We are truly blessed as we go into the Christmas holiday. This has certainly been a challenging year for my family as we've experienced some of life's hiccups. But at the end of the day we're family, we have our health, we are blessed with my nephew Lawson, we have a roof over our heads with food on the table, and my dad and I still have our jobs. There is much to be thankful for this year.
We are even able to exchange modest gifts this year and I'm so excited to see Lawson's face! Last year he was too young to really know what was going on.
Merry Christmas everyone!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Excuse me? I don’t have kids, but I’d like to contribute to the conversation…
I’m discovering that most people my age have kids, are pregnant/trying to get pregnant, or want kids but lack a partner. I know very few people (besides Stephanie) that just don’t want kids right now, period.
Good for them! I hope I can have kids some day so I can regale coworkers and friends with their latest antics. Until then, I try my best to interject knowingly into conversations using examples of my nephew, “Oh yeah, when they’re teething they run fever and drool a lot.”
But what bothered me the most this week was a conversation with a few of my “married with children” friends. They were making their usual Oh-it’s-different-when-you’re-a-mom comments. Then someone must have noticed the glazed look I had over my eyes (or perhaps it was the heavy sigh of annoyance) and asked me how many kids I wanted.
All eyes turned to me. This was my moment. I was actually invited to the conversation!
I confidently answered, “If God blesses me with one, I’ll be happy. But I’d really like a big family so at least 2, maybe even 4 kids.” The table erupted with laughter.
Each mom between fits of laughter answered, “Oh, wait until you have your first.” “Yeah, I wanted 2 until I had (insert kid’s name here).” “That’s cute. Just wait. ONE is a lot of work.”
I had had enough. Crazy eyes and arms flailing, the real big ball of crazy MB came out. “REALLY? Really? Kids are work? Oh, God, thanks! I had no idea! I thought you just got to wear cute maternity clothes and then the nanny fairies came out to take care of the baby’s sleepless nights, dirty diapers, teething, temper tantrums, bad days at school, wrecking the car, and rebellious stages. I’m just in it for someone to take care of me when I get old. Thank God you warned me.”
(Ahem. Whoops. Reel it in MB….reel it in….)
But seriously, I’m sick of the exclusive conversations that I’m subjected to listen to but not allowed take part. Don’t invite me to lunch, strike up a conversation with me, or ask for my thoughts if you’re just going to judge me for my life choices.
No one said having kids was easy. It’s hard work. It’s why I don’t have any yet. I don’t judge you for wearing your kids like a big cross that you had to bear. So don’t judge me for not having any yet, but don’t judge me for wanting them someday.
Good for them! I hope I can have kids some day so I can regale coworkers and friends with their latest antics. Until then, I try my best to interject knowingly into conversations using examples of my nephew, “Oh yeah, when they’re teething they run fever and drool a lot.”
But what bothered me the most this week was a conversation with a few of my “married with children” friends. They were making their usual Oh-it’s-different-when-you’re-a-mom comments. Then someone must have noticed the glazed look I had over my eyes (or perhaps it was the heavy sigh of annoyance) and asked me how many kids I wanted.
All eyes turned to me. This was my moment. I was actually invited to the conversation!
I confidently answered, “If God blesses me with one, I’ll be happy. But I’d really like a big family so at least 2, maybe even 4 kids.” The table erupted with laughter.
Each mom between fits of laughter answered, “Oh, wait until you have your first.” “Yeah, I wanted 2 until I had (insert kid’s name here).” “That’s cute. Just wait. ONE is a lot of work.”
I had had enough. Crazy eyes and arms flailing, the real big ball of crazy MB came out. “REALLY? Really? Kids are work? Oh, God, thanks! I had no idea! I thought you just got to wear cute maternity clothes and then the nanny fairies came out to take care of the baby’s sleepless nights, dirty diapers, teething, temper tantrums, bad days at school, wrecking the car, and rebellious stages. I’m just in it for someone to take care of me when I get old. Thank God you warned me.”
(Ahem. Whoops. Reel it in MB….reel it in….)
But seriously, I’m sick of the exclusive conversations that I’m subjected to listen to but not allowed take part. Don’t invite me to lunch, strike up a conversation with me, or ask for my thoughts if you’re just going to judge me for my life choices.
No one said having kids was easy. It’s hard work. It’s why I don’t have any yet. I don’t judge you for wearing your kids like a big cross that you had to bear. So don’t judge me for not having any yet, but don’t judge me for wanting them someday.
Monday, November 24, 2008
I'm an adult...but forever a kid in my hometown
I’m adult, I have a grown up job, a grown up apartment, and “big girl” bills to prove it.
Everyone once in a while I have to remind myself of that because of run-ins like the one I had this weekend.
I was visiting my parents in the town I grew up in on Sunday. I had planned to run some local errands, get my nails done, and make dinner for the folks. All very grown up stuff.
Ahem…anyway.
I walked in to the nail salon and saw one of my 6th grade teachers. Ms. McLaughlin. I immediately became 11 years old. I smoothed down my unruly hair, took my hands out of my pockets, stood up straight, and timidly asked one of the workers for a manicure.
I took my seat, every once in a while sneaking a glance at Mc. McLaughlin. Did she see me? Wait, she smiled?, oh, eyes front.
I pretended to act like a “big girl” and made a conscious effort to not swing my legs in the chair.
(gasp) Here’s my chance! She was getting up to leave and had to walk by me.
Apparently I was just creepy enough throughout the last half hour by looking over at her, waiting for her to recognize me, that she stopped by my chair.
In a tiny voice I said, “Ms. McLaughlin?” (You never know, she could be divorced by now) “I was your student at Story Elementary.”
“Hi,” she said in a teacher sweet voice. “Remind me of your name?”
“M-M-Mary Beth Knight.”
She swore she remembered, asked how old I was now, made a comment about her own age, asked what college I went to and where I was living/working. I think I managed to stutter something about working close to downtown in Human Resources. She told me to pass along her greeting to my folks.
“Yes ma’am,” I nodded as if I were sent home with a note from the teacher.
Seriously? Ugh.
I wanted to chase after her and tell her, “I’m an adult! I have a grown up job! A grown up apartment!”
But instead I sat in the nail salon chair, feet swinging, smiling big because she remembered me.
Everyone once in a while I have to remind myself of that because of run-ins like the one I had this weekend.
I was visiting my parents in the town I grew up in on Sunday. I had planned to run some local errands, get my nails done, and make dinner for the folks. All very grown up stuff.
Ahem…anyway.
I walked in to the nail salon and saw one of my 6th grade teachers. Ms. McLaughlin. I immediately became 11 years old. I smoothed down my unruly hair, took my hands out of my pockets, stood up straight, and timidly asked one of the workers for a manicure.
I took my seat, every once in a while sneaking a glance at Mc. McLaughlin. Did she see me? Wait, she smiled?, oh, eyes front.
I pretended to act like a “big girl” and made a conscious effort to not swing my legs in the chair.
(gasp) Here’s my chance! She was getting up to leave and had to walk by me.
Apparently I was just creepy enough throughout the last half hour by looking over at her, waiting for her to recognize me, that she stopped by my chair.
In a tiny voice I said, “Ms. McLaughlin?” (You never know, she could be divorced by now) “I was your student at Story Elementary.”
“Hi,” she said in a teacher sweet voice. “Remind me of your name?”
“M-M-Mary Beth Knight.”
She swore she remembered, asked how old I was now, made a comment about her own age, asked what college I went to and where I was living/working. I think I managed to stutter something about working close to downtown in Human Resources. She told me to pass along her greeting to my folks.
“Yes ma’am,” I nodded as if I were sent home with a note from the teacher.
Seriously? Ugh.
I wanted to chase after her and tell her, “I’m an adult! I have a grown up job! A grown up apartment!”
But instead I sat in the nail salon chair, feet swinging, smiling big because she remembered me.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Open letter to a young HR professional
Get out. Get out now.
Get out of the HR world for a while. Go run a function, manage a line, balance a P&L.
Got your degree in HR? Then you really need to go.
Getting an HR degree? Think about changing your major. Non-HR degrees enter HR all the time. Very few HR degrees go elsewhere. And take some statistics classes while you’re at it. They are more important for the future of HR than you might think.
Don’t be a career HR drone. Go see the world. Deal with the issues first hand. Understand business, leadership, employee problems, and what happens when people don’t play nicely with each other.
Then come back. We’ll need you.
_______________________________________________________________________
I wish I could take credit, but a networking buddy posted this and I really like it. For those of you who know me, this absolutely describes my career path.
Get out of the HR world for a while. Go run a function, manage a line, balance a P&L.
Got your degree in HR? Then you really need to go.
Getting an HR degree? Think about changing your major. Non-HR degrees enter HR all the time. Very few HR degrees go elsewhere. And take some statistics classes while you’re at it. They are more important for the future of HR than you might think.
Don’t be a career HR drone. Go see the world. Deal with the issues first hand. Understand business, leadership, employee problems, and what happens when people don’t play nicely with each other.
Then come back. We’ll need you.
_______________________________________________________________________
I wish I could take credit, but a networking buddy posted this and I really like it. For those of you who know me, this absolutely describes my career path.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Today I voted...and I have the sticker to prove it
I'm one of the voters the news warns about. I didn't know for certain who I wanted to vote for until the night before. I was sick of the whole mess. Media coverage, campaigning for funds, scandals, name calling, etc.
How to choose? Flip a coin? Throw a piece of red gum and blue gum against a wall and see which one sticks?
No, like a good American, I did my research on the issues that were important to me. I'd say the War in Iraq is an issue for me, but was surprisingly not something that tipped the scales. I focused on the issues that I could wrap my head around - immigration, gun control, taxes, economic stimulus, the environment, etc.
Polling opens at 7am (and I'm insane) so I decided to get there at 6:30 to beat the crowds. Boy was I ever glad I did! As I walked up to the line of about 12 that had already formed, I had 5-10 people on my heels. By 7am, the line was wrapped around the building. Yet once inside, they were so organized it took 15 minutes. Amazing! Just 45 minutes total to cast my vote in this big mess.
So all in all, I feel good about my choice. I feel even better that I exercised my right to vote...
...and got a sticker on the way out. That's really what it's all about.
How to choose? Flip a coin? Throw a piece of red gum and blue gum against a wall and see which one sticks?
No, like a good American, I did my research on the issues that were important to me. I'd say the War in Iraq is an issue for me, but was surprisingly not something that tipped the scales. I focused on the issues that I could wrap my head around - immigration, gun control, taxes, economic stimulus, the environment, etc.
Polling opens at 7am (and I'm insane) so I decided to get there at 6:30 to beat the crowds. Boy was I ever glad I did! As I walked up to the line of about 12 that had already formed, I had 5-10 people on my heels. By 7am, the line was wrapped around the building. Yet once inside, they were so organized it took 15 minutes. Amazing! Just 45 minutes total to cast my vote in this big mess.
So all in all, I feel good about my choice. I feel even better that I exercised my right to vote...
...and got a sticker on the way out. That's really what it's all about.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Pam Prank 2008
I am coming up on my first 90 days with my new company, Freeman. Since I joined the team I have met some incredible people and one of those people is my coworker Tommy. See below.
Tommy and I share a sick and childish sense of humor. The image above is a mug I gave him that references one of our favorite TV shows, The Office. If you are familiar with The Office you know the characters Jim and Dwight. Jim likes to play pranks on Dwight. Putting his stapler in a Jell-o mold, moving his desk to the bathroom, convincing him the CIA is recruiting him, etc.
Well, Tommy and I were a little bored on a Friday afternoon. Our boss, Pam, was out of the office until the following Thursday so we decided to play a prank on her. After going through all the possible scenarios and copy cat pranks from The Office, he decided to do this:
Oh sure to the naked eye it’s just a keyboard. But look closely. He rearranged the keys to spell out “You Stink” and we left for the weekend.
Cut to the following week. I’m out of the office all week for an HR conference so Tommy sends me an update:
OK, thought you might like an update on the “Pam prank of 2008”. Remember how I rearranged the keys on her keyboard? Well, she came back yesterday to the office but didn’t get in until after 9 am. I had back-to-back meetings from 9 to 2 pm so I didn’t even see her come in. Evidently she docked her computer and tried to log into her computer using the keyboard, she was looking at the keys and thought she was typing it correctly but (of course) due to my GENIUS it kept registering “wrong password”. Well, she did it three times and got locked out of the system.
She called helpdesk and had them work on her “problem”. Was on the phone with them for over an hour, finally got them to get her into her computer and she tried to send an email to create a ticket on the problem and as she typed it was all garbled. She was still on the phone with helpdesk and neither helpdesk or Pam could understand what the problem was. They finally just said gave up and placed an order for a new keyboard. She went to borrow a keyboard and when she brought it in she noticed that the keys didn’t match. Then all of a sudden she realized she realized hers were messed up – then she screamed, “Tommy did this!!”
When I got back from my meeting she told me the story and I was crying I was laughing so hard. And best of all, this happened on Bosses Day!!!!
Changing the keys on your bosses keyboard – $0
Confusing helpdesk technicians - $0
Making a VP think she’s going insane - $0
Having it all happen on Bosses Day – Priceless…
Tommy and I share a sick and childish sense of humor. The image above is a mug I gave him that references one of our favorite TV shows, The Office. If you are familiar with The Office you know the characters Jim and Dwight. Jim likes to play pranks on Dwight. Putting his stapler in a Jell-o mold, moving his desk to the bathroom, convincing him the CIA is recruiting him, etc.
Well, Tommy and I were a little bored on a Friday afternoon. Our boss, Pam, was out of the office until the following Thursday so we decided to play a prank on her. After going through all the possible scenarios and copy cat pranks from The Office, he decided to do this:
Oh sure to the naked eye it’s just a keyboard. But look closely. He rearranged the keys to spell out “You Stink” and we left for the weekend.
Cut to the following week. I’m out of the office all week for an HR conference so Tommy sends me an update:
OK, thought you might like an update on the “Pam prank of 2008”. Remember how I rearranged the keys on her keyboard? Well, she came back yesterday to the office but didn’t get in until after 9 am. I had back-to-back meetings from 9 to 2 pm so I didn’t even see her come in. Evidently she docked her computer and tried to log into her computer using the keyboard, she was looking at the keys and thought she was typing it correctly but (of course) due to my GENIUS it kept registering “wrong password”. Well, she did it three times and got locked out of the system.
She called helpdesk and had them work on her “problem”. Was on the phone with them for over an hour, finally got them to get her into her computer and she tried to send an email to create a ticket on the problem and as she typed it was all garbled. She was still on the phone with helpdesk and neither helpdesk or Pam could understand what the problem was. They finally just said gave up and placed an order for a new keyboard. She went to borrow a keyboard and when she brought it in she noticed that the keys didn’t match. Then all of a sudden she realized she realized hers were messed up – then she screamed, “Tommy did this!!”
When I got back from my meeting she told me the story and I was crying I was laughing so hard. And best of all, this happened on Bosses Day!!!!
Changing the keys on your bosses keyboard – $0
Confusing helpdesk technicians - $0
Making a VP think she’s going insane - $0
Having it all happen on Bosses Day – Priceless…
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Love like the movies
There are a lot of things in life that give me a warm fuzzy feeling. Lazy, rainy days, watching a sappy movie in bed is one of my all time favorites. There’s nothing like the rain on the window, my freakishly chilly apartment, piles of pillows and covers, while watching someone else live out a great love story.
You know the type of movie I’m talking about. When they spot each other from across the room, instantly fall in love, music plays, and the scene closes on a classic lip lock.
Surely I’m not the only woman who has been looking for a romance like the movies. Where reason melts away with a kiss and he whisks her off to a perfect life together.
What the movies never show you are the moments after the big kiss.
Gasp!
I’ve discovered I have an unrealistic image of true love. That’s right folks…hard to believe that someone so in tune with her emotions (ha!) may not quite know how to fall in love…and stay there.
The great romantic movies don’t dare ruin the film by showing the first fight, the awkward transition from single life to coupledom/marriage, lost friends along the way, and the first time she comes home from a shopping spree.
And that is exactly why I love those movies! Carefree, easy, lighthearted, and effortless.
But I have to remember that great REAL loves like my parents didn’t get to 35+ years of marriage by a single big kiss. They make it look easy, but have been working on an epic movie that has had its twists and turns, heartaches and heart attacks, laughs and tears, deaths and new life.
As I am beginning a love story of my own, I hope I can take queues from my parents.
You know the type of movie I’m talking about. When they spot each other from across the room, instantly fall in love, music plays, and the scene closes on a classic lip lock.
Surely I’m not the only woman who has been looking for a romance like the movies. Where reason melts away with a kiss and he whisks her off to a perfect life together.
What the movies never show you are the moments after the big kiss.
Gasp!
I’ve discovered I have an unrealistic image of true love. That’s right folks…hard to believe that someone so in tune with her emotions (ha!) may not quite know how to fall in love…and stay there.
The great romantic movies don’t dare ruin the film by showing the first fight, the awkward transition from single life to coupledom/marriage, lost friends along the way, and the first time she comes home from a shopping spree.
And that is exactly why I love those movies! Carefree, easy, lighthearted, and effortless.
But I have to remember that great REAL loves like my parents didn’t get to 35+ years of marriage by a single big kiss. They make it look easy, but have been working on an epic movie that has had its twists and turns, heartaches and heart attacks, laughs and tears, deaths and new life.
As I am beginning a love story of my own, I hope I can take queues from my parents.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Celebrating my late 20s
My mom has been teasing me since I turned 25 that I was in my late 20s. I refused to admit that, had a mid-twenties crisis, quit the corporate world, moved to California, and took a job in a retail store.
Totally rational as always.
But on Oct. 18 I will finally be forced to admit that I'm in my late 20s....mostly because I can't get much later than 29. Whatever.
So to give my late 20s a proper kick off, we're hitting the town. I have given all control over to Stephanie, party planner extraordinaire. If you can join us for dinner, let me know and I'll send you the details. If you want to just meet us out, hang tight while we make arrangements.
Totally rational as always.
But on Oct. 18 I will finally be forced to admit that I'm in my late 20s....mostly because I can't get much later than 29. Whatever.
So to give my late 20s a proper kick off, we're hitting the town. I have given all control over to Stephanie, party planner extraordinaire. If you can join us for dinner, let me know and I'll send you the details. If you want to just meet us out, hang tight while we make arrangements.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Eh, Screw Forgiveness
In early August I wrote about forgiveness. I absolutely meant it. We are only human and we all make mistakes. However, some are more devastating than others.
Which brings me to the blog title.
Without revealing names, a person very close to me found out that her husband had an affair earlier this year. After a series of events, including forgiveness, lies, a continued affair, separation, emotional roller coaster, the husband (whom I now affectionately call "F*ckhead") has chosen the homewrecker. Now my friend has signed a lease for an apartment a thousand miles away from him.
Divorce is a reality for today. But what about tomorrow?
She's a fabulous woman – smart, beautiful, patient, and loving. She'll find a new life for herself that will soar above the years she spent with F*ckhead. But they aren't in this alone. They have a child together.
I had friends growing up that split time with their parents. It seemed to work, but they were typically in the same state at least. It seems so foreign to me that their little child is going to grow up this way. Not to mention the slim chance F*ckhead and Homewrecker will actually last. So how's that for a male role model.
The only thing that helps me see the silver lining on this is that my friend will come out of this better than he will. She has a support system that will help her cope through the ugliness of this situation. She has her family, her friends, her friends' friends, etc. What does he have?
So this is me officially removing the window of opportunity for F*ckhead to ask for forgiveness. If he doesn't want it, we'll do just fine without him in our lives.
Which brings me to the blog title.
Without revealing names, a person very close to me found out that her husband had an affair earlier this year. After a series of events, including forgiveness, lies, a continued affair, separation, emotional roller coaster, the husband (whom I now affectionately call "F*ckhead") has chosen the homewrecker. Now my friend has signed a lease for an apartment a thousand miles away from him.
Divorce is a reality for today. But what about tomorrow?
She's a fabulous woman – smart, beautiful, patient, and loving. She'll find a new life for herself that will soar above the years she spent with F*ckhead. But they aren't in this alone. They have a child together.
I had friends growing up that split time with their parents. It seemed to work, but they were typically in the same state at least. It seems so foreign to me that their little child is going to grow up this way. Not to mention the slim chance F*ckhead and Homewrecker will actually last. So how's that for a male role model.
The only thing that helps me see the silver lining on this is that my friend will come out of this better than he will. She has a support system that will help her cope through the ugliness of this situation. She has her family, her friends, her friends' friends, etc. What does he have?
So this is me officially removing the window of opportunity for F*ckhead to ask for forgiveness. If he doesn't want it, we'll do just fine without him in our lives.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
American Heart Association
Hi friends,
Please take a moment to read the scripted information I should be e-mailing out, then click on the link below to visit my personal donation page
----------------------------------------------------------------
Everyone knows someone affected by heart disease or stroke. For those I love, I will be walking in this year’s Start! Heart Walk. I have set a personal goal to raise funds for the American Heart Association and need your help to reach my donation goal. We are raising critical dollars for heart disease and stroke research and education.
You can help me reach my goal by making a donation online. Click on the link below and you will be taken to my personal donation page where you can make a secure online credit card donation. The American Heart Association's online fundraising website has a minimum donation amount of $25.00. If you prefer to donate less, you can do so by sending a check directly to me.
Your donation will help fight our nation’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers—heart disease and stroke. You are making a difference. Thank you for your support.
Follow This Link to visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support American Heart Association - Dallas, TX
******************************************************************************
Some email systems do not support the use of links and therefore this link may not appear to work. If so, copy and paste the following into your browser:
http://heartwalk.kintera.org/faf/r.asp?t=4&i=256369&u=256369-229540549&e=1851799990
******************************************************************************
Please take a moment to read the scripted information I should be e-mailing out, then click on the link below to visit my personal donation page
----------------------------------------------------------------
Everyone knows someone affected by heart disease or stroke. For those I love, I will be walking in this year’s Start! Heart Walk. I have set a personal goal to raise funds for the American Heart Association and need your help to reach my donation goal. We are raising critical dollars for heart disease and stroke research and education.
You can help me reach my goal by making a donation online. Click on the link below and you will be taken to my personal donation page where you can make a secure online credit card donation. The American Heart Association's online fundraising website has a minimum donation amount of $25.00. If you prefer to donate less, you can do so by sending a check directly to me.
Your donation will help fight our nation’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers—heart disease and stroke. You are making a difference. Thank you for your support.
Follow This Link to visit my personal web page and help me in my efforts to support American Heart Association - Dallas, TX
******************************************************************************
Some email systems do not support the use of links and therefore this link may not appear to work. If so, copy and paste the following into your browser:
http://heartwalk.kintera.org/faf/r.asp?t=4&i=256369&u=256369-229540549&e=1851799990
******************************************************************************
Monday, August 11, 2008
When did I become “technologically challenged?”
In some respects I am my mother’s daughter. I’m creative, get easily distracted by shiny things, get annoyed with convoluted instructions, and think that anything in the color red goes faster (cars, shoes, etc).
In other areas, I am my father’s daughter. I like electronics, I’m a natural with computers, I have wires strewn throughout my room connecting one electronic device to the next, and I like new and shiny toys.
So imagine my surprise when I bought a shiny new toy (Blackberry Pearl) and had absolutely no interest in trying to set it up. I guess I attribute some of the lack of interest to the time of purchase - I had just moved, I lost my other phone so I was annoyed I had to buy this one to begin with, dad was recovering from surgery, my life was chaotic in general and setting up a phone was the last thing I had on my mind. But I also attribute it to my boyfriend-at-the-time’s phone envy. He had the older model and tech savvy, so took special interest in setting my newer phone up. I didn’t touch it. I think I made 2 decisions – which was perfect. If it had been left up to me the phone would still be in the box and I would be using an old loaner. But now I barely know how to use it…and I don’t have any real interest in figuring it out. So unlike me!
I received an AT&T Blackjack from my new company. I got to pick the color so it’s shiny and red (so it goes faster) …but I have no idea how to use it. I received it midday at work so I’ve been trying to discretely tutor myself on the simple things like “volume.” I failed miserably – I pushed something and it rang at the highest volume with the most obnoxious ring. Awesome. Also, it has a full keypad which makes my head hurt after just getting used to the Pearl’s partial key pad. My test message to my dad took me about 5 minutes to type…and it just said “test.”
Oh sure, 5th graders nowadays know how to put together and take apart a computer. But I at least refuse to become one of those women who can’t figure out appliances and basic electronics. I won’t be a statistic!
So my homework this evening is to study my Blackjack User Manual and Online Tutorial. Should I be concerned it also comes with a Heath and Safety Information pamphlet? Is that for others when I get frustrated and launch my phone across the room?
In other areas, I am my father’s daughter. I like electronics, I’m a natural with computers, I have wires strewn throughout my room connecting one electronic device to the next, and I like new and shiny toys.
So imagine my surprise when I bought a shiny new toy (Blackberry Pearl) and had absolutely no interest in trying to set it up. I guess I attribute some of the lack of interest to the time of purchase - I had just moved, I lost my other phone so I was annoyed I had to buy this one to begin with, dad was recovering from surgery, my life was chaotic in general and setting up a phone was the last thing I had on my mind. But I also attribute it to my boyfriend-at-the-time’s phone envy. He had the older model and tech savvy, so took special interest in setting my newer phone up. I didn’t touch it. I think I made 2 decisions – which was perfect. If it had been left up to me the phone would still be in the box and I would be using an old loaner. But now I barely know how to use it…and I don’t have any real interest in figuring it out. So unlike me!
I received an AT&T Blackjack from my new company. I got to pick the color so it’s shiny and red (so it goes faster) …but I have no idea how to use it. I received it midday at work so I’ve been trying to discretely tutor myself on the simple things like “volume.” I failed miserably – I pushed something and it rang at the highest volume with the most obnoxious ring. Awesome. Also, it has a full keypad which makes my head hurt after just getting used to the Pearl’s partial key pad. My test message to my dad took me about 5 minutes to type…and it just said “test.”
Oh sure, 5th graders nowadays know how to put together and take apart a computer. But I at least refuse to become one of those women who can’t figure out appliances and basic electronics. I won’t be a statistic!
So my homework this evening is to study my Blackjack User Manual and Online Tutorial. Should I be concerned it also comes with a Heath and Safety Information pamphlet? Is that for others when I get frustrated and launch my phone across the room?
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Forgiveness
The Bible teaches us about forgiveness, parents and teachers often share stories about the power of forgiveness, therapists will tell patients to release the burden of anger or shame and forgive.
I can forgive all day long for those who have hurt me. Afterall, I’m human and I make mistakes too. I know I’ve hurt people in the past and I hope they have forgiven me.
But what happens when you are faced with a situation that seems unforgiveable. Something so damaging that relationships are permanently severed, hearts are broken, and trust is called into question.
God would say to forgive as it is not our place to judge. We are all sinners. Turn the other cheek.
Is it ok to forgive the person but not the action? I don’t know if I can separate the two.
It’s easier to forgive when the person takes responsibility for their actions and ASKS for forgiveness…but when they don’t?
So this is my cry for help – please pray for me that I will one day be able to forgive. I will never forget, but I hope one day I will be able to forgive.
I can forgive all day long for those who have hurt me. Afterall, I’m human and I make mistakes too. I know I’ve hurt people in the past and I hope they have forgiven me.
But what happens when you are faced with a situation that seems unforgiveable. Something so damaging that relationships are permanently severed, hearts are broken, and trust is called into question.
God would say to forgive as it is not our place to judge. We are all sinners. Turn the other cheek.
Is it ok to forgive the person but not the action? I don’t know if I can separate the two.
It’s easier to forgive when the person takes responsibility for their actions and ASKS for forgiveness…but when they don’t?
So this is my cry for help – please pray for me that I will one day be able to forgive. I will never forget, but I hope one day I will be able to forgive.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Outsourcing Romance
I’ve been a supporter for online dating services for many years now. As a busy single, I want to meet Mr. Right, but when? Interoffice dating is out, and since most of my time is spent at work online dating often seems like a great alternative to bar hopping on the weekends. (nothing says love like shots of tequila and a cab ride to his/her place) I’ve met some great guys and though it hasn’t worked out, I’d recommend it for anyone just trying to get out there.
Though I don’t have an interest in getting back online anytime soon, I had to pause when a friend suggested I check this out – It’s Just Lunch. Curious, I went to their website:
“Welcome to It's Just Lunch Dallas, we are a specialized dating service for busy professionals….Our first date experts minimize stress and maximize efficiency by working with your busy schedule to coordinate Lunch, Brunch or Drinks after work as a fun way to meet some of the incredible single professionals living in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. Plus we do all the work! We will tell you about your match, coordinate your schedules and make your reservations at a restaurant in Dallas/Ft. Worth that is convenient for both of you. With one phone call and a confidential face-to-face interview in our office, you're on your way to a fun, exciting and productive way to meet quality matches. All you have to do is relax and have FUN!!”
Just because I’m online doesn’t mean I have lost the appreciation for romance, personal connection, and chemistry. Sure I joke with friends and future ex-boyfriends that I’m dead inside, void of all human emotion, etc. And that is mostly true for people I’m not close to, it’s not true for friends and family.
I’d like to think those closest to me know that I get giggly about meeting a new guy, first date jitters, the first kiss, etc. But part of that giggliness is the anticipation after all the work trying to find this new guy. Isn’t part of the pay off of meeting your partner the victory after the hunt? To outsource the screening process seems so disconnected. Where are all the stories? I have countless stories to share with friends about bad dates, online matches that are terrible, creepy guys at bars, and other failed attempts at meeting Mr. Right.
Companies hire third party recruiters to find people for jobs they can’t fill – “Web Designer - Open since April.”
Isn’t it weird to hire a recruiter to fill the latest opening – “MB’s boyfriend - Vacant since July.”
Though I don’t have an interest in getting back online anytime soon, I had to pause when a friend suggested I check this out – It’s Just Lunch. Curious, I went to their website:
“Welcome to It's Just Lunch Dallas, we are a specialized dating service for busy professionals….Our first date experts minimize stress and maximize efficiency by working with your busy schedule to coordinate Lunch, Brunch or Drinks after work as a fun way to meet some of the incredible single professionals living in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. Plus we do all the work! We will tell you about your match, coordinate your schedules and make your reservations at a restaurant in Dallas/Ft. Worth that is convenient for both of you. With one phone call and a confidential face-to-face interview in our office, you're on your way to a fun, exciting and productive way to meet quality matches. All you have to do is relax and have FUN!!”
Just because I’m online doesn’t mean I have lost the appreciation for romance, personal connection, and chemistry. Sure I joke with friends and future ex-boyfriends that I’m dead inside, void of all human emotion, etc. And that is mostly true for people I’m not close to, it’s not true for friends and family.
I’d like to think those closest to me know that I get giggly about meeting a new guy, first date jitters, the first kiss, etc. But part of that giggliness is the anticipation after all the work trying to find this new guy. Isn’t part of the pay off of meeting your partner the victory after the hunt? To outsource the screening process seems so disconnected. Where are all the stories? I have countless stories to share with friends about bad dates, online matches that are terrible, creepy guys at bars, and other failed attempts at meeting Mr. Right.
Companies hire third party recruiters to find people for jobs they can’t fill – “Web Designer - Open since April.”
Isn’t it weird to hire a recruiter to fill the latest opening – “MB’s boyfriend - Vacant since July.”
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Mid-week check in
Monday was the big first day at Freeman. I spent most of Sunday afternoon through the evening preparing. Laundry, reading my new employee handbook, completing new hire paperwork, etc. I even planned out my outfit so I could just get up, get fabulous, and go to work on time.
Here's what really happened:
I woke up on time - good start so far. I spent about 5 minutes in the shower trying to decide whether to shave my legs or wait until tomorrow. Since my fabulous outfit was a pair of slacks, I finally decided to wait. Finish hair, suck down coffee, put on outfit....I hate it. Then I begin scrambling through my jam packed closet, screaming to no one in particular "I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR!!" I decide on a skirt, which means I hop in the shower (fully dressed sans shoes) for a quick shave. 6 or 7 shaving accidents later, I run out the door (late) extra coffee in hand.
I slid into the office and was greeting at the reception desk with my perky recruiter Charlee who announce we were going downstairs for breakfast and Starbucks. I knew it was going to be a good day when they greet me with food and coffee.
When I got to my desk, I had several things waiting for me - a brand new laptop, travel case, travel mouse, travel battery pack, travel coffee mug, welcome sign, cube name tag, reading materials, training binder, fancy ink pen, supplies, etc. Charlee and my new boss fell over themselves that my monitor, cell phone, business cards weren't ready. "But here's the Office Depot catalog, order anything you want. Need a new chair?"
Seriously?? Coming from a company where even your own cube was a hot commodity, I was amazed so much was set up for me before I even got there. My massive flat screen monitor to go with my laptop came by noon and my new phone (that I got to pick the face color) should be in tomorrow.
Over the next few days I have been wow'd by my new company. They have invested so much time and resources in my first week of training that I'm incentivized to bust my hump for them. Not to say that my previous company did a poor job, it's a little eye opening.
I spent so much time and money as a recruiter trying to find the perfect person to work for us, and when I found them I dumped them on their manager and went on the hunt again for the next open spot. go, go, go. But chances are their manager didn't have time to give them a proper welcome either. Resources weren't ready on time, business cards are ready 6 months later, they still haven't been paid for expenses while interviewing 3 months ago, and can I get a pen around here?!, etc. Broken processes we never perfected...and in the 5 years I was there, I was a part of the problem. Ouch.
It's so nice to see a company that recognizes the first impression a new employee has will likely last their career. My first week so far has been flawless....it should be a good career.
Here's what really happened:
I woke up on time - good start so far. I spent about 5 minutes in the shower trying to decide whether to shave my legs or wait until tomorrow. Since my fabulous outfit was a pair of slacks, I finally decided to wait. Finish hair, suck down coffee, put on outfit....I hate it. Then I begin scrambling through my jam packed closet, screaming to no one in particular "I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR!!" I decide on a skirt, which means I hop in the shower (fully dressed sans shoes) for a quick shave. 6 or 7 shaving accidents later, I run out the door (late) extra coffee in hand.
I slid into the office and was greeting at the reception desk with my perky recruiter Charlee who announce we were going downstairs for breakfast and Starbucks. I knew it was going to be a good day when they greet me with food and coffee.
When I got to my desk, I had several things waiting for me - a brand new laptop, travel case, travel mouse, travel battery pack, travel coffee mug, welcome sign, cube name tag, reading materials, training binder, fancy ink pen, supplies, etc. Charlee and my new boss fell over themselves that my monitor, cell phone, business cards weren't ready. "But here's the Office Depot catalog, order anything you want. Need a new chair?"
Seriously?? Coming from a company where even your own cube was a hot commodity, I was amazed so much was set up for me before I even got there. My massive flat screen monitor to go with my laptop came by noon and my new phone (that I got to pick the face color) should be in tomorrow.
Over the next few days I have been wow'd by my new company. They have invested so much time and resources in my first week of training that I'm incentivized to bust my hump for them. Not to say that my previous company did a poor job, it's a little eye opening.
I spent so much time and money as a recruiter trying to find the perfect person to work for us, and when I found them I dumped them on their manager and went on the hunt again for the next open spot. go, go, go. But chances are their manager didn't have time to give them a proper welcome either. Resources weren't ready on time, business cards are ready 6 months later, they still haven't been paid for expenses while interviewing 3 months ago, and can I get a pen around here?!, etc. Broken processes we never perfected...and in the 5 years I was there, I was a part of the problem. Ouch.
It's so nice to see a company that recognizes the first impression a new employee has will likely last their career. My first week so far has been flawless....it should be a good career.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Catching up
Sorry, it's been ages since my last post. Here are the highlights in MB's life. Stay with me - we're going to go fast.
1. Back in May we participated in the Race for the Cure. We had a wonderful time, girl power, bonding fun, and touching moments. It was amazing to see so many survivors!
7. And now for the biggest news of all….(DRUM ROLL)…after 5+ long years, I quit Fossil. That’s right ladies and gents, no more Christmas and b-day presents filled with watches and handbags. On Monday, July 28 I start with a company called Freeman as an HR Generalist. http://www.freemanco.com/. I’m so excited!! The best part is that they actually believe in a work/life balance, I’ll have more time for my blog, my friends, hobbies, etc. No more 70+ hour work weeks! Hooray!
So my commitment to my readers (mostly Stephanie so she has something to do during the day), is to write more on here.
I'm back!
1. Back in May we participated in the Race for the Cure. We had a wonderful time, girl power, bonding fun, and touching moments. It was amazing to see so many survivors!
2. On Arbor Day, Stephanie and I got some friends together to participate in this event called Adventure Racing. It included a canoe race, obstacle course, planting a tree, a word find, and a 1 mile run. For those of you who know me well, I don’t run unless I’m running from something. It was definitely a challenge but lots of fun!
3. In May my family and I made a trip to Florida for my cousin’s wedding. It was so great to see everyone, catch up with cousins, squeeze Lawson (who decided he didn’t like anyone besides mommy), and get some sun on the beach.
4. In June I made a trip up to Canada for work. I was recruiting for 2 new Fossil stores we’re opening in that market. Since we don’t have a presence in Canada, it was a little challenging, but exciting nonetheless. I have now been to Alberta and B.C.
5. Right about the time my dad went into the hospital I had started dating a boy named Aaron. In July we went to Mexico with 20 of his closest friends....we broke up the day we got back.
So as my theme song goes, “Another one bites the dust…”
6. For the past two years, we’ve celebrated Stephanie’s birthday with a trip. Last year it was Mexico, this year it was VEGAS! A handful of friends made a weekend trip to Vegas for a long weekend of debauchery.
7. And now for the biggest news of all….(DRUM ROLL)…after 5+ long years, I quit Fossil. That’s right ladies and gents, no more Christmas and b-day presents filled with watches and handbags. On Monday, July 28 I start with a company called Freeman as an HR Generalist. http://www.freemanco.com/. I’m so excited!! The best part is that they actually believe in a work/life balance, I’ll have more time for my blog, my friends, hobbies, etc. No more 70+ hour work weeks! Hooray!
So my commitment to my readers (mostly Stephanie so she has something to do during the day), is to write more on here.
I'm back!
Monday, May 19, 2008
Race for the Cure
Dear Friends and Family,
As some of you know, cancer runs in my family and several family members have lost their battle over the years.
Since I will likely not be discovering the cure, I recently accepted the challenge to raise funds to support the Komen North Texas Race for the Cure® on June 7, 2008 in the fight against breast cancer.
One in eight women will be stricken with breast cancer in her lifetime and the more we raise, the more the North Texas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure can give back to fund vital breast cancer education, screening and treatment programs in our own community and support the national search for a cure.
Click here to visit my personal page and pledge your support.
Please join me in the fight by pledging in support of my participation in the Race or contributing generously to the Komen North Texas Race for the Cure®. Your tax-deductible contribution will fund innovative outreach and awareness programs for medically underserved communities in North Texas and national breast cancer research. It is faster and easier than ever to support this great cause - you can make a donation online by simply clicking on the link at the bottom of this message. Whatever you can give will help! I truly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress. (aka if my heart and lungs explode from running)
Sincerely,
Mary Beth Knight
As some of you know, cancer runs in my family and several family members have lost their battle over the years.
Since I will likely not be discovering the cure, I recently accepted the challenge to raise funds to support the Komen North Texas Race for the Cure® on June 7, 2008 in the fight against breast cancer.
One in eight women will be stricken with breast cancer in her lifetime and the more we raise, the more the North Texas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure can give back to fund vital breast cancer education, screening and treatment programs in our own community and support the national search for a cure.
Click here to visit my personal page and pledge your support.
Please join me in the fight by pledging in support of my participation in the Race or contributing generously to the Komen North Texas Race for the Cure®. Your tax-deductible contribution will fund innovative outreach and awareness programs for medically underserved communities in North Texas and national breast cancer research. It is faster and easier than ever to support this great cause - you can make a donation online by simply clicking on the link at the bottom of this message. Whatever you can give will help! I truly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress. (aka if my heart and lungs explode from running)
Sincerely,
Mary Beth Knight
Saturday, April 19, 2008
My dad
My mom got a call Thursday morning about an hour after dad got to the office that he was having chest pains....and was driving himself to the hospital. Being the hard head he is, he refused to call 911 or an EMT.
Upon arriving at the ER, they ask about his pain level. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being an elephant sitting on your chest) he indicated a level 8. At about noon he had an angiogram where they basically took an insider's tour of his heart to see the blood flow and narrow down the problem area. He had 4 clots are severe and require rather immediate attention before he suffers a major heart attack.
Dad had quadruple bypass surgery last Thursday night. The surgery took several hours but was successful. His heart should actually be working much better so he can be active and have a higher energy level.
He was in extreme pain following the surgery. Partly due to the breast plate, the incision, and also he has several tubes that are inside his chest to help with drainage so he didn't develop pneumonia. As of today, 3 of the tubes have been removed. However, the most painful tubes remain as they are the most effective. Doctors think those can be removed tomorrow.
They finally found a pain reliever that actually helped so he got his first bit of rest today. (As much as you can actually sleep in the ICU.)
Interesting part of this recovery process - though it's scary and he was still connected to tubes, wires, and monitors, he was sitting up about 9 hours eating eggs and toast after his visit to the OR. He was sitting in a chair using the pedals of a cycle to get blood circulating about 11 hours after surgery. He walked up and down the hallway today. Can you believe it? He was in extreme pain for the majority of these exercises, but the nurses are pushing him so he doesn't let fluid settle in his lungs.
Dad should be in a regular room by Monday and will likely be there for a full week for observation. My mom and I will have our hands full when he leaves the hospital and it's just the two of us instead of a team of nurses and doctors.
We are truly thankful that he is going to make a full recovery. The doctors and nurses have been amazing.
Thank you for all your continued thoughts and prayers. I know my dad appreciates them as much as I do.
Upon arriving at the ER, they ask about his pain level. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being an elephant sitting on your chest) he indicated a level 8. At about noon he had an angiogram where they basically took an insider's tour of his heart to see the blood flow and narrow down the problem area. He had 4 clots are severe and require rather immediate attention before he suffers a major heart attack.
Dad had quadruple bypass surgery last Thursday night. The surgery took several hours but was successful. His heart should actually be working much better so he can be active and have a higher energy level.
He was in extreme pain following the surgery. Partly due to the breast plate, the incision, and also he has several tubes that are inside his chest to help with drainage so he didn't develop pneumonia. As of today, 3 of the tubes have been removed. However, the most painful tubes remain as they are the most effective. Doctors think those can be removed tomorrow.
They finally found a pain reliever that actually helped so he got his first bit of rest today. (As much as you can actually sleep in the ICU.)
Interesting part of this recovery process - though it's scary and he was still connected to tubes, wires, and monitors, he was sitting up about 9 hours eating eggs and toast after his visit to the OR. He was sitting in a chair using the pedals of a cycle to get blood circulating about 11 hours after surgery. He walked up and down the hallway today. Can you believe it? He was in extreme pain for the majority of these exercises, but the nurses are pushing him so he doesn't let fluid settle in his lungs.
Dad should be in a regular room by Monday and will likely be there for a full week for observation. My mom and I will have our hands full when he leaves the hospital and it's just the two of us instead of a team of nurses and doctors.
We are truly thankful that he is going to make a full recovery. The doctors and nurses have been amazing.
Thank you for all your continued thoughts and prayers. I know my dad appreciates them as much as I do.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
My First Novel
Last night I had to present 3 book ideas to the class. They loved one, and liked the other 2. The one they loved was also the one I really wanted to use.
It was an interesting exercise really. With 6 very different students, and 6 very different literary tastes, our book ideas were so diverse. Murder mysteries, sci-fi adventures, supernatural phenomenon, and then my chicklet/social commentary ideas.
Now I have an idea for a book to get started. But I tend to get hung up on character names. I have a name for the male love interest - made the class swoon just at his name. Ha!
But I don't love the names I have for the two female characters. So I've been going through my contact lists, combining names of friends, looking up names online, and probably spending more time on the name than I need. There's just so much in a name, I want them to be perfect. I'm up for suggestions!
Female #1: Vicious, backstabbing, career focused.
Female #2: Naive, seeking revenge, struggling to find her identity.
This week's assignment is to write a journal entry as the main character. It's supposed to be a pre-novel entry and not something we put in the book. Just something to get us thinking and writing like our character using their grammar, tone, vocabulary, etc.
Should be another interesting exercise to present to the class!
It was an interesting exercise really. With 6 very different students, and 6 very different literary tastes, our book ideas were so diverse. Murder mysteries, sci-fi adventures, supernatural phenomenon, and then my chicklet/social commentary ideas.
Now I have an idea for a book to get started. But I tend to get hung up on character names. I have a name for the male love interest - made the class swoon just at his name. Ha!
But I don't love the names I have for the two female characters. So I've been going through my contact lists, combining names of friends, looking up names online, and probably spending more time on the name than I need. There's just so much in a name, I want them to be perfect. I'm up for suggestions!
Female #1: Vicious, backstabbing, career focused.
Female #2: Naive, seeking revenge, struggling to find her identity.
This week's assignment is to write a journal entry as the main character. It's supposed to be a pre-novel entry and not something we put in the book. Just something to get us thinking and writing like our character using their grammar, tone, vocabulary, etc.
Should be another interesting exercise to present to the class!
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Single handedly keeping the US postal service in business
Besides my latest obsessions with country music and jalapeno cheetos (don’t ask) I need to confess I have an obsession with stationary and note cards.
Now that I’m try to make friendships more personal by sending an occasional note here and there to say "Hi!" or "Thank you!" I’m on a never ending search for the perfect stationary to put to pen. I had a pretty healthy inventory already, but it’s quickly growing out of control. Not to mention I like to create my own cards when I can.
Good grief.
So if you haven’t sent me your address already and you’d like a note from me on fabulous stationary or a perfect little note card...send it my way.
Now that I’m try to make friendships more personal by sending an occasional note here and there to say "Hi!" or "Thank you!" I’m on a never ending search for the perfect stationary to put to pen. I had a pretty healthy inventory already, but it’s quickly growing out of control. Not to mention I like to create my own cards when I can.
Good grief.
So if you haven’t sent me your address already and you’d like a note from me on fabulous stationary or a perfect little note card...send it my way.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
I’ve given in to Facebook
As a recruiter, it seems like I’m a part of numerous professional networking sites and like to tell myself that myspace is just another "networking" tool. I’ve been avoiding Facebook so I didn’t have yet another site to keep up with.
But since I’m trying to get back in touch with lost friends and classmates, I gave in last night and joined. Mostly for getting back in touch, also to network.
Like an idiot I stayed up until midnight searching for people. But I’m not sure if my contact lists imported correctly, and I think I’ve tried to add people a few times. So if you get a dozen or so add requests from me, just remember I’m a natural blond. Add me and move on.
If I haven’t found you on Facebook yet, please find me and add me. If there’s anyone you know from AHS, please tell them to add me too. I’m trying to find everyone from ’98 and friends from other grades.
Also, I’m on Linkedin.com so you can add me there if you’d like to be my networking buddy. http://www.linkedin.com/in/mbknight
Question for you:
I lost track of a friend that went to a different high school and University than me. The e-mail address I have is old, and I can’t find him on myspace, facebook (the main reason I joined), or linkedin. Does anyone know of another way to track down old friends...without being super creepy/stalkerish?
But since I’m trying to get back in touch with lost friends and classmates, I gave in last night and joined. Mostly for getting back in touch, also to network.
Like an idiot I stayed up until midnight searching for people. But I’m not sure if my contact lists imported correctly, and I think I’ve tried to add people a few times. So if you get a dozen or so add requests from me, just remember I’m a natural blond. Add me and move on.
If I haven’t found you on Facebook yet, please find me and add me. If there’s anyone you know from AHS, please tell them to add me too. I’m trying to find everyone from ’98 and friends from other grades.
Also, I’m on Linkedin.com so you can add me there if you’d like to be my networking buddy. http://www.linkedin.com/in/mbknight
Question for you:
I lost track of a friend that went to a different high school and University than me. The e-mail address I have is old, and I can’t find him on myspace, facebook (the main reason I joined), or linkedin. Does anyone know of another way to track down old friends...without being super creepy/stalkerish?
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Measure of a friendship
"The real success of our personal lives and careers can best be measured by the relationships we have with the people most dear to us. . . " – Mary Kay Ash
As soon as I read this quote, I got to thinking about the relationships I have with all of you.
I joke in my myspace profile: "I only add people I know. I’d say sorry, but then I wouldn’t mean it...and that’s not fun for anyone." Well, it’s true. I have added a few bands that I’ve never personally met, but I like their music. Other than that, I know everyone at varying depths.
I have my "myspace top friends" but in my growing list of friends, I have:
-Friends from work
-Friends from college
-Friends from high school
-Friends I’ve met in my travels
-Friends I talk with regularly
-Friends I wish I talked to more
A friend and I have been trying to find time to get together for over a year now. In college we lived across town and saw each other almost every day. We currently live less than a mile from each other and have not been able to meet up. At first it really made me nervous about our friendship – if we were stronger friends, wouldn’t we find the time to meet up even for a quick hello? But then I starting thinking about our relationship. We don’t have to see each other every week, month, or even year for me to know that he’s still a my friend. I would still do anything for him, and I’d like to think that if I really needed to see him he’d come running.
So the same goes to you. I may not be lucky enough talk to you every day, I may not see you often, but if you ever need a friend – I’m here.
As soon as I read this quote, I got to thinking about the relationships I have with all of you.
I joke in my myspace profile: "I only add people I know. I’d say sorry, but then I wouldn’t mean it...and that’s not fun for anyone." Well, it’s true. I have added a few bands that I’ve never personally met, but I like their music. Other than that, I know everyone at varying depths.
I have my "myspace top friends" but in my growing list of friends, I have:
-Friends from work
-Friends from college
-Friends from high school
-Friends I’ve met in my travels
-Friends I talk with regularly
-Friends I wish I talked to more
A friend and I have been trying to find time to get together for over a year now. In college we lived across town and saw each other almost every day. We currently live less than a mile from each other and have not been able to meet up. At first it really made me nervous about our friendship – if we were stronger friends, wouldn’t we find the time to meet up even for a quick hello? But then I starting thinking about our relationship. We don’t have to see each other every week, month, or even year for me to know that he’s still a my friend. I would still do anything for him, and I’d like to think that if I really needed to see him he’d come running.
So the same goes to you. I may not be lucky enough talk to you every day, I may not see you often, but if you ever need a friend – I’m here.
Monday, March 17, 2008
You think you’ve got jokes?
There seems to be some confusion in the world about what constitutes sarcasm, what’s mean, and what’s just a really bad joke. I keep hearing conversations and feel like it is my obligation to educate bad jokers.
Example 1: "Have fun at Target. No pun intended."
Reality: Nowhere in that statement is there a pun or even what might be mistaken as a pun. Maybe it was the word of the day and you don’t know how to use "pun" in a sentence. Bottom line - not funny, buy a dictionary.
Example 2: Asking someone after your first date for a discount at his/her job – even as a joke.
Reality: Not funny. Makes you appear cheap…and implies quid pro quo. Unless he/she actually provides a service for money/dinner, not a good thing to ask.
Example 3: Telling your girlfriend how many hot nurses were at your morning conference.
Reality: Plan to sleep at your place, or maybe one of those hot nurses will take pity on you and let you sleep there. Brag about this with your buddies, not someone you’re dating.
Example 4: While mingling at a party, someone you meet mentions she just started a new job. You ask, "Was your last job a stripper?"
Reality: This might be funny in your head or if you know the girl, but it is not what you call "sarcastic." It’s a bad joke that will leave you with a kick to the pants or a drink in your face.
I don’t claim to be the funniest gal out there, but I hope this provides a comedy compass for everyone out there. Good luck!
Example 1: "Have fun at Target. No pun intended."
Reality: Nowhere in that statement is there a pun or even what might be mistaken as a pun. Maybe it was the word of the day and you don’t know how to use "pun" in a sentence. Bottom line - not funny, buy a dictionary.
Example 2: Asking someone after your first date for a discount at his/her job – even as a joke.
Reality: Not funny. Makes you appear cheap…and implies quid pro quo. Unless he/she actually provides a service for money/dinner, not a good thing to ask.
Example 3: Telling your girlfriend how many hot nurses were at your morning conference.
Reality: Plan to sleep at your place, or maybe one of those hot nurses will take pity on you and let you sleep there. Brag about this with your buddies, not someone you’re dating.
Example 4: While mingling at a party, someone you meet mentions she just started a new job. You ask, "Was your last job a stripper?"
Reality: This might be funny in your head or if you know the girl, but it is not what you call "sarcastic." It’s a bad joke that will leave you with a kick to the pants or a drink in your face.
I don’t claim to be the funniest gal out there, but I hope this provides a comedy compass for everyone out there. Good luck!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Blueprinting my novel
I'm on my way to being one of the greatest writers of our time.
Well, kind of.
I've enrolled in a writing class. Specifically, it's called "Blueprinting your novel." I have some ideas, I've just always been terrible at where to start. I usually end up typing a bunch of stuff without a real plan or outline. Then I take twice as long just going back, gathering my thoughts, revising, etc.
So after this class I should hold all the secrets in blueprinting a novel and will write the next great novel.
Mary Beth Knight
Future Author Extraordinaire
Well, kind of.
I've enrolled in a writing class. Specifically, it's called "Blueprinting your novel." I have some ideas, I've just always been terrible at where to start. I usually end up typing a bunch of stuff without a real plan or outline. Then I take twice as long just going back, gathering my thoughts, revising, etc.
So after this class I should hold all the secrets in blueprinting a novel and will write the next great novel.
Mary Beth Knight
Future Author Extraordinaire
Monday, March 3, 2008
Please, take this personally
I have a few goals this year (not resolutions) but what I didn't officially add was to make my friendships more thoughtful and personal. It's such a small thing to some, but I plan to:
1) be more organized with birthdays and anniversary dates. Seriously, I never remember anniversaries of my own relationships and a few years ago I almost forgot my own birthday...so you can imagine how many of my friends' info I remember.
and
2) take the time to send personal messages. I love getting e-mails from friends, but there's nothing like a good ol' fashioned letter or card. Nothing can top a 41 cent little gift that speaks volumes by just saying, "Hello, good friend! I was thinking about you." It's a lost art and since I love stationary - I'm bringing it back!
How do I plan to achieve these added goals?
Well, I bought yet another daytimer/planner with high hopes of actually using it for more than a week. So far I've left it either in my car or on my dresser 4 out of the 10 days since purchase. Whatever. I'll use this thing....not like last time...or the time before...or...shut up.
One item I've managed to somewhat keep up with is an address book. But since so many of us are still in that point in our lives where we move around, I'm pretty positive every address I have is out of date.
So, no pressure but if you'd like to share your info, please send me your birthday, any anniversaries, and current address. I will promptly put your info in my planner and address book.
1) be more organized with birthdays and anniversary dates. Seriously, I never remember anniversaries of my own relationships and a few years ago I almost forgot my own birthday...so you can imagine how many of my friends' info I remember.
and
2) take the time to send personal messages. I love getting e-mails from friends, but there's nothing like a good ol' fashioned letter or card. Nothing can top a 41 cent little gift that speaks volumes by just saying, "Hello, good friend! I was thinking about you." It's a lost art and since I love stationary - I'm bringing it back!
How do I plan to achieve these added goals?
Well, I bought yet another daytimer/planner with high hopes of actually using it for more than a week. So far I've left it either in my car or on my dresser 4 out of the 10 days since purchase. Whatever. I'll use this thing....not like last time...or the time before...or...shut up.
One item I've managed to somewhat keep up with is an address book. But since so many of us are still in that point in our lives where we move around, I'm pretty positive every address I have is out of date.
So, no pressure but if you'd like to share your info, please send me your birthday, any anniversaries, and current address. I will promptly put your info in my planner and address book.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
The Friend Rule
The Friend Rule
I think it's safe to say that I run with a pretty sarcastic crowd with a good sense of humor. We can laugh at ourselves and can admit when we've done something moronic or embarrassing.
But what we don't do it make fun of each other. There are plenty of people in the world to judge and praise ourselves for being better/funnier/smarter than. Even if we may not be, it's easier to look at a friend and say "You're so much prettier than her." The other girl can go on thinking she's fabulous and you've just boosted a friend's ego. No harm done.
I was hanging out with Stephanie's new boyfriend recently and as the conversation went on I kept getting closer to strangling him. I couldn't explain it – he was nice enough and she likes him. But then it hit me – he was teasing me and being a jerk to Stephanie. He thought he was hilarious - I did not. There were plenty of other people to make fun of and he picked his new friends. Not ok.
Maybe he didn't know the Friend Rule.
But then I got together with an old friend last week. We hadn't been hanging out for a while and I couldn't really remember why. Until he started off picking on friends. And his specialty is not just teasing friends. He's mastered the art of picking out specific weaknesses, bringing them to the spotlight, and making fun in front of everyone….even when no one is laughing and I'm beyond pissed. Ah yes, that's why we don't hang out anymore.
I just don't understand. Friends are supposed to be there to support you and tell you how fabulous you are - not make you feel self conscious. To actually look someone in the eye and tease them for their hobbies, a recent break up, their hair, the phone they have, the car they drive, etc. It's personal and no one feels good.
So here's to my friends! I will always tell you how fabulous you look, how smart you are, and how special you are to me. Because it's true and that's what friends do.
I think it's safe to say that I run with a pretty sarcastic crowd with a good sense of humor. We can laugh at ourselves and can admit when we've done something moronic or embarrassing.
But what we don't do it make fun of each other. There are plenty of people in the world to judge and praise ourselves for being better/funnier/smarter than. Even if we may not be, it's easier to look at a friend and say "You're so much prettier than her." The other girl can go on thinking she's fabulous and you've just boosted a friend's ego. No harm done.
I was hanging out with Stephanie's new boyfriend recently and as the conversation went on I kept getting closer to strangling him. I couldn't explain it – he was nice enough and she likes him. But then it hit me – he was teasing me and being a jerk to Stephanie. He thought he was hilarious - I did not. There were plenty of other people to make fun of and he picked his new friends. Not ok.
Maybe he didn't know the Friend Rule.
But then I got together with an old friend last week. We hadn't been hanging out for a while and I couldn't really remember why. Until he started off picking on friends. And his specialty is not just teasing friends. He's mastered the art of picking out specific weaknesses, bringing them to the spotlight, and making fun in front of everyone….even when no one is laughing and I'm beyond pissed. Ah yes, that's why we don't hang out anymore.
I just don't understand. Friends are supposed to be there to support you and tell you how fabulous you are - not make you feel self conscious. To actually look someone in the eye and tease them for their hobbies, a recent break up, their hair, the phone they have, the car they drive, etc. It's personal and no one feels good.
So here's to my friends! I will always tell you how fabulous you look, how smart you are, and how special you are to me. Because it's true and that's what friends do.
Friday, February 22, 2008
El Paso
We actually stayed at an old historic hotel downtown called the Camino Real. It was recently restored is the Dome is kind of an El Paso hot spot. I was the idiot taking 30 pictures like some tourist. It was just too beautiful to not share. I can't add all the pictures, but you get the idea.
The view from the outside to the top. We were on the 9th floor.
Fountain outside the hotel.
The pick up and drop off area.
The upstairs art gallery. I was afraid I'd get kicked out if I took pictures of the actual art.
The Dome. Hotel restaurant and bar.
Look at the detail - so pretty!
Saturday, February 16, 2008
You can't be serious...
Geez, I haven't written a blog in a while. Mostly because the week I posted the blog about work/life balance, I had to work that weekend and every weekend since, not to mention staying until 7 or 8 every week night. Screw work/life balance, right?
Anyway, tonight I had a recently rare opportunity to go out on a date. I met a guy last weekend at a friend's party - younger (25), but I thought could be entertaining at least.
He lives in Fort Worth and I live in Dallas, so we met in the middle. The date wasn't as awkward as I was expecting. Dinner didn't run out of conversation as quickly as I assumed, the standard "smile and nod" seemed to be working, and we even hung out for a couple hours after dinner playing pool and driving around downtown. I wouldn't say we clicked, but it wasn't the worst date I've been on.
So then I was on my way home when I got this text from him:
"Hey since I took you out, can I get some free fossil stuff? ;-) "
Well, as some of you may know, I have a bit of a temper and an especially short fuse when it comes to stupid boys. This was no exception.
But rather than going with my gut of driving back to Fort Worth just to bitch slap him, or responding with something to the effect of "You should count your lucky friggin stars you even got to take me out"... I've decided silence is deafening.
I will pretend he was joking and chalk it up to a really poor (and early) attempt at humor. Lucky for both of us, I will not be speaking with him again for figure it out.
Seriously - who says that??
Anyway, tonight I had a recently rare opportunity to go out on a date. I met a guy last weekend at a friend's party - younger (25), but I thought could be entertaining at least.
He lives in Fort Worth and I live in Dallas, so we met in the middle. The date wasn't as awkward as I was expecting. Dinner didn't run out of conversation as quickly as I assumed, the standard "smile and nod" seemed to be working, and we even hung out for a couple hours after dinner playing pool and driving around downtown. I wouldn't say we clicked, but it wasn't the worst date I've been on.
So then I was on my way home when I got this text from him:
"Hey since I took you out, can I get some free fossil stuff? ;-) "
Well, as some of you may know, I have a bit of a temper and an especially short fuse when it comes to stupid boys. This was no exception.
But rather than going with my gut of driving back to Fort Worth just to bitch slap him, or responding with something to the effect of "You should count your lucky friggin stars you even got to take me out"... I've decided silence is deafening.
I will pretend he was joking and chalk it up to a really poor (and early) attempt at humor. Lucky for both of us, I will not be speaking with him again for figure it out.
Seriously - who says that??
Monday, January 14, 2008
If you want something done right...
I've read a half dozen books lately that I realize about 150 pages in that they are a complete waste....but then I'm already 150 pages in - why not finish the book and get a much better one next time?
But it seems like I'm in a never ending cycle of finding a really great book and then 4 terrible books. Then I find a fantastic writer, I read all of his/her books, and 5 more terrible books looking for another great author.
So I've decided to pick up writing again. When I was a kid I used to write short stories and thought one day I'd get published (on the frig). It was fun and I wrote what I wanted to read.
I'm looking for something creative, whimsical, mysterious and timeless. I think I'm going to have to write it myself. Not for anyone else to read or in an attempt to get published, but to find everything I love about a really book. The kind of book you can curl up with a glass of wine, a blanket, soft music, and really enjoy.
Watch out Dan Brown and Lauren Weisberger!
But it seems like I'm in a never ending cycle of finding a really great book and then 4 terrible books. Then I find a fantastic writer, I read all of his/her books, and 5 more terrible books looking for another great author.
So I've decided to pick up writing again. When I was a kid I used to write short stories and thought one day I'd get published (on the frig). It was fun and I wrote what I wanted to read.
I'm looking for something creative, whimsical, mysterious and timeless. I think I'm going to have to write it myself. Not for anyone else to read or in an attempt to get published, but to find everything I love about a really book. The kind of book you can curl up with a glass of wine, a blanket, soft music, and really enjoy.
Watch out Dan Brown and Lauren Weisberger!
Friday, January 11, 2008
They don't teach you this in college
When I started my career with Fossil, I was the typical recent college grad. Naive, thinking I should be making lots of money with no experience, and completely willing to work 12-14 hour days/weekends/holidays to get ahead....
And then 2 years passed and I realized that it wasn't really working. All the hours I spent at work rather than with friends, traveling, or trying to be in a successful relationship. All gone.
Now that I'm even just a few years older, I've finally moved up in my career...by way of a mid-20s crisis and 2 cross country moves... Also, I am viciously protective of my personal time. I refuse to get a "Crackberry," I don't share my personal cell number, I don't check e-mail on vacation, I only stay a few nights a week past 6 or 7, and I only work weekends if absolutely positively required. (so far only twice in the past year)
The funny thing is, I feel more successful now than I did working 80 hours per week! I finally have a work/life balance.
I have strong friendships, I have been in a few relationships that have taught me more about me, and now I know what I want out of my life.
I'm happy!
And then 2 years passed and I realized that it wasn't really working. All the hours I spent at work rather than with friends, traveling, or trying to be in a successful relationship. All gone.
Now that I'm even just a few years older, I've finally moved up in my career...by way of a mid-20s crisis and 2 cross country moves... Also, I am viciously protective of my personal time. I refuse to get a "Crackberry," I don't share my personal cell number, I don't check e-mail on vacation, I only stay a few nights a week past 6 or 7, and I only work weekends if absolutely positively required. (so far only twice in the past year)
The funny thing is, I feel more successful now than I did working 80 hours per week! I finally have a work/life balance.
I have strong friendships, I have been in a few relationships that have taught me more about me, and now I know what I want out of my life.
I'm happy!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Happy New Year!
I'm not one to scramble around at the first of the year to make New Year's resolutions. Why make resolutions when you're just going to break them on Jan. 2?
So last year I made "New Year's Goals" and none of them included silly cliche resolutions like: Lose 10lbs.
Here are my 2008 Goals (not resolutions!):
1. Love my job. Make a change to make it great or find the silver lining.
2. Set aside time to take a continuing education course. Either a language course, an art or cooking class, or something else that I enjoy learning about.
3. Set a good example for my nephew. I have so much to teach him! He may still be in the giggle and drooling stage, but he's going to learn a lot this year.
So last year I made "New Year's Goals" and none of them included silly cliche resolutions like: Lose 10lbs.
Here are my 2008 Goals (not resolutions!):
1. Love my job. Make a change to make it great or find the silver lining.
2. Set aside time to take a continuing education course. Either a language course, an art or cooking class, or something else that I enjoy learning about.
3. Set a good example for my nephew. I have so much to teach him! He may still be in the giggle and drooling stage, but he's going to learn a lot this year.
"I want to be a good person and live my life the right way, keeping in mind that there might be a little kid who's watching what I do." - Rebecca Lobo, U.S. Olympic basketball player
2008 is going to be another good year!
2008 is going to be another good year!
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