Hey all!

suctionprints, I hope everything works out OK eventually! And yogi, glad to know that everything's working out for you! I know that feeling of wanting to pull your hair out all too well.


I don't know that I ever specifically mentioned what it was; for superstitious reasons, I'd like to keep that to myself until I know something definite. I will say it ran for a long time, it was a lot of fun to do, and I could easily see it doing well here.

AussieGirl, as far as 9/11, what I remember the most about the immediate aftermath was making myself sick because I was in Union Square constantly just being around people and trying to help in any way--I had just moved here on the 1st and I just felt this overwhelming need to be around people and doing something instead of sitting at home--and slowly but surely making sure everyone I had met while I was out was OK the next time I saw them if I didn't have their phone #s. Honestly, I just try not to think about it at this point, and I can't even really explain why. But it's like my brain just shuts itself off when it comes up, just kind of like, "Enough." That may sound horrible, but I think it was just that I did so much thinking about it back then that I reached a saturation point.

Argh, Suctionprints sorry for congrat-ing too soon. At least things are progressing, albeit at a slow pace.

We have (in my esteemed position) the creepiest weather today. The rain here is just getting steadier & steadier and grey/green outside. I don't know why, but it seems extra spooky.

Yogi extra glad that you are getting some help. You're only human, and it sounds like your friends & associates totally stepped to the plate! Sounds excellent. Weird story - saw an item on the news this morning about a violinist who lost a very valuable violin at a bar last night...called Yogi's. You're not on the prowl stealthily taking instruments at bars that share your moniker are you?

Julia "Hildy" Lagasse Pepin Crocker Beard, whoot whoot whoot (3 whoots for 3 items per recipe, of course)! Book is in! Congrats! And stuff!

I just saw a news report about the Twin Cities transit strike, but I didn't get a good feel for what's going on, other than the vote has been (slightly) delayed. I hope it's over soon, for the sake of the many people who depend on public transportation and for the benefit of our suctionprints. I'm meeting sp and TraceyBee and Mr. Bee for lunch tomorrow so look for a report in the next few days!

AussieGirl - yes, I did have chemo (and a lumpectomy and radiation). It was 9 years ago, though, and I'm doing fine (knock on my head). I've known many people who've had cancer - close family, co-workers - so when I said a few weeks ago when your friend passed away that "cancer sucks," I'm speaking from experience.

skagirl - welcome back from Chicago! Better give those girls a rest before the upcoming GuidoCon. You said what I tried to say to yogi in an e-mail, but yours was better.

Hi y'all!! Hildy what's the name of your book? I'm looking forward to buying it and checking it out. I'm always ready to try something new and different.
suctionprints, I'll bet Yogi's probably right. It wouldn't surprise me a bit if this rotten experience led to great things for you after all. Hang in there!
And Yogi, I sure hope things settle down for you soon. There's nothing worse than when your child is hurting and you feel so helpless. That's really great that you're getting help so soon.
Babalu and PrincessPeachy, my mom is a breast cancer survivor. She had a mastectomy(sp?) almost 25 years ago, and she's doing just great now. A couple of my co-workers were diagnosed with it last year. Both had surgery, chemo, radiation etc., and they both say they're doing fine now. Just keep the prayers and good thought going for your friend Aussie, and I'm sure she'll be fine too.

You guys just blow me away! What a wonderful gang of people we have here at the Meet Market.

Yogi I am so sorry to hear of how tough things have been for you. I know from your posts here what a devoted and loving mother you are, and what an incredible little being your son is. And I'm not at all surprised to hear how fast your prayers worked. Although I am not the slightest bit religious, I certainly can attest to the power of prayer. I would love to hear some of your "stories" about that! Thinking of you, mate, and sending you and little Yogi lots of love.

And BTW, while I'm sure Ethan standing around without his shirt would certainly be immensely delightful to look at, Peachy without his shirt would be even better!

Hildy my belated congratulations on finishing the book! Woohoo!!!!!!! That is so cool, and I can't wait to get a copy. We probably won't be able to buy it here, so when it is available, please let me know. I would like to mail you the money for a copy and postage etc. Here's to you, our great cook!

Babalu I am sad that you had to go through breast cancer, but I sure am happy that it is behind you now. It is such a vile thing and almost as heartbreaking for those around the person with it. Both birdlady and I have mothers who have survived it. I am keeping in close contact with my friend, and continuing to help with her healing, and just being there for her. She also has a wonderful partner who is an incredible man, and they are planning on getting married once the chemo is over, so that is a huge inspiration for her.

Dodo I cannot imagine the horror and shock of what you experienced on 9/11. I only know the disbelief and horror I felt while watching it on TV here, and thinking that this can't possibly be happening, it's a horror movie. And trying to account for all my friends in the US. I take my hat off to all you NY'ers, for what you went through and how you came through it all. Thanks for sharing it with us, Dodo.

Had a great day yesterday at the beach with the kids, MIL, and my friends. Littlest Aussie kept scooping up handfuls of sand and throwing them into the sea. The friends are very dear people who I love catching up with, and extremely Aussie in their nature, very funny people, and MIL had a good time meeting some "true blue" Aussies, (even though I'm sure at times she couldn't understand a word of their accents!). It was lovely to be at the beach, though the afternoon sun was still very hot. BTW Yogi, where I live in Brisbane is half way between two coasts, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast. We really do live in Paradise here. Or very near it, at least!

Princess Peachy xxx

Hey, Meet Marketers!

Thanks so much for your very, very kind words of support. It really touched me. I've been at this for almost 13 years, but this last year has been terribly intense. My son is in so much pain, and I want to be there for him, but I just don't have a lot of emotional reserves or brainpower left. I'm a bit alarmed because my mind is not working at all. I ended up getting lost yesterday going to a place I frequent, and I keep walking into the street without looking (not safe at all in NYC.) Hopefully, the cavalry will arrive soon. Someone to help clear the papers off my desk, bring the files up to date, and work on some projects that are well over a year overdue will help me clear up some time. Maybe I'll just sit and stare into space?! Hey, I call that meditating, and Boy, could I use some!



You know, skagirl, until I read that, I hadn't really realized it, but that's exactly what happenned. I hadn't spoken to several of these people since the end of last summer. I figured they wouldn't be able or willing to help or probably even be able to listen, so I never asked. I don't blame folks at all; it's hard to look at that kind of pain. But I underestimated the quality of my friends. Thanks for giving me that insight of truth into myself. You are a very wise young woman.

Sending my happiest thoughts and love to the three Twin Cities Ladies-Who-Lunch today! I hope it is a wonderful repast, filled with yummy food, excellent conversation, and joy. But how could it not be so, as it includes youse guys!

And boy, Aussie Girl, I'm always thinking "I want to soak up the sun..." every time I read one of your posts. The Sunshine Coast.... Ahhhhhhhh

I hope everything works out for you! I know what it's like to be under that kind of stress and it's horrible. Actually, I was talking with a good friend of mine about that kind of thing last night, and the analogy we came up with was that sometimes life can feel like you're that little Dutch boy in the fairy tale who plugs the dam...you feel like you have to stand there with every appendage in a different leak/area of your life because the second you remove it, or relax, WHOOSH! There goes the flood!

Is there anything in the interim that you can safely let go or put off without any repercussions to lessen your load/stress level? I don't know if you're like me, where I feel like everything has to be done now and sometimes I have to force myself to put things off or space them out better before I take hostages.

I got to meet suctionprints and Babalu today! We had a great lunch together (MrBee tagged along, too). And it's a gorgeous spring day, and Babalu brought me a big-ass bag of treats from Hawai'i. Li hing mui and rock salt plum and rice crackers, oh my!

If any of you are grammar/usage/punctuation geeks like me, you must read Eats, Shoots and Leaves. It was published in the UK last year, was a suprise bestseller, and was just published in the US this past Monday. I bought it Tuesday and have already read it. It's wonderful, just wonderful. If you've even been tempted to carry a Sharpie marker so that you can correct signs with egregious misuses of commas and apostrophes, you will adore this book. (Yes, I'm deeply weird. But, based on the sales for this book, so are a lot of us.)

When I went to Amazon to check out the synopsis, I didn't even have to type it in because it was right there on the front page of Top Sellers. Sounds hysterical! I'm a little short on disposable cash right now, but I definitely want to check it out at some point.

Oh Yogi I so wish there was something I could do to help you out right now!! As I said before there is nothing worse than seeing your child in pain, when there's really nothing you can do. It's so frustrating to feel so helpless!! Like AussieGirl I'm not religious at all, but I do believe that prayers are very powerful. So in my own weird way I'm praying for you. It just makes me so mad that anyone should have to go through the hell you must be feeling. Again, I'm so glad that help is on the way.
AussieGirl thanks so much for sharing your wonderful sunshine. I can't wait until it's beach weather here. We've had glorious sunshine all day here too, but the wind is blowing so hard it feels like the temperature is barely above freezing!
And Dodo thanks for sharing your 9/11 stories. That was just such a surreal time, I think for everyone in the country. As much as I'm guilty for occasionally dissing NYC, that time of pulling together and being there for each other made me so proud of you all!!

Hey Gang at Meet Market!

Hooray for the Ladies-Who-Lunch with Mr. Bee! It sounds like the afternoon was jolly and yummy. Tracey Bee has no doubt overdosed on the plum crack that got from her Hawaiian supplier, the ever generous and congenial Babalu. Enjoy!

It's going to be a gorgeous day in NYC today, after a rainy and gray week. I am very, very pleased. It's getting me in the mood for spring. I have a tulip tree behind my house that is just about to burst into a wild profusion of blossom. What a pink pleasure!

I want to see the Spotless Mind film this weekend. Has anyone seen it? Is it any good? I love going to the movies, but lately I've been seeing a lot of boy-friendly action flicks. Not my favorite genre. The Yogi men are dying to see Van Helsing. Ugh. Talk about a difference in taste. But I can't wait for Harry Potter's new film. That will be lovely.



You do help me Birdlady. You and the other Meet Marketeers. I like coming here and seeing your bright spirits and laughing over wedding stories and boyfriend tales and all the other things. It cheers me.

Like you and Aussie Girl, I don't necessarily see prayer as a religious thing at all. To me, religion is an organized activity done with or by a group, and prayer is a personal and individual activity. Sort of like the difference between going to a conference or talking to a friend, apples and oranges so to speak. So I guess I didn't think my post was religious. I have no problem with either religion or prayer, but I've always found prayer to be very common across all bounds of religion, culture, and personal inclination. I've known even self-proclaiming athiests to pray on occasion - Heh.

Maybe I should go see The Passion?! Nahhh.

Had a bizarre dream last night that was loosely Survivor-related. I was moving and trying to find someone to rent my apartment, and I was going to rent it to this 24-year-old guy (I have no idea who he was). So he was standing in one part of the apartment, and my old roommate Kim and Shii Ann, of all people, were trying to talk me out of it in another part. But what was weird was it was like getting the apartment was like getting hired as The Apprentice or something, because Kim kept saying things like, "He's only 24...I don't think he's ready yet" and "You know how sometimes they don't shovel the stairs right away when it snows. Do you think he could handle that? I don't think so."

What was really funny was Shii Ann was just as useless in my dream as she is on the show. Basically she just kept saying things like "Yeah, that's a good point" and "Yeah, you need to think about that" after everything Kim said. Hee!

So I've come to the conclusion that my emails and phone calls are being filtered through the fabled dryer that eats all the missing socks. First my quasi-ex pulled a vanishing act, and now a friend of mine is apparently similarly lost in the ether with no warning, rhyme, or reason. Weird.

Hi, all. Beautiful day here in Wisconsin, breezy and 70+. Congrats to author Hildy, hugs to dear yogi - it should be no suprise to you when people come to your rescue - you are such a shining light. Keeping my fingers crossed for a conclusion to suction's strike and for an eventual opening night for Dodo's play. Aussie, I am so jealous of your locale, but a bit less so now that it is warming up here in the hinterlands.

Not much else to say other than it is nice to have the time to read and post here after several busy-ish weeks. Just found out our company is adding 4 new models to our yacht line and only dropping ONE for the coming model year. Ack. More work for the marketing dept. Job security, I guess.

Dodo I loved your dream! Too funny!

Heh, heidihug, you must have the touch. 72% of the ATU voted to return to work on Monday. More later.

Hey guys - greetings from the not so Sunshine State - it's pouring with rain! Hope it stops soon as we've arranged to take MIL up to the mountains tomorrow, and it will be too misty to see a thing if this bloody rain keeps up. Anyway, I am glad that things are warming up for a lot of you - after your harsh, cold winters, you deserve lots of sunshine!

Yogi please give your beautiful son a huge cuddle from Auntie Aussie. He's been on my mind a lot, as have you. And while you're at it, give yourself a big hug from me too. Sending you lots of love.

Dodo wow, what a strange dream! Do you know of anyone who does dream interpretations? It would be interesting to get some insight into it. Your comments about Shii Ann made me laugh - that's exactly what she would say!

Take care guys, and hope you're all having a great weekend!

Princess Peachy xx

Hooray, Suctionprints! That is indeed excellent news. Now it's back to work for you and back to public transportation for Tracey Bee. I'm sure you're both relieved it's finally over. I hope that the concessions were ones that everyone can live with, and that soon this will all be water under the bus for everyone, drivers and riders alike.

That is quite the dream Last Dodo. Shall I give a stab at interpretation for you, just for fun? A house or dwelling in a dream is a symbol of the body of the dreamer - the house being the dwelling for the person inner life. So in this case, the your dwelling is an apartment (compartmentalized space) which you desire to rent (either share with or give over to) a twenty-four year old man. This could have something to do with either the young man you recently had some dating drama with or it could refer to a younger part of yourself, depending on the signifigance of the age of 24 to you. (The age of 24 is signifigant to the dream because you know that detail so clearly.) Next the roomate and Shi-Anne (fun) - Again, I would need more information, a few words, about who Kim is to you, how you see her, but I would say from this information that she is a mature, protective part of yourself that already exists within you and you are trying to develop more. The part that said "that's all, it's over" when young man didn't call again over the weekend. It seems that there might have been a bit of internal conflict (join the club!) because standing next to the mature part of yourself is the "useless", Shi-Ann type part saying, "good point" and "I don't know."

And that interpretation plus two cents won't buy me or anyone else a shave anymore!

Hugs to Heidihug! Thanks for ending the strike with your post! I'm curious, once your company completes building these yachts up in the northern hinderlands (Brrrr), how do they get them down to the nice warm climates for the rich folks to sail around in them? With all the extra work, I think you need to negotiate for a voyage on one of the new models as a perk. After all, how are you supposed to sell them if you haven't tried them out?!? Now, go try that one out on the boss.

And hugs back to you, Aussie Girl. I can feel your warm healing energy across all those miles and continents. And I'm sending some right back atcha!

Enjoy the sunshine, gang at MM!

I saw it the week before last. It's excellent. It's the typical Charlie Kaufman "science fiction, but we'll pretend it's something else" script, but I thought Michel Gondry's direction was superb - much less exaggerated and cheesy than Spike Jonze (the director of Kaufman scripts "Adaptation" and "Being John Malkovich"). And it's a great love story/comedy/science fiction movie/meditation on memory. I need to go see it again pretty dang soon.

Happy Birthday to Me! So far I have received: a VCR (a month ago to the day, an early present from Mr. Blevins), supper out, a Costco Tiramisu, and the promise of a new desk chair when I find one I like (the previous three from my folks). Plus the GPS started working again! Wheeeeee!

Happy Birthday to you, Jennblevins!
It sounds like it started out terrific - I hope it only gets better from here!

Your description of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind was spot on, suctionprints. I also enjoyed it, and I think I will have to see it again. The directing was very good. And wasn't Kate Winslet excellent? She sure plays a wacky woman very well. Loved the hair. And Jim Carrey did a nice job too, though it always freaks me out a bit when he does something serious. I am a bit braced for his to suddenly morph into the guy from Mask or something.

Hope all the busses rolled without a hitch in the Twin Cities!

And hope all the NYCers and others on the Eastern seaboard are enjoying the Brilliant Sunshine. Somewhere Ricci is no doubt basking in the brightness.

I know it's played in many countries already, but this weekend I saw the funniest movie I've seen in a long time. I'm not sure how long it's been open in NYC, or how many other US cities have it, but everyone must go see Shaolin Soccer. I won't give away what it's about, but I can't imagine a single person with a sense of humor who wouldn't love this movie.

Happy birthday, Jennblevins! And congrats, suctionprints!

yogi, there may be something to that interp; it certainly makes sense.


Can two cents even get you Bazooka gum anymore? Or anything, for that matter?


I for one am loving it. Today after work I'm going to get off at Astor Place, pick up an iced coffee from the Starbucks there (where hopefully my friend who works there will be on), and walk home instead of transferring to the L or the M14 at Union Square. Far too nice not to!

Speaking of iced coffee, a bit of "buyer beware": I bought this iced tea & coffee maker because I absolutely love both and figured it would be a lot more convenient than making them hot and waiting for them to cool....eek. No. Went right back to Bed Bath & Beyond. The stupid thing takes almost 3 trays' worth of ice cubes a pop and no matter how much coffee or tea you use, it still tastes like you just dipped a brown crayon in water. So if you ever see it and consider getting it, don't bother.

Oh--not only did all my "missing" friends pop up in one way or another, thankfully, but I reconnected with someone I haven't spoken to in years, which was cool.

Happy birthday, Jenn!

Congrats, suction!



Well, they build our yachts completely, drop them into the test tank, which is in this really big building across the road from our offices. Then, after testing all of the systems and the engines, and making sure the ballast is adjusted so they do not list to port or starboard, they pull them out, take off the entire bridge area and radar arch, shrink-wrap them, and transport them via semi truck. The really big ones have to go on two trucks, one with the lower hull and one with the bridge and radar arch pieces. Pretty cool to see one shipped out. If you want to see some really impressive yachts, you NY City dwellers, go over to Staten Island Boat Sales (our #1 dealer for last year). Ours (and other brands which are not so awesome) are at their marina.

It is fun working for a company which makes gorgeous luxury yachts, but I'm actually rarely on them. Most of my job entails making sure marketing information gets out to dealers and to leads from our websites. I spend 90% of my time on the computer doing database maintenance, email, stuff like that. It sounds cooler than it is, and I am not a boater, so I don't have the enthusiasm for getting out on deep water like some people do. I may be going to the Miami Boat Show next Feb. to help my boss, but it will be very much a working trip if I do go. Sorry to bore everyone with that long-winded explanation. Moving on...

Dodo, I have been having really disturbing dreams nearly every night lately. But, when I wake up, I forget them, and am just left with a feeling of unease. I guess if my dreams were to involve people like Shii Ann, I should be glad I am forgetting them.

Hi Meet Marketers!

Well the rain cleared up on Sunday, and we drove up into the mountains to meet some friends. Had lunch in the pub there, it had glorious views right down to the ocean, and the food was really nice. After that we went to a really quaint little village, beautiful gardens, very English like, where there are heaps of little shops and art galleries, and coffee houses serving Devonshire Teas (in case you don't have them there, they are scones with jam and cream. We call them scones, I think you lot call them biscuits. Anyway, they serve it with your choice of tea or coffee - yum!). I have long thought I'd like to live there, and being there again made me yearn to pack up and move there. If only we could afford it....

Happy belated birthday, Jenn! Sounds like it was a great day for you.


LOL!!

iMissEthan I've never heard of that movie, but am going to keep an eye out for it. Sometimes we get movies a couple of months later than when they are released in the US. And Yogi I am hoping to see Spotless Mind next week with MIL, it sounds great. I'm not really much of a fan of Jim Carrey, his face contortions annoy me, but he's pretty good in serious roles, I think.

Little Aussie went back to school today - our school year is different to yours - we start at the very end of January and go till mid December, with 2 week holidays in April, July and September, and then 6 weeks in our summer. Poor kid was not impressed to be returning, and I must say I miss him already.

Glad you guys are getting some wonderful, brilliant sunshine!

There is nothing like a good cream tea, Aussie Girl, and one served in such a wonderful town with views of both mountain and sea must be just perfect. I enjoy a nice cream tea from time to time (but not very often, unfortunately for my taste buds but fortunately for my health) in the hotels nearby. Tea at the Ritz is quite a nice treat around Christmastime. When I lived in Chicago, I always had one tea at the Drake at Christmas, a tradition, so to speak. Now, I often give cream teas for a shower. And I always seem to be planning a shower...

Speaking of showers, the Sunflower Shower is turning out just beautifully. The invitations went out last week. They turned out quite impressive, if I do say so myself. I found an image of a field of sunflowers on the computer, and I printed it out on my Epson. Each field was covered with a piece of vellum on which the invitation was printed, tied in place with a green french ribbon. This was placed and backed on a green card. Then, I printed a small folded card on sunflower yellow paper and glued a photo of my friend in her first communion white dress on the front. On the inside I invited everyone to contribute to a memory book. Each invitation was placed in a sunflower yellow "pouchette" envelope with a green seal. They were really something. (She says with complete modesty, heh!) Kate's Papetrie asked me if they could have one to keep for a book they are doing.

I love iced-coffee Last Dodo! I must have one today! (Yes, another gorgeous day to enjoy.) I wonder if there is some way to make an Iced coffee "Irish"?

I went to the Orchid Show at Rock Center this weekend. I generally avoid Rock Center like the plague because it is teeming with non-New Yorkers who, bless their hearts, freak out around crowds big time. But the Orchid Show was wonderful. I bought two new orchids real cheap, which made me feel quite happy.

No wonder you are having bad dreams, Heidihug, you're company regularly floods huge buildings with water! I had a bad dream about that myself last night. What if the building springs a leak?! Seriously, your work does sound really interesting to me. We all have tedium in our jobs. At the end of the day, chop wood, carry water, as they say. In some ways the regularity can be a comfort. But I also think it's great you might get to go to Miami next winter. Work or no, a break from the harsh cold of winter is always welcome.

Last night, Little Yogi slept through the night without any drama. I feel like a new person! Hurray for sleep! I don't know how many more days, weeks, or months I could go without it.

Hello all, just stopping in to say HI. Glad that the personal news has changed for the good as has the weather. Sleep is good, and I would love to get a little more soon. Hope all is well and I am glad Suction, that you get to go back to work (and can join us in looking forward to vacation...)

Hi everybody! Yogi your invitations sound just beatiful. Is there any way you could put the picture of the field of sunflowers up on this thread? I'd love to see it, it sounds gorgeous! As for iced Irish coffee, I'll bet a small shot of Bailey's would do the trick. It sounds pretty good anyway. And I'm very glad LittleYogi's doing a little better. I agree, there's nothing as wonderful as getting some sleep when you need it.
Happy belated birthday Jennblevins and congrats to suctionprints.
I hope everyone is getting the chance to enjoy this glorious spring weather. It almost makes putting up with winter worth it!

Hello, all you happy people.

I noticed that there seem to be a number of NYC natives in here, and I'd like to pick your brains a bit.

As fate would have it, I'll be in NYC the night of the Survivor finale (my hotel is mere blocks from Madison Square Garden. Grrr). So, I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions as to where I could go to watch the finale. I'd prefer if I didn't have to watch it in my hotel room.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

Gidday guys!

Hurray for Little Yogi! It's great that he had a pain free night and was able to sleep through, and for you too, Yogi. I've found that I can cope with most things, but sleep deprivation makes things much harder. My youngest was not a sleeper, but not for any medical reason. He just hated to miss out on being awake. I swear, he used to sleep with one eye open, so that he didn't miss anything. We tried everything to get him to sleep, and it's only in the last few months that he stopped waking at night. The bliss of getting an unbroken night's sleep! Anyway, hope that your little guy continues to sleep well, and that you do too. And your sunflower invites sound beautiful! Yeah to posting one here so we can all see.

I suppose Hildy is busily trying to meet her deadline, come up for air mate, and say hello! How's it all going? More recipes, please.

And prettyinpinki - where are you?

Today MIL is babysitting while I go over to a friend's house for a gourmet lunch, so happy Wednesday or whatever it is there to you all!!

ETA to say hi, BillDozer - lucky you, being in NY for the finale. Can you get tickets to it? Can anyone? Or is it just invite only?

Hey, Bill Dozer and Gang at MM

So when is the Survivor finale? I never seem to be able to keep track of these things. I'm thinking June sometime?

I'm so glad that we had some sunshine. Even though were back to the rain, the sun was a real mood lifter. I just keep hoping that April showers are really going to bring May flowers and just not May rains. I can't wait to start planting in my garden. The tulip tree is in full blossom - gorgeous. Soon the leaves will be popping out all around us. Now that we're having similar weather Aussie Girl, I don't feel like you're so far away. We're sharing the sunshine so to speak.

Today, I'm having lunch with a friend. I color code my schedule (oh the joy of owning a Mac!) and how I look forward to the purple events (purple is the color of fun.)

I hope everyone is having a good Administrative Professionals Week. I took my assistant to Chiam for Grand Marnier (sp?) shrimp yesterday and today she gets a fabulous pink and yellow orchid from the florist. And I sent a little one to myself too, because I do lots of administrative stuff, don't you think? Heh!

We're having lunch brought in tomorrow (I work in the administrative office of a university research institute, so we're all considered "administrative professionals"). Can't complain about free lunch.

Yogi, I think the Survivor finale is mid-May. We're down to seven people now - get rid of #7 tomorrow, #6 on April 29, #5 on May 6, and Final Four on May 13. Then, final vote tally and reunion on Sunday, May 16, if they schedule it the way they have in the past.

It's rainy and icky here today, very raw. I'm not going to complain, though, we've been under drought conditions for a long time, and there were some wildfires in the area last week. The farmers need the rain, too.

Hey BillDozer! I wish there was a survivor Con like they do for TAR, but I don't think that there's any such movement afoot. Perhaps if you check out the TWoPCon thread, you might find an NYC gather ing. On the other hand, you might get suggestions about bars with TVs from the Apprentice Con thread; I can't remember the name of the bar they were going to use, otherwise I'd save you the trouble. I think the last TARCon was at a place called Q, but I might be mistaken. I know there are TARCon attendees here--am I hallucinating? Where's skagirl,, she knows all about good watering holes in NYC.

Book is out of my hair for the moment, although we'll see how long that lasts. Now I'm just playing catch up on all the stuff I blew off during the massive deadline rush. (Who are those people sleeping in beds across the hall from me? What? I have kids?! Who knew?)

So Yay for Suctionprints and Tracybee on the cessation of that stoopit strike! Did anybody adopt that cutie pie dog, by any chance? Enquiring minds....

And Yogi, the invite sounds absolutely gorgeous. Keep a copy so you can remember how lovely it is. When is the shower, anyway?

Cream teas: Loooove them. Had a delicious one in Victoria, BC on my honeymoon. I tend to indulge myself around here every so often, too. The Ritz and the Four Seasons both offer teas every Sunday.
Spent Monday at the Boston Marathon--we live about a 15 minute walk from the route, so we set up a nice shady tarp, chairs and had a lovely picnic there, with all sorts of friends dropping by. A friend of mine ran the race, and we had big signs cheering her on. It was pretty amazing to see, and Boy Howdy was it hot out.

So, I have 2 very easy-on-the-eyes tree guys doing work at my house today. Rrrrowr. It makes me wonder why there was no Tree Guy in The Village People, b/c the sight of these guys' fine butts in a climbing harness is quite something, I tell you.
Must go fan myself and drink cold water now.

Thanks, Hildy! And thanks to everyone else, too - you all were so supportive during the strike! I'm sure with this crappy (but neccessary) rainy weather, Tracey's (hiya, hiya!) happy to be back on the bus. I should find out about that puppy - I gave the dogwalker my email address, but never heard anything back.

Wow. We got bagels and orange juice. Nice thought, but too bad I already had my Wednesday pre-work bagel with hubby (it's his day off and we always go to breakfast). Ah, well. yogi, have any openings at your company in the Twin Cities?

Thanks for the birthday greetings, everyone! I finally found a good chair, so now all I have to do is put it together, and I should be much more comfortable at the computer. (Right now the options are folding chairs or the floor.)

Hola amigos! Sorry not to hollar of late. Was spent from Easter followed by the arrival of my cousin for 4 days. I learned that 1) Central Park is one damn big park when you walk the whole thing, 2) 18 yr olds have different ideas of fun, but if you wear them out, they, too, want to nap and 3) if anyone ever says they want to go to the Today show, and can walk by themselves, I will give them a detailed map of Rock Center and a Metrocard. I will then sleep.

Then to top it off I got a Jury Summons in Monday's mail (please note that I have only been registered in NYC for a year & half b/c I waited to get my license, during which time I received another summons from DC a few days after I got my NY id)- I don't want to avoid duty, but I have been called more times than anyone I know- 3 or 4 times in DC, twice in IL while in college which I was excused from, and now in NYC, during a really hectic time for me in May. I've only been eligible for 8 years!

Then yesterday I finally fell down my stairs (I've been sure I'd do it since I moved 2 years ago) b/c my flip flops were slippery as were the stairs. I held in the tears and sat with the tush in the air with ice for a bit before returning to work, but it still hurts. I have a crescent bruise the size of kansas on my right cheek that's the size of texas in and of itself. I'm assuming I didn't actually break my butt, but there is more bruising than I realized closer to my tail bone. However, I can sit relatively well. This is not a good week thusfar. At least the rain seems to not be coming all day as was predicted by Weather People.

Hildy, you go with your gawking! Suction & T. Bee, glad the strike is over. Yogi, glad you got some rest! Aussie, enjoy your lunch! Others, HIIII!!! And belated Happy B-Day to Jenn B.

BTW I think that the Survivor finale is again on Mother's Day.

Oh, and the 2nd worst? My new pepper grinder broke! I went with the cheaper version to replace the old one which was cracking corns, not so much grinding, and the handle broke. Of course, no idea on the receipt, plus I got it at least 3 or 4 weeks ago. Bah

skagirl, sorry to hear about your butt. Is there any way you can do your job in the reclining position instead of sitting? Didn't think so, oh well.

Did you go to Alice's Tea Cup with the out-of-towners? Yuk to Today show - that place should be restricted for tourists only. If anyone is seen without a map or a confused look on their face in the general vicinity, they should be ordered to leave. Sorry you had to suffer through that.

Advice for jury duty: if you don't have/can't bring with you online capability, bring a good book & a deck of cards. The cards are for if you scout out someone cute and then you can ask if they want to play cards to pass the time. The book is for if you can't find anyone to play cards with.

OUCH! skagirl, hang in there! Sounds like the week from hell.


Heh. Good idea!

I don't think my boss is doing anything for me for A.P. week. I could be pleasantly surprised, but I doubt it.

BillDozer, unfortunately I don't know what to tell you because there's no Con scheduled and I have no idea of anywhere where it might be showing.

Speaking of scheduling things, I will say that as much as I love the city, that's the one major downside for me--and I know it's true to some extent everywhere but 10 times more so here: I swear sometimes I feel like I need an event scheduler and/or summit planner just to do coffee or something with friends because everyone has clashing schedules and 10 million things going on! Case in point: I have yet to give my ex-roommate her Christmas gift, even though we only live a block away from each other. Supposedly we're having coffee tomorrow or Friday. I'll believe it when she walks in the door!

Speaking of NYC, had a very frustrating thing happen yesterday in a split second. Go to get on the downtown 6, which is pulled into the station. The woman in front of me is going through the revolving exit-type turnstile. I swipe my card just as it comes up that hers was swiped too fast or whatever and she needed to do it again. So basically she gets on from my swipe, and I have to walk to the next station south because of the time restriction on using the card again at the same place. GRRRRR!

Hiya, Hildy! Glad to see you're having a bit of a break from the book. And I'm laughing imagining a Tree Guy in the Village People! Don't know why they didn't think of it! It's always nice with tradesmen are easy on the eye. Enjoy.

Dodo that's terrible how someone swiping their card incorrectly ended up with you having to walk to the next station. At our local train station, we don't have such things - you buy your ticket from a nice, kind man at the ticket office at the station, and give it in to another ticket guy at your destination. Yeah, I know, kind of backwards, but at least you avoid situations like you had. Kind of reminds me of that song "Folks are dumb where I come from"... I swear, you guys have so much technology, the first time I saw such things as an ATM, and an electric typewriter, and a cordless phone, and swiping barcodes on items in the grocery shop etc, all many years ago, was in the US. Takes the rest of us a bit of time to catch up. But hey, we got electricity on last year....(sorry, couldn't help that one!). :)

skagirl sorry to hear about you falling down the stairs, that would have hurt. Do you need to see a doctor to make sure all is okay? Injuries to the tail bone can hurt like hell. Re jury duty - I have been called up more times than I care to remember, but have always gotten out of it due to being able to meet one of the following criteria: having a child under 5, caring for a person with a disability, or breastfeeding. So no worries. But I like iMissEthan's idea of the cards and the books, or a laptop. I'd have to pry the laptop out of my son's hands first though.

suctionprints I love bagels! Oh my God, I ate so many of them in the US! Cream cheese and smoked salmon, just bloody heaven. They're not real popular here, though you can find them. I remember after I came back from the US and I used the word "bagel" in a game of Scrabble, and I got challenged on it, and I lost! Because the word was not in the dictionary. Can you believe it? But you and I both know they exist, and they are yummy, and I would give anything for one right now.

Yes, Yogi we seem to be having similar weather now, it is a small world after all. Today is beautiful sunshine, not a cloud to be seen. Had a great gourmet lunch with my friend yesterday, she and I have very similar tastes with food, and I stuffed myself. Mm...Mmmmmm.... I'm about to take MIL to the shops, while I'm there I think I'll see if I can hunt down some bagels...

Hi Meet Market gang,
I used to post here often, but school has been sucking all of my free time away from me this year.

I know that the people who frequent this forum are great people who have been through so much and have so much wisdom...I hate to be a downer...but I was wondering if any of you would be willing to use whatever spirituality or religion that you may have to pray for my dad. He was rushed to the hospital last night and we found out today that he has a brain tumor that they can not operate on. As much as it is killing me to know I may lose my dad, I am hurting more for my baby brother who is only 9 months old. I just need some help, and the more people I can get to send good thoughts, the better.

I promise I will check in more often here and post instead of just lurking once things with my dad come to some sort of point.

Thanks everyone...

Pixie dust, how sad for you and your family! I'm so sorry.
On a happier note, I'm still here, just busy. Yesterday was my birthday, believe it or not! Reminds me, happy belated to jenn! I've been so tired. The weather right now makes me sleepy, it's all rain and grey skies. Yuck.
skagirl, you poor thing! Falling on your butt like that, not fun!
I've never been called for jury duty, seeing as I'm not quite the age yet, but my dad always got out of it because he used to work in a prison, as a teacher. So they called him and excused him as soon as he said it. My mom's always getting called in, she's had to serve once or twice in the last five years.
Well, I'm getting tired, so I'll be going. See/talk/type to you guys later!

Hey Gang at MM!!

You don't have to post often for us to welcome you here, pixie dust. This is terrible news. You must be in so much pain. I'll definitely be praying for both you and your father as well as for your whole family. And I know that every single prayer helps! I send you my best and warmest virtual hug.

And not to be forgotten in the birthday greetings, Happy Birthday to the Pretty Pink One! I hope your day was fabulous and filled with all good things. Did you get a new desk chair as well? Or perhaps a something that comes in pink?

Poor skagirl's tushie!!! Honey, I think you might want to go see the doc. It's remarkably easy to break the tail bone because it curls out (like a little tail!) I know two people who have broken it, and one of those people broke their's twice! It actually is tremendously painful, so I hope you get some relief soon!

I love to walk around Central Park, but it is a little over six miles if you do the loop. I hope you were wearing good shoes. When I'm in California, I walk six or eight daily up the mountain, but I always get blisters and sore doing the loop in the park because I find the asphalt so unforgiving. What a wimp I am! The marathon runners that Hildy watched ran their little tushies off on asphalt the whole time!

And wow Hildy, what views you have had lately - first runners and now tree trimmer tushies. (This post is very tushie-topical!) I wish I could see the world through your eyes!!! You've had some nice views lately.

Jury Duty: I have never served. Little Yogi's situation kept me out until last year. Last year I was dismissed because "I couldn't possibly be objective about this case." And I couldn't. But let me tell you, the judge and some of the other folks at jury duty gave me the evil eye for that one. Mr. Yogi had to do a six week medical malpractice jury at Christmas time a few years ago. That was quite unpleasant.

The sunshine is still here. Hurray for sunshine! And two weeks from tomorrow I will be in my beloved California, swimming in the ocean, hiking and meditating on my beloved mountain, and sleeping in a bed in silence. It looks like I'll need a tape of the Survivor finale, but it's a small price to pay for the wonders of touching the earth and breathing clear air scented with orange and grapefruits from the nearby orchard. Do you hear that loud sigh of Ahhhhhhhhhhhh? That is me!

Happy Thursday!

Oh, pixie dust, I'm so sorry. Your dad and all of your family are in my prayers.

Shoot, did I miss PiP's birthday? I hope you had the happiest of happies.

I know suctionprints (hi!) is delighted to be back at work, and I'm very happy to be back on the bus. I've got all that reading time again! Yay! And, thanks to the generosity of our own Babalu, for the past week I've been indulging in memories from my childhood with sweet li hing mui, salty seed, rock salt plum, and other delicious goodies from Hawai'i. I couldn't believe it, it tastes just like I remember it. And it was in a shopping bag from Long's Drugs! *sniff* Ah, sweet memories of youth.

I hope everyone has a good Survivor Day.

Mercy, pixiedust, I am so very sorry to hear about your dad. He is certainly in my prayers. Be of stout heart, dear, and remember that we're always here when you need to vent.

yogi, speaking of hiking, didn't you have a question about your boots? As I recall, you were worried about them being loose at the ankle. You can take them to a place such as EMS or REI, and they'll sit down and help you fit them. It could be that a new insole is all you need, or new laces. I wear my hiking boots into the ground b/c once they're broken in I hate to start over.

Happy belated birthdays to PiP and Jennblevins! Was there any cake? I like cake.

So the marathon has inspired me to try to start running again. I used to run a fair amount before children rudely intervened.

Hooray for suctionprints (and TraceyBee and countless others who breathe sighs of relief) - the strike is over! Hurrah!

In other news of "hooray", this is probably my last post as plain-old-KarateKate, as I am taking tomorrow off (again I say Hooray) and Saturday I will become Mrs.Mr.KarateKate. I think I'll still go by KarateKate, though. Because trying to get a new TWoP name is just silly. I'm changing the "legal" name, but I can't change my "real" name here! Heh.

All I have to do is survive family (which is saying a lot - I just found out last night that my wedding guest list has increased by 20% by cousins that "thought they were invited" to my very very very small wedding - and one cousin was going to bring her kids, too! Yikes! Normally I love kids, but when we've said "it's a very small wedding; we're having a larger celebration later" and YOU didn't get an invitation, it's a good bet your 3 children under age 5 aren't invited, either.

Now I feel all bridezilla. Geez. Sorry.

Oh My Heck, KarateKate!!! I'm thrilled and excited for you beyond words. I am throwing you a virtual bridal shower as we speak! Champagne for everyone!

And what is it with people who bring uninvited guests to things?!? I think it's quite strange, but I must tell you that it is very common. At every single shower I have ever given - and I've given several sit down luncheons and dinners - someone has brought an uninvited guest, usually with no notice. As a result, I always have an extra place setting and chair at the ready. My motto - The Unexpected is pretty standard - Heh. Don't worry, It will be great! You're far from Bridezilla.

Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy!!! And best wishes from the Yogi Bears!

Yeaaaaa! Mrs.SoonToBeVerySoonMrs.KarateKate!!!! I cannot believe the gall of people. Not shocking, but still riles me up. Nonetheless, tell people to squeeze in & make it about y'all!

PixieDust I'm really sorry about your dad. That's absolutely terrible, you & yours are in my thoughts.

Update on the rear: She ain't pretty, the extra cheek is named "Nadine," but while I would love a full tush cast, I have checked for the symptoms of a fracture and I don't think it is fractured truly madly or deeply. Ugly, yes, and a bit tender, but I can sit, walk and can sleep pretty well. Damn ugly, Nadine is. U-G-L-Y, it don't need no alibi. It's going in my memoirs, chapter 19, tentatively titled, "Oh, the Places I Fall!" (est. first edition pub date March 2006).

pixie dust, my thoughts are with you.

Mpls. TWoPers (well Tracey and baba and maybe heidi) it looks like the TWoP con thread is starting to heat up again. They're talking a May gathering. You may want to check in with your thoughts or suggestions.

Hello everyone! pixie dust I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. But you know, miracles happen every day. I'm sure everyone you know is hoping and praying for him. The power of positive thinking and the power of prayer are truly awesome. I'll be praying for you as I'm sure everyone else here will be. Hang in there!

Have been trying to post in here, bloody server keeps eating my posts.

pixie dust I am so very sorry to hear about your dad's illness. Your sharing about your baby brother was especially touching to me, and I'm sure everyone here. I have been a spiritual healer for over 20 years and I am sending your dad, your family and you lots of love and healing. I absolutely believe that the power of love and positive thoughts can work miracles, and I know that everyone here is sending you lots of that.

Sending birthday love and hugs to Pretty also. Did you have a good day? I love cake too, don't forget to send me a piece. So, are you going to tell us all how old you are now? Hmmm....?

KarateKate I'm stunned! I didn't realise your wedding was so soon! I will be thinking of you on Sunday (your Saturday) mate, and please don't worry about things like the growing guest list - everything will work out fine. We had the opposite problem of a few of the 100 invited and RSVP'd guests cancelling the day before, and I remember how stressed out I was about that. Looking back, I wished I'd just not worried about it, and instead just enjoyed it more. We too had a policy of no children at the reception, as there just wasn't room there. Quite a few kids attended the wedding though, and they could have come to the reception too, with the no shows making room and all. Anyway, here's to you, Mr and Mrs!

Ska glad to hear that Nadine is better! But don't forget to seek medical attention if needed. Looking forward to reading your book, as I am Hildy's. How's the tree-guy watching going, Hildy? I think it's great that you appreciate beauty! Heh!

Smiling as I think of TraceyBee and her Hawaiian crack seed! Reminds me of me when MIL unpacked the suitcase to reveal all sorts of goodies from your wonderful country! Speaking of goodies, could I find a bloody bagel yesterday? No. Looked and looked, and I had the cream cheese and smoken salmon at the ready. So disappointing. But I intend to keep up my search to satisfy this food craving. Wish me luck. My mouth is watering just thinking of it. Man, I love food!

Hi Gang at MM and Nadine!
I'm starting the weekend early this afternoon (after going into the office early to handle an unpleasant network issue that never seems to get resolved.) Because I'm such a stand up kind of girl, I'm taking the wife of one of my husband's oldest friends out for lunch and a spa visit. She has 3 year old triplets, bless her heart. She needs it. It's purely a mission of mercy on my part - of course I'm getting nothing out of it! Heh!

I want some crack, Tracey Bee! that was fun to type.... words you never thought you would use... Anyway, the treats sound so precious - there's nothing quite like the flavors of our childhood to transport us to a happy place.

I hope you find you bagel, Aussie Girl. New York is the land of bagels, so I have become a bit of a bagel and pizza snob, because they are so good here. You'll just have to visit me to gorge yourself senseless on these delicacies.

Hang in there, pixie dust. Sending you and your family lots of loving thoughts. Listen to birdlady on that miracle thing. We'll all be praying for it!

Champagne Wishes and Mirrored Hot Tub Dreams sent to KarateKate. Is today the wedding? If not, they good wishes last until tomorrow!

I'm going to come to the Mpl Con, I swear! Y'all are having too much fun up there. I'll keep you Mpl party kids in line. Crack for everyone!