Writing

I started an English Composition class this week. My reading assignments consists of writing exercises that we will not be using as practice for class. Thus, I figured that I could use them every once in awhile as a prompt to use as a blog. I don't necessarily believe that I will find anything useful to put on here, but it's worth the try. I have always found "structured" writing as an intimidating activity. It has never been my strong point all through out my education. I always did best when it came to freewriting, but never a success when assigned a topic. Hopefully, this could be something to guide me as my education continues. *fingers crossed*

Pinterest Experiment #2 and #3 ~ Ranch Mushrooms & Mini Taco Bites

I've completed my 2nd dish Sunday evening, the mushrooms. I did a trial sample, and found them to be OK. However, for New Year's Eve dinner, I decided to cut them in half, and put the temp for the slow cooker on high during the last hour. Turned out way better than the first try.

I also made the mini taco bites. I didn't find the wonton wrappers (square) as suggested. I went to a Filipino supermarket, and they only had gyoza wrappers (round) available.  I much prefer the round wrappers. I managed to shape them into a four-leaf clover shape inside the mini muffin tins. They were a bit difficult to fill with meat at first, but I quickly learned to fill them within the round areas.

Mini Taco Bites

Ranch Mushrooms

Pinterest Addict

I have discovered that I have a lot of time on my hands. School break and being unable to sleep until five in the morning has me trolling through the Pinterest boards. I've also been scanning websites for different ideas, and found that "pinning" them as a reminder has been extremely helpful.

I turned to Pinterest this evening to make a midnight snack for the hubby and me. The results are in the picture! I made waffles using the cinnamon rolls in the can as my base... simple and yummy!

I'll be trying two more things from Pinterest for New Year's Eve (see my previous post).

Happy Pinning!

New Year's Eve EATS!

Going give these two things to try out as appetizers! I'll let you know how they turn out! :)

MINI TACO BITES

Source: allrecipes.com via Marissa on Pinterest

RANCH MUSHROOMS

Source: cdkitchen.com via Marissa on Pinterest

Music - A Quiz Thing (Take 2)

I did this quiz the first time about five years ago ... retake!

So, here's how it works:
1. Open your library (i Tunes, WinAmp, Media Player, iPod, etc.)
2. Put it on shuffle.
3. Press play.
4. For every question, type the song that's playing.
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button.

Opening Credits:
Bring Him Home Santa - The Song Trust

Waking Up:
With You - Linkin Park

First Day at School:
Who Says You Can't Go Home - Bon Jovi & Jennifer Nettles

Falling in Love:
Every Other Weekend - Reba McEntire & Kenny Chesney

Fight Song:
Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Baby - Barry White

Breaking Up:
I'm Sprung - T-Pain

Prom:
Rumors - Lindsay Lohan

College Life:
Finally - Fergie

Mental Breakdown:
Like Me - Kenny Cheney

Getting Back Together:
Wife and Kids - Kenny Chesney

Wedding:
Crash Train - Ozzy Osbourne

Birth of a Child:
Bananza (Belly Dancer)

Final Battle:
Changes - Kelly Osbourne & Ozzy Osbourne

Funeral Song:
Don't Phunk With My Heart - The Black Eyed Peas

Ending Credit:
Love Story - Taylor Swift

Four Days 'Til 2013

It's been an up and down year... it was the year of the BIG wedding that never happened, but the year that I did say "I DO!"  Though I didn't get to have the wedding of my dreams, I still got to marry the love of my life! Small, yet simple... the courthouse wedding was the highlight of the year. All that mattered was that the family who supported us in everything got to share our special moment together.

So, 2013 is just a few days away. I am hoping for good things to happen... employment for both Rob and myself; better finances; and possibly a special blessing to join our family around this time!

Day 3: Dogs

I don't know about you, but I definitely know that since my dog, Mya, came into our lives (my husband and myself) that it just feels that everything has changed.  Prior to our life with Mya, it had been two years of mourning.  My father-in-law suffered a stroke; my mom was in and out of the hospital, and eventually passing away in November 2010; shortly after, our other beloved pet, our dwarf rabbit bunny Mabel, past away three months later.  So, I felt that our lives were empty.  The talk about having another pet to love, like we did with Mabel, would help fill our void.  My husband and I agreed that we would never get another bunny because, in all honesty, Mabel was the best.  No other bunny would ever be like her, especially in comparison with the other two bunnies that were in our extended family.  Anyway, since Mya had joined her us in her forever home, there have been changes in our lives.  An improvement in my dad's health... a better outlook in life, in general.  Whatever it may be, there is no true explanation as to how bright our life has become with our little Shiba Inu in our lives.

Morning Crowd

I often go people watching to kill some free time, curiosity, intrigue..... today isn't any different. I'm currently sitting at the mall's food court, about 45 minutes before all the stores open up at the mall.  There are many people here, mostly the seniors, who are spending the morning power walking.  Others are doing the same as me, eating breakfast while reading a book or on the phone (I'm doing both).

Voices begin to fill the food court area as groups begin to gather around tables. Some are just passing by to say hello to friends. Others actually sit down at a long row of tables. Perhaps, they will discuss weekend plans, or reminisce on some cherished memories. Whatever it maybe, animated expressions surround the camaraderie.

I just wanted to share... back to my breakfast and my book!

This guy is pretty cool...

Competition begins on "The Voice" soon.  VOTE FOR HIM!

Watch "@JRAquino - By Chance (You & I) (ORIGINAL)" on YouTube

Are You Still Out There?

I know, I know.... I haven't really blogged over the past couple of years.  I basically have had an uneventful life during that period of time.  Other than planning the wedding that never happened, the travels to my parents' homeland, and school, I haven't really had much to share with everybody.  I kinda find it a bit disappointing, actually, because there is always something for me to share... talk about... on my mind... you know, all those crazy things!

For myself, at least, I think I will go back to blogging... time to make it part of my daily routine again.  I'm not working full-time anymore, but will be attending school at a full-time basis.  Soooooooo.... I just may have something to share with all of you (well, whoever is left out there).  I'm not quite sure what it is I just might talk about, BUT there are some interesting souls at school to contemplate on... we shall see!

HO-hum

September has always been a "ho-hum" feeling whenever it comes every year.  I can't really explain why I feel this way.  The month can always be a happy one, a sad one, or just another month.  The past couple of years, September has been a downer.  Two years ago, we were celebrating my mom's 73rd birthday, then we lost her forever a couple of months later.  Last year, the first birthday celebration (of my mom's and myself) without her around... I felt there was no reason for me to enjoy my 35th birthday.  I felt that I should just be in my solitude, remembering my mom and how much I love her and missed her.  This year, 2012, I still feel "eh" inside.  I've been sad and angry because I know that deep down inside that I'm still mourning for my mom.  Her birthday is in a week, and feel like I should keep that memory alive.  I want to celebrate her birthday like she did, her last one.  However, it hurts inside that I can't just run into her room, like I always did, and wake her up with a "Happy Birthday" greeting.  Tears now drop down my face as I reminisce on those days.

However I may feel, I realize that life definitely goes on.  September 14 will always be the day that I will remember my mom.... Whatever I may do to remember and celebrate my mom, I know that she will always be there with me.  I can hear her now... "Don't be shedding tears for me!"  SO, here are to the happy memories... ho-hum...

Our Wedding Day ~ August 9, 2012

Our Wedding Pictures

My Dad

I spent a good evening with my dad last night. We were watching "Top Gun," and he saw a fighter plane on the TV screen. He told me how he once saw one like it as a child during the Japanese War (WWII). I was truly amazed by the stories he told of his childhood. It was a special moment only because he never told stories when I was younger. It was my mom who always told stories about her childhood. So, these are times that I will cherish since I know that I won't have that much time left with him.

Oh, school...

As you may know, I returned to school in a more serious basis in October 2010.  My focus was to finish school for career advancement.  For twelve years, my previous job positions were good as a "job," but not challenging enough for me to develop a career.  My last job as a Contract Assistant, though it was different than my previous job history, was intriguing since I dealt with contract reviews and project closeouts.  However, I did not enjoy the environment with a couple of people in my department -- my boss and a co-worker.  To this extent, I needed to search of a way to go beyond being stuck at any kind of job out there... thus, the return to school.

So, where am I going with this?  Well, this quarter, even though I am only part-time, is really kicking my butt.  For those that know me, I don't really mind the learning part.  It is the writing part that I really don't enjoy.  I believe that when I was taking the classes at the community college that the writing assignments is what hampered my learning.  I really struggle on a weekly basis to try and put together a five-paragraph essay, let alone, just a paragraph.  I hate planning the structure of a paper.  I don't mind the outlines and the freewriting aspect of it.  It is the ACTUAL paper that I can't stand... have I mentioned that I don't like writing papers?  My point is that I struggle every week completing my papers, and I struggle to find the motivation to do it.  It is to the point where it is ultimately the last ditch effort to have something completed by the due date.  I have a paper due on Wednesday for my Critical Thinking class (another subject that I do not enjoy) on the five aspects of problem solving -- topic: Facebook privacy.  I do not even know where to begin!!!  *sigh*

OK, thanks for listening to me vent... continue onward to watching the Olympics (I'm watching the women's gymnastics)... GO USA!!!

Mya Searches For Her Tennis Ball

I found this video quite entertaining as a played catch with Mya...

Hercules

I had to share this picture. My hamster fell asleep on his wheel!

Uncle Ga & Mina

What more than a bond between an uncle and his niece... Rob and Amorina in a beautiful March afternoon

Looking back

With the recent passing of my (best) friend, I've realized that there were so many things taken for granted with life in general. However, before I look forward to the future, I want to look back at how my life was like since I started this blog. I started writing about everything and anything in my life in January 2006...

Here's a look back on what life was like:

2006 - My one and only blog for the month: March 5, 2006
2007 - Three posts: March 2007
2008 - I stopped blogging consistently :-/
2009 - Did not blog more, only TWO posts in 2009
2010 - Must have been a rough year... mom was in the hospital that year
2011 - It was all about Mya around this time ~ Mya was born and the first time we met Mya!

Jamie

I know that I probably do not have the right to post something like this, however, I feel that I have to say my goodbye. So, here goes...

Jamie, we first met when you were a patient at Fortanasce & Associates... an 18-year-old girl who recently had knee surgery, and was preparing to head off to UCLA. For some reason, we shared a special bond through photography, scrapbooking, and the mere stories of the random people we came across at the clinic. Under all that, we became the best of friends. We had our adventures, and somehow, even though the bad days, we still managed to share our thoughts and deepest secrets with each other. For the past six years, your health had been up and down, and you going in and out of the hospital. I feel that somehow I was too blame for not being there when you needed me the most. For that, I am deeply sorry that I dropped the ball. However, for the past six months, I became a bit selfish when I got lost in all the wedding drama. I was angry that you could not be part of my engagement party because of the two people that made your life miserable. I took it personal when you blocked me on AIM... I took you off every means of communication that I had with you. Therefore, for whatever reason, I felt that I lost my best friend. However, there was not a day that I did not think about you.... When I saw an old co-worker, Ashley, comment on Tony's status post of you passing, I was in complete shock. Today, I am still in shock. I feel your presence in a sixth sense kind of way. I can feel your mom's pain because I know how much she loved you. This is my final goodbye to you... I know that you are finally at peace and that God has relieved you from all the pain you have endured. I do still love you. You not only were the bests of friends, but you were a sister to me! I will and always will miss you.

Griffith Park

I haven't been to Griffith Park since maybe 1995 (way before their major renovation and restoration project). Rob hadn't been to the observatory at all since his move to California in 1998. We went to check it out with our friend, Brenda, on Friday... pretty cool!

Tired

As I write this, I just let out the biggest yawn I have had so far. I am so tired it is difficult for me to verbalize the simplest of words by pronouncing the wrong syllable in a word that is remotely not the same. It has been a busy week, and I cannot recall the last time Rob and I had just a day to relax. Many past events with family and friends over the past two weekends have been entertaining, but it is exhausting! I am hoping that this week will die down soon because I want to sleep! I cannot get a normal sleep cycle going at all!

Project 365 | A Photo Challenge

In light of everything that has happened, I realized that I need a bit of some stress relief. To seek that relief, I turned back to something that I have always enjoyed doing - PHOTOGRAPHY! Before modern technology even took over with the digital camera, there has not been a time where I was always caring a camera, dozens of film canisters, and my imagination. Digital cameras made my project even easier where I could just tuck it into whatever purse, backpack, or coat pocket that I had with me at the time. Instant memories were cherished (or deleted) forever. Looking at a former co-worker’s and her little daughters’ blog (they each have one), I discovered that my co-worker also had a photoblog document every single day. She had started her own Project 365 based on daily themes that she received from scrapbooking group. I was so amazed to see many of the different pictures she had taken, and her perspective on things. Heather's photo taking has inspired me to begin photoblogging for the next 365 days. I am exploring the different themes and ideas to see what I can share for the next 52 weeks. Check out my site everyday: 365 Days of Mynmay

What Could Have Been

March 17, 2012 - today's festivities would have been our wedding day, not St. Patrick's Day. For the past two weeks, I have been under a great deal of stress, not because of what would have been. It was because if what MIGHT not happen. For personal reasons, the March wedding that I have been planning for the past eight months had become a not. However, a wedding will still happen in July. *fingers crossed*

Wedding Progress

Less than three weeks to go until the wedding, and things are starting to go crazy. It hasn't hit me yet that our special day is fast approaching. There are little things here and there that are beginning to come together. However, there are still deadlines that we are still trying to meet. In any case, we are looking forward for the big day to come. The bridal shower, bachelor party, and bachelorette dinner will be happening within the next two weeks. So, come right back as I post pictures of the upcoming events!

Family

It's been about a week since I received the news of my Uncle Mert's death. He was my mom's oldest brother, and had lived to be 84 years old. Prior to his passing, my uncle was admitted into the ICU with a 50-50 chance of survival. In reviewing his MRI report, they had found some fractures and compression in his lower spine after a fall. They also found a mestastasis in his liver as well, causing him to lose his appetite. As I was told, he was not eating, and at a point of being unrecognizable. So, in a way, it was not surprising that Uncle Mert was gone, but words still cannot express how I've felt since.

On Saturday, as I think about my mom everyday, especially since it has almost been a year since she died, and the death of my uncle in the back of my mind, I received news of my mom's sister, Brigitte, dying. She was my mom's older sister by four years, and her health was not at its best in recent months. Auntie Brigitte had suffered the same ailments that had affected my mom the year before. As Uncle Mert had entered the hospital, she had been released from the National Kidney Institute for the foot she had surgery on the month before and the continuous fevers associated with kidney problems. So, to hear the news that Auntie Brigitte had passed away in her home, collapsing in her room, and dying of a possible heart attack, felt like another blow.

I think that all this hurts for me since they are two of the three remaining links to my mom's life. I regret never really learning about my mom's past other than the stories I heard from mom. Thirty-two years had passed since I last saw my aunt and uncle. I was three years old when I first saw all of my mom's family, and I felt that I had reconnected with the two remaining uncles and my aunt last April (2011).

RIP Uncle Mert (10/26/11) and Auntie Brigitte (10/30/11). I know that the both of you have found your peace. Give my mom and all the family my love. You are all truly missed.

Engagement Party 09.18.11

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Wedding Planning progress

For those of you who may not know, Rob and I are finally taking the plunge! Scheduled for March 2012, the wedding planning is progressing (slowly). As of Friday (7/29/11), we have a few things set, but nothing major. Deposits have been made for the ceremony/reception location, ceremony officiant, the wedding dress and DJ. We have found our photographer, but are still in the works in trying to figure out the deposit for her. I have found my wedding centerpieces on a website, but have not been able to find a decent florist to work with us. Other than those minor details, things are happening at a pace. We'll figure out how everything goes in a couple of months!

Some random pics

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June 2011

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New pic of Mya ~ 11 weeks

I was playing around with the digicam yesterday, and caught her in the middle of "drift" mode as she fell asleep on the tile floor.


edited using Windows Live Photo Gallery



Mya and her big blue snake

Too Cute For Words!!!

Our puppy (now named Mya) turns five and a weeks ago. We met with Chloe, our breeder, and the little pups. I’ve posted 11 new pics, and two videos of the baby girl on my Shutterfly share site (click on the page on the “Links” section of this page). Mya will definitely be Rob’s little girl. She got accustomed to him fairly well, whereas, the little fur bear didn’t with me. She’s got a big heart in that tiny little body, but fears many things as our breeder has mentioned. All I’ve got to say is she’s got quite a personality that I know I will enjoy once she is in her forever home with is!

Slowly progressing...

Three suitcases are full, packed, and locked... no more room left for them... just need to get Dad's balikbayan box filled with a few more items from the extended family and taped up. We should be ready to go! 30 hours to go before head over to LAX to get checked in and boarded onto the plane. I'm definitely not looking forward to the long plane ride. Practically spending a whole day on a plane (with a four hour layover in Seoul, South Korea), and I'm just not really looking forward to it. No Internet, one day worth of music, and reading a book... I definitely don't feel productive. Anyway, like I've told everyone, I'm excited, but not overly excited... Mixed emotions, especially seeing family that I haven't seen in over 31 years, and all the activities involving mom's funeral. Our final goodbye to mom, and not being able to visit her when I want to will be difficult. I do know, that in my heart, my mom will live on through my memories. It will be ...

We met our puppy!

Rob and I scheduled to meet with our breeder, Chloe, mama Sobe, and the pups today.  I can’t say how excited I was just looking forward to this day.  I sound a bit dorky, but what can I say?  I totally fell in love with the lil pup… Mama Sobe met us at the door, and I have never met any dog as nice as she was.  Most Mama dogs normally get a bit apprehensive when their pups are around complete strangers, but Sobe was just as welcoming to us as Chloe.  Check out the pics on our photo website (link to the right “Maya – Our Shiba Inu”).

The Puppies are Here!

Our breeder just notified us to let us know that Sobe just gave birth to her pups. She had two males (both red) and two females (cream and red). We’re excited to meet our new puppy! I will post pics of the new babies as I get them.  To get more info, check out our photo blog on the puppy. Look for the page link on the right side (Link Section), and click on "New Puppy - Shiba Inu." In the meantime, here’s a pic of both mommy and daddy!

So Much To Do

Two weeks until we sit on the plane for my first trip back to the Philippines in over thirty-one years. The trip right now is bittersweet. We bring my mom’s remains to her final resting place, and we, as a family, will finally be getting our closure. I’m not sure how to feel or what to think right now, but I think of my mom every day. Some days are still harder than others, but I don’t think there really is a true way to say goodbye.

Anyway, Rob and I are on our way to pack. It’s difficult to try and decide what items we will or will not need for the trip, especially when there aren’t any specific things to do set in stone. I’m not quite sure where we will be, and it will be difficult to split two weeks between two sides of the family. All I know is that I am looking forward to be able to see family I haven’t seen since I was four. Can you believe it?!?

FirstGiving - Your fundraising

Please take a look at the link below, and donate for a good cause!

FirstGiving - Your fundraising

Thank you in advance for talking the time to consider caring for these wonderful pets!

10th Annual Dog Walk

Come join the many doggie owners and/or doggie fans to support the IVHS (Inland Valley Human Society) & SPCA on May 21, 2011 from 7:30am to 12:30pm in San Dimas.

For more information, please see the following link: 10th Annual Dog Walk

Goldfishes

I know I have the typical set of goldfish, but there are often times where they just line themselves up in stillness. I got intrigued.

Hanging out with Amorina

FINALS WEEK!

Monday marked the beginning of Finals Week at school. The chaos has begun in my mind to start hitting the books seriously. My school books for the quarter almost look brand new (with the exception of the many page tabs I have skillfully planted on every assigned chapter in the beginning of January). I have set aside studying for my Computer Software final for now since I have all week to prepare for it. I am frantically trying to get myself prepared for the three possible topics that my crazy English teacher will choose. So far, I have had only succeeded with two of them – Android vs. iPhone and PC vs. Mac. My arguments are not quite the best, but it is a start. The other four topics will have to wait until the morning. My brain has literally turned into mush right now. I think it's time to get to that much advised rest that every student must take during this time of the school year.

The Puppy Dog Place

The Puppy Dog Place
If you're a proud puppy owner, or simply love dogs, you'll enjoy visiting The-Puppy-Dog-Place.com! There are a lot of tips and advice to help you raise a happy, healthy puppy. The site covers housebreaking, feeding, grooming, training, health care and much more. Tons of fun stuff for dog lovers too!

Mabel

Mabel shortly after we brought her home (April 2008)

I am just barely coping with the loss of my mother when my beloved bunny rabbit, Mabel, passed away about five and a half weeks ago.  Mabel held a special place in all of our hearts, especially my mom - her constant "companion" while she was at home.  I will truly miss my little monkey!


A poem I found on the L.A. County Animal Shelter that had a page on learning to cope with the death of a pet --> The Rainbow Bridge

My Mom

Mom at Redondo Beach - 1998

On Thursday, November 11, 2010, my mother passed away peacefully in her sleep during the early hours of the morning. The cause of her death is unknown, but as a family, we are content with that information. It was a sudden, but unexpected death. It was an end of a very long battle of numerous ailments and illnesses that she has encountered over the past two years. Since her broken hip shortly after Christmas 2008, Mom had been in and out of the hospital with infections, and with her most recent hospital visits for chronic heart failure and kidney failure. It had been two months where we as a family literally watched her "deteriorate." She had a life of many difficulties that I do not think anyone has ever encountered as she did. Mom was full of courage, strength, and an extremely great heart. Family has always been important to her, and she was always the first to offer help to any family member that needed it. She came to the United States, as a single parent, in 1972 to help my brother fulfill his dream to become a doctor. Mom had no close family, and only $200 in her pocket. The instant she set foot on U.S. grounds, she had found an apartment for my brother and herself, and a job working at a nursing facility as a tray person. She thrived for her future... working during the day, attending night school, and taking care of a family (which included a new husband and me). She worked hard to give my brother and myself everything that she never had growing up in the Philippines.

Therefore, as I have watched my mom over the past two years endure her health problems, I saw her become an angry and bitter person. She was not the mom that I was used to seeing in my lifetime until she came home from the hospital in late August. I think somewhere deep down inside she had found her peace with everything that she has been through. Mom became the person she used to be - the happy, loving mom. She celebrated her 73rd birthday as she felt everyone deserved - surrounded by the family that loves her. Mom was back to being the woman she used to... happy, cheerful, and full of life. That is how I will always remember her...

Amorina - one month old

New pics

I have a new baby niece!

Born today (8/18/10 @ 2:02 a.m.), Amorina Faith entered the world. She weighed in at 6 lbs, 4 oz and is 20 inches long!!! We're so happy, excited and blessed to have this bundle of joy here!

My grandniece, Cianna - 12.30.09

I was uploading some pics from the digi-cam, and came across this little video of Cianna. Such a cute baby!!!

Rob's OCD

I never realized Rob had any "quirks" until recently when I had a grip load of dollar bills in my wallet.... Watch :)

Just Being That Way

I am at a phase in my life right now where everything seems to catch up with me. The stresses of everyday life has begun to take its toll on me, and I feel lost.

All that has happened:
My mom's fall and hip break in December 2008, then another hospital stay for gastritis and a possible cancer scare at the start of this year

Rob losing his job because of Home Depot management's stupidity, then his dad's stroke February 2010

Unhappiness at work - I primarily do not feel challenged at work anymore, and don't feel like doing the same thing over and over again

My best friend, Jamie, going through the worst thing in her life with her pancreatitis getting really bad - worse than in 2006

So again, I say - I feel extremely lost. I definitely have the great support from Rob, but there are just sometimes where I just want to say SCREW Y'ALL - and just ball myself and cry.

Merry Christmas!!!

Absent-Minded Blogging

I’m currently sitting at a nearby eatery, having lunch. I had planned on finishing a “catch-up” blog (as I call it) that I started working on about a week ago. I’ve been scatterbrained since I sat down.  Rather than recall the previous week, I decided to just do my absent-minded blogging for right now. I’m lucky if I post this online, so here goes…

I’m doing some people watching as I gather my thoughts onto an open WP page. There are people walking by, some caught up in their conversations, others not paying attention to what is ahead of them. I see a mother and son sitting at the table directly in front of me. The son spent the entire 10 minutes since I've sat down complaining how his sandwich wasn’t done correctly, and has repeatedly asked his mother if they will re-do his sandwich in the way that he liked. Now, let me note that the son isn’t a little boy… he’s a TEENAGE boy. At the table to their left is a couple who looks like they are in their 50s, sitting in silence while they eat their meal. I wonder what they are both quietly thinking to themselves. I also see a young pregnant woman, sitting at a table to my right. She’s enjoying a light meal of bagel and cream cheese for lunch. She holds a piece of her bagel while she writes notes on the page of her "Mommy" book with a pen in her right hand. I see co-workers pass by me and wave hello as I don’t realize it happening since I’ve completely tuned out my audible surroundings.

Ugh, I wonder if people are doing the same thing about me - questioning my frantic typing (I am chatting online as well). Who knows? But oh, to be in the minds of others can be interesting sometimes…

My Personality Test

My 32nd Birthday 09.19.08

I had a wonderful birthday celebration spread out over two days. As you can see, my birthday was full of surprises and lots of fun. The celebration began the day before (09.18.08) with Rob surprising me with the birthday cake flowers, and my boss and co-workers giving me the best cupcakes I have ever had – DOTS Cupcakes in Pasadena. Then, my birthday fun continued on the day of my birthday (09.19.08) at the L.A. County Fair at Pomona Fairflex with Rob, my friend Brenda, Rob's best friend David, and his girlfriend Chelsea, Rob's sister Tricia and her husband, Alex.

As you can see, I had the time of my life! I had not been to the fair in 20 years, and it was well worth it. I want to thank everyone that helped me celebrate this special day. I definitely will cherish the memories.

2nd Anniversary - Disneyland

After a month and a half, I FINALLY have the Anniversary Trip pics somewhat organized in a slideshow... enjoy!

Amazing Natural Wonders

A nice slideshow from AOL ... click below ...

Explore Amazing Natural Wonders Across The USA With AOL Travel

Office Etiquette

This is a small thing (the blog, that is), but I happen to notice this about a couple of weeks ago. As I was walking down a hallway of offices, I heard like a 'clipping' sound. Now keep in mind, this hallway has about six offices (three on each side) with a couple of important management people in them. Anyway, as I hear this sound, I turned my head towards the 'clips' and noticed that one of our proposal managers was cutting her nails. At first, I thought that she probably was cutting her FINGERnails, but looking further, I saw her bent down on her chair cutting her TOEnails! That was just completely gross! I am not sure about you, but if you have the privacy of your office - PLEASE CLOSE YOUR DOORS! Enough said!

A Time to Reflect – Good-bye, 2007!

It is a little more than two weeks into 2008, and as I sit here and write this, I hold wishes that 2008 will be a positive adventure for me to encounter. My reflection on 2007 has shown me that it definitely had been an up & down experience that I truly will never forget in my lifetime. I definitely came about many challenges last year that has tested my strength and patience.

January started out pretty rough. I began the year at a job that pretty much led to many regrets. Looking after Megan was an everyday process that I did not think was a challenge since I adored that little girl. It was a job that, after much thought after everything happened that I definitely did not want to do. Again, I loved watching that little girl grow-up, especially because of her heart condition. I think that for me not wanting that job pretty much involved the fact of what I thought her father definitely was as a person vs. what he really is as a person. Ernie was very overbearing, AND very demanding… pretty much someone who had high goals in life but did not realize that he relied on others to do much of the hard work. His everyday presentations of himself made Ernie appear like a dedicated worker, but yet still a goofball. He provided for his family by working all hours of the day (or night), no matter what. However, my thinking is that when your own child is afraid of you the instant you walk through that front door that there is definitely something wrong. January also brought on my staph infection that put me in the hospital two weeks into the New Year. I wished that I could take back those two weeks of my life! I never could imagine that with my experience in the medical field that I would allow myself to let that infection get that bad. My clue that things were not OK was the fact that I had an abscess the size of a golf ball growing large everyday under my arm. Life lesson learned! The hospital stay was a traumatic experience as it is, and I am still not quite sure to this day why it would be. However, it definitely felt like it was the loneliest time of my life! I still feel anger towards myself, and the doctor's five-minute examination of my wound was the worst encounter that I never want to go through again! Anyway, the healing process has just begun for me mentally, but looking at the area where they drained the abscess, it is looking great. I occasionally still feel a bit of a pain, or twinge, because of scar tissue still in there. Nevertheless, that is something that will be OK for me to deal with…

February – unemployment for a couple of weeks – employment for a week – Rob's sister got married! :) As the healing process began, my patience with Megan's parents was starting to rattle me a bit. Considering that I mentioned to them that I could not return to work until I got medical clearance (to rule out any heart problems since I complained of chest pains when I got admitted into the hospital), Ernie and his wife (well, mostly Ernie) weren't exactly the most understanding people when it came to regards of my medical condition. In addition to all that had been going on with me, my mother had hurt her back and had been bed-ridden for TWO MONTHS! My poor dad spent those months caring for my mother – getting up to make her meals, help her to the bathroom, sit up in bed, etc. In between those times, while I was in the hospital, he helped bring and pick-up Rob at work and visited me at the hospital to bring me comfort items from home. Therefore, when I saw Ernie at my previous employment (Fortanasce), I explained to him my situation. The ungrateful bastard went through a 'boo-ha-ha' speech. "After everything I've done for you, this is how you treat me," is what he told me… OK, I am in the hospital for a week, you 'reprimand' me because YOUR WIFE was always late for work, and (he mentioned that to me while I was in the hospital)… Moreover, you are thinking is that because your feelings are hurt because of me putting my health and my family as a priority that you are going to let me go? Let me tell you this, I QUIT! However, the opportunity came about when Jamie's nurse at the time, Glenora, referred me to a business owner that ran a respiratory therapy-staffing agency. It was a job position that sounded great on paper – pay was great and I actually had the chance to work in a field that I enjoyed – healthcare and Marketing! Well, that is where it all stopped. This business owner was ridiculous! At first, I thought David at Fortanasce was awful? This person was the KING of worst employers that I have come across! I do not think this guy knew the meaning of respect! He treated me unfairly… Told me to do things without an explanation… Did not give the proper orientation in terms of protocol when it came to scheduling staff for the following month… AND while I was on the phone with a client began yelling at me because I did not do things the way he wanted it to be. Overall … the happiness of the month was Rob celebrating his 23rd birthday and his big sis, Tricia, got married! (It was a beautiful wedding, by the way!)

March came along with the anxiety of being unemployed (again). The restlessness of being at home, and not having the ability to have a steady income or pay the bills, was really starting to get to me – AND I MEAN BAD! I spent most of my days at home, and driving Rob to and from work. I did not really feel like doing anything fun because, again, money was limited. We relied on Rob's income to pay the bills and for me to get medications (thank you, baby!) I had one interview that rather gave me the run around, and finally finding out after two weeks that they had already hired someone. Then, there was that job interview as an administrative assistant where the HR lady literally slapped me in the face by telling me that she did not think that I had the experience to answer phones, schedule appointments, type! Good grief, SHE WAS A MORON!

The end of April FINALLY brought on the good news that I FINALLY got a job, a temp-to-hire position working as a Contract Assistant for an Engineering company in Pasadena. It involved mainly data entry for Contract Administrators creating projects for contracts received in their office. I was a bit apprehensive about this job since it was a bit out of my comfort zone. After working in healthcare for almost seven years, a desk job just inputting information into a computer for 8 hours a day can really take its toll on a person. It actually did after a couple of months, physically… I was so used to being active when working with patients that I definitely understand why someone sitting at a desk all day can have the neck and shoulder pains!

July was a difficult month for me. In one day, you could say that I lost a few things (well, they were not things). The stresses of everyday life began to take its toll on me that my first instinct was to take things out on Rob. I do not necessarily recall what set me off that Tuesday morning, but from that point… Something was triggered off in Rob to the point that he made the decision to move out of the house. Going through that day made it rather difficult for me that I was fuming from anger and in tears that I was sent home early because I was so upset. Of course to top it off, I found out that two of my precious cockatiels, Sally and Stewie, had flown away! That night was an interesting night… I was at Starbucks that night with Jamie, and the tears just could not stop flowing. I was going back and forth with wanting to try to work things out with Rob and wanting to break up with him at the moment. The anger inside built up so much that I even called my ex, Aaron, and told him that I needed to see him tonight. I did not care what my condition was that night… I was headed down to San Diego to see him. Nevertheless, because she's the greatest (and best) friend a girl can have in the world, Jamie followed me home after Starbucks to make sure I did my sulking at home.

Anyway, things have been worked out since then – Rob's back to living at home, but there have a few times in the past couple of months where he would have moved out because of my stupidity and some insecurities. I celebrated my 31st birthday in September – somewhat the way I wanted it… I had my Accounting Class on my birthday that I couldn't miss. However, I got to celebrate the b-day a day later at the Magnolia Lounge in Pasadena… Love that place! Food & drinks were awesome! :) Rob and I actually had our FIRST vacation outside of California together by going to Chicago. Both of us had never been there, and though it was limited for 3 days (and some snow that I actually enjoyed), we look forward to going back over there sometime during the summer to explore a lot more things over there! The holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve) have been celebrated with me sick – I just can't get rid of this darn cold!

Other than that, I'm definitely looking forward to 2008. It's an even year, so I hope that good things are to come for me this year! *Fingers Crossed*

Thanks for letting me share my thoughts and my world with all of you…

It's My Birthday

I'm 31 today, and I never could have imagined what this new year in my life can bring me. Though the celebration isn't going to be majorly exciting (I have work all day and school all night), I am truly grateful to be surrounded by the love of Rob, my family and my friends. I've reflected on how my life has completely changed over the past year. From the mistreatment that I received from a couple of previous employers... to my experience and ordeal in the hospital earlier this year... to the unemployment shortly after... followed by the job that has become a blessing and Rob moving out in July, I definitely can say it has been a life experience.

The challenges that I have encountered in the 30th year of my life has definitely affected me emotionally and mentally. The self-confidence for me to find a job that I most deserve has definitely affected me the most to the point that I hit my most low. The hospital was majorly traumatizing that even letting Rob hug me caused me to cry.

Nevertheless, putting aside the negativity of all that, including Rob moving out (which I am not completely ready to talk about), has given me something positive to look forward to. With a new job that I love, it has given the confidence to make the 31st year of my life a better one. I have taken everything that has occurred and have used it as a life lesson.

Bring it on!

My Mom's Birthday - Sept. 14

September 14 marked the day that my mom has lived 70 years on this world. To think how my mom has lived her life during the 30 years that I have been a part of hers truly has me cherish having her in my life. Mom and I have had our differences, but what mother-daughter relationship does not? I definitely know, that despite all the words said and all the emotions felt, my mom has always been there whenever I have needed her.

My mom has encountered so many challenges in her life. She moved here to the U.S. almost 35 years ago. She was a single mother traveling to foreign lands with an 11-year-old son, and not really having any sort of close family around to help her out. In 1988, she was diagnosed with brain cancer after complaints of dizziness and headaches. Her doctor found that she had a tumor the size of a golf ball sitting on the base of her head. In 1994, she was again diagnosed with cancer -- this time breast cancer on the left side -- after she found a lump.

So, for the 70 years of my mom's life, it has been a milestone for her. She has shown that she has the strength to overcome any challenges that life has given her. For that, my mother has truly become my hero.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM! (A tribute a day later!)

A Three-Month Recap

Hmmm... I believe my last posting was in the first week in June... Well, a lot has happened since then, and I'm not sure where to begin....

Let's see.... In July, shortly after the holiday, Rob moved out of the house - which was for the best - because of some very personal issues that I shall not discuss publicly. That same day, I lost two of my special cockatiels - Sally and Stewie - because of them getting spooked and flying away. To this day, there are no signs of whether or not they are still around (or Bebe, who we lost last year).

What else has happened? I have gone back to school after taking about a year off to regroup and focus. Rob has also started school. Rob lost his Grandma Sally a couple of weeks ago.

Work has been great. It has had its ups & downs, as any job can have, but I definitely enjoying what it has had to offer.

Other than that, I am living everyday as I can. I have Rob, my family and my friends around me... What else can I ask for?

Next thing to look forward to? BIRTHDAY #31! :)

Extremely Hectic...

I know that it's been about three months since my last posting... There have been many things that have been going on that when I actually have the time to sit down to talk about it you will definitely have plenty to read about. So hang on tight... and I'll chat with ya in a bit! :)

Not yet engaged...

Though we are not 'officially' engaged, Rob & I went to Robbins Bros. during our anniversary to look at engagement rings. We wanted to get an idea of how much it would cost to get one to his likings. We narrowed it down to three (as you can see by the pictures). Rob and I really loved this ring overall together (I had one I liked and he had one that he liked), except this had a princess cut diamond in the center. Somehow it just seemed to 'fit' with the promise ring that Rob gave me back in November. Even with a round cut diamond, it looked right.

Anyway, the process of looking through the rings and picking it out was perfect. I can see why Robbins Bros. really is the "World's Biggest Engagement Ring Store." Their prices are reasonable, the staff was perfect, and we didn't have the pressure of getting the ring NOW. Our salesperson, Rose, was excellent and helpful. We went through every single display case, and looked at every single ring one-by-one. There were so many rings that just took my breath away!

Going to Robbins Bros. definitely gave us an idea of where to go to get the right ring. I know that when the time is right Rob will pick out the ring that he loves for me (with the help of the BFF, Jamie). I look forward to the day when Rob will ask me to become his wife.

Weekend Getaway - Saturday's Itinerary

Originally, Rob and I were planning to go to Disneyland. Unfortunately, despite setting the alarm clock at 7:30 AM, we ended staying in bed until 10:30 AM. But if you think about it, sleeping in just a little bit longer made it all worthwhile.

Our day began by having lunch at J.T. Schmidt's in Anaheim. It's a brewery/steakhouse with many choices of food. Rob and I both opted to have steak for lunch, with me having a New York Strip and Rob having a 16 oz Rib eye. The place is a bit pricey, but I love eating at this place!

After lunch, we headed off to Target. Our plans were to purchase some swimsuits to relax by the pool. Unfortunately, we didn't find anything to our liking, and it would cost me $25 alone just to purchase a top. Instead, we chose to purchase a few movies to watch in our hotel room.

When we returned to our room, we watched "Hannibal Rising." Good, but disturbing. We also purchased "Secret Window" for Rob to watch and "Because I Said So" for me. We had Chinese takeout delivered to our room.

After a quick bite to eat, we decided to go to the Block in Orange once again just to walk around... ate pretzels... then headed back to the room.

An end to a relaxing day!

Weekend Getaway - Friday's Itinerary

11:00 AM to 12:15 PM
Breakfast/Lunch at Coco's

Our day had a slow start, mainly because of me, but we headed off to Pasadena around 10:30 AM with plans to have breakfast/lunch at Denny's (off of Colorado). Unfortunately, Denny's was not to be because they shut down for remodeling. Instead, we headed off to Coco's in Arcadia (between Michillinda and Colorado). This added to our time, since we had to be at Amadeus Spa a half hour before our appointment time. When we arrived, we had a 10 minute wait until we could be seated. Our waitress was not the best waitress. She told us she would be with us in a minute, but we still waited for an additional 10 minutes. Then, she came and took our drink orders. It only took her about 5 minutes to come back, and take our food order. Well, a group of four arrived shortly after she took our drink order (about 10 minutes later), and they still managed to get their food first (considering we ordered our food right when they were settling into the booth). Our appetizers arrived at the same time as our meals. What's up with that? She offered to get me a refill for my coffee, but she returned without a coffee pot in hand - only to drop off our check. I left very disappointed.


1:00 PM to 3:45PM
Massage at Amadeus Spa & Salon for Rob and me

Let the relaxation begin! I have been looking forward to this massage since the day I booked it a month ago. A session of just letting all that tension and stress flow out of me was worth paying a lot of extra dollars. I never realized how much stress I was holding onto until the massage therapist started digging into my muscles. But it was worth it!



5:00 PM to 6:00PM
Sitting in traffic to get to Anaheim

I don't really have anything to say about this... I'm sure that when someone sees the word traffic they would understand. All I can say is that people are annoying, and there is just no courtesy when it comes to driving. That's it!


6:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Running errands and getting some Sonic food for dinner

Yeah, Rob and I ended up going to Wal-Mart when we got to Anaheim. I somehow managed to forget to pack my shoes (and he forgot his shoes), socks, and some other miscellaneous stuff because of the late start this morning. So, Rob and I went off to get these items. Then, we headed off to Sonic for dinner. I haven't had Sonic in such a long time, and it seems that this is the only one around that I know of in Los Angeles or Orange Counties. I haven't had Sonic since maybe when I was in Nashville. Yummy food!


9:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Corresponding with family and friends

I had the need to let family and friends know that Rob & I made it safely, and chatted a little bit online with Jamie and my cousin.


10:00 PM to 1:30 AM
Off to The Block in Orange to go see "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End"

Awesome movie! Totally better than the second one, and even funnier than the first. Definitely will see it again in the theaters!

Music - A quiz thing

So, here's how it works:
1. Open your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc)
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question, type the song that's playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button

Opening Credits:
Toxic - Britney Spears

Waking up:
Call Me - Deborah Cox

First Day at School:
Mean Girls - Sugarland

Falling in Love:
Modern Day Drifter - Dierks Bentley

Fight Song:
Lay Down Your Love - 4 P.M. (For Positive Music)

Breaking Up:
How To Deal - Frankie J

Prom:
1999 - Prince

College Life:
Feel Good Inc - Gorillaz

Mental Breakdown:
In a Small Town - Kenny Chesney

Getting Back Together:
Can't Help Falling in Love - Andrea Bocelli

Wedding:
Cold Hands (Warm Heart) - Brendan Benson

Birth of a Child:
Don't Cry Out Loud - Diana DeGarmo

Final Battle:
Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen

Funeral Song:
Speed of Life - Sugarland

Ending credit:
Come a Little Closer - Dierks Bentley

Much needed getaway!

Rob and I are planning a much-needed getaway this upcoming weekend. We're not going far (just to Anaheim to spend the weekend at Disneyland and possibly California Adventure.) Anyway, I think all the stresses of me being unemployed and everything else going on have really gotten to me. I need the chance to unwind, and just try to spend as much time as I possibly can with Rob. Since I've started working again, I hardly get to just "spend time" with Rob these days. I miss the sleeping in time... the just having the whole day with him. It seems and feels "different" seeing him after we both get off work. I consider that my "me" time. So, I don't know... Weekend will be great just to have each other all to ourselves, I guess! Come back in a couple of days to hear about our trip and see the pics!

EVERYTHING’S GOING DOWN … Well, the servers at least

Wednesday was interesting enough… We spent our day just going through the everyday processes of dealing with our company’s contract administrators being completely stupid. I mean, for an everyday thing that seems somewhat repetitive, how is it that every single one of them seems to be so clueless in what is mandatory in submitting a project? I cannot recall a time when Elaine isn’t on the phone or emailing one of these idiotic CAs reminding them of the things that they do in an everyday basis. I can admit that I am not quite the perfect person when it comes to remembering a task (and I’m new at this position), but many of these CAs have been there for so many years! How is it that you can forget to upload a contract backup into the system when you know that it is required? Who is it that they’re going to blame when a certain project goes through the audit process? The CAs will be the ones, not the contract assistants who are setting up these projects. We cannot create or update contracts in Oracle until we verify the correct information. How do we know that the correct revenue budget is in the proper project? Sometimes $1 goes along way, especially if it’s a $6 million project for the U.S. Air Force!

I just had to get that off my chest considering that it’s a day-to-day thing. Anyway, projects are coming along. Approximately 11:00 A.M., everyone in our department is trying to process our contracts. If you’re saving information, the little status bars on the bottom right of the screen kind of does what I call a “ping pong” status (the bars just go back and forth with nothing happening). The system did not let you sign back on if you happened to sign off Oracle because the screen went blank. Apparently, the servers were down, and no one in the Tech Support department decided to give us a heads up! (They’re useless sometimes)

I am at my desk twiddling my thumbs away (literally). I literally cannot recall what I exactly did to let the time pass by. I think I might have organized my desk, read a little email, walked around the building a few times, ate a little snack, and waited until lunchtime. What did I do for lunch? Hmm… Can you tell how bored I was?

Luckily, the servers were back up shortly before two o’clock. Despite the server going down, we still managed to finish all of our projects. It definitely must have been a slow day if we managed to do that!

ALL BY MYSELF (and no, I’m not singing)

 

Like I stated on my Monday posting, my co-worker, Elaine, was having "one of those days. " So, she decided to call out sick on Tuesday morning. So guess what happened? I had to solve, fix, etc. all by myself in terms of every single person's problems -- well, so I thought… I didn't really have too many problems to try to resolve.

Problem #1 -- I received an email from a contract administrator. It says that her employees have been able to put charges into a particular project, and asked me to fix it. Don't you just love how these CAs say to "fix it," and never "Can you see what the problem is? " No appreciation at all! Anyway, I went to look at the project, and found that when I had set it up, I didn't change the status from "Unapproved" to "Approved." That was simple enough!

Problem #2 -- Another email from a CA. This one saying that her project manager wanted to place charges on two of the project's task, and asked me again to "fix it." I again reviewed the project, and found that all the tasks had open-end dates -- meaning doing charges and funds to these particular tasks. I email her back, and she tells me, "OK, I was just checking." Why couldn't she take the time to look it up herself? The time it took me to read that email, look at the project, ask the assistant manager to look at it (2nd opinion), go back to my desk to email her, and wait for her response, the CA could have done it herself! My goodness! Do these CAs have any brains? I'd get into it, but that should be another blog. Not really worth blogging about it!

Anyway, since I was by myself to create and update contracts, I just kind of jumped around. By the time I left work at 5:00 P.M., there was no open tickets remaining. I have to say that I did pretty well myself!

OH, SUCH A SLOW DAY (well, for me anyway)…

Monday was a major contrast to the hectic day of last Friday. Monday morning started out pretty much how a normal morning would start. Monday mornings are catch up for whatever projects and updates were leftover from last Friday. I think that my Friday disarray mirrored my fellow co-worker's Monday chaos.


I just went on with my routine… I completed one ticket after another… Having my minor little detail questions answered here and there. Everything bombarded my poor co-worker left and right. If it was not a project she was having problems with, there was something going on in our department. If it was not coming from our department, she was getting phone calls from someone in our company's different divisions/organizations. Poor Elaine… It was one of those days where you think that your day will be easy (like I did last Friday), and everything and everyone becomes a problem that you have to drop everything to fix it! Every time she attempted to sit at her desk to start working on a project Elaine was taken away to do something else.


All that said… There really isn't much else to say. It definitely was a slow day! The sign was when I returned shortly after lunch, I had a total of 10 projects completed by 2:00 PM. I spent a remainder of that time walking around the building, sitting at my desk hitting the "Refresh" button on the browser in hopes of something coming in, and organizing my desk to my liking!


Can you tell I get bored easily?

Friday Mayhem

How is it that one simple little task that a person does every single day cause so much trouble? Well, let me tell you one thing… If you were a fly on the wall that day, you definitely would be able to answer that question.

My day -- actually, my morning -- started out pretty well. I drove to work with ease… It was payday *cha-ching*… In addition, I was planning to go with the flow of things. THEN I WALKED INTO WORK! I went through my usual morning routine -- turned on my computer, got my desk ready for work, put my personal things away, and got my breakfast and morning coffee. Once I got settled, I logged onto Outlook to read my e-mail, which I always do to see if there were any project updates that I needed to do right away. My attitude was, “Why bother considering no one would be sending me anything to work with?” I set aside that thought, and of course, I definitely found something in the email!

Email:
SUBJECT: Project # (whatever it was - you wouldn’t understand it)
BODY: Project such and such had its ticket closed out, and not in Oracle (our projects and contracts database). Please fix it!

So, I was thinking that this should be easy enough considering that it does not take that long to create a new project and contract into a database. Geez, I was definitely wrong about that! Everything that you could possibly think that could go wrong definitely did… Prior to setting up a project, I normally go through all the information, and highlight “key” items that needs inputting into Oracle. Well, going through my “highlighting” process, I found that there was a little mix up with the prime and end clients. Considering that this project was an “Intercompany” contract (a project funded by our own company), I had to make sure that everything was done carefully. The contract administrator had placed our company’s name in the end client. The norm is when dealing with an Intercompany contract, we are always the prime client. [Let me explain prime and end clients -- the prime client is the company that holds the contract, and funds the services provided; the end client is the company who receives the services provided for the particular project.] The CA and I agreed with the definition of the prime and end clients, but which category the client should be in became a disagreement. So, I discussed it with one of our CAs in our department. She clarified what I had stated above, but told me to discuss it with the head of our billing department. I emailed her, with a copy of the contract attached, and she clarified my thought. Anyway, I was right… He was wrong… He made the correction… Easy enough, right? WRONG!!!!

Another problem (same project) comes along. My thought process was to set up the project, and close out the ticket once he made the corrections. Here is where my mistake came along… As I was setting up the project, I did not realize that I had setup everything with the old information. So, everything that I had tried to make clear for an hour and half all went to waste! Because of this blunder, I had to close out the project, and recreate a new one since Oracle is not friendly to those who make little mistakes like that.

Anyway, as I was starting over (for the second time), I came to realize that the customer database contained 225 different addresses for our company. To find out the address, I went back to the contract to figure out which client numbers to choose. I could not find the address at all! So, I called the CA to see if he could help me out… He was of no help at all! I just picked the closest thing I could get, and compared the numbers to the listing that we have for reference.

Overall,… this project took me FOUR HOURS to work on! Oh, so frustrating…

To compensate for such a hectic morning, though, the day went on slow. We did not really get that many projects to update or create. The Contracts Assistant that I work with leaves at 3:00 every Friday afternoon. So, she told me to go home early since there was not anything left to do. Me like it!

Rob and I went out for dinner, and played pool at 4th Dimensions (kind of like a belated “We met a year ago” kind of anniversary outing / “I had a bad day, and need a drink” kind of fun.) It was an end to a very interesting and overwhelming day (and week).

So far behind...

I've got stories to tell about my experiences at work over the last few days, but I've gotten very overwhelmed in other things that I haven't had the chance to sit down to share my thoughts. I'm working on it, though... I should have last Friday's (5/11/07) experience posted in a little bit, with more on the rest of this week to follow...

A year gone by...

...and I never imagined that my life would be so filled with the love I have had from my boyfriend this past year. Rob and I met a year ago last Saturday, and I cannot express how much Rob has meant to me. One year ago, we had an instant attraction that I never could have imagined that would have gone beyond that first meeting. At the time, my life was filled with lots of insecurity, low self-esteem, and a fear of letting someone know who I truly am. I was also "letting go" of someone who felt like dead weight to me.

In the year, it has been up & down. Rob has been there for me no matter how tough it got (read previous posts). I never imagined that I could find someone that I could spend my life with forever. Today, I really wouldn't know what I would do if Rob wasn't in my life. He is my rock... my soul... my love...

Another week completed...

I am beginning to get into my own thing at work... I've managed to survive doing this job with out being overwhelmed with the responsibilities that come with the job. I'm actually enjoying myself. My fellow co-workers in the department have been excellent to work with, and very helpful when it seems like I've asked them the same questions 100 times in 5 minutes. I have not quite ventured out in terms of getting to know others at work (it seems there that each section of cubicles is a new realm that only those inside live in). The commute to and from work still hasn't gotten to me, but I'm still trying to figure out alternative routes. I think I may have figured one out going in one direction, but still playing around with the other direction.

Other than the little scare I had yesterday afternoon ... I was working on creating a new project. It was around 3:30 in the afternoon, so I was getting tired. As I was typing up the project, I was not quite paying attention as to how I was working on the project. I kept thinking to myself that I had already created it, so I closed out what I was working on to search for it. Didn't realize that I had already saved the work. So when I went back to search for the template I needed, the already saved project came up. It scared the heck out of me because I thought I erased the template. Asked one of the girls to see if she could help me fix it, and we came to realize that I had changed the project name to the title of the template.... I am doing well. I have adjusted... I have found a job that has made me happy -- and a lot of money ;)

End-of-the-week thoughts...

OK, well, I have completed two and half days of work at my new job! I have to say that I actually survived the experience. I never thought that this job would become so easily for me. There is definitely a lot of things and information for me to learn and understand in terms of the job, especially since it requires a lot of attention-to-detail. The position deals with creating, modifying and closing out contracts... If you miss one tiny, little detain... Put in one wrong number... It will mess up everything involved and cause the company a lot of money!

Going into the job, I really was not nervous... I think that the only thing that freaked me out the most was trying to figure out the best commute to work without trying to kill anybody (I do not do fairly well sitting in traffic). I found a route that suited me for now, so we will see how long it will take me to change my route again... Anyway, I think I have just anticipated my expectations of what my responsibilities were for this job. I was more relieved with FINALLY having a job to go to everyday... Being unemployed for so long was beginning to get to me A LOT (see my last post). As I ended my day on Friday, my manager told me how she and everyone on my team were impressed by how well I was doing and how quick I was picking up the process. Therefore, that was a lot of weight of my shoulders for me! (in addition, a boost in confidence)

Therefore, I am looking forward to getting a decent income... To getting out of the house... and entering the workforce again! It is different from what I have been used to doing for the last seven years, but I think I am going like doing this a lot!

This might be it...!

...I'm not really getting my hopes up, but I've got a phone interview on Monday for an engineering company in Pasadena... If things go well, I may possibly start on Wednesday. PLEASE KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED! :)

The frustrations of finding a job...

So, here I am... STILL looking for a job! It's been two and a half months since I walked out on that ridiculous job in Gardena. I've had several job interviews, but no takers! The problem is, with all the talent & experience that I've maintained throughout the years, going from one industry to another makes it difficult. I've been attempting to make that transition from healthcare to whatever else is out there, and no one seems to think that I have the capability to do the job. The last place I interviewed at literally "slapped me in the face" because she didn't think that I had enough office experience. Well, if she READ my resume, she will see that a majority of my work has been in an office environment. It seems that people don't see how I am an all-around worker... I've basically worked in every department / area in the places that I've worked at. It seems that the lady didn't think that I had enough experience in answering phones? Come on, I've done that for so long.... How difficult is it to answer calls? To schedule appointments & meetings? To enter information into a computer? To fax a document? To photocopy a piece of paper?!? Oh, my!