Tuesday, 31 March 2009
Bloggerversary
I got so caught up in my to-do list on Sunday that I forgot to blog about the fact that it was my one-year blog anniversary. The 28th of March marked a whole year having passed! Forgive me posting this retrospectively. I wonder what the coming year will bring...
Friday, 27 March 2009
The Week in Review #12
Oh, hello April. You are a mere 3 days away. Eek! This week got off to a slow start. All week, I kept thinking today was the day before. "What day are we on?" seemed to be a favourite phrase this week. We are hurtling head-long into Spring and I am loving it, but am also slightly disconcerted at the speed.
That famous job application of mine took me a good couple of days to get sorted. I tweaked it a few times and finally got it to a stage that I was happy with. My old supervisor agreed to be one of my referees. I told my boss of my application once I had submitted it, to give her a heads-up and she was very supportive. I found out that a work colleague was the person who had actually put my name forward to someone in the department that is hiring. She has since had a meeting with one of the people who might be on the interview panel and and told me that she put in a recommendation for me. Then, on Thursday, I had lunch with someone who joined my workplace at the start of the year, who used to sing in a choir with my Mum many years ago. He was interested in my work situation and how things were, so I mentioned the new job prospect. He also has a meeting coming up with someone from that office and told me he is going to put in a good word for me. I've become overwhelmed lately with the moral support I have received unprompted. It's lovely to know that you have people you never even expected to be fighting your corner. But to be honest, it's blown the situation up to outlandish proportions; I almost wish I'd never mentioned it here. If I'm not successful, it will be one big disappointment really. I have chickens, but I shan't be counting them before they've hatched!
I got paid this week and it couldn't come soon enough. We had payday pizza on Wednesday (a day late because one of our team was on a course on payday). That evening, I met up for dinner with my old supervisor. He was running later than expected, so my work colleague kept me company by walking around the shops with me until he got there. In that time I managed to buy two baby-rib vests from Gap in bright pink and coral and a Navy-coloured mac from H&M, something I have been trying to find for ages, partially paid for by a gift card the Mrs gave me for Christmas. My old supe and I ended up having a 3-course meal each and a really good chat. It was great to see him. It was weird, we were probably more open and personal with each other than we ever were when we worked together. He's a year younger than me, but has an old head on his shoulders. He's extremely sensible and very intelligent and grounded. He's not the most emotionally expressive of people, but he's a good guy. It was good fun.
On the way home on Friday, I bumped into a friend from church and her two daughters. The younger, cheekier daughter asked me why I had two bags with me. On explaining that I was going to stay at my parents' house and had to bring extra clothes, she quizzed me more on my living arrangements. "Do you live with your husband?" "No," I replied, "I'm not married, my sister is married. I live with my sister and her husband." "That's nice!" she replied, "You all live together." She paused for a minute. "Does your sister sleep with her husband?" Her mum looked at her and chastised, "Oi, cheeky! As opposed to where?!" Clarifying her question, the little one said, "To keep warm! They hug, to keep warm!" She knows what she's talking about. That's the only reason I'll be getting married. :o)
Have a happy weekend, y'all.
That famous job application of mine took me a good couple of days to get sorted. I tweaked it a few times and finally got it to a stage that I was happy with. My old supervisor agreed to be one of my referees. I told my boss of my application once I had submitted it, to give her a heads-up and she was very supportive. I found out that a work colleague was the person who had actually put my name forward to someone in the department that is hiring. She has since had a meeting with one of the people who might be on the interview panel and and told me that she put in a recommendation for me. Then, on Thursday, I had lunch with someone who joined my workplace at the start of the year, who used to sing in a choir with my Mum many years ago. He was interested in my work situation and how things were, so I mentioned the new job prospect. He also has a meeting coming up with someone from that office and told me he is going to put in a good word for me. I've become overwhelmed lately with the moral support I have received unprompted. It's lovely to know that you have people you never even expected to be fighting your corner. But to be honest, it's blown the situation up to outlandish proportions; I almost wish I'd never mentioned it here. If I'm not successful, it will be one big disappointment really. I have chickens, but I shan't be counting them before they've hatched!
I got paid this week and it couldn't come soon enough. We had payday pizza on Wednesday (a day late because one of our team was on a course on payday). That evening, I met up for dinner with my old supervisor. He was running later than expected, so my work colleague kept me company by walking around the shops with me until he got there. In that time I managed to buy two baby-rib vests from Gap in bright pink and coral and a Navy-coloured mac from H&M, something I have been trying to find for ages, partially paid for by a gift card the Mrs gave me for Christmas. My old supe and I ended up having a 3-course meal each and a really good chat. It was great to see him. It was weird, we were probably more open and personal with each other than we ever were when we worked together. He's a year younger than me, but has an old head on his shoulders. He's extremely sensible and very intelligent and grounded. He's not the most emotionally expressive of people, but he's a good guy. It was good fun.
On the way home on Friday, I bumped into a friend from church and her two daughters. The younger, cheekier daughter asked me why I had two bags with me. On explaining that I was going to stay at my parents' house and had to bring extra clothes, she quizzed me more on my living arrangements. "Do you live with your husband?" "No," I replied, "I'm not married, my sister is married. I live with my sister and her husband." "That's nice!" she replied, "You all live together." She paused for a minute. "Does your sister sleep with her husband?" Her mum looked at her and chastised, "Oi, cheeky! As opposed to where?!" Clarifying her question, the little one said, "To keep warm! They hug, to keep warm!" She knows what she's talking about. That's the only reason I'll be getting married. :o)
Have a happy weekend, y'all.
Friday Fill-In #27
This week, Janet took the first sentence in 6 of her favorite books...I have filled in the blanks...with my own bizarre versions.
And...here we go!
1. "In a hole in the ground there lived a mole. He is a mole and he lives in a hole."
2. "I got hair like a crazy bush woman but that ain't no matter."
3. "After dark the rain began to fall again, so I snuggled up in my duvet and felt smug I wasn't caught outside."
4. "Out emerged a stunning looking pirate by the name of Jack Sparrow from the hold of the Spanish galleon."
5. "There was a hand in the darkness, and it liked to reach out and tickle unsuspecting victims."
6. "Accidents ambush the unsuspecting, so thank goodness George Clooney has returned to ER."
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner and decompressing with the 'rents, tomorrow my plans include spiritual rest and Sunday, I want to avoid lamenting that lost hour and get lots of stuff on eBay!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
And...here we go!
1. "In a hole in the ground there lived a mole. He is a mole and he lives in a hole."
2. "I got hair like a crazy bush woman but that ain't no matter."
3. "After dark the rain began to fall again, so I snuggled up in my duvet and felt smug I wasn't caught outside."
4. "Out emerged a stunning looking pirate by the name of Jack Sparrow from the hold of the Spanish galleon."
5. "There was a hand in the darkness, and it liked to reach out and tickle unsuspecting victims."
6. "Accidents ambush the unsuspecting, so thank goodness George Clooney has returned to ER."
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner and decompressing with the 'rents, tomorrow my plans include spiritual rest and Sunday, I want to avoid lamenting that lost hour and get lots of stuff on eBay!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
Thursday, 26 March 2009
You Can't Pick Who You Work With
I glanced over at a work colleague the other day, to see him rubbing his nose. You know, as people sometimes do. No biggie there. He then proceeded to have a sly pick at his nose. Hmm, ok, not sure how I feel about having witnessed that, but maybe he didn’t have a tissue. Whatever. He then looked at the finger he had used to pick his nose, and proceeded to place it in his mouth and lick what was on it. OK, ewwwwww. I’m not defending that. He’s a grown man!!! I don't even know him that well, so have no other frame of reference with which to view him, no spectacularly redeeming qualities that I know of to make up for this unsavoury habit. Now I can’t look at him in the same way and am having to stop myself from pointing at him and shouting “Pickerrrrrr!!!” Yes, this is what my work days consist of. *Sigh.*
Sunday, 22 March 2009
On Virtual Discussions, Mothers, Household Chores, Relationship Politics and Sunshine Motivation
OK, Spring has definitely sprung, for real this time. The weather has been consistently sunny all week and I am more than appreciative of this fact. My only complaint? Having to be stuck indoors at work, knowing I could be out enjoying myself, or even indoors, doing something productive for me. Plus the fact that I am constantly taunted by my being trapped in an office by the vast numbers of students 'studying' rather loudly out on the lawn right outside our office window.
Anyway. I woke up fairly early for a Sunday and had a quick chat with Big Sis about some bills that need splitting. Then I rushed to my laptop for an MSN chat our youth group at church was going to have at 10am. It's currently Youth Week of Prayer for our church, which means we have a daily devotional reading for each day this week, based around the rather broad topic heading 'Why?' Today's reading was called 'Action is Best' and we were going to have a discussion on what we'd read and how we relate this to our own Christian experience. It was the first time we have done anything like this, but seemed to be a logical move forward, as a way to connect during the week when we can't all meet in person. The discussion flowed quite well and we had lots of positive points to dwell on in summary. We ended with us each silently praying where we were for a minute and then signing off with wishes off "enjoy the sunshine!" and so on. It was actually a really positive way to start my day and something I'd definitely like to do again. I probably spend way too much time on my laptop, so I may as well spend some of that time positively and productively.
After my mini ruckus, or whatever it was that actually happened, with my Mum yesterday, I thought I had better give her a call to wish her Happy Mother's Day. I had left a card for her with my Dad, but a call wouldn't go amiss. Big Sis had decided to go and see her, so I called and had a quick chat with my Mum, informing her of Big Sis' imminent arrival. I think I am out of the doghouse, but who can be sure?
I'm supposed to be tackling that application today for the internal job vacancy at my work, hence me being sat at my laptop writing a blog instead. I am a major procrastinator. Hmm, I don't think I'll be putting that on the application. Instead, I have had a nice catch-up conversation with my missus, which made me laugh incessantly. So far I have stripped my bed linen and done two loads of laundry (I still have two more to go). I sorted out some books to give to charity and tidied a shelf or two on my bookcase (mainly because they are directly behind me when I sit at my desk and my Boy can see the shocking disorganisation that mars them when we talk on webcam, lol). This all sounds like a lot, but my room is still shockingly disorganised and messy, and I have two loads of laundry still damp because the clothes maidens have Big Sis' bed linen hanging on them. I haven't even started the job application yet. Eek.
Seeing as it is Mother's Day, I decided to text someone who has been like a Mum to me in recent years - my ex-boyfriend's mum. I should stop calling him that, since we're meant to be friends now, but we always seem to feel the need to contextualise, don't we? Anyway, I just wished her a lovely day. She really is such a sweet person, extremely good-hearted and so easy to talk to. She texted back thanking me for the kind wishes and mentioned that her husband had cooked a nice dinner if I wanted to come round? A lovely, but rather interesting, proposition. Interesting, because this being-friends-business can potentially be a minefield of emotional weirdness and awkward transitions.
Reasons to go:
1. Their dinners are legendary. I'm just being honest! You must know by now that I like my food.
2. It would actually be nice to see them.
3. I haven't left the house all day.
Reasons to not go:
1. I'm not sure if my ex actually knows about this invitation (I've texted him to find out).
2. Things might be awkward considering we briefly got back together recently, only for me to decide that it wasn't right after all.
3. I'm not sure if my ex thinks he might be able to win me round again, or if he really does just want to see me as friends.
4. I still haven't started that job application!
OK, there seem to be more reasons to not go. But seriously, their dinners are gooooood, so that should really count as two reasons. :o) Quick update: as I was writing, the ex called. He's cool with me coming round. He's not having dinner till about 7.30pm, so is going to pick me up then. I guess that's settled. If this all goes horribly wrong, I am really going to have to learn to take the promise of fantastic food out of my decision-making process. It makes me too easily swayed. Lol! Anyway, the timeframe might give me some motivation. I have 3 hours to get my laundry done and at least make a decent start on that application. It's like being at university all over again; I only seem able to work to imminently impending deadlines!
Big Sis still isn't home. She was determined to make a 'quick' visit, drop off her Mother's day card, have a quick chat with my Dad about a few things, spend some time with them over a quick cup of tea or a bite to eat and then head home. When she left to visit the 'rents at 12 noon, Bro-in-Law jokingly said "See you at 5, then." He wasn't wrong. It's now 4.38pm and still no sign of her return. A 'quick' visit to the 'rents doesn't seem to be possible. I declined to accompany her on the basis that I needed to get that job application done. Have I mentioned that in this blog, yet? Lol. Things never really go to plan. But I have a deadline, so I must get cracking. Wish me luck...
Anyway. I woke up fairly early for a Sunday and had a quick chat with Big Sis about some bills that need splitting. Then I rushed to my laptop for an MSN chat our youth group at church was going to have at 10am. It's currently Youth Week of Prayer for our church, which means we have a daily devotional reading for each day this week, based around the rather broad topic heading 'Why?' Today's reading was called 'Action is Best' and we were going to have a discussion on what we'd read and how we relate this to our own Christian experience. It was the first time we have done anything like this, but seemed to be a logical move forward, as a way to connect during the week when we can't all meet in person. The discussion flowed quite well and we had lots of positive points to dwell on in summary. We ended with us each silently praying where we were for a minute and then signing off with wishes off "enjoy the sunshine!" and so on. It was actually a really positive way to start my day and something I'd definitely like to do again. I probably spend way too much time on my laptop, so I may as well spend some of that time positively and productively.
After my mini ruckus, or whatever it was that actually happened, with my Mum yesterday, I thought I had better give her a call to wish her Happy Mother's Day. I had left a card for her with my Dad, but a call wouldn't go amiss. Big Sis had decided to go and see her, so I called and had a quick chat with my Mum, informing her of Big Sis' imminent arrival. I think I am out of the doghouse, but who can be sure?
I'm supposed to be tackling that application today for the internal job vacancy at my work, hence me being sat at my laptop writing a blog instead. I am a major procrastinator. Hmm, I don't think I'll be putting that on the application. Instead, I have had a nice catch-up conversation with my missus, which made me laugh incessantly. So far I have stripped my bed linen and done two loads of laundry (I still have two more to go). I sorted out some books to give to charity and tidied a shelf or two on my bookcase (mainly because they are directly behind me when I sit at my desk and my Boy can see the shocking disorganisation that mars them when we talk on webcam, lol). This all sounds like a lot, but my room is still shockingly disorganised and messy, and I have two loads of laundry still damp because the clothes maidens have Big Sis' bed linen hanging on them. I haven't even started the job application yet. Eek.
Seeing as it is Mother's Day, I decided to text someone who has been like a Mum to me in recent years - my ex-boyfriend's mum. I should stop calling him that, since we're meant to be friends now, but we always seem to feel the need to contextualise, don't we? Anyway, I just wished her a lovely day. She really is such a sweet person, extremely good-hearted and so easy to talk to. She texted back thanking me for the kind wishes and mentioned that her husband had cooked a nice dinner if I wanted to come round? A lovely, but rather interesting, proposition. Interesting, because this being-friends-business can potentially be a minefield of emotional weirdness and awkward transitions.
Reasons to go:
1. Their dinners are legendary. I'm just being honest! You must know by now that I like my food.
2. It would actually be nice to see them.
3. I haven't left the house all day.
Reasons to not go:
1. I'm not sure if my ex actually knows about this invitation (I've texted him to find out).
2. Things might be awkward considering we briefly got back together recently, only for me to decide that it wasn't right after all.
3. I'm not sure if my ex thinks he might be able to win me round again, or if he really does just want to see me as friends.
4. I still haven't started that job application!
OK, there seem to be more reasons to not go. But seriously, their dinners are gooooood, so that should really count as two reasons. :o) Quick update: as I was writing, the ex called. He's cool with me coming round. He's not having dinner till about 7.30pm, so is going to pick me up then. I guess that's settled. If this all goes horribly wrong, I am really going to have to learn to take the promise of fantastic food out of my decision-making process. It makes me too easily swayed. Lol! Anyway, the timeframe might give me some motivation. I have 3 hours to get my laundry done and at least make a decent start on that application. It's like being at university all over again; I only seem able to work to imminently impending deadlines!
Big Sis still isn't home. She was determined to make a 'quick' visit, drop off her Mother's day card, have a quick chat with my Dad about a few things, spend some time with them over a quick cup of tea or a bite to eat and then head home. When she left to visit the 'rents at 12 noon, Bro-in-Law jokingly said "See you at 5, then." He wasn't wrong. It's now 4.38pm and still no sign of her return. A 'quick' visit to the 'rents doesn't seem to be possible. I declined to accompany her on the basis that I needed to get that job application done. Have I mentioned that in this blog, yet? Lol. Things never really go to plan. But I have a deadline, so I must get cracking. Wish me luck...
Saturday, 21 March 2009
Shoulda Kept My Mouth Shut
We decided to have 'home church' today. All was going well until my Mum did something that irritated me a little. In my minor annoyance and major haste, I made my irritation clear, with what was undoubtedly a disdainful facial expression. In case the facial expression wasn't clear enough, I added a few words to clarify it. I don't think I was especially rude, but my reaction may well have been a little stronger than I intended. My irritation was fleeting. But the fall-out? Enduring. Mum didn't really react, but then left the room unexpectedly a little later. After more time had passed than it would have taken for a quick loo break, or to go and get something from another room, it was clear she wasn't coming back. Oops. The damage had been done. In my haste, I had hurt her feelings and from that there is no swift return.
My Mum is a tough cookie. She can be incredibly thick-skinned at times. She has endured more than her fair share of hardship and has succeeded in less than favourable conditions. She has learnt to deflect criticism and ignore bitchiness, and has taught me the importance of keeping a dignified silence at certain times. She has many qualities that I so admire, and for better or worse, has been a force of nature in my life. From her I learnt to be opinionated and have strong values, to speak up when I don't agree with something. She is never one to sugar-coat a bitter pill much, or to flatter unnecessarily. I learnt the art of perfectionism through her (mostly) constructive criticism. But the wrong word from someone she loves, even if said in jest? It cuts deep.
After she disappeared, I went to find her in her room. Wary of what the reaction might be, hovered around in uncertainty, feeling like a kid again. I tried to casually ask if she was going to come back downstairs and received the silent treatment. After going back to try again, I was eventually able to give her a hug and utter one word: "Sorry." However, all was not forgotten. Mum didn't really speak to me, much less look in my direction for the rest of the day so far. She can be a fiery lady and when she is angry, you know it. I can't count the number of lectures I have received over the course of growing up, and to be honest, I'm pretty sure I would not be considered too old for a smack if things got really bad (lol! But seriously...). But the silent treatment is oh-so-much worse. That's when you know things are really bad. Now it's a waiting game for forgiveness. Some people say that words are just words. The trouble is, once you have uttered them, you can't get them back. Now if only I could press rewind and just keep my mouth shut...
My Mum is a tough cookie. She can be incredibly thick-skinned at times. She has endured more than her fair share of hardship and has succeeded in less than favourable conditions. She has learnt to deflect criticism and ignore bitchiness, and has taught me the importance of keeping a dignified silence at certain times. She has many qualities that I so admire, and for better or worse, has been a force of nature in my life. From her I learnt to be opinionated and have strong values, to speak up when I don't agree with something. She is never one to sugar-coat a bitter pill much, or to flatter unnecessarily. I learnt the art of perfectionism through her (mostly) constructive criticism. But the wrong word from someone she loves, even if said in jest? It cuts deep.
After she disappeared, I went to find her in her room. Wary of what the reaction might be, hovered around in uncertainty, feeling like a kid again. I tried to casually ask if she was going to come back downstairs and received the silent treatment. After going back to try again, I was eventually able to give her a hug and utter one word: "Sorry." However, all was not forgotten. Mum didn't really speak to me, much less look in my direction for the rest of the day so far. She can be a fiery lady and when she is angry, you know it. I can't count the number of lectures I have received over the course of growing up, and to be honest, I'm pretty sure I would not be considered too old for a smack if things got really bad (lol! But seriously...). But the silent treatment is oh-so-much worse. That's when you know things are really bad. Now it's a waiting game for forgiveness. Some people say that words are just words. The trouble is, once you have uttered them, you can't get them back. Now if only I could press rewind and just keep my mouth shut...
Friday, 20 March 2009
A Creature After My Own Heart...
Anyone who has Googled today will have noticed the commemorative Google logo of the day:
Seeing this took me waaaaay back. I just had to wish a happy 40th anniversary to The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. I loved this book when I was little. I can't believe it was first published so long ago, but seeing as Big Sis gave me a copy maybe 20 years ago, I guess it's possible! :o) I love illustrations for children's literature. Eric Carle's artwork in this book is so simple, but was so vivid to me as a child. I found out this morning from his 60 Seconds interview with The Metro that the bold colours he uses in his illustrations were a reaction to living in Germany during WWII, when the buildings were camouflaged by being painted in greys and browns. Learning about the Impressionists at art school after the war was the perfect antidote to the drab landscape he had been used to.
In this an article in The Telegraph, Carle describes the storyline of the book as being 'hopeful,' because of the notion that every little caterpillar will grow up, spread its wings and fly off as a beautiful butterfly. How lovely. I mainly just liked the fact that the caterpillar ate lots of yummy food. I could relate. Hmm, I guess the subtle metaphor for the beauty of the maturing process missed me completely, huh? Oh well. Happy Birthday, Hungry!
Seeing this took me waaaaay back. I just had to wish a happy 40th anniversary to The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. I loved this book when I was little. I can't believe it was first published so long ago, but seeing as Big Sis gave me a copy maybe 20 years ago, I guess it's possible! :o) I love illustrations for children's literature. Eric Carle's artwork in this book is so simple, but was so vivid to me as a child. I found out this morning from his 60 Seconds interview with The Metro that the bold colours he uses in his illustrations were a reaction to living in Germany during WWII, when the buildings were camouflaged by being painted in greys and browns. Learning about the Impressionists at art school after the war was the perfect antidote to the drab landscape he had been used to.In this an article in The Telegraph, Carle describes the storyline of the book as being 'hopeful,' because of the notion that every little caterpillar will grow up, spread its wings and fly off as a beautiful butterfly. How lovely. I mainly just liked the fact that the caterpillar ate lots of yummy food. I could relate. Hmm, I guess the subtle metaphor for the beauty of the maturing process missed me completely, huh? Oh well. Happy Birthday, Hungry!
The Week in Review #11
This past week has, thankfully, been good. You know those weeks when you can't quite put your finger on why, but you know it was a good week? Nothing especially eventful happened, but I have nothing to complain about.
Work has been much less horrendous than usual, which is always a good thing. The weather has been gorgeous. Not overly warm, but apparently warmer than average for this time of year. The sunshine really has been a tonic. I feel more alive, am chirpier and actually look forward to leaving the comfort of my house in the mornings. My friends and family all seem relatively content, which makes me thankful. I have had lots of contact with my Boy this week and that is always conducive to a good mood on my part.
I have managed to get through the past 3 weeks without spending more than about £10. Total. It wasn't me being ruthlessly frugal, it was an absolute enforced necessity, as I literally didn't have any money to spend. I am learning how to live without unnecessary spending and to get by with the basics. It is a lesson I desperately needed to learn and one I think I was too stubborn and foolish to learn any way but the hard way.
Regrettably, this cash-flow problem prevented me from going out for drinks and dinner for my friend's birthday last night (although her birthday is today). We went to university together and I haven't seen her or our other uni friend for about a year. We are hopefully going to catch up for lunch in a couple of Sundays. That's what I hate most about not having any spending money: not being able to go out and do things, to socialise or to plan a holiday! (Yeah, San Francisco is still a pipe dream. Any generous folk out there fancy buying me a ticket, preferably via New York? Love you!) It also means that I haven't been able to buy my Mum anything for Mother's Day this Sunday. I feel so budget.
Today I learnt more about the exciting job opportunity that has arisen and am even more motivated to go for it. I'm trying not to get too excited, but I'm going to apply and God-willing, I will be successful. There's nothing worse than being in a job that drains you of your energy, in a bad way. This other job has lots of potential for development, advancement and travel, plus it pays better. Sounds like a winner to me.
I heard from my Aussie Mrs, Erin, and am glad (and slightly jealous) to hear that she is enjoying the much-missed sunshine and warm temperatures of back home and is settling back into life in Melbourne. Meanwhile, my main Mrs is feeling the shock of being in a contented relationship! Sometimes we are so used to dealing with negativity, that when we experience a little slice of happiness, we are dazed and confused and a little freaked out!
I feel shattered right now. I'm not sure why I'm so tired. My parents went off to sleep at about 8.30pm! I've felt tired since then but am almost dozing while typing and it's only 10pm (which is very early based on my usual standard). Anyway, I like my Friday ritual of retrospect. Looking back on the week's events helps me to put things into perspective and remember the things that I have to be thankful for. I like to have a good old moan, but I am grateful for life. Things could be better, but they could also be so much worse; I am more than aware of that.
With that in mind, RIP Natasha Richardson. What an awful tragedy. I'm not sure why this hit me so much, but it's a stark reminder to us all that one never knows what is around the corner. If I lived every day expecting it to be my last, would I be living a little differently? I think so. I'm going to try and start now.
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.
Work has been much less horrendous than usual, which is always a good thing. The weather has been gorgeous. Not overly warm, but apparently warmer than average for this time of year. The sunshine really has been a tonic. I feel more alive, am chirpier and actually look forward to leaving the comfort of my house in the mornings. My friends and family all seem relatively content, which makes me thankful. I have had lots of contact with my Boy this week and that is always conducive to a good mood on my part.
I have managed to get through the past 3 weeks without spending more than about £10. Total. It wasn't me being ruthlessly frugal, it was an absolute enforced necessity, as I literally didn't have any money to spend. I am learning how to live without unnecessary spending and to get by with the basics. It is a lesson I desperately needed to learn and one I think I was too stubborn and foolish to learn any way but the hard way.
Regrettably, this cash-flow problem prevented me from going out for drinks and dinner for my friend's birthday last night (although her birthday is today). We went to university together and I haven't seen her or our other uni friend for about a year. We are hopefully going to catch up for lunch in a couple of Sundays. That's what I hate most about not having any spending money: not being able to go out and do things, to socialise or to plan a holiday! (Yeah, San Francisco is still a pipe dream. Any generous folk out there fancy buying me a ticket, preferably via New York? Love you!) It also means that I haven't been able to buy my Mum anything for Mother's Day this Sunday. I feel so budget.
Today I learnt more about the exciting job opportunity that has arisen and am even more motivated to go for it. I'm trying not to get too excited, but I'm going to apply and God-willing, I will be successful. There's nothing worse than being in a job that drains you of your energy, in a bad way. This other job has lots of potential for development, advancement and travel, plus it pays better. Sounds like a winner to me.
I heard from my Aussie Mrs, Erin, and am glad (and slightly jealous) to hear that she is enjoying the much-missed sunshine and warm temperatures of back home and is settling back into life in Melbourne. Meanwhile, my main Mrs is feeling the shock of being in a contented relationship! Sometimes we are so used to dealing with negativity, that when we experience a little slice of happiness, we are dazed and confused and a little freaked out!
I feel shattered right now. I'm not sure why I'm so tired. My parents went off to sleep at about 8.30pm! I've felt tired since then but am almost dozing while typing and it's only 10pm (which is very early based on my usual standard). Anyway, I like my Friday ritual of retrospect. Looking back on the week's events helps me to put things into perspective and remember the things that I have to be thankful for. I like to have a good old moan, but I am grateful for life. Things could be better, but they could also be so much worse; I am more than aware of that.
With that in mind, RIP Natasha Richardson. What an awful tragedy. I'm not sure why this hit me so much, but it's a stark reminder to us all that one never knows what is around the corner. If I lived every day expecting it to be my last, would I be living a little differently? I think so. I'm going to try and start now.
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.
Friday Fill-In #26
And...here we go!
1. Why do we have to keep making the same mistakes just to keep learning the same lesson?
2. The little indiscretions I foolishly thought I would grow out of are now habits.
3. I have a really good opportunity coming up that I absolutely cannot afford to miss.
4. I had never heard the phrase "When the cake is talking, the crumbs stay quiet," and it has made me laugh ever since. Divalicious!
5. I am going to handle this situation in my own way, the way I always do.
6. How was I to know you felt that way, if you never bothered to tell me???
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing the 'rents and relaxing, tomorrow my plans include being at church and maybe staying over with the 'rents so I can be with my Mum on Mother's Day and Sunday, I want to have that MSN group chat out church youth group has organised...and revel in the fact that I still count as 'youth'!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
1. Why do we have to keep making the same mistakes just to keep learning the same lesson?
2. The little indiscretions I foolishly thought I would grow out of are now habits.
3. I have a really good opportunity coming up that I absolutely cannot afford to miss.
4. I had never heard the phrase "When the cake is talking, the crumbs stay quiet," and it has made me laugh ever since. Divalicious!
5. I am going to handle this situation in my own way, the way I always do.
6. How was I to know you felt that way, if you never bothered to tell me???
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing the 'rents and relaxing, tomorrow my plans include being at church and maybe staying over with the 'rents so I can be with my Mum on Mother's Day and Sunday, I want to have that MSN group chat out church youth group has organised...and revel in the fact that I still count as 'youth'!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
Sunday, 15 March 2009
Spring Has Sprung...sort of
I woke up this morning to be greeted by dazzling sunshine and bluest sky I've seen for weeks. It was by no means early, but earlier than I have risen on a Sunday for maybe a couple of months. Upon waking, I felt chirpy. Chirpy. After getting over this shock, I then realised I also felt motivated. Motivated! I got up, got dressed and headed downstairs with the collection of cups I had gathered over the past week. Hearing the chop chop of a knife on a chopping board, I was greeted by Big Sis, chopping up fruit and veg to make one of her usual Sunday morning smoothies. Feeling energetic, I decided to tackle the remainder of the washing up. Big Sis always leaves me the cutlery to do. It's a compromise of sorts; she doesn't like to do it, whereas I don't much like washing pots and pans. I would prefer just washing up as I go along, but if it's a case of pots and pans versus cutlery and utensils, I'll take the latter.
Thrilling descriptions of housework aside, I got on with washing, chatting with Bis Sis while she blended up apples and celery and carrots and having jokey banter with Bro-in-Law, as he fixed himself some breakfast. Knowing how much I dislike having to do large amounts of washing up, they did their usual thing of finding as many other dirty items to add as possible. Me and Big Sis discovered a while back that when we were little, we both had a silly habit of pretending to be Cinderella when stuck doing household chores. The only thing is, I still do this. They left the kitchen to get on with their day, laughing at my dramatics as I told them, "I shall go to the ball!"
After guzzling down some of that smoothie, I headed back to my room to install Office on my laptop and make a few other changes. Full of motivation and big ideas for the day ahead, I had a definite surge of energy I have not felt for a good while. I don't think Spring officially starts for a couple of weeks, when our clocks steal away an hour for daylight saving time, but for me, Spring had definitely sprung today. The sunshine made me feel bright and alive. For a change, I had the desire to get things done and I could actually see it being a possibility.
Fast forward to the afternoon. I hadn't had breakfast and when I finished washing up and tidying bits and pieces, it was nearly noon, so I decided to make some pasta. Big Sis and Bro-in-Law decided to go out for an epic walk to make the most of the sunshine. After cooking and eating a big bowl of wholewheat spaghetti with red pesto and black olives, the blood sugar levels soared and the food coma set in. I decided to watch a bit of TV while my energy levels regulated. Knowing that once I get settled, it's only a matter of time before I'm practically horizontal, I decided to tackle one item on my to-do list, which was rearrange my DVDs, placing them in another bookcase that would use my storage space more efficiently.
Feeling somewhat pleased with myself, I chilled for a bit to watch a bit more TV and suddenly it was 4pm. Big Sis and Bro-in-Law had arrived back from their walk and tucked into the rest of the spaghetti, exhausted and ravenous. I faffed around a bit more, doing bits and pieces, catching up on a little blog reading, listening to a little music and generally ignoring the to-do list I had been so full of optimism at completing. Feeling incredibly drowsy, I succumbed to a nap. I was woken an hour or so later by my phone, my friend asking if I wanted to get together to chill that evening. Feeling the throb of an oncoming headache, I said I would get back to them. Not long after, the Mrs called for a chat. After a quick catch-up of the weekend's activities (hers infinitely more exciting than mine), I went to get myself the remainder of the spaghetti for a light dinner. By now it was about 8pm. I got back to my other friend and gave my apologies; my head was killing me and I wouldn't be good company. My workmate sent me a text, lamenting the prospect of work in the morning and reporting that she had a headache. I responded in like kind. After eating dinner, I decided to record the day's activities by way of a blog post, over a cup of tea. So here we are. Altogether, it wasn't a completely unproductive day. But the to-do list still looms large. In theory, I am in Spring-mode. Now all I need is to get that to work in practice...
Thrilling descriptions of housework aside, I got on with washing, chatting with Bis Sis while she blended up apples and celery and carrots and having jokey banter with Bro-in-Law, as he fixed himself some breakfast. Knowing how much I dislike having to do large amounts of washing up, they did their usual thing of finding as many other dirty items to add as possible. Me and Big Sis discovered a while back that when we were little, we both had a silly habit of pretending to be Cinderella when stuck doing household chores. The only thing is, I still do this. They left the kitchen to get on with their day, laughing at my dramatics as I told them, "I shall go to the ball!"
After guzzling down some of that smoothie, I headed back to my room to install Office on my laptop and make a few other changes. Full of motivation and big ideas for the day ahead, I had a definite surge of energy I have not felt for a good while. I don't think Spring officially starts for a couple of weeks, when our clocks steal away an hour for daylight saving time, but for me, Spring had definitely sprung today. The sunshine made me feel bright and alive. For a change, I had the desire to get things done and I could actually see it being a possibility.
Fast forward to the afternoon. I hadn't had breakfast and when I finished washing up and tidying bits and pieces, it was nearly noon, so I decided to make some pasta. Big Sis and Bro-in-Law decided to go out for an epic walk to make the most of the sunshine. After cooking and eating a big bowl of wholewheat spaghetti with red pesto and black olives, the blood sugar levels soared and the food coma set in. I decided to watch a bit of TV while my energy levels regulated. Knowing that once I get settled, it's only a matter of time before I'm practically horizontal, I decided to tackle one item on my to-do list, which was rearrange my DVDs, placing them in another bookcase that would use my storage space more efficiently.
Feeling somewhat pleased with myself, I chilled for a bit to watch a bit more TV and suddenly it was 4pm. Big Sis and Bro-in-Law had arrived back from their walk and tucked into the rest of the spaghetti, exhausted and ravenous. I faffed around a bit more, doing bits and pieces, catching up on a little blog reading, listening to a little music and generally ignoring the to-do list I had been so full of optimism at completing. Feeling incredibly drowsy, I succumbed to a nap. I was woken an hour or so later by my phone, my friend asking if I wanted to get together to chill that evening. Feeling the throb of an oncoming headache, I said I would get back to them. Not long after, the Mrs called for a chat. After a quick catch-up of the weekend's activities (hers infinitely more exciting than mine), I went to get myself the remainder of the spaghetti for a light dinner. By now it was about 8pm. I got back to my other friend and gave my apologies; my head was killing me and I wouldn't be good company. My workmate sent me a text, lamenting the prospect of work in the morning and reporting that she had a headache. I responded in like kind. After eating dinner, I decided to record the day's activities by way of a blog post, over a cup of tea. So here we are. Altogether, it wasn't a completely unproductive day. But the to-do list still looms large. In theory, I am in Spring-mode. Now all I need is to get that to work in practice...
Saturday, 14 March 2009
Mini-Me
I have a temporary work colleague helping me out with that huge workload I have. She rocks. She's been working with me since mid-October last year, but lately, as we've shared more personal information, we have become a little bit closer. She's five years younger than me: sometimes I notice that difference and other times I regress and think I am still that age. She is very sweet. She has a wise head on her shoulders. She's from my part of town. She has a somewhat similar background to me. She likes shopping and nice things. She has a boyfriend she is very happy with (for the most part, like all relationships, right?). She is fairly self-assured but has that sort of shyness that comes with being young. She is always immaculately presented, has classic dress sense and is very pretty. She reminds me a little of me five years ago (not that last part, obviously. 'Immaculately presented' is probably not a term I imagine ever being ascribed to me, lol). She has taken to asking me for advice, which I suppose is somewhat flattering/reassuring. I did inform her, however, that while I'm sort of OK at advice, not to take my own life as any indication of my advice-giving capapbilities (I'm good at giving it, not taking it!).
It's weird that you can come across a person who in some ways reminds you of you. I have the bizarre urge to take her under my wing a little, encouraging her to have adventures and take calculated risks, but advising her to curb her shopping habits a little and save as much money as possible by taking full advantage of still living at home. It's almost as if I can see in her the kind of potential that I wasted, and don't want her to do the same. I can understand a tiny bit that desire that some parents have to live their dreams through their children, for their progeny to do better than they did, to not make the same mistakes, to learn from their experiences. But funnily enough, she probably doesn't need my advice. I certainly don't tell her what to do, or offer my advice forcibly or unsolicited. But the irony is, if she's anything like me five years ago, she probably wouldn't listen anyway. :o)
It's weird that you can come across a person who in some ways reminds you of you. I have the bizarre urge to take her under my wing a little, encouraging her to have adventures and take calculated risks, but advising her to curb her shopping habits a little and save as much money as possible by taking full advantage of still living at home. It's almost as if I can see in her the kind of potential that I wasted, and don't want her to do the same. I can understand a tiny bit that desire that some parents have to live their dreams through their children, for their progeny to do better than they did, to not make the same mistakes, to learn from their experiences. But funnily enough, she probably doesn't need my advice. I certainly don't tell her what to do, or offer my advice forcibly or unsolicited. But the irony is, if she's anything like me five years ago, she probably wouldn't listen anyway. :o)
Friday, 13 March 2009
Favourite Descriptions #2: Laid-Back
In my favourite description/definition of the week, Gavin Brown from London's Metro newspaper today described Chris Gayle - West Indies cricket captain - as "a man so laid back deckchairs tend to sit on him." Classic. Made me laugh out loud on the train.
The Week in Review #10
I was a bit naughty and posted the last two weeks in review a little late. I've become so behind on my blog reading and writing lately; my Google reader is currently at 102. Oops. This week went by quickly, but don't they always? I think this may be the first week in a while that I can actually say I enjoyed. I don't even know exactly why. Maybe a little retrospect will help me out...
Most successful conversation of the week: The one I had been dreading
This went better than I could ever have anticipated. We cried, we embraced, we laughed, we reminisced, we confessed, we thanked, we complimented, we had a wonderful time together. I didn't know 'break-ups' could turn out in such a way, but I can't think of a nicer way to end a relationship and start a friendship.
Most delayed conversation of the week: One with the Mrs
She panicked and thought our friendship was over, after not hearing from me....for two days. Lol! After a few unanswered emails and a few texts, I really should have got back to her just to let her know I was OK. Sometimes, when I'm dealing with a difficult situation, I retreat and want to be left to it. But I need to remember the art of damage limitation! We caught up on Sunday and more than made up for it.
Most non-shocking information of the week: I make an inexplicable array of facial expressions
A fact brought sharply to my attention by talking to friends on webcam. I need to work on that neutral face.
Most appreciated correspondence of the week: A wedding invitation from my cousin
Beginning of May, in San Francisco! When he last visited London and stayed with my parents in 2005, I took him sightseeing all week, had a fantastic time, and helped him pick out a London snowglobe as a gift for his new girlfriend. She's now his bride-to-be!
Most disappointing realisation of the week: That I currently have no money to go
I am going to hustle like crazy to try and get the dough together to attend this wedding. OK, he totally got my name wrong on the invitation (no, not just spelled wrong, which happens often, but the wrong name altogether. It's fine, it was at least similar, lol), but I still want to go, dammit! Plus, I've never been to Cali before and allegedly it's worth visiting (haha).
Most enjoyable impromptu outing of the week: Going on a quick window-shop with my workmate
We were both exhausted by the end of the day, but had enough energy to make a quick trip to High Street Ken. for a quick look-round and a purchase or two (her, not me). We would probably make good shopping buddies. Great news from a friendship point of view, bad news from my money-saving point of view.
Most appreciated gift of the week: Hash browns for breakfast
My workmate buying me hash browns this morning, telling me, "I know you're on a money-saving tip, so..." She knows I am spending virtually nothing at the moment, lol. It was very sweet.
Saddest news of the week: The Mrs' bro getting beaten up by police (and putting pics of his bruised and swollen face on his Facebook)
After hearing a couple of months ago that one of my boys' friends was punched in the face by a police officer for no reason, this is just another to add to the list. I don't know all the details, but the outcome on all counts is not good. Very upsetting and not conducive to improving my opinion of the police. It resulted with an assault charge. Against who, you ask? Take a guess. Hmm.
Most exciting news of the week: The Mrs is in a new relationship
Well, that wasn't strictly news this week, but the new relationship is looking very promising and she seems much more content than I've known her to be in a while. This is a big thing. I am really, really pleased and excited for her!
Most unexpected proposition of the week: No, I'm not being married off. A job proposal.
Having an informal meeting with a colleague from another department I work quite closely with, my colleague casually informed me that there is a vacancy going in her team. Due to a freeze on recruitment of external candidates, they were asked to think of any internal candidates who might be suitable. She thought of me! It's a step up from the level I'm at now, which means more money. It's in a department that seems even vaguely organised. It's open to internal candidates only, meaning less fierce competition (one would hope). They've encouraged me to apply, which hopefully means I have at least a decent chance of being succesful. Oh, and did I mention there may be opportunities for travel? Wo0t! You know, I can't think of anything done on my part to warrant the breaks I have had, but God has been and continues to be so good to me in my work life. I have had some very difficult and unenjoyable times in my worklife over the past two years, but He always seems to place opportunities in front of me, just at the right time. I don't know just yet if this opportunity is meant to be, but I am going for it.
Thank God for Sabbath, really. I can't wait to rest, in the knowledge that God is taking care of things infinitely better than I ever could myself. I also cannot believe it is mid-March. Spring, my old friend, there you are! How I've missed you!
Most successful conversation of the week: The one I had been dreading
This went better than I could ever have anticipated. We cried, we embraced, we laughed, we reminisced, we confessed, we thanked, we complimented, we had a wonderful time together. I didn't know 'break-ups' could turn out in such a way, but I can't think of a nicer way to end a relationship and start a friendship.
Most delayed conversation of the week: One with the Mrs
She panicked and thought our friendship was over, after not hearing from me....for two days. Lol! After a few unanswered emails and a few texts, I really should have got back to her just to let her know I was OK. Sometimes, when I'm dealing with a difficult situation, I retreat and want to be left to it. But I need to remember the art of damage limitation! We caught up on Sunday and more than made up for it.
Most non-shocking information of the week: I make an inexplicable array of facial expressions
A fact brought sharply to my attention by talking to friends on webcam. I need to work on that neutral face.
Most appreciated correspondence of the week: A wedding invitation from my cousin
Beginning of May, in San Francisco! When he last visited London and stayed with my parents in 2005, I took him sightseeing all week, had a fantastic time, and helped him pick out a London snowglobe as a gift for his new girlfriend. She's now his bride-to-be!
Most disappointing realisation of the week: That I currently have no money to go
I am going to hustle like crazy to try and get the dough together to attend this wedding. OK, he totally got my name wrong on the invitation (no, not just spelled wrong, which happens often, but the wrong name altogether. It's fine, it was at least similar, lol), but I still want to go, dammit! Plus, I've never been to Cali before and allegedly it's worth visiting (haha).
Most enjoyable impromptu outing of the week: Going on a quick window-shop with my workmate
We were both exhausted by the end of the day, but had enough energy to make a quick trip to High Street Ken. for a quick look-round and a purchase or two (her, not me). We would probably make good shopping buddies. Great news from a friendship point of view, bad news from my money-saving point of view.
Most appreciated gift of the week: Hash browns for breakfast
My workmate buying me hash browns this morning, telling me, "I know you're on a money-saving tip, so..." She knows I am spending virtually nothing at the moment, lol. It was very sweet.
Saddest news of the week: The Mrs' bro getting beaten up by police (and putting pics of his bruised and swollen face on his Facebook)
After hearing a couple of months ago that one of my boys' friends was punched in the face by a police officer for no reason, this is just another to add to the list. I don't know all the details, but the outcome on all counts is not good. Very upsetting and not conducive to improving my opinion of the police. It resulted with an assault charge. Against who, you ask? Take a guess. Hmm.
Most exciting news of the week: The Mrs is in a new relationship
Well, that wasn't strictly news this week, but the new relationship is looking very promising and she seems much more content than I've known her to be in a while. This is a big thing. I am really, really pleased and excited for her!
Most unexpected proposition of the week: No, I'm not being married off. A job proposal.
Having an informal meeting with a colleague from another department I work quite closely with, my colleague casually informed me that there is a vacancy going in her team. Due to a freeze on recruitment of external candidates, they were asked to think of any internal candidates who might be suitable. She thought of me! It's a step up from the level I'm at now, which means more money. It's in a department that seems even vaguely organised. It's open to internal candidates only, meaning less fierce competition (one would hope). They've encouraged me to apply, which hopefully means I have at least a decent chance of being succesful. Oh, and did I mention there may be opportunities for travel? Wo0t! You know, I can't think of anything done on my part to warrant the breaks I have had, but God has been and continues to be so good to me in my work life. I have had some very difficult and unenjoyable times in my worklife over the past two years, but He always seems to place opportunities in front of me, just at the right time. I don't know just yet if this opportunity is meant to be, but I am going for it.
Thank God for Sabbath, really. I can't wait to rest, in the knowledge that God is taking care of things infinitely better than I ever could myself. I also cannot believe it is mid-March. Spring, my old friend, there you are! How I've missed you!
Friday Fill-In #25
And...here we go!
1. When I look to the left, I see Daddy Ducks!
2. Big Sis' room, with the big sycamore tree outside it is the room that has the best view in my home.
3. Let it work, please, so that all our efforts were not in vain.
4. Lately, everything I do has to be done dirt cheap! Not necessarily my way of choice, but a necessity, sadly.
5. Considering how our actions impact others and making a point to ensure the impact is not negative is a responsibility that all qualified citizens must share.
6. If you have any air miles feel free to sponsor my ticket to San Francisco.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner and a chat with the boy, tomorrow my plans include singing at church and Sunday, I want to have a Spring clean and get my paperwork in order!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
1. When I look to the left, I see Daddy Ducks!
2. Big Sis' room, with the big sycamore tree outside it is the room that has the best view in my home.
3. Let it work, please, so that all our efforts were not in vain.
4. Lately, everything I do has to be done dirt cheap! Not necessarily my way of choice, but a necessity, sadly.
5. Considering how our actions impact others and making a point to ensure the impact is not negative is a responsibility that all qualified citizens must share.
6. If you have any air miles feel free to sponsor my ticket to San Francisco.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner and a chat with the boy, tomorrow my plans include singing at church and Sunday, I want to have a Spring clean and get my paperwork in order!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
Friday, 6 March 2009
The Week in Review #9
This week has flown by. Last weekend, I just was getting over a week of feeling unwell. I was also dreading the thought of going back to work, knowing that there was shedloads to do and a week's backlog to catch up on, and that my Aussie Mrs wouldn't be around to have lunch with or for moral support. But the week has turned out to be a pretty good one. Here are the major happenings:
Most appreciated concern of the week:
My workmate Tanya telling Erin she was going to "keep an eye" on me, because she hadn't realised how stressed I was at work. On Monday and Tuesday, she made a point to get me to leave the office for lunch with her and had a chat with me over lunch, which really helped me get through the day. Even though her lunch invitations are often along the charming lines of, "Right, come on then wench, we're going to lunch," or "What are you doing for lunch, Fanny?" I really appreciated her care. :o)
Realisation of the week:
Our instincts are a built-in warning system. If a situation doesn't feel right, especially in matters of the heart, there is usually good reason for this.
Saddest moment of the week:
Seeing my Aussie Mrs, Erin, on Thursday, when she popped in to work for a last goodbye before her flight back to Aus tonight. I took my lunch mid-afternoon and we went down to the Senior Common Room to share a chocolate cupcake with chocolate icing and gold icing balls and a red velvet one, over a cup of tea. We both avoided the big 'goodbye' conversation; I attempted to explain how much I am going to miss her, but my throat choked and the words didn't come. Instead, we stuck to nodding at each other knowingly, with the glisten of tears in our eyes as we brushed off the event with casual statements like "I'll email you," and "It's cool, we're gonna stay in touch." We left work at the same time and I waited with her briefly at her bus stop. "There's a bus coming," she noted, "we better start saying goodbye." We had one last big hug and I wished her a safe journey as I waved her on to the bus. Walking away, the tears built up and I called the person whose voice I needed to hear the most. Hearing the call ring through to their voicemail message didn't surprise me much, so the tears abated slightly until a friend called me 10 minutes later to check I was ok. Then the tears came. I am so gonna miss that girl. We made a pact months ago that I am going to visit her by 2012. It's going to be a long 3 years without her.
Favourite social event of the week:
Catching up with my old workmates, or 'The Sisterhood' as we like to call it (there is one honorary male sister). We caught up for a drink and dinner, had a good laugh as usual and spent a really enjoyable evening in each other's company. We all have our own heavy issues at the moment, but we cheered each other up and shared work woes. We are such a motley crew of people and in some ways have relatively little in common, but we really like each other's company. We don't get together often, but the times we do are well worth the wait.
Most dreaded conversation of the week:
Telling someone very dear to me that the feelings I have for him are not the same as the ones he has for me. I wasn't sure for a while, but after much thought and heartache, I know the reality. There is no way of having this conversation without us both ending up heartbroken, but there is also no way of pretending the conversation doesn't need to be had.
Unexpected conversation of the week:
I spoke to another person who is dear to me, but one that I had written off as no longer part of my life. It turns out that my sadness at our lack of contact was reciprocated. Some people make one's life immeasurably better just by being in it. This is one of those people. I know how rare it is to meet a real kindred spirit, so I don't wish to lose this one.
Favourite news of the week:
Learning that the driver of my tube train home was about to become a grandfather. :o) And that one of my friends has become an uncle for the first time.
Favourite meal of the week:
The epic one (cooked by my very own Dad) that I just had this evening. There was so much to choose from that there wasn't even room to try everything I wanted; I couldn't even finish it. But it was delicious - I needed that!
I hope you all had a blessed week. Whatever happiness, sadness, challenge or stress you experienced, I hope you can gain something positive from it.
Most appreciated concern of the week:
My workmate Tanya telling Erin she was going to "keep an eye" on me, because she hadn't realised how stressed I was at work. On Monday and Tuesday, she made a point to get me to leave the office for lunch with her and had a chat with me over lunch, which really helped me get through the day. Even though her lunch invitations are often along the charming lines of, "Right, come on then wench, we're going to lunch," or "What are you doing for lunch, Fanny?" I really appreciated her care. :o)
Realisation of the week:
Our instincts are a built-in warning system. If a situation doesn't feel right, especially in matters of the heart, there is usually good reason for this.
Saddest moment of the week:
Seeing my Aussie Mrs, Erin, on Thursday, when she popped in to work for a last goodbye before her flight back to Aus tonight. I took my lunch mid-afternoon and we went down to the Senior Common Room to share a chocolate cupcake with chocolate icing and gold icing balls and a red velvet one, over a cup of tea. We both avoided the big 'goodbye' conversation; I attempted to explain how much I am going to miss her, but my throat choked and the words didn't come. Instead, we stuck to nodding at each other knowingly, with the glisten of tears in our eyes as we brushed off the event with casual statements like "I'll email you," and "It's cool, we're gonna stay in touch." We left work at the same time and I waited with her briefly at her bus stop. "There's a bus coming," she noted, "we better start saying goodbye." We had one last big hug and I wished her a safe journey as I waved her on to the bus. Walking away, the tears built up and I called the person whose voice I needed to hear the most. Hearing the call ring through to their voicemail message didn't surprise me much, so the tears abated slightly until a friend called me 10 minutes later to check I was ok. Then the tears came. I am so gonna miss that girl. We made a pact months ago that I am going to visit her by 2012. It's going to be a long 3 years without her.
Favourite social event of the week:
Catching up with my old workmates, or 'The Sisterhood' as we like to call it (there is one honorary male sister). We caught up for a drink and dinner, had a good laugh as usual and spent a really enjoyable evening in each other's company. We all have our own heavy issues at the moment, but we cheered each other up and shared work woes. We are such a motley crew of people and in some ways have relatively little in common, but we really like each other's company. We don't get together often, but the times we do are well worth the wait.
Most dreaded conversation of the week:
Telling someone very dear to me that the feelings I have for him are not the same as the ones he has for me. I wasn't sure for a while, but after much thought and heartache, I know the reality. There is no way of having this conversation without us both ending up heartbroken, but there is also no way of pretending the conversation doesn't need to be had.
Unexpected conversation of the week:
I spoke to another person who is dear to me, but one that I had written off as no longer part of my life. It turns out that my sadness at our lack of contact was reciprocated. Some people make one's life immeasurably better just by being in it. This is one of those people. I know how rare it is to meet a real kindred spirit, so I don't wish to lose this one.
Favourite news of the week:
Learning that the driver of my tube train home was about to become a grandfather. :o) And that one of my friends has become an uncle for the first time.
Favourite meal of the week:
The epic one (cooked by my very own Dad) that I just had this evening. There was so much to choose from that there wasn't even room to try everything I wanted; I couldn't even finish it. But it was delicious - I needed that!
I hope you all had a blessed week. Whatever happiness, sadness, challenge or stress you experienced, I hope you can gain something positive from it.
Get It Off Your Chest
I got on the tube this evening to make my way to see the 'rents. I had to change trains at a particular station and had to jump off one train to get on another, just across the platform. I was fairly sure I had got on the correct train, but because I was trying out a different route I haven't taken before, I thought I should listen out for the driver's announcement, just to make sure.
"Hello ladies and gentlemen," the driver said over the tannoy, "this is a District line train to Wimbldeon!" There seemed to be a little too much excitement in his voice as he announced the destination, but since it was the destination I wanted, that was all I needed to know. I was about to put my earphones back in, when he continued, "I have some information that I wanted to share; you can pass it on to other people if you want." I carried on listening, already sighing in anticipation of delays or problems down the line. "I've just found out that my daughter and son-in-law are going to have a baby: I'm going to be a grandfather! I just needed to tell someone. You'll do. OK, bye."
I couldn't help it, I chuckled out loud. I noticed other passengers smiling at the news. When I got off the train at Wimbledon, which was the end of the line, the driver was getting out of the cab. I was too far away, but another passenger walked over and said a hearty "Congratulations!" The driver replied with thanks, visibly beaming with pride. There are times like this when I love being a part of the human family. :o)
"Hello ladies and gentlemen," the driver said over the tannoy, "this is a District line train to Wimbldeon!" There seemed to be a little too much excitement in his voice as he announced the destination, but since it was the destination I wanted, that was all I needed to know. I was about to put my earphones back in, when he continued, "I have some information that I wanted to share; you can pass it on to other people if you want." I carried on listening, already sighing in anticipation of delays or problems down the line. "I've just found out that my daughter and son-in-law are going to have a baby: I'm going to be a grandfather! I just needed to tell someone. You'll do. OK, bye."
I couldn't help it, I chuckled out loud. I noticed other passengers smiling at the news. When I got off the train at Wimbledon, which was the end of the line, the driver was getting out of the cab. I was too far away, but another passenger walked over and said a hearty "Congratulations!" The driver replied with thanks, visibly beaming with pride. There are times like this when I love being a part of the human family. :o)
Friday Fill-In #24
And...here we go!
1. I am ashamed to admit that I can't rememberwas my last random act of kindness.
2. Another place would be somewhere new to explore, but it won't ever be home.
3. I am pretty much all or nothing in matters of the heart.
5. We may be walking separate paths for now, but that doesn't mean they won't ever cross, or even merge into one, somewhere along the journey.
6. Our faith reminds me that there is hope.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a home-cooked meal, tomorrow my plans include seeing the fam and going to church and Sunday, I want to fill out some job applications, start the process for reclaiming my bank charges and deal with an awkward situation!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
1. I am ashamed to admit that I can't remember
2. Another place would be somewhere new to explore, but it won't ever be home.
3. I am pretty much all or nothing in matters of the heart.
5. We may be walking separate paths for now, but that doesn't mean they won't ever cross, or even merge into one, somewhere along the journey.
6. Our faith reminds me that there is hope.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a home-cooked meal, tomorrow my plans include seeing the fam and going to church and Sunday, I want to fill out some job applications, start the process for reclaiming my bank charges and deal with an awkward situation!
Friday Fill-Ins come courtesy of Janet. Click the button to play too!
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