Or are these HR Departments just padding their resume files?
It sure seems to me that they are padding their resume files. I would have to say that I have been applying for jobs at least 5 a week since I graduated from school. Of the number of companies who have contacted me regarding openings for which I can count them on my two hands, it seems ALL of these positions that appear to be open are BOGUS!
How can there be THAT many openings when EVERY day, another company announces layoffs?
Just heard today that GM will layoff 14,000 salaried employees by May. Last week, heard that National City Bank (now part of PNC) will layoff 5,800 employees (but that's across the entire company of PNC, not just National City.
So, how can companies be attending job fairs and accepting resumes when they just don't SEEM to be hiring. FYI...Cleveland State University, here in the Cleveland area, is holding a Job Fair on February 27, with an estimated 100+ companies showing up.
On top of that, the majority of companies don't even WANT to talk to you. This goes for job fairs. They don't want to accept your resume in paper. They talk to you, tell you what they are looking for, then when you TRY to give them your resume, they tell you, "No. Sorry, we can't accept paper resumes here. Go to our Web site and apply there."
Huh? Isn't it the point of coming to a job fair to ACCEPT paper resumes, that the goal is to HIRE the people you meet?
No wonder why everyone is frustrated. Look at the IDIOTS who are in charge of the Human Resources and Recruiting functions of companies. They DON'T want to talk to you. Heaven forbid!
I just did a search on www.indeed.com. This Web site will allow you to search multiple job search engine sites, like Monster.com, Dice.com, etc. You enter in a search term and a zip code for a simple search. I've never done the advanced search, but I do know you can search a mileage radius from the zip code you've picked. Every now and then, I will look up EVERYTHING within my zip code (and 25 mile radius). This evening, the results returned over 5,000 jobs. Yes, you heard me FIVE THOUSAND!
Yes, I understand that the majority of those jobs are not in my field, which is actually a LARGE field based on what I've done in the past, along with the education I just received, but COME ONE! Five thousand openings! You've GOT to be joking!
And I'm still working a part-time job because no one wants to hire someone with a Bachelor's Degree and over 15 years employment experience. OK, so my employment happened before my education. But, I've got it!
Someone HIRE ME!
That's it. I'm off the soapbox now.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Code Switching...
OK. I'm going to work at writing actual posts about INFORMATION. This one has been on my mind more lately than ever. I learned about this phrase in Fall 2008 while still at school. I was taking an English class that dealt with the education side of my degree. If I ever decided to go back to get my secondary teaching license for English, this class is one of the requirements. This class dealt with the rhetoric of teaching English as well as developing lesson plans, etc.
Anyway, we learned about a concept called Code Switching. This is where certain populations of people change the way they speak based on the group of people they are with, in simple terms. Take for example a person is from another country. That person's primary language is possibly another language, like Spanish or French. But, for the sake of this story, the person is a student, in an all-English speaking class. When this person goes to school, they have (or supposed to) speak in all English. But, when they go home, they return to their native tongue to speak to family members. This is code switching.
I've read on many of the forums I read where posters complain about other posters who don't know how to read or write correctly. And then go into writing "how" they should act on that specific forum.
Being an English major, I know exactly what they mean. No matter what I read or where I read it, I'm ALWAYS putting in words or mentally editing what other people write. Whether it's on a forum or the information at the doctor's office, I'm always editing and proofreading while I read it.
But, I also do code switching. My code switching deals primarily with text messaging. I hate when anyone sends me text messages that are all acronyms. Rob's daughter sends him text messages that are all acronyms. To me, if you can't WRITE a message correctly, why should you write it? I ABSOLUTELY refuse to respond to a message from anyone who writes in all acronyms. When Rob and I message each other, the message is correct grammatically. Yes, I have been known to have a spelling error, but when that happens, I try my hardest to fix it before it gets sent. I typically will write the message where the sentences aren't capitalized. You may find my messages come off like this: i like to write but don't like to capitalize, even though i do use correct grammar and punctuation.
So, what does this all mean to me? There are so many different people in the world who use code switching every day. I use it not only when I write my text messages, but also between home, friends, family, etc. When I go to work, I write and speak differently than I do when I'm at home. I also may speak differently between my friends and family. Every person does it. For some people it's just worse than others.
Think about when you code switch. Who do you do it with and what do you say? How do you say it? Think about what other people think when you speak with them.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Anyway, we learned about a concept called Code Switching. This is where certain populations of people change the way they speak based on the group of people they are with, in simple terms. Take for example a person is from another country. That person's primary language is possibly another language, like Spanish or French. But, for the sake of this story, the person is a student, in an all-English speaking class. When this person goes to school, they have (or supposed to) speak in all English. But, when they go home, they return to their native tongue to speak to family members. This is code switching.
I've read on many of the forums I read where posters complain about other posters who don't know how to read or write correctly. And then go into writing "how" they should act on that specific forum.
Being an English major, I know exactly what they mean. No matter what I read or where I read it, I'm ALWAYS putting in words or mentally editing what other people write. Whether it's on a forum or the information at the doctor's office, I'm always editing and proofreading while I read it.
But, I also do code switching. My code switching deals primarily with text messaging. I hate when anyone sends me text messages that are all acronyms. Rob's daughter sends him text messages that are all acronyms. To me, if you can't WRITE a message correctly, why should you write it? I ABSOLUTELY refuse to respond to a message from anyone who writes in all acronyms. When Rob and I message each other, the message is correct grammatically. Yes, I have been known to have a spelling error, but when that happens, I try my hardest to fix it before it gets sent. I typically will write the message where the sentences aren't capitalized. You may find my messages come off like this: i like to write but don't like to capitalize, even though i do use correct grammar and punctuation.
So, what does this all mean to me? There are so many different people in the world who use code switching every day. I use it not only when I write my text messages, but also between home, friends, family, etc. When I go to work, I write and speak differently than I do when I'm at home. I also may speak differently between my friends and family. Every person does it. For some people it's just worse than others.
Think about when you code switch. Who do you do it with and what do you say? How do you say it? Think about what other people think when you speak with them.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Going to Write Here Again
OK, friends. I'm back again. Many things have been happening lately. And, I've got LOTS of photos and stories to update you on.
I wanted to setup my own blog, but it'll take too much of my time to do it. I may use it later, but for now, it will go by the wayside.
Special note and a warning: If you have a cell phone and all of a sudden you're getting phone calls that you don't recognize, DON'T ANSWER THEM. If they really wanted to talk to you, they will leave a message. Over the past week, I've been getting calls from ALL OVER the country. Actual numbers that I can use Switchboard to find where the number allegedly comes from. This evening's phone calls were the straw that broke the camel's back. I looked up this number and couldn't find anything. It was an "876" number. OK. No message, but 30 seconds later, the number called again. And, again, I'm not answering!
Within 5 minutes, a Cleveland-area number calls and calls a second time within 30 seconds. I "Google" that number. Come to find out spammers are now able to use phone numbers, masking their real numbers to try to get you to wire them money.
Tomorrow, I'm headed to the cell phone company to have my number changed. Yes, they are trying to call my cell phone.
JACKASSES!
Since I've been working, I barely use the voice part of my phone, especially because I try not to answer the phone AT work at all. So, my ringer is set to NONE. But, I continue this all the time. For those people who call me, I know when they're calling me to watch for them. But also, most of the people who call me also know other ways to tell me they're calling.
CAN'T FOOL ME!
So, after tomorrow, those people who need to know my number will get it.
Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )
I wanted to setup my own blog, but it'll take too much of my time to do it. I may use it later, but for now, it will go by the wayside.
Special note and a warning: If you have a cell phone and all of a sudden you're getting phone calls that you don't recognize, DON'T ANSWER THEM. If they really wanted to talk to you, they will leave a message. Over the past week, I've been getting calls from ALL OVER the country. Actual numbers that I can use Switchboard to find where the number allegedly comes from. This evening's phone calls were the straw that broke the camel's back. I looked up this number and couldn't find anything. It was an "876" number. OK. No message, but 30 seconds later, the number called again. And, again, I'm not answering!
Within 5 minutes, a Cleveland-area number calls and calls a second time within 30 seconds. I "Google" that number. Come to find out spammers are now able to use phone numbers, masking their real numbers to try to get you to wire them money.
Tomorrow, I'm headed to the cell phone company to have my number changed. Yes, they are trying to call my cell phone.
JACKASSES!
Since I've been working, I barely use the voice part of my phone, especially because I try not to answer the phone AT work at all. So, my ringer is set to NONE. But, I continue this all the time. For those people who call me, I know when they're calling me to watch for them. But also, most of the people who call me also know other ways to tell me they're calling.
CAN'T FOOL ME!
So, after tomorrow, those people who need to know my number will get it.
Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )
Sunday, November 30, 2008
New Blog
OK. I haven't written on this in AGES!
Here's what's up:
I started a new blog. Here's the address:
www.cathyhennes.com/blog
I'm still working on the design of it. Take a look. I just started posting there. You will need to create a user account to make comments. But, if you just want to read it, I will understand.
That's all for now here.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Here's what's up:
I started a new blog. Here's the address:
www.cathyhennes.com/blog
I'm still working on the design of it. Take a look. I just started posting there. You will need to create a user account to make comments. But, if you just want to read it, I will understand.
That's all for now here.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Getting Ready for Craft Show
Yep, you heard that right. I'm doing one craft show this year. It's a show that's being run by one of Rob's lodge groups. So, I'm finalizing all my goodies for the show.
As some of you know, last year I put together a kid's coloring book that turned out to be a hit at my few shows. This year, I've got 5 (4 of them are ready). I'm printing them as we speak. I'm only printing 5 of each to see how they sell.
Plus, I've put together 5 binders of all my goodies as templates, along with a binder of completed samples.
Other stuff I'll have at the show:
Tea Bag Envelopes (good "different" gifts that can be added into greeting cards)
Recipe Cards
Bookmarks
Chore Charts (white board)
Reading Logs
Make-A-Card Sets
Note Cards
Friend Cards
Plus, we're also going to put out our Watkins Products for demo. Hopefully, I can get a few parties dated for October and November. I'll have to put a couple of calendars together to try to date a few parties. Yep, we're also starting our biz again. We've been running it for the past 5 years, but haven't really "sold" stuff. We've just been buying the stuff ourselves to use. Not know what Watkins is? Well, if you like to bake, you would REALLY like to use these products. They've also got personal care and home care products. You can check out the products at http://www.watkinsonline.com. But, please, if you are interested in ordering and would like to have me (and Rob) as your salesmen, let us know and we can set you up with a customer number.
OK. Off the soapbox now.
Everyone wish me luck at my show. Hopefully, it turns out to do well.
That's it. I've been REALLY busy today. Cassi's at Pa and Nana's. Mom had surgery on Wednesday. Don't know how she's going to handle being off work 4 weeks. But, Cassi wanted to go see them so she could help take care of Nana this weekend. I'll see what happens tomorrow when they call because she's bored.
Cassi has her school pics on Monday. She'll be so pretty!
It's 11pm. I really need to crash. I'm tired. Was up last night til 2am and was up this morning at 7am. I took a 20 minute nap this evening. I'm ready for bed.
Good night all!
Love to ya,
Cathy
8^ )
As some of you know, last year I put together a kid's coloring book that turned out to be a hit at my few shows. This year, I've got 5 (4 of them are ready). I'm printing them as we speak. I'm only printing 5 of each to see how they sell.
Plus, I've put together 5 binders of all my goodies as templates, along with a binder of completed samples.
Other stuff I'll have at the show:
Tea Bag Envelopes (good "different" gifts that can be added into greeting cards)
Recipe Cards
Bookmarks
Chore Charts (white board)
Reading Logs
Make-A-Card Sets
Note Cards
Friend Cards
Plus, we're also going to put out our Watkins Products for demo. Hopefully, I can get a few parties dated for October and November. I'll have to put a couple of calendars together to try to date a few parties. Yep, we're also starting our biz again. We've been running it for the past 5 years, but haven't really "sold" stuff. We've just been buying the stuff ourselves to use. Not know what Watkins is? Well, if you like to bake, you would REALLY like to use these products. They've also got personal care and home care products. You can check out the products at http://www.watkinsonline.com. But, please, if you are interested in ordering and would like to have me (and Rob) as your salesmen, let us know and we can set you up with a customer number.
OK. Off the soapbox now.
Everyone wish me luck at my show. Hopefully, it turns out to do well.
That's it. I've been REALLY busy today. Cassi's at Pa and Nana's. Mom had surgery on Wednesday. Don't know how she's going to handle being off work 4 weeks. But, Cassi wanted to go see them so she could help take care of Nana this weekend. I'll see what happens tomorrow when they call because she's bored.
Cassi has her school pics on Monday. She'll be so pretty!
It's 11pm. I really need to crash. I'm tired. Was up last night til 2am and was up this morning at 7am. I took a 20 minute nap this evening. I'm ready for bed.
Good night all!
Love to ya,
Cathy
8^ )
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Looking...Again...
I'm on the lookout again and applying for jobs. I've only been working an extra hour last week and this week. I now support 5 people. In the last 2 weeks, I was given 2 more people to being secretary to and not given an option of going full-time.
But, on the bright side, because I DON'T get paid for holidays and sick leave, I can make up that time by working extra hours.
So, that's what I've been doing.
And, because I have the extra management to support and extra projects to handle, there's no reason why continuing working these extra hours can't continue....
Until I chat with my boss about the amount of work I am doing and that, after we have our meeting to discuss what projects I am working on, that it is possible that continuing to work longer hours is necessary.
And, then I got the push back. Some resistance against it. But, my meeting isn't until Thursday afternoon. I am tracking EVERY day this week the laundry list of things I am doing that are filling my time. Can you believe I was so busy Monday morning that I didn't GO until lunch time and then after lunch only went once?
So, I've been applying for professional jobs again. The first one is with the job I was with in the past. I emailed my former supervisor who still works there. After a few emails, she tells me to expect a call from "name here," the recruiter who is hiring for the job. She talked to the recruiter about my being a good fit for the job. Ooh. Could work there.
Or, I met with someone about a Technical Writing job with a local company. The company is located in Akron, but the option of telecommuting is there. The company just doesn't have the space. Of course, I would have to go into the office, say, once a week. But that's good. The commute is an hour one way. But, for one day a week and the potential salary, I am being considered.
OK. I talked with dad about all this. I wanted to let him know what was going on. He always says we don't tell him. So I did. And he didn't like it. Because I don't have a baby sitter in the morning. And, where is she going in the afternoon? I told her the afternoons were covered. But, if I was working in Cleveland, I wouldn't get home until 6 pm. He couldn't always take off for her. No, I never asked him to. She is at a babysitter in the afternoons. And, she can stay there until 6 pm. She has other kids she keeps just as long. As for the mornings, at this point, I have not asked one of the 2 other moms I know that run day care businesses in the area. I can ask them as, if I had to work in Cleveland, I would probably have to leave at 7 am, dropping her off to the sitter then. Then, what if Rob gets a day job. For those of you who don't know, he works nights as a nurse, but is trying to transfer, within the same company, to another facility that's during the day. This would allow him to be at home in the evenings with us. He is now missing it, and Cassi asks about him some nights when she wants to see him.
So, we'll see. And, it can't hurt to try. My goal at going back to school was to go back to being a professional-level employee again. One of these jobs would definitely do it for me.
Send all prayers this way. I NEED it.
Lots of love,
Cathy
P.S. My sister, Marie, sent me an awesome book, The Host (same author as the Twilight books). I've just really gotten into this weekend. No, I'm not like VP, who can't put the book down until I'm done. There's WAAAAAY too many other things that need done. But, I am working on it. Definitely good before bed reading and "me time" that I was wanting.
But, on the bright side, because I DON'T get paid for holidays and sick leave, I can make up that time by working extra hours.
So, that's what I've been doing.
And, because I have the extra management to support and extra projects to handle, there's no reason why continuing working these extra hours can't continue....
Until I chat with my boss about the amount of work I am doing and that, after we have our meeting to discuss what projects I am working on, that it is possible that continuing to work longer hours is necessary.
And, then I got the push back. Some resistance against it. But, my meeting isn't until Thursday afternoon. I am tracking EVERY day this week the laundry list of things I am doing that are filling my time. Can you believe I was so busy Monday morning that I didn't GO until lunch time and then after lunch only went once?
So, I've been applying for professional jobs again. The first one is with the job I was with in the past. I emailed my former supervisor who still works there. After a few emails, she tells me to expect a call from "name here," the recruiter who is hiring for the job. She talked to the recruiter about my being a good fit for the job. Ooh. Could work there.
Or, I met with someone about a Technical Writing job with a local company. The company is located in Akron, but the option of telecommuting is there. The company just doesn't have the space. Of course, I would have to go into the office, say, once a week. But that's good. The commute is an hour one way. But, for one day a week and the potential salary, I am being considered.
OK. I talked with dad about all this. I wanted to let him know what was going on. He always says we don't tell him. So I did. And he didn't like it. Because I don't have a baby sitter in the morning. And, where is she going in the afternoon? I told her the afternoons were covered. But, if I was working in Cleveland, I wouldn't get home until 6 pm. He couldn't always take off for her. No, I never asked him to. She is at a babysitter in the afternoons. And, she can stay there until 6 pm. She has other kids she keeps just as long. As for the mornings, at this point, I have not asked one of the 2 other moms I know that run day care businesses in the area. I can ask them as, if I had to work in Cleveland, I would probably have to leave at 7 am, dropping her off to the sitter then. Then, what if Rob gets a day job. For those of you who don't know, he works nights as a nurse, but is trying to transfer, within the same company, to another facility that's during the day. This would allow him to be at home in the evenings with us. He is now missing it, and Cassi asks about him some nights when she wants to see him.
So, we'll see. And, it can't hurt to try. My goal at going back to school was to go back to being a professional-level employee again. One of these jobs would definitely do it for me.
Send all prayers this way. I NEED it.
Lots of love,
Cathy
P.S. My sister, Marie, sent me an awesome book, The Host (same author as the Twilight books). I've just really gotten into this weekend. No, I'm not like VP, who can't put the book down until I'm done. There's WAAAAAY too many other things that need done. But, I am working on it. Definitely good before bed reading and "me time" that I was wanting.
Monday, September 15, 2008
How do you...
...tell your kid she's about to become an aunt? Especially when your child still is learning the difference between who is her aunt and why that person is her mommy's sister. And, why her Pa and Nana are her mommy's mom and dad. She still wants to call Marie (my sister) her mom. OK. So, Marie treats her like her own child. That's how we were raised. AND, since Cassi is the only, that's fine that Marie treats her that way. Works for me. But, Marie is Aunt, not Mom. Cassi gets confused with this.
And, how do you explain that her sister is not her mommy's daughter but her daddy's daughter? Her sister is no relation to her mommy.
OK. I should ask questions like, Why is the sky blue? Or why is the ocean blue? I could probably get much easier answers to these questions.
So, she's back in school. Rob's happy. She's due in December (I knew that all along; can't pull a fast one on me). She called Rob tonight because she has a family tree she has to do. She needs Rob's parents birthdays, anniversary, and Rob's mom's parent's info and Rob's dad's parent's info. Why not just call them yourself? Or why can't you call me? She should have called them directly too. It was their information to give.
Well, just like I've said. She doesn't want to talk to me directly. She never has. That's fine with me. But, I was told to tell Rob that she's having a girl and the baby shower is November 8.
So, I would rather not have Cassi influenced by her. She slept around, got pregnant, and will have the child and probably live under welfare. Anyway, how do I explain this to Cassi when I've been putting it into Cassi's brain about studying hard for school and going to college and being whatever she wants to be. And, how I don't want her to have a cell phone or boyfriends until she's got a career (ok, not so strong). She needs to focus on the school and career first.
What a day, eh? And, I had to get her in bed but had to get her in bed a little late because I had to do this project for her (the family tree info). I needed to shower Cassi and get her to bed because the next three days she'll be up at 6:30 am. Rob's working tonight, Tuesday night, and Wednesday night. He won't be home in time for me to go to work. So, she's going to her friend, Emily's house in the mornings. And, because I'm working over, she's walking to her babysitter's house for the hour or so until I get done. I'm making up two days from my last pay period because I was sick one day and the holiday for Labor Day. I don't get paid for holidays when the plant is closed. So, I'm trying to squeeze in 12 hours extra these next two weeks, along with:
1. all the house work
2. cooking and getting food ready for Rob before he goes to work
3. helping Cassi with homework every night
4. next week Cassi starts bowling lessons
5. did I say all the housework?
6. we're going camping this weekend (and will probably be the last of the year)
7. get stuff prepped for craft show as I'm doing just one this year on October 4
Now, do you see any "personal time for Cathy" listed above? You're right. There's no time for me. I'm working on laundry right now.
Today, I:
1. worked 8 til 4
2. picked up Cassi
3. came home and watched for mom and dad (Their electricity went out so was bringing food to store it.)
4. started cooking dinner for Rob
5. emptied dishwasher and ate
6. made a pack of cigarettes for him (It's so much cheaper to make than buy. Here in OH it's $35 a week for a carton when I can buy the supplies for 2 cartons for $20!)
6. watched a movie with Cassi (some Cassi-time)
7. got dirty dishes in washer and started it
8. took Cassi over to sign her up for bowling lessons
9. came home and made phone calls for family tree project
10. showered Cassi and got her ready for bed (and put to bed)
11. signed all of Cassi's papers to go back to school tomorrow
12. washed 2 loads of laundry (one in washer and one in dryer right now)
13. made 3 packs of smokes (Yeah, I hate this habit too, but a bad one to break.)
14. writing this post and messaging Rob while he's at work
Yet to do...
15. get last load in dryer
16. make Cassi's lunch
OK. Everyone will be EXHAUSTED after reading my laundry list. No one understands how much I'm doing DAILY!
And, yes, as I write, it is now 10:35 pm. I'm so ready for bed it's unreal. I also have to be up at 6:30 am to shower and get ready for work.
Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )
And, how do you explain that her sister is not her mommy's daughter but her daddy's daughter? Her sister is no relation to her mommy.
OK. I should ask questions like, Why is the sky blue? Or why is the ocean blue? I could probably get much easier answers to these questions.
So, she's back in school. Rob's happy. She's due in December (I knew that all along; can't pull a fast one on me). She called Rob tonight because she has a family tree she has to do. She needs Rob's parents birthdays, anniversary, and Rob's mom's parent's info and Rob's dad's parent's info. Why not just call them yourself? Or why can't you call me? She should have called them directly too. It was their information to give.
Well, just like I've said. She doesn't want to talk to me directly. She never has. That's fine with me. But, I was told to tell Rob that she's having a girl and the baby shower is November 8.
So, I would rather not have Cassi influenced by her. She slept around, got pregnant, and will have the child and probably live under welfare. Anyway, how do I explain this to Cassi when I've been putting it into Cassi's brain about studying hard for school and going to college and being whatever she wants to be. And, how I don't want her to have a cell phone or boyfriends until she's got a career (ok, not so strong). She needs to focus on the school and career first.
What a day, eh? And, I had to get her in bed but had to get her in bed a little late because I had to do this project for her (the family tree info). I needed to shower Cassi and get her to bed because the next three days she'll be up at 6:30 am. Rob's working tonight, Tuesday night, and Wednesday night. He won't be home in time for me to go to work. So, she's going to her friend, Emily's house in the mornings. And, because I'm working over, she's walking to her babysitter's house for the hour or so until I get done. I'm making up two days from my last pay period because I was sick one day and the holiday for Labor Day. I don't get paid for holidays when the plant is closed. So, I'm trying to squeeze in 12 hours extra these next two weeks, along with:
1. all the house work
2. cooking and getting food ready for Rob before he goes to work
3. helping Cassi with homework every night
4. next week Cassi starts bowling lessons
5. did I say all the housework?
6. we're going camping this weekend (and will probably be the last of the year)
7. get stuff prepped for craft show as I'm doing just one this year on October 4
Now, do you see any "personal time for Cathy" listed above? You're right. There's no time for me. I'm working on laundry right now.
Today, I:
1. worked 8 til 4
2. picked up Cassi
3. came home and watched for mom and dad (Their electricity went out so was bringing food to store it.)
4. started cooking dinner for Rob
5. emptied dishwasher and ate
6. made a pack of cigarettes for him (It's so much cheaper to make than buy. Here in OH it's $35 a week for a carton when I can buy the supplies for 2 cartons for $20!)
6. watched a movie with Cassi (some Cassi-time)
7. got dirty dishes in washer and started it
8. took Cassi over to sign her up for bowling lessons
9. came home and made phone calls for family tree project
10. showered Cassi and got her ready for bed (and put to bed)
11. signed all of Cassi's papers to go back to school tomorrow
12. washed 2 loads of laundry (one in washer and one in dryer right now)
13. made 3 packs of smokes (Yeah, I hate this habit too, but a bad one to break.)
14. writing this post and messaging Rob while he's at work
Yet to do...
15. get last load in dryer
16. make Cassi's lunch
OK. Everyone will be EXHAUSTED after reading my laundry list. No one understands how much I'm doing DAILY!
And, yes, as I write, it is now 10:35 pm. I'm so ready for bed it's unreal. I also have to be up at 6:30 am to shower and get ready for work.
Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Just a quickie...
The weather is NASTY here. It seems as if we're starting to get some crap from that hurricane (plus probably a low front coming in).
Anyway, I get to write a little as I'm waiting on hold for Windstream. This is the phone company in this area. We no longer have their service, but, one of our tress in the "back"/side yard decided to come down. Right into our neighbor's yard. Luckily, the fencing that it fell on was that chicken wire stuff. Pretty easy to get back together, but the phone lines are shot. Pulled the lines right out of our house. Luckily, it didn't get the chain link fence of our neighbor's neighbor's house (that's 2 over from us). That's a brand new fence. Our deductible on the home owner's insurance is $500.
LOVELY!
There's so much going on, it's not funny. So, I sit here and wait for someone to answer the phone.
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. Check back on some earlier posts, I may get to write about some of them now.
Anyway, I get to write a little as I'm waiting on hold for Windstream. This is the phone company in this area. We no longer have their service, but, one of our tress in the "back"/side yard decided to come down. Right into our neighbor's yard. Luckily, the fencing that it fell on was that chicken wire stuff. Pretty easy to get back together, but the phone lines are shot. Pulled the lines right out of our house. Luckily, it didn't get the chain link fence of our neighbor's neighbor's house (that's 2 over from us). That's a brand new fence. Our deductible on the home owner's insurance is $500.
LOVELY!
There's so much going on, it's not funny. So, I sit here and wait for someone to answer the phone.
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. Check back on some earlier posts, I may get to write about some of them now.
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
9/4/08 More Hours; More Responsibility
Well, I had original thoughts about this on the date above, but more since then. On this date, my boss asked me to come to her office. I'm thinking, "Uh! Oh! It's time to see the principal. What did I do wrong?"
It appears that I have done nothing wrong. She's very happy with the work I am doing. In fact, there's still many things she would like me to do for her that she's still learning that she's got someone to help her get the work done. So, my job is good.
She asks me if there is an issue with taking on responsibilities with being the assistant to another director. Sure, that's not a problem. I told her, the more work I do, the more of a value I give to the company and the more opportunity there is for extra hours and possibly taking the position to full-time status. She agrees 100%. But, at this point, I am assisting 2 directors (Sarah and the new guy) and 2 product managers (Brian and Josh). Both Brian and Josh, who are both very self-sufficient, are also giving me more projects.
So, I get a chance to speak with Sarah's boss. I explain to him my concerns. He agrees that he sees much in me that is giving value-add to my position. He said that the person before me who had the job wanted this position to be full-time, but he said he didn't see her utilized very well. Not sure the situation, but I told him that I am always looking for new projects to work on. That my job is not to just sit there but to learn the new stuff and what else can I do; who can I help. He's very appreciative of that. He sees the possibility of having the job go full-time. My big "spiel" about needing full-time isn't necessarily for med/dental benefits. It's for the capability to get paid for holidays/sick/vacation.
As of today, over the last 2 weeks, I had 2 days out, one day for the Labor Day holiday and one day for being sick. Yep, I got the flu already! But, Sarah, the awesome lady that she is, is allowing me to work the next 2 weeks to make up the 12 hours I missed. I'll be working every day until 4pm and a few days will be half hour lunches. Cassi's going to the babysitter. The lady that lives near the school whose son is in Cassi's grade will take her after school. She watches a number of kids and charges $2 per hour. PERFECT!
So, Sarah wants me to keep her informed if my projects become too crazy and more hours are needed. As the new guys ramps up, I see this as something that I will need to do. Plus, the senior manager that I thought I was doing just a monthly sales report for, I am also going to support. So, instead of just 3 people, I now have 5. To me, that means that I should be offered the full-time.
My daily projects are going to increase exponentially.
OK. That's it for now.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. (9/14/08) Promise I will write about the other things too that are located in my blog as drafts.
It appears that I have done nothing wrong. She's very happy with the work I am doing. In fact, there's still many things she would like me to do for her that she's still learning that she's got someone to help her get the work done. So, my job is good.
She asks me if there is an issue with taking on responsibilities with being the assistant to another director. Sure, that's not a problem. I told her, the more work I do, the more of a value I give to the company and the more opportunity there is for extra hours and possibly taking the position to full-time status. She agrees 100%. But, at this point, I am assisting 2 directors (Sarah and the new guy) and 2 product managers (Brian and Josh). Both Brian and Josh, who are both very self-sufficient, are also giving me more projects.
So, I get a chance to speak with Sarah's boss. I explain to him my concerns. He agrees that he sees much in me that is giving value-add to my position. He said that the person before me who had the job wanted this position to be full-time, but he said he didn't see her utilized very well. Not sure the situation, but I told him that I am always looking for new projects to work on. That my job is not to just sit there but to learn the new stuff and what else can I do; who can I help. He's very appreciative of that. He sees the possibility of having the job go full-time. My big "spiel" about needing full-time isn't necessarily for med/dental benefits. It's for the capability to get paid for holidays/sick/vacation.
As of today, over the last 2 weeks, I had 2 days out, one day for the Labor Day holiday and one day for being sick. Yep, I got the flu already! But, Sarah, the awesome lady that she is, is allowing me to work the next 2 weeks to make up the 12 hours I missed. I'll be working every day until 4pm and a few days will be half hour lunches. Cassi's going to the babysitter. The lady that lives near the school whose son is in Cassi's grade will take her after school. She watches a number of kids and charges $2 per hour. PERFECT!
So, Sarah wants me to keep her informed if my projects become too crazy and more hours are needed. As the new guys ramps up, I see this as something that I will need to do. Plus, the senior manager that I thought I was doing just a monthly sales report for, I am also going to support. So, instead of just 3 people, I now have 5. To me, that means that I should be offered the full-time.
My daily projects are going to increase exponentially.
OK. That's it for now.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. (9/14/08) Promise I will write about the other things too that are located in my blog as drafts.
Friday, September 05, 2008
BAD BAD BAD...
I just KNEW someone would stop by and wonder WHY I haven't written in 2 months. I promise, I've been adding my info (and some on the backs of recipes cards) of things I want to talk about.
But, all has changed since I am now a working girl!
Promise to update as soon as possible.
Everyone's still good, but HELL broke loose a few times this summer. Ask Marie (she comments on VP's blog) who is my sister. She can't even get in touch with me sometimes.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
But, all has changed since I am now a working girl!
Promise to update as soon as possible.
Everyone's still good, but HELL broke loose a few times this summer. Ask Marie (she comments on VP's blog) who is my sister. She can't even get in touch with me sometimes.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Friday, July 11, 2008
Working Girl...
Yep! You read that title right! I'm a working girl again! I'm so excited. AND, to top it off, they called me Wednesday and offered me the job.
Huh? A Wednesday? Well, not just any Wednesday. It was my MOM'S birthday! Even though I had no gift to give her, this was an AWESOME gift.
I start on Monday morning. My schedule? 8am - 3pm with an hour lunch. Not full-time? Nope. But that's okay. When school starts for Cassi, I'll be able to get her after school and be able to help her with her homework still.
I'm getting what I asked for on my application. I didn't want to over power them with a suggested salary that was way out of line for the position. Of course I am worth every penny to ask $25 an hour an up for working, but since this IS an administrative position AND this IS only 3 miles from my house, what I asked for was enough (OK, it's NEVER enough. But, I'll take it.). Plus, I'm doing freelance work too that is paying quite well. Actually, I didn't really have to take this job at all, but my freelance work won't keep me busy all day. This will and will be extra money to pay off bills, especially since I'll be getting that WONDERFUL student loan bill for my Christmas present this year.
But, this morning, I had to go to a medical site to "pee in a cup" and have a physical. The physical part was easy. I've never had to have a physical before. I've only ever had to "pee in a cup" when I worked for the post office (LOOOOOONG time ago as a temporary). So, I got up this morning, went over to my new office, and got the papers. Then, I went to the medical site. By the time I got there, I had to pee. So. I did. Not enough. Rob's outside laughing is butt off because he said I was having "pee fright" (pain in the #####*****). So, while I was waiting for the physical part because it was really busy, I drank: 8 8-oz cups of water (hmm, got my quota for today), some Mt. Dew (because I just couldn't drink any more water), and a cup of hot tea. Let me just say by the time I drank all that and had my physical, I REALLY had to pee. In fact, I FILLED the cup. Yeah! But, I also had to pee 3 more times after. Shew! And my tummy was sore because I hadn't eaten yet.
The doctor cleared me. I showed him my hearing aids. He liked them and couldn't believe how small they are.
Cassi called me Wednesday night while I was out scrapping for extra cash. Didn't hear the phone and got the message from her. "Congratulations on the new job, mom!" Cassi's not home this week. Because it's my mom's birthday, she always takes the whole week off work. And dad did too. So, Cassi has been there. But, after I called her back, she was worried about who would watch her. I told her for most of the time, she would be with daddy. That response made her worried because daddy doesn't let her play with her friends. Mommy lets her do more things than daddy does. I assured her that she would be able to play with her friends and she would have someone good to watch her. Dan already said on the days that he's off (Tuesday-Thursday) when Rob works during the week, she can go there so she can play with Alexis. I offered to pay him but he said no. That's so nice of him. The only days I would need to pay would be when Cassi has to go to someone else's house on Mondays and Fridays. As soon as I explained it to her, she was happy. But, Rob also told me he was looking at taking her to a pool that has lots of water slides near here next week. Good for him!
Oh, I mentioned the scrapping. For a while now, we've noticed guys in beat up trucks riding around our city with scrap metal in the backs of their trucks. If you haven't heard, metal recycling prices have increased dramatically recently since the value of the dollar is down. In my area alone, aluminum (like cans) is 70 cents a pound. Rob and Dan go out when Rob's not working in the evenings and finds scrap from the garbage lines. No, this is not illegal in this area. They've been finding quite a nice amount of scrap for extra cash. This has really come in handy. But, we've also gotten stuff that we've kept too. Rob's gotten a gas-powered weed whacker. I've gotten a new resin table (looks in excellent shape), a pair of solid brass lamps for the living room (just need new shades), a cook book, resin chairs, and a pair of white boards for Cassi to draw on. From the money I made with Dan on Wednesday night, we used the money last night. Wonder where?
Last night, we had tickets to see the Indians. It has been since before Cassi was born that we've been to see them play. Was a good night, but the seats were in no man's land, the upper deck. We took some of the money and bought Cassi an Indian's t-shirt (in pink) and a red cushion finger. Then, at the game, daddy went and bought her two baseballs. We brought along her baseball mitt (played t-ball before). She was so mad because she wanted to catch one that went foul. We were in a bad spot to get one. But, she was happy after daddy bought them for her though. She went up and down at least four times. The usher laughed every time one of us went up and down with her. She said she wants to go again, but she wants to be closer to the field. Hmm. We figured she wouldn't enjoy it. But, she did. I think come next summer she'll want to play baseball again. We'll see.
OK. Had lots to say. There's lots more, but they'll wait for now. I've got photos to share from other events over the last two months, but really haven't had time to talk about them.
Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )
Huh? A Wednesday? Well, not just any Wednesday. It was my MOM'S birthday! Even though I had no gift to give her, this was an AWESOME gift.
I start on Monday morning. My schedule? 8am - 3pm with an hour lunch. Not full-time? Nope. But that's okay. When school starts for Cassi, I'll be able to get her after school and be able to help her with her homework still.
I'm getting what I asked for on my application. I didn't want to over power them with a suggested salary that was way out of line for the position. Of course I am worth every penny to ask $25 an hour an up for working, but since this IS an administrative position AND this IS only 3 miles from my house, what I asked for was enough (OK, it's NEVER enough. But, I'll take it.). Plus, I'm doing freelance work too that is paying quite well. Actually, I didn't really have to take this job at all, but my freelance work won't keep me busy all day. This will and will be extra money to pay off bills, especially since I'll be getting that WONDERFUL student loan bill for my Christmas present this year.
But, this morning, I had to go to a medical site to "pee in a cup" and have a physical. The physical part was easy. I've never had to have a physical before. I've only ever had to "pee in a cup" when I worked for the post office (LOOOOOONG time ago as a temporary). So, I got up this morning, went over to my new office, and got the papers. Then, I went to the medical site. By the time I got there, I had to pee. So. I did. Not enough. Rob's outside laughing is butt off because he said I was having "pee fright" (pain in the #####*****). So, while I was waiting for the physical part because it was really busy, I drank: 8 8-oz cups of water (hmm, got my quota for today), some Mt. Dew (because I just couldn't drink any more water), and a cup of hot tea. Let me just say by the time I drank all that and had my physical, I REALLY had to pee. In fact, I FILLED the cup. Yeah! But, I also had to pee 3 more times after. Shew! And my tummy was sore because I hadn't eaten yet.
The doctor cleared me. I showed him my hearing aids. He liked them and couldn't believe how small they are.
Cassi called me Wednesday night while I was out scrapping for extra cash. Didn't hear the phone and got the message from her. "Congratulations on the new job, mom!" Cassi's not home this week. Because it's my mom's birthday, she always takes the whole week off work. And dad did too. So, Cassi has been there. But, after I called her back, she was worried about who would watch her. I told her for most of the time, she would be with daddy. That response made her worried because daddy doesn't let her play with her friends. Mommy lets her do more things than daddy does. I assured her that she would be able to play with her friends and she would have someone good to watch her. Dan already said on the days that he's off (Tuesday-Thursday) when Rob works during the week, she can go there so she can play with Alexis. I offered to pay him but he said no. That's so nice of him. The only days I would need to pay would be when Cassi has to go to someone else's house on Mondays and Fridays. As soon as I explained it to her, she was happy. But, Rob also told me he was looking at taking her to a pool that has lots of water slides near here next week. Good for him!
Oh, I mentioned the scrapping. For a while now, we've noticed guys in beat up trucks riding around our city with scrap metal in the backs of their trucks. If you haven't heard, metal recycling prices have increased dramatically recently since the value of the dollar is down. In my area alone, aluminum (like cans) is 70 cents a pound. Rob and Dan go out when Rob's not working in the evenings and finds scrap from the garbage lines. No, this is not illegal in this area. They've been finding quite a nice amount of scrap for extra cash. This has really come in handy. But, we've also gotten stuff that we've kept too. Rob's gotten a gas-powered weed whacker. I've gotten a new resin table (looks in excellent shape), a pair of solid brass lamps for the living room (just need new shades), a cook book, resin chairs, and a pair of white boards for Cassi to draw on. From the money I made with Dan on Wednesday night, we used the money last night. Wonder where?
Last night, we had tickets to see the Indians. It has been since before Cassi was born that we've been to see them play. Was a good night, but the seats were in no man's land, the upper deck. We took some of the money and bought Cassi an Indian's t-shirt (in pink) and a red cushion finger. Then, at the game, daddy went and bought her two baseballs. We brought along her baseball mitt (played t-ball before). She was so mad because she wanted to catch one that went foul. We were in a bad spot to get one. But, she was happy after daddy bought them for her though. She went up and down at least four times. The usher laughed every time one of us went up and down with her. She said she wants to go again, but she wants to be closer to the field. Hmm. We figured she wouldn't enjoy it. But, she did. I think come next summer she'll want to play baseball again. We'll see.
OK. Had lots to say. There's lots more, but they'll wait for now. I've got photos to share from other events over the last two months, but really haven't had time to talk about them.
Lots of love to all,
Cathy
8^ )
Friday, July 04, 2008
Time to Talk About Others...
Haven't done this in a while. Thought I would be good...
TIMES HAVE CHANGED!
I just peeked on my step-daughter's my space site...
TIMES HAVE CHANGED!
I just peeked on my step-daughter's my space site...
she's
PREGNANT!
PREGNANT!
She must have so little respect for herself and her body to become pregnant. But, leave it to the mom to allow this to happen:
1. allowed her to quit school (just turned 17)
2. allowed boyfriend to move in with them (committed statutory rape because supposedly he's 19 and she's minor)
3. allowed her to have sex with him and allowed her to get pregnant!
Guess what? I DON'T want to be a grandmother. Don't care what anyone says. I will become a grandmother, if and WHEN Cassi grows up and becomes an ADULT. Once she's married and stable in her relationship will I become a grandmother.
I just sent a text message to Rob. Wonder what he will say???!!!
At this point, I will not call her names. Everyone can imagine what I am thinking of her right now. Just won't say it out loud! Not impressed with the immature so-and-so!
Cathy
8^ (
1. allowed her to quit school (just turned 17)
2. allowed boyfriend to move in with them (committed statutory rape because supposedly he's 19 and she's minor)
3. allowed her to have sex with him and allowed her to get pregnant!
Guess what? I DON'T want to be a grandmother. Don't care what anyone says. I will become a grandmother, if and WHEN Cassi grows up and becomes an ADULT. Once she's married and stable in her relationship will I become a grandmother.
I just sent a text message to Rob. Wonder what he will say???!!!
At this point, I will not call her names. Everyone can imagine what I am thinking of her right now. Just won't say it out loud! Not impressed with the immature so-and-so!
Cathy
8^ (
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Things I did today...
Gotta get this list out. I can't BELIEVE how much I actually did today. Here we go:
I think #13 and #14 helped motivate me. 13 is a monthly payment job, but I can handle that. 14 is paid per transaction at 8% commission. They've really been moving on that site, especially when they service so many clients.
But, right now, I'm on a good streak (wanted to say steak, but wrong thought). The veggies are looking quite nice in the garden. We've got tomatoes starting to bud, along with zucchinis and green peppers. The watermelon is coming back. We thought it was dead, but all of a sudden it's coming back. We've also got red peppers, cucumbers, pickle cucumbers, a pumpkin, cantaloupe (good thing about spell check because I wouldn't have gotten that word right in a million years), green beans, and salsa peppers. The green bean pods didn't grow as well as we had hoped, but that's life. The cucumber plants are traveling, as well as the pumpkin. Will be nice to see a pumpkin or two come fall.
With that, gonna go for now. Need to stay awake just a little while longer. Looking at recipes now on food network. Just picked up one for home-made pancakes. Maybe I'll look at making it tomorrow.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
- folded 2 loads of laundry (washed them yesterday)
- cleaned bathroom (toilet, sink, floor, and tub)
- took shower curtain to washer and washed it, then put it back
- took floor mat for bathroom down and washed (still sitting on washer air drying)
- dust mopped and vacuumed kitchen
- washed a load of dishes (emptied and filled dishwasher)
- went to Save-A-Lot (low-priced grocery store) for a few things, mainly normal sized corn dogs)
- cooked lunch of hot dogs on grill (ok Rob did that) along with making a pasta salad on stove and heated chili to go with dogs (I did that part)
- emptied dishwasher and refilled it this evening and ran it again this evening
- took out garbage
- watched girls (Cassi & Alexis) while Dan & Rob went scrapping
- made 5 packs of smokes for Rob (While I don't condone his smoking, I can't just up and tell him to quit. Plus, while I still don't condone it, I also am not thrilled to spend $35 a carton on cheap cigarettes. I would rather sit and make them for him at $20 for 2 cartons.)
- got accepted to do editing for a Russian-based dating site; will get first project tonight or tomorrow morning
- waiting on first transaction to process for LA-based global import/export biz; looking to make cash from them too (been in biz for 12 years and services 400K of customers)
- made a batch of granola for me (refer to earlier post)
- made din din for girls
- made a double-batch of zucchini casserole for my din din (Rob will eat leftovers when he comes home)
- in process of having dehydrated banana chips done (had 5 bananas over ripe that needed to have something done to them)
- got girls to sleep; instead of them going to dad's for sleepover, they're here and asleep on the couches
I think #13 and #14 helped motivate me. 13 is a monthly payment job, but I can handle that. 14 is paid per transaction at 8% commission. They've really been moving on that site, especially when they service so many clients.
But, right now, I'm on a good streak (wanted to say steak, but wrong thought). The veggies are looking quite nice in the garden. We've got tomatoes starting to bud, along with zucchinis and green peppers. The watermelon is coming back. We thought it was dead, but all of a sudden it's coming back. We've also got red peppers, cucumbers, pickle cucumbers, a pumpkin, cantaloupe (good thing about spell check because I wouldn't have gotten that word right in a million years), green beans, and salsa peppers. The green bean pods didn't grow as well as we had hoped, but that's life. The cucumber plants are traveling, as well as the pumpkin. Will be nice to see a pumpkin or two come fall.
With that, gonna go for now. Need to stay awake just a little while longer. Looking at recipes now on food network. Just picked up one for home-made pancakes. Maybe I'll look at making it tomorrow.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Granola Recipe Share...
OK. Working on some granola for myself right now. This is an AWESOME recipe I found from Alton Brown (FoodNetwork.com). I've already made 2 batches for Rob. Just can't believe how EXPENSIVE granola cereal is at the grocery store. The cheapest found so far has been $3 a box.
So, here's the recipe. Then, some notes about changes I've made (or are making as I type).
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup slivered almonds
1 cup cashews
3/4 cup shredded sweet coconut
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup raisins
Preheat oven to 250 degrees F.
I also think other dried fruits would work nicely in this. I eat it not as a cereal, but as a snack in a cup.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
So, here's the recipe. Then, some notes about changes I've made (or are making as I type).
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup slivered almonds
1 cup cashews
3/4 cup shredded sweet coconut
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup raisins
Preheat oven to 250 degrees F.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, nuts, coconut, and brown sugar.
- In a separate bowl, combine maple syrup, oil, and salt. Combine both
- mixtures and pour onto 2 sheet pans. Cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes,
- stirring every 15 minutes to achieve an even color.
- Remove from oven and transfer into a large bowl. Add raisins and mix until
- evenly distributed.
I also think other dried fruits would work nicely in this. I eat it not as a cereal, but as a snack in a cup.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Week of Doctors...
This week was the week to see doctors. Tuesday, I got to see a Dermatologist (thought it was Wednesday, but I had my interview Wednesday). She took a look at my back (enjoyed living in the sun when I was a teen). There were some spots that Rob wanted her to see. Have been having BAD acne on my face and seems to get worse just before "that" time of the month. Then, even with help from Marie, have had trouble with dry scalp. The results? First, she gave me an antibiotic for the acne and said it will help clear it up. Already seeing improvement. Next, gave me a prescription shampoo for my scalp. Turns out I've got eczema going on. Had that when I was a kid on my forearms. Finally, the freckles (and I've got DOZENS of them) on my back look OK, except for one spot. I'm scheduled on the 23rd to have it removed and biopsied.
Then, I finally went to the OB yesterday. It's been 3 years since my last pap, which is OK, but should go every year (not daily) for pelvic exam. Have been having problems lately. Don't really want to go into it, but the short-short version is that I'm bleeding other than my period times.
So, he does the exam. My uterus feels enlarged. Not sure what's going on. Could be from my full c-section when I had Cassi; maybe not. Then, he felt my neck next (how goofy, originally said, "he felt my next" huh?). This is the first time a doctor has looked there and said he thought my thyroid felt enlarged. So, I have to go get blood work done. Then, I have to have a cat scan done of my uterus to check for cysts or other things that might be going on. When they do this, they will inject fluid up there to open it up for a clearer result. Then, he also wants to do a biopsy because mom had a full hysterectomy when she was 36. Well, I just turned 37. Could run in the family.
The tough part right now is, the doctor was called away to an emergency surgery and my appointment was late. Because of this, I couldn't get anything scheduled, because, of course, my appointment was on Friday at 4pm. I didn't get to see him until after 5. So, now I have to wait until Monday to even make any appointments. He's looking at everything, even the possibility of uterine cancer.
So, until any tests get to be scheduled and done, I'm stuck. I don't know what to say or do. Yes, Marie, I'm trying to be positive. It's tough!
The only positive thing that happened this week was I had my interview for a part-time Administrative Assistant position at Ridge Tool. They are the people who make RIGID tools that are sold at Home Depot. The position is 30 hours a week, supporting the Marketing Department. They were really impressed with my background and desire to work there. I interviewed with the three individuals I would support, and even saw what they are in need of me to do and how to do it. They are big on using PowerPoint and Excel because they have to give sales figures and presentations. By the time I came home in the afternoon after going to get gas for Rob and some steak for dinner, I was walking into the house to the main house phone ringing from them saying they were going forward with the background investigation. This means they're serious because it costs money to do these things. I emailed the people who I used for references, my intern boss, former boss and client at E&Y and my Tech Writing professor. They all said they had no problem giving a positive reference for me. Yesterday, got an email from Professor Mary who said they called her and left a message. She called them back, leaving a message for them about my character and even gave the girl her home phone number. What a nice thing to do! If I get offered the job, I think I would start July 7, just one week away.
Not sure what the pay is yet. But, 30 hours a week is great, working from 8-3 with an hour for lunch. And, there are opportunities for extra hours. And, the offices are only 3 miles from my house. That's even better. When Cassi starts school, I'll have to get someone to keep her in the am before school starts but would be able to pick her up after.
OK. Gonna go now. Don't want to depress anyone too much more than I have.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
So, it would just be my luck to have medical problems happen and be offered a job.
Then, I finally went to the OB yesterday. It's been 3 years since my last pap, which is OK, but should go every year (not daily) for pelvic exam. Have been having problems lately. Don't really want to go into it, but the short-short version is that I'm bleeding other than my period times.
So, he does the exam. My uterus feels enlarged. Not sure what's going on. Could be from my full c-section when I had Cassi; maybe not. Then, he felt my neck next (how goofy, originally said, "he felt my next" huh?). This is the first time a doctor has looked there and said he thought my thyroid felt enlarged. So, I have to go get blood work done. Then, I have to have a cat scan done of my uterus to check for cysts or other things that might be going on. When they do this, they will inject fluid up there to open it up for a clearer result. Then, he also wants to do a biopsy because mom had a full hysterectomy when she was 36. Well, I just turned 37. Could run in the family.
The tough part right now is, the doctor was called away to an emergency surgery and my appointment was late. Because of this, I couldn't get anything scheduled, because, of course, my appointment was on Friday at 4pm. I didn't get to see him until after 5. So, now I have to wait until Monday to even make any appointments. He's looking at everything, even the possibility of uterine cancer.
So, until any tests get to be scheduled and done, I'm stuck. I don't know what to say or do. Yes, Marie, I'm trying to be positive. It's tough!
The only positive thing that happened this week was I had my interview for a part-time Administrative Assistant position at Ridge Tool. They are the people who make RIGID tools that are sold at Home Depot. The position is 30 hours a week, supporting the Marketing Department. They were really impressed with my background and desire to work there. I interviewed with the three individuals I would support, and even saw what they are in need of me to do and how to do it. They are big on using PowerPoint and Excel because they have to give sales figures and presentations. By the time I came home in the afternoon after going to get gas for Rob and some steak for dinner, I was walking into the house to the main house phone ringing from them saying they were going forward with the background investigation. This means they're serious because it costs money to do these things. I emailed the people who I used for references, my intern boss, former boss and client at E&Y and my Tech Writing professor. They all said they had no problem giving a positive reference for me. Yesterday, got an email from Professor Mary who said they called her and left a message. She called them back, leaving a message for them about my character and even gave the girl her home phone number. What a nice thing to do! If I get offered the job, I think I would start July 7, just one week away.
Not sure what the pay is yet. But, 30 hours a week is great, working from 8-3 with an hour for lunch. And, there are opportunities for extra hours. And, the offices are only 3 miles from my house. That's even better. When Cassi starts school, I'll have to get someone to keep her in the am before school starts but would be able to pick her up after.
OK. Gonna go now. Don't want to depress anyone too much more than I have.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
So, it would just be my luck to have medical problems happen and be offered a job.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
VERY Frustrating!
I'm working, after having some fun on my blog, to apply to other jobs. I'm looking at other types of opportunities with companies that would allow me to move within the company after being hired, which is usually a good idea.
The problem I face: browser problems. When companies develop Web sites, they don't realize what browsers individuals use. I know the standard browser is Internet Explorer. But, some people enjoy using other browsers, such as Mozilla Firefox.
Even I have this difficulty with my own Web sites. Note to self, install Dreamweaver and update all Web sites for viewing within Firefox.
But, I digress.
I try to use the Taleo HR hiring system that many companies are now using to apply to jobs online. You cannot apply to jobs through Firefox. At least, I cannot do so. So, every time I apply to a job, I have to remember to determine where I'm applying to and use the correct browser.
Ugh!
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. This evening, I applied to:
Adecco Technology as a Entry Level Scientific/Technical Writer (temp-to-hire)
Bendix Manufacturing as an Administrative Assistant (full time)
Toys R' Us as a Department Manager Trainee (gotta at least try)
The problem I face: browser problems. When companies develop Web sites, they don't realize what browsers individuals use. I know the standard browser is Internet Explorer. But, some people enjoy using other browsers, such as Mozilla Firefox.
Even I have this difficulty with my own Web sites. Note to self, install Dreamweaver and update all Web sites for viewing within Firefox.
But, I digress.
I try to use the Taleo HR hiring system that many companies are now using to apply to jobs online. You cannot apply to jobs through Firefox. At least, I cannot do so. So, every time I apply to a job, I have to remember to determine where I'm applying to and use the correct browser.
Ugh!
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. This evening, I applied to:
Adecco Technology as a Entry Level Scientific/Technical Writer (temp-to-hire)
Bendix Manufacturing as an Administrative Assistant (full time)
Toys R' Us as a Department Manager Trainee (gotta at least try)
My Birthday...
Yep, this past Thursday, it was my birthday. Rob, Cassi, and I spent the day together. I woke up the day nicely. Got online early and saw a birthday email card from Marie. I LAUGHED so hard. Then, my girlfriend, Patty, sent me an email of happy birthday.
We spent the day together. Rob worked the night before and Cassi spent the night over Sarah's house. So, I was pretty much by myself until 2:30 pm. Cassi and Sarah kept running in and out of the house. I had to keep shewing them out.
So, what did I do while I was by myself? I applied for jobs. I applied for Bank Teller positions at National City Bank and Charter One. Some of the other banks don't have openings. I need to apply at US Bank (where our main mortgage resides). Who knows? I agree with my career coordinator. I need to just GET IN to a company and move from there. She called me and said again that she thinks I need to dumb myself down for prospective employers, that they are intimidated by me and my skills. I'm sorry; I just find it so hard to do that. Maybe the idea of "Less is More" is better.
One of our camping friends specifically said to me that even though she knows I have higher education than she does, I don't make her feel inferior with my education. She says I use my education when I speak, but not overbearing. It's nice to hear comments like that.
But, after Rob got up, we goofed off a little before we decided to go to dinner. When the school had the spring picnic, PTO offered up $100 worth of restaurant gift cards. I won one of them. I was able to get a $25 gift card from Olive Garden. Then, because we bank with National City Bank, they have an opportunity to earn points for gift cards. I was able to get 2 $10 gift cards for Olive Garden. We used them for dinner Thursday night. Cassi loves Olive Garden.
We got there. As usual, almost immediately, she had to potty (does that everywhere we go). So, while we were gone, unknown to me, Rob decides with the server to order a special cake. In the end, we ended up paying $15 extra with the tip. It was nice though.
Then, we went to Best Buy to walk around and look at stuff. Didn't realize that my favorite PS games come as PC versions too. That game? Star Wars Legos. The most hilarious game. Will have to try to find it on PC somewhere and save up to get it.
We noticed some sale priced Game Boy Advanced and Nintendo DS games. I was considering getting a $15 game for Cassi from my birthday money. Since we really haven't had money to get games and things for her, I thought it would be nice. There really isn't anything I'm in need of right now. I told her to put the game down for the time being, and I would think about it. She threw a fit and said she NEVER gets anything at the store. OK. That was enough for me. I wasn't listening to that from her. She gets SOOOOO much from Pa, Nana, and Aunt Marie. We have been giving her the necessities. Sorry that I can't buy EVERY item she wants! So, I told her if she felt that way she wasn't getting that game either. It was a Polly Pocket game.
After we went to Best Buy, we went to Sam's and got a floor protector for the carpet in our bedroom office. We went to Home Depot because we needed to buy a new shower head for the bathroom. The old one was ready to die. Home Depot was very disappointing as we couldn't find JUST the shower head. We ended up at Lowe's and found a cool one that actually has 2 heads. It has a hand-held shower head and stationery one. The hand-held one will work well when I'm ready to bathe the cat and can be used when I shower Cassi (versus her doing it herself).
Got home and got the shower head in. Rob and I also watched the Denzel Washington movie, The Great Debaters. It was a really good movie. And, be shocked! Even though it is a relatively new movie to DVD, I found it...
at...
THE LIBRARY! Yep, sure did! I've also got The Waterhorse to watch too.
OK. Gonna go for now. I'm working on designing a new template for this blog. REALLY need something new. Maybe change will be good for me.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
We spent the day together. Rob worked the night before and Cassi spent the night over Sarah's house. So, I was pretty much by myself until 2:30 pm. Cassi and Sarah kept running in and out of the house. I had to keep shewing them out.
So, what did I do while I was by myself? I applied for jobs. I applied for Bank Teller positions at National City Bank and Charter One. Some of the other banks don't have openings. I need to apply at US Bank (where our main mortgage resides). Who knows? I agree with my career coordinator. I need to just GET IN to a company and move from there. She called me and said again that she thinks I need to dumb myself down for prospective employers, that they are intimidated by me and my skills. I'm sorry; I just find it so hard to do that. Maybe the idea of "Less is More" is better.
One of our camping friends specifically said to me that even though she knows I have higher education than she does, I don't make her feel inferior with my education. She says I use my education when I speak, but not overbearing. It's nice to hear comments like that.
But, after Rob got up, we goofed off a little before we decided to go to dinner. When the school had the spring picnic, PTO offered up $100 worth of restaurant gift cards. I won one of them. I was able to get a $25 gift card from Olive Garden. Then, because we bank with National City Bank, they have an opportunity to earn points for gift cards. I was able to get 2 $10 gift cards for Olive Garden. We used them for dinner Thursday night. Cassi loves Olive Garden.
We got there. As usual, almost immediately, she had to potty (does that everywhere we go). So, while we were gone, unknown to me, Rob decides with the server to order a special cake. In the end, we ended up paying $15 extra with the tip. It was nice though.
Then, we went to Best Buy to walk around and look at stuff. Didn't realize that my favorite PS games come as PC versions too. That game? Star Wars Legos. The most hilarious game. Will have to try to find it on PC somewhere and save up to get it.
We noticed some sale priced Game Boy Advanced and Nintendo DS games. I was considering getting a $15 game for Cassi from my birthday money. Since we really haven't had money to get games and things for her, I thought it would be nice. There really isn't anything I'm in need of right now. I told her to put the game down for the time being, and I would think about it. She threw a fit and said she NEVER gets anything at the store. OK. That was enough for me. I wasn't listening to that from her. She gets SOOOOO much from Pa, Nana, and Aunt Marie. We have been giving her the necessities. Sorry that I can't buy EVERY item she wants! So, I told her if she felt that way she wasn't getting that game either. It was a Polly Pocket game.
After we went to Best Buy, we went to Sam's and got a floor protector for the carpet in our bedroom office. We went to Home Depot because we needed to buy a new shower head for the bathroom. The old one was ready to die. Home Depot was very disappointing as we couldn't find JUST the shower head. We ended up at Lowe's and found a cool one that actually has 2 heads. It has a hand-held shower head and stationery one. The hand-held one will work well when I'm ready to bathe the cat and can be used when I shower Cassi (versus her doing it herself).
Got home and got the shower head in. Rob and I also watched the Denzel Washington movie, The Great Debaters. It was a really good movie. And, be shocked! Even though it is a relatively new movie to DVD, I found it...
at...
THE LIBRARY! Yep, sure did! I've also got The Waterhorse to watch too.
OK. Gonna go for now. I'm working on designing a new template for this blog. REALLY need something new. Maybe change will be good for me.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Today...
While Rob was sleeping as he worked last night, I had to take out a bill. Took it to the bank. Ran into one of the mom's shopping while was there (the bank is in the grocery store). From there, I ran to Sam's Club and filled the wagon. Can't believe, even with a quarter of a tank (I think), it took almost 30 dollars to fill it!
But, from there, I had to decide which way to drive home. I opted for the local roads, even though I knew one of the roads is under MAJOR construction to rebuild it. That was road in particular that we blew a tire on in February from a bad pot hole, but the city refused to be liable for.
Anyway, I decided to stop at a Goodwill along the way. Cassi needs some summer jammies. Oh, she's got a few night shirts, and I just gave her a night gown from Nana that doesn't fit me, even though Nana gave it to me, I wanted to find a few more. Got there and NOTHING. So, while I was there, I decided to walk around to see what they had for sale. Along the back wall, there's all kinds of computer monitors. There's a nice dresser, desk, and headboard that looked very interesting to buy for Cassi to have a bedroom set, but I wasn't paying $45 each, even though they were probably worth 3 times as much. But, along that wall with the monitors, sits this HP Scanner. It's an HP Scanjet 8290, complete with power supply, software, and USB cable. The price on it:
$5
Yes, that's it, FIVE DOLLARS! But, there's a warning, the scanner can't be returned. This is one item that's an ALL SALES FINAL type of item. Why not? This is the scanner I had been using while I worked on my internship. It has an Auto Document Feeder (that's the contraption on top of the scanner that allows you to feed multiple pages into the scanner and create PDF files. Rob's co-worker gave him a set of books from when she went through RN school. It was a self-paced school that allowed her to learn at her own pace and didn't cut into her job because there was no lab or clinical like a traditional school requires. The clinical testing happens at the end before you complete your degree. I was able to scan all but 1 book. I'm now able to get it done now.
But, this scanner, even though it's no longer directly for sale from HP can run brand new between $700 and $900. This scanner is in almost new condition. I had to update the software that came from the included CD because it initially had trouble with the doc feed capabilities.
But, for my lonely $5 plus 31 cents for sales tax, I got a BRAND NEW scanner. This is the type of scanner I've been looking for. AND, even though I have to watch EVERY PENNY I spend, I believe I did well finding this scanner.
AND, I'm still looking for jammies for Cassi. She's got 3 t-shirts from me that work for her, 1 night gown she had and 2 night gowns from Nana (doesn't know about the second one yet).
OK. Gotta go.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. Oh, where was I over the last few weeks? We went camping as Rob took off work. He was finally able to take a week vacation. I've got posts to write about it and pictures.
And, for those of you who didn't know (because I wasn't flagrant about it), my birthday was this past Thursday, June 19. I turned 37. It was just another day for me.
But, from there, I had to decide which way to drive home. I opted for the local roads, even though I knew one of the roads is under MAJOR construction to rebuild it. That was road in particular that we blew a tire on in February from a bad pot hole, but the city refused to be liable for.
Anyway, I decided to stop at a Goodwill along the way. Cassi needs some summer jammies. Oh, she's got a few night shirts, and I just gave her a night gown from Nana that doesn't fit me, even though Nana gave it to me, I wanted to find a few more. Got there and NOTHING. So, while I was there, I decided to walk around to see what they had for sale. Along the back wall, there's all kinds of computer monitors. There's a nice dresser, desk, and headboard that looked very interesting to buy for Cassi to have a bedroom set, but I wasn't paying $45 each, even though they were probably worth 3 times as much. But, along that wall with the monitors, sits this HP Scanner. It's an HP Scanjet 8290, complete with power supply, software, and USB cable. The price on it:
$5
Yes, that's it, FIVE DOLLARS! But, there's a warning, the scanner can't be returned. This is one item that's an ALL SALES FINAL type of item. Why not? This is the scanner I had been using while I worked on my internship. It has an Auto Document Feeder (that's the contraption on top of the scanner that allows you to feed multiple pages into the scanner and create PDF files. Rob's co-worker gave him a set of books from when she went through RN school. It was a self-paced school that allowed her to learn at her own pace and didn't cut into her job because there was no lab or clinical like a traditional school requires. The clinical testing happens at the end before you complete your degree. I was able to scan all but 1 book. I'm now able to get it done now.
But, this scanner, even though it's no longer directly for sale from HP can run brand new between $700 and $900. This scanner is in almost new condition. I had to update the software that came from the included CD because it initially had trouble with the doc feed capabilities.
But, for my lonely $5 plus 31 cents for sales tax, I got a BRAND NEW scanner. This is the type of scanner I've been looking for. AND, even though I have to watch EVERY PENNY I spend, I believe I did well finding this scanner.
AND, I'm still looking for jammies for Cassi. She's got 3 t-shirts from me that work for her, 1 night gown she had and 2 night gowns from Nana (doesn't know about the second one yet).
OK. Gotta go.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
P.S. Oh, where was I over the last few weeks? We went camping as Rob took off work. He was finally able to take a week vacation. I've got posts to write about it and pictures.
And, for those of you who didn't know (because I wasn't flagrant about it), my birthday was this past Thursday, June 19. I turned 37. It was just another day for me.
Grad Pics...
Howdy, ALL! Sorry I've been away for a while. It's been rough on me trying to find a job. So much so that I've been experiencing bad mood swings and not interacting with people much, not more than I have had to. I applied to Thompson Reuters for an Assistant Publishing Specialist. Had a phone interview and had to go through testing....
NOPE! My test scores were not good enough to go forward. Huh? But, they declined to tell me what my scores were.
I'm waiting on going to an interview next Wednesday. It's for a part-time Administrative Assistant position (30 hours). The person supports the Marketing Department. The company is called Ridge Tool. Probably wondering? Huh? Who are they? They are a local manufacturing company take makes RIGID tools. You might have seen the tool brand if you've ever been in Home Depot. I believe they sell these tools. Sounds like an interesting job and good time to work. I applied Wednesday night and had an email response Thursday and a phone interview on Friday. It would give me an opportunity to learn how a marketing department works and see the types of advertising/marketing materials they create. Oh, wonder on those hours? Monday through Friday from 8am til 3pm (that's an hour for lunch). I've got to remember to listen, only answer what they ask for, and be calm. Would love to start a job like this quickly. They seemed interested in my skill set as I'm not in need of technology training like others might.
But, below are a few photos. The first is the coveted Bachelor's Degree. Got it a few weeks ago. Below it is the entrance ticket needed to enter the ceremony. And, WONDERFUL MARIE! She purchased the photos that were taken professionally of me during the ceremony. I can't believe what they charge for photos! For a single 8x10, without ANY touch-ups or lamination, cost $16.95 each. I REALLY need to find a way to get into the photography business. I've got the digital camera and and ability to do it, even part-time. Just blabbing!
With all this, I'll close for now. I've got more to write about. Cool stuff! Like the fact that I found a $900 scanner today at Goodwill for $5.31 (with tax). And, the good news...
IT WORKS!
OK.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
NOPE! My test scores were not good enough to go forward. Huh? But, they declined to tell me what my scores were.
I'm waiting on going to an interview next Wednesday. It's for a part-time Administrative Assistant position (30 hours). The person supports the Marketing Department. The company is called Ridge Tool. Probably wondering? Huh? Who are they? They are a local manufacturing company take makes RIGID tools. You might have seen the tool brand if you've ever been in Home Depot. I believe they sell these tools. Sounds like an interesting job and good time to work. I applied Wednesday night and had an email response Thursday and a phone interview on Friday. It would give me an opportunity to learn how a marketing department works and see the types of advertising/marketing materials they create. Oh, wonder on those hours? Monday through Friday from 8am til 3pm (that's an hour for lunch). I've got to remember to listen, only answer what they ask for, and be calm. Would love to start a job like this quickly. They seemed interested in my skill set as I'm not in need of technology training like others might.
But, below are a few photos. The first is the coveted Bachelor's Degree. Got it a few weeks ago. Below it is the entrance ticket needed to enter the ceremony. And, WONDERFUL MARIE! She purchased the photos that were taken professionally of me during the ceremony. I can't believe what they charge for photos! For a single 8x10, without ANY touch-ups or lamination, cost $16.95 each. I REALLY need to find a way to get into the photography business. I've got the digital camera and and ability to do it, even part-time. Just blabbing!
With all this, I'll close for now. I've got more to write about. Cool stuff! Like the fact that I found a $900 scanner today at Goodwill for $5.31 (with tax). And, the good news...
IT WORKS!
OK.
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
Friday, June 06, 2008
This is WHY English is SOOOO Important...
Gotta give it to a Cleveland-area local city's high school. According to the Yahoo! story, the Westlake High School gave it's 330 graduates diplomas with a spelling error.
EDUCAITON
was the word they saw on the diplomas. AND, this was after the first error that was sent back to the printer of the diplomas.
And I can't get a job! Believe me, if I was working there, this wouldn't have HAPPENED!
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
EDUCAITON
was the word they saw on the diplomas. AND, this was after the first error that was sent back to the printer of the diplomas.
And I can't get a job! Believe me, if I was working there, this wouldn't have HAPPENED!
Lots of love,
Cathy
8^ )
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