SOOO.... the lead sales associate (Mariam) has been gone since before Thanksgiving on a leave of absence. Hooray! Let's all throw a party! Well, she wasn't supposed to be back until almost the end of this month. Unfortunately, she came back early and came back to work on Sunday. Boo!
On her second day of work, tensions are high and so are emotions! My boss (the store manager) came in and asked how were things going. I told her, that was yet to be seen. Later when I talked to her on my way out, she said she could sense that things were tense. First, let's start with the whole "I'm not capable of being in petite" attitude Lesa has towards me. Every time. I was already in petite and Sarah was in front. So Mariam was supposed to be in front right? Not according to her. She sends me up front with two bags of shipment (which by the way, I only finished like half of one) while she rings people up. When I went on my break, I told her that I had TWO customers in the fitting room trying on SKIRTS. Later on, she asked me to sign a return because the customer bought TWO skirts on a charge card, but changed her mind and wanted to open a store charge card with us. So, she returned the items onto the original charge card and rang up the new sale. It was my customer, but she took the sale. Do you have any idea what two skirts cost in our store? That had to have been like a $220 sale.
Things got busy and it was just Mariam and me on the floor. Naturally, I handled the customers while she rang and rang ... oh yeah and rang up some more customers. So tell me. How did she get to have a 1300 dollar day when she didn't help that many people and all she did was ring, and ring ... oh yeah and take sales that should have been mine? Did she put things in a fitting room for a customer? Did she go in and check to see if anything was needed? Did she tell customers where to find things and found things for them? Did she clear the fitting rooms and fix the go backs and actually put them back on the floor? Noooo because she was behind the register the whole freaking time. Then she has the NERVE to get mad at me and glare at me from behind the register because I was leaving the floor to check on my customers. She has eyes. She can watch the front of the store while I'm ASSISTING my customers. And the whole glaring thing? Not appropriate. In fact, I had one customer once come up to me to say it was wrong the way Mariam had spoken to me. I bet if she was there, she would've said the same thing. In fact, one of the customers I was helping asked me if I was going to be able to come in and help her. On the sales floor she had mentioned that she was going to need help putting together some outfits. She ended up buying like three or four outfits. If she was a secret shopper, I hoped I would gotten a good review. Because I can guarantee you ... had there been a secret shopper today ... it wouldn't have been good. Unless it was her.
That same customer had a large sale because I helped pick things out, pull things, suggested things ... basically gave her the best SERVICE possible. Because that's what I'm supposed to do. And while I was doing this, I talked up the store's charge card with her and she said she was interested in opening one. I totally anticipated Mariam taking credit for opening the charge, like she took credit for putting the "out of order" sign on the bathroom door (which Sherisse did. Well, Mariam did put up a sign, if you can call it that. Sherisse took it down and put up a REAL sign). Thankfully, Sherisse came out and noticed there were like five or six people in line and I was still in the front of the store. She came out and I told her what was going on. So, she took over in front so I could take care of my customer.
1300. Are - you - serious. 1300. Just from standing behind the register for four and a half hours. Four and a half. I was there for seven hours, on the floor for a little over six. I made twice as much, but then again, I was running all over the store helping customers. I was doing my job. And being glared at and talked down to while I was doing it. Someone explain to me why SHE is still there?
Not only that ... but while the rest of us mall employees have to park on the roof of the parking structure (which is only three levels), she parks on the second floor. Every time. I don't know what she's doing now with the holiday restrictions. But I am glad I don't close with her any time soon. And then there's the issue with the back door. It's the door in petite that leads to the parking structure. The one that people LOVE to use as a mall entrance when the mall entrance is only a few feet away. Lazy dumb mall people. Anyway, we're not supposed to use this door when we come into the store. But lately, that rule hasn't been enforced. One time I used it because I was late coming to work. I was coming in from that side of the mall because I had parked on the street because getting into the parking structure was crazy stupid impossible. I was already late and I didn't want to go into the mall entrance walk the entire length of the store to enter through the missy entrance. Did I mention I was REALLY REALLY late? I walked in through petite, put my stuff away, and came out and clocked in. Mariam asked me which door did I come in and I told her and explained why. She tsked tsked, frowned, and said I'm not supposed to use that door. I bet she doesn't do that to the other Armenian associates. In fact, she NEVER talks or acts the same way towards them as she does me and Sherisse.
And, by the way ... just this week I was running late (but I actually made it to work just barely on time) and I used that same entrance that I'm "not" supposed to use. My boss was right there and she said it was okay, she understood. Hello? See the big difference there? She didn't tsk tsk or frown at me. In fact, she smiled!
Speaking of parking (okay I know this is getting pretty long. But I just need to rant) ... I am so glad we're down to the last week of no parking at the mall. It is stupid really. Can't they reserve a section on the roof for employee parking? After all, they have a section of the mall for VALET parking. Valet parking. Are - you - serious. It's funny because customers get so offended for us when we tell them that we're not allowed to park at the mall. Yeah, sure, they do have arrangements for us to park somewhere else and then shuttle us to the mall. The L.A. Zoo, in fact. Hello. Most of us drive past the mall in order to get to the zoo. I know I do. It'll take me longer to get from the zoo to the mall than it actually does for me to get from my house to the mall. That came up because I had a customer today who said it was crazy to find parking. I told her I was lucky to find the spot I did. She asked me where i parked. I told her on one of the residential streets. She asked me, "the mall doesn't let you park here?" She thought it was ridiculous that we have to park either at the zoo or find something on the street. I will be so glad when all of this is over. No more stupid parking situation. No more stupid hours.
Speaking of hours ... now we're open till ELEVEN. Who goes shopping at ten o'clock at night? Apparently no one because we only had one person come into our store yesterday night after nine. And guess what? Our lights in the store are set on a timer. One set turns off automatically at 10:15. The next set goes at 11:15. So, the store is closed and we're still in there ... practically in the dark. Now how stupid is that?
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Friday, December 14, 2007
"I don't care"
That's what a customer said to me today. "I don't care." What didn't she care about? That I was helping another customer!
Here's how it happened. This lady, we'll call her Ruby (first name that popped in my head. No offense to any Ruby's out there), comes in and shops around. She selects several pairs of pants. I started a room for her and continued to add things to her room. By the time she was done, she must have at least 25 items in her room. I checked on her a few times and took things that she didn't need. I was also helping another customer at the same time. My other customer finished first and I was ringing her up and opening a charge. Ruby tells me she needs another size in a certain pant. I tell her that I will be with her in a moment. While she is in the fitting room and I am at the register, she calls out that she needs help. I tell her we will be right with her. When I finish up with my customer, I go in and she tells me that she has been waiting. I explain and apologize, saying that I was with another customer. That's when she tells me quite angrily that she did not care. She was waiting. So, I go and check for the pant she needed, which I didn't have. I take everything out of her room. She puts about four or five pairs on the counter. Tries on about five more pairs.
THEN when I ring her up, after I already scanned everything, she produces a birthday discount card. I have to go back and manually change each item. When I tell her that her purchase must be made on her charge card, she says she's done this before and they never said it had to be on her charge card. My manager, sensing Ruby's rudeness, steps in and says it says so on the discount card that her charge must be present. We try to look up her charge, but no account is coming up. I call customer service for them to look it up. The customer service guy I got sounded very cute over the phone. Because of Ruby's unusual last name, I couldn't just say it, so I had to spell it to Matt (the customer service guy). Even Matt said it shouldn't be hard to look up her account because her last name was such an unique name. He couldn't find the account and we doubt she even had one. How she got her hands on a birthday discount is beyond me. Ruby changes her mind about using her birthday discount, so I had to go back and manually change everything again. She notices a new pair of denim jeans and asks me where they are. I have to go into the stock room and bring her out two pairs, one in petite and one in regular. She tries them both on and another pant, adding only one more to her purchase. Good grief.
Also, another customer came in and I mentioned to her the discount we were offering to our customers. She replied, "is that all?" I said, "It's better than nothing." She went to the front of our store, where we had another sales associate. The other associate mentions the discount and she didn't make a comment about it to her like she did to me. Then we had another customer come in, who had also come in the previous two days. She was looking for a sweater in size medium and not having any luck. Not only was she not having any luck, but she was leaving behind a trail of destruction as well!
Here's how it happened. This lady, we'll call her Ruby (first name that popped in my head. No offense to any Ruby's out there), comes in and shops around. She selects several pairs of pants. I started a room for her and continued to add things to her room. By the time she was done, she must have at least 25 items in her room. I checked on her a few times and took things that she didn't need. I was also helping another customer at the same time. My other customer finished first and I was ringing her up and opening a charge. Ruby tells me she needs another size in a certain pant. I tell her that I will be with her in a moment. While she is in the fitting room and I am at the register, she calls out that she needs help. I tell her we will be right with her. When I finish up with my customer, I go in and she tells me that she has been waiting. I explain and apologize, saying that I was with another customer. That's when she tells me quite angrily that she did not care. She was waiting. So, I go and check for the pant she needed, which I didn't have. I take everything out of her room. She puts about four or five pairs on the counter. Tries on about five more pairs.
THEN when I ring her up, after I already scanned everything, she produces a birthday discount card. I have to go back and manually change each item. When I tell her that her purchase must be made on her charge card, she says she's done this before and they never said it had to be on her charge card. My manager, sensing Ruby's rudeness, steps in and says it says so on the discount card that her charge must be present. We try to look up her charge, but no account is coming up. I call customer service for them to look it up. The customer service guy I got sounded very cute over the phone. Because of Ruby's unusual last name, I couldn't just say it, so I had to spell it to Matt (the customer service guy). Even Matt said it shouldn't be hard to look up her account because her last name was such an unique name. He couldn't find the account and we doubt she even had one. How she got her hands on a birthday discount is beyond me. Ruby changes her mind about using her birthday discount, so I had to go back and manually change everything again. She notices a new pair of denim jeans and asks me where they are. I have to go into the stock room and bring her out two pairs, one in petite and one in regular. She tries them both on and another pant, adding only one more to her purchase. Good grief.
Also, another customer came in and I mentioned to her the discount we were offering to our customers. She replied, "is that all?" I said, "It's better than nothing." She went to the front of our store, where we had another sales associate. The other associate mentions the discount and she didn't make a comment about it to her like she did to me. Then we had another customer come in, who had also come in the previous two days. She was looking for a sweater in size medium and not having any luck. Not only was she not having any luck, but she was leaving behind a trail of destruction as well!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Update on Chloe 12/8
I saw Chloe yesterday. She looks good! It was good to see her participate in the Sunday school Christmas Program. I wish I could've been there. It was the first Christmas Program I have ever missed in all my years of going to Sunday School. I thought about that while I was at work. This was my first Christmas Program I didn't go to. It's been quite a few years since I've been in one (Sunday school wise I mean). But that's part of growing older. And quite frankly ... I don't like being up on stage anyway. Still ... my favorite programs had to have been "The Case of the Missing Christmas" and "Lone Star Gulch."
Team in Training!!! 12-8-07
Yay!! We just finished 10 miles today...we are now officially in the double digits!! Wooo hoo!!!! Go Team in Training!!
Chloe met the team along with Danya our other honored team mate. They were there to cheer us along. We have walkers, runners and cyclists...we all made it! Our entire team is up to 124 thousand in fund-raising and our OC Team alone has raised over 50 thousand to date. Thank you all so much for donating to this super important cause!
By the way, I came in second place overall for total dollars raised...but some checks that came in last night put me in first place!! Thank you!!!! Now it's time for an ice bath..oh joy!
Awesome update on Chloe 12-05-07
I am happy to announce that Chloe made her numbers today (855) and will be starting her last phase of treatment tomorrow morning!!
Please pray for her procedure tomorrow, she will get a lumbar puncture where they will inject chemo into her spine. Not her favorite procedure.
This phase lasts for about three years but it is the final phase of her treatment. Yay!!! We are so happy to be able to finally get there!! Thank you all for your continued support and many prayers. We love you all!!
Love and thanks,
Karla & Family
Team in Training Update...12-01-07
Team in Training!!! 12-8-07
Yay!! We just finished 10 miles today...we are now officially in the double digits!! Wooo hoo!!!! Go Team in Training!!
Chloe met the team along with Danya our other honored team mate. They were there to cheer us along. We have walkers, runners and cyclists...we all made it! Our entire team is up to 124 thousand in fund-raising and our OC Team alone has raised over 50 thousand to date. Thank you all so much for donating to this super important cause!
By the way, I came in second place overall for total dollars raised...but some checks that came in last night put me in first place!! Thank you!!!! Now it's time for an ice bath..oh joy!
Awesome update on Chloe 12-05-07
I am happy to announce that Chloe made her numbers today (855) and will be starting her last phase of treatment tomorrow morning!!
Please pray for her procedure tomorrow, she will get a lumbar puncture where they will inject chemo into her spine. Not her favorite procedure.
This phase lasts for about three years but it is the final phase of her treatment. Yay!!! We are so happy to be able to finally get there!! Thank you all for your continued support and many prayers. We love you all!!
Love and thanks,
Karla & Family
Team in Training Update...12-01-07
 | |||
| Thank you to those of you that have donated to LLS so far!! We only have a few hundred more to go!! Wow!!! Our NINE mile training was this morning....and we are looking forward to TEN miles next Saturday!! In the mean time we are training 5 days a week to be totally prepared for the LA Marathon March, 2nd...yahoo!! Our Team is pushing to get to the 100 thousand dollar mark....we will be able to fund an entire grant!!! Our little ol team is bringing in the bucks and it is going to help SO many that are fighting blood cancers. Thank you so much for your support!! (Now it's time for a lovely ice bath)  | |||
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Say it isn't so....
Randy Wolf ... Padres.... say it isn't so!
Okay, I discovered this bit of news while checking for MLB News on my phone. My reaction: "No!!!!!" Well, I really wanted Randy to come back to the Dodgers. However, at least he's staying in the NL West. So hopefully (if he stays healthy) I can see him pitch in Dodger Stadium more than once this year. And I'm hoping to find a way to get him to sign my scrap book. There's an article that I saved that I would like him to sign.
It's interesting when I check my stats, that most of the people who read my blog are referred to it from a google search. Does that mean the majority of the people who read this thing are people I don't know or don't know me? Is that a good thing? Well, seeing that no one comments on anything ... I guess I'll never know the answer. How long do these people stay on anyway? Does my blog answer whatever it is they were googling for?
Anyway, with the holiday season almost over (okay half over, but I'm looking forward to the end) ... I'll post a blog later about how I feel about this holiday season and some of the stupidity that I have to put up with.
Now onto some baseball stuff... I was over at Diane's today and we looked through her yearbook from her senior year. Anyone know who Steve Lyons is? Well, I got to see what he looked like when he was a senior in high school. They attended the same high school. Also, looks like we're getting another outfielder ... Andruw Jones. Sounds like the rumor that they were going to move Juan Pierre to left may come true. Does that mean they're platooning Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier? Hello, have we not learned our lesson yet? We need to keep those two in the line up regularly and not platoon them. Stick Andre in left and Matt in right. Too bad we can't get rid of Pierre. And hopefully Jones works better than Pierre did.
Only a few more months till baseball season starts. Does that mean I'm going to have to change my daily route once baseball season starts?
Okay, I discovered this bit of news while checking for MLB News on my phone. My reaction: "No!!!!!" Well, I really wanted Randy to come back to the Dodgers. However, at least he's staying in the NL West. So hopefully (if he stays healthy) I can see him pitch in Dodger Stadium more than once this year. And I'm hoping to find a way to get him to sign my scrap book. There's an article that I saved that I would like him to sign.
It's interesting when I check my stats, that most of the people who read my blog are referred to it from a google search. Does that mean the majority of the people who read this thing are people I don't know or don't know me? Is that a good thing? Well, seeing that no one comments on anything ... I guess I'll never know the answer. How long do these people stay on anyway? Does my blog answer whatever it is they were googling for?
Anyway, with the holiday season almost over (okay half over, but I'm looking forward to the end) ... I'll post a blog later about how I feel about this holiday season and some of the stupidity that I have to put up with.
Now onto some baseball stuff... I was over at Diane's today and we looked through her yearbook from her senior year. Anyone know who Steve Lyons is? Well, I got to see what he looked like when he was a senior in high school. They attended the same high school. Also, looks like we're getting another outfielder ... Andruw Jones. Sounds like the rumor that they were going to move Juan Pierre to left may come true. Does that mean they're platooning Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier? Hello, have we not learned our lesson yet? We need to keep those two in the line up regularly and not platoon them. Stick Andre in left and Matt in right. Too bad we can't get rid of Pierre. And hopefully Jones works better than Pierre did.
Only a few more months till baseball season starts. Does that mean I'm going to have to change my daily route once baseball season starts?
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Update on Chloe 11-30-07
Update on Chloe 11-30-07
Chloe did not make her numbers today
...the hospital just called and she is a bit short at 682.
They will take her blood again on the 7th and see if she can start on Thursday the 8th. Please keep praying...we are well on our way. Just a little bit more...and we will be there. God is in control and He knows best....and this is all in His time not ours.
With much love and thanks!!!
Karla
Prayer Request for Chloe....11-27-07
Chloe did not make her numbers today
...the hospital just called and she is a bit short at 682.They will take her blood again on the 7th and see if she can start on Thursday the 8th. Please keep praying...we are well on our way. Just a little bit more...and we will be there. God is in control and He knows best....and this is all in His time not ours.
With much love and thanks!!!
Karla
Prayer Request for Chloe....11-27-07
| 3 days ago | |||
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| Please pray that Chloe makes her numbers on Friday's blood draw. If she does, she can start her next phase Monday the 3rd of December. She needs to be greater than 750... Thank you all for your prayers... Love, The Diemer Family  | |||
Friday, November 30, 2007
Criminal Minds - True Night
I don't know how many of you watch "Criminal Minds" but I started watching it a couple episodes ago. Why? I was waiting to see the episode that they filmed on my street. It aired yesterday night, but I missed the first half. As I was watching it now, I recognized the house where they filmed instantly. I looked in the background and lo and behold ... there was my car! If you didn't know where to look or what to look for, you'd miss it. And then, after Frank Muniz' character flips out in his apartment, the scene goes to the police department. As they're panning in, guess who's on one of the officer's desk? Tommy Lasorda! Not the actual Tommy, but the bobble head they gave away on his Bobble Head night. Cool huh?
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Tailspin
Warning! If you don't want to get depressed...
Don't
...
Read
...
This
...
Entry
...
Spoiler
...
Space
...
Included
...
What do you do when you ....
.... feel like your life has spun completely out of control and you have no clue how to pick up the pieces?
.... have been stuck in a slump so long you don't know how to get out?
.... should have grown up a long time ago but don't know how to now?
.... can't go forward, you can't go backwards, but you can't stay where you are?
.... are too embarrassed to talk about what you're going through?
.... not sure how you got where you are, but don't know how to get away from where you are?
.... don't know which way to go, which way is up, or which way is down?
.... want to throw your hands up in the air, bury your head in the sand, or just simply give up?
.... can barely put one foot in front of the other, get out of bed in the morning, or don't even know why you keep going on?
.... don't know any other way to express anything other than just an random blurb on the internet to people you don't really know or will ever meet because it's safer that way?
.... want to talk, don't know what to say or who to say it to?
.... need to know that you're more than you are, and really
.... feel like you're wasting your life on nothing?
.... want to change the direction your life is going but don't know how to start, which way to go, or even where to begin?
Lord (I Don't Know) - Newsboys
Lord, I don't know where all this is going
Or how it all works out
Lead me to peace that is past understanding
A peace beyond all doubt
Don't worry .......... too much. It's late. Things always seem darker in the middle of the night. And then when the light comes ... it's not as dark.
Don't
...
Read
...
This
...
Entry
...
Spoiler
...
Space
...
Included
...
What do you do when you ....
.... feel like your life has spun completely out of control and you have no clue how to pick up the pieces?
.... have been stuck in a slump so long you don't know how to get out?
.... should have grown up a long time ago but don't know how to now?
.... can't go forward, you can't go backwards, but you can't stay where you are?
.... are too embarrassed to talk about what you're going through?
.... not sure how you got where you are, but don't know how to get away from where you are?
.... don't know which way to go, which way is up, or which way is down?
.... want to throw your hands up in the air, bury your head in the sand, or just simply give up?
.... can barely put one foot in front of the other, get out of bed in the morning, or don't even know why you keep going on?
.... don't know any other way to express anything other than just an random blurb on the internet to people you don't really know or will ever meet because it's safer that way?
.... want to talk, don't know what to say or who to say it to?
.... need to know that you're more than you are, and really
.... feel like you're wasting your life on nothing?
.... want to change the direction your life is going but don't know how to start, which way to go, or even where to begin?
Lord (I Don't Know) - Newsboys
Lord, I don't know where all this is going
Or how it all works out
Lead me to peace that is past understanding
A peace beyond all doubt
Don't worry .......... too much. It's late. Things always seem darker in the middle of the night. And then when the light comes ... it's not as dark.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Latest update ... as of four hours ago
Update on Chloe...........Headed back to the hospital!! :( 11-20-07
So we thought we had a day off today but the hospital just called and Chloe is in immediate need of a blood transfusion, her numbers have dropped to 240 and I am praying that we are not going to spend Thanksgiving in the hospital. Also, we have made plans (bought plane tickets) to go up to Portland for Christmas to be with our families and we are asking for prayer that it will all work out. We really need to be with family and our dear friends this holiday season. We thought we would wait until summer to see everyone when we move back but the closer the holidays get, the more we want to go "home" for Christmas. It's just not the same without family especially since David was deployed to Iraq last Christmas and it's been two years since we have been up to Washington to see his family for Christmas. Do I sound desperate? I am! We NEED to be "home" this year. Thank you for praying for the Lord's will in it all. The doctor agreed yesterday that it was a very good thing to go. There were some real concerns but he said they didn't outweigh the benefits of going for all of us- especially Chloe. It's all in the Lord's hands! We are trusting in Him as always.
Love,
Karla
We are home!!!!
So we thought we had a day off today but the hospital just called and Chloe is in immediate need of a blood transfusion, her numbers have dropped to 240 and I am praying that we are not going to spend Thanksgiving in the hospital. Also, we have made plans (bought plane tickets) to go up to Portland for Christmas to be with our families and we are asking for prayer that it will all work out. We really need to be with family and our dear friends this holiday season. We thought we would wait until summer to see everyone when we move back but the closer the holidays get, the more we want to go "home" for Christmas. It's just not the same without family especially since David was deployed to Iraq last Christmas and it's been two years since we have been up to Washington to see his family for Christmas. Do I sound desperate? I am! We NEED to be "home" this year. Thank you for praying for the Lord's will in it all. The doctor agreed yesterday that it was a very good thing to go. There were some real concerns but he said they didn't outweigh the benefits of going for all of us- especially Chloe. It's all in the Lord's hands! We are trusting in Him as always.
Love,
Karla
We are home!!!!
| |||
| I wanted to post a praise report to let you all know that we are back home! Thank you so much for praying!!! So many of you emailed/beboed me back saying how you were going to pray right away and that Chloe had been on your hearts. Thank you for praying, we serve such a wonderful, awesome God and He is so good to us time and time again. Chloe needed two units of blood and right away started getting chills and got very flushed. The nurse caring for her grew concerned and got the doctor. Usually with chills an oncology patient is admitted right away for a minimum of three days and I knew that because some of the medications mask a fever but not chills. I was trying to fight back tears and so I just breathed a prayer and I knew that right at that moment many others were praying too. In a matter of minutes Chloe stopped shaking and all of her symptoms subsided. I knew the Lord was with us and with Chloe right at that moment and I knew she was touched by the mighty hand of God as only He can do. The doctor shook his head and said "Hmmm, she seems to be fine now". I can't count how many times that Chloe has left the doctor's scratching their heads, but we know and we are always quick to give God the glory. We are so very thankful to be back at home! We pray for all of those that are still at the hospital and are not going to have the luxury of being home for Thanksgiving this year. Glory be to God! Our love and thanks, The Diemer Family | |||
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Random stuff
My average readership jumped up this week. In fact, I had two record high days of twelve hits each. I think that's the most hits I've had ever. And I was starting to think no one read this anymore. Okay, so I still think that. But at least now I do know that people do stumble across this blog once in awhile. There were some posts that I really wanted some feedback on, but no comments so no feedback. It's interesting to know that I get a lot of referrals from google searches. Too bad I can't seem to use google search to find some old friends.
Update on Chloe
For those of you who are unable to see Karla's Bebo, here's the two most recent entries on her blog. I know Stacy put some updates on her blog once. I also have a picture of Chloe from Sunday.
And for those of you who are unfamiliar with this ... Chloe is a sweet little girl who was diagnosed with leukemia in May of this year. It's been a rollercoaster of a year for Chloe and her family. But God is faithful, and God is good (all the time). I'll try to post more updates for those of you unable to get onto Bebo. Let's all keep Chloe and her family in our prayers.
From Karla
She was able to start part two of her Standard Delayed Intensification Phase yesterday. We were at the CHOC Cancer Clinic for about ten hours getting multiple kinds of chemo and she also had another Lumbar Puncture. The LP had to be done two times because she fought the medication so much they had to give her five times the dose to put a child of her weight under in order to do the procedure again. Chloe is quite a fighter and such a brave girl in all that she faces daily. She has confidence that the Lord is right beside her and with His help faces most of her battles head on! Chloe will be in daily hospital treatment for the next 14 days and then will go into a two week "rest" period so that she can regain her numbers once again before starting her final phase Maintenance. It makes me cry to even type that, this has been such a struggle for her and us that I can't believe that we are almost to the last phase. Yes, the last phase does last for three years and some cases kids come out of remission during the final phase, but we are confident that Chloe will see this through. Anything is possible with the amount of prayer that is going up daily for Chloe. We are so thankful for that. I mean who EVER heard of numbers going from 738 all the way to 1892 in just 4 days?? It took her four weeks to get to 738! Prayer is the answer for that!! We are off to the hospital this morning but I wanted to get this update out as soon as I had a minute. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the many, many prayers. Your prayers are obviously working! Praise the Lord for that! We are truly thankful for each one that has breathed a prayer for Chloe. It means everything to us. Thank you for carrying our burden with our family. I feel blessed to be connected to so many prayer warriors no matter what the "burden" is- you are ready. We are so blessed by your love, support and prayers.
With happy, happy hearts and thanksgiving,
The Diemers
So the last time Chloe went through this treatment (part one of two parts) during the first part of October...she went right in the hospital, it totally did her in. Her numbers bottomed out at zero for a week. This time she is still fighting and going strong into the second week! In fact, today is the last day of treatment of this phase and still without a hospital stay. We are just praising the Lord for all His mercy and healing. Chloe's numbers at the last update were 1892 then by the end of the first week they dropped to 1372 which is still awesome, so awesome that we were able to attend church on Sunday! By Tuesday the 13th they were 758 (still good for where she is at in treatment), Chloe wont get labs again until Monday but so far everything is looking wonderful and I feel so happy for Chloe that she made it through two weeks of very intense therapy without going to the hospital. Chloe was able to make it to the tea party on Monday and even go walk in the sand at our beach Monday evening to watch the sunset (it's still in the 70's to low 80's here). Today after school some wonderful friends are putting together a locks of love cut (Spare Some Hair) in honor of Chloe, she will be there with a mask on to watch and support all the girls and women that are donating their hair today. My sister Tami, David and I are still plugging away on our training for the LA Marathon, so far so good. Chloe is the team's honored teammate and if her numbers are high enough she will meet the team on the 8th of December for our first 10 mile training day! David has today off so he took Chloe to her appointment this morning to give me a break from the hospital this week. Chloe suggested that we give her a break and both go and leave her here instead..lol. She is in great spirits. I wanted to mention one more thing if I may.... I normally don't speak much about Ashley & Hannah but I just want to say that they have been the best sisters through all of this. I am proud of how patient, understanding, and helpful they have been.
We thank you for your continued prayers to make in to the next phase. This last phase of Maintenance will last for 2-3 years and will be much easier after the first three months of treatment. Chloe has a rest period for the next two weeks so that her numbers can get back up to 750 to start this final phase by Dec 3rd. We are trusting in the Lord and we know that everything is in His perfect timing. Chloe is in His hands. We appreciate your prayers and we feel them.
With much love and thanks,
Karla & Family
And for those of you who are unfamiliar with this ... Chloe is a sweet little girl who was diagnosed with leukemia in May of this year. It's been a rollercoaster of a year for Chloe and her family. But God is faithful, and God is good (all the time). I'll try to post more updates for those of you unable to get onto Bebo. Let's all keep Chloe and her family in our prayers.
From Karla
Update on Chloe 11-06-07
The latest on Chloe is that she did make her numbers on Friday!! Yahoo! Not only did she make the minimum 750 but she soared past that all the way to 1892!!! Wow!! We didn't get her numbers until Monday morning, if we had known that, we could have gone to church Sunday!!She was able to start part two of her Standard Delayed Intensification Phase yesterday. We were at the CHOC Cancer Clinic for about ten hours getting multiple kinds of chemo and she also had another Lumbar Puncture. The LP had to be done two times because she fought the medication so much they had to give her five times the dose to put a child of her weight under in order to do the procedure again. Chloe is quite a fighter and such a brave girl in all that she faces daily. She has confidence that the Lord is right beside her and with His help faces most of her battles head on! Chloe will be in daily hospital treatment for the next 14 days and then will go into a two week "rest" period so that she can regain her numbers once again before starting her final phase Maintenance. It makes me cry to even type that, this has been such a struggle for her and us that I can't believe that we are almost to the last phase. Yes, the last phase does last for three years and some cases kids come out of remission during the final phase, but we are confident that Chloe will see this through. Anything is possible with the amount of prayer that is going up daily for Chloe. We are so thankful for that. I mean who EVER heard of numbers going from 738 all the way to 1892 in just 4 days?? It took her four weeks to get to 738! Prayer is the answer for that!! We are off to the hospital this morning but I wanted to get this update out as soon as I had a minute. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the many, many prayers. Your prayers are obviously working! Praise the Lord for that! We are truly thankful for each one that has breathed a prayer for Chloe. It means everything to us. Thank you for carrying our burden with our family. I feel blessed to be connected to so many prayer warriors no matter what the "burden" is- you are ready. We are so blessed by your love, support and prayers.
With happy, happy hearts and thanksgiving,
The Diemers
Update on Chloe 11-16-07
Hello Friends and Family,So the last time Chloe went through this treatment (part one of two parts) during the first part of October...she went right in the hospital, it totally did her in. Her numbers bottomed out at zero for a week. This time she is still fighting and going strong into the second week! In fact, today is the last day of treatment of this phase and still without a hospital stay. We are just praising the Lord for all His mercy and healing. Chloe's numbers at the last update were 1892 then by the end of the first week they dropped to 1372 which is still awesome, so awesome that we were able to attend church on Sunday! By Tuesday the 13th they were 758 (still good for where she is at in treatment), Chloe wont get labs again until Monday but so far everything is looking wonderful and I feel so happy for Chloe that she made it through two weeks of very intense therapy without going to the hospital. Chloe was able to make it to the tea party on Monday and even go walk in the sand at our beach Monday evening to watch the sunset (it's still in the 70's to low 80's here). Today after school some wonderful friends are putting together a locks of love cut (Spare Some Hair) in honor of Chloe, she will be there with a mask on to watch and support all the girls and women that are donating their hair today. My sister Tami, David and I are still plugging away on our training for the LA Marathon, so far so good. Chloe is the team's honored teammate and if her numbers are high enough she will meet the team on the 8th of December for our first 10 mile training day! David has today off so he took Chloe to her appointment this morning to give me a break from the hospital this week. Chloe suggested that we give her a break and both go and leave her here instead..lol. She is in great spirits. I wanted to mention one more thing if I may.... I normally don't speak much about Ashley & Hannah but I just want to say that they have been the best sisters through all of this. I am proud of how patient, understanding, and helpful they have been.
We thank you for your continued prayers to make in to the next phase. This last phase of Maintenance will last for 2-3 years and will be much easier after the first three months of treatment. Chloe has a rest period for the next two weeks so that her numbers can get back up to 750 to start this final phase by Dec 3rd. We are trusting in the Lord and we know that everything is in His perfect timing. Chloe is in His hands. We appreciate your prayers and we feel them.
With much love and thanks,
Karla & Family
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Book Wish List
We were at Barnes and Noble yesterday and I walked by the Sports section and a book caught my eye. According to Brandon, I just about cried (just like Angelina when she found these pair of shoes at Ross). I looked at several books that I liked. However, when I got home, I realized I don't remember what book it was that caught my eye! I was sleep deprived. In fact, I haven't had a sleep deprived weekend like this one in awhile. Friday night was a get-together at Nina's. Because I'm not "allowed" to sleep over, I got home around 3 AM. I got on my computer because Nina wanted me to upload some things onto her *new* Ipod. Turns out my Itunes was outdated and when I updated it, my Quicktime was outdated so I had to update that too. I woke up around 10:30 (thanks to my sister) after getting to bed around 5:30. Had a long full day/ LOL we played Taboo (boys vs girls, it was five vs two at first). Nina and I (and Gail later on) beat Daniel-Brandon-Harold-Kevin. One of my words was "bond" and I got off on the wrong track. So I then said, "he played for the giants, Barry ..." and Nina got it. Later I got the word "stock" and I did the same thing. "Barry ... "then she said "bonds" and then I said "what's another word for bonds". I got the word "out" but I said "you need three of these to get out of an inning" and I meant to say "end an inning." I should've just said "three strikes and you're..." Anyway, got home and went to bed around 1/1:30 to get up at 6:30 for a staff meeting. I went to Starbucks and it took me three tries to get my order out of my mouth correctly. Then at the staff meeting, we had to write something and I could barely write anything legible. In fact, I'm not even sure half the stuff discussed or half the things I said. After the staff meeting, I went to Sunday school and church, then got lunch and went home for a bit. Before going to work, I went to Starbucks again. I went to the one by the church because it's closer and easier to get to. But there were about nine people in line and I didn't have time for that. So I drove to the new one on Glendale Blvd and there was hardly anyone there. I think I found a new Starbucks to start going to. Anyway, after work, I went back to Barnes and Noble to find that book. I put a bunch of book titles in my phone to look up later. I also found "Haunted Baseball"! I've been wanting this book since I found out about it. So, I just spent the last hour, hour and half, searching Amazon for those baseball books and I found more while I was at it. Here's my finished list.
- Sports Illustrated: The Baseball Book by Editors of Sports Illustrated
- The 2006 ESPN Baseball Encyclopedia (Espn... by Peter Gammons
- Obsessed with...Baseball: Test Your Knowledge of the America's Pastime (Obsessed With...) by The Baseball Guys
- Game of My Life Dodgers (Game of My Life) by Mark Langill
- Through a Blue Lens: The Brooklyn Dodgers Photographs of Barney Stein, 1937-1957
by Dennis D'Agostino (Author), et al. - Joy in Mudville - The Big Book of Baseball Humor by Dick Schaap and Mort Gerberg
- Tales from the Dugout : The Greatest True Baseball Stories Ever Told by Mike Shannon
- Illustrated History Of The Dodgers by Richard Whittingham
- The Dodgers Encyclopedia by William McNeil (Author)
- The Dodgers: 120 Years of Dodgers Baseball by Glenn Stout
- The Ultimate Baseball Quiz Book: (Third Revised Edition) (Baseball Quiz Book) by Dom Forker
- The Big Book of Baseball Brainteasers by Dom Forker, Robert Obojski, and Wayne Stewart (Hardcover -
- Tales from the Dodger Dugout by Tommy Davis and Paul Gutierrez
- Carl Erskine's Tales from the Dodgers Dugout: Extra Innings by Carl Erskine (Author), Vin Scully (Foreword)
- Rick Monday's Tales from the Dodger Dugout (Tales) by Rick Monday, Ken Gurnick, and Tommy Lasorda
- More Tales from the Dugout by Mike Shannon
- The ESPN Baseball Encyclopedia, Fourth Edition (Espn Baseball Encyclopedia) by Peter Gammons
- Brooklyn Remembered: The 1955 Days of the Dodgers by Maury Allen and Bob Costas
- 1001 Baseball Questions Your Friends Can't... by Dom Forker
- The Best Book of Baseball Facts and Stats... by Luke Friend
- The Major League Baseball Book of Fabulous Facts and Awesome Trivia: From the Legendary to the Obscure, 500 Baseball Questions Covering All the Numbers, the Moments, the Records, Even the Nicknames by Ken Shouler (Author)
- Dodgers Essential: Everything You Need to Know to Be a Real Fan! (Essential)
by Steven Travers (Author) - Few And Chosen: Defining Dodger Greatness Across the Eras (Few and Chosen) by Duke Snider (Author), et al.
- Tales from the Diamondback Dugout: A Collection of the Greatest Arizona Diamondback Stories Ever Told by Bob Page
- Tales From the Ballpark : More of the Greatest True Baseball Stories Ever Told by Mike Shannon
- True Blue: The Dramatic History of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Told by the Men Who Lived It by Steve Delsohn
- Baseball Bafflers : Quizzes, Trivia, and Other Ballpark Challenges by Fastball Makov (Editor)
- Big League Trivia: Facts, Figures, Oddities, and Coincidences from our National Pastime by Madison McEntire (Author)
- The Baseball Almanac: Big Bodacious Book of Baseball by Dan Schlossberg (Author), et al.
- Baseball Bafflers 2: The Second Inning by Slammin Sam Weiser (Editor)
- Ninety Feet from Fame: Close Calls with Baseball Immortality by Michael Robbins
- Baseball Eccentrics: The Most Entertaining, Outrageous, and Unforgettable Characters in the Game by Bill Lee and Jim Prime
- Baseball's Most Wanted II: The Top 10 Book of More Bad Hops, Screwball Players, and Other Oddities (Most Wanted) by Floyd Conner
- Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig by Jonathan Eig (Hardcover -
- Rob Neyer's Big Book of Baseball Blunders: A Complete Guide to the Worst Decisions and Stupidest Moments in Baseball History by Rob Neyer
- The Hardball Times Baseball Annual 2007 (H... by Brian Borawski
Sunday, November 04, 2007
I miss my friend
My internet has been funky for the last couple of days. Remember a couple entries ago about friends who don’t keep in touch? Okay, it’s been a long time ago. (Seen June 10, 2007 - Don't know what to say)
Anyway, I went to an event last week and another one this week that brought up a lot of old feelings and memories. And on top of those, I was looking through old e-mails and journal entries. The first event I went to was a marching band competition. It brought back a lot of memories from my three years of marching band. Then there was running into the current music teacher at my high school. I did end up going to the home coming game after all. That also brought back memories of all those long, boring football games that I had to sit through during those three years of marching band. But, this isn’t the first football game I’ve gone to since I graduated. I went to Homecoming two years after I graduated. I think. And I wanted to leave because of all the emotions I was feeling at the time. This time around, it was easier for me to be at the game. And this time around, I got to leave when I wanted to. Which was during the third quarter. But, I had a better experience this time around, too.
What was the point I was trying to get to?
I miss my friend. I miss this friend a lot.
What makes me more angry and upset is, this friend has moved again. I haven’t heard from this friend in a long time and I’m not even sure if the e-mail address that I do have is current. It was a work address and since it’s no longer where this friend works, it probably won’t work. Right?
For my graduation, this friend made a power point presentation for me. And that meant so much more to me than any card Hallmark could put out. But looking back on those e-mails and those words … how much did this friend really mean? Here we are years later, and I do have to wonder. If our paths were to cross, would this friend remember me? Could this friend remember me? It’s been a couple years. And I know that with all the people this friend comes into contact with, I don’t really expect this friend to remember me. After all, I run into people all the time who I do remember but they don’t remember me. Why should it be different with this friend?
And why am I putting this on my blog? I don’t know. I guess I just had to share it with someone. Since there isn’t anyone in my life I feel that I can share this with, I might as well share it with anyone willing to read my blog. I know this post jumps around a lot and probably doesn’t make much sense. Then again, I don’t make sense, this blog doesn’t make sense, so I guess together … we make sense (anyone know what movie that’s from? Okay, so it’s not verbatim).
Here’s two of the e-mails I found. The first one was sent to me just days after 9-11. The second one was the last question of an internet quiz/survey. You know, those things that have way too many questions but we sit through them and answer them anyway. The last question asked the reader, “what do you think of me.” And that was his response.
As we go through life, we often forget to say thanks,... we take things and people for granted, and often no one thinks anything of it. I gotta say right now that I'm grateful that God placed you in my life, I hope that we can maintain a friendship of some sort long after you graduate. I find that on some days you end up being a balancing force, and on others you remind me of my moral & spiritual compass. I know that if tuesday hadn't been unique, these words would never have seen light,... yet I feel that it is right that they now are here.
thanks again,
Love in christ,
what do I think of you? I think the world of you,.... you embody some of the finest qualities that i desire in friends etc. I have even stated that on occasion you have been my moral compass! i am grateful that god placed you in my life
From the power point presentation
Things I like about you …
*You live the example of Christ
*You always speak & act with honor
*You have given so much to me
* You have no idea how beautiful you are
Hope …
*Your future is bright
*You never forget me
*You get everything you desire
*Love finds you, and he knows just how precious you truly are
You are the best!
I will really miss not being able to see you every da
Anyway, I went to an event last week and another one this week that brought up a lot of old feelings and memories. And on top of those, I was looking through old e-mails and journal entries. The first event I went to was a marching band competition. It brought back a lot of memories from my three years of marching band. Then there was running into the current music teacher at my high school. I did end up going to the home coming game after all. That also brought back memories of all those long, boring football games that I had to sit through during those three years of marching band. But, this isn’t the first football game I’ve gone to since I graduated. I went to Homecoming two years after I graduated. I think. And I wanted to leave because of all the emotions I was feeling at the time. This time around, it was easier for me to be at the game. And this time around, I got to leave when I wanted to. Which was during the third quarter. But, I had a better experience this time around, too.
What was the point I was trying to get to?
I miss my friend. I miss this friend a lot.
What makes me more angry and upset is, this friend has moved again. I haven’t heard from this friend in a long time and I’m not even sure if the e-mail address that I do have is current. It was a work address and since it’s no longer where this friend works, it probably won’t work. Right?
For my graduation, this friend made a power point presentation for me. And that meant so much more to me than any card Hallmark could put out. But looking back on those e-mails and those words … how much did this friend really mean? Here we are years later, and I do have to wonder. If our paths were to cross, would this friend remember me? Could this friend remember me? It’s been a couple years. And I know that with all the people this friend comes into contact with, I don’t really expect this friend to remember me. After all, I run into people all the time who I do remember but they don’t remember me. Why should it be different with this friend?
And why am I putting this on my blog? I don’t know. I guess I just had to share it with someone. Since there isn’t anyone in my life I feel that I can share this with, I might as well share it with anyone willing to read my blog. I know this post jumps around a lot and probably doesn’t make much sense. Then again, I don’t make sense, this blog doesn’t make sense, so I guess together … we make sense (anyone know what movie that’s from? Okay, so it’s not verbatim).
Here’s two of the e-mails I found. The first one was sent to me just days after 9-11. The second one was the last question of an internet quiz/survey. You know, those things that have way too many questions but we sit through them and answer them anyway. The last question asked the reader, “what do you think of me.” And that was his response.
As we go through life, we often forget to say thanks,... we take things and people for granted, and often no one thinks anything of it. I gotta say right now that I'm grateful that God placed you in my life, I hope that we can maintain a friendship of some sort long after you graduate. I find that on some days you end up being a balancing force, and on others you remind me of my moral & spiritual compass. I know that if tuesday hadn't been unique, these words would never have seen light,... yet I feel that it is right that they now are here.
thanks again,
Love in christ,
what do I think of you? I think the world of you,.... you embody some of the finest qualities that i desire in friends etc. I have even stated that on occasion you have been my moral compass! i am grateful that god placed you in my life
From the power point presentation
Things I like about you …
*You live the example of Christ
*You always speak & act with honor
*You have given so much to me
* You have no idea how beautiful you are
Hope …
*Your future is bright
*You never forget me
*You get everything you desire
*Love finds you, and he knows just how precious you truly are
You are the best!
I will really miss not being able to see you every da
Saturday, November 03, 2007
I don't know
I just don't know any more. It's been two years. Exactly two years since i last heard from this friend. While writing in my journal i used my phone to look up when was the last time i heard from this friend. The last e.mail i received was two years ago. But apparently someone else i know may have my friend's current e.mail address. Which makes me wonder. If this friend could keep in touch with my other class mate why not me? And more than anything i wish i had more than a blog to use to share how i am feeling. I wish i had something other than a journal to express everything i feel in. Because guess what? Even though i can write down how i feel it's not enough. I need someone else to share this with. Someone who won't make this all about them. Someone who won't make me feel like they're better than i am or i'm not as good or good enough. Because i want to be able to share what i'm feeling without it turning into something that's all bout them. I miss having a friend who i could talk to and could encourage me
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Talk about timing
For a long time now, I've been wondering what happened to the marching band at my high school. After I graduated, my band director stuck around for two more years before moving on. If what I found online is correct, he has moved on from where he was after he left Marshall. Anyway, since he left in 2004, Marshall (my high school) wasn't able to hire another band director till 2006. During those two years, instruments were stolen, everything was put into storage, and the music program was gone. Alumni like me wondered what was going on and if there was a band anymore.
Well, I don't have to wonder anymore.
Tonight, I was supposed to take my brother to Marshall at seven. I didn't get home till eight. He said he didn't want to go anymore. A few minutes later, he changed his mind. I am so glad that he did. Talk about timing. When I dropped off my brother, I noticed the band room was open and there were some guys leaving. To be honest, the person who I guess was the music teacher didn't look old enough to be one (to me anyway). I thought he was another student. So, I parked and walked up to the band room. I was nervous about approaching them. I didn't know what to say. I watched the teacher lock up the room and check to make sure they were locked. That reminded me of all the times Juan, Parker, and I locked up the band room at the end of the day. As they talked, I thought about how was I going to approach them.
Finally, I walked up to them and said, "I know this may seem like a stupid question, but does Marshall still have a band?" We talked for about half an hour. Marshall did not have a marching band, but they did have a pep band. The teacher (James) explained what happened after Parker left. He asked me questions about what band was like when I was in it. I answered them as best as I could. It has been five years. I told him I graduated in 02. He said he graduated in 01. No wonder I thought he looked like he could be one of the kids. He's pretty young himself. I'm curious to see where James is going to go with the band. He said he didn't want to do a full marching band with the competitions and everything. He wanted to the focus to be on the music, not ... I guess not the performing part.
I have dropped off and picked up my brother at Marshall several times this year. And this is the first time I have ever seen anyone come out of the band room. Talk about perfect timing! Well, timing actually isn't always perfect. Because about fifteen minutes after I left Marshall, my brother called me. I had to go back and get him. When I got back to Marshall, I waited in the car for him and his friend for awhile. I didn't mind. The funny part was, I was going through an old phone bill looking for a phone number (since I lost several when my phone was stolen). While I was looking through it, I felt my car shake and heard something hit the front of my car. Some of Billy's friends had been tossing a football around. I had thought about backing my car up so they wouldn't hit me, but I didn't. I should have. Because one of the guys didn't catch the ball and it did hit my car. I looked up and they were laughing and looking guilty. Billy came over and I rolled my window down. His friends told him to tell me that they were sorry. Then the two guys came over and apologized too. It was quite funny actually.
One more thing ... to echo my blog entry from Saturday... boy am I glad I'm not going to high school now with band directors like James and Joe (Joe is the band director from Arroyo).
Well, I don't have to wonder anymore.
Tonight, I was supposed to take my brother to Marshall at seven. I didn't get home till eight. He said he didn't want to go anymore. A few minutes later, he changed his mind. I am so glad that he did. Talk about timing. When I dropped off my brother, I noticed the band room was open and there were some guys leaving. To be honest, the person who I guess was the music teacher didn't look old enough to be one (to me anyway). I thought he was another student. So, I parked and walked up to the band room. I was nervous about approaching them. I didn't know what to say. I watched the teacher lock up the room and check to make sure they were locked. That reminded me of all the times Juan, Parker, and I locked up the band room at the end of the day. As they talked, I thought about how was I going to approach them.
Finally, I walked up to them and said, "I know this may seem like a stupid question, but does Marshall still have a band?" We talked for about half an hour. Marshall did not have a marching band, but they did have a pep band. The teacher (James) explained what happened after Parker left. He asked me questions about what band was like when I was in it. I answered them as best as I could. It has been five years. I told him I graduated in 02. He said he graduated in 01. No wonder I thought he looked like he could be one of the kids. He's pretty young himself. I'm curious to see where James is going to go with the band. He said he didn't want to do a full marching band with the competitions and everything. He wanted to the focus to be on the music, not ... I guess not the performing part.
I have dropped off and picked up my brother at Marshall several times this year. And this is the first time I have ever seen anyone come out of the band room. Talk about perfect timing! Well, timing actually isn't always perfect. Because about fifteen minutes after I left Marshall, my brother called me. I had to go back and get him. When I got back to Marshall, I waited in the car for him and his friend for awhile. I didn't mind. The funny part was, I was going through an old phone bill looking for a phone number (since I lost several when my phone was stolen). While I was looking through it, I felt my car shake and heard something hit the front of my car. Some of Billy's friends had been tossing a football around. I had thought about backing my car up so they wouldn't hit me, but I didn't. I should have. Because one of the guys didn't catch the ball and it did hit my car. I looked up and they were laughing and looking guilty. Billy came over and I rolled my window down. His friends told him to tell me that they were sorry. Then the two guys came over and apologized too. It was quite funny actually.
One more thing ... to echo my blog entry from Saturday... boy am I glad I'm not going to high school now with band directors like James and Joe (Joe is the band director from Arroyo).
Happy Halloween
And boy were the crazies out today. It's been crazy people at work week or something. For example, today, one lady came in asking about a package she just ordered. Literally. She must've just placed the order on Saturday and they told her it wouldn't arrive in the store till maybe Saturday. And she comes in today to see if it already arrived. Then she asks about another order that must not have gone through. The entire time my boss is trying to take care of this and order it for her, she is muttering about not coming to this store anymore because she can't seem to get helped right. Now, this other lady was at the register when I came back from my break. Tracy (my former store manager who is now one of the assistant managers) was dealing with her. My store manager already tried to deal with her, but handed her off to Tracy. The customer was returning several items. But she wanted the return in cash. However, she used a merchandise credit to pay for part of it. So, she could only receiver a certain amount in cash and another amount in store credit. The customer refused to take the store credit. She wanted it all in cash. However, we can't do that. My store manager had an electrician waiting and he was just watching the entire thing. Tracy explained the policy to the customer SEVERAL times. It must have taken at least fifteen to twenty minutes before the customer took her merchandise back and left the store.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Finally...
Finally. There is some Todd Agnew sheet music available online. I tell ya. Todd Agnew is one of the hardest musicians to find sheet music for. I've been waiting for over a year and a half now for sheet music for his Christmas album, "Do You Hear What I Hear?" During the summer, they re-released his CD and for a whole lot of money it came with the sheet music for the CD. However, it was more than I was willing to spend. Finally ... the sheet music is also available now on MusicNotes.com, which is where I purchase the majority of my digital sheet music. I am so excited. Now only if I can scrape together enough money to buy some songs that I will probably never sing ... but what else is new?
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
What I did on my last day of vacation...
... I went to a marching band competition!
A couple weeks ago, Heidi told me her high school was hosting a band competition on October 28th. I told her I would request that day off so I could go. Then I realized, I was going to have that day off anyway. It was the last day of my one-week vacation. I was so excited. I haven't gone to a band competition ... I think since the year after I graduated. I went to several competitions during that year. But after that ... I don't think I went to anymore.
This competition brought back a lot of old memories and emotions. But I'm glad I'm not in high school anymore, on the field competing. But seeing those bands on the field ... I remember some of those emotions you get when you're on the field ... getting off the field ... circling up after a performance ... The best part of all this? Heidi's solo! Yup, our little Heidi had a solo during her band's field show.
The best show? It was definitely Thousand Oaks High School. We passed this band when Nina and I went to the car. They had some TALL trombone players. They had black uniforms and each player had a number on the front of their uniform. Why? The theme of their show was time. It was really cool. About a third from the end, everyone put down their instruments. I'm not sure what to call what they did, but it was AWESOME! I'll link the video if I can ever upload it. And I guess I can say this online ... but boy am I glad I didn't have the band director Arroyo did when I was in high school ;-) . He he he :-D
Pictures are up on my flickr in the Downey Field Tournament set.
A couple weeks ago, Heidi told me her high school was hosting a band competition on October 28th. I told her I would request that day off so I could go. Then I realized, I was going to have that day off anyway. It was the last day of my one-week vacation. I was so excited. I haven't gone to a band competition ... I think since the year after I graduated. I went to several competitions during that year. But after that ... I don't think I went to anymore.
This competition brought back a lot of old memories and emotions. But I'm glad I'm not in high school anymore, on the field competing. But seeing those bands on the field ... I remember some of those emotions you get when you're on the field ... getting off the field ... circling up after a performance ... The best part of all this? Heidi's solo! Yup, our little Heidi had a solo during her band's field show.
The best show? It was definitely Thousand Oaks High School. We passed this band when Nina and I went to the car. They had some TALL trombone players. They had black uniforms and each player had a number on the front of their uniform. Why? The theme of their show was time. It was really cool. About a third from the end, everyone put down their instruments. I'm not sure what to call what they did, but it was AWESOME! I'll link the video if I can ever upload it. And I guess I can say this online ... but boy am I glad I didn't have the band director Arroyo did when I was in high school ;-) . He he he :-D
Pictures are up on my flickr in the Downey Field Tournament set.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Another one missing...
What I mean by that is ... I'm missing another memory card. It's bad enough that I'm missing my 1 gig memory card from my previous digital camera. When I got my new one, I got three 1 gig cards. Now one of them is temporarily misplaced. Where is it? If I knew, it wouldn't be temporarily misplaced. I need one of those big cases that holds multiple memory cards. How many? Let's see... I have two of those PNY 1 gig memory cards left, 1 512 mb SanDisk card, then the 32 mb Canon card that came with the camera, and a 2 gig mini-SD card. On top of that, I have two 1 gig cards misplaced. Then I still have my 256 and 512 compact Flash memory cards from my first digital cameras. In case you haven't noticed, the CompactFlash cards are becoming more and more obsolete. When I was considering replacing my first camera, I wanted to get another one that used CompactFlash. However, I discovered most cameras now use either a SD card, memory stick (if it was Sony), or another kind of card. But no Compact Flash. So, I moved on and got the SD cards. Why do I need so much memory space? Have you looked at my flickr lately? Do you know how many pictures I take? It's ridiculous. I know. But a zebra can't change it's spots, right?
Friday, October 19, 2007
It's been awhile, so let's catch up
Since I last posted. Only one post so far this month, huh? Wow. I think part of it was I didn't go online for a couple days. I had some things last week that I wanted to put down on my post, but by now they're all gone. How about them Rockies? Anyone out there following the Rockies now that the regular season is over? Amazing.
Anyone in my area venture to the Glendale Galleria this week? How many of you turned around as soon as you saw the line to get in? Not to get into the mall... to get into the parking lot? We got a notice a while back, maybe a week or two, about the construction they were going to do on Glendale Galleria Way. We had no idea it was going to be like this! It has been incredibly insane and ridiculous. When I went to work on Monday, I was fifteen minutes late because of the parking situation. There were two entrances open on Columbus (I discovered that when my usual two entrances on Broadway were closed and I had to drive around the mall) and a huge line to get in. On top of the line to get in, there was no parking allowed on the first level. So there was a huge line snaking through the first level to the second. Cones and cars everywhere. I drove down the street to find residential parking. First spot I parked in had a sign, from a certain time till five or six p.m., there was only two hour parking allowed. Considering it was two o'clock and I was late for my four hour shift, I had to move my car down a block.
Thankfully, I had Wednesday off and didn't have to deal with the parking. Tuesday, I was called out, saying they needed to cut back on their payroll hours and if I didn't mind not coming in. Of course, I didn't mind. I could use the hours, but if I didn't need to go in and deal with the parking, sure. Then today, I knew what a hassle parking was going to be. So I left my house an hour and a half before work so I could pick up my brother, drop him off, get gas for my car, and have time to fight with parking at the mall. It took me about twenty minutes to get to the roof level where I usually park. Getting out took about ten. And when I did get out, I ended up in the exit that only let you make a right turn. However, I needed to make a left. So I did what the car in front of me did. Pulled a U-turn. You know what else is ridiculous besides the single line to get into and around the parking lot? The people who don't know how to park their cars inside the yellow line. You know. The domino effect. One person parks crooked so everyone else is parked crooked. Then the you have the big SUV type vehicle who thinks it's a compact car and takes up two parking spaces!
And in case you missed it ... they filmed an episode of "Criminal Minds" on our street last week. They were filming at a house just two houses away from me. So, when I got home from work last Thursday, my street was blocked off. I parked on the corner and asked the police officer if I would be able to drive to my house. He said I should unless they made previous arrangements. So, I walked to my house, saw that my driveway was clear, and changed into some jeans and a t-shirt. I walked back up the block to get my car. When I was walking back to my house, I heard someone say "Hey Russell Martin girl." At first I thought it was one of the crew guys. But later on, I realized, it was the neighborhood guy who calls me "Russell Martin girl." The filming didn't wrap up till well after midnight. The Coroner van was parked in front of my house most of the day. Then when it got dark, they had the transformer thingy that provided their light and electricity. Billy's friend Cary came over to help him with his computer. When he was trying to leave, there was no way he could back out of the driveway. It was difficult because there was no good angle. So, he had to drive across our lawn and down the neighbor's driveway. Easy right? Well, the back of the truck made him coming down the driveway a little difficult.
On top of the filming and parking, someone left a rabbit on my front porch last Wednesday night, the night before the filming. It was either Wednesday or Tuesday night. My dad wanted to let it go. My brother and I wanted to keep it. We didn't want to let it go, because it would either become road kill or dog food. Angelina wanted to take it, but her mom wouldn't let her. Nina didn't want it because she thought it was fat and not cute. So, on Friday night, I brought it to church to see if I could find it a home. Angelina picked it up and held it. It was so good. It didn't try to run while she held it. It just sat there. Daniel convinced his mom to let him have it. Nina wanted it, after she saw it wasn't fat, and it was cute. Angelina thinks it's still a baby because it's head is so much bigger than the body. But because Daniel is still staying at Alan and Diane's, Nina was going to keep it for a week till they moved into their new apartment. On Saturday, they were painting the high school room and I got roped into going because Nina needed someone to pick up her, Harold, Kevin, and Daniel. While Nina and Harold were still at the dentist, I went to pick up Kevin and Daniel. They had Robbie (the rabbit) with them. At the church, we made a make-shift cage to keep Robbie it. He didn't stay in it half the time because we let him run around. Angelina brought a harness and leash she bought for her rabbit, Wyatt, but it was too big for Wyatt. So, we let Robbie run around. After that was done, we went to the pet store to get some things for Robbie. However, on the way there, Robbie decided not to be shy and take care of his "business" while sitting on Kevin's lap. Currently, Robbie has a cage and is still at Nina's house. But he's no longer hanging out in the tub or a in a plastic storage container. He's got his own cage, food and water bowls, and even a litter box that he does use to take care of his "business" ... most of the time. I'm glad Robbie found a good home. If I had known how friendly he was, I probably would have taken him out of the box more often. Because while we had it (for a few days), he spent most of his time in the box. I would've held him if I knew he was just going to sit there. He's so cute when he just flops over onto his side. The best is when he's cleaning his face and his ears. He is so adorable!
Anyone in my area venture to the Glendale Galleria this week? How many of you turned around as soon as you saw the line to get in? Not to get into the mall... to get into the parking lot? We got a notice a while back, maybe a week or two, about the construction they were going to do on Glendale Galleria Way. We had no idea it was going to be like this! It has been incredibly insane and ridiculous. When I went to work on Monday, I was fifteen minutes late because of the parking situation. There were two entrances open on Columbus (I discovered that when my usual two entrances on Broadway were closed and I had to drive around the mall) and a huge line to get in. On top of the line to get in, there was no parking allowed on the first level. So there was a huge line snaking through the first level to the second. Cones and cars everywhere. I drove down the street to find residential parking. First spot I parked in had a sign, from a certain time till five or six p.m., there was only two hour parking allowed. Considering it was two o'clock and I was late for my four hour shift, I had to move my car down a block.
Thankfully, I had Wednesday off and didn't have to deal with the parking. Tuesday, I was called out, saying they needed to cut back on their payroll hours and if I didn't mind not coming in. Of course, I didn't mind. I could use the hours, but if I didn't need to go in and deal with the parking, sure. Then today, I knew what a hassle parking was going to be. So I left my house an hour and a half before work so I could pick up my brother, drop him off, get gas for my car, and have time to fight with parking at the mall. It took me about twenty minutes to get to the roof level where I usually park. Getting out took about ten. And when I did get out, I ended up in the exit that only let you make a right turn. However, I needed to make a left. So I did what the car in front of me did. Pulled a U-turn. You know what else is ridiculous besides the single line to get into and around the parking lot? The people who don't know how to park their cars inside the yellow line. You know. The domino effect. One person parks crooked so everyone else is parked crooked. Then the you have the big SUV type vehicle who thinks it's a compact car and takes up two parking spaces!
And in case you missed it ... they filmed an episode of "Criminal Minds" on our street last week. They were filming at a house just two houses away from me. So, when I got home from work last Thursday, my street was blocked off. I parked on the corner and asked the police officer if I would be able to drive to my house. He said I should unless they made previous arrangements. So, I walked to my house, saw that my driveway was clear, and changed into some jeans and a t-shirt. I walked back up the block to get my car. When I was walking back to my house, I heard someone say "Hey Russell Martin girl." At first I thought it was one of the crew guys. But later on, I realized, it was the neighborhood guy who calls me "Russell Martin girl." The filming didn't wrap up till well after midnight. The Coroner van was parked in front of my house most of the day. Then when it got dark, they had the transformer thingy that provided their light and electricity. Billy's friend Cary came over to help him with his computer. When he was trying to leave, there was no way he could back out of the driveway. It was difficult because there was no good angle. So, he had to drive across our lawn and down the neighbor's driveway. Easy right? Well, the back of the truck made him coming down the driveway a little difficult.
On top of the filming and parking, someone left a rabbit on my front porch last Wednesday night, the night before the filming. It was either Wednesday or Tuesday night. My dad wanted to let it go. My brother and I wanted to keep it. We didn't want to let it go, because it would either become road kill or dog food. Angelina wanted to take it, but her mom wouldn't let her. Nina didn't want it because she thought it was fat and not cute. So, on Friday night, I brought it to church to see if I could find it a home. Angelina picked it up and held it. It was so good. It didn't try to run while she held it. It just sat there. Daniel convinced his mom to let him have it. Nina wanted it, after she saw it wasn't fat, and it was cute. Angelina thinks it's still a baby because it's head is so much bigger than the body. But because Daniel is still staying at Alan and Diane's, Nina was going to keep it for a week till they moved into their new apartment. On Saturday, they were painting the high school room and I got roped into going because Nina needed someone to pick up her, Harold, Kevin, and Daniel. While Nina and Harold were still at the dentist, I went to pick up Kevin and Daniel. They had Robbie (the rabbit) with them. At the church, we made a make-shift cage to keep Robbie it. He didn't stay in it half the time because we let him run around. Angelina brought a harness and leash she bought for her rabbit, Wyatt, but it was too big for Wyatt. So, we let Robbie run around. After that was done, we went to the pet store to get some things for Robbie. However, on the way there, Robbie decided not to be shy and take care of his "business" while sitting on Kevin's lap. Currently, Robbie has a cage and is still at Nina's house. But he's no longer hanging out in the tub or a in a plastic storage container. He's got his own cage, food and water bowls, and even a litter box that he does use to take care of his "business" ... most of the time. I'm glad Robbie found a good home. If I had known how friendly he was, I probably would have taken him out of the box more often. Because while we had it (for a few days), he spent most of his time in the box. I would've held him if I knew he was just going to sit there. He's so cute when he just flops over onto his side. The best is when he's cleaning his face and his ears. He is so adorable!
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Hate is a strong word
But it comes close. I know we're not supposed to hate. I was putting some of my stuff away and noticed that I was missing some things. I asked my mom about it and she said my "sister" took two boxes of MY stuff home with her. MY STUFF. I can't even call her "sister". These were MY things that she felt she was free to take to wherever it was she was living. Without asking me. She doesn't even live here anymore and she feels that she can come in here, ringing the door bell like everyone's awake rather than sleeping at two in the morning. I am so angry. There's a lot of negative stuff in between us. A lot of negative history. To make a long story short, my blood pressure goes up every time I hear her bedroom door creak when she was living here. When I heard her come home last weekend, my heart beat started racing. I can't explain it. I can't explain how I feel. That's just it. I rather we go our separate ways and never have to see each other again. And I rather she leaves MY STUFF alone. I can't be home right now. I think as late as it is, I'm going to find an open Starbucks and leave the house for awhile. Let's hope I don't run into trouble
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Like the Dodgers, bad start but it finished well (12 - 6)
To say the least, both the Dodgers and I got off to a bad start at the beginning. Who goes first? Me or the Dodgers? Well, the quicker one to tell will go first. Things looked very bad when the Dodgers trailed the Giants by 4 runs and it was only the second inning. Then things started looking better when the Dodgers offense got sparked, including a home run from yours truly, Russell Martin! He's just one shy of being the only other catcher besides Ivan Rodriguez to go 20 / 20. Things were looking up when we had the lead, but it didn't last long. The Giants tied it up in the next half inning and it remained tied well into the tenth inning. Russell got up to bat in the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded. Here was his chance to make something happen. When nothing happened and he walked away with another strikeout, he struck the ground with his bat. It sounded like he might've cracked it. That's okay, because it made it easier for him to break his bat once he got into the dug out. His helmet went flying after the shattered bat. So... who was the hero of the day? Luis Gonzalez came up to pinch-hit for Saito in the bottom of the tenth inning. I had completely forgotten that Adam LaRoche was on-base when Gonzo sent the ball to the center-field (it might've shaded left a bit) wall. It looked like it was going to clear the wall. It was enough to send LaRoche home with the winning run! There was also a great double-play when Kemp caught a fly ball and then fired it to Russell who tagged out the runner. The game went 3 hours and 42 minutes. So, I was at the Stadium for over four hours, had to change my batteries (for my camera once) and right before Gonzo went up, I had to change my memory card. Oh, and guess what? About the fifth/sixth inning, these two guys and a little girl in my row got up and left for a bit. Then they came back. Guess what? One of them knocked my soda over. Just my luck. So my right foot was soaked in soda and I sat in a puddle of Coke all night. At least I drank about a fifth of it this time. I couldn't believe it. My soda got knocked over again. This was the third time this week in two games that it got knocked over. Thankfully I'm not going to tomorrow's game or else I'd have to buy a bottle of water instead. And knowing my luck, the cap will be loose when that gets knocked over. And you know beach balls are part of the game right? I guess not in our section because there weren't too many beach balls up in the top deck. Paper airplanes were their replacement. There were a couple good ones that would go pretty far. This guy a couple rows told a couple guys to my left to stop throwing paper airplanes. These guys' planes were more like bombs because they never went far and usually nose-bombed. The planes farther to my right usually floated really well. Long-hair-guy told the plane guys that it was childish and unfair to the other people in the stadium. Around the 8th inning, these two guys came down and sat in the first row. They started folding paper airplanes. Long-hair-guy leans over and gives them a lecture, too. Security finally came and got them. Now, how did I feel about this? I liked the occasional ones that would float across the stadium. But the constant nose-bombers got annoying. Just like I can't stand girls who scream like they're screaming bloody murder every time the "make some noise" thing flashes. Cheers and noise, fine. Ear-piercing screams ... I would like my ear drums intact when I leave.
Okay, so how did my day get off to a bad start? Somewhere around 1:30 this morning, just as I was finally able to drift off to sleep, my sister came home. Mind you, she hasn't lived with us since she graduated. That's been about three years now. How did she wake me up when she came home? She rang the doorbell repeatedly like it was the middle of the day and not the middle of the night. She spent the night and then got up around 7:30 to start cleaning the house. Naturally, I got up and she put me to work. I finally left around 11:30 so I could go get ready for work. Work was work. My day started getting better the moment I arrived at Dodger Stadium. I got off work at five and hoped to get there in time for batting practice. When I did, the line to get in through the left field side was really long. I didn't think I'd get in there in time. I only had about ten minutes. So, I started to head to the right field side. There was a booth set up where if you took a Chevy survey, you could get a free back pack. So I did. Funny thing was, when it was my turn, this lady cut in front of me. I think her husband noticed my surprise and told her what she did. She apologized and went to her husband, who was about two people behind me.
By the time I finished, the line to get in was shortened. I got in the field area, took several pictures. I decided I didn't want to hang around and try to get a batting practice ball. After all, we got one from Joe Beimel back in May. I noticed some Dodger players behind home plate. So I went over there to get some pictures of Jeff Kent, Luis Gonzalez, and Takaishi Saito. NOW here's the part that made my day. I noticed Steve Lyons was out there. So, I followed my gut and yelled out "Hey Steve!" I thought about adding, "see, there's no bat boys around" to it, but didn't. He looked up, like he said he does when he hears his name called out. (9.13.07 podcast). When I see that I've got his attention, I yell out "I love your podcasts!" He replies, "So you're the ONE who listens to it." I tell him that I enjoy his podcasts and his stories, like the one about the Yankee hat (6.7.07 podcast). I asked him if he was going to keep up with it during the off-season. He said maybe, but he wouldn't know what to talk about. I said, maybe he could do it just once a week.
There were these two guys trying to get autographs. They asked me what was his name again. I told him his name and who he was. Steve started talking to someone else. When he was done talking, one of the guys asked Steve to sign his baseball. Then I asked Steve if he wouldn't mind taking a picture with me. He said something along the likes of he'd better because I'm the only one who listens to his podcast. I know there's tons of people who listens to his podcast. But he was so cool like that. BTW, I think about last week I saw Steve on the post-game show and I noticed he had some stuff on his face. I didn't like it. When I saw him today, I was glad he got rid of him. No offense, Steve. I like guys with facial hair (particularly Russell and Randy) ... but it just didn't work for him. I liked Steve a lot before today, even though I never saw him play. But today ... I like him even more. I wish I could've got something signed, but I didn't have anything on me. Maybe next year, I can get something signed. Go Psycho!
Me and Steve Lyons
Russell Martin's home run in the fourth inning
Luis Gonzalez' hit to center field that scored the winning run in the bottom of the tenth
Okay, so how did my day get off to a bad start? Somewhere around 1:30 this morning, just as I was finally able to drift off to sleep, my sister came home. Mind you, she hasn't lived with us since she graduated. That's been about three years now. How did she wake me up when she came home? She rang the doorbell repeatedly like it was the middle of the day and not the middle of the night. She spent the night and then got up around 7:30 to start cleaning the house. Naturally, I got up and she put me to work. I finally left around 11:30 so I could go get ready for work. Work was work. My day started getting better the moment I arrived at Dodger Stadium. I got off work at five and hoped to get there in time for batting practice. When I did, the line to get in through the left field side was really long. I didn't think I'd get in there in time. I only had about ten minutes. So, I started to head to the right field side. There was a booth set up where if you took a Chevy survey, you could get a free back pack. So I did. Funny thing was, when it was my turn, this lady cut in front of me. I think her husband noticed my surprise and told her what she did. She apologized and went to her husband, who was about two people behind me.
By the time I finished, the line to get in was shortened. I got in the field area, took several pictures. I decided I didn't want to hang around and try to get a batting practice ball. After all, we got one from Joe Beimel back in May. I noticed some Dodger players behind home plate. So I went over there to get some pictures of Jeff Kent, Luis Gonzalez, and Takaishi Saito. NOW here's the part that made my day. I noticed Steve Lyons was out there. So, I followed my gut and yelled out "Hey Steve!" I thought about adding, "see, there's no bat boys around" to it, but didn't. He looked up, like he said he does when he hears his name called out. (9.13.07 podcast). When I see that I've got his attention, I yell out "I love your podcasts!" He replies, "So you're the ONE who listens to it." I tell him that I enjoy his podcasts and his stories, like the one about the Yankee hat (6.7.07 podcast). I asked him if he was going to keep up with it during the off-season. He said maybe, but he wouldn't know what to talk about. I said, maybe he could do it just once a week.
There were these two guys trying to get autographs. They asked me what was his name again. I told him his name and who he was. Steve started talking to someone else. When he was done talking, one of the guys asked Steve to sign his baseball. Then I asked Steve if he wouldn't mind taking a picture with me. He said something along the likes of he'd better because I'm the only one who listens to his podcast. I know there's tons of people who listens to his podcast. But he was so cool like that. BTW, I think about last week I saw Steve on the post-game show and I noticed he had some stuff on his face. I didn't like it. When I saw him today, I was glad he got rid of him. No offense, Steve. I like guys with facial hair (particularly Russell and Randy) ... but it just didn't work for him. I liked Steve a lot before today, even though I never saw him play. But today ... I like him even more. I wish I could've got something signed, but I didn't have anything on me. Maybe next year, I can get something signed. Go Psycho!
Me and Steve Lyons
Russell Martin's home run in the fourth inning
Luis Gonzalez' hit to center field that scored the winning run in the bottom of the tenthThursday, September 27, 2007
11 - 6
My internet has been down since Saturday and I am very grateful to have it back up. I went back the next morning to get my tickets taken care of. The guy changed my tickets from Wednesday's game to Thursday's. Unfortunately ... the Dodgers haven't won a game since ... well ... we got swept at home again. Let's just leave it at that.
Here's the one memorable thing I got from tonight's game, besides my fleece blanket. Sherisse and I went to get food and it took about an inning and a half I think to get our food. We get back. I take a couple sips of my soda and set it down at by feet. Since we were in the first row (in the upper reserve level) we had no cup holders. This kid from three/four rows behind me decides to climb down to get out. I don't know why he decided to climb over the seat next to me when there was more people in my row then the row behind me. But when he stepped down on the seat, it came down on my leg, squeezing my knee in the tiny gap between the seats. I go "OW! OW!" cause it hurt and the kid wasn't a small kid either. My leg jerks in reaction, kicking over my soda (which was quite full because I only took like two sips). The kid stands on the seat, not sure what's going on, with my knee still in between both seats. The security lady in our section comes over and picks up my cup. She tells me if I wanted another drink, I'd have to go with her to get it. She tells me that it happened yesterday too. The security lady told the concessions person that I needed a new cup because it fell on the ground. When the concessions person took the cup, it was obvious that I did need a new cup. Because half of the bottom of that one was gone!
End of story, right? I get back to my seat and not wanting to repeat the same mistake, I didn't want to put my drink on the ground again. Sherisse says to put it in the cup holder behind me, since there was no one sitting in the row behind us. Well, besides Sherisse. I took my two sips or so, put it in the cup holder. Next thing I know, Sherisse kicked it out of the cup holder, leaving me about two inches of Coke left. It was just not my night. And apparently, it wasn't the Dodgers' night either. After all... the final score was like ten to three.
Kevin got a good laugh. He says every time we go to a game together, someone always asks me about my camera. We weren't disappointed. As this woman is leaving during the eighth inning, she stops to ask me what kind of camera do I have. I show her some pictures that I have taken with my camera. I had just put them on my Ipod, too. Of course, I put my best and my favorite pictures on my Ipod. Being as high up as we were, I didn't get as many good photos as I have in the past.
It's hard to believe that the season ends on Sunday. Quite sad to see some of the members of this year's team probably won't be coming back next year. I'm quite curious to see what next year's team is going to look like.
Here's the one memorable thing I got from tonight's game, besides my fleece blanket. Sherisse and I went to get food and it took about an inning and a half I think to get our food. We get back. I take a couple sips of my soda and set it down at by feet. Since we were in the first row (in the upper reserve level) we had no cup holders. This kid from three/four rows behind me decides to climb down to get out. I don't know why he decided to climb over the seat next to me when there was more people in my row then the row behind me. But when he stepped down on the seat, it came down on my leg, squeezing my knee in the tiny gap between the seats. I go "OW! OW!" cause it hurt and the kid wasn't a small kid either. My leg jerks in reaction, kicking over my soda (which was quite full because I only took like two sips). The kid stands on the seat, not sure what's going on, with my knee still in between both seats. The security lady in our section comes over and picks up my cup. She tells me if I wanted another drink, I'd have to go with her to get it. She tells me that it happened yesterday too. The security lady told the concessions person that I needed a new cup because it fell on the ground. When the concessions person took the cup, it was obvious that I did need a new cup. Because half of the bottom of that one was gone!
End of story, right? I get back to my seat and not wanting to repeat the same mistake, I didn't want to put my drink on the ground again. Sherisse says to put it in the cup holder behind me, since there was no one sitting in the row behind us. Well, besides Sherisse. I took my two sips or so, put it in the cup holder. Next thing I know, Sherisse kicked it out of the cup holder, leaving me about two inches of Coke left. It was just not my night. And apparently, it wasn't the Dodgers' night either. After all... the final score was like ten to three.
Kevin got a good laugh. He says every time we go to a game together, someone always asks me about my camera. We weren't disappointed. As this woman is leaving during the eighth inning, she stops to ask me what kind of camera do I have. I show her some pictures that I have taken with my camera. I had just put them on my Ipod, too. Of course, I put my best and my favorite pictures on my Ipod. Being as high up as we were, I didn't get as many good photos as I have in the past.
It's hard to believe that the season ends on Sunday. Quite sad to see some of the members of this year's team probably won't be coming back next year. I'm quite curious to see what next year's team is going to look like.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Stupid ticket booth teller
How many of you have purchased your tickets at ticket box office at Dodger Stadium? How many of you have had problems purchasing tickets there? Because it seems like every time I purchase my tickets there, I have one problem after another. The first time, they sold me two tickets more than I needed. I didn't catch this till much later on when I was totaling the tickets and the prices and it didn't add up. Then when I realized they sold me two extra tickets, the numbers added up. Though I wasn't too happy about it. The next time, I was halfway to my car when I realized I was SHORT two tickets. Thankfully I didn't get too far and was able to run back to the window and retrieve the other two tickets. This last one however...
I bought my tickets today for next Thursday's game. Just as I was getting ready for bed, I took the tickets out to look at them again. I had counted them at the window when the guy gave them to me to make sure he gave me the right number of tickets. However, I failed to check the date. The tickets he sold me were for Wednesday's game. Not Thursday. Oy! First thing I do tomorrow is go back to the box office and see if I can straighten this out. Any suggestions? Anyone else have this happen to them? Or is it just my bad luck?
I bought my tickets today for next Thursday's game. Just as I was getting ready for bed, I took the tickets out to look at them again. I had counted them at the window when the guy gave them to me to make sure he gave me the right number of tickets. However, I failed to check the date. The tickets he sold me were for Wednesday's game. Not Thursday. Oy! First thing I do tomorrow is go back to the box office and see if I can straighten this out. Any suggestions? Anyone else have this happen to them? Or is it just my bad luck?
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Parking at the mall...
Is really ridiculous became I'm a mall employee. Well, I work at a store in the mall which makes me a mall employee. Anyway, they sent out a notice to all the stores about the parking policy. There are two parking structures at the galleria. We, as mall employees, are required to park on the roof of both structures (one having three levels and the other having six levels). This includes our days off, when we are not working at the mall. I don't like this rule at all because when I go to the mall and shop, I am a patron. Not an employee. And I do not like parking my car on the roof level on a hot day. Even better ... what about when I want to go out with my friends to the In and Out that is by the six-level parking ... after mall hours? The mall closes at nine except for Sunday, when it closes at seven. HOWEVER, In and Out doesn't close till like one in the morning. What if I wanted to go to In and Out after ten or eleven? Am I required to park on the freaking sixth level then? Who's going to take responsibility if there's some crazy lunatic in the parking lot and attacks me while I'm going up to the sixth level to get to my car at one o'clock in the morning?
Annoying cashier at Office Depot
So, on Tuesday, after I got off work, I drove down to Office Depot because it's only a block away from work. I went to go see if they carried the disposable fountain pens that I told Daniel about. They did. But they didn't have any out. To not waste my trip, I walked around and around. And I ran into Jack and Sol. Funny. I ran into them last week at Wal-Mart, too. Anyway, I ended up finding a all-in-one printer that was on sale. My printer hasn't been working for over a month and I've been wanting to print stuff out. Since this one was on sale, I decided to go for it. My wallet may be hurting later (it was on sale for 39.99). I get to the cashier to pay and pick up the printer. The lady tells me that I will need a USB cord for my printer. I told her I had one at home. She said, the one I have at home might not be the same one. She gets a cord for me. I look at it. I tell her I think it's the same one I have at home. She tells me to buy the cord because I will need it. I tell her no I have one at home and that I don't need it. She says I do. We go back and forth and I get tired of this because there is a line behind me. She tells me to buy it and if I don't need it I can return it. Because she says I don't want to get home and find out that I do need it. Well? Guess what? I WAS RIGHT. Someone needs to tell her that the CUSTOMER is always RIGHT. Okay, well... being a sales associate, I know that isn't true. But I was right. I told her that I didn't need it and I did go back to return it that same day. Funny thing was, the lot was emptier when I was there around one. When I went back around five, the lot was fuller. But when I was there at one, there was two or three cashiers and an emptier lot. When I came back and the lot was more full, there was only ONE cashier. Makes a lot of sense? Huh?
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Airports and customers drive me crazy
Last week, I went to Burbank airport to pick up Gail. It's a small airport, so I made my first round and didn't see her. I got back in line to go around again. This time, Daniel told me she was sitting on a bench in front. I stopped in front of Southwest and looked for her. The traffic guy kept blowing his whistle and motioning for me to move on. I finally moved on when the P.A. made an announcement that there was no waiting allowed at the white curb, only immediate pickup. Mind you... it takes about ten to fifteen minutes to make these rounds. And it's after ten on Saturday and I just got off work. So, I make another round. This time I spot Gail, honk to get her attention, and move over to find somewhere to stop. Unfortunately, it was almost the same spot I was at before. And quite a distance away from Gail, who has been having trouble with her back lately. So, I wait for her and the same traffic guy whistles and motions. He starts walking towards my car. Gail sees him, he sees her, and he says that I can't wait there. Gail tells him, yes I can because I am there to pick her up and she's disabled. The traffic guy apologizes profusely. There's also an airport guy helping Gail carry one of her bags.
The other day at work, this customer comes in and asks me if we had any Irish cardigans. I said, we have cardigans and I pointed out a few. She said, "no, those are not cardigans. Gosh, you don't know your merchandise." And then she storms out. The cardigans I showed her were CARDIGANS. But I have no clue what an Irish cardigan is. In fact ... even wikipedia doesn't have a listing for Irish cardigans. I had to google it in order to find out anything about it.
The other day at work, this customer comes in and asks me if we had any Irish cardigans. I said, we have cardigans and I pointed out a few. She said, "no, those are not cardigans. Gosh, you don't know your merchandise." And then she storms out. The cardigans I showed her were CARDIGANS. But I have no clue what an Irish cardigan is. In fact ... even wikipedia doesn't have a listing for Irish cardigans. I had to google it in order to find out anything about it.
Monday, September 10, 2007
From "Feels like Home"
If you knew how lonely my life has been,
And how low I've felt so long.
If you knew how I wanted someone to come along,
And change my life the way you've done.
CHORUS:
Feels like home to me, feels like home to me,
Feels like I'm on my way back where I come from.
Feels like home to me, feels like home to me,
Feels like I'm on my way back where I belong.
And how low I've felt so long.
If you knew how I wanted someone to come along,
And change my life the way you've done.
CHORUS:
Feels like home to me, feels like home to me,
Feels like I'm on my way back where I come from.
Feels like home to me, feels like home to me,
Feels like I'm on my way back where I belong.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Kids and races
Why do people look at me and assume different things? Yesterday at work, this guy was there with his wife, two kids, and either his mother or mother-in-law. His two girls were a newborn (relatively new anyway) and the other girl was somewhere between two and three would be my guess. Anyway, I talked to the little girl because little kids are fun to talk to. Especially when they have a baby brother or sister along. The dad asked me if I had any kids. What is with this assumption that I have kids? Do I look like I'm the kind of person to have a gaggle of children waiting for me at home? It's funny because when I'm with Nina, Harold, or Kevin ... someone assumes that they're my kids. It's interesting since there's a six to ten year age gap there.
And I have mentioned this a few times, that customers are always asking me if I'm filipina. A couple weeks ago, Angelina, Timmy, Daniel, and others were watching "24". I wasn't there, so I don't know who all was in the room. According to Angelina, Timmy was being really annoying because he would point out the different Asian people in the show and say what they were. He claimed because he hung out with a lot of Asians, he knew how to tell them apart. Then Angelina asks him what was I? That stumped him! Now I understand being mistaken for a filipina ... but the other day at work ... this older Armenian gentlemen asked me if I was ARMENIAN? Maybe his sight was going ... but .... ARMENIAN????
And I have mentioned this a few times, that customers are always asking me if I'm filipina. A couple weeks ago, Angelina, Timmy, Daniel, and others were watching "24". I wasn't there, so I don't know who all was in the room. According to Angelina, Timmy was being really annoying because he would point out the different Asian people in the show and say what they were. He claimed because he hung out with a lot of Asians, he knew how to tell them apart. Then Angelina asks him what was I? That stumped him! Now I understand being mistaken for a filipina ... but the other day at work ... this older Armenian gentlemen asked me if I was ARMENIAN? Maybe his sight was going ... but .... ARMENIAN????
Saturday, September 01, 2007
No offense...
Okay, I'm not just talking about the lack of the Dodgers' offense.
This is just something that's been stewing around in my head.
How many times have you said something and then followed it immediately with "no offense" hoping whatever you said didn't offend anyone in present company? And how many times does what was said actually hurt someone in present company? Does saying "no offense" will soften the insult? Does it soften the hurt? Personally speaking, it doesn't. I have been present when someone said something directed to me that was hurtful and added "no offense" at the end, thinking to avoid insulting me. But it did hurt. I didn't like be insulted, even though that person added "no offense" at the end.
So, maybe instead of tacking on "no offense" after something that is possible hurtful or offensive is said, we ought to be more careful about what we say. Or ... instead of taking "no offense" as an easy way out, we accept the responsibility of what was said and apologize for it.
No, no one said something that offended me and followed it with "no offense". At least not today. And I hope I didn't say something that offended anyone today, whether it be in person or on this blog entry. If I did, I'm sorry. It wasn't meant to be hurtful or to offend. I'm just tired of people who feel that they can use "no offense" as a shield when they say something that hurts me, whether they realize it or not.
This is just something that's been stewing around in my head.
How many times have you said something and then followed it immediately with "no offense" hoping whatever you said didn't offend anyone in present company? And how many times does what was said actually hurt someone in present company? Does saying "no offense" will soften the insult? Does it soften the hurt? Personally speaking, it doesn't. I have been present when someone said something directed to me that was hurtful and added "no offense" at the end, thinking to avoid insulting me. But it did hurt. I didn't like be insulted, even though that person added "no offense" at the end.
So, maybe instead of tacking on "no offense" after something that is possible hurtful or offensive is said, we ought to be more careful about what we say. Or ... instead of taking "no offense" as an easy way out, we accept the responsibility of what was said and apologize for it.
No, no one said something that offended me and followed it with "no offense". At least not today. And I hope I didn't say something that offended anyone today, whether it be in person or on this blog entry. If I did, I'm sorry. It wasn't meant to be hurtful or to offend. I'm just tired of people who feel that they can use "no offense" as a shield when they say something that hurts me, whether they realize it or not.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
11 - 5
Since I have last posted about my last Dodger game, I have gone to three more. Two losses and one win. The two losses were against the Giants when they were last here in town. That's five straight losses, folks. But the tide may have changed because they finally won! They won tonight's game against the Nationals. Though it got a little dicey when Lowe gave up three home runs, giving him four earned runs. However, our Boys in Blue came back to score five runs to win the game. This was fun because we went with Roxie and Jon, who brought their girls to their first game! Natalie is around four, and Julia is eight. Memorable moments? Well, right before Matt Kemp was doubled up at second on Kent's line drive, he almost got tagged out at second. I was excited to see Ethier and Kemp in the starting line-up. Though I would've preferred Gonzo over Pierre... we had two foul balls hit up to our level. Considering we were in the reserve level, that's saying something. all three home runs hit by the Nationals were hit to the left field pavilions. Anyway, I hope this is the start of my new winning streak. It would be great if I can beat my ten-game winning streak. Maybe the Dodgers might have a chance into the playoffs ... lol then again ... oh yeah, and I actually participated in the beach ball hitting. Normally I just watch other people hit the beach ball around. There was this little one bouncing around. And just as I picked up my drink to take a sip, the ball came at me. Without looking, I gave it a little bop, sending it on it's way to the group behind me.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Missing Package
Hmm I pre-ordered Todd's newest CD (release 7/17) way back in May. I forgot all about it till I was going through my e-mails and found the e-mail about it. I checked my account, and it said it has been shipped. I don't remember receiving it. Hmmm. Frustrating. I wonder where that package is. I haven't seen it around the house. I've already sent an email asking if I could get more information about when the package was delivered.
Here Kitty, Kitty
Our neighbor across the streets comes out and starts saying, "here kitty-kitty" repeatedly. I don't think she even owns a cat, or the cat she's calling for. I think she's just feeding a stray cat in our neighborhood. It's quite annoying. And believe me, we've got lots of stray "kitties." I find at least three in my backyard every week.
Umm... Yeah... I noticed I haven't posted in awhile. Well... let's see...
I've got a week of vacation time left and I don't know when to use it. I was supposed to use it for Youth Camp, but got a late notice from corporate that I'm not allowed to use it at the time. Now I have that time and I don't know what to do with it. I have two plans. Plan A is to use it during the weekend of Sacrament Combined Meetings. But I am still on the fence about that. I have about two weeks to make the decision. Plan B is to use the vacation during the week of my birthday. And that'll probably be the latest I'm allowed to use it. Anyone out there have an opinion?
One more thing. Last week, I set up an appointment to apply for a job through American Registration Center. My cousin found this ad in her mom's newspaper for government jobs like library clerk and typist. I was very interested. Called, set up an appointment. I went in, paid my ten dollars, took the "test" they gave me. Then I was seen for an "interview." The lady asked me why I wanted to work for the government. I told her about my long-time interested in working in a library. She asked if I could st art right away. She talked some more about the examinations and application process that ARC will take care of, but I would have to play a fee. I could do one payment of 395, or two other payment options that were well over 400. I walked out of that office and didn't go back. Is this for real?
At least I found out some things before I went in. Like, I got my resume updated and changed two of my references. And, I also figured out my average WPM (words per minute). Sort of. I googled for typing test and took a couple and just figured out some kind of average. One test I scored in the mid 80s, like 83 - 88. Another one, I wsa like 73 - 78. So, we put down 75 on the resume. One test however, I topped out at 101!
Umm... Yeah... I noticed I haven't posted in awhile. Well... let's see...
I've got a week of vacation time left and I don't know when to use it. I was supposed to use it for Youth Camp, but got a late notice from corporate that I'm not allowed to use it at the time. Now I have that time and I don't know what to do with it. I have two plans. Plan A is to use it during the weekend of Sacrament Combined Meetings. But I am still on the fence about that. I have about two weeks to make the decision. Plan B is to use the vacation during the week of my birthday. And that'll probably be the latest I'm allowed to use it. Anyone out there have an opinion?
One more thing. Last week, I set up an appointment to apply for a job through American Registration Center. My cousin found this ad in her mom's newspaper for government jobs like library clerk and typist. I was very interested. Called, set up an appointment. I went in, paid my ten dollars, took the "test" they gave me. Then I was seen for an "interview." The lady asked me why I wanted to work for the government. I told her about my long-time interested in working in a library. She asked if I could st art right away. She talked some more about the examinations and application process that ARC will take care of, but I would have to play a fee. I could do one payment of 395, or two other payment options that were well over 400. I walked out of that office and didn't go back. Is this for real?
At least I found out some things before I went in. Like, I got my resume updated and changed two of my references. And, I also figured out my average WPM (words per minute). Sort of. I googled for typing test and took a couple and just figured out some kind of average. One test I scored in the mid 80s, like 83 - 88. Another one, I wsa like 73 - 78. So, we put down 75 on the resume. One test however, I topped out at 101!
Friday, August 10, 2007
SIX MINUTES!!!!
Six minutes and 1.3 miles. That's how far the next Andre Ethier signing is from my house. And I'm working that day. The same time he's signing autographs is the same time I'm supposed to be working. Isn't it funny how I don't work when the signings are like 30+ minutes away? Actually, now that I think about it... all those signings I've been to... I did work that day. But it was the closing shift. But when THIS signing is only SIX minutes from my house, I work. HMMM ... isn't it ironic? ARGH!!!!!
Thursday, August 09, 2007
A much quieter week
Even the earthquake this morning/last night was kinda quiet. If you haven't heard about it, there was a 4.5 magnitude earthquake just before 1 AM last night. I was in bed, trying to fall asleep, when my house shook. It wasn't a big shake and didn't make a lot of noise like the Northridge Earthquake (which I still remember). My brother didn't feel anything, but he wasn't really awake at the time. I just asked my cousin about it, and she said both she and her sister felt it. It was a small tremor. Didn't do much. I looked it up, and it happened about 30 miles away from here.
As for this week, it wasn't as eventful as the previous week. Though sometimes I just wish I could hide under the covers all day.
Let's see... quite update of this past week??
Sunday I discovered my cousin Serei (who lives with us) started assembling a computer desk he thought I wasn't going to use. I bought this computer desk last year with hopes of replacing the desk I have now. I really wanted a new computer desk and this was a great desk I found at Target, on clearance. However, at the time (and currently) there isn't any space in my room for the said desk. SO my cousin takes the desk and assembles it in his room. Without asking me. He thought since I wasn't "using" it, that he could take it. No big deal right? He could just give it back right? Except ... he used the wrong screws and completely messed up MY desk. I didn't want it back, but he didn't want to pay me for it. GRRRRRRRR!!!!
On a different note, I was listening to the music at work today. This song came on and I was wondering where I had heard it from. Then I realized it was "La Venganza de los Pelados"! The elusive at-bat song of Rafael Furcal! I have yet been able to add this to my collection of Dodger at-bat songs. It's not even available on I-Tunes.
Man has my MLB: The Show been crazy. Yesterday, my last game of the night took 16 innings to finish. SIXTEEN innings. What happened? I was winning during the ninth inning, but in the bottom of the ninth, the other team tied it. This happened several more times in the innings to follow. Finally, during the sixteenth inning, I scored a three run lead and didn't blow it. Sixteen innings. I was ready for the game to end after the twelfth ... but noooo ... my Dodgers couldn't hold onto a one or two run lead. They needed a three run lead to win. As for today, what a blow-out game I had. 21 - 7. Wowsers. After the fourth and fifth inning when it was 17 - 3 and then 20 - 3, I knew the game was over!
And to finish things off ... here's some pictures from the last day of Youth Camp
The group LA brought up
The Lamberts - the last time Bro. Tom was at a youth camp I attended was my first youth camp about 14 years ago.
Brother Bill finishing up the sermon (with Catharine Spakousky in arm). He didn't expect Bro. Lee to hand the sermon over to him.
As for this week, it wasn't as eventful as the previous week. Though sometimes I just wish I could hide under the covers all day.
Let's see... quite update of this past week??
Sunday I discovered my cousin Serei (who lives with us) started assembling a computer desk he thought I wasn't going to use. I bought this computer desk last year with hopes of replacing the desk I have now. I really wanted a new computer desk and this was a great desk I found at Target, on clearance. However, at the time (and currently) there isn't any space in my room for the said desk. SO my cousin takes the desk and assembles it in his room. Without asking me. He thought since I wasn't "using" it, that he could take it. No big deal right? He could just give it back right? Except ... he used the wrong screws and completely messed up MY desk. I didn't want it back, but he didn't want to pay me for it. GRRRRRRRR!!!!
On a different note, I was listening to the music at work today. This song came on and I was wondering where I had heard it from. Then I realized it was "La Venganza de los Pelados"! The elusive at-bat song of Rafael Furcal! I have yet been able to add this to my collection of Dodger at-bat songs. It's not even available on I-Tunes.
Man has my MLB: The Show been crazy. Yesterday, my last game of the night took 16 innings to finish. SIXTEEN innings. What happened? I was winning during the ninth inning, but in the bottom of the ninth, the other team tied it. This happened several more times in the innings to follow. Finally, during the sixteenth inning, I scored a three run lead and didn't blow it. Sixteen innings. I was ready for the game to end after the twelfth ... but noooo ... my Dodgers couldn't hold onto a one or two run lead. They needed a three run lead to win. As for today, what a blow-out game I had. 21 - 7. Wowsers. After the fourth and fifth inning when it was 17 - 3 and then 20 - 3, I knew the game was over!
And to finish things off ... here's some pictures from the last day of Youth Camp
The group LA brought up
The Lamberts - the last time Bro. Tom was at a youth camp I attended was my first youth camp about 14 years ago.
Brother Bill finishing up the sermon (with Catharine Spakousky in arm). He didn't expect Bro. Lee to hand the sermon over to him.
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