BAH HUMBUG!!

Guess who's back in the blogoshpere! I have been working a bazillion hours and my trusty (yes, you do detect a note of sarcasm here) computer at home is retired. My back-up laptop only does so much, and posting on the blog doesn't seem to be in it's job description, so, here I am on my one day off at the library. I checked one of my email accounts and I had 213 pieces of junk mail in it!
Before I continue on, a little bit of business to take care of...

Yaakova - how are you doing? Did you have an uneventful flight to the V.I's? How did Truffle behave on the plane? Please entertain us with a recap of the things you carried on with you! How happy was Mom to have her Truffle home?
Danielle - How is Amber? I trust her surgery went well. Please say it did. Give the girls a hug. Were you able to celebrate Hanukkah at all yet?
Cheryl Ann - Thanks for having coffee this morning. I needed it! No, I NEEDED it! It is always fun getting together. I am so glad you are having a relaxed holiday season. Can't wait for our next ginormous cups in 2007.
Sharon - Hope you all had fun in Dayton. Sunday night was yet again a great Hanukkah party. The kids are a blast. I LOVE my oinking, light-up piggy. oink, oink!!
Eleanor - I finally mailed out the package today, priority mail, so it should get there before Hanukkah is over! Typical of me. Didn't make the card I had designed in my head, but you will get it next year!

I am not going to bitch and moan. Afterall, it is the holiday seasoon. I am just going to wish everyone a
HAPPY HANUKKAH
MERRY CHRISTMAS
GOOD KWANZA
HAPPY FESTIVUS
HAPPY NEW YEAR
HAPPY WAHTEVER YOU CELEBRATE.

May 2007 bring all of us peace, good health, joy, laughter, happiness, prosperity, realization of our dreams, good friends and the wisdom to recognize all the wonderful things we do have in our lives already.

Until next time...good afternoon!!!

'TIS THE SEASON...

Well folks, the season is in full swing and I can feel it in every bone and muscle! I am working too many hours and unfortunately, the days seem to drag on and on. Today was my only day off and I wasted most of it napping and hibernating.
I hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving. I had a great time at my cousins Don and Sandy's house. As expected the food was abundant and delicious. The weather was glorious, so the drive was pleasant, unlike some past years. I was supposed to take rolls. Par for my course, I timed it perfectly. I bought cookie cutters and cut out the rolls in fall shapes. I guess by pressing the dough down to cut it out, I lost too much fat out of the rolls and they stuck to the cookie sheet. I couldn't get them off! In the 11th hour I had to go to the grocery store and scramble to find rolls to take. That was not an easy task, on Thanksgiving day. I finally found rolls in the deli dept. All was saved. They weren't customized, but they were rolls.

Cher, I did you have an awesome time in Jersey? I want to hear all about it and also about your date with the Who. I saw the photo you posted. COOL!

Y, I am sorry that your friend was a goober to you. That was uncalled for, being a friend, after all you did and being a holiday on top of it. At least you whupped her in Pictionary!

Sharon, screw work! I scheduled myself to leave at 3:30 on the 17th so I CAN come to Hanukkah! Just pray we don't have a blizzard or something. See you then.

BB, if you are still checking in, are you off to Sydney soon? I will be keeping Amber in my prayers that everything goes well

I guess that is it for now.

Until next time...goodnight!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

I would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I hope you are able to spend a lovely day with loved ones, eating until you have to unbuckle your belts, and sharing old and new memories together.
Gobble Gobble Gobble!
Until next time...goodnight!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU...

Happy birthday Mike! I hope you have a great one.
I love you, brother!

I ADMIT I AM SPOILED!

I haven't posted in a long time because my computer is on strike. I am currently using a laptop that is actually older then the desktop computer! It is quite prehistoric as computers go. It has AOL 4.0 on it! I can not open many things and I have a hard time doing many other things with it. I can not print anything, either. I realize how spoiled I have become. I complained about my computer, and now I am using something less sophisticated and I see how good I actually did have it. The nice thing about the laptop is that I am lounging on the couch, watching TV as I post this!
I guess life is a trade-off!
I have been reading some blogs while I was on typing hiatus, and Yaakova, what's going on with you?
Cher, your photos are awesome.
BB, I haven't been to your blog in a while, and I apologize. I will try and catch up on your site as soon as I can.
I will try and do an actual post soon, but this is it for now!
Until next time...goodnight!

L.A CONFIDENTIAL!

I can't believe that THE Bar Mitzvah is now just a memory. After looking forward to it for so long, it has come and gone. It was very sad getting on the plane yesterday. It was a whirlwind of events that led up to it and now it is just a memory. A beautiful memory, but a memory that I will hold near and dear forever. Since it is my blog, I can take all the liberties I want and if that bores you, oh well!!!!!
THURSDAY, 10/26 I left Chicago. Getting out of the hotel and to the airport was not an easy task. The hotel was supposed to have all of our luggage waiting for us at a luggage hold area. There were 150 of us leaving at the same time and we were to leave our baggage in the rooms and they would gather it while we were in our meetings. We got downstairs at about 2:45 and guess what? I (and about 25 others) had no luggage! Of course I started to panick. I had to catch the 5:30 flight out of Midway. It was raining and the Orange line was not working. I would have had to take the Red a few stops and transfer to the Orange to the Airport. OY (The reason the Orange El wasn't working was due to a fire in the Loop area. The fire started on Tuesday as we were arriving. We were kicked off the El and 5 of us decided we could walk to the hotel. Yeah right! We walked and shlepped our suitcases for 45 minutes through the streets of downtown Chicago. I needed 3 Advil as soon as I checked in.)Finally, around 3:30 another Manager and I got our bags. We decided to take a cab to the airport. I made sure there was a later flight that was open in case we didn't get there in time. As we were waiting for a cab, a limo driver approached and said he could get us to Midway in plenty of time! This dude became my hero of the day. He zigged and zagged and we made it in under 30 minutes! We beat the others that left by cab a half hour before us!! YAY!
The plane left about 40 minutes late, but still managed to arrive at LAX on time. As I got to the luggage claim, there he was - - BEN! All 5'10" of smiles from ear to ear. I couldn't get over how tall he got. He was here in April and he got a couple of inches taller since then. We finally got home about 9:30 ish and I got to see Shoosher! That is my nickname for Josh. He is 16 and a half and such a nice young man. He was doing homework so he couldn't come to the airport. He takes 3 A.P classes and he showed me his homework. OMG, I am way older then him and I couldn't do that stuff! Time for bed, it has been a long day. Oh yeah, we did have to play with the slingshot monkeys I brought the boys! And we also had to watch the dog go nutso over the said monkeys!!
FRIDAY 10/27 - Ben wanted me to go with him to be dropped off at school, so I got up at 7 to take him to school. Then Eleanor and I went out for breakfast. We went to the remodeled Topanga Plaza and rode the Carousel! We shopped and at noon we picked Ben up from school. He got to play hooky a half day in order to get ready for his big event. We hung out in the afternoon. In the evening there was a lovely dinner for family at Maggiano's. Chuck's brother, sister-in-law, nephew, niece, her fiance, Gramma Gloria, Elliot and Todd Carb were all at dinner. It goes without saying the food was superb. There was a cake for Ben. It was so fun to see Ron, Sheryl, Erika and Jeremy (Chuck's family) again. I hadn't seen them in 2.5 years since I was at their house in Sacramento for a surprise for Chuck's 50th birthday. It felt like we hadn't missed a day. His family is very warm and inviting. I always felt like part of the family, ever since Eleanor had started dating Chuck so many years ago. I also got to sit next to Todd Carb at dinner, so that was like icing on the cake. Todd is my hero in life. I will forever be grateful to Todd, as will so many people and he is so humble. We talked about that and he knows what he does, but he just does it because he does. What a mensch and all around great guy. Off to temple.
SATURDAY 10/28 - Oops, that damn breaks! We go to temple early, before everyone else. I see Ben walk up to the bimah. Boo-hoo'ing commences. I go outside for air. Eleanor asks if I want to hear her speech and like an idiot I say ok. Boo-hoo'ing continues and services are still half an hour away! I go outside for air! Finally services begin and we take our seats. I have a major wad of tissues handy, and they do not go un-used! I am teary eyed most of the time. When Ben gives his speech, I really lose it. Then I have to say an Aliyah with Todd Carb. I was really nervous. I don't speak Hebrew (even though I gave the same one 3 years ago for Josh) and I have the worst voice in the universe, but Todd was nice and loud! Guess what? I cried when I kissed Ben! I get to return to my seat, and couldn't find my wad of tissues! Eleanor was using it!!!!Then comes the major bawl-fest. Eleanor gave her speech. Oh my g-d. I was like a blubbering fool. The mentioning of the shooting just sent the whole congregation into a tearfilled stupor. She was crying and Ben was saying don't cry mom. We all made it through. Kinehora. Finally, after many more beautiful moments it was over and off to the luncheon. Then home before the party.
PARTY TIME - WOWWWWWW. What a party. The room was fabulous. Ben wanted a dog theme. He had as his mitzvah Pups for Peace (www.pupsforpeace.com) an organization that trains dogs to sniff for bombs in Israel. The centerpieces were a different dog. Each one was airbrushed and set on a pillow with bowls and bones and surrounded by wheatgrass. It was really cool. There was an hor's dourves hour with the most incredible food. Sushi, a mushroom station, brisket, potato knishes, hot dogs, fruit, stuffed cabbages, bastillas, teriyaki skewers and of course booze! I had a chance to catch up with friends I hadn't seen in years. How fun. Our friend Allan was there. He couldn't attend Josh's because he had litterally run into a tree and was hospitalized. Thank g-d he has recovered and is walking and was able to attend. The last time I saw him was in the hospital and in a wheelchair. I had emailed him a week before and told him to stay away from all tree's! I caught up with Gary and Claudia, friends from here that live there, that I haven't seen in 3 years. They brought 2 of the kids - Brandon and Gabriela. My how they have changed in 3 years. We are always in touch, but it is not the same. There was a friend Steve, that I hadn't seen in 12 years, since I left California and he hasn't changed a bit! I also got to officially meet Dr. Clarence Sutton. Ben's trauma surgeon. There began the tears for the evening! It was kind of funny, because I was with Todd at the time and both were som humble and basically giving each other the credit and denying their own part! What great men. During the cocktail hour, there was a guy that was taking pictures then morphing them like caricatures onto mousepads. I got a really cute picture of me with Josh and Ben. A great souvnier! On to dinner. Yes, there is more food! We proceeded to the main room. But we can't eat just yet. We have to cry some more first! Time for the Video Montage of Ben. There was plenty to ooh and aah over, but just as much to bawl about. We laughed at years 1 - 5 and cried at 5 and 6 then we laughed some more. Eleanor had to embarass me and put in a couple of pictures we took last April when they were here! That's ok. Time to eat. Salad, prime rib (or salmon or chicken)taters and veggies, more booze. I discovered Cosmopolitans. I also discovered I liked them! Then there was the kids scavanger hunt. I happened to be sitting at the head table, right at the dance floor, where the kids were for the hunt. So, I was chosen to be picked on by Ben's friend Dylan for items for the hunt. Took my napkin, took my driver's license (to which he was excited to see I was from Cleveland as is his dad) and then he wanted my watch. Of course we couldn't get it off my wrist so he dragged me onto the floor, onto his little 13 year old lap on top of some other little 13 year old girl!!!!!!! The next item was a business a jacket, but I wasn't wearing one, so by the time he got one, he was out. Next came a business card, but I didn't have any in my evening bag, so that kid that asked for one was out. Next came a ladies shoe. I had turned around to try and take a bite of my prime rib and the next thing I know, some kid is taking my shoe off! Then he says, ma'am, amy I help you put it back on? He put my shoe back on!!! Enough laughter, time to cry again. It is candle lighting time. I was candle #4. Ben said beautiful things and something like "even though you live in Cleveland and I live in L.A, I love you more then words can say" He read it to the music of Queen's "You're My Best Friend" I lost it. Todd was next and then the doctors (and Todd again) and so on. It was a beautiful ceremony. Time for more funand the Vienese table (major desserts) and the tears are done for tonight! Promise.
SUNDAY 10/29 - Wake up early again. Oh man am I tired. Eleanor and Chuck are hosting a brunch for family and near family. It was very lovely. Eleanor has always been like my sister. We have been best friends for 36 years. Chuck is like my brother and his family has always treated me like part of the family as my family has considered them as family. I stayed with his brother's family when I surprised Chuck a couple years ago for his 50th. It was nice just hanging with them for the morning. His nephew wants to go to med school and is applying to O.U and that would be very cool if he indeed came to Ohio for school. Poor Eleanor was exhausted and by the time everyone left, she couldn't even hold herself up. We watched the video montage again (no, I didn't cry this time) and she took a nap. Chuck and I cleaned up and I just hung out with Chuck and the boys. We went for a ride and had some dinner. I went with Ben to Best Buy. He HAD to spend some of his Bar Mitzvah money! When we got back, El was feeling better, so we sat around. We watched Josh's video montage from 3 years ago. We laughed and made stupid Star Trek jokes! We were just a bunch of overtired goofs! Time to pack and go to sleep.
MONDAY 10/30 -Got up early so I could see Ben before he left for school. I missed Shoosher, since he leaves at 6:15. It was hard saying goodbye to Ben. El and I had coffee while Chuck took Ben to school. Then it was off to the airport. Guess what? We cried at the Airport! It is always hard leaving. By the time I got home Ben had called and left a message! So did El! But, I had called them already from LAX before I even left, then from Chicago and again when I got in my car!
TUESFAY 10/31 - Back to work and reality!
There you have it. TMI? Too bad! It's my blog!
Until next time...goodnight!

READY, SET, GO

It is almost time to go. I am almost ready, and instead of finishing up, here I am blogging! Talk about priorities!
I still have the final packing to do, a pair of pants to hem and the legs to give a good shave! I also need to run the dishwasher and clean out my car. And of course Monday night is trash night. OY.
I don't know for sure if I will be able to catch the blog scene while I am gone, but I will surely try. I may stop home tomorrow before I head to the airport for one final look-see, if I leave in enough time. I have to go to work for a couple of hours in the morning, but I may just go straight to the airport from work.
I am kind of nervous about the meetings. My boss called today and said everyone in corporate wants to meet me. I need to know all my numbers inside and out, and frankly, numbers flee my head in stressful situations. I can know a entire catagory of 8 digit sku numbers by heart, but as soon as my boss would ask for one, it is like - DUH! We got a hand written note from the president of the company last week congratulating us on September results, so that was really appreciated and I know he will want to talk to me. OY! I am also tentative about the days of meetings. Being a retailer, I am not used to sitting for hours and hours on end. And my end hurts after sitting so long, since I hurt my back. Oh well, I guess after all the bitching I do about standing for 12 hours, I shouldn't complain about that!
Then comes Thursday! YAY! Off to L.A for the big event. I am so totally excited for that. I can't wait to see some friends I haven't seen in way too long. Of course it is all about Ben, but there are extra benefits as well! One big benny is going to be the weather! In case you are wondering, it is freezing here! Snowing, raining, windy and brrrrrrrrr, cold. It is actually supposed to be warmer in Chicago! And way warmer in L.A. Packed me some shorts!
Well my friends, I better get going and finish my tasks.
A couple of personal notes -
Sharon & Joanne - hope you had fun in Michigan & Canada. I will try and call you before I leave.
Yaakova - I am glad you are back and all is well. I read your blog and things sound really good.
Cher - When I get home, I NEED some coffee! Are you up for it? How about a week from Thursday?
Until next time...goodnight!

YAAKOVA, WHERE R U?

Yaakova, I am getting worried about you. You haven't been here or Danielle's blog or even your own in a long time. Please try and leave even a short comment to let me know you are ok.
I will be checking in looking for you, so please try and comment.
Your blog friend has a wild imagination, so put my imagination to rest!
Did you run off with the gardener?
Until next time...goodnight!

ONE WEEK AND COUNTING!

It is now Thursday, at about 11:10 pm and one week from now I will be getting my luggage from the carousel at LAX! After all the anticipation and planning (13 years worth!!!!) Ben's Bar Mitzvah is right around the corner (even though that corner is about 3000 miles away!) I am so excited. I know it is going to be an emotional weekend, and tiring, but all in a good way. I better be sure to pack lots of tissues.

Speaking of packing, we got an email at work today with some reminders for our meeting next week. Some things not to forget to pack. ( We have our fall kick off meeting in Chicago Tues - Thurs and I fly to L.A from Chicago) When I read the list, I didn't know if it was a joke or what.
We were reminded to bring ID, for the airport, heavy coat and gloves (it is pretty cold in Chi-town and some managers are coming from warm climates - I not being one of them!), spending money and some other items. The kicker was they listed clothes and shoes!!!!! Like we would forget to pack clothes and shoes!! How stupid do they think we are. They trust us to run their stores, trust us with hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of jewelry, yet they don't trust us to pack clothes! Ya, like I contemplated wearing the same clothes for the entire trip or better yet just going naked to the meetings! I'm sure!

It is late and I better think about hitting the hay for tonight. I have a 12 hour day tomorrow.

Until next time...goodnight!

OCTOBER 16,19??

Today is my ?th or ?nd birthday! I pretty much did nothing so far. I think I got sick from freezing my tush off at the clam bake on Saturday, so I tried to nap a bit. I did manage to have a veggie burger and some of the Birthday cake they had for me at the clam bake. I am going to head over to the laundry mat and then meet some friends for dinner. At least part of the day will be fun.
Thanks to all of you that called and emailed and wrote on Fran's blog! I enjoyed that.
Until next time...goodnight!

FRIDAY THE 13TH!

Today is Friday the 13th, and it wasn't a scary day at all.

I had a fun lunch with my cousins. I didn't have the Lobster Ravioli, but I had the Farfale w/ Chicken, Asparagus and Sundried Tomatoes in a Parmesan Broth. It was yummo and the left overs were just as good for dinner! We always have fun together when we are out and today was no exception. As I have said before, my cousins are more like sisters and friends then cousins. Many times, another cousin Sandy joins us, but she is in Milwaukee visiting her son, daughter-in-law and grandson (and dogs!!), so we will be forced to schedule another "girls luncheon" again!

I also decided that the dress I previously purchased for the Bar Mitzvah isn't going to cut it, so I went on a power shopping trip and found a really pretty dress. It is not a long dress, but it is fancy enough. With the right jewels, it will be great! I know where to find those! Elaine is altering it for me P.D.Q! I can wear the shoes I already had, so that is a plus.

I found out that our great day yesterday was indeed a GREAT day. We placed 4th in the entire company! WOO HOO YIPPEE! We were number 1 in the region and Anrea was the number 4 highest seller in the company! We were also #1 in pct. to goal for the region for the month as of yesterday. It may have changed by today, but it is still damn good.

BTW, to those of you in sunshine states, we had our first snow yesterday! BAH HUMBUG. It is frickin-frackin cold now. I am going to a clam bake (I HATE clams!!) tomorrow night and I am going to freeze my tushie off. At least it is padded well! I plan to wear many layers. So many I may end up like the little brother in the Christmas Story that was so bundled he couldn't get up when he fell!

Well, I am going to get my loads of clothes together for tomorrow.

Until next time...goodnight!

WHAT A DAY!

Today was an interesting day. I worked a 12 hour shift, and it really wasn't too bad. I had a lot to keep me busy. I did some reading for my Diamontology certification, so I had a chance to sit a spell. Sara and I read to each other!! We also had a record setting day. YAY! To put the icing on the cake, my boss came in and got to celebrate the great day with us. DOUBLE YAY!

So, I had been on the phone talking to a co-hort from another store. I got off the phone and was leaning on the counter (quite professional!!!!!!!!) when all of a sudden the overhead light fixture fell apart and came crashing down at me. It missed my head my inches! I freaked out. At first I thought my co-worker was throwing stuff at me, silly girl she is. After I got over the shock of it, I looked down at the counter and GROSS ME OUT, a gaggle of dead flies had been calling the light fixture their final resting place and now they were laying all over the counter. GROSS. I am going to wear a helmet to work soon! I swear there are some disgusting creatures lurking in that building. If only they would buy jewelry, it wouldn't be so bad!

I am off tomorrow (Friday) and that is a TRIPLE YAY! I am going to lunch with my cousins Elaine, Sharon and Joanne. We are going to Maggiano's Italian. I am hoping to try the Lobster Ravioli. Sounds yummo.

Until next time...goodnight!

STAY STRONG NYC

What sad day for the city of New York. I watched the TV with a sick lump in my throat as the images of another high-rise engulfed with flames aired this afternoon, the result of a plane crashing into it. I worried, as I am sure the rest of the world did, that this was yet another act of terrorism. For a moment I was relieved that it was not. Then back to the pain I felt for the victims of this horrible accident. Cory Lidel (sp?), a New York Yankee pitcher died a tragic death by plane crash, like another famed Yankee, Thurman Munson. My sympathy goes out to his family and also to the family of his co-pilot, also reportedly killed in the crash. By the last account I heard, there were no victims in the building or on the street. What a miracle that is. Such a gargantuan accident, in such a highly populated area, and no other fatalities is truely a miracle. I hope the injuries incurred by the firefighters and others are not life-threatening and they have a full and speedy recovery.
I can not imagine the emotional injuries incurred by the residents of NYC over this event. I for one, have no intention of ever living in a high-rise, nor do I ever intend to work in one. I wasn't thrilled with that idea prior to 9/11 and certainly not since then, Milan in 2002 or today.
I heart NY and I will be back to assist your economy! Stay strong and the fighter you are.
I will keep you NYC, and your amazingly resilient populace, in my thoughts and prayers.
Until next time...goodnight.

THIS IS A TEST!

This is a test! I tried to check the old blog this morning and it was blank! Arrrgh!

WED. OCT. 11, 2006

Eleanor, in the whole wide world you're my bestest friend.
On our friendship and sisterhood, we can always depend.
Since you live so very, very far away,
I am sending you BIRTHDAY greetings on my blog today.

We have known each other since junior high school,
and in front of each other we don't have to be afraid to act the fool!
We sang the songs of Journey and Barry White,
and we are even close enough to get into, then out of, a fight.
Together we have laughed and cried and laughed some more,
our friendship is the greatest of treasures, one that I adore.

I hope your BIRTHDAY is a cut above,
filled with joy and laughter and TONS OF LOVE!

Happy Birthday Smell - A - Nor!!
LOVE YA, GURL-FREYND!
See you in 2 weeks!

APOLOGIES

Hi all. Sorry I was such a bummer. This too shall pass.
Thanks for all of your well wishes and supportive comments.
Until next time...goodnight.

B^*#@ and MOAN

I am having a hard night tonight. I am again having second thoughts about this job. Things are going good at the store. Sales are doing well and I like my staff, but I do not have enough of a staff. I am working 6 days a week and I am having a hard time keeping up this pace. I am scheduled something like 54 hours next week, 7 straight days, and I am ready to cry thinking about it. This afternoon I started to get the pain back in my leg (one of the herniated discs in my back is sitting on a nerve that runs down my leg, the sciatic, and the pain is concentrated in my lower leg) and I am getting scared that the pain epidurals may be wearing off. I am hoping it is just an errant pain and I took Advils, but the standing for as long as 12 hours a day doesn't help. If I need another round I am screwed, since my insurance doesn't kick in until Jan. 1st and they cost $1,600 each. My nightly pain medication costs $177 a month without insurance. Luckily the pharmacy matches Costco prices at $134.50. No more diamonds for me for a long while!
I am also getting nervous about the plane rides I have coming up. I have not been on a plane since I had the epidurals or the since my discs herniated, so I am fearful of the pressure changes on the plane.
I really thought that my year was turning around, but it seems not to be. Maybe I am just PMS'ing or just overly tired. Sleep seems to be evading me and I wish I had my mommy!
I think I need a good cry, so I shall have a go at that now.
Until next time...goodnight.

Happy 13th!

By my watch, it is midnight (at least in my time zone!) and officially the 6th of October. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Benjamin!!!!! I can't get over the fact you are a teenager now! I love you tons and tons and tons! I hope your birthday is AWESOME and FUN. Since I can't be there, have a 2nd slice of cake for Auntie Womie! I will see you on the 26th!
Hugs and kisses. ;) I love you Boo Boo.

RANDOM THOUGHTS

I have tomorrow (actually today already) off. I am going to sleep until I get up. No alarm clocks and hopefully, no phone calls either! I have some errands to run, but mostly the day is mine.
I have to make the much dreaded trip to the DMV, time to renew my registration. It really isn't too bad, since the one by me is usually pretty quick and the people are always pleasant and move quickly. At least I don't have to renew my license so I don't have to fret over getting photographed!
I am thinking of looking for another dress for the Bar Mitzvah. I bought one and I had big dreams of losing a few pounds. Yeah right. It is so tight that it is not very comfy. It is also rather short for the shoes I have, so that is another issue by itself.
I want to go to my paper store. I need just the right card stock to make the card I have in my brain for Ben's Bar Mitzvah. I seem to talk about that a lot. It is a very special and momentous occassion. Those of you who know me, know why. Those of you who don't, well, for now I will suffice it to say that Ben is a miracle. He, and his family, have overcome the most unbelievable event in a childs life. In anyones life. It is rather ironic that this birthday celebration holds such roots in Judiasm, and it was the fact that Ben is Jewish that the horrible day and succession of events took place.
Three weeks from this past Tuesday, I have to go to Chicago for our Manager's Fall kick-off meeting. I am excited to meet my co-horts from across the nation. I am also a bit nervous. I will also meet all of the "suits" in the company! In the past, I have been the seasoned and "go to" manager, now I am the new kid on the block. It is kind of hard to get accustomed to. I leave from the meetings and fly right out to L.A for the big event!
I need a haircut and a dye job! My hairdresser left and I am such a baby about trying new ones. I have been trimming it myself, and doing a pretty good job, if I must say so myself! But I really need a professional to do me up. I have quite a collection of colors at this moment and grey is not one I am all that fond of. I need help here!
I am toying with the idea of getting acrylics again. I hate what they end up doing to my nails, but I am having an awful time with them lately. Chipping and splitting. Such monumental decisions I have to make!
I am shocked that Jerry Springer is still on Dancing With the Stars! I don't usually get a chance to watch, but, I can only imagine he couldn't be that great a dancer. However, he does seem to dance around the misfits on his show!
The leaves are changing colors. Fall is actually here on the North Coast. That can only mean winter is just around the bend. Bah - humbug.
What is wrong with this world? Congressmen sending such disgusting emails to young boys, then claiming addiction to try and get out of it. Sounds like a Mel Gibson move to me, but even worse because he is an elected official. One that the people chose to represent them. Some representation.
My heart aches for the Amish families in PA. What a heinous act of violence and cowardice that shmuck pulled on hapless, defenseless little girls. How sick is this world getting?
Where has Eugene been for so long? He hasn't been on his blog since 9-9.
I miss B.B's updates. I hope her trip to Sidney is going well. Stay strong and brave, Amber.
Cher, you are due to update your blog, too! Abby came by on Tuesday. We need a coffee klutch together! Patty Potato-Cake stopped in today, but I was on a conference call and couldn't talk to her. Miss you!
I am done!
Until next time...goodnight!

GROSS-OCITY!

Houston, we have a problem. There is a problem in the store with creepy crawlies. I am not a fan of bugs and there are some disgusting creatures in the shopping center where we are. We have to leave our doors open, so that doesn't help. We get spiders the size of bison and tonight we had 2 of the most ginormous mosquitos I have ever seen. Of course we have no bug spray, so I drown anything I see with Glade! Every morning we go on a safari to get the dead mosquitos and flies out of the showcases. Yellow jackets buzz around our heads and in the showcases. I imagine after we have a frost, the problem will subside until next year, but until then it is gross. I want to run out screaming when I see the spiders, but I have to be the leader and I have to be the brave soul that hunts them down. ICK.
When I managed the Pfaltzgraff store, we had an even worse problem, since we were closer to some woods. We had snakes in the store twice, frogs, spiders the size of Montana, geese flew in and left calling cards (poop!!) and a bird that landed in a pot! And the day I saw a mouse in the backroom, I called in back-up since I refused to enter the backroom after that!
Maybe tomorrow I will wear a pith helmet to work! Oh yeah, another thing I have to buy!!!!
Until next time...goodnight!

PHEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Phew, it's over. Man that was exhausting. So I guess you are waiting for the results, huh? I had to wait until the last second, so you will have to as well! Tee Hee Hee.

In case you were also wondering, my brother didn't actually make it into town this weekend. I am hoping to get out there in January. I am supposed to get some comp time then, so I can escape for a few days and hang out with him. It would have been a very short visit if he had actually come in, basically for a few hours.

So, did we make our goal? Good question. I did buy a lovely white gold and diamond necklace from the clearance counter and a really pretty white gold and diamond XOX tennis bracelet, also on sale. I needed them to complete my white gold and diamond collection. I LOVE diamonds. Have I ever mentioned that before?

This morning when I got into work and pulled up figures, two stores came up from behind and were neck and neck with us. The dreaded Michigan store and an Indiana store. Indiana had actually pulled 1 point ahead of us, leaving me and Michigan tied in second. BOO HOO.

The weather was gorgeous today. Sunny and realtively warm. I dressed to warm for work, but usually it is frezzing in the store.

OK, I will end the suspense. We made it! We made it with $10 to spare!!!! YAHOO! YIPEE! WOO HOO! It is such a great way to close out the first month we had together in the store. The staff is pumped and I am so happy for them. They deserved to see this happen for them. They had a hard summer and I am happy to support them and guide them and mentor them in any way I can.

On to next month! OY

Until next time...goodnight!

FINAL COUNTDOWN!

Here we are in the final countdown to the first month. Even though it is really cold here on the North Coast, the heat is on! We have just hours tomorrow and we are like 99% of the way to our goal!!!!!It would be so AWESOME if I didn't even have to buy anything to make it happen! The object is for me to make money, not spend it. We did well today, so if the trend continues tomorrow, it is in the bag. Keep sending the prayers our way. Everyone, cross those ring studded fingers! After all my trash talkin' with the Manager in Michigan, I so have to pull it out!
I will update you all on the final outcome tomorrow as soon as I have the final results. Gget ready to PAHHHTY!
Joanne, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, cousin. I hope your day is glorious.
Until next time...goodnight!

2 MORE DAYS

Well, we didn't inch today, we centimetered! 2 more days to go. We are still # 1 and there is a major rivalry heating up between us and a store in Michigan! I have to save face and WIN! The boss promised a big time blow-out for the store WHEN we make it, so keep those prayers coming our way! If we get within 300 bucks, I already selected the amythest necklace and earrings I am buying, which will match the dress I am wearing for the Bar Mitzvah next month!
Until next time...goodnight!

CLOSING IN...

We are closing in.
Three days to go for the month, and so far we are still #1 in the region!!!!! I keep hoping we make it. We are inching closer and closer. The boss is here again, so I have been making him help on the floor to close some deals, too! I want the staff to feel that sense of accomplishment. It will mean so much to them, they haven't had it in a very long time. They are constantly checking the computer and calculating. It is really fun to watch.
I made a "WOO HOO" wall and post the notices and congratulations as they do good things and they are loving coming in and looking for a "woo hoo"! Two of the gals worked really hard on a deal and I made them each a thank you card, describing how I appreciated the teamwork that went into it and the customer service they provided. Neither could believe that I did that for them. It is the little things that go a very long way.
So, please keep your fingers crossed that we end this month as the #1 store I know we can be!
I'll update y'all tomorrow night after my 12 hour day!
Until next time...goodnight!

HMMM, WHAT TO WRITE ABOUT?

I have a little time before Project Runway, so I thought I would update my blog. Now the hard part - -what to write about. I think I will just write blurbs about what is going through the blob of grey matter referred to as my mind!
- This is so cool, this blog thing. I have a blogger pal from Australia! How cool is that!
- Cher, where have you been? You haven't been here in a while, no emails, no calls, no visits and no updates on your blog either. I MISS YOU, DUDE!
- Sara, I am glad you started working with me again. Not like the old days, but better! Tomorrow is "truck day"! I hope you can handle it!!!
- Hey Sharon, I know you are reading these - leave us some words of wit and wisdom. Or at least some chopped liver. Notice I did mention Shprutin in a previous comment!
-Yaakova, I always look forward to your comments and your blog updates. It is obvious, because when you don't BB and I get on your case! Like your picture!
- If anyone is reading this, keep your fingers crossed for me. It is approaching the end of the first month at my new job and we are just shy of making our sales figures - the first time in a long time! I would like to think it is because of me (it is all about me!!!!)and it would totally suck to be soooo close and miss it. I would love to be a "hero" my first month. You know, a few brownie points go a long way!!
- In one month from tomorrow - 10/28 - my bestest friend Eleanor's youngest son will be a Bar Mitvah boy. I can't wait. It is in L.A and I so need a trip out there! Got my dress and all the accessories and the outfits for temple lined up and ready to go. It will be a whirlwind trip, but so worth it. I can't wait!!
- My brother is coming into town this weekend. I may only get to spend Monday with him, but it will be great to see him again. It has been too long. He is 8 years older, so I guess that would make him 36!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (NOT)
Well, there are more thoughts spinning around, mostly how tired I am, but that is pretty much normal!
Until next time...goodnight!

I'M A COPYCAT!

I copied this from my friend Cher's blog. I thought it was hysterical!! Enjoy!

A man was sitting on the edge of the bed, observing his wife, looking at herself in the mirror. Since her birthday was not far off he asked what she'd like to have for her birthday."I'd like to be six again", she replied, still looking in the mirror.
On the morning of her Birthday, he arose early, made her a nice big bowl of Lucky Charms, and then took her to Six Flags theme park. What a day! He put her on every ride in the park; the Death Slide, the Wall of Fear, the Screaming Monster Roller Coaster, everything there was. Five hours later they staggered out of the theme park. Her head was reeling and her stomach felt upside down. He then took her to a McDonald's where he ordered her a Happy Meal with extra fries and a chocolate shake. Then it was off to a movie, popcorn, a soda pop, and her favorite candy, M&M's. What a fabulous adventure!
Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed exhausted. He leaned over his wife with a big smile and lovingly asked, "Well Dear, what was it like being six again??"
Her eyes slowly opened and her expression suddenly changed. "I meant my dress size, you dumb ass!"
The moral of the story: Even when a man is listening, he is gonna get it wrong.

MUST SEE TV?

This week was the season premiers of a few of the shows I like to watch on network tv and I must say I was less then impressed. I looked forward to Grey's Anatomy, ER and Desperate Housewives. The only one that kept me riveted was ER. There were good parts to the others, but nothing great. ER was consistant and I can't wait for next week. I hope my lack of enthusiasm for Grey's was an anomoly because I want to like that show again this year. D.H, I can live without. I realized that I missed the opener of Boston Legal. That is a pretty great show.The characters have kept their quirkiness over the seasons and even when they are bad you love to hate them! In fact, you look forward to them being bad. Love that Denny Crane, Denny Crane! Maybe my dissappointment was a good thing and I will cut down my tube time this year!

Today was a party for my friend Blake. We celebrated his 50th birthday and his graduation from graduate school. It was a really nice party. I had a chance to catch up with his family, which I had not seen in about 18 months, since his mom's memorial service. I also ggot to see Joni's cousin, my friend Lisa, who came from Detroit. Lisa is such a sweetie and it has been a year, almost to the day, since I last saw her when we went up to Detroit to visit her. Last year Leese had surgery to remove a brain tumor and she is doing FANTASTIC. I was the first one to see her arrive at the party, so I got to have the first hugs! YEAH! It was such a great day. The weather forecast was for rain and the sun shined all day. It was awesome.

I noticed the gas prices on my way to the party today and they were really "cheap" - $203.9,
isn't it sick that I am calling that cheap? I remember when it was 69.9!!! Just gave away my real age!

Until next time...goodnight!

I SO LIED!

I so lied last night! I said that I would try and stop at the chopped liver and soup tonight. Well my friends, I did not. In addition, my awesome cousin Elaine (the hostess with the mostest) also sent me home with a piggy bag. I have a big container of chicken soup and matzoh balls, brisket, mashed taters and farfel. And the ever incredible kreplach! A whole tray of them. (waiting to be fried!!)

Elaine is my cousin and like a mom or older sister to me. When I lived in California, she always took good care of my mom for me and she takes care of everyone now. She knows I love her kreplach, so there is always an extra batch waiting for me to take home. My family is the typical Jewish family. Anyone that comes into our homes are expected to leave with a container (or two) of something. If we invite 10 people, we prepare enough for 20! Forget about ever being on a diet! One time Elaine made some jello that was a flavor called Barbie! It was a fruity mix and it was really good! I commented on how good it was and bless her heart, she went and bought like every box in the store and made me Barbie jello everytime she saw me!( Please don't tell her, it was good but not that good!!) That is Elaine. She is just like her mom, Aunt Sarah, and always giving and doing for others.

Sharon and Joanne are also my cousins and Elaine's sisters. Joanne is now the matriarch of the family! We have so much fun together. We don't get to spend as much time together as we used to, but we usually talk on the phone everyday and email a lot! I set up Sharon with Instant Messaging, so I intrude on her computer time when I see her on line! When we are together, people often think we are all sisters, I guess in a sense we are.

I moved back to Cleveland in 1994 and when I returned, I realized how much I missed having my family around and I have no intention of leaving the area again. They are all stuck with me!

By the way, I was instant messaging with my friend Ofer, in Israel earlier and he claims his mother-in-law makes the BEST chopped liver. I argued that claim incessantly with him. Since I will probably never get to Israel to find out, Yaakova, when you get there, maybe I can hook you guys up and you can get Kay to make you some and you can report back to me! Although, I think you may have to come to Cleveland and taste Sharon's first. Hmmm.

Until next time...goodnight!

ALKA SELTZER, ANYONE?

OY, am I stuffed! For lack of better terminology, (and despite the reason of the feast!), I ate like the proverbial pig! It is almost 12:45 am, and I wouldn't dare try and lay down to sleep while still this full. I had way too much chopped liver. Should I ever use the phrase "what am I, chopped liver?" the answer may indeed be YES. My cousin Sharon makes THE BEST C.L in the universe, not that I have tasted all the C.L in the universe, but hers is awesome. She couldn't find shmaltz anywhere this year, so my other cousin (her sister) made her own. I think the secret was in the shmaltz. Of course I had gefilte fish and the red horseradish, since I talk tough but am really a wimp! Then there was the matzo ball soup with kreplach. I like to drink all my soup first and eat then eat the matzoh ball and kreplach last. (Did you ever fry the left overs? Try it sometime - yummo) If you say I am weird, it would not be anything I haven't heard before! And there was brisket, chicken, stuffed cabbage, mashed taters and farfel. I was happier then a pig in slop! (why all the pig references? Certainly not kosher and probably inappropriate when discussing Jewish holiday topics!)There was the essential jello! In my family it is the 11th commandment - Thou shall not have a family dinner without jello. We also had homemade dill pickles and pickled tomatoes, olives, veggie ecrudites, challah and honey. Dessert was birthday cake in honor of my cousin Joanne's 75th birthday! Last year, I offered to bring a cake. I work in an area that has a very small Jewish population. I stopped at the grocery store and asked if they could decorate a cake while I waited. "Of course", they replied. So I asked them to write Happy New Year on the cake and they thought I needed to be carted off by the men in white coats!
So that is my recap of night one. If I can fit into anything tomorrow, I shall attempt night 2! Maybe I will stop at the C.L and soup and beg for a doggie bag (or in my case a piggy bag!!).
Until next time...goodnight!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I want to wish all of my friends that are Jewish, soon to be Jewish and those others who celebrate Judiasm, a HAPPY NEW YEAR.

In case you do not fall into any of the above categories, Friday at sundown begins the Jewish New Year. I am looking forward to spending a wonderful evening (actually 2 evenings) with my family and friends that gather to feast! Sad to say, at this point, we are pretty much devoid of any of the religious aspects except for the traditional foods, but, the time we spend together is a religious experience unto itself!

Quite a bit of the family has married out of the religion, so maybe 2/3 of those at seders are non-Jewish. One year at Passover, my cousin's wife brought her contribution to dinner. Now, let me preface this with the fact that she is an AWESOME baker and an Italian Catholic (she has a saint in her ancestry). Not being familiar with the laws of kashrut or many of our customs, she brought homemade pepperoni bread!! What made this even more crazy was that we all ate it, raved about it because it was incredible, and THEN realized it was Passover! OOPS!

As I write this, I am salivating over the thoughts going through my head of chopped liver, gefilte fish, matzoh balls and the evil shmaltz. Now I am thinking about the equally evil scale! Oh well, it is a holiday!

Until next time...goodnight!

WHAT I LIKE

One of the girls that works for me asked me what I like to do outside of work today. So, since this is my blog, and you may not know me, I thought I would indulge myself and write about ME! It's all about ME! There is no "me" in team, but there is if you rearrange the letters!!
So, what do I like and like to do? Good question.
-I like purple. I have a purple bedroom, purple dishes and accessories, used to have one bathroom in purple, but changed it to palm trees. (The other is Mickey Mouse!)Lots of purple jewelry, even before working for the jewlery store! I buy lots of purple clothes, too!
-I like to blog! DUH!!
-I like to spend time with my extended family. I have a rather huge family and we all get along! We obviously love each other, but even better then that, we LIKE each other, too. When we had more flexible schedules, we met at least once a month for a cousins lunch (get the blog name!!!)My first cousins range in age from 46 - 75. My second cousins range from 7 - 50ish. I have third cousins from 1 - 22ish. When we gather for Rosh Hashona, there will be about 35 this year! Our 4th of July picnic is usually around 100.
-I like to spend time with my friends. We don't even have to do anything, just being together is awesome. However, mostly we shop! We do a lot of eating, too. My bestest friend, Eleanor, has been my bestest friend for 36 years. Sadly, she lives 3000 miles away, so we don't see each other as often as we would like. Joni and Mary, are my other best friends here. Joni and I have known each other 33 years (even though we are only 28!!) and Mary and I have been friends for over 25 years.
- I like to shop! I am an admitted shop-a-holic. I so need a 12-step program for that!
- I like to travel. My very best trip has been to Italy 4 years ago. I LOVED everything about it. I travelled there with my friend Mary. Mary is fluent in Italian, so that made things easier. I enjoyed Hawaii, NYC, Bahamas, Spring Training in Winterhaven and my many trips to California (before and after I lived there!)Been other places, but these stand out as the best.
-I like to design and make greeting cards. I stamp, embellish, emboss, paint and try all kinds of strange techniques to create unique cards for people. I have not bought a card in like 3 years. I have a ton of money invested in my stamping room!
-I like entertainment - tv and music. Still into 70 & 80's rock! Love Meerkat Manor on Animal Planet, American Idol, Project Runway, Grey's Anatomy, Boston Legal, Food Network and HGTV. Not too much into movies. Most suck and not worth the price of admission. Besides, after my back issues, can't sit in a theatre seat that long.
-I like to play freecell, tripeaks and taipai on the PC. Not excessively!
-I like to eat! Italian food is my favorite, followed by Jewish style food. I guess most anything. I LOVE grilled or roasted veggies. Love a good cup of coffee, too! junk food works, too!
-I LOVE to laugh out loud! Nothing beats a good laugh straight from the gut.
-I sometimes like to cry, too. Need to let it out on occassion.
-I like to be needed. I have a very strong sense of taking care of people and things. Must be the trained social worker in me.
Well, there you go. A snapshot of what I like. Another time I will get into what I don't like. Be forwarned, the list is probably a LOT LONGER!!!
Until next time...goodnight!

I DID IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I did it! Today, I closed my first sale at work. Up until now, I had been the store concierge, basically greeting people, finding out what they wanted and then setting them up with a "real" associate. I went for it today and I did it! It wasn't a big sale, but it was a sale. I also sold the extended warranty and opened a charge card, then set up a repair ticket and sent the ring out for sizing! YAY! Even though it was a small sale, it was the umph I needed mentally to help my confidence in a new setting and with new product. I wish it happened while my boss was there, but I voice mailed him!!!! Yay me!!!
Cher, for you, I am posting in PURPLE!
Until next time...goodnight!

BIG FAT NOTHING!

What a day!
I did NOTHING!
I sat on my fat arse, then slept, then sat some more!
I will pay the piper starting tomorrow, but what the heck. I begin a 7 day stretch at work tomorrow and I am getting tired all over again just thinking about it. Oh well. As we like to say in my circle of friends -sux 2 b me! Beats unemployment.
Until next time...goodnight.

HE LOVES ME!!!!!

My new boss was in today. I really was not in the mood for him. I have not only been having second thoughts, but third, fourth and fifth thoughts! But he is sooo thrilled I am there. He loves the changes I have made already and the direction the store is taking in just this short time I have been there. I guess I feel better knowing at least I am making an impact already. I also referred someone to him and he liked her, so I think I may actually have another employee coming on board! YAHOO! Hopfully, this is the turnaround I and the store need to be on our preverbial feet.
I actually have a day off tomorrow. Another YAHOO!!!
Until next time...goodnight!

UNREAL REALITY!

Tonight was my chill out and watch reality television night! I became hooked on it during my recent episode (get it!!) of retirement. While on my hiatus I became obsessed with Rockstar:Supernova. I had already been a fan of Project Runway, and I recently got into Million Dollar Listings, since I used to live in LA. So my Wednesday nights are full!
Tonight was the season finale of Rockstar. I was very disappointed in the results. My very favorite contestant had been eliminated a few weeks ago - Ryan, Then I became a huge Toby fan. Toby was from Australia. He had, or so I thought, a great rapport with the audience, a great energy, strong vocals and great to look at. But, alas, he was sent home. Magni, was an Icelander with a strong voice, shaved head, awesome musician and super sense of humor. But, buh-bye Magni. Then there was Dilana. Dilana had a Janis Joplin-esque voice, very strong, scary look, multiple piercings and tattoos, wild hair and a fighter. I was scared of her! And Lukas. Lukas was just wierd. A Canadian with bad make-up, bad hair and in my opinion no personality and I didn't care for his voice. And the winner - - Lukas! Go figure. In a strange twist, Dave Navaro asked her to accompany her in his band and Gilby Clark offered to help her write her album and Dave Navaro also offered to play on it. I still think they should have picked Toby and I now have no intention of buying the Supernova CD when it comes out. In fact, I didn't even watch the last few minutes of the show.
Since I skipped the end of Rockstar, I got to watch the end of Dancing with the Stars!To my astonishment, Jerry Springer wasn't in the bottom 3. Tucker Carlson was danced out of the competition. I can begin watching this one next week, or some week if I don't have to work.
Project Runway is closing in on its finale and they are designing new challenges to keep everyone on pins and needles (get it!!). Tonight they brought back Vincent and Angela, past contestants that were auf'd to compete in this weeks challenge. Unfortunately, they were auf'd again along with Kayne. Poor Kayne. He is such a sweetie pie and quite the seamstress. It is down to Jeffrey, Laura, Uli and Michael. They really needed to cut Jeffrey. He is a %$^*$&@ and not very nice. His designs are edgy and rock and roll, but ugly! I guess he makes for good tv, so he stays on. Laura made a beautiful dress, as did Michael, who always does. Uli is predictable and she could have gone home as well! We shall see who can "make it work" next time.
Finally, I got to watch Million Dollar Listing. It is a show about realtors in LA and Malibu. The homes are gorgeous as are the views. It is amazing to see the commission these people make on one house - more then twice my annual salary! It is also amazing the price of some of these homes. OY.
So that is my tv watching for tonight! I am going to get under the blanky and go to sleep. Actually, I will probably watch some more tv in bed! The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson is waiting for me!
Until next time...goodnight!

1 WEEK BUT WHOSE COUNTING?

Tomorrow (Wednesday) will be my 1 week anniversary at my new job. I worked two 12 hour days already this week and I am totally exhausted! I am trying to learn so much - from procedures to product and it is becoming a big bowl of mish-mash soup already. As we were closing tonight, I couldn't even begin to deal with the computer crap, so I let my employee do it. I know that was wrong, but I was mentally drained AND my feet hurt! I still have the rest of the week to go, with Friday being my only day off. OY. I need to get some staff in there soon, or I will really think I made a mistake taking this job. My boss is coming in tomorrow, for the remainder of the week, so maybe I will get some training and assistance. Don't get me wrong, I am capable of learning on my own and quickly (I am smarter then the average bear) but I am feeling sorry for myself!!!
I am also having withdrawls from reality TV. While unemployed, I became the queen of reality television. I became hooked on Rockstar:Supernova! Tonight was the final episode and I had to miss that -darn. Tomorrow night is the night when they declare the winner, so I hope to be home in time for that. I also missed the premier of Dancing with the Stars. Double darn!! I was so curious to see Jerry Springer trip the light fantastic!
Well, it is getting late and I must polish my nails and hem some pants!
Until next time...goodnight.

cousinscorner

cousinscorner

REMEMBERING 9/11

I can't believe it is 5 years since that fateful day. I can still remember it like it was yesterday. I remember I didn't have to be to work until 1 pm, and I was still in bed. Of course I had fallen asleep with the tv on. I woke up and saw the image of the plane crashing into the WTC. I was thinking what kind of crazy movie is on in the morning. Then I noticed the Today show logo on the bottom right hand corner of the screen and the time posting. I couldn't believe it was real. My heart was beating at an irregular pace. My best friend, Joni, worked out of her home, so I called her and asked her if it was real. I imagine the correct answer was that it was surreal. I was affixed to the tv set for hours. I worked managing a retail store and my staff called to say that the mall closed and not to come to work. I spent the entire day watching the tv - CNN, FOX News, ABC, NBC, CBS and every other report I could. I was on the phone with friends and family all day and evening as well. How could this happen we asked each other. What did it all mean. What was the future going to hold for all of us? Was there going to be a future? Joni's cousin worked in the Pentagon. My cousin saw the plane as it turned over Cleveland before it crashed in PA. This isn't supposed to happen on our soil. This isn't supposed to happen at all.
As I said earlier, I will never forget that day. I will always mourn for those that lost thier lives and for the families that lost loved ones. I will remember how are lives were effected for the long run. Our views of certain people have changed, our economy has changed, our level of safety and security has changed. Then I will also remember how we have gotten complacent as well. In the days and months following 9/11 flags flew everywhere. Not so much anymore. We learn of threats and react and then go back to our old ways. I suppose we just don't want to believe that it can ever happen again. That lightening can't strike twice. I am just as guilty as the next guy. I swore I would never fly again. 1 year later, on 9/9, I flew to Italy. I wouldn't fly via United or American. We also decided that in conversation, we would tell people we were Canadian, unless we were talking to other Americans! And I certainly wouldn't announce that I was Jewish! I still don't make that announcement to people I don't know.
I am not sure where I am going with this post! The bottom line is we must never forget what happened on 9/11, a modern day holocaust on our soil and in our air. Keep the victims in our thoughts and prayers, keep our servicemen and women in our prayers and pray it never happens again.
Until next time...goodnight

I AM CONFUSED!! WHAT ELSE IS NEW!!

Hello. I am so confused over this blogging business. Last night, I found new comments on here and I even added a new top post. Tonight, it was all gone. I am trying this again. Maybe it is my computer. Maybe it is me. Maybe it is fate. Maybe it is just meant for me to be a reader not a writer. Who knows. Anyhow, I will make this one short and see what happens. If this stays up and any of you have any advice on correct blogging procedures, let me know.
Until next time...goodnight!

I'm BAAAAAAACK!!

Well, it has been a long, long time since I have posted on my own blog! It took a while for me to remember how to do this, but, ta-daa, here it is. So, what has been happening here on the North Coast since January 2005? There has been a lot going on, but I won't bore you with the mundane details. I will skip to the exciting stuff. Ok, that's done! Seriously, I started my new job yesterday and I am conflicted about that. I am glad to be working again, but I feel like a fish out of water. In case you don't know, I am now managing a jewelry store. Jewelry is not in my background other then as a consumer, so as a professional I am totally a "Diamond in the rough." (Pun intended) I am used to being a leader and very successful at my endeavors and as of now I know virtually nothing, so I am feeling somewhat useless. I hate that feeling. I know it has only been 2 days (2 twelve hour days) but I want to know more then I do and I want to be able to assist customers in the manner that I feel they deserve to be taken care of. I know it will happen. I also completed 2 chapters in my training to become a Certified Diamontologist, so that was cool. Many more to go!! Then I get to become a certified Gemologist! Woo-Hoo! I also made my first purchase today too - a new watch! Yahoo! Well my friends, by my new watch, I can see it is getting late and I have another early day tomorrow. I am not used to working! I had a 5 week retirement this summer and I have been Un-retired in a big way this week! Not to mention I totally need my beauty sleep. You would know that if you knew me personally!!
Good night and I will update again soon (if I can still remember how I did this)