I'm sitting in a meeting.
I just got into a public debate with a government official.
And it felt good.
I may do that again.
It looks like I'll be leaving. Probably in the spring.
The more I think about it, the more I believe it'd be a good move. There may be short-term pain, but the long-term gain is far too great to ignore.
Plus, I'm working myself into a lot of anger where I work right now. With office politics.
If I wanted to be a part of office politics, I'd have hung around gov't and at least had a nice tidy pension at the end.
I received a "raise" but the raise isn't something I'm happy with. Not when I know one particular employee who doesn't carry even half of my workload is getting paid more than I am.
So there you go. Another move.
I saw RockNRolla last night. Freakin' hilarious movie.
Why, when you go to a movie with a guy, it's considered a date, but when you go with a girl, it's hanging out. I went to a movie last night a guy friend and suddenly we're dating. I told my friend that advised me of that, is if hanging out and doing stuff is considered a date, she and I are in what amounts to a committed relationship.
So I'm blogging today.
I may get busted since I'm sitting in a meeting.
I just got into a public debate with a government official.
And it felt good.
I may do that again.
It looks like I'll be leaving. Probably in the spring.
The more I think about it, the more I believe it'd be a good move. There may be short-term pain, but the long-term gain is far too great to ignore.
Plus, I'm working myself into a lot of anger where I work right now. With office politics.
If I wanted to be a part of office politics, I'd have hung around gov't and at least had a nice tidy pension at the end.
I received a "raise" but the raise isn't something I'm happy with. Not when I know one particular employee who doesn't carry even half of my workload is getting paid more than I am.
So there you go. Another move.
I saw RockNRolla last night. Freakin' hilarious movie.
Why, when you go to a movie with a guy, it's considered a date, but when you go with a girl, it's hanging out. I went to a movie last night a guy friend and suddenly we're dating. I told my friend that advised me of that, is if hanging out and doing stuff is considered a date, she and I are in what amounts to a committed relationship.
Labels: Go Oilers Go
I didn't blog the last two games and the Oilers lost both. Pattern? Perhaps. But it really is pissing me off.
I went to Edmonton with three of my nieces for the game and it was fun save for Horcoff blowing an empty net goal that allowed the Avs to score with seconds remaining and then Horcoff again blowing on the shootout that allowed the Avs to win.
My love for the Oilers ultimately trumped my affection for Ryan Smyth. When the game was tight, with Smytty being dangerous with the puck and all, I found myself shouting, "Hit him!" And I really wanted them to hit him.
I'm supposed to go into the office to do staff orientation. I also need to book my trip to Toronto then Ottawa for, well, I guess Friday. Where the hell is the time going?
I was actually supposed to be in the office 45 minutes ago but I'm not even ready. I just need a week in bed, with no worries and no responsibilities whatsoever.
I need to check out how much time I can take off. And then maybe go somewhere fabulous. Or just stay home and in bed. I mean I have a kickass bed and a kickass TV.
I should get going though if I want to be home by 4 pm to catch the Oilers on TV.
I went to Edmonton with three of my nieces for the game and it was fun save for Horcoff blowing an empty net goal that allowed the Avs to score with seconds remaining and then Horcoff again blowing on the shootout that allowed the Avs to win.
My love for the Oilers ultimately trumped my affection for Ryan Smyth. When the game was tight, with Smytty being dangerous with the puck and all, I found myself shouting, "Hit him!" And I really wanted them to hit him.
I'm supposed to go into the office to do staff orientation. I also need to book my trip to Toronto then Ottawa for, well, I guess Friday. Where the hell is the time going?
I was actually supposed to be in the office 45 minutes ago but I'm not even ready. I just need a week in bed, with no worries and no responsibilities whatsoever.
I need to check out how much time I can take off. And then maybe go somewhere fabulous. Or just stay home and in bed. I mean I have a kickass bed and a kickass TV.
I should get going though if I want to be home by 4 pm to catch the Oilers on TV.
Labels: Go Oilers Go
So, a friend of mine was hosting a meeting today and I had all of these plans of leaving early since she'd understand so I can catch an early flight to Calgary and make it there in time to catch the end of the Oilers/Leafs game.
No sense in making plans.
Here I sit, at YVR, 5:52 pm, waiting for my 6:55 flight to Calgary as I ended up staying at the meeting until the very end. I'll miss the Oilers game tonight and I'll also miss Survivor, The Office, and ER.
When I got to the meeting, my friend said, "I need to talk to you at break." So, as soon as coffee break was announced, I approached her, she grabbed this dude and introduced us.
"Here's the person I've been talking to you about." Huh?
I'm being "head hunted" for a position within government. A pretty big position that would be a fair bit more than I make right now. In fact, almost double what I make right now and I make a pretty decent living.
The problem is I'd have to leave Vancouver. The problem is it's a very attractive offer. With a lot of power comes a lot of responsibility.
What I'd make in two years of working in said position would entitle me to a very nice nest egg and from a financial aspect I'm crazy not to take it.
But then it's never been all about the money, it's about the work.
When I sit back and think of the job I'm doing, it's with a lot of honour. I represent a voice that doesn't get heard, and I make sure people hear them.
I sit in meetings and am the voice of people that society forgets. And when society does remember, it's with venom.
Plus I believe in loyalty. My supervisor is a great person. If I left, it'd leave a big hole for her to try fill and I don't believe in treating people that way.
The flip side is we've hired a junior employee to take over some of my responsibilities so I can focus on big picture stuff. However, I can also view it as someone I'm training to eventually take over my position so I can entertain the thoughts of leaving one day.
Who knows.
Some days it's, "No never" and other days is, "When can I start?"
Sitting in these meetings, we had to discuss various topics and the facilitator was walking the room.
I guess some of the comments I made lead her to believe I'm a genius and she wanted me to speak and give final thoughts about the day and where we're going.
I accepted, not knowing my big boss, the head of our entire organization, was also going to show up and offer final thoughts.
When I was being introduced, the introduction was something I don't think accurately represents me. She said I was brilliant, and that in 10 years look out, I could be running various organizations and leading the charge.
So what happens? I fall on my face.
I have a certain image I have to uphold. People are a bit intimidated by me at meetings because I tend to hold them accountable, question their thinking, get them to focus on other areas.
And I broke down.
I started thinking of my Great-Grandmother, my Grandfather, my Grandmother. Every force that gives me the drive to get up in the morning and do the job I have to do on days I just don't want to do it.
So I got emotional.
I freakin' hate it when I get emotional. And to get emotional in front of my boss too! That freakin' sucks.
I was told later by many people that it was such a heart warming speech. BLAH BLAH BLAH.
Now they know I'm human. Now they know a weakness.
But I have been blessed in this life. I've been blessed because since birth, I've been surrounded by amazing, strong survivors. People born in this country who had to fight just to survive, against government, against people, against systems that tried to destroy them.
And they didn't grow bitter, or jaded, or greedy. They just loved unconditionally. They loved me unconditionally, and even though they were taken from me far too soon, they taught me that I deserved to be loved. And to never settle, and to never go silently into the night.
My family has never been rich, financially. I will never be willed vast amounts of money.
But when I wake up in the morning, it's with the knowledge that we have a rich history, a rich culture, an emotionally rich and present family.
Not many people can say that.
Anyway.
The Oilers play the Leafs, and I am a bit ticked I can't watch it. But my sister's promised to record it for me. And Survivor. And The Office. And ER.
Monday, I get quality time alone with my younger niece and nephew so I can't wait to further brainwash them about the Oilers.
That's going to be fun. My suitcase has three Oilers jerseys in it. And about 5 Oiler toothbrushes.
And the Oilers just released a greatest games dvd collection. So I can't wait to pick that up and relive history.
Then Tuesday it's nose back to the grindstone and carrying on with the long task ahead. A few days at home, another flight to Ottawa, another flight home. Another journey.
But we are going to Cuba in February. That is for certain. I have enough holidays saved up to be able to take a week or two off.
And I won't feel guilty.
No sense in making plans.
Here I sit, at YVR, 5:52 pm, waiting for my 6:55 flight to Calgary as I ended up staying at the meeting until the very end. I'll miss the Oilers game tonight and I'll also miss Survivor, The Office, and ER.
When I got to the meeting, my friend said, "I need to talk to you at break." So, as soon as coffee break was announced, I approached her, she grabbed this dude and introduced us.
"Here's the person I've been talking to you about." Huh?
I'm being "head hunted" for a position within government. A pretty big position that would be a fair bit more than I make right now. In fact, almost double what I make right now and I make a pretty decent living.
The problem is I'd have to leave Vancouver. The problem is it's a very attractive offer. With a lot of power comes a lot of responsibility.
What I'd make in two years of working in said position would entitle me to a very nice nest egg and from a financial aspect I'm crazy not to take it.
But then it's never been all about the money, it's about the work.
When I sit back and think of the job I'm doing, it's with a lot of honour. I represent a voice that doesn't get heard, and I make sure people hear them.
I sit in meetings and am the voice of people that society forgets. And when society does remember, it's with venom.
Plus I believe in loyalty. My supervisor is a great person. If I left, it'd leave a big hole for her to try fill and I don't believe in treating people that way.
The flip side is we've hired a junior employee to take over some of my responsibilities so I can focus on big picture stuff. However, I can also view it as someone I'm training to eventually take over my position so I can entertain the thoughts of leaving one day.
Who knows.
Some days it's, "No never" and other days is, "When can I start?"
Sitting in these meetings, we had to discuss various topics and the facilitator was walking the room.
I guess some of the comments I made lead her to believe I'm a genius and she wanted me to speak and give final thoughts about the day and where we're going.
I accepted, not knowing my big boss, the head of our entire organization, was also going to show up and offer final thoughts.
When I was being introduced, the introduction was something I don't think accurately represents me. She said I was brilliant, and that in 10 years look out, I could be running various organizations and leading the charge.
So what happens? I fall on my face.
I have a certain image I have to uphold. People are a bit intimidated by me at meetings because I tend to hold them accountable, question their thinking, get them to focus on other areas.
And I broke down.
I started thinking of my Great-Grandmother, my Grandfather, my Grandmother. Every force that gives me the drive to get up in the morning and do the job I have to do on days I just don't want to do it.
So I got emotional.
I freakin' hate it when I get emotional. And to get emotional in front of my boss too! That freakin' sucks.
I was told later by many people that it was such a heart warming speech. BLAH BLAH BLAH.
Now they know I'm human. Now they know a weakness.
But I have been blessed in this life. I've been blessed because since birth, I've been surrounded by amazing, strong survivors. People born in this country who had to fight just to survive, against government, against people, against systems that tried to destroy them.
And they didn't grow bitter, or jaded, or greedy. They just loved unconditionally. They loved me unconditionally, and even though they were taken from me far too soon, they taught me that I deserved to be loved. And to never settle, and to never go silently into the night.
My family has never been rich, financially. I will never be willed vast amounts of money.
But when I wake up in the morning, it's with the knowledge that we have a rich history, a rich culture, an emotionally rich and present family.
Not many people can say that.
Anyway.
The Oilers play the Leafs, and I am a bit ticked I can't watch it. But my sister's promised to record it for me. And Survivor. And The Office. And ER.
Monday, I get quality time alone with my younger niece and nephew so I can't wait to further brainwash them about the Oilers.
That's going to be fun. My suitcase has three Oilers jerseys in it. And about 5 Oiler toothbrushes.
And the Oilers just released a greatest games dvd collection. So I can't wait to pick that up and relive history.
Then Tuesday it's nose back to the grindstone and carrying on with the long task ahead. A few days at home, another flight to Ottawa, another flight home. Another journey.
But we are going to Cuba in February. That is for certain. I have enough holidays saved up to be able to take a week or two off.
And I won't feel guilty.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
I had a meeting at the office yesterday. Normally meetings are outdated and boring. This one was productive and one of my favourite projects. I really can't wait to see how this rolls out. If I choose to leave my job, and believe me, I question my staying daily, this will be my legacy. Not to toot my own horn but it's a freakin' amazing project that will have a positive impact.
I'm still on this whole eastern time zone kick as I am always awake at 4 am.
I so desperately wanted to go to the Avs game last night, especially since they won in a shootout, but I had a prior commitment.
I have one meeting that's supposed to last all day but I plan on leaving at 3 because I want to catch a plane at 5 to get to Calgary early enough to catch the end of the Oilers/Leafs game on TV.
Plus I am just extremely exhausted. All this travelling and crossing time zones and going back is finally getting to me. So to get over it, I'm going to visit my sister and catch the Oilers/Avs game in Edmonton. Back to work Tuesday, leave Friday for Toronto and then Monday for Ottawa, back home Tuesday night for a meeting Wednesday and THEN NO TRAVELLING UNTIL I GO HOME FOR CHRISTMAS.
I hope.
Who knows.
There'll probably be one more trip to Ottawa before Christmas just because life sucks.
First, I need to pack, because I don't know if I'm coming home first and then getting a ride to the airport, or going straight to the airport from my meeting. I'll be carrying around my suitcase all day just in case.
I'm hoping I can find some poker chips for sale in Calgary. I started getting my sister's family interested in playing poker and I vowed we'd play for money when I come visit. It'll be fun to take $5 each from a 13 and 10 year old.
I'm still on this whole eastern time zone kick as I am always awake at 4 am.
I so desperately wanted to go to the Avs game last night, especially since they won in a shootout, but I had a prior commitment.
I have one meeting that's supposed to last all day but I plan on leaving at 3 because I want to catch a plane at 5 to get to Calgary early enough to catch the end of the Oilers/Leafs game on TV.
Plus I am just extremely exhausted. All this travelling and crossing time zones and going back is finally getting to me. So to get over it, I'm going to visit my sister and catch the Oilers/Avs game in Edmonton. Back to work Tuesday, leave Friday for Toronto and then Monday for Ottawa, back home Tuesday night for a meeting Wednesday and THEN NO TRAVELLING UNTIL I GO HOME FOR CHRISTMAS.
I hope.
Who knows.
There'll probably be one more trip to Ottawa before Christmas just because life sucks.
First, I need to pack, because I don't know if I'm coming home first and then getting a ride to the airport, or going straight to the airport from my meeting. I'll be carrying around my suitcase all day just in case.
I'm hoping I can find some poker chips for sale in Calgary. I started getting my sister's family interested in playing poker and I vowed we'd play for money when I come visit. It'll be fun to take $5 each from a 13 and 10 year old.
Labels: Go Oilers Go, I love Ales Hemsky, I love Ryan Smyth
About me
- Grace
- British Columbia, Canada
- jealous, insecure,narcissistic, paranoid, and delusional
- My profile