Each time I start the microwave the table rotation switches. Clockwise. Stop. Counter-clockwise. Stop. Clockwise.
Yes, I was staring at the microwave while heating up my soup. No, it will not damage my eyes or my brain. My dad is an engineer and he said so!
J
Monday, December 15, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Porch light update part 2
I was sick on Tuesday and stayed home from work, so I went to talk to the property manager when she was in. She said that she had gotten my email and responded to me, but I never received a response from me. I told her that my porch light was disassembled and she said that they were planning to put in a motion sensor, and was irritated that the maintenance guy had taken the light apart and not put it back together. On Wednesday when I cam home from work I found my new porch light assembly - a set of two flood lights and a motion sensor. But the damn thing didn't even stay lit long enough for me to unlock my front door, so I had to stop and wave my arms in front of it. I was sick and stayed home from work again today, and I didn't have the energy to talk to the property manager about it. Yes, I was, and I guess I still am, pretty livid about it. First of all it makes no sense for the lady to care about whether the light is on or not. My apartment is in a corner and the porch light could not possibly bother anyone as the only windows in the vicinity are my kitchen window and my next-door neighbor's kitchen window. I'm glad they did something about my request, but I would have preferred a timer over a lame, and UGLY set of flood lights. If I can remember to do so, I'll call tomorrow about the fact that the light doesn't even stay on long enough for me to unlock the front door.
And to answer your questions, Salome - it's a relatively small apartment complex - probably 30 units. I think it's just an independently owned complex because there doesn't seem to be a management company, just this lady who is the apartment manager.
After I found the complex and applied, I went home and looked it up on some apartment ratings website. There were a few complaints about the apartment manager being a bitch, etc. And then it appeared that the apartment manager lady, E, had responded saying things like, "We evict noisy, unruly tenants. If you broke the rules of your lease, then yes, you would be evicted." My friend expressed concern to me, and I waved it off saying that as long as I'm a good tenant, I shouldn't have any problems. And I reasoned that it's usually the upset, complain-y people who go on these websites, ya know? How many relatively happy tenants are going to go online and rate their "ok" or acceptable property manager? BUT, here I am being a good tenant, and my property manager is making me feel like I'm NOT being a good tenant or that I'm a nuisance to her.
I'm a pretty damn good tenant if I may say so myself. I even became friends with the lady who worked for my previous property manager in LA. She and the manager thought I was such a great tenant that they refunded my ENTIRE security deposit PLUS interest. That is just unheard of! She told me that they would charge me a $60 cleaning fee and I wouldn't have to clean when I moved out. I thought that was a pretty good deal, so I just did a little minor vacuuming and got out of there. The following week she called and said that it looked so good that they weren't even going to charge me the $60 cleaning fee.
Back to the current apartment... The one "major" thing E mentioned when I signed my lease was that tenants are not allowed to keep anything on their porches or patios other than plants or patio furniture. She told a little story where she'd come across a tenant who was storing her broom on her patio. E said, "I told her, '29 other tenants have found a place inside their apartments to keep their brooms; I think you can too.'" I thought it was a little anal, but don't really mind because that just means I'll be leaving in a relatively clean, nice looking apartment complex where my neighbors won't be keeping all their random shit where I can see it on a daily basis. That makes for a nice, aesthetically pleasing complex, and it actually is.
One more thing... on Tuesday when I was home in bed with a cold, E called my cell phone and left a message, "Hi Jennifer... I mean... Julie... I hope you can move your car because there is oil in your carport and we're going to pressure wash it in a few minutes. Well, if you can't move your car, it's going to be dirty." UM, excuse me? I get, what, 15 minutes notice? What if I was out of town? Tough luck? The apartment manager of the place I lived in LA always gave us at least a week's notice of things like that. I can understand that E was acting urgent about it because the complex was being inspected by the Housing Authority on Wednesday, but come on! Plan ahead! AND my parking spot didn't even get cleaned. I got out of bed and moved it for no reason.
J
And to answer your questions, Salome - it's a relatively small apartment complex - probably 30 units. I think it's just an independently owned complex because there doesn't seem to be a management company, just this lady who is the apartment manager.
After I found the complex and applied, I went home and looked it up on some apartment ratings website. There were a few complaints about the apartment manager being a bitch, etc. And then it appeared that the apartment manager lady, E, had responded saying things like, "We evict noisy, unruly tenants. If you broke the rules of your lease, then yes, you would be evicted." My friend expressed concern to me, and I waved it off saying that as long as I'm a good tenant, I shouldn't have any problems. And I reasoned that it's usually the upset, complain-y people who go on these websites, ya know? How many relatively happy tenants are going to go online and rate their "ok" or acceptable property manager? BUT, here I am being a good tenant, and my property manager is making me feel like I'm NOT being a good tenant or that I'm a nuisance to her.
I'm a pretty damn good tenant if I may say so myself. I even became friends with the lady who worked for my previous property manager in LA. She and the manager thought I was such a great tenant that they refunded my ENTIRE security deposit PLUS interest. That is just unheard of! She told me that they would charge me a $60 cleaning fee and I wouldn't have to clean when I moved out. I thought that was a pretty good deal, so I just did a little minor vacuuming and got out of there. The following week she called and said that it looked so good that they weren't even going to charge me the $60 cleaning fee.
Back to the current apartment... The one "major" thing E mentioned when I signed my lease was that tenants are not allowed to keep anything on their porches or patios other than plants or patio furniture. She told a little story where she'd come across a tenant who was storing her broom on her patio. E said, "I told her, '29 other tenants have found a place inside their apartments to keep their brooms; I think you can too.'" I thought it was a little anal, but don't really mind because that just means I'll be leaving in a relatively clean, nice looking apartment complex where my neighbors won't be keeping all their random shit where I can see it on a daily basis. That makes for a nice, aesthetically pleasing complex, and it actually is.
One more thing... on Tuesday when I was home in bed with a cold, E called my cell phone and left a message, "Hi Jennifer... I mean... Julie... I hope you can move your car because there is oil in your carport and we're going to pressure wash it in a few minutes. Well, if you can't move your car, it's going to be dirty." UM, excuse me? I get, what, 15 minutes notice? What if I was out of town? Tough luck? The apartment manager of the place I lived in LA always gave us at least a week's notice of things like that. I can understand that E was acting urgent about it because the complex was being inspected by the Housing Authority on Wednesday, but come on! Plan ahead! AND my parking spot didn't even get cleaned. I got out of bed and moved it for no reason.
J
Monday, December 08, 2008
Porch light update
While my property manager has not responded to my email about the porch light, I'm pretty sure she got it because I came home from work this evening to find a disassembled porch light. Yes, the mounted portion is dangling by the wires from the wall and the light bulb and cover are sitting on the ground.
Whatever.
We'll see what happens tomorrow.
Whatever.
We'll see what happens tomorrow.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
MY KING
I went to church tonight and they played the audio of this sermon by Dr. S.M. Lockridge at the end of the service. It's so powerful to hear.
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Quite possibly the most absurd thing ever
The client's office I'm working at this week has 4 very wide parking spaces in front labeled "Visitor". My co-worker and I have been parking in those spots all week because we are, after all, visitors. Today the accounting manager asked that we no longer park in the visitor spots.
Why?
Because the CEO parks his fancy-ass Mercedes (or BMW... I didn't pay attention) in a visitor spot and he doesn't want any cars parked next to his because he's afraid his precious little car will get scratched.
Wait. I'm sorry. WHAT?!
WTF?! Are you kidding me? Dude, my car probably cost 1/4 of what yours cost, but I don't want to scratch your car as much I as I don't want my car scratched. And it's not like the parking spots are narrow. I seriously parked at least 3 feet away from the car. Wow. Just wow.
I mean, how can you live your life like that? How could it be satisfying to buy such expensive things that you waste your time that they're going to be dinged? I can't imagine that he'd ever drive it anywhere other than to the office where he has a super wide spot directly in front of his office window so he can keep his eye on it. Ridiculous!!
Why?
Because the CEO parks his fancy-ass Mercedes (or BMW... I didn't pay attention) in a visitor spot and he doesn't want any cars parked next to his because he's afraid his precious little car will get scratched.
Wait. I'm sorry. WHAT?!
WTF?! Are you kidding me? Dude, my car probably cost 1/4 of what yours cost, but I don't want to scratch your car as much I as I don't want my car scratched. And it's not like the parking spots are narrow. I seriously parked at least 3 feet away from the car. Wow. Just wow.
I mean, how can you live your life like that? How could it be satisfying to buy such expensive things that you waste your time that they're going to be dinged? I can't imagine that he'd ever drive it anywhere other than to the office where he has a super wide spot directly in front of his office window so he can keep his eye on it. Ridiculous!!
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
/rant/
Property management did apartment inspections today at my complex because the Housing Authority is doing inspections next week. The property manager called me this afternoon and asked, "How many people live in your apartment?" Apparently the person who did the inspection thinks TWO people are living there. I said, "Just me. I have no idea what would give him the impression that two people live there. I don't even have anyone who could be living with me." Is it because my apartment is FULL? Is a single person not supposed to have as much stuff as i do? Is it because I have a queen size bed? Am I supposed to sleep on a twin even though I'm a 5'10" adult? No idea... I only have ONE toothbrush in the bathroom...
Yesterday when my property manager was taping letters to the doors alerting tenants that they'd be doing an inspection, she wrote on mine, "Please turn your porch light off when not in use." My porch light has a sensor on it so when it gets dark, it comes on. So I flip the switch in the morning so that it comes on in the evening and I can SEE to unlock my front door. and when it's foggy and dreary out, the damn light comes one before the sun sets, so i guess i have no choice, but to NOT turn my porch light on until AFTER i unlock the front door. I'm paying for the damn electricity. Why does she give a shit if the light is on??
I wrote her the following email this evening:
Yesterday when my property manager was taping letters to the doors alerting tenants that they'd be doing an inspection, she wrote on mine, "Please turn your porch light off when not in use." My porch light has a sensor on it so when it gets dark, it comes on. So I flip the switch in the morning so that it comes on in the evening and I can SEE to unlock my front door. and when it's foggy and dreary out, the damn light comes one before the sun sets, so i guess i have no choice, but to NOT turn my porch light on until AFTER i unlock the front door. I'm paying for the damn electricity. Why does she give a shit if the light is on??
I wrote her the following email this evening:
Hi [property manager],
I want to address your note about my porch light. I had been flipping the switch on in the mornings so that when it gets dark, the light will come on and the porch will be lit when I get home from work around 6 or 7. Unfortunately on days like yesterday when the sky is overcast and darker, the porch light comes on earlier than dusk. I would also prefer that the light be off during the day in order to conserve energy, but as there is no other light between my apt and apt 5 (like the one upstairs) it gets pretty dark in my little corner. Would it be possible to get the porch light on a timer or perhaps change it from a darkness sensor to a motion sensor that the porch is illuminated at night when I get home from work? I have no doubts that the complex is safe, but safety cannot be guaranteed and I don't want to take any risks walking into the dark porch area.
If you need to reach me or would like to discuss on the phone, I can be reached at xxx-xxx-xxxx.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Thank you!
Julie
Monday, November 24, 2008
Yummy recipe for Thanksgiving
I thought I'd share a delicious recipe that a friend shared with me two Thanksgivings ago...
Sweet Potato Casserole
Approx 48 oz. canned yams -- do not drain
2 eggs
1 t. vanilla
3/4 cup sugar
3T margarine, melted
Lightly grease 2" deep 9x13 pan. Mash the yams with their juice. Add other ingredients, beating well. Bake uncovered at 400° for 45 minutes, or until it looks set in the center. Sprinkle with topping, reduce heat to 350°, and bake 15-20 minutes more, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Topping
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans
1T. flour
1/4 cup coconut
3 T. margarine, melted
Mix all ingredients together, and place on top of casserole.
Things my friend learned over the years:
"If I use my Pyrex, it's too shallow and the 9x13 isn't big enough, I have to use the bigger one.
I usually mix the yams one or two days ahead, and put it in the refrigerator unbaked. Same thing for the topping. The day of serving, just put it in the oven and cook a little longer since it's cold.
When I used less than the 48 oz., it was too sweet (I think I tried it with just 40 oz.)"
Enjoy!!
and Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful for all my friends - in real life and in the blogosphere!
Peace and love.
J
Sweet Potato Casserole
Approx 48 oz. canned yams -- do not drain
2 eggs
1 t. vanilla
3/4 cup sugar
3T margarine, melted
Lightly grease 2" deep 9x13 pan. Mash the yams with their juice. Add other ingredients, beating well. Bake uncovered at 400° for 45 minutes, or until it looks set in the center. Sprinkle with topping, reduce heat to 350°, and bake 15-20 minutes more, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Topping
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup chopped pecans
1T. flour
1/4 cup coconut
3 T. margarine, melted
Mix all ingredients together, and place on top of casserole.
Things my friend learned over the years:
"If I use my Pyrex, it's too shallow and the 9x13 isn't big enough, I have to use the bigger one.
I usually mix the yams one or two days ahead, and put it in the refrigerator unbaked. Same thing for the topping. The day of serving, just put it in the oven and cook a little longer since it's cold.
When I used less than the 48 oz., it was too sweet (I think I tried it with just 40 oz.)"
Enjoy!!
and Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful for all my friends - in real life and in the blogosphere!
Peace and love.
J
Monday, November 17, 2008
Moving forward
One other crappy tidbit that most of you don't know is that the audit exam I passed 18 months ago "expires" on November 24. So since I failed this most recent exam, I lose the audit exam. Now I have to take TWO exams to get that license. One step forward, two steps back...
I checked and received my failing score at midnight on Saturday (as I had just gotten home from the Carrie Underwood concert and then a drink out for my friend's birthday). My score was 67. 75 is needed to pass. As you can imagine I was quite upset. I didn't get out of bed until 4:30pm on Sunday (with the exception of bathrooms breaks, during which I cried the entire time I was awake). Then when I did get out of bed, I cried for the next two hours until I made my dad invite me over for dinner because I told him I couldn't be alone. Taking a shower and getting out of the house really made things better. I had decided in my hysteria that I was over it; I can't do this anymore and I won't do this anymore. I've spent too much time on this already, and it's been SO costly on my mental health and overall happiness. Like I've said before, these exams have been a huge burden on my shoulders for three and a half years! and they've been stifling my creativity and ability to feel free.
But of course, after the hysteria, I'm still VERY upset but I've decided that I can't throw away those other two exams that I passed and have not yet expired. And God has a way of getting a message across at the right time... I'm in LA for the week for work because there is a client I've worked on for the past 3 years, this year is my fourth year, and they just can't let me off of it yet. This will be my final year on the client, I just need to transition it over to another senior. Since I'm in LA I was hoping to get together with some of my friends. Kirstin invited me to come to a Bible study with some other friends from church tonight. I went to the Bible study where we read Exodus 16 and shared about what makes us "grumble" in life. I shared that I grumble about giving my all and working my butt off and then failing. I forget exactly how the conversation progressed, but then our leader said, that grumbling is not being a good steward of our resources or talents (or brain). And I'm like, God? Are you talking to me?
In other news, I went to the gym at the hotel tonight and I was able to ride the recumbent bike for an entire 30 minutes! yeah! go me!
And in other news, my brother and his girlfriend got engaged on Saturday!
peace and love,
J
I checked and received my failing score at midnight on Saturday (as I had just gotten home from the Carrie Underwood concert and then a drink out for my friend's birthday). My score was 67. 75 is needed to pass. As you can imagine I was quite upset. I didn't get out of bed until 4:30pm on Sunday (with the exception of bathrooms breaks, during which I cried the entire time I was awake). Then when I did get out of bed, I cried for the next two hours until I made my dad invite me over for dinner because I told him I couldn't be alone. Taking a shower and getting out of the house really made things better. I had decided in my hysteria that I was over it; I can't do this anymore and I won't do this anymore. I've spent too much time on this already, and it's been SO costly on my mental health and overall happiness. Like I've said before, these exams have been a huge burden on my shoulders for three and a half years! and they've been stifling my creativity and ability to feel free.
But of course, after the hysteria, I'm still VERY upset but I've decided that I can't throw away those other two exams that I passed and have not yet expired. And God has a way of getting a message across at the right time... I'm in LA for the week for work because there is a client I've worked on for the past 3 years, this year is my fourth year, and they just can't let me off of it yet. This will be my final year on the client, I just need to transition it over to another senior. Since I'm in LA I was hoping to get together with some of my friends. Kirstin invited me to come to a Bible study with some other friends from church tonight. I went to the Bible study where we read Exodus 16 and shared about what makes us "grumble" in life. I shared that I grumble about giving my all and working my butt off and then failing. I forget exactly how the conversation progressed, but then our leader said, that grumbling is not being a good steward of our resources or talents (or brain). And I'm like, God? Are you talking to me?
In other news, I went to the gym at the hotel tonight and I was able to ride the recumbent bike for an entire 30 minutes! yeah! go me!
And in other news, my brother and his girlfriend got engaged on Saturday!
peace and love,
J
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
Murphy's Law
Since I've finished studying (hopefully. I still haven't gotten my exam score yet) I've decided that I'm going to start being more creative, reading more, eat healthier, and go back to the gym. Today was finally the day that I decided to go back to the gym. I logged no more than 12 minutes on the elliptical machine when I got a sharp pain in my lower back and could no longer take deep breaths. yeah, wtf?! Believe me, I was going slowly in an effort to NOT hurt myself since I haven't worked out in months. Apparently my efforts weren't successful. I found some trainers and told them about my situation to see what their thoughts were. The front desk girl suggested that I was dehydrated and the trainer thought I'd either popped a rib out of place or pulled a muscle. He showed me some stretches to do, which I did, but they didn't make the pain go away completely. So, I got in 12 minutes of exercise. I think my body hates me.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States of America
Barack Obama was announced to be the 44th President of the United States of America at about 8pm PST! I am SO SO SO proud of my country right now! I'm actually crying. I am SO hopeful for the future!!! This is AMAZING!
The emotions are so overwhelming right now. America has voted a black man to be president! I have no other words. I'm just overwhelmed.
Peace and love.
J
Edited to add: I just saw that this is my 44th post. Interesting... the 44th president is announced in my 44th blog post.
The emotions are so overwhelming right now. America has voted a black man to be president! I have no other words. I'm just overwhelmed.
Peace and love.
J
Edited to add: I just saw that this is my 44th post. Interesting... the 44th president is announced in my 44th blog post.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Update
Thanks for the prayers and well wishes. I know you all want to know about my cat's litter box habits... :) Charlotte has been able to go potty without too much straining today! YAY! I can tell she's starting to feel better because she's been using her scratching post, which she hasn't for a couple days, and last night she snuck out the front door when I came home from the grocery store. She usually tries to get out when I come home, but hadn't been feeling so stealth the last few days. Her favorite part of all this is that the doctor recommended I get her some of the prescription diet food in the canned format until this problem subsides, AND I got a little tuna to mix her medication in. Salome, thanks for the info on the urinary formula food. Good to know they have it at the pet store. I will have to check that out because I was not looking forward to spending double the money cat food ( I was already buying the $20 for 6 pounds variety). Nor was I looking forward to trekking across town to the veterinarian everytime I need to buy some.
Now that things are looking up around here, I'm hoping I can really buckle down on focus on cramming for that test!
Peace and love,
J
Now that things are looking up around here, I'm hoping I can really buckle down on focus on cramming for that test!
Peace and love,
J
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Charlotte feels yucky
Hi blog friends,
My Charlotte kitty has not been feeling well, so I wanted to just share the story with you all so you know what we're going through and maybe you have some advice, shared experiences, or can at the very least pray or think happy thoughts for my baby girl.
(I initially wrote the following as an email to a friend to explain what was going on, so instead of re-typing it all, I'm just going to paste it here.)
She was unable to both urinate and defecate for at least 24 hours starting Sunday night. (And I was terribly worried because if cats can't do their business, they'll die from toxicity.) I initially thought she was constipated because she was straining and the last time she had a urinary infection, she was still able to go #2 and there was blood in the box when she tried to urinate. In the absence of those two things, I assumed it was constipation. Then on Monday morning I realized that she hadn't been urinating either. That's when I called the vet to make an appointment and the only availability was for Tuesday around noon. I was very worried, to the point of being useless at work, because she still hadn't urinated by the time I left for work on Tuesday. Then, right before I took her to the vet yesterday, she was able to do a little of both. But she was leaking urine on her bed. So they emptied her bladder at the vet's office and took a sample to do some tests. This morning she was still unable to urinate, was straining in her box repeatedly, and actually laid down IN her litter box for 15 minutes while I was getting ready for work. I almost started crying when I saw her. I would have thought it was funny under different circumstances. So I called the vet around 9 and the Dr didn't call me back until noon. He said he wanted me to bring her back in at 3 and said that because she was having problems going #2, he was worried that she may have a growth. And that would mean she'd have to have surgery which would cost me thousands of dollars, which I cannot afford, so I'd have to put her down, so I started to cry (at my client's office) and I couldn't stop crying. So I left the client at 1 and came home.
Charlotte had actually been able to go a little bit of both #1 and #2 while I was gone, so that was a major relief. I never would have thought I'd be so happy to see cat pee! I took her to the vet at 3 and they took her in the back and left me in the lobby for an hour and a half. That was fine because I chatted with the receptionist, other people bringing in their pets, and I got to pet a few dogs. (I really LOVE this veterinarian and I'm so glad I found them. Thanks yelp.com!) Then when they finally took me back to talk to the Dr., he showed me a test tube of her urine. About 1/4 of it was crystals that looked like sugar and then there was a little layer of red on top of the crystals, which he said was blood. This means she has Feline Bladder Disease, which means her bladder and urethra are inflamed. He suspects that the urethra is so inflamed, it's making the hole very small, and when she squeezes her bladder to urinate, it squeezes the hole closed so nothing can come out. Additionally, he said he bladder muscle is weak and squeezes at about half the force/strength it should. She may also have a UTI, so she's still on a little bit of antibiotics. He gave me anti-inflammatory pills that I have to give her once a day and a medication that is supposed to make her bladder muscle squeeze with more force. AND now she has to be on prescription food that's specially formulated for urinary problems, which is supposed to reduce the accumulation of crystals in her bladder. He hopes that all that will make the current problem go away and keep future flare ups at a minimum. I really hope so! I was quite worried for a while that I'd lose her. :(
I'm taking tomorrow and Friday off so I can study because my exam is on Saturday! I've been useless at work all week because I've been worried about Charlotte and stressed that I couldn't focus on studying. Hopefully I can be calm tomorrow since I'll be home with her and have 2 full days to study.
Thanks in advance for your prayers and happy thoughts! (Let's hope my baby can pee freely!)
J
Here are some pictures of Charlotte that I took last Friday.
My Charlotte kitty has not been feeling well, so I wanted to just share the story with you all so you know what we're going through and maybe you have some advice, shared experiences, or can at the very least pray or think happy thoughts for my baby girl.
(I initially wrote the following as an email to a friend to explain what was going on, so instead of re-typing it all, I'm just going to paste it here.)
She was unable to both urinate and defecate for at least 24 hours starting Sunday night. (And I was terribly worried because if cats can't do their business, they'll die from toxicity.) I initially thought she was constipated because she was straining and the last time she had a urinary infection, she was still able to go #2 and there was blood in the box when she tried to urinate. In the absence of those two things, I assumed it was constipation. Then on Monday morning I realized that she hadn't been urinating either. That's when I called the vet to make an appointment and the only availability was for Tuesday around noon. I was very worried, to the point of being useless at work, because she still hadn't urinated by the time I left for work on Tuesday. Then, right before I took her to the vet yesterday, she was able to do a little of both. But she was leaking urine on her bed. So they emptied her bladder at the vet's office and took a sample to do some tests. This morning she was still unable to urinate, was straining in her box repeatedly, and actually laid down IN her litter box for 15 minutes while I was getting ready for work. I almost started crying when I saw her. I would have thought it was funny under different circumstances. So I called the vet around 9 and the Dr didn't call me back until noon. He said he wanted me to bring her back in at 3 and said that because she was having problems going #2, he was worried that she may have a growth. And that would mean she'd have to have surgery which would cost me thousands of dollars, which I cannot afford, so I'd have to put her down, so I started to cry (at my client's office) and I couldn't stop crying. So I left the client at 1 and came home.
Charlotte had actually been able to go a little bit of both #1 and #2 while I was gone, so that was a major relief. I never would have thought I'd be so happy to see cat pee! I took her to the vet at 3 and they took her in the back and left me in the lobby for an hour and a half. That was fine because I chatted with the receptionist, other people bringing in their pets, and I got to pet a few dogs. (I really LOVE this veterinarian and I'm so glad I found them. Thanks yelp.com!) Then when they finally took me back to talk to the Dr., he showed me a test tube of her urine. About 1/4 of it was crystals that looked like sugar and then there was a little layer of red on top of the crystals, which he said was blood. This means she has Feline Bladder Disease, which means her bladder and urethra are inflamed. He suspects that the urethra is so inflamed, it's making the hole very small, and when she squeezes her bladder to urinate, it squeezes the hole closed so nothing can come out. Additionally, he said he bladder muscle is weak and squeezes at about half the force/strength it should. She may also have a UTI, so she's still on a little bit of antibiotics. He gave me anti-inflammatory pills that I have to give her once a day and a medication that is supposed to make her bladder muscle squeeze with more force. AND now she has to be on prescription food that's specially formulated for urinary problems, which is supposed to reduce the accumulation of crystals in her bladder. He hopes that all that will make the current problem go away and keep future flare ups at a minimum. I really hope so! I was quite worried for a while that I'd lose her. :(
I'm taking tomorrow and Friday off so I can study because my exam is on Saturday! I've been useless at work all week because I've been worried about Charlotte and stressed that I couldn't focus on studying. Hopefully I can be calm tomorrow since I'll be home with her and have 2 full days to study.
Thanks in advance for your prayers and happy thoughts! (Let's hope my baby can pee freely!)
J
Here are some pictures of Charlotte that I took last Friday.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Stress!
I am taking the Business and Economic Concepts (BEC) portion of the CPA exam on Saturday, October 25. If I pass it, I will be DONE! If I do not pass, I'm screwed... I lose the Audit (AUD) exam that I passed and I have to take both AUD and BEC again. Needless to say, I am studying my butt off so that there is no other option than to pass. Please, if you're the praying type, remember me in your prayers that I might learn and retain this information, that I might not have anxiety, and that I may be calm while taking the exam. Thank you! Peace and love.
J
P.S. After this exam my life begins! I have big plans for getting back to exercising, being creative, and just overall enjoying life (and my freedom from exams)!
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Update
Just a quick post to make a whole ton of announcements...
I'm going to be an aunt. My brother and his girlfriend are expecting a baby in February.
I'm moving to San Jose to be closer to my family (and be an aunt in person).
I'm moving in NINE days!!
I'm transferring with my same company, and I will have a lot more opportunities and a lot more work in the SJ office.
I passed the CPA exam that I took in July!!! One more left and then I'm done forever!!
I went to New Hampshire for the wedding of my good friends Ken & Kirstin. It was a beautiful wedding, a super fun reception, and an overall great trip/mini-vacation.
Charlotte is still super cute and happy that I'm done traveling. She had a flea infestation, but thank God, I think they're all gone.
I'll be back with more posts after my move. I'm taking my fourth, and final, exam on October 25, so maybe I won't be back until after that. Who knows. My posts are infrequent and unreliable!
J
I'm going to be an aunt. My brother and his girlfriend are expecting a baby in February.
I'm moving to San Jose to be closer to my family (and be an aunt in person).
I'm moving in NINE days!!
I'm transferring with my same company, and I will have a lot more opportunities and a lot more work in the SJ office.
I passed the CPA exam that I took in July!!! One more left and then I'm done forever!!
I went to New Hampshire for the wedding of my good friends Ken & Kirstin. It was a beautiful wedding, a super fun reception, and an overall great trip/mini-vacation.
Charlotte is still super cute and happy that I'm done traveling. She had a flea infestation, but thank God, I think they're all gone.
I'll be back with more posts after my move. I'm taking my fourth, and final, exam on October 25, so maybe I won't be back until after that. Who knows. My posts are infrequent and unreliable!
J
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Introducing Charlotte
This is Charlotte. She is my new roommate. She moved in with me at the end of June. She is 6 years old. I adopted her from a family that had to give her up because they just had a baby. Apparently Charlotte likes to sit on babies.
One of her favorite things to do is look in the mirror. What a diva.
She also likes to play with her little lobster toy...
Probably her most favorite thing to do is look out the window...
Yes, she is chubby. We're working on that. But as my friend said, "Fat cats are the best kind of cats!"
One of her favorite things to do is look in the mirror. What a diva.
She also likes to play with her little lobster toy...
Probably her most favorite thing to do is look out the window...
Yes, she is chubby. We're working on that. But as my friend said, "Fat cats are the best kind of cats!"
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Exam "news"
Yesterday at 8:30 in the morning I took the Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) section of the CPA exam. It sucked majorly. I had so much anxiety about the exam that I made myself sick Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. I take medication for generalized anxiety disorder, but that was just not cutting it for this level of stress. The anxiety also caused me to suffer from insomnia for the past two weeks. I have NEVER in my adult life not been able to go to sleep. If anything, I sleep too much. The past two weeks were agonizing. I had no idea how painful and frustrating insomnia is.
I've already taken and failed this portion of the exam twice. There are 4 exams, of which I have passed 2 so far. I'm taking the next one August 16. The exams are only "good" for 18 months, so the first one I passed expires on November 24. I totally plan on passing the one next month because it's the shortest exam/has the least material to memorize. So, if I didn't pass FAR yesterday, I have one more chance to take it and pass it in October before I lose my first exam.
Here's the thing with FAR - It's the longest test - 4 hours. The review book is about 2 inches thick. There are about 32 topics that I have to know. The review course to cover all of this is 40 hours long (not consecutively). Needless to say, that is a shit-load of stuff I need to know. My brain just does NOT have the capacity for that volume of information. As I was taking the test, I recognized all the material, but there were too many times where I read the question and thought to myself, "I know this. I've studied this. BUT, I studied this a week or two ago, and I just can't remember what the correct answer is." That SUCKS!
Yesterday after the exam I was completely exhausted. I took a short nap, but I really wanted to go out and eat some good food. I'd been cooped up in my apartment, getting nauseous from eating anything but cereal all week. Went out for tasty Mexican with Danielle and then we met up with another friend to see Wanted. (Totally awesome movie if you can tolerate graphic violence.) I was awake and energetic all night last night. Today, however, I came home from church around noon and slept until 6. I only woke up because I figured I wouldn't be able to sleep tonight, but I'm still feeling lethargic and tired. Feels so amazing to be able to fall asleep.
Peace and love.
J
I've already taken and failed this portion of the exam twice. There are 4 exams, of which I have passed 2 so far. I'm taking the next one August 16. The exams are only "good" for 18 months, so the first one I passed expires on November 24. I totally plan on passing the one next month because it's the shortest exam/has the least material to memorize. So, if I didn't pass FAR yesterday, I have one more chance to take it and pass it in October before I lose my first exam.
Here's the thing with FAR - It's the longest test - 4 hours. The review book is about 2 inches thick. There are about 32 topics that I have to know. The review course to cover all of this is 40 hours long (not consecutively). Needless to say, that is a shit-load of stuff I need to know. My brain just does NOT have the capacity for that volume of information. As I was taking the test, I recognized all the material, but there were too many times where I read the question and thought to myself, "I know this. I've studied this. BUT, I studied this a week or two ago, and I just can't remember what the correct answer is." That SUCKS!
Yesterday after the exam I was completely exhausted. I took a short nap, but I really wanted to go out and eat some good food. I'd been cooped up in my apartment, getting nauseous from eating anything but cereal all week. Went out for tasty Mexican with Danielle and then we met up with another friend to see Wanted. (Totally awesome movie if you can tolerate graphic violence.) I was awake and energetic all night last night. Today, however, I came home from church around noon and slept until 6. I only woke up because I figured I wouldn't be able to sleep tonight, but I'm still feeling lethargic and tired. Feels so amazing to be able to fall asleep.
Peace and love.
J
Thursday, July 10, 2008
My secret life on the Internet
(I’m a complete moron because I’m putting off studying for the CPA exam, which I’m taking in LESS THAN 36 HOURS!, to update my blog. If I fail this exam, I blame the Internet.)
I feel like I’ve climbed the next rung in the popularity ladder. Since being commenter number 4 on dooce.com’s post yesterday, my readership had more than doubled! Yes, I went from 2 known readers, to FIVE! (Hi new readers, Jen, Sassy and Julie!) That is, if I still have my 2 previous readers. (Hi Salome and The Pope!) I wouldn’t blame them if they stopped coming by my blog since I don’t post very frequently. (I suck.)
Anyway… on to the details of my secret life… I have probably only told three or four of my real life friends that I write a blog, and I bet money they all forgot because none of them ever make comments on or about my blog. It feels like this blog is my little secret, and I have all these secret Internet friends that no one else knows about.
I think blogs are AWESOME! because they allow us to make acquaintance with people all over the world. It’s super cool how many people have blogs, and how we all support and related to each other. And that leads me to wonder, if everyone I’ve “met” here in the blogosphere are so awesome and kind, who the hell are these people out on the roads who honk, swear, and make obscene hand gestures? Ya know what I’m saying? Maybe not, because I live in LA, and some of you probably don’t. But geez, it seems like getting into a car just transforms anyone into an angry asshole. Enough with that tangent… I love connecting with people all over the country and the world via the blogosphere, but a lot of my friends and co-workers thinks it’s weird that I write a blog and that I love to read so many other people’s blogs. They’re like, if you don’t actually know that person, why would you want to read their blog?
Funny story – I turned my friend/co-worker June on to Dooce.com because I had saved a picture of Chuck (the dog) balancing Dr. Seuss books on his head as my desktop background on my work computer. She approached me the other day and said, “I’ve been reading your friend Heather’s blog everyday for a few months now. She’s funny!” I laughed and said, “Heather? I don’t know anyone named Heather.” She replied, “Dooce.com!” And I laughed, “Oh, she’s not my actual friend, I just found her blog on the Internet on day.”
I wish I could quit my job and just read blogs all day. There are seriously so many witty, creative, well-written, artistic people in this world. It is awesome, and I LOVE the Internet for bringing this to light and facilitating the sharing of our talents. So inspiring.
Now if only my friends and family would get with the program, and stop calling me a computer nerd! :-/
peace & love.
J
In retrospect, that wasn’t a very exciting, well-written, or cohesive post, but give me a break, I’m brain dead from studying for this exam!
I feel like I’ve climbed the next rung in the popularity ladder. Since being commenter number 4 on dooce.com’s post yesterday, my readership had more than doubled! Yes, I went from 2 known readers, to FIVE! (Hi new readers, Jen, Sassy and Julie!) That is, if I still have my 2 previous readers. (Hi Salome and The Pope!) I wouldn’t blame them if they stopped coming by my blog since I don’t post very frequently. (I suck.)
Anyway… on to the details of my secret life… I have probably only told three or four of my real life friends that I write a blog, and I bet money they all forgot because none of them ever make comments on or about my blog. It feels like this blog is my little secret, and I have all these secret Internet friends that no one else knows about.
I think blogs are AWESOME! because they allow us to make acquaintance with people all over the world. It’s super cool how many people have blogs, and how we all support and related to each other. And that leads me to wonder, if everyone I’ve “met” here in the blogosphere are so awesome and kind, who the hell are these people out on the roads who honk, swear, and make obscene hand gestures? Ya know what I’m saying? Maybe not, because I live in LA, and some of you probably don’t. But geez, it seems like getting into a car just transforms anyone into an angry asshole. Enough with that tangent… I love connecting with people all over the country and the world via the blogosphere, but a lot of my friends and co-workers thinks it’s weird that I write a blog and that I love to read so many other people’s blogs. They’re like, if you don’t actually know that person, why would you want to read their blog?
Funny story – I turned my friend/co-worker June on to Dooce.com because I had saved a picture of Chuck (the dog) balancing Dr. Seuss books on his head as my desktop background on my work computer. She approached me the other day and said, “I’ve been reading your friend Heather’s blog everyday for a few months now. She’s funny!” I laughed and said, “Heather? I don’t know anyone named Heather.” She replied, “Dooce.com!” And I laughed, “Oh, she’s not my actual friend, I just found her blog on the Internet on day.”
I wish I could quit my job and just read blogs all day. There are seriously so many witty, creative, well-written, artistic people in this world. It is awesome, and I LOVE the Internet for bringing this to light and facilitating the sharing of our talents. So inspiring.
Now if only my friends and family would get with the program, and stop calling me a computer nerd! :-/
peace & love.
J
In retrospect, that wasn’t a very exciting, well-written, or cohesive post, but give me a break, I’m brain dead from studying for this exam!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Reality?
I am SO over all the stupid, new reality shows that are coming out. Television producers must be smoking some major crack these days. Celebrity Circus, Wipe Out, I Survived a Japanese Game Show. You have GOT to be kidding me. I will not watch any of these shows. I seriously cannot believe that new reality shows continue to be rolled out. I thought that it would be a phase, but apparently the American people are not yet tired of all the lame, unintellectual bullshit. Just one more thing to dumb the people down and keep them in front of the television. I wish it would all just go away.
J
J
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Depressed
Last night I found the blog of Matt Logelin (www.mattlogelin.com) who lives in LA. His gorgeous wife, Liz, passed away in March, just 27 hours after giving birth to their little girl, Madeline, who was 7 weeks pre-mature and weighed 3 lbs 14 oz. He writes each night about what he and his daughter did that day. It's so sweet and beautiful, but at the same time horribly, horribly sad and painful. His posts made me cry multiple times last night and today. I couldn't access the site at work, so I read it after work. I've read all his entries up to today. And after I finished reading, I almost felt sick like throwing up. I was so sad and I feel like I know his wife now and I'm so so so terribly sad for him. There's that saying - "Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all." I don't know if that's true. I've never loved (romantically, that is), and I feel like I'd rather keep it that way than fall in love and lose him. It's so oppressively devastating!
So I was at home, sad, but I had told my cousin Marcy I'd come over to her place tonight as she was having a "going away" BBQ of sorts. On Sunday she's leaving for Africa for the summer. I really did not feel like going. I took a nap for probably an hour and then headed over an hour after it started... fashionably late. Being there didn't cheer me up at all. I didn't know anyone else. Then a bunch of girls went into Marcy's room to do a Buddhist chant while a lady, who appeared to be a leader, rolled up the scroll they were chanting to (?). I was very uncomfortable because I'm Christian, I didn't know what they were saying, and I was sad that Marcy seemed to have fallen away from God and chosen to pursue Buddhism. It became overwhelming as they got louder and faster, and then once the scroll was rolled up, put into a box, and then placed in a cabinet the chanting slowed down before ceasing.
Marcy's Mom was there and she told me that Marcy recommended she try attending Buddhist meetings and get into chanting because she'd been having some relationship difficulties. She told me that she did try it, and everything is so much better for her now. I just kept nodding and listening. She said, "I thought at first this would be yet another of Marcy's crazy adventures... Like when she went to Ghana and became a born again Christian. Thankfully she got over that and is into this now. This is much healthier." I was so taken aback by that statement. Had she no idea of my faith and that it was such an integral part of my being, and has been for 26 years?! Her words brought me to my breaking point, and I started to cry. I told Marcy that I had to leave.
I hope that tomorrow is a better day.
Peace and love.
J
So I was at home, sad, but I had told my cousin Marcy I'd come over to her place tonight as she was having a "going away" BBQ of sorts. On Sunday she's leaving for Africa for the summer. I really did not feel like going. I took a nap for probably an hour and then headed over an hour after it started... fashionably late. Being there didn't cheer me up at all. I didn't know anyone else. Then a bunch of girls went into Marcy's room to do a Buddhist chant while a lady, who appeared to be a leader, rolled up the scroll they were chanting to (?). I was very uncomfortable because I'm Christian, I didn't know what they were saying, and I was sad that Marcy seemed to have fallen away from God and chosen to pursue Buddhism. It became overwhelming as they got louder and faster, and then once the scroll was rolled up, put into a box, and then placed in a cabinet the chanting slowed down before ceasing.
Marcy's Mom was there and she told me that Marcy recommended she try attending Buddhist meetings and get into chanting because she'd been having some relationship difficulties. She told me that she did try it, and everything is so much better for her now. I just kept nodding and listening. She said, "I thought at first this would be yet another of Marcy's crazy adventures... Like when she went to Ghana and became a born again Christian. Thankfully she got over that and is into this now. This is much healthier." I was so taken aback by that statement. Had she no idea of my faith and that it was such an integral part of my being, and has been for 26 years?! Her words brought me to my breaking point, and I started to cry. I told Marcy that I had to leave.
I hope that tomorrow is a better day.
Peace and love.
J
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Things my Dad taught me
I got this idea from Stephanie Klein's blog.
Things I learned from my father:
1. I don’t need to learn to change my own oil because I’ll make enough money to pay someone else to do it.
2. Even he got Cs in school.
3. Boys have no social graces.
4. The monsters come out at night.
5. It’s ok to cry.
6. Not to call names.
7. How to drive a tractor.
8. Sometimes you have to do things you don’t like to do.
9. How to drive a manual transmission.
10. To make sure the horizon line is completely horizontal when taking a photograph.
11. Capillary action.
12. To enjoy smooth jazz.
13. To shred credit card applications before trashing them.
14. To read a map.
15. To use a computer.
16. That I can’t live without an Apple computer.
17. Reasons the refrigerator might not be working.
18. Economics (even though I still don’t really get it).
19. What it means to be a Democrat or a Republican.
20. x times x equals x squared.
21. What quality stereo sounds like.
22. To use a level, a voltmeter, and an electric drill, among other things.
23. How to pick up dog poop.
24. How to balance a checkbook.
25. To pump gas.
26. To pack by rolling things.
27. To love hockey.
28. How to ride a bike.
29. To get up and walk around when on a long flight.
30. How to fish.
31. How to get something out of the sink drain pipe.
32. To appreciate the fantastic-ness of Home Depot.
33. How to paint a wall.
34. How to pitch a tent, light a lantern, and light a stove.
35. How to pack to go camping.
36. To dig a trench around the tent if it’s going to rain.
37. Cats are awesome.
38. That I can do anything I put my mind to.
39. That education is important.
40. Not to “burn bridges” because you never know who you may have to work for in the future.
41. “There is a certain amount of money that causes all loyalty to go out the window.”
42. Don’t walk through oil spots in parking spaces
43. Avoid pot holes.
44. Unconditional love.
Things I learned from my father:
1. I don’t need to learn to change my own oil because I’ll make enough money to pay someone else to do it.
2. Even he got Cs in school.
3. Boys have no social graces.
4. The monsters come out at night.
5. It’s ok to cry.
6. Not to call names.
7. How to drive a tractor.
8. Sometimes you have to do things you don’t like to do.
9. How to drive a manual transmission.
10. To make sure the horizon line is completely horizontal when taking a photograph.
11. Capillary action.
12. To enjoy smooth jazz.
13. To shred credit card applications before trashing them.
14. To read a map.
15. To use a computer.
16. That I can’t live without an Apple computer.
17. Reasons the refrigerator might not be working.
18. Economics (even though I still don’t really get it).
19. What it means to be a Democrat or a Republican.
20. x times x equals x squared.
21. What quality stereo sounds like.
22. To use a level, a voltmeter, and an electric drill, among other things.
23. How to pick up dog poop.
24. How to balance a checkbook.
25. To pump gas.
26. To pack by rolling things.
27. To love hockey.
28. How to ride a bike.
29. To get up and walk around when on a long flight.
30. How to fish.
31. How to get something out of the sink drain pipe.
32. To appreciate the fantastic-ness of Home Depot.
33. How to paint a wall.
34. How to pitch a tent, light a lantern, and light a stove.
35. How to pack to go camping.
36. To dig a trench around the tent if it’s going to rain.
37. Cats are awesome.
38. That I can do anything I put my mind to.
39. That education is important.
40. Not to “burn bridges” because you never know who you may have to work for in the future.
41. “There is a certain amount of money that causes all loyalty to go out the window.”
42. Don’t walk through oil spots in parking spaces
43. Avoid pot holes.
44. Unconditional love.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Becoming a Possibilitarian
Didn't have much to do at work today, so I busied myself looking at beautiful things on etsy and exploring artists' websites. One of my favorite mixed media artists on etsy is Kelly Rae Roberts. She is so creative and talented. Her work is gorgeous.
From Kelly Rae Roberts’ website:
i first heard the word ‘possibilitarian’ in a quote by dr. norman peale: “become a possibilitarian. no matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities – always see them, for they’re always there.” i’ve been hooked on its meaning ever since. do you see the bright light of your life’s horizon (even on the average days)? do you feel its warmth (even when you’re struggling)? have you begun to tough the surface of all that is possible for your life? does it give you goosebumps to think about it (i hope it does)? if so, then you’re a possibilitarian too. it’s the best feeling in the world, this thinking of what is possible. it’s energy. it’s passion. it’s dreaming big, and taking small steps. it’s the oomph of our everyday lives.
I know that I was meant for more than being just an accountant. Yesterday at work I was surfing etsy as I’m wont to do and I came upon a shop of a lady who had committed to donating some of her profits to Doctors Without Borders in the wake of the horrific results of the cyclone in Myanmar. I’d heard of Doctors Without Borders before, but I had never looked into it until this week. Not only are they looking for volunteers in the medical field, they are looking for people with office-type skills to manage their operations. One of the opportunities that jumped out at me is the Financial Controllership job. I could totally do this! Now since it’s a volunteer position, I certainly cannot afford, at this point in my life, to take a year off of being paid to do this. But, I have a meaningful goal to look forward to.
If you are interested in learning about Doctors Without Borders or in making a donation, please visit their website at www.doctorswithoutborders.org.
Peace & love.
J
From Kelly Rae Roberts’ website:
i first heard the word ‘possibilitarian’ in a quote by dr. norman peale: “become a possibilitarian. no matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities – always see them, for they’re always there.” i’ve been hooked on its meaning ever since. do you see the bright light of your life’s horizon (even on the average days)? do you feel its warmth (even when you’re struggling)? have you begun to tough the surface of all that is possible for your life? does it give you goosebumps to think about it (i hope it does)? if so, then you’re a possibilitarian too. it’s the best feeling in the world, this thinking of what is possible. it’s energy. it’s passion. it’s dreaming big, and taking small steps. it’s the oomph of our everyday lives.
I know that I was meant for more than being just an accountant. Yesterday at work I was surfing etsy as I’m wont to do and I came upon a shop of a lady who had committed to donating some of her profits to Doctors Without Borders in the wake of the horrific results of the cyclone in Myanmar. I’d heard of Doctors Without Borders before, but I had never looked into it until this week. Not only are they looking for volunteers in the medical field, they are looking for people with office-type skills to manage their operations. One of the opportunities that jumped out at me is the Financial Controllership job. I could totally do this! Now since it’s a volunteer position, I certainly cannot afford, at this point in my life, to take a year off of being paid to do this. But, I have a meaningful goal to look forward to.
If you are interested in learning about Doctors Without Borders or in making a donation, please visit their website at www.doctorswithoutborders.org.
Peace & love.
J
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Listen to your body
A few weeks ago my neck went out again. I was out of commission for two and a half days; just lying in bed or on the couch. I was pretty angry about it. I thought that this year's busy season would be more tolerable and less stressful because I only had one client this year whereas last year I had 4-5. Unfortunately I was wrong. In exploring the situation, I discovered that I don't really express anger when I feel or experience it. I store it all in my neck and then eventually it "boils over" and I wake up with nearly unbearable pain. I couldn't believe I'd "allowed" this to happen again.
Last year when I suffered this neck pain and ended up in the hospital, I didn't go to the gym for a month or two at the advice of my physical therapist. This was to allow my neck to heal because we thought that the pain was caused by a subluxed vertebra. This has never been confirmed nor denied, but after talking to my chiropractor, I'm beginning to wonder if it is a subluxed vertebra or just a shit-ton of tension.
So this time I asked my chiropractor, "Can I go to the gym and/or exercise? or do I need to take it easy for a few weeks to heal?" and his response: "Listen to your body. If you want to exercise, then exercise. If you start to feel pain, soreness, tension, then stop and take it easy."
What a novel idea! I am amazed that we, as a culture, tend to not listen to our bodies. It seems so obvious. It should be common sense. But, no. We push ourselves, overwork ourselves, over-eat, under-eat... and the list goes on. So now I'm listening to my body. I'm working on listening to myself so that I can be effective at work and in life!
Peace & love.
J
Last year when I suffered this neck pain and ended up in the hospital, I didn't go to the gym for a month or two at the advice of my physical therapist. This was to allow my neck to heal because we thought that the pain was caused by a subluxed vertebra. This has never been confirmed nor denied, but after talking to my chiropractor, I'm beginning to wonder if it is a subluxed vertebra or just a shit-ton of tension.
So this time I asked my chiropractor, "Can I go to the gym and/or exercise? or do I need to take it easy for a few weeks to heal?" and his response: "Listen to your body. If you want to exercise, then exercise. If you start to feel pain, soreness, tension, then stop and take it easy."
What a novel idea! I am amazed that we, as a culture, tend to not listen to our bodies. It seems so obvious. It should be common sense. But, no. We push ourselves, overwork ourselves, over-eat, under-eat... and the list goes on. So now I'm listening to my body. I'm working on listening to myself so that I can be effective at work and in life!
Peace & love.
J
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Nice auditor
I am required to do a standard "fraud interview" with each client that I audit. Today I interviewed the Controller of the company I am currently auditing. After all the standard questions and acceptable answers, I asked if there was anything else he wanted to say.
"Yes," he said, "You're a very nice auditor."
How sweet! LOL. It's always a pleasure to be told you're nice!
Peace & love.
J
"Yes," he said, "You're a very nice auditor."
How sweet! LOL. It's always a pleasure to be told you're nice!
Peace & love.
J
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Slacker
Yeah, it's been a while, but I didn't realize it's been nearly two months since I last posted. Not that anyone reads this except Salome and now possibly Platypus King. But, yeah, I feel guilty like I'm letting you guys down. Silly, I know. BUT... I'm an auditor and it's my busy season AND I got sick last week! Excuses, excuses.
I've only worked 2 weeks where I put in 12 hour days, so that's been a blessing this year. And I haven't worked a single Saturday! I'm still not feeling 100% since my cold and I have another horrendous week of audit fieldwork ahead of me, so I'll just leave it at that and be back in a week or two with more wit and less bitterness.
J
I've only worked 2 weeks where I put in 12 hour days, so that's been a blessing this year. And I haven't worked a single Saturday! I'm still not feeling 100% since my cold and I have another horrendous week of audit fieldwork ahead of me, so I'll just leave it at that and be back in a week or two with more wit and less bitterness.
J
Thursday, February 21, 2008
An open letter to the people of Los Angeles
Haven't you seen the insurance commercial with the extremely rude guy getting pissed off at everyone and the narrator says, "You don't act like this in your everyday life; why act like this in your car?" Ummm... yeah, I'd say you have NOT seen the commercial.
A couple things:
Moral of this long-ass gripe post: BE CONSIDERATE! Realize that we're all in the same situation, and we're all trying to get somewhere, and we're all frustrated.
A couple things:
- The world is NOT ending! IT'S CALLED RAIN!! Contrary to popular belief, the rain does not cause your brain to fail. If you calm the frick down, you can drive the same way you usually do, just add some caution and be a tad bit slower. And when I say a tad bit slower, I really mean it; no need to slow to a quarter of your normal speed!
- Yeah, that stick coming out the left side of your steering wheel is a blinker; a turn signal if you'd prefer. USE IT!!! My personal belief is that if you don't use it, you're an inconsiderate @$$hole who has no regard for other life forms. Appropriate times to use the signal would be when you're turning or want to switch lanes. If you don't use it, I have no warning that you're coming and I'm likely to hit you or get really pissed off! Also, it's kind of THE LAW to use it!!
- If I turn my blinker on to signal that I'm coming into your lane, it is totally unacceptable for you to speed up and honk at me. The blinker serves as a polite notice to you that I'm coming, so don't be an inconsiderate @$$hole and express your anger via your horn.
- And that brings me to your horn. The entire purpose is to let someone know if there is impending danger. This means that it should be used to warn someone that they are about to hit you or somethings else or about 20 seconds after a light changes green if the car in front of you has not started moving. It is NOT there so you can use it to express your unending anger, hatred, and frustration. We're ALL frustrated. We're in LA. and we're driving. This means:
- Do NOT honk at the car in front of you immediately after the light changes green. That one virtue? It's called patience!!
- Do NOT honk at the cars not going because there are cars in front of them - perhaps blocking the intersection. Yeah, people block the intersection. Laying on your mother-effing horn is not going to open up a portal in space in time that will miraculously cause those cars to move so you can get through the light.
- (But come on people, at least pay attention and try not to block the intersection - especially you double-long-accordion-extended buses; you @$$holes purposely block the intersection far too often.)
- Do NOT honk at someone who pulls forward a little to far past a stop sign - guess what... they're STOPPED... probably means that, surprise, they actually SEE you and are waiting for you to pass before they drive further!!
Moral of this long-ass gripe post: BE CONSIDERATE! Realize that we're all in the same situation, and we're all trying to get somewhere, and we're all frustrated.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Jewelry
Here are a few pieces of jewelry that I made last year. The red one now belongs to my friend Kirstin. The gorgeous, iridescent pink necklace and bracelet are mine, and I love them!
P.S. It only took me about 8 posts and 2 image hosting sites to get this stupid entry posted!!
P.S. It only took me about 8 posts and 2 image hosting sites to get this stupid entry posted!!
Monday, February 11, 2008
How to have a good day
I honestly can't believe that the events/lack of events of my day have left me feeling so great. First, I woke up at 4:45am to get to my client's office as early as I could/would since the accounting manager works from 6am to 2pm. At first I was totally dreading it, but once I got on the road to downtown LA, I was awake and ready to face the day.
Amazingly the client had nearly everything ready for me, and was very friendly! Pretty much everyone in their office left by 3, so when I finished up what I could without their assistance, I left at 3:45! This allowed me to get home at 4:15 and then head over to the gym before it got crowded with the after-work crowd. I had my first work out since the car accident. It wasn't bad, but I could only go for 35 minutes before I got a killer headache. Got home by 6, showered, and had a nice healthy dinner of soup and broccoli.
Now it's 7 o'clock and I feel motivated to create some jewelry and hopefully get in some reading. I've been working on reading the Kite Runner, but it's been slow going with my fatigue and laziness. I'll post some pictures of my jewelry next time I blog.
Peace & love,
J
Amazingly the client had nearly everything ready for me, and was very friendly! Pretty much everyone in their office left by 3, so when I finished up what I could without their assistance, I left at 3:45! This allowed me to get home at 4:15 and then head over to the gym before it got crowded with the after-work crowd. I had my first work out since the car accident. It wasn't bad, but I could only go for 35 minutes before I got a killer headache. Got home by 6, showered, and had a nice healthy dinner of soup and broccoli.
Now it's 7 o'clock and I feel motivated to create some jewelry and hopefully get in some reading. I've been working on reading the Kite Runner, but it's been slow going with my fatigue and laziness. I'll post some pictures of my jewelry next time I blog.
Peace & love,
J
Sunday, February 10, 2008
FOUR
4 Jobs I’ve Had:
Team Lead at Jamba Juice, Shift Supervisor at Starbucks, Research Manager at a recruiting firm, Senior Auditor at an accounting firm
4 Movies I’ve Watched Over and Over:
Wild Hearts Can't be Broken, Shrek, Sixteen Candles, Old School
4 Places I Have Lived:
San Jose, Irvine, San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles
4 Shows I Watch:
Grey's Anatomy, ER, The Office, October Road
4 Places I’ve Been:
Suriname, Australia, New Zealand, Seoul, Korea
4 People Who Email Me Regularly:
Dad, Papa, Amanda, Breanna
4 Favorite Things to Eat:
Filet Mignon, Mashed potatoes, Adam's Peanut Butter Fudge Cup Ripple cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory, Cereal
4 Places I’d Rather Be:
with family, with friends, Hawaii, Australia
Meeting an amazing man (I totally feel like I will!), seeing the new babies of all my friends who are pregnant right now, passing my last 2 CPA exams, losing weight
Music makes life better
The Grammy's are on, and Carrie Underwood is performing, so I've been inspired to write a bit about my new favorites. In addition to getting a new iPod for Christmas, I got some iTunes giftcards, so I've been spending a lot of time on the iTunes store.
The albums I've purchased in the last few months are:
I usually listen to R&B, hip-hop and rap, but as you can see lately I've been more into the folk, indie, pop, and country. I attribute my liking of pop-country music to my friends Taryn and Shannon who got me addicted to Tim McGraw and Kenny Chesney back in college. And I think my love for John Mayer is what got me hooked on pop-rock-folk stuff like Colbie Callait, Sara Bareilles, and A Fine Frenzy. I couldn't get through a music post without mentioning John Mayer. The man is a musical genius. I can't wait for him to release his next album.
Peace & love.
J
The albums I've purchased in the last few months are:
- Alicia Keys "As I Am" My favorite song is "Lesson Learned" featuring John Mayer. You should see me singing in the car when that one comes on the iPod.
- Colbie Caillat "Coco"
- Sara Bareilles "Little Voice" - I can't get enough of "Love Song"
- A Fine Frenzy "One Cell in the Sea"
- Kip Fox "Astronaut" - Kip is an old friend from college, and he has an amazing voice.
- Carrie Underwood "Some Hearts" - I know this is her first album, which was released a couple years ago, but I just decided to purchase it last week.
- Yael Naim - I didn't buy her album, but I may at some point in the future. She is the unique talent behind the song "New Soul," which is currently featured on Apple's MacBook Air commercial. Her other hit sing, "Far Far" was the iTunes free song of the week this week.
I usually listen to R&B, hip-hop and rap, but as you can see lately I've been more into the folk, indie, pop, and country. I attribute my liking of pop-country music to my friends Taryn and Shannon who got me addicted to Tim McGraw and Kenny Chesney back in college. And I think my love for John Mayer is what got me hooked on pop-rock-folk stuff like Colbie Callait, Sara Bareilles, and A Fine Frenzy. I couldn't get through a music post without mentioning John Mayer. The man is a musical genius. I can't wait for him to release his next album.
Peace & love.
J
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Blah
I got in a minor car accident on January 12. No injuries, but I was sore for a while from tensing up immediately before and during impact. The car is currently in the body shop with at least $2500 in damages. The accident wasn't a huge deal, but it brought me down pretty low. I haven't felt joyful or too creative since then. My mood probably isn't based entirely on the fender bender, but it started there.
Last week I worked at a client's office in Irvine. Because the Controller was busy generating W-2s and 1099s, she essentially tried to avoid me while I was there. It's hard being the "hated" auditor. I know it has nothing to do with me personally, and everything to do with my position as the disruptor of the client's daily duties, but it still gets to me. Additionally, I was staying in a hotel so I wouldn't have to spend at least 3 hours commuting each day. While the hotel, with in-room spa tubs, was fantastic, last week was terribly lonely. I'm used to being alone since I live on my own, but last week was just too much - compounded with lingering pain from the accident and the stress of trying to get things done at work.
Sorry to be "Debbie Downer" but I just wanted to post something...
Julie
Last week I worked at a client's office in Irvine. Because the Controller was busy generating W-2s and 1099s, she essentially tried to avoid me while I was there. It's hard being the "hated" auditor. I know it has nothing to do with me personally, and everything to do with my position as the disruptor of the client's daily duties, but it still gets to me. Additionally, I was staying in a hotel so I wouldn't have to spend at least 3 hours commuting each day. While the hotel, with in-room spa tubs, was fantastic, last week was terribly lonely. I'm used to being alone since I live on my own, but last week was just too much - compounded with lingering pain from the accident and the stress of trying to get things done at work.
Sorry to be "Debbie Downer" but I just wanted to post something...
Julie
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Elated!
Today I reconnected with my friend and former college roommate Taryn. We haven't spoken or seen each other in probably 3 or 4 years! I tried to get in touch with her a couple times last year, but she wasn't on MySpace and had changed her phone number. Today we finally got back in touch, and I couldn't be happier for her. She got engaged last week and has a great job that she really loves. Congrats, Taryn! I'm so glad you're back in my life!
Peace and love.
J
Peace and love.
J
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
2008 is all about me
I started "going to therapy" back in October, and for some weird reason I think it's motivated me to get going to to the gym. I went three times the week before Christmas, once last week and yesterday. That might not seem like a whole lot, but considering that's more than I'd gone in the past 2-3 months combined, I'd say I'm making some major progress. (I got sick last week and that's why I didn't go any more than the once. And I didn't go tonight cause my neck hurts for some reason and I just wanted to rest.) It's not that I'm discussing exercising or even losing weight with my counselor, rather I guess the discussions we are having is motivating me to do more for me. So, 2008 is going to be about doing things for me!
I'm going to go to the gym regularly. Get in shape. Hopefully lose about 40 lbs! Indulge in being creative - making jewelry and taking more photographs. Pass those last 2 pesky exams! Pay off my debt. Be more social.
It's going to be an awesome year!
Peace and love.
J
I'm going to go to the gym regularly. Get in shape. Hopefully lose about 40 lbs! Indulge in being creative - making jewelry and taking more photographs. Pass those last 2 pesky exams! Pay off my debt. Be more social.
It's going to be an awesome year!
Peace and love.
J
Must be nice
My favorite part of my job is getting to look through the credit card statements of some high-net-worth clients.
- $10k at a big name department store, in ONE visit, half of which was returned... Buy everything that looks good? Try it on at home? Return what doesn't fit?
- $15 - 35k per month on the AMEX card...
- Having assistants order anything you see and desire in magazines...
Sunday, January 06, 2008
I know who I am NOT voting for
Last night I watched "One Night. Two Parties. The New Hampshire Debates." I was kind of excited because I have not yet had time (or energy, or desire for that matter) to research the presidential candidates. So, here I was sick, lying on the couch with nothing better to do when up pops my opportunity to hear the positions of ALL the candidates! Lucky me! Unfortunately I caught the last 5 seconds of the Republican debates. While I am registered to vote under a specific party, which I will not specify here in the public arena, I don't let that dictate who I vote for. So, even though I hear the Republican debate wasn't as successful or "focused on Presidential issues" as the Dem debate (per Senator Clinton), I wanted to hear what they had to say. But there are always other debates to tune into.
Excuse me for a minute while I complain. If there is anything I hate more than tomatoes and mushrooms, it's mudslinging and politicians arguing. That makes for a very cranky Julie for, well, all of 2008 I'm guessing. A lot of the presidential candidates are guilty of it, but last night Clinton was all about making Obama out to be the bad guy. (Being a hater is never becoming on a lady, Hillary.)
Hillary Clinton's voice is so grating and obnoxious, and her demeanor doesn't do anything for her either. She seemed like a snarky little child last night, "But Obama said X and then he did Y, and then he said this, but did that..." I felt like shouting out, "SHUT UP, woman!!" and I think Edwards and Obama felt the same way.
Here's an excerpt from Edwards' comments following Obama's response to Hillary's attack:
After Hillary had her opportunity to rebut, Bill Richardson said, "I've been in hostage negotiations that were more civil than this." Richardson, Obama, and Edwards all looked far more appealing than Clinton last night.
Second to Edwards siding with Obama to argue Clinton, my favorite part of the night was when Scott Spradling, political director in Manchester, New Hampshire asked Clinton, "What can you say to the voters of New Hampshire on this stage tonight who see a resume and like it, but are hesitating on the likability issue, where they seem to like Barack Obama more?"
Listening to the debate was humorous at times, but often made me want to claw my ears off. At least I was able to cross one candidate off my list.
Julie
Excuse me for a minute while I complain. If there is anything I hate more than tomatoes and mushrooms, it's mudslinging and politicians arguing. That makes for a very cranky Julie for, well, all of 2008 I'm guessing. A lot of the presidential candidates are guilty of it, but last night Clinton was all about making Obama out to be the bad guy. (Being a hater is never becoming on a lady, Hillary.)
Hillary Clinton's voice is so grating and obnoxious, and her demeanor doesn't do anything for her either. She seemed like a snarky little child last night, "But Obama said X and then he did Y, and then he said this, but did that..." I felt like shouting out, "SHUT UP, woman!!" and I think Edwards and Obama felt the same way.
Here's an excerpt from Edwards' comments following Obama's response to Hillary's attack:
"It's fine to have a disagreement about health care. To say that Senator Obama is having a debate with himself from some Associated Press story I think is just not -- that's not the kind of discussion we should be having.
I think that every time this happens, what will occur -- every time he speaks out for change, every time I fight for change, the forces of status quo are going to attack -- every single time.
And what we have to remember -- and this is the overarching issue here, because what we really need in New Hampshire and in future state primaries, is we need an unfiltered debate between the agents of change about how we bring about that change. Because we have differences about that.
But the one thing I do not argue with him about is he believes deeply in change. And I believe deeply in change.
And any time you're fighting for that -- I mean, I didn't hear these kind of attacks from Senator Clinton when she was ahead. Now that she's not, we hear them.
And any time you speak out -- any time you speak out for change, this is what happens."
OOOHHH, in your face, Hillary!!After Hillary had her opportunity to rebut, Bill Richardson said, "I've been in hostage negotiations that were more civil than this." Richardson, Obama, and Edwards all looked far more appealing than Clinton last night.
Second to Edwards siding with Obama to argue Clinton, my favorite part of the night was when Scott Spradling, political director in Manchester, New Hampshire asked Clinton, "What can you say to the voters of New Hampshire on this stage tonight who see a resume and like it, but are hesitating on the likability issue, where they seem to like Barack Obama more?"
And she responded, "Well, that hurts my feelings... He's very likable. I agree with that. I don't think I'm that bad."
And then Obama interjected in an annoyed tone, "You're likable enough, Hillary." hahaha.
Listening to the debate was humorous at times, but often made me want to claw my ears off. At least I was able to cross one candidate off my list.
Julie
Friday, January 04, 2008
Hello 2008
So, ever since Salome left me a comment last week that I need to blog more, I've felt this overwhelming guilt and nagging obligation to write something. So here I am...
I got sick on Wednesday, spent Thursday at home, and then went back to work today even though I still didn't feel too hot. We were all moving desks/offices at work today as a result of year-end promotions. Since I got promoted, I got to move from a cubicle to an office, which I'm sharing with another Senior... so I wanted to be at work to make sure no one messed with my desk on moving day.
So anyway... now that it's the new year, my vision insurance coverage starts over and I can get a new prescription and new lenses! Yes, I'm a TOTAL dork. Who gets that excited about new glasses?! Much to my concern, my vision has become blurry and strained since my last check-up, which was only last March! Thankfully my doctor said further worsening can be prevented... I have to have 2 pairs of glasses! I feel like an old lady! Since I'm near-sighted, I'll have a pair of distance glasses for regular use. Then I'll need "computer glasses" for reading, doing work up-close and working on computers. (In case you cared, these will allow my eye muscles to relax when I'm not looking in the distance.) And because I am super sensitive to the sun, I like prescription sunglasses. AND because I'm young and want to switch it up when I go out (if ever), I got contacts. Yeah, so all said and done, I spent about $850 at the optometrist today!! My insurance covered the cost of contacts (fittings, follow-up, etc) and then I had to pay out of pocket for 3 pairs of lenses. And this doesn't even include frames. I brought in my own frames to get the new lenses "installed" in. Well, hopefully since I'll be preventing further worsening of my vision by wearing two different kinds of glasses, I won't have to spend the big bucks again next year!
I was thinking I could get a chain to go around my neck so I could hang my alternate glasses on them... You know, wearing my "computer glasses" and hanging the distance glasses around my neck so they're accessible when I need them! LOL. Could you imagine?
Sorry this was boring, but at least it was something, Salome! I'll get back to being witty when I'm feeling better.
Julie
I got sick on Wednesday, spent Thursday at home, and then went back to work today even though I still didn't feel too hot. We were all moving desks/offices at work today as a result of year-end promotions. Since I got promoted, I got to move from a cubicle to an office, which I'm sharing with another Senior... so I wanted to be at work to make sure no one messed with my desk on moving day.
So anyway... now that it's the new year, my vision insurance coverage starts over and I can get a new prescription and new lenses! Yes, I'm a TOTAL dork. Who gets that excited about new glasses?! Much to my concern, my vision has become blurry and strained since my last check-up, which was only last March! Thankfully my doctor said further worsening can be prevented... I have to have 2 pairs of glasses! I feel like an old lady! Since I'm near-sighted, I'll have a pair of distance glasses for regular use. Then I'll need "computer glasses" for reading, doing work up-close and working on computers. (In case you cared, these will allow my eye muscles to relax when I'm not looking in the distance.) And because I am super sensitive to the sun, I like prescription sunglasses. AND because I'm young and want to switch it up when I go out (if ever), I got contacts. Yeah, so all said and done, I spent about $850 at the optometrist today!! My insurance covered the cost of contacts (fittings, follow-up, etc) and then I had to pay out of pocket for 3 pairs of lenses. And this doesn't even include frames. I brought in my own frames to get the new lenses "installed" in. Well, hopefully since I'll be preventing further worsening of my vision by wearing two different kinds of glasses, I won't have to spend the big bucks again next year!
I was thinking I could get a chain to go around my neck so I could hang my alternate glasses on them... You know, wearing my "computer glasses" and hanging the distance glasses around my neck so they're accessible when I need them! LOL. Could you imagine?
Sorry this was boring, but at least it was something, Salome! I'll get back to being witty when I'm feeling better.
Julie
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