Hi my name is Cathy and I am a procrastinator..... next weekend is Christmas and I am still not done shopping yet. Wednesday night I shopped on Amazon and got a big bunch of things (actually the items themselves are small- and some may be for me...). I still have to get some items. One is a gift card to round out a present and then I have to figure out what to get for a round robin gift.
Each year on Christmas eve we get together with my mom's side of the fam and the 16+ croud do a secret santa $20 limit and people in age from 56+ down to 16. I have no idea what to get.... will be running out of time soon I have a feeling.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Friday, November 25, 2011
Thankful
Thanksgiving is now over and done, and I was blessed to be able to have fun and spend time with almost every person in the family this year :) From a food perspective, it was interesting. I typically have 2 meals a day, with the first being at around 11:30-12:00. The feast yesterday was at 3....., so I planned ahead and had a simple egg sandwich on whole grain toast in the am. That enabled me to not snack on apps beforehand and be hampster hungry! I did have a pig in a blanket that my brother and neice made, but I was not compelled to eat and eat. I ate more than I planned, but stopped before I was stuffed.
After the feast we took a walk/hike through the woods to the nieghboring tree farm- so beautiful, and so New England - rows of different kinds of trees in various growth stages on the rolling hills and surrounded by stone walls and towering old trees. It was so beautiful and peaceful, I really wish I had brought a camera.
I ended the holiday with a trip to my aunt and uncle's to visit more famiy- and arrived just in time for the games. Got to play with the dogs as a cap to the day.
I was SO happy that the scale was the same this morning as yesterday. I had a great time and did not take too much of a side trip on this journey to getting smaller :) I am going to take it as a trial run/precursor to next month and the fun that awaits !
This year I am thankful for all of my friends and family, being employed and doing a job that challenges me, and am so thankful that I took a chance this summer on the wellness pilot program that is really changing my life and its all for the better!
After the feast we took a walk/hike through the woods to the nieghboring tree farm- so beautiful, and so New England - rows of different kinds of trees in various growth stages on the rolling hills and surrounded by stone walls and towering old trees. It was so beautiful and peaceful, I really wish I had brought a camera.
I ended the holiday with a trip to my aunt and uncle's to visit more famiy- and arrived just in time for the games. Got to play with the dogs as a cap to the day.
I was SO happy that the scale was the same this morning as yesterday. I had a great time and did not take too much of a side trip on this journey to getting smaller :) I am going to take it as a trial run/precursor to next month and the fun that awaits !
This year I am thankful for all of my friends and family, being employed and doing a job that challenges me, and am so thankful that I took a chance this summer on the wellness pilot program that is really changing my life and its all for the better!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
An awesome journey
I decided to share my amazing weight loss success so far... as of this week I have officially lost 45 pounds! My goal right now is to lose 50 by the end of the year :)
This summer, my company offered a wellness program called Naturally Slim to a select 500 folks. We had to have blood work done before and after the 10 week class to see what success we achieved. I went in with an open mind and was ready to give it a shot. I was at my heaviest ever weight and was NOT happy. This program does not have a special diet and does not require crazy amount of exercise. The mantra is not WHAT you eat, rather it is about WHEN and HOW you eat, and to just move- even if its just walking. At the end of the program we lost over 4000 lbs between the 500 people in 10 weeks.
I have learned that I am not really a morning breakfast person and I don't get hungry until about 10:30-11 in the morning. I have 60+ oz of water a day, and at least 20 oz are h2orange (a blend of oj and water to keep blood sugar level), and of course coffee. I eat SLOWLY and take at least 25 minutes to eat each meal. The best part? I can eat just about anything I want. It seemed at times that I used to mainline sugar, and have realized that while it is good in small doses, it doesn't hold nearly the same appeal that it used to. The program does say to limit drinking and to try and stay away from wine- instead to have beer or a non sugary mixer with liquor. I tend to stay away from alcohol for the most part, so that part was not really a hardship for me. If I do drink it is one drink with a meal (to limit the sugar spike) and to make sure my meal has protein.
I have a couple of shots to share with you, a before shot from late June 2011 and a current shot from about a month ago.
I am ecstatic of my success and I know my gramma would be very proud of me!
This summer, my company offered a wellness program called Naturally Slim to a select 500 folks. We had to have blood work done before and after the 10 week class to see what success we achieved. I went in with an open mind and was ready to give it a shot. I was at my heaviest ever weight and was NOT happy. This program does not have a special diet and does not require crazy amount of exercise. The mantra is not WHAT you eat, rather it is about WHEN and HOW you eat, and to just move- even if its just walking. At the end of the program we lost over 4000 lbs between the 500 people in 10 weeks.
I have learned that I am not really a morning breakfast person and I don't get hungry until about 10:30-11 in the morning. I have 60+ oz of water a day, and at least 20 oz are h2orange (a blend of oj and water to keep blood sugar level), and of course coffee. I eat SLOWLY and take at least 25 minutes to eat each meal. The best part? I can eat just about anything I want. It seemed at times that I used to mainline sugar, and have realized that while it is good in small doses, it doesn't hold nearly the same appeal that it used to. The program does say to limit drinking and to try and stay away from wine- instead to have beer or a non sugary mixer with liquor. I tend to stay away from alcohol for the most part, so that part was not really a hardship for me. If I do drink it is one drink with a meal (to limit the sugar spike) and to make sure my meal has protein.
I have a couple of shots to share with you, a before shot from late June 2011 and a current shot from about a month ago.
I am ecstatic of my success and I know my gramma would be very proud of me!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Apple Harvest Fest
My hometown's fall fesitval started today. For some reason a lot of people that I know that went to school or worked with in the town HAVE to go, some of my family included. Not me, I don't understand the appeal, I guess I never did. In high school the extent of the festival for me really was marching in the parade.
I wonder why I just am not into it? Maybe its my introvert nature, don't know really. Certainly the thought of deep fried fair food has no appeal, although the famous apple fritters sound good, but I know they don't taste as good as they smell. I have worked too hard with my weight loss to gain some back over a day/weekend of fried delights
I wonder why I just am not into it? Maybe its my introvert nature, don't know really. Certainly the thought of deep fried fair food has no appeal, although the famous apple fritters sound good, but I know they don't taste as good as they smell. I have worked too hard with my weight loss to gain some back over a day/weekend of fried delights
Monday, September 12, 2011
Don't wanna go
I freely admit today that I don't wanna go..... back to work. I have a feeling that I am going to be blastes with work for at least the rest of the week. It has been so relaxing on vacation, even if I didn't do a lot.
I am wrapping up my last day of vacation until Thanksgiving and took mom out to lunch at Rainforest Cafe with a very small treat at Godiva. Brought some rich dark chocolate home and will be savoring it for the next week or 2 or 3.
I have been pretty quiet about it, but I started a wellness program at the end of July. As of today I have lost 26+ lbs. I am eating only when I get hungry and am eating SLOWLY. I am eating whatever I want and am doing a small amount of walking, but I do want to get more active- can only help the pounds and inches melt away! I feel great :)
The program I am doing is called Naturally Slim. The program is 10 weeks and I am in the last few weeks of the pilot program, and am VERY happy with the results. I had bloodwork done at the beginning of the program and will be doing another set of levels done to see if there is any change in cholesterol/triglicerides....
I am wrapping up my last day of vacation until Thanksgiving and took mom out to lunch at Rainforest Cafe with a very small treat at Godiva. Brought some rich dark chocolate home and will be savoring it for the next week or 2 or 3.
I have been pretty quiet about it, but I started a wellness program at the end of July. As of today I have lost 26+ lbs. I am eating only when I get hungry and am eating SLOWLY. I am eating whatever I want and am doing a small amount of walking, but I do want to get more active- can only help the pounds and inches melt away! I feel great :)
The program I am doing is called Naturally Slim. The program is 10 weeks and I am in the last few weeks of the pilot program, and am VERY happy with the results. I had bloodwork done at the beginning of the program and will be doing another set of levels done to see if there is any change in cholesterol/triglicerides....
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Time
My aunt mentioned a very sad milestone today. Today marks 1 year since my grampa passed away. It is very bittersweet, he stayed with us longer than we all thought- everyday was a gift.
It just so happens that I am on vacation in the same place I was last year. I remember after saying my goodbyes and having a crying jag or 2, I was a little apprehensive about going away on vacation while he was slipping away, but I knew that he would insist that I go.
I remember that I was at the outlets in Kittery when I got the sad call. I just happened to be back there 2 days ago- almost the same location where I got the call. As I sat down and remembered, it was a sad moment, but peaceful too.
On Saturday my father's church will be saying a mass for my Grampa, my uncle who passed when I was 4, and my Gramma who passed away just 3 short months past. I will be sure to bring tissues this time. A family & friends dinner is to follow.
Time marches on, but memories of loved ones will last forever.
Special hugs go out to one of my best friends who recently lost a loved one of her own. Don't forget the special memories that you have of your family member.
It just so happens that I am on vacation in the same place I was last year. I remember after saying my goodbyes and having a crying jag or 2, I was a little apprehensive about going away on vacation while he was slipping away, but I knew that he would insist that I go.
I remember that I was at the outlets in Kittery when I got the sad call. I just happened to be back there 2 days ago- almost the same location where I got the call. As I sat down and remembered, it was a sad moment, but peaceful too.
On Saturday my father's church will be saying a mass for my Grampa, my uncle who passed when I was 4, and my Gramma who passed away just 3 short months past. I will be sure to bring tissues this time. A family & friends dinner is to follow.
Time marches on, but memories of loved ones will last forever.
Special hugs go out to one of my best friends who recently lost a loved one of her own. Don't forget the special memories that you have of your family member.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Drip Drip Drip
Listening to the rain dripping off of the living room windows. Today was a very good day if you are a plant or a water loving animal :) Tomorrow expected to be the same, then hopefully we'll have good weather for the week ?
Stay dry and listen to the peaceful rain pattering down outside.
Time flies
I didn't think this much time had passed since my last post.
There has been lots of emotional stress this summer- both from family and work sides. I really need to develop more of a social life and meet someone- I guess that means that I have to actually go out- not something that I always want to do.
From the work side of things, this month has been very busy so far, this past week especially. I had 4 major pieces of work to get out, and 3 of them did, the 4th will be done by EOD tomorrow. I had a meltdown of sorts on Thursday over an email that had a tactless comment on it. I actually cried when I got home. Things were better after a walk, but the hormones were whacked out this week.
On a family front, I lost a dear loved one 2 months ago. On June 18th I lost my gramma. She had been ill for a few years and had taken a downward turn a few months back, but when the call came to go to the hospital to say my goodbyes, it came as a shock.
The whole family got the chance to be with her on her last day. When I got there, she was lying in her bed with a CPAP machine trying to help her breathe easier. As the members of the family poured in, the docs came around and explained what was/was not happening. Gramma was lucid even that morning, and she was clear on what she wanted- and it was time, she was tired and wanted to go home to my grampa who passed less than a year ago. My aunt, cousin, and I were the last ones to talk to gramma, and were the last ones to see her awake. She dozed much of the day. We were told that it would be soon, but no way of knowing when. I know I didn't want to leave while she was still with us, and apparently no one else did either. We scavenged in the cafe (that didn't seem open/stocked at all) at lunch. She had the anointing of the sick twice, once from the hospital chaplain, and once from her home parish. She passed quietly and peacefully in the the afternoon. Her wake and funeral were hard for me, lots of tears, but also lots of memories and family stories were shared.
I have been given the opportunity to buy her car from the estate. I cannot be gifted the car because the estate was left to her 3 kids, and is considered an asset. A fair price has to be offered for it to be acceptable in closing out the estate. I have been told it will be under market value, I will have to talk to Dad, who is the executor of the estate to nail down a price. I know how much I am willing to pay, I hope it will be in the ballpark of the price they are offering. I have been driving the car for the last month or so and I love it- I hope everything works out. I wonder if Gramma and Grampa would be pleased that the car may stay in the family. They were sometimes hard to figure out.
That is enough for now, time to start getting ready for the week ahead.
There has been lots of emotional stress this summer- both from family and work sides. I really need to develop more of a social life and meet someone- I guess that means that I have to actually go out- not something that I always want to do.
From the work side of things, this month has been very busy so far, this past week especially. I had 4 major pieces of work to get out, and 3 of them did, the 4th will be done by EOD tomorrow. I had a meltdown of sorts on Thursday over an email that had a tactless comment on it. I actually cried when I got home. Things were better after a walk, but the hormones were whacked out this week.
On a family front, I lost a dear loved one 2 months ago. On June 18th I lost my gramma. She had been ill for a few years and had taken a downward turn a few months back, but when the call came to go to the hospital to say my goodbyes, it came as a shock.
The whole family got the chance to be with her on her last day. When I got there, she was lying in her bed with a CPAP machine trying to help her breathe easier. As the members of the family poured in, the docs came around and explained what was/was not happening. Gramma was lucid even that morning, and she was clear on what she wanted- and it was time, she was tired and wanted to go home to my grampa who passed less than a year ago. My aunt, cousin, and I were the last ones to talk to gramma, and were the last ones to see her awake. She dozed much of the day. We were told that it would be soon, but no way of knowing when. I know I didn't want to leave while she was still with us, and apparently no one else did either. We scavenged in the cafe (that didn't seem open/stocked at all) at lunch. She had the anointing of the sick twice, once from the hospital chaplain, and once from her home parish. She passed quietly and peacefully in the the afternoon. Her wake and funeral were hard for me, lots of tears, but also lots of memories and family stories were shared.
I have been given the opportunity to buy her car from the estate. I cannot be gifted the car because the estate was left to her 3 kids, and is considered an asset. A fair price has to be offered for it to be acceptable in closing out the estate. I have been told it will be under market value, I will have to talk to Dad, who is the executor of the estate to nail down a price. I know how much I am willing to pay, I hope it will be in the ballpark of the price they are offering. I have been driving the car for the last month or so and I love it- I hope everything works out. I wonder if Gramma and Grampa would be pleased that the car may stay in the family. They were sometimes hard to figure out.
That is enough for now, time to start getting ready for the week ahead.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
grrrrrrrrr
I have been at my job now for 2 and a half months. I have a ton to learn- and its all learn as you go. The down side? I don't have a set 'mentor' and I am one of 6 people on my team- we are always busy right now. I feel bad when I have questions and I am pulling someone away from their work.
We had a new manager start a few weeks ago and she is still getting the lay of the land so to speek. There is a computer program that we use to track what work is assigned to us- so we can bill the right area..... I had to look over the ones assigned to me. I have 8- of which I was activley working on 3, one is upcoming, and 4 I had no knowledge of...
Bam! I felt completely blindsided. These 4 tasks were all started by a predecessor- none completed. If that wasn't bad enough, no one had thought to inform me of these unfinished projects. I now have to explain that they are new to me. One was started last Nov & never finished. I have a one on one meeting tomorrow with my boss and believe me, we will be talking about these.
I am very dissapointed about the person who let these slide or who chose not to do any thing else. Now I am going to be the responsible party. Grrrrrrrr
Thank you for listening to my rant. You may resume your day now!
We had a new manager start a few weeks ago and she is still getting the lay of the land so to speek. There is a computer program that we use to track what work is assigned to us- so we can bill the right area..... I had to look over the ones assigned to me. I have 8- of which I was activley working on 3, one is upcoming, and 4 I had no knowledge of...
Bam! I felt completely blindsided. These 4 tasks were all started by a predecessor- none completed. If that wasn't bad enough, no one had thought to inform me of these unfinished projects. I now have to explain that they are new to me. One was started last Nov & never finished. I have a one on one meeting tomorrow with my boss and believe me, we will be talking about these.
I am very dissapointed about the person who let these slide or who chose not to do any thing else. Now I am going to be the responsible party. Grrrrrrrr
Thank you for listening to my rant. You may resume your day now!
Friday, June 17, 2011
My new manager started work yesterday. She seems really nice & looks a little nervous with all she has to learn. We are in the same boat, but different sections :) I can't believe that I have been here for 2 months. Time has flown by- a friend of mine is in a different area, and said with our roles we have a 1-2 year learning curve.
I sat with my mentor today (my new manager sat in too) and she complimented me on how quickly I am picking up the tasks- made me a happy girl! I was given 2 'easy' projects to do when I first came on. The hard part was done and all I had to do was work on getting the corrections and new forms introduced to the IT folks for the next phase of work- these in fact have NOT been so easy- but its a very good thing.
I do love my job and feel blessed for my opportunity.
I sat with my mentor today (my new manager sat in too) and she complimented me on how quickly I am picking up the tasks- made me a happy girl! I was given 2 'easy' projects to do when I first came on. The hard part was done and all I had to do was work on getting the corrections and new forms introduced to the IT folks for the next phase of work- these in fact have NOT been so easy- but its a very good thing.
I do love my job and feel blessed for my opportunity.
Monday, June 6, 2011
in awe
This week I am house sitting and in charge of taking my niece to school before going to work. The munchkin slept over last night & even though she sleeps over my dad's house all the time, she pulled the I'm scared card- I let her share my bed (told her it was a one time special deal- and I wanted the excuse to cuddle!)
While she got a great night sleep, I did NOT. I went to sleep about 11pm and saw 11:25, 12:30, 2:00...... you get the idea. Alarm went off at 5:10. Hopped in the shower and got dressed before I woke her up. We were out the door about 7 am and I dropped her off a min or 2 later (school is just around the corner from my dads). Then came the fun ride into work. Did I mention that dad doesn't drink coffee, hence, no coffee maker here. I stopped at mc d's for a super fast eat & drive breakfast and a needed iced coffee.
Managed to get in the office for about 8 am and wanted a nap ALL day long.
I have to admit I never realized the crazy/chaotic schedules parents of young children have daily. I give all parents (married and single alike) a huge round of applause. I am in awe of the ease that you seem to show. Bless you all.
If you will now excuse me, I may take a nap finally.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
R&R
It's time for a little R & R this week. The option to wake up and relax for the day is awesome. The munchkin came over last night for an impromptu sleep over and after dropping her off, we had a day of sloth.... I mean relaxation.
Today's entertainment was brought to you by Netflix. Eureka marathon today :)
The rest of the week I will look to clean and get errands/shopping done, but I will enjoy the rest of today.
Don't forget to take some time and relax - it does a body good.
Today's entertainment was brought to you by Netflix. Eureka marathon today :)
The rest of the week I will look to clean and get errands/shopping done, but I will enjoy the rest of today.
Don't forget to take some time and relax - it does a body good.
Monday, April 25, 2011
where has the time gone?
I can't believe that it has been over a month since I last blogged. What's happened in the last month? Lets see...
In the last installment, I was on my way to my job interview. Well, 2 weeks passed with no word. I was just about to call the recruiter to get the status of things, and I got an email from the hiring manager.... Ladies and gentlemen, I got a second interview! This time it was with 2 of the ladies on the team. Also an early meeting gave me exposure to commuting to the city.... not too bad.
I was back to work and back to working on the offshore project I was working on. I got a call
from the recruiter- I GOT THE JOB!! 66 People applied & I emerged victorious :) I had 2 weeks until the new job started. While I tried to focus, I know I was distracted the first day and the last few days.
On the 15th, I had a fun me day- shopping in the am and a celebration in the evening. Earlier in the year, I was identified as being a winner of The Excellence Award. The award is only eligible to the top 5% of the operations area of our company. 250 countrywide out of 5000 people! We were treated to a night of celebration in the capitol city- open bar, catered dinner, and a night in a downtown hotel!
One of my best friends competed in her first mtn bike race and rocked!
I started my new job in the company- am now a Sr Business Analyst/ Forms Consultant. Easy description- I am part of a team that is responsible for maintenance of forms that come in an insurance policy packet. I don't want to jinx myself, but the commute has been averaging about 15 min and have been able to park in a lot right across the street to the building I work in.
My actual training kicks off tomorrow- along with 2.5 hrs of call in meetings. The fun begins.
Spring is finally starting to arrive- will be in the 70's this week!
Enjoy the sunshine :)
In the last installment, I was on my way to my job interview. Well, 2 weeks passed with no word. I was just about to call the recruiter to get the status of things, and I got an email from the hiring manager.... Ladies and gentlemen, I got a second interview! This time it was with 2 of the ladies on the team. Also an early meeting gave me exposure to commuting to the city.... not too bad.
I was back to work and back to working on the offshore project I was working on. I got a call
from the recruiter- I GOT THE JOB!! 66 People applied & I emerged victorious :) I had 2 weeks until the new job started. While I tried to focus, I know I was distracted the first day and the last few days.
On the 15th, I had a fun me day- shopping in the am and a celebration in the evening. Earlier in the year, I was identified as being a winner of The Excellence Award. The award is only eligible to the top 5% of the operations area of our company. 250 countrywide out of 5000 people! We were treated to a night of celebration in the capitol city- open bar, catered dinner, and a night in a downtown hotel!
One of my best friends competed in her first mtn bike race and rocked!
I started my new job in the company- am now a Sr Business Analyst/ Forms Consultant. Easy description- I am part of a team that is responsible for maintenance of forms that come in an insurance policy packet. I don't want to jinx myself, but the commute has been averaging about 15 min and have been able to park in a lot right across the street to the building I work in.
My actual training kicks off tomorrow- along with 2.5 hrs of call in meetings. The fun begins.
Spring is finally starting to arrive- will be in the 70's this week!
Enjoy the sunshine :)
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Is that Spring I see?
I am looking forward to spring. To warmer days, sunshine, the miracle of new growth sprouting from the ground.
While we do not live in the tundra, we had a hefty few punches from mother nature in the span of about a month, and just buried us. There is still snow (mostly in the plowed 'mountains'), but it shrinks a bit day by day.
Last Friday, I had to go into Hartford for a few hours in the afternoon. When I came out, I really noticed that the sun was shining, and 'warm'. I enjoyed the drive home- even winding my way home through Hartford/West Hartford because I didn't want to sit on the highway.
When I got home, I parked and looked at the fence surrounding my patio.... guess what I saw?
any guesses????
How about day lilly shoots! They were sprouting up about 1-2 inches, but they screamed that spring is coming to me. Makes me a happy girl!
While we do not live in the tundra, we had a hefty few punches from mother nature in the span of about a month, and just buried us. There is still snow (mostly in the plowed 'mountains'), but it shrinks a bit day by day.
Last Friday, I had to go into Hartford for a few hours in the afternoon. When I came out, I really noticed that the sun was shining, and 'warm'. I enjoyed the drive home- even winding my way home through Hartford/West Hartford because I didn't want to sit on the highway.
When I got home, I parked and looked at the fence surrounding my patio.... guess what I saw?
any guesses????
How about day lilly shoots! They were sprouting up about 1-2 inches, but they screamed that spring is coming to me. Makes me a happy girl!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Exotic
I am currently working very closely with 3 people from one of my company's vendor. They are world travellers and exotic in my eyes they are Indian. There are 2 men and one woman. They are extremely smart and challenge us every day, they are soft spoken, and I sometimes still don't understand everything that they say. Their work ethic is amazing. After our 8 hrs in the office, they go back to the hotel and work MORE. I really do enjoy working with them daily.
I think it is so interesting how interested we are in each other's cultures. While some of the group has been to the states before, none of us have been to India. We had a pizza lunch on Friday and were enthralled with the stories of the culture, the roles of men & women, the economic differences. Even the story of their trip over, a 4 hr flight to Dubai and then a 14 hr flight to the state was interesting to hear about. It has also been very interesting learining about the way they eat. No beef, no pork. Lots of fish, some chicken, and lots of vegetarian options. Oh yeah, and everything here is bland- they use SO much more spice.
I know it has to be frustrating at times- the lack of public transportation, some of the cultural and dietary differences. Outside of work, there is no rental car to hop in & drive around. In the town they are staying in, there is no public transportation save taxis. And that adds up fast. They do get rides to and from the office from the security guards here, but on their off times they are on their own. I do know that there are other folks at the company that are making sure that they go to different places, get taken to dinners, so that they don't just stay in their hotel. But it doesn't fill ALL the time. They have gone to the movies several times and shopping at the mall, you can only do that for so long.
Working so closely with these new friends, it hits home how sheltered we can become to others traditions, beliefs, and ways of life. It is an experience that I would not trade for anything.
I think it is so interesting how interested we are in each other's cultures. While some of the group has been to the states before, none of us have been to India. We had a pizza lunch on Friday and were enthralled with the stories of the culture, the roles of men & women, the economic differences. Even the story of their trip over, a 4 hr flight to Dubai and then a 14 hr flight to the state was interesting to hear about. It has also been very interesting learining about the way they eat. No beef, no pork. Lots of fish, some chicken, and lots of vegetarian options. Oh yeah, and everything here is bland- they use SO much more spice.
I know it has to be frustrating at times- the lack of public transportation, some of the cultural and dietary differences. Outside of work, there is no rental car to hop in & drive around. In the town they are staying in, there is no public transportation save taxis. And that adds up fast. They do get rides to and from the office from the security guards here, but on their off times they are on their own. I do know that there are other folks at the company that are making sure that they go to different places, get taken to dinners, so that they don't just stay in their hotel. But it doesn't fill ALL the time. They have gone to the movies several times and shopping at the mall, you can only do that for so long.
Working so closely with these new friends, it hits home how sheltered we can become to others traditions, beliefs, and ways of life. It is an experience that I would not trade for anything.
A unique position....
I am currently in a unique position at work. For the last few months I have been working with a fellow team member on creating new directions or procedures to some of the transactions that we process at work. These transactions just so happen to be in the transition, moving to a vendor rather than being processed in house; oh yeah, and the vendor is off shore.
And no, this does not mean that I am training my replacement..... at least for a long while.
The unique position I am in is being a subject matter expert. We eased into the training, not throwing the most complex work at them from the start. Well, at the start of week 3 of the training, it is now more difficult. These are procedures that I labored over for weeks and thought were comprehensive- holes were found. And this is after I went over each procedure with the leader of the project.
While we can't write down each and every scenario for these transactions, I had moments of panic. I have even asked myself, fhve I done anything right? While I know that I have done many things right, and that I could not have forseen some of these snags, you always have doubts.
I have been working with one of the vendors-S is a very smart cookie and a pleasure to work with - it has put my decision making on point. I am the first to admit, I have always looked to someone to affirm what I am thinking or wanting to do is the right thing. Now I have someone asking ME how things should be done.. I have to stop doubting my knowledge and just go with my decision. How did I know I was right for this role? That would be when we went over quality samples and I was correcting our in house quality specialist. It made me feel pretty damned good.
It will be interesting to see what the next 3 weeks will bring, and what will happen when we end up going back into our regular office.
And no, this does not mean that I am training my replacement..... at least for a long while.
The unique position I am in is being a subject matter expert. We eased into the training, not throwing the most complex work at them from the start. Well, at the start of week 3 of the training, it is now more difficult. These are procedures that I labored over for weeks and thought were comprehensive- holes were found. And this is after I went over each procedure with the leader of the project.
While we can't write down each and every scenario for these transactions, I had moments of panic. I have even asked myself, fhve I done anything right? While I know that I have done many things right, and that I could not have forseen some of these snags, you always have doubts.
I have been working with one of the vendors-S is a very smart cookie and a pleasure to work with - it has put my decision making on point. I am the first to admit, I have always looked to someone to affirm what I am thinking or wanting to do is the right thing. Now I have someone asking ME how things should be done.. I have to stop doubting my knowledge and just go with my decision. How did I know I was right for this role? That would be when we went over quality samples and I was correcting our in house quality specialist. It made me feel pretty damned good.
It will be interesting to see what the next 3 weeks will bring, and what will happen when we end up going back into our regular office.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
This message is for...
Hi, today is 1/27/2011 and guess what we got last night?? Another 10-14 inches of white stuff :)
Woke up at 6 and called the weatherline- open for normal business hours (the air turned shades of blue). Decided to hop in the shower and get ready. At 6:30 I got 2 calls - 1 to the house, 1 to the cell from the company. An automated message - personalized too- to advise that we had a delay :)
Made shoveling out the car AGAIN, not so bad
Happy Thursday
Woke up at 6 and called the weatherline- open for normal business hours (the air turned shades of blue). Decided to hop in the shower and get ready. At 6:30 I got 2 calls - 1 to the house, 1 to the cell from the company. An automated message - personalized too- to advise that we had a delay :)
Made shoveling out the car AGAIN, not so bad
Happy Thursday
Friday, January 21, 2011
Charlie Brown!!!!!
Took the day off as a birthday present to me. I don't work on my birthday, and since this year it is on a Saturday, I decided to take Friday off.
I awoke to a beautiful carpet of white out my window, about 4-5 inches of beautiful fluffy new snow :) Went outside to clean off the car and move it to a cleared spot so the plow could clean out more spaces. Thats when it happened....
What happened you ask?
Well, with the warmer temps of the last few days came snow melt, and the melt turns to sheets of ice. I was walking to mom's car on the plowed area and can you guess what happened?
I was at the back corner of the car when my feet went out from under me and did a complete Charlie Brown, coming down square on my tailbone then the back. My nice snow scraper/brush went flying against mom's car and snapped the brush off of the pole.
All I hear is.... hey, why did you throw the brush against my car?!! So, my response was, Do you see where I am!! Owie. She didn't even see me, let alone see that I was on the ground and sliding on the ice.
Got up slowly and limped my way to the dumpster where I threw away my snow brush :( Doesn't hurt too much while walking :)
After I got inside and divested myself of the coat, hat, boots, & mittens I went to sit on the couch and OWWWIIIEEEEE!
I feel like my butt broke, will be walking funny for a few days, and the klutz lives on!
I awoke to a beautiful carpet of white out my window, about 4-5 inches of beautiful fluffy new snow :) Went outside to clean off the car and move it to a cleared spot so the plow could clean out more spaces. Thats when it happened....
What happened you ask?
Well, with the warmer temps of the last few days came snow melt, and the melt turns to sheets of ice. I was walking to mom's car on the plowed area and can you guess what happened?
I was at the back corner of the car when my feet went out from under me and did a complete Charlie Brown, coming down square on my tailbone then the back. My nice snow scraper/brush went flying against mom's car and snapped the brush off of the pole.
All I hear is.... hey, why did you throw the brush against my car?!! So, my response was, Do you see where I am!! Owie. She didn't even see me, let alone see that I was on the ground and sliding on the ice.
Got up slowly and limped my way to the dumpster where I threw away my snow brush :( Doesn't hurt too much while walking :)
After I got inside and divested myself of the coat, hat, boots, & mittens I went to sit on the couch and OWWWIIIEEEEE!
I feel like my butt broke, will be walking funny for a few days, and the klutz lives on!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
snap crackle pop
Mother Nature is unleashing herself at us this year. Since the beginning of the year (18 days ago) some parts of this state have received 4o plus inches of snow!
I remember the winter of 96 being like this, snow multiple times a week. Back then it was fun because I was still in high school. Snow= no school. Now it means get your butt to work, because my company does not close. The massive record setting snow we had last week had the company delay starting until 10 am. Really? All the other major companies had later start times and then closed before that time came, but not ours. Ok, no more of that, its in the past.
As I was taking my shower this morning, I was listening to the snap crackle pop sounds outside my window - the sleet had started. I figured if I left a little earlier that I might be able to score a spot in our small parking garage. That means no chipping my way into my car after work. The morning the ride in wasn't too bad, it was slow going (20 mph). I was able to score a nice spot in the garage (YES!!!!).
Ride home was wet, but the fun began when I got home. The plow came out during the afternoon and got rid of the snow, but the shine I saw was not good. The entire parking lot (minus the spaces because they didn't touch those) and all sidewalks were sheets of ice. I spinkled some icemelt on my step/stoop and let it work its magic.
The weathermen are all giddy over the upcoming storm on Frday. Really??? Come on Mother Nature, do you have to dump another 6+ inches on my day off?
I remember the winter of 96 being like this, snow multiple times a week. Back then it was fun because I was still in high school. Snow= no school. Now it means get your butt to work, because my company does not close. The massive record setting snow we had last week had the company delay starting until 10 am. Really? All the other major companies had later start times and then closed before that time came, but not ours. Ok, no more of that, its in the past.
As I was taking my shower this morning, I was listening to the snap crackle pop sounds outside my window - the sleet had started. I figured if I left a little earlier that I might be able to score a spot in our small parking garage. That means no chipping my way into my car after work. The morning the ride in wasn't too bad, it was slow going (20 mph). I was able to score a nice spot in the garage (YES!!!!).
Ride home was wet, but the fun began when I got home. The plow came out during the afternoon and got rid of the snow, but the shine I saw was not good. The entire parking lot (minus the spaces because they didn't touch those) and all sidewalks were sheets of ice. I spinkled some icemelt on my step/stoop and let it work its magic.
The weathermen are all giddy over the upcoming storm on Frday. Really??? Come on Mother Nature, do you have to dump another 6+ inches on my day off?
Sunday, January 16, 2011
the Globes
I have to say, the Golden Globes is my favorite award show.... alcohol + no eating= great evening.
Just saw Annette Benning win an award.... did someone pull her out of bed? What bed head on both her and Al Pacino!
Tilda Swinton desperatley needs to embrace any color other than stark white...
Johnny Depp is looking good, LOVE the color of Claire Daines' dress- she said the inner 6 yr old had to have the hot pink dress :)
Did you see Carrie Underwood's dress, she just sparkled.
Missed some of the arrival show so I'll check out the dresses tomorrow online, am loving the bold colors!
Just saw Annette Benning win an award.... did someone pull her out of bed? What bed head on both her and Al Pacino!
Tilda Swinton desperatley needs to embrace any color other than stark white...
Johnny Depp is looking good, LOVE the color of Claire Daines' dress- she said the inner 6 yr old had to have the hot pink dress :)
Did you see Carrie Underwood's dress, she just sparkled.
Missed some of the arrival show so I'll check out the dresses tomorrow online, am loving the bold colors!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Fun Friday
Unplanned sleepover tonight!
Picked up the Munchkin from school today and her medicine from my dad's house. In true family tradition, she has her first ear infection. At almost 4 she is lucky to have withstood this long. My brother and I were NO strangers to the achey and popping ears. Hope she doesn't get them into adulthood like her auntie.
Moved her carseat to the middle seat in the car.... she is tall & skinny and no longer had any foot room. She is almost 30 lbs but I think it is time to get a booster for my car. We are thinking a tall booster because she is too young and sleepy for the backless ones.
Dinner was my niece's choice. I asked what she wanted.... hotdogs please. Stopped at Stop & Shop and picked up Hebrew National (my fav) they were on sale & reduced fat- double score!
A piece of cheese was scored from the deli and a fast run thru the store with random throw in items from the little one.
Batman and She-ra were the entertainment choices for the evening, by demand of the little one. Love her taste in cartoons.
Tomorrow will have a quick morning at home before meeting my brother in the late morning.
I love the unexpected sleepovers, and want to take advantage of them while she still likes it!
I think tonight is going to be an EARLY night because she wakes up way early :)
Picked up the Munchkin from school today and her medicine from my dad's house. In true family tradition, she has her first ear infection. At almost 4 she is lucky to have withstood this long. My brother and I were NO strangers to the achey and popping ears. Hope she doesn't get them into adulthood like her auntie.
Moved her carseat to the middle seat in the car.... she is tall & skinny and no longer had any foot room. She is almost 30 lbs but I think it is time to get a booster for my car. We are thinking a tall booster because she is too young and sleepy for the backless ones.
Dinner was my niece's choice. I asked what she wanted.... hotdogs please. Stopped at Stop & Shop and picked up Hebrew National (my fav) they were on sale & reduced fat- double score!
A piece of cheese was scored from the deli and a fast run thru the store with random throw in items from the little one.
Batman and She-ra were the entertainment choices for the evening, by demand of the little one. Love her taste in cartoons.
Tomorrow will have a quick morning at home before meeting my brother in the late morning.
I love the unexpected sleepovers, and want to take advantage of them while she still likes it!
I think tonight is going to be an EARLY night because she wakes up way early :)
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Snow?
So I don't know if you heard, but it snowed in CT today. Just a minor storm really, just a dusting. See? There was no snow last night. Honest.
This led to an unplanned vacation/snow day because the company did not close. These photos were taken after 11am, just after the plow started to clear the driving lanes and about an hour after the office opened. See the black lump/car? That was mom's car. After cleaning the top of the car, the drifts came to mid thigh.
Pay no mind to the christmas wreath below... we are a little slow in taking the decorations down.... now have to wait for the snow to go away.
Ended up being a nice peaceful day. Parking lot still a wreck because the plow never cleared out any of the spots, so we all stayed where we were today.
This led to an unplanned vacation/snow day because the company did not close. These photos were taken after 11am, just after the plow started to clear the driving lanes and about an hour after the office opened. See the black lump/car? That was mom's car. After cleaning the top of the car, the drifts came to mid thigh.
Pay no mind to the christmas wreath below... we are a little slow in taking the decorations down.... now have to wait for the snow to go away.
Ended up being a nice peaceful day. Parking lot still a wreck because the plow never cleared out any of the spots, so we all stayed where we were today.It was a good day, got to snuggle under blankets, next to the fire, napped, consumed hot cocoa and generally relaxed. Am re charged and ready for the rest of the week.
Did you have fun today?
Sunday, January 9, 2011
TV addiction
I was introduced to a new show btwn Christmas & New Years called Eureka. Yes, I know its not a new show and has been around for a few years; but being without cable for 20+ years means, lots of shows can be new to me.
If you have not heard of it, its a SciFi show about a town in Oregon called Eureka filled with science's best of the best who constantly push the boundries of science with hysterical and sometimes terrifying results. Bonafide geniuses fill the town, and there are a few'normals' to add to the mix. Some major leauge hotties on the show I have to admit!
The show sucked me in, and I just finished watching season 3.5- they are going to air season 4 this year sometime, so it will be a while until I can watch it.
If you have not heard of it, its a SciFi show about a town in Oregon called Eureka filled with science's best of the best who constantly push the boundries of science with hysterical and sometimes terrifying results. Bonafide geniuses fill the town, and there are a few'normals' to add to the mix. Some major leauge hotties on the show I have to admit!
The show sucked me in, and I just finished watching season 3.5- they are going to air season 4 this year sometime, so it will be a while until I can watch it.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Saturday, January 1, 2011
try something new
I have had a small bread machine for a few years and today I decided to branch out and try something new with the machine. The machine has the capability not only for bread, but pizza and roll dough, pasta dough, cakes, cookie dough and even jam. Its a wonder.
Maddy and I decided to make pizza dough today. We measured and poured and waited an hour and 45 minutes. Thats when the fun began. I gathered the dough from the pan and put it on my floured cutting board. It was so satiny and light, have never felt anything like it- so much different from the dough in the bag from the stores. I stretched it out and put it on my pizza stone that was covered in cornmeal. We spread out bright red marinara sauce, sprinkled shredded cheese and Maddy put on the meatball slices.
In about 2 and a half hours from the time I started, we all enjoyed the crunchy pie. The crust was amazing. Will have to do this again, either on a day off, or trying the timer function, it goes up to 13 hrs.
Looks yummy doesn't it?
Maddy and I decided to make pizza dough today. We measured and poured and waited an hour and 45 minutes. Thats when the fun began. I gathered the dough from the pan and put it on my floured cutting board. It was so satiny and light, have never felt anything like it- so much different from the dough in the bag from the stores. I stretched it out and put it on my pizza stone that was covered in cornmeal. We spread out bright red marinara sauce, sprinkled shredded cheese and Maddy put on the meatball slices.
In about 2 and a half hours from the time I started, we all enjoyed the crunchy pie. The crust was amazing. Will have to do this again, either on a day off, or trying the timer function, it goes up to 13 hrs.
Looks yummy doesn't it?
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