The last few days have been a bit bumpy. Tuesday I got a call from my doctor and had to come back for a re-test. Wednesday night a scavenger truck backed into me and banged up my Jetta. While there were good things happening, I wasn't seeing them. Instead, I was beginning to feel like the Universe was out to zap my hard drive.
I'm told that I should just let it go, but I can't. It feels like clouds are blanketing my vision. I love my job, yet I'm only thinking about going home. I try to avoid contact with people, as I'm tainted. Everything is a drag. I feel like no one appreciates me and I'm not feeling all that grateful either.
But all it takes is one or two little things to shake me out of my funk. My coworker just brought me a cup of his straight-from-China-with-the-toasted-rice-bits tea. Another coworker who was monkey-sitting Rocco emails to give me a report, "Can Rocco have a banana? He's been asking all morning." My sense of humor returns, things get to be funny again.
Thanks to Patrick for the tea. It is the best cup ever.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
I'm In!
Yesterday I moved into my new apartment in the Castro. Greg was a total champ, helping me get the Uhaul, driving it down to mom's, loading it, driving it back to San Francisco and then unloading it. I, on the other hand, was attacked by boxes and have a patchwork of bruises and scrapes over my body. He was a total champ. I offered to buy him dinner wherever he wanted and he just let me choose. This odd burger craving came over me - so I had my 2nd hamburger of the year. The craving was stronger than the stomach and I only ate about 1/3 of my supper.
Now that all my stuff is moved, I've got to find homes for it all within my apartment. This can be much more difficult than the actual moving of boxes. Especially as my space is small and I didn't take much of my furniture. I'm down from having enough furniture to fill a 2 bedroom apartment to a bed, armoire, bedside table, lamp and some lawn chairs - but it made moving easy. I need space to stash and stow. Mostly because I don't want to look like a pack rat.
But I'm in. I should have my bed assembled and ready to sleep in tonight.
Happy Day.
Now that all my stuff is moved, I've got to find homes for it all within my apartment. This can be much more difficult than the actual moving of boxes. Especially as my space is small and I didn't take much of my furniture. I'm down from having enough furniture to fill a 2 bedroom apartment to a bed, armoire, bedside table, lamp and some lawn chairs - but it made moving easy. I need space to stash and stow. Mostly because I don't want to look like a pack rat.
But I'm in. I should have my bed assembled and ready to sleep in tonight.
Happy Day.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Update Take Two
Last week I started my new job. I'm the Client Services Manager for a security company. This week we had our world wide sales training. The theme is very laudable, "Integrity Wins".
The theme appeared in all of the executive's talks and we were issued a book, one of those business concepts in less than 100 pages, called The Integrity Advantage. I was reading a bit of it last night. It discusses how corporate culture often dictates how employees act. Also, how each employee represents the company's brand.
That when I go out into the world I represent the company's brand, my words, my actions and deeds. My company is committed to being an upstanding company and works to instill a culture that promotes that.
Our VP of International Sales told a story yesterday that really stuck with me. He lost a deal because his former company polluted a river 50 years ago and refused to help clean it up. Can you imagine how things would run if we all did that? Refused to do business with people and businesses that do not respect and contribute to our communities?
One of the dozen concepts mentioned was "You Know That The Little Things Count" - it may start with a feeling of entitlement, taking office supplies and then it goes on to cheating customers and on. I was struck by this. Beyond my professional actions, where do I cut corners in life? When am I thinking it is OK to not be straight forward? Who decides when it is OK to tell a white lie, or spin a concept and when it isn't?
When I was 15 I went off to a week long summer session called, Super Camp. There I learned a number of things that have suck with me. One thing is giving 100%. Don't do things half way, if you're going to do it, go all out. Another is living in integrity. I wish I could say that I have always kept my words and actions in line, but it is a goal to strive towards.
At first I was concerned about taking this job. It came along so quickly and I didn't have much of a chance to look around. This sales meeting - with over 100 Sales Managers who were energized and happy to be working for my new company. I made the right choice.
The theme appeared in all of the executive's talks and we were issued a book, one of those business concepts in less than 100 pages, called The Integrity Advantage. I was reading a bit of it last night. It discusses how corporate culture often dictates how employees act. Also, how each employee represents the company's brand.
That when I go out into the world I represent the company's brand, my words, my actions and deeds. My company is committed to being an upstanding company and works to instill a culture that promotes that.
Our VP of International Sales told a story yesterday that really stuck with me. He lost a deal because his former company polluted a river 50 years ago and refused to help clean it up. Can you imagine how things would run if we all did that? Refused to do business with people and businesses that do not respect and contribute to our communities?
One of the dozen concepts mentioned was "You Know That The Little Things Count" - it may start with a feeling of entitlement, taking office supplies and then it goes on to cheating customers and on. I was struck by this. Beyond my professional actions, where do I cut corners in life? When am I thinking it is OK to not be straight forward? Who decides when it is OK to tell a white lie, or spin a concept and when it isn't?
When I was 15 I went off to a week long summer session called, Super Camp. There I learned a number of things that have suck with me. One thing is giving 100%. Don't do things half way, if you're going to do it, go all out. Another is living in integrity. I wish I could say that I have always kept my words and actions in line, but it is a goal to strive towards.
At first I was concerned about taking this job. It came along so quickly and I didn't have much of a chance to look around. This sales meeting - with over 100 Sales Managers who were energized and happy to be working for my new company. I made the right choice.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Great News for Women
What a wonderful day. Finally the FDA has approved the Morning After Pill. Not to be confused with a medical abortion, this medication prevents a woman from getting pregnant in the 1st place. I'm tickled pink.
NPR bit on Plan B
So encouraging after the Forbes debacle. This is going to help prevent abortions - how great is that?
NPR bit on Plan B
So encouraging after the Forbes debacle. This is going to help prevent abortions - how great is that?
Forbes Status
Evidently I'm not the only one who found that Forbes, aka Men's Health, article annoying:
Forbes Reply
Opinionistas
I think they took down the original article. I guess there were too many offended readers?
Forbes Reply
Opinionistas
I think they took down the original article. I guess there were too many offended readers?
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Outrage of the day
Now, I realize I should be writing an update on my life, but I can't help myself to posting this link:
Forbes Career and Marriage advice
Is this really Forbes or Playboy from the 1950's?
I can't wait for next week's issue where they give "career girls" advice on who they should be marrying. I can see the headline: C-level spouses secure your happiness, you'll be middling with a middle manager, why to aim high when looking for a mate.
What also amazes me is the tone. You refers to the assumed male professional while She indicates the wife-accessory. Is this Men's Health magazine? Do no women read Forbes? Maybe they don't, I don't know their target demographic. However, I know how I'll be classifying their magazine from here on out.
I'm simply amazed.
Forbes Career and Marriage advice
Is this really Forbes or Playboy from the 1950's?
I can't wait for next week's issue where they give "career girls" advice on who they should be marrying. I can see the headline: C-level spouses secure your happiness, you'll be middling with a middle manager, why to aim high when looking for a mate.
What also amazes me is the tone. You refers to the assumed male professional while She indicates the wife-accessory. Is this Men's Health magazine? Do no women read Forbes? Maybe they don't, I don't know their target demographic. However, I know how I'll be classifying their magazine from here on out.
I'm simply amazed.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Catching up - if possible.
I wasn't able to finish the bit about Scotland... nor include details on my delightful trip to Minnesota. Scotland - got to have a great day hiking around Edinburgh, but lost my camera's memory stick... so missing photos. Nathan and I had an adventure free return, thankfully we didn't see any arab looking people mixing strange things in their water bottles, but we were in business class and sleeping for a fair part of the trip.
And now I don't have time to finish either. Little Brother is getting married Friday and I'm up to my ears in family. Can't imagine a better way to spend a weekend!
And now I don't have time to finish either. Little Brother is getting married Friday and I'm up to my ears in family. Can't imagine a better way to spend a weekend!
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Pond Hop
So I'm stuck in the lovely Atlanta airport again. Did a quick run to Scotland. Delta was kind enough to seat me and my cousin the pilot in business class to and from Edinburgh. But now's the hard part... getting to and from Atlanta within the US.
The trip was a quick one - Thursday we took an evening flight and landed in Edinburgh. Due to a line marginally shorter than the one I found in the Beijing airport, we missed our morning train to Oban. Instead, Nathan and I ran around Edinburgh. Nathan had been born there and was there visiting just 6 months ago. We walked the Royal mile, sorted out the mobile phones and dropped into the National Gallery. That and a pint and we were on the early evening train to Oban. Was an easy ride. I got some sleep but was able to enjoy some of the scenery on the way out.
We were lucky - we had super warm weather after some rains and so it was a bright blue sky, green, green foliage and beautiful vistas. Everything I saw was beautiful. I didn't realize how glorious Scotland is.
We stayed in a little town called Connel Ferry. Right where a bridge crosses the entrance to a loch. Our host was a wonderful woman named Margaret who was friends with my Aunt and Uncle when they were living in Scotland. Her house is the oldest structure in town and so cozy.
Saturday we went to Glencoe where we visited the information center and did a hike. So green. The highlands are full of hills that rocket up 1000 feet and drop down the other side. Created by volcanoes and glaciers with some erosion thrown in. The rest of the day was spent driving through the hills and seeing the natural beauty of the land.
Connel ferry is quite far north, too west to see the Northern Lights but it is light until 11:30 every night. Which made sleeping a bit difficult, as we were naturally up until 12 or 1.
Sunday we hopped a ferry to the Island of Mull and visited Duart Castle. The first of two castle visits. I got to learn a lot about history of Scotland with an emphasis on the Jacobite problems. Nathan got himself addicted to Irn Bru (http://www.irn-bru.co.uk/) - a Scottish drink that is like a cross between Red Bull and bubble gum.
Monday we were off to visit other friends who live in Dunblane. The afternoon we spent at Sterling Castle - built by a succession of Scottish kings and so was a bit grander than Duart. Both had charm and gave a hint at what it would have been like living a couple hundred years ago. Thinking of what life was like in a castle while it was under siege is just frightening.
Now in Dunblane we had delightful hosts, Sheena and Graeme and their sons were home from school. We took them to Indian food Monday night and I just gorged myself. The menu there was different. I was curious as to whether it was a different region of Indian food than what we get in the San Francisco area. I was once told that we in San Francisco have only food from a specific region of India. Hmm?
Tuesday was a day in Edinburgh with the boys. We visited the New Town which was built only 200 years ago. Kinda like the "New parliament" building that has been superseded by a New New parliament building...
Anyway, must check flights. Will write more soon.
The trip was a quick one - Thursday we took an evening flight and landed in Edinburgh. Due to a line marginally shorter than the one I found in the Beijing airport, we missed our morning train to Oban. Instead, Nathan and I ran around Edinburgh. Nathan had been born there and was there visiting just 6 months ago. We walked the Royal mile, sorted out the mobile phones and dropped into the National Gallery. That and a pint and we were on the early evening train to Oban. Was an easy ride. I got some sleep but was able to enjoy some of the scenery on the way out.
We were lucky - we had super warm weather after some rains and so it was a bright blue sky, green, green foliage and beautiful vistas. Everything I saw was beautiful. I didn't realize how glorious Scotland is.
We stayed in a little town called Connel Ferry. Right where a bridge crosses the entrance to a loch. Our host was a wonderful woman named Margaret who was friends with my Aunt and Uncle when they were living in Scotland. Her house is the oldest structure in town and so cozy.
Saturday we went to Glencoe where we visited the information center and did a hike. So green. The highlands are full of hills that rocket up 1000 feet and drop down the other side. Created by volcanoes and glaciers with some erosion thrown in. The rest of the day was spent driving through the hills and seeing the natural beauty of the land.
Connel ferry is quite far north, too west to see the Northern Lights but it is light until 11:30 every night. Which made sleeping a bit difficult, as we were naturally up until 12 or 1.
Sunday we hopped a ferry to the Island of Mull and visited Duart Castle. The first of two castle visits. I got to learn a lot about history of Scotland with an emphasis on the Jacobite problems. Nathan got himself addicted to Irn Bru (http://www.irn-bru.co.uk/) - a Scottish drink that is like a cross between Red Bull and bubble gum.
Monday we were off to visit other friends who live in Dunblane. The afternoon we spent at Sterling Castle - built by a succession of Scottish kings and so was a bit grander than Duart. Both had charm and gave a hint at what it would have been like living a couple hundred years ago. Thinking of what life was like in a castle while it was under siege is just frightening.
Now in Dunblane we had delightful hosts, Sheena and Graeme and their sons were home from school. We took them to Indian food Monday night and I just gorged myself. The menu there was different. I was curious as to whether it was a different region of Indian food than what we get in the San Francisco area. I was once told that we in San Francisco have only food from a specific region of India. Hmm?
Tuesday was a day in Edinburgh with the boys. We visited the New Town which was built only 200 years ago. Kinda like the "New parliament" building that has been superseded by a New New parliament building...
Anyway, must check flights. Will write more soon.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Cape Cod
Time is blurring... Between the 4th and a red-eye flight on the 5th I'm not sure where or when it is. Actually it isn't that bad. I got in to Boston yesterday at 5:30 AM and am already adjusted to East Coast time.
After all the problems getting to Europe, I grabbed a jetBlue ticket to Boston. What a good decision. I made it here for a perfect summer day. My aunt and uncle have a house in Falmouth, MA - on the bottom elbow of Cape Cod. My cousin Nathan was here yesterday and we went over to Martha's Vineyard. The weather is such a contrast from San Francisco.
I spent the 4th of July shivering on Greg's roof viewing the tops of the fireworks in boots, jeans, a shirt, wool sweater and down jacket. I should count my blessings as we had a clear night and we could see the explosions not just colored fog. However, the knowledge that the rest of the country is enjoying the show in shorts and t-shirts makes me feel even colder.
Today Nathan and I ran around Main Street, this place is almost to picturesque to bear and then took a dip in the ocean. I'm hoping that the water reflects those pesky sun rays - as I'm not sure I want yet another sun burn. This not working and visiting friends/family in good locations is really working out for me.
But all that good does not go unpunished. I saw that the New York legislature stuck down an attempt to legalize gay marriage. What is so wrong with equal rights? Now, I realize the verdict was that gay marriage was neither allowed nor banned by their constitution - which does have an upside. But I really believe that when I'm in my rocking chair, that I'll be trying to explain to my great-grandchildren how there was such bias back in the early century.
Well, I'll have to get involved once I get back to San Francisco life.
Oh, and I finally had time to get the China photos up online. Drop me a line if you want the link.
After all the problems getting to Europe, I grabbed a jetBlue ticket to Boston. What a good decision. I made it here for a perfect summer day. My aunt and uncle have a house in Falmouth, MA - on the bottom elbow of Cape Cod. My cousin Nathan was here yesterday and we went over to Martha's Vineyard. The weather is such a contrast from San Francisco.
I spent the 4th of July shivering on Greg's roof viewing the tops of the fireworks in boots, jeans, a shirt, wool sweater and down jacket. I should count my blessings as we had a clear night and we could see the explosions not just colored fog. However, the knowledge that the rest of the country is enjoying the show in shorts and t-shirts makes me feel even colder.
Today Nathan and I ran around Main Street, this place is almost to picturesque to bear and then took a dip in the ocean. I'm hoping that the water reflects those pesky sun rays - as I'm not sure I want yet another sun burn. This not working and visiting friends/family in good locations is really working out for me.
But all that good does not go unpunished. I saw that the New York legislature stuck down an attempt to legalize gay marriage. What is so wrong with equal rights? Now, I realize the verdict was that gay marriage was neither allowed nor banned by their constitution - which does have an upside. But I really believe that when I'm in my rocking chair, that I'll be trying to explain to my great-grandchildren how there was such bias back in the early century.
Well, I'll have to get involved once I get back to San Francisco life.
Oh, and I finally had time to get the China photos up online. Drop me a line if you want the link.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Ticks and Trees
What a day. Mom and I went hiking on the pristine coast between Ano Nuevo and Pigeon Point. Two hours in the sun with amazing views, birds, anenomies to poke and shells to collect.
Unfortunately we did have to hike next to some poison ivy that got on our pants. Once home my mom suggested we grab pants and then change next out in the laundry building so that we could put our oil laden pants straight into the washer and check for ticks. Well, I strip and she goes back into the house for something. As I check my self in my thong, I see a black thing on my hip. I poke it and an insect leg comes out and I'm totally repulsed.
So I do what all adults do - call for my mother. But she doesn't come. I call again. No response. Now, I'm thinking that if I pull this thing off the head might stay in me and then it will get infected and I'll be stuck on Cipro for the rest of my life. So I sprint back to the house (thank GOD there is a fence between us and the road) and into the house to get mom (the expert) advice. She says to just flick it off. I try, but then all the legs come out and wiggle around. So she hands me a tissue and tells me to pull it off. I'm about to puke, but I'm an adult, right? So I do it and then try to crush it in my hands, but am unable.
I open the tissue and all of it's terrible little legs are desperately trying to grab at me. I yelp and try not to drop the tissue, instead wave it like a flag on at a 4th of July parade.
It vanished and all was well... Until mom asked me for her help. I promptly find a tick on her sleeve. She generously asks me to use the tweezers to take it off - again I taste lunch in my throat. But do as she asks. Maybe I really am OK out here in the wilderness...
But we get de-ticked and I take some time to relax in the sun. Amazing how I'm OK with lying around in nothing risking total tick exposure. Anyway, after a bit mom asks me to help her fell some trees. I go and put on clothes that will prevent more tick access and say yes.
Took down two trees, put up chicken wire around her tomatoes and did time in the garden cutting flowers and pulling weeds. Pretty good for a city girl. I kinda like it out here.
Unfortunately we did have to hike next to some poison ivy that got on our pants. Once home my mom suggested we grab pants and then change next out in the laundry building so that we could put our oil laden pants straight into the washer and check for ticks. Well, I strip and she goes back into the house for something. As I check my self in my thong, I see a black thing on my hip. I poke it and an insect leg comes out and I'm totally repulsed.
So I do what all adults do - call for my mother. But she doesn't come. I call again. No response. Now, I'm thinking that if I pull this thing off the head might stay in me and then it will get infected and I'll be stuck on Cipro for the rest of my life. So I sprint back to the house (thank GOD there is a fence between us and the road) and into the house to get mom (the expert) advice. She says to just flick it off. I try, but then all the legs come out and wiggle around. So she hands me a tissue and tells me to pull it off. I'm about to puke, but I'm an adult, right? So I do it and then try to crush it in my hands, but am unable.
I open the tissue and all of it's terrible little legs are desperately trying to grab at me. I yelp and try not to drop the tissue, instead wave it like a flag on at a 4th of July parade.
It vanished and all was well... Until mom asked me for her help. I promptly find a tick on her sleeve. She generously asks me to use the tweezers to take it off - again I taste lunch in my throat. But do as she asks. Maybe I really am OK out here in the wilderness...
But we get de-ticked and I take some time to relax in the sun. Amazing how I'm OK with lying around in nothing risking total tick exposure. Anyway, after a bit mom asks me to help her fell some trees. I go and put on clothes that will prevent more tick access and say yes.
Took down two trees, put up chicken wire around her tomatoes and did time in the garden cutting flowers and pulling weeds. Pretty good for a city girl. I kinda like it out here.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Sick
So my plans got thrown into a tailspin. I got sick with an infection on Monday. I started the Cipro I had from my China trip and just spent the day in bed. Had some quite time reading a wonderful book that Greg gave me and reflecting on my life.
But then used all my strength to get down to my mother's house that night to pack up for my trip. I got to bed at a reasonable hour (midnight) and then was up at 5 am to get to the airport to sit wait for a stand-by place to be available to me. As the hours and flights passed me by I got more and more tired. But I met a nice guy, Lee-John who helped pass the time. We both gave up on getting out of SF and he called a friend who took us up to The City. I spent the night there, getting to bed, again at the early hour of midnight and again, awoke at 5 to get to the airport. Through all this I've been dealing with the run-down feeling of the infection and the digestive problems of the Cipro.
So this morning I got woozy in the airport. Called mom and she came and got me. Nothing like having to call a parent for help at the lovely age of 31. But my car is at her house and I needed a quiet place to be for a few days. I came here and just passed out.
Had some time to reflect on things and realized that Europe is not in the cards for me right now. However, I do not want to hang out in SF for the month of July - so I'm planning my Boston, Cape Cod, NYC/CT, maybe DC and definitely St. Paul family tour for the month. So far so good... If I can nail a flight out for next week before I crash again.
There is such serenity to be had at my mother's house in the woods. And I've got the China photos, but now I've got to find a way to get them posted up online. Give me a day or two. That said, my first priority is getting healthy.
But then used all my strength to get down to my mother's house that night to pack up for my trip. I got to bed at a reasonable hour (midnight) and then was up at 5 am to get to the airport to sit wait for a stand-by place to be available to me. As the hours and flights passed me by I got more and more tired. But I met a nice guy, Lee-John who helped pass the time. We both gave up on getting out of SF and he called a friend who took us up to The City. I spent the night there, getting to bed, again at the early hour of midnight and again, awoke at 5 to get to the airport. Through all this I've been dealing with the run-down feeling of the infection and the digestive problems of the Cipro.
So this morning I got woozy in the airport. Called mom and she came and got me. Nothing like having to call a parent for help at the lovely age of 31. But my car is at her house and I needed a quiet place to be for a few days. I came here and just passed out.
Had some time to reflect on things and realized that Europe is not in the cards for me right now. However, I do not want to hang out in SF for the month of July - so I'm planning my Boston, Cape Cod, NYC/CT, maybe DC and definitely St. Paul family tour for the month. So far so good... If I can nail a flight out for next week before I crash again.
There is such serenity to be had at my mother's house in the woods. And I've got the China photos, but now I've got to find a way to get them posted up online. Give me a day or two. That said, my first priority is getting healthy.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Fine romance
The last 10 days have been such a rush. Back in love with San Francisco. Just a dizzy time visiting with friends and family... Got the Southwest photos online, finally, landed an interview for this afternoon - just looking for ways to support my living habit here in San Francisco.
Missed out on a few things... There are a handful of friends I didn't get to see. One friend had a baby last week and there isn't time to visit before I leave for the European trip (tomorrow AM).
I'm frantic. Should have more interesting things to write once I get to Italy... By Thursday if all goes well.
Missed out on a few things... There are a handful of friends I didn't get to see. One friend had a baby last week and there isn't time to visit before I leave for the European trip (tomorrow AM).
I'm frantic. Should have more interesting things to write once I get to Italy... By Thursday if all goes well.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Keep your anemones closer
Got to visit my mother Wednesday night. What a treat. It was as if I had never gotten married or moved to Southern California. We took a hike up to see this massive boulder from a landslide. We chatted about the local water problems, my love life and she had a mound of clippings for me as usual. The sun has been out and we took advantage of it with a little sun bathing.
Thursday we got up early (if you call 7 am early) and did a couple things around the house - as usual, I was moving heavy objects and climbing ladders. She always has so much to do around the house to keep it up. John, her man, came by about 9 am and we all went to the beach.
Right now we are in a period of exceptionally low tides. So, we hiked a beach where an arch is only visible during super low tides. Just amazing to look through a large crack in the rocks. Nature does the darndest things. Then south down the beach. Before too long I realized the coffee was going through me too quickly, but we were not going to find a outhouse on that stretch of beach. My mom directs me to her usual sheltered spot where she empties her tank - she walks this beach once a week with a beach watch program, so knows it quite well.
However, this spot was a bit over grown with poison oak. I was left trying to figure out why my mom directed me there. There wasn't much shelter that wasn't going to cause my nether regions to break out in hives and her man kept walking in front of the opening. I wasn't sure what to do, but finally he went away and I could duck behind a large log. All was well - nothing like an open air pee when one skips the undies and truly has to air dry.
Back to the beach and we hike up to the tide pools. And they were filled with anemones. I love poking them! With a childish glee, I hopped around the rocks and tickled all the little creatures. They shrink back and if they are above the water line, the squirt. So much fun. I'm giddy thinking about it.
All that and lunch at a darling little spot called Gazos Creek - I highly recommend it. Just look for the large turkey out front.
The afternoon was terrible - spent in the sun with my friend Ian. I really should learn to apply sunscreen, as I'm now a lobster on the front, and only the front side, of my body. When will I learn?
Now, must get out to enjoy this insanely wonderful weather. It's like I brought SoCal weather with me.
Thursday we got up early (if you call 7 am early) and did a couple things around the house - as usual, I was moving heavy objects and climbing ladders. She always has so much to do around the house to keep it up. John, her man, came by about 9 am and we all went to the beach.
Right now we are in a period of exceptionally low tides. So, we hiked a beach where an arch is only visible during super low tides. Just amazing to look through a large crack in the rocks. Nature does the darndest things. Then south down the beach. Before too long I realized the coffee was going through me too quickly, but we were not going to find a outhouse on that stretch of beach. My mom directs me to her usual sheltered spot where she empties her tank - she walks this beach once a week with a beach watch program, so knows it quite well.
However, this spot was a bit over grown with poison oak. I was left trying to figure out why my mom directed me there. There wasn't much shelter that wasn't going to cause my nether regions to break out in hives and her man kept walking in front of the opening. I wasn't sure what to do, but finally he went away and I could duck behind a large log. All was well - nothing like an open air pee when one skips the undies and truly has to air dry.
Back to the beach and we hike up to the tide pools. And they were filled with anemones. I love poking them! With a childish glee, I hopped around the rocks and tickled all the little creatures. They shrink back and if they are above the water line, the squirt. So much fun. I'm giddy thinking about it.
All that and lunch at a darling little spot called Gazos Creek - I highly recommend it. Just look for the large turkey out front.
The afternoon was terrible - spent in the sun with my friend Ian. I really should learn to apply sunscreen, as I'm now a lobster on the front, and only the front side, of my body. When will I learn?
Now, must get out to enjoy this insanely wonderful weather. It's like I brought SoCal weather with me.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
News and other oddities
Saturday night I was at dinner with my Father, Step-mother, brothers, current & future sisters-in-law and got to tell some tales about China. When asked how it was to be there when there was some crash in the Asian Markets, I was blank. There had been a crash?
With little access to the Internet, and no faith in the totalitarian governments, I had ceased to read papers and had no other access to worldly news. For all I know, France could have fallen into the sea.
All this got me thinking about how we get our information. There have always been filters on what is shared with the masses - be it self-censoring editors or governmental ones. Where do we put our trust in accuracy? 33% of Fox News viewers believe we found WMD in Iraq - does it even matter? The right is constantly offended by NPR and their news reporting, but I found it remarkable that, when reporting on ADM they were also running commercials for ADM. As no one wants to see Big Bird get cut, the right is now trying to infiltrate with right-wing commentators - to ruin what they cannot stop funding.
So, how do we decide where to get information? Blogs are often seen as the new source, but how much good are they? Who checks their facts? I could state, here on the Daily Oyster, that the sky is falling and there is no one to dispute it. A recluse might actually believe that the skies over San Francisco are falling - of course its God's punishment for the Gays.
How much of this matters? What amazed me in China is how easily I could function without knowing that there is a new treatment for HPV (http://www.boston.com/news/globe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2006/06/13/a_vaccination_against_complacency/). Well, it does matter - but how much to my daily life. The war in Iraq, the state of the Dow - so easily ignored. I'm almost embarrassed to say I have no idea if it is above or below 10,000. I need so little information to get about my daily life.
An living in such a way has challenged my news junkie side - but I'm sure that will return as soon as I get settled back in the City.
With little access to the Internet, and no faith in the totalitarian governments, I had ceased to read papers and had no other access to worldly news. For all I know, France could have fallen into the sea.
All this got me thinking about how we get our information. There have always been filters on what is shared with the masses - be it self-censoring editors or governmental ones. Where do we put our trust in accuracy? 33% of Fox News viewers believe we found WMD in Iraq - does it even matter? The right is constantly offended by NPR and their news reporting, but I found it remarkable that, when reporting on ADM they were also running commercials for ADM. As no one wants to see Big Bird get cut, the right is now trying to infiltrate with right-wing commentators - to ruin what they cannot stop funding.
So, how do we decide where to get information? Blogs are often seen as the new source, but how much good are they? Who checks their facts? I could state, here on the Daily Oyster, that the sky is falling and there is no one to dispute it. A recluse might actually believe that the skies over San Francisco are falling - of course its God's punishment for the Gays.
How much of this matters? What amazed me in China is how easily I could function without knowing that there is a new treatment for HPV (http://www.boston.com/news/globe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2006/06/13/a_vaccination_against_complacency/). Well, it does matter - but how much to my daily life. The war in Iraq, the state of the Dow - so easily ignored. I'm almost embarrassed to say I have no idea if it is above or below 10,000. I need so little information to get about my daily life.
An living in such a way has challenged my news junkie side - but I'm sure that will return as soon as I get settled back in the City.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Home again, Home again
I did it. I'm in San Francisco with all my stuff. The move was much less traumatic than expected. Since I wasn't turning on or off utilities, it didn't really seem like a move. Only was it on 405 North did I realize that I had just walked out of my life in Los Angeles and was starting a new one.
San Francisco is being great. The weather is ideal - sun and no fog where I am. Driving around this city is a DREAM. No more idiots, well, not as many idiots on the road. The timed lights make it easy to go the 4 miles from SOMA to the Marina. I got to honk at the j-walking hobos - what could be better?
But I still haven't found the heart I left here...
San Francisco is being great. The weather is ideal - sun and no fog where I am. Driving around this city is a DREAM. No more idiots, well, not as many idiots on the road. The timed lights make it easy to go the 4 miles from SOMA to the Marina. I got to honk at the j-walking hobos - what could be better?
But I still haven't found the heart I left here...
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Miss Wiggle - my new nickname!
My buddy in Bristol (http://bristolgirl.blogspot.com/) just gave me the nickname Miss Wiggle. While she contends it is a stripper name, I prefer to think that it is more about me wiggling all over the map. Oh, maybe that sounds a bit explicit. hmm.
On to more of the travel log...
Friday I slipped off to spend a night with the LOVELY Medlands. We had fun being 100% white: We danced around the house listening to Milkshake, boogying with over-bites and a total lack of rhythm. Any black observer would have shaken their head in disgust at us. But it was fun.
Saturday was a trip off to Palm Springs. I worked - hard mind you! - on my tan. Yes, I know it will look strange for a redhead to have a tan, but whatever. And we went to The Trinity Club for drinks. Ron, our host had a ball with my requests: Come Fly with me, Fly me to the moon and then he almost fell off his chair when I cried out, "Teach me Tonight". I was the youngest person in the club, mind you.
Sunday I took the long way down to San Diego via Cleveland National Forest, Anza, Warner Springs and Cuyamaca. Stopped at the neatest little place: http://www.shadowmountainvineyards.com/ and got myself some wine... which then I comically had to keep cool until I got home at 10 last night.
My cousins were visiting San Diego, David and Nathan. David ran the marathon while Nathan alternated between cheering him on and scouting out the girls. He even tried to pick up some Navy boys for me - knowing that I once had a thing for them, back when I was young and swinging in San Francisco.
Sunday night I had a super yummy dinner made for me by my friend Sal. Bruschetta to start, then a sausage pasta and Chicken with a wine and mushroom sauce. Dessert was limoncello and lemon sorbet with fresh mint. I think I gained 10 pounds.
Monday had time with Nathan and Polly, my grandmother. I just LOVE having such a fantastic family. Nathan is really one of the funniest people I can be around. And Polly has such history. At the same time, she's losing her hearing and so Nathan and I occasionally would get dirty or inappropriate jokes past her by speaking softly and quickly. I think she had to take out her hearing aids due to my incessant giggles. We got in a swim and a game of scrabble. I cannot believe I lost to my grandmother by 1 point!
Monday night included dinner and drinks with friend and mentor, Lee. Down at the Pilsner Room in some identity-free Orange County city.
My life is full of Chaos. I'm moving, I'm divorcing, I'm traveling, I have no home... and yet that all doesn't matter or get me down because I have so many smart, funny and caring people that love me. I am blessed.
But now I've got to cease with the blessing counts and run errands.
On to more of the travel log...
Friday I slipped off to spend a night with the LOVELY Medlands. We had fun being 100% white: We danced around the house listening to Milkshake, boogying with over-bites and a total lack of rhythm. Any black observer would have shaken their head in disgust at us. But it was fun.
Saturday was a trip off to Palm Springs. I worked - hard mind you! - on my tan. Yes, I know it will look strange for a redhead to have a tan, but whatever. And we went to The Trinity Club for drinks. Ron, our host had a ball with my requests: Come Fly with me, Fly me to the moon and then he almost fell off his chair when I cried out, "Teach me Tonight". I was the youngest person in the club, mind you.
Sunday I took the long way down to San Diego via Cleveland National Forest, Anza, Warner Springs and Cuyamaca. Stopped at the neatest little place: http://www.shadowmountainvineyards.com/ and got myself some wine... which then I comically had to keep cool until I got home at 10 last night.
My cousins were visiting San Diego, David and Nathan. David ran the marathon while Nathan alternated between cheering him on and scouting out the girls. He even tried to pick up some Navy boys for me - knowing that I once had a thing for them, back when I was young and swinging in San Francisco.
Sunday night I had a super yummy dinner made for me by my friend Sal. Bruschetta to start, then a sausage pasta and Chicken with a wine and mushroom sauce. Dessert was limoncello and lemon sorbet with fresh mint. I think I gained 10 pounds.
Monday had time with Nathan and Polly, my grandmother. I just LOVE having such a fantastic family. Nathan is really one of the funniest people I can be around. And Polly has such history. At the same time, she's losing her hearing and so Nathan and I occasionally would get dirty or inappropriate jokes past her by speaking softly and quickly. I think she had to take out her hearing aids due to my incessant giggles. We got in a swim and a game of scrabble. I cannot believe I lost to my grandmother by 1 point!
Monday night included dinner and drinks with friend and mentor, Lee. Down at the Pilsner Room in some identity-free Orange County city.
My life is full of Chaos. I'm moving, I'm divorcing, I'm traveling, I have no home... and yet that all doesn't matter or get me down because I have so many smart, funny and caring people that love me. I am blessed.
But now I've got to cease with the blessing counts and run errands.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
China Sidebar
Since it is 5 am and my body is done with sleeping, I'd thought I'd sketch out a few observations from my trip which didn't fit in anywhere else.
First off, crotchless pants on babies. I saw these mostly in Beijing and some in Shanghai. As it was explained to me, instead of having diapers, these kids just pull on their parent's pant leg and then lifted or held in such a way that they can relieve themselves. Not the same as our Western system - which is fine, however it is jarring to see little baby bottoms running around. Good thing our memories from those time fade quickly.
Next up is the random pictures. It started with those three guys in Tianamen Square, with those three guys who each wanted a picture with me. No discussion, one would stand next to me and one of the others would take a photo. This happened again at the Great Wall. I've now been included in 2 dozen photos. Usually the person trying to include me doesn't speak my language. I was in a group photo of Philipinas in Macau. Since there was no common language, there was gesticulating and arm put around me. In my mind's eye I can see the photo with 4 short women and my head rising above like a redwood tree in the middle of a field.
On one hand I'm curious as to the cultural elements that lead to this compulsion of having a white stranger in one's travel log. How do they explain this photo while showing off their album? "Yes and here is our trip to the Great Wall. We got this tall, redheaded American woman to pose, can you believe they grow them like that across the pond?" And on the other hand, I'm concerned that if I am required to obtain governmental clearance, that these pictures will surface. Where it will be discovered that those taking the pictures are actually the secret police of Southeast Asian Nations. I'll have a lot of explaining to do.
Nails on men. This on is eerie. Long, filed nails on Chinese men. It is clear that there is a deliberate decision to have long nails, however, they aren't getting manicures. Reminds me of when guys would grow their hair out and it would be dry and nasty because no one every explained conditioner and product that we women use to make our hair look nice when it is long.
I think I need to go to the gym and work out some of this extra energy.
First off, crotchless pants on babies. I saw these mostly in Beijing and some in Shanghai. As it was explained to me, instead of having diapers, these kids just pull on their parent's pant leg and then lifted or held in such a way that they can relieve themselves. Not the same as our Western system - which is fine, however it is jarring to see little baby bottoms running around. Good thing our memories from those time fade quickly.
Next up is the random pictures. It started with those three guys in Tianamen Square, with those three guys who each wanted a picture with me. No discussion, one would stand next to me and one of the others would take a photo. This happened again at the Great Wall. I've now been included in 2 dozen photos. Usually the person trying to include me doesn't speak my language. I was in a group photo of Philipinas in Macau. Since there was no common language, there was gesticulating and arm put around me. In my mind's eye I can see the photo with 4 short women and my head rising above like a redwood tree in the middle of a field.
On one hand I'm curious as to the cultural elements that lead to this compulsion of having a white stranger in one's travel log. How do they explain this photo while showing off their album? "Yes and here is our trip to the Great Wall. We got this tall, redheaded American woman to pose, can you believe they grow them like that across the pond?" And on the other hand, I'm concerned that if I am required to obtain governmental clearance, that these pictures will surface. Where it will be discovered that those taking the pictures are actually the secret police of Southeast Asian Nations. I'll have a lot of explaining to do.
Nails on men. This on is eerie. Long, filed nails on Chinese men. It is clear that there is a deliberate decision to have long nails, however, they aren't getting manicures. Reminds me of when guys would grow their hair out and it would be dry and nasty because no one every explained conditioner and product that we women use to make our hair look nice when it is long.
I think I need to go to the gym and work out some of this extra energy.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Home Again
In a recent email, a friend said, "Call me when you get settled." Such a simple statement, it made me laugh. My life won't be settled for several months - I don't think he wants me to wait that long before calling.
Anyway, I'm back in Los Angeles. Going back to Hong Kong was the right thing to do. I spent the weekend running around the Island and Kowloon. Friday I took the time to hike up to the to of the Island. Amazing how I took the elevator down from the 18th floor, went out the door and up the road about a 1/2 mile and was suddenly in this jungle. The trees were covered in vines, the bugs were buzzing - very tropical and exotic. Just loved it.
Back to the travel log... Sunday it rained and inhibited my enjoyment of Hong Kong. I couldn't find an umbrella in Sonya's house which made going out a challenge. Aside from a breakfast/brunch run, I wasn't able to do much until the rain let up in the afternoon. Now that I think about it, I could have gone to a museum, but I changed my mind.
Monday was wonderful and fully made up for Sunday's dreariness. I took a morning ferry over to Macau. On the ferry over I got seated next to a Chinese/American business man. He came to the US in 1958 and had a great time giving me advice on love, life and work.
Macau was beautiful, a mix of East and West. Pink palaces, a space needle, tiny little alleyways, scooters and the remains of a church facade. Just unbelievable. I did a walking tour around the southern peninsula and stopped in the Maritime museum. Lunch was in a Macau/Portuguese restaurant. I had an unusual chicken stew with onions and potatoes with my New Yorker for company.
The afternoon I continued the walking tours around the island. Such potent smells: bakeries with cookies and salt cod and dried meats. Like Hong Kong, there were hills and green spaces. I wandered around the British garden and took a minute in the protestant cemetery. Odd how all the gravestones noted who had erected the memorial. On a couple of stones the name of the shipping company, the kind folk who sponsored the marker, was almost as big as the name of the deceased. How's that for corporate sponsorship?
Monday night I treated myself to dinner at a classy Chinese joint. Had Hot and Sour soup with Lobster - but I prefer my old Chinese food joint out on 34th... it has more kick. Oh, it will be so good to go back there and have my favorites: hot and sour soup and green beans with steamed tofu.
The flight home was uneventful. I had sushi on the stop-over in Japan and slept through much of the flight across the pacific. Home is the same, but now I'm focused on getting the move in order.
Sleep tight all.
Anyway, I'm back in Los Angeles. Going back to Hong Kong was the right thing to do. I spent the weekend running around the Island and Kowloon. Friday I took the time to hike up to the to of the Island. Amazing how I took the elevator down from the 18th floor, went out the door and up the road about a 1/2 mile and was suddenly in this jungle. The trees were covered in vines, the bugs were buzzing - very tropical and exotic. Just loved it.
Back to the travel log... Sunday it rained and inhibited my enjoyment of Hong Kong. I couldn't find an umbrella in Sonya's house which made going out a challenge. Aside from a breakfast/brunch run, I wasn't able to do much until the rain let up in the afternoon. Now that I think about it, I could have gone to a museum, but I changed my mind.
Monday was wonderful and fully made up for Sunday's dreariness. I took a morning ferry over to Macau. On the ferry over I got seated next to a Chinese/American business man. He came to the US in 1958 and had a great time giving me advice on love, life and work.
Macau was beautiful, a mix of East and West. Pink palaces, a space needle, tiny little alleyways, scooters and the remains of a church facade. Just unbelievable. I did a walking tour around the southern peninsula and stopped in the Maritime museum. Lunch was in a Macau/Portuguese restaurant. I had an unusual chicken stew with onions and potatoes with my New Yorker for company.
The afternoon I continued the walking tours around the island. Such potent smells: bakeries with cookies and salt cod and dried meats. Like Hong Kong, there were hills and green spaces. I wandered around the British garden and took a minute in the protestant cemetery. Odd how all the gravestones noted who had erected the memorial. On a couple of stones the name of the shipping company, the kind folk who sponsored the marker, was almost as big as the name of the deceased. How's that for corporate sponsorship?
Monday night I treated myself to dinner at a classy Chinese joint. Had Hot and Sour soup with Lobster - but I prefer my old Chinese food joint out on 34th... it has more kick. Oh, it will be so good to go back there and have my favorites: hot and sour soup and green beans with steamed tofu.
The flight home was uneventful. I had sushi on the stop-over in Japan and slept through much of the flight across the pacific. Home is the same, but now I'm focused on getting the move in order.
Sleep tight all.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Back in Hong Kong
Whew, it is SO good to be back where cab drivers understand me. Well, as much as they do in the states... Jen-speak is an international problem.
Anyway, my mom had given me an article on cell phone tours and I went out and got one yesterday. Now, I'm still having tons of cell phone issues. I'm just leaving my T-Mobile phone on, as I'm switching around my SIM cards. But I'm back on the 2nd Hong Kong SIM (the China SIM won't work here). So getting this tour going was a 2 step process: 1)Find the bookstore with the tour 2)Find additional minutes for Hong Kong cell phone SIM. Nothing is easy here - but fun.
So I got the SIM and the tour and then get lost trying to get to the starting point, Star Ferry. They are doing construction and I got on the wrong side of the construction. But I got there and started the tour. It is FANTASTIC. So much interesting information and I get to choose what to listen to. It's called Walk the Talk. Wish they had this for every city.
But after an hour of listening I start shopping (a hazard here in Hong Kong). Found myself the cutest linen suit and then needed some dinner. Not wanting to partake in the Wan Lai Fong madness, I slipped up a side street and found a quiet bar with only one patron and a great atmosphere. I go up to the bar and order a Manhattan. The bartender didn't know how to make one, so I got to teach him. Fun and a nice way to have a conversation.
I'm back on my own here in Hong Kong - Sonya is out of town, so I don't get in much socializing. But chatting with the Scottish bartender was fun. As it turns out, he was short staffed. So I interviewed for a waitress position of the Manhattan and was told to come back at 9 pm. I ran home, dropped off my new clothes, ate and tossed on a low cut top (I wanted to get tips) and ran back.
My training was simple: when a glass is almost empty, go ask if they want another drink; clear ash trays; clear empty glasses; bring bills; converse with the patrons when things are quiet. I had a blast. Met a bunch of interesting people. Was running around the bar and being offered personal Hong Kong tours by a number of the male locals. Too funny.
Got finished at about 2 am. My pay? $40 and memories. Also a number of resources for getting a sales or office job if I want to stay here in Hong Kong.
Too bad today is rainy - I wanted to finish the tour. May have to wait until tomorrow. Next time I'll have to be sure not to visit Hong Kong in the rainy season.
Anyway, my mom had given me an article on cell phone tours and I went out and got one yesterday. Now, I'm still having tons of cell phone issues. I'm just leaving my T-Mobile phone on, as I'm switching around my SIM cards. But I'm back on the 2nd Hong Kong SIM (the China SIM won't work here). So getting this tour going was a 2 step process: 1)Find the bookstore with the tour 2)Find additional minutes for Hong Kong cell phone SIM. Nothing is easy here - but fun.
So I got the SIM and the tour and then get lost trying to get to the starting point, Star Ferry. They are doing construction and I got on the wrong side of the construction. But I got there and started the tour. It is FANTASTIC. So much interesting information and I get to choose what to listen to. It's called Walk the Talk. Wish they had this for every city.
But after an hour of listening I start shopping (a hazard here in Hong Kong). Found myself the cutest linen suit and then needed some dinner. Not wanting to partake in the Wan Lai Fong madness, I slipped up a side street and found a quiet bar with only one patron and a great atmosphere. I go up to the bar and order a Manhattan. The bartender didn't know how to make one, so I got to teach him. Fun and a nice way to have a conversation.
I'm back on my own here in Hong Kong - Sonya is out of town, so I don't get in much socializing. But chatting with the Scottish bartender was fun. As it turns out, he was short staffed. So I interviewed for a waitress position of the Manhattan and was told to come back at 9 pm. I ran home, dropped off my new clothes, ate and tossed on a low cut top (I wanted to get tips) and ran back.
My training was simple: when a glass is almost empty, go ask if they want another drink; clear ash trays; clear empty glasses; bring bills; converse with the patrons when things are quiet. I had a blast. Met a bunch of interesting people. Was running around the bar and being offered personal Hong Kong tours by a number of the male locals. Too funny.
Got finished at about 2 am. My pay? $40 and memories. Also a number of resources for getting a sales or office job if I want to stay here in Hong Kong.
Too bad today is rainy - I wanted to finish the tour. May have to wait until tomorrow. Next time I'll have to be sure not to visit Hong Kong in the rainy season.
Trains in the rain
The Beijing West Railroad Station is a bit chaotic - and worse for those who do not speak the language. My ticket information suggested that I'd be able to check a bag. So I packed accordingly - one big bag to check and then 2 little ones with books, food, toothbrush and clean undies. But as I was asking the people about where to check the bag I got directed to immigration. They then immigrated me and before I knew it, I was on the train - an hour early. Gave me time to settle in.
As it turns out, I got the entire 4-bunk cabin to myself. I spread out, did some journal writing, watched the green, green countryside go by, listened to the iPod and read a book. All very civilized. The least civilized thing was the smokers in the hallway and the bathrooms. But that is to be expected on foreign trains.
Another oddity is that they had food runners that ran carts up and down the hallways. I didn't realize this and so went to the dining car. The staff was enjoying their break (I thought 6:15 was average dinner hour - guess I was wrong). I tried to order a chicken dish and a veggie dish, rice and beer. But the waiter I took it upon himself to make sure I didn't wreak my figure, so he only brought the chicken dish and skipped out on the veggies. I was too weak with hunger to argue.
After dinner it was dark, so I read for a bit and then passed out. The bunk was pretty good, as train beds go.
The next day was much the same. No one disturbed me, I watched the lumpy mountains and fields and goats go by, read, danced to Black Eyed Peas on the iPod and wrote in the journal.
Getting to Hong Kong was great. I really love this place.
As it turns out, I got the entire 4-bunk cabin to myself. I spread out, did some journal writing, watched the green, green countryside go by, listened to the iPod and read a book. All very civilized. The least civilized thing was the smokers in the hallway and the bathrooms. But that is to be expected on foreign trains.
Another oddity is that they had food runners that ran carts up and down the hallways. I didn't realize this and so went to the dining car. The staff was enjoying their break (I thought 6:15 was average dinner hour - guess I was wrong). I tried to order a chicken dish and a veggie dish, rice and beer. But the waiter I took it upon himself to make sure I didn't wreak my figure, so he only brought the chicken dish and skipped out on the veggies. I was too weak with hunger to argue.
After dinner it was dark, so I read for a bit and then passed out. The bunk was pretty good, as train beds go.
The next day was much the same. No one disturbed me, I watched the lumpy mountains and fields and goats go by, read, danced to Black Eyed Peas on the iPod and wrote in the journal.
Getting to Hong Kong was great. I really love this place.
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