I was on vacation from work for a week and a half. Yes, I did stuff and saw things and yes I plan on writing about them. Actually, I've already started. There is just so much to write about so give me some time. Just a wee bit of time is all I'm asking for here folks.
Question: Since my vacation post is so long, do you think I should break it up into a few smaller posts or just keep it as one long post? Let me know what you think in the comments!
I hope you all had a fantastic holiday!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Cookie Baking Day
Lil K came over around 11 and we got started on making snicker doodle dough right away. I had just enough time before she came over to do dishes and clean the kitchen so there was plenty of counter space....at least there was before we started. We got everything mixed together and were using my mixer to get the job done. Then my mixer quit. It made a loud noise and told me it didn't want to do any more work. Cookie dough: Done! We stuck it in the fridge to chill and sat down to talk before the other girls made it over. I told her all about my not blind date and K's lokoness.
K and L showed up together and we started making chocolate crisps. I melted the candy bars and made K clean and measure. Though she was having a hard time paying attention...She was gushing to everyone about my not date. She seemed more excited for him to text me than I was. Silly woman.
With the crisps done and the snicker doodles going into the oven we prepared for sugar coma. The first batch of cookies came out of the oven, and even though we had forgotten a step (you're supposed to chill the baking sheets? Whoops....) they were delicious! And gone in about 5 seconds. More cookies into the oven, and still waiting on the crisps to cool enough to eat.
After all the snicker doodles were finished A was finally off work and able to join us but lil K had to leave the party to play driver and head to work. Thankfully she took some cookies and a crisp to G so there was less left at my house for me to consume.
I saved the chocolate chip cookie baking for when A was able to make it so she wouldn't miss all the fun and I headed into the kitchen to start. The girls whined at me and I told them they didn't really have to help but they did have to keep me company in the kitchen. Which they did. Thank you ladies.
We talked about whatever random topics came to mind (boys, work, family), as always and laughed a lot. And then Mad Libs came out. I continued baking and they sat in a circle having story time.
"Noun!"
"Uh...which one's that again?"
"Person, place or thing"
"Verb!"
"Which one's that again?"
How did you guys get through english class?
I kept responding with answers, but they were all related to cookie baking. Delicious, gooey, tasty, nummy. Yea, ok. Probably not the best choices. Fine. You guys win.
As one story is read aloud, K has a brilliant idea. "That could be a movie! We should make this into a movie you guys."
928.4 years later, all the cookies are baked, story time is over, and we're all in an almost deadly sugar coma. K and L decide they need to get going so I order them to fill a tin of cookies before they go and thank God they do because I might be dead right now if they hadn't.
A and I hang out for a few minutes before she leaves. She invites me over for dinner and the season finale of Dexter and of course I say yes. Because I know R will be cooking. And that means yummy.
So yummy...
K and L showed up together and we started making chocolate crisps. I melted the candy bars and made K clean and measure. Though she was having a hard time paying attention...She was gushing to everyone about my not date. She seemed more excited for him to text me than I was. Silly woman.
With the crisps done and the snicker doodles going into the oven we prepared for sugar coma. The first batch of cookies came out of the oven, and even though we had forgotten a step (you're supposed to chill the baking sheets? Whoops....) they were delicious! And gone in about 5 seconds. More cookies into the oven, and still waiting on the crisps to cool enough to eat.
After all the snicker doodles were finished A was finally off work and able to join us but lil K had to leave the party to play driver and head to work. Thankfully she took some cookies and a crisp to G so there was less left at my house for me to consume.
I saved the chocolate chip cookie baking for when A was able to make it so she wouldn't miss all the fun and I headed into the kitchen to start. The girls whined at me and I told them they didn't really have to help but they did have to keep me company in the kitchen. Which they did. Thank you ladies.
We talked about whatever random topics came to mind (boys, work, family), as always and laughed a lot. And then Mad Libs came out. I continued baking and they sat in a circle having story time.
"Noun!"
"Uh...which one's that again?"
"Person, place or thing"
"Verb!"
"Which one's that again?"
How did you guys get through english class?
I kept responding with answers, but they were all related to cookie baking. Delicious, gooey, tasty, nummy. Yea, ok. Probably not the best choices. Fine. You guys win.
As one story is read aloud, K has a brilliant idea. "That could be a movie! We should make this into a movie you guys."
928.4 years later, all the cookies are baked, story time is over, and we're all in an almost deadly sugar coma. K and L decide they need to get going so I order them to fill a tin of cookies before they go and thank God they do because I might be dead right now if they hadn't.
A and I hang out for a few minutes before she leaves. She invites me over for dinner and the season finale of Dexter and of course I say yes. Because I know R will be cooking. And that means yummy.
So yummy...
So this is how grown ups do it....
I spent all of Saturday morning in bed. Not because I was tired, or sick. Just because I could. I didn't have anything to do except some very specific shopping and a cocktail party later on at night. I love when I can sleep in and lounge around the house like a bum for hours. It's the best feeling in the world. For me at least.
Once I finally got my butt in gear I headed out to look for some cookie tins for my cookie baking extravaganza which was to be happening the next day. I drove around for about half an hour with no destination in mind. I think just because it was almost 5 and it was the first time I had been out of the house all day so I was just driving for the sake of driving. I ended up at a goodwill and was hoping I could find some fun unique tins or something for Christmas-ness. I didn't find any tins...but I did score some kick ass wine carafes and a nice glass pitcher. Did I really just shop for myself? Damn it...
I made a quick trip to the Dollar Tree where I found plenty of fun holiday cookie tins and a couple of random decorations to take home with me. I made a big mess because the Dollar Tree thinks it's necessary to have a giant crooked metal pole sticking out of their carts and the stupid thing hit a shelf on my way down an aisle. A nice woman helped me pick up the mess though. Aw! There really are nice people left in the world!
I don't really have a lot of decorations (well any actually..the ones I've used in the past I just stole from my mom) so I figured I could splurge a little....at the dollar store...
I was lured down the glow stick aisle and started dumping handfuls of glow sticks in the cart. I had to dig to find pink ones, because those are always the most popular. By the time I found 3 packs of pink necklaces I decided to be done. I turned around with my arms packed full of glow sticks and found a little girl with a doll in her hand staring at me. As I dumped my pile into my cart, on top of the glow sword and bracelet packs, she gave me the side eye. Behind her I spotted a display of crazy color glow bracelets, which I have never seen so I knew I had to buy at least one. But this girl was in my way. Just side eyeing me. Move it kid.
I reached past her head and grabbed the bracelets to throw in my cart. Then I left to see if they had anything else I thought I needed to buy. I tired to make my way to a check stand but there was someone in my way at every turn. It was starting to get annoying. I mean, who stands in the middle of the only walk way in front of the check stands when you're not even going to the check stand? Can you not see me and my cart full of glowy goodness with the giant pole sticking out of it? Do you not hear your boyfriend telling you that you're in the way? And when you finally do figure out what's going on, why do you then look at me like I'm the one in your way? People...
As I piled my glow sticks and tins onto the conveyor belt I could feel the eyes of everyone in line behind me on my hoard. I might have thought I was only imagining the feeling...but when my cart was empty I took a peek and they were definitely all looking at my pile with suspicion. Psha. They're just jealous.
I drove back home and got ready for my one and only holiday cocktail party for this year. My friends A and R were throwing the party and I haven't seen them since high school days so I was pretty excited. Plus, the opportunity to get all glammed up is always something I like. I threw on my favorite LBD, some festive tights and my newest shoes (with some flats to take with me of course) and headed out.
I was actually pretty nervous when I first got there, just because I wouldn't know the majority of people there and that always makes me insane in the brain but when I got inside and R greeted me with a huge smile and welcoming hug, all my jitters went out the door. After a quick hello and hug from A, R led me into the kitchen where she showed me their only non alcoholic juice (which was freaking delicious!) and told me to help myself to the snacks. There was a bunch of home made goodies and everyone at the party was super friendly. Not just friendly, but dressed to impress! Everyone was in their cocktail best. There were pretty LBD's all over the place, men in suits and ties and silk and sparkles and glitter were everywhere! Ok, so that might be a slight exaggeration but really, it was nice to be at a party where everyone was dressed up, looking fabulous.
R and I took some time to catch up. We talked about everything we had been through in the years since high school and gossiped about our mutual friends from back in the day. Of course, eventually a yearbook came out and the real reminiscing happened. Which is how I found out I'm not in one of the yearbooks. Those bastards.
"She's pregnant, she had a baby, he's having a baby, they're married now" and so on and so on.
It was really nice to talk to her because she has a good head on her shoulders, and common sense which as we all know is no longer very common. It's nice to know that there are other smart people in the world and it's even nicer to know that I can call those people friends.
Once everyone settled into the living room we moved the chairs around and formed a weird circle. We decided it was like we were in AA. We talked about music and movies, passed around a movie of controversial content, then had a serious conversation about the man inside Barney. I may have accidentally called someone a douchebag, but not really.
R's dad comes to the party. We welcome him AA style. R introduces me to him as the person that introduced her to A and M (her now husband and best friend). I had absolutely no idea I introduced them. I hate to get cocky here...but I introduced her to her husband. I helped her on her journey to happiness. I gotta say...it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. R's dad requests a high five for a job well done. I oblige.
At one point, R and A's friend C decides to play a game.
"Ooh, this is fun. I'll guess the first time you got drunk!"
Ha. Alright. Yea fun game. Go.
"14?"
I'm not sure how to take that. Does that mean I look like someone that's been partying for years and years? Or does it mean I look like someone susceptible to peer pressure? Maybe I look like someone who has fun? Perhaps it was just a drunk guys guess. No meaning at all behind it. That's probably the most likely.
I told him I had never been drunk and as usual, the questions came. Astonished faces all around. That's always fun for me. I explained, as I always do. Not one sip, not never, not ever. I almost accidentally took a sip of my uncles beer on accident, but he took it out of my hand before that could happen.
Questions from the other side of the room now. Let's all join in! Nope, I don't plan on ever drinking. I made it this far, so I might as well keep going. Girl with unpierced ears know what I'm talkin about! High five to her.I get some respect and then a new question.
"What do you do to cope?"
Laughter all around. It was easy to be open with these people. They were all accepting, cool, real people. No judgment from them. Just curiosity.
Before I knew it, it was midnight thirty and I had to go. I was supposed to get up early in the morning for cookie baking and that wasn't going to happen if I stayed any later.
Once I finally got my butt in gear I headed out to look for some cookie tins for my cookie baking extravaganza which was to be happening the next day. I drove around for about half an hour with no destination in mind. I think just because it was almost 5 and it was the first time I had been out of the house all day so I was just driving for the sake of driving. I ended up at a goodwill and was hoping I could find some fun unique tins or something for Christmas-ness. I didn't find any tins...but I did score some kick ass wine carafes and a nice glass pitcher. Did I really just shop for myself? Damn it...
I made a quick trip to the Dollar Tree where I found plenty of fun holiday cookie tins and a couple of random decorations to take home with me. I made a big mess because the Dollar Tree thinks it's necessary to have a giant crooked metal pole sticking out of their carts and the stupid thing hit a shelf on my way down an aisle. A nice woman helped me pick up the mess though. Aw! There really are nice people left in the world!
I don't really have a lot of decorations (well any actually..the ones I've used in the past I just stole from my mom) so I figured I could splurge a little....at the dollar store...
I was lured down the glow stick aisle and started dumping handfuls of glow sticks in the cart. I had to dig to find pink ones, because those are always the most popular. By the time I found 3 packs of pink necklaces I decided to be done. I turned around with my arms packed full of glow sticks and found a little girl with a doll in her hand staring at me. As I dumped my pile into my cart, on top of the glow sword and bracelet packs, she gave me the side eye. Behind her I spotted a display of crazy color glow bracelets, which I have never seen so I knew I had to buy at least one. But this girl was in my way. Just side eyeing me. Move it kid.
I reached past her head and grabbed the bracelets to throw in my cart. Then I left to see if they had anything else I thought I needed to buy. I tired to make my way to a check stand but there was someone in my way at every turn. It was starting to get annoying. I mean, who stands in the middle of the only walk way in front of the check stands when you're not even going to the check stand? Can you not see me and my cart full of glowy goodness with the giant pole sticking out of it? Do you not hear your boyfriend telling you that you're in the way? And when you finally do figure out what's going on, why do you then look at me like I'm the one in your way? People...
As I piled my glow sticks and tins onto the conveyor belt I could feel the eyes of everyone in line behind me on my hoard. I might have thought I was only imagining the feeling...but when my cart was empty I took a peek and they were definitely all looking at my pile with suspicion. Psha. They're just jealous.
I drove back home and got ready for my one and only holiday cocktail party for this year. My friends A and R were throwing the party and I haven't seen them since high school days so I was pretty excited. Plus, the opportunity to get all glammed up is always something I like. I threw on my favorite LBD, some festive tights and my newest shoes (with some flats to take with me of course) and headed out.
I was actually pretty nervous when I first got there, just because I wouldn't know the majority of people there and that always makes me insane in the brain but when I got inside and R greeted me with a huge smile and welcoming hug, all my jitters went out the door. After a quick hello and hug from A, R led me into the kitchen where she showed me their only non alcoholic juice (which was freaking delicious!) and told me to help myself to the snacks. There was a bunch of home made goodies and everyone at the party was super friendly. Not just friendly, but dressed to impress! Everyone was in their cocktail best. There were pretty LBD's all over the place, men in suits and ties and silk and sparkles and glitter were everywhere! Ok, so that might be a slight exaggeration but really, it was nice to be at a party where everyone was dressed up, looking fabulous.
R and I took some time to catch up. We talked about everything we had been through in the years since high school and gossiped about our mutual friends from back in the day. Of course, eventually a yearbook came out and the real reminiscing happened. Which is how I found out I'm not in one of the yearbooks. Those bastards.
"She's pregnant, she had a baby, he's having a baby, they're married now" and so on and so on.
It was really nice to talk to her because she has a good head on her shoulders, and common sense which as we all know is no longer very common. It's nice to know that there are other smart people in the world and it's even nicer to know that I can call those people friends.
Once everyone settled into the living room we moved the chairs around and formed a weird circle. We decided it was like we were in AA. We talked about music and movies, passed around a movie of controversial content, then had a serious conversation about the man inside Barney. I may have accidentally called someone a douchebag, but not really.
R's dad comes to the party. We welcome him AA style. R introduces me to him as the person that introduced her to A and M (her now husband and best friend). I had absolutely no idea I introduced them. I hate to get cocky here...but I introduced her to her husband. I helped her on her journey to happiness. I gotta say...it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. R's dad requests a high five for a job well done. I oblige.
At one point, R and A's friend C decides to play a game.
"Ooh, this is fun. I'll guess the first time you got drunk!"
Ha. Alright. Yea fun game. Go.
"14?"
I'm not sure how to take that. Does that mean I look like someone that's been partying for years and years? Or does it mean I look like someone susceptible to peer pressure? Maybe I look like someone who has fun? Perhaps it was just a drunk guys guess. No meaning at all behind it. That's probably the most likely.
I told him I had never been drunk and as usual, the questions came. Astonished faces all around. That's always fun for me. I explained, as I always do. Not one sip, not never, not ever. I almost accidentally took a sip of my uncles beer on accident, but he took it out of my hand before that could happen.
Questions from the other side of the room now. Let's all join in! Nope, I don't plan on ever drinking. I made it this far, so I might as well keep going. Girl with unpierced ears know what I'm talkin about! High five to her.I get some respect and then a new question.
"What do you do to cope?"
Laughter all around. It was easy to be open with these people. They were all accepting, cool, real people. No judgment from them. Just curiosity.
Before I knew it, it was midnight thirty and I had to go. I was supposed to get up early in the morning for cookie baking and that wasn't going to happen if I stayed any later.
Not a set up, more of a....well yea, a set up
K and K2 invited me over to hang out on Friday. They were trying to hook me up with K2's friend R. I was told this was definitely not a blind date. Not a set up. Nope. No way.
It was totally a set up. This was basically a chaperoned blind date. Only my chaperone got drunk. Good news: 4 loko's are back.
At first I was told to be to their house around 7 but then it turned out R was planning on showing up around 6. Too bad for him, I had already made plans for between work and my not date. He would just have to wait. And since it's not a set up anyway, then it's not biggie. So there. Er something.
I finally made it to their house around 7 (I was on time. I don't care what anyone says...not that anyone said anything about that at all) and as it turns out, R wasn't able to make it when he thought he would and I ended up beating him there. I win. Oh, you say it's not a game? Damn.
I killed time by entertaining the cat, Blues. I would say he entertained me but...well I suppose it went both ways. I stole his cat toy on a stick and made him do flips and chase it around the apartment. It was good times. Blues got a good workout in, and I kept busy while keeping my nerves in check at the same time.
Ok, it's not a "date" per say, but it was definitely a set up and that tends to make my nerves act a lil wacky. So thanks Blues. You're a good friend.
R finally made it and drinking began (you know, there's not a lot for a non drinker to do when there is drinking going on. K2 did buy a bottle of smartwater special just for me though. He's so thoughtful). We all played with the cat and watched him play and hide and seek in the Christmas tree.
K decided that since they revamped the 4loko recipe and took out some of the caffeine, we would need to make a trip to 7eleven for her to get a second can. The boys decided it was nacho time so while they went to work on the masterpiece, K and I took a quick trip. In which K tried to get the scoop. Of course, there was no scoop for her to get (except for my admittance that he is indeed very nice to look at) since we were all of course hanging out in the same room so she could see everything that was going on. The loko was kicking in I think...
Back at the apartment we all chowed down on K2's famous 7 lb nacho (not actually 7 lbs) and made a lot of small talk about R's kick ass Grinch hat and with a second 4 loko hitting her system, K declared it was adventure time. So we bundled up (after a lot of convincing from K. She is very persistent, that one.) and went for a walk. I kept hearing things like "only a 3 mile loop" and "in the tunnel" and "under the bridge" and I started to panic about where we were going. I didn't wear hiking shoes! I wore what I wore to work. Those flats were most definitely not made for walking. Ah well. I knew whatever happened, we were going to have fun, so what if my boots got a little muddy.
The rain held off for the night and K was definitely on the loko-er end of the spectrum when she announced she had to pee and starting running off into the distance. I followed after her. All the way down that hill. I giggled the whole way because I'm a weirdo. K disappeared behind some bushes and I was put on guard duty. Which I am terrible at. Instead of holding anyone off I just kept telling her to hurry up because they were getting closer. When she finished (my friends and I are all about classy ladylikeness) we ran to the bottom of the hill and she did the scoop getting thing again and I told her, again, that there was no scoop. She told me she suggested our adventura (you have to read that word in a loud excited voice because that's how it works) in order to give R and I some time to talk on our own. So subtle you are, my friend.
When the boys caught up to us we headed to the waterfront where they talked about BMX stuff and K almost literally shoved me towards R. We walked away from the water to the most giant staircase ever (no, not really). R told me there was 400 stairs, but he made that up. K and K2 were walking at mach speed, giving R and I time to walk alone. We walked about a block behind them the rest of the way home and talked about random stuff like how I live in the hood and how fast our friends can walk when they think they're being slick.
We came to a fish ladder and everyone was peeking over the railing down at the rushing water, so I went up to the railing next to me and took a peek. Only a peek though because almost as soon as I touched my hand to the rail K was whisper-scolding me to stand closer to R. Chaperone mode: On.
We came to the bus stop a block away from the apartment and stopped for no real reason. The bus stop looks like a wacky covered wagon and R thought about climbing on top of it but decided not to because he was scared he might break through it. Then he offered me a ride in an abandoned shopping cart, which I declined because it was soaked with rain from earlier. We walked back to the apartment where we found K and K2 still outside. We all headed back up to the apartment and it was very apparent that the loko had left. K nodded off on the couch when we made it back inside so K2 said goodnight to R and I before we took off for the night. K made sure to be awake enough to command-whisper at me to be sure to text her when I got home to let her know what happened after I left.
We walked silently out to the parking lot and when we got to my car her suggested we exchange numbers. I got out my phone and called his and just like that the night was over. I got in my car and sent K a text.
"Happy now? we got each others numbers."
I didn't expect a reply until the next day, but almost instantly there it was.
"I know. We watched :)"
Like weirdo parents. Thanks guys.
It was totally a set up. This was basically a chaperoned blind date. Only my chaperone got drunk. Good news: 4 loko's are back.
At first I was told to be to their house around 7 but then it turned out R was planning on showing up around 6. Too bad for him, I had already made plans for between work and my not date. He would just have to wait. And since it's not a set up anyway, then it's not biggie. So there. Er something.
I finally made it to their house around 7 (I was on time. I don't care what anyone says...not that anyone said anything about that at all) and as it turns out, R wasn't able to make it when he thought he would and I ended up beating him there. I win. Oh, you say it's not a game? Damn.
I killed time by entertaining the cat, Blues. I would say he entertained me but...well I suppose it went both ways. I stole his cat toy on a stick and made him do flips and chase it around the apartment. It was good times. Blues got a good workout in, and I kept busy while keeping my nerves in check at the same time.
Ok, it's not a "date" per say, but it was definitely a set up and that tends to make my nerves act a lil wacky. So thanks Blues. You're a good friend.
R finally made it and drinking began (you know, there's not a lot for a non drinker to do when there is drinking going on. K2 did buy a bottle of smartwater special just for me though. He's so thoughtful). We all played with the cat and watched him play and hide and seek in the Christmas tree.
K decided that since they revamped the 4loko recipe and took out some of the caffeine, we would need to make a trip to 7eleven for her to get a second can. The boys decided it was nacho time so while they went to work on the masterpiece, K and I took a quick trip. In which K tried to get the scoop. Of course, there was no scoop for her to get (except for my admittance that he is indeed very nice to look at) since we were all of course hanging out in the same room so she could see everything that was going on. The loko was kicking in I think...
Back at the apartment we all chowed down on K2's famous 7 lb nacho (not actually 7 lbs) and made a lot of small talk about R's kick ass Grinch hat and with a second 4 loko hitting her system, K declared it was adventure time. So we bundled up (after a lot of convincing from K. She is very persistent, that one.) and went for a walk. I kept hearing things like "only a 3 mile loop" and "in the tunnel" and "under the bridge" and I started to panic about where we were going. I didn't wear hiking shoes! I wore what I wore to work. Those flats were most definitely not made for walking. Ah well. I knew whatever happened, we were going to have fun, so what if my boots got a little muddy.
The rain held off for the night and K was definitely on the loko-er end of the spectrum when she announced she had to pee and starting running off into the distance. I followed after her. All the way down that hill. I giggled the whole way because I'm a weirdo. K disappeared behind some bushes and I was put on guard duty. Which I am terrible at. Instead of holding anyone off I just kept telling her to hurry up because they were getting closer. When she finished (my friends and I are all about classy ladylikeness) we ran to the bottom of the hill and she did the scoop getting thing again and I told her, again, that there was no scoop. She told me she suggested our adventura (you have to read that word in a loud excited voice because that's how it works) in order to give R and I some time to talk on our own. So subtle you are, my friend.
When the boys caught up to us we headed to the waterfront where they talked about BMX stuff and K almost literally shoved me towards R. We walked away from the water to the most giant staircase ever (no, not really). R told me there was 400 stairs, but he made that up. K and K2 were walking at mach speed, giving R and I time to walk alone. We walked about a block behind them the rest of the way home and talked about random stuff like how I live in the hood and how fast our friends can walk when they think they're being slick.
We came to a fish ladder and everyone was peeking over the railing down at the rushing water, so I went up to the railing next to me and took a peek. Only a peek though because almost as soon as I touched my hand to the rail K was whisper-scolding me to stand closer to R. Chaperone mode: On.
We came to the bus stop a block away from the apartment and stopped for no real reason. The bus stop looks like a wacky covered wagon and R thought about climbing on top of it but decided not to because he was scared he might break through it. Then he offered me a ride in an abandoned shopping cart, which I declined because it was soaked with rain from earlier. We walked back to the apartment where we found K and K2 still outside. We all headed back up to the apartment and it was very apparent that the loko had left. K nodded off on the couch when we made it back inside so K2 said goodnight to R and I before we took off for the night. K made sure to be awake enough to command-whisper at me to be sure to text her when I got home to let her know what happened after I left.
We walked silently out to the parking lot and when we got to my car her suggested we exchange numbers. I got out my phone and called his and just like that the night was over. I got in my car and sent K a text.
"Happy now? we got each others numbers."
I didn't expect a reply until the next day, but almost instantly there it was.
"I know. We watched :)"
Like weirdo parents. Thanks guys.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Company Holiday Party
Let me start by saying that I know how truly lucky I am to not just have a job, but to have a kick ass job at the best company in the world (not officially...yet. But we were named the #1 company to work for in Oregon so I'm not just making stuff up here people). Our boss is seriously the best and before you assume I'm sucking up in blog form, read about our company holiday party and then try to tell me I'm a liar face.
For the first time we were all allowed to invite our spouses, partners, or friends (I invited K of course) to come to our holiday party. We all met at the office after 5 to watch a slide show of pictures from different company events throughout the years. You could feel the excitement in the room as we all waited for the ok to head downstairs. Boss had planned this party for us as a surprise and no one (aside from Boss and her helpful assistants) had any idea what was going on. They had been trying to get information from me for weeks. Too bad for them I am a master secret keeper. Muh ha ha ha!
Er...
After the slide show (which by the way is on Facebook so if you know me there, you can check it out), we were herded out of the office to hitch a ride....on a double decker party bus!! Seriously, this thing is the COOLEST! We all bypassed the lower level as we climbed on and headed straight upstairs. We squeezed ourselves into the seats and settled in for our ride to dinner. They plugged in Boss's ipod and the party was officially on. There was some serious sing alonging happening. The bus took us around the square so we could check out the Christmas tree. We oohed and ahhed and every restaurant we passed caused a burst of excitement while people tried to figure out where we were headed.
We pulled up to Saucebox and there were actually screams of excitement. For good reason. They have a 4 page cocktail menu and the tastiest food. K started off with a Zombie and JB & M debated on ordering a pineapple. We were on a tight time constraint so we all ordered drinks and appetizers and entrees and ate as things came out from the kitchen. Boss had sampled some cocktails and appetizers and deserts before the party so there was some delicious sushi on the tables for us to eat while we waited for our drinks (I got a cucumber lemonade). When our end of the table ended up having some problems choosing drinks we sent a drink menu with a note on it to Boss to find out which sampled drinks she would recommend. We had to send a note. Her end of the table was too far away to yell to. She agreed about that apparently, but chose to get up and come talk to us instead of playing note games. Fine, fine.
Drinks and food started to come out and the next half hour or so was kind of a blur of waiters with drinks and food and empty plates and glasses going back and forth. As JB & M continued to contemplate the pineapple drink, a waiter came up the stairs (which were lined with tea lights for us by the way) carrying a whole pineapple with a bow tied around it. It wasn't for JB though. It was for our employee of the year (as voted by the employees)! We applauded as he opened his present (not the drink silly people) because the look on his face was truly priceless. It was an ipad. Something he has most definitely been wanting. I've never seen such a big smile. Or such bugged out eyes.
With that, JB decided a pineapple was indeed needed. K ordered a hurricane, and I got a blackberry lemonade. The pineapple came and was apparently tastetastic. Suddenly, a coconut drink was being placed next to the pineapple. We have no idea why, since no one at our table ordered it...but we kept it. And then JB decided we should see her teeth. Say what? With a lime wedge and knife and a couple minutes of preparations JB had us all in hysterics. Seriously...Funny stuff.
We scarfed down our food (delicious, super tender ribs for K, crispy quail for me) and suddenly it was time for desert (chocolate cake with pistachio gelato) and we were ready to get back on the bus. After transferring our delicious cocktails (virgin drinks for me of course) into some party cups (giant soup cups were needed for the pineapple drinks) and swaddling our pineapple in a napkin and then throwing a coat over him to smuggle him out, we clamored back into the bus to head to the next secret location. The music was turned up (that bus really has a sweet set up) and with everyone pleasantly loosened via cocktail magic there was much more singing and dancing for this trip. And thanks to the pineapple, which left a mess all over K's jacket (dirty pineapple!) we had a new cup cozy. T snagged the awesome flower that came with employee of the year's drink and was wearing it tucked behind his ear. It was having a hard time staying put with all his dancing though. Many pictures were taken.
It didn't take us long to get to our second location, Harvey's Comedy Club. We were however late, and the show had already started. We made our way through the lounge entrance and started to filter into our seats. Or, we tried to. Remember when my purse got stolen? Right, well I still have no ID. Boy, they sure are sticklers for ID rules there. I walked up to the bar, where the guy was checking IDs (after trying to sneak by him with a group of people...but he noticed and made us all come back) and rummaged through my purse. I had just received my replacement birth certificate (I'm awesome at losing things) in the mail a few days ago so I still had it on me. When he looked at me I was just pulling it out of my purse and I dove straight into my explanation.
"My purse was stolen with my ID in it, but I just got my birth certificate in the mail..." I started to unfold it and he cut me off.
"You need picture ID. That won't work"
"Are you serious?"
He sure was. K looked super worried. I started to think, well, I could just wait in the bus I suppose. At least I would be comfy and not cold. Boss walked up to see what was happening.
"She's with our group. It's our company party. She doesn't even drink." She said to Grumps Mcgrumperston.
A manager walking by came over to see what was going on. Again, I explain and try to show my birth certificate.
"You need picture ID. Do you have anything with a picture on it?"
"Do you have a Costco card?" one co-worker suggests.
No.
"Bank card with your picture on it?" Another suggests.
"Student ID?" Manger man asks.
Nope. I don't have anything with my picture on it. I'm not a student, and a single girl in a tiny house doesn't really need Costo proportions of anything, we don't have ID badges for the office. So basically without ID I'm screwed.
As more of our group gathered to see what the hold up was the manager gave in. "I'll ok it. This time."
We thanked him profusely and stared to walk to our table.
"You really need to get an ID" the manager guy said to me.
"Uh...I know. That's why I have my birth certificate on me. Because I'm trying to get that done." Like I don't know that I need an ID? Seriously guy... thanks for the helpful advice but how about we just leave the obvious to be obvious alright? I'm working on it.
Side note: I realize that there are laws and they were protecting themselves by accepting nothing less than picture ID, however, knowing that we are here in a large group (24 of us I believe), here for our company party, and having 10 or so people around me all vouching for my being of age (Boss pulled out the "She's worked for me for 5 years" bit), I feel like they could have been a bit more friendly about the whole situation. It ended up working out, but sheesh, what an ordeal for a minute!
Since the show had already started we had to sneak in, which was slightly terrifying becuase a lot of comedians I've seen there will make a big deal about people coming in late. Luckily our table was right by the door separating the lounge and the show area so I grabbed the seat right by the door.
We missed most of the first act, who was really just the host so I don't feel like we missed out on too much. The second was a girl from Wisconsin, Lang Parker, who was pretty funny. The headliner was a seriously funny man who writes (and does voices) for Spongebob and Family guy so I knew I would be laughing a lot. I was right. Tim ORourke is a riot. And he can certainly handle hecklers.
I have been to Harvey's more than a few times and I have never seen people act the way that these people were acting. From what I gathered there was another company party there, all in the front rows near the stage. One guy in particular was being pretty obnoxious. Yelling to the performers and when he made a bad joke about being a beaten by his wife (who was sitting right next to him) I thought, I can certainly see why.*
At one point K and I both had to run out to the bathroom (again, skipping the bathroom in the same room and going to the one in the lounge to avoid walking in front of people and possible comic harassment) because we were laughing so much that there was no way we could continue to hold it until after the show. Best pee of my life. (Ok, maybe not but it was damn good. TMI? I don't care.)
I was continually surprised at how ok these people were with interrupting the performers, trying to make themselves part of the show, and being just outright rude a couple of times but I was way impressed with how both Tim and Lang handled the interruptions. We all definitely laughed a lot. Enough so that when the show was over and we were making our way back to our party bus, Boss was rubbing her cheeks that hurt from laughing so much. So was I. And K.
I decided to try out the bottom half of the bus this time. I sat on one of the cushioned seats (upstairs is just one long bench that wraps around the entire top level but downstairs there are 2 smaller, loveseat sized cushioned seats and then 2 swivel-rocking bar stools at the BAR(!!!) that is on the bottom level of the bus. After a few pleas, we talked Boss into getting a few extra minutes with the bus so we could drive around just a little longer. As soon as the music was on, the upstairs level burst out into song. JB came (oh so gracefully) down the stairs to control the ipod. She put on Katy Perry's Firework and ran back upstairs. More voices than before joined in for this one. There was some stomping along with the beat. I had to see what was happening.
I didn't even make it to the top of the stairs and I had a huge smile on face. Everyone had a huge smile on their face. Those that didn't were in full on karaoke mode, with fake mics in their hands and everything. There was dancing and laughing and picture taking. I couldn't go back downstairs. Besides, that song is one of the only Katy Perry songs I like. And I happen to like it a lot. E and T pulled me up the rest of the stairs, offering me a seat between T and M. Just like that it was group karaoke. C held up an umbrella as a mic for us and we belted our hearts out. K came up to join in the fun (only not the singing and dancing cuz she's not into that stuff, but laughter is definitely her thing) and we drove around looking at twinkling lights downtown for a little bit.
As we pulled up outside our office there was a collective moan of sadness, mourning the end of a fantastically fun night. We made our way out of the bus and onto the sidewalk. Boss made sure everyone knew that she would happily call (and pay for) a cab for anyone that needed it, and a couple of people took her up on the offer. And then we said our goodbyes, some of us heading up to the office to pick up things left behind from earlier, and some directly to our cars to go home.
With a boss like ours, who genuinely cares about us and who wants us to be happy, not just at work but outside of it as well, doing things like this to show us her appreciation and love (because, it's true, we are a family, and there is a lot of love here), how could we not be the best company in the world?
Boss has figured out that happy people make happy workers, and happy workers do better work, and better work means more money, not just for the workers but for the company as a whole. Boss has always made sure that the people she hires are a good fit for our (work)family. We are all good people.
Wait...rephrase.
We are all AMAZING people, who do great work and are always looking for ways to better ourselves and the world. We are sustainable, caring, giving, happy, funny, honest people. We are true to who we are and make no apologies. We accept people as they are with no judgment. We work together to help each other and the community. We are awesome and I am one of the (13) luckiest people in the world because I get to work for such an awesome company. Without this place I wouldn't be the person I am today and I am so thankful for that every day of my life. I love who I am and I have found that love for myself thanks to this company. I can't believe I'm getting teary while writing this. I think that means I need to stop.
Thank you, Boss, for the best company holiday party ever for the best company ever!
I'm pretty sure that damn Firework song is going to make me smile every time I hear it now, just because of this awesome night. Oh darn.
*I do not ever endorse anyone hitting anyone else for any reason other than self defense or for a professional fight such as boxing or MMA.
For the first time we were all allowed to invite our spouses, partners, or friends (I invited K of course) to come to our holiday party. We all met at the office after 5 to watch a slide show of pictures from different company events throughout the years. You could feel the excitement in the room as we all waited for the ok to head downstairs. Boss had planned this party for us as a surprise and no one (aside from Boss and her helpful assistants) had any idea what was going on. They had been trying to get information from me for weeks. Too bad for them I am a master secret keeper. Muh ha ha ha!
Er...
After the slide show (which by the way is on Facebook so if you know me there, you can check it out), we were herded out of the office to hitch a ride....on a double decker party bus!! Seriously, this thing is the COOLEST! We all bypassed the lower level as we climbed on and headed straight upstairs. We squeezed ourselves into the seats and settled in for our ride to dinner. They plugged in Boss's ipod and the party was officially on. There was some serious sing alonging happening. The bus took us around the square so we could check out the Christmas tree. We oohed and ahhed and every restaurant we passed caused a burst of excitement while people tried to figure out where we were headed.
We pulled up to Saucebox and there were actually screams of excitement. For good reason. They have a 4 page cocktail menu and the tastiest food. K started off with a Zombie and JB & M debated on ordering a pineapple. We were on a tight time constraint so we all ordered drinks and appetizers and entrees and ate as things came out from the kitchen. Boss had sampled some cocktails and appetizers and deserts before the party so there was some delicious sushi on the tables for us to eat while we waited for our drinks (I got a cucumber lemonade). When our end of the table ended up having some problems choosing drinks we sent a drink menu with a note on it to Boss to find out which sampled drinks she would recommend. We had to send a note. Her end of the table was too far away to yell to. She agreed about that apparently, but chose to get up and come talk to us instead of playing note games. Fine, fine.
Drinks and food started to come out and the next half hour or so was kind of a blur of waiters with drinks and food and empty plates and glasses going back and forth. As JB & M continued to contemplate the pineapple drink, a waiter came up the stairs (which were lined with tea lights for us by the way) carrying a whole pineapple with a bow tied around it. It wasn't for JB though. It was for our employee of the year (as voted by the employees)! We applauded as he opened his present (not the drink silly people) because the look on his face was truly priceless. It was an ipad. Something he has most definitely been wanting. I've never seen such a big smile. Or such bugged out eyes.
With that, JB decided a pineapple was indeed needed. K ordered a hurricane, and I got a blackberry lemonade. The pineapple came and was apparently tastetastic. Suddenly, a coconut drink was being placed next to the pineapple. We have no idea why, since no one at our table ordered it...but we kept it. And then JB decided we should see her teeth. Say what? With a lime wedge and knife and a couple minutes of preparations JB had us all in hysterics. Seriously...Funny stuff.
We scarfed down our food (delicious, super tender ribs for K, crispy quail for me) and suddenly it was time for desert (chocolate cake with pistachio gelato) and we were ready to get back on the bus. After transferring our delicious cocktails (virgin drinks for me of course) into some party cups (giant soup cups were needed for the pineapple drinks) and swaddling our pineapple in a napkin and then throwing a coat over him to smuggle him out, we clamored back into the bus to head to the next secret location. The music was turned up (that bus really has a sweet set up) and with everyone pleasantly loosened via cocktail magic there was much more singing and dancing for this trip. And thanks to the pineapple, which left a mess all over K's jacket (dirty pineapple!) we had a new cup cozy. T snagged the awesome flower that came with employee of the year's drink and was wearing it tucked behind his ear. It was having a hard time staying put with all his dancing though. Many pictures were taken.
It didn't take us long to get to our second location, Harvey's Comedy Club. We were however late, and the show had already started. We made our way through the lounge entrance and started to filter into our seats. Or, we tried to. Remember when my purse got stolen? Right, well I still have no ID. Boy, they sure are sticklers for ID rules there. I walked up to the bar, where the guy was checking IDs (after trying to sneak by him with a group of people...but he noticed and made us all come back) and rummaged through my purse. I had just received my replacement birth certificate (I'm awesome at losing things) in the mail a few days ago so I still had it on me. When he looked at me I was just pulling it out of my purse and I dove straight into my explanation.
"My purse was stolen with my ID in it, but I just got my birth certificate in the mail..." I started to unfold it and he cut me off.
"You need picture ID. That won't work"
"Are you serious?"
He sure was. K looked super worried. I started to think, well, I could just wait in the bus I suppose. At least I would be comfy and not cold. Boss walked up to see what was happening.
"She's with our group. It's our company party. She doesn't even drink." She said to Grumps Mcgrumperston.
A manager walking by came over to see what was going on. Again, I explain and try to show my birth certificate.
"You need picture ID. Do you have anything with a picture on it?"
"Do you have a Costco card?" one co-worker suggests.
No.
"Bank card with your picture on it?" Another suggests.
"Student ID?" Manger man asks.
Nope. I don't have anything with my picture on it. I'm not a student, and a single girl in a tiny house doesn't really need Costo proportions of anything, we don't have ID badges for the office. So basically without ID I'm screwed.
As more of our group gathered to see what the hold up was the manager gave in. "I'll ok it. This time."
We thanked him profusely and stared to walk to our table.
"You really need to get an ID" the manager guy said to me.
"Uh...I know. That's why I have my birth certificate on me. Because I'm trying to get that done." Like I don't know that I need an ID? Seriously guy... thanks for the helpful advice but how about we just leave the obvious to be obvious alright? I'm working on it.
Side note: I realize that there are laws and they were protecting themselves by accepting nothing less than picture ID, however, knowing that we are here in a large group (24 of us I believe), here for our company party, and having 10 or so people around me all vouching for my being of age (Boss pulled out the "She's worked for me for 5 years" bit), I feel like they could have been a bit more friendly about the whole situation. It ended up working out, but sheesh, what an ordeal for a minute!
Since the show had already started we had to sneak in, which was slightly terrifying becuase a lot of comedians I've seen there will make a big deal about people coming in late. Luckily our table was right by the door separating the lounge and the show area so I grabbed the seat right by the door.
We missed most of the first act, who was really just the host so I don't feel like we missed out on too much. The second was a girl from Wisconsin, Lang Parker, who was pretty funny. The headliner was a seriously funny man who writes (and does voices) for Spongebob and Family guy so I knew I would be laughing a lot. I was right. Tim ORourke is a riot. And he can certainly handle hecklers.
I have been to Harvey's more than a few times and I have never seen people act the way that these people were acting. From what I gathered there was another company party there, all in the front rows near the stage. One guy in particular was being pretty obnoxious. Yelling to the performers and when he made a bad joke about being a beaten by his wife (who was sitting right next to him) I thought, I can certainly see why.*
At one point K and I both had to run out to the bathroom (again, skipping the bathroom in the same room and going to the one in the lounge to avoid walking in front of people and possible comic harassment) because we were laughing so much that there was no way we could continue to hold it until after the show. Best pee of my life. (Ok, maybe not but it was damn good. TMI? I don't care.)
I was continually surprised at how ok these people were with interrupting the performers, trying to make themselves part of the show, and being just outright rude a couple of times but I was way impressed with how both Tim and Lang handled the interruptions. We all definitely laughed a lot. Enough so that when the show was over and we were making our way back to our party bus, Boss was rubbing her cheeks that hurt from laughing so much. So was I. And K.
I decided to try out the bottom half of the bus this time. I sat on one of the cushioned seats (upstairs is just one long bench that wraps around the entire top level but downstairs there are 2 smaller, loveseat sized cushioned seats and then 2 swivel-rocking bar stools at the BAR(!!!) that is on the bottom level of the bus. After a few pleas, we talked Boss into getting a few extra minutes with the bus so we could drive around just a little longer. As soon as the music was on, the upstairs level burst out into song. JB came (oh so gracefully) down the stairs to control the ipod. She put on Katy Perry's Firework and ran back upstairs. More voices than before joined in for this one. There was some stomping along with the beat. I had to see what was happening.
I didn't even make it to the top of the stairs and I had a huge smile on face. Everyone had a huge smile on their face. Those that didn't were in full on karaoke mode, with fake mics in their hands and everything. There was dancing and laughing and picture taking. I couldn't go back downstairs. Besides, that song is one of the only Katy Perry songs I like. And I happen to like it a lot. E and T pulled me up the rest of the stairs, offering me a seat between T and M. Just like that it was group karaoke. C held up an umbrella as a mic for us and we belted our hearts out. K came up to join in the fun (only not the singing and dancing cuz she's not into that stuff, but laughter is definitely her thing) and we drove around looking at twinkling lights downtown for a little bit.
As we pulled up outside our office there was a collective moan of sadness, mourning the end of a fantastically fun night. We made our way out of the bus and onto the sidewalk. Boss made sure everyone knew that she would happily call (and pay for) a cab for anyone that needed it, and a couple of people took her up on the offer. And then we said our goodbyes, some of us heading up to the office to pick up things left behind from earlier, and some directly to our cars to go home.
With a boss like ours, who genuinely cares about us and who wants us to be happy, not just at work but outside of it as well, doing things like this to show us her appreciation and love (because, it's true, we are a family, and there is a lot of love here), how could we not be the best company in the world?
Boss has figured out that happy people make happy workers, and happy workers do better work, and better work means more money, not just for the workers but for the company as a whole. Boss has always made sure that the people she hires are a good fit for our (work)family. We are all good people.
Wait...rephrase.
We are all AMAZING people, who do great work and are always looking for ways to better ourselves and the world. We are sustainable, caring, giving, happy, funny, honest people. We are true to who we are and make no apologies. We accept people as they are with no judgment. We work together to help each other and the community. We are awesome and I am one of the (13) luckiest people in the world because I get to work for such an awesome company. Without this place I wouldn't be the person I am today and I am so thankful for that every day of my life. I love who I am and I have found that love for myself thanks to this company. I can't believe I'm getting teary while writing this. I think that means I need to stop.
Thank you, Boss, for the best company holiday party ever for the best company ever!
I'm pretty sure that damn Firework song is going to make me smile every time I hear it now, just because of this awesome night. Oh darn.
*I do not ever endorse anyone hitting anyone else for any reason other than self defense or for a professional fight such as boxing or MMA.
Friday, December 3, 2010
I'm your man! Er....Doorman at least.
Around 3 in the afternoon, the company's bookkeeper called in a slight panic. She was helping to host a first Thursday even not far from my own office but they forgot one small, yet very important detail. Their buildings main entrance door locks automatically to the outside world at 5. The event was from 5 to 7ish which meant they would need someone downstairs for those 2 hours to let people in. Once she offered some money to go along with the job, I was in. It is the holiday season after all.
The place was only about 6 blocks from my office so I walked straight there after work. They had someone at the door already, since I wouldn't be able to get there right at 5 and he let me in. I went upstairs and tried to find V but had little luck so I headed back downstairs and asked the doorman of the moment if he knew her. I let him know that I was the one coming to relieve him of the doorman duty and he happily gave me the key fob and went to find V for me.
Key fobs are funny little things. A tiny little piece of plastic has the power to open a big huge door. Well ok, maybe not open...unlock. I still had to do the actual opening.
V came down with a glass of wine in hand and thanked me for helping her out. She asked if I wanted anything. Wine, beer, hard alcohol. Haha. Rather than going into the non drinker thing I just said no thanks, which I find is much easier. She headed upstairs and I was left to be doorman for a couple hours.
On the way from my office there was a light rain. I had to use my hood and even that didn't completely shield me from the rain. I was afraid standing outside in the rain that I might freeze to death. Thankfully the rain had already stopped and it wasn't actually too bad out. Of course I didn't even consider taking off my jacket or scarf to try to look more doorman-y. I wondered what I was going to do with myself for 2 hours out here. Could I read the book in my purse? Should I watch Family Guy on my phone? Can't listen to my ipod because I forgot my headphones...
People watching was my choice. First Thursday downtown is always fun. There was a big group of kids (I'm guessing middle school or early high school years) just down the block looking at the art galleries down there. They didn't all seem too excited about spending their night pretending to care about art that they clearly had no interest in. They filtered into the building and not 3 minutes later one boy came back outside apparently done looking. He wandered down to the corner, back to the gallery, into the street, back to the gallery, across the street, back to the gallery. Where are the chaperones?
Oh...time to open the door. Swipe key fobby, open door, smile at people, tell them to head upstairs via the elevator. Easy peasy.
The entire group of kids were now back outside and heading to a gallery on the other side of my (for the moment) door. Chaperone lady guides them inside their next stop. Of course, almost instantly kids start coming back outside. One group stands almost next to me (thankfully I have a nice little alcove to hide in) but it gives me something to watch. Aw look, young love. (BLECH) An intruding friend gets in on the couple hug. Suddenly high fives all around. Literally. 6 way high five. I've never seen anything so glorious (not true but for the moment it was). And then they were gone. I think I heard something about donuts. Jealous.
First doorman comes back downstairs to check on me.
"I brought you water even though you said you were fine."
HAHAHA nice. Thanks homie friend. He stands outside, apparently waiting for a drummer. We stand outside silent for a minute before I realize I'm being a little awkward so I ask his name and introduce myself and make some small talk. He tells me he likes to bring V roses. Aw cute. Then the drummer comes. He tells drummer they needed someone to watch the door. I smile and say "Yep. I'm your man! Well...doorman. For now anyway." With that they head to the elevator and I'm left alone again.
Swipe fob and let a few more people in. Study the architecture of the building across the street. Watch someone get frustrated with the parking ticket machine and leave in fury. Watch someone have no problem with the same machine. Watch a cute old couple admire art from the sidewalk. Swipe fob, let someone in. See the ROUNDEST DOG EVER walk in front of me. See the most amazing over the knee boots on the planet. Oh so many beautiful jackets. Swipe fob, let someone in.
V comes back down to check on me but this time she brought friends and they brought me snacks!
"We brought you sparking pomegranate juice! And water! And snacks!"
"Here! I even gave you a napkin for wiping" says one friend, handing me the plate.
They are all laughing and smiling and perhaps slightly buzzed. I can't help but smile and am grateful to be "working" for such awesome people.
They all clamor out the door for a smoke break. V thanks me, again, and announces to her friends that this is the second time I've seen her drunk.
True.
She's a fun drunk. Happy and bubbly and entertaining. I encourage this behavior. Always.
They take a walk around the corner and I take the chance to check out the plate of goodies. Some nuts, cheese, crackers, salami. Nom nom. I eat and try a little of everything, even the things I'm scared of because I'll never know if I like it or not if I don't try it. I've been trying to expland my taste buds view of the world. It didn't go so well...but most everything was delish. And the sparking juice was awesome. I stowed the sparkling water in my purse and put my finished plate on the ground, using my napkin to cover the pile of pistachio shells.
V and friends come back around the corner, still laughing and smiling and we all exaggerate the doorman shtick.
"Why hellloooooooo there! We're here for the party!"
"Well let me just get this door for you!" Impossible not to have a good time with these people around. They head back up to the party and again, I'm left to my duties.
Suddenly I notice the cold very much. My toes may in fact be going numb. I start to worry about frostbite. How long does that take to set in? People get stuck in snow for hours and hours and they get messssssssed up. I'm being ridiculous. It's not that cold out. V even told me I didn't have to stand outside. I could stand inside. But I am stubborn and feel like I should be out here. I should just move some more. Get the blood flowing. I do some random pilates moves. Pace the doorway. Do a couple little kicks. That's when I notice one guy I let in is still right behind me. He's been on the phone so he hasn't gotten on the elevator and saw my whole snazzy routine. You are welcome sir.
Professional. Act professional woman.
Psha, right.
A woman comes back outside and in a pleasant British(ish) accent asks if I'll be posted out here all night, with concern on her face. She's relieved when I tell her I'll be done very soon. How nice. Some people actually do give an eff.
One guy I let in much earlier comes back outside.
"You're still out here?!"
Well...yea...but I'm almost done. Check my phone...yep. I inform him I only have 3 minutes left with a smile on my face. It's not so cold out here. I'm fine. Totally fine. Not even cold.
He holds a hand out to me "I'm C."
I shake his hand and tell him my name. Again, he holds his hand out.
"Which one?"
In the palm of his hand he's holding 2 rocks. One small and clear, kind of triangular in shape and the other much larger, white, square-ish and kind of sparkly. I think for a moment and then grab the clear, smaller one. This one is the one I want.
"I knew you'd choose that one. That will be your lucky rock." he says with a smile on his face.
Thank you C. I stare at the rock in my hand and think how lucky am I? I just got a lucky rock from a complete stranger. It feels lucky. It looks lucky to me. There's even a small touch of green near the point...perhaps green....for....money? I don't know but I love it. Love it.
"Have a good night K" and he's off into the night (aka next door at the gallery) mysteriously, like a mysterious thing.
And then my doorman duties are done. I head upstairs to find V so I can get paid and head home. She takes a few minutes to introduce me to everyone she can (ahh, friendly drunks) and thanks me about a billion times for helping her out. She walks me back downstairs and insists we go to lunch together. A couple more hugs and thank yous and I head back to my car. Where I realize my toes are definitely frozen. Heat will really make you notice how cold you are. Totally worth it. I walked away with a check and a lucky rock.
The place was only about 6 blocks from my office so I walked straight there after work. They had someone at the door already, since I wouldn't be able to get there right at 5 and he let me in. I went upstairs and tried to find V but had little luck so I headed back downstairs and asked the doorman of the moment if he knew her. I let him know that I was the one coming to relieve him of the doorman duty and he happily gave me the key fob and went to find V for me.
Key fobs are funny little things. A tiny little piece of plastic has the power to open a big huge door. Well ok, maybe not open...unlock. I still had to do the actual opening.
V came down with a glass of wine in hand and thanked me for helping her out. She asked if I wanted anything. Wine, beer, hard alcohol. Haha. Rather than going into the non drinker thing I just said no thanks, which I find is much easier. She headed upstairs and I was left to be doorman for a couple hours.
On the way from my office there was a light rain. I had to use my hood and even that didn't completely shield me from the rain. I was afraid standing outside in the rain that I might freeze to death. Thankfully the rain had already stopped and it wasn't actually too bad out. Of course I didn't even consider taking off my jacket or scarf to try to look more doorman-y. I wondered what I was going to do with myself for 2 hours out here. Could I read the book in my purse? Should I watch Family Guy on my phone? Can't listen to my ipod because I forgot my headphones...
People watching was my choice. First Thursday downtown is always fun. There was a big group of kids (I'm guessing middle school or early high school years) just down the block looking at the art galleries down there. They didn't all seem too excited about spending their night pretending to care about art that they clearly had no interest in. They filtered into the building and not 3 minutes later one boy came back outside apparently done looking. He wandered down to the corner, back to the gallery, into the street, back to the gallery, across the street, back to the gallery. Where are the chaperones?
Oh...time to open the door. Swipe key fobby, open door, smile at people, tell them to head upstairs via the elevator. Easy peasy.
The entire group of kids were now back outside and heading to a gallery on the other side of my (for the moment) door. Chaperone lady guides them inside their next stop. Of course, almost instantly kids start coming back outside. One group stands almost next to me (thankfully I have a nice little alcove to hide in) but it gives me something to watch. Aw look, young love. (BLECH) An intruding friend gets in on the couple hug. Suddenly high fives all around. Literally. 6 way high five. I've never seen anything so glorious (not true but for the moment it was). And then they were gone. I think I heard something about donuts. Jealous.
First doorman comes back downstairs to check on me.
"I brought you water even though you said you were fine."
HAHAHA nice. Thanks homie friend. He stands outside, apparently waiting for a drummer. We stand outside silent for a minute before I realize I'm being a little awkward so I ask his name and introduce myself and make some small talk. He tells me he likes to bring V roses. Aw cute. Then the drummer comes. He tells drummer they needed someone to watch the door. I smile and say "Yep. I'm your man! Well...doorman. For now anyway." With that they head to the elevator and I'm left alone again.
Swipe fob and let a few more people in. Study the architecture of the building across the street. Watch someone get frustrated with the parking ticket machine and leave in fury. Watch someone have no problem with the same machine. Watch a cute old couple admire art from the sidewalk. Swipe fob, let someone in. See the ROUNDEST DOG EVER walk in front of me. See the most amazing over the knee boots on the planet. Oh so many beautiful jackets. Swipe fob, let someone in.
V comes back down to check on me but this time she brought friends and they brought me snacks!
"We brought you sparking pomegranate juice! And water! And snacks!"
"Here! I even gave you a napkin for wiping" says one friend, handing me the plate.
They are all laughing and smiling and perhaps slightly buzzed. I can't help but smile and am grateful to be "working" for such awesome people.
They all clamor out the door for a smoke break. V thanks me, again, and announces to her friends that this is the second time I've seen her drunk.
True.
She's a fun drunk. Happy and bubbly and entertaining. I encourage this behavior. Always.
They take a walk around the corner and I take the chance to check out the plate of goodies. Some nuts, cheese, crackers, salami. Nom nom. I eat and try a little of everything, even the things I'm scared of because I'll never know if I like it or not if I don't try it. I've been trying to expland my taste buds view of the world. It didn't go so well...but most everything was delish. And the sparking juice was awesome. I stowed the sparkling water in my purse and put my finished plate on the ground, using my napkin to cover the pile of pistachio shells.
V and friends come back around the corner, still laughing and smiling and we all exaggerate the doorman shtick.
"Why hellloooooooo there! We're here for the party!"
"Well let me just get this door for you!" Impossible not to have a good time with these people around. They head back up to the party and again, I'm left to my duties.
Suddenly I notice the cold very much. My toes may in fact be going numb. I start to worry about frostbite. How long does that take to set in? People get stuck in snow for hours and hours and they get messssssssed up. I'm being ridiculous. It's not that cold out. V even told me I didn't have to stand outside. I could stand inside. But I am stubborn and feel like I should be out here. I should just move some more. Get the blood flowing. I do some random pilates moves. Pace the doorway. Do a couple little kicks. That's when I notice one guy I let in is still right behind me. He's been on the phone so he hasn't gotten on the elevator and saw my whole snazzy routine. You are welcome sir.
Professional. Act professional woman.
Psha, right.
A woman comes back outside and in a pleasant British(ish) accent asks if I'll be posted out here all night, with concern on her face. She's relieved when I tell her I'll be done very soon. How nice. Some people actually do give an eff.
One guy I let in much earlier comes back outside.
"You're still out here?!"
Well...yea...but I'm almost done. Check my phone...yep. I inform him I only have 3 minutes left with a smile on my face. It's not so cold out here. I'm fine. Totally fine. Not even cold.
He holds a hand out to me "I'm C."
I shake his hand and tell him my name. Again, he holds his hand out.
"Which one?"
In the palm of his hand he's holding 2 rocks. One small and clear, kind of triangular in shape and the other much larger, white, square-ish and kind of sparkly. I think for a moment and then grab the clear, smaller one. This one is the one I want.
"I knew you'd choose that one. That will be your lucky rock." he says with a smile on his face.
Thank you C. I stare at the rock in my hand and think how lucky am I? I just got a lucky rock from a complete stranger. It feels lucky. It looks lucky to me. There's even a small touch of green near the point...perhaps green....for....money? I don't know but I love it. Love it.
"Have a good night K" and he's off into the night (aka next door at the gallery) mysteriously, like a mysterious thing.
And then my doorman duties are done. I head upstairs to find V so I can get paid and head home. She takes a few minutes to introduce me to everyone she can (ahh, friendly drunks) and thanks me about a billion times for helping her out. She walks me back downstairs and insists we go to lunch together. A couple more hugs and thank yous and I head back to my car. Where I realize my toes are definitely frozen. Heat will really make you notice how cold you are. Totally worth it. I walked away with a check and a lucky rock.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Shopping parents
Last week I went shopping with my mom. I wanted to pick up some presents and just do some shopping. I usually find it therapeutic. I don't feel that way when people let their children run wild. I understand that sometimes kids act out. You can't always control them. It's about the way you handle it.
I saw 2 very good examples of opposite styles while waiting for moms cashier to get her act together. There was a man and his 2 or 3 children (whether they're all his or not, I don't know, but he was certainly in charge of all of them at this moment) standing behind my mom to the right. A woman and her brood of wild ones (can you tell which parent I like better in this instance?) were to the left.
On the right I saw one boy walk away from his dad and towards the toys on the wall. He touched one where the sticker enticed him "Push me!" and the toy started singing. In a calm voice the dad said to the boy "Stop pushing those buttons. Regular people don't want to hear all that noise". Immediately the boy stopped and walked back to stand by his father. He didn't seem upset, sad, or angry at all.
"JACKSON?! Where are you?!?!" screamed mom on the right as her turn at the register came and suddenly a wild banshee (A.K.A. Jackson) ran around a corner far from where his mother was and stutters to a stop next to her. But only briefly before running back off while his siblings touched every single thing they could reach and mom just ignored the lot.
Thank dog mom was finally done and we could leave this crazy place.
I saw 2 very good examples of opposite styles while waiting for moms cashier to get her act together. There was a man and his 2 or 3 children (whether they're all his or not, I don't know, but he was certainly in charge of all of them at this moment) standing behind my mom to the right. A woman and her brood of wild ones (can you tell which parent I like better in this instance?) were to the left.
On the right I saw one boy walk away from his dad and towards the toys on the wall. He touched one where the sticker enticed him "Push me!" and the toy started singing. In a calm voice the dad said to the boy "Stop pushing those buttons. Regular people don't want to hear all that noise". Immediately the boy stopped and walked back to stand by his father. He didn't seem upset, sad, or angry at all.
"JACKSON?! Where are you?!?!" screamed mom on the right as her turn at the register came and suddenly a wild banshee (A.K.A. Jackson) ran around a corner far from where his mother was and stutters to a stop next to her. But only briefly before running back off while his siblings touched every single thing they could reach and mom just ignored the lot.
Thank dog mom was finally done and we could leave this crazy place.
My landlord, the devil
I really hate giving my biggest chunk of money to someone I regularly call the devil. I remember how to get to the rent drop off spot because it's on 66th which is close enough to 666 which is appropriate since she is the devil. Her name in my phone is devil lady. She always does devilish things. Maybe if I stopped thinking of her that way she would be less devilish. But probably not.
Anyhoo....I dropped my rent off after work yesterday. For the first time in the 2 years I've been dropping my rent off in the same fashion, devil lady's neighbors were outside. When I opened my car door I could hear a dog barking. By the time I got my feet on the ground I could see that the neighbors dog was running towards me and the woman standing outside was running after him yelling at him to come back. He was on the other side of my car now and I didn't know if I should be scared or not. So I laughed. Because what else could I really do?
The woman had finally gotten a hold of the dog and was walking him back to their home. As I walked to the mail slot, an automatic light above the door turned on and all of a sudden the dog was going absolutely insane! I could hear him snarling and barking and I could basically feel his rage through my ears. I saw a man was now taking over the dog wrangling duties but even he was having a hard time. The dog was squirming and wiggling and snarling and growling. He sounded rabid. Totally rabid.
I hurried back to my car as soon as I could. I thought to myself, why would that dog go so crazy? What would make a dog act like that? What did I do to make this dog flip out? Then it hit me. I didn't do anything. That dog knows that the devil lives there and was trying to protect me. It freaked out because I willingly walked to the door. I wonder what happens when he sees someone goes inside.
Anyhoo....I dropped my rent off after work yesterday. For the first time in the 2 years I've been dropping my rent off in the same fashion, devil lady's neighbors were outside. When I opened my car door I could hear a dog barking. By the time I got my feet on the ground I could see that the neighbors dog was running towards me and the woman standing outside was running after him yelling at him to come back. He was on the other side of my car now and I didn't know if I should be scared or not. So I laughed. Because what else could I really do?
The woman had finally gotten a hold of the dog and was walking him back to their home. As I walked to the mail slot, an automatic light above the door turned on and all of a sudden the dog was going absolutely insane! I could hear him snarling and barking and I could basically feel his rage through my ears. I saw a man was now taking over the dog wrangling duties but even he was having a hard time. The dog was squirming and wiggling and snarling and growling. He sounded rabid. Totally rabid.
I hurried back to my car as soon as I could. I thought to myself, why would that dog go so crazy? What would make a dog act like that? What did I do to make this dog flip out? Then it hit me. I didn't do anything. That dog knows that the devil lives there and was trying to protect me. It freaked out because I willingly walked to the door. I wonder what happens when he sees someone goes inside.
Classy Lady
I headed to A's over the weekend and as I pulled up to her house I saw R pulling into the driveway. His friend T was parking behind me. I got out and headed to the door. I said hey to R and he said "Oh hey. Your ass is out".
I looked at my car. Nope...totally aligned with the curb.
"No...YOUR ass is out. Like your dress is stuck to your tights or something."
Oh.
Awesome.
Great. Do a little self groping and pull my dress out. I say "Well that's embarssing. Thanks!" and go inside to find A.
You know, not too long ago I would have felt myself turn bright red, avoided R and T (who totally had to have seen my entire ass. At least tights make my butt look awesome.) and left shortly after getting there. Instead I just laughed. It's funny. I wish I coulda seen myself walking to the door. Oh, how I would have laughed at myself. And I did. When I told A all about it.
And again when I told K about it the next day when she accompanied me for a nice shopping trip downtown.
I had an appointment at Blush Beauty Bar to try out eyebrow threading and K wanted to see what it was all about. (Fun fact: parking gods were on my side and gave me a kick ass spot right in front of the salon however the embarrassment demons are out to get me because when I got out of the car my skirt was trying to fall right off my ass. I wore pants the next day.)
The salon is super cute with all sorts of awesome girly stuff (holiday gift hint! for me and K!) and Megan, who did my brows, is amazing! Not only is she adorable and fun but she is very meticulous and took time to make sure that everything looked perfect. She made sure I knew that while many people find threading to be painless it doesn't mean it's like that for everyone and made it clear that if I wanted to stop it wouldn't be a problem. At one point, when she was switching eyes, I opened my eyes and even though I didn't feel any pain my eye sprung a leak. Megan was prepared. "Yea, that happens sometimes" she told me as she handed me a tissue. Prepared for anything, that girl.
It is definitely still hair being ripped of your face (the things women do!) but I wouldn't call it painful at all. Weird, definitely. Kind of uncomfortable maybe. Not painful. And I much prefer it to the ripping pain of waxing, which I've only done a couple of times in my life. I totally love the way they look and have already booked my next appointment.
After getting my new grown up eyebrows we decided to stay in the area and do some shopping and I am so glad we did. There are so many cute stores in the Pearl. Too bad I was focused on shopping for other people because I saw a lot of stuff I liked. The only place I couldn't help spending some cash was the little candy store we found. We only bought a couple home made (FREAKING DELICIOUS) caramels for ourselves and stocked up on some great yummy stocking stuffers. After spending who knows how long looking at all things girly, shiny and unique we decided food was a necessity and headed back to the east side. Cuz we're gangstas. Who eat at subway.
I looked at my car. Nope...totally aligned with the curb.
"No...YOUR ass is out. Like your dress is stuck to your tights or something."
Oh.
Awesome.
Great. Do a little self groping and pull my dress out. I say "Well that's embarssing. Thanks!" and go inside to find A.
You know, not too long ago I would have felt myself turn bright red, avoided R and T (who totally had to have seen my entire ass. At least tights make my butt look awesome.) and left shortly after getting there. Instead I just laughed. It's funny. I wish I coulda seen myself walking to the door. Oh, how I would have laughed at myself. And I did. When I told A all about it.
And again when I told K about it the next day when she accompanied me for a nice shopping trip downtown.
I had an appointment at Blush Beauty Bar to try out eyebrow threading and K wanted to see what it was all about. (Fun fact: parking gods were on my side and gave me a kick ass spot right in front of the salon however the embarrassment demons are out to get me because when I got out of the car my skirt was trying to fall right off my ass. I wore pants the next day.)
The salon is super cute with all sorts of awesome girly stuff (holiday gift hint! for me and K!) and Megan, who did my brows, is amazing! Not only is she adorable and fun but she is very meticulous and took time to make sure that everything looked perfect. She made sure I knew that while many people find threading to be painless it doesn't mean it's like that for everyone and made it clear that if I wanted to stop it wouldn't be a problem. At one point, when she was switching eyes, I opened my eyes and even though I didn't feel any pain my eye sprung a leak. Megan was prepared. "Yea, that happens sometimes" she told me as she handed me a tissue. Prepared for anything, that girl.
It is definitely still hair being ripped of your face (the things women do!) but I wouldn't call it painful at all. Weird, definitely. Kind of uncomfortable maybe. Not painful. And I much prefer it to the ripping pain of waxing, which I've only done a couple of times in my life. I totally love the way they look and have already booked my next appointment.
After getting my new grown up eyebrows we decided to stay in the area and do some shopping and I am so glad we did. There are so many cute stores in the Pearl. Too bad I was focused on shopping for other people because I saw a lot of stuff I liked. The only place I couldn't help spending some cash was the little candy store we found. We only bought a couple home made (FREAKING DELICIOUS) caramels for ourselves and stocked up on some great yummy stocking stuffers. After spending who knows how long looking at all things girly, shiny and unique we decided food was a necessity and headed back to the east side. Cuz we're gangstas. Who eat at subway.
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